The California Connection (2010 Edition)

December 17, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on December 17, and will be updated on January 7, 2011. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Jeff Thom

This is the last message from your outgoing president in his current capacity. As we all count our blessings during this holiday season, I have been reflecting that serving as your president for 8 years has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. We have some tough challenges to conquer in 2011, but if we all work alongside our new president, we'll come out stronger than ever. May you all have a joyous and love-filled holiday season and thanks again to every member of this marvelous CCB family of ours.

The Greater Long Beach Chapter “I Survived the Holidays Lunch”

The Greater Long Beach Chapter of CCB would like to invite you to our “I Survived the Holidays Lunch” at Black Angus Restaurant in Lakewood CA on January 8 from 12:00 to 3:00 PM. The address is 5000 East Candlewood Street, cross street is Clark Ave. If you have a need to call, the phone number is (562) 531-6921. The lunch package will cost $18 per guest. You may choose from the following selections. Each entrée starts with warm, sweet molasses bread and Garden Salad. The entrée also includes choice of Coffee, Tea or Soda. Entrees: one half pound Prime Rib with Baked Potato and Steamed Broccoli with shaved Parmesan; Grilled Fresh Salmon with Western Wild Rice and Steamed Broccoli with shaved Parmesan; one half pound Top Sirloin Center Cut with Baked Potato and Steamed Broccoli with shaved Parmesan; Sesame-Teriyaki Chicken Breast with Western Wild Rice and Steamed Broccoli with shaved Parmesan. Please note, each guest is responsible for tax and 15% tip which are not included in the $18 price. Please RSVP by January 3rd to Aisha Wendt at (562) 438-7100.

STUDY ANNOUNCEMENT

Clinical Research Study Recruitment:
Blind individuals with no light perception are needed.
A local doctor is conducting research to evaluate a new investigational treatment for insomnia and daytime sleepiness in individuals who are totally blind. Individuals may qualify who:
Are between 18 and 75 years of age,
Are blind with no light perception,
Have trouble sleeping at night or experience daytime sleepiness.
Participants will be compensated for their time and effort and will receive study medication and study-related medical evaluation at no cost.
For more information please Call 1-888-389-7033 M-F 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET.

From Jim Kutsch, President and CEO, The Seeing Eye, Inc.

Dog Attack/Interference Survey
Dear Fellow Guide Dog Handlers,
Below is the exact link you will need to visit to complete the survey. http://alturl.com/a5kcg For those of you who can't or don't want to take the survey online, you can call The Seeing Eye's main number, 800-539-4425, and ask for extension 1520. You will be asked to leave your name and phone number, and a volunteer will call you to conduct the survey by telephone. The preferred method though is to take the survey online, so I ask you to utilize that method if at all possible.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

December 10, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on December 10, and will be updated on December 17. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Gabe Griffith, connection editor

I just want to let everyone know that there will not be a connection during the weeks of Christmas and new years so if you have anything you would like in the connection before January 7 please have it to me for next week’s connection. Happy holidays to all.

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter Christmas Party

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the California Council of the Blind will be holding its Christmas Party on Saturday, December 18, 2010 at the Clubhouse building at the home of Andy and Mary Lou Baracco. The address is 10444 Canoga Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311-2265. The phone number is (818) 885-8559. Please contact Ken Metz by email at kenmetz@dslextreme.com or call him at (323) 793-1805. If you call by Monday, December 13, the cost is $20, and $25 after that date. The menu will consist of turkey or ham (both if enough available), vegetable, appropriate potatoes, rolls, and pie along with beverages. Limited amounts of beer and wine will also be available. Come celebrate the holiday with this feast from 2 to 6 p.m.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

December 3, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on December 3, and will be updated on December 10. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Foster Brown

Thanks to everyone that gave me information for finding housing in the Bay Area. I have found a place and will be living in San Francisco. I look forward to connecting with all my CCB folks in the Bay!

From Mitch Pomerantz, ACB President

Time flies when you're having fun, so the expression goes. It's past time for another "Office Hours" call so I'm scheduling one. Our last week night evening call brought a number of first-timers to the discussion, so we'll try it again. The next call will take place Wednesday, December 8, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, PST, 6:30 Mountain, 7:30 Central and 8:30 Eastern. The call-in number will be (218) 862-6420, and the code will be 1839376. I don't have anything specific to discuss so it will be up to you to suggest topics during the call. If you know of folks who aren't on these lists who might be interested in participating, be sure to let them know. Also, feel free to post this note to affiliate lists. Take care, and talk on the 8th.

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter Christmas Party

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the California Council of the Blind will be holding its Christmas Party on Saturday, December 18, 2010 at the Clubhouse building at the home of Andy and Mary Lou Baracco. The address is 10444 Canoga Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311-2265. The phone number is (818) 885-8559. Please contact Ken Metz by email at kenmetz@dslextreme.com or call him at (323) 793-1805. If you call by Monday, December 13, the cost is $20, and $25 after that date.
The menu will consist of turkey or ham (both if enough available), vegetable, appropriate potatoes, rolls, and pie along with beverages. Limited amounts of beer and wine will also be available. Come celebrate the holiday with this feast from 2 to 6 p.m.

The East Los Angeles Chapter Annual Christmas Party

Come join the East Los Angeles Chapter of the CCB at their annual Christmas Party on December 11, 2010 from 11:30 am. to 2:30 p.m. The address is: A Mi Hacienda located at 9613 Whittier Blvd in Pico Rivera. Cross Street is Greg and the 605 freeway. The cost is $16.00 (not including alcoholic drinks, which must be purchased separately). For more information call Marie Herrera at (818) 808-2300 or at email at marieh@gte.net

Bayview Chapter Annual Christmas Party

From Bayview Chapter members: You are invited to join us for our annual Christmas party to be held December 11th from 4 to 8 PM at the Hayward “Ranch Restaurant”, 22877 Mission Blvd. Hayward, CA. Your choice of entrées are Prime Rib, Salmon or Teriyaki chicken. Price is $20 for members and $25 for all other friends. This place is known for its excellent food. We will have a brief installation ceremony, some door prizes and lots of fun. Please come and meet old friends and make new ones. To make reservations please call Ida Johnson at (510) 655-1982 by December 8th.

The Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter Christmas Party

The Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter would like to invite you to the Christmas party at the Smokehouse Restaurant on December 11th starting at 5:30 pm. Space is limited to 40 people. The restaurant is located at 4420 W. Lakeside Drive in Burbank.
The meal choices are: Prime rib for $40, Salmon for $30, and Chicken with mushrooms and artichokes for $30. All three come with potato or rice, salad, and dessert. We will have door prizes. Call Ardis Bazyn at (818) 238-9321 if you have any questions. Please send checks to John Mavis and note your meal choice in the memo field. His address is: 1232 N. El Centro Ave. Los Angeles CA 90038-1706. Checks must be received a week before the event or you will be charged $5 more at the door.

COVE Resource Center for Blindness and Low Vision Move and Open House

COVE (Center of Vision Enhancement), Resource Center for Blindness and Low Vision, has moved to a new location. We are now located at 1240 D Street in Merced, CA.
Open House will be on Thursday, December 9, 2010, from 1-6pm. Come see our new facility! For more information contact COVE at: cove4u@gmail.comor 209-722-8118.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

November 19, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on November 19, and will be updated on December 3. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Gabe Griffith

Due to the thanks giving holiday there will be no connection on November 26. I wish everyone a safe and pleasant holiday.

Orange County CCB Chapter Holiday Lunch

We would love to have you join us for the Orange County CCB Chapter festive Holiday Lunch on Saturday, December 11th from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. Bring your family and friends to share this time of year at Marie Calendars, 13252 Brookhurst Street, four blocks north of Trask, in Garden Grove. Marie Calendars has a great menu to select from for your eating enjoyment. We will be giving away a 2011 Entertainment Discount Coupon Book as our door prize. We will also be having a gift exchange to highlight the day. Please bring a gift valued at $15 for the gift exchange. RSVP by December 6th, to Andrea at (714) 921-0289 or email patches921@sbcglobal.net with the number people who will be attending. We hope to see you there.

Bayview Chapter Annual Christmas Party

Golden Gate Chapter Holiday Luncheon

Happy days are here again. Join us for our holiday luncheon on Saturday, December 4th, at 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Your choice of meals and drinks selected from the menu. A three-dollar donation goes to the Golden Gate chapter, and of course gifts for everyone and lots of cheer. The location is Delaney Street Restaurant, 600 Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA.
For reservations call Gilda Chico at (415) 337-0937 or Betty Washington (415) 921-1418.

San Francisco Chapter Christmas Luncheon

The San Francisco chapter's Christmas luncheon will be held on December 5th from 12:00 to 3:00 at the San Francisco Lighthouse, at 214 Van Ness ave. The luncheon will be catered by Spiatsa restaurant. All meals will include salad and dessert. The choices are: vegetarian pasta, $22.00, grilled salmon with potatoes and vegetables, $30.00, flank steak with potatoes and vegetables, $30.00 and chicken piccata with potatoes and vegetables, $30.00. For reservations please call Liz Klein at (650) 576-9354 or Sandra Fancher at (415) 474-3659.

Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter Christmas Party

San Gabriel Valley Chapter Christmas/Haunamas Party

Come on over and celebrate with the San Gabriel Valley Chapter at our Christmas (or as I've been known to say "Haunamas") party. We are getting together on Saturday December 4th, from 2 to 5 PM. The price will be $17 (beer, wine etc will cost extra) and we will be at Denny's, 6550 North Irwindale Avenue, Irwindale CA and the cross street is Foothill.
The menu is as follows: grilled chicken, lemon pepper tilapia, chicken fried steak, or a vegetable pasta. The meal comes with a salad, mash potatoes and green beans, and desert, puppy sundae. Call Kelly Weiss at (310) 453-1142 or email kelpam@earthlink.net with your menu choices. Also, make your check out to San Gabriel Valley Chapter CCB. Our Treasurer, Pam Polagi, must have your check by November 27. Her mailing address is 5646 McCulloch Ave. Temple City, CA 91780. Come celebrate with the family!

From The Redwood Empire Chapter

We are selling the APH calendars again this year. They are very nice calendars. We are also selling nice wall calendars. For more information please call Beryl Brown at (707) 636-0082 or (707) 545-7642. The price of the calendars is $12.00. We will mail them to you.

COVE Resource Center for Blindness and Low Vision Move and Open House

COVE (Center of Vision Enhancement), Resource Center for Blindness and Low Vision, has moved to a new location. We are now located at 1240 D Street in Merced, CA. Open House will be on Thursday, December 9, 2010, from 1-6pm. Come see our new facility! For more information contact COVE at cove4u@gmail.com or 209-722-8118.

For Sale

KNFB Reader - reading machine. Asking $500 to $600. Contact Ruth Chambers at (310) 629-6818 Monday through Friday between the hours of 10:30 to 11:30 AM or anytime after 3:00 PM up to 10:00 PM.

Prince SF Singers HOLIDAY CONCERT TOUR

Prince SF Singers (P-S-F-S) is a 16-voice, piano-4-hands ensemble created specifically to present an evening of sacred choral music and holiday arrangements, including several premieres. Members of P-S-F-S have performed with Berlin Philharmonic; Stuttgart Opera; SF Opera and Symphony Choruses; Opera San Jose; West Bay, Berkeley and Pocket Operas; Chanticleer; American Bach Soloists; California Bach Society; Carmel Bach Festival; Philharmonic Baroque; TheatreWorks; Lamplighters; Lyric Theatre of San Jose; Pacific Mozart Ensemble; 42nd St. Moon and other notable organizations. The highlight of the 1-hour program will be the premiere of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” set to melodies of beloved carols and ending with a spoof of the opening chorus of “Magnificat” in D, by Johann Sebastian Bach. Also featured on the 15-song program: fantasies on “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” “Rise Up, Shepherd,” and a “Noël Nouvelet”/”The First Noël” intertwining medley; settings of Psalm texts 21, 46, 121 and 136; “Fum, Fum, Fum,” which Chanticleer premiered in 2008, on its national Christmas tour, and more. Listed below are the 3 Bay Area concert dates. We hope you can make one, let your choristers know, and help us greet the holiday season with an exciting new choral group. Also, please visit kenmalucelli.com for sound samples, etc. Thanks, and Happy Holidays!
P-S-F-S HOLIDAY CONCERT TOUR:
Fri. Dec. 3, 7:30 pm, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 178 Clinton St., Redwood City $15 Gen. www.stpetersrwc.org (650) 367-0777
Sat. Dec. 4, 8:00 pm, Trinity Chamber Concerts, 2320 Dana St., Berkeley $15 Gen. $10 Seniors & Students www.trinitychamberconcerts.com (510) 549-3864
Sun. Dec. 5, 4:15 pm, Hanson Hall, Sequoias, 501 Portola Rd., Portola Valley $15 for non-members www.ncphs.org/life_care/the_sequoias_-_portola_valley (650) 851-8272, (650) 424-4480

From The Council Office Staff

Best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season from the Council office staff Frank, Lily and Ed.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

November 12, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on November 12, and will be updated on November 19. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President Elect

Just a brief note of thanks to everyone for all of your support during the Fall Convention in La Jolla. I truly am honored to have been elected your next President beginning January 1st. Please remember that this organization belongs to each and every one of us so let’s continue working CCB together.

San Francisco Chapter Christmas Luncheon

The San Francisco chapter's Christmas luncheon will be held on December 5th from 12:00 Noon to 3:00 PM at the San Francisco Lighthouse, at 214 Van Ness Avenue. The luncheon will be catered by Spiatsa restaurant. All meals will include salad and dessert. The choices are: vegetarian pasta, $22.00, grilled salmon with potatoes and vegetables, $30.00, flank steak with potatoes and vegetables, $30.00 and chicken piccata with potatoes and vegetables, $30.00. For reservations please call Liz Klein at 650-576-9354 or Sandra Fancher at 415-474-3659.

Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter Christmas Party

The Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter would like to invite you to the Christmas party at the Smokehouse Restaurant on December 11th starting at 5:30 pm. Space is limited to 40 people. The restaurant is located at 4420 W. Lakeside Drive in Burbank. The meal choices are: Prime rib for $40, Salmon for $30, and Chicken with mushrooms and artichokes for $30. All three come with potato or rice, salad, and dessert. We will have door prizes. Call Ardis Bazyn at 818-238-9321 if you have any questions. Please send checks to John Mavis and note your meal choice in the memo field. His address is: 1232 N. El Centro Ave. Los Angeles CA 90038-1706. Checks must be received a week before the event or you will be charged $5 more at the door.

San Gabriel Valley Chapter Christmas (or "Haunamas") Party

Come on over and celebrate with the San Gabriel Valley Chapter at our Christmas (or as I've been known to say "Haunamas") party. We are getting together on Saturday December 4, from 2 to 5 PM. The price will be $17 (beer, wine etc will cost extra) and we will be at Denny's, 6550 North Irwindale Avenue, Irwindale, CA and the cross street is Foothill. The menu is as follows: grilled chicken, lemon pepper tilapia, chicken fried steak, or a vegetable pasta. The meal comes with a salad, mash potatoes and green beans, and desert, puppy sundae. Call Kelly Weiss at 310-453-1142 or email kelpam@earthlink.net with your menu choices. Also, make your check out to San Gabriel Valley Chapter CCB. Our Treasurer, Pam Polagi, must have your check by November 27. Her mailing address is 5646 McCulloch Ave. Temple City, CA 91780. Come celebrate with the family!

For Sale: KNFB Reader

For Sale: KNFB Reader - reading machine. Asking $500 to $600. Contact Ruth Chambers at 310-629-6818 Monday through Friday between the hours of 10:30 to 11:30 AM or anytime after 3:00 PM up to 10:00 PM.

Job Posting

Position: Part-time Instructor's Aide/Night Supervisor The Hatlen Center for the Blind is a small, but world-class nonprofit organization in the San Francisco Bay area that teaches visually impaired, mostly young adults the skills they need in order to live independent, fulfilling lives. Students live in their own apartments integrated into a large apartment complex in the community. The instructor's aide/night supervisor lives in the same apartment complex and is available to assist students in the evenings and occasionally on the weekends. Other duties include: attend a weekly staff meeting, assist students in moving in/out of the apartment, open and maintain the computer lab in the evenings, enforce Hatlen Center rules, provide evening activities to facilitate socialization, and assist in any emergency medical or other situations. We are looking for someone with good judgment and people skills, as well as someone who is a team player. Applicants must: 1) Have a high school diploma; although a Bachelor's degree or degree in progress is preferred, 2) Have good computer skills to assist students in the computer lab. The work year for this position is 12 months and the normal workweek will average a minimum of 20 hours. Compensation includes a salary, reduced rent, and benefits. This is an ideal job for someone who is currently attending school and who is interested in making a difference. Check out our website at www.hcblind.org. Fax 510-234-4986 or email resume and cover letter to pmaffei@hcblind.org Please no applicant phone calls about this job

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

November 5, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on November 5, and will be updated on November 12. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Jeff Thom, CCB President

If you missed the fall 2010 California Council of the Blind Conference and Convention, you missed quite a show. Great speakers, workshops of all kinds, elections, and just plain fun.
Congratulations are due to newly elected President Donna Pomerantz, 2nd Vice President, Roger Petersen, and Treasurer, Peter Pardini.
David Hanlon and Ardis Bazyn were newly elected to the board of directors, while First Vice President, Eugene Lozano, Jr. and directors Lena Bandy, David Jackson and Vince Calderon were re-elected to their positions. San Diego gave CCB a great welcome and well over 200 attendees made this convention a truly memorable one. Get ready to show Sacramento what we're made of during May 12-15, 2011CCB convention, which will be highlighted by a Capitol Day on Thursday May 12.

San Gabriel Valley Chapter Christmas (or "Haunamas") Party

Come on over and celebrate with the San Gabriel Valley Chapter at our Christmas (or as I've been known to say "Haunamas") party. We are getting together on Saturday December 4th, from 2 to 5 PM. The price will be $17 (beer, wine, etc., will cost extra) and we will be at Denny's, 6550 North Irwindale Avenue, Irwindale, CA. and the cross street is Foothill.
The menu is as follows: grilled chicken, lemon pepper tilapia, chicken fried steak, or a vegetable pasta. The meal comes with a salad, mash potatoes and green beans, and desert, puppy sundae. Call Kelly Weiss at 310-453-1142 or email kelpam@earthlink.net with your menu choices. Also, make your check out to San Gabriel Valley Chapter CCB. Our Treasurer, Pam Polagi, must have your check by November 27. Her mailing address is 5646 McCulloch Ave. Temple City, CA 91780. Come celebrate with the family!

