Alumni News
Volume 19, Number 1
Theresa Stern, (formerly Duncan) editor
Send submissions to the editor via tape, phone, mail or e-mail tstern@guidedogs.com
Alumni Association Mission Statement
The Alumni Association will support the vision of GDB of “using our power of partnering to
improve quality of life” by building a strong sustainable community of support among our
alumni. We will work to support alumni success with their guide, in building relationships
with others, and actively participating in the greater GDB community.
Alumni Association Board of Directors Mission Statement
Connecting Our Community through Leadership, Advocacy, Communication and
Outreach
We'd like to send our very special thanks to all of our alumni who, by their efforts or their
example, refer others to our program.
Alumni News is available electronically, in Braille, and on audio CD. If you are able to
access email and would like future issues sent to you electronically, please let Theresa
Stern know at tstern@guidedogs.com. Email allows us to get the news to you in a timely
manner and is easy on the environment!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FROM YOUR ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
1. Traveling Abroad with Your Guide, by Terry Christensen
2. Quick Travel Tip
3. Your Alumni Association - Stay Connected, by Melissa Hudson
4. Reach for the Stars Scholarship, by Becky Andrews
5. Speaker Series – Traveling in Taxis – By Roxanne Calibraro
CHAPTER CHAT
1. Memorial for Bolton
TIPS FROM TRAINING
1. Fun in the Sun, Working your Guide Dog in Warm Weather
2. Toy Warning
DEVELOPMENT SPOTLIGHT
1. YOU GDB’s Best Gift – by Bob Sonnenberg
ALUMNI BULLETIN BOARD
IN MEMORY, IN MEMORIAM, IN TRIBUTE
GIFT SHOP NEWS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
FROM YOUR ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
Traveling Abroad with Your Guide
By: Terry Christensen, Alumni Association Board of Directors
Many of the laws governing international travel with a Guide have changed in recent
years. This circumstance may well create a good deal of confusion for those GDB alums
who wish to travel abroad. In the past, the Board of Directors of the GDB Alumni
Association attempted to provide GDB graduates with a list of internet addresses for the
various and sundry agencies that regulate Guide Dog travel in individual countries.
Unfortunately, we found that these resources were often out of date within months of
publication.
We have since determined that our fellow alumni would be better served by learning how
to research the access laws for themselves. As it turns out, performing one’s own
research for a given destination is considerably easier and far more efficient than having
to sift through pages upon pages of access laws that are not applicable to one’s itinerary.
In fact, GDB alumni who frequently travel abroad have found the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (U.S.D.A.) to be a particularly helpful resource for locating the most up-to-date
regulations covering travel with a Guide in any given country. The challenge is to locate
and contact the optimum resource with the U.S.D.A.
Unlike internet addresses, physical addresses tend to remain stable over the long term.
This is particularly true in the case of government offices. Therefore, in order to facilitate
the international travel of Guide Dog teams, the GDB Alumni Association Board of
Directors has compiled a database of contact information for each of the local U.S.D.A.
offices. The new database is formatted as a searchable Microsoft Word document with
information for each state or local office located in a separate paragraph headed by the
name of the state. As this issue of Alumni News goes to press, the database is being
reviewed and verified by GDB staff so as to eliminate and correct any errors. You will
soon be able to find this info in the Alumni Only section of the Guide Dogs website.
In the short term however, while the new database is being vetted, GDB grads intending
to travel overseas can find telephone numbers for local U.S.D.A. offices in the telephone
directory or at the following link:
<http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/area_offices/index.shtml>
Once on the U.S.D.A. website, those alums using a screen search utility (such as ctrl + f
in JAWS), should listen for the text “Select a State” (without quotations), arrow down until
they hear their state’s U.S.D.A. office, and click on the hyperlink for contact information.
Beyond the fact that there have been recent changes in some access laws (as noted
above) we find that access laws may vary considerably between bordering nations, and
further, that access laws may even vary within a given country. In light of this situation,
Guide Dog users intending to travel abroad should always check with their local APHIS
Area Veterinarian in Charge (A P H I S or “APHIS” is the U.S. Department of Agriculture
acronym for “Animal and Plant Inspection Service”).
Legislative inconsistencies notwithstanding, there is an all but universal requirement for
all dogs who travel internationally, including working Guides, to have a microchip implant.
This stipulation applies to all dogs entering the European Union, as well as some fifty
other countries. As for the device itself, the International Standards Organization (I.S.O.)
specifies a non-encrypted, 15 digit microchip which operates at 132.4 kilohertz. This is the
type of implant used by GDB, the military, and search and rescue dogs.
