THE TEXAS STAR
Vol. 22, No. 3
July 2014
Neil Finley, Editor
Expressions from the President’s Desk Kenneth Semien, Sr.
ACBT Membership Committee Report
Blake Lindsay
Walk for Success
Kevin Ratliff
Tales from the Treasurer
Sheila Derrick
Alamo Council
Shelley McMullen
Dallas Council Doings
Marci Duty
Fort Worth Council
Jean Russell
Houston Council Happenings
Bob Bartlett
South Plains Council
Cindy Finley
News from BRLT
Eugenia Firth
Computer Users Report
Bob Bartlett
Guide Dog Users of Texas
Cindy Finley
ACBT 2014 State Conference/Convention
Peggy R. Garrett
Straight Talk from Texas Legislators on How to Be a
Successful Advocate
Larry Johnson
Nominating Committee Report
Cindy Finley
Candidate Bios
Proposed Constitution/Bylaws Amendments
Carol Edwards
Resolutions Committee Report
Bob Bartlett
Member Morale
Cindy Finley
Leadership Training
Barbara J. Madrigal
Thanks to Our Sponsors
Toll-free number: 866-929-2228
[Note: Articles printed in The Texas Star are submitted by the
subscribers and are not necessarily reflective of the membership
as a whole. The articles express only the opinion of the author.]
-2Expressions from the President’s Desk
Kenneth Semien, Sr.
Greetings ACBT Members, Friends, and Colleagues:
I trust that your summer plans are going well and you also are
planning to join us for the Thirty-sixth Annual ACBT Conference/
Convention in September. Pre-registration packets have been
mailed and I urge everyone to return the necessary documents
and fees by September 10, in order to avoid a late fee being
assessed. We have great activities, tours, seminars, and
workshops organized to meet your needs. Refer to additional
information in Peggy Garrett's article below. In addition, please be
sure that membership dues are in at least forty-five days prior to
the beginning of the conference/convention in order to be eligible
to vote. Sheila Derrick has additional details in her article. I
encourage you to join us for the Walk for Success Walk-a-thon
that will be held on Saturday, September 27, at the North Star
Mall in San Antonio. Don't miss it. Kevin Ratliff will share more in
his fundraising article listed below.
The ACBT Board of Directors had a rather productive
meeting on April 26, and we are looking forward to introducing
new and innovative ideas in support of a greater ACBT.
Special thanks to the Advocacy and Legislation Committee
for their recent contributions to advocacy efforts in person during
the recent Sunset Review Committee hearing held on June 25.
All who submitted written comments are appreciated. This is only
the beginning of our advocacy blitz that will carry us into the
legislative session beginning in January 2015. We will be calling
on you for your added contributions to improve the quality of life
for Texans who are blind or visually impaired.
Please join me in welcoming the East Texas Area Council of
the Blind as our newest chapter as of June 30. We are looking
forward to informing you of more chapters, especially the new
Desert Council of the Blind. Refer to Blake Lindsay's article.
-3The 2014 ACB Hollis K. Liggett Award was presented to the
Houston Council during the ACB Conference and Convention in
Las Vegas. Congratulations to Victoria Bartlett, editor of the HCB
Beacon, and all contributors who have taken the time to submit
creative and informative articles.
As always, you are invited to contact me with questions or
concerns by sending e-mail to semien@sbcglobal.net or call me
by dialing 409-866-5838.
ACBT Membership Committee Report
Blake Lindsay
Hello ACBT family! I hope all of you are healthy, happy, and
enjoying a super summer, so far.
One of our major objectives this year has been to have all
members assisting ACBT to the best of their ability and available
time. We are grateful that many of you are following through in
supporting our endeavors with your talents. Please feel free to
email me or President Kenneth Semien, Sr. relating to which skill
or service you are capable of and keen on contributing this year
and beyond.
The ACBT membership committee wishes to recognize
Michelle Boyd. She has been a true team player by helping us
achieve our growth goal. She has successfully joined together
roughly twenty members to launch ACBT’s brand new East Texas
chapter. We extend our congratulations and gratitude to every
person responsible for ACBT’s East Texas extension.
How about even more good news? With additional
acknowledgments to President Kenneth Semien, Sr. for his
efforts, there is new development in a re-launch of ACBT’s Desert
Council. This expansion is on track to take place preceding our
statewide conference in late September.
Our committee continues to work with Joanne Woodruff in
establishing a chapter to serve the Waco region. She has
-4demonstrated her support on several levels, including becoming
an ACBT member-at-large this year. Joanne is an assistant for an
ophthalmologist. Her occupation provides opportunities to meet
and hear about people who are blind or visually impaired in the
North Central Texas area. She is planning to attend our statewide
conference. Please take a moment to introduce yourself and
acknowledge Joanne for her helpfulness to ACBT. If you happen
to know anyone in and around Waco who would be interested in
joining this future chapter, please encourage them to make
contact with me.
Last year's ACBT development was encouraging. American
Council of the Blind of Texas increased by seventy-eight
members in 2013. We are doing our best to finish strong in 2014.