Barbara Rhodes Adaptive Technology Grant

The Silicon Valley chapter of CCB is pleased to announce the Barbara Rhodes Adaptive Technology Grant 2010. SVCB will make a grant of up to $1000 to a Santa Clara County 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. A completed application must be postmarked not later than November 15, 2010. For complete details and application, please visit our website at www.svcb.cc

Job Posting

The California State University, Office of the Chancellor, is seeking a Director, Accessible Technology Initiative to oversee and lead the implementation of the Accessible Technology Initiative. Under general direction of the Senior Director, Academic Technology Services (ATS), the Director, Accessible Technology Initiative will oversee and direct the functions of the Accessible Technology Initiative (ATI) department.
Requirements: Master’s degree (or equivalent combination of education and experience); at least five years of management experience; strong project management, strategic planning, risk assessment, and organizational and budget management skills; experience applying federal and state disability-related laws that relate to the accessibility of information technology and resources (e.g. Sections 501 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, ADA, Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act, California Code 11135, AB 422, etc.); experience implementing accessible information technology policies; experience applying Section 508 standards to electronic and information technology products/services.
Resumes will be accepted until job posting is removed. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. The California State University, Office of the Chancellor, is an Equal Employment Opportunity/ADA employer.
Human Resource Services, 401 Golden Shore, Suite 239, Long Beach, CA 90802-4210 / Tel 562-951-4070.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

October 22, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on October 22, and will be updated on November 5. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Editor's Note

Please note that due to the CCB fall convention there will be no connection on October 29. The next connection will be released on November 5.

Mark Oswald

From Jeff Thom: It is with sadness that I report that Mark Oswald, member of the Bayview Chapter, passed away on Monday. Although in fragile health for a number of years, and suffering from complications brought on by diabetes, Mark had an indomitable spirit. Whether it was snowshoeing, his work for CCB, his zest for knowledge, or anything else that he did, Mark showed a passion that those who knew him could not help but admire. He will be deeply missed.

Convention Transportation Reservations

Convention Roommate Request

Mrs. Rosie Williams is seeking a non-smoking female roommate for the fall convention in La Jolla. Guide dog user is okay. Please call Mrs. Williams at 559-412-9969 between 9 AM and 9 PM.

Convention Auction

Attention all CCB members, at the upcoming fall 2010 CCB convention, we will once again be having our auction, and our own President Jeff Thom will be the auctioneer. We invite and encourage chapters and individuals to donate items for the auction. If you solicit donations, we can supply you with our 501(c)(3) number for this purpose, in order to enable the donor to receive a tax-deduction. Items should be of at least $25 value. The auction will assist CCB in raising those much-needed funds to continue our service to blind and visually impaired Californians. Please inform the CCB office of any donations for the Auction.

Convention Program

The CCB Publications Committee and its hard-working web team would now like to announce that the CCB Fall Convention Program is on the CCB website at www.ccbnet.org Under the Convention link, you will find both the Announcement and the Program.

Convention Resolutions

From Frank Welte: It is time to submit resolutions to the CCB Resolutions Committee for consideration at the fall, 2010 CCB convention. Please submit your resolutions as early as you can to give the committee as much time as possible to work on them. The deadline will be the close of general session on Friday evening of the convention. Please send them to Leena Bandy at leena.salim@gmail.com or to Frank Welte at frank.welte@ccbnet.org You may also give them to any memberthe resolutions committee. Feel free to discuss your resolution ideas on the telephone with Leena at 818-987-4325 or with Frank at 650-576-4177.

Americans With Disabilities Act Update Workshop

From Gene Lozano: The Committee on Access and Transportation and the California Council of Citizens with Low Vision wish to announce that they will be hosting a workshop on October 29th from 9:00 am to noon during the fall CCB convention. The workshop is titled Americans with Disabilities Act Update from the Department of Justice conducted by Jeanine Worden, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Section, Civil Rights Division, U.S. Department of Justice. This session will provide an overview of the new ADA regulations issued by the Department of Justice on September 15, 2010. The update will cover regulations applicable to state and local governments and private businesses, with a particular focus on regulations of interest to individuals who are blind or have low vision such as service animals and effective communications. Changes to architectural standards will be reviewed. The session will also highlight recent ADA enforcement activities by the Department of Justice and provide an opportunity to ask questions.

Barbara Rhodes Adaptive Technology Grant 2010

The Silicon Valley chapter of CCB is pleased to announce the Barbara Rhodes adaptive Technology Grant 2010. SVCB will make a grant of up to $1000 to a Santa Clara County 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. A completed application must be postmarked not later than November 15, 2010. For complete details and application, please visit our website at www.svcb.cc

Alice Chavez Pardini Education Advancement Grant 2010

From the San Francisco Chapter California Council of the Blind:
THE $2,500 ALICE CHAVEZ PARDINI EDUCATION ADVANCEMENT GRANT 2010
Who: A legally-blind student in grades 6-12, college, graduate school, or a certificate program who lives in San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, or San Mateo counties.
What: The San Francisco Chapter of the CCB will give a grant of up to $2,500 to a Bay Area blind or visually-impaired person who can best demonstrate the need to improve his or her educational or employment opportunities.
Where: Submit completed application and essay to:
The Alice Fund Committee
C/o Charlie Dorris
966 Union Street
San Francisco CA 94133
When: Submit a completed application form and essay postmarked by October 31, 2010.
To request an application and instruction form or for further details contact:
Charlie Dorris at 415-775-0487 or by email at tyreedorris@aol.com or Ellie Lee at 415-378-6079 or by email at ellieleesf@yahooil.com

Election Alert

ELECTION ALERT: Tuesday, November 2, 2010 is Election Day! Although voters have the right to vote privately and independently, you may ask for help. You may choose up to two people of any age to help you mark your ballot. However, they may not be your employer or union representative, or an agent of either.

JetBlue Airways Lawsuit

The following is an excerpt from an article that appeared on Lainey Feingold’s web site. The California Council of the Blind and three California residents with visual impairments have filed a lawsuit against JetBlue Airways in Federal Court for the Northern District of California. The lawsuit alleges that JetBlue has violated California law by maintaining a website and operating airport check-in kiosks that are inaccessible to individuals with visual impairments. The lawsuit is based on three California laws: the Unruh Act, the California Disabled Persons Act, and the California Unfair Competition Law.

Access Ingenuity And Freedom Scientific Presentations

Access Ingenuity, a full-service Access Technology vendor, based in San3:17 PM 11/1/2010ta Rosa, will be hosting a series of presentations with Charlie Matson of Freedom Scientific on Monday and Tuesday, November 8th and 9th at locations in Orange County and the Inland Empire. Mr. Matson, product evangelist at Freedom Scientific, will be presenting on how Freedom Scientifics’ products emphasize the strengths of an open-platform approach and allow low vision and blind consumers to leverage mainstream applications and technology in a timely manner. Some Products that will be highlighted during the presentation include: JAWS 12. Note taking Options using the Netbook Computers and the Focus 40 Blue – Bluetooth Braille Display. OpenBook and PEARL Scanner. For more information, please contact Andrea Pitsenbarger at 714-356-2013 or at andreap@accessingenuity.com

Job Posting

Job posting: The California State University, Office of the Chancellor, is seeking a Director, Accessible Technology Initiative to oversee and lead the implementation of the Accessible Technology Initiative. Under general direction of the Senior Director, Academic Technology Services (ATS), the Director, Accessible Technology Initiative will oversee and direct the functions of the Accessible Technology Initiative (ATI) department.
Requirements: Master’s degree (or equivalent combination of education and experience); at least five years of management experience; strong project management, strategic planning, risk assessment, and organizational and budget management skills; experience applying federal and state disability-related laws that relate to the accessibility of information technology and resources (e.g. Sections 501 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, ADA, Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act, California Code 11135, AB 422, etc.); experience implementing accessible information technology policies; experience applying Section 508 standards to electronic and information technology products/services. Resumes will be accepted until Tuesday, October 26, 2010 or until job posting is removed. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. The California State University, Office of the Chancellor, is an Equal Employment Opportunity/ADA employer. Human Resource Services, 401 Golden Shore, Suite 239, Long Beach, CA 90802-4210 / Tel 562-951-4070.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

October 15, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on October 15, and will be updated on October 22. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

The CCB Publications Committee and its hard-working web team would like you to know that the CCB Fall Convention Announcement is on the CCB website at www.ccbnet.org Look under the Convention link.

From Frank Welte: It is time to submit resolutions to the CCB Resolutions Committee for consideration at the fall, 2010 CCB convention. Please submit your resolutions as early as you can to give the committee as much time as possible to work on them. The deadline will be the close of general session on Friday evening of the convention. Please send them to Leena Bandy at leena.salim@gmail.com or to Frank Welte at frank.welte@ccbnet.org You may also give them to any member of the resolutions committee. Feel free to discuss your resolution ideas on the telephone with Leena at 818-987-4325 or with Frank at 650-576-4177.

To assist the CCB Publications Committee in continuing to provide services that best meet the needs of CCB members. Please take a moment to give us the following feedback: (Please note that we are proposing to expand the options for receiving the Blind Californian. We are not planning to eliminate any format.)
1. Which format of the Blind Californian do you currently receive? Large print? Braille? Cassette? Floppy disk? Email subscription?
2. Do you use any of the versions available on the CCB website? Downloadable text? Audio? Grade II Braille? Html? Zip?
3. Would you prefer one of the following options? An audio CD, like a music CD that can be played in any CD player? A data CD with text-oriented computer files? A version that can be played on the new digital NLS talking book player/DAISY? Other? -- Please specify.
Please respond to the chair of the CCB Publications Committee, Bernice Kandarian by phone at 650-969-3155, or by email at bernice.kandarian@ccbnet.org

The Silicon Valley Council of the Blind (SVCB) would like to invite you to our fund-raising event at Chevys Fresh Mex (2116 West El Camino Real, Mountain View, CA) on Wednesday, October 20, 2010, any time from 11 AM to 9 PM (several members plan to meet there between 5 and 9 PM). By presenting a flyer to your server when ordering, Chevys will donate 25 percent of your meal cost (excluding alcohol, tax, and tip) to SVCB to help fund our first annual Barbara Rhodes adaptive Technology Grant. If possible, please call ahead 650-691-9955 to let the restaurant know that you will be dining as part of the SVCB fund-raising group and how many people will be in your party. For more information about our Chevys fundraiser or to request a flyer, please contact us at svcb@onebox.com or leave a message at 888-652-5333. Thank you!

From the association for multi cultural concerns:
Do you need fundraising ideas?
Do you need tips on how to write an attention-getting request letter?
Do you need additional sources to mail fundraising requests?
Do you know the essential elements of a basic grant proposal?
If you would like the answers to any of the above questions, register for the workshop on Thursday, October 28, 2010 from 9:00am to 11:00am. The registration fee is only $20. This investment will pay rich dividends for your chapter or nonprofit organization. The registration deadline is Thursday, October 21, 2010. Contact the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or send in your CCB Fall Convention registration form. This workshop is limited to the first 20 people.

ELECTION ALERT: You must be registered to vote. The deadline to register for the November 2, 2010, General Election is midnight, October 18, 2010. You must re-register any time you move, change your name, or to change your political party affiliation. Contact your county’s Registrar of Voters Office to get registered.

Access Ingenuity, a full-service Access Technology vendor, based in Santa Rosa, will be hosting a series of presentations with Charlie Matson of Freedom Scientific on Monday and Tuesday, November 8th and 9th at locations in orange County and the Inland Empire. Mr. Matson, product evangelist at Freedom Scientific, will be presenting on how Freedom Scientifics’ products emphasize the strengths of an open-platform approach and allow low vision and blind consumers to leverage mainstream applications and technology in a timely manner.
Some Products that will be highlighted during the presentation include:
JAWS 12
Note taking Options using the Netbook Computers and the Focus 40 Blue – Bluetooth Braille Display
OpenBook and PEARL Scanner
For more information, please contact Andrea Pitsenbarger at 714-356-2013 or at andreap@accessingenuity.com

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

October 8, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on October 8, and will be updated on October 15. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

If you have not yet made your reservations for the CCB fall convention at the San Diego La Jolla Marriott please do so by calling 1-800-228-9290. Rates are $99 per night until Monday, October 11th. You must mention that you are making a reservation for the CCB fall 2010 convention.
To place your transportation reservations: Call 800-974-8885 to book a discounted reservation for Super Shuttle/ Cloud 9. The code to use when placing your discounted transportation reservation is NNU7M. This code works for all transportation (Amtrak, Greyhound or San Diego Airport). You will be given a reservation confirmation number when you place your transportation reservations. You will also be informed as to where to go to meet the shuttle van when you arrive at these locations.
If you wish to be a visiting user of San Diego Para-Transit (MTS) services while in San Diego you must call “ADA Ride” to register, and receive fare information, by October 15th. Call 1-877-232-7433 for English or Spanish callers. Fare information will be provided when you call.

From Frank Welte: It is time to submit resolutions to the CCB Resolutions Committee for consideration at the fall, 2010 CCB convention. Please submit your resolutions as early as you can to give the committee as much time as possible to work on them. The deadline will be the close of general session on Friday evening of the convention. Please send them to Leena Bandy at leena.salim@gmail.com or to Frank Welte at frank.welte@ccbnet.org You may also give them to any member of the resolutions committee. Feel free to discuss your resolution ideas on the telephone with Leena at 818-987-4325 or with Frank at 650-576-4177.

From Gene Lozano: The Committee on Access and Transportation and the California Council of Citizens with Low Vision wish to announce that they will be hosting a workshop on October 29th from 9:00 am to noon during the fall CCOTB convention. The workshop is titled Americans with Disabilities Act Update from the Department of Justice conducted by Jeanine Worden, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Section, Civil Rights Division, U.S. Department of Justice. This session will provide an overview of the new ADA regulations issued by the Department of Justice on September 15, 2010. The update will cover regulations applicable to state and local governments and private businesses, with a particular focus on regulations of interest to individuals who are blind or have low vision such as service animals and effective communications. Changes to architectural standards will be reviewed. The session will also highlight recent ADA enforcement activities by the Department of Justice and provide an opportunity to ask questions.
As a reminder it is still possible for you to register for the following fall convention workshops:
Association for Multi-Cultural Concerns (AMC) The Art of Networking with Funders, Satori Experience, Blind Students of California and Allison Depner, Educator/Employment Specialist, Getting to Work.

From Frank Welte, CCB Director of Advocacy and governmental affairs: Please note that the CCB Legislative Report updated as of October 6th is available on our toll-free line at 800-221-6359.

From the San Diego Braille club:
You are cordially invited to enjoy an afternoon of good food, shopping, casino gaming and bowling at Viejas Casino & Outlet Mall.
When: Sunday, October 31, 2010
Time: 12:00 Noon until 5:00pm
Cost: Only $10.00
Price includes roundtrip bus transportation, buffet lunch and sighted guide assistance (limited). Schedule a late departure from San Diego, leave your luggage stored at the Marriott and enjoy yourself at Viejas Casino and Outlets!
Complete the registration form, make your check payable to the San Diego Braille Club and mail it to:
San Diego Braille Club
P.O. Box 3459
San Diego, CA 92163-3459.
Registration Deadline: October 15, 2010
For more information call Jacqueline Jackson at 619-994-2776.
*This trip requires 50 fun-loving adults (Must be at least 18 years old)

From Clarence Jenkins: There will be a community meeting in the city of Galt on Saturday, October 9 from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM to discuss the concerns of people with disabilities and to explore the possibility of organizing a local CCB chapter. The meeting will take place at the First Baptist Church fellowship hall, 653 A Street, Galt, CA 95632. For more information please call Clarence Jenkins at 209-327-6387.

Do you like to try new eating-places at a discount? Look for deals on other purchases? The Orange County Chapter is selling the 2011 Entertainment Book for your local area as a fundraising activity. To have a book delivered to you at the San Diego convention, place your order by October 14th. Contact Cathy at clswhitaker@gmail.com or 909-861-2931. To place an online order and have a book shipped directly to your home, visit: www.entertainment.com/support and enter group account code 961130. We appreciate your support.

Join members of The San Francisco Chapter (CCB) October 16th at The Western Park Apartments (1280 Laguna St, San Francisco CA) for our annual Pizza Bingo Fundraiser, which will be held from 12 noon until 5:00 pm. This fundraiser is to raise money for The Alice Chavez Pardini Education Advancement Grant. Raffle tickets are being sold for $1.00 or a book (6 tickets) for $5.00. First prize is $200.00. Second prize is $100.00. Third and Fourth prizes are $50.00 each. We'll also have lots of wonderful door prizes. Our delicious meal will consist of a salad, pizza and dessert. All of that for just $10.00, payable at the door. Drink tickets will be available. Soda tickets will be $0.50. Beer and Wine tickets will be $1.00. Bingo will be $0.25 a game, and blackout will be $1.00. To make your reservation for this not to be missed fundraiser, please contact Sandra Fancher @ 415-474-3659. Deadline to make reservations is Wednesday October 13, 2010. Hope to see you there.

Attention San Francisco and East Bay members with a passion for literature: Anyone interested in starting a book club in this area, please contact MaryAnn Haas at 510-525-7965 for details.

AFB invites adults who are parents of children with vision loss to take part in an AFB-National Center on Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM) collaborative research project by completing a 15 minute online survey designed to explore how well schools are doing to meet their obligations to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to required instructional materials on the first day of class. Participants should visit: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/HNK5MFH from October 1 through October 31, 2010. For additional information or questions, please contact Jennifer Howard, Senior Policy Research Associate, at 202-469-6835 or JHoward@afb.net

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

October 1, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on October 1, and will be updated on October 8. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.

The San Diego La Jolla Marriott is now taking reservations for the CCB Fall 2010 room block for Thursday, October 28th through Sunday, October 31st at the group rate of $99 including tax. You are highly encouraged to make your room reservation immediately if you have not yet done so. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "CCB Fall 2010” convention in October 2010 at the “San Diego, La Jolla Marriott Hotel". The total single or double occupancy room rate per night is $99 including tax. The hotel recommends that callers use 1-800-228-9290 when calling to place reservations.

To place your transportation reservations: Call 800-974-8885 to book a discounted reservation for Super Shuttle/ Cloud 9. The code to use when placing your discounted transportation reservation is NNU7M. This code works for all transportation (Amtrak, Greyhound or San Diego Airport). You will be given a reservation confirmation number when you place your transportation reservations. You will also be informed as to where to go to meet the shuttle van when you arrive at these locations.
Here are the addresses of the pick up locations:
Amtrak: 1050 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego
Airport: San Diego Airport off of North Harbor Drive, San Diego
Greyhound: 120 West Broadway, San Diego
If you wish to be a visiting user of San Diego Para-Transit (MTS) services while in San Diego you must call “ADA Ride” to register, and receive fare information, by October 15th. Call 1-877-232-7433 for English or Spanish callers. Fare information will be provided when you call.

