Guide Dog News
2007, Issue #2
It’s a Dog’s Life
“It’s pretty amazing—we have 350 dogs in the kennels at any one time, and you may hear a few
dogs bark, but in general, it’s pretty quiet. Visitors are really blown away by that and by the fact
that it’s so clean. It’s really a credit to our canine welfare technician staff. They’re there all day,
keeping things clean, keeping the dogs happy, calm and relaxed, their minds stimulated, and
giving them so many outlets for their energy. “
—Training Supervisor Kelly Martin
Happiness is a stuffed toy! At Guide Dogs, we’re experts at putting smiles on our dogs’ faces. We
balance the important work of learning to guide with generous doses of play, care, comfort and attention.
Oregon Kennel Manager Jeannine May said, “Through our Kennel Enrichment Program, we’ve made the
kennel experience enjoyable for our dogs and our staff. It’s a feast for the senses, rich in mental and
physical stimulation and the ultimate in relaxation. Thanks to our dedicated staff and volunteers, our
kennels are the next best thing to being home for our dogs.”
Standing outside the big kennel doors, visitors most often expect to meet 10-20 dogs due to the lack of
barking. However the California kennel holds 350 and the Oregon kennel, 150. Dogs being housed in the
kennels include those in training, dogs that have been dropped from training (called “career change
dogs”), breeder dogs, boarding dogs and dogs that are in for medical treatment.
A sweet serenade of Mozart’s music lends an atmosphere of calm in the early morning air as Training
Department staff rotate through the kennels, greeting the dogs and rewarding those that remain quiet.
The dogs that vocalize are encouraged to learn more self-control. This lesson is important, not only for
improving the comfort of all the dogs (and maintaining the sanity of staff,) but also because it prepares
them for their future role as well-behaved Guide Dogs in homes, offices and in public places.
Two barking Labs, Future and Brinkley, are calmed by Canine Welfare Technician (CWT) Jenni Ferrari.
“First I gave them a verbal command to be quiet and asked them to sit—to do something other then
barking,” she said. “Once they obeyed, I praised them and walked away to get them a treat. If they were
still quiet when I returned, they got rewarded. “
The transition from a warm, loving home into a sterile kennel may seem like a big one, but the staff and
volunteers are committed to making the adjustment as easy as possible.
“We start right from the beginning trying to make their transition a smooth one,” said Canine Welfare
Kennel Manager Marny Reardon. “After the first couple of weeks of being in the kennels, their true
personalities emerge.”
The staff move through all the quadrants of the kennel complex so the dogs learn to behave for more
than one person.
“A dog that’s used to being in a home might exhibit attention barking when in the kennel,” said Senior
Instructor Jenna Bullis. “When we hear a new arrival barking, we try to recognize why, and what we can
do to alleviate it. It’s important to be able to interpret the signs: is this dog barking because it’s acting out
or because it needs stimulation? We do more than just try to quiet them. We figure out what needs to be
done to help set them up to succeed.
“With kennel enrichment, I think you have a dog that’s in a better frame of mind to learn,” she said. “Their
stress is lower so learning can take place more readily. We’ve seen a reduction in medical issues which
means the dogs do not miss their training time. And when they do face challenges in training, their
recovery time is much quicker.”
Reading the Dogs
Knowing how to read dogs is key, otherwise, even with the best of intentions, one can inadvertently cause
stress. Marny explained:
“What we primates want may not be what a dog wants,” she said. “For example, we may go up to a dog
and pat it on the head to show friendliness. For many dogs, this is annoying. It’s much better to gently
stroke the back or chest. We may look directly at a dog because for us, eye contact is a good thing. In the
animal world, that can be seen as a challenge or a threat. A dog that ignores your escalating calls to
come inside and instead sniffs the ground may be just trying to get you to calm down. Knowing how to
read a dog can make all the difference in the relationship.”
In addition to adjusting from a home environment to a kennel, the dogs are learning a lot: working with a
variety of people in a variety of situations. They’re being taught to guide in traffic, crowds and on
escalators. These are busy days, and it’s important that the kennel environment is supportive so the dogs
will thrive. Depending on the dog, some may need more stimulation and others more quiet time.