As you know, achieving growth is essential to ACBT's present and
future. Please remain focused on bringing in one or more
prospective members this year. With your support, escalating
ACBT’s membership to a substantial five hundred people is
achievable in our immediate future.
Here's some food for your thought and action. Let's continue
to show the world that ACBT is comprised of people who happen
to be blind, but are genuine advocates with true vision to serve.
Let's all do our part in making a difference toward improvement in
ACBT, as well as our communities and work places.
Walk for Success
Kevin Ratliff
Announcing the American Council of the Blind of Texas
(ACBT) 2014 "Walk for Success" Walk-a-thon. Put on your
walking shoes, and get ready to “Walk for Success” with ACBT!
The Walk-a-thon Success Team will be comprised of
members, family, friends, and other supporters who will diligently
collect donations and walk together on Saturday, September 27,
2014, at the North Star Mall in San Antonio, Texas, during the
Thirty-sixth Annual ACBT Conference and Convention. Everyone
-5can participate by having someone walk in their place, if they are
unable to do so. In addition, if for any reason it is not feasible for
you or a designated representative of your choice to join the
“Walk for Success,” we encourage you to take advantage of the
Virtual Walk Option which provides flexibility and the opportunity
for you, or a representative of your choice, to walk in your home
town or any other suitable location. Some individuals may select a
city park, school or university track, a mall, or other highly
populated area in which they feel safe.
You automatically become an “ACBT Success Partner” when
you submit your ten dollar entry fee as you register for the
conference, and accept additional donations in support of ACBT.
As you accept donations, you will be supporting the fundraising
activities of ACBT. These activities support the goal of advancing
and enriching the quality of life for Texans who are blind or
visually impaired through advocacy, education, awards,
scholarships, and support.
Get active and get fit with ACBT’s 2014 “Walk for Success,”
while having lots of fun and winning some fabulous prizes! You
might possibly be the lucky one to win the first, second, or third
place prize for finishing the walk, or for raising the most funds.
There also will be plenty of goodies to keep you well-nourished
and energized during the walk. Look forward to a fun-filled time of
socializing, as we Walk for Success!
Tales from the Treasurer
Sheila Derrick
Hello everyone. I hope all of you are enjoying the warmth
and sunshine of an early Texas summer, and you are already
thinking ahead to the Thirty-sixth ACBT Conference this fall in
San Antonio, September 25-28, 2014. I look forward to seeing
everyone there.
Please remember new members can be added at any time,
BUT, if they wish to be certified to vote at this year’s conference, I
-6must receive their dues from the chapter treasurer postmarked no
later than AUGUST 12, 2014. For each new member, I will need
the following information: first and last name, street address, city,
state, zip code, home and cell phone numbers, e-mail address,
vision status (totally blind, legally blind, or vision impaired, which
is corrected vision greater than 20/70, but less than legally blind
at 20/200), and publication formats. The Texas Star is available
by email, audio CD, and large print. We do encourage all
members with email access to please select the email format. The
Braille Forum from ACB is available in Braille, computer CD, 4track cassette, large print, and email. Each of these newsletters is
published quarterly.
New member information and dues should be mailed to:
Sheila Derrick, 309 Paloverde Lane, Fort Worth, TX 76112-1122.
Dues to ACBT are $7.00 for chapter members, $10.00 for at-large
members, and $3.00 for junior members whose age is thirteen to
eighteen years. Junior members whose dues are received by
August 12, have full voting rights and privileges at the conference.
Thanks to all members who are actively supporting the ACBT
fundraising efforts. Our Tupperware sale has ended, but will be
repeated at the conference. Our ongoing events are the Kroger
and Albertsons community rewards programs, our new Schwan’s
initiative, and the Quarters for ACBT campaign.
Alamo Council
Shelley McMullen
First, I am happy to report that, in late March, our president,
Larry Roser, completed the ACB leadership training in Louisville,
Kentucky. He came back to us energized and highly motivated.
He embraced not only the training, but also the constructive
criticism he received.
Second, the Alamo Council has been revising some of our
bylaws and constitution. Presently, we have approximately thirtyfour members and most of them actively participate in our monthly
-7membership meetings. Pegie Gonzales currently heads up the
membership committee. Pegie’s goal is to get every member
involved in the area of service that best suits him/her within our
chapter. Her committee will help in recruiting, selecting, and
assigning volunteers to assist at the ACBT conference to be held
here in San Antonio in September. This committee will be
responsible for coordinating volunteers for the hospitality room
and for preparing goodie bags.
Shelley McMullen is serving as program and activity chair. At
our July meeting, newly-elected Second Vice President Barbara
Stockford talked about cruises and the various amenities
available on cruise ships for people with disabilities. Other
programs and activities are in the works.
The San Antonio Art Museum has provided a tour designed
especially for blind and visually impaired persons who are
interested in art activities. A second one is planned for July 9.
For the past few months, we have been working in
conjunction with Biblio Tech, a local technical library program in
Bexar County that allows one to listen to eBooks in their library.
These books can be accessed through computer speech software
and can be listened to using Smart phones and other devices.
One may check out a speech device from them, as well. The staff
has been more than accommodating. They are open to our
comments and suggestions.