Here are the menus for the fall CCB convention meals.
Friday Lunches: AMC Luncheon and BRLC/CLUA Luncheon
Starter Salad: Watercress, radicchio, romaine lettuce with strawberries, sliced almonds, creamy balsamic dressing.
Entrée: Roasted Tuscan marinated chicken breast, charred red pepper, tomato coulis, over asparagus, mushroom risotto
Vegetarian option: Portobello napoleon, eggplant, tri-colored peppers, buffala mozzarella, roma tomatoes, spicy roasted red pepper sauce, rosemary potatoes
Desert: Mango and Raspberry Sorbet

Friday Presidents Dinner:
Starter Salad: Hearts of romaine lettuce, shaved parmesan cheese, herbed croutons, caesar dressing
Entrée: Meat Lasagna
Vegetarian option: Vegetarian Lasagna
Desert: Chocolate Mousse

Saturday Lunches: GDUC Luncheon; OCB Luncheon; RSVC Luncheon.
Entrée salad: La Jolla Cobb Salad, Chopped romaine lettuce, julienne grilled chicken, bleu cheese, avocado, diced tomatoes, chopped eggs, sliced olives, bacon bits, served with, Choice of pepper-cream, balsamic vinaigrette or bleu cheese dressing.
Vegetarian option: Grilled Vegetable Nicoise, Marinated grilled eggplant, zucchini, yellow squash, mixed peppers, Portobello mushroom and asparagus over mixed field greens, olives, cherry tomatoes served with Dijon mustard vinaigrette.
Desert: Nanas Apple Pie

Saturday Banquet:
Starter Salad: California field greens, cucumber, roma tomato and basil balsamic vinaigrette.
Entrée: Poultry – Tender “boneless” breast of chicken with wild mushroom duxelles, enveloped in a crisp pastry crust with Madeira sauce, bouquetiere of vegetables.
Vegetarian option: Vegetarian – Sauteed spinach, diced oven roasted zucchini, yellow squash, eggplant, carrots, garlic and onion with a marinara sauce, encased in a tender puff pastry
Dessert: Lemon Cloud Cake

From Frank Welte: It is time to submit resolutions to the CCB Resolutions Committee for consideration at the fall, 2010 CCB convention. Please submit your resolutions as early as you can to give the committee as much time as possible to work on them. The deadline will be the close of general session on Friday evening of the convention.
Please send them to Leena Bandy at leena.salim@gmail.com or to Frank Welte at frank.welte@ccbnet.org You may also give them to any member of the resolutions committee. Feel free to discuss your resolution ideas on the telephone with Leena at 818-987-4325 or with Frank at 650-576-4177.

California Council of the Blind, Greater Long Beach Chapter invites you, your family and friends to join us for our fundraiser at California Pizza Kitchen. By presenting a flyer to your server when ordering, 20% of your check (including alcohol) will be donated to CCB, Greater Long Beach. Flyers will be distributed prior to the event. Braille menus will be available. We appreciate your support so please save the date.
Where: California Pizza Kitchen, 125 Lakewood Center Mall, Lakewood, CA.,
When: Thursday, October 7, 2010 Time: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM.
CPK Phone: 562-633-0854
Questions? Call Rachelle Goeman at 310-975-4745

From the San Diego Braille Club:
You are cordially invited to enjoy an afternoon of good food, shopping, casino gaming and bowling at Viejas Casino & Outlet Mall.
When: Sunday, October 31, 2010
Time: 12:00 Noon until 5:00pm
Cost: Only $10.00
Price includes roundtrip bus transportation, buffet lunch and sighted guide assistance (limited).
Schedule a late departure from San Diego, leave your luggage stored at the Marriott and enjoy yourself at Viejas Casino and Outlets!
Complete the registration form, make your check payable to the San Diego Braille Club and mail it to:
San Diego Braille Club
P.O. Box 3459
San Diego, CA 92163-3459.
Registration Deadline: October 15, 2010
For more information call Jacqueline Jackson at 619-994-2776.
*This trip requires 50 fun-loving adults (Must be at least 18 years old)

To assist the CCB Publications Committee in continuing to provide services that best meet the needs of CCB members.
Please take a moment to give us the following feedback: (Please note that we are proposing to expand the options for receiving the Blind Californian. We are not planning to eliminate any format.)
1. Which format of the Blind Californian do you currently receive? Large print? Braille? Cassette? floppy disk? email subscription?
2. Do you use any of the versions available on the CCB website? downloadable text? audio? grade II Braille? html? zip?
3. Would you prefer one of the following options: an audio CD, like a music CD that can be played in any CD player? a data CD with text-oriented computer files? a version that can be played on the new digital NLS talking book player/DAISY? other -- please specify?
Please respond to the chair of the CCB Publications Committee, Bernice Kandarian by phone at 650-969-3155, or by email at bernice.kandarian@ccbnet.org

Do you like to try eating at new places at a discount? Look for deals on other purchases? The Orange County Chapter is selling the 2011 Entertainment Book for your local area as a fundraising activity.
To have a book delivered to you at the San Diego convention, place your order by October 14th. Contact Cathy at clswhitaker@gmail.com or 909-861-2931.
To place an online order and have a book shipped directly to your home, visit: www.entertainment.com/support and enter group account code 961130. We appreciate your support.

The Glendale-Burbank Chapter would like to invite you to our California Pizza Kitchen fundraiser on October 4 any time that day. The address is 601 N San Fernando Blvd, Burbank, Ca. Our chapter receives a percentage of all purchases. Please contact Ardis Bazyn or another GB member for a flyer which you will need for us to get credit.
You can either email Ardis at abazyn@bazyncommunications.com or call 818-238-9321. Thanks.

Raffle tickets are being sold for $1.00 or a book (6 tickets) for $5.00. First prize is $200.00. Second prize is $100.00. Third and Fourth prizes are $50.00 each. We'll also have lots of wonderful door prizes. Our delicious meal will consist of a salad, pizza and dessert. All of that for just $10.00, payable at the door. Drink tickets will be available. Soda tickets will be $0.50. Beer and Wine tickets will be $1.00. Bingo will be $0.25 a game, and blackout will be $1.00.

To make your reservation for this not to be missed fundraiser, please contact Sandra Fancher @ 415-474-3659. Deadline to make reservations is Wednesday October 13, 2010. Hope to see you there.

From the San Francisco Chapter California Council of the Blind:
THE $2,500 ALICE CHAVEZ PARDINI EDUCATION ADVANCEMENT GRANT 2010
Who: A legally-blind student in grades 6-12, college, graduate school, or a certificate program who lives in San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, or San Mateo counties.
What: The San Francisco Chapter of the CCB will give a grant of up to $2,500 to a Bay Area blind or visually-impaired person who can best demonstrate the need to improve his or her educational or employment opportunities.
Where: Submit completed application and essay to:
The Alice Fund Committee
C/o Charlie Dorris
966 Union Street San Francisco CA 94133
When: Submit a completed application form and essay postmarked by October 31, 2010.
To request an application and instruction form or for further details contact: Charlie Dorris at 415-775-0487 or by email at tyreedorris@aol.com or Ellie Lee at 415-378-6079 or by email at ellieleesf@yahooil.com

Audiocassette tape recording of State Voter Information Guide for the November 2, 2010 general election are now available. To obtain these, free of charge, please call 916-657-2166.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

September 24, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on September 24, and will be updated on October 1. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Are you all ready for the first convention in San Diego in 15 years? Come and join the party! You can make reservations now. The San Diego La Jolla Marriott is now taking reservations for the CCB Fall 2010 room block for Thursday, October 28th through Sunday, October 31st at the group rate of $99 including tax. You are highly encouraged to make your room reservation immediately if you have not yet done so. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "CCB Fall 2010” convention in October 2010 at the “San Diego, La Jolla Marriott Hotel". The total single or double occupancy room rate per night is $99 including tax. The hotel recommends that callers use 1-800-228-9290 when calling to place reservations. To place your transportation reservations: Call 800-974-8885 to book a discounted reservation for Super Shuttle/ Cloud 9. The code to use when placing your discounted transportation reservation is NNU7M. This code works for all transportation (Amtrak, Greyhound or San Diego Airport). You will be given a reservation confirmation number when you place your transportation reservations. You will also be informed as to where to go to meet the shuttle van when you arrive at these locations. Here are the addresses of the pick up locations: Amtrak: 1050 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego Airport: San Diego Airport off of North Harbor Drive, San Diego Greyhound: 120 West Broadway, San Diego If you wish to be a visiting user of San Diego Para-Transit (MTS) services while in San Diego you must call “ADA Ride” to register, and receive fare information, by October 15th. Call 1-877-232-7433 for English or Spanish callers. Fare information will be provided when you call. Attention all CCB members, at the upcoming fall 2010 CCB convention, we will once again be having our auction, and our own President Jeff Thom will be the auctioneer. We invite and encourage chapters and individuals to donate items for the auction. If you solicit donations, we can supply you with our 501(c) (3) number for this purpose, in order to enable the donor to receive a tax-deduction. Items should be of at least $25 value. The auction will assist CCB in raising those much-needed funds to continue our service to blind and visually impaired Californians.

Are you, your family members, friends, or neighbor’s state or local government employees? If so, we urge you to donate to the California Council of the Blind through the state and local employee campaigns. This month is the big push, so please help out your organization and work hard on letting people know about all the things that we do. We can certainly give you some talking points about CCB if you call us, as can your chapter leaders. In these hard times, it’s important that all of us pitch in to help raise funds for CCB.

The CCB Deaf/Blind committee has been reinstated recently and had its first meeting September 14th. The committee will devote much time on educating CCB members on equipment that is available for those who are hard of hearing. There will be training at the CCB Convention on how to use the “FM Hearing Device System". This device will enable you to hear very clearly every word spoken from the podium. Please contact David Hanlon, Chairperson for further information on the Deaf/Blind committee goals and activities. David's phone is 858-610-0825 or email d_hanlon@san.rr.com

The Greater San Joaquin Valley Chapter, CCB is proud to present Dining in the Dark, a fun and educational experience. Guests will be treated to a catered meal. There will be a silent and a live auction, a demonstration of audio description for movies, and more. The event will be held on October 1, 2010 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at the Piccadilly Inn - University in the Ambassador room. The address is 4961 N. Cedar Ave., Fresno, CA 93726. Tickets are $35.00 per person, meal choices are chicken, Tritip or vegetarian. For more information or to reserve your ticket call Mary Beth Randall at 559-224-7999.

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter, CCB is holding its eleventh annual barbecue on Saturday, October 2, 2010, at the Golden State Mobile Home Park Clubhouse from 3 to 7 p.m. The address is 8811 Canoga Avenue, cross street, Parthenia Street, Canoga Park, CA. Our menu will include hot dogs, hamburgers, hot links, veggie burgers for vegetarians, green and potato salads, Ken's homemade chili (meat and meatless), perhaps a corn on the cob or other corn dish, and dessert. Also included will be soda and bottled water. Beer and wine will be via a donation. A raffle will be held along with door prizes, and one special prize for someone out of those reserving their ticket by Monday, September 27, 2010. The cost of the fundraiser will be $15 per adult and $8 for children ages 4 to 12. Please contact Ken Metz for reservations at 323-793-1805 or by e-mail at kenmetz@sbcglobal.net We hope to see many of you to enjoy an afternoon and evening of great fellowship and food.

California Council of the Blind, Greater Long Beach Chapter invites you, your family and friends to join us for our fundraiser at California Pizza Kitchen. By presenting a flyer to your server when ordering, 20% of your check (including alcohol) will be donated to CCB, Greater Long Beach. Flyers will be distributed prior to the event. Braille menus will be available. We appreciate your support so please save the date. Where: California Pizza Kitchen, 125 Lakewood Center Mall, Lakewood, CA., When: Thursday, October 7, 2010 Time: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM CPK Phone: 562-633-0854 Questions? Call Rachelle Goeman at 310-975-4745.

Audio cassette tape recording of State Voter Information Guide for the November 2, 2010 general election are now available. To obtain these, free of charge, please call 916-657-2166.

From Marie C. Palmeri, Legislative Chair with the SGVCCB and the Vice President of the East San Gabriel Valley League of Women Voters ESGLWV: October 18, 2010 will be the last day to register to vote for the November 2, 2010 election. If you have not been voting, it is a good idea to check that you are still on the Registrar Recorder's Office of your local voting area. Re-register by obtaining a Voter Registration form from your local Post Office or your public library. Your local Voter Registrar Recorder's Office can mail you a voter registration form or go online to www.easyvoter.org to register to vote.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

September 17, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on September 17, and will be updated on September 24. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 orgabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Are you all ready for the first convention in San Diego in 15 years? Come and join the party! You can make reservations now. The San Diego La Jolla Marriott is now taking reservations for the CCB Fall 2010 room block for Thursday, October 28th through Sunday, October 31st at the group rate of $99 including tax. You are highly encouraged to make your room reservation immediately if you have not yet done so. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "CCB Fall 2010” convention in October 2010 at the “San Diego, La Jolla Marriott Hotel". The total single or double occupancy room rate per night is $99 including tax. The hotel recommends that callers use 1-800-228-9290 when calling to place reservations. To place your transportation reservations: Call 800-974-8885 to book a discounted reservation for Super Shuttle/ Cloud 9. The code to use when placing your discounted transportation reservation is NNU7M. This code works for all transportation (Amtrak, Greyhound or San Diego Airport). You will be given a reservation confirmation number when you place your transportation reservations. You will also be informed as to where to go to meet the shuttle van when you arrive at these locations. Here are the addresses of the pick up locations: Amtrak: 1050 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego Airport: San Diego Airport off of North Harbor Drive, San Diego Greyhound: 120 West Broadway, San Diego If you wish to be a visiting user of San Diego Para-Transit (MTS) services while in San Diego you must call “ADA Ride” to register, and receive fare information, by October 15th. Call 1-877-232-7433 for English or Spanish callers. Fare information will be provided when you call. Attention all CCB members, at the upcoming fall 2010 CCB convention, we will once again be having our auction, and our own President Jeff Thom will be the auctioneer. We invite and encourage chapters and individuals to donate items for the auction. If you solicit donations, we can supply you with our 501(c)(3) number for this purpose, in order to enable the donor to receive a tax-deduction. Items should be of at least $25 value. The auction will assist CCB in raising those much-needed funds to continue our service to blind and visually impaired Californians.

The California Council of the Blind is currently reviewing bids for its Fall 2011 convention that will be held in Southern California. Bids have been narrowed down to the following hotel sites: Renaissance LAX, Crowne Plaza LAX, Hilton LAX, Hyatt Regency Irvine, and Marriott Del Mar. There will be a site visit to each hotel to look at the facilities and to talk with hotel staff. The team who will be conducting the site visits would very much like to know by Thursday, September 23rd if you have personally stayed at one of the hotels and have any opinions or recommendations regarding these facilities. Your comments/recommendations can be sent to the California Council of the Blind executive office at 1-800-221-6359 or ccotb@ccbnet.org

From Alexa Golden: There are 2 of us looking for a third female roommate for the Fall CCB convention. If you are interested please call me at 310-487-9671.

Attention all Ralph’s Shoppers! The Ralph’s grocery rewards program is up and running. If you or your friends buy your groceries at Ralph’s, here’s an opportunity too good to pass up- as a fundraiser for CCB. Ralph’s will give 3% of your purchases back to CCB. To sign up, you need two things- your Shopper’s Rewards Card from your local grocery store and a bar code to link your card to CCB which you can get from the CCB office or your chapter president. To obtain a barcode, please call the office at 1-800-221-6359 or send an email to Lily at lily.mccray@ccbnet.org Happy Shopping!

The CCB Deaf/Blind committee has been reinstated recently and had its first meeting September 14th. The committee will devote much time on educating CCB members on equipment that is available for those who are hard of hearing. There will be training at the CCB Convention on how to use the "FM Hearing Device System". This device will enable you to hear very clearly every word spoken from the podium. Please contact David Hanlon, Chairperson for further information on the Deaf/Blind committee goals and activities. David's phone is 858-610-0825 or email d_hanlon@san.rr.com

From Bonnie Rennie, Chair, Seniors with Vision Loss Committee: Senior Center Without Walls offers a wide variety of interesting, informative, and encouraging groups, just as a brick-and-mortar senior would. But instead, you attend from the comfort of your home, by making a toll-free conference call on your telephone. There will be a reading aloud of the new schedule of groups on Tuesday, September 21, at 3 p.m. To hear the schedule, call 877-237-9339. When prompted, use Code 77 and the pound sign. To register for this program, or to receive a large print group schedule, call 877-797-7299.

Please help support the San Francisco Chapter's Alice Chavez Pardini Education Advancement Grant by joining us at the Chevys Restaurant, 590 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco on Thursday, September 23, 2010 between the hours of 5 to 10 p.m. for a fantastic dinner. 25 percent of your meal cost will be donated to the Alice Chavez Pardini Education Advancement Grant. For reservations, call Chevys at 415-621-8200. Please contact Liz Klein at 650-576-9354 or Peter Pardini at 415-990-9202 if you have any questions regarding this fundraiser. See you their.

The Greater San Joaquin Valley Chapter, CCB is proud to present Dining In The Dark, a fun and educational experience. Guests will be treated to a catered meal. There will be a silent and a live auction, a demonstration of audio description for movies, and more. The event will be held on October 1, 2010 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at the Piccadilly Inn - University in the Ambassador room. The address is 4961 N. Cedar Ave., Fresno, CA 93726. Tickets are $35.00 per person, meal choices are chicken, Tritip or vegetarian. For more information or to reserve your ticket call Mary Beth Randall at 559-224-7999.

Audio cassette tape recording of State Voter Information Guide for the November 2, 2010 general election are now available. To obtain these, free of charge, please call 916-657-2166.