Kennel Enrichment
An integral part of Guide Dogs’ Best Educational System of Training (BEST) is kennel enrichment. The
approach is similar to that used in zoos and aquariums—to create a positive environment for animals that
are not in their natural habitat. Kennel enrichment includes anything that stimulates the dog’s mind and
senses and makes the kennel a more positive place to be. The stimulus has to have a novel quality in
order to be enriching. Otherwise it just becomes part of the environment and the dogs become desensitized to it.
Oregon Class Supervisor Cheryl Vincent explained, “The goal is to help dogs succeed no matter what
their future role will be—whether they become working Guide Dogs or breeders, take on a different
career, or are adopted as pets.”
Since the BEST program was initiated in 2000, it has expanded exponentially with great results. Canine
welfare technicians, training staff and volunteers now have an arsenal of tools and techniques at their
disposal. The menu includes:
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Food enrichment—Food is a great motivator. Food-stuffed Kongs® (above), peanut butter
smeared bones, stuffed make-shift PVC toys and kibble frozen in ice cubes can keep boredom at
bay. A Kong may be stuffed with banana, kibble, and a layer of peanut butter and then frozen,
which makes for a long-lasting treat. Lightly frozen/packed ones teach the dogs the technique;
harder and more tightly packed ones keep even the most adept dogs occupied for quite a while.
Pooch Pilates—Wobble balance cushions and boxes of different heights and sizes provide
physical challenges that increase dogs’ body awareness and confidence.
Tactile enrichment—Supervised toy time may include access to Nylabones®, squeaky toys and
plush toys. Hanging toys and mobiles also attract interest.
Community Run—Doggie recess involves group play, where the dogs learn to bond with each
other and with people. Colorful play structures, climbing tunnels and shallow swimming pools are
among the choices of activities that promote appropriate interaction, learning and confidence.
Sound enrichment—CDs of music, nature sounds, and even “Dog Laughter,” are popular
among the canines. The Laughing Dog CD sounds like animals rooting in the ground, but the
dogs often really respond to it often with quiet curiosity.
Scent enrichment—Kennel surfaces are sprayed with a variety of scents including peppermint,
almond, maple syrup, coconut, etc.
Canine Wellness Room—Basically a doggie day spa, our Canine Wellness Room is a place with
lots of pillows, calm lighting, soothing scents and music, where a dog can really unwind. Staff
and volunteers provide TTouch, canine massage and even Reiki energy work.
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Bonding—Canine Cuddler volunteers or staff provide 10-20 minutes of calming human
interaction inside individual dog runs, so that the run is thought of as a pleasant place to be.
Treadmill—Treadmills are sometimes used to help dogs release pent-up energy and for physical
exercise.
Agility equipment—Balance beams, jumps and tunnels give dogs more opportunities to
challenge themselves and have fun.
Bedding and crates—Some dogs like a half crate in their run so they have a little area to curl up
in. Others prefer comforters or blankets. Getting to lie on big, comfy Durabull Bedz® in the
kennels while staff are working nearby is a real treat. The donated beds help us meet our
commitment to maintaining quality of life for our special dogs. The dogs love them for their
roominess and comfort; staff love them because of their durability and easy-clean surface.
A Day in the Life…
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In the morning, while their runs are being hosed, bleached and rinsed, Guide Dogs’ Training staff
visit and reward the dogs for being quiet. Once the cleaning is done, if a dog needs a medical
check, it will be taken to the vet clinic.
Dogs in training usually go out either in the morning or the afternoon with their instructors
(although, sometimes both). They’re loaded into the vans, have their training workout in town,
and enjoy a mid-day meal in between the training excursions. When they are not out on training
workouts, the rest of the day is theirs to enjoy down time or enrichment activities with the CWTs.
Activities and down time are tailored to each individual dog, depending on their level of comfort
and adaptation to the kennel environment. Activities and stimulation are increased for any dogs
showing discomfort in the kennels; some dogs may even be brought into the offices to be cared
for by staff doing administrative work to give the dogs a physical break from the kennel
environment.
Dogs that are career changed stay with their “string” (a group of dogs in the same stage of
training) until they are returned to their puppy raisers or placed in adoptive homes. They receive
the same care as the dogs in training with the exception of the training work-outs. They are put
on a “walk list” to be walked by volunteers or taken out to play in a grassy paddock behind the
kennels. If they are going to be in the kennel for an extended period of time are assigned to a
specific canine welfare technician so they get the attention they need.
Learn More Online!
There is so much information about our kennel enrichment program, we couldn’t possibly include it all in
this newsletter! Please visit our website at www.guidedogs.com/enrichment to learn even more about
enrichment activities, including:
 A video of enrichment activities
 A photo slide show
 A video of our dogs getting ready for “Dog Day”—the day they meet their new blind partners
 Kong stuffing recipes like fruit salad and Philly cheese steak
 Book lists and helpful links for Clicker training, Pooch Pilates, animal Reiki, TTouch, etc.
 Fun activities for your pet (teach your dog to ride a skateboard!)
Photos:
 Yellow Lab Tyra enjoys some play time.
 Canine Welfare Technician Shannon Del Buono gets a smooch.
 Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Diane Webster oversees a group play session in community run.
 Canine Welfare Technician Stephanie Thompson prepares a dog for a bath.
 CWT Alexia Stempel gets the full, undivided attention of dogs in her care by offering them a treat
for their good manners.
 CWT Jessica Gonzales plays with a dog in the community run on “Toy Day” when they bring out
dozens of new chew toys and plush toys.
 CWT Kenneth Koppes gets some love from a dog after a grooming session.
 CWT Betsy Mueller checks on a patient in the vet clinic.
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Marny Reardon helps Gatsby practice Pooch Pilates.
CWT Christina Cuddy shows a dog a hanging chew toy.
CWT Samantha Turnham practices obedience exercises with a dog. Below: Bath time with
Alexia.
Donor Profile: Karen and Bill Ingalls
Karen and Bill Ingalls of Santa Barbara, Calif., are wonderful examples of the power of partnering. Karen
and Bill have a long history with Guide Dogs, both as donors and volunteers. They got involved many
years ago when their yellow Lab, Josh, sired a litter of six puppies that they then donated to Guide Dogs;
five of them went on to become working guides. Their current dog, yellow Lab Mc Greggor, is a direct
descendant of Josh’s bloodline. On weekends, Karen, Bill and Mc Greggor head north to the Ingalls’
favorite spot—their Lake Nacimiento ranch—where Mc Greggor gets to romp while Karen and Bill tend to
their ranch chores.
Karen devotes a lot of her time volunteering for Guide Dogs. In addition to running Ingalls Plumbing with
Bill, she serves as the chairperson for the Santa Barbara Tri-County Friends of Guide Dogs, helping to
raise the awareness and visibility of our mission in the Santa Barbara area.
Together with former board chair and legendary supporter Norah Hamilton Straus, Karen has helped to
grow the committee’s friend-building and fundraising events over the past several years. Most recently,
Karen has worked tirelessly as the chair for the inaugural “Wine Sight” fundraiser (see next article). Her
leadership has been invaluable to the success of the event, but she is happily up to the task.
“I get to be part of a great group of people dedicated to helping Guide Dogs,” she said. “I love meeting the
dogs, making new friends and supporting an organization where I can see the mission in action. There is
no downside!”
Happenings
Outpouring of Support at Wine Sight
We are proud to report that our first “Wine Sight” event, an extravaganza of Santa Barbara food and wine,
successfully raised $142,000 earmarked for specialized veterinary care for Guide Dogs and Guide Dog
puppies living on California’s Central Coast.
Held in May at Fess Parker’s Doubletree Resort Hotel, Wine Sight was attended by nearly 250 guests.
Highlights of the evening included a special puppy delivery of young pups that were handed over to their
new puppy raising families; a keynote address by Guide Dogs’ alumna, Robin Libbee with her Guide Dog
Gittle; and the “Fund a Need” package for veterinary care that resulted in 32 bidders raising $29,800 on
that auction lot alone.
Principal underwriting for Wine Sight was provided by Amgen, Inc., and Charlie Alva; other generous
supporters include Merrill Lynch, Bryant & Sons Jewelers, and prominent Santa Barbara Area
Winemakers Doug Margerum, Bryan Babcock and Ashley Parker Snyder. Fess Parker Winery &
Vineyards was the evening’s principal winery sponsor. Our thanks to the Wine Sight
committee, chaired by Karen Ingalls, as well as honorary and steering committee members, including:
Norah Hamilton Straus, Barry and Jo Berkus, Jim and Chana Jackson, Lacey Baker-Smyth, the
Borgatello Family (Marborg Industries), Hope Kelly, Charlie Alva, Chris and Sheryl Scott (Chris Scott
Masonry and Building Materials) and Christopher Carroll, as well as Parker-Snider and Margerum. n
Photos:
 Reception winery representatives show off a few of the evening’s fine wines.
 Black Lab pup, Fern, meets a crowd of admirers.
 Puppy Raising Program Coordinator Mick Aguilera introduces puppy raiser Alice Garcia to her
new four-footed charge, yellow Lab Garfield.
Seattle Unleashes the Love
The sixth annual Seattle Champagne & Chocolates Gala “Unleash the Love” was presented by the
Seattle Area Delta Gamma Alumnae Chapter at the Grand Hyatt in February. The event was a sweet
success, raising $97,000 to support veterinary care for Seattle-Area working guides and puppies in
training, as well as the Delta Gamma Lectureships in Values and Ethics. Thank you to Gold Sponsor
Millwork Concepts and event co-chairs Melissa and Scott Cavanaugh (shown at left with CEO Bob
Phillips).
A Lunch Date in the OC
The second annual Orange County Friends Committee event, Labs and Lunch, was held at Tivoli Too! in
Laguna Beach in March. The event raised $37,735 for training, veterinary and support services for our
graduates and dogs in Orange County. Thank you to Hero Sponsors Fred James, Pacific Monarch
Resorts, and Cheryl and Carl Post; event co-chairs Dave and Susan Gerke. Pictured: Laguna Beach
Mayor Toni Iseman greeted by yellow Lab puppy Azteca.
Putting for the Pooches
The third annual “Tee Off for Dogs” golf tournament in April at the Tijeras Creek Golf Course in Rancho
Santa Margarita, Calif., raised $25,000 by GDB alumnus/tournament producer Frank Frand and his
committee. GDB will receive all of the proceeds, with a portion dedicated to providing safety jackets for
future students. Thank you to sponsors Health Net, Royal Canin, and South Coast Plaza.
Barrels of Fun
Let’s raise a toast to the Alameda Committee, which held its 45th annual Wine Tasting at Rosenblum
Cellars in Alameda, Calif., in May to benefit GDB. Proceeds from the event will go toward sponsoring a
Guide Dog team. Committee President Helen Malloy is shown with Persia, one of the 15 Guide Dog
puppies that attended the event, much to the delight of the crowd.
Dogs in the Yard
Long-time Oregon campus volunteer Mary Anderson presents puppy raiser Scott Zobrist with his new
black Lab pup, Fiorello (right). Oregon Puppy Raisers and hundreds of Guide Dog fans joined on a rainy
day in May for a special “Bark in the Park” event at Portland’s PGE Park. Combining a Spring day of
Beavers semi-pro baseball with a special pre-game puppy delivery behind home plate was a great way
for Guide Dogs to spread the word and recruit new puppy raisers in the Portland-Area community.
Save the Date
 Support Our Canine Heroes Wine Gala
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Vineyard Pavilion, Yountville - Napa Valley, California
Reception with live entertainment, multiple wineries and chefs, silent auction and lots of puppies!
Plus, gourmet dinner and spirited live auction.Tickets are $300 prior to September 10; $350
thereafter. Call (800) 295-4050 for tickets.
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“Mardi Gras Mutts” Fun Day 2007
Saturday, August 4 (California campus)
|Saturday, August 11 (Oregon campus)
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Oregon Fall Luncheon
Friday, November 2, 2007
Oregon Convention Center, Portland
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Festive Holiday Luncheon
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
The Westin St. Francis, San Francisco
For more information about these and other events, visit www.guidedogs.com
New Holiday Cards are Now Available!
It’s not too early to start thinking about the holidays—our 2007 holiday card set is available now! New this
year: a two card set. Each ten-card package includes five cards each of both cuddly full-color scenes
shown above, and are available blank inside, or with the greeting, “Wishing you a cozy holiday.” See the
enclosed Gift Shop Catalog to order yours today!
Mommy and Me
Mother Knows Best! We’re setting out to prove it. In March, we began the Mommy Mentor Pilot Program,
providing the opportunity for puppies to continue socializing under Mom’s guidance while they make the
transition from the sheltered world of the whelping kennel to the bustling world of the puppy kennel.
Following Mom’s lead, the pups explore their new surroundings and she even leads them on their first
campus walks. Somehow, things don’t seem as scary when Mom is by their side. After their first week in
the puppy kennel, the pups are well on their way to becoming confident and curious, so Mom is able to go
home and get some much needed rest and relaxation.
We’ve already noticed that the pups are much more relaxed and willing to explore new things during the
sessions with Mom. The motherly contact seems to speed them on their way to being confident and
independent.
As the success of this program continues, we hope to integrate it into our regular puppy socialization
routine. Congratulations to our pilot “Mentor Moms” on a job well done—Gelato, Heritage, Swoozie, Sheri,
Gemstone and Pella.
Of course, they’re as cute as can be! See the moms and pups in action in an online video!
www.guidedogs.com/moms
Pictured: Pella and her pups
Team GDB: We’re on a Roll!
The Guide Dog Lifestyle is an active, healthy lifestyle. It’s a model for the teamwork most people often
experience through sports activities. With that in mind, we are excited to announce the creation of “Team
GDB”—a way for GDB supporters to share their enthusiasm for our mission while participating in sporting
events.
In the first-ever Team GDB event, Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Paolo Pompanin organized a cycle team
of GDB alumni, puppy raisers, staff and supporters to participate in the American Diabetes Association’s
“Tour de Cure” bicycle ride in May.
The 33 cyclists took to the scenic byways of Napa Valley for 10, 25, 50 or 100-mile rides, and raised
$17,000 to support the American Diabetes Association’s efforts.
Diabetes is the leading cause of new blindness in the United States today. Team GDB was eager to
share the message that until a cure is found, people can still enjoy active, healthy lifestyles despite
diabetes and blindness.
Among the team’s cyclists were GDB alumnae Jessica Gonzales, Aerial Gilbert and Ayaka Isono, who
completed the ride on tandem bicycles piloted by sighted teammates. Participants were enthusiastically
greeted at the finish line by a host of Guide Dog puppies, raisers and friends who had come to cheer on
the team.
Team GDB is just another way of showing the commitment we have to using our power of partnering to
improve quality of life. It’s only natural, since teamwork is what we do every day. Stay tuned for future
opportunities to join up with or start a Team GDB in your area!
Photos:
 Tandem cyclists Zach Roth, a Guide Dog mobility instructor, with his wife Ayaka Isono and her
guide Pablo.
 A group photo of Team GDB.
 Cycling Legend Greg LeMond, visiting with Puppy Raiser Brenda Douglas and yellow Lab Blaine.
 Team Captain Paolo Pompanin and his tandem cycling partner GDB alumna Jessica Gonzales.
 Alumnae Jessica Gonzales (l) and Fender; Aerial Gilbert and Hedda.
 Tandem cyclists Simon Andulib and Aerial Gilbert.
News of Our Graduates
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Knowing that she might one day lose her sight to retinopathy, Janine Prindle and her family
devoted their lives to raising 30 Guide Dog puppies since 1985 as members of the Enumclaw
Washington’s Future Vision Puppy Raising Club. Janine served as the club’s leader. She was
honored by her club and community in a special reception in May. The event gave friends and
family a chance to meet her new guide, Cranberry, and celebrate her many accomplishments.
Under her leadership, the club has raised 186 Guide Dog puppies.
William Ferrell of Memphis, Tenn., and his guide, yellow Lab Castor, recently gave a presentation
to the Second Grade students at the Macon Road Baptist School, where William reports that “Mr.
Castor” was a perfect gentleman. The kids and teachers loved the duo so much, they’ve already
invited them back for next year!
Sue Phillips of Beaverton, Ore., reports that she and her black Lab guide, Beta, are busy
spreading the word about Guide Dogs. The two travel to schools, day care centers, support group
meetings and anywhere else interested to give presentations. They even recently appeared in an
informational video for Allsup, Inc., a provider of nationwide social security disability benefit
services. “I feel it is important to teach about regaining the ability to be independent and living life
to the fullest,” Sue said. “I must say, that’s exactly what Beta and I are doing now!”
John Morrison of Prince George, British Columbia, has been named as a recipient of the Coast
Mental Health Foundation’s 2007 Courage to Come Back Awards, which annually honors six
people for their courage to overcome and recover from illness, injury or adversity. John lost his
sight as well as both legs due to complications from diabetes, yet has maintained his unfaltering
sense of humour and commitment to his community.
“I was the only person in my community with a double prosthesis who was walking by himself,”
John said. “With my Guide Dog at the time, Nasa, I used a special harness that provided ample
support to lean on when I was having troubles walking. Nasa was a very accepting dog, no matter
what. He was a great space cadet!”
John has been a member of the City of Prince George’s Special Needs Advisory Committee, and
has done many presentations in local schools to educate students on disabilities, incorporating
demonstrations with his Guide Dog.
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The California Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued yellow Lab guide Neoki (partner to Guide
Dogs’ Board Member Cecilia Von Beroldingen) her very own security badge (pictured, above).
She proudly wears it while at work every day at the DOJ’s facility in Sacramento where Cecilia is
a forensic scientist.
Bruce Breslauer of Great Falls, Mont., has been named as Oberlin College’s Class Agent of the
Year for his successful fundraising efforts with his 35th reunion class. Bruce is an orientation and
mobility specialist for the State of Montana; his guide is black Lab Glendale.
Roselle, the world-famous 9-11 Guide Dog, retired in March and was honored with a 21-dog
salute by fellow Guide Dogs and pet dogs at the California campus (She is pictured center stage
at the ceremony with her long-time partner, Michael Hingson). She is currently enjoying life as a
pet in the Hingson home, leaving the work of guiding to another Lab, Meryl. Roselle has traveled
throughout the world with Michael; she will be remembered for her ability to stay calm and
focused as the duo escaped the collapsing World Trade Center to safety. Their experience is a
testament to the human-animal bond. Hear her story at www.gooddogpodcast.com.
Chuck Ayers, with yellow Lab Rickles, of Tulsa, Okla., has launched a new website, home to his
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“Sunrise Jazz Cafe” radio program, dedicated to classic, small combo jazz. His programs are
archived on the site, which also features a blog about all things jazz. Check it out at:
www.chuckayers.com.
Sammie McKay, with black Lab guide Carrie, of Buena Vista, Colo., recently testified before the
Colorado Senate Committee on State, Veterans and Military Affairs regarding a bill to create a
commission on services for the blind or visually impaired. Sammie was pleased to report that the
bill was successfully passed.
A trio of GDB alumni from Oakdale, Calif., gathered recently for an afternoon of tea and tales.
The party, hosted by Janet Gearhart and her guide, Lab/Golden cross Donovan, and her retired
guide, yellow Lab Sanchez, was attended by Priscilla McDonald with yellow Lab guide Breaker,
and Dora Costello with yellow Lab Makana.
Evelyn Burris with yellow Lab Colusa of Modesto, Calif., recently gave a presentation about
Guide Dogs to the Del Rio Country Club Women’s Group. The group has been a long-time
supporter of GDB, and has a fun way to collect contributions throughout the year for its annual
donation to Guide Dogs: the ladies donate 25 cents to their “Putt Puppy Bank” every time they
three-putt a hole!
California’s Riverside Police Department recently awarded Deborah Kraimer an official police
badge for her support of the force and her community. Deborah has been giving regular
presentations to the department (including special requests by the K-9 Unit officers) about Guide
Dogs for the last 11 years. Her current guide, German Shepherd Cactus, proudly wears the
badge on her harness.