On another note, in May, VIA Tran, our paratransit service,
increased the cab subsidy program, a contract with Yellow Cab, to
include a weekend schedule, Saturday and Sunday from 6 am to
8 pm.
In closing, I wish all of you a terrific summer! Stay cool, and
don’t forget our furry friends, both guide dogs and pets!
-8Dallas Council Doings
Marci Duty
The Dallas Chapter wishes you a sensational summer. Our
membership keeps increasing. Three members joined us at our
annual auction and picnic. We welcomed four members at our last
meeting. It is a great thing when visitors become members at the
meeting they attend for the first time.
We enjoyed good speakers who covered interesting topics in
April and May. In April, Saidah Ochoa, Interim Outreach
Coordinator for the Texas Talking Book Program, spoke to us
about the library services existing for vision impaired Texans. She
also demonstrated the BARD Mobile App on an iPod for us. She
told us that the library’s collection is quickly increasing as they are
working with publishers of commercial audio books for the Talking
Book Program. She highlighted the benefits of downloading books
and told us that they are working to make BARD Mobile available
for Android devices. In May we heard from Irving fire fighter and
member James Skelton, who spoke to us about fire safety from a
vision impaired person’s point of view. Mr. Skelton encouraged us
to have practice sessions for exiting our homes in case of a fire.
He reminded us to install and maintain smoke alarms, and to ask
emergency responders to keep our needs information on file. For
fire safety in our homes, these reminders were given to us by
James.
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When cooking, never approach an open flame while wearing
loose clothing and don't leave cooking unattended. Use a
timer to remind you of food in the oven.
Don't overload electrical outlets or extension cords.
Never use the oven to heat your home.
Properly maintain chimneys and space heaters.
Keep a phone near your bed and be ready to call 911 or your
local emergency number if a fire occurs.
-9Our annual auction and picnic raised funds and brought us
new members, and a good time and delicious food were enjoyed
by all in attendance. We have more excellent speakers planned
for future meetings of the Dallas Area Council. Join me to read
about our Doings! See everyone in San Antonio in September.
Fort Worth Council
Jean Russell
There is nothing like mixing business with pleasure, and our
June meeting was a prime example. Family, friends, teachers,
chapter members, and guide dog Glenna met at a local restaurant
to honor Chelby Farley, our 2014 scholarship recipient. Chelby
will be attending Texas Women’s University and majoring in Child
Development with an emphasis on Child Life. She plans to be a
Child Life specialist, which was no surprise to us as Chelby’s
compassion for children through reading Braille stories and
collecting books and crayons for hospitalized children has long
been evident. Incidentally, we met Chelby at our first Braille
Awareness Event. We are so proud of her and, with her “I can do
it!” spirit, a great future lies ahead.
We are working with Fort Worth officials on this year’s White
Cane Walk. October will soon be here and we will be ready,
maybe, with some surprises!
Houston Council Happenings
Bob Bartlett
Another busy quarter for us as we conducted advocacy
efforts with the Houston airport system and the Harris County
district clerk to help educate the precinct workers. Education
efforts never stop.
We had a "Fiesta" dinner that was well attended, and we
actually sold more tickets than showed up for food. Lots of games
-10were played and food was given out as the prizes, so a good time
was had by all.
The Texas Trailblazers, Michael and Peggy Garrett, will be
representing ACBT in the upcoming walk at the ACB Conference
and Convention. Contributions are still welcome, so you can call
them at 281-438-9665. Remember, half of what they raise comes
back to ACBT!
South Plains Council
Cindy Finley
Attention chapters, affiliates, and members-at-large. For the
last several months, South Plains Council has been challenging
each of you to help the ACBT state conference committee in
collecting goodie bag items and door prizes for the ACBT 2014
state conference, September 25-28. Whether you find companies
that will donate enough items to place in each of the goodie bags
or contribute door prizes to be given out at the conference, your
help will be greatly appreciated. To be sure no one duplicates
items or contacts the same companies, please check with Peggy
Garrett, conference coordinator, to be sure the company has not
been contacted already.
News from Braille Revival League of Texas
Eugenia Firth
Come and participate in our trivia game to take place at the
ACBT conference, Friday, September 26, from 3 to 4:30 pm. Even
if you're like me and are not particularly good at trivia, it's fun to
debate answers with your teammates, and you can be the person
to braille the answers for your team. Old-fashioned braillers and
slates will be most useful at this event, so please bring yours if
you can. If you're good at trivia, you can assist your team in
winning a small prize. This is a fundraising event for BRLT; a
donation of $5 to play will be requested from players.
-11BRLT’s business meeting will take place the next day on
Saturday, from 10:15 to 11:30 am. I am asking for volunteers to
assist the members wishing to renew their membership for 2015.
Officers for 2015 will be elected. Final preparations for our other
business meeting activities have not been completed and will be
announced before Friday's trivia game.
I hope to see many of you at the San Antonio conference
this year. The Dallas chapter has participated in this trivia game
twice this year, and it was a lot of fun, even for trivia novices like
me. I can't easily bring my brailler to San Antonio, but I will have
my slate ready to write answers onto index cards. Adios for now,
and I look forward to our time together!