The Future of Disability Rights is at Your Door: The RespectABILITY Conference will be held on October 22, 2010, at the Burbank Marriott Hotel Convention Center, Burbank, California. The RespectABILITY Conference is a disability rights conference that is held biennially for individuals with all types of disabilities who reside in the State of California, leading community organizations and state and local elected officials. The conference is organized and sponsored by various disability rights advocacy groups throughout the state, led by a steering committee that includes the State Independent Living Council, Disability Rights California and the Disability Rights Legal Center. The purpose of the conference is to educate people with disabilities and leaders of disability-related agencies and organizations about current civil rights law affecting people with disabilities. Further, the conference will provide self-advocacy skills and tools to consumers with disabilities who need access to services, public places and education so that the consumers can become effective advocates for their own disability-related rights. The conference will also provide training in legislative advocacy techniques and best practices in benefits, employment rights, housing rights and legislative advocacy. For more information about the RespectABILITY Conference, call Sasha Yu at 213-252-7438.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

September 10, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on September 10, and will be updated on September 17. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Are you all ready for the first convention in San Diego in 15 years? Come and join the party! You can make reservations now. The San Diego La Jolla Marriott is now taking reservations for the CCB Fall 2010 room block for Thursday, October 28th through Sunday, October 31st at the group rate of $99 including tax. You are highly encouraged to make your room reservation immediately if you have not yet done so. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "CCB Fall 2010" convention in October 2010 at the "San Diego, La Jolla Marriott Hotel". The total single or double occupancy room rate per night is $99 including tax. The hotel recommends that callers use 1-800-228-9290 when calling to place reservations.
To place your transportation reservations: Call 800-974-8885 to book a discounted reservation for Super Shuttle/ Cloud 9. The code to use when placing your discounted transportation reservation is NNU7M. This code works for all transportation (Amtrak, Greyhound or San Diego Airport). You will be given a reservation confirmation number when you place your transportation reservations. You will also be informed as to where to go to meet the shuttle van when you arrive at these locations.
Here are the addresses of the pick up locations:
Amtrak: 1050 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego
Airport: San Diego Airport off of North Harbor Drive, San Diego
Greyhound: 120 West Broadway, San Diego
If you wish to be a visiting user of San Diego Para-Transit (MTS) services while in San Diego you must call "ADA Ride" to register, and receive fare information, by October 15th. Call 1-877-232-7433 for English or Spanish callers. Fare information will be provided when you call.

From Tuan Nguyen: I would like to have a male roommate for the coming Fall CCB Convention, so we can both slit up the total three-night-stay costs from 28th to 31st of October. Having a guide dog in the room is absolutely fine with me. If anyone is interested, please either email at nguyeneagle003@hotmail.com or call me at 916-529-2320.

From Frank Welte, CCB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs: Please note that the CCB Capitol Report updated as of September 8 is available on our toll-free line at 800-221-6359. It will also be available soon on the CCB web site at www.ccbnet.org This fall, Californians will elect a new governor, several new statewide officials, and many new members of the State Legislature. With so many new leaders in Sacramento the time will be right for us to develop new partnerships, to launch new initiatives and to revive old ones.
We would like your suggestions for issues that we might address with the Legislature and with the various state agencies in the coming year. We are beginning to plan the CCB legislative agenda for 2011. We hope to settle on our list of priorities at our Governmental Affairs Committee meeting which will take place on October 30 during our fall convention, so we can be ready to present our concerns at the start of the next session of the Legislature.
Please send your suggestions to Donna Pomerantz, Governmental Affairs Committee Chair and/or to Frank Welte, Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs. You may also wish to submit your ideas to the CCB Resolutions Committee, so they can be discussed by our members at the fall convention. Donna Pomerantz, Chair Governmental Affairs Committee
Cell phone: (626) 233-2991 Email: dmpomerantz@earthlink.net
Frank Welte, Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs
Work Phone: 916-441-2100 Cell Phone: 650-576-4177
Work Email: frank.welte@ccbnet.org

The Redwood Empire Council in Santa Rosa invites you to their annual picnic. It will be held at the Earle Baum Center in Santa Rosa on Saturday September 18th from 1-4. Cost is $5 towards meat and a potluck item. There will be music, bring an instrument if you want to join in. Contact Beryl Brown at 707-636-0082 to RSVP and for more information.

Disability Rights Advocates in Berkeley has filed a lawsuit against the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) and the National Park Service, seeking to force them to eliminate barriers to access experienced by people with mobility and vision disabilities when they visit GGNRA parks and facilities. If you have encountered any access barriers at GGNRA and would like to share your experience with us, or would like more information about the lawsuit, please contact Alicia Reyes or Raziya Brumfield at Disability Rights Advocates.
Email: Alicia Reyes: areyes@dralegal.org
Raziya Brumfield: rbrumfield@dralegal.org
Phone: (510) 665-8644

Job Title: Adaptive Technology Instructor
Classification: Non-Exempt/Full-Time
General Description: The essential functions of the job are to teach all aspects of adapted computer and rehabilitation technology use to Society clients, to maintain expertise in all instructed programs and upgrades, and be a motivated team player to teach blind students computer skills using adaptive equipment and techniques to enhance computer competence and effectiveness, especially in employment settings.
For consideration, please submit your resume along with a cover letter to:
SOCIETY FOR THE BLIND
1238 S. Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
Attn: Natalie Davison
Fax: 916-492-2483 Email: ndavison@societyfortheblind.org
Application deadline: Until the position is filled.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

September 3, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on September 3, and will be updated on September 10. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.

Are you all ready for the first convention in San Diego in 15 years? Come and join the party! You can make reservations now. The San Diego La Jolla Marriott is now taking reservations for the CCB Fall 2010 room block for Thursday, October 28th through Sunday, October 31st at the group rate of $99 including tax. You are highly encouraged to make your room reservation immediately if you have not yet done so. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "CCB Fall 2010" convention in October 2010 at the "San Diego, La Jolla Marriott Hotel". The total single or double occupancy room rate per night is $99 including tax. The hotel recommends that callers use 1-800-228-9290 when calling to place reservations.
To place your transportation reservations: Call 800-974-8885 to book a discounted reservation for Super Shuttle/ Cloud 9. The code to use when placing your discounted transportation reservation is NNU7M. This code works for all transportation (Amtrak, Greyhound or San Diego Airport). You will be given a reservation confirmation number when you place your transportation reservations. You will also be informed as to where to go to meet the shuttle van when you arrive at these locations.
Here are the addresses of the pick up locations:
Amtrak: 1050 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego
Airport: San Diego Airport off of North Harbor Drive, San Diego
Greyhound: 120 West Broadway, San Diego
If you wish to be a visiting user of San Diego Para-Transit (MTS) services while in San Diego you must call "ADA Ride" to register, and receive fare information, by October 15th. Call 1-877-232-7433 for English or Spanish callers. Fare information will be provided when you call.

From Alexa Golden: I am seeking 2 roommates female, no guide dog preferred, and no smoking for the fall convention. I will be arriving on October 29th and staying until the 31st. If you are interested please call me at 310-487-9671.

From Frank Welte, CCB Director of Advocacy and governmental affairs: Please note that the CCB Capitol Report updated as of September 1 is available evenings and weekends on our toll-free line at 800-221-6359, and it will be posted soon on the CCB web site at www.ccbnet.org

East Los Angeles CCB Chapter will be holding their annual picnic on September 11, 2010 from 11:00 to 3 p.m. Please come and bring your family friends and others to this fun and yummy day of food and door prizes. The cost is $10.00 per person. There will also be music for your dancing pleasure. The address is 1226 S. McBride Avenue, East Los Angeles. For further information call Marie Herrera at 818-894-3722 or email at marieh@gte.net

From Marie C. Palmeri, Legislative Chair with the SGVCCB and the Vice President of the East San Gabriel League of Women Voters ESGLWV: Remember that October 18,2010 will be the last day to register to vote for the November 2, 2010 election. If you have not been voting, it is a good idea to check that you are still on the Registrar Recorder's Office of your local voting area. Re-register by obtaining a Voter Registration form from your local Post Office or your public library. Your local Voter Registrar Recorder's Office can mail you a voter registration form as well

The Access Advisors of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco invites the disability community to its 2010 Open House and Disability Arts Festival on Saturday, October 2, 2010, from 10 AM to 3 PM, at the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park. Activities will include a slide show of art by people with disabilities, performances, an art-making studio, a disability culture presentation, and docent tours of the museum's collections. Admission is free if reservations are made before September 27, 2010. Contact Tish Brown at 415-750-7645 or email at tbrown@famsf.org

Interviews and questionnaires with parents in your home
Participating in a planning meeting for your son/daughter
Attending two education workshops at Support for Families
Parents receive: a total of $110 - $140 for study completion.

If you are interested in learning more about this study, please call Lucy Fisher, RN, PhD or Kate Topolski at 415-476-4659 or e-mail Lucy Fisher at Lucy.Fisher@nursing.ucsf.edu

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

August 27, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on August 27, and will be updated on September 3. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Jeff Thom: If you, your family members, neighbors, or friends are employed with the state or a local government it is the time of year for charity giving campaigns. Urge everyone you know to consider designating the California Council of the Blind as the charity to whom their donations will be sent. In these troubled economic times, CCB is doing everything it can to maintain its core services and receiving funding from these charitable giving campaigns is another important means by which we can help to meet our revenue needs. So please, get the word out and help CCB.

Are you all ready for the first convention in San Diego in 15 years? Come and join the party! You can make reservations now. The San Diego La Jolla Marriott is now taking reservations for the CCB Fall 2010 room block for Thursday, October 28th through Sunday, October 31st at the group rate of $99 including tax. You are highly encouraged to make your room reservation immediately if you have not yet done so. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "CCB Fall 2010" convention in October 2010 at the "San Diego, La Jolla Marriott Hotel". The total single or double occupancy room rate per night is $99 including tax. The hotel recommends that callers use 1-800-228-9290 when calling to place reservations.
To place your transportation reservations: Call 800-974-8885 to book a discounted reservation for Super Shuttle/ Cloud 9. The code to use when placing your discounted transportation reservation is NNU7M. This code works for all transportation (Amtrak, Greyhound or San Diego Airport). You will be given a reservation confirmation number when you place your transportation reservations. You will also be informed as to where to go to meet the shuttle van when you arrive at these locations.
Here are the addresses of the pick up locations:
Amtrak: 1050 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego
Airport: San Diego Airport off of North Harbor Drive, San Diego
Greyhound: 120 West Broadway, San Diego
If you wish to be a visiting user of San Diego Para-Transit (MTS) services while in San Diego you must call "ADA Ride" to register, and receive fare information, by October 15th. Call 1-877-232-7433 for English or Spanish callers. Fare information will be provided when you call.

All are welcome to come join the San Gabriel Valley Chapter of CCB at their September 4th meeting from 11:30 AM to 2 PM. The meeting location is in the City of Glendora at Denny's and the address is 546 West Baseline Road and the cross street is Grand Ave. Our separate banquet room will be available starting at 11:00 AM that morning if you want to arrive early to have breakfast or lunch while catching up with old friends.
This month our guest speaker will be Chip Hazen, ADA Compliance Officer for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority. He will give an overview of LA Metro's rail program with a discussion of the safety features of Metro Rail; tips on how to find the signage and, how to more easily use Metro Rail. Questions are welcome throughout the presentation. Individual problems on Metro Bus or Rail will be addressed separately or after the meeting.

Do you need help with transition services for your son or daughter? We are looking for: Families with a teenager – young adult (14-25 years old) with complex health conditions, such as physical or behavioral health concerns or a developmental disability. The study offers assistance and education to parents in planning support services for their youth.
Participation involves:
Interviews and questionnaires with parents in your home
Participating in a planning meeting for your son/daughter
Attending two education workshops at Support for Families
Parents receive: a total of $110 - $140 for study completion.
If you are interested in learning more about this study, please call Lucy Fisher, RN, PhD or Kate Topolski at 415-476-4659 or e-mail Lucy Fisher at Lucy.Fisher@nursing.ucsf.edu

Junior Blind of America‘s STEP Mobile Learning presents an informative COLLEGE workshop.
When: Saturday, September 25, 2010, 12:00 – 3:00 pm (Family Seminar at 10am*)
Where: Center for the Blind, 5922 El Cajon Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92115
Come join us for an informative workshop on:
Scholarship opportunities and financial aid
The application process
Discussion of college experiences
DOR role
Resources for students with disabilities
Local college/university information provided
Question and answer time
Refreshments provided
Open to transition age DOR clients and their parents. For more information or to RSVP your attendance call Danny Olvera at 323-295-4555 ext 213. RSVP early, space is limited. Spanish speaker will be present.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

August 20, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on August 20, and will be updated on August 27. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Are you all ready for the first convention in San Diego in 15 years? Come and join the party! You can make reservations now. The San Diego La Jolla Marriott is now taking reservations for the CCB Fall 2010 room block for Thursday, October 28th through Sunday, October 31st at the group rate of $99 including tax. You are highly encouraged to make your room reservation immediately if you have not yet done so. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "CCB Fall 2010" convention in October 2010 at the "San Diego, La Jolla Marriott Hotel". The total single or double occupancy room rate per night is $99 including tax. The hotel recommends that callers use 1-800-228-9290 when calling to place reservations. To place your transportation reservations: Call 800-974-8885 to book a discounted reservation for Super Shuttle/ Cloud 9. The code to use when placing your discounted transportation reservation is NNU7M. This code works for all transportation (Amtrak, Greyhound or San Diego Airport). You will be given a reservation confirmation number when you place your transportation reservations. You will also be informed as to where to go to meet the shuttle van when you arrive at these locations.
Here are the addresses of the pick up locations:
Amtrak: 1050 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego
Airport: San Diego Airport off of North Harbor Drive, San Diego
Greyhound: 120 West Broadway, San Diego
If you wish to be a visiting user of San Diego Para-Transit (MTS) services while in San Diego you must call "ADA Ride" to register, and receive fare information, by October 15th. Call 1-877-232-7433 for English or Spanish callers. Fare information will be provided when you call.

From Tuan Nguyen: I would like to have a male roommate for the coming Fall CCB Convention, so we can both split the total three-night-stay costs from 28th to 31st of October. Having a guide dog in the room is absolutely fine with me. If anyone is interested, please either email at nguyeneagle003@hotmail.com or call me at 916-529-2320.

Come Have A Summer Fling with the Orange County CCB! Join the Orange County Chapter of the California Council of the Blind for Summer cool sandwiches and tasty treats Socializing – meet new and see old friends. Get an early "hands on" start at our holiday shopping fundraiser.
When: Saturday, August 28, 2010 from 11:30am – 3:30pm.
Where: First Reform Church of Anaheim (served by LA and Orange County Access) 530 North Dale Ave, Anaheim, CA 92806.
Cost: $15 donation at the door (includes one door prize ticket)
RSVP by August 21st to Andrea Pitsenbarger at 714-921-0289.

Have you ever wanted to experience what it feels like to sail on the waters of our wonderful ocean? Have you gone sailing and absolutely loved the experience? The San Gabriel Valley Chapter has been told by the Women's Sailing Association who sponsors this event every year that we may be able to accommodate a few more people this year. The event will take place on Sunday, September 12, 2010. If you would like to be placed on the waiting list, please call Kelly at 310-453-1142 or e-mail her at kelpam@earthlink.net to let her know of your interest. She will contact you after September 1st to let you know if there is space for you to attend. This will be a first come first serve event so be sure to contact her as soon as you decide you would like to be placed on the waiting list for this event. You can only get on the list by touching base with Kelly. Thank you, The San Gabriel Valley Chapter.

We can help with your energy bill. You may be eligible for a one-time payment up to $1,500 Authorized by the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC) and made possible with partial funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) Has partnered with The Salvation Army through the Temporary Energy Assistance for Families (TEAF) program to provide financial relief for families experiencing unplanned hardships. Contact The Salvation Army today at 1-800-933-9677 to see if you qualify. Program expires September 21, 2010.

The Equipment Program Advisory Committee (EPAC), of the Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program (DDTP) is now accepting applications for one Senior Citizen Community Representative. Committee members play an important role in providing valuable input from a diverse group of California citizens by working with the DDTP and the State of California. For more information please visit http://ddtp.cpuc.ca.gov/default.aspx?id=1075
The application. Alternate formats of the flyer or application can be requested by contacting the Committee Coordinator at Voice (510) 302-1110, TTY: (510) 302-1150, VP (510) 545-4791 or send an e-mail to karen@ddtp.org Application deadline: Friday, September 24, 2010.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

August 13, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on August 13, and will be updated on August 20. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Hot, hot, hot- Get your fall sweepstakes tickets while they're hot! Prizes include a two-night stay at Marriott La Jolla, a two-night stay with theatre pass for Harrah's or Harvey's in Lake Tahoe and a grand prize of $500. This is a great fundraiser to show support for CCB and your local chapter- tickets are just one dollar each and half of the ticket sales price goes back to your chapter. The drawing will be held on October 30th, at the fall convention, and you do not have to be present to win. If your chapter needs more tickets, please contact Lily at the CCB office to have more tickets mailed to you: 800-221-6359 or

Blind Students of California offers a $100 stipend to attend the fall CCB Convention: Do you want to attend the fall CCB convention in San Diego, but money is a little short? You may be in luck. Blind Students of California (BSC) is offering one $100 stipend to attend the CCB fall convention. Qualified applicants should be current students, legally blind, and first time CCB convention attendees. You must also not be a scholarship winner, or a chapter delegate for the fall. The BSC board asks that you attend both the BSC program and the CCB banquet. We also encourage you to attend all CCB general sessions. After the convention, we ask that you write a short article for the Blind Californian about your experience at the convention, in consultation with the BSC president. Qualified candidates will participate in a short telephone interview with the BSC officers. The application deadline is September 15. If you are interested, please submit an accessible document (a text file or Word 2003 document), to leena.salim@gmail.com
You should include your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, school, and major. In addition, please submit a short essay about why you think BSC should award you the $100 stipend to attend the convention.

For Sale: Flipper Closed Circuit Television System (CCTV) AND X-Y board. The Flipper is a standalone CCTV which can also plug into a computer if desired, that is portable and lightweight. The unit consists of the main unit, a 7-inch screen, camera and power supply, which all fits neatly into its carrying case for easy travel. The camera is auto focus so can see both near and far and can be used in a wide range of applications from reading the blackboard in a classroom, to working on small electronics devices magnified on screen. You can also read and write using the Flipper. The X-Y stand will sit on a desk on which you place the camera, which then will operate through an extra lens mounted on the X-Y board to double the magnification of the Flipper. Something like this is very useful for map reading. The CCTV can be battery-operated (rechargeable) or AC operated. This comes in its original box with instructions. Original price of the Flipper was $2,495, and original price of the X-Y board was another $400. Asking $1,200 plus shipping to anywhere in the continental United States. For more information, call Bill at 626-821-0437 or 626-610-6820. Local pickup in the Los Angeles/San Gabriel Valley area can also be arranged.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

August 6, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on August 6, and will be updated on August 13. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From the Yosemite Gateway Chapter CCB: BBQ Chicken & Ribs Dinner To Go - $10, Wednesday, August 11, 2010, 3:30 – 6:00pm. Pick-up dinner at COVE - 2475 Canal Street, Merced. Email yosemitegatewayccb@gmail.com or call 209-617-2664 for tickets.