Three British Columbia alumni are members of the “Eye of the Dragon” dragon boat racing team
sponsored by BC Blind Sports and Recreation: Linda Weber, with yellow Lab Nanny; David Brun
with black Lab Deacon; and Gary Piroscho with yellow Lab Soho. Half of the team is blind or
visually impaired. They attend several festivals during the racing season, and will travel to San
Francisco to compete in September.
Guide Dogs’ Board Member Vickie Kennedy of Honolulu, with yellow Lab Freida, participated
recently in Hawaii’s “Shelter Level 2” disaster preparedness exercise for the individuals with
special needs and for those with pets. The American Red Cross worked with the Hawaiian
Humane Society and other agencies for the first such exercise held in the United States.
Participants gathered in the gym of a local high school to go through the procedures to take in the
event of an actual emergency. Since she was the only service dog in attendance, Freida was very
popular!
NBA Stars Visit Oregon Campus
Members of the National Basketball Association’s Portland Trail Blazers paid a visit to the Oregon
campus in April to help raise awareness of our mission. Trail Blazers’ Raef LaFrentz, Rookie of the Year
Brandon Roy and Travis Outlaw and enjoyed a first-hand experience of working dogs through an obstacle
course while under blindfold.
According to 6'11" forward LaFrentz, “Letting the dog lead you is a tough thing to do, but they are so
good, you just need to trust them.” The key is teamwork, a concept LaFrentz knows something about.
“These animals are amazing!” said Roy, 6'6" guard. “This experience makes me appreciate the bond
between people and dogs more than ever. I’m so impressed with what these dogs are able to do for
people.”
After the experience, the Portland Trail Blazers management extended an invitation to Guide Dog
graduates and staff to attend a home Trail Blazers game, and showed a video of their campus visit on the
big screen during the half-time program. Subsequent televised games also showed highlights of their visit
to the campus to a national viewing audience.
As with the sport of basketball, true guidework is not a solo effort. It takes training, trust and a team
attitude to make great things happen. We thank the Portland Trail Blazers for introducing our mission to a
whole new audience.
Row, Row, Row at JBO
Success was the name of the game at the Junior Blind Olympics (JBO) as more than 200 blind youth
between the ages of 6-19 were encouraged to try their skills at relays, archery, shot-put and rowing. The
event, sponsored by the Junior Blind of America in Los Angeles, was a perfect opportunity to utilize Guide
Dogs’ power of partnership.
Guide Dogs’ Outreach Manager Aerial Gilbert initiated the rowing activities and invited Olympic Gold
Medalist Xeno Muller to mentor the young rowers on indoor rowing machines supplied by Concept2.
Through this collaboration, participants were able to experience the thrill of an active lifestyle and were
encouraged to explore the possibility of life with a Guide Dog. Attendees got a chance to meet Guide Dog
puppies and take Juno walks that simulate traveling with a Guide Dog.
Think About Charitable Gift Annuities
Six creative planning ideas on ways to fund a planned gift
Think a charitable gift annuity (CGA) is not for you? Well, think again! There are many ways to fund a
charitable gift annuity with assets other than cash or stock Here are a few alternative assets that also
work to establish a CGA; find the one that is right for you!
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U.S. Savings Bonds with accumulated interest
Corporate Bonds with locked in capital gains
Cash value of a life insurance policy or variable annuity
Stamp collection, artwork or other tangible property
In addition, here’s a couple of additional ideas for setting up a CGA that you might not have considered:
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Establish a CGA for someone else (such as a parent or child)
Establish a CGA as an alternative to maturing CDs
There are many ways to “think outside of the box” when creating your estate plans, and we are here to
help. Please contact us with your ideas and questions; we’ll help to make your vision a reality. Call the
Planned Giving Office at (800) 295-4050, or email Assistant Director of Planned Giving Bob Sonnenberg
at bsonnenberg@guidedogs.com.
Send a complimentary copy of Guide Dog News to your friends!
Go to guidedogs.com/friends today!