Computer Users Report
Bob Bartlett
The Computer Users will gather twice at this year's
conference. Our Friday session will attempt to help you determine
what flavor of smart phone might be best for you. We will have
smart phone users available for lots of questions.
Our second session, on Saturday, will feature you and
anything you use to assist you as we all struggle through the
technology maze. I am thinking we also can discuss operating
systems, if that is your pleasure. We recognize that Windows 7
seems to be the way to go when you upgrade, but we might have
some conversation about that and many other topics, so please
join us at both sessions.
Guide Dog Users of Texas
Cindy Finley
GDUTX family and friends,
It is approaching the time for our two annual meetings that
are held during the ACBT 2014 State Conference/Convention in
San Antonio. Our program committee has an exciting time
-12planned for Friday afternoon. Representatives from guide dog
schools will be giving updates about their programs. On Saturday
morning, our members and guests will enjoy a delicious, hot
breakfast. This will be followed by our annual business meeting.
Networking and great fellowship will round out our time together.
Attention GDUTX members and friends. Our 2015 dues will
be due in October. If you would like to pay them at the
conference, our treasurer will be happy to take them. Otherwise,
please send your 2015 dues of $15.00 to our treasurer, Neil
Finley, 4831 – 52nd St, Lubbock, TX 79414. If you need to contact
him, his email address is ncfinley@sbcglobal.net and his phone
number is 806-795-0216.
I look forward to the reunion of our GDUTX family at the
ACBT state conference. If you will not be able to attend, we will
miss you. If you need to contact me, my email address is
cpfinley@sbcglobal.net and my phone number is 806-795-0216.
Take care.
ACBT 2014 State Conference/Convention
Peggy R. Garrett
Come One, Come All!
Come to San Antonio this Fall!
The Thirty-sixth Annual ACBT Conference/Convention is
shaping up to be one that you don’t want to miss! This year’s
theme is “DREAM, WORK, ACHIEVE.” The ACBT Conference/
Convention Committee has planned activities that are informative,
educational, and entertaining.
Activities begin on Thursday afternoon with the preconference/convention board meeting, and Thursday evening
offers time to gather in the Hospitality Room to meet and greet
while sharing refreshments.
Friday and Saturday are both filled with opportunities to visit
the Exhibit Hall and get “hands on” experience with the latest
technology and equipment designed to create more
-13independence and make life easier for people who are blind or
visually impaired.
Some sessions include living healthy; iPhone vs Android;
updates from the Public Relations committee; the second annual
Leadership Seminar facilitated by Mike Gilliam, CEO of the San
Antonio Lighthouse; and ADA sessions covering education,
employment, housing, and transportation. There also will be a
First Timers Reception with President Kenneth Semien, Sr.
There is a choice of tours on Friday evening: a boat tour of
the Riverwalk with dinner on your own, or an audio-described tour
of the San Antonio Museum of Art.
Guide Dog Users of Texas, Braille Revival League of Texas,
Library Users of Texas, and Computer Users are all planning
programs, and will hold business meetings on Friday and
Saturday.
The Saturday luncheon will include the opening business
meeting, and of course, one of the highlights of the weekend is
always the Saturday evening banquet which will be followed by
bingo and chances to win some great prizes. Sunday morning will
begin with the awards breakfast and include the business meeting
and election of officers.
By the time you read this, you should have received your
pre-registration forms. Please remember to return the forms by
September 10. Also, when you make your hotel reservations,
don’t forget to mention that you are attending the ACBT
Conference/ Convention to ensure that you get the group rate.
The deadline for making reservations is August 26.
CORRECTION: The telephone number for the Hilton San
Antonio Airport Hotel was incorrectly noted in the registration
packet. The correct number is 210-340-6060. Reservations also
can be made by going to the ACBT personalized website at
http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/groups/personalized/S/SATAPHFACB2-20140925/index.jhtml.
Looking forward to seeing you all in San Antonio!
-14Straight Talk from Texas Legislators on How to Be a
Successful Advocate
Larry Johnson
Would you like to know how you could become a really
effective advocate for ACB of Texas with members of the Texas
State Legislature? Would you like to know how you could actually
get them to pay attention to what you want to say about our
issues and yours? Would you like to know how you can genuinely
influence their vote?
Is it possible? Yes, it is. And, the ACB of Texas Advocacy
and Legislative Committee is going to give you the chance, at our
State Conference/Convention in September, to learn, first-hand,
the hidden secrets on how to do this – and a lot more, directly
from the mouths of the legislators themselves and their staff.
You’ll learn the Do’s and the Don’ts. What works and what doesn’t
work. How to make a good first impression. When should you
call? When should you visit? When should you send more
information?
Building positive and effective relationships with your state
representative, state senator, and their staff requires good
manners, patience, and honesty.
“Straight Talk from Texas Legislators on How to Be a
Successful Advocate,” is a special one-hour workshop on
Saturday, September 27, from 4 to 5 pm, at the 2014 ACB of
Texas State Conference/Convention in San Antonio, featuring
veteran state legislative staff and a state representative who will
tell it like it really is. Don’t miss it.
