The Beacon Issue 1 2004

A Publication of the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ABVI)-Goodwill Industries of Greater Rochester, Inc.

www.abvi-goodwill.org

(585) 232-1111

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From Copiers To Contracts

In 2003, ABVI-Goodwill employees participated in a test group for the new Xerox Copier Assistant, software that makes using a copier without assistance possible for people who are blind or visually impaired. Thanks to the success of our test group, and Bruce Allevato, Purchasing Consultant, Xerox is partnering with ABVI-Goodwill once more, this time in the form of employment opportunities.

Over the past few months, ABVI-Goodwill's manufacturing employees have been busy putting together kits for Xerox copiers. These kits will employ at least one to two full-time and two part-time employees who are blind or visually impaired. Providing roughly 600 hours of annual labor, this new contract will generate approximately $150,000 for ABVI-Goodwill.

ABVI-Goodwill employees are assembling several different kits for Xerox, one of which will require us to package video cards in anti-static packaging and include a 5 x 5-inch fan and mounting hardware for specific copier machines. In addition, another kit requires employees to package two different copier brackets with the appropriate hardware, inspect the brackets for chips or inaccurate dimensions, bundle them in bubble wrap and ship them off to individual companies.
An added bonus to this new endeavor is that we are able to use the skills of one of our employees in a new way. Bob Schudel, who has past machine shop experience, created a fixture out of wood and plastic with magnetic grips, that holds the two different brackets. This fixture ensures that each package will contain the two different dimensions of brackets.
The magnetic grips hold the bracket in place without damaging them, allowing for quick, accurate kit assembly.
In addition to filling orders for its copier kits, Xerox is bidding out several other jobs to us. We are encouraged by the new growth of our manufacturing division and our ability to compete in the competitive commercial market.

Not only is the Xerox contract an exciting expansion opportunity, but it is also a way for us to supplement the film recycling we do for Kodak. Securing a contract with Xerox is the exact opportunity we are looking for.
If you would like to learn more about our manufacturing division and the government and commercial contracts we fulfill, call (585) 697-5761.

Photo caption: Russell Lane, ABVI-Goodwill Manufacturing Employee.

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Joan Brock: More Than Meets The Eye

On Tuesday, May 4, 2004, the Junior League of Rochester will host an inspirational evening with Joan Brock-author, speaker and activist-at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Half of the proceeds from this speaking engagement will go to ABVI-Goodwill to help fund programs, jobs and services for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Joan Brock is the co-author of More Than Meets The Eye, a story about her personal experiences of overcoming the obstacles of vision loss and reclaiming her life in a positive way. Her book has been translated into several languages and is a Reader's Digest Condensed Book. She won the hearts of NBC's Today Show with her story of courage, perseverance and acceptance. In 2000, Joan was named national spokesperson for Prevent Blindness America, a non-profit organization dedicated to eye health, safety, training and research.

Many thanks to the Junior League of Rochester for making such an important event possible. Joan's words of wisdom to people who are experiencing vision loss or who work in an organization dealing with blindness should be informative as well as inspiring. This is an event worth attending!

Tickets for Joan Brock: More Than Meets The Eye went on sale Monday, March 1 for $25.00 per ticket. Please call (585) 385-8590 to reserve your tickets today.

For more information about Joan Brock, visit her website at www.joanbrock.com. To learn more about the Junior League of Rochester, visit them at www.jlroch.org.

The Junior League of Rochester, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. Joan Brock Online:

www.joanbrock.com

Photo of Joan Brock

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From The President

Hello friends and supporters. I hope you are finding ways to stay warm this winter. This year I have heard more complaints about the weather than any other time in recent history. Is it that the weather is much worse than in years past, or is it just as we get older we have less tolerance for it? Even my friends who like to ski seem to be sick of the persistent bitter cold.

Given the frigid temperatures, I was quite surprised a few weeks ago to walk into our building and see signs of tropical weather. That's right, tropical beaches, hula dancers and brilliant sunshine. It seems our ambitious annual celebration committee has already begun to bring us thoughts of warmer environs, with an early promotion of our upcoming event when we will be bringing the South Pacific to South Clinton Avenue.

At first, I thought this was too early to promote an event that is still so many months away, on June 22, but then I realized it was a stroke of genius. What better way to help us get through the next 6 weeks of winter.

Those of you who have been to our annual celebrations, South Beach on South Clinton, South of France on South Clinton, and last year's South of the Border on South Clinton, know what a special event this is. It not only gives us an opportunity to have two to three hundred of our favorite friends visit the agency for a fun party, but it is our only special event to raise funds for our vision rehabilitation services. Thanks to our sponsors who cover our basic costs, every dollar of ticket sales goes directly to services. Last year, this event raised approximately $33,000 and this year we hope to do even better.