On Saturday Oct 9th Provide a Ride Motorcycle Ride for the blind & sight impaired will be holding its 6th annual event. We will be riding for about an hour and a half through the canyons and hills of Orange County. The event location is Cooks Corner in Trabuco Canyon near Mission Viejo in Orange County. Access does come to this address. This is a non- profit/non-fund raising event. In order to become a part of this 'just for fun' day, anyone interested MUST sign up first by emailing Michele at flygirl72759@att.net or calling 949-650-6087. If you do not sign up, there will not be a rider for you. The deadline for getting your name on the list is Sept. 10th. You can also call or write to get more information on the ride.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

July 30, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on July 30, and will be updated on August 6. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Hot, hot, hot- Get your fall sweepstakes tickets while they’re hot! Prizes include a two-night stay at Marriott La Jolla, a two-night stay with theatre pass for Harrah’s or Harvey’s in Lake Tahoe and a grand prize of $500. This is a great fundraiser to show support for CCB and your local chapter- tickets are just one dollar each and half of the ticket sales price goes back to your chapter. The drawing will be held on October 30th, at the fall convention, and you do not have to be present to win. If your chapter needs more tickets, please contact Lily at the CCB office to have more tickets mailed to you: 800-221-6359 or lily.mccray@ccbnet.org

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

July 23, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on July 23, and will be updated on July 30. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Jeff Thom: It is with regret that I report that Alice Parkinson, a long-time CCB member from Orange County, died on June 23. Alice was incredibly dedicated to this organization. Alice was never shy about letting people know what a fine organization we are. She will be deeply missed.

From Frank Welte, CCB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs: Please note that the CCB Legislative Report updated July 7 is available on our toll-free line at 800-221-6359 and on the CCB web site at www.ccbnet.org/leginfo

From Christy Crespin, President, Active Blind Inland Valleys California Council of the Blind: Please come to our chapter meeting on Saturday, July 24, from noon to 2:00 p.m. at the Loma Linda VA hospital cafeteria on the second floor. We will be talking about the ACB convention, bringing information about resources and exhibitors, and hopefully, finishing up our vote on the Constitution and Bylaws. We will also be talking about a possible beach trip activity for August. Please remember that beginning September, our chapter meetings will be held the second Saturday of the month from noon to 2:00 p.m. Arrive early for lunch and socializing. I look forward to seeing you, and please bring a friend. Besides taking the OmniTrans or Riverside County Para-transit, you can take the RTA 25 or the OmniTrans 19, 9, or 2 to the VA hospital on Benton and Barton Road.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

July 2, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on July 2, and will be updated on July 9. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Join the epic battle between that immovable object, Team Pomerantz and that irresistible force, the Thominator, and make ACB the sure winner. If you're not participating in the second annual ACB Walk-A-Thon, to be held on July 10 at the ACB convention in Phoenix, you can help either the CCB president, known as the Thominator or CCB second vice president Donna Pomerantz in their struggle for supremacy by making a pledge to either one of them. You can either send a check made payable to The American Council of the Blind supporting Team Pomerantz (Donna or Mitch 626-233-2991) or the Thominator (Jeff Thom 916-995-3967). You can also make your pledge on line at http://www.acbwalk.com/ Give Jeff, Donna or Mitch a call if you need assistance with the forms or to obtain their addresses. This is a battle that everybody wins so "fight on."

From Jeff Thom, CCB president: One of the highlights of the ACB convention is the annual auction, which will be held on Wednesday July 14 at the Phoenix convention. State baskets will be the first items sold, and it would be great to show what we in CCB can put together from the bounty of California. If you would like to donate an item for the basket or cash to buy something for our basket, call me at 916-995-3967. Let's show the whole country how much ingenuity we have in California.

Dr. Michael Gorin at Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA is conducting a nationwide study on genetic and other risk factors that contribute to the development of age-related macular degeneration. You or members of your family may be eligible to participate in this observational study. This is NOT a treatment trial. If you wish to learn more about this study, you can go to: https://jseiclinres.jsei.ucla.edu/garm/ or call us TOLL-FREE at 1-800-286-8581. UCLA IRB # 08-11-008-11 Approval Date: July 10, 2009 Renewed annually.

Attention consumers with disabilities, help Disability Rights Advocates oppose energy utility rate increases.
California's biggest energy utilities are seeking to raise or redesign their rates in a way that will harm the state's low-income residents. Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) believes that the proposed changes will harm residential consumers with disabilities, many of whom live on a fixed income and rely on utilities more than the average Californian. DRA is opposing the proposals before the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). We are collecting individual consumer stories to help us persuade the CPUC to reject these rate increases. DRA believes that testimony reflecting the real-world impact of increased utility bills on individuals with disabilities is essential in providing the state's decision-makers and the public with a complete picture of the effects of proposed rate hikes. DRA is Seeking Stories from Consumers with Disabilities. If anyone in your household has a disability, we want to hear from you.

Do you struggle to pay your utility bills?
Would an increase in utility rates harm your ability to pay for all your monthly expenses?
Have you ever been forced to choose between paying your utility bill or a bill for another service? What choices have you made?

To share your story, please contact Zach Wiley or Alicia Reyes at Disability Rights Advocates.
Disability Rights Advocates
Email: Zach Wiley: zwiley@dralegal.org
Email: Alicia Reyes: areyes@dralegal.org
Phone: 510/665-8644 (same for both)
TTY: 510/665-8716

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

June 25, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on June25, and will be updated on July 2. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From CCB President Jeff Thom: "A very limited number of rooms have been made available for the ACB convention, July 10-17, at the convention hotel, the beautiful Phoenix Downtown Sheraton, at no charge to the individual. In order to take advantage of this opportunity, the person or persons must not have made previous plans to attend the Phoenix convention. Although I am not involved in the final selection, as CCB president, I am authorized to submit names of potential attendees. If you have never attended a convention, or have not done so in a long time, or if this opportunity would allow you to attend the convention, please let me know immediately either by e-mail at jsthom@comcast.net or by phone at 916-9953967. I will need various pieces of information that can be detailed when you communicate with me, including why you want to attend and the dates of your attendance. Remember that this does not include any other expenses, such as transportation and food. Because the convention will begin on July 10, you need to contact me as soon as possible to attempt to take advantage of this opportunity. Jeff Thom"

Join the epic battle between that immovable object, Team Pomerantz and that irresistible force, the Thominator, and make ACB the sure winner. If you're not participating in the second annual ACB Walk-A-Thon, to be held on July 10 at the ACB convention in Phoenix, you can help either the CCB president, known as the Thominator or CCB second vice president Donna Pomerantz in their struggle for supremacy by making a pledge to either one of them. You can either send a check made payable to The American Council of the Blind supporting Team Pomerantz (Donna or Mitch 626-233-2991) or the Thominator (Jeff Thom 916-995-3967) You can also make your pledge on line at http://www.acbwalk.com/. Give Jeff, Donna or Mitch a call if you need assistance with the forms or to obtain their addresses. This is a battle that everybody wins so "fight on."

From Tuan Nguyen: I have a complete braille textbook with tactile graphics of college-level trigonometry that I would like to give away to anyone is interested. The text's title is "Trigonometry, Eighth Edition" by Margaret L. Lila and copyright 2005 published by Pearson Addison Wesley. This text is an excellent resource for all college students and for some highly motivated high school students. Costs for shipping and handling are required for sending elsewhere, excluding the Sacramento region. If you are interested or have questions, please contact me at 916-529-2320.

Do you struggle to pay your utility bills?
Would an increase in utility rates harm your ability to pay for all your monthly expenses?
Have you ever been forced to choose between paying your utility bill or a bill for another service? What choices have you made?

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

June 18, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on June 18, and will be updated on June 25. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Join the epic battle between that immovable object, Team Pomerantz and that irresistible force, the Thominator, and make ACB the sure winner. If you're not participating in the second annual ACB Walk-A-Thon, to be held on July 10 at the ACB convention in Phoenix, you can help either the CCB president, known as the Thominator or CCB second vice president Donna Pomerantz in their struggle for supremacy by making a pledge to either one of them. You can either send a check made payable to The American Council of the Blind supporting Team Pomerantz (Donna or Mitch 626-233-2991) or the Thominator (Jeff Thom 916-995-3967) You can also make your pledge on line at http://www.acbwalk.com/ Give Jeff, Donna or Mitch a call if you need assistance with the forms or to obtain their addresses. This is a battle that everybody wins so "fight on."

From Jeff Thom, CCB President: One of the highlights of the ACB convention is the annual auction, which will be held on Wednesday July 14 at the Phoenix convention. State baskets will be the first items sold, and it would be great to show what we in CCB can put together from the bounty of California. If you would like to donate an item for the basket or cash to buy something for our basket, call me at 916-995-3967. Let's show the whole country how much ingenuity we have in California.

From Linda Samulski: Our Coachella Valley chapter meeting will be held Friday, June 25 at the Rock Garden Café. The time is 10:00 AM. The address is 777 S. Palm Canyon Dr. in Palm Springs. Our speaker this month will be Mary Borders from Sun line transportation services. For more information you may call Linda Samulski at 760-702-0879. Hope to see you there.

From Tuan Nguyen: I have a complete Braille textbook with tactile graphics of college-level trigonometry that I would like to give away to anyone is interested. The text's title is "Trigonometry, Eighth Edition" by Margaret L. Lila and copyright 2005 published by Pearson Addison Wesley. This text is an excellent resource for all college students and for some highly motivated high school students. Costs for shipping and handling are required for sending elsewhere, excluding the Sacramento region. If you are interested or have questions, please contact me at 916-529-2320.

For Sale: Geordy Glasses in hardly used condition, $2,000.00. Willing to trade for a BrailleNote. Please contact MaryAnn Haas at 510-525-7965 between 5 PM and 7 PM Monday through Friday.

Attention consumers with disabilities, help Disability Rights Advocates oppose energy utility rate increases. California's biggest energy utilities are seeking to raise or redesign their rates in a way that will harm the state's low-income residents. Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) believes that the proposed changes will harm residential consumers with disabilities, many of whom live on a fixed income and rely on utilities more than the average Californian. DRA is opposing the proposals before the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). We are collecting individual consumer stories to help us persuade the CPUC to reject these rate increases. DRA believes that testimony reflecting the real-world impact of increased utility bills on individuals with disabilities is essential in providing the state's decision-makers and the public with a complete picture of the effects of proposed rate hikes. DRA is seeking stories from consumers with disabilities. If anyone in your household has a disability, we want to hear from you.

Do you struggle to pay your utility bills?
Would an increase in utility rates harm your ability to pay for all your monthly expenses?
Have you ever been forced to choose between paying your utility bill or a bill for another service? What choices have you made?

To share your story, please contact Zach Wiley or Alicia Reyes at Disability Rights Advocates.
Email: Zach Wiley: zwiley@dralegal.org
Email: Alicia Reyes: areyes@dralegal.org
Phone: 510/665-8644 (same for both) TTY: 510/665-8716

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

June 11, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on June 11, and will be updated on June 18. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

On June 13, fundraising co-chair John Ross will be carousing in Bakersfield in celebration of that birthday of his. Here's wishing him a wild and happy birthday.

Join the epic battle between that immovable object, Team Pomerantz and that irresistible force, the Thominator, and make ACB the sure winner. If you're not participating in the second annual ACB Walk-A-Thon, to be held on July 10 at the ACB convention in Phoenix, you can help either the CCB president, known as the Thominator or CCB second vice president Donna Pomerantz in their struggle for supremacy by making a pledge to either one of them. You can either send a check made payable to The American Council of the Blind supporting Team Pomerantz (Donna or Mitch 626-233-2991) or the Thominator (Jeff Thom 916-995-3967) You can also make your pledge on line at http://www.acbwalk.com/ Give Jeff, Donna or Mitch a call if you need assistance with the forms or to obtain their addresses. This is a battle that everybody wins so "fight on."

The East L.A. Chapter of the CCB will have their annual Mexican Dinner Fundraiser on June 19, 2010 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The address is 1226 S. McBride Avenue, East Los Angeles. For more information call President Charles Nabarrete at (626) 338-8106 or Marie Herrera at (818) 808-2300. If you can please RSVP by June 15, so that we make sure that we have enough food and drink. Please note the prices below for all beverages and if you would like to purchase a plate to go. See you all there!

$13 for just food, $2.00 Negra Modella imported beer, $1.50 generic beer, and $1.00 sodas. $.50 water and If anyone wants to take a plate home it will cost $6.00.

P.S. there will be a $50/50 drawing, as well as, other raffles and of course the big raffle for the Basket of Joy which will be filled with many liquid spirits and munchies and more.

Attention shoppers with disabilities:
Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) is investigating complaints from people with disabilities regarding a practice at Ross Stores of refusing to provide assistance to customers with disabilities. If you are a person with a disability who has shopped at a Ross Store, we would like to hear from you about your experience seeking customer service, if any. We would appreciate hearing about your shopping experiences at Ross Stores. PLEASE CONTACT Jon Simeone at jsimeone@dralegal.org,/ or 510-665-8644

The LightHouse invites you to celebrate with us.

Location: Enchanted Hills Camp
What: 60 Summers of Community and Connection!
When: Saturday, July 3rd
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

RSVP required. Transportation is available from the Lighthouse and Del Norte BART station by reservation only. Contact Rich Russo at 415-694-7352 to RSVP and/or to reserve your spot on the bus.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

June 4, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on June 4, and will be updated on June 11. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Frank Welte, CCB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs: Unfortunately, our bill AB 1787, which would have required proposed state regulations to also be provided in a narrative format in order to make it possible for those with visual impairments to understand them, did not make it through the Assembly Appropriations Committee, due to cost considerations. The good news, however, is that the author, Assembly member Swanson, has already committed to carry it again next year. Also, we have already been working on possible changes that could address the cost issue. We have been unable to get our agency board percentage bill, AB 2430, passed by the Assembly. In order to be taken up by the Senate the bill would have needed to be approved by the Assembly no later than June 4.

Thanks to all those who worked on behalf of these bills, and with everyone's efforts, we will be successful next year.

June 8 is Election Day in California. Don't forget to vote, and while you're at it, be sure to write down the numbers of your State Assembly, State Senate, and U.S. House of Representatives districts. Every CCB member needs to know who represents him or her in Sacramento and Washington.

Important Election Reminders: June 8 is Election Day. Polling places are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you vote by mail, your ballot must be received by the Registrar of Voters office or any polling place within your county by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Postmarks do not count.

Come Rock Out with the BSC:

Want to be a star for a day? Here is your chance. You are hereby invited to BSC's karaoke day.

Date: June 12, 2010
Time: 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Where: 12438 212th Street Lakewood, CA
Price: $10 (This includes both karaoke and pizza.)

This karaoke fundraiser is open to people of all ages. No alcohol will be allowed on the premises. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Leena Bandy at 818-987-4325 or by e-mail leena.salim@gmail.com

$13 for just food, $2.00 Negra Modella imported beer, $1.50 generic beer, and $1.00 sodas. $.50 water and If anyone wants to take a plate home it will cost $6.00.

P.S. there will be a $50/50 drawing, as well as, other raffles and of course the big raffle for the Basket of Joy which will be filled with many liquid spirits and munchies and more.

Northern California Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (NCAER) and The Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired present: a Half-day Conference and NCAER Awards Ceremony and Officer Installation Adaptive Technology: In the Mainstream, and Beyond!

Date: Thursday June 10, 2010
Time: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: The Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 214 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: (415) 431-1481
Web site: www.lighthouse-sf.org
Price: Reregister before 6/1/2010: Free for AER Members & Students / $20 for non-members
At The Door: $10 for AER Members & Students / $30 for non-members

For those seeking Continuing Education Credits, we have applied for 2.5 hr. units through ACVREP.

The LightHouse invites you to celebrate with us.

Location: Enchanted Hills Camp
What: 60 Summers of Community and Connection!
When: Saturday, July 3rd
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

RSVP required. Transportation is available from the Lighthouse and Del Norte BART station by reservation only. Contact Rich Russo at 415-694-7352 to RSVP and/or to reserve your spot on the bus.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

May 28, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on May 28, and will be updated on June 4. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Are you ready to begin a wonderful summer? Come relax and enjoy your meal with the Golden Gate Chapter at Buca di Beppo restaurant, 855 Howard Street, San Francisco, on Saturday, June 5, 2010 from 11 AM to 1 PM. There will be speakers, prizes and responsible no host drinking. Remember there is limited seating, your RSVP must be given to Gilda Chico at 415-337-0937 for your meal reservation and transportation by no later than Friday, June 4th. Cost is $20 for the meal, transportation and a $2 chapter donation.

From Mark Oswald: I am looking for a roommate for the ACB convention this summer in Phoenix to split the room expenses. Must be a non-smoker who doesn't mind dogs. You can contact me at 925-674-1264 or mosw17@live.com

From Joel Isaac, CCB Webmaster: Recordings from the Spring 2010 CCB Convention in Burlingame are now available on the CCB website at: http://www.ccbnet.org/ConventionArchives.htm. Thanks to all who helped with the convention and these recordings.

Election Alert: Tuesday, June 8 is Election Day! Although voters have the right to vote privately and independently, you may ask for help. You may choose up to two people of any age to help you mark your ballot. However, they may not be your employer or union representative, or an agent of either.

For Sale: Geordy Glasses in hardly used condition, $4,000.00. Willing to trade for a BrailleNote. Please contact MaryAnn Haas at 510-525-7965 between 5 PM and 7 PM Monday through Friday.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

May 21, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on May 21, and will be updated on May 28. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Gabe Griffith, Secretary CCB: On May 6 the CCB board passed the pre-convention board meeting minutes from April 15. Anyone who would like to obtain a copy of these minutes may do so by contacting the CCB office either by phone at 800-221-6359 or by email at ccotb@ccbnet.org

From Jeff Thom, CCB President: One of the highlights of the ACB convention is the annual auction, which will be held on Wednesday, July 14, at the Phoenix convention. State baskets will be the first items sold, and it would be great to show what we in CCB can put together from the bounty of California. If you would like to donate an item for the basket or cash to buy something for our basket, call me at 916-995-3967. Let's show the whole country how much ingenuity we have in California.

From Frank Welte, CCB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs: The CCB Capitol Day on May 18 was a great success. 31 CCB members and friends took part. The majority were attending this event for the first time. After an informative legislative briefing and a pleasant picnic lunch, participants visited the offices of almost all of the members of the California Assembly and State Senate. Thanks are in order for Ed Branch and Lily McCray who provided clerical and logistical support, Joni Patche, who prepared lunch and especially to our Capitol Day sponsors, Mr. Art Takahara and the Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of California.

From Linda Samulski: Please join us for our Coachella Valley CCB meeting on May 28th at 10;00 a.m. It will be held at the Rock Garden Café, 777 South Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA. For more information you may call Linda Samulski at 760-770-1700 or email desertflower@dc.rr.com

Are you ready to begin a wonderful summer? Come relax and enjoy your meal with the Golden Gate Chapter at Buca di Beppo restaurant, 855 Howard Street, San Francisco, on June 5, 2010 from 11 AM to 1 PM. There will be speakers, prizes and responsible no host drinking. Remember there is limited seating, your RSVP must be given to Gilda Chico at 415-337-0937 for your meal reservation and transportation by no later than Friday, May 21st. Cost is $20 for the meal, transportation and a $2 chapter donation.

From Ardis Bazyn: The Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter of CCB invites YOU to our Pizza fundraiser at Shakey's Pizza, 1300 North San Fernando Road, Cross street: Bethany, Burbank, CA, May 27, 2010 6 to 9 PM. A portion of each food purchase will be donated to our organization. Please email Ardis Bazyn at abazyn@bazyncommunications.com for the flyer for event.

For Sale: Geordy Glasses in hardly used condition, $4,000.00. Willing to trade for a BrailleNote. Please contact MaryAnn Haas at 510-525-7965 between 5 PM and 7 PM Monday through Friday.

Election Alert: California's Primary Election is June 8, 2010. If you want to vote by mail, the deadline to mail in an application is Tuesday, June 1st. Applications are on the back of your Sample Ballot. After June 1st, you will need to request a ballot in person at your county's Registrar of Voters office.

Job announcements within the Department of Rehabilitation: Deputy Director, Independent Living and External Affairs. Type: Exempt Exempt Positions - Eligibility to apply for Exempt positions is open to any individual who meets the minimum qualifications stated on the job announcement. Exempt positions are not covered by civil service laws and rules and therefore are not subject to civil service requirements. Please follow the link below to view the job posting http://jobs.spb.ca.gov/bull2/exemptpdfs/05112010_1.pdf

Staff Services Manager II-SUPV
Independent Living and Assistive Technology Section
Type: State Civil Service
Who may apply: Candidates who are currently in the SSM II classification or are currently on the SSM II the reachable list (must submit a copy of the examination results) or have lateral transfer eligibility and will consider T&D.
Please follow the link below to view the job posting
http://jobs.spb.ca.gov/wvpos/more_info.cfm?recno=427972

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

May 14, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on May 14, and will be updated on May 21. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Ardis Bazyn: The Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter of CCB invites YOU to our Pizza fundraiser at Shakey's Pizza at 1300 N. San Fernando Road, Cross street: Bethany, in Burbank, CA on May 27, 2010; 6-9 PM. A portion of each food purchase will be donated to our organization. Please email Ardis Bazyn at abazyn@bazyncommunications.com for the flyer for event.

For Sale: Jordy Glasses in hardly used condition, $4,000.00. Willing to trade for a BrailleNote. Please contact MaryAnn Haas at 510-525-7965 between 5 PM and 7 PM Monday through Friday.

From Mark Oswald: I am selling a Pacmate with a qwerty keyboard. It is about 5 years old but in very good condition. In the original box. No headphones, but I have all the other cables and software. Asking $800. Contact me at 925-674-1264 or by email at Mosw17@live.com

Election Alert: You must be registered to vote. The deadline to register for the June 8, 2010, Primary Election is May 24, 2010. You must re-register any time you move, change your name, or to change your political party affiliation. Contact your county's Registrar of Voters Office to get registered.

Sutter Health is recruiting a Disability Access Consultant to join its Disability Compliance Program. The Accessibility Consultant will assist in the System-wide Disability Compliance Program Development and Implementation. The Consultant will assist the Accessibility Compliance Manager with all aspects of implementation of creating a disability access program with specific responsibilities for creating effective disability access for patients and visitors. Responsibilities will include assistance with training, guiding, and advising affiliate staff on methods of providing accessibility to Sutter Health facilities and services (including physical, operational, and communication access). Travel to Sutter Health affiliates throughout California is required.

Qualifications:
A Bachelors degree is required. The successful applicant will have at least 8 years of experience integrating the needs of patients and visitors with disabilities with health care including experience providing training and instruction on providing accessible health care.

Skills:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills - creation of effective presentations and informational collateral. Demonstrated knowledge of current public policy and legal issues related to disability access in health care. The ideal candidate will also have experience evaluating accessibility in the provision of health care, incorporating best practices and legal standards.

The Primary Location is in Sacramento, California with travel to Sutter Health Affiliate locations throughout northern California located at the Sutter Health Home Office. All Candidates Accepted. The position is exempt with Benefits. The position can be found at http://www.sutterhealth.org/employment/jobsearch/ Position announcement: SHSS-1004008.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

May 7, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on May 7, and will be updated on May 14. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Frank Welte, CCB director of advocacy and governmental affairs: We have learned that Joe Xavier will be appointed as the new Deputy Director, Special Services, Blind and Visually Impaired and Deaf and Hearing Impaired, Department of Rehabilitation. Joe had previously been filling this position on an interim basis. Announcing the 2010 CCB Capitol Day:

When: Tuesday, May 18, 2010, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Where: California State Capitol, Sacramento
Sponsor: California Council of the Blind

Schedule:
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Legislative briefing
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, lunch provided by CCB
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, visits to legislators' offices

For more information and to register for this event Please call Frank Welte at the CCB office (800) 221-6359, or send Frank Email at frank.welte@ccbnet.org

From Mitch Pomerantz, ACB president:
Colleagues,

Our last Office Hours call was far too many weeks ago. At that time I indicated that our next one would be held on a week night evening in order to provide an opportunity for those who's Saturdays are taken up with family and/or other pursuits to participate. Therefore, I am scheduling the next call on Tuesday evening, May 11th, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM PDT, 6:30 MDT, 7:30 CDT and 8:30 EDT. The call-in number is 218-862-6420, and the ID code is 183-9376. While I don't have a specific topic or topics in mind, I'm sure those of you who call in will have any number of things you'd like to discuss. So, we'll talk on the 11.

From Debbie Barry: All of you who love to read, I would like to start a quarterly telephone conference for people to share and discuss books they've read and especially enjoyed. The books discussed or mentioned will be compiled into a list and submitted to the Blind Californian. The first telephone conference will take place on Tuesday, May 18 at 7:00 p.m. The number to call is 218-844-3388, with the code being, "Readers," (7323377). Those interested, but unable to call at that time can contact me either by phone at 818-997-9065, or by email at dmbookworm1025@roadrunner.com Please give us the following information: title and genre of book, reading mode (tape, Braille, digital book on BARD Bookshare or other) and a short synopsis and why you liked or didn't like the book. I look forward to hearing from many readers and book-lovers.

For Sale: Geordy Glasses in hardly used condition, $4,000.00. Willing to trade for a BrailleNote. Please contact MaryAnn Haas at 510-525-7965 between 5 PM and 7 PM Monday through Friday.

From Mark Oswald: I am selling a pacmate with a qwerty keyboard. It is about 5 years old but in very good condition. In original box. No headphones but I have all other cables and software. Asking $800. You can contact me at 925-674-1264 or by email at Mosw17@live.com

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

April 30, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on April 30, and will be updated on May 7. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

We would like to wish a happy birthday to our CCB president Jeff Thom. We're not sure how old he is but just put as many candles as you can on that cake without causing any house fires.

Dear CCB Members and Friends, The Braille Revival League of California has elected Steve Fort as its incoming president along with Keith Johnson as vice president and Katrina McKurdy member board of directors. As incoming president I welcome your input and participation. Please feel free to contact me by phone at 510-521-4386 or by e-mail at stevefort@att.net

When: Tuesday, May 18, 2010, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Where: California State Capitol, Sacramento
Sponsor: California Council of the Blind

Schedule:
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Legislative briefing
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, lunch provided by CCB
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, visits to legislators' offices

For more information and to register for this event Please call Frank Welte at the CCB office (800) 221-6359, or send Frank Email at frank.welte@ccbnet.org

Come Rock Out with the Blind Students of California (BSC). Want to be a star for a day? Here is your chance. You are hereby invited to BSC's karaoke day.

Date: June 12, 2010.
Time: 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Where: 12438 212th Street, Lakewood, CA.
Price: $10 (This includes both karaoke and pizza.)

Hello CCB members and families. We would like to invite all of you who would like to join us for a fundraiser on May 8th at the Loanstar Steak House in Long Beach. It will be from 11:00am to 3:00pm. There will be a $5.00 donation to the Greater Long Beach chapter of CCB. The price of your meal is $23.95 plus tax and 18% gratuity. Your meal will include a choice of one of the following: 14oz New York Steak, 16oz Prime Rib Filet and Shrimp, Salmon and Shrimp. You get one choice of any of the following: Texas Rice, Baked potato, Sweet potato, Steamed Vegetables or French Fries. Your meal comes with a salad with your choice of dressing and a soft drink or coffee or milk. There will be a 5050 at the restaurant which will benefit you and our chapter. The RSVP date is May 1st and you can call Rachele Goeman at 310-975-4745. The address for the steak house is 6575 East Pacific Coast Highway with the cross street being Second street in the city of Long Beach. Hope to see all of you there.

The members of the Bay View Chapter cordially invite you to attend their activities on May 8th, 2010. We will meet at the Lions Blind Center, 3834 Opal Street, Oakland, CA at 1:30 PM. We will hold our business meeting with a speaker from the League of Women Voters who will enlighten us on issues coming up on the election. From 5 PM to 8:30 PM we will be having our fundraiser. The party begins at 5 PM with dinner to be served at 6 PM. the cost is $10. We will be serving lasagna, green salad, garlic bread, green beans and dessert. Please contact either Ida Johnson at 510-655-1982 or Cathie Skivers at 510-357-1986 by May 6th to make your reservations and be sure to let us know if you want vegetable or meat lasagna. We are looking forward to spending part or all of May 8th with you.

From Mark Oswald: I am selling a Pacmate with a qwerty keyboard. It is about 5 years old but in very good condition. In original box. No headphones but I have all other cables and software. Asking $800. You can contact me at 925-674-1264 or by email at Mosw17@live.com

Election Alert: If you are unable to sign your name and you own a signature stamp, you may register your stamp with your local Registrar of Voters Office so you can use it at the polling place or to sign your Vote by Mail envelope. For information on how to register your signature stamp, contact your county's Registrar of Voters Office.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

April 23, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on April 23, and will be updated on April 30. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Jeff Thom, CCB President: Well in excess of 200 CCB members and friends took the Bay Area by storm, in last weekend's convention at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Burlingame. Seminars, policymaking, great exhibits, and outstanding general sessions, as well as the camaraderie that every CCB convention provides, made this a very memorable convention. My thanks to all who attended and the many volunteers who assisted us. If you missed this one I hope you can attend our next convention in San Diego October 28-31. Details will soon follow, but its our first time in that wonderful city in more than a decade, and you won't want to miss it.

From Gene Lozano: At the Spring 2010 Board of Directors meeting it was voted to accept the Doubletree Sacramento 2011 and the Crowne Plaza San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Burlingame 2012 Spring convention bids. Other hotel properties considered were Sacramento Marriott, Rancho Cordova, Capitol Plaza Holiday Inn Sacramento and Arden West Hilton Sacramento. There are some CCB board members who have asked President Thom for the opportunity to reconsider the acceptance of the 2012 bid from the Crowne Plaza SFO. Their request is based on feedback received from convention attendees who do not want to return and have issues about how accessible the hotel is by ground transportation. Also, there have been concerns expressed by some members about the challenges that might be faced in getting around the Doubletree Sacramento hotel. President Thom and I would like to receive input from the membership, particularly those who attended the spring convention, as to their interest in returning to the Crowne Plaza SFO and to give their reasons. Additionally, if there is any input that members would like to offer about access needs at the Doubletree Sacramento Hotel it would be greatly appreciated by convention planners. Input is to be received no later than Friday, April 30th, 2010. Your input is to be submitted to the CCB office by phone 1-800-221-6359 or email at ccotb@ccbnet.org. All comments will be shared with CCB board members prior to a special meeting that will be held in early May. The CCB convention organizers and the Publication Committee are still interested and needing to receive your input on the formatting of the Braille, large print, audio cassette tape and electronic versions of future convention programs. Input is sought on items such as preferred large print font style, organization of the contents of the program, extent of information that should be provided on the hotel room amenities, etc. Input will still be accepted until Friday April 30th by calling the CCB office, 1-800-221-6359, or emailing ccotb@ccbnet.org Staff will take your input and provide it to convention organizers and the Publication Committee. The Publication Committee will have the primary responsibility to review the input and to make recommendations for changes to future convention programs.

When: Tuesday, May 18, 2010, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Where: California State Capitol, Sacramento
Sponsor: California Council of the Blind

Schedule:
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Legislative briefing
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, lunch provided by CCB
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, visits to legislators' offices

For more information and to register for this event Please call Frank Welte at the CCB office (800) 221-6359, or send Frank Email at frank.welte@ccbnet.org

Come Rock Out with the Blind Students of California (BSC). Want to be a star for a day? Here is your chance. You are hereby invited to BSC's karaoke day.

Date: June 12, 2010.
Time: 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Where: 12438 212th Street, Lakewood, CA.
Price: $10 (This includes both karaoke and pizza.)

There will be a 5050 at the restaurant which will benefit you and our chapter. The RSVP date is May 1st and you can call Rachele Goeman at 310-975-4745. The address for the steak house is 6575 East Pacific Coast Highway with the cross street being Second street in the city of Long Beach. Hope to see all of you there.

ELECTION ALERT: When you register to vote, you must pick a political party, or you may "Decline to State" a party affiliation. Decline to State voters are also known as "independent" and are not allowed to vote in any party's elections unless that party allows "independent" voters to do so. Contact your local Registrar of Voters Office if you want to check how you are currently registered.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

April 9, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on April 9, and will be updated on April 23. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Services for Frances Mannino are as follows: The services will take place on Wednesday, April 14 at the Forest Lawn Memorial Park at 1712 S. Glendale Ave., Glendale, CA 91205. The closest cross street to the park is East Cerritos. The phone number is 800-204-3131. The viewing is at the Church of the Recessional from 9 am-12 pm. The Graveside service will be held from 12:30 pm-1 pm. The memorial service will also be held at the Church of the Recessional from 2:30 pm-3:30 pm.

A memorial service for Connie Schoeman will be held at Lutheran Church in the Foothills, 1700 Foothill Blvd., La Canada, CA 91011, on Tuesday, April 20th at 10:00 AM. A luncheon will follow at the same location. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Vista Nova Renaissance Community, 531 Prescott Street, Pasadena, CA. 1-626-937-7419.

From Gabe Griffith, editor: Due to the CCB spring convention April 15-18 there will be no connection on April 16. The next connection will be on April 23.

From Gene Lozano, CCB convention planning committee chair: The California Council of the Blind is pleased to announce that some volunteers have been recruited to assist conventioneers to travel through the Millbrae Intermodal Station during the Spring 2010 convention. Also, for those who may not already know, the Crowne Plaza SFO has contracted a transportation provider to provide a complimentary shuttle service between the station and the hotel property.

The shuttle and volunteers will only be present at the station during the following days and times: Thursday, April 15th 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Friday, April 16th 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and Sunday, April 18th 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.

It is very critical for the convention organizers to know which conventioneers will be using the Millbrae Station, what transportation system they will be using and when they will be arriving at the Millbrae station.

This information is needed to position volunteers at Caltrain, BART or SamTrans loading areas upon the arrival of the trains or busses.

Prior to April 14th, please call the CCB office 1-800-221-6359, to provide the requested scheduling information. During the convention, if there is a change in your arrival time at the Millbrae Station, you will need to call the CCB volunteer desk 650 373 7070 starting at 12 noon on Thursday April 15th, to give the new arrival time. The call should be made a minimum of one hour before your arrival time.

The convention program is now online. You can find it at: http://www.ccbnet.org/conventions/con10a.htm

From Gabe Griffith, Resolutions Committee Co-chair: If you have any resolutions available please get them to me as soon as possible. If there is any way of submitting them prior to the convention we would greatly appreciate it. The deadline will be the close of general session on Friday evening of the convention but the earlier you can get them to us the better. Please send them to me at gabrielgriffith@gmail.com or call me with them at 916-505-8780. You may also give them to any member of the resolutions committee.

The LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired invites you to a reception to meet new LightHouse CEO, Bryan Bashin!
Date: Thursday, April 15th
Time: 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Location: the "West Bay Fireplace" room, First Floor Crowne Plaza SFO hotel
Hors d'oeuvres will be served. There will be one drink ticket with admittance with a no-host bar to follow.

Stop By The San Francisco Chapter's Corner Store Open in the Exhibit Hall during the CCB spring Convention in Burlingame! Pick up those handy travel items that fit perfectly in your purse or pocket such as hand sanitizer, tissues, batteries, etc! Buy munchies such as granola bars, cookies, chips or sugar-free treats for those long convention days! How about a neck wallet to hold your name tag, key and money or a sturdy, zippered tote bag to carry all your daily necessities! Enter our raffle for a chance at a $100 or $50 cash prize. You will be supporting the Alice Chavez-Pardini Education Advancement Grant annual scholarship, which is given by our chapter to a deserving student needing equipment to pursue their studies. And, if you find a Braille or large print mistake on our display board, you'll receive a complementary goody.

The CCB convention organizers and the Publication Committee are seeking your input on the formatting of the Braille, large print, audiocassette tape and electronic versions of future convention programs. Input is sought on items such as preferred large print font style, organization of the contents of the program, extent of information that should be provided on the hotel room amenities, etc. This announcement is to inform you that there will be two opportunities to provide input. The first opportunity will be during the Sunday morning, April 18th, Business Session which will start at 8:30 am following the 7:45 am Devotional Services. The second opportunity will be from Monday, April 19th through Friday April 30th by calling the CCB office, 1-800-221-6359, or emailing ccotb@ccbnet.org Staff will take your input and provide it to persons working on the fall convention program.

The California Telephone Access Program is providing Jitterbug Cell Phones at no cost to eligible Californians. There is no activation fee, no contract, the monthly service plans start at $14.99. Please call us toll free at 866-845-8761 for more information or visit www.ddtp.org/wireless/default.asp

Election Alert: Did you know that all polling places have voting equipment that is accessible to disabled voters including those with visual impairments? In addition, you may request audiotapes of State and local voter pamphlet information to review prior to Election Day. Contact your county's Registrar of Voters Office if you would like to receive audiotapes.

Join The Audio-Description Pioneers in Sacramento. Are you interested in live theater with audio-description in Sacramento? Would you like to come to the first ever live audio-described performance in our region? You are cordially invited to attend an audio-described performance of Little House on the Prairie. We are honored to have veteran audio-describer, Ms. Beth Crabb, from Nashville, Tennessee, who will be doing the audio-description for us. If you've never had the opportunity to attend a live audio-described performance, you'll be in for a real treat. If you have, you already know how much more you will enjoy the performance. When: April 24, 2010 at 2 PM Where: Community Center Theater, 1301 L. Street, Sacramento The ticket price is $23, and you may also purchase an additional ticket for one sighted companion at this discounted price. Headsets, of course, will be provided to enable you to listen to the audio-description. Please be aware that there are a limited number of headsets available, so please purchase your ticket and reserve your headset as soon as possible. Tickets must be ordered in advance through the Wells Fargo Pavilion Box Office, located at 1419 H. Street, either in person or by phone at 916-557-1999. When ordering your tickets, be sure to let the box office know that you are blind in order to reserve your headset and to obtain the special ticket price. Note: If you are attending with another blind or low vision person, let the box office know and you can share a "splitter" that enables you to use one headset for two visually impaired attendees, allowing for more attendees needing audio-description to participate. When you order your tickets, the box-office will ask for your contact information to keep on file for future audio-described events.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

April 2, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on April 2, and will be updated on April 9. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

A Celebration of the Life of Louis Preston. Friday, April 9, 2010, 2:00 - 4:00 pm. CSU Long Beach, the Pointe at the Walter Pyramid. Program: 2:15pm. Reception: 3:30 pm. For parking, call (562) 985-5158.

At the Crowne Plaza SFO hotel, the CCB room block for Thursday, April 15th has already been over sold and therefore there are no rooms available for that date at the group rate. Group rate rooms are still available for Friday, April 16th and Saturday, April 17th. You are highly encouraged to make your room reservations immediately if you have not yet done so. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "California Council of the Blind Convention in April 2010 at the Crowne Plaza SFO Hotel". The total cost per night is $99. The hotel recommends that callers use their local number 650-342-9200 when calling to place reservations. The convention announcement is now online. The address is http:www.ccbnet.org/conventions/con10a_announce.htm

Gloria Broderick is looking for a female, nonsmoking, (guide dogs okay) roommate for the spring convention. If you are interested please leave your name and contact number for Gloria at the CCB office 1-800-221-6359, she will contact you.

Marcie Knudson, Central Coast Low Vision Council chapter is seeking a non-smoking female roommate for the spring convention, (no guide dog users please). Call Marcie at 805-704-4712 between the hours of 11 AM and 8 PM and leave a message.

Hello to all, just a reminder that if you are planning to take our chartered bus to the spring convention in April, you must send your check or money order to the CCB office located at 1510 J Street, Suite 125, Sacramento, CA 95814. All checks and money orders should be made payable to the ACB Capital Chapter, CCB. Cost of bus is $45 round trip from Sacramento or $20.00 round trip from the bay area. There will be one bay area pick-up at the El Cerrito Bart station. Estimated time of arrival at the hotel is 11:30 AM on Thursday April 15. Payment must be received in the CCB office no later than April 5th. For additional information call Elena Thomason at 916-564-7117 or cell 916-224-6567. All Aboard!

From Gabe Griffith, Resolutions Committee co-chair: If you have any resolutions available please get them to me as soon as possible. If there is any way of submitting them prior to the convention we would greatly appreciate it. The deadline will be the close of general session on Friday evening of the convention but the earlier you can get them to us the better. Please send them to me at gabrielgriffith@gmail.com or call me with them at 916-505-8780. You may also give them to any member of the resolutions committee.

Stop By The San Francisco Chapter's Corner Store Open in the Exhibit Hall During the CCB spring Convention in Burlingame! Pick up those handy travel items that fit perfectly in your purse or pocket such as hand sanitizer, tissues, batteries, etc! Buy munchies such as granola bars, cookies, chips or sugar-free treats for those long convention days! How about a neck wallet to hold your name tag, key and money or a sturdy, zippered tote bag to carry all your daily necessities! Enter our raffle for a chance at a $100 or $50 cash prize. You will be supporting the Alice Chavez-Pardini Education Advancement Grant annual scholarship, which is given by our chapter to a deserving student needing equipment to pursue their studies. And, if you find a Braille or large print mistake on our display board, you'll receive a complementary goody.

The CCB convention organizers and the Publication Committee are seeking your input on the formatting of the Braille, large print, audiocassette tape and electronic versions of future convention programs. Input is sought on items such as preferred large print font style, organization of the contents of the program, extent of information that should be provided on the hotel room amenities, etc. This announcement is to inform you that there will be two opportunities to provide input. The first opportunity will be during the Sunday morning, April 18th, Business Session which will start at 8:30 am. The second opportunity will be from Monday, April 19th through Friday, April 30th by calling the CCB office, 1-800-221-6359, (leave your messages in the voice mailbox of Ed Branch, please leave your call back number) or emailing ccotb@ccbnet.org Staff will take your input and provide it to persons working on the fall convention program.

The San Diego Braille Club invites fun loving adults to join us in Primm, NV
Destination: Nevada State Line
Dates: May 23, 2010 - May 25, 2010
Departure Time: From various locations beginning at 8:30A.M.
Returning: By 6:00 P.M., May 25, 2010
Cost: $90.00 Braille Club Members or $120.00 Friends (Non-Members)

Trip Includes:
* Roundtrip Bus Transportation
* 2 nights lodging at Primm Valley Resort & Casino (Double Occupancy)
* 2 Free Buffet Meals
* Coupon Fun Book
* Snacks on the bus
* Luggage handling fees

Also:
$5.00 Day Trip on May 24th (Monday) to Las Vegas, NV
$45.00 Deposit Due by April 5th, 2010
Balance Due by May 5th, 2010
For More Information Contact: Jacqueline Jackson at (619) 994-2776 or Jackie Harrison at (619) 262-1675.

Join The Audio-Description Pioneers In Sacramento.
Are you interested in live theater with audio-description in Sacramento? Would you like to come to the first ever live audio-described performance in our region?

You are cordially invited to attend an audio-described performance of Little House on the Prairie. We are honored to have veteran audio-describer, Ms. Beth Crabb, from Nashville, Tennessee, who will be doing the audio-description for us. If you've never had the opportunity to attend a live audio-described performance, you'll be in for a real treat. If you have, you already know how much more you will enjoy the performance.
When: April 24, 2010 at 2 PM
Where: Community Center Theater, 1301 L. Street, Sacramento

The ticket price is $23, and you may also purchase an additional ticket for one sighted companion at this discounted price. Headsets, of course, will be provided to enable you to listen to the audio-description. Please be aware that there are a limited number of headsets available, so please purchase your ticket and reserve your headset as soon as possible. Tickets must be ordered in advance through the Wells Fargo Pavilion Box Office, located at 1419 H. Street, either in person or by phone at 916-557-1999. When ordering your tickets, be sure to let the box office know that you are blind in order to reserve your headset and to obtain the special ticket price.
Note: If you are attending with another blind or low vision person, let the box office know and you can share a "splitter" that enables you to use one headset for two visually impaired attendees, allowing for more attendees needing audio-description to participate. When you order your tickets, the box-office will ask for your contact information to keep on file for future audio-described events.

Election Alert: California's Statewide Primary Election is June 8, 2010. In a primary election, political parties select candidates for public office. You will receive a ballot for the political party you selected when you registered to vote. Contact your county's Registrar of Voters Office to check your registration and political party.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

March 26, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on March 26, and will be updated on April 2. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

The Crowne Plaza SFO Hotel located in Burlingame is prepared to take CCB guest room block reservations for the spring 2010 CCB Convention to be held from April 15 through 18th. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "California Council of the Blind Convention in April 2010 at the Crowne Plaza SFO Hotel". The total cost per night is $99. The hotel recommends that callers use their local number 650-342-9200 when calling to place reservations. The convention announcement is now online. The address is http:www.ccbnet.org/conventions/con10a_announce.htm This convention program looks to be one of the best ever. Devoted to the theme of education, the convention will feature panels on the California School for the Blind (CSB), which is celebrating its 150th anniversary, and a panel on schools for the blind that will include the CSB Superintendent Stuart Wittenstein, and ACB's First Vice president Kim Charlson. Our banquet speaker will be the former executive director of the Lighthouse, and current executive director of the World Institute on Disability, not to mention a CCB member, Anita Aaron. This year's Presidents' Dinner, emceed by Humboldt Chapter President James Forbes, promises to be one of the best ever! We will discuss some of the persistent stereotypes of blindness that have followed us into the 21st century. How damaging are these stereotypes and are they gradually breaking down? What are you as individuals and chapters doing to educate the public to transform these lingering perceptions? We invite all of you to come to the convention and discuss this interesting topic at Friday night's Presidents' Dinner. Get your tickets! This spring's Sweepstakes will benefit the publication of the Blind Californian and there are fantastic prizes, just waiting to be won! The Grand Prize is $500 Cash, with runner-up prizes including Roundtrip Air Fair for Two (up to $800), $100 Cash, $75 in Gift Cards and more prizes in the works to be announced at a later date! Tickets are just $5 each and there are only one thousand tickets available. Chapter Presidents should be receiving their tickets within the next few days. Remember that, as always, the sweepstakes is open to the public. Happy selling and good luck!

From Gabe Griffith, resolutions committee co-chair: It is once again time to submit resolutions. Please submit your resolutions as early as possible to give the committee as much time as possible to work on them. The deadline will be the close of general session on Friday evening of the convention. Please send them to me at gabrielgriffith@gmail.com or call me with them at 916-505-8780. You may also give them to any member of the resolutions committee.

Have you ever asked yourself how you can help CCB continue to provide our outstanding services? Here's a great way to help CCB that won't require you to spend any extra money. While shopping at Save Mart, Lucky, Food Maxx, Ralph's, Foods Co and Food 4 Less, 3% of your purchase can go back to CCB as a donation from these participating grocers! This is an easy and excellent way to show support for the Council, whether you are a member or a helpful community friend. There is no cost to participate in this program; all donations are given to CCB from the participating grocers. For more information or to sign up, contact your chapter president or the CCB office at 800-221-6359 or lily.mccray@ccbnet.org

From Cathie Skivers: Please reserve May 8th on your calendar. The Bay View chapter will hold its annual Lasagna Fund Raiser Dinner. Details will be provided later on the connection. In the mean time, if you have any questions you can contact Ida Johnson at 510-655-1982 or Cathie Skivers at 510-357-1986.

Hello Members and friends. The Active Blind Inland Valleys chapter of CCB would like to cordially invite you to our meeting on Saturday, March 27, at the Loma Linda VA hospital cafeteria on the second floor from noon to 2:00 P.M. We will be addressing dog parks, how to find a good "dog walker" and more. For more information please e-mail Christy Crespin at Ccrespin@att.net Or call 909-800-7189.

Thank you for reading or listening, Gabe Griffith

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

March 19, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on March 19, and will be updated on March 26. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Gabe Griffith: My apologies to anyone whose connection announcement did not make It in to this week's connection. My computer was hit with a virus this week and I lost all of my e-mail messages. I should be OK going forward though.

This convention program looks to be one of the best ever. Devoted to the theme of education, the convention will feature panels on the California School for the Blind (CSB), which is celebrating its 150th anniversary, and a panel on schools for the blind that will include the CSB Superintendent Stewart Wittenstein, and ACB's First Vice President Kim Charlson. Our banquet speaker will be the former executive director of the Lighthouse, and current executive director of the World Institute on Disability, not to mention a CCB member, Anita Aaron.

Get your tickets! This Spring's Sweepstakes will benefit the publication of the Blind Californian and there are fantastic prizes, just waiting to be won!

The Grand Prize is $500 Cash, with runner-up prizes including Roundtrip Air Fair for Two (up to $800), $100 Cash, $75 in Gift Cards and more prizes in the works to be announced at a later date! Tickets are just $5 each and there are only one thousand tickets available. Chapter Presidents should be receiving their tickets within the next few days. Remember that, as always, the sweepstakes is open to the public. Happy selling and good luck!

Hello to all, just a reminder that if you are planning to take our chartered bus to the spring convention in April, you must send your check or money order to the CCB office located at 1510 J Street, Suite 125, Sacramento, CA 95814. All checks and money orders should be made payable to the ACB Capital Chapter, CCB. Cost of bus is $45 round trip from Sacramento or $20.00 round trip from the Bay Area. There will be one Bay Area pick-up at the El Cerrito Bart station. Estimated time of arrival at the hotel is 11:30 AM on Thursday April 15. Payment must be received in the CCB office no later than April 5th. For additional information call Elena Thomason at 916-564-7117 or cell 916-224-6567. All Aboard!

From Gabe Griffith, Resolutions Committee Co-chair: It is once again time to submit resolutions. Please submit your resolutions as early as possible to give the committee as much time as possible to work on them. The deadline will be the close of general session on Friday evening of the convention. Please send them to me at gabrielgriffith@gmail.com or call me with them at 916-505-8780. You may also give them to any member of the resolutions committee.

Ms. Cam Schure is seeking a non-smoking female roommate for the spring convention. Guide dogs are OK. Please call Cam between 6PM and 8PM at 831-372-0626.

Ms. Linda Fonseca is looking for a female roommate for the spring CCB convention. Her number is 415-684-6162. She can be reached any time during the day or evening up to 10PM.

Ms. Melissa Hudson, a member of the Greater Los Angeles Chapter, CCB, is looking for a female roommate for the Spring, 2010 CCB convention. This would need to be a person who likes dogs as Melissa has a guide dog. Anyone who is interested in sharing a room with Melissa please contact Ken Metz at (323) 793-1805 so that he can respond to Melissa.

Please listen carefully as our venue has changed:
The CCB Coachella Valley chapter meeting will be held March 26th at the Rock Garden Café from 10:00 a.m. to noon. The address is: 777 S. Palm Canyon Dr. in Palm Springs. Our motto is: "Vision without sight" so if you are someone who is visionary and without sight, or interested, we'd love to have you join us. For more information please call; 760-770-1700.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

March 12, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on March 12, and will be updated on March 19. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.

Get your tickets! This Spring's Sweepstakes will benefit the publication of the Blind Californian and there are fantastic prizes, just waiting to be won!

Hello to all, just a reminder that if you are planning to take our chartered bus to the spring convention in April, you must send your check or money order to the CCB office located at 1510 J Street, Suite 125, Sacramento, CA 95814. All checks and money orders should be made payable to the ACB Capital Chapter, CCB. Cost of bus is $45 round trip from Sacramento or $20.00 round trip from the Bay Area. There will be one Bay Area pick-up at the El Cerrito Bart station. Estimated time of arrival at the hotel is 11:30 AM on Thursday April 15. Payment must be received in the CCB office no later than April 5th. For additional information call Elena Thomason at 916-564-7117 or cell 916-224-6567. All Aboard!

Melissa Hudson, a member of the Greater Los Angeles Chapter, CCB, is looking for a female roommate for the Spring, 2010 CCB convention. This would need to be a person who likes dogs as Melissa has a guide dog. Anyone who is interested in sharing a room with Melissa please contact Ken Metz at (323) 793-1805 so that he can respond to Melissa.

From Frank Welte, CCB Director of Advocacy and governmental affairs: Please note that the CCB Legislative Report updated as of March 10 is available on our toll-free line at 800-221-6359 and on the CCB web site at www.ccbnet.org

The Redwood Empire Council of the Blind invites you to join us for a St. Patrick's Day celebration on Friday, March 19 starting at 12 noon and ending at 3 p.m. Enjoy a traditional family recipe of Irish lamb stew, soda bread, and other delicious dishes prepared by our chapter members. Listen to Celtic music featuring fiddle, flutes, drums, and guitars or bring your own instrument and jam along! Location: Earle Baum Center, 4539 Occidental Rd, Santa Rosa, CA. 95401. 707-523-3222. Cost: $5 per person. Also participate in our 50-50 raffle for only $1 per ticket or $5 for 6 tickets. For more info, please contact Sean Ryan at blindrover@gmail.com or by phone at: 707-217-7735.

On April 1, the LightHouse will welcome new Executive Director/CEO, Bryan Bashin. Bashin's extensive background in private and public executive leadership, consulting and community service make him an ideal fit for the helm of Northern California's largest and most established agency serving the blind community. He will be at the California Council of the Blind Convention, mingling with members, and looks forward to working with the Council toward common goals.

There is an employment opportunity at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield CA. They are looking for persons who are blind to work as switchboard operators. The job pays $19.36 per hour plus benefits. You should be computer literate and have some knowledge of how to use your adaptive programs such as JAWS and Zoom Text. For more information contact Steve Hopkins at 408-921-7524.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

March 5, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on March 5, and will be updated on March 12. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

The Crowne Plaza SFO Hotel located in Burlingame is prepared to take CCB guest room block reservations for the spring 2010 CCB Convention to be held from April 15 through 18th. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "California Council of the Blind Convention in April 2010 at the Crowne Plaza SFO Hotel". The total cost per night is $99. The hotel recommends that callers use their local number 650-342-9200 when calling to place reservations. This convention program looks to be one of the best ever. Devoted to the theme of education, the convention will feature panels on the California School for the Blind (CSB), which is celebrating its 150th anniversary, and a panel on schools for the blind that will include the CSB Superintendent Stewart Wittenstein, and ACB's First Vice President Kim Charlson. Our banquet speaker will be the former executive director of the Lighthouse, and current executive director of the World Institute on Disability, not to mention a CCB member, Anita Aaron. Get your tickets! This Spring's Sweepstakes will benefit the publication of the Blind Californian and there are fantastic prizes, just waiting to be won! The Grand Prize is $500 Cash, with runner-up prizes including Roundtrip Air Fair for Two (up to $800), $100 Cash, $75 in Gift Cards and more prizes in the works to be announced at a later date! Tickets are just $5 each and there are only one thousand tickets available. Chapter Presidents should be receiving their tickets within the next few days. Remember that, as always, the sweepstakes is open to the public. Happy selling and good luck!

Hello to all, just a reminder that if you are planning to take our chartered bus to the spring convention in April, you must send your check or money order to the CCB office located at 1510 J Street, Suite 125, Sacramento, CA 95814. All checks and money orders should be made payable to the ACB Capital Chapter, CCB. Cost of bus is $45 round trip from Sacramento or $20.00 round trip from the Bay Area. There will be one Bay Area pick-up at the El Cerrito Bart station. Estimated time of arrival at the hotel is 11:30 AM on Thursday April 15. Payment must be received in the CCB office no later than April 5th. For additional information call Elena Thomason at 916-564-7117 or cell 916-224-6567. All Aboard!

Are you ready to begin a wonderful summer? Come relax and enjoy your meal with the Golden Gate Chapter at Buca di Beppo restaurant, 855 Howard Street, San Francisco, on June 5, 2010 from 11 AM to 1 PM. There will be speakers, prizes and responsible no host drinking. Remember there is limited seating, your RSVP must be given to Gilda Chico at 415-337-0937 for your meal reservation and transportation by no later than Thursday, May 20th. Cost is $20 for the meal, transportation and a $2 chapter donation.

The California State University system will be offering 44 $6,000 scholarships next academic year to legally blind students who are enrolled full time at one of our 23 California State Universities. Applications are submitted through the Financial Aid Offices at each university, and are due various dates in April and May.

Job opportunity: AccessAbilities Coordinator - Distribution Center - Louisville, KY-100000004O
(currently referred to as Employee Advocate, but title will change)
Job Description: The AccessAbilities Coordinator will report to the Distribution Center Director, and will provide a supportive/consultation role in all areas relating to the employment and retention of individuals with disabilities within the Center. This role will entail creation and execution of practices for: recruitment, employee advocacy, facilitation, conducting and analyzing employment-related accommodation requests, and alternate duty explorations in a timely manner consistent with ADA laws, and established Best Buy policies and procedures.
This person will be instrumental in the creation and the implementation of the organizations business objectives around the diversity strategy. Individual must be able to create and develop tactical and strategic alliances through networking, business partnerships and collaborative relationships with community organizations and/or community service providers.
For a Full job description and application please visit http://www.bestbuy-jobs.com/job/Employee-Advocate-Coordinator-Distribution-C enter-Louisville,-KY-Job/737120/

From Margie Donavan: The California School for the Blind is celebrating 150 years this year. We are celebrating on Thursday, May 13, 2010. We will be having a 2 hour program starting at 2:00 that day with special guest speaker Phil Hatlen, as well as Tom Sullivan. After the program, there will be a reception in the quad, with refreshments. After that there will be a sit down dinner followed by our spring concert, finally finishing it off with a dessert extravaganza. If you are interested in attending, please forward me your home address so that I can send you out an invitation. The cost per person is $30.00. Also, please forward this to any alumni that you still keep in touch with. They can contact James Rudder at 510-794-3832 x317 or by email at jrudder@csb-cde.ca.gov If you have any other questions regarding the celebration, please let me know.

i-Connect is back! Join us four times a year to celebrate life and learning with old friends and new.

Where: The Center's Tarzana office
18425 Burbank Blvd., Suite 706, Tarzana 91356
On Burbank Blvd., just east of Reseda Blvd.)
When: First meeting: Saturday, March 27
New time: 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Topic: Singles Meet and Mingle. Come have dinner, schmooze with friends and talk about dating pitfalls and successes. Door prizes and fun.
RSVP: Space is limited – call Vickie Parker (818) 705-5954 (X221) or Janice Goldhaber (310) 988-1970 (X148).

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

February 26, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on February 26, and will be updated on March 5. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Get your tickets! This Spring's Sweepstakes will benefit the publication of the Blind Californian and there are fantastic prizes, just waiting to be won! The Grand Prize is $500 Cash, with runner-up prizes including Roundtrip Air Fair for Two (up to $800), $100 Cash, $75 in Gift Cards and more prizes in the works to be announced at a later date! Tickets are just $5 each and there are only one thousand tickets available. Chapter Presidents should be receiving their tickets within the next few days. Remember that, as always, the sweepstakes is open to the public. Happy selling and good luck!

From Margie Donavan: The California School for the Blind is celebrating 150 years this year. We are celebrating on Thursday, May 13, 2010. We will be having a 2 hour program starting at 2:00 that day with special guest speaker Phil Hatlen, as well as Tom Sullivan. After the program, there will be a reception in the quad, with refreshments. After that there will be a sit down dinner followed by our spring concert, finally finishing it off with a dessert extravaganza. If you are interested in attending, please forward me your home address so that I can send you out an invitation. The cost per person is $30.00.
Also, please forward this to any alumni that you still keep in touch with. They can contact James Rudder at 510-794-3832 x317 or by email at jrudder@csb-cde.ca.gov
If you have any other questions regarding the celebration, please let me know.

Get a Good Look at Video Magnifiers!
A Vision Loss Resource Center Tech Seminar
LightHouse for the Blind
March 5, 2010, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
214 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102

Video magnifiers are ideal for low vision reading. With the touch of a button, you can enlarge words in a newspaper, bestseller, or grocery list. Text becomes crisp and bright and can appear in various colors! Learn about the Pebble Hand Held, the Sapphire Portable, the Mano Portable, and the Graduate PC Based Portable and many more! Special day of event discounts will be available at Adaptations, the LightHouse store.

To participate:
Listen via live audio stream or free tele-conferencing service. Come in person and get more out of product demos! Accommodations are available upon request. RSVP and get details at 1-888-400-8933 or rsvp@lighthouse-sf.org

i-Connect is back! Join us four times a year to celebrate life and learning with old friends and new.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

Feburary 19, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on February 19, and will be updated on February 26. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabrielgriffith@gmail.com by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Gabe Griffith, connection editor: I apologize to anyone who has sent items to me for the connection at my ccbnet email address. I have apparently not been receiving those messages for a while. Therefore, please take note that you can now send your connection items to me at gabrielgriffith@gmail.com. My apologies to anyone who has had an announcement not make it in to the connection because of this.

From Joel Isaac, CCB Webmaster: Recordings from the Fall 2009 CCB Convention are now available on the CCB website at http://www.ccbnet.org/ConventionArchives.htm Thanks to Joy, Ken, and Theresa for their help with this project.

You are cordially invited to attend a meeting of the California Council of the Blind in Cochella Valley. If you are someone who is blind, vision impaired, or have an interest in the blind community, please join us.
When: February 26, 2010
Where: Coco's Restaurant; 1901 E. Palm canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Time: 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
If you would like more information, you may call: (760)-770-1700.

It's the time to experience again the San Gabriel Valley 25th annual pizza/spaghetti party! If you like pizza, spaghetti, salad, garlic bread and dessert, you are cordially invited to attend this annual fund raiser. The donation is only $10.00, as it has been for many years. Door prizes are abundant! The address is; Monrovia VFW, 825 S. Magnolia, Monrovia with cross street of Chestnut. The date is Saturday, February 27th from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Come one, come all! If you need any more information, please call either Zena Reubel at 323-939-2234 or Pat Wolf at 626-279-2954. See you there!

Attention Southern California Edison Customers: Are your appliances a few generations out of date? Do your windows give your home a nice cool breeze, even when they're closed? Whether or not you answered yes, perhaps its time you let someone assess the energy efficiency of your home. Subscribers to So-Cal Edison may qualify for replacement energy-efficient appliances, free of cost! To sign up or receive more information, contact: Asian Rehabilitation Services Doreen Wong down@Asianrehab.org 213-743-9242 Tell Doreen that you heard of the program through CCB. This way, CCB will earn a credit for referring you to this great program! When you call, have the following information ready, billing name, physical address, phone number, information regarding disability status, annual income. No other confidential information will be asked.

Get a Good Look at Video Magnifiers!
A Vision Loss Resource Center Tech Seminar
LightHouse for the Blind
March 5, 2010, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
214 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

February 12, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on February 12, and will be updated on February 19. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabe.griffith@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.

From Joel Isaac, CCB Webmaster. Recordings from the Fall 2009 CCB Convention are now available on the CCB website: http://www.ccbnet.org/ConventionArchives.htm. Thanks to Joy, Ken, and Theresa for their help with this project.

From Cathie Skivers, Chair Awards Committee: The final day for submitting a nomination for CCB awards will be February 15th. Recommendations submitted after that date will not be considered.

It's the time to experience again the San Gabriel Valley 25th annual pizza/spaghetti party! If you like pizza, spaghetti, salad, garlic bread and dessert, you are cordially invited to attend this annual fundraiser. The donation is only $10.00, as it has been for many years. Door prizes are abundant! The address is; Monrovia VFW, 825 S. Magnolia, Monrovia with cross street of Chestnut. The date is Saturday, February 27th from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Come one, come all! If you need any more information, please call either Zena Reubel at 323-939-2234 or Pat Wolf at 626-279-2954. See you there!

To sign up or receive more information, contact:
Asian Rehabilitation Services
Doreen Wong
dwong@Asianrehab.org
213-743-9242

Tell Doreen that you heard of the program through CCB. This way, CCB will earn a credit for referring you to this great program! When you call, have the following information ready, billing name, physical address, phone number, information regarding disability status, annual income. No other confidential information will be asked.

CCB has received the following announcement from California WALKS and you are encouraged to submit your access upgrade/improvement requests. Send in your state highway sidewalk gap closures, curb ramp installations and crossing upgrades by request to Caltrans ADA to be funded from the Caltrans $ 30 billion year settlement (still being approved). It was announced at www.dot.ca.gov/hq/paffairs/news/pressrel/09pr28.htm and the actual settlement agreement is set forth at www.dot.ca.gov/Documents/Master_Stipulation_and_Settlement_Agreement.pdf

Near the last page of the main settlement agreement are the instructions with email address for how to request state highway sidewalk repairs/gap closures and curb ramps. Most main streets and many large arterials remain state highways (such as San Pablo Ave and Ashby Ave in Berkeley, Lombard, van Ness and 19th Ave in SF, etc). Each local community who sends in its requests early (and identifies any other priority qualifiers from the list) improves its chances of getting early Caltrans investment in its state highway sidewalks, curb ramps and street crossings.

Since our communities all have long-neglected state highway infrastructure which transportation equity and environmental justice require remedy, they are well positioned to gain substantial Caltrans investment with early requests. Even though the settlement is not yet finally approved by the court, Caltrans is accepting and prioritizing requests.

Get a Good Look at Video Magnifiers!
A Vision Loss Resource Center Tech Seminar
LightHouse for the Blind
March 5, 2010, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
214 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102

***The phone number in this ad has changed. The new number is 800-772-1213. All remaining information is correct.*** SSI/ SSDI Recipients, if you have a visual impairment that substantially limits your ability to see, and require materials in an accessible format in order to participate in these programs, you may request a format change for all documents communicated to you through the Social Security Administration. To make a format change, contact Arlene Mayerson email ssaclassaction@dredf.org
In either message, leave your name, requested format and mailing address.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

February 5, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on February 5, and will be updated on February 12. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabe.griffith@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Cathie Skivers, Chair Awards Committee: The final day for submitting a nomination for CCB awards will be February 15th. Recommendations submitted after that date will not be considered.

SSI/ SSDI Recipients, if you have a visual impairment that substantially limits your ability to see, and require materials in an accessible format in order to participate in these programs, you may request a format change for all documents communicated to you through the Social Security Administration. To make a format change, contact Arlene Mayerson 1-800-348-4323 or email ssaclassaction@dredf.org

In either message, leave your name, requested format and mailing address.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

January 29, 2010

Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or gabe.griffith@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.

The Active Blind Inland Valley Chapter of the CCB invites anyone in the Riverside/San Bernardino County Metropolitan areas to attend their monthly meetings, held on the fourth Saturday of each month, at the Loma Linda VA Medical Center, from noon until 2:00 p.m. For questions, contact Christy Crespin, President, at 909-800-7189 or ccrespin@att.net

RSA Independent Unit Chief Vacancy Announcement
February 12 deadline
The Department of Education is recruiting to fill the position of Chief of the Independent Living Unit. This is a supervisory position, GS-101-14/15, located in the Rehabilitation Services Administration, State Monitoring and Program Improvement Division. The deadline for applications is February 12, 2010 and the position is open to everyone. If you are interested in obtaining a copy of the announcement or wish to apply, you must submit your application online through the OPM website which can be accessed through the location http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov
Reference number: OSERS-2010-0013 (federal employees/ status candidates)
Reference number: OSERS-2010-0012 (non-status candidates)

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

January 22, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly new service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on January 22, and will be updated on January 29.

Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or Gabe.Griffith@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be place in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may be missed.

A Legacy of Love: Louis A. Preston, Sr. The love, faith, courage, hope, wisdom and positive spirit of Louis Preston, Sr. is legendary. He touched countless lives that span four generations. In celebration of the life and legacy of Louis Preston, Sr., we invite you to share a favorite "Louis" story, a fond memory, a photograph, a poem, a quote, a scripture, a prayer or a song that reminds you of Louis. This inspirational collection will be compiled in a book to help us preserve and share the indelible imprint Louis left on our lives! Please send your "Louis" stories to:
Dr. Essie French-Preston Email Address: epreston05@yahoo.com Or
Legacy of Love: Louis A. Preston, Sr.
17129 Antonio Avenue
Cerritos, CA 90703
Phone: 562-404-7935

On January 13, the CCB Board approved the meeting minutes for the December 14, 2009 Board conference call. Anyone who wishes to do so, can obtain a copy of these minutes by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359.

The Crowne Plaza SFO Hotel located in Burlingame is prepared to take CCB guest room block reservations for the Spring 2010 CCB Convention to be held from April 15th through 18th. Specifically, callers must state that they are making reservations for the "California Council of the Blind Convention in April 2010 at the Crowne Plaza SFO Hotel." The total cost per night is $99. The hotel recommends that callers use their local number 650-342-9200 when calling to place reservations.

From Frank Welte, Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs: CCB has learned that Sara Gelser, a leader in the Oregon State legislature who played a prominent role in support of the recent closure of that state's school for the blind, has been nominated by President Obama to a seat on the National Council on Disability. We are concerned that Ms. Gelser will harm the interests of blind Californians by promoting a full inclusionist approach at NCD, and that she will oppose necessary categorical services for blind children and adults. CCB will cooperate with the American Council of the Blind to respond to this nomination. Please continue to follow the California Connection for current information and instructions on this matter.

Lainey Feingold has put a short post up on her website about the new California requirement, effective January 1, that all point of sale devices in the state have attached tactile keypads. The direct link is: http://lflegal.com/2010/01/california-keypad-law/ (In small stores with only two point of sale devices, only one device has to have a keypad.) If anyone encounters a flat screen device in the state, they should notify the retailer about the new legal requirements and specifically ask the retailer about their plans to comply with the new law. If a retailer fails to install keypads shortly after January 1, we'd suggest that CCB be notified, and that we then talk about whether Structured Negotiations might be appropriate.

If you are blind or interested in blindness issues, you are cordially invited to join us to discuss the beginning of a new California Council of the Blind chapter. When: January 29th Time: 12:30-3:30 Where: Coco's Restaurant, 73397 Highway 111 Palm Springs, California If you need more information, please call and leave a message for Linda Samulski at 619-583-1542. She'll call you back as soon as possible. We're looking forward to this new endeavor and hope to see you there!

RSA Independent Unit Chief Vacancy Announcement
February 12 deadline
Good Morning:
The Department of Education is recruiting to fill the position of Chief of the Independent Living Unit. This is a supervisory position, GS-101-14/15, located in the Rehabilitation Services Administration, State Monitoring and Program Improvement Division. The deadline for applications is February 12, 2010 and the position is open to everyone. If you are interested in obtaining a copy of the announcement or wish to apply, you must submit your application online through the OPM website which can be accessed through the location http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov
OSERS-2010-0013 (federal employees/ status candidates)
OSERS-2010-0012 (non-status candidates)

Come along and enjoy a pre-Valentines lunch with the Golden Gate Chapter CCB at the Hard Knox Café, 2448 Clement Street, San Francisco (between 25th and 26th Avenues). February 6th from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Make all reservations for transportation and the lunch with Golda Chico at 415-337-0937 no later than February 1st. Happy Valentines Day in advance from the Golden Gate Chapter!

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

January 15, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on January 15, and will be updated on January 22. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or Gabe.Griffith@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Gabe Griffith, Connection Editor: I will be unavailable for the connection the week ending in January 22. Therefore, please send any connection items to Jeff Thom who has graciously agreed to cover for me. You can email him your submissions at jsthom@comcast.net or call him at 916-995-3967.

On January 13 the CCB board approved the meeting minutes for the December 14 2009 board conference call. Anyone who wishes to do so can obtain a copy of these minutes by calling the CCB office at 800-221-6359.

Lainey Feingold has put a short post up on her website about the new California requirement, effective January 1, that all point of sale devices in the state have attached tactile keypads. The direct link is: http://lflegal.com/2010/01/california-keypad-law/. (In small stores with only two point of sale devices, only one device has to have a keypad.) If anyone encounters a flat screen device in the state, they should notify the retailer about the new legal requirements and specifically ask the retailer about their plans to comply with the new law. If a retailer fails to install keypads shortly after January 1, we'd suggest that CCB be notified, that you let us know, and that we then talk about whether Structured Negotiations might be appropriate.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith

January 8, 2010

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on January 8, and will be updated on January 15. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at 916-505-8780 or Gabe.Griffith@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Lainey Feingold has put a short post up on her website about the new California requirement, effective January 1, that all point of sale devices in the state have attached tactile keypads. The direct link is: http://lflegal.com/2010/01/california-keypad-law/ (In small stores with only two point of sale devices, only one device has to have a keypad.) If anyone encounters a flat screen device in the state, they should notify the retailer about the new legal requirements and specifically ask the retailer about their plans to comply with the new law. If a retailer fails to install keypads shortly after January 1, we'd suggest that CCB be notified, that you let us know, and that we then talk about whether Structured Negotiations might be appropriate.

National Industries for the Blind (NIB) is currently developing a recruiting/pipeline program to help meet the contact center industry's needs while simultaneously providing high-growth career opportunities for people who are legally blind. To that end, NIB is seeking legally blind, experienced, highly-motivated Customer Service Representatives (CSR's) for an ongoing requirement beginning in February, 2010. If you wish to be considered for this recruiting opportunity as a Customer Service Representative in a Call Center, please send your resume and 3 Professional References to Sarah Schraven at sschraven@nib.org.

If you are in good health and between the ages of 17 and 68 get your applications. Come and enjoy the good food, fun, fellowship and Bible teaching at the 2010 Gospel Association for the Blind's Silaom Bible Conference! Registration for camp closes on April 15, 2010 so there is no time to waste to get your application in! The cost of the week of camp is $220. If you cannot afford the full amount, we will try to get a sponsor. Likewise, if you need help with transportation, please let us know. A $25 non-refundable registration fee should be mailed to:
The Gospel Association for the Blind
PO Box 1162
Bunnell, FL 32110
Phone: 386-586-5885
Upon receipt of this non-refundable $25 registration fee, our camp application form along with a medical form and other camp information will be mailed to you. Please include a 3 by 5 card with your name, address, phone number and e-mail and cell number if available. We are looking forward to a great week at camp! Our goal is to be a place away from the normal day to day surroundings, where you can relax and let down your guard long enough to receive that fresh touch from God.
A toll free line has been set up where you can call and get updates to Camp Siloam 2010. Call 866-251-5165 and enter mailbox 7128#.

Thank you for reading or listening,
Gabe Griffith