Nominating Committee
Cindy Finley
The elections to be held at the 2014 Conference are
approaching rapidly. The major reason for this election process is
electing a group of people who will work hard for the American
Council of the Blind of Texas. Our organization needs a group of
-15people who are committed to working toward ACBT becoming a
stronger organization, as well as leading our membership in a
positive, proactive direction. That does not mean that we always
will agree with each other, but it does mean we need to partner
together for the good of ACBT. Attention candidates! It is
imperative that you be familiar with the duties of and any items
relating to the office being sought, as stated in the ACBT
Constitution and Bylaws, as well as having read the entire
Constitution and Bylaws. I wish to thank the members of my
committee: Becky Collier, Cynthia Julun, Joan Cox, and Karen
Eitel.
The Nominating Committee presents the following 2014 slate
of officers:
President: Kenneth Semien, Sr.
First Vice President: Peggy Garrett
Second Vice President: Kevin Ratliff and Stuart Swartz
Secretary: Rosalyn Benavides
Treasurer: Sheila Derrick
Of course nominations can be made from the floor; however,
you must have talked with the person you nominate to be sure
that that person is willing to serve and fulfill the duties of that
office. Also, he or she must have a bio which includes answers to
the following questions that can be read on the conference floor
during elections. Your bio should consist of a brief introductory
paragraph which includes the office to which you are seeking
election, and the answers to the following questions.
Below are the bios of each person on the slate of officers.
The questions are stated below so each candidate does not need
to include the questions with his/her answers.
1. What is(are) your reason(s) for seeking this office?
2. What experience and expertise can you contribute to this office,
and ACBT?
3. What action steps would you take to assist ACBT in fulfilling its
mission and achieve its goals?
4. Fundraising is vital to keeping any organization alive. Also, it is
-16not the sole responsibility of the Second Vice President/ fundraising chairperson and the fundraising committee to raise funds.
Therefore, name two possible fundraising events and tell how you
would personally contribute to the success of these events.
5. When do you feel that it is necessary for change to take place
in an organization’s practices and procedures?
6. What do you see as the biggest challenges facing ACBT over
the next two to three years, and how would you help ACBT deal
with these challenges?
Kenneth Semien, Sr. – Candidate for President
Greetings ACBT Members:
I am excited to announce my continued interest in serving as
your President. Together, we have made trend-setting progress in
less than two years. Being given the distinct privilege to initiate,
develop, monitor, and measure implemented strategies to elevate
efforts that would increase our ability to succeed as a statewide
advocacy organization, I am pleased to report that all pertinent
needs of ACBT have been given direct attention, and processes
have been put in place to achieve more within the next two years,
if I am given the opportunity to receive your vote. During the past
year and a half, we have endured challenges while continuing to
make strides and build momentum that can only cause us to
achieve greater feats.
As a father, grandfather, advocate, chapter, state, and
special interest affiliate president, member of local, regional, and
national committees, councils, and disability rights/advocacy
organizations, it is invigorating to be actively contributing to
change for the betterment of and enhancement to programs and
services.
Let us take a look at some of our accomplishments since
September 2012:
 Texas Star and Corporate Sponsorships
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-17Groundbreaking Blindness Summit
Enhanced logo, brochure, and efforts for greater visibility
Appointment of Conference/Convention Coordinator and
multiple year contracts for the ACBT Conference/Convention
Advanced achievement and participation recognition, and
the Caring and Sharing Program
Board of Directors team building efforts
Team Calls for Chapter and Special Interest Affiliate
Presidents, Membership Chairpersons, Chapter Treasurers,
and ACBT Officers
Initiation of the ACBT Excel Net Leader Cast Live
Conference Calls for new and prospective leaders
Better defined committee member, committee chair, board
member, and chapter/special interest affiliate representative
responsibilities
Designated committee conference call lines
Initiation of the Program Development Team
Launching of the ACBT Online Resource Library
Voting Taskforce for an elections improvement process
Certificate of Affiliation for new chapters
Leadership seminars during the conference/convention
1) By serving as President for an additional two years, I will be
able to continue working on projects that are referenced in my bio
and continue actions to assist ACBT in advancing to a higher
level of accomplishment.
2) As a team player, I lead by example, pay close attention to
detail, and constantly monitor progress in order to discover and
take preventive measures to avoid and overcome potential
obstacles while presenting new and innovative ideas for
organizational growth.
3) I will advance personal efforts to broadcast our mission
while employing the assistance of the Public Relations, Advocacy
and Legislation, and Membership committees to develop a team
project for the distribution of educational material. Additionally, I
-18will direct attention to the annual budget with an emphasis on
purpose-driven fundraising that would ensure increased funding
to meet our financial goals.
4) I will work to develop needed programs and collaboratively
work with the treasurer, fundraising committee, and the Board of
Directors to position our organization to be able to qualify for
grants and corporate sponsorships. I propose that we initiate an
ACBT Multi-Prize Giveaway Drawing event for eligible donors, to
be conducted by all willing chapters that would occur within the
same month on a local basis and implement a Fund Sharing
Program that would allow each chapter to receive an agreed upon
percentage for participating in support of ACBT.