It should be noted here that veterinarians in the U.S. normally implant a 9 or 10 digit
encrypted microchip. Therefore, GDB grads that intend to travel abroad and are arranging
a microchip implant for their Guide, need to specifically instruct their veterinarian to
implant a 15 digit microchip that meets I.S.O. specifications 11784/11785.
As for travel closer to home, Mexican Guide Dog access laws vary considerably from one
locale to another. Broadly speaking, those areas of Mexico which cater to tourists will
tend to have regulations that are more ‘user-friendly’ to Guide Dog teams. On the other
hand, Guide Dog teams that travel in areas that are “off the beaten path” will probably not
enjoy the same access or protections that we are used to at home.
Of course, a good many GDB alumni live in Canada where access laws are very similar
to those in the continental United States. Still, those U.S. GDB grads who visit Canada
may be interested to learn that Canadian access laws are promulgated on a provincial
rather than a national basis. Consequently, Guide Dog access laws in Canada will vary
slightly from province to province. In general terms however, Guide Dog teams in Canada
are guaranteed access to places of public accommodation.
Clearly, it is better to be proactive in making travel arrangements for one’s Guide.
Microchip implants, special vaccinations, and letters from one’s veterinarian (not to
mention the wait for results of laboratory tests), may take weeks to arrange. GDB AA
recommends that Guide Dog teams that intend to travel overseas research the applicable
regulations and establish a timeline detailing when certain criteria must be met in order for
your Guide to enter the country or countries which the team intends to visit. A little
preparation will go a long way towards insuring a relaxing and hassle-free journey. Bon
Voyage.
In our next issue of Alumni News GDB Alumna Penny Hartin will detail the best ways for
our Canadian graduates to access international travel. Stay tuned!
Quick Travel Tip!
Have you ever been in an airport and you really need to get your Guide to a relieving area
and you have no idea where that may be and can’t find anyone else who knows… and
you need to get there NOW? Well there is an “app for that”! “Where to Go”, is a new app
created by “Working Like Dogs”, which will tell you where the dog relief areas are in US
airports and includes links to Department of Transportation FAQs and updated ADA
regulations about service animals, as well as other information. Anyone can download
the “Where to Go”
app created by Working Like Dogs at the iTunes store
or at www.workinglikedogs.com.
Your Alumni Association – Stay Connected!
By: Melissa Hudson, Chapter Coordinator, Alumni Association Board of Directors
Happy 2012 to all my fellow GDB Alumni! So, have you made your New Year’s
Resolutions yet? It’s not too late to resolve to become an active member of YOUR /OUR
Alumni Association!
We are the only guide dog school out there with this amazing opportunity. The Alumni
Association has been in existence for over 5 years, and now is such an important time for
all of us. Think about it - it’s not only a new year, but we are also welcoming our new
CEO, Paul Lopez. It’s a perfect time to have YOUR/OUR voice heard.
It might be easy to forget why we have an alumni association, but it’s important to realize
that our Alumni Association is a key venue for outreach and interaction. You are not out
there alone! What an amazing support system we have in each other. Who knows better
about iPhones or Androids or the other latest accessible technology than your fellow
alum? Who knows what it’s like to travel around the high seas or around the country or
around the world than your fellow alum? This is how we connect, and with each
connection we make, the value and benefit of our alumni network grows stronger and
stronger.
As a GDB graduate, you are automatically a part of the Alumni Association. But being a
part of it is so much more than just “membership”. It is the chapters that are really a key to
the Alumni Association. It not only unites grads, whether by interest or geography, it also
unites puppy raisers and the community as a whole. GDB grads are part of the
community. YOU/WE are neighbors, spouses, customers, friends, business owners,
parents, children…we are guide dog handlers and GDB grads.
The Alumni Association and your chapters also provide other benefits. They are a great
way to get information on the latest goings-on with GDB. Where else can you get the
latest on the new dorm or advancements in training techniques but from things like this
newsletter or your chapter meetings? And of course, let’s not forget about our events like
the cruise this May and our next reunion in 2013!
Even with all this in mind, you might ask - how can YOUR/OUR voice be heard? What
real difference can YOU/I make at GDB or in general? I know that sitting there and
nodding your head is the easy thing to do, but I know you can do better! It’s time to get
involved and be an active, not passive alum. How can you start? Get involved with an
existing Alumni Chapter or start one yourself.
Getting involved is not a burden or a cross to bear, it’s a privilege. YOU/I hold the key to
improving and enhancing the lives of those in our GDB community. There are several
service organizations out there with many, many members, but it’s time to launch our own
and prove to the world how amazing and strong GDB grads are. By coming together, we
can discuss those concerns we have that are unique to us as guide dog users, and it’s a
great way to share and get support from your fellow human beings (and some extra love
from each other’s dogs never hurts either)! So, whether your focus is social or advocacy,
being part of an Alumni Chapter is essential to connecting us together as well as to the
community outside our front door and beyond.
For some of us, assuming any sort of role of leadership can be difficult. But, isn’t that
what we all do with our wonderful guides every day? We have to be the alpha, not them.
That being said, what our relationship with our guides tells us every day is that leadership
doesn’t mean doing things on your own, it includes teamwork. And that’s what I’m asking
you to help with via your chapters - take the initiative to get involved and make a
difference in any way you can. We all have the inner leader in us - let it come through!
I can hear all the excuses: “I don’t have the time”. Or: “I can’t commit to another project”.
Or how about: “I don’t want the responsibility”? Well, you CAN, you just choose not to.
We ARE GDB and each of us has a unique perspective to bring to the table, so bring it!
Guess what else we don’t have time for – to be denied access to the places we need to
go with our guides! But we all know the benefits of advocacy and that we still have many
issues we have to deal with everyday, such as discrimination at public places,
restaurants, and more. We also deal with dogs that are off-leash and the ignorance of the
general public. We can’t sit back and assume someone else is taking care of it. Don’t be
surprised that these problems still exist. We need each other to connect and share tips
and advice to make it easier for all of us.
The chapters are about communicating with each other. Whether it’s verbal, physical or
technology based, communication is how we deal with the world and how the world deals
with us. We communicate with our guides and our guides with us, so let’s communicate
on a broader scale. Let’s show our communities and thus the world that we are no
different than they are.
Outreach is how we put all these together. By communicating our mission to others and
connecting through a common thread. It doesn’t always have to be doing an organized
presentation, it can be handing out flyers, chatting with local businesses, posting insightful
comments and messages online, or even educating a stranger on the street. The
important part is to get the message out there and get it known to the world. We all have
opinions, so share them and don’t keep them bottled up. When we are all communicating
we are connected. The more we connect, the stronger we become.
I encourage all of us to stop being a passive graduate and embrace the mission
statement of the Alumni Board: Connecting the Community through Leadership,
Advocacy, Communication and Outreach. YOU/WE do this everyday as we go about our
daily lives. Now let’s take it a step further and embrace the opportunity GDB has given us
to unite together and have pride in our dogs and our school!
I know you can do it! Get started today by contacting Theresa Stern or myself at
tstern@guidedogs.com or mhudson@guidedogs.com, respectively. I can’t wait to hear
from you!
Reach for the Stars Scholarship
By: Becky Andrews, Alumni Association Board, Nominating Chair
Thanks to the generosity of GDB Alumna Gina Harper, the Guide Dogs for the Blind
Alumni Association invites you to apply for the Reach for the Stars Scholarship. This is a
$1,500 scholarship for a GDB Alumnus who is pursuing post secondary education or
training. The scholarship funds can be used to help offset costs of tuition, books,
supplies, adaptive equipment, etc.
To apply, please submit the following: (electronic format preferred)
1) A letter of introduction to the committee which includes your email address, phone
number and mailing address.
2) An essay (not to exceed 500 words) that describes your course of study, your career
aspirations, and how our investment in your success will help to realize those goals.
3) Transcripts for the past semester and proof of registration for the upcoming semester.
4) A letter of recommendation from a member of the faculty at your school.
All application materials are to be submitted as email attachments using the following
file name convention:
Last Name_First Name_Introduction Letter_RSS
Last Name_First Name_Essay_RSS
Last Name_First Name_Transcript_RSS
Last Name_First Name_Recommendation Letter_RSS
In order to provide the Nominating Committee ample time to consider your Reach for
the Stars Scholarship application, please email all required documents to GDB
Alumni Association Director, Theresa Stern (email address: tstern@guidedogs.com)
by August 1, 2012.
Good luck in your endeavors and we look forward to hearing from you!
GDB Speaker Series Presents: Riding in Taxis with your Guide Dog
By: Roxanne Calibraro, Advocacy Committee Chair
Have you ever approached a taxi with your guide dog and been denied access by the
driver because of the service animal? Or, worse yet, gone to the taxi stand only to have
two taxis pull away empty because they don’t want to take a passenger with a dog? This
happened to me recently in Downtown Chicago and the only reason I knew what had
happened is that the next cab pulled up and told me and said he knew who did it and
would report him. The nice driver proceeded to take me and my Guide Zaga to our
meeting and told me he had learned about Service Animals during his training to get his
certification and knew that he could be fined for refusing to take us in his taxi.
