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The California Connection (2016 Editions)


California Connection - Current Edition
December 16, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for December 16.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Editor's Note

Happy holidays from the CCB board.
The CCB office will be closed for Christmas on December 26 and for new years on January 2.
Please note that there will not be a connection on December 23 or 30. the next connection will be on January 6.


ACB Legislative Seminar

From President Judy Wilkinson:
Advocacy is the primary mission of CCB and February's ACB Legislative Seminar offers a tremendous opportunity to advocate with our state's Congressional delegation on issues of concern to persons who are blind or have low vision.

The Legislative Seminar will occur on Monday February 27, during which attendees will learn about the issues on which we will be advocating on Capitol Hill the following day. Attendees are also welcome to participate in the ACB President's meeting held on Sunday February 26.

Unfortunately, CCB does not have funding necessary to send individuals to the seminar. We urge CCB chapters and affiliates who can afford to do so to send representatives to the ACB Legislative Seminar or even to donate funds to CCB specifically for this purpose.

I, along with Jeff Thom CCB's chair of Governmental Affairs, will head our delegation and we will prepare beginning in early January for our trip to Capitol Hill. Attendees will need to fly in no later than February 26 and likely not leave until Wednesday March 1 in order to ensure a full day on the Hill.

If your chapter can send an individual to the seminar or can provide a donation for this purpose, please let Jeff Thom know either by e-mail at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by phone at (916)995-3967.
Also, please contact him if you cannot afford the full cost of attendance, but would like to be considered as a possible attendee, funds permitting, or if you would like additional information.


Self-Service Kiosks

Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) and Goldstein Borgen Dardarian & Ho (GBDH) are investigating the accessibility of self-service kiosks to individuals who are blind and low-vision. These kiosks have become prevalent in retail stores, healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and elsewhere. We would like to hear about people's experiences with self-service kiosks relating to any aspect of life.

To share your experience, please contact Kyle Ruiz by email at kruiz@dralegal.org or by phone at (510)665-8644.


CCB Fund Raiser

Please join us for an evening of Guide Dogs and Giggles & White Canes and Whimsy at our first Tommy T's Comedy Club Benefit featuring STEVE MCGREW On Saturday January 21, 2017 from 4:30 - 8:30 PM.

For the raffle and auction, we have received two donations:

  1. a $100 gift certificate towards a Sacramento tour with Off The Chain Bicycle Bus Tours. Basically this is a 15 person bike on a platform with tour guides, karaoke, etc. Very fun and popular!
  2. A Ladies Fashion Diamond Cluster ring set in yellow gold (worth #600)

For more details and to purchase tickets call the CCB office at 800-221-6359.


Job Announcement

Alternate Format Manager - 73445
Vice Provost for Student Affairs
Business Title: Alternate Format Manager
Job Title: Academic Technology Specialist 3
Unit: Office of Accessible Education

JOB PURPOSE:
The Alternate Media/Format Manager oversees a team of specialists in the conversion of academic materials into alternate media; offers expertise in alternate format production and assistive technology for the continued benefit of students with disabilities; provides leadership in the area of access technology to faculty and staff for progress towards universal design and access in higher education.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection December 9, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for December 9.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Editor's Note

The CCB office will be closed on December 12 for administrative purposes.
We may be experiencing phone and email interruptions on Tuesday December 13 due to computer work.


Congratulations

Congratulations to Gene Lozano for his retirement from Sacramento State University.
Gene has had a long and productive career at Sac State.
Gene, best wishes from your CCB family.


ACB Legislative Seminar

From President Judy Wilkinson:
Advocacy is the primary mission of CCB and February's ACB Legislative Seminar offers a tremendous opportunity to advocate with our state's Congressional delegation on issues of concern to persons who are blind or have low vision.

The Legislative Seminar will occur on Monday February 27, during which attendees will learn about the issues on which we will be advocating on Capitol Hill the following day. Attendees are also welcome to participate in the ACB President's meeting held on Sunday February 26.

Unfortunately, CCB does not have funding necessary to send individuals to the seminar. We urge CCB chapters and affiliates who can afford to do so to send representatives to the ACB Legislative Seminar or even to donate funds to CCB specifically for this purpose.

I, along with Jeff Thom CCB's chair of Governmental Affairs, will head our delegation and we will prepare beginning in early January for our trip to Capitol Hill. Attendees will need to fly in no later than February 26 and likely not leave until Wednesday March 1 in order to ensure a full day on the Hill.

If your chapter can send an individual to the seminar or can provide a donation for this purpose, please let Jeff Thom know either by e-mail at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by phone at (916)995-3967.
Also, please contact him if you cannot afford the full cost of attendance, but would like to be considered as a possible attendee, funds permitting, or if you would like additional information.


And The Winner Is

Thank you to everyone who purchased Great Get Away tickets as a part of the CCB 2016 Mutt Strut activities.
The drawing was held on Wednesday, December 7 at the CCB Office in Sacramento. The winning ticket, pulled by our own Paul Shane, was in the name of The San Gabriel Valley Chapter of the California Council of the Blind.
Congratulations SGV C CCB!


CCB Fund Raiser

Please join us for an evening of Guide Dogs and Giggles & White Canes and Whimsy at our first Tommy T's Comedy Club Benefit featuring STEVE MCGREW On Saturday January 21, 2017 from 4:30 - 8:30 PM.

From 4:30 - 5:45 PM, we will have a live auction; a 50/50 raffle; networking and other fun activities.
For the raffle and auction, we have received two donations:

  1. a $100 gift certificate towards a Sacramento tour with Off The Chain Bicycle Bus Tours. Basically this is a 15 person bike on a platform with tour guides, karaoke, etc. Very fun and popular!
  2. A Ladies Fashion Diamond Cluster ring set in yellow gold (worth #600)

Doors open at 6 PM for the general public and for dinner service. If you want a reserved seat, show up before 6 PM.
Comedy show starts at 7 PM and all attendees need to exit the building by 9 PM to allow preparation time for the next show.

Tickets can be purchased by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359.
Special arrangements for local in-person ticket sales and delivery directly to residences or workplaces (for our current membership within Sacramento County) can also be made by calling the office.
For our "web-site savvy members", tickets may also be purchased through https://ccbtommyts.eventbrite.com

For more information please visit tommytsrancho.com and stevemcgrew.com.

Two drink and / or food minimum purchase required per person to attend the show outside of the ticket price.

Accessibility:
There is an elevator located on the west side of the Nimbus Winery shopping center for those who would like to use it. We will have volunteers stationed along the way to help guide folks to the show as needed or requested.


ACB Capital Chapter Christmas Party

The ACB Capital Chapter is holding our annual Christmas party on Saturday, December 11, from 4:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at Brookfields Restaurant.
The address is 4343 Madison Avenue.

There will be an optional gift exchange ($10 maximum), plenty of great food since we will be ordering off of the regular menu, and fun conversation! We love Christmas carols, so we may be singing a few as we wait on our dessert! We hope you will participate in this festive event!

We are anticipating that Paul Shane, our new CCB Executive Director, and Jennifer Calderia, our CCB Administrative Services Officer, will be participating and selling tickets for the CCB fundraiser at Tommy T's on January 21.
Let's celebrate Christmas together!


Greater Los Angeles Chapter Christmas Party

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter, CCB is going to have its holiday party on Saturday, December 17, 2016 from 2-5 PM at Dupars Restaurant located at: 12036 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 9160.

Folks who attend will be able to order off the menu with separate checks, and prices can range from approximately $20-40 including gratuity depending on what you order.

We are planning to have a great time along with some of our adult friends from our Girl Scouts who help us each year with our major fundraiser coming to entertain us and lead us in some old fashioned Christmas songs.

We look forward to breaking bread with many of you in fellowship to realize that no matter how you believe, this is the reason for the season.
Please call or email Ken Metz at the above email, or at (818) 882-3610 so that we have a count for the restaurant no later than Monday, December 12, 2016.
We look forward to you joining us.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection December 2, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for December 2.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Editor's Note

The CCB office will be closed on December 8 9 and 12 for administrative purposes.


ACB Legislative Seminar

From President Judy Wilkinson:
Advocacy is the primary mission of CCB and February's ACB Legislative Seminar offers a tremendous opportunity to advocate with our state's Congressional delegation on issues of concern to persons who are blind or have low vision.

The Legislative Seminar will occur on Monday February 27, during which attendees will learn about the issues on which we will be advocating on Capitol Hill the following day. Attendees are also welcome to participate in the ACB President's meeting held on Sunday February 26.

Unfortunately, CCB does not have funding necessary to send individuals to the seminar. We urge CCB chapters and affiliates who can afford to do so to send representatives to the ACB Legislative Seminar or even to donate funds to CCB specifically for this purpose.

I, along with Jeff Thom CCB's chair of Governmental Affairs, will head our delegation and we will prepare beginning in early January for our trip to Capitol Hill. Attendees will need to fly in no later than February 26 and likely not leave until Wednesday March 1 in order to ensure a full day on the Hill.

If your chapter can send an individual to the seminar or can provide a donation for this purpose, please let Jeff Thom know either by e-mail at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by phone at (916)995-3967.
Also, please contact him if you cannot afford the full cost of attendance, but would like to be considered as a possible attendee, funds permitting, or if you would like additional information.


Success To Win

Are you ready for a scavenger hunt?
The CCB Membership Committee would like to invite each CCB Chapter/Affiliate membership Representative to share how their Chapter/Affiliate has successfully brought onboard new members. Everyone will be encouraged to discuss ways to ensure membership renewal. As a result of ideas and successes shared during this focus call meeting, a ummary list will be compiled for chapters and affiliates to explore.
The CCB Membership Committee is looking forward to reading about your ways to success.

Date: December 5, 2016
Meeting Time: 7 PM
Call-in Number: 712-432-3066
Access Code: 497700

I would appreciate if you would let me know if you are planning on attending this meeting.
Thank you.
Vivian Younger
CCB Membership Committee Chair


CCB Fund Raiser

Please join us for an evening of Guide Dogs and Giggles & White Canes and Whimsy at our first Tommy T's Comedy Club Benefit featuring STEVE MCGREW On Saturday January 21, 2017 from 4:30 - 8:30 PM.

From 4:30 - 5:45 PM, we will have a live auction; a 50/50 raffle; networking and other fun activities.
Doors open at 6 PM for the general public and for dinner service. If you want a reserved seat, show up before 6 PM.
Comedy show starts at 7 PM and all attendees need to exit the building by 9 PM to allow preparation time for the next show.

Tickets can be purchased by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359.
Special arrangements for local in-person ticket sales and delivery directly to residences or workplaces (for our current membership within Sacramento County) can also be made by calling the office.
For our "web-site savvy members", tickets may also be purchased through https://ccbtommyts.eventbrite.com

For more information please visit tommytsrancho.com and stevemcgrew.com.

Two drink and / or food minimum purchase required per person to attend the show outside of the ticket price.

Accessibility:
There is an elevator located on the west side of the Nimbus Winery shopping center for those who would like to use it. We will have volunteers stationed along the way to help guide folks to the show as needed or requested.


Count Down To Christmas!

Come celebrate the holidays with the East LA Chapter at Salvatore's Italian Restaurant on December 10th at 125 N. 6th St. in Montebello; between W. Whittier Blvd & W. Hart from 11am to no later than 2pm.

Select a delicious meal of Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo, Spaghetti with meatballs, or baked lasagna at $22 per person.
This includes bread salad and soda, tea, or coffee.
The chapter will be providing a cake for dessert.
We will have an optional gift exchange valued at no more than $15; if you bring a gift you will get one in exchange.

Please RSVP by December 5 by calling or texting Mona Craig at 310.930.6929 email preshusdelight@gmail.com or Stephanie Rood at 818.321.4205 email east.la.ccb.chapter@gmail.com.
Please include your name and the names of your guests and each persons meal choice.
We want to see all our southern California friends. We look forward to seeing each and everyone for a wonderful celebration.


Contra Costa Chapter Christmas Party

Come celebrate the holidays with the Contra Costa Chapter on December 10 from 2:00 to 6:00.
Enjoy caroling, and games with your friends and a tasty menu from the Buttercup cafe, www.buttercupgrillandbar.com. Drinks and desserts will be included.
There will be a scrumptious peanut butter pie up for auction.

Cost is $25 per person.
Contact Gabe Griffith by December 6th with your reservation and your food order.
He can be reached by phone at (925)768-8195 or by email at gabrielgriffith@gmail.com.

We will be gathering at the Bethel Baptist church at 3578 Clayton RD.


BayView Chapter Christmas Party

The BayView chapter will have its Christmas party on December 10 at the Hayward Ranch at 22877 Mission BLVD in Hayward.

Attitude adjustment begins at 4:00 with dinner served at 5:00 and will conclude by 8:00.
You will have a choice of Veal or Salmon at $25 or New York Steak for $30.
CCB president Judy Wilkinson will preside over an instalation of officers cerimony.

Call Cathie Skivers for reservations at (510)357-1986 by December 7.


San Gabriel Valley Chapter Christmas Party

The San Gabriel Valley Chapter invites you to our 2016 Christmas party at Marie Callenders Restaurant, in the City of Industry. to be held On Saturday December 10th, from 4 til 7:00 p.m.
The cost will be $20 per person, which will need to be mailed with a post mark no later than November 30.

To RSVP, get more dinner details, and where to mail your check, please contact Steve Aminoff with your choice of entree.
either:

Phone: 626-445-6727
Thank you, and we look forward to seeing you there.


Greater Los Angeles Chapter Christmas Party

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter, CCB is going to have its holiday party on Saturday, December 17, 2016 from 2-5 PM at Dupars Restaurant located at: 12036 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 9160.

Folks who attend will be able to order off the menu with separate checks, and prices can range from approximately $20-40 including gratuity depending on what you order.

We are planning to have a great time along with some of our adult friends from our Girl Scouts who help us each year with our major fundraiser coming to entertain us and lead us in some old fashioned Christmas songs.

We look forward to breaking bread with many of you in fellowship to realize that no matter how you believe, this is the reason for the season.
Please call or email Ken Metz at the above email, or at (818) 882-3610 so that we have a count for the restaurant no later than Monday, December 12, 2016.
We look forward to you joining us.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection November 18, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for November 18.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Editor's Note

The CCB office will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 24th and 25th in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.
Please note that there will be no connection the week of thanks giving.


ACB Legislative Seminar

From President Judy Wilkinson:
Advocacy is the primary mission of CCB and February's ACB Legislative Seminar offers a tremendous opportunity to advocate with our state's Congressional delegation on issues of concern to persons who are blind or have low vision.

The Legislative Seminar will occur on Monday February 27, during which attendees will learn about the issues on which we will be advocating on Capitol Hill the following day. Attendees are also welcome to participate in the ACB President's meeting held on Sunday February 26.

Unfortunately, CCB does not have funding necessary to send individuals to the seminar. We urge CCB chapters and affiliates who can afford to do so to send representatives to the ACB Legislative Seminar or even to donate funds to CCB specifically for this purpose.

I, along with Jeff Thom CCB's chair of Governmental Affairs, will head our delegation and we will prepare beginning in early January for our trip to Capitol Hill. Attendees will need to fly in no later than February 26 and likely not leave until Wednesday March 1 in order to ensure a full day on the Hill.

If your chapter can send an individual to the seminar or can provide a donation for this purpose, please let Jeff Thom know either by e-mail at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by phone at (916)995-3967.
Also, please contact him if you cannot afford the full cost of attendance, but would like to be considered as a possible attendee, funds permitting, or if you would like additional information.


From President Judy Wilkinson And Conference/Convention Program Chair Jeff Thom

We are asking our members to suggest exhibitors you'd like to see invited to our 2017 conference/convention especially if they are located in Southern California. (Remember our convention will be held at the Hilton Woodland Hills.)
Think outside the box. Think what kinds of things you'd like to check out yourself!

We also want your input as to possible sponsors to help fund our event. What businesses do you know? What services want our business?

Contact our CEO Paul Shane asap with your ideas as we are sending out information packets soon.
Email: paul.shane@ccbnet.org Phone: 916-441-2100 or toll free 800-221-6359.


Voting Survey

In order to help improve access to elections for people with disabilities, the California Secretary of State is asking for voters to respond to a brief and private survey regarding their experiences during the November 8, 2016, General Election. The survey contains questions that are best answered after voting on or before Election Day, but should also be answered by people who did not vote or were unable to vote.

Please help us collect responses to the survey by sharing this link with other voters in California:
Link to survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/voteca
Contact for questions: Jon Ivy, jivy@sos.ca.gov, 916-657-2166

The survey results will help us see whether there is a need for more training, modified services, or enhanced outreach programs for voters with disabilities, voters with specific needs, and voters in general.

While our goal is to hear from voters with disabilities, the survey is designed to be answered by all voters, and can be distributed widely.


Great Get Away Raffle

Do you want to be the lucky winner of two roundtrip Southwest Airlines tickets?
Valued at $800 total, these airline passes can be combined for you and a special someone for a trip complements of Southwest Airlines!

For more specific details, please contact the CCB Office.
Take a chance, donate to a great cause, our CCB and you might win those tickets that can help you get to the ACB Convention in Reno Nevada! Maybe you want to fly to the CCB Convention in the Spring, or take a trip somewhere else Southwest Airlines flies domestic. The holidays are right around the corner!

The drawing will be held at the end of the day on Wednesday, December 7 at the CCB Office in Sacramento. When that winning ticket is drawn, the lucky winner will be contacted immediately with the great news!

What a great gift. The cost is $20 per book, such a great price!
There are 10 tickets in each book. Persons wishing to buy individual tickets can obtain them from their local chapter or special interest affiliate president. Each individual ticket costs $2.

You must mail any $$$'s and ticket books to the CCB Office in Sacramento by Wednesday, November 30, 2016 to make sure they will be received in time for the drawing on Wednesday, December 7, 2016.
All checks or money orders must be made out to The California Council of the Blind and in the memo section place the words "Great Get Away.
Mail to Attention Mutt Strut 1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.
Contact Donna Pomerantz @ 626.233.2991 or donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org
You can also contact the CCB Office in Sacramento at 916.441.2100 or ccotb@ccbnet.org
Thank you for your support and good luck!


Advocacy Committee Call

CCB invites you to the inaugural meeting of its re-established Advocacy committee on Tuesday, Nov. 29th at 7:30 Pm.
(Call-in number 712:432-3066, Code 778159).

Under the chairmanship of Steven Mendelsohn, the committee hopes to empower the Council and its members in new and exciting ways, to expand and enhance advocacy strategies at all levels of government and society, and to create mechanisms through which the skillsets and knowledge-bases of our members can be brought to bear on one another's behalf.


Glendale-Burbank Chapter Christmas Party

Please come to the Glendale-Burbank Chapter Christmas party at the Smokehouse Restaurant in Burbank. For salmon or chicken entrees and all the fixings, the cost is $36; and for the prime rib entrée and the fixings, the cost is $46 if paid by Saturday, November 26. If paid later, the cost is $5 more.

Please reserve and pay John Mavis at 1232 N. El Centro Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038-1706.
For further info, call Ardis Bazyn at 818-238-9321.


Count Down To Christmas!

Come celebrate the holidays with the East LA Chapter at Salvatore's Italian Restaurant on December 10th at 125 N. 6th St. in Montebello; between W. Whittier Blvd & W. Hart from 11am to no later than 2pm.

Select a delicious meal of Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo, Spaghetti with meatballs, or baked lasagna at $22 per person.
This includes bread salad and soda, tea, or coffee.
The chapter will be providing a cake for dessert.
We will have an optional gift exchange valued at no more than $15; if you bring a gift you will get one in exchange.

Please RSVP by December 5 by calling or texting Mona Craig at 310.930.6929 email preshusdelight@gmail.com or Stephanie Rood at 818.321.4205 email east.la.ccb.chapter@gmail.com.
Please include your name and the names of your guests and each persons meal choice.
We want to see all our southern California friends. We look forward to seeing each and everyone for a wonderful celebration.


Contra Costa Chapter Christmas Party

Please join the Contra Costa Chapter four our holiday party on December 10 from 2:00 to 6:00 PM.
We will be gathering at the Bethel Baptist church at 3578 Clayton RD.

Our food will be from the Buttercup restaurant and you can order anything off their menu, drinks and desserts will be included.
Cost is $25 per person.

Contact Gabe Griffith by December 3rd with your payment and to put in your order.
He can be reached by phone at (925)768-8195 or by email at gabrielgriffith@gmail.com.


San Gabriel Valley Chapter Christmas Party

The San Gabriel Valley Chapter invites you to our 2016 Christmas party at Marie Callenders Restaurant, in the City of Industry. to be held On Saturday December 10th, from 4 til 7:00 p.m.
The cost will be $20 per person, which will need to be mailed with a post mark no later than November 30.

To RSVP, get more dinner details, and where to mail your check, please contact Steve Aminoff with your choice of entree.
either:

Phone: 626-445-6727
Thank you, and we look forward to seeing you there.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection November 10, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for November 10.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Office Closure

Please note that the office will be closed on Friday November 11 for the Veterans day holiday.


ACB Legislative Seminar

From President Judy Wilkinson:
Advocacy is the primary mission of CCB and February's ACB Legislative Seminar offers a tremendous opportunity to advocate with our state's Congressional delegation on issues of concern to persons who are blind or have low vision.

The Legislative Seminar will occur on Monday February 27, during which attendees will learn about the issues on which we will be advocating on Capitol Hill the following day. Attendees are also welcome to participate in the ACB President's meeting held on Sunday February 26.

Unfortunately, CCB does not have funding necessary to send individuals to the seminar. We urge CCB chapters and affiliates who can afford to do so to send representatives to the ACB Legislative Seminar or even to donate funds to CCB specifically for this purpose.

I, along with Jeff Thom CCB's chair of Governmental Affairs, will head our delegation and we will prepare beginning in early January for our trip to Capitol Hill. Attendees will need to fly in no later than February 26 and likely not leave until Wednesday March 1 in order to ensure a full day on the Hill.

If your chapter can send an individual to the seminar or can provide a donation for this purpose, please let Jeff Thom know either by e-mail at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by phone at (916)995-3967.
Also, please contact him if you cannot afford the full cost of attendance, but would like to be considered as a possible attendee, funds permitting, or if you would like additional information.


From President Judy Wilkinson And Conference/Convention Program Chair Jeff Thom

We are asking our members to suggest exhibitors you'd like to see invited to our 2017 conference/convention especially if they are located in Southern California. (Remember our convention will be held at the Hilton Woodland Hills.)
Think outside the box. Think what kinds of things you'd like to check out yourself!

We also want your input as to possible sponsors to help fund our event. What businesses do you know? What services want our business?

Contact our CEO Paul Shane asap with your ideas as we are sending out information packets soon.
Email: paul.shane@ccbnet.org Phone: 916-441-2100 or toll free 800-221-6359.


Voting Survey

In order to help improve access to elections for people with disabilities, the California Secretary of State is asking for voters to respond to a brief and private survey regarding their experiences during the November 8, 2016, General Election. The survey contains questions that are best answered after voting on or before Election Day, but should also be answered by people who did not vote or were unable to vote.

Please help us collect responses to the survey by sharing this link with other voters in California:
Link to survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/voteca
Contact for questions: Jon Ivy, jivy@sos.ca.gov, 916-657-2166

The survey results will help us see whether there is a need for more training, modified services, or enhanced outreach programs for voters with disabilities, voters with specific needs, and voters in general.

While our goal is to hear from voters with disabilities, the survey is designed to be answered by all voters, and can be distributed widely.


Great Get Away Raffle

Do you want to be the lucky winner of two roundtrip Southwest Airlines tickets?
Valued at $800 total, these airline passes can be combined for you and a special someone for a trip complements of Southwest Airlines!

For more specific details, please contact the CCB Office.
Take a chance, donate to a great cause, our CCB and you might win those tickets that can help you get to the ACB Convention in Reno Nevada! Maybe you want to fly to the CCB Convention in the Spring, or take a trip somewhere else Southwest Airlines flies domestic. The holidays are right around the corner!

The drawing will be held at the end of the day on Wednesday, December 7 at the CCB Office in Sacramento. When that winning ticket is drawn, the lucky winner will be contacted immediately with the great news!

What a great gift. The cost is $20 per book, such a great price!
There are 10 tickets in each book. Persons wishing to buy individual tickets can obtain them from their local chapter or special interest affiliate president. Each individual ticket costs $2.

You must mail any $$$'s and ticket books to the CCB Office in Sacramento by Wednesday, November 30, 2016 to make sure they will be received in time for the drawing on Wednesday, December 7, 2016.
All checks or money orders must be made out to The California Council of the Blind and in the memo section place the words "Great Get Away.
Mail to Attention Mutt Strut 1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.
Contact Donna Pomerantz @ 626.233.2991 or donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org
You can also contact the CCB Office in Sacramento at 916.441.2100 or ccotb@ccbnet.org
Thank you for your support and good luck!


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


From The CCB HVI Committee: Speech Testing' Part Of The Hearing Diagnostic Process

Tom Brennan will focus his presentation on the 'speech testing' portion of the hearing diagnostic process in the audiologist's office.

Tom Brennan has his clinical certification in audiology and speech pathology, licensed in both fields in Texas and in practice for 30 years. Born totally blind and having bilateral Meniere's disease, we are extremely fortunate to glean from his expertise.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as Tom continues his invaluable series.
Date: Sunday, November 20;
time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern;
Phone # (712) 432-3447
ID: 309464.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we post resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences.
Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


Glendale-Burbank Chapter Christmas Party

Please come to the Glendale-Burbank Chapter Christmas party at the Smokehouse Restaurant in Burbank. For salmon or chicken entrees and all the fixings, the cost is $36; and for the prime rib entrée and the fixings, the cost is $46 if paid by Saturday, November 26. If paid later, the cost is $5 more.

Please reserve and pay John Mavis at 1232 N. El Centro Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038-1706.
For further info, call Ardis Bazyn at 818-238-9321.


Contra Costa Chapter Christmas Party

Please join the Contra Costa Chapter four our holiday party on December 10 from 2:00 to 6:00 PM.
We will be gathering at the Bethel Baptist church at 3578 Clayton RD.

Our food will be from the Buttercup restaurant and you can order anything off their menu, drinks and desserts will be included.
Cost is $25 per person.

Contact Gabe Griffith by December 3rd with your payment and to put in your order.
He can be reached by phone at (925)768-8195 or by email at gabrielgriffith@gmail.com.


Airbnb Outreach Announcement

The California Council of the Blind has retained Rosen Bien Galvan & Grunfeld LLP to investigate complaints from blind individuals, individuals who use service animals, including guide dogs, and individuals with mobility disabilities who have recently attempted to rent lodging through Airbnb.

Airbnb operates a website and mobile application where people can browse for and book lodging throughout the United States and around the world.

We would greatly appreciate speaking with you about your experiences using Airbnb if you have a disability, including if you are blind or low vision, you use a service animal, and/or you use an assistive device such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair.

To share your experiences, please contact paralegal Sara Long by phone at 415-433-6830 or at slong@rbgg.com.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection November 4, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for November 4.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From President Judy Wilkinson

Note that the phone number listed in previous Connections for my office hour call and the board meeting has changed.
The number is the same for both:

dial-in 712-451-0011 code 247389#.
Office hour: Sunday November 6 at 4 PM
Board Meeting Thursday November 10 at 7:00 PM.


President's Call Recording

Apparently the halloween goblins were busy on the phones and we were not able to record the October 31 President's call for later listening.
Thanks to Steve Aminoff you can download it from the below sendspace link.
https://www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/nweeu0


Voter Guides

Here are several ways of getting an accessible version of the Voter Information Guide for the upcoming election:


Great Get Away Raffle

Do you want to be the lucky winner of two roundtrip Southwest Airlines tickets?
Valued at $800 total, these airline passes can be combined for you and a special someone for a trip complements of Southwest Airlines!

For more specific details, please contact the CCB Office.
Take a chance, donate to a great cause, our CCB and you might win those tickets that can help you get to the ACB Convention in Reno Nevada! Maybe you want to fly to the CCB Convention in the Spring, or take a trip somewhere else Southwest Airlines flies domestic. The holidays are right around the corner!

The drawing will be held at the end of the day on Wednesday, December 7 at the CCB Office in Sacramento. When that winning ticket is drawn, the lucky winner will be contacted immediately with the great news!

What a great gift. The cost is $20 per book, such a great price!
There are 10 tickets in each book. Persons wishing to buy individual tickets can obtain them from their local chapter or special interest affiliate president. Each individual ticket costs $2.

You must mail any $$$'s and ticket books to the CCB Office in Sacramento by Wednesday, November 30, 2016 to make sure they will be received in time for the drawing on Wednesday, December 7, 2016.
All checks or money orders must be made out to The California Council of the Blind and in the memo section place the words "Great Get Away.
Mail to Attention Mutt Strut 1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.
Contact Donna Pomerantz @ 626.233.2991 or donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org
You can also contact the CCB Office in Sacramento at 916.441.2100 or ccotb@ccbnet.org
Thank you for your support and good luck!


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


Affiliate Call

Please join the California Council of Blind Students for our monthly conference call. We will be discussing our in-person get-togethers.

When: Sunday November 6.
Time: 7:00 PM board meeting, 7:30 membership call.
Call in number: 302) 202-1114
conference code: 694810


San Francisco Chapter Meeting

You are invited to the November meeting of the San Francisco Chapter of the California Council of the Blind.

Date: Saturday, November 12, 2016
Time: 10:30 AM.
Location: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 10th Floor Multipurpose Room, San Francisco.

This month's meeting speaker will be Matt West, Fixed Route Coordinator, San Francisco Municipal Transit Agency.

Our meeting location is fully accessible, and we are equipped with an assistive listening system. Contact Frank Welte no later than Wednesday, November 9 if you want to reserve an assistive listening device.
His Email address is Frank.A.Welte@gmail.com, and his cell phone number is (510) 541-1442.

Our meetings are also accessible by telephone.
The conference phone number is (302) 202-1110. The meeting code is 340741.


From The CCB HVI Committee: Speech Testing' Part Of The Hearing Diagnostic Process

Tom Brennan will focus his presentation on the 'speech testing' portion of the hearing diagnostic process in the audiologist's office.

Tom Brennan has his clinical certification in audiology and speech pathology, licensed in both fields in Texas and in practice for 30 years. Born totally blind and having bilateral Meniere's disease, we are extremely fortunate to glean from his expertise.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as Tom continues his invaluable series.
Date: Sunday, November 20;
time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern;
Phone # (712) 432-3447
ID: 309464.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we post resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences.
Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


East LA Chapter Event

The east LA chapter would like to celebrate Thanks Giving with our Southern California members and friends.
On Sunday, November 20th at the Garcia Home 1226 S. McBride Ave. in LA cross street Olympic from 10:30 to 1:30 pm.

Cap off your CCB weekend of fun with a full Turkey dinner. You have earned it for walking or running 2 or 5K at the Mutt Strut on Saturday. The Garcia's will be serving turkey, ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, salad, vegetable, roll and dessert.

Our meeting will start promptly at 10:30 and conclude with our feast. Please RSVP by November 11th to Mona Craig by phone or text at (310) 930-6929 or email preshusdelight@gmail.com or Stephanie Rood call or text at (818)321-4205 or by email at east.la.ccb.chapter@gmail.com.

If you leave a voicemail, text or e mail PLEASE indicate your name and number of guests you will be bringing.
We look forward to giving thanks with our CCB family and friends.


Glendale-Burbank Chapter Christmas Party

Please come to the Glendale-Burbank Chapter Christmas party at the Smokehouse Restaurant in Burbank. For salmon or chicken entrees and all the fixings, the cost is $36; and for the prime rib entrée and the fixings, the cost is $46 if paid by Saturday, November 26. If paid later, the cost is $5 more.

Please reserve and pay John Mavis at 1232 N. El Centro Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038-1706.
For further info, call Ardis Bazyn at 818-238-9321.


Resource Handbook

I have created a screen reader-friendly California Resource Handbook containing resources pertaining to the blind and visually impaired, for use by consumers and professionals. This handbook is for the residents of California and includes the many organizations for the blind and visually impaired covering areas such as employment, housing, transportation, and more. The handbook includes contact information on the local, regional, and national level.

For more information on pricing and formats please contact Insightful Publications by email at insightfulpub@gmail.com or by phone at (808) 747-1006.
Or visit our website at in-sightful.com/orderpage.html for more information on pricing, formats available, and state resource handbook order form.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection October 28, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for October 28.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Upcoming Calls:
From President Judy Wilkinson:

I'm looking forward to your joining us at one or more of the upcoming teleconference meetings. The call-in number and code are the same for all three.
Note the new dial-in number: 218-548-3592 Code: 2262 (CCOB).

Presidents call:
Monday October 31 at 7:30. (Note the time has changed so goblins can stay out a bit later.)

Office Hour:
Sunday, November 6 4:00 PM. (I plan to alternate these on different days and times to allow opportunities for everyone to participate.)

Board Meeting:
Thursday, November 10 at 7:00 PM. (For convenience and consistency the board has decided to hold its regular meetings on the second Thursday of alternating months beginning with this meeting on November 10.)


Voter Guides

Here are several ways of getting an accessible version of the Voter Information Guide for the upcoming election:


Great Get Away Raffle

Do you want to be the lucky winner of two roundtrip Southwest Airlines tickets?
Valued at $800 total, these airline passes can be combined for you and a special someone for a trip complements of Southwest Airlines!

For more specific details, please contact the CCB Office.
Take a chance, donate to a great cause, our CCB and you might win those tickets that can help you get to the ACB Convention in Reno Nevada! Maybe you want to fly to the CCB Convention in the Spring, or take a trip somewhere else Southwest Airlines flies domestic. The holidays are right around the corner!

The drawing will be held at the end of the day on Wednesday, December 7 at the CCB Office in Sacramento. When that winning ticket is drawn, the lucky winner will be contacted immediately with the great news!

What a great gift. The cost is $20 per book, such a great price!
There are 10 tickets in each book. Persons wishing to buy individual tickets can obtain them from their local chapter or special interest affiliate president. Each individual ticket costs $2.

You must mail any $$$'s and ticket books to the CCB Office in Sacramento by Wednesday, November 30, 2016 to make sure they will be received in time for the drawing on Wednesday, December 7, 2016.
All checks or money orders must be made out to The California Council of the Blind and in the memo section place the words "Great Get Away.
Mail to Attention Mutt Strut 1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.
Contact Donna Pomerantz @ 626.233.2991 or donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org
You can also contact the CCB Office in Sacramento at 916.441.2100 or ccotb@ccbnet.org
Thank you for your support and good luck!


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


East LA Chapter Event

The east LA chapter would like to celebrate Thanks Giving with our Southern California members and friends.
On Sunday, November 20th at the Garcia Home 1226 S. McBride Ave. in LA cross street Olympic from 10:30 to 1:30 pm.

Cap off your CCB weekend of fun with a full Turkey dinner. You have earned it for walking or running 2 or 5K at the Mutt Strut on Saturday. The Garcia's will be serving turkey, ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, salad, vegetable, roll and dessert.

Our meeting will start promptly at 10:30 and conclude with our feast. Please RSVP by November 11th to Mona Craig by phone or text at (310) 930-6929 or email preshusdelight@gmail.com or Stephanie Rood call or text at (818)321-4205 or by email at east.la.ccb.chapter@gmail.com.

If you leave a voicemail, text or e mail PLEASE indicate your name and number of guests you will be bringing.
We look forward to giving thanks with our CCB family and friends.


Resource Handbook

I have created a screen reader-friendly California Resource Handbook containing resources pertaining to the blind and visually impaired, for use by consumers and professionals. This handbook is for the residents of California and includes the many organizations for the blind and visually impaired covering areas such as employment, housing, transportation, and more. The handbook includes contact information on the local, regional, and national level.

For more information on pricing and formats please contact Insightful Publications by email at insightfulpub@gmail.com or by phone at (808) 747-1006.
Or visit our website at in-sightful.com/orderpage.html for more information on pricing, formats available, and state resource handbook order form.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection October 21, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for October 21.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Upcoming Calls:
From President Judy Wilkinson:

I'm looking forward to your joining us at one or more of the upcoming teleconference meetings. The call-in number and code are the same for all three.
Note the new dial-in number: 218-548-3592 Code: 2262 (CCOB).

Presidents call:
Monday October 31 at 7:30. (Note the time has changed so goblins can stay out a bit later.)

Office Hour:
Sunday, November 6 4:00 PM. (I plan to alternate these on different days and times to allow opportunities for everyone to participate.)

Board Meeting:
Thursday, November 10 at 7:00 PM. (For convenience and consistency the board has decided to hold its regular meetings on the second Thursday of alternating months beginning with this meeting on November 10.)


CCB Office Announcements:
From CEO Paul Shane

  1. As you may know, we are restructuring the office environment in Sacramento. As such, we have been experiencing challenges with the phone, email, internet and the fax machine. We hope to have everything up and running in the near future.
  2. Office hours: Office hours will be by appointment for the foreseeable future. Jennifer is a ¾ quarter time employee and is only at CCB from Tuesday-Friday and at times, she will be with me in the community working on fund development. All phone messages received will be returned within 48 hours.
  3. On October 28, 2016 the CA Connections will be delayed until the afternoon as both Jennifer and myself will be at the mandatory orientation session for the Big Day Of Giving 2017 in the morning. We promise to send it out and record it the moment we return to the office.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.


Voter Guides

Here are several ways of getting an accessible version of the Voter Information Guide for the upcoming election:


Great Get Away Raffle

Do you want to be the lucky winner of two roundtrip Southwest Airlines tickets?
Valued at $800 total, these airline passes can be combined for you and a special someone for a trip complements of Southwest Airlines!

For more specific details, please contact the CCB Office.
Take a chance, donate to a great cause, our CCB and you might win those tickets that can help you get to the ACB Convention in Reno Nevada! Maybe you want to fly to the CCB Convention in the Spring, or take a trip somewhere else Southwest Airlines flies domestic. The holidays are right around the corner!

The drawing will be held at the end of the day on Wednesday, December 7 at the CCB Office in Sacramento. When that winning ticket is drawn, the lucky winner will be contacted immediately with the great news!

What a great gift. The cost is $20 per book, such a great price!
There are 10 tickets in each book. Persons wishing to buy individual tickets can obtain them from their local chapter or special interest affiliate president. Each individual ticket costs $2.

You must mail any $$$'s and ticket books to the CCB Office in Sacramento by Wednesday, November 30, 2016 to make sure they will be received in time for the drawing on Wednesday, December 7, 2016.
All checks or money orders must be made out to The California Council of the Blind and in the memo section place the words "Great Get Away.
Mail to Attention Mutt Strut 1303 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.
Contact Donna Pomerantz @ 626.233.2991 or donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org
You can also contact the CCB Office in Sacramento at 916.441.2100 or ccotb@ccbnet.org
Thank you for your support and good luck!


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


San Gabriel Valley Chapter Fundraiser

Please come join the San Gabriel Valley Chapter for an evening of food and friendship at Shakey's Pizza Parlor, in Whittier.

The date is Wednesday October 26, from 5 to 9:00 p.m.
Address: 11530 East Washington Blvd.
Cross street, Broadway.

You will need to present a flyer to the cashier, for our chapter to receive 25% of the nonalcoholic portion of the proceeds.
If you have questions, or wish to have flyers sent via Email, contact Steve Aminoff Email: s_aminoff@sbcglobal.net Phone: 626-445-6727
President Pam Polagi will also have flyers that evening.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you at Shakey's.


Room Search

My name is Christina Law, I'm a totally blind 32-year-old female seeking to rent a room in the North Bay, East Bay or the city of San Francisco.
I can pay up to five hundred seventy-five dollars a month if this includes all utilities.

I don't drink, smoke, do drugs or blare loud music, I have no kids or no pets. I'm a JAWS user but plug headphones in to my computer during sleeping hours.

Looking to move on November 1 if possible.
If you or someone you know might be able to assist, please call me at (707)338-1210 or email me at peacefortheworld11@gmail.com.
Thank you.


Resource Handbook

I have created a screen reader-friendly California Resource Handbook containing resources pertaining to the blind and visually impaired, for use by consumers and professionals. This handbook is for the residents of California and includes the many organizations for the blind and visually impaired covering areas such as employment, housing, transportation, and more. The handbook includes contact information on the local, regional, and national level.

For more information on pricing and formats please contact Insightful Publications by email at insightfulpub@gmail.com or by phone at (808) 747-1006.
Or visit our website at in-sightful.com/orderpage.html for more information on pricing, formats available, and state resource handbook order form.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection October 14, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for October 14.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Voter Guides

Here are two links to the accessible Voter Information Guide for the upcoming election:

HTML version of the VIG:
http://voterguide.sos.ca.gov/.

Audio version of the VIG:
http://voterguide.sos.ca.gov/en/audio/


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


San Gabriel Valley Chapter Fundraiser

Please come join the San Gabriel Valley Chapter for an evening of food and friendship at Shakey's Pizza Parlor, in Whittier.

The date is Wednesday October 26, from 5 to 9:00 p.m.
Address: 11530 East Washington Blvd.
Cross street, Broadway.

You will need to present a flyer to the cashier, for our chapter to receive 25% of the nonalcoholic portion of the proceeds.
If you have questions, or wish to have flyers sent via Email, contact Steve Aminoff Email: s_aminoff@sbcglobal.net Phone: 626-445-6727
President Pam Polagi will also have flyers that evening.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you at Shakey's.


From The CCB Hearing And Vision Impaired Committee

"What equipment could enhance our listening experience?"
Each of you are the resource on this call. You will be given the chance to share what is working for you, or where you can obtain something that someone is looking for.
Bring your challenging questions as well as your answers for a fruitful resource call.

Tom Brennan will be back in November talking about "speech testing' of the diagnostic process in the audiologist's office.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee:
Date: Sunday, October 16;
time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern;
Phone #: (712) 432-3447 ID: 309464.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we post resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences. Go to http://ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


Participants Wanted For Eye & Brain Imaging Study

The University of Southern California is looking for participants to join a study looking into how the brain and eye are connected using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and retinal imaging. This study will help doctors and scientists understand how eye diseases could affect the brain.

You are eligible to participate in this study if you have normal vision or one of the following vision conditions:

This project is part of the Connectomes Related to Human Disease project, funded by NIH. It will help create a public database for researchers around the world to draw insights from. The results from this study could potentially lead to better vision restoration treatments.

If you are interested, please contact Nelson Aguilar at (323) 442-6490 use Domsife Dana and David Durnsifc College of Lcttcra, Arts and Sciences HS-16-00090 Neuroimaging Center at University Park Campus of use.

You will be compensated for your time. This study involves 2-3 sessions lasting about 5 hours each. The study will take place at the USC Eye Institute at the Health Science Campus at USC and the Dornsife Cognitive USCRoskl Eye Institute Kcck Medicine of USC


Theater Performance

The Award-winning Actors Co-op Theatre Company is presenting a special performance of OUR TOWN by Thornton Wilder with Audio Description.

Arguably the most famous American play ever written, "Our Town" has entertained generations of audiences. In this exciting multi-cultural version, told by an ethnically-diverse cast of 17, Wilder's Pulitzer-winning drama is a timeless story about living, love and loss and appreciating life and its quiet moments to their fullest.

The performance with Audio Description is set for Saturday, Oct. 22 at 2:30 pm.
A limited number of headsets are available.

To purchase tickets or for more information, call (323) 462-8460. www.ActorsCo-op.org


Room Search

My name is Christina Law, I'm a totally blind 32-year-old female seeking to rent a room in the North Bay, East Bay or the city of San Francisco.
I can pay up to five hundred seventy-five dollars a month if this includes all utilities.

I don't drink, smoke, do drugs or blare loud music, I have no kids or no pets. I'm a JAWS user but plug headphones in to my computer during sleeping hours.

Looking to move on November 1 if possible.
If you or someone you know might be able to assist, please call me at (707)338-1210 or email me at peacefortheworld11@gmail.com.
Thank you.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection October 7, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for October 7.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From Vita Zavoli, Chair, Technical Operations Group

The TOG is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our team member and friend, Greg Fowler.
Greg was a huge part of our success. He always had well-thought out suggestions, was willing to research anything and would produce results overnight. Much of the work on our website was produced by Greg's own hands. He was a quiet and private man whose actions spoke volumes. We will miss his dedication to the TOG, commitment to CCB and his technical humor.

We send our deepest condolences to his wife, Julie, and both of their families.


Voter Guides

Here are two links to the accessible Voter Information Guide for the upcoming election:

HTML version of the VIG:
http://voterguide.sos.ca.gov/.

Audio version of the VIG:
http://voterguide.sos.ca.gov/en/audio/


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


Greater Los Angeles Chapter Fund Raiser

Dear Friends and Supporters of the California Council of the Blind:
The 2016 World Series is just around the corner. In the spirit of this great American pastime, the Greater Los Angeles Chapter, CCB, will once again be serving up our favorite baseball munchies at our annual World Series Food Fest Fundraiser including Hebrew National Hotdogs, real hot links, hamburgers, potato salad, Ken's homemade Chili, some with a slightly extra kick, dessert and perhaps some Crackerjacks, soda and water included. We will also have some garden burgers and Chili for vegetarians who register ahead.

This fund Raiser is a perfect opportunity to participate in some great fellowship and also a live auction of items that all of you will appreciate bidding on.

The pertinent information is as follows:
Greater Los Angeles CCB World Series Food Fest Fund Raiser,
Saturday, October 15, 2016
Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall (VFW)
3:00 PM to 7 PM,
8548 Lankershim Blvd.
Sun Valley, CA 91352, nearest main cross street being Roscoe Blvd.;
$15.00 per Adult - $8.00 per child 3 - 12 years of age, and Free for Children less than 3 years of age.
Those who reserve by Monday, October 10, 2016, will be placed into a special early-bird drawing where two persons will win $50 cash. There will be other raffle prizes with the top prize being a 50/50 jackpot.

To register or ask questions, please call Ken Metz at (818) 882-3610-HOME or (323) 793-1805-CELL, or by email at kenmetz1946@gmail.com
We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible with many of your friends.


San Francisco Chapter Fundraiser

Join the San Francisco Chapter in its annual Pizza/Bingo fundraiser, and help us support blind and visually impaired students ages 8-18 by giving them the adaptive equipment they need to excell in their education.

When: Saturday, October 15, 2015, from 12:00-4:00 PM.
Where: East Bay Center for the Blind, 2928 Adeline St., Berkeley, CA 94703.

Thanks to your ongoing generous support of our annual $2,500 Student Education Access (SEA) Grant, we will once again be able to award assistive technology equipment to a deserving Bay Area blind or visually impaired student in 2017.

Meal tickets cost $15 each and include one free non-alcoholic drink.
We will serve salad, pizza and dessert.
Additional non-alcoholic beverages cost $1 each. Beer and wine cost $2 each. Coffee is free.

The legendary SF Chapter Corner Store will be open for business with sugar-free candy, radios, neck wallets and other sundry items.

Each bingo game will cost 75 cents. The blackout will cost $1.50.
Half of the winnings will go to the winners. The other half will go to the SEA Grant.

You may purchase tickets for this year's 50/50 raffle from chapter members at any time or at the fundraiser. The cost is $2 per ticket.

There will be three raffle prizes. The first prize will be half of the proceeds collected from the raffle. The second and third prizes will be $25 gift certificates or cards. The winning tickets will be drawn at the fundraiser. You do not need to be present to win.

If you plan to attend the fundraiser, please RSVP to Daveed Mandell by Sunday, October 9, either via email, at daveedmandell@gmail.com, or by phone, at 510-504-3211.

You may purchase your meal ticket from any chapter member. Otherwise, send your check, payable to the SF Chapter, and mail it to:
SF Chapter
c/o Vita Zavoli
1271 Washington Avenue, #144
San Leandro, CA 94577

We look forward to sharing a lively and enjoyable afternoon with you.


San Gabriel Valley Chapter Fundraiser

Please come join the San Gabriel Valley Chapter for an evening of food and friendship at Shakey's Pizza Parlor, in Whittier.

The date is Wednesday October 26, from 5 to 9:00 p.m.
Address: 11530 East Washington Blvd.
Cross street, Broadway.

You will need to present a flyer to the cashier, for our chapter to receive 25% of the nonalcoholic portion of the proceeds.
If you have questions, or wish to have flyers sent via Email, contact Steve Aminoff Email: s_aminoff@sbcglobal.net Phone: 626-445-6727
President Pam Polagi will also have flyers that evening.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you at Shakey's.


From The CCB Hearing And Vision Impaired Committee

"What equipment could enhance our listening experience?"
Each of you are the resource on this call. You will be given the chance to share what is working for you, or where you can obtain something that someone is looking for.
Bring your challenging questions as well as your answers for a fruitful resource call.

Tom Brennan will be back in November talking about "speech testing' of the diagnostic process in the audiologist's office.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee:
Date: Sunday, October 16;
time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern;
Phone #: (712) 432-3447 ID: 309464.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we post resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences. Go to http://ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


White Cane Safety/Blind Americans Equality Day

Celebrate White Cane Safety/Blind Americans Equality Day with Community Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired!

Join us Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016 at noon at Caldwell Park, 3021 Pacific Avenue, Stockton for a proclamation of White Cane Safety/Blind Americans Equality Day. Walk the Historic Miracle Mile with us and dine at Whirlows to support our fundraiser!

On October 12 between the hours of 11:00 AM and 9:00 PM, present our flyer or mention you are there to support CCBVI and Whirlows will donate 20% of your bill to support programs and services for the blind and visually impaired of San Joaquin county!

Please invite your family and friends and help us make great strides down the path to independence together!
For more information, please contact Jennifer Boylan at 209-466-3836, extension 206 or jenniferb@communitycenterfortheblind.org


Room Search

My name is Christina Law, I'm a totally blind 32-year-old female seeking to rent a room in the North Bay, East Bay or the city of San Francisco.
I can pay up to five hundred seventy-five dollars a month if this includes all utilities.

I don't drink, smoke, do drugs or blare loud music, I have no kids or no pets. I'm a JAWS user but plug headphones in to my computer during sleeping hours.

Looking to move on November 1 if possible.
If you or someone you know might be able to assist, please call me at (707)338-1210 or email me at peacefortheworld11@gmail.com.
Thank you.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection September 30, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for September 30.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From President Judy Wilkinson:
Staff Update

Welcome Jennifer!
When you call the CCB office beginning Monday, October 3rd you'll hear the cheerful, enthusiastic voice of our new Administrative Services Officer: Jennifer Caldira.

Through a program Paul Shane, our new CEO knows of, we have Jennifer nearly full time spending only the money the board recently allocated.
Paul has completed his second week and looks forward to bringing Jennifer up-to-speed. So let's all remember to cut them a little slack while they learn the ropes.

I also want to take this opportunity to once again say good-bye to long-time CCB administrative assistant Ed Branch. We can never thank Ed enough for his years of service wearing so many different hats. We wish you all the best Ed.


Saying Goodbye

On September 30 CCB will say goodbye to our long-time admin assistant Ed Branch.
If you would like to speak with Ed personally please provide your contact information to Gabe Griffith by email at gabe.griffith@ccbnet.org or by phone at (925)768-8195 and he will get it to Ed.


Attention CCB Members With Voting Issues

We appreciate your continuing efforts to make voting accessible to all persons who are blind or visually-impaired.

If you experience barriers in efforts to vote and wish to contact CCB's lawyers directly:

  1. For voting machine issues contact Michelle Iorio at DRA (Disability Rights Advocates) Phone: 510-665-8644 Email: miorio@dralegal.org
  2. If you have ballot or other access issues contact: Kelly McGraw, the paralegal who works with Michael Nunez at RBGG Phone: 415-433-6830 Email: kmcgraw@rbgg.com


From Jeff Thom, Chair, Committee On Governmental Affairs

The following was received by Mitch Pomerantz.
Any chapters or individuals in Los Angeles County might want to take a look at supporting this measure.

Measure M is a half-cent sales tax in LA County that has been placed on the November 2016 ballot by LA Metro to fund "LA County's Traffic Improvement Plan." Measure M would also extend Measure R, approved by voters in 2008.

If Measure M wins a 2/3 majority vote in November it would provide approximately $120 billion over 40 years to significantly expand the rail transit system and support the bus system all over LA County, as well as provide first and last mile connections to stations for people on foot and on bike and users of all ages and abilities.

The ballot measure would also pay for important highway improvements, and provide funding to all 88 cities in LA County to address local needs including street repairs such as filling potholes and synchronizing traffic signals, supporting local transit service, including paratransit service, and investing in pedestrian and bicycle improvements.

Measure M would create a dramatically improved transportation system to redefine commutes for residents in every corner of the county to get all of us where we want to go, when we want to get there, however we choose to travel.

For more information on this contact Neal Richman by phone at 310-686-7480 or by email at nealrichman@gmail.com


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


California Council Of Blind students - Affiliate Call

The California Council of Blind students monthly conference call will be on Sunday October 2nd.
There will be a board meeting at 7:00 and an open meeting at 7:30 PM.

Now that the school year is in full swing we will be discussing ways of reaching out and looking for new members.


San Francisco Chapter Fundraiser

Join the San Francisco Chapter in its annual Pizza/Bingo fundraiser, and help us support blind and visually impaired students ages 8-18 by giving them the adaptive equipment they need to excell in their education.

When: Saturday, October 15, 2015, from 12:00-4:00 PM.
Where: East Bay Center for the Blind, 2928 Adeline St., Berkeley, CA 94703.

Thanks to your ongoing generous support of our annual $2,500 Student Education Access (SEA) Grant, we will once again be able to award assistive technology equipment to a deserving Bay Area blind or visually impaired student in 2017.

Meal tickets cost $15 each and include one free non-alcoholic drink.
We will serve salad, pizza and dessert.
Additional non-alcoholic beverages cost $1 each. Beer and wine cost $2 each. Coffee is free.

The legendary SF Chapter Corner Store will be open for business with sugar-free candy, radios, neck wallets and other sundry items.

Each bingo game will cost 75 cents. The blackout will cost $1.50.
Half of the winnings will go to the winners. The other half will go to the SEA Grant.

You may purchase tickets for this year's 50/50 raffle from chapter members at any time or at the fundraiser. The cost is $2 per ticket.

There will be three raffle prizes. The first prize will be half of the proceeds collected from the raffle. The second and third prizes will be $25 gift certificates or cards. The winning tickets will be drawn at the fundraiser. You do not need to be present to win.

If you plan to attend the fundraiser, please RSVP to Daveed Mandell by Sunday, October 9, either via email, at daveedmandell@gmail.com, or by phone, at 510-504-3211.

You may purchase your meal ticket from any chapter member. Otherwise, send your check, payable to the SF Chapter, and mail it to:
SF Chapter
c/o Vita Zavoli
1271 Washington Avenue, #144
San Leandro, CA 94577

We look forward to sharing a lively and enjoyable afternoon with you.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection September 23, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for September 23.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Saying Goodbye

On September 30 CCB will say goodbye to our long-time admin assistant Ed Branch.
If you would like to speak with Ed personally please provide your contact information to Gabe Griffith by email at gabe.griffith@ccbnet.org or by phone at (925)768-8195 and he will get it to Ed.


Memoriam

From Paul Patche JR.:
With a heavy heart, I regret to inform everyone of the passing of a chapter member. She was a CCB member for many years. This morning at 2:55 we lost ACB Capital Chapter's First Vice-President Kathy Berman.

Kathy has been in the hospital for about a month now battling cancer and other ailments that lowered her health. We will all miss Kathy.

Please send your prayers and support to our member Butch Smith who will have to cope with the hard loss.


From Christine & Jason Hewitt

My husband and I are so pleased to share that we have received sufficient donations to pay for my father, Obbie Schoeman's, cremation services.

We are beyond grateful for all the generous donations. Your kindness, loving memories and financial gifts have made this difficult time so much easier. And as my husband was out of work only a week after the funeral, we literally could not have done this without you.

From the bottom of our hearts
Thank You!


Attention CCB Members With Voting Issues

We appreciate your continuing efforts to make voting accessible to all persons who are blind or visually-impaired.

If you experience barriers in efforts to vote and wish to contact CCB's lawyers directly:

  1. For voting machine issues contact Michelle Iorio at DRA (Disability Rights Advocates) Phone: 510-665-8644 Email: miorio@dralegal.org
  2. If you have ballot or other access issues contact: Kelly McGraw, the paralegal who works with Michael Nunez at RBGG Phone: 415-433-6830 Email: kmcgraw@rbgg.com


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter Meeting

The Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter of CCB will have the League of Women Voters present the propositions for the upcoming election at our next chapter meeting held on October 1 from 11 am to 1 pm at the Days Inn Pioneer Restaurant at 450 W. Pioneer in Glendale (cross Street Pacific).

All are welcome. Feel free to pass this along to others.
For more info, call Ardis Bazyn at 818-238-9321.


San Francisco Chapter Fundraiser

Join the San Francisco Chapter in its annual Pizza/Bingo fundraiser, and help us support blind and visually impaired students ages 8-18 by giving them the adaptive equipment they need to excell in their education.

When: Saturday, October 15, 2015, from 12:00-4:00 PM.
Where: East Bay Center for the Blind, 2928 Adeline St., Berkeley, CA 94703.

Thanks to your ongoing generous support of our annual $2,500 Student Education Access (SEA) Grant, we will once again be able to award assistive technology equipment to a deserving Bay Area blind or visually impaired student in 2017.

Meal tickets cost $15 each and include one free non-alcoholic drink.
We will serve salad, pizza and dessert.
Additional non-alcoholic beverages cost $1 each. Beer and wine cost $2 each. Coffee is free.

The legendary SF Chapter Corner Store will be open for business with sugar-free candy, radios, neck wallets and other sundry items.

Each bingo game will cost 75 cents. The blackout will cost $1.50.
Half of the winnings will go to the winners. The other half will go to the SEA Grant.

You may purchase tickets for this year's 50/50 raffle from chapter members at any time or at the fundraiser. The cost is $2 per ticket.

There will be three raffle prizes. The first prize will be half of the proceeds collected from the raffle. The second and third prizes will be $25 gift certificates or cards. The winning tickets will be drawn at the fundraiser. You do not need to be present to win.

If you plan to attend the fundraiser, please RSVP to Daveed Mandell by Sunday, October 9, either via email, at daveedmandell@gmail.com, or by phone, at 510-504-3211.

You may purchase your meal ticket from any chapter member. Otherwise, send your check, payable to the SF Chapter, and mail it to:
SF Chapter
c/o Vita Zavoli
1271 Washington Avenue, #144
San Leandro, CA 94577

We look forward to sharing a lively and enjoyable afternoon with you.


BENEFITS OF AUDIO DESCRIPTION IN EDUCATION CONTEST

Contact: Joel Snyder (202) 467-5083 jsnyder@acb.org
Young People Who Are Blind Write Reviews of Film and Video

The American Council of the Blind's Audio Description Project (ACB-ADP) and the Described and Captioned Media Program (DCMP) are co-sponsoring an exciting opportunity for blind and visually impaired young people, in three age range categories from ages 7 to 21: the Benefits of Audio Description in Education (BADIE) contest.

Kids love movies!
Multimedia experiences are integral to public, private, and special education curriculum. Audio description provides access to all the visual images of the films and videos that sighted young people enjoy.

Students choose an audio-described film or video from the more than 6,000 titles available through DCMP - visit www.dcmp.org.
Or a young person who is blind can borrow an audio-described video or film from a library, and dozens of audio-described films videos are available for purchase through the ACB-ADP's website at www.acb.org/adp/dvds.html.
Reviews can be submitted in writing, in braille or via an audio recording.

Register for the contest at http://listeningislearning.org/badie_entry-form.html.

Entries can also be submitted via e-mail or postal mail (submissions from outside the United States are fine) to:
ACB-DCMP Benefits of Audio Description In Education
1703 N. Beauregard St., Suite 420
Alexandria, VA 22311 USA
E-mail: jsnyder@acb.org
Phone: (202) 467-5083

DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES:
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Contest winners in each category will be chosen by January of 2017, and the grand prize winner will receive an iPad Mini! Each first-place winner will receive a $100 iTunes gift card. Second-place winners will receive a $50 iTunes gift card, and third-place winners will receive a $25 iTunes gift card. Each supporting teacher who has a winning student will be awarded a $100 Amazon gift card.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection September 16, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for September 16.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


From The CCB Hearing And Vision Loss Committee

Repeat: How do they measure my hearing loss?
No matter what your hearing problem, everyone needs to start with essentially the same diagnostics.

Tom Brennan will be talking about the diagnostic process from the time you walk into an audiologist's office, and end with what the results generally might mean. Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as Tom Brennan continues his invaluable series.

Date: Sunday, September 18; time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern
* * New Phone #: (712) 432-3447 ID: 309464.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we post resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences.
Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter Meeting

The Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter of CCB will have the League of Women Voters present the propositions for the upcoming election at our next chapter meeting held on October 1 from 11 am to 1 pm at the Days Inn Pioneer Restaurant at 450 W. Pioneer in Glendale (cross Street Pacific).

All are welcome. Feel free to pass this along to others.
For more info, call Ardis Bazyn at 818-238-9321.


Active Blind Inland Valley Chapter Fund Raiser

Hello all, The Active Blind Inland Valleys Chapter California Council of the Blind (ABIV CCB) is hosting our major fundraiser with an online party.

When: 9/1/2016 through 9/24/2016
Where: online: PamperedChef.com
Host: Christy Crespin

Event: ABIV
Consultant: Joann Carter: phone, 661-399-2588 or email, hippolover@att.net

How:
Please visit our Fundraiser homepage at https://www.pamperedchef.com/pws/joann/guest-landing/9002118724763
scroll down to "Want to add an online order to this show?
Head to the Shop and pick out all of your favorite products!
Then, click the link "Shop Now".

If you need assistance or have questions please contact Joann Carter. Her customer service is outstanding.

Why:
The California Council of the Blind was founded in 1934. Our chapter was chartered in 1994. We work hard to address issues such as legislation, transportation, advocacy, and to educate about blindness. We contribute to scholarships for blind students, send our delegate and alternate to the annual conference and convention, recruit members, educate our community about ourselves as people who are active and who happen to be blind/visually impaired, and are of support to anyone who either is newly blinded, wants to know more, or who is working with people who are blind/visually impaired. We are hoping to earn a substantial amount so we are counting on our friends and their friends to purchase.

Reason to buy:
You now have a wonderful reason to buy for weddings, showers, holidays such as Christmas, house-warmings, Bosses Day, birthdays, "Thank you", Thinking of you, Just because, and as gifts for your cooking pleasure.

Please consider sharing this information, passing it on, and visiting the Pampered Chef for a worthy cause.
We thank you in advance.


Obbie Schoeman Go Fund Me Page

On behalf of Obbie's family, please read the following message.

Obbie was a very generous man to those he cared about and this included CCB. As a result of expenses incurred during his illness, his family is asking for assistance with costs related to his burial.

If you would like to help you can do so at https://www.gofundme.com/2htz4uk
or message Donna Pomerantz by phone at 626.233.2991 or via email at dmpomerantz@earthlink.net if you wish to receive Christine's direct mailing address to send a check made out to Christine.

If at all possible receipt of assistance must be given before Sept. 27 as that is when high interest rates will begin.
Thank you to those who have donated thus far as every dollar counts and is very much appreciated.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection September 9, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for September 9.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Recordings Of CCB Board Meetings

From President Judy Wilkinson:
It is now possible for CCB members to access the recordings of CCB board meetings.

Follow these instructions:
Call-in number 712-451-0019
Access code 247389#
Enter the reference code For the July 12 Board Meeting enter: 1 For the August 30 Board Meeting enter: 2 you can also just press pound for the most recent recording.


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


SSI/SSP Cost Of Living Adjustment

Urgent letters are needed to change the Governor's mind on signing AB1584 into law.
This bill would, commencing with the 2018 calendar year, reinstate the state's cost-of-living adjustment for recipients of the SSI/SSP program. This would not automatically mean that the Legislature would grant the annual adjustment, but it would reverse the repeal of this provision made during the 2009 recession.

You can send a letter to the following address:
The Honorable Edmund G. Brown Jr.
Governor, State of California
California State Capitol, Suite 1173
Sacramento, CA 95814

You may also telephone the Governor's office at (916)-445-2841 or submit an online form, using the Governor's website at governor.ca.gov.

Thank you for helping to keep thousands of persons with vision loss out of poverty by urging the Governor to sign AB1584.


California Council Of Blind Students Affiliate Call

The California Council of Blind students will be holding its monthly conference call on Sunday September 11.
The board call will begin at 7:00 and the general membership call will begin at 7:30. Anyone is welcome to either of these portions.
the membership portion of the meeting will be focusing on back to school strategies.

The call in number is 302) 202-1114 and the conference code is 694810.


San Francisco Chapter Meeting

You are invited to the September meeting of the San Francisco Chapter of the California Council of the Blind.

Date: Saturday, September 17, 2016
Time: 10:30 AM.
Location: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 10th Floor Multipurpose Room, San Francisco.

This month, our business meeting will be followed from noon to 1:30 PM by our annual Student Education Access Grant Award Luncheon.
Contact Frank Welte no later than Wednesday, September 14 if you want to reserve an assistive listening device. His Email address is Frank.A.Welte@gmail.com, and his cell phone number is (510) 541-1442.

Our meetings are accessible by telephone.
The conference phone number is (302) 202-1110.
The meeting code is 340741.

Those of you planning to attend the Award Luncheon must RSVP no later than Monday, September 12 by calling Vita Zavoli at (510) 846-4080 or writing to her at vzavoli@gmail.com.
The price for the Luncheon is $12.00.


From The CCB Hearing And Vision Loss Committee

Repeat: How do they measure my hearing loss?
No matter what your hearing problem, everyone needs to start with essentially the same diagnostics.

Tom Brennan will be talking about the diagnostic process from the time you walk into an audiologist's office, and end with what the results generally might mean. Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as Tom Brennan continues his invaluable series.

Date: Sunday, September 18; time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern
* * New Phone #: (712) 432-3447 ID: 309464.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we post resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences.
Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


Active Blind Inland Valley Chapter Fund Raiser

Hello all, The Active Blind Inland Valleys Chapter California Council of the Blind (ABIV CCB) is hosting our major fundraiser with an online party.

When: 9/1/2016 through 9/24/2016
Where: online: pamperedchef.com
Host: Christy Crespin

Event:
ABIV Consultant: Joann Carter: phone, 661-399-2588 or email, hippolover@att.net

How:
Please visit our Fundraiser homepage at https://www.pamperedchef.com/pws/joann/guest-landing/9002118724763
scroll down to "Want to add an online order to this show?
Head to the Shop and pick out all of your favorite products!
Then, click the link "Shop Now".

If you need assistance or have questions please contact Joann Carter. Her customer service is outstanding.

Why:
The California Council of the Blind was founded in 1934. Our chapter was chartered in 1994. We work hard to address issues such as legislation, transportation, advocacy, and to educate about blindness. We contribute to scholarships for blind students, send our delegate and alternate to the annual conference and convention, recruit members, educate our community about ourselves as people who are active and who happen to be blind/visually impaired, and are of support to anyone who either is newly blinded, wants to know more, or who is working with people who are blind/visually impaired. We are hoping to earn a substantial amount so we are counting on our friends and their friends to purchase.

Reason to buy:
You now have a wonderful reason to buy for weddings, showers, holidays such as Christmas, house-warmings, Bosses Day, birthdays, "Thank you", Thinking of you, Just because, and as gifts for your cooking pleasure.

Please consider sharing this information, passing it on, and visiting the Pampered Chef for a worthy cause.
We thank you in advance.


From Christi Crespin

On Friday, 9/9, I am asking that everyone who believes in the power of prayer will set aside time during the day to pray for our nation during this National Day of Prayer.
Various activities are offered so you may wish to google the 2016 National Day of Prayer to learn more.


User Testing

Are you a TV watcher who is 18 or older?
Do you have TiVo or Xfinity and are blind or have low vision?
Want to earn $100?

The testing will be in San Jose but transportation will be paid for.
The discussion will last one hour sometime in mid-September during working hours.

If you are interested in participation contact Beth Berenson at bberenson@lighthouse-sf.org


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection September 2, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for September 2.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Editor's Note

The CCB office will be closed on Monday, September 5th, in observance of the Labor Day holiday.


CCB Appoints Paul Shane As Executive Director

From Judy Wilkinson, CCB President:
I am delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Shane as the Executive Director of The California Council of the Blind.
Paul begins working with us on Monday, September 19. What follows are the remarks I made when introducing Paul to the board and members present at our board meeting Tuesday, August 30, 2016.

Paul Shane grew up in the rural town of Jamesville in Upstate New York (outside of Syracuse), the youngest of ten children. He served his county in a Law Enforcement capacity stationed at McClellan Air Force Base where he was discharged as a disabled Veteran after sustaining an injury in the "line of duty". During his time in the military he volunteered as a crisis counselor for the Sacramento Suicide Crisis Line where he met his wife Dominique, a fellow counselor. They recently celebrated 18 years together. After the military, Paul completed two terms of service as an AmeriCorps National Service Member stationed as a Home Visitor at La Familia Court Counseling Center while simultaneously completing his Bachelor's Degree in Human Services and Master's in Nonprofit Administration. He completed his thesis on the marketing methods employed by the AmeriCorps NCCC program. He has 16 years of experience working in the nonprofit sector in the greater Sacramento region where he has held positions from direct service provider through Chief Executive Officer. He also maintains his own resource development consulting business for nonprofit organizations. His areas of expertise include fundraising; strategic planning & Board development, and community outreach and education.

I think you will get a sense of why the hiring committee was so impressed as I share some of what Paul wrote in his letter of application.

"I am a visionary goal driven and results oriented leader who is accustomed to a fast-paced, demanding environment where deadlines are a priority and handling multiple jobs simultaneously is the norm. I am also very adept at individual pursuits, while at the same time, possessing a love for working in a team environment and the rewards associated with group contribution. As a leader with your organization, I would focus my collaborative leadership style: incredibly creativity; passion; high energy level; out-of- the-box thinking, and constant flow of original ideas on helping you to meet and exceed your goals and expectations. This would be done while remaining true to my overall guiding principles of always treating people with respect and dignity, in all ways and at all times, regardless of the circumstances.

He continues:
"Of additional interest is my significant expertise in resource development. For example, at the Folsom Cordova Community Partnership, I embraced a fledgling grassroots organization and transformed it into a high performing, self-renewing successful entrepreneurial venture. In fact, I doubled the annual budget (from $750,000 to 1.86 million dollars) and staffing levels (from 16 to 32) in a three-year time frame."

He is excited to work for our organization because he is motivated to make a difference in the lives of others. In addition, he wants to expand his breadth of knowledge regarding the blind to discover resources and techniques that may allow him to assist his older brother who is beginning to struggle with vision loss. Paul thoughtfully answered several questions put to him, and many of you will hear more from him as The California Council of the Blind moves forward into a new phase under its first-ever Executive Director.
Welcome Paul.


Mutt Strut

Is technology giving you a "ruff" time?
Things to think about before registering for CCB Mutt Strut on November 19th, 2016

Have the following information ready before phoning:

*These items only necessary if you choose to fundraise for the event. This page shows info about yourself and shows your supporters.

*If you choose not to create your own bio/personal story, First Giving will insert
"Thank you for visiting my fundraising page! Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too".

Looking forward to hearing from you soon! We are just a ring or two away.
Contact: Amelia Sherman, Marketing Event Coordinator 818-293-8338 ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com
OR Donna Pomerantz, Event Co-Chair 626-233-2991 donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org

Please call for assistance between the hours of 9 a.m. and no later than 7 p.m.


SSI/SSP Cost Of Living Adjustment

Urgent letters are needed to change the Governor's mind on signing AB1584 into law.
This bill would, commencing with the 2018 calendar year, reinstate the state's cost-of-living adjustment for recipients of the SSI/SSP program. This would not automatically mean that the Legislature would grant the annual adjustment, but it would reverse the repeal of this provision made during the 2009 recession.

You can send a letter to the following address:
The Honorable Edmund G. Brown Jr.
Governor, State of California
California State Capitol, Suite 1173
Sacramento, CA 95814

You may also telephone the Governor's office at (916)-445-2841 or submit an online form, using the Governor's website at governor.ca.gov.

Thank you for helping to keep thousands of persons with vision loss out of poverty by urging the Governor to sign AB1584.


Bayview Chapter Fund Raiser

Return with us now to those thrilling days of yester year!

Bayview Chapter announces an afternoon of old-time radio!
Dessert will be served. Goodies for sale: brownies, lemon bars, date bars, banana bread!

A raffle: prizes include three chances to win a thumb drive with hundreds of hours of old-time radio shows; gift cards; and more!

When: Saturday September 10 from 2:00 — 5:00 PM.
Where: East Bay Center for the Blind 2928 Adeline Street, Berkeley.
Cost: Admission $10; raffle tickets $1 each or 6 for $5.

Rsvp appreciated but not necessary. Call Cathie Skivers at 510-357-1986.


East Los Angeles CCB Chapter Picnic

The East Los Angeles CCB Chapter will be holding its annual picnic and are inviting our CCB family and friends to join us for a picnic at the Garcia home September 10th from 10:30 to 2 pm at 1226 South McBride Ave. East Los Angeles cross street Olympic.

Rap your summer fun up with the East Los Angeles CCB chapter annual picnic.
Come enjoy friends, food and fun. Hamburgers, hotdogs and hotlinks served with, corn on the cob, potato salad and fruit dessert. As always there will be chips and salsa. Rafael Enriquez will be tending bar. Mixed drinks both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, beer and soda available for your pleasure.

Non-chapter members and guest pay $10 and everyone pays $5 for take home plates. A free soda or water included with your paid meal ticket all additional drinks cost extra.

A raffle for a desktop computer with 1 TB hard drive, 16 GB RAM, Windows 7, NVDA, an open source magnification program and open office will be preinstalled. Monitor not included. Computer valued at $800.
Tickets 1 for $5 or 3 for $10.

Reserve your place for a picnic at the Garcia's by RSVPing Stephanie Rood by calling or texting 818.321.4205 or e mail east.la.ccb.chapter@gmail.com or Mona Craig by calling or texting 310.930.6929 or email preshusdelight@gmail.com by September 8th.

Stephanie may be persuaded to provide tips and tricks for iOS devices if you come and ask.
We look forward to seeing old and new friends at our picnic this September.

Be on the lookout for our future announcement about our October 8th meeting with guest League of Woman Voters speakers, Sunday November 20th thanks giving dinner meeting and December Christmas party at Salvatore's Italian Restaurant.


User Testing

Are you a TV watcher who is 18 or older?
Do you have TiVo or Xfinity and are blind or have low vision?
Want to earn $100?

The testing will be in San Jose but transportation will be paid for.
The discussion will last one hour sometime in mid-September during working hours.

If you are interested in participation contact Beth Berenson at bberenson@lighthouse-sf.org


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection August 26, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for August 26.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Memorial Service

A Memorial Service for Connie Gil will be held Sunday, August 28.
Where: East Bay Center for the Blind
2928 Adeline Berkeley, CA.
Time: 3:00-7:00 PM.


Several CCB Conference Calls

From President Judy Wilkinson:
Please join me for my first "office hour".
All are welcome to join me to talk about anything on your mind.

Date: Saturday, August 27
Time: 10:00-11:00 AM
Call-in Number: 712-451-0011;
Conference code: 247389.
I look forward to visiting with you.


Presidents Call

Date: Monday, August 29, 2016
Time: 7:00 PM
Call-in Number: 712-451-0011
Conference code: 247389.

Calling all chapter and affiliate presidents to my first Presidents Call. If you can't join us, I hope you'll designate a representative, and of course, any CCB member is welcome to join us. In addition to my agenda, please bring any ideas or concerns.

Agenda

  1. Update on Executive Director.
  2. CCB Committee vacancies.
  3. Fundraising research.
  4. Mutt Strut update.


Board Call

All CCB members are invited to attend the upcoming board meeting.

Date: Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Time: 7:00 PM
Call-in number: 712-451-0011
Code: 247389.

An agenda will be sent nearer the date.


Mutt Strut

EVERYONE!!!
Mark your calendars or do whatever you have to do to remember this day

Saturday, November 19, 2016!!
The 6th Annual Mutt Strut is on it's way and we want YOU to be a part of it.
Help us make this day one to remember. The FUN has just begun!

Flower, Mutt Strut's 2015 Top Dog, is peeking over the CCB Mutt Strut Blue Bone logo.
She just heard the Mutt Strut is coming to the Dog Park at La Crescenta again. Last year's winner has a big SMILE because she can't wait to see her friends at the 2K/5K FUN Run/Walk this year.
She hopes you'll come out and support the MISSION of the California Council of the Blind. Flower will be looking for you, WOOF! WOOF!

Registration is now open for all of the early birds out there.
You can create your own fundraising pages for a great cause, the California Council of the Blind. We also welcome virtual walkers/runners/fundraisers, Can you imagine a virtual top dog? Wow.

Not sure exactly how to do this?
Maybe your technology is barking way too much right now? Well, we are ready to assist if you want to be an early bird with registration or fundraising page creation,
please contact Amelia Sherman by email at ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com or by phone at (818) 293-8338 between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM to set up a time for assistance.

Come out and join us!
Register now and enjoy the Early Bird savings until October 31, 2016 .
The Early Bird catches the worm, stay tuned for details.

Let's sign up!!
http://www.firstgiving.com/CaliforniaCounciloftheBlind/mutt-strut-2016-los-angeles

For more information about the Mutt Strut, please contact Co-Chair Donna Pomerantz via email at donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org or by phone at 626.233.2991.
You can also contact Co-Chair Debbie Cordero via email at corderodebbie609@gmail.com or by phone at 562.201.1199.


Community Rewards Programs

We have been notified that those of you who are supporting CCB through your participation in the Ralphs Community Program or in the Food For Less / Foods Co Community Rewards program will need to re-register beginning on September 1 to continue in the programs.

You can register with Ralphs at www.ralphs.com, or you can call 800-443-4438.
You can register with Food For Less at www.foodforless.com or you can call 800-443-4438.
You can register with Foods Co at www.foodsco.net or you can call 800-443-4438.


SSI/SSP Cost Of Living Adjustment

Urgent letters are needed to change the Governor's mind on signing AB1584 into law.
This bill would, commencing with the 2018 calendar year, reinstate the state's cost-of-living adjustment for recipients of the SSI/SSP program. This would not automatically mean that the Legislature would grant the annual adjustment, but it would reverse the repeal of this provision made during the 2009 recession.

You can send a letter to the following address:
The Honorable Edmund G. Brown Jr.
Governor, State of California
California State Capitol, Suite 1173
Sacramento, CA 95814

You may also telephone the Governor's office at (916)-445-2841 or submit an online form, using the Governor's website at governor.ca.gov.

Thank you for helping to keep thousands of persons with vision loss out of poverty by urging the Governor to sign AB1584.


East Los Angeles CCB Chapter Picnic

The East Los Angeles CCB Chapter will be holding its annual picnic and are inviting our CCB family and friends to join us for a picnic at the Garcia home September 10th from 10:30 to 2 pm at 1226 South McBride Ave. East Los Angeles cross street Olympic.

Rap your summer fun up with the East Los Angeles CCB chapter annual picnic.
Come enjoy friends, food and fun. Hamburgers, hotdogs and hotlinks served with, corn on the cob, potato salad and fruit dessert. As always there will be chips and salsa. Rafael Enriquez will be tending bar. Mixed drinks both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, beer and soda available for your pleasure.

Non-chapter members and guest pay $10 and everyone pays $5 for take home plates. A free soda or water included with your paid meal ticket all additional drinks cost extra.

A raffle for a desktop computer with 1 TB hard drive, 16 GB RAM, Windows 7, NVDA, an open source magnification program and open office will be preinstalled. Monitor not included. Computer valued at $800.
Tickets 1 for $5 or 3 for $10.

Reserve your place for a picnic at the Garcia's by RSVPing Stephanie Rood by calling or texting 818.321.4205 or e mail east.la.ccb.chapter@gmail.com or Mona Craig by calling or texting 310.930.6929 or email preshusdelight@gmail.com by September 8th.

Stephanie may be persuaded to provide tips and tricks for iOS devices if you come and ask.
We look forward to seeing old and new friends at our picnic this September.

Be on the lookout for our future announcement about our October 8th meeting with guest League of Woman Voters speakers, Sunday November 20th thanks giving dinner meeting and December Christmas party at Salvatore's Italian Restaurant.


User Testing

Are you a TV watcher who is 18 or older?
Do you have TiVo or Xfinity and are blind or have low vision?
Want to earn $100?

The testing will be in San Jose but transportation will be paid for.
The discussion will last one hour sometime in mid-September during working hours.

If you are interested in participation contact Beth Berenson at bberenson@lighthouse-sf.org


TV Productions

my name is William Elliott and I am a member of Fresno Chapter of C.C.B.

In October 2015 I joined a local non-profit television studio in Fresno. The Community Media Access Collaborative (CMAC).
This organization provides training in television production, studio and field equipment together with up to date editing and local broadcast opportunities with Comcast and AT&T. All for just $50 per year membership. Most productions are made with other members giving their free time and skills voluntarily.

I have worked on several other members programs over the past few months after completing many of the required classes.

In recent weeks I have produced three programs in a series which I decided to call 'Blindside Fresno'.
The first programs looked at medical reasons for loss of vision, a local retinologist, Dr. Vivian Kim gave her time freely for that program.
In the second program Nathan Romo, president of the local Fresno chapter CCB talked about his life and the role of CCB in the community.

Future programs are planned to include, how the visually impaired successfully parent sighted children, programs that look at adaptive technology and of course there will be the occasional mention of our guide dog teams too.

After the programs are broadcast by CMAC they are then posted to my YouTube account for viewing around the world.
I am looking for ideas for any possible program subjects for the future.

Also if any CCB members are wanting to raise an issue, 'Blindside Fresno' could help as we have the ability to use programs such as Skype to interview you at a long distance for our program.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection August 19, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for August 19.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Several CCB Conference Calls

From President Judy Wilkinson:
Please join me for my first "office hour".
All are welcome to join me to talk about anything on your mind.

Date: Saturday, August 27
Time: 10:00-11:00 AM
Call-in Number: 712-451-0011;
Conference code: 247389.
I look forward to visiting with you.


Presidents Call

Date: Monday, August 29, 2016
Time: 7:00 PM
Call-in Number: 712-451-0011
Conference code: 247389.

Calling all chapter and affiliate presidents to my first Presidents Call. If you can't join us, I hope you'll designate a representative, and of course, any CCB member is welcome to join us. In addition to my agenda, please bring any ideas or concerns.

Agenda

  1. Update on Executive Director.
  2. CCB Committee vacancies.
  3. Fundraising research.
  4. Mutt Strut update.


Board Call

All CCB members are invited to attend the upcoming board meeting.

Date: Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Time: 7:00 PM
Call-in number: 712-451-0011
Code: 247389.

An agenda will be sent nearer the date.


Mutt Strut

EVERYONE!!!
Mark your calendars or do whatever you have to do to remember this day

Saturday, November 19, 2016!!
The 6th Annual Mutt Strut is on it's way and we want YOU to be a part of it.
Help us make this day one to remember. The FUN has just begun!

Flower, Mutt Strut's 2015 Top Dog, is peeking over the CCB Mutt Strut Blue Bone logo.
She just heard the Mutt Strut is coming to the Dog Park at La Crescenta again. Last year's winner has a big SMILE because she can't wait to see her friends at the 2K/5K FUN Run/Walk this year.
She hopes you'll come out and support the MISSION of the California Council of the Blind. Flower will be looking for you, WOOF! WOOF!

Registration is now open for all of the early birds out there.
You can create your own fundraising pages for a great cause, the California Council of the Blind. We also welcome virtual walkers/runners/fundraisers, Can you imagine a virtual top dog? Wow.

Not sure exactly how to do this?
Maybe your technology is barking way too much right now? Well, we are ready to assist if you want to be an early bird with registration or fundraising page creation,
please contact Amelia Sherman by email at ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com or by phone at (818) 293-8338 between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM to set up a time for assistance.

Come out and join us!
Register now and enjoy the Early Bird savings until October 31, 2016 .
The Early Bird catches the worm, stay tuned for details.

Let's sign up!!
http://www.firstgiving.com/CaliforniaCounciloftheBlind/mutt-strut-2016-los-angeles

For more information about the Mutt Strut, please contact Co-Chair Donna Pomerantz via email at donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org or by phone at 626.233.2991.
You can also contact Co-Chair Debbie Cordero via email at corderodebbie609@gmail.com or by phone at 562.201.1199.


Community Rewards Programs

We have been notified that those of you who are supporting CCB through your participation in the Ralphs Community Program or in the Food For Less / Foods Co Community Rewards program will need to re-register beginning on September 1 to continue in the programs.

You can register with Ralphs at www.ralphs.com, or you can call 800-443-4438.
You can register with Food For Less at www.foodforless.com or you can call 800-443-4438.
You can register with Foods Co at www.foodsco.net or you can call 800-443-4438.


From The CCB Hearing And Vision Loss Committee

How do they measure my hearing loss?
No matter what your hearing problem, everyone needs to start with essentially the same diagnostics.

Tom Brennan will be talking about the diagnostic process from the time you walk into an audiologist's office, and end with what the results generally might mean.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as Tom Brennan continues his invaluable series.

Date: Sunday, August 21;
time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern;
* * New Phone #: (712) 432-3447 ID: 309464.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we post resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences.
Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


Greater Los Angeles Chapter Meeting Time Change

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the California Council of the Blind will be holding its August meeting one week later than usual, August 27, 2016, the fourth Saturday rather than the third.
The reason for the change of date has been finalized in order to accommodate our new State President, Judy Wilkinson's schedule.

The meeting will be held by telephone and PA System at Corky's Restaurant, 5043 Van Nuys Blvd, a block and a half South of Magnolia Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA.
Our social/eating time is around 10:30, and our actual meeting will be from 12:30 to 2:30 PM.

President Judy will be talking to us about some of her agenda as the new President, and will also be available to answer questions from the membership as time permits.

Please let Ken Metz know if you will be able to attend this great meeting by calling (818) 882-3610 home, or (323) 793-1805 cell.
You can also email kenmetz1946@gmail.com
Reservations are necessary only for the purpose of making certain that the room we meet in can accommodate those wishing to attend.


Movie Project

From Ben Caro:
My dream is to direct a short film that will raise money and awareness for the blind, and I need your help to make it happen.

Cathedrals is an exciting adaptation of the Raymond Carver story "Cathedral" starring a blind actor, Rick Boggs. You might remember Rick. He's a motivational speaker and an audio description business owner who's written articles for the Blind Californian before.

At first I wanted to hire a blind actor to play the blind character for authenticity. However, it was difficult finding many actors, and I found out how difficult it was for many blind people, actors included, to find work. The process invigorated me to bring awareness to and find more opportunities for the blind in the arts (and the greater workforce).

Since our goal for the film isn't to make money, we can work towards bringing about a change rather than bringing in profit. By crowdsourcing with Kickstarter, I'm hoping we can do a little part in making not only a good movie, but a little good, too.

As part of our project, we're also donating money to organizations that increase employment opportunities for the blind. Please join me on this journey.

To make the project happen, though, we have to reach our Kickstarter. goal by September 10th. Be a part of it!: www.bit.ly/cathedralsmovie
We have just three weeks to meet our goal. Let's make it happen!


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection August 12, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for August 12.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From LA County In-Home Supportive Services

We just learned today that Teddie Joy Remhild, who served as board chair, passed away yesterday at 1:30 p.m. of stage 4 cancer.
We will miss her dearly.


From Jeff Thom

Teddie-Joy was one of the fiercest advocates I've had the pleasure to know. She also overcame tremendous obstacles in her life and was someone I admired a great deal.

Like several others, I was able to speak with her in the last couple of weeks, although at that time she hoped, at least, to have a few more months. After all, she wouldn't have been the type to go down without a fight.

If we had more advocates like Teddie-Joy in CCB, we'd certainly get more done. Her feisty spirit will definitely be missed.


Mutt Strut

EVERYONE!!!
Mark your calendars or do whatever you have to do to remember this day

Saturday, November 19, 2016!!
The 6th Annual Mutt Strut is on it's way and we want YOU to be a part of it.
Help us make this day one to remember. The FUN has just begun!

Flower, Mutt Strut's 2015 Top Dog, is peeking over the CCB Mutt Strut Blue Bone logo.
She just heard the Mutt Strut is coming to the Dog Park at La Crescenta again. Last year's winner has a big SMILE because she can't wait to see her friends at the 2K/5K FUN Run/Walk this year.
She hopes you'll come out and support the MISSION of the California Council of the Blind. Flower will be looking for you, WOOF! WOOF!

Registration is now open for all of the early birds out there.
You can create your own fundraising pages for a great cause, the California Council of the Blind. We also welcome virtual walkers/runners/fundraisers, Can you imagine a virtual top dog? Wow.

Not sure exactly how to do this?
Maybe your technology is barking way too much right now? Well, we are ready to assist if you want to be an early bird with registration or fundraising page creation,
please contact Amelia Sherman by email at ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com or by phone at (818) 293-8338 between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM to set up a time for assistance.

Come out and join us!
Register now and enjoy the Early Bird savings until October 31, 2016 .
The Early Bird catches the worm, stay tuned for details.

Let's sign up!!
http://www.firstgiving.com/CaliforniaCounciloftheBlind/mutt-strut-2016-los-angeles

For more information about the Mutt Strut, please contact Co-Chair Donna Pomerantz via email at donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org or by phone at 626.233.2991.
You can also contact Co-Chair Debbie Cordero via email at corderodebbie609@gmail.com or by phone at 562.201.1199.


Community Rewards Programs

We have been notified that those of you who are supporting CCB through your participation in the Ralphs Community Program or in the Food For Less / Foods Co Community Rewards program will need to re-register beginning on September 1 to continue in the programs.

You can register with Ralphs at www.ralphs.com, or you can call 800-443-4438.
You can register with Food For Less at www.foodforless.com or you can call 800-443-4438.
You can register with Foods Co at www.foodsco.net or you can call 800-443-4438.


Glendale Burbank Chapter Fund Raiser

The Glendale Burbank Chapter of CCB would like to invite you to their Shaky's Pizza fund raiser on August 15, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Shaky's restaurant located at 1300 N. San Fernando Blvd, Burbank, CA 91504.

Please join family and friends of the chapter which will receive 25% of food sales.
For any questions please call Anthony Signoriello Fund Raising Chair at: 818-426-9123 or email at: blinddude1@gmail.com


From The CCB Hearing And Vision Loss Committee

How do they measure my hearing loss?
No matter what your hearing problem, everyone needs to start with essentially the same diagnostics.

Tom Brennan will be talking about the diagnostic process from the time you walk into an audiologist's office, and end with what the results generally might mean.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as Tom Brennan continues his invaluable series.

Date: Sunday, August 21;
time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern;
* * New Phone #: (712) 432-3447 ID: 309464.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we post resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences.
Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


Greater Los Angeles Chapter Meeting Time Change

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the California Council of the Blind will be holding its August meeting one week later than usual, August 27, 2016, the fourth Saturday rather than the third.
The reason for the change of date has been finalized in order to accommodate our new State President, Judy Wilkinson's schedule.

The meeting will be held by telephone and PA System at Corky's Restaurant, 5043 Van Nuys Blvd, a block and a half South of Magnolia Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA.
Our social/eating time is around 10:30, and our actual meeting will be from 12:30 to 2:30 PM.

President Judy will be talking to us about some of her agenda as the new President, and will also be available to answer questions from the membership as time permits.

Please let Ken Metz know if you will be able to attend this great meeting by calling (818) 882-3610 home, or (323) 793-1805 cell.
You can also email kenmetz1946@gmail.com
Reservations are necessary only for the purpose of making certain that the room we meet in can accommodate those wishing to attend.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection August 5, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for August 5.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Obbie Schoeman Remembrance

Jeff Thom:
It is hard to know where to start when talking about Obbie. He is without doubt splitting his time between his wife Connie, to whom he was so devoted, and making the rest of the folks have a few good laughs.

It would not have been unusual had Obbie's involvement in CCB dramatically decreased after Connie's passing, but Obbie was not that kind of person. Right up until the end, he remained involved in matters of import to our community and always did his best to help CCB and blind people in general. A lesser man might have decided to take his toys and go home when he lost an election for the board of directors and some, at least, clearly voted against him because he wasn't blind, but again that wasn't the type of guy Obbie was.

Whether he was making the world a better place by his hard work on behalf of others or just by giving you a chuckle or two, Obbie, in my mind, was a difference-maker. I suspect we'll be swapping memories of Obbie for a long time and that really says it all.

I'd like to close, however, by acknowledging two people who came to the forefront in Obbie's latter days and made a real difference.
Without unduly belaboring the point, the time and effort that Donna Pomerantz and Debbie Cordero took in making life a bit easier for Obbie during his latter days is one we can all take to heart and that kind of selfless conduct is something to which we can all aspire. It makes me proud to be part of the CCB family.


Obbie Schoeman Go Fund Me Page

Obbie was a very generous man to those he cared about and this included CCB.
As a result of expenses incurred during his illness, his family is asking for assistance with costs related to his burial.

If you would like to help you can do so at https://www.gofundme.com/2htz4uk


Mutt Strut

EVERYONE!!!
Mark your calendars or do whatever you have to do to remember this day

Saturday, November 19, 2016!!
The 6th Annual Mutt Strut is on it's way and we want YOU to be a part of it.
Help us make this day one to remember. The FUN has just begun!

Flower, Mutt Strut's 2015 Top Dog, is peeking over the CCB Mutt Strut Blue Bone logo.
She just heard the Mutt Strut is coming to the Dog Park at La Crescenta again. Last year's winner has a big SMILE because she can't wait to see her friends at the 2K/5K FUN Run/Walk this year.
She hopes you'll come out and support the MISSION of the California Council of the Blind. Flower will be looking for you, WOOF! WOOF!

Registration is now open for all of the early birds out there.
You can create your own fundraising pages for a great cause, the California Council of the Blind. We also welcome virtual walkers/runners/fundraisers, Can you imagine a virtual top dog? Wow.

Not sure exactly how to do this?
Maybe your technology is barking way too much right now? Well, we are ready to assist if you want to be an early bird with registration or fundraising page creation,
please contact Amelia Sherman by email at ccbmuttstrut@gmail.com or by phone at (818) 293-8338 between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM to set up a time for assistance.

Come out and join us!
Register now and enjoy the Early Bird savings until October 31, 2016 .
The Early Bird catches the worm, stay tuned for details.

Let's sign up!!
http://www.firstgiving.com/CaliforniaCounciloftheBlind/mutt-strut-2016-los-angeles

For more information about the Mutt Strut, please contact Co-Chair Donna Pomerantz via email at donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org or by phone at 626.233.2991.
You can also contact Co-Chair Debbie Cordero via email at corderodebbie609@gmail.com or by phone at 562.201.1199.


California Council Of Blind Students Affiliate Call

The next conference call of the California Council of Blind Students will be on August 7th.
There will be a board meeting at 7:00 PM followed by a membership meeting at 7:30 PM.
Come join us and hear our mystery guest presenters.

The call in number is 302) 202-1114 and the conference code: is 694810.


Glendale Burbank Chapter Fund Raiser

The Glendale Burbank Chapter of CCB would like to invite you to their Shaky's Pizza fund raiser on August 15, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Shaky's restaurant located at 1300 N. San Fernando Blvd, Burbank, CA 91504.

Please join family and friends of the chapter which will receive 25% of food sales.
For any questions please call Anthony Signoriello Fund Raising Chair at: 818-426-9123 or email at: blinddude1@gmail.com


From The Division Of The State Architect (DSA)

State statute requires DSA to develop and propose building code regulations related to accessibility for persons with disabilities to public buildings, public accommodations, commercial buildings and public housing.

DSA proposes building code regulations in accordance with the rulemaking processes administered by the California Building Standards Commission. Throughout the year, DSA will conduct meetings, public workshops and other activities to discuss possible amendments for the 2016 California Building Standards Code. These meetings and public workshops provide open forums for the public, the disability community and other stakeholders to participate in identifying and vetting potential modifications to California's building codes.

DSA also offers accessibility classes and administers the Certified Access Specialist (CASp) examinations and certification program.

We invite you to subscribe to DSA's mailing list in order to stay up to date on DSA's access-related programs and activities.
Please follow the instructions on DSA's subscription webpage or send your request to DSAcommunication@dgs.ca.gov


Web Site Accessibility

Anyone who has experienced accessibility issues with either state or local websites or has had filing issues with forms on these websites should contact Sean Betouliere at the Disability Rights Legal Center in Berkeley.
Sean is compiling these cases for possible future action.

For further information, contact Sean at 510-665-8644 extension 128 or email him at sbetouliere@dralegal.org


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection July 29, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for July 29.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From Jeff Thom, Chair Governmental Affairs Committee

I am pleased to report that AB1824, our bill to broaden the application of criminal provisions against owners of dogs that attack service dogs, and that enhance provisions concerning the costs that may be recouped by service dog owners from the owners of the attacking dogs, will avoid a hearing in the Senate Appropriations hearing and soon be headed to the Senate floor.

The bill is expected to pass without opposition. We will let you know if and when we need letters and phone calls to the Governor to urge him to sign this bill.


California Council Of Blind Students Affiliate Call

The next conference call of the California Council of Blind Students will be on August 7th.
There will be a board meeting at 7:00 PM followed by a membership meeting at 7:30 PM.
Come join us and hear our mystery guest presenters.

The call in number is 302) 202-1114 and the conference code: is 694810.


Glendale Burbank Chapter Fund Raiser

The Glendale Burbank Chapter of CCB would like to invite you to their Shaky's Pizza fund raiser on August 15, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Shaky's restaurant located at 1300 N. San Fernando Blvd, Burbank, CA 91504.

Please join family and friends of the chapter which will receive 25% of food sales.
For any questions please call Anthony Signoriello Fund Raising Chair at: 818-426-9123 or email at: blinddude1@gmail.com


From The Division Of The State Architect (DSA)

State statute requires DSA to develop and propose building code regulations related to accessibility for persons with disabilities to public buildings, public accommodations, commercial buildings and public housing.

DSA proposes building code regulations in accordance with the rulemaking processes administered by the California Building Standards Commission. Throughout the year, DSA will conduct meetings, public workshops and other activities to discuss possible amendments for the 2016 California Building Standards Code. These meetings and public workshops provide open forums for the public, the disability community and other stakeholders to participate in identifying and vetting potential modifications to California's building codes.

DSA also offers accessibility classes and administers the Certified Access Specialist (CASp) examinations and certification program.

We invite you to subscribe to DSA's mailing list in order to stay up to date on DSA's access-related programs and activities.
Please follow the instructions on DSA's subscription webpage or send your request to DSAcommunication@dgs.ca.gov


Web Site Accessibility

Anyone who has experienced accessibility issues with either state or local websites or has had filing issues with forms on these websites should contact Sean Betouliere at the Disability Rights Legal Center in Berkeley.
Sean is compiling these cases for possible future action.

For further information, contact Sean at 510-665-8644 extension 128 or email him at sbetouliere@dralegal.org


Adult Rehabilitation And Employment Survey

If you are blind or visually impaired, reside in the United States, and are at least 18 years of age, we cordially invite you to participate in this survey.

The purpose of this survey is to gain a better understanding of your experiences as an adult who is blind or visually impaired, including your experiences with education, employment, training, and vocational rehabilitation.

This survey should not take more than ten minutes of your time. If you complete this survey, you will be entered into a drawing in which 5 individuals will win a $100 VISA gift card.

We offer you three ways to complete the survey:
Go to: www.pdrib.com/ares Or you may Email: pdrib2016@gmail.com Or you may call: 318-257-2029.


CAPED SCHOLARSHIPS

The California Assoc. on Postsecondary Education and Disability (CAPED) is currently in its 2016 CAPED Scholarship cycle.
Students are invited to visit www.caped.co for more information and to apply.

Applications are available online and will be accepted through July 31, 2016.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection July 22, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for July 22.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


A Colossal Effort Raises $1,015 For The California Colossals

Jeff and Judy want to thank those who contributed to our fundraising efforts.

The Brenda Dillon Memorial Walk was held on Sunday July 3, at the ACB conference/convention. We walked through the hotel and nearby skyways.
One-half of the funds raised for our team goes straight into the treasury of CCB. And it isn't too late to add your donation. The deadline is July 31, so call Nancy Becker in the Minneapolis office at (612) 332-3242.

Finally, you may sponsor Jeff online at my page.


The Active Blind Inland Valley Chapter Fund Raiser

The Active Blind Inland Valleys CCB is holding its major fund-raiser and we want you to save the date.

On Thursday, September 1, our Pampered Chef consultant, Joann Carter, will be opening our fund-raiser online party link. She will also accept orders over the phone. We will hold the link open until the end of the day on Saturday, September 17, when we will be holding our Pampered Chef party in Highland, CA from 11:00-3:00.

Please consider making an order to help our chapter grow its treasury, and to enjoy the wonderful Pampered Chef products.

Please call Christy at: 909-800-7189 or email ccrespin@att.net for more information.


Low Interest Loans

California Foundation for Independent Living Centers is excited to announce the launch of a new program that may be able to help.

FreedomTech Financial Loan Program provides low interest loans to Californians to purchase assistive technology. Loans from $500 to $15,000 can be used to purchase any eligible device, item, or product that makes life easier for a person living with a disability or with age-related limitations. Wheelchairs, hearing aids, ramps, vision aids, and computers are just a few examples.

With a FreedomTech loan, you can:

FreedomTech offers:

To learn more and find out if you're eligible, visit FreedomTech.org or call 916-737-5358.

5.75% interest rate is available when borrowers sign up for automatic payments. The interest rate without automatic payments is 6%.
Borrowers must demonstrate the ability to repay the loan.

A project of the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers with funding support from Ability Tools.
(916) 737-5358 | (916) 325-195 TTY
1000 G Street, Suite 100 Sacramento, CA 95814


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection July 15, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for July 15.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


Audio Archives of the 2016 Conference and Convention

From: The CCB Technical Operations Group
Audio recordings are now available on the CCB website from the 2016 Conference and Convention.
You can either listen to or download audio recordings for many of the 2015 Conference and Convention sessions and events.
A link to the Audio Archives page can be found on either the Upcoming" or Past Conference and Convention pages at http://www.ccbnet.org, or use the direct link at: http://www.ccbnet.org/Conventionarchives.htm


A Colossal Effort Raises $1,015 For The California Colossals

Jeff and Judy want to thank those who contributed to our fundraising efforts.

The Brenda Dillon Memorial Walk was held on Sunday July 3, at the ACB conference/convention. We walked through the hotel and nearby skyways.
One-half of the funds raised for our team goes straight into the treasury of CCB. And it isn't too late to add your donation. The deadline is July 31, so call Nancy Becker in the Minneapolis office at (612) 332-3242.

Finally, you may sponsor Jeff online at my page.


From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee:
Successes and Challenges to Hearing

For our July 17 call, "you" will be our presenters.
You've had many situations were hearing was difficult. What did you do about it and make everyone comfortable? You will have a room full of people who may offer helpful suggestions. So we want to hear challenges as well as successes. We learn from them all.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more!
Date: Sunday, July 17;
time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern;
Phone: 832-551-5900 id: 368611.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences. Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


Low Interest Loans

California Foundation for Independent Living Centers is excited to announce the launch of a new program that may be able to help.

FreedomTech Financial Loan Program provides low interest loans to Californians to purchase assistive technology. Loans from $500 to $15,000 can be used to purchase any eligible device, item, or product that makes life easier for a person living with a disability or with age-related limitations. Wheelchairs, hearing aids, ramps, vision aids, and computers are just a few examples.

With a FreedomTech loan, you can:

FreedomTech offers:

To learn more and find out if you're eligible, visit FreedomTech.org or call 916-737-5358.

5.75% interest rate is available when borrowers sign up for automatic payments. The interest rate without automatic payments is 6%.
Borrowers must demonstrate the ability to repay the loan.

A project of the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers with funding support from Ability Tools.
(916) 737-5358 | (916) 325-195 TTY
1000 G Street, Suite 100 Sacramento, CA 95814


People With Disabilities And Employment Law

Recent Developments, Emerging Issues, And What They Mean In Everyday Life" by Steven Mendelsohn:
An excerpt appeared in the Spring BC, and Part Two will be published in a future issue. Meanwhile, you can obtain the entire, 21-chapter Kindle eBook for $9.99 from Amazon or through my website www.disabilityrightslawanalysis.com.

In clear, narrative language, topical issues of concern to workers with disabilities are discussed and explained.
Subjects of particular concern to people with visual impairments include enforceability of driving requirements and new options for sheltered workshop employees.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection July 8, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for July 8.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From Your New President

Well the first initial is the same; and the first name even still has four letters, but the president is new!
In my first official message to CCB members and friends, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the outgoing officers and board members.

Thank you to Jeff Thom for your years of leadership with this organization and for having been willing to step up one more time in this last term; to Gene Lozano and Donna Pomerantz for your years of selfless service. Thank you to Vince Calderon, especially in the areas of budget and finance, and to Leena Bandy who is also leaving the board.

I hope you will remain engaged in the work of the Council, for your skills and experience are invaluable. Let no one ever doubt that the time you have invested, the work you have done and the knowledge you have accumulated are unappreciated or no longer needed.

Our officers this year are President Judy Wilkinson, 1st VP Frank Welte, 2nd VP Gabe Griffith, Secretary Ardis Bazyn, and Treasurer Peter Pardini.
New Directors on the board are Gail Crossen, Sharlene Ornelas, Rob Turner, and Vivian Younger. They join directors Steve Fort, Joseph Lopez, Pam Metz, Paul Patche and Robert Wendt.

We are all ready to continue the work of this great organization. But we can only achieve success with your help and dedication. And for those becoming more active or active for the first time, everyone has something important to do; everyone has a place on this team.

At the upcoming ACB convention, Jeff will be the California delegate and I will be the alternate. To contact me at any time, phone or text my cell phone at 510-388-5079 or by email at president@ccbnet.org.

Please note that the first board meeting to which all are cordially invited is Tuesday July 12 at 7 PM. Look for details in The Connection next week and on our presidents and general lists.


Fund Raising Opportunity

Looking for an easy opportunity to raise money for CCB?
New CCB president Judy Wilkinson and myself have created a team, the California Colossals, for the Brenda Dillon ACB Memorial Walk, to be held on Sunday, July 3, at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention in Minneapolis. One-half of the funds raised for our team will be going to CCB.

If you are walking in that event, I urge you to join our team. If not, I hope that you will consider sponsoring Judy or myself. Remember, you can walk as a virtual walker, even if you are not at the convention.

You can register online at http://acb.donorpages.com/2016ACBWalk/
or by calling Nancy Becker in the Minneapolis office at (612) 332-3242.

Finally, you may sponsor me online at my page.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


Audio Archives of the 2016 Conference and Convention

From: The CCB Technical Operations Group
Audio recordings are now available on the CCB website from the 2016 Conference and Convention.
You can either listen to or download audio recordings for many of the 2015 Conference and Convention sessions and events.
A link to the Audio Archives page can be found on either the Upcoming" or Past Conference and Convention pages at http://www.ccbnet.org, or use the direct link at: http://www.ccbnet.org/Conventionarchives.htm


CCB Board Meeting

Please note that there will be a board meeting on Tuesday evening, July 12, at 7:00 Pm.
The call-in Phone number is 712-451-0011 and the Code is 247389.
Everyone is welcome to attend.


San Gabriel Valley Chapter Event

The San Gabriel Valley Chapter invites you to our Summer Social, on Saturday July 16 from 11:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at Alex Di Peppe's Italian Restaurant, in Arcadia.

Everyone will be ordering from a modified menu, with separate checks.
We will have the restaurant to ourselves, with a 50 person limit, so RSVPs will be accepted in the order received, through July 12th.

For more information, or to RSVP, please contact:
Steve Aminoff.
Phone: 626-445-6727
Email: s_aminoff@sbcglobal.net

Our chapter looks forward to seeing you on July 16.


From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee:
Successes and Challenges to Hearing

For our July 17 call, "you" will be our presenters.
You've had many situations were hearing was difficult. What did you do about it and make everyone comfortable? You will have a room full of people who may offer helpful suggestions. So we want to hear challenges as well as successes. We learn from them all.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more!
Date: Sunday, July 17;
time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern;
Phone: 832-551-5900 id: 368611.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences. Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


People With Disabilities And Employment Law

Recent Developments, Emerging Issues, And What They Mean In Everyday Life" by Steven Mendelsohn:
An excerpt appeared in the Spring BC, and Part Two will be published in a future issue. Meanwhile, you can obtain the entire, 21-chapter Kindle eBook for $9.99 from Amazon or through my website www.disabilityrightslawanalysis.com.

In clear, narrative language, topical issues of concern to workers with disabilities are discussed and explained.
Subjects of particular concern to people with visual impairments include enforceability of driving requirements and new options for sheltered workshop employees.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection July 1, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for July 1.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


CCB Office Closure

The CCB office will be closed on Monday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day.


From Your New President

Well the first initial is the same; and the first name even still has four letters, but the president is new!
In my first official message to CCB members and friends, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the outgoing officers and board members.

Thank you to Jeff Thom for your years of leadership with this organization and for having been willing to step up one more time in this last term; to Gene Lozano and Donna Pomerantz for your years of selfless service. Thank you to Vince Calderon, especially in the areas of budget and finance, and to Leena Bandy who is also leaving the board.

I hope you will remain engaged in the work of the Council, for your skills and experience are invaluable. Let no one ever doubt that the time you have invested, the work you have done and the knowledge you have accumulated are unappreciated or no longer needed.

Our officers this year are President Judy Wilkinson, 1st VP Frank Welte, 2nd VP Gabe Griffith, Secretary Ardis Bazyn, and Treasurer Peter Pardini.
New Directors on the board are Gail Crossen, Sharlene Ornelas, Rob Turner, and Vivian Younger. They join directors Steve Fort, Joseph Lopez, Pam Metz, Paul Patche and Robert Wendt.

We are all ready to continue the work of this great organization. But we can only achieve success with your help and dedication. And for those becoming more active or active for the first time, everyone has something important to do; everyone has a place on this team.

At the upcoming ACB convention, Jeff will be the California delegate and I will be the alternate. To contact me at any time, phone or text my cell phone at 510-388-5079 or by email at president@ccbnet.org.

Please note that the first board meeting to which all are cordially invited is Tuesday July 12 at 7 PM. Look for details in The Connection next week and on our presidents and general lists.


From Jeff Thom

As I prepare to leave for the ACB Conference and Convention and turn over the helm to our new president Judy Wilkinson, I want to say how honored I have been to be the leader of this fine organization. Our core mission is advocacy and the fact that two bills, AB1824 and SB1331, relating to guide dogs, both look like they will be sent to the Governor within a couple of months.

Whether its voting rights, education, rehabilitation, transportation, architectural barriers, health and social services programs, or any other area of import to us as PERSONS who ARE BLIND OR HAVE LOW VISION, WE CAN CELEBRATE THE WORK WE DO. We can BE PROUD NOT ONLY OF OUR SUCCESSES, BUT OF THE WORK THAT REMAINS UNDONE AND I THANK you for giving me the opportunity to lead that effort.


Fund Raising Opportunity

Looking for an easy opportunity to raise money for CCB?
New CCB president Judy Wilkinson and myself have created a team, the California Colossals, for the Brenda Dillon ACB Memorial Walk, to be held on Sunday, July 3, at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention in Minneapolis. One-half of the funds raised for our team will be going to CCB.

If you are walking in that event, I urge you to join our team. If not, I hope that you will consider sponsoring Judy or myself. Remember, you can walk as a virtual walker, even if you are not at the convention.

You can register online at http://acb.donorpages.com/2016ACBWalk/
or by calling Nancy Becker in the Minneapolis office at (612) 332-3242.

Finally, you may sponsor me online at my page.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


San Gabriel Valley Chapter Event

The San Gabriel Valley Chapter invites you to our Summer Social, on Saturday July 16 from 11:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at Alex Di Peppe's Italian Restaurant, in Arcadia.

Everyone will be ordering from a modified menu, with separate checks.
We will have the restaurant to ourselves, with a 50 person limit, so RSVPs will be accepted in the order received, through July 12th.

For more information, or to RSVP, please contact:
Steve Aminoff.
Phone: 626-445-6727
Email: s_aminoff@sbcglobal.net

Our chapter looks forward to seeing you on July 16.


"People With Disabilities And Employment Law: Recent Developments, Emerging Issues, And What They Mean In Everyday Life" By Steven Mendelsohn

An excerpt appeared in the Spring BC, and Part Two will be published in a future issue. Meanwhile, you can obtain the entire, 21-chapter Kindle eBook for $9.99 from Amazon or through my website www.disabilityrightslawanalysis.com.

In clear, narrative language, topical issues of concern to workers with disabilities are discussed and explained.
Subjects of particular concern to people with visual impairments include enforceability of driving requirements and new options for sheltered workshop employees.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection June 24, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for June 24.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From The President

Looking for an easy opportunity to raise money for CCB?
Incoming CCB president Judy Wilkinson and myself have created a team, the California Colossals, for the Brenda Dillon ACB Memorial Walk, to be held on Sunday, July 3, at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention in Minneapolis. One-half of the funds raised for our team will be going to CCB.

If you are walking in that event, I urge you to join our team. If not, I hope that you will consider sponsoring Judy or myself. Remember, you can walk as a virtual walker, even if you are not at the convention.

You can register online at http://acb.donorpages.com/2016ACBWalk/
or by calling Nancy Becker in the Minneapolis office at (612) 332-3242.

Finally, you may sponsor me online at my page.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


San Gabriel Valley Chapter Event

The San Gabriel Valley Chapter invites you to our Summer Social, on Saturday July 16 from 11:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at Alex Di Peppe's Italian Restaurant, in Arcadia.

Everyone will be ordering from a modified menu, with separate checks.
We will have the restaurant to ourselves, with a 50 person limit, so RSVPs will be accepted in the order received, through July 12th.

For more information, or to RSVP, please contact:
Steve Aminoff.
Phone: 626-445-6727
Email: s_aminoff@sbcglobal.net

Our chapter looks forward to seeing you on July 16.


Congratulations E*Trade

From Lainey Feingold
Yesterday the company announced a sweeping accessibility initiative that applies to its website, mobile applications and investing platform.
The company worked with blind investors Pratik Patel and Victor Tsaran in Structured Negotiation. No lawsuit was filed or needed.
The Law Office of Lainey Feingold and Linda Dardarian, of Goldstein, Borgen, Dardarian & Ho represented the blind investors.

E*Trade will use WCAG 2.0 AA as its access standard, PDF/UA for PDF accessibility, and has established a Digital Accessibility Governance Working Group. Training, usability testing, and an accessibility information page are part of this comprehensive initiative.

E*Trade Accessibility press release
E*Trade Accessibility Agreement
E*Trade's new Accessibility Information Page

Please help us spread the word about this initiative!


Convention And Special Events Archives Comes To ACB Radio

From Brian McCallen
Archives of live and special events, including CCB Conventions, are now available for your listening pleasure with any podcast device by subscribing to http://acbradio.org/acb-events.xml.

This link will soon have the archives from the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention and many more. The archives will also be available through iTunes soon.
Thanks for listening to ACB radio.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection June 17, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for June 17.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


In Memoriam

From Jeff Thom
It is with deep sadness that I report the passing on June 8 of John Gaspar, longtime CCB member and fixture in the Yosemite-Gateway Chapter and Merced area.

John was an incredibly loyal and hardworking member in so many areas, including accessible voting.
Margaret Buchmann-Garcia has reported that he was struck by a car a few weeks ago, suffered a broken femur and died due to breathing issues shortly after surgery. John will be greatly missed.


From The President

Looking for an easy opportunity to raise money for CCB?
Incoming CCB president Judy Wilkinson and myself have created a team, the California Colossals, for the Brenda Dillon ACB Memorial Walk, to be held on Sunday, July 3, at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention in Minneapolis. One-half of the funds raised for our team will be going to CCB.

If you are walking in that event, I urge you to join our team. If not, I hope that you will consider sponsoring Judy or myself. Remember, you can walk as a virtual walker, even if you are not at the convention.

You can register online at http://acb.donorpages.com/2016ACBWalk/
or by calling Nancy Becker in the Minneapolis office at (612) 332-3242.

Finally, you may sponsor me online at my page.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


ACB Radio's Major Milestone

From Brian McCallen
ACB Radio has achieved a big milestone! ACB Radio Interactive and ACB Radio Café are now featured in various genres through Stream Licensing.

This is a website containing thousands of radio stations. This means ACB Radio is exposed to more potential listeners like you.
The link to Stream Licensing's website and one genre that ACB Radio is featured on is: http://streamlicensing.com/directory/?g=1.
A big congratulations to ACB Radio.


The LightHouse is hiring

Here is a list of current job openings.

For more information about these positions, visit the Careers page at the LightHouse Website www.lighthouse-sf.org


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection June 10, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for June 10.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


CCB Board of Directors Meeting

The CCB board of directors will be holding an open board meeting at 6 PM on Sunday, June 12. The telephone number will be 712-432-3066 and the access code will be 840878. The primary item for discussion and action will be a report produced as a result of the hiring of a facilitator by the board to deal with issues relating to our web hosting environment.


From The President

Looking for an easy opportunity to raise money for CCB? Incoming CCB president Judy Wilkinson and myself have created a team, the California Colossals, for the Brenda Dillon ACB Memorial Walk, to be held on Sunday, July 3, at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention in Minneapolis. One-half of the funds raised for our team will be going to CCB. If you are walking in that event, I urge you to join our team. If not, I hope that you will consider sponsoring Judy or myself. Remember, you can walk as a virtual walker, even if you are not at the convention. You can register online at http://acb.donorpages.com/2016ACBWalk/
or by calling Nancy Becker in the Minneapolis office at (612) 332-3242.

Finally, you may sponsor me online at my page.


From The President

As many of you are aware, CCB, along with individual plaintiffs, settled a case with Alameda County to better enable voters in that county to vote privately and independently.

Pursuant to that settlement, a taskforce was created specifically to deal with Alameda County issues concerning voting by persons with vision impairments. Through our outstanding taskforce representative, Mr. Noel Runyan, we are working hard to make the system better for Alameda County voters who are blind or have low vision.

In order to ascertain whether the county is making positive efforts to remove barriers faced by Alameda County voters with vision impairments, we urge those of you in Alameda County to vote in the primary election using the accessible voting machines and provide us with information as to their experiences. We will make sure that our taskforce representative is provided with this information.

You can email this information to the CCB office at ccotb@ccbnet.org or telephone CCB administrative assistant Ed Branch at 800-221-6359.

Below are questions that we hope you will answer in this effort.

  1. Were there any barriers when you arrived at the polling place?
  2. Were there any barriers when using the voting machine?
  3. Could you vote independently?
  4. If there was a problem, how long did you have to wait to vote?
  5. Did you notify a poll worker of the problem?
  6. Did the poll worker call the help desk?


San Mateo County Vote-By-Mail System

CCB is one of the plaintiffs in a suit against the county of San Mateo with respect to ensuring that the county, which has adopted a vote-by-mail system, has an accessible method that all voters in the county with visual impairments can use.

We have filed a motion for a preliminary injunction and oral arguments will be heard on that motion in a hearing to be held on June 24 at 10 AM.
The hearing will be held in Courtroom 6, 17th Floor at the San Francisco federal court located at 450 Golden Gate Avenue.

We urge as many of you from the Bay Area to attend this hearing.
Remember that cases like this can have an impact throughout the state, so your support can help all Californians, not just those in San Mateo County.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


Winifred Downing Life Celebration

You are invited to a celebration of the amazing life of Winifred Downing
When: Saturday, June 18, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Where: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 1155 Market Street, 10th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94103, adjacent to the Civic Center BART station

Hear tributes to Winifred, share your memories of her, and enjoy some of her favorite snacks with members of the Bay Area blind community and with members of Winifred's family.

Please send your RSVP to Ellie Lee
Cell: (415) 378-6079
Email: ellieleesf@yahoo.com

This event is cosponsored by the San Francisco Chapter of the California Council of the Blind and by the LightHouse.


Audio Professionals

From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee
In our June conference, we will be discussing the different audio professionals (Audiologist, ear nose and throat doctors, etc) to better understand which one does what.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more!
This is the eighth in a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.
Date: Sunday, June 19; time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern;
Phone: 832-551-5900 id: 368611.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences. Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.
In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


ACB Candidates Call

On Sunday, June 12, from 3 PM to 5 PM, CCB will be holding a candidates conference call for all candidates who intend to seek a position on the ACB Board of Directors or Board of Publications at the election to be held at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention this July in Minneapolis.

The telephone number for this call will be 712-432-3066 and the access code will be 497700.
This call will be held in lieu of an actual California caucus at the convention due to changes in scheduling that will be occurring at the convention. However, this format has the advantage of allowing even those of you who will not be attending the convention to participate.
You will have an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates.


The LightHouse is hiring

Here is a list of current job openings.

For more information about these positions, visit the Careers page at the LightHouse Website www.lighthouse-sf.org


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection June 3, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for June 3.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


ACB Auction

From the President:
This year, at the annual ACB Conference and Convention, we will be holding our 10th annual ACB auction, entitled "A Decade of Dreams Auction."
If you would like to donate anything to a California basket, let me know prior to May 30, either by e-mail jsthom@comcast.net or by phone at 916-995-3967.
You can bring your item to me if you are attending the convention or send it to the office ahead of time, but I need a description of what our basket will hold by May 30. Even gift cards are very welcome additions, as is anything original or that has a California flavor to it.
Thanks again for all that you do in this regard.


From The President

As many of you are aware, CCB, along with individual plaintiffs, settled a case with Alameda County to better enable voters in that county to vote privately and independently.

Pursuant to that settlement, a taskforce was created specifically to deal with Alameda County issues concerning voting by persons with vision impairments. Through our outstanding taskforce representative, Mr. Noel Runyan, we are working hard to make the system better for Alameda County voters who are blind or have low vision.

In order to ascertain whether the county is making positive efforts to remove barriers faced by Alameda County voters with vision impairments, we urge those of you in Alameda County to vote in the primary election using the accessible voting machines and provide us with information as to their experiences. We will make sure that our taskforce representative is provided with this information.

You can email this information to the CCB office at ccotb@ccbnet.org or telephone CCB administrative assistant Ed Branch at 800-221-6359.

Below are questions that we hope you will answer in this effort.

  1. Were there any barriers when you arrived at the polling place?
  2. Were there any barriers when using the voting machine?
  3. Could you vote independently?
  4. If there was a problem, how long did you have to wait to vote?
  5. Did you notify a poll worker of the problem?
  6. Did the poll worker call the help desk?


San Mateo County Vote-By-Mail System

CCB is one of the plaintiffs in a suit against the county of San Mateo with respect to ensuring that the county, which has adopted a vote-by-mail system, has an accessible method that all voters in the county with visual impairments can use.

We have filed a motion for a preliminary injunction and oral arguments will be heard on that motion in a hearing to be held on June 24 at 10 AM.
The hearing will be held in Courtroom 6, 17th Floor at the San Francisco federal court located at 450 Golden Gate Avenue.

We urge as many of you from the Bay Area to attend this hearing.
Remember that cases like this can have an impact throughout the state, so your support can help all Californians, not just those in San Mateo County.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


East LA CCB Chapter Event

Save The Date June 11th For Our Mexican Annual Fiesta Luncheon:
Start your summer off with a party!
Please plan to join the East LA CCB Chapter for the annual June Mexican fiesta Luncheon on June 11th from 10:30 AM to 2 pm.
At the Garcia home located at 1226 S. McBride Ave in East Los Angeles. The cross street is Olympic.

Come join the East LA CCB family and enjoy friends, food and drink.
Our own bartender Rafael Enriquez will be serving up spirits, soda and water.
Soledad will have some of her delicious baked goods including some sugar free goodies as well for sale. Come early or they will be sold out. Her baked goods sell out every meeting.

Your $12 meal ticket will get you in for the three item plate of enchilada, taco, tamale, rice and beans. You will get a free soda or water with your meal. Take home meals will be $6 each. You may purchase additional drinks.

Your meal ticket puts you in the drawing for door prizes including the grand prize of a desktop running windows 7 with open source software comparable to office, NVDA (screen reader) and illuminate (screen magnification) software will also be preloaded for and ready use. We will have the basket of joy (spirits) drawing and a 50/50 drawing.
We look forward to seeing old and new friends.

Please RSVP to Stephanie Rood at 818.321.4205 or email east.la.ccb.chpater@gmail.com or Mona Craig at 310.930.6929 or preshusdelight@gmail.com with the number of individuals who will be attending. This will insure that there will be enough food to go around for all.
Please pass this email along to anyone who wants to come enjoy good food, drink and conversation on Saturday June 11th at 10:30am.
I look forward to seeing everyone and new friends.
Cordially,
Stephanie Rood Acting President


Winifred Downing Life Celebration

You are invited to a celebration of the amazing life of Winifred Downing
When: Saturday, June 18, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Where: LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 1155 Market Street, 10th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94103, adjacent to the Civic Center BART station

Hear tributes to Winifred, share your memories of her, and enjoy some of her favorite snacks with members of the Bay Area blind community and with members of Winifred’s family.

Please send your RSVP to Ellie Lee
Cell: (415) 378-6079
Email: ellieleesf@yahoo.com

This event is cosponsored by the San Francisco Chapter of the California Council of the Blind and by the LightHouse.


Audio Professionals

From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee
In our June conference, we will be discussing the different audio professionals (Audiologist, ear nose and throat doctors, etc) to better understand which one does what.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more!
This is the eighth in a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.
Date: Sunday, June 19; time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern;
Phone: 832-551-5900 id: 368611.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences. Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.
In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


ACB Candidates Call

On Sunday, June 12, from 3 PM to 5 PM, CCB will be holding a candidates conference call for all candidates who intend to seek a position on the ACB Board of Directors or Board of Publications at the election to be held at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention this July in Minneapolis.

The telephone number for this call will be 712-432-3066 and the access code will be 497700.
This call will be held in lieu of an actual California caucus at the convention due to changes in scheduling that will be occurring at the convention. However, this format has the advantage of allowing even those of you who will not be attending the convention to participate.
You will have an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates.


ACB Roommate Request

I am seeking a third person particularly a male to room with Joe Lopez, and I at convention.
I will be arriving on July 1, and departing on July 10. I will be financially unable to attend the convention without you.
Please call me at 951 4547586, or email me at jordanmirander@icloud.com


1Touch Self-Defense For The Blind Hands On Workshops

When: June 10th, 2016
Time: 10:00AM - 5:00PM
Where: Silicon Valley Community Foundation 1300 S El Camino Real #100 San Mateo, CA 94402

When: June 11th, 2016, 10:00AM - 5:00PM
Where: Orientation Center for the Blind 400 Adams Street Albany, CA 94706

To register info@1touchproject.com or 319-759-8980
Pre-Register by June 3rd - $35.00 ($45 at the door)

1Touch is a nonprofit organization that provides an adapted self-defense program for people who are blind. No experience is necessary and everyone is welcome no matter their physical abilities or age. Half of all 1Touch Coaches are blind and working to making their communities safer!
TVI’s & O&M’s can receive 5.5 ACVREP CE hours for this workshop.


LightHouse Grand Opening

LightHouse for the Blind is planning a Grand Opening celebration and we’d like for you to join us.
We have spent the last few years and much creative energy to construct our new, innovative headquarters at 1155 Market Street. We are excited to welcome our community to experience the unique design features and the expanded potential of this new facility specifically created by the blind for the blind and low vision community.

To kick off the day of celebration, we are starting on the steps of the San Francisco City Hall with some special guests who would like to honor the LightHouse and our big move.
Then we will take to the streets with a parade full of fanfare on our way to the new building!
March with us at the "Blind & Proud" Parade!
Please save the date and plan to be a part of the Parade! We would be honored to have you or your organization, along with other allies and supporters from all over the state, as a strong contingent in the grand march along Van Ness and Market Streets in the center of San Francisco.
We welcome banners and other festive ways to show your support of and partnership with the LightHouse. Our marching band will lead the way so we hope you are there alongside us for the excitement!

Grand Opening Celebration Schedule:
June 10 San Francisco Civic Center
11:00 AM: Welcome Remarks at City Hall
12:00 PM: "Blind & Proud" Parade from City Hall to 1155 Market
1:00 - 3:00 PM: LightHouse Open House

Questions?
To RSVP and get more information about participating in the Blind & Proud Parade and attending the LightHouse Open House, please contact Megara Vogl at mvogl@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7335.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection May 27, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for May 27.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Council Office Notice

The Council office will be closed Monday, May 30th in observance of the Memorial holiday.


ACB Auction

From the President:
This year, at the annual ACB Conference and Convention, we will be holding our 10th annual ACB auction, entitled "A Decade of Dreams Auction."
If you would like to donate anything to a California basket, let me know prior to May 30, either by e-mail jsthom@comcast.net or by phone at 916-995-3967.
You can bring your item to me if you are attending the convention or send it to the office ahead of time, but I need a description of what our basket will hold by May 30. Even gift cards are very welcome additions, as is anything original or that has a California flavor to it.
Thanks again for all that you do in this regard.


From The President

As many of you are aware, CCB, along with individual plaintiffs, settled a case with Alameda County to better enable voters in that county to vote privately and independently.

Pursuant to that settlement, a taskforce was created specifically to deal with Alameda County issues concerning voting by persons with vision impairments. Through our outstanding taskforce representative, Mr. Noel Runyan, we are working hard to make the system better for Alameda County voters who are blind or have low vision.

In order to ascertain whether the county is making positive efforts to remove barriers faced by Alameda County voters with vision impairments, we urge those of you in Alameda County to vote in the primary election using the accessible voting machines and provide us with information as to their experiences. We will make sure that our taskforce representative is provided with this information.

You can email this information to the CCB office at ccotb@ccbnet.org or telephone CCB administrative assistant Ed Branch at 800-221-6359.

Below are questions that we hope you will answer in this effort.

  1. Were there any barriers when you arrived at the polling place?
  2. Were there any barriers when using the voting machine?
  3. Could you vote independently?
  4. If there was a problem, how long did you have to wait to vote?
  5. Did you notify a poll worker of the problem?
  6. Did the poll worker call the help desk?


Legislation

SB1331, relating to the Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind, including provisions modifying the composition of the board and easing restrictions on staff from out-of-state schools to provide follow-up instruction in California, passed the Senate unanimously.
We can anticipate needing your help in the Assembly and with the Governor’s office, and we will let you know as events unfold.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


Greater Los Angeles Chapter Fund Raiser

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the California Council of the Blind is going to have a fundraiser on Thursday, June 2, 2016 at Chili’s Restaurant located at 17240 Ventura Blvd., Encino, CA, cross street being Louise.

You will be able to order off the menu, and the Chapter will receive 15 percent of the proceeds from each check, including the bar tab, as long as you present a coupon which can be obtained by calling Ken Metz at (818) 882-3610-HOME, or (323) 793-1805-CELL.

The time will be anytime from 11 AM until 9 PM although most of us will be there from 5-9 PM.
We are running late with the announcement as we were negotiating for a higher percentage, but we are hopeful for that for next year.
We look forward to seeing many of you, your family, and your friends in the Los Angeles Area, and will appreciate your support.


Glendale-Burbank Chapter Meeting

The Glendale-Burbank Chapter is having a special speaker at our next monthly meeting on Saturday June 4 at the Days Inn restaurant at 450 W. Pioneer in Glendale, CA.
Our meeting starts at 11 am and ends at 1 pm.

The speaker will be Walter Morosko. He is an amateur Egyptologist and will speak on ancient Egypt. He will bring items for members to examine.

For more information, please email Anthony Signoriello at blinddude1@gmail.com


East LA CCB Chapter Event

Save The Date June 11th For Our Mexican Annual Fiesta Luncheon:
Start your summer off with a party!
Please plan to join the East LA CCB Chapter for the annual June Mexican fiesta Luncheon on June 11th from 10:30 AM to 2 pm.
At the Garcia home located at 1226 S. McBride Ave in East Los Angeles. The cross street is Olympic.

Come join the East LA CCB family and enjoy friends, food and drink.
Our own bartender Rafael Enriquez will be serving up spirits, soda and water.
Soledad will have some of her delicious baked goods including some sugar free goodies as well for sale. Come early or they will be sold out. Her baked goods sell out every meeting.

Your $12 meal ticket will get you in for the three item plate of enchilada, taco, tamale, rice and beans. You will get a free soda or water with your meal. Take home meals will be $6 each. You may purchase additional drinks.

Your meal ticket puts you in the drawing for door prizes including the grand prize of a desktop running windows 7 with open source software comparable to office, NVDA (screen reader) and illuminate (screen magnification) software will also be preloaded for and ready use. We will have the basket of joy (spirits) drawing and a 50/50 drawing.
We look forward to seeing old and new friends.

Please RSVP to Stephanie Rood at 818.321.4205 or email east.la.ccb.chpater@gmail.com or Mona Craig at 310.930.6929 or preshusdelight@gmail.com with the number of individuals who will be attending. This will insure that there will be enough food to go around for all.
Please pass this email along to anyone who wants to come enjoy good food, drink and conversation on Saturday June 11th at 10:30am.
I look forward to seeing everyone and new friends.
Cordially,
Stephanie Rood Acting President


ACB Roommate Request

I am seeking a third person particularly a male to room with Joe Lopez, and I at convention. I will be arriving on July 1, and departing on July 10. I will be financially unable to attend the convention without you.
Please call me at 951 4547586, or email me at jordanmirander@icloud.com


1Touch Self-Defense For The Blind Hands On Workshops

When: June 10th, 2016
Time: 10:00AM - 5:00PM
Where: Silicon Valley Community Foundation 1300 S El Camino Real #100 San Mateo, CA 94402

When: June 11th, 2016, 10:00AM - 5:00PM
Where: Orientation Center for the Blind 400 Adams Street Albany, CA 94706

To register info@1touchproject.com or 319-759-8980
Pre-Register by June 3rd - $35.00 ($45 at the door)

1Touch is a nonprofit organization that provides an adapted self-defense program for people who are blind. No experience is necessary and everyone is welcome no matter their physical abilities or age. Half of all 1Touch Coaches are blind and working to making their communities safer!
TVI’s & O&M’s can receive 5.5 ACVREP CE hours for this workshop.


LightHouse Grand Opening

LightHouse for the Blind is planning a Grand Opening celebration and we’d like for you to join us.
We have spent the last few years and much creative energy to construct our new, innovative headquarters at 1155 Market Street. We are excited to welcome our community to experience the unique design features and the expanded potential of this new facility specifically created by the blind for the blind and low vision community.

To kick off the day of celebration, we are starting on the steps of the San Francisco City Hall with some special guests who would like to honor the LightHouse and our big move.
Then we will take to the streets with a parade full of fanfare on our way to the new building!
March with us at the "Blind & Proud" Parade!
Please save the date and plan to be a part of the Parade! We would be honored to have you or your organization, along with other allies and supporters from all over the state, as a strong contingent in the grand march along Van Ness and Market Streets in the center of San Francisco.
We welcome banners and other festive ways to show your support of and partnership with the LightHouse. Our marching band will lead the way so we hope you are there alongside us for the excitement!

Grand Opening Celebration Schedule:
June 10 San Francisco Civic Center
11:00 AM: Welcome Remarks at City Hall
12:00 PM: "Blind & Proud" Parade from City Hall to 1155 Market
1:00 - 3:00 PM: LightHouse Open House

Questions?
To RSVP and get more information about participating in the Blind & Proud Parade and attending the LightHouse Open House, please contact Megara Vogl at mvogl@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7335.


From The office Of The CA Secretary of State

The audio version of the Official California Voter Information Guide for the June 7, 2016, Presidential Primary Election is now available.
To obtain copies of cassettes or compact discs (CDs) 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


Student Resource Guide

ACCESS to Resources for Students with Disabilities, known as ACCESS, is designed as a user-friendly guide to resources to empower the readers with relevant knowledge and information.

ACCESS will provide resources for people with various abilities and disabilities along the journey toward independent and meaningful living.

ACCESS includes information on; Education and Training, Daily Living Skills Assistive Technology, Laws and Rights, Specific Population Resources, and an Appendix.

Expert Peer Review covers the following disability populations; Autism Spectrum, Intellectual /Cognitive, Communication, Deaf-Blind, Visually Impaired, Hearing Impaired, Mobility, Learning, and Multiple disabilities.

This ACCESS Resource Guide is fully searchable. Use terms or phrases to locate information. 'Control' 'F' will bring up screen that asks for your search request.
Please share this URL to the ACCESS Guide at: http://www.catransitionalliance.org/content.aspx?id=1561&title=Resources


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection May 20, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for May 20.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From The President

This year, at the annual ACB Conference and Convention, we will be holding our 10th annual ACB auction, entitled "A Decade of Dreams Auction."
If you would like to donate anything to a California basket, let me know prior to May 30, either by e-mail jsthom@comcast.net or by phone at 916-995-3967.
You can bring your item to me if you are attending the convention or send it to the office ahead of time, but I need a description of what our basket will hold by May 30. Even gift cards are very welcome additions, as is anything original or that has a California flavor to it.
Thanks again for all that you do in this regard.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


Future Convention Conference Call

Dear Presidents, members, and other interested parties:
A statewide conference call for members and interested parties will take place on May 23rd from 7 PM to 9 PM.
The call-in number is 712.432.3066 and the code is 840878.

The conference call is the second of two forums to gather the opinions of attendees and potential attendees of future CCB conferences and conventions.

The forum will focus on two questions which follow:

Question 1: What, in your opinion, would be an ideal length of time for a conference and convention (cc)?
When answering, please consider the following:

  1. If the cc were reduced by one day, what do you feel could be sacrificed?
  2. If the cc were lengthened by one day, what programming would you add?
  3. If the cc were kept at the current four days, would there be a need to make changes, and what would you propose?

Question 2: What are the reasons you and/or other members do not attend conferences and conventions?

Responses to these questions will only be accepted during the May 23rd conference call. However, there will be surveys developed in the next few months to gather additional information such as, but not limited to, the cost items related to putting on a conference and convention.

Please disseminate and encourage your members as well as other interested parties to participate on this conference call. Those who cannot participate on the May 23rd conference call or wish to amend their comments can do so by email at ccotb@ccbnet.org or phone 1-800-221-6359.
Ed Branch, CCB Administrative Assistant, will take dictated comments from phone callers.
Email and phone submissions must be made on or before 11:59 PM Monday May 30, 2016.
Best regards,
Gene Lozano
Chair Conference and Convention Committee


Scholarships

The California Council of the Blind is offering scholarships to college, university, and vocational school students who are legally blind and are either residents of California, regardless of where they attend school, or non-residents of California attending school in this state.

Scholarships are for entering freshman, undergraduates, and graduate students.

Applications must be submitted by July 1, 2016.
The application can be found online at www.ccbnet.org/scholar_intro.htm


East Los Angeles Chapter Meeting Change

Dear chapter members and friends:
The East Los Angeles Chapter had to change the location of this Saturday's meeting.
Again, the meeting that was scheduled to be held on Saturday, the 21st at the Garcia's home has had to be changed.
The Garcia family has had an unexpected obligation that conflicts with our meeting and apologizes for the inconvenience this may cause.

Make note of the following location for this Saturday's meeting:
The California Grill located at 6751 Painter Ave. The cross street is Philadelphia.
The California Grill is located in the city of Whittier and their phone number is: 562-907-7017.
It will be an open menu and each is on their own. I have some suggestions If you would like to contact me.
The time will be from 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM.


Save The Date June 11th For Our Mexican Annual Fiesta Luncheon

Start your summer off with a party!
Please plan to join the East LA CCB Chapter for the annual June Mexican fiesta Luncheon on June 11th from 10:30 AM to 2 pm.
At the Garcia home located at 1226 S. McBride Ave in East Los Angeles. The cross street is Olympic.

Come join the East LA CCB family and enjoy friends, food and drink.
Our own bartender Rafael Enriquez will be serving up spirits, soda and water.
Soledad will have some of her delicious baked goods including some sugar free goodies as well for sale. Come early or they will be sold out. Her baked goods sell out every meeting.

Your $12 meal ticket will get you in for the three item plate of enchilada, taco, tamale, rice and beans. You will get a free soda or water with your meal. Take home meals will be $6 each. You may purchase additional drinks.

Your meal ticket puts you in the drawing for door prizes including the grand prize of a desktop running windows 7 with open source software comparable to office, NVDA (screen reader) and illuminate (screen magnification) software will also be preloaded for and ready use. We will have the basket of joy (spirits) drawing and a 50/50 drawing.
We look forward to seeing old and new friends.

Please RSVP to Stephanie Rood at 818.321.4205 or email east.la.ccb.chpater@gmail.com or Mona Craig at 310.930.6929 or preshusdelight@gmail.com with the number of individuals who will be attending. This will insure that there will be enough food to go around for all.
Please pass this email along to anyone who wants to come enjoy good food, drink and conversation on Saturday June 11th at 10:30am.
I look forward to seeing everyone and new friends.
Cordially,
Stephanie Rood Acting President


Glendale-Burbank Chapter Meeting

The Glendale-Burbank Chapter is having a special speaker at our next monthly meeting on Saturday June 4 at the Days Inn restaurant at 450 W. Pioneer in Glendale, CA.
Our meeting starts at 11 am and ends at 1 pm.

The speaker will be Walter Morosko. He is an amateur Egyptologist and will speak on ancient Egypt. He will bring items for members to examine.

For more information, please email Anthony Signoriello at blinddude1@gmail.com


1Touch Self-Defense For The Blind Hands On Workshops

When: June 10th, 2016
Time: 10:00AM - 5:00PM
Where: Silicon Valley Community Foundation 1300 S El Camino Real #100 San Mateo, CA 94402

When: June 11th, 2016, 10:00AM - 5:00PM
Where: Orientation Center for the Blind 400 Adams Street Albany, CA 94706

To register info@1touchproject.com or 319-759-8980
Pre-Register by June 3rd - $35.00 ($45 at the door)

1Touch is a nonprofit organization that provides an adapted self-defense program for people who are blind. No experience is necessary and everyone is welcome no matter their physical abilities or age. Half of all 1Touch Coaches are blind and working to making their communities safer!
TVI’s & O&M’s can receive 5.5 ACVREP CE hours for this workshop.


LightHouse Grand Opening

LightHouse for the Blind is planning a Grand Opening celebration and we’d like for you to join us.
We have spent the last few years and much creative energy to construct our new, innovative headquarters at 1155 Market Street. We are excited to welcome our community to experience the unique design features and the expanded potential of this new facility specifically created by the blind for the blind and low vision community.

To kick off the day of celebration, we are starting on the steps of the San Francisco City Hall with some special guests who would like to honor the LightHouse and our big move.
Then we will take to the streets with a parade full of fanfare on our way to the new building!
March with us at the "Blind & Proud" Parade!
Please save the date and plan to be a part of the Parade! We would be honored to have you or your organization, along with other allies and supporters from all over the state, as a strong contingent in the grand march along Van Ness and Market Streets in the center of San Francisco.
We welcome banners and other festive ways to show your support of and partnership with the LightHouse. Our marching band will lead the way so we hope you are there alongside us for the excitement!

Grand Opening Celebration Schedule:
June 10 San Francisco Civic Center
11:00 AM: Welcome Remarks at City Hall
12:00 PM: "Blind & Proud" Parade from City Hall to 1155 Market
1:00 - 3:00 PM: LightHouse Open House

Questions?
To RSVP and get more information about participating in the Blind & Proud Parade and attending the LightHouse Open House, please contact Megara Vogl at mvogl@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7335.


From The office Of The CA Secretary of State

The audio version of the Official California Voter Information Guide for the June 7, 2016, Presidential Primary Election is now available.
To obtain copies of cassettes or compact discs (CDs) 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


Library Conference

On August 11-12, in conjunction with the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) 2016 World Library Information Congress (WLIC), the Section on Libraries Serving Persons with Print Disabilities (LPD) is sponsoring a pre-Congress satellite conference in Louisville, Kentucky: Tailoring the Reading Experience to Meet Individual Needs.

The satellite conference is co-sponsored by the American Printing House for the Blind and will feature an international array of speakers on topics including: facilitating the book selection process, accessible audio book technologies, serving the full spectrum of print disabilities, creating inclusive communities for people with disabilities through programming and events, the added value of an analog service in the heart of the digital era, and promoting Braille literacy.

This conference offers a rare opportunity for professionals from a variety of disciplines to discuss the challenges and solutions to providing timely accessible materials in appropriate formats to the people we serve.

Librarians from special libraries for people who are blind and visually impaired, as well as from public libraries serving blind and print-disabled patrons; educators, accessible instructional materials providers; professionals from university disability offices, and others with an interest in these topics have been invited to come together to learn, to share, and to discuss.
I invite you to join the conversation.

When: Thursday, August 11, 2016 - Friday, August 12, 2016
Where: Galt House Hotel, 140 N 4th St, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA

For agenda, hotel and conference registration information please visit:
http://www.aph.org/tailoring-the-reading-experience/
or contact Mike Marlin, Director, Braille and Talking Book Library at mike.marlin@library.ca.gov
or (800) 952-5666


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection May 13, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for May 13.
In order to have a message in the 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.
Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From The President

This year, at the annual ACB Conference and Convention, we will be holding our 10th annual ACB auction, entitled "A Decade of Dreams Auction."
If you would like to donate anything to a California basket, let me know prior to May 30, either by e-mail jsthom@comcast.net or by phone at 916-995-3967.
You can bring your item to me if you are attending the convention or send it to the office ahead of time, but I need a description of what our basket will hold by May 30. Even gift cards are very welcome additions, as is anything original or that has a California flavor to it.
Thanks again for all that you do in this regard.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


Future Convention Conference Call

Dear Presidents, members, and other interested parties:
A statewide conference call for members and interested parties will take place on May 23rd from 7 PM to 9 PM.
The call-in number is 712.432.3066 and the code is 840878.

The conference call is the second of two forums to gather the opinions of attendees and potential attendees of future CCB conferences and conventions.

The forum will focus on two questions which follow:

Question 1: What, in your opinion, would be an ideal length of time for a conference and convention (cc)?
When answering, please consider the following:

  1. If the cc were reduced by one day, what do you feel could be sacrificed?
  2. If the cc were lengthened by one day, what programming would you add?
  3. If the cc were kept at the current four days, would there be a need to make changes, and what would you propose?

Question 2: What are the reasons you and/or other members do not attend conferences and conventions?

Responses to these questions will only be accepted during the May 23rd conference call. However, there will be surveys developed in the next few months to gather additional information such as, but not limited to, the cost items related to putting on a conference and convention.

Please disseminate and encourage your members as well as other interested parties to participate on this conference call. Those who cannot participate on the May 23rd conference call or wish to amend their comments can do so by email at ccotb@ccbnet.org or phone 1-800-221-6359.
Ed Branch, CCB Administrative Assistant, will take dictated comments from phone callers.
Email and phone submissions must be made on or before 11:59 PM Monday May 30, 2016.
Best regards,
Gene Lozano
Chair Conference and Convention Committee


Scholarships

The California Council of the Blind is offering scholarships to college, university, and vocational school students who are legally blind and are either residents of California, regardless of where they attend school, or non-residents of California attending school in this state.

Scholarships are for entering freshman, undergraduates, and graduate students.

Applications must be submitted by July 1, 2016.
The application can be found online at www.ccbnet.org/scholar_intro.htm


From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee
Auditory Anatomy, Again

Our audiologist friend was not able to attend the April meeting due to concerns over flooding. He's OK and we'll do it again at our May meeting.

Tom Brennan will review the anatomy of the ear.
Then continue on to What does your audiogram mean?
Auditory tests and specifically what they are and what they measure.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more!
This is the seventh of a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.

Date: Sunday, May 15; time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern; Phone: 832-551-5900 id: 368611.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences with us.
Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


Glendale-Burbank Chapter Meeting

The Glendale-Burbank Chapter is having a special speaker at our next monthly meeting on Saturday June 4 at the Days Inn restaurant at 450 W. Pioneer in Glendale, CA.
Our meeting starts at 11 am and ends at 1 pm.

The speaker will be Walter Morosko. He is an amateur Egyptologist and will speak on ancient Egypt. He will bring items for members to examine.

For more information, please email Anthony Signoriello at blinddude1@gmail.com


Live Theatre

Join Theatre by the Blind for it’s upcoming original production of Second Chance" starring some SoCal CCB members.
Written and directed by Pelita Dasalla.

When: May 13-22
Where: Los Angeles Performing Arts Center, formerly The Promenade Playhouse, 1404 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica CA Cross Streets 3rd and Santa Monica.
Time: Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM, Sunday Matinees, 3:00 PM.

SYNOPSIS: On the eve of her wedding, Morgan Williams is both excited and nervous about her big day. But an unspoken emptiness has been troubling her for quite some time. When she was young, her father sat her down to tell her that her real mother had been killed in a car accident. Despite her inquiries, he had always been vague about the details and avoided her when she pressed him on it. But her father soon realizes that the marriage of his daughter has triggered a series of events that will force him to confront the truth about her mother and the secret he has been keeping for all of these years.

"Second Chance" is a heartwarming comedy. that questions just how honest we are with our family.

Tickets for this event are $15.
For ticketing info, visit www.creoutreach.org.
We hope to see you there.


ACB Roommate Request

Joe Lopez is looking for a roommate for the ACB convention.
He will be arriving on July 1 and leaving on July 10.
He can be reached at (805) 706-0133 cell or (805) 683-0007 home.


Open House

Valley Center for the Blind is hosting an Open House to welcome our valued community members to join us as we kick off our exciting new location.

The Valley Center for the Blind (previously known as Friendship Center for the Blind) began in February of 1972 through the efforts of Dr. Andrea Schwartz who saw a great need for social and recreational services for blind individuals living in Fresno.

Due to the growing need we have recently moved locations in order to increase our ability to serve our valued blind and visually impaired clients.

Please join us for our Open House event Friday, May 20th at our new location, 3417 W. Shaw Avenue Fresno, CA 93710, between 4pm-8pm. We are on track to have a strong media presence and hope that this event will give your office a chance to learn more about The Valley Center for the Blind and the work that we do at our facility. It would be an honor to have you in attendance and show your support for the disabled individuals of Fresno.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at (559) 222-4447 ext. 107 or SHeber@vcbfresno.org


LightHouse Grand Opening

LightHouse for the Blind is planning a Grand Opening celebration and we’d like for you to join us.
We have spent the last few years and much creative energy to construct our new, innovative headquarters at 1155 Market Street. We are excited to welcome our community to experience the unique design features and the expanded potential of this new facility specifically created by the blind for the blind and low vision community.

To kick off the day of celebration, we are starting on the steps of the San Francisco City Hall with some special guests who would like to honor the LightHouse and our big move.
Then we will take to the streets with a parade full of fanfare on our way to the new building!
March with us at the "Blind & Proud" Parade!
Please save the date and plan to be a part of the Parade! We would be honored to have you or your organization, along with other allies and supporters from all over the state, as a strong contingent in the grand march along Van Ness and Market Streets in the center of San Francisco.
We welcome banners and other festive ways to show your support of and partnership with the LightHouse. Our marching band will lead the way so we hope you are there alongside us for the excitement!

Grand Opening Celebration Schedule:
June 10 San Francisco Civic Center
11:00 AM: Welcome Remarks at City Hall
12:00 PM: "Blind & Proud" Parade from City Hall to 1155 Market
1:00 - 3:00 PM: LightHouse Open House

Questions?
To RSVP and get more information about participating in the Blind & Proud Parade and attending the LightHouse Open House, please contact Megara Vogl at mvogl@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7335.


From The office Of The CA Secretary of State

The audio version of the Official California Voter Information Guide for the June 7, 2016, Presidential Primary Election is now available.
To obtain copies of cassettes or compact discs (CDs) 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


Library Conference

On August 11-12, in conjunction with the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) 2016 World Library Information Congress (WLIC), the Section on Libraries Serving Persons with Print Disabilities (LPD) is sponsoring a pre-Congress satellite conference in Louisville, Kentucky: Tailoring the Reading Experience to Meet Individual Needs.

The satellite conference is co-sponsored by the American Printing House for the Blind and will feature an international array of speakers on topics including: facilitating the book selection process, accessible audio book technologies, serving the full spectrum of print disabilities, creating inclusive communities for people with disabilities through programming and events, the added value of an analog service in the heart of the digital era, and promoting Braille literacy.

This conference offers a rare opportunity for professionals from a variety of disciplines to discuss the challenges and solutions to providing timely accessible materials in appropriate formats to the people we serve.

Librarians from special libraries for people who are blind and visually impaired, as well as from public libraries serving blind and print-disabled patrons; educators, accessible instructional materials providers; professionals from university disability offices, and others with an interest in these topics have been invited to come together to learn, to share, and to discuss.
I invite you to join the conversation.

When: Thursday, August 11, 2016 - Friday, August 12, 2016
Where: Galt House Hotel, 140 N 4th St, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA

For agenda, hotel and conference registration information please visit:
http://www.aph.org/tailoring-the-reading-experience/
or contact Mike Marlin, Director, Braille and Talking Book Library at mike.marlin@library.ca.gov
or (800) 952-5666


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection May 6, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for May 6.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Executive Director Recruitment

The California Council of the Blind is seeking applicants for the position of executive director.
You may read or download a copy of the recruitment announcement at:
http://www.ccbnet.org/execdirtr.htm
or find a link to the material on the CCB home page at: http://www.ccbnet.org.
In addition, you may obtain a copy of the recruitment announcement by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or by email ccotb@ccbnet.org


Save The Date.
All Members Are Welcome

Continuation of the Friday night Conference and Convention Town Hall Discussion.
Conference call on May 23rd from 7 PM to 9 PM.
Call In Number is 712.432.3066 and the code is 840878.
Stay tuned to future CA Connections for further details.


Scholarships

The California Council of the Blind is offering scholarships to college, university, and vocational school students who are legally blind and are either residents of California, regardless of where they attend school, or non-residents of California attending school in this state.

Scholarships are for entering freshman, undergraduates, and graduate students.

Applications must be submitted by July 1, 2016.
The application can be found online at www.ccbnet.org/scholar_intro.htm


Bay View Chapter Meeting

Welcome to the Bay View Chapter luncheon and business meeting
Saturday May 14 from 12 noon until 4:p.m.
Meal choices are: chicken salad or egg salad on a sandwich or on greens with other sides and deserts and beverage.
Cost per meal is: 10 dollars.

For meal reservations call Catherine Skivers by Wednesday May 11, at: (510) 357-1986.

Our business meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m.
"NHTSA’s Automated Vehicle Research Activities." Presentation will be featured.

Location: East Bay Center for the Blind 2928 Adeline Street Berkeley CA 94703


From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee
Auditory Anatomy, Again

Our audiologist friend was not able to attend the April meeting due to concerns over flooding. He's OK and we'll do it again at our May meeting.

Tom Brennan will review the anatomy of the ear.
Then continue on to What does your audiogram mean?
Auditory tests and specifically what they are and what they measure.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more!
This is the seventh of a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.

Date: Sunday, May 15; time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern; Phone: 832-551-5900 id: 368611.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences with us.
Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


Glendale Burbank Area Fund Raiser

Please join the members and friends of the Glendale Burbank Area Chapter of CCB for their fund raiser being held at the CPk at 601 N. San Fernando Road Burbank on May 16.

In order to show your support you must present a flier.
To obtain the flier contact Anthony Signoriello, fund raising chair at blinddude1@gmail.com or Ardis Bazyn, president at abazyn@bazyncommunications.com.
Fliers can be used for dine in or take out on this day.
Thank you for your support.


Chapter Event

Please take note, that the Active Blind Inland Valleys social at Sammy’s Café 9030 Foothill Blvd, Rancho Cucamonga has been rescheduled to June 4th from 11 am to 1 PM.


Live Theatre

Join Theatre by the Blind for it’s upcoming original production of Second Chance" starring some SoCal CCB members.
Written and directed by Pelita Dasalla.

When: May 13-22
Where: Los Angeles Performing Arts Center, formerly The Promenade Playhouse, 1404 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica CA Cross Streets 3rd and Santa Monica.
Time: Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM, Sunday Matinees, 3:00 PM.

SYNOPSIS: On the eve of her wedding, Morgan Williams is both excited and nervous about her big day. But an unspoken emptiness has been troubling her for quite some time. When she was young, her father sat her down to tell her that her real mother had been killed in a car accident. Despite her inquiries, he had always been vague about the details and avoided her when she pressed him on it. But her father soon realizes that the marriage of his daughter has triggered a series of events that will force him to confront the truth about her mother and the secret he has been keeping for all of these years.

"Second Chance" is a heartwarming comedy. that questions just how honest we are with our family.

Tickets for this event are $15.
For ticketing info, visit www.creoutreach.org.
We hope to see you there.


ACB Roommate Request

Joe Lopez is looking for a roommate for the ACB convention.
He will be arriving on July 1 and leaving on July 10.
He can be reached at (805) 706-0133 cell or (805) 683-0007 home.


Open House

Valley Center for the Blind is hosting an Open House to welcome our valued community members to join us as we kick off our exciting new location.

The Valley Center for the Blind (previously known as Friendship Center for the Blind) began in February of 1972 through the efforts of Dr. Andrea Schwartz who saw a great need for social and recreational services for blind individuals living in Fresno.

Due to the growing need we have recently moved locations in order to increase our ability to serve our valued blind and visually impaired clients.

Please join us for our Open House event Friday, May 20th at our new location, 3417 W. Shaw Avenue Fresno, CA 93710, between 4pm-8pm. We are on track to have a strong media presence and hope that this event will give your office a chance to learn more about The Valley Center for the Blind and the work that we do at our facility. It would be an honor to have you in attendance and show your support for the disabled individuals of Fresno.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at (559) 222-4447 ext. 107 or SHeber@vcbfresno.org


IHSS Agreement

DREDF and Disability Rights California have been working for three individuals who receive IHSS to come to an agreement with the California Department of Social Services and the Department of Health Care Services to make the IHSS program more accessible to blind and visually-impaired individuals.

Here is the link to the notice about the changes made to the program that the Department of Social Services will also send to individual IHSS beneficiaries sometime over the coming months."

If You are Blind or Visually Impaired, You Can Get Information from In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) in Different Ways.

If you like how you currently receive information and approve timesheets, you don’t need to do anything.

Your choices for getting different NOTICES by mail are:

  1. Braille notice and a standard print notice;
  2. CD with an accessible text and audio file, and a standard print notice;
  3. Large print (18-point size bold) notice with a standard print notice;
  4. Standard print notice, and a county worker to read the notice for you over the phone.

Your choices for how to approve your provider’s timesheets are:

  1. You can use the telephone timesheet system (TTS) to approve your provider’s timesheet over the phone.
    TTS also will store your approved timesheets.
    You won’t have to sign your timesheet anymore.
  2. If you are visually impaired, you can receive a large print, 18-point font, timesheet that you can read and sign for yourself.

If You Wish to Request a Certain Format or Change How You Receive Notices or Approve Timesheets: Ask your county IHSS worker.
You can request your preferred format when you file an application, have an initial assessment, or a reassessment.
You can also call your county IHSS worker.

Some other IHSS information and documents may be available in alternative formats.
You may ask your county IHSS worker for something you need. If it can be provided in your desired format, it will be. If not, your county IHSS worker will work with you to find an alternative that will work for you.

Filing a Complaint:
You have the right to make a complaint with your County’s Civil Rights Coordinator. Ask your county office for the name, address and phone number of its Civil Rights Coordinator.
He/she can independently investigate your complaint.

You also can contact the State Department of Social Services Civil Rights Bureau, at:
California Department of Social Services
744 P Street, MS 8-16-70
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 654-2107
(866) 741-6241 (Toll-Free)
crb@dss.ca.gov

You also can call Disability Rights California or DREDF for assistance.
You can call Disability Rights California Toll Free at 800.776.5746 / TTY 800.719.5798.
You can call DREDF at 510.644.2555 / TTY 510.841.8645.


LightHouse Grand Opening

LightHouse for the Blind is planning a Grand Opening celebration and we’d like for you to join us.
We have spent the last few years and much creative energy to construct our new, innovative headquarters at 1155 Market Street. We are excited to welcome our community to experience the unique design features and the expanded potential of this new facility specifically created by the blind for the blind and low vision community.

To kick off the day of celebration, we are starting on the steps of the San Francisco City Hall with some special guests who would like to honor the LightHouse and our big move.
Then we will take to the streets with a parade full of fanfare on our way to the new building!
March with us at the "Blind & Proud" Parade!
Please save the date and plan to be a part of the Parade! We would be honored to have you or your organization, along with other allies and supporters from all over the state, as a strong contingent in the grand march along Van Ness and Market Streets in the center of San Francisco.
We welcome banners and other festive ways to show your support of and partnership with the LightHouse. Our marching band will lead the way so we hope you are there alongside us for the excitement!

Grand Opening Celebration Schedule:
June 10 San Francisco Civic Center
11:00 AM: Welcome Remarks at City Hall
12:00 PM: "Blind & Proud" Parade from City Hall to 1155 Market
1:00 - 3:00 PM: LightHouse Open House

Questions?
To RSVP and get more information about participating in the Blind & Proud Parade and attending the LightHouse Open House, please contact Megara Vogl at mvogl@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7335.


From The office Of The CA Secretary of State

The audio version of the Official California Voter Information Guide for the June 7, 2016, Presidential Primary Election is now available.
To obtain copies of cassettes or compact discs (CDs) 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


Library Conference

On August 11-12, in conjunction with the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) 2016 World Library Information Congress (WLIC), the Section on Libraries Serving Persons with Print Disabilities (LPD) is sponsoring a pre-Congress satellite conference in Louisville, Kentucky: Tailoring the Reading Experience to Meet Individual Needs.

The satellite conference is co-sponsored by the American Printing House for the Blind and will feature an international array of speakers on topics including: facilitating the book selection process, accessible audio book technologies, serving the full spectrum of print disabilities, creating inclusive communities for people with disabilities through programming and events, the added value of an analog service in the heart of the digital era, and promoting Braille literacy.

This conference offers a rare opportunity for professionals from a variety of disciplines to discuss the challenges and solutions to providing timely accessible materials in appropriate formats to the people we serve.

Librarians from special libraries for people who are blind and visually impaired, as well as from public libraries serving blind and print-disabled patrons; educators, accessible instructional materials providers; professionals from university disability offices, and others with an interest in these topics have been invited to come together to learn, to share, and to discuss.
I invite you to join the conversation.

When: Thursday, August 11, 2016 - Friday, August 12, 2016
Where: Galt House Hotel, 140 N 4th St, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA

For agenda, hotel and conference registration information please visit:
http://www.aph.org/tailoring-the-reading-experience/
or contact Mike Marlin, Director, Braille and Talking Book Library at mike.marlin@library.ca.gov
or (800) 952-5666


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection April 29, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for April 29.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


In Memoriam

We have lost two CCB Treasures in the past month, Winifred Downing and Al Gil.
We plan to offer tributes to them in an upcoming issue of The Blind Californian.
Email your memories and tributes to editor@ccbnet.org.
If you wish to dictate your message, leave a message for Associate Editor Susan Glass at her cell phone: 408 429-9567.


Al Gil Memorial

As most of you know, Al Gil passed away on April 17.
There will be 2 celebrations of his life.

The first will be on May 7 from 11:00 Am until 2:00 PM at the Favorita restaurant located at 115 6th ST in Fowler.
The second will be on May 15 at the East Bay Center for the Blind in Berkeley from 4:00 to 7:00 PM.

Gifts and donations can be made to the ACB affiliate Diabetes in Action or the East Bay Center for the Blind.

For more information contact Marybeth Randell at (559) 549-3830.
Thank you from the Gil Family.


Save The Date.
All members are welcome

continuation of the Friday night Conference and Convention Town Hall Discussion.
Conference call on May 23rd from 7 PM to 9 PM.
Call In Number is 712.432.3066 and the code is 840878.
Stay tuned to future CA Connections for further details.


California Council of the Blind 2016 Annual Conference and Convention Evaluation Request

The California Council of the Blind (CCB) is very appreciative of those who attended in person or online the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention (CC). We would appreciate in receiving input from attendees as to their satisfaction with the Viejas Casino and Resort hotel rooms and spaces, CC program, tracks, and MD Support LowViz Guide app. Also, your recommendations for future conferences and conventions will be very much welcomed.
Please complete the evaluation form, found below the line, on or before 11:59pm, Sunday May 1st, 2016.
Evaluation responses are to be emailed to Eugene.lozano@ccbnet.org.
For those needing assistance in completing the form, call the CCB office 1-800-221-6359.
In advance, we wish to thank you for completing the evaluation form and contributing to the planning of future conferences and conventions.
Sincerely, Gene Lozano Chair, Conference and Convention Committee

2016 Conference and Convention Evaluation Form


Scholarships

The California Council of the Blind is offering scholarships to college, university, and vocational school students who are legally blind and are either residents of California, regardless of where they attend school, or non-residents of California attending school in this state.

Scholarships are for entering freshman, undergraduates, and graduate students.

Applications must be submitted by July 1, 2016.
The application can be found online at www.ccbnet.org/scholar_intro.htm


Affiliate Call

The California Council of Blind students would like to invite you to it's membership call on Sunday May 1 at 7:30 PM.
If you are a student, used to be a student, might be a student in the future or know a student and are interested in helping us rebuild this affiliate please join our call.
The call in number is (302)202-1114.
The conference code is 694810.


Chapter Social Event

Come join the Active Blind Inland Valleys chapter for a social event at Sammy's Café, 9030 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga, CA on Saturday, May 7 from 11 AM to 1 PM.


Live Theatre

Join Theatre by the Blind for it’s upcoming original production of Second Chance" starring some SoCal CCB members.
Written and directed by Pelita Dasalla.

When: May 13-22
Where: Los Angeles Performing Arts Center, formerly The Promenade Playhouse, 1404 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica CA Cross Streets 3rd and Santa Monica.
Time: Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM, Sunday Matinees, 3:00 PM.

SYNOPSIS: On the eve of her wedding, Morgan Williams is both excited and nervous about her big day. But an unspoken emptiness has been troubling her for quite some time. When she was young, her father sat her down to tell her that her real mother had been killed in a car accident. Despite her inquiries, he had always been vague about the details and avoided her when she pressed him on it. But her father soon realizes that the marriage of his daughter has triggered a series of events that will force him to confront the truth about her mother and the secret he has been keeping for all of these years.

"Second Chance" is a heartwarming comedy. that questions just how honest we are with our family.

Tickets for this event are $15.
For ticketing info, visit www.creoutreach.org.
We hope to see you there.


ACB Roommate Request

Joe Lopez is looking for a roommate for the ACB convention.
He will be arriving on July 1 and leaving on July 10.
He can be reached at (805) 706-0133 cell or (805) 683-0007 home.


Open House

Valley Center for the Blind is hosting an Open House to welcome our valued community members to join us as we kick off our exciting new location.

The Valley Center for the Blind (previously known as Friendship Center for the Blind) began in February of 1972 through the efforts of Dr. Andrea Schwartz who saw a great need for social and recreational services for blind individuals living in Fresno.

Due to the growing need we have recently moved locations in order to increase our ability to serve our valued blind and visually impaired clients.

Please join us for our Open House event Friday, May 20th at our new location, 3417 W. Shaw Avenue Fresno, CA 93710, between 4pm-8pm. We are on track to have a strong media presence and hope that this event will give your office a chance to learn more about The Valley Center for the Blind and the work that we do at our facility. It would be an honor to have you in attendance and show your support for the disabled individuals of Fresno.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at (559) 222-4447 ext. 107 or SHeber@vcbfresno.org


LightHouse Grand Opening

LightHouse for the Blind is planning a Grand Opening celebration and we’d like for you to join us.
We have spent the last few years and much creative energy to construct our new, innovative headquarters at 1155 Market Street. We are excited to welcome our community to experience the unique design features and the expanded potential of this new facility specifically created by the blind for the blind and low vision community.

To kick off the day of celebration, we are starting on the steps of the San Francisco City Hall with some special guests who would like to honor the LightHouse and our big move.
Then we will take to the streets with a parade full of fanfare on our way to the new building!
March with us at the "Blind & Proud" Parade!
Please save the date and plan to be a part of the Parade! We would be honored to have you or your organization, along with other allies and supporters from all over the state, as a strong contingent in the grand march along Van Ness and Market Streets in the center of San Francisco.
We welcome banners and other festive ways to show your support of and partnership with the LightHouse. Our marching band will lead the way so we hope you are there alongside us for the excitement!

Grand Opening Celebration Schedule:
June 10 San Francisco Civic Center
11:00 AM: Welcome Remarks at City Hall
12:00 PM: "Blind & Proud" Parade from City Hall to 1155 Market
1:00 - 3:00 PM: LightHouse Open House

Questions?
To RSVP and get more information about participating in the Blind & Proud Parade and attending the LightHouse Open House, please contact Megara Vogl at mvogl@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7335.


From The office Of The CA Secretary of State

The audio version of the Official California Voter Information Guide for the June 7, 2016, Presidential Primary Election is now available.
To obtain copies of cassettes or compact discs (CDs) 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


Recruitment Announcement (April 2016):

The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is recruiting for an Associate Governmental Program Analyst (AGPA) to work as an Advisory Committee Analyst in the Specialized Services Division.

Under the general direction of the Specialized Services Division Deputy Director, the Advisory Committee Analyst serves as the Department’s liaison to the California Vendors Policy Committee (CVPC), the Blind Advisory Committee (BAC), Deaf and Hard of Hearing Advisory Committee (DHHAC), and the Orientation Center for the Blind (OCB) Trust Fund Committee.

These committees advise the department on program policies and development and major administrative decisions.

The Advisory Committee Analyst provides support and guidance to assist the committees with carrying out their meetings and related activities.
In the performance of the essential job functions, the Advisory Committee Analyst exercises effective leadership, advanced judgment, sound decision making, and integrity, fosters and maintains effective relationships, and is flexible with incidents.

The Advisory Committee Analyst reports to the Deputy Director of the Specialized Services Division.

The position is based in the DOR Central Office in Sacramento, California.
The DOR works in partnership with consumers and other stakeholders to provide services and advocacy resulting in employment, independent living, and equality for individuals with disabilities.

Special Personal Characteristics:
Willingness to travel overnight throughout the state. Appreciation of the ability of individuals with disabilities, including those who are blind and visually impaired, to become contributing members of our society.

Essential Information:
The Job Announcement for this AGPA position is available at: https://jobs.ca.gov/Public/JobVacancySearch.aspx.
Enter 13075 under job control
The position classification is Associate Governmental Program Analyst (AGPA) with a monthly base salary range of $4,600.00 - $5,758.00.

The incumbent will be hired using the Associate Governmental Program Analyst (AGPA) eligible list of other state lateral transfer avenues.
Those who are not already working in state government at the AGPA level must be on the AGPA eligibility list or take the AGPA examination at https://jobs.ca.gov/JOBSGEN/9PB04.PDF.

A Training and Development (T&D) position may be considered for candidates who need additional training to qualify for appointment to the AGPA classification.

Completed applications must be submitted electronically through your CalCareer account at www.jobs.ca.gov.
This position will be open until filled; however, the DOR anticipates screening of candidates to begin May 20, 2016; therefore you are encouraged to submit your application package before screening commences.

Questions about the position may be directed to Rosa Gomez at (916) 558-5564 or Rosa.M.Gomez@dor.ca.gov.
Questions about the application process may be submitted to Maris Will at (916) 558-5582 or Maris.J.Will@dor.ca.gov.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection April 22, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for April 22.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Editor's Note

Please remember that we are very limited in space for the phone version of the connection.
If you can keep your announcements for the phone version to 75 words or less it would be appreciated.
In some cases it may be desirable to submit two different announcement versions.
Thank you.


Al Gil Remembrance

From the Gil family
Regretfully, we are announcing the death of one of our long time council members, Al Gil. He died peacefully in his sleep at home sometime after 1:00 AM on Sunday April 17. He is survived by his wife Connie, 6 children, and his sister Marie Gonsalves.

Arrangements for his memorial and where to send gifts or donations will be announced later.


In Memoriam

We have lost two CCB Treasures in the past month, Winifred Downing and Al Gil.
We plan to offer tributes to them in an upcoming issue of The Blind Californian.
Email your memories and tributes to editor@ccbnet.org.
If you wish to dictate your message, leave a message for Associate Editor Susan Glass at her cell phone: 408 429-9567.


California Council of the Blind 2016 Annual Conference and Convention Evaluation Request

The California Council of the Blind (CCB) is very appreciative of those who attended in person or online the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention (CC). We would appreciate in receiving input from attendees as to their satisfaction with the Viejas Casino and Resort hotel rooms and spaces, CC program, tracks, and MD Support LowViz Guide app. Also, your recommendations for future conferences and conventions will be very much welcomed.
Please complete the evaluation form, found below the line, on or before 11:59pm, Sunday May 1st, 2016.
Evaluation responses are to be emailed to Eugene.lozano@ccbnet.org.
For those needing assistance in completing the form, call the CCB office 1-800-221-6359.
In advance, we wish to thank you for completing the evaluation form and contributing to the planning of future conferences and conventions.
Sincerely, Gene Lozano Chair, Conference and Convention Committee

2016 Conference and Convention Evaluation Form


Affiliate Call

The California Council of Blind students would like to invite you to it's membership call on Sunday May 1 at 7:30 PM.
If you are a student, used to be a student, might be a student in the future or know a student and are interested in helping us rebuild this affiliate please join our call.
The call in number is (302)202-1114.
The conference code is 694810.


5K Walk/Run

On Sunday, April 24 we are hosting a Partners in Sight 5k Walk/Run with Lake Merritt Joggers & Striders.
We are looking for participants to join us for this exciting event.

Who: Lake Merritt Joggers & Striders and Lions Center for the Blind!
What: 5k Run/Walk
When: Sunday, April 24th, 2016 - 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Where: Lake Merritt/Adams Point

You can register at http://lmjs.org/event-2189535 or sponsor a participant at www.lbcenter.org

If interested in volunteering, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at mai_nguyen@lbcenter.org


Recruitment Announcement (April 2016):

The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is recruiting for an Associate Governmental Program Analyst (AGPA) to work as an Advisory Committee Analyst in the Specialized Services Division.

Under the general direction of the Specialized Services Division Deputy Director, the Advisory Committee Analyst serves as the Department’s liaison to the California Vendors Policy Committee (CVPC), the Blind Advisory Committee (BAC), Deaf and Hard of Hearing Advisory Committee (DHHAC), and the Orientation Center for the Blind (OCB) Trust Fund Committee.

These committees advise the department on program policies and development and major administrative decisions.

The Advisory Committee Analyst provides support and guidance to assist the committees with carrying out their meetings and related activities.
In the performance of the essential job functions, the Advisory Committee Analyst exercises effective leadership, advanced judgment, sound decision making, and integrity, fosters and maintains effective relationships, and is flexible with incidents.

The Advisory Committee Analyst reports to the Deputy Director of the Specialized Services Division.

The position is based in the DOR Central Office in Sacramento, California.
The DOR works in partnership with consumers and other stakeholders to provide services and advocacy resulting in employment, independent living, and equality for individuals with disabilities.

Special Personal Characteristics:
Willingness to travel overnight throughout the state. Appreciation of the ability of individuals with disabilities, including those who are blind and visually impaired, to become contributing members of our society.

Essential Information:
The Job Announcement for this AGPA position is available at: https://jobs.ca.gov/Public/JobVacancySearch.aspx.
Enter 13075 under job control
The position classification is Associate Governmental Program Analyst (AGPA) with a monthly base salary range of $4,600.00 - $5,758.00.

The incumbent will be hired using the Associate Governmental Program Analyst (AGPA) eligible list of other state lateral transfer avenues.
Those who are not already working in state government at the AGPA level must be on the AGPA eligibility list or take the AGPA examination at https://jobs.ca.gov/JOBSGEN/9PB04.PDF.

A Training and Development (T&D) position may be considered for candidates who need additional training to qualify for appointment to the AGPA classification.

Completed applications must be submitted electronically through your CalCareer account at www.jobs.ca.gov.
This position will be open until filled; however, the DOR anticipates screening of candidates to begin May 20, 2016; therefore you are encouraged to submit your application package before screening commences.

Questions about the position may be directed to Rosa Gomez at (916) 558-5564 or Rosa.M.Gomez@dor.ca.gov.
Questions about the application process may be submitted to Maris Will at (916) 558-5582 or Maris.J.Will@dor.ca.gov.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection April 15, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for April 15.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Winifred Downing Remembrance

A group of CCB San Francisco Chapter members joined with a couple hundred of Winifred Downing’s family and friends to honor her at a memorial service on Monday, April 11.
Here's the link to her obituary.


From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee
Auditory Anatomy

Please note the new phone conference number and ID code below.
Tom Brennan will review the anatomy of the ear. Then continue on to What does your audiogram mean? Auditory tests and specifically what they are and what they measure.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more! This is the sixth of a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.

Date: Sunday, April 17; time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern; Phone: 832-551-5900 id: 368611.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have talked about and where you can share your resources and experiences with us.
Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.
In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


5K Walk/Run

On Sunday, April 24 we are hosting a Partners in Sight 5k Walk/Run with Lake Merritt Joggers & Striders.
We are looking for participants to join us for this exciting event.

Who: Lake Merritt Joggers & Striders and Lions Center for the Blind!
What: 5k Run/Walk
When: Sunday, April 24th, 2016 - 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Where: Lake Merritt/Adams Point

You can register at http://lmjs.org/event-2189535 or sponsor a participant at www.lbcenter.org

If interested in volunteering, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at mai_nguyen@lbcenter.org


Twitter Or FaceBook Research

Mr. Diego Graglia, the Silicon Valley online correspondent for Univision Noticias, is doing a story on how Twitter and Facebook are launching new features that allow blind users to know what's in a photo.

He is looking for a Spanish-speaking person who is blind who uses Twitter or Facebook in order to explain the impact, potential, and shortcomings of this technology.

If you or someone you know meets these criteria, Mr. Graglia may be contacted via email at dgraglia@UNIVISION.NET


ACB Roommate Request

Frank Welte is looking for a male, nonsmoker to share a hotel room at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention in Minneapolis.
If interested, send Email to Frank.A.Welte@gmail.com, or call (510) 541-1442.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection April 1, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for April 1.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From The President

Due to medical reasons, there may be occasions during the period prior to convention when the office will be closed, and you may experience delays in the return of telephone messages or emails.
However, rest assured that convention-related items, including pre-registration and other items will be handled in a timely manner
We thank you in advance for your patience in this matter.

One way in which you can save time for the office is to send your pre-registration information via email.
In order to submit your registration to the office by email, download or save to your computer the convention announcement from the website and cut and paste the appropriate registration information into an email. It will help to identify your registration if you use the subject line “convention registration” and send it to ccotb@ccbnet.org.
If you don’t wish to include your credit card information, you may still call that into the office.


Hotel Orientation

The 2016 annual Conference and Convention program will not contain a written narrative description of the hotel layout. However, you can obtain a set of audio files in MP3 format that contains hotel orientation information.

You may obtain this information in several ways.
You can download it from the CCB website at by clicking here
You can obtain a CD ahead of time by calling Ed Branch at 800-221-6359 and it will be mailed to you if you let us know by Friday April 1.
Finally, you can obtain a CD, SD card, or thumb-drive of this information at the Conference and Convention Registration desk.

You can find links to read or download the 2016 convention announcement and program information, a link to read the 2016 candidate statements, links to listen to or download the Viejas Hotel and Casino audio description files and to read conference and convention preview material at http://www.ccbnet.org/conventions/upcomingConvene.htm


Conference and Convention preview:
What you should know about Title 24, Accessible Pedestrian Signals, and Cycle Tracks

You have been asking for presentations covering: What are my physical access rights in the built environment, how can I get an accessible pedestrian signal (APS) installed, as well as what are cycle tracks and how will they impact me as a pedestrian with a visual impairment.

Now you have the opportunity to have your questions answered during the April 8th 9:00 AM to 12 noon Joint Session of the Committee on Access and Transportation and the California Council of Citizens with Low Vision.

The presenters are: Syroun Z. Sanossian, CASp, Principal, SZS Consulting Group LLC, Cathrina Barros, HQ ADA Engineer, ADA Program, California Department of Transportation, and Martha Styer, Statewide Coordinator for Traffic Signals, Division of Traffic Operations, California Department of Transportation. Also, there will be advocates who will share their experiences how they got APS installed in their local communities.

Don’t pass up this opportunity to learn how you can affect changes in your community by knowing what your rights are as well as to the process of making changes.


Conference and Convention preview:
If I had a magic wand, what changes would I make to the CCB conference and conventions?

The California Council of the Blind for the last three years has been experimenting with its programming for its annual conference and conventions.

Time has come for us all to decide whether the organization’s conference and conventions are fully addressing our needs, and if not, what we must do to make them more rewarding.

Please attend and participate Friday evening April 8th during the Second General Session when the CCB Conference and Convention Committee will be conducting the first of two forums to come up with recommendations for the structure and focus of future conference and conventions.

You need to prepare to answer the following questions:

  1. How can we make future Conferences and Conventions better?
  2. Do we merely need to make small changes in the convention program and the format of our conventions, or should we dramatically change our approach?
  3. What do you most enjoy about our conventions and what do you think we need to change?
  4. Do you see a need to expand or compress the length of conference and conventions, and why?

Now is your chance to make a real difference in one of our most important undertakings, the annual CCB Conference and Convention, so be prepared to give us your thoughts and suggestions.


Candidate statements

The spring California Council of the Blind 2016 Board candidate statements are now on the CCB website.
http://www.ccbnet.org/candidates_2016.htm

Get to know who is running and what their future plans are for CCB!


Proposed Resolutions and Constitutional Amendments

From Gabe Griffith
It is that time again to start thinking of those resolutions and constitution and bylaws (C&B) proposals. I am still serving as C&B chair and am back as resolutions chair.

For those proposed C&B amendments the deadline is April 1. Please note that this is the week before convention. This is so the committee can discuss them and prepare them for presentation to the members for a first reading on Friday night April 8.

The resolutions deadline will be noon on Friday April 8.

You can submit either resolutions or C&B proposed amendments to me or any member of the relevant committee.
My contact information for these purposes is gabrielgriffith@gmail.com or (925)768-8195.
I will have access to phone or email constantly in the weeks leading up to convention and during convention
so please don't be late. Late submissions will not be accepted.
The committees thank you in advance for your cooperation and consideration.


GDUC Program Information

The April CCB conference is fast approaching and The Guide Dog Users of California (GDUC) Program committee wants to share a description of the great programs awaiting all guide dog handlers attending the conference.

Saturday, April 9, 10:15 am to 11:45 am
Title: Accessibility...How to Deal with the Uninformed Business Owner

Join us to learn about the ADA laws pertaining to access for service dogs in public places in this interactive workshop presented by Deborah Sands, Owner/Founder, DJS Consultant Services. Debbie will speak about access issues and and our rights.
Special focus will be placed on problems we all face due to “fake service dogs”.
The participants will have the opportunity to practice how to handle access issues using case studies based on our own experiences.

Please Note and Reply:
What we would like to have from you:

In order to make the program as relevant as possible to your needs, please send to Alice McGrath at amcgrath@vistacenter.org, your experiences with denied access for you and your guide dog.
What was the situation and how did you handle it?
You may also send examples of issues you have faced due to “fake” service dogs.

Deborah Sands Bio
DJS Consultant Services Simi Valley, CA 93065

Debbie has spent over 20 years in the service animal business starting with 16 years as Director of Public Relations & Development for Guide Dogs of America.

From her years extensively traveling across the country, as a guest speaker, Debbie continually witnessed the business missteps when interacting with someone with a service dog and felt it was time to develop an educational training program for businesses.

Her company, DJS Consultant Services, founded in 2011, specializes in service animal access education.
Her ideal clients are restaurants, museums, entertainment venues, libraries, hotels, etc. Debbie covers technical issues from the tasks service dogs are trained to do to the proper etiquette of welcoming someone who has a service dog.

GDUC Lunch Program at Noon on Saturday, April 9
Come and join your fellow guide dog handlers for a fun and informative luncheon.
We will have reports from the guide dog schools and also a speaker from Canine Companions.
Our speaker is a graduate of Canine Companions and he will be bringing his service dog.
We will learn about the training and matching of service dogs and how the dogs assist the handlers.


From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee
Auditory Anatomy

Please note the new phone conference number and ID code below.
Tom Brennan will review the anatomy of the ear. Then continue on to What does your audiogram mean? Auditory tests and specifically what they are and what they measure.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more! This is the sixth of a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.

Date: Sunday, April 17; time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern; Phone: 832-551-5900 id: 368611.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have talked about and where you can share your resources and experiences with us.
Go to ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.
In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net


Twitter Or FaceBook Research

Mr. Diego Graglia, the Silicon Valley online correspondent for Univision Noticias, is doing a story on how Twitter and Facebook are launching new features that allow blind users to know what's in a photo.

He is looking for a Spanish-speaking person who is blind who uses Twitter or Facebook in order to explain the impact, potential, and shortcomings of this technology.

If you or someone you know meets these criteria, Mr. Graglia may be contacted via email at dgraglia@UNIVISION.NET


ACB Roommate Request

Frank Welte is looking for a male, nonsmoker to share a hotel room at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention in Minneapolis.
If interested, send Email to Frank.A.Welte@gmail.com, or call (510) 541-1442.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection March 25, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for March 25.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


From The President: - CCB Board Of Directors Conference Call

The CCB board of directors will have an open conference call meeting on Thursday, March 31 at 7 PM.
The call-in number will be 712-432-3066 and the access code will be 840878.


From The President

Due to medical reasons, there may be occasions during the period prior to convention when the office will be closed, and you may experience delays in the return of telephone messages or emails.
However, rest assured that convention-related items, including pre-registration and other items will be handled in a timely manner
We thank you in advance for your patience in this matter.

One way in which you can save time for the office is to send your pre-registration information via email.
In order to submit your registration to the office by email, download or save to your computer the convention announcement from the website and cut and paste the appropriate registration information into an email. It will help to identify your registration if you use the subject line “convention registration” and send it to ccotb@ccbnet.org.
If you don’t wish to include your credit card information, you may still call that into the office.


Convention Transportation

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, San Diego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot can be provided through the hotel discounted shuttle service, Uber, and Lyft.

Information regarding these transportation options will be found in the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention preregistration announcement.

In a separate conference and convention preview, information will be provided about the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) ADA paratransit services.
Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties.


Conference and Convention Preview:
San Diego Paratransit Service For The 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention:
(February 23, 2016)

To become visitor-certified for San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) ADA paratransit services, passengers are asked to complete the attached form and fax it to ADARIDE.COM at (310) 410-0239.

The information requested on this form will help MTS Access best serve you while visiting San Diego.
You can also call ADARide offices toll-free 1-877-232-7433 (TTY/TDD: 1-310-410-0985) if you need help to complete the visitor form over the phone.

Visitor status will be provided to any individual who is currently ADA-certified by their hometown Paratransit provider for up to 21 days in any 12-month period. Your local ADA paratransit provider can fax confirmation of your registration to ADARide securely at (310) 410-0239. Please have them indicate the need for MTS ACCESS specifically. Hopefully their confirmation will include vital information like mobility device used, service animal, contact phone, PCA status, etc. Ideally, the local provider can complete the visitor request form and fax it to ADARide at the number provided above.
You may reserve a ride after you have been visitor-certified as ADA eligible.

To obtain more information about ADARide.com, go to: www.adaride.com
On MTS Access, children five years of age or younger may ride free with a fare-paying adult. While a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) may travel without paying a fare, at least one passenger must always pay a full fare of $4.50 for a single ride. A fare must be paid when an adult or guardian is travelling as the non-paying child's PCA. Likewise, two passengers cannot claim each other as PCAs to avoid fare payment.

Given the large size of the MTS ADA service area, it is divided into four zones.
Passengers may be required to transfer to another vehicle for interzonal travel just as they would likely transfer between the MTS bus and trolley network of services. For example, if you are at the San Diego International Airport, San Diego Greyhound depot, or San Diego Amtrak station you would likely board a paratransit vehicle in Zone 1, and transfer to another paratransit vehicle to complete your trip to Alpine/Viejas Casino and Resort (Zone 3). You are considered receiving a single ride even with an interzonal transfer. Paratransit drivers will accept the fare in cash if paid in exact change. The drivers do not have the ability to make change for passengers.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties.
The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino and Resort.

Editor's note: If you need assistance completing the paratransit temporary eligibility form you can either call the number provided or call Ed Branch in the CCB office at 800-221-6359.


Conference and Convention preview
Banquet entertainment information for the 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention

The CCB is excited to announce during the April 9th Saturday evening banquet Vocalist Laurie Beebe Lewis will be performing musical selections from her vast musical career. Also, she will be sharing stories about her experiences in writing music, performing, recording, and producing vocals during her life.

For those who are unfamiliar with Ms. Lewis, what is to follow is her artist bio:

Vocalist Laurie Beebe Lewis is diverse in style.
One cannot fit this artist into one singular category from her vast music history.
As a young musician, Laurie frequently toured with Dick Wagner & The Frost, Bob Seger, Alice Cooper and Ted Neugent in the early 1970's with her band “Pitche Blende”.
Laurie moved to Chicago engaging in live performances with Big Band leader Les Elgart, B.B King, The Spinners and joined Chicago based group “The Buckinghams” in 1983 as vocalist and backing keyboards. They were featured on the 1985 'Happy Together Tour' with The Turtles. Laurie moved to San Diego, CA. in 1986 and joined “The Monroes, recorded with Gary Puckett on his first debut album since the 70’s and then became a member of “The New Mamas and the Papas” in 1986 and toured with them both nationally and internationally with original Papas John Phillips & Denny Doherty along with Spanky McFarlane.

Laurie continues to write music, perform, record and produce vocals for many projects in Southern California and was recently featured on Dick Wagner's song and video "If I had the Time, I Could Change the World"”.

Don’t delay in preregistering by April 4th for the Conference and Convention.
In the preregistration announcement, prices for all plated meals including the banquet will be listed.
We look forward to seeing you at the banquet.


Hotel Orientation

The 2016 annual Conference and Convention program will not contain a written narrative description of the hotel layout. However, you can obtain a set of audio files in MP3 format that contains hotel orientation information.

You may obtain this information in several ways.


Candidate statements

The spring California Council of the Blind 2016 Board candidate statements are now on the CCB website.
http://www.ccbnet.org/candidates_2016.htm

Get to know who is running and what their future plans are for CCB!
You may also call the CCB office and request they be sent to you in your preferred reading format.


Seeking A Roommate For CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From John Vandervort:
I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th. I have a guide dog.
Seeking a non-smoking male roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (408) 269-2295 between 7 AM to 9 PM.


Seeking A Roommate For CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From Eric Calhoun:
I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th.
Seeking a non-smoking male roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (323) 514-0766 text me or leave a voicemail message.


Proposed Resolutions and Constitutional Amendments

From Gabe Griffith
It is that time again to start thinking of those resolutions and constitution and bylaws (C&B) proposals. I am still serving as C&B chair and am back as resolutions chair.

For those proposed C&B amendments the deadline is April 1. Please note that this is the week before convention. This is so the committee can discuss them and prepare them for presentation to the members for a first reading on Friday night April 8.

The resolutions deadline will be noon on Friday April 8.

You can submit either resolutions or C&B proposed amendments to me or any member of the relevant committee.
My contact information for these purposes is gabrielgriffith@gmail.com or (925)768-8195.
I will have access to phone or email constantly in the weeks leading up to convention and during convention
so please don't be late. Late submissions will not be accepted.
The committees thank you in advance for your cooperation and consideration.


GDUC Program Information

The April CCB conference is fast approaching and The Guide Dog Users of California (GDUC) Program committee wants to share a description of the great programs awaiting all guide dog handlers attending the conference.

Saturday, April 9, 10:15 am to 11:45 am
Title: Accessibility...How to Deal with the Uninformed Business Owner

Join us to learn about the ADA laws pertaining to access for service dogs in public places in this interactive workshop presented by Deborah Sands, Owner/Founder, DJS Consultant Services. Debbie will speak about access issues and and our rights.
Special focus will be placed on problems we all face due to “fake service dogs”.
The participants will have the opportunity to practice how to handle access issues using case studies based on our own experiences.

Please Note and Reply:
What we would like to have from you:

In order to make the program as relevant as possible to your needs, please send to Alice McGrath at amcgrath@vistacenter.org, your experiences with denied access for you and your guide dog.
What was the situation and how did you handle it?
You may also send examples of issues you have faced due to “fake” service dogs.

Deborah Sands Bio
DJS Consultant Services Simi Valley, CA 93065

Debbie has spent over 20 years in the service animal business starting with 16 years as Director of Public Relations & Development for Guide Dogs of America.

From her years extensively traveling across the country, as a guest speaker, Debbie continually witnessed the business missteps when interacting with someone with a service dog and felt it was time to develop an educational training program for businesses.

Her company, DJS Consultant Services, founded in 2011, specializes in service animal access education.
Her ideal clients are restaurants, museums, entertainment venues, libraries, hotels, etc. Debbie covers technical issues from the tasks service dogs are trained to do to the proper etiquette of welcoming someone who has a service dog.

GDUC Lunch Program at Noon on Saturday, April 9
Come and join your fellow guide dog handlers for a fun and informative luncheon.
We will have reports from the guide dog schools and also a speaker from Canine Companions.
Our speaker is a graduate of Canine Companions and he will be bringing his service dog.
We will learn about the training and matching of service dogs and how the dogs assist the handlers.


Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter Event

Please join the Glendale-Burbank Area chapter Thursday, March 31, 2016 from 4:00PM - 10:00PM at the Acapulco - Glendale restaurant at 722 N. Pacific Avenue, Glendale, CA 91203.
They will donate 20% of the total food sales if you show a flyer.

Please contact Ardis Bazyn or Anthony Signoriello for a flyer:
abazyn@bazyncommunications.com or blinddude1@gmail.com


Glendale Burbank Chapter Meeting

On April 2 at the Glendale Burbank chapter meeting at the Pioneer Café in Glendale, neurosurgeon Nader Pouratian, MD, PhD, at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA will tell about an IRB approved study being conducted to better understand how the brain processes visual information in the blind.
The study is being sponsored by Second Sight who will also speak about their retinal prosthesis.

For more details contact Ardis Bazyn 818-238-9321.
Thanks.


San Gabriel Valley Chapter meeting

From Pam Polagi: President San Gabriel Valley Chapter
I'd like to invite anyone in the Los Angeles area to attend our chapter meeting, April 02.
In attendance will be Jorge Marquez and Joe Dimas from Marquez Products for Independent Living.
They will bring many of their items to show and sell. Jorge and Joe are willing to bring specific products upon your request.
Please call (818) 605-8783.

Our April 02 meeting is from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Denny's Restaurant 546 West Baseline Road Glendora, CA 91740 Cross Street, Grand Ave.
I hope to see many of you there.


ACB Roommate Request

Frank Welte is looking for a male, nonsmoker to share a hotel room at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention in Minneapolis.
If interested, send Email to Frank.A.Welte@gmail.com, or call (510) 541-1442.


Disability Rights Museum On Wheels

Please join us when America’s First Disability Rights Museum on Wheels comes to the Bay Area March 31 and April 1

Wells Fargo and Kaiser Permanente are partnering with the US Business Leadership Network to bring America’s Disability Rights Museum on Wheels to the Ed Roberts Campus, conveniently located at the Ashby BART Station, 3075 Adeline Street, in Berkeley, California.
Come celebrate and learn about the inspiring journey and road to inclusion for people with disabilities.

The Disability Rights Museum on Wheels is an accessible self-contained motor vehicle that invites the visitor to participate in hands-on learning about the disability civil rights movement and the technological innovations now available to all as a result of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Everyone is welcome to participate in the following activities at no cost.

Thursday March 31, 2016

Friday April 1, 2016


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection March 18, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for March 18.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Convention Transportation

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, San Diego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot can be provided through the hotel discounted shuttle service, Uber, and Lyft.

Information regarding these transportation options will be found in the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention preregistration announcement.
In a separate conference and convention preview, information will be provided about the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) ADA paratransit services.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties.


Conference and Convention Preview:
San Diego Paratransit Service For The 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention:
(February 23, 2016)

To become visitor-certified for San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) ADA paratransit services, passengers are asked to complete the attached form and fax it to ADARIDE.COM at (310) 410-0239.

The information requested on this form will help MTS Access best serve you while visiting San Diego.
You can also call ADARide offices toll-free 1-877-232-7433 (TTY/TDD: 1-310-410-0985) if you need help to complete the visitor form over the phone.

Visitor status will be provided to any individual who is currently ADA-certified by their hometown Paratransit provider for up to 21 days in any 12-month period. Your local ADA paratransit provider can fax confirmation of your registration to ADARide securely at (310) 410-0239. Please have them indicate the need for MTS ACCESS specifically. Hopefully their confirmation will include vital information like mobility device used, service animal, contact phone, PCA status, etc. Ideally, the local provider can complete the visitor request form and fax it to ADARide at the number provided above.
You may reserve a ride after you have been visitor-certified as ADA eligible.

To obtain more information about ADARide.com, go to: www.adaride.com
On MTS Access, children five years of age or younger may ride free with a fare-paying adult. While a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) may travel without paying a fare, at least one passenger must always pay a full fare of $4.50 for a single ride. A fare must be paid when an adult or guardian is travelling as the non-paying child's PCA. Likewise, two passengers cannot claim each other as PCAs to avoid fare payment.

Given the large size of the MTS ADA service area, it is divided into four zones.
Passengers may be required to transfer to another vehicle for interzonal travel just as they would likely transfer between the MTS bus and trolley network of services. For example, if you are at the San Diego International Airport, San Diego Greyhound depot, or San Diego Amtrak station you would likely board a paratransit vehicle in Zone 1, and transfer to another paratransit vehicle to complete your trip to Alpine/Viejas Casino and Resort (Zone 3). You are considered receiving a single ride even with an interzonal transfer. Paratransit drivers will accept the fare in cash if paid in exact change. The drivers do not have the ability to make change for passengers.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties.
The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino and Resort.

Editor's note: If you need assistance completing the paratransit temporary eligibility form you can either call the number provided or call Ed Branch in the CCB office at 800-221-6359.


Conference and Convention preview
Banquet entertainment information for the 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention

The CCB is excited to announce during the April 9th Saturday evening banquet Vocalist Laurie Beebe Lewis will be performing musical selections from her vast musical career. Also, she will be sharing stories about her experiences in writing music, performing, recording, and producing vocals during her life.

For those who are unfamiliar with Ms. Lewis, what is to follow is her artist bio:

Vocalist Laurie Beebe Lewis is diverse in style.
One cannot fit this artist into one singular category from her vast music history.
As a young musician, Laurie frequently toured with Dick Wagner & The Frost, Bob Seger, Alice Cooper and Ted Neugent in the early 1970's with her band “Pitche Blende”.
Laurie moved to Chicago engaging in live performances with Big Band leader Les Elgart, B.B King, The Spinners and joined Chicago based group “The Buckinghams” in 1983 as vocalist and backing keyboards. They were featured on the 1985 'Happy Together Tour' with The Turtles. Laurie moved to San Diego, CA. in 1986 and joined “The Monroes, recorded with Gary Puckett on his first debut album since the 70’s and then became a member of “The New Mamas and the Papas” in 1986 and toured with them both nationally and internationally with original Papas John Phillips & Denny Doherty along with Spanky McFarlane.

Laurie continues to write music, perform, record and produce vocals for many projects in Southern California and was recently featured on Dick Wagner's song and video "If I had the Time, I Could Change the World"”.

Don’t delay in preregistering by April 4th for the Conference and Convention.
In the preregistration announcement, prices for all plated meals including the banquet will be listed.
We look forward to seeing you at the banquet.


Hotel Orientation

The 2016 annual Conference and Convention program will not contain a written narrative description of the hotel layout. However, you can obtain a set of audio files in MP3 format that contains hotel orientation information.

You may obtain this information in several ways.


Candidate statements

The spring California Council of the Blind 2016 Board candidate statements are now on the CCB website.
http://www.ccbnet.org/candidates_2016.htm

Get to know who is running and what their future plans are for CCB!
You may also call the CCB office and request they be sent to you in your preferred reading format.


Seeking A Roommate For CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From John Vandervort:
I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th. I have a guide dog.
Seeking a non-smoking male roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (408) 269-2295 between 7 AM to 9 PM.


Seeking A Roommate For CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From Eric Calhoun:
I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th.
Seeking a non-smoking male roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (323) 514-0766 text me or leave a voicemail message.


Roommate Request

From Margie Donovan
Greetings, I am looking for a roommate for the upcoming CCB convention. I will be staying from the 7th to the 10th. I have a guide dog and nor problems rooming with another dog, but a nonsmoker please.
If you are interested please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com


Proposed Resolutions and Constitutional Amendments

From Gabe Griffith
It is that time again to start thinking of those resolutions and constitution and bylaws (C&B) proposals. I am still serving as C&B chair and am back as resolutions chair.

For those proposed C&B amendments the deadline is April 1. Please note that this is the week before convention. This is so the committee can discuss them and prepare them for presentation to the members for a first reading on Friday night April 8.

The resolutions deadline will be noon on Friday April 8.

You can submit either resolutions or C&B proposed amendments to me or any member of the relevant committee.
My contact information for these purposes is gabrielgriffith@gmail.com or (925)768-8195.
I will have access to phone or email constantly in the weeks leading up to convention and during convention
so please don't be late. Late submissions will not be accepted.
The committees thank you in advance for your cooperation and consideration.


GDUC Program Information

The April CCB conference is fast approaching and The Guide Dog Users of California (GDUC) Program committee wants to share a description of the great programs awaiting all guide dog handlers attending the conference.

Saturday, April 9, 10:15 am to 11:45 am
Title: Accessibility...How to Deal with the Uninformed Business Owner

Join us to learn about the ADA laws pertaining to access for service dogs in public places in this interactive workshop presented by Deborah Sands, Owner/Founder, DJS Consultant Services. Debbie will speak about access issues and and our rights.
Special focus will be placed on problems we all face due to “fake service dogs”.
The participants will have the opportunity to practice how to handle access issues using case studies based on our own experiences.

Please Note and Reply:
What we would like to have from you:

In order to make the program as relevant as possible to your needs, please send to Alice McGrath at amcgrath@vistacenter.org, your experiences with denied access for you and your guide dog.
What was the situation and how did you handle it?
You may also send examples of issues you have faced due to “fake” service dogs.

Deborah Sands Bio
DJS Consultant Services Simi Valley, CA 93065

Debbie has spent over 20 years in the service animal business starting with 16 years as Director of Public Relations & Development for Guide Dogs of America.

From her years extensively traveling across the country, as a guest speaker, Debbie continually witnessed the business missteps when interacting with someone with a service dog and felt it was time to develop an educational training program for businesses.

Her company, DJS Consultant Services, founded in 2011, specializes in service animal access education.
Her ideal clients are restaurants, museums, entertainment venues, libraries, hotels, etc. Debbie covers technical issues from the tasks service dogs are trained to do to the proper etiquette of welcoming someone who has a service dog.

GDUC Lunch Program at Noon on Saturday, April 9
Come and join your fellow guide dog handlers for a fun and informative luncheon.
We will have reports from the guide dog schools and also a speaker from Canine Companions.
Our speaker is a graduate of Canine Companions and he will be bringing his service dog.
We will learn about the training and matching of service dogs and how the dogs assist the handlers.


Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter Event

Please join the Glendale-Burbank Area chapter Thursday, March 31, 2016 from 4:00PM - 10:00PM at the Acapulco - Glendale restaurant at 722 N. Pacific Avenue, Glendale, CA 91203.
They will donate 20% of the total food sales if you show a flyer.

Please contact Ardis Bazyn or Anthony Signoriello for a flyer:
abazyn@bazyncommunications.com or blinddude1@gmail.com


San Gabriel Valley Chapter meeting

From Pam Polagi: President San Gabriel Valley Chapter
I'd like to invite anyone in the Los Angeles area to attend our chapter meeting, April 02.
In attendance will be Jorge Marquez and Joe Dimas from Marquez Products for Independent Living.
They will bring many of their items to show and sell. Jorge and Joe are willing to bring specific products upon your request.
Please call (818) 605-8783.

Our April 02 meeting is from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Denny's Restaurant 546 West Baseline Road Glendora, CA 91740 Cross Street, Grand Ave.
I hope to see many of you there.


Hearing And Vision Loss Program Call

From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee:
Auditory Anatomy
* Note the time change below to include more people.

The March 20 topic is Auditory Anatomy. We are fortunate to have a presentation by Tom Brennan, who has been an audiologist for about 30 years and being deaf/blind gives a bit of a different perspective than the average audiologist or hearing aid dealer.

Understanding auditory anatomy will help us understand future discussions about auditory tests and hearing enhancements.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more! This is the fifth of a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.

Date: Sunday, March 20; time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern; Phone: 800-662-6992; ID: 1184109.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences with us. Go to
ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.
In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net.


ACB Roommate Request

Frank Welte is looking for a male, nonsmoker to share a hotel room at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention in Minneapolis.
If interested, send Email to Frank.A.Welte@gmail.com, or call (510) 541-1442.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection March 11, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for March 11.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Conference and Convention Preview
Hotel Reservation Information For The 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention:
(Revised February 23, 2016)

Hotel registration is now open for the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention of the California Council of the Blind (CCB).

The conference and convention will take place Thursday April 7th - Sunday April 10th, 2016 at the Viejas Casino and Resort four-star hotel.
The hotel address is: 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, CA 91901.

To make hotel reservations via phone, call: 800-938-2532, or via Internet reservation link:.
When making your reservation by phone or online, provide the following reservation conference code: 160413CALI.

Room rates are: Single: $99, Double: $99, Triple: $119, Quad: $139, Suites: $339. The rates are all-inclusive of guest room tax.
All guests are required to place a $50 incidental deposit per night, it is not charged until check-in and if not used will be returned to the card presented within 3-7 business days. This is a standard hotel practice and all guests are told of this charge at the time the reservation is made and at check-in.
The cut-off date for reserving a room in our block is March 16th, 2016.

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, San Diego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot can be provided through the hotel discounted shuttle service, Uber, and Lyft.
Information regarding these transportation options will be found in the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention preregistration announcement.

In a separate conference and convention preview, information will be provided about the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) ADA paratransit services.
Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties.
The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino and Resort.


Conference and Convention Preview:
San Diego Paratransit Service For The 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention:
(February 23, 2016)

To become visitor-certified for San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) ADA paratransit services, passengers are asked to complete the attached form and fax it to ADARIDE.COM at (310) 410-0239.

The information requested on this form will help MTS Access best serve you while visiting San Diego.
You can also call ADARide offices toll-free 1-877-232-7433 (TTY/TDD: 1-310-410-0985) if you need help to complete the visitor form over the phone.

Visitor status will be provided to any individual who is currently ADA-certified by their hometown Paratransit provider for up to 21 days in any 12-month period. Your local ADA paratransit provider can fax confirmation of your registration to ADARide securely at (310) 410-0239. Please have them indicate the need for MTS ACCESS specifically. Hopefully their confirmation will include vital information like mobility device used, service animal, contact phone, PCA status, etc. Ideally, the local provider can complete the visitor request form and fax it to ADARide at the number provided above.
You may reserve a ride after you have been visitor-certified as ADA eligible.

To obtain more information about ADARide.com, go to: www.adaride.com
On MTS Access, children five years of age or younger may ride free with a fare-paying adult. While a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) may travel without paying a fare, at least one passenger must always pay a full fare of $4.50 for a single ride. A fare must be paid when an adult or guardian is travelling as the non-paying child's PCA. Likewise, two passengers cannot claim each other as PCAs to avoid fare payment.

Given the large size of the MTS ADA service area, it is divided into four zones.
Passengers may be required to transfer to another vehicle for interzonal travel just as they would likely transfer between the MTS bus and trolley network of services. For example, if you are at the San Diego International Airport, San Diego Greyhound depot, or San Diego Amtrak station you would likely board a paratransit vehicle in Zone 1, and transfer to another paratransit vehicle to complete your trip to Alpine/Viejas Casino and Resort (Zone 3). You are considered receiving a single ride even with an interzonal transfer. Paratransit drivers will accept the fare in cash if paid in exact change. The drivers do not have the ability to make change for passengers.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties.
The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino and Resort.

Editor's note: If you need assistance completing the paratransit temporary eligibility form you can either call the number provided or call Ed Branch in the CCB office at 800-221-6359.


Conference and Convention preview
Banquet entertainment information for the 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention

The CCB is excited to announce during the April 9th Saturday evening banquet Vocalist Laurie Beebe Lewis will be performing musical selections from her vast musical career. Also, she will be sharing stories about her experiences in writing music, performing, recording, and producing vocals during her life.

For those who are unfamiliar with Ms. Lewis, what is to follow is her artist bio:

Vocalist Laurie Beebe Lewis is diverse in style.
One cannot fit this artist into one singular category from her vast music history.
As a young musician, Laurie frequently toured with Dick Wagner & The Frost, Bob Seger, Alice Cooper and Ted Neugent in the early 1970's with her band “Pitche Blende”.
Laurie moved to Chicago engaging in live performances with Big Band leader Les Elgart, B.B King, The Spinners and joined Chicago based group “The Buckinghams” in 1983 as vocalist and backing keyboards. They were featured on the 1985 'Happy Together Tour' with The Turtles. Laurie moved to San Diego, CA. in 1986 and joined “The Monroes, recorded with Gary Puckett on his first debut album since the 70’s and then became a member of “The New Mamas and the Papas” in 1986 and toured with them both nationally and internationally with original Papas John Phillips & Denny Doherty along with Spanky McFarlane.

Laurie continues to write music, perform, record and produce vocals for many projects in Southern California and was recently featured on Dick Wagner's song and video "If I had the Time, I Could Change the World"”.

Don’t delay in preregistering by April 4th for the Conference and Convention.
In the preregistration announcement, prices for all plated meals including the banquet will be listed.
We look forward to seeing you at the banquet.


Convention Door Prizes

Chapters, affiliates and individuals are encouraged to provide door prizes for the 2016 CCB Conference and Convention.
You can bring door prizes to the convention and leave them at the Convention Registration Desk or provide them to the CCB office ahead of time by sending them to California Council of the Blind, 1303 J. Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.


Candidate statements

The spring California Council of the Blind 2016 Board candidate statements are now on the CCB website.
http://www.ccbnet.org/candidates_2016.htm

Get to know who is running and what their future plans are for CCB!
You may also call the CCB office and request they be sent to you in your preferred reading format.


Seeking A Roommate For CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From John Vandervort:
I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th. I have a guide dog.
Seeking a non-smoking male roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (408) 269-2295 between 7 AM to 9 PM.


Seeking A Roommate For CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From Eric Calhoun:
I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th.
Seeking a non-smoking male roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (323) 514-0766 text me or leave a voicemail message.


Seeking a roommate for CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From Cam Schure: I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th.
Seeking a non-smoking female roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (831)372-0626 between 7 AM to 8 PM.


Roommate Request

From Margie Donovan
Greetings, I am looking for a roommate for the upcoming CCB convention. I will be staying from the 7th to the 10th. I have a guide dog and nor problems rooming with another dog, but a nonsmoker please.
If you are interested please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com


Proposed Resolutions and Constitutional Amendments

From Gabe Griffith
It is that time again to start thinking of those resolutions and constitution and bylaws (C&B) proposals. I am still serving as C&B chair and am back as resolutions chair.

For those proposed C&B amendments the deadline is April 1. Please note that this is the week before convention. This is so the committee can discuss them and prepare them for presentation to the members for a first reading on Friday night April 8.

The resolutions deadline will be noon on Friday April 8.

You can submit either resolutions or C&B proposed amendments to me or any member of the relevant committee.
My contact information for these purposes is gabrielgriffith@gmail.com or (925)768-8195.
I will have access to phone or email constantly in the weeks leading up to convention and during convention
so please don't be late. Late submissions will not be accepted.
The committees thank you in advance for your cooperation and consideration.


GDUC Program Information

The April CCB conference is fast approaching and The Guide Dog Users of California (GDUC) Program committee wants to share a description of the great programs awaiting all guide dog handlers attending the conference.

Saturday, April 9, 10:15 am to 11:45 am
Title: Accessibility...How to Deal with the Uninformed Business Owner

Join us to learn about the ADA laws pertaining to access for service dogs in public places in this interactive workshop presented by Deborah Sands, Owner/Founder, DJS Consultant Services. Debbie will speak about access issues and and our rights.
Special focus will be placed on problems we all face due to “fake service dogs”.
The participants will have the opportunity to practice how to handle access issues using case studies based on our own experiences.

Please Note and Reply:
What we would like to have from you:

In order to make the program as relevant as possible to your needs, please send to Alice McGrath at amcgrath@vistacenter.org, your experiences with denied access for you and your guide dog.
What was the situation and how did you handle it?
You may also send examples of issues you have faced due to “fake” service dogs.

Deborah Sands Bio
DJS Consultant Services Simi Valley, CA 93065

Debbie has spent over 20 years in the service animal business starting with 16 years as Director of Public Relations & Development for Guide Dogs of America.

From her years extensively traveling across the country, as a guest speaker, Debbie continually witnessed the business missteps when interacting with someone with a service dog and felt it was time to develop an educational training program for businesses.

Her company, DJS Consultant Services, founded in 2011, specializes in service animal access education.
Her ideal clients are restaurants, museums, entertainment venues, libraries, hotels, etc. Debbie covers technical issues from the tasks service dogs are trained to do to the proper etiquette of welcoming someone who has a service dog.

GDUC Lunch Program at Noon on Saturday, April 9
Come and join your fellow guide dog handlers for a fun and informative luncheon.
We will have reports from the guide dog schools and also a speaker from Canine Companions.
Our speaker is a graduate of Canine Companions and he will be bringing his service dog.
We will learn about the training and matching of service dogs and how the dogs assist the handlers.


San Gabriel Valley Chapter meeting

From Pam Polagi: President San Gabriel Valley Chapter
I'd like to invite anyone in the Los Angeles area to attend our chapter meeting, April 02.
In attendance will be Jorge Marquez and Joe Dimas from Marquez Products for Independent Living.
They will bring many of their items to show and sell. Jorge and Joe are willing to bring specific products upon your request.
Please call (818) 605-8783.

Our April 02 meeting is from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Denny's Restaurant 546 West Baseline Road Glendora, CA 91740 Cross Street, Grand Ave.
I hope to see many of you there.


Hearing And Vision Loss Program Call

From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee:
Auditory Anatomy
* Note the time change below to include more people.

The March 20 topic is Auditory Anatomy. We are fortunate to have a presentation by Tom Brennan, who has been an audiologist for about 30 years and being deaf/blind gives a bit of a different perspective than the average audiologist or hearing aid dealer.

Understanding auditory anatomy will help us understand future discussions about auditory tests and hearing enhancements.

Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more! This is the fifth of a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.

Date: Sunday, March 20; time: 5 PM pacific/ 8 PM Eastern; Phone: 800-662-6992; ID: 1184109.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have discussed and where you can share your resources and experiences with us. Go to
ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.
In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net.


ACB Roommate Request

Frank Welte is looking for a male, nonsmoker to share a hotel room at the 2016 ACB Conference and Convention in Minneapolis.
If interested, send Email to Frank.A.Welte@gmail.com, or call (510) 541-1442.


Video Magnifier Awards

The Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI) announces the Dr. Sam Genensky Video Magnifier Memorial Awards.

A total of 3 video magnifiers will be awarded to children and adults.

To read the award guidelines and complete an on-line application, please visit the web site:
http://www.cclvi.org/dr-samuel-genensky
Applications may be submitted through April 20, 2016 at 11:59 PM EST.
We look forward to receiving your application materials!


ACB Scholarship Stipends

If you are interested in applying for one of the leadership stipends described below, contact President Jeff Thom asap at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by phone at (916)995-3967.

Excerpt from the February issue of the ACB E-Forum
As ACB approaches its 55th year, the path to leadership is expanding with an enhanced emphasis on developing new leaders for the future. A special grant will fund a one-year program bringing 10 ACB members with recognized leadership potential to the July 2016 national conference and convention in Minneapolis.

Two applicants will be selected for the traditional leadership program, the Durward K. McDaniel First-Timers program, which is entering its 20th year.
DKM recipients must satisfy four basic criteria - 18 years of age or older; blind or visually impaired; members in good standing of ACB; and never have attended a national conference and convention.

Eligible applicants must be recommended by the president of their respective ACB state or special-interest affiliates.
The application process consists of submitting two letters and participating in a telephone interview with DKM committee members.
The first letter, submitted by the applicant, will include the objectives in applying to become a First-Timer, a brief summary of the applicant’s background and education, participation in affiliate activities and an assessment of how the DKM program will benefit the applicant and his or her community.
The letter from the ACB state or special-interest affiliate president will describe and confirm the applicant’s participation in affiliate and community affairs as well as an evaluation of leadership potential.
Telephone interviews will be scheduled with all eligible applicants in mid-April.

Additionally, eight applicants will be selected for the new DKM Leadership Award.
Recipients must satisfy three basic criteria - 18 years of age or older; blind or visually impaired; and members in good standing of ACB. The restriction on previous conference and convention attendance is waived.
Eligible applicants must be recommended by the president of their respective affiliates.
The application process for the DKM Leadership Award also consists of submitting two letters and participating in a telephone interview with DKM committee members.
The applicant’s letter will include the objectives in applying for the leadership award; a brief summary of the applicant’s education and relevant experience; number of years of membership in ACB as well as previous conventions attended, if any; description of one’s role as a leader; and an assessment of what one brings to ACB. The affiliate president’s letter of recommendation should address the applicant’s contributions to the affiliate, ACB and community organizations; and describe the applicant’s demonstrated leadership skills and leadership potential.
Telephone interviews will be scheduled for mid-April.

All recipients receive round-trip transportation; hotel accommodation (double occupancy), per diem stipend for meals and incidentals, convention registration fee and reception and banquet tickets.

Recipients are expected to attend the convention from the opening session Sunday evening, July 3, through the Friday evening banquet, July 8, and to participate actively in all convention activities including the daily general sessions, special-interest presentations, seminars and workshops.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection March 4, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for March 4.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Conference and Convention Preview
Hotel Reservation Information For The 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention:
(Revised February 23, 2016)

Hotel registration is now open for the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention of the California Council of the Blind (CCB).

The conference and convention will take place Thursday April 7th - Sunday April 10th, 2016 at the Viejas Casino and Resort four-star hotel.
The hotel address is: 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, CA 91901.

To make hotel reservations via phone, call: 800-938-2532, or via Internet reservation link:.
When making your reservation by phone or online, provide the following reservation conference code: 160413CALI.

Room rates are: Single: $99, Double: $99, Triple: $119, Quad: $139, Suites: $339. The rates are all-inclusive of guest room tax.
All guests are required to place a $50 incidental deposit per night, it is not charged until check-in and if not used will be returned to the card presented within 3-7 business days. This is a standard hotel practice and all guests are told of this charge at the time the reservation is made and at check-in.
The cut-off date for reserving a room in our block is March 16th, 2016.

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, San Diego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot can be provided through the hotel discounted shuttle service, Uber, and Lyft.
Information regarding these transportation options will be found in the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention preregistration announcement.

In a separate conference and convention preview, information will be provided about the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) ADA paratransit services.
Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties.
The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino and Resort.


Conference and Convention Preview:
San Diego Paratransit Service For The 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention:
(February 23, 2016)

To become visitor-certified for San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) ADA paratransit services, passengers are asked to complete the attached form and fax it to ADARIDE.COM at (310) 410-0239.

The information requested on this form will help MTS Access best serve you while visiting San Diego.
You can also call ADARide offices toll-free 1-877-232-7433 (TTY/TDD: 1-310-410-0985) if you need help to complete the visitor form over the phone.

Visitor status will be provided to any individual who is currently ADA-certified by their hometown Paratransit provider for up to 21 days in any 12-month period. Your local ADA paratransit provider can fax confirmation of your registration to ADARide securely at (310) 410-0239. Please have them indicate the need for MTS ACCESS specifically. Hopefully their confirmation will include vital information like mobility device used, service animal, contact phone, PCA status, etc. Ideally, the local provider can complete the visitor request form and fax it to ADARide at the number provided above.
You may reserve a ride after you have been visitor-certified as ADA eligible.

To obtain more information about ADARide.com, go to: www.adaride.com
On MTS Access, children five years of age or younger may ride free with a fare-paying adult. While a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) may travel without paying a fare, at least one passenger must always pay a full fare of $4.50 for a single ride. A fare must be paid when an adult or guardian is travelling as the non-paying child's PCA. Likewise, two passengers cannot claim each other as PCAs to avoid fare payment.

Given the large size of the MTS ADA service area, it is divided into four zones.
Passengers may be required to transfer to another vehicle for interzonal travel just as they would likely transfer between the MTS bus and trolley network of services. For example, if you are at the San Diego International Airport, San Diego Greyhound depot, or San Diego Amtrak station you would likely board a paratransit vehicle in Zone 1, and transfer to another paratransit vehicle to complete your trip to Alpine/Viejas Casino and Resort (Zone 3). You are considered receiving a single ride even with an interzonal transfer. Paratransit drivers will accept the fare in cash if paid in exact change. The drivers do not have the ability to make change for passengers.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties.
The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino and Resort.

Editor's note: If you need assistance completing the paratransit temporary eligibility form you can either call the number provided or call Ed Branch in the CCB office at 800-221-6359.


Convention Door Prizes

Chapters, affiliates and individuals are encouraged to provide door prizes for the 2016 CCB Conference and Convention.
You can bring door prizes to the convention and leave them at the Convention Registration Desk or provide them to the CCB office ahead of time by sending them to California Council of the Blind, 1303 J. Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.


Seeking A Roommate For CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From John Vandervort:
I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th. I have a guide dog.
Seeking a non-smoking male roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (408) 269-2295 between 7 AM to 9 PM.


Seeking A Roommate For CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From Eric Calhoun:
I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th.
Seeking a non-smoking male roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (323) 514-0766 text me or leave a voicemail message.


Seeking a roommate for CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From Cam Schure: I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th.
Seeking a non-smoking female roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (831)372-0626 between 7 AM to 8 PM.


Roommate Request

From Margie Donovan
Greetings, I am looking for a roommate for the upcoming CCB convention. I will be staying from the 7th to the 10th. I have a guide dog and nor problems rooming with another dog, but a nonsmoker please.
If you are interested please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com


Proposed Resolutions and Constitutional Amendments

From Gabe Griffith
It is that time again to start thinking of those resolutions and constitution and bylaws (C&B) proposals. I am still serving as C&B chair and am back as resolutions chair.

For those proposed C&B amendments the deadline is April 1. Please note that this is the week before convention. This is so the committee can discuss them and prepare them for presentation to the members for a first reading on Friday night April 8.

The resolutions deadline will be noon on Friday April 8.

You can submit either resolutions or C&B proposed amendments to me or any member of the relevant committee.
My contact information for these purposes is gabrielgriffith@gmail.com or (925)768-8195.
I will have access to phone or email constantly in the weeks leading up to convention and during convention
so please don't be late. Late submissions will not be accepted.
The committees thank you in advance for your cooperation and consideration.


Video Magnifier Awards

The Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI) announces the Dr. Sam Genensky Video Magnifier Memorial Awards.

A total of 3 video magnifiers will be awarded to children and adults.

To read the award guidelines and complete an on-line application, please visit the web site:
http://www.cclvi.org/dr-samuel-genensky
Applications may be submitted through April 20, 2016 at 11:59 PM EST.
We look forward to receiving your application materials!


ACB Scholarship Stipends

If you are interested in applying for one of the leadership stipends described below, contact President Jeff Thom asap at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by phone at (916)995-3967.

Excerpt from the February issue of the ACB E-Forum
As ACB approaches its 55th year, the path to leadership is expanding with an enhanced emphasis on developing new leaders for the future. A special grant will fund a one-year program bringing 10 ACB members with recognized leadership potential to the July 2016 national conference and convention in Minneapolis.

Two applicants will be selected for the traditional leadership program, the Durward K. McDaniel First-Timers program, which is entering its 20th year.
DKM recipients must satisfy four basic criteria - 18 years of age or older; blind or visually impaired; members in good standing of ACB; and never have attended a national conference and convention.

Eligible applicants must be recommended by the president of their respective ACB state or special-interest affiliates.
The application process consists of submitting two letters and participating in a telephone interview with DKM committee members.
The first letter, submitted by the applicant, will include the objectives in applying to become a First-Timer, a brief summary of the applicant’s background and education, participation in affiliate activities and an assessment of how the DKM program will benefit the applicant and his or her community.
The letter from the ACB state or special-interest affiliate president will describe and confirm the applicant’s participation in affiliate and community affairs as well as an evaluation of leadership potential.
Telephone interviews will be scheduled with all eligible applicants in mid-April.

Additionally, eight applicants will be selected for the new DKM Leadership Award.
Recipients must satisfy three basic criteria - 18 years of age or older; blind or visually impaired; and members in good standing of ACB. The restriction on previous conference and convention attendance is waived.
Eligible applicants must be recommended by the president of their respective affiliates.
The application process for the DKM Leadership Award also consists of submitting two letters and participating in a telephone interview with DKM committee members.
The applicant’s letter will include the objectives in applying for the leadership award; a brief summary of the applicant’s education and relevant experience; number of years of membership in ACB as well as previous conventions attended, if any; description of one’s role as a leader; and an assessment of what one brings to ACB. The affiliate president’s letter of recommendation should address the applicant’s contributions to the affiliate, ACB and community organizations; and describe the applicant’s demonstrated leadership skills and leadership potential.
Telephone interviews will be scheduled for mid-April.

All recipients receive round-trip transportation; hotel accommodation (double occupancy), per diem stipend for meals and incidentals, convention registration fee and reception and banquet tickets.

Recipients are expected to attend the convention from the opening session Sunday evening, July 3, through the Friday evening banquet, July 8, and to participate actively in all convention activities including the daily general sessions, special-interest presentations, seminars and workshops.


Wine Tasting

Join National Braille Press at our Red, White, & Braille Wine Tasting on Saturday, March 12th at the Holiday Inn San Franciscoâ€"Civic Center at 50 8th St.
2

VIP Tasting led by Trustee Lisamaria Martinez will be held 3-4pm at $150 per ticket and the General Admission featuring wine and food stations, a silent auction, and a chance to preview NBP’s new refreshable braille display, the b2g, will be held 4-6pm at $100 per ticket.

All proceeds will go towards braille literacy.

To learn more visit, http://braillewine2016.eventbrite.com or call (888) 965-8965.


From Dr. Sharon Sacks, Superintendent, California School For The Blind

Celebrating the Life of Colleague & Friend Phillip H. Hatlen
A Memorial & Celebration Ceremony

Sunday, March 13, 2016 California School for the Blind 500 Walnut Avenue Fremont, CA 94536 12-3 PM
CSB Theater Reception to Follow

RSVP to Sharon Sacks by March 4, 2016 at (510)794-3816 or ssacks@csb-cde.ca.gov

Bring a note or photo to place in a memory book to be shared with Phil’s children

CSB is easily accessible to BART, about ½ mile east of the station, an easy walk.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection February 26, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for February 26.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Conference and Convention Preview
Hotel Reservation Information For The 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention:
(Revised February 23, 2016)

Hotel registration is now open for the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention of the California Council of the Blind (CCB).

The conference and convention will take place Thursday April 7th - Sunday April 10th, 2016 at the Viejas Casino and Resort four-star hotel.
The hotel address is: 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, CA 91901.

To make hotel reservations via phone, call: 800-938-2532, or via Internet reservation link:.
When making your reservation by phone or online, provide the following reservation conference code: 160413CALI.

Room rates are: Single: $99, Double: $99, Triple: $119, Quad: $139, Suites: $339. The rates are all-inclusive of guest room tax.
All guests are required to place a $50 incidental deposit per night, it is not charged until check-in and if not used will be returned to the card presented within 3-7 business days. This is a standard hotel practice and all guests are told of this charge at the time the reservation is made and at check-in.
The cut-off date for reserving a room in our block is March 16th, 2016.

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, San Diego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot can be provided through the hotel discounted shuttle service, Uber, and Lyft.
Information regarding these transportation options will be found in the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention preregistration announcement.

In a separate conference and convention preview, information will be provided about the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) ADA paratransit services.
Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties.
The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino and Resort.


Conference and Convention Preview:
San Diego Paratransit Service For The 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention:
(February 23, 2016)

To become visitor-certified for San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) ADA paratransit services, passengers are asked to complete the attached form and fax it to ADARIDE.COM at (310) 410-0239.

The information requested on this form will help MTS Access best serve you while visiting San Diego.
You can also call ADARide offices toll-free 1-877-232-7433 (TTY/TDD: 1-310-410-0985) if you need help to complete the visitor form over the phone.

Visitor status will be provided to any individual who is currently ADA-certified by their hometown Paratransit provider for up to 21 days in any 12-month period. Your local ADA paratransit provider can fax confirmation of your registration to ADARide securely at (310) 410-0239. Please have them indicate the need for MTS ACCESS specifically. Hopefully their confirmation will include vital information like mobility device used, service animal, contact phone, PCA status, etc. Ideally, the local provider can complete the visitor request form and fax it to ADARide at the number provided above.
You may reserve a ride after you have been visitor-certified as ADA eligible.

To obtain more information about ADARide.com, go to: www.adaride.com
On MTS Access, children five years of age or younger may ride free with a fare-paying adult. While a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) may travel without paying a fare, at least one passenger must always pay a full fare of $4.50 for a single ride. A fare must be paid when an adult or guardian is travelling as the non-paying child's PCA. Likewise, two passengers cannot claim each other as PCAs to avoid fare payment.

Given the large size of the MTS ADA service area, it is divided into four zones.
Passengers may be required to transfer to another vehicle for interzonal travel just as they would likely transfer between the MTS bus and trolley network of services. For example, if you are at the San Diego International Airport, San Diego Greyhound depot, or San Diego Amtrak station you would likely board a paratransit vehicle in Zone 1, and transfer to another paratransit vehicle to complete your trip to Alpine/Viejas Casino and Resort (Zone 3). You are considered receiving a single ride even with an interzonal transfer. Paratransit drivers will accept the fare in cash if paid in exact change. The drivers do not have the ability to make change for passengers.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties.
The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino and Resort.

Editor's note: If you need assistance completing the paratransit temporary eligibility form you can either call the number provided or call Ed Branch in the CCB office at 800-221-6359.


Convention Door Prizes

Chapters, affiliates and individuals are encouraged to provide door prizes for the 2016 CCB Conference and Convention.
You can bring door prizes to the convention and leave them at the Convention Registration Desk or provide them to the CCB office ahead of time by sending them to California Council of the Blind, 1303 J. Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.


Seeking A Roommate For CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From John Vandervort:
I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th. I have a guide dog.
Seeking a non-smoking male roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (408) 269-2295 between 7 AM to 9 PM.


Seeking a roommate for CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From Cam Schure: I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th.
Seeking a non-smoking female roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (831)372-0626 between 7 AM to 8 PM.


Roommate Request

From Margie Donovan
Greetings, I am looking for a roommate for the upcoming CCB convention. I will be staying from the 7th to the 10th. I have a guide dog and nor problems rooming with another dog, but a nonsmoker please.
If you are interested please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com


Proposed Resolutions and Constitutional Amendments

From Gabe Griffith
It is that time again to start thinking of those resolutions and constitution and bylaws (C&B) proposals. I am still serving as C&B chair and am back as resolutions chair.

For those proposed C&B amendments the deadline is April 1. Please note that this is the week before convention. This is so the committee can discuss them and prepare them for presentation to the members for a first reading on Friday night April 8.

The resolutions deadline will be noon on Friday April 8.

You can submit either resolutions or C&B proposed amendments to me or any member of the relevant committee.
My contact information for these purposes is gabrielgriffith@gmail.com or (925)768-8195.
I will have access to phone or email constantly in the weeks leading up to convention and during convention
so please don't be late. Late submissions will not be accepted.
The committees thank you in advance for your cooperation and consideration.


Chapter Event

Come bowl with the Active Blind Inland Valleys chapter of the California Council of the Blind and help us put the fun in FUNdraising:

March 5th 2016 11:00am Del Rosa Lanes 1499 E. Highland AVE San Bernardino, CA 92404

$12 for three games including shoes.
A drawing for $100 cash will be held on the day of the event Tickets $2 each or 3 for $5.

For more information call (909) 255-9067.
Help us believe it and we will achieve it.


Video Magnifier Awards

The Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI) announces the Dr. Sam Genensky Video Magnifier Memorial Awards.

A total of 3 video magnifiers will be awarded to children and adults.

To read the award guidelines and complete an on-line application, please visit the web site:
http://www.cclvi.org/dr-samuel-genensky
Applications may be submitted through April 20, 2016 at 11:59 PM EST.
We look forward to receiving your application materials!


From Dr. Sharon Sacks, Superintendent, California School For The Blind

Celebrating the Life of Colleague & Friend Phillip H. Hatlen
A Memorial & Celebration Ceremony

Sunday, March 13, 2016 California School for the Blind 500 Walnut Avenue Fremont, CA 94536 12-3 PM
CSB Theater Reception to Follow

RSVP to Sharon Sacks by March 4, 2016 at (510)794-3816 or ssacks@csb-cde.ca.gov

Bring a note or photo to place in a memory book to be shared with Phil’s children

CSB is easily accessible to BART, about ½ mile east of the station, an easy walk.


Training And Classes

The East Side Center For The Blind currently has openings for training in computers, iPads, iPhones, Victor readers and any other electronic devices.

These openings are on Fridays from 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM. There is no cost for this one on one training.

On Wednesdays there are lessons on how to crochet, knitting with 2 needles or on a loom, macromae, ETC.
We've made projects such as slippers and shawls on the loom, doggie sweaters, baby back packs etc.
This class is on Wednesdays are is geared so that you can feel free to make any project you wish or get started knitting, crocheting, etc.
The class is from 09:00 AM - 01:00 PM. Again, we are basically doing our thing whether it is learning how to crochet, or knig ETC.
There is no cost for this class. Come make new friends and enrich your knowledge.

The Address: 9515 Haney St. in the city of Pico Rivera 90660.
the Telephone number: is 310-502-3099 and speak with Alice Hackney.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection February 19, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for February 19.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Conference And Convention Announcements

The 2016 CCB Conference and Convention announcement will be coming to you in a few weeks. However, at least for this year, we will not be able to distribute a cassette version, and those of you who normally receive a cassette will, instead, be provided with a CD version. However, if you would like the announcement in a different format, rather than a CD, please contact Administrative Assistant Ed Branch by email at ccotb@ccbnet.org or by telephone at (800)-221-6359.


Conference and Convention Preview: Hotel Reservation Information for the 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference andConvention

Would you like to get a head start on attending the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention? If your answer is yes, then you can begin by making your hotel reservations starting now.

Registration is now open for the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention of the California Council of the Blind (CCB)!!! This year's theme is "Believe it and achieve it".

The conference and convention will take place Thursday April 7th - Sunday April 10th, 2016 at the Viejas Casino & Resort four-star hotel. The hotel address is: 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, CA 91901.

The Casino Resort offers the following:

  1. Luxury spa and high-end shopping at Viejas Outlets
  2. Casino expansion with 10,000 square feet, featuring Vegas-style gaming and over 2,000 slots
  3. Team-building and family friendly entertainment at Viejas Bowl, Fun Zone Arcade, and the Show Court with live multi-media performances
  4. Buffet with endless gourmet selections and unlimited beer, wine, and champagne
  5. Fine gourmet dining at The Grove Steakhouse, recipient of the AAA FourDiamond Award
  6. Diverse dining options, including Asian and Mexican cuisine, and all-American favorites

To make hotel reservations via phone, call: 800-938-2532, or via Internet reservation link: viejas.com/hotel.
When making your reservation by phone or online, provide the following reservation conference code:160413CALI.

Room rates are: Single: $99, Double: $99, Triple: $119, Quad: $139, Suites:$339.

The rates are all-inclusive of guest room tax.

The cut-off date for reserving a room in our block is March 16th, 2016, so don't delay, make your reservation today!!!

The Viejas Casino & Resort welcomes service animals and does not permit pets to be brought into their facilities.

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, SanDiego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot information will be provided in a future announcement.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties. The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino & Resort!


Convention Door Prizes

Chapters, affiliates and individuals are encouraged to provide door prizes for the 2016 CCB Conference and Convention.
You can bring door prizes to the convention and leave them at the Convention Registration Desk or provide them to the CCB office ahead of time by sending them to California Council of the Blind, 1303 J. Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.


CCB Board of Directors Elections

At the 2016 Convention in April, CCB will be electing a president, first vice president, treasurer, and four members to its board of directors.
We would like to provide perspective candidates an opportunity to give you some information on their qualifications for, and ideas about serving on, the CCB board. To accomplish this, we will again have a candidates page on our website.

For those who cannot access information through our website or are not comfortable doing so, you can contact the office and ask for the candidates’ statements in either email or your alternate format of choice. It is our goal to have this webpage up by March 7.

If you are a potential candidate, we would invite you to answer the four questions indicated below, with the answer to each question to be not more than 300 words, with the count to be determined by the word-count feature in MS Word on a PC. Entries for each answer will terminate at the end of the sentence containing the 300th word and there will be no editing, spell checks or grammar checks done.

The deadline for submission of your statements is February 22, 2016. We will not accept any statements after that date! You will need to submit them to the office in electronic format as a .txt .rtf or MS Word file. Email them to ccotb@ccbnet.org no later than February 22, 2016. To be clear, there is no requirement that a candidate for the 2016 election submit answers to these questions.

The four questions are as follows:

  1. What office are you seeking, and what are your qualifications?


  2. Given the limited resources of our organization and the competition among nonprofit entities for financial resources, how can long-term financial stability be achieved for CCB?


  3. In a time of great change for CCB, it is extremely important that each member of the board of directors provide leadership for the organization. Describe two specific areas in which you will help to lead this organization if elected.


  4. Because the primary mission of CCB is to advocate for persons who are blind or have low vision, discuss three issue areas that you believe require our advocacy efforts and give specifics as to what CCB should be doing in those areas.


Seeking a roommate for CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From Cam Schure: I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th.
Seeking a non-smoking female roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (831)372-0626 between 7 AM to 8 PM.


Roommate Request

From Margie Donovan
Greetings, I am looking for a roommate for the upcoming CCB convention. I will be staying from the 7th to the 10th. I have a guide dog and nor problems rooming with another dog, but a nonsmoker please.
If you are interested please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com


Chapter Event

Come bowl with the Active Blind Inland Valleys chapter of the California Council of the Blind
March 5th 2016 11:00am Del Rosa Lanes 1499 E. Highland AVE San Bernardino, CA 92404

$12 for three games including shoes.
A drawing for $100 cash will be held on the day of the event Tickets $2 each or 3 for $5.

For more information call (909) 255-9067.


From Dr. Sharon Sacks, Superintendent, California School For The Blind

Celebrating the Life of Colleague & Friend Phillip H. Hatlen
A Memorial & Celebration Ceremony

Sunday, March 13, 2016 California School for the Blind 500 Walnut Avenue Fremont, CA 94536 12-3 PM
CSB Theater Reception to Follow

RSVP to Sharon Sacks by March 4, 2016 at (510)794-3816 or ssacks@csb-cde.ca.gov

Bring a note or photo to place in a memory book to be shared with Phil’s children

CSB is easily accessible to BART, about ½ mile east of the station, an easy walk.


CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER (HEALTH/CORRECTIONAL FACILITY)-SAFETY

Date Posted: 02/12/2016

Salary:
Range U: $5,445.00 - $6,950.00 (Unlicensed)
Range V: $5,859.00 - $7,451.00 (Licensed)

Position Number: 502- 031 - 9872 - 960
Location: Various Programs
Timebase: Tenure: Full Time Permanent
Final Filing Date: Recruitment: 02/29/16
List Eligible and Lateral Transfer (same class) only

Contact Unit/Address:
Contact Name/Phone: Patton State Hospital Human Resources
3102 E. Highland Ave.
Patton, CA 92369
Employment Unit (909) 425-7543

Special Requirements: Job Description & Additional Information
Human Resources is accepting applications for (2) permanent full-time appointments to the Clinical Social Worker classification. This position reports to the Program Management for provision of Social Work Services and to the Chief of Social Work Services for the quality of services provided.

As part of the Interdisciplinary Team, Clinical Social Workers are responsible for providing Individual, Group, and Family Therapy; family services, preparing evaluations, referrals and reports for patients; providing liaison services to family, significant others and community agencies as well as discharge planning services.

The successful candidate will possess knowledge of principles and techniques related to Clinical Social Work with particular reference to Psychiatric and Forensic Social Work; demonstrate knowledge of recovery principles, possess excellent organization and communication skills.

Applications are being accepted from list eligible, lateral transfer (same class) and reinstatement (same class) applicants ONLY.

For a detailed description of the job duties, contact the Human Resources, Employment Unit to request the Duty Statement or you may contact Veronica Kaufman, Chief of Social Work Service at (909) 425-7282 with any questions.

All qualified interested applicants should submit their application to the Human Resources, Employment Unit no later than Monday, February 29, 2016.

TO ENSURE THAT YOUR APPLICATION WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS RECRUITMENT, YOU MUST COMPLETE THE STD 678 EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION IN ITS ENTIRETY AND INCLUDE THE “JOB REFERENCE # JC-5226” IN THE "EXAMINATION(S) AND/OR JOB TITLE(S)" SECTION OF THE APPLICATION.


Administrator Department of Rehabilitation Orientation Center for the Blind: Community
Recruitment Announcement (updated January 2016)

The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is recruiting for a Staff Services Manager II (SSM II) to serve as the Administrator for the Orientation Center for the Blind (OCB), a three acre campus located in Albany, California.

The OCB is a 30-bed, residential 24/7 program providing vocational rehabilitation services for DOR consumers to support adjustment to blindness, the development of appropriate vocational behaviors, attitudes and interests, and the preparation of participants to achieve independence and gainful employment.

The OCB Administrator is responsible for planning, organizing, directing, and evaluating policies and practices governing the administrative, program/services and facility operations of OCB, managing and leading an interdisciplinary team of professional and non-professional staff, directing and participating in resident consumer development services and processes, and serving as Chair of the Admissions Committee.

The OCB Administrator further represents the OCB at meetings with others department divisions, advisory groups and other stakeholders, acts as ex-officio trustee for the American Printing House for the Blind federal quota program, and manages the OCB Trust Fund.

The OCB Administrator will participate and contribute to the long- term strategy planning on policy and operational activities as a means to support the preparation of OCB participants to achieve independence and gainful employment and to support the mission of the department.

The OCB Administrator reports to the Deputy Director of the Specialized Services Division (SSD) in the DOR.

The OCB Administrator position is based in OCB in Albany, California. The DOR works in partnership with consumers and other stakeholders to provide services and advocacy resulting in employment, independent living, and equality for individuals with disabilities.

Desired Qualifications:

Special Requirements:
In addition to meeting the minimum qualifications of the Staff Services manager II (Supervisory) specifications, in compliance with the Welfare and Institution Code, the Administrator for the OCB shall have all of the following minimum qualifications:

  1. Four years of full time, paid experience working in a program for the education or rehabilitation of adults who are legally blind, with emphasis on nonvisual living techniques, including, but not limited to, daily living, mobility, and communication skills, at least two years' experience shall have been in a supervisory or administrative capacity.
  2. Proficiency in Braille as a second language.
  3. Education equivalent to graduation from college with a bachelor's degree. Additional qualifying experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

Essential Information:

This position will be open until filled; however, the DOR anticipates screening of candidates to begin March 1, 2016; therefore you are encouraged to submit your application package before screening commences.
Final hire will be subject to the state's hiring conditions.

Application Information:
Interested candidates must submit the following:

The state application, along with instructions, is available online at:
http://jobs.ca.gov/profile/stateapplication
A "Statement of Qualifications" is a discussion describing how a candidate's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities meet the desirable qualifications and special requirements listed above for this position. The statement should be no more than two (2) pages in length and serves as a documentation of each candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing.
Resumes do not take the place of the "Statement of Qualifications.

Although not required, applicants are encouraged to provide electronic copies of their submission along with the written copy. Electronic copies can either be e-mailed to the contact person, or be included in the paper copy submission on a CD.

Representatives from Advisory Committees and or stakeholder groups may participate in the interview process.

All complete application packages will be screened and only the most qualified candidates will be scheduled for an interview. Travel expenses for any interviews are the sole responsibility and at the expense of each candidate.

Applications are to be submitted to:
Department of Rehabilitation Attn: Maris Will 721 Capitol Mall Sacramento, CA 94814

Questions about the position can be directed to the contact person, Maris Will, at (916) 558-5582 or Maris.J.Will@dor.ca.gov.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection February 12, 2016

Welcome to the California connection for February 12.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


CCB Office Closure

The CCB office will be closed Monday, February 15th for Presidents’ Day Holiday and Tuesday, February 16th for administrative purposes.


Conference And Convention Announcements

The 2016 CCB Conference and Convention announcement will be coming to you in a few weeks. However, at least for this year, we will not be able to distribute a cassette version, and those of you who normally receive a cassette will, instead, be provided with a CD version. However, if you would like the announcement in a different format, rather than a CD, please contact Administrative Assistant Ed Branch by email at ccotb@ccbnet.org or by telephone at (800)-221-6359.


Conference and Convention Preview: Hotel Reservation Information for the 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference andConvention

Would you like to get a head start on attending the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention? If your answer is yes, then you can begin by making your hotel reservations starting now.

Registration is now open for the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention of the California Council of the Blind (CCB)!!! This year's theme is "Believe it and achieve it".

The conference and convention will take place Thursday April 7th - Sunday April 10th, 2016 at the Viejas Casino & Resort four-star hotel. The hotel address is: 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, CA 91901.

The Casino Resort offers the following:

  1. Luxury spa and high-end shopping at Viejas Outlets
  2. Casino expansion with 10,000 square feet, featuring Vegas-style gaming and over 2,000 slots
  3. Team-building and family friendly entertainment at Viejas Bowl, Fun Zone Arcade, and the Show Court with live multi-media performances
  4. Buffet with endless gourmet selections and unlimited beer, wine, and champagne
  5. Fine gourmet dining at The Grove Steakhouse, recipient of the AAA FourDiamond Award
  6. Diverse dining options, including Asian and Mexican cuisine, and all-American favorites

To make hotel reservations via phone, call: 800-938-2532, or via Internet reservation link: viejas.com/hotel.
When making your reservation by phone or online, provide the following reservation conference code:160413CALI.

Room rates are: Single: $99, Double: $99, Triple: $119, Quad: $139, Suites:$339.

The rates are all-inclusive of guest room tax.

The cut-off date for reserving a room in our block is March 16th, 2016, so don't delay, make your reservation today!!!

The Viejas Casino & Resort welcomes service animals and does not permit pets to be brought into their facilities.

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, SanDiego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot information will be provided in a future announcement.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties. The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino & Resort!


Convention Door Prizes

Chapters, affiliates and individuals are encouraged to provide door prizes for the 2016 CCB Conference and Convention.
You can bring door prizes to the convention and leave them at the Convention Registration Desk or provide them to the CCB office ahead of time by sending them to California Council of the Blind, 1303 J. Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.


CCB Board of Directors Elections

At the 2016 Convention in April, CCB will be electing a president, first vice president, treasurer, and four members to its board of directors.
We would like to provide perspective candidates an opportunity to give you some information on their qualifications for, and ideas about serving on, the CCB board. To accomplish this, we will again have a candidates page on our website.

For those who cannot access information through our website or are not comfortable doing so, you can contact the office and ask for the candidates’ statements in either email or your alternate format of choice. It is our goal to have this webpage up by March 7.

If you are a potential candidate, we would invite you to answer the four questions indicated below, with the answer to each question to be not more than 300 words, with the count to be determined by the word-count feature in MS Word on a PC. Entries for each answer will terminate at the end of the sentence containing the 300th word and there will be no editing, spell checks or grammar checks done.

The deadline for submission of your statements is February 22, 2016. We will not accept any statements after that date! You will need to submit them to the office in electronic format as a .txt .rtf or MS Word file. Email them to ccotb@ccbnet.org no later than February 22, 2016. To be clear, there is no requirement that a candidate for the 2016 election submit answers to these questions.

The four questions are as follows:

  1. What office are you seeking, and what are your qualifications?


  2. Given the limited resources of our organization and the competition among nonprofit entities for financial resources, how can long-term financial stability be achieved for CCB?


  3. In a time of great change for CCB, it is extremely important that each member of the board of directors provide leadership for the organization. Describe two specific areas in which you will help to lead this organization if elected.


  4. Because the primary mission of CCB is to advocate for persons who are blind or have low vision, discuss three issue areas that you believe require our advocacy efforts and give specifics as to what CCB should be doing in those areas.


Seeking a roommate for CCB 2016 Conference and Convention

From Cam Schure: I will be arriving April 7th . leaving on April 10th.
Seeking a non-smoking female roommate, with a guide dog is okay.
Please contact me at (831)372-0626 between 7 AM to 8 PM.


Roommate Request

From Margie Donovan
Greetings, I am looking for a roommate for the upcoming CCB convention. I will be staying from the 7th to the 10th. I have a guide dog and nor problems rooming with another dog, but a nonsmoker please.
If you are interested please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com


From The CCB Hearing And Vision Loss Committee

An Introduction to Hearing Loss
The topic for the February 21 meeting will be Navigating the Equipment Maze.
We'll discuss questions like what are remote microphones, and when is a cheap solution as good as an expensive one? Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more!

This is the fourth of a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.

Date: Sunday, February 21; time: 2 PM pacific; Phone: 800-662-6992; ID: 1184109.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have talked about and where you can share your resources and experiences with us.
Go to: ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net.


From Dr. Sharon Sacks, Superintendent, California School For The Blind

Celebrating the Life of Colleague & Friend Phillip H. Hatlen
A Memorial & Celebration Ceremony

Sunday, March 13, 2016 California School for the Blind 500 Walnut Avenue Fremont, CA 94536 12-3 PM
CSB Theater Reception to Follow

RSVP to Sharon Sacks by March 4, 2016 at (510)794-3816 or ssacks@csb-cde.ca.gov

Bring a note or photo to place in a memory book to be shared with Phil’s children

CSB is easily accessible to BART, about ½ mile east of the station, an easy walk.


Resource Fair For People With Visual Impairments

Explore opportunities available throughout Southern and Northern California for children, teens and adults with visual impairments.

Saturday, February 20, 2016, 10:00 a.m." 2:00 p.m. FREE registration and parking. Lunch provided. Raffle prizes available.

The resource fair will take place at The Braille Institute in San Diego, 4555 Executive Drive, San Diego, CA 92121.
RSVP with your name and number of attendees to: Allison Burdett at (323) 295-4555, ext. 210 or aburdett@juniorblind.org or Erin Foley at (510) 234-4984, ext. 703 or efoley@juniorblind.org


Administrator Department of Rehabilitation Orientation Center for the Blind: Community
Recruitment Announcement (updated January 2016)

The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is recruiting for a Staff Services Manager II (SSM II) to serve as the Administrator for the Orientation Center for the Blind (OCB), a three acre campus located in Albany, California.

The OCB is a 30-bed, residential 24/7 program providing vocational rehabilitation services for DOR consumers to support adjustment to blindness, the development of appropriate vocational behaviors, attitudes and interests, and the preparation of participants to achieve independence and gainful employment.

The OCB Administrator is responsible for planning, organizing, directing, and evaluating policies and practices governing the administrative, program/services and facility operations of OCB, managing and leading an interdisciplinary team of professional and non-professional staff, directing and participating in resident consumer development services and processes, and serving as Chair of the Admissions Committee.

The OCB Administrator further represents the OCB at meetings with others department divisions, advisory groups and other stakeholders, acts as ex-officio trustee for the American Printing House for the Blind federal quota program, and manages the OCB Trust Fund.

The OCB Administrator will participate and contribute to the long- term strategy planning on policy and operational activities as a means to support the preparation of OCB participants to achieve independence and gainful employment and to support the mission of the department.

The OCB Administrator reports to the Deputy Director of the Specialized Services Division (SSD) in the DOR.

The OCB Administrator position is based in OCB in Albany, California. The DOR works in partnership with consumers and other stakeholders to provide services and advocacy resulting in employment, independent living, and equality for individuals with disabilities.

Desired Qualifications:

Special Requirements:
In addition to meeting the minimum qualifications of the Staff Services manager II (Supervisory) specifications, in compliance with the Welfare and Institution Code, the Administrator for the OCB shall have all of the following minimum qualifications:

  1. Four years of full time, paid experience working in a program for the education or rehabilitation of adults who are legally blind, with emphasis on nonvisual living techniques, including, but not limited to, daily living, mobility, and communication skills, at least two years' experience shall have been in a supervisory or administrative capacity.
  2. Proficiency in Braille as a second language.
  3. Education equivalent to graduation from college with a bachelor's degree. Additional qualifying experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

Essential Information:

This position will be open until filled; however, the DOR anticipates screening of candidates to begin March 1, 2016; therefore you are encouraged to submit your application package before screening commences.
Final hire will be subject to the state's hiring conditions.

Application Information:
Interested candidates must submit the following:

The state application, along with instructions, is available online at:
http://jobs.ca.gov/profile/stateapplication
A "Statement of Qualifications" is a discussion describing how a candidate's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities meet the desirable qualifications and special requirements listed above for this position. The statement should be no more than two (2) pages in length and serves as a documentation of each candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing.
Resumes do not take the place of the "Statement of Qualifications.

Although not required, applicants are encouraged to provide electronic copies of their submission along with the written copy. Electronic copies can either be e-mailed to the contact person, or be included in the paper copy submission on a CD.

Representatives from Advisory Committees and or stakeholder groups may participate in the interview process.

All complete application packages will be screened and only the most qualified candidates will be scheduled for an interview. Travel expenses for any interviews are the sole responsibility and at the expense of each candidate.

Applications are to be submitted to:
Department of Rehabilitation Attn: Maris Will 721 Capitol Mall Sacramento, CA 94814

Questions about the position can be directed to the contact person, Maris Will, at (916) 558-5582 or Maris.J.Will@dor.ca.gov.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection February 5, 2016

Welcome to the California Connection for February 5.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


CCB Office Closure Hours

The CCB office will be closed from 12 Noon to 5:00 PM today Friday FEB 5th and all day Monday FEB 8th for administrative purposes.


Conference and Convention Preview: Hotel Reservation Information for the 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference andConvention

Would you like to get a head start on attending the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention? If your answer is yes, then you can begin by making your hotel reservations starting now.

Registration is now open for the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention of the California Council of the Blind (CCB)!!! This year's theme is "Believe it and achieve it".

The conference and convention will take place Thursday April 7th - Sunday April 10th, 2016 at the Viejas Casino & Resort four-star hotel. The hotel address is: 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, CA 91901.

The Casino Resort offers the following:

  1. Luxury spa and high-end shopping at Viejas Outlets
  2. Casino expansion with 10,000 square feet, featuring Vegas-style gaming and over 2,000 slots
  3. Team-building and family friendly entertainment at Viejas Bowl, Fun Zone Arcade, and the Show Court with live multi-media performances
  4. Buffet with endless gourmet selections and unlimited beer, wine, and champagne
  5. Fine gourmet dining at The Grove Steakhouse, recipient of the AAA FourDiamond Award
  6. Diverse dining options, including Asian and Mexican cuisine, and all-American favorites

To make hotel reservations via phone, call: 800-938-2532, or via Internet reservation link: viejas.com/hotel.
When making your reservation by phone or online, provide the following reservation conference code:160413CALI.

Room rates are: Single: $99, Double: $99, Triple: $119, Quad: $139, Suites:$339.

The rates are all-inclusive of guest room tax.

The cut-off date for reserving a room in our block is March 16th, 2016, so don't delay, make your reservation today!!!

The Viejas Casino & Resort welcomes service animals and does not permit pets to be brought into their facilities.

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, SanDiego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot information will be provided in a future announcement.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties. The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino & Resort!


Convention Door Prizes

Chapters, affiliates and individuals are encouraged to provide door prizes for the 2016 CCB Conference and Convention.
You can bring door prizes to the convention and leave them at the Convention Registration Desk or provide them to the CCB office ahead of time by sending them to California Council of the Blind, 1303 J. Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814.


CCB Board of Directors Elections

At the 2016 Convention in April, CCB will be electing a president, first vice president, treasurer, and four members to its board of directors.
We would like to provide perspective candidates an opportunity to give you some information on their qualifications for, and ideas about serving on, the CCB board. To accomplish this, we will again have a candidates page on our website.

For those who cannot access information through our website or are not comfortable doing so, you can contact the office and ask for the candidates’ statements in either email or your alternate format of choice. It is our goal to have this webpage up by March 7.

If you are a potential candidate, we would invite you to answer the four questions indicated below, with the answer to each question to be not more than 300 words, with the count to be determined by the word-count feature in MS Word on a PC. Entries for each answer will terminate at the end of the sentence containing the 300th word and there will be no editing, spell checks or grammar checks done.

The deadline for submission of your statements is February 22, 2016. We will not accept any statements after that date! You will need to submit them to the office in electronic format as a .txt .rtf or MS Word file. Email them to ccotb@ccbnet.org no later than February 22, 2016. To be clear, there is no requirement that a candidate for the 2016 election submit answers to these questions.

The four questions are as follows:

  1. What office are you seeking, and what are your qualifications?


  2. Given the limited resources of our organization and the competition among nonprofit entities for financial resources, how can long-term financial stability be achieved for CCB?


  3. In a time of great change for CCB, it is extremely important that each member of the board of directors provide leadership for the organization. Describe two specific areas in which you will help to lead this organization if elected.


  4. Because the primary mission of CCB is to advocate for persons who are blind or have low vision, discuss three issue areas that you believe require our advocacy efforts and give specifics as to what CCB should be doing in those areas.


Roommate Request

From Margie Donovan
Greetings, I am looking for a roommate for the upcoming CCB convention. I will be staying from the 7th to the 10th. I have a guide dog and nor problems rooming with another dog, but a nonsmoker please.
If you are interested please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com


San Gabriel Valley Chapter 31st Annual Pizza and Spaghetti Fundraiser

From Pam Polagi President, San Gabriel Valley Chapter:
Please join us for our 31st annual Pizza and Spaghetti Fundraiser:
Saturday, February 13, 3:00pm to 7:00pm, only $10.00 per ticket, from SGV Chapter members or at the door.

Menu includes: pizza, spaghetti, salad, garlic-bread, regular and diet soda, iced tea, coffee, bottled water and dessert. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased at the Bar.

Address: VFW Hall, 825 South Magnolia Avenue, Monrovia (northwest corner of Magnolia and Chestnut).

Grand Prize is a $200 Visa Gift Card, winner need not be present. There will be door prizes, winners must be present, along with a 50/50 raffle. Everyone is welcome!

If you need more information: please contact Pam Polagi, (626) 445-7297.
Thank you very much.


East L A Chapter Event

The East L A Chapter CCB invites you to our annual Valentine's Day Brunch, February 13, at the home of Mrs. Garcia.
This home is located at 1226 South McBride Ave. in East LA. The cross street is Olympic and it is a duplex.
The festivities will begin at 09:30 Am and end around 12:30 PM. Remember to plan your transportation accordingly so as not to over stay your welcome.

Our menu is as follows: For $5 per plate you will get eggs, potatoes, bacon, sausage, and a roll.
For dessert you will get a coffee cake and or a fruit parfait which is fresh fruit, granola mixed with yogurt.
Our take home plates will be a breakfast burrito for $3 per burrito.
Our delicious Cinnamon coffee and mimosas will make their return appearance.

After our wonderful and delicious brunch, we will shore up our calendar for the rest of the year as part of our meeting.
There will also be a comparison of the Lyft and Uber apps led to by Jesse Acosta, one of our disabled vets.
We have a new board, especially a young president, that is a mover and a shaker. Come meet our president and renew friendships. Bring your appetites!

If you have any questions, please call Erik President Macias at 323-252-7786.


From The CCB Hearing And Vision Loss Committee

An Introduction to Hearing Loss
The topic for the February 21 meeting will be Navigating the Equipment Maze.
We'll discuss questions like what are remote microphones, and when is a cheap solution as good as an expensive one? Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more!

This is the fourth of a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.

Date: Sunday, February 21; time: 2 PM pacific; Phone: 800-662-6992; ID: 1184109.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have talked about and where you can share your resources and experiences with us.
Go to: ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.

In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net.


Resource Fair For People With Visual Impairments

Explore opportunities available throughout Southern and Northern California for children, teens and adults with visual impairments.

Saturday, February 20, 2016, 10:00 a.m. " 2:00 p.m. FREE registration and parking. Lunch provided. Raffle prizes available.

The resource fair will take place at The Braille Institute in San Diego, 4555 Executive Drive, San Diego, CA 92121.
RSVP with your name and number of attendees to: Allison Burdett at (323) 295-4555, ext. 210 or aburdett@juniorblind.org or Erin Foley at (510) 234-4984, ext. 703 or efoley@juniorblind.org


CCBVI Invites You To The Eighth Pedaling Paths to Independence On Saturday, February 20, 2016

Calling all friends with tandems!
The metric and quarter century routes begin and end at DeVinci’s Delicatessen and Catering-Linden (18847 East Front Street, Linden).

Fees are $40 for the metric and $35 for the quarter century, and include a delicious post-ride meal catered by DeVinci’s and much more!

Riders must be at least 16 years of age; each rider must sign a waiver at the event.

Registration and info: www.communitycenterfortheblind.org/pedaling-paths/.
Thank you for your support!


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection January 29, 2016

Welcome to the California Connection for January 29.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Conference and Convention Preview: Hotel Reservation Information for the 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference andConvention

Would you like to get a head start on attending the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention? If your answer is yes, then you can begin by making your hotel reservations starting now.

Registration is now open for the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention of the California Council of the Blind (CCB)!!! This year's theme is "Believe it and achieve it".

The conference and convention will take place Thursday April 7th - Sunday April 10th, 2016 at the Viejas Casino & Resort four-star hotel. The hotel address is: 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, CA 91901.

The Casino Resort offers the following:

  1. Luxury spa and high-end shopping at Viejas Outlets
  2. Casino expansion with 10,000 square feet, featuring Vegas-style gaming and over 2,000 slots
  3. Team-building and family friendly entertainment at Viejas Bowl, Fun Zone Arcade, and the Show Court with live multi-media performances
  4. Buffet with endless gourmet selections and unlimited beer, wine, and champagne
  5. Fine gourmet dining at The Grove Steakhouse, recipient of the AAA FourDiamond Award
  6. Diverse dining options, including Asian and Mexican cuisine, and all-American favorites

To make hotel reservations via phone, call: 800-938-2532, or via Internet reservation link: viejas.com/hotel.
When making your reservation by phone or online, provide the following reservation conference code:160413CALI.

Room rates are: Single: $99, Double: $99, Triple: $119, Quad: $139, Suites:$339.

The rates are all-inclusive of guest room tax.

The cut-off date for reserving a room in our block is March 16th, 2016, so don't delay, make your reservation today!!!

The Viejas Casino & Resort welcomes service animals and does not permit pets to be brought into their facilities.

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, SanDiego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot information will be provided in a future announcement.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties. The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino & Resort!


CCB Board of Directors Elections

At the 2016 Convention in April, CCB will be electing a president, first vice president, treasurer, and four members to its board of directors.
We would like to provide perspective candidates an opportunity to give you some information on their qualifications for, and ideas about serving on, the CCB board. To accomplish this, we will again have a candidates page on our website.

For those who cannot access information through our website or are not comfortable doing so, you can contact the office and ask for the candidates’ statements in either email or your alternate format of choice. It is our goal to have this webpage up by March 7.

If you are a potential candidate, we would invite you to answer the four questions indicated below, with the answer to each question to be not more than 300 words, with the count to be determined by the word-count feature in MS Word on a PC. Entries for each answer will terminate at the end of the sentence containing the 300th word and there will be no editing, spell checks or grammar checks done.

The deadline for submission of your statements is February 22, 2016. We will not accept any statements after that date! You will need to submit them to the office in electronic format as a .txt .rtf or MS Word file. Email them to ccotb@ccbnet.org no later than February 22, 2016. To be clear, there is no requirement that a candidate for the 2016 election submit answers to these questions.

The four questions are as follows:

  1. What office are you seeking, and what are your qualifications?


  2. Given the limited resources of our organization and the competition among nonprofit entities for financial resources, how can long-term financial stability be achieved for CCB?


  3. In a time of great change for CCB, it is extremely important that each member of the board of directors provide leadership for the organization. Describe two specific areas in which you will help to lead this organization if elected.


  4. Because the primary mission of CCB is to advocate for persons who are blind or have low vision, discuss three issue areas that you believe require our advocacy efforts and give specifics as to what CCB should be doing in those areas.


Roommate Request

From Margie Donovan
Greetings, I am looking for a roommate for the upcoming CCB convention. I will be staying from the 7th to the 10th. I have a guide dog and nor problems rooming with another dog, but a nonsmoker please.
If you are interested please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com


San Gabriel Valley Chapter 31st Annual Pizza and Spaghetti Fundraiser

From Pam Polagi President, San Gabriel Valley Chapter:
Please join us for our 31st annual Pizza and Spaghetti Fundraiser:
Saturday, February 13, 3:00pm to 7:00pm, only $10.00 per ticket, from SGV Chapter members or at the door.

Menu includes: pizza, spaghetti, salad, garlic-bread, regular and diet soda, iced tea, coffee, bottled water and dessert. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased at the Bar.

Address: VFW Hall, 825 South Magnolia Avenue, Monrovia (northwest corner of Magnolia and Chestnut).

Grand Prize is a $200 Visa Gift Card, winner need not be present. There will be door prizes, winners must be present, along with a 50/50 raffle. Everyone is welcome!

If you need more information: please contact Pam Polagi, (626) 445-7297.
Thank you very much.


CLUA Membership

Do you love reading? Are you an NLS patron? Do you read books in alternative formats on various electronic devices? Do you want your rights as blind or visually-impaired readers to be represented and protected?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then CLUA invites you to become a member of this statewide affiliate of the CCB.

To join, make checks for $20 (annual dues) payable to CLUA and send to Treasurer Vita Zavoli 1271 Washington Avenue, #144 San Leandro, CA 94577

Though you can join any time, dues paid by February 5 will allow us to count you on our official membership roster. We issue a membership list with phone and email contact information. You will be included unless you let Vita know otherwise.

Participate in our bimonthly book discussion group. We will also be looking at exciting projects for 2016. Remember your dues to CLUA brings you membership in ACB’s Library Users of America and its publication, The LUA Ledger.


State SSI Payments

As many of you know, CCB is involved with a coalition, CA4SSI, whose goal is to increase state payments to SSI recipients. As part of this effort, Justice in Aging is seeking individuals from the Bay Area who may wish to tell their stories in a video concerning the impact of the payment amounts currently provided, which fall well below the poverty level. Stories are especially important from those who have experienced homelessness.

If you feel that your story should be told, please email Mr. Kevin Prindiville at kprindiville@justiceinaging.org.


Silicon Valley Chapter Announces Technology Grant

The Silicon Valley Council of the Blind will award a grant of up to $1000 to a blind or visually impaired person who can best demonstrate the need for adaptive technology that will improve his-her quality of life or advance his-her educational and/or employment opportunities.

The qualifications for the grant are as follows:

The individual

Download an application from the SVCB website www.svcb.cc and complete and postmark it by Saturday January 30, 2016.
If you are selected as a finalist, you will be invited to meet with the committee for a personal or telephone interview.
The committee will choose the winner no later than Monday, February 29, 2016, and will notify the recipient shortly thereafter.
The grant will be awarded at SVCB's April 2016 general membership meeting, and the recipient will be invited to attend a special ceremony.


CCBVI Invites You To The Eighth Pedaling Paths to Independence On Saturday, February 20, 2016

Calling all friends with tandems!
The metric and quarter century routes begin and end at DeVinci’s Delicatessen and Catering-Linden (18847 East Front Street, Linden).

Fees are $40 for the metric and $35 for the quarter century, and include a delicious post-ride meal catered by DeVinci’s and much more!

Riders must be at least 16 years of age; each rider must sign a waiver at the event.

Registration and info: www.communitycenterfortheblind.org/pedaling-paths/.
Thank you for your support!


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection January 22, 2016

Welcome to the California Connection for January 22.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


CCB Board of Directors Meeting

The next meeting of the Board of Directors of the California Council of the Blind will be held Monday, January 25th at 7:00 P.M.
The call in number is 712-432-3066, the access code 497700.


Conference and Convention Preview: Hotel Reservation Information for the 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference andConvention

Would you like to get a head start on attending the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention? If your answer is yes, then you can begin by making your hotel reservations starting now.

Registration is now open for the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention of the California Council of the Blind (CCB)!!! This year's theme is "Believe it and achieve it".

The conference and convention will take place Thursday April 7th - Sunday April 10th, 2016 at the Viejas Casino & Resort four-star hotel. The hotel address is: 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, CA 91901.

The Casino Resort offers the following:

  1. Luxury spa and high-end shopping at Viejas Outlets
  2. Casino expansion with 10,000 square feet, featuring Vegas-style gaming and over 2,000 slots
  3. Team-building and family friendly entertainment at Viejas Bowl, Fun Zone Arcade, and the Show Court with live multi-media performances
  4. Buffet with endless gourmet selections and unlimited beer, wine, and champagne
  5. Fine gourmet dining at The Grove Steakhouse, recipient of the AAA FourDiamond Award
  6. Diverse dining options, including Asian and Mexican cuisine, and all-American favorites

To make hotel reservations via phone, call: 800-938-2532, or via Internet reservation link: viejas.com/hotel.
When making your reservation by phone or online, provide the following reservation conference code:160413CALI.

Room rates are: Single: $99, Double: $99, Triple: $119, Quad: $139, Suites:$339.

The rates are all-inclusive of guest room tax.

The cut-off date for reserving a room in our block is March 16th, 2016, so don't delay, make your reservation today!!!

The Viejas Casino & Resort welcomes service animals and does not permit pets to be brought into their facilities.

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, SanDiego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot information will be provided in a future announcement.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties. The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino & Resort!


CCB Board of Directors Elections

At the 2016 Convention in April, CCB will be electing a president, first vice president, treasurer, and four members to its board of directors.
We would like to provide perspective candidates an opportunity to give you some information on their qualifications for, and ideas about serving on, the CCB board. To accomplish this, we will again have a candidates page on our website.

For those who cannot access information through our website or are not comfortable doing so, you can contact the office and ask for the candidates’ statements in either email or your alternate format of choice. It is our goal to have this webpage up by March 7.

If you are a potential candidate, we would invite you to answer the four questions indicated below, with the answer to each question to be not more than 300 words, with the count to be determined by the word-count feature in MS Word on a PC. Entries for each answer will terminate at the end of the sentence containing the 300th word and there will be no editing, spell checks or grammar checks done.

The deadline for submission of your statements is February 22, 2016. We will not accept any statements after that date! You will need to submit them to the office in electronic format as a .txt .rtf or MS Word file. Email them to ccotb@ccbnet.org no later than February 22, 2016. To be clear, there is no requirement that a candidate for the 2016 election submit answers to these questions.

The four questions are as follows:

  1. What office are you seeking, and what are your qualifications?


  2. Given the limited resources of our organization and the competition among nonprofit entities for financial resources, how can long-term financial stability be achieved for CCB?


  3. In a time of great change for CCB, it is extremely important that each member of the board of directors provide leadership for the organization. Describe two specific areas in which you will help to lead this organization if elected.


  4. Because the primary mission of CCB is to advocate for persons who are blind or have low vision, discuss three issue areas that you believe require our advocacy efforts and give specifics as to what CCB should be doing in those areas.


Roommate Request

From Margie Donovan
Greetings, I am looking for a roommate for the upcoming CCB convention. I will be staying from the 7th to the 10th. I have a guide dog and nor problems rooming with another dog, but a nonsmoker please.
If you are interested please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com


San Gabriel Valley Chapter 31st Annual Pizza and Spaghetti Fundraiser

From Pam Polagi President, San Gabriel Valley Chapter:
Please join us for our 31st annual Pizza and Spaghetti Fundraiser:
Saturday, February 13, 3:00pm to 7:00pm, only $10.00 per ticket, from SGV Chapter members or at the door.

Menu includes: pizza, spaghetti, salad, garlic-bread, regular and diet soda, iced tea, coffee, bottled water and dessert. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased at the Bar.

Address: VFW Hall, 825 South Magnolia Avenue, Monrovia (northwest corner of Magnolia and Chestnut).

Grand Prize is a $200 Visa Gift Card, winner need not be present. There will be door prizes, winners must be present, along with a 50/50 raffle. Everyone is welcome!

If you need more information: please contact Pam Polagi, (626) 445-7297.
Thank you very much.


CLUA Membership

Do you love reading? Are you an NLS patron? Do you read books in alternative formats on various electronic devices? Do you want your rights as blind or visually-impaired readers to be represented and protected?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then CLUA invites you to become a member of this statewide affiliate of the CCB.

To join, make checks for $20 (annual dues) payable to CLUA and send to Treasurer Vita Zavoli 1271 Washington Avenue, #144 San Leandro, CA 94577

Though you can join any time, dues paid by February 5 will allow us to count you on our official membership roster. We issue a membership list with phone and email contact information. You will be included unless you let Vita know otherwise.

Participate in our bimonthly book discussion group. We will also be looking at exciting projects for 2016. Remember your dues to CLUA brings you membership in ACB’s Library Users of America and its publication, The LUA Ledger.


State SSI Payments

As many of you know, CCB is involved with a coalition, CA4SSI, whose goal is to increase state payments to SSI recipients. As part of this effort, Justice in Aging is seeking individuals from the Bay Area who may wish to tell their stories in a video concerning the impact of the payment amounts currently provided, which fall well below the poverty level. Stories are especially important from those who have experienced homelessness.

If you feel that your story should be told, please email Mr. Kevin Prindiville at kprindiville@justiceinaging.org.


Attention Current and Past Guide Dog Handlers

CCB is introducing legislation to enhance service animal protection laws against attacks on our dogs. The current law states if your dog is in discharge of its duties it is not covered under service animal protection laws. As an example if your dog is relieving and not in harness it is not covered. We need some information regarding attacks when your guides were in discharge of its duties.

If you have ever had such an experience, please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com, or call me at 916 293 9505.


Silicon Valley Chapter Announces Technology Grant

The Silicon Valley Council of the Blind will award a grant of up to $1000 to a blind or visually impaired person who can best demonstrate the need for adaptive technology that will improve his-her quality of life or advance his-her educational and/or employment opportunities.

The qualifications for the grant are as follows:

The individual

Download an application from the SVCB website www.svcb.cc and complete and postmark it by Saturday January 30, 2016.
If you are selected as a finalist, you will be invited to meet with the committee for a personal or telephone interview.
The committee will choose the winner no later than Monday, February 29, 2016, and will notify the recipient shortly thereafter.
The grant will be awarded at SVCB's April 2016 general membership meeting, and the recipient will be invited to attend a special ceremony.


Seeking Roommate in the Sacramento Area

I am looking to find a roommate or a shared living situation in an apartment or house in the Sacramento area.
I have a guide dog. A non-Smoking roommate is preferred.
Please contact me at 916-584-0978 any day of the week between 8 AM and 8 PM.


Submission of Papers, Must be Received by February 1:

Call for Papers for the LPD Satellite in Louisville, Kentucky USA IFLA Section 31:
Libraries Serving Persons with Print Disabilities (LPD)
Preconference Satellite to IFLA's WLIC 2016

You are cordially invited to submit a paper for IFLA satellite conference Tailoring the Reading Experience to Meet Individual Needs on Thursday, August 11 and Friday, August 12, 2016.

Theme:
Creating an inclusive community of readers

Title:
Tailoring the Reading Experience to Meet Individual Needs

Our Vision:
Making sure that everybody can have the best possible reading experience

Presentations will raise and discuss such topics as:

This conference offers a rare opportunity for professionals from a variety of disciplines to discuss the challenges and solutions to providing timely accessible materials in appropriate formats to the people we serve.

Librarians from special libraries for the blind, as well as from public libraries serving blind and print-disabled patrons; educators, accessible instructional materials providers; professionals from university disability offices, and others with an interest in these topics have been invited to come together to learn, to share, and to discuss.

Join the conversation by submitting a paper for consideration.

When
Thursday, August 11, 2016 - Friday, August 12, 2016 Eastern Time

Where
Galt House Hotel 140 N 4th St, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA

Paper Submissions

Please submit your proposals to Koen Krikhaar at koenkrikhaar@dedicon.nl..

Timeline
All proposals must be received by 1 February 2016.
Proposals will be evaluated by the satellite committee group and successful applicants will be informed by 15 March 2016.

Please Note
All expenses, such as travel and accommodations are the responsibility of the authors/presenters.
Letters of invitation can be issued to presenters upon request.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection January 15, 2016

Welcome to the California Connection for January 15.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Office Closure

Please note that the CCB office will be closed on Monday January 18 for the Martin Luther King holiday and on Tuesday January 19 for administrative purposes.


From The President

It is with deep sadness that I report the passing earlier this week of Phil Hatlin, one of the true pioneers in the field of education for students with visual impairments.

Beginning in the 1950s as a professor at San Francisco State University and in other capacities, Phil made a crucial difference in the education of literally thousands of students in California and throughout the nation, most of whom he never even met. In recent years, even though he suffered from poor health, Phil continued to contribute to the field of education of children who are blind or have low vision. He will be deeply missed by those who knew him.


Conference and Convention Preview: Hotel Reservation Information for the 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference andConvention

Would you like to get a head start on attending the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention? If your answer is yes, then you can begin by making your hotel reservations starting now.

Registration is now open for the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention of the California Council of the Blind (CCB)!!! This year's theme is "Believe it and achieve it".

The conference and convention will take place Thursday April 7th - Sunday April 10th, 2016 at the Viejas Casino & Resort four-star hotel. The hotel address is: 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, CA 91901.

The Casino Resort offers the following:

  1. Luxury spa and high-end shopping at Viejas Outlets
  2. Casino expansion with 10,000 square feet, featuring Vegas-style gaming and over 2,000 slots
  3. Team-building and family friendly entertainment at Viejas Bowl, Fun Zone Arcade, and the Show Court with live multi-media performances
  4. Buffet with endless gourmet selections and unlimited beer, wine, and champagne
  5. Fine gourmet dining at The Grove Steakhouse, recipient of the AAA FourDiamond Award
  6. Diverse dining options, including Asian and Mexican cuisine, and all-American favorites

To make hotel reservations via phone, call: 800-938-2532, or via Internet reservation link: viejas.com/hotel.
When making your reservation by phone or online, provide the following reservation conference code:160413CALI.

Room rates are: Single: $99, Double: $99, Triple: $119, Quad: $139, Suites:$339.

The rates are all-inclusive of guest room tax.

The cut-off date for reserving a room in our block is March 16th, 2016, so don't delay, make your reservation today!!!

The Viejas Casino & Resort welcomes service animals and does not permit pets to be brought into their facilities.

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, SanDiego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot information will be provided in a future announcement.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties. The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino & Resort!


Roommate Request

From Margie Donovan
Greetings, I am looking for a roommate for the upcoming CCB convention. I will be staying from the 7th to the 10th. I have a guide dog and nor problems rooming with another dog, but a nonsmoker please.
If you are interested please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com


East L A Chapter Meeting

Our meeting of the East L A Chapter CCB that was scheduled to be held on the ninth of January has been rescheduled for the sixteenth of January due to inclement weather.
Our meeting will begin at 10:30 AM - 01:30 PM with lunch to being served from noon until 01:00 PM.
Please make note of the change in date and time.
If there are any questions, please contact President Erik Macias.

Come meet and greet our new board.
Our board looks forward to making new acquaintances and renewing friendships.


From the CCB Hearing and Vision Loss Committee

An Introduction to Hearing Loss:
Because of the interest of callers in various time zones, starting January 17, 2016, the interactive resource conference calls on hearing loss will be on the 3rd Sunday afternoons 2 Pacific-5 Eastern.

The topic for the January 17 meeting will be "When, How and Why to Self-disclose We Have a Hearing Loss." Join CCB's Hearing and Vision Impaired Committee as we explore this and more!

This is the third of a series of monthly open interactive resource conferences to help you deal with your hearing loss.
Date: Sunday, January 17; Time: 2 PM pacific; Phone: 800-662-6992; ID: 1184109.

We encourage you to sign up for our email list where we will be posting resources we have talked about and for you to share your resources with us. Go to:
ccbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/hvi-l_ccbnet.org.
In addition, you can get links to previous audio recordings by emailing mlkeithley@comcast.net.


State SSI Payments

As many of you know, CCB is involved with a coalition, CA4SSI, whose goal is to increase state payments to SSI recipients. As part of this effort, Justice in Aging is seeking individuals from the Bay Area who may wish to tell their stories in a video concerning the impact of the payment amounts currently provided, which fall well below the poverty level. Stories are especially important from those who have experienced homelessness.

If you feel that your story should be told, please email Mr. Kevin Prindiville at kprindiville@justiceinaging.org.


Attention Current and Past Guide Dog Handlers

CCB is introducing legislation to enhance service animal protection laws against attacks on our dogs. The current law states if your dog is in discharge of its duties it is not covered under service animal protection laws. As an example if your dog is relieving and not in harness it is not covered. We need some information regarding attacks when your guides were in discharge of its duties.

If you have ever had such an experience, please email me at Margie.donovan1@outlook.com, or call me at 916 293 9505.


Silicon Valley Chapter Announces Technology Grant

The Silicon Valley Council of the Blind will award a grant of up to $1000 to a blind or visually impaired person who can best demonstrate the need for adaptive technology that will improve his-her quality of life or advance his-her educational and/or employment opportunities.

The qualifications for the grant are as follows:

The individual

Download an application from the SVCB website www.svcb.cc and complete and postmark it by Saturday January 30, 2016.
If you are selected as a finalist, you will be invited to meet with the committee for a personal or telephone interview.
The committee will choose the winner no later than Monday, February 29, 2016, and will notify the recipient shortly thereafter.
The grant will be awarded at SVCB's April 2016 general membership meeting, and the recipient will be invited to attend a special ceremony.


Seeking Roommate In The Sacramento Area

I am looking to find a roommate or a shared living situation in an apartment or house in the Sacramento area. I have a guide dog. A non-Smoking roommate is preferred.
Please contact me at 916-584-0978 any day of the week between 8 AM and 8 PM.


AC Transit Seeks Volunteers For Accessibility Advisory Committee

AC Transit is seeking volunteers to fill potential openings on its Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC).
The AAC typically meets on the second Tuesday of the month.

Citizens appointed to serve on the committee shall serve a term of one year beginning March 1, 2016. In addition, qualified applications received during this recruitment will be used to fill any mid-term vacancies that occur during the year.

Qualified applicants must use AC Transit’s fixed-route service, be a senior or individual with a disability and/or represent such groups, and be willing to devote the necessary hours to attend meetings.

Along with identifying problems and offering probable solutions and ideas, prospective applicants should also have respect for others, be open to hearing divergent points of view, and commit up to six hours a month to committee-related work.

If interested, an application is available on the District’s website or by calling the District Secretary’s Office at 510-891-7209.
Completed applications can be faxed to 510-891-4705, emailed to districtsecretary@actransit.org or mailed to the attention of the District Secretary, 1600 Franklin Street, Oakland, CA 94612.
All applications must be returned by February 1, 2016.


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


California Connection January 8, 2016

Welcome to the California Connection for January 8.
In order to have a message in the 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. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.


Conference and Convention Preview: Hotel Reservation Information for the 2016 Annual California Council of the Blind Conference andConvention

Would you like to get a head start on attending the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention? If your answer is yes, then you can begin by making your hotel reservations starting now.

Registration is now open for the 2016 Annual Conference and Convention of the California Council of the Blind (CCB)!!! This year's theme is "Believe it and achieve it".

The conference and convention will take place Thursday April 7th - Sunday April 10th, 2016 at the Viejas Casino & Resort four-star hotel. The hotel address is: 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, CA 91901.

The Casino Resort offers the following:

  1. Luxury spa and high-end shopping at Viejas Outlets
  2. Casino expansion with 10,000 square feet, featuring Vegas-style gaming and over 2,000 slots
  3. Team-building and family friendly entertainment at Viejas Bowl, Fun Zone Arcade, and the Show Court with live multi-media performances
  4. Buffet with endless gourmet selections and unlimited beer, wine, and champagne
  5. Fine gourmet dining at The Grove Steakhouse, recipient of the AAA FourDiamond Award
  6. Diverse dining options, including Asian and Mexican cuisine, and all-American favorites

To make hotel reservations via phone, call: 800-938-2532, or via Internet reservation link: viejas.com/hotel.
When making your reservation by phone or online, provide the following reservation conference code:160413CALI.

Room rates are: Single: $99, Double: $99, Triple: $119, Quad: $139, Suites:$339.

The rates are all-inclusive of guest room tax.

The cut-off date for reserving a room in our block is March 16th, 2016, so don't delay, make your reservation today!!!

The Viejas Casino & Resort welcomes service animals and does not permit pets to be brought into their facilities.

Transportation between the hotel and San Diego International Airport, SanDiego downtown Amtrak Station as well as San Diego downtown Greyhound Depot information will be provided in a future announcement.

Please share this information with chapters and other interested parties. The CCB looks forward to welcoming you at the Viejas Casino & Resort!


Audio Archives of the 2015 Conference and Convention

From: The CCB Technical Operations Group

Audio recordings are now available on the CCB website from the 2015 Conference and Convention.
You can either listen to or download audio recordings for many of the 2015 Conference and Convention sessions and events.
A link to the Audio Archives page can be found on either the Upcoming" or Past Conference and Convention pages at http://www.ccbnet.org, or use the direct link at: http://www.ccbnet.org/Conventionarchives.htm


From The Golden Gate Chapter

Welcome to the New Year 2016. Please join us at Round Table Pizza at 3567 Geary Blvd, San Francisco CA 94118 on Saturday January 9, 2016.
$15 includes pizza, salad and beverage. Participants pay for their own beer and wine.

Come fellowship with GGC as we bring in the new year.


CCLVI 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 1. Scholarship monies will be awarded for the 2016 - 2017 academic year.

To read the scholarship guidelines and complete an online application, please visit www.cclvi.org and click on the 'CCLVI Scholarship Programs' link.

Applications will be available to submit online until March 1 at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time.
Questions may be directed to CCLVI at (800) 733-2258 or scholarship@cclvi.org.

We look forward to receiving your application materials!


Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day

Gabe Griffith


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