5) I believe that all organizational practices and procedures
should be considered for revision on an annual basis. Moreover, it
would be advantageous to consider trends that may become
obsolete as the membership and leadership team changes.
6) It will be quite challenging to provide the level of
accessibility required during our conference/convention as we
take into consideration that persons who are deaf-blind and those
of nationalities that we are not currently prepared to serve with
interpreter services may register for our conference/convention.
To overcome communication and language barriers, I will perform
research, work to identify and integrate the skills and abilities of
our membership, and form alliances with organizations and
entities placing an emphasis on the needs of persons who are
blind or visually impaired.
Peggy Garrett – Candidate for First Vice President
My name is Peggy Garrett and I am honored to announce
my candidacy for the position of First Vice President of the
American Council of the Blind of Texas for the term 2014-2016. I
am a member of the Houston Chapter where I am currently
serving my third term as chapter president.
-19I have been legally blind all of my life, but was not diagnosed
as such until I was in my twenties. As a child, I was prompted and
motivated by my mother and teachers that I was capable of
achieving. As a result, I found innovative ways to get my work
done without any visual aids or technology. I was on the honor roll
and graduated in the top ten percent of my class.
In 1989, I lost the remaining sight in my left eye. I continued
to drive and work as office manager for a sign company, and as
supervisor for a telemarketing company. In 1992, I was forced to
give up driving and resign my part time position with the
telemarketing company. In 1995, I could no longer work as office
manager as the sight in my right eye continued to worsen.
Fortunately, I was informed of the Vocational Rehabilitation
program. I became a consumer and was able to complete my final
year of undergraduate work and receive my Bachelor’s Degree in
Social Work. After several months of unemployment, I returned to
UGA and received my Master’s Degree in Social Work. During my
final semester in graduate school, I co-wrote a grant that was
funded and enabled me to start a training center for people who
are blind or visually impaired. I worked as Executive Director of
the center for four years, as well as Executive Director of an
independent living center for three years.
Other achievements:
*Served as secretary, treasurer, vice president, and president of
my local chapter.
*Served two terms as second vice president and two terms as first
vice president of the Georgia Council of the Blind. I was
nominated for President of GCB, but was unable to serve as I
married Michael Garrett and moved to Texas in 2006.
*Served four years on the Houston Commission on People With
Disabilities
*Chosen member of the year by HCB in 2011
*Selected Volunteer of the Year for 2013 by the Mayor’s Office on
People with Disabilities
-20*Member of the New Faith Church where I serve in the Love
Ministry
1) I am seeking this position because I would like to see our
organization become stronger and have a major voice in the blind
community. I also would like to promote the mission of ACBT and
create more awareness of the abilities of people who are blind or
visually impaired by advocating for better education and
employment opportunities.
2) I have been a member of ACBT since 2006. During this
time, I have served as President, First and Second Vice President
of the Houston Chapter; served on several committees at both the
chapter and state levels; and served as Chapter Representative
to the ACBT Board for the past five years. In addition, I have
served on the Membership Committee of ACB since 2004, and
represented ACBT at the Legislative Seminar in Washington, D.C.
for four years. I feel that this experience and working closely with
the ACBT Board for several years has prepared me to serve in
this capacity.
3) As First Vice President and Membership Chairperson, I
will focus on growing our organization and expanding the visibility
of ACBT throughout the state. I plan to accomplish this by working
with chapters and special interest affiliates to extend their
outreach and collaboration efforts with agencies, organizations,
schools, churches, etc. Through these outreach and
collaborations, we can grow and strengthen ACBT to move
forward and become a stronger voice around the state of Texas.
4) I am currently serving on the Fundraising Committee. We
are always seeking new opportunities and ideas for ways to
generate revenue for ACBT. I will continue to seek new avenues
to improve the financial status of our organization.
5) If ACBT is to continue to be a viable organization, change
is inevitable. Practices and procedures that worked in the past
may not be adequate to move the organization forward in the
twenty-first century. It is necessary to evaluate our current policies
and procedures to ensure that these practices are not obsolete.
-21As the world around us is constantly changing, we must strive to
be as current as possible to help achieve our mission of improving
the quality of life for people who are blind or visually impaired.
6) I feel that the two greatest challenges facing ACBT are
fund- raising and attracting younger members. As I stated above, I
will continue to serve on the Fundraising Committee and
personally support ACBT in any way I can. I will seek ideas from
other affiliates and chapters who have been able to implement
programs that have attracted younger members, as well as work
with our chapters to create new programs and activities to attract
youth.
Kevin Ratliff – Candidate for Second Vice President
I am Kevin Ratliff, and I am seeking a second term as
Second Vice President of the American Council of the Blind of
Texas. In addition to serving as current Second Vice President of
ACBT, I also am the secretary of my local chapter and special
interest affiliate Blind Pride. I have been a proud member of this
great organization for over ten years, and I have served on
various committees and held many different positions over the
years in my local chapter, as well as special interest
affiliates. Through this work, I have gained a lot of invaluable
knowledge, in addition to a strong belief in the mission and goals
of our great organization. Professionally, I have worked for the
great state of Texas for the last five years. For the first four years,
I worked as a Texas Works Advisor for the Texas Department of
Health and Human Services, and I am presently a Technology
Instructor at the Criss Cole Rehabilitation Center in Austin, Texas.