So, while you're shoveling out the driveway one more time, or turning up the thermostat just a few more degrees, take a moment to remember that your South Pacific adventure will soon be here. Join us for the warmest spot in Rochester on June 22 and warm a lot of hearts in the process!

A. Gidget Hopf

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Congratulations, Gidget!

In October of 2003, ABVI-Goodwill's President/CEO A. Gidget Hopf joined the board of the National Industries for the Blind for a four-year term. Congratulations on your appointment! You will be a positive asset to the board of directors.

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From The Medical Director

For those of us of age, the common mid-life affliction of having to hold objects farther away to make them clearer is all part of growing older. This condition, while frustrating or irritating to many, takes on particular significance for people living with low vision because the symptoms of aging may occur at an earlier age or call for more complex solutions.
As we age, most of us experience "presbyopia," a condition best characterized by the need to hold the newspaper or reading material at arm's length to read. The average age of onset is around 40 years old and often, this is the first sign that a patient is ready for bifocal lenses.

One of the most frustrating things for many patients living with low vision is the realization that their condition does not exempt them from the trials and travails of the traditional aging process. In other words, just because a patient has a diagnosed visual impairment they are not exempt from presbyopia or any number of other age-related conditions. Low vision patients at age 30 may have the signs and symptoms associated with someone ten years older.

There's hope. As frustrating as this reality is, the good news is that age-related conditions in low vision patients can be managed and treated. It's imperative that the patient's doctors look beyond the underlying condition and understand what the patient is wishing to accomplish in his or her everyday life. That's where ABVI-Goodwill can be of tremendous value. A low-vision examination by one of our specialists can do much to discover these subsurface needs and deliver practical solutions that improve lives.

Often, the best solutions or accommodations are so simple that they are elegant. Making changes in the patient's environment, visual aids or habits can be a good start. ABVI-Goodwill's Low Vision Center, the best-equipped facility of its kind between Buffalo and New York City, can provide this unique intervention and treatment. Our low-vision certified doctors can help provide for the normal aging process, regardless of when that aging occurs.

There's always something we can do, but we can't be in every patient's home, office or classroom. Therefore, it's essential that patients and families keep an eye out for changes in visual acuity that present a fresh opportunity, rather than another barrier.

Gwen Sterns, MD

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Preferred Format

Do you prefer to receive reading material from ABVI-Goodwill in large print, email, tape, or Braille? If you are not receiving information from us in your preferred format, please call Sindy Cantor at (585) 697-5713.

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Agency News

Congratulations and Best of Luck!

For the past 17 years, Elaine McCorry has been a source of support and guidance for many older adults at ABVI-Goodwill. People have relied on her skills and compassion to assist them in their homes and in the community. ABVI-Goodwill would like to thank Elaine for her many years of service and to wish her good health and happiness as she retires.

Elaine's giving nature towards older adults stems from her childhood and the admiration she had for her grandfather and his wisdom. Even after she left her home state of Maryland at the age of 19, Elaine took that admiration with her and turned it into her life's work.

At the age of 39 and after her children had grown, Elaine's interest in gerontology was rekindled after reading a book about the number of older adults with disabilities. Elaine was moved to go to college and received her BA in Gerontology from St. John Fisher College in 1982.

Upon graduating, Elaine was the assistant director at an agency for older adults, where she spent most of her time in gerontological social work and community education. She also spent a great deal of time educating herself on vision loss in older adults. This knowledge was the gateway for her when she heard of an opening at ABVI-Goodwill in 1989.
For two years, Elaine worked as the Intake Coordinator, and although she enjoyed this position, she was interested in working directly with older adults. In 1991, she took the position she had wanted and began implementing outreach programs for older adults.

Elaine's involvement in the community has been fundamental in improving services available to older adults. She received state funding to begin pilot programs in Monroe and surrounding counties that focused on outreach and creating peer support groups. The goal of the outreach was to identify older adults who were legally blind and go into their homes for service assessment. Not only was Elaine reaching a group of people that she so loved working with, but she was also able to continue using her social work skills to help improve the lives of those she served.

As Elaine begins a new chapter in her life, she looks back on her time at ABVI-Goodwill with great fondness, "Retirement is synonymous with refocusing. During my 17 years here, I have learned so much from the consumers and employees I have worked with. This has truly been a gratifying and personally rewarding experience."

Best wishes to Elaine McCorry as she sets out on new adventures and discovers new lives to touch in a positive way.

Photo caption: Elaine McCorry

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Honoring Twenty Years of Service

Dr. Paul Caito has been serving as a low-vision specialist at ABVI-Goodwill for the past twenty years. We are very fortunate to have Dr. Caito as part of our team. His knowledge and patient rapport make him, and all of our low- vision specialists, a vital part of the Low Vision Center.

In 1975, Dr. Caito received his BS in Biology and Chemistry from St. John Fisher College. He completed his doctorate at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in 1979. That same year, Dr. Caito received his New York State license in Optometry, as well as certification in Low Vision.

Through his private practice and his twenty years at ABVI-Goodwill, Dr. Caito has helped hundreds of people maximize their vision. His dedication and compassion make him a strong asset to ABVI-Goodwill and the community-at-large.

Thank you, Dr. Caito, for twenty years of service to ABVI-Goodwill!

Photo caption: Dr. Paul Caito

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If you would like to express your appreciation of Dr. Caito's or Elaine McCorry's service to ABVI-Goodwill in the form of an honorary donation, please contact Sindy Cantor at (585) 697-5713.

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ABVI-Goodwill Celebrates 2004 Direct Labor Employee of the Year

ABVI-Goodwill is pleased to announce Gerry Cone as the 2004 Direct Labor Employee of the Year and nominee for the 2004 Peter J. Salmon Award. A Rochester native,

Gerry attended Jefferson High School and held several maintenance positions before coming to work at ABVI-Goodwill twenty-one years ago.

Following a call from Dorothy Green, former Director of Vision Rehabilitation, Gerry interviewed for a manufacturing position at ABVI-Goodwill. At the time, he was doing outdoor maintenance at Nazareth College and was pleased to get Dorothy's call. In addition to Nazareth, Gerry also worked in the maintenance department at Action for a Better Community.

With many years of valuable experience, Gerry is a wonderful addition to ABVI-Goodwill. Gerry's jobs have varied over the years, but his favorite assignment was working on the sheeter, a machine that cuts rolls of paper down to set sizes. Currently, he operates one of the mill cutters in our note pad division. When he isn't cutting self-stick note pads, Gerry likes to spend time with his wife and daughter, as well as mountain biking in nice weather.

Like many others with a visual impairment, Gerry's had some struggles with his sight. He had a detached retina, twice, in his right eye and lens replacement surgery, but still kept a positive attitude and achieved his goals. He is a dedicated employee who embodies all that ABVI-Goodwill stands for. According to his supervisor, Tony Mohr, Gerry is "the most versatile, dedicated employee in the department. He is a hard worker, a team player and is most deserving of this award."
Gerry's advice for someone who is blind or visually impaired is "do the best you can with the sight you have and take advantage of any available services."

Congratulations to Gerry Cone, ABVI-Goodwill's 2004 Direct Labor Employee of the Year.

Photo caption: Gerry Cone

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Debbie Scheg Named 2004 Employee Of The Year

With over twenty-two years of service to ABVI-Goodwill, Debbie Scheg is a friendly mainstay in the film recycling department. As the 2004 Employee of the Year, Debbie's dedication and work ethic make her a valuable resource to her department and to the agency as a whole.

Before coming to work at ABVI-Goodwill, Debbie worked at Continuing Developmental Services' workshop in assembly line production. Even though she enjoyed her job, Debbie was excited to learn about ABVI-Goodwill and what was available for her. She was ready for a change and was looking forward to this new opportunity. Debbie began working here in 1981 and has been with ABVI-Goodwill ever since.

Debbie's visual impairment hasn't stopped her from enjoying the things that she likes to do, such as reading Braille magazines and books and playing the piano. Debbie also likes to sing and is a member of ABVI-Goodwill's Morning Star Choir. Her piano skills and solo performances are a real delight to all who have heard her perform.
Debbie is very goal-oriented and strives to achieve the things she sets for herself, such as working faster to increase her production. Her determination to succeed carries out into her advice for others who are blind or visually impaired. She encourages everyone to "go to school and find out what you're good at and where you'd excel. Get the training you need and set goals for yourself."

Kudos to Debbie Scheg for twenty-two years of service and for being ABVI-Goodwill's 2004 Employee of the Year!

Photo caption: Deb Scheg

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New Employee Spotlight

The following new employees have joined ABVI-Goodwill since November 3, 2003:
Shirley Coddington Goodwill Store 11.03.03
Andrea Robare Goodwill Store 11.12.03
Robert Small Goodwill Donation Ctr. 12.2.03
Andrew Pokon Goodwill Store 12.4.03
Ana Delgado-Sterling Vision Rehabilitation 12.9.03
Candice Miller Goodwill Store 12.15.03
James Brege Food Service 12.22.03
Rhonda Thomas Goodwill Store 12.27.03
Amberly Yannatone Goodwill Store 1.3.04
Tyrone Graham Manufacturing 1.13.04
Marissa Wilson Goodwill Store 1.21.04
Robert Grolling Vision Rehabilitation 1.26.04
Kirstyn Hague Vision Rehabilitation 1.26.04

Welcome to the team. We're so glad to have you with us!

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Mark Your Calendars!

Has the winter got you down? Look forward to the clear blue waters of the South Pacific as we say "aloha" to ABVI-Goodwill's Annual Celebration!

If you enjoyed last year's spicy festivities at South of the Border, then the refreshing Pacific breezes are just the thing to relax you, chase away the remaining winter blues and cool your taste buds from all that great hot sauce!

Plant the tropical flowers, dig out your grass skirt, don your best Hawaiian shirt and join us for South Pacific on South Clinton this June!

Mark your calendars for:
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
4:30 pm to 8:00 pm
422 South Clinton Ave.
Rochester, New York

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Thank You

Many thanks to the Irondequoit Lions Club for their generous donation towards the purchase of books for our children's program. On November 11, 2003, fellow Lion and employee, Scott Davis, presented a check for $250 to Tracy L. Schleyer, Director of Development.

Through the continued community support of organizations such as the Lions Club, ABVI-Goodwill is able to provide the most up-to-date services possible.

Thank you for your continued support.

Photo caption: Scott Davis and Tracy Schleyer

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Bridge Anyone?

Are you interested in playing bridge? Well, so are other consumers just like you! ABVI-Goodwill is looking for anyone who is blind or visually impaired and wants to join a group to play Bridge.
If you are interested, please contact Cathy Schaffron at (585) 697-5726.

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Outside advertisement

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Technically Speaking
The Basics of Reading Machines
By Kim Kline

One of the most fundamental challenges for people who are blind or visually impaired is being able to read printed materials-a capability that most people take for granted every day. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology, in conjunction with synthetic speech technology, has been a popular solution to this problem. In fact, it is this technology that brought us many of the popular reading machines sold today.

How this technology works is fascinating. A reading machine works by scanning the printed page where the software recognizes text material, and then sending that text to a "text-to-speech engine." This device then "voices" the printed material to the user.

There are two general categories of reading machines: stand-alone machines and computer-based systems, both of which have positive and negative features. Stand-alone machines range from the original Kurzweil Reader to newer, more compact machines, such as the Ovation Reader and the Pronto Reader. Over the years, these machines have become much smaller and less expensive, typically costing around $2,000.

Computer-based systems can be an attractive solution if the user already has a computer. Typically, this option is less expensive and requires only a computer with a sound card, a scanner and the OCR software. For many, this system offers features and benefits more useful to users. One drawback to computer-based systems is that they can be more complex to set up and operate.

Examples of computer-based systems range from Scan and Talk by Colligo, which costs around $400 with a scanner, to programs like Open Book by Freedom Scientific and the Kurzweil 1000 by Kurzweil Educational Systems on the high end. The latter two cost about $1,150 and $1,450, respectively, when purchased with a scanner. Most of these programs have synthetic speech built into the software.

It's important to remember that reading machines are not a panacea. Many materials do not scan well, especially if the print quality is poor or the document is printed on colored paper. The font used can also have a major impact on how well a document is scanned. Unfortunately, almost all of these systems will not read handwriting, which leaves many pieces of mail unreadable for a person who is blind or visually impaired.

However, many documents do scan well with these machines, and they have become an important tool in the home and the workplace. Some of the computer-based systems, such as Open Book, now function also as fax machines and personal copiers. While these machines cannot replace the use of people as readers, they are an important step towards helping people who are blind or visually impaired achieve their goal of personal independence.

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In Her Own Words
New Beginnings" on Reachout Radio
By Rene Latorre

Airing in April of this year, ABVI-Goodwill will be hosting an exciting new radio broadcast in partnership with WXXI Reachout Radio. The show, "New Beginnings," will air the first Sunday of every month at 1:00 pm. This 30-minute program has been created with the consumer in mind. It will feature guest interviews and topics such as coping with vision loss, eye health and conditions, adaptive technology, mobility, guide dogs, cooking, agency updates and much more.

The name "New Beginnings" derives from the philosophy that ABVI-Goodwill is a place where people come to learn how to begin again after experiencing vision loss. We provide hope and teach people how to do the same things they used to do, just in different ways.

People need to understand that vision loss is not terminal. While requiring adaptations and lifestyle changes, vision loss actually limits very few activities. It is our goal that "New Beginnings" will be another place for people who are experiencing vision loss to find the hope, answers and encouragement they need through good advice and information.

As the program's host and someone who is personally affected by vision loss, I understand the issues facing us every day. I want this program to be a source of entertainment as well as information. Most of all, I want listeners to come away with the mindset that they can accomplish anything, that they can create a new beginning.

Tune in every month to discover your new beginning! For more information about program topics or to make comments or suggestions, please call (585) 697-5721
or email rlatorre@abvi-goodwill.com.

Reachout Radio is a closed circuit radio reading service that provides reading of local newspapers, grocery ads, books, magazines and informational programming. For more information about Reachout Radio eligibility, call (585) 258-0333.

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Rays of Light
By Jen Enright

Volunteers come in all shapes and sizes. Their contributions to the work of ABVI-Goodwill are as varied, and as important, as each individual that walks through our doors. As cliché as it may sometimes seem, it is true that the dedication and efforts of our volunteers make ABVI-Goodwill a "full service" agency.

Most people have probably heard about our need for drivers for medical appointments, personal readers and personal grocery shoppers, but the need goes much deeper. We are constantly re-evaluating and reshaping our volunteer program to best serve the needs of our consumers. In doing so, our volunteer needs have grown.

Currently, ABVI-Goodwill is joining forces with the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts' Scouting for Food and Clothing donation drive on March 27, 2004. This community-wide event is an important event for ABVI-Goodwill, as all the donated clothing will provide funding for programs, services and jobs for people who are blind or visually impaired living in the Greater Rochester Area.

We estimate 25,000 bags of clothing will be collected by the scouts on Saturday, March 27. ABVI-Goodwill will have over a dozen collection sites throughout the city and suburbs of Rochester where the scouts will bring the donations.
We need volunteers to help us in shifts between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. Bring your family, friends, neighbors, or co-workers to one of the sites to help put the bags of clothing into trucks. No prior experience is required! If you can pick up a bag of clothing, you can help us!

Bags for food and clothing will be distributed to over 250,000 households in the community. If you are unable to help load clothing, then please clean out your cupboards and closets and support this event with your donation. You will receive your bags for donating on Saturday, March 20, 2004.

For more information on how you can help Scouting For Food and Clothing or if you are interested in learning more about ABVI-Goodwill's expanding volunteer needs, please call (585) 697-5718 or email jenright@abvi-goodwill.com.
Together, we can make a difference. Become a ray of light for someone in your world today.

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Your vision is our future

At ABVI-Goodwill, we understand that providing for family and loved ones is always the first priority; however, many individuals also provide for the charities in which they deeply believe. We are always humbled and grateful to the many individuals who remember ABVI-Goodwill in their estate plans. Gifts from these generous and visionary individuals ensure the perpetuation of our organization and fund vital programs, services and jobs for people who are blind or visually impaired for generations to come.

It has been said that rare is the person who regrets having been truly generous or thoughtful, and we believe that to be true. More often, well-intended people are sorry for not having done more to help others while they still could.
When you think of making a gift to charity in your will, an outright bequest usually comes to mind. This can take various forms:

A Specific Bequest is when you bequeath a sum of money or other property. In this case, you describe exactly what you want to leave to ABVI-Goodwill.

A Residuary Bequest is honored after all other bequests have been made, and all debts, expenses and taxes have been paid.

A Contingent Bequest is used when a specified amount or percentage of your estate is bequeathed to ABVI-Goodwill, only if your said beneficiary does not survive you.

A charitable outright bequest in your will is an exceptional way to support our mission and the people we serve. If you are interested in making a bequest to ABVI-Goodwill, and would like to become a member of the Foresight Circle, please call Tracy Schleyer, Director of Development, at (585) 697-5780 or email her at tschleyer@abvi-goodwill.com.

One sentence in your will can help continue ABVI-Goodwill's programs and services, today and in the future, for people who are blind or visually impaired.

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Children's Programs & Services

Warming Up for Winter

The Children's program has been bustling with activities! Our children's events not only provide a place for children who are blind or visually impaired to discover new talents and gain self-esteem and confidence, but it is also a place to make new friends and learn new practical life skills.

In October, children got together to go horseback riding and make pumpkin crafts for Halloween. For some, this was the first time they had ever ridden a horse. November found the kids rolling for a spare at Clover Lanes and December brought a family Holiday Party.

The Holiday Party was a chance for children, and their parents, to come together and learn about different cultures. The children made crafts to represent the three major holidays of the season: Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanza. A storyteller joined us to bring some of our favorite stories to life.

Fostering social skills in young children is a key building block that helps children who are blind or visually impaired later in life. Interacting with other children with visual impairments is something that many young children don't get to experience. By participating in events such as horseback riding or bowling, the children have fun and learn about themselves and others.

If your child is interested in participating in some of the social activities at ABVI-Goodwill, then mark your calendars for these upcoming events:

* March 28: Ice Skating in conjunction with SABAH (Skating Association for the Blind & Handicapped).
* Upcoming music program for pre-school and toddler-aged children in collaboration with the Hochstein School of Music.

For more information or to register your child, call Sarah Favro, Children's Specialist, at (585) 697-5746.

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Consumer News You Can Use

University of Buffalo Enhances Textbooks

After two years of development and $400,000 from the U.S. Department of Education, three professors at the University of Buffalo have developed prototypes of social studies textbooks for grades 2 through 10 that offer students a more complete learning experience.

Currently, there are 13 prototypes, which consist of electronic files that can be read by a portable, refreshable Braille note taker. The file is designed to provide a more complete learning experience for the student by incorporating text and the visual elements that a student with a visual impairment would miss out on, such as a timeline, maps, highlighted vocabulary words and multiple choice questions.

The zip file textbooks are stored at the American Printing House for the Blind in Louisville, Kentucky. If a student is interested in acquiring one of the files, their teacher should contact a member of the state education department to see about obtaining one. The textbooks are slated for release in the spring of 2004.

Through the use of the Braille note taker, these electronic textbooks are not only portable, but also versatile. The student now has the option to listen to the text or to read it in Braille. This is also the first technology of its kind to take advantage of the portable Braille note taker

For additional information on the University of Buffalo's work with electronic textbooks, email Lois Baker at ljbaker@buffalo.edu.

Good News For Linux Users

On January 21, 2004, a workgroup was developed in conjunction with Free Standards Group, which has representatives from the American Foundation for the Blind and other prominent technology groups, to investigate ways to make it easier for software developers to work with assistive technology. The major focus of this initiative is to allow all users accessibility to the Linux desktop.

The first-year goals of the workgroup are to improve technology so that speech synthesizers and Braille readers can run more smoothly when several applications are running at the same time, and to standardize keyboard accessibility for all users with "sticky keys," which allows users to press keys in sequence and not simultaneously. An example would be holding down Ctrl and P at the same time to print. A sticky key would allow a user to push Ctrl and then P and not have to hold them down together. This standard is useful not only for people who are visually impaired, but also for people with other physical limitations.

Standardized accessibility made possible from the workgroup will allow new opportunities for Linux-system users. The wide range of this workgroup means setting important new standards and making sure more technology complies with laws such as Section 508.

For more information about the Free Standards Group workgroup, visit www.a11y.org or the American Foundation for the Blind at www.afb.org.

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O & M for the Winter Traveler

By Susan Bergh McNulty, Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist (COMS)

It may be snowy outside but that doesn't mean you have to stay indoors. Here is a list of some things to keep in mind to help ensure safe travel when the snow flies:

Travel gear and devices:
* Wear layers: an inner layer that's breathable and keeps away moisture and an outer layer that's wind and waterproof.
* Wear a hat, not a hood, to enable more efficient use of residual vision and hearing for orientation purposes.
* Stay visible to drivers: wear colors which contrast with the surroundings, such as dark/bright colors to contrast with the snow; wear reflective clothing in the late afternoon and evening when it gets dark outside.
* Wear sunglasses and/or hats with brims to reduce snow glare.
* Use of mobility devices is crucial, such as a long cane and/or support cane, to check for unexpected changes in snow depth and to search for hidden landmarks. Remember: snow changes familiar landscapes!
* Check into specialty devices, such as flip-up ice spikes for support canes and winter tread shoe spikes to slip over shoes and boots.

Additionally:
* Give yourself extra time, even for frequently traveled routes, whether you're walking, taking the bus, or getting a ride.
* Stay aware of changing weather conditions by asking a friend or family member, calling the Weather Line (585-334-0013), or following the news.
* When walking on potentially slippery surfaces, slow down, take small steps, widen your stance, and bend at the knees. Try to walk on snow at the edges of the walkway for better traction when it's icy.
* Know snow removal patterns to plan your travel route. Generally the pattern is major streets, minor streets, major pedestrian walkways, and neighborhood sidewalks. Also, be aware of snow banks at street corners even when sidewalks are cleared.
* Remember that northern sides of streets receive more sunlight; therefore there may be more melt-off to clear the sidewalks over a series of sunny days, but also the potential for the melt-off to become icy if the temperature drops.
* Check wind direction to know where snow may blow and collect. Check the amount of wind, as it can affect hearing and therefore orientation.
* Be aware of changes in auditory information as temperatures and conditions fluctuate. For example, traffic is quiet and muffled by snow, but amplified by wet roadways.

Enjoy the winter months while staying safe and warm!

If you have questions regarding winter or other seasonal travel strategies, contact the Orientation & Mobility (O&M) Department at ABVI-Goodwill at 585) 232-1111.

And remember, spring is just around the corner!

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" One Day At A Time"

New Highlights on WXXI Reachout Radio

By Ruth Phinney

This spring, there are three programs that will either premiere or return to WXXI Reachout Radio's airwaves on alternating Sundays at 1:00 pm.

Host Rene Latorre and the staff of ABVI-Goodwill will return one Sunday a month with a new program entitled "New Beginnings." The half-hour program will feature a regular interview segment, along with feature segments highlighting technology updates, daily living/rehabilitation news, updates on eye research and vision news, orientation and mobility issues and much more.

Continuing with news, a new newspaper in town, ConXion, will be broadcast one Sunday per month. ConXion is a dual-language (English/Spanish) newspaper focusing on local issues in the Latin-American community. Alternating with these two programs will be ACB Reports, a half-hour program of news from the American Council of the Blind.

The three programs are produced and distributed on a monthly basis to radio reading services across the country. We hope Reachout Radio listeners will tune in Sundays at 1:00 pm for these new programs on WXXI Reachout Radio.
For more information about Reachout Radio, or how to access the service, contact Reachout Radio at (585) 258-0333.

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Reachout Radios

Reachout Radio receivers are on loan to qualified individuals as long as they are needed. If you, or someone you know has a Reachout Radio that is no longer being used, please call 258-0333 to arrange for its return.

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Creative Ways To Give

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

To Bobbie Rodriguez for the donation of a personally written children's book on tape.
The kindness and generosity of our friends and donors help us offer the best and most up-to-date services possible. Thank you for your support!

If you or someone you know can donate the dollars to fund these necessities, please contact Tracy Schleyer, Director of Development, for more information at (585) 697-5780.

Children's Program Items

With the new Children's Playgroup underway, we are still very much in need of books, toys and other items to stock our new children's activity room.

New! Computer games adapted for children with visual impairments-approximately $50 each.
New! American Printing House for the Blind game kit-$180 each.
New! Disney read-along DVDs-approximately $15 ea.
Miscellaneous Items

There is always something that needs fixing here and every dollar we spend on major repair items takes away from our ability to fund programs, services and jobs.

Counseling Group Transportation Funds. Many people experiencing vision loss seek counseling and support through ABVI-Goodwill's counseling groups. However, some participants may lack transportation. A cab for one person to attend our 8-session group is $240; for five people: $1,200.

Autofocus Telescope. This item has appeared on our wish list for several issues now, but we are in great need of this valuable device. An autofocus telescope enables a person who is visually impaired to see better by magnifying objects much like a set of binoculars. The cost of the entire kit is $1,995.

SureSight Vision Screener. To keep our low vision screening as up-to-date as possible, we would like to purchase a SureSight Vision Screener. This device is child-friendly, fast, accurate and can test for a number of childhood eye conditions such as near- and farsightedness, astigmatism and "lazy eye," to name a few.This much-needed device costs around $4,500.

Minus Cylinder Phoropter. Project Eye Care needs a replacement minus cylinder phoropter; this device houses the lenses used during an eye exam. The one we have is cracked. We aren't asking for a brand new one but rather a used one at the cost of $4,000.

Computer for Project Eye Care. Project Eye Care is growing and our computer system can't keep up! We would greatly benefit from a new Project Eye Care computer, which is estimated at $1,500.

Braille Printer. Our Vision Rehabilitation Department and Adaptive Technology Center are in desperate need of a new, up-to-date Braille printer. This new printer would not only benefit our employees but we would be able to train students as well, which is something we can't do on our old equipment. A new printer would cost around $4,000.

Retail Point of Sale system. This much-needed cash register system is very costly at $60,000. However, with half of the cost already secured, we only need $30,000 for this item.

Vacuums for Retail stores. We are in need of two commercial grade vacuum cleaners for use in our Goodwill retail stores. These cleaners will be used to keep our stores clean and the donation will allow us to maximize our profits for programs, jobs and services for people who are blind or visually impaired.

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Outside advertisement

Rochester based.

Birds Eye Foods

Nationally Known.
www.birdseyefoods.com

Birds Eye Foods is proud to sponsor the ABVI-Goodwill 2003 Annual Celebration and 90th Anniversary

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Bequests, Memorial And Honorary Gifts

Bequests

ABVI-Goodwill would like to thank those who named us in their will. We are honored to carry on our work in their names.

Estate gifts have been received from the following between November 11, 2003 and February 19, 2004:
Adelaide Radtke

Helen DeVogelare

It is always our pleasure to welcome those who choose to provide for ABVI-Goodwill through bequests, trusts and other life income gifts to become members of ABVI-Goodwill's Foresight Circle. If you have planned or are planning to include ABVI-Goodwill in your estate plans, and would like more information, please contact Tracy Schleyer, Director of Development, at (585) 697-5780.

Memorial Gifts

By giving to ABVI-Goodwill in memory or honor of a family member or friend, many charitable people have found a way to express their caring spirit while helping to ensure the success of ABVI-Goodwill.

Thank you to the following friends who made contributions from November 11, 2003 to February 19, 2004:
* Louise Alianell
James and Phyllis Alessio
David and Sarah Alger
Dorothy Alger
* Frances Betkowski
Paul H. Bush
* Kenneth DeMent
Ruth R. Russell
* Anna DiProsper
Stephen and Mary Graham
* Hazel E. Ferris
Donna H. and Richard R. Jamison
* Cathy Frantz
Irene Galinsky
* Elizabeth Gresens
John and Candice Masters
* Joseph Guisto
Andrew Chastek
Laura and Lou Corona
Frances and Patrick Guisto
Barbro Giangreco
Lawrence J. Giangreco, DDS
William Hales
Marvin D. Miller
Al and LuAnn Owens
Dwight Palmer
Anna Marie Sengillo
* Emily Hamilton
Dorothy and Marshall Tyler
* George Katerle
Marion Katerle
* John Kirby
Bernice M. Underwood
* Gerald Kirchgessner
Robert Sheakley
* Julia Harding Leenhouts
Lawrence Weykman
* Alberta Mietus
Bruce and Claudia Crayton
* Max Walden
Robert A. Brown
* Leo Zengerle
Susan Bonadonna
Paul Bonsignore
Virginia and Frank Bosek
Thomas Breslin
Donna Conway
Jan Davis
Harold and Joan Donnelly
Bernard and Mirola Ellis
Lucille Fodge
Patricia Font-Bach
Judith and Paul Gluchowski
Geraldine and Earl Howarth
Judith Ingutti
James E. Johnson
Judy Mancuso
Stephen and Kim McCluski
Sherman and Mary Anne Montgomery
Stephen and Kathleen Morgan
Camille Perlo
Linda Reagan
Irene D. Roth
Patty and Joseph Scarlata
Brenda Shortsleeve
Michelle Szatkowski
John Szybist
Honorary Gifts
* James and Paula Briggs
Joseph C. Briggs
* Julia O'Brien
Creative Office Systems, Inc.
* Howard Schenker, M.D.
Deborah Sikora
* Ann Tamburrini
Robert and Joan Ferris

A memorial or honorary gift is a wonderful way to celebrate special occasions, honor a loved one, or pay tribute to the memory of deceased family members or friends. Your name and the names of those who you are honoring will be listed in The Beacon. ABVI-Goodwill will also send a note acknowledging your gift according to your wishes.

For more information about making a memorial or honorary gift donation for a family member or loved one, please contact Sindy Cantor at (585) 697-5713.

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How Can We Help You?

After seeing information about ABVI-Goodwill on R News, Leo Colon called to get a second opinion on his deteriorating vision loss. Like many who seek our services, Leo spoke to Crandall LaPlante, Intake Coordinator, who set up an appointment with one of our low-vision eye care specialists.

During his examination, the doctor told Leo that he had operable cataracts and gave him a referral to The Eye Center. After his consultation, Leo had the needed surgery to remove the cataracts and restore some of his viable sight. He doesn't even need to wear glasses now.

ABVI-Goodwill is a valuable resource for so many people in our community who are blind or visually impaired. A simple phone call to (585) 232-1111 can make all the difference in the way you see the world. Join others like Leo Colon and take the first step towards gaining your independence today.

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Visit the South Pacific on Us!

Join ABVI-Goodwill as we celebrate another year of community service at this year's annual gala-South Pacific on South Clinton.

Won't You Join Us?

Five lucky consumers will win a free ticket and transportation to and from the celebration held on Tuesday, June 22, 2004 from 4:30 to 8:00 pm. To enter, please call Jen Enright at (585) 697-5718 with your name and phone number. The lucky winners will be randomly drawn and notified on June 7, 2004.

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Camp Smile This Summer
Looking forward to the summer? The Webster Lions Club has just the thing to keep your child busy this July. Any child between the ages of 7 and 18 who is blind or visually impaired is invited to attend Camp Smile, a day camp sponsored by the Webster Lions Club.

This two-week long camp gives participants a chance to take field trips and interact with other kids their age who are blind or visually impaired. Previously, campers have gone on trips to the 911 Call Center, Sea Breeze, museums and much more. In addition to the day events, the campers will also camp out for a night and make s'mores around the campfire.

Camp Smile is a wonderful opportunity for the campers to try new activities like swimming or fishing and to make new friends. Each child is paired one-on-one with a peer counselor throughout the program who not only is there for support but friendship too.

This year, Camp Smile runs July 5-16 and July 19-30, 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. Transportation to and from the camp is provided. Campers are welcome to join in for one or both of the two-week sessions. Through the support of the Webster Lions Club, there is no charge for this program.

If your child is interested in participating at Camp Smile this summer, please contact the Webster Lions Club at (585) 234-5480 or visit the Camp Smile website at www.campsmile.org.

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Disclaimer

The products, services, and programs of other organizations mentioned in The Beacon are not endorsed by ABVI-Goodwill. If you have any questions or comments, please contact Jen Enright at (585) 697-5718, or by email at jenright@abvi-goodwill.com.

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The BEACON Contributors:

Paul H. Bush, Jen Enright, A. Gidget Hopf, Ruth Phinney, Kim Kline, Gwen Sterns, MD, Rene Latorre, Susan Bergh McNulty

Editors:
Paul H. Bush, Jen Enright, and Michelle Mastrosimone

Design:
Archer Communications, Inc.
(585) 461-1570 • www.archercom.com

The BEACON is published four times a year. For additional copies, in print, in Braille, by email or on tape, contact Sindy Cantor at (585) 697-5713, or email scantor@abvi-goodwill.com.