This is a common occurrence everywhere in the country and not just in big cities. More
than twenty years after passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, people who travel
with service animals are still being denied access. It is important for us to know the laws
and our rights and to learn how to advocate effectively for ourselves. We are pleased to
be able to offer some assistance for such problems in our upcoming Speakers Series
presentation.
Please mark your calendars and plan to join our teleconference presentation on Taxicab
Access and your Rights on Thursday, June 14th, 2012 at 4:00 Pacific Time. Kathy Austin
who works at the Guild for the Blind in Chicago is a GDB Graduate and travels frequently
by taxi with her second guide dog. Kathy is active in the City of Chicago’s Taxi Driver
Training Program and has found several guide dog users who volunteer their time to
speak to the trainees in the City’s Taxi Driver Training required for all drivers seeking to
be allowed to drive taxis in the City of Chicago. Kathy will tell you about the unique
training program, review the applicable laws and tell you how to become an effective
advocate or file a complaint if you are not satisfied. She can also share some of the
success stories from people who have complained and gone to hearings provided by the
City of Chicago. Plan to join us for this informative topic and to ask questions that you
might have.
Speaker Series Call Details:
Date: Thursday, June 14th
Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time
Call-in toll-free number (US/Canada): 1-866-699-3239
Attendee access code: 204 458 24
CHAPTER CHAT
Oklahoma Guide Dogs for the Blind Alumni Association
Memorial Service for Dog Guide Bolton in Oklahoma City
By: Mary Haney, Oklahoma City GDB Alumni Chapter
It is the nightmare every guide dog owner dreads. January 3 rd, 2012, Sandi Webster of
the Oklahoma Guide Dogs for the Blind Alumni Association discovered that a portion of
her fence had been torn away and her dog guide Bolton was missing. He was found
much later, a mile from home, killed in traffic. It is presumed that he was stolen and then
turned loose in an unfamiliar area.
The shock and sorrow rocked Sandi’s world.
Sunday, January 15th, Dr. J. D. Ward, pastor of New Hope Church, Oklahoma City,
memorialized Bolton in a special afternoon service of remembrance at the church. A
reception, hosted by women of New Hope, was held afterwards. The Oklahoma Guide
Dogs Alumni group was in attendance with many friends from the Oklahoma Council of
the Blind, and New Hope members. Sandi is a regular member and Bolton was, as Dr.
Ward told the large crowd, “a Methodist dog.” There was laughter, there were tears as
Dr. Ward told stories of Bolton’s mischievous adventures and complete devotion.
The outpouring of love and condolence from her world of family, friends, and neighbors
included many acquaintances who had been touched by the gentle service of Bolton, the
8 year old black Labrador. Bolton served as an ambassador for all guide dogs and as an
example of faithful service and dedication. In memorial displays shared with the large
number of people in attendance, there were pictures of Bolton in service and of the
Oklahoma alumni group’s activities that included him. Sandi said that she was
“overwhelmed, just overwhelmed,” by the many people who shared with her the impact
Bolton had made on their lives.
Oklahoma alums and associates in attendance were Ralph Haney, President, with guide
Buccaneer and wife Mary; Cathy Tuton, Secretary/Treasurer and guide Frampton;
Christy Bingham and guide Horton; Lawrence Williams with guide Wally, and wife
Martha; Pam Holloway and guide Vanna, Crystal Hollenbeck with guide Amy and
associate member John Schuncke; Nedra Ruth and guide Kismet; Kathy Kennedy and
guide Pasha.
TIPS FROM TRAINING
Fun in the Sun – Working with your Guide Dog in Warm Weather
Working a guide dog in hot weather requires serious consideration. This is especially true
in areas such as the Southwest where the heat can begin hitting triple digits in May and
not subside until mid-October. At times the temperatures can reach 120 degrees plus
during the day and not drop below the 90’s or 100 at night. Fortunately many users in
these areas can adjust their schedule to avoid having to be out in the hottest parts of the
day. Walking outside is safer in the early mornings and after sunset because the sun is
not beating down on “egg sizzling” hot sidewalks. When air temperature is 110 degrees
the surface temperature may be over 150 degrees! In these temperatures metal surfaces
are especially dangerous for a dog’s pads.
Guidelines for Hot Weather Travel
 Walk on the shady side of the street if possible. The dark asphalt streets absorb the
sun’s heat and are typically much hotter than the lighter colored sidewalk. Be on the
lookout for your dog “dancing” in place or trying to sit unexpectedly, especially at up
curbs where your dog’s hind feet are in the street. Standing on such hot surfaces
could burn and blister your dog’s feet. If you cannot tolerate the heat while holding
the palm of your hand on the ground, it signals trouble for your dog too.
 When possible, avoid walking during the hottest part of the day. Some guide dog
users leave their dogs home on very hot days or when they know traveling will be
unsuitable for a dog. This is fine as long as the dog is safe, has water and can be
monitored periodically.
 If your schedule requires you to be at work or school despite the heat, try to arrange
for alternative transportation. Never leave your dog unattended in a car; even on
moderately warm days, temperatures can be deadly!
 If you take public transportation such as a bus, become familiar with bus schedules
so you can minimize the time waiting at a bus stop. Some bus stops are just a pole
with no bench or shelter from the sun. Bring a portable mat for your dog to sit on
while waiting.
 If you must walk routes of significant distance in a hot environment, be sure to carry
water for your dog and yourself. Collapsible water dishes are great! Many alumni
choose to pack spray bottles for a periodic squirt down or mist.
 For traveling in hot weather try to plan routes so you can stop along the way to give
yourself and your guide a break. Restaurants and coffee shops are good as staff is
usually willing to offer ice cubes or water if you need it. These are opportunities to
get out of the sun and into air conditioning, or shade before continuing your route.
 If the weather prevents you from working your dog outside and getting the exercise
to which you have both become accustomed, don’t lose heart. An indoor shopping
mall is an excellent alternative to an outdoor route, providing plenty of space and
challenges for a productive workout. Try going in the morning before the stores
open, so you can keep a consistent pace for as long as you like.
 Some dogs will slow down or stop in shady areas during a very warm route, or may
try to drift or leave the line of travel in an attempt to find protection from the sun. This
is normal. Be patient and have realistic expectations considering the situation.
Monitor your dog for signs of over-heating such as excessive panting. If your dog’s
guide work is diminishing or there are signs of heat distress get to a safe rest area
as soon as possible and cool your dog down. If the dog is over heated, a cool hosedown or sponging with water at the throat and armpits will cool major arteries. If the
dog is panting a lot and seems over heated, do not allow him to drink great amounts
of water quickly. Small amounts at a time will keep him from vomiting.
 An overweight dog will suffer more in the hot weather than a dog at a healthy weight.
Further, the fat dog is at much greater risk of serious reactions to heat than a dog in
good physical condition. This is another good reason to keep your dog trim.
Naturally, if ever you feel that your dog is in enough heat distress to warrant
veterinary attention, get to the vet ASAP!
Here is another situation where dog booties specifically made for warm weather can be
used successfully. When putting booties on your dog, be sure to cinch them up snuggly
so they will not flop around or come off. If your dog is not used to foot protection, it is a
good idea to start exposing your dog to booties before summer heat arrives. Start by
heeling him in safe and familiar areas before asking him to guide you.
Wishing you happy and safe travels this summer!
Toy Warning
Some of our puppy raisers have reported noticing that some of our recommended chew
items may not be as durable as before. They report that these products are manufactured
in another country and have colored pieces imbedded in them, have center pieces that
are made of a different material, or are softer than previously purchased ones. If these
reports are accurate, our concern is that these products could flake, crumble or fall apart.
Please discard any products that have these characteristics.
We are recommending that raisers purchase only Nylabone products made out of the
original Nylabone material and that say "Made in USA" on the packaging.
If you are not sure, call Graduate Services.
Thank you for keeping our dogs happy and healthy!
DEVELOPMENT SPOTLIGHT
GDB’s Greatest Gift is YOU!
By: Bob Sonnenberg and “Nino”, Planned Giving Assistant Director
Thank you! GDB is celebrating our 70th Anniversary. I would like to shout out a big
THNAK YOU to all our past, present, and future Guide Dogs for the Blind partnerships.
Our greatest gift is being “you” as a Guide Dog Ambassador. We are out in the world
every day with our guide dog partner; we serve as a testament to GDB’s fabulous history
of success. Our gift is to travel as a team to nearby or faraway places, and to
demonstrate the Guide Dog partnership to those we touch, see, or watch us. The gift we
give is a smile, confident team
I am a relatively new guide dog graduate (March, 2006). I have been partnered with a
black male lab named Niño for the last six years. My quick story is that I lost a significant
amount of vision from myopic degeneration. The loss happened instantly while driving…I
couldn’t read the sighs on the freeway. It was my last day of driving. I have always been
extremely independent. Having my guide dog Niño has given me that independence
back.
All of us graduates know that GDB is an incredible organization! The teamwork and
community that makes it all happen is complex, diverse, and extremely passionate. The
group includes both on-campus and off-campus volunteers, the terrific GDB employees,
and all our generous donors made up of individuals, corporations, and foundations. They
are gifts of one’s heart! It is truly a unique operation! When this GDB community sees us
graduates out and about in the world, we bring smiles to both their faces and their hearts.
While it might be an irritant at times to be blind or visually impaired, we are lucky and
provide incredible inspiration to all those around us.
Guide Dogs for the Blind’s Vision is to:
"Use our Power of Partnering to improve quality of life." To fulfill this vision we will:
 Commit ourselves to continuous quality improvement in all that we do;
 Assure exceptional canine health and well-being for all our dogs;
 Create the best potential for partnerships and support them;
 Develop and support Guide Dog teams of the highest quality;
 Be sensitive to the individualized needs of students, alumni and other constituents;
 Develop and nurture long-term relationships with our alumni, other constituents
and the communities we serve; and
 Optimize our use of resources.
In closing, I would like to shout out one more THANK YOU to all past, present, and future
GDB graduate teams. We are the GIFT that perpetuates the commitment of our
community as measured by volunteer hours, GDB’s passion for world class excellence,
and our generous donor financial support.
ALUMNI BULLETIN BOARD
A huge congratulations goes to GDB Grad and GDB Board Member, George Kerscher
with Guide Dog “Mikey”! George has been awarded the Miguel Medal, by the American
Foundation for the Blind, known to be the highest honor in the field of blindness!! He
received this honor for his tireless efforts towards equal access to information. He is the
"driver" of efforts to standardize accessible digital books. His work contributed greatly to
the establishment of the DAISY (Digital Accessible Information System) standards, which
has been adopted worldwide as the standard for accessible books. And if that isn’t cool
enough he has also been selected as a Champion of Change for STEM for people with
disabilities, as part of President Obama’s “Winning the Future” initiative
(whitehouse.gov/champions). He will be awarded this honor at a special ceremony at the
White House in May!
Kudos to GDB Grad Bruce Breslauer. he and another supervisor in the Montana VR
agency have been selected to participate in a program called Emerging Leaders. They
will be sent for further intensive leadership training to Seattle for one week in June and
one week in August 2012 and one week in Olympia, Washington in November 2012. He
of course will have “Glendale” (female Black Lab, Oregon class 132) with him on this trip
and could not think of a better ambassador for the GDB program than her.
Congrats to Jeff Kuebler with Guide Dog Polo, Jeff has been named employee of the year
at the Lighthouse in Washington! Way to go Jeff!
GDB grad Jenny Kennedy would love to hear from fellow students in any of her three
GDB classes. You can contact her via E-mail at leading.love.421@att.net or find her on
FaceBook http://facebook.com/blueskyes Or contact her at her home address. 5050 N.
Maize Rd Apt 221, Maize, KS 67101
Traveling to Mexico this Summer? GDB Alumna Iona Gandrabur recently had to travel to
Mexico for work and it took her a bit of research to find the official info on the Mexican
embassy site about importing pets to Mexico, she would like to share it with you:
http://embamex.sre.gob.mx/canada_eng/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id
=3938&Itemid=41
The customs control in Mexico City took about 20 minutes and although they officially do
not allow you to bring food they made an exception. She was nonetheless prepared with
addresses of pet stores that carried her guide dog's food. If you bring your own food,
they recommend that you have it in original packaging.
Form and function! Pam Kearns has found a fashionable bait bag from: QVC
Here’s how you can get one. Name: Hipz bag, multi-function pouch with waste strap and
clip. Number: A 213030
Available: red and brown, also comes in black and purple when available.
Cost: about $20.00
IN MEMORY, IN MEMORIAM, IN TRIBUTE
Please note that retired or deceased Guides are not automatically included in this listing,
please inform Theresa Stern at tstern@guidedogs.com or 800 295-4050 x4171 if you
would like your Guide recognized in this column.
In Memory – GDB Alumni who have passed away
Ms. Nancy Kirkpatrick of Joseph, UT with male Yellow Lab Guide “Cortez”. Class 676D,
August 2007.
Ms. Donna Gawne of Brantford, ON with female yellow Labrador Retriever “Posa”. Class
641, January 2004.
Ms. Sheri Siegel of Tampa, Florida with retired female yellow Lab Guide, “Shania”. Class
661, February 2006.
Ms. Alex Bradstreet of Farmville, VI with male Yellow Lab Guide “Adonis”, Class 722, May
2011
Ms. Lillian Wyer of Upper Derby, PA with female Yellow Lab Guide “Dorli’, Class 617,
September 2001
Mr. Ezekiel Brooks of Vacaville, CA with female Lab Golden Cross “Ariana”, Class 665,
June 2006
Mr. Tim Smith of Lewiston, ID with male Yellow Lab “Gruber”, Class OR98 – April 2004
In Memoriam – Guide Dogs who have passed away
“Disney”, male Yellow Lab Guide for Shannon Gerdts of Gresham, OR (CA 613 – June
2001)
“Gweneth”, female retired Golden Retriever Guide for Maria Kovacs of Maple Ridge, BC
(CA 619 – November 2001)
“Primrose”, retired female black Lab Guide for Dianne Phelps of Napa, Ca (CA 609 –
November 2000)
“P.J.”, male Yellow Lab Guide for Mark Roberts of St Peters, MO (OR 130 - November
2006
“Dodie” – female Yellow Lab Guide for Martha Seabrooks of Baltimore, MD (OR 58 –
November 2000)
"Glisten" female Yellow Lab Guide for Tochelle Haagen (Shelly) of Lomita, CA (CA 595 July 1999)
“Harris”, retired male Yellow Lab Guide for Rebecca Bridges of Arlington, VA (CA 615 –
June 2001)
“Liz”, (Lizzie Rose), female German Shepherd Guide for Ann Hovorka Kreyche or
Trabuco Canyon, CA (OR 87 - May, 2003)
“Dorado”, male yellow Lab Guide for Keith Kearney of Vancouver, WA (OR 73 – March
2002)
“Paza”, female Yellow Lab Guide for Suzanne Wilson of Lowell, MA (OR 102 – November
2004)
“Night”, male Black Lab / Golden Cross Guide for Deborah Turner of Abilene, TX (CA 609
– November 2000)
“Sabrina”, female Black Lab Guide for Joan Groves of Berkeley, CA (CA 608 – October
2000)
“Niner”, retired Golden Retriever Guide for Lynette Kersey of San Jose, CA (OR 95 –
December 2003)
"Gerard" male Golden Retriever Guide for Jenny Kennedy of Maize KS, (CA 553 October 2007)
"Fleming" male Golden Retriever Guide for Jenny Kennedy of Miaze, KS (OR 49 - March
2000)
“Evelyn" passed away September 1999 Oregon Campus Danette Dixon from Lynnwood
WA.
“Fayda”, female Yellow Labrador Retriever Guide for Priscilla “Pickles” McKinley of Buena
Vista, CO (Class 633 - April 2003)
“Firestone”, male Yellow Lab Guide for Gail Paulson of Oxnard, CA (Class 690R,
December 2008)
“Bolton”, male Black Lab Guide for Sandi Webster of Oklahoma City, OK (CA 664 – May
2006)
“Auckland”, retired male Yellow Lab Guide for Laurie Van Allen of Lafayette, CA (CA 602
– March 2000)
“Sweeney”, male German Shepherd Guide for Todd Harding of Kamloops, BC (OR 83 –
February 2003)
In Tribute – Guide Dogs who have retired
“July”, female Yellow Lab Guide for Kellie Gerdts of Gresham, OR (CA 613 – June 2001)
“Nixon”, male Yellow Lab Guide for Jennifer McEachen of Prince George BC (OR 109 –
March 2005)
“Mack” male Black Lab Guide for Don Nielsen of Racine, WI. (CA 635 -June 2003)
GIFT SHOP NEWS
Spring into style with these new Gift Shop offerings!
Collaps-a-bowl $9.99
This clever 24 oz dog travel bowl designed for dogs and owners on the go. Its unique pop-up
design lets the bowl collapse down for compact storage. Available in orange, red or blue
Pete’s Big Paws $12.99
Children’s book. Story about a puppy being raised to be a Guide Dog
Women’s Short Sleeve V Neck Tee – deep red – Harnessing Love braille tee design
Men’s Short Sleeve Tee – fatigue – Harnessing Love braille tee design
Onesie – white with green writing – future guide dog lover design
Youth tee – chocolate – love on a leash, priceless design
New photo frames – silver with paw prints around
New structured hats – beige or gray
Just a reminder – we do carry the Victor Reader Stream Digital Talking Book Player
$300.00
All orders are subject to applicable tax and shipping fees.
You can order Gift Shop merchandise online at store.guidedogs.com or call 800-2954050 or 415-492-4151 and our volunteers will take your order by telephone.
Please check our website periodically for new merchandise updates.
Don’t forget when you order online, type in discount code “ALUMNI” for a one time
discount of 15% off your online order. Not available for phone orders. Coupon expires
January 31, 2013. Happy Shopping!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Save the Date – Guide Dog Users of Canada Annual Meeting
Guide Dog Users of Canada is hosting its 13th annual general meeting and conference
in Toronto this year on October 12 and 13, 2012. There will be Guide Dog handlers
coming from British Columbia to New Brunswick. There will be presentations and
workshops that will be of interest to anyone using a Guide Dog. For more information
contact GDB Grad Chris Shiafone at cschiafone@hotmail.ca
University of Illinois Seeking Survey Participants
If interested in participating in a short phone interview about your guide dog and
recreational participation please contact Courtney Weisman at either (847)727-7587 or
cweisman@illinois.edu. The interview should take approximately 20 minutes and will be
conducted by a doctoral student at the University of Illinois interested in learning more
about the relationship between guide dogs and their owners and how it affects their
recreational choices and participation.
UC Davis Seeking Survey Participants
Mariko Yamamoto, is a UC Davis Post- doctorate candidate whose research group is
conducting a web based study, entitled “Life with Your Dog”. The study is to learn about
the specific role of various kinds of dog with people. The team is very interested in
learning about the role that guide dogs play for people with visual disabilities. Mariko
Yamamoto, Ph.D. visited Guide Dogs for the Blind in 2009, finished her Ph.D. in Japan
and has been studying at the University of California Davis as a post-doctorate. Mariko
left her beloved golden, Achiro, in Japan and looks forward to being united with him when
she finishes her studies. .Please take a few minutes and complete the survey.
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Life-with-Your-Dog-Survey
Carnival Triumph Low Vision Group Cruise
January 14, 2013 5 day cruise
Departs Galveston on Monday: Ports of call are Progresso and Cozumel, Mexico. It
returns to Galveston on Saturday, January 19th.
Inside Cabin: (double occupancy) Total Ind. Price--$384.15
(single occupant) Total Price-$604.15
Ocean View: (double occupancy) Total Ind. Price--$424.15
(single occupant) Total Price--$684.15
Balcony: (double occupancy) Total Ind. Price--$524.15
(single occupant) Total Ind. Price—$884.15
For more information contact Jerry & Sharon Crawford Ph: 281-633-2711
2cruisers@att.net
***
GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND
P.O. BOX 151200
SAN RAFAEL, CA 94915
(415) 499-4000
32901 SE KELSO ROAD
BORING, OR 97009
(503) 668-2100
(800) 295-4050
www.guidedogs.com
Please notify AGS if you have
changed your address, phone or e-mail
AGS e-mail address:
igraduate@guidedogs.com
2011 Alumni Association Board Meetings:
March 5, 2011, June 4, 2011, Sept. 21, 2011 Dec. 3, 2011,
Alumni Association Board of Directors
Officers
Jeffrey Senge / Fodi
Board Chair
San Clemente, CA
714-337-0065 (Mobile)
jsenge@guidedogs.com
Judy Mathews / Sachet
Vice Chair
Orlando, FL
407/ 963-8677 (Mobile)
jmathews@guidedogs.com
Samantha Adams / Gilbert
Secretary
Gold River, CA 95670
916-903-7065
sadams@guidedogs.com
Members at Large
Becky Andrews / Cricket
Nominating Committee Chair
Bountiful, UT
801/259-3883 (Mobile)
bandrews@guidedogs.com
Roxanne L. Calibraro / Zaga
Advocacy Committee Chair
Arlington Heights, IL
847-828-0353 (Mobile)
rcalibraro@guidedogs.com
Terry Christensen / Dutton
Bensalem, PA
(267) 568- 2195 (Mobile)
tchristensen@guidedogs.com
Martin Courcelles / Laton
East York, OT
(416) 659-6314 (Mobile)
mcourcelles@guidedogs.com
Melissa Hudson / Anya
Los Angeles, CA
(626) 429-6883 (Mobile)
mhudson@guidedogs.com
Deborah Kendrick / Flo
Communications Committee Chair
Cincinnati, OH
513-673-4474 (Mobile)
dkendrick@guidedogs.co
Jennifer McEachen / Nixon
Outreach Committee Chair
Prince George, BC
250-962-0008 (Home)
250-962-6441 (Mobile)
jmceachen@guidedogs.com
George Kerscher / Mikey
GDB Board of Directors Representative
Missoula, MT
406-549-4687 (Mobile)
gkerscher@guidedogs.com
Paul Walker / Avanti
Immediate Past Chair / Ex Officio Member
Bexley, OH
614-306-7754 (Mobile)
pwalker@guidedogs.com