I look forward to using my knowledge and skills to benefit ACBT.
1) I believe very deeply in the stated mission and goals of
this great organization, and I would like an opportunity to continue
working with the other board members to move ACBT forward
toward greater membership and financial success.
-222) Most of the knowledge and skills that I bring to this office
were gained through my extensive work with ACB, both locally as
well as nationally. I have served on various committees. I have
held positions from member-at-large to secretary. I was the
committee chair, and helped organize two successful fundraisers
for my local chapter, and I also have a willingness to learn. In
addition, through my current work, I have gained a deeper
understanding and appreciation of policy and procedures, which
will also benefit me as second vice president.
3) I will continue to work on outreach and education. There
are still so many blind and visually impaired people in our
communities that have not heard our message, who don’t know
that we exist, or for what we stand. There is so much work to be
done in this area. I look forward to developing strategies to reach
those who might need us, and also educating our neighbors and
local communities.
4) Grants are possibly the best and most lucrative source of
funds. While I don’t have a great deal of experience in this area, I
am willing to work with those who have grant writing experience,
and to work with those who understand the grant application
process. Another possible fundraiser is a statewide bake sale,
which could be held in cities across Texas with local chapters. I
have helped organize bake sales for churches and for work. We
have raised as much as $1,000 in one day, just from sales at our
office building. Items also could be sold online and by phone.
5) An organization should make changes in its practices and
procedures when there is an absence of noticeable growth.
Retreats and workshops are wonderful sources of information,
and can help with restructuring, as well as help boost morale,
thereby sparking growth and progress within the organization.
6) One of the greatest challenges facing ACBT is financial
stability and growth. I will work with grant writers to secure funding
for ACBT’s projects. Also, we must continue to work on outreach
and education. It is imperative that we find ways to reach the
-23youth and young adults. I will help develop socials and other fun
activities that will attract young people.
Stuart Swartz – Candidate for Second Vice President
My name is Stuart Swartz. I am a Kansas native but
graduated high school in Claremore, Oklahoma, in 1956. I was a
cook in the United States Air Force for four years. I have spent
most of my professional life working in the mining industry, first,
with copper, and then gold for the Homestake Mine, which, at the
time, was the largest operating gold mine in the country. In
September 1967, I was injured in a mining accident and lost my
sight. After rehab in Little Rock, Arkansas, I attended a massage
school and worked in that industry until I developed an allergic
reaction to oil which required me to stop. I then went to work at a
Lighthouse for the Blind. I met and married my lovely wife, Lois, in
1984 while in Houston. I have been active in the Lions Club of
Cleveland, Texas. I also am a ham operator. My wife and I moved
to Plano, Texas, in 2012 and joined the Dallas Area Council
of the Blind. I am currently serving as the Dallas Chapter
president.
1) I strongly believe in service to my community. Having the
privilege of holding the office of President of the Dallas Chapter, I
take an active interest in the goals and duties of each committee.
I enjoy working with the fundraising committee in Dallas. I believe
my interest in raising funds dates back to my days with the Sam
Houston Amateur Radio Club where I first became keenly aware
of the importance of raising money. I have some intriguing ideas
regarding sustainable fundraising, which I discuss in my answer
to question number four.
2) As a member of the Sam Houston Amateur Radio Club, I
was involved in a number of fundraising events. I had the same
experience during my membership in the Cleveland Lions Club.
Additionally, I really enjoy working with the fundraising committee
-24of the Dallas Chapter. Locally, our Dallas Chapter has completed
several fundraisers since I have become president in January
2014. We hosted an event at Half Priced Books for Braille Revival
League of Texas (BRLT) to help raise money for their
scholarships. We sponsored a candy bar sale and sold out of
candy within two weeks. We also have hosted a dining for dollars
event at several Humperdinks Restaurants throughout Dallas.
Another event I am involved with is further fundraising with BRLT
for four events of trivia night. Our chapter members have been
instrumental in bringing in further ideas for ACBT and our chapter,
such as the quarter cards and fundraising through Krogers
grocery. At our annual picnic this month, I am excited about being
the host auctioneer as we have our second annual auction to
raise funds for our chapter.
3) There are two action steps I will take toward achieving
ACBT's mission and goals. First, demonstrate strong leadership
skills through visible commitment to the ACBT mission. Second,
develop and implement sustainable fundraising strategies.
4) I have two main ideas regarding fundraising. One,
encourage statewide participation in "Dine and Donate" programs.
The Dallas Chapter recently participated with one restaurant's
program, Humperdinks, which has multiple locations. I realize
larger cities have more options, but one could approach any local
restaurant with the proposition. Two, encourage all chapter
members to attend grant-writing classes. These classes are often
offered through public libraries and cost nothing but one’s time.
5) When it becomes apparent that practices and procedures
are not meeting their objectives, it is time to approach the task
from a different perspective. Once a reasonable time has elapsed,
revisit the new practices to determine effectiveness. On the local
level, this practice is especially effective when done periodically
as the organization changes and matures.
6) One of the bigger challenges to ACBT is the lack of
participation of younger people within the ranks. One possible
avenue to encourage participation is to hold a number of events
-25that include the younger visually impaired of the state. The simple
fact is the future of our organization depends on the different
insights and skill sets our younger members bring to the table.
Rosalyn Benavides – Candidate for Secretary
I am happy to have this opportunity to run for the office of
Secretary of ACBT. After serious thought, I’m convinced, and
want to convince you, that I am qualified for and enthusiastic
about this challenge.
1) During my three-year service as secretary of the Alamo
Council of the Blind, I realized the importance of providing a
careful account of the actions taken at our meetings. During that
time, more than ten years ago, and after, when I served for two
years as president of the Alamo Council, I learned how crucial the
role of our governing documents were in maintaining our
chapter’s solid democratic structure.
At the same time, in 2003, I set up my private practice as a
psychotherapist, a life-long dream that finally came true. Thanks
in large part to confidence that rubbed off on me from
accomplished blind people I have met along the way, I was able
to continue my counseling practice until last year when I decided
it was time to gradually retire.
The combination of these parallel experiences now allows
me to offer skills that will be useful in the office I am seeking. I
have always enjoyed writing, and now I have some extra time
since I am almost retired. Also, I am excited about the possibility
of working with and learning from people I admire.
3) I believe an important part of what ACBT board members
can do, and that I can do, is to spread the word that ACBT is a
democratic organization working successfully for the benefit of the
blindness community while embracing the core principles of
individual free expression and inclusion. The primary objective
-26would be to bring in new members who can be personally
enriched by these ACBT values.
4) I am interested in participating in fundraising work that is
part of events that are fun. The Amateur Talent Show at ACBT
conferences and the Auction are examples of popular events that
could possibly have a more profitable approach. Also, I want to
learn more about the grants process for funding ACBT programs
and projects.
5) When it becomes clear that an established policy or
procedure is standing in the way of progress toward the
organization’s goals, there should be a move toward the struggle
for change.
6) I see ACBT’s immediate challenge as continuing to be a
model and resource for helping new and established chapters
learn from the state organization’s leaders about practices that
promote inclusion and freedom of expression among members at
the local level. I would be glad to work with others on shaping this
idea for a possible plan.
Sheila Derrick – Candidate for Treasurer
I am Sheila Derrick, a member of the Greater Fort Worth
Chapter, and I am seeking re-election to the position of treasurer.
I have held that post for the past two years and have also been
my chapter treasurer since 2010. I look forward to continuing to
use my skills for the benefit of ACB-Texas. Even though I am now
partially sighted, I still enjoy the challenge of balancing budgets
and maintaining accurate financial records.
1) Volunteering has always been an important part of my life,
but due to transportation difficulties since moving to Texas, I have
not been as active as I would like. This position affords me the
opportunity to use my skills and give to an organization that has a
vital role in supporting the blind community, while allowing most of
the work to be done at home.
-272) I have thirty years of basic bookkeeping experience
through my employment as a medical practice office manager,
and I have had two college-level accounting courses. Currently, I
am serving my first term as ACBT treasurer, my second term as
Fort Worth treasurer, and my second year as Conference
treasurer.
3) I am a member of the Finance and Budget Committee,
and with the help of the committee, we are responsible for
creating, amending, and submitting a budget to the Board. I also
am on the Fundraising Committee and the State Conference
Committee, where I am charged with all registration duties and
the treasurer responsibilities. I support the mission of the
organization by supporting the behind-the-scenes daily functions
of ACBT.
4) I am going to sound the alarm here. Without the support
of each and every member in all our fundraising activities, ACBT
has enough money to minimally support our projects for the next
three to seven years. For the past several years, we have
removed money from our Morgan Stanley investment account in
order to meet our financial obligations. Except for three sponsors
of the Texas Star, we have no major contributors, and one auction
or Walk for Success per year does not begin to cover our needs.
Members want a speaker from ACB for the Conference, more
money donated to ACB, more money spent for the Advocacy and
Membership Committees, larger allowances for the president’s
travel, and many other worthwhile projects. They all take much
more money than we are currently raising. Please, please
consider joining the fundraising committee and help ACBT
continue the work we have begun.
5) When an organization strays from its mission statement or
begins to place too much emphasis on only one part of its
programs, then it is time to re-evaluate its practices. All human
interactions come with differences of ideas, but the goals of the
organization should always be the anchor for the direction the
group pursues.
-286) Please refer to the answer to question four.
Proposed Amendments to the ACBT Constitution and Bylaws
Carol Edwards
The Constitution and Bylaws Committee submits the
following proposed amendments to the ACBT Constitution and
Bylaws. The committee recommends a “Do Pass” for each
amendment.
ARTICLE III
MEMBERSHIP, VOTING, AND DUES
Proposