4539 Occidental Road
Santa Rosa CA 95401
Tel: 707-523-3222 Fax: 707-636-2768
www.earlebaum.org
August 2007 Volume 7 Issue 2
MISSION STATEMENT
To provide opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired to improve and enrich their personal, social and economic lives.
From the Center
Just as we watch the seasons change, life at the EBC is changing too. We have new adventures, challenges and transitions, times of joy and occasional sadness. More and more people are connecting with the EBC and knowing the impact we have on so many is what we are all about. I only wish we were able to do much more.
I am very excited to introduce two new employees. Tanya Stefan became our Bookkeeper and Administrative Assistant in July after Lisa left to pursue a career change. We all wish Lisa the best. Tanya comes to the EBC with experience, a warm personality and a great attitude. The other new member of the staff is our first Recreation Coordinator, Tammy Meyer. Tammy is determined to increase the scope and variety of activities at the EBC, giving people opportunities to build confidence, get fit, grow, have fun and share a great deal of laughter. Welcome aboard.
Lucky for all of us, both Tammy and Tanya joined the EBC just in time for our first staff retreat. Several employees felt it was time for the staff to share a day of teambuilding while enjoying the company of cohorts. Who knew that the suggestion would evolve into the amazing day at a ropes course in which the group and individuals faced seemingly insurmountable obstacles and came out shining? Although some of the mentally and physically challenging activities were something to behold, my personal favorite was a low to the ground, cable course. The challenge was for everyone to move along a grid of cables connected to trees without touching or getting help from anyone touching the ground. My first impression was “I am not a tight rope walker”. But in no time, working as a well greased machine, the cohorts came up with the strategy for success and before we knew it, we were exiting from the end of the network. It was fun watching everyone come together to achieve a universal goal and the process was so cohesive that the facilitators were surprised; particularly because half in attendance are blind. I want to thank everyone who saw the value of a team building day and made the suggestion.
Recently, Phil Swetin, our Development Director, attended a program on fund development that proved invaluable. We learned that an annual event like our Walk for Independence/Dog-a-thon (October 6, 2007) can be more effective as the kickoff of our annual giving campaign than as a stand alone event. The real goal is the success of a comprehensive annual giving campaign that will continue past the event throughout the year. We will be working to better communicate the need for these services and the importance of donating to the EBC to enable us to further our mission. The State and Federal Governments are not adequately serving people who are blind and visually impaired and the likelihood of that changing is low. It is on our shoulders to find ways to continue on our path, depending less on governmental support and more on the private sector. Since the EBC is not yet on the radar of most very large contributors, it is up to all of us to do everything in our power to reach our goals on a more grassroots level, in order to serve the growing population of people losing sight. In fact, we have no choice; if we are unable to provide these vital services in our region, there is no one else to do so. You will be hearing more from us and hopefully, believe enough in the mission of the EBC to be generous contributors.
Allan Brenner, President/CEO
Paratransit Travel Tips
1. Call as soon as you know your schedule or appointments, up to one week in advance.
2. After completing your scheduling, ask for a booking number so problems can be tracked and reviewed.
3. Double check all addresses and phone numbers. Have a contact name if you are being picked up at an office or other location where you might not easily located by the driver.
4. Allow 10 to 15 minutes before and after your appointments so that you can take care of any last minute problems (misplaced tickets or personal items, unexpected conversations, bathroom trips, etc.)
5. Confirm your destination with the driver to avoid unnecessary delays.
6. A amiable hello, goodbye and thank you to the driver will make for a more pleasant ride for everyone.
Finding a Balance
Many individuals with vision loss struggle to lead “normal” lives where those around them are unaware of their condition. It is understandable that one does not wish to be labeled as “disabled”. Maintaining this privacy can create a sense of isolation and even hostility from those unaware of the problem. Finding the right balance of openness among family, friends and colleagues is a personal decision but it is wise to have someone you can confide in and draw comfort from. The EBC facilitates numerous support groups to address these issues. Call us for the meeting times of a group near you.
In His Own Words
“I was born on Easter Sunday, April 5, 1896. When I was old enough to go to school, the teacher detected that I had poor vision and reported it to my parents. I was fitted with glasses which helped me some but that was not the complete answer. In 1911 I graduated from the one room Wright District School which my Grandfather built in 1863.
I then entered Santa Rosa High School. Being rather fleet of foot, I soon found myself a member of the track team, competing for trophies with other high schools. My senior year of high school verged on being practically a nightmare, as my vision was steadily getting worse. In spite of this, I managed to win the school Literary Contest and had my name engraved on a silver loving cup.
After graduation, I wanted to go to college but my eyes would not permit it, so I chose to work with my father on the ranch instead. Sixteen years after I graduated from high school, my father passed away, leaving me to manage the ranch alone.”
J. Earle Baum, November 12, 1982
Do You Hear What I See?
A new system called The vOICe (the middle letters standing for "Oh I See") is being developed at Philips Research Laboratories to enable users to get an audio snapshot of what is visually in front of them. It works by translating live images from a head-mounted camera into highly complex soundscapes, which are then transmitted to the user over headphones through a notebook PC. Brighter areas sound louder, height is indicated by pitch and a color identifier speaks out color names when activated. While it can't track fast cars or read small print efficiently, it does allow blind users to trace out buildings, read a graph and even watch television. Compared to learning a foreign language, users become more "fluent" in the mental translation, over time requiring less conscious effort. The hardware costs about $2,500. The software is available as a free download. A simplified mobile phone version of The vOICe for the Nokia 3650 camera phone is available as a free download at The vOICe site:
http://www.seeingwithsound.com/
Rental Assistance
You may be eligible for a once a year $347.50 payment from the State of California if you rented a qualified residence, were 62 or over on Dec. 31, 2006, are blind or disabled, paid $50 or more per month in rent and earned less than $42,770. For more information or copies of the filing forms, visit http://www.ftb.ca.gov/individuals/hra/index.html
EBC Teams Grows by Two
The EBC is happy to announce two new additions to our staff.
Tammy Meyer has moved from her volunteer position to a new position as Recreation Coordinator. Tammy will lead the bi-weekly exercise classes and hopes to build our social, recreational and sports programs. She is anxious to hear your ideas for new activities.
Tanya Stefan is the EBC’s new Bookkeeper/Administrative Assistant working with Cathy to manage our office responsibilities. Tanya brings strong office skills and experience and looks forward to working in an environment that serves a greater purpose than is found most business environments.
Kudos to Jennifer
Yeah it arrived! My Master of Arts Education, (Special Education) diploma hit my door step on Friday August 3rd. What a journey! Working the academic system to accommodate my needs as well as working to accomplish my need to have a broad background in special education has paid off. I feel as though I am better prepared to come to work each morning with the purpose of teaching all of my wonderful clients. Oh, the little MA after my name is good looking too;
Jennifer Frazier MA.
Don’t Know? Call!
The topic of the August EBC Tech Club meeting was informational services available by telephone. Members discussed various free dial up services that they found helpful including alternatives to dialing 411. These include:
Big Yellow: 1-800-935-5697
Free Information: 1-800-373-4311
Google 411: 1-800-466-4411
This service will also dial the number on if requested.
Additional services include 2 news lines:
News Line: 1-800-952-5666
This is the registration number.
Verification of visual impairment is
required to sign up.
Tell Me: 1-800-555-8355
Free services that require long distance phone tolls include:
Target/Safeway/Walgreen Ads:
1-408-794-2840
TV listings: 1-408-794-2852
The next meeting, to be held on September 10 from 9:00-10:30 AM, will feature a guest speaker from Jitterbug, provider of accessible cellular phones with monthly services starting at $10.
And a Roof Over Our Heads
On your next visit to the EBC, you might find the Visitor Center a little more comfy. Complements of long time EBC supporter Steve Amend, owner of Roofing Services Inc., Earle’s old farmhouse is sporting a brand new roof, complete with cooling vents. As the installation proceeded, we couldn’t help but remark, “somebody up there likes us.” Thanks Steve!
A Lasting Gift
Looking for a special gift that will be remembered for many years? The Earle Baum Center has a wonderful way to honor loved ones and provide a lasting memory. Our Tree of Life, located in the main lobby, offers a limited number of commemorative “leaves” that can be permanently engraved with your loved one’s name. A photo of the Tree is available for viewing on our web site. Please call the EBC to get the details of how you can add a name to this Tree of Life Memorial.
Two Scoops Please
The EBC received a doubly sweet treat on Friday, June 29, when Emily Kurn performed a benefit concert at New College of California in Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square.
An award winning singer-songwriter, Emily is the daughter of Michele Kurn, the EBC’s first Orientation and Mobility Instructor. The concert was held in memory of Michele, whose skill and dedication inspired so many before her untimely passing. Emily, whose prolific folk repertoire highlighted her more than passing familiarity with falling in love and breaking up, generously donated the concert proceeds to the Earle Baum Center. Emily’s music can be sampled and purchased at www.emilykurnmusic.com .
New EBC Board President
Citing her hectic schedule as she enters training for a possible 2008 Paralympics berth in Beijing, Aerial Gilbert has stepped aside as President of the EBC Board of Directors.
Aerial will be succeeded as President by Shannon Barker, who previously served as Board Treasurer.
Shannon, a CPA, was born and raised in Sonoma County and received her degree in Business at Sonoma State University. Along with her strong financial background, Shannon, herself visually impaired, brings a deep commitment to issues of concern to all individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Shannon lives with her husband DeWitt and daughter Gwen in Santa Rosa.
Good Food, Good Company
As we pass the midpoint of the summer barbecue season, these alternating Friday gatherings are getting hotter and hotter. With groups often numbering 40 or more, the last two events promise to be a smoking good time. On September 7, the EBC drummers will open the party followed by a lunch of burgers and dogs, corn, coleslaw, grilled veggies from the EBC garden and fruit. Music in Room 4 will precede a meal of tri-tip, corn salad, potato salad and a “mystery dessert.” Boca burgers are always available for our non-carnivorous guests. Cost for the entertainment and lunch is still only $6.00. Please make your reservations at least 24 hours in advance.
Join us for our fall fundraising kickoff!
The 5th Annual Walk for Independence and Dogathon.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
8 AM—12:30 PM
(8:00 –8:45 AM Registration, Walk begins promptly at 9:00)
Have a fun day with family and friends while you show your support for the Earle Baum Center.
The day starts at Alliance Church at the corner of Fulton & Occidental Rds. Enjoy an easy walk to the EBC (about 2/3 mile) for a pancake breakfast followed by a day of family fun.
Family fun will abound with games and crafts for the kids and a unique silent auction fro the grown ups.
Don’t miss the Dog-a-thon with special contests and prizes for all canine entrants.
A special treat for all will be a demonstration Beepball game featuring the Stockton Stingrays.
All this fun and support for only $20 Advance Registration $25 at the gate. Call the EBC to register.
Invite your family and friends to help support the EBC by passing around a pledge sheet – insert link to form
Event Sponsors:
Roofing Services Inc.
Luther Burbank Savings
Sonoma National Bank
Clover Stornetta Farms
We thank our recent donors:
Barny & Lorna Adams
Avrum Katz Foundation
Allstate Giving Campaign
Roberta Bennett
Lillian Bergem
Lola Biancalana
Hope Bloomfield
Jim Burns
Barbara Caldwell
Sharon Church
Jane Cochrane
Gladys Combs
Bill Condon
Ann and John Courter
Bruno and Olga Dal Poggetto
Bob and Joan Darling
Manuela Dragos
George Dutton
Episcopal Homes Foundation/
Spring Lake Village
Mark Falanga
Roland & Jacquelyn Falso
Elizabeth Fischer
Yvonne Florent
Ronald Foote
Laura Fraenza
Charles and Maxine Fravel
John Gillivan
Donna Goodwin
Harriet Guggenheim
Leticia Gutierrez
Clare and Carla Harris
Jeanne Hassenzahl
John and Bonnie Houlgate
Jaclyn Jackson
Pat Jefferson
Alan and Rose Jeffery
Elaine Jewell
Kenwod Yacht Club
Kiwanis Club of the Redwood Empire
Emily Kurn
Shirley LeBlond
Peggy Lindell
Mary Logan
Angela Loritz
Devra and Arnie Lupowitz
Laura Luttringer
Margaret and Clem Maassen
Andree Maccoll
Stuart Manley
Carmen McReynolds
Jill Melendy
Howard Meyer
Newcomers Club of Santa Rosa
Patricia Nicodemus
Gary and Sheryl Orndorff
Eva Otten
Lorraine Owen
Geoff and Deborah Perel
Claude Pike
William Pipal
Vicky Porter
The Press Democrat Celebrate Community
L. Jeanne Raess
Redwood Lions Memorial Foundation
Bill and Mary-Louise Reinking
Dale and Marjorie Richardson
John Roarick
Frances Roberts
Roofing Services, Inc.
Pamela Ross
John Russell
Evonne Rutan
St. Luke Evangelical Lutheran Church
Carol Schaffner
William Schorr
Bonnie Shelley
Madeleine Shore
James and Nancy Siegfreid
June Silva
Clark and Carol Songer
Dave and Dortha Sonnikson
Robert Souza
Bruce and Mary Alice Stephen
Lucy Street
Ann Swan
The Sycamore Fund
R.D. Thayer
Doris Thomas
Penny Tibbetts
Jack and Bernice Tolleson
Martha U'Ren
Gladys Vice
Noreen Wair
Rich and Sandy White
Wishbox Events
James and Mary Winkler
Jewell Wood
Nadine Yoder
Low Vision Support Groups
Calistoga Low Vision Support Group – For visually impaired adults. Meets monthly, 4th Friday except Nov. & Dec., 1:30-3:30PM . Rancho de Calistoga, 2412 Foothill Blvd., Calistoga.
VA Support Group
Open to visually impaired veterans. Meets once monthly, 2nd Thursday.
11:15AM-12:30PM.
Earle Baum Center
Fall Activities Being Scheduled
The Earle Baum Center is beginning planning for our fall activity schedule. If you are interested in crafts classes, tap dance instruction, or our fitness and nutrition class, call today to enroll.
Is there a program or activity that you would like to see at the EBC?
Call us with your ideas and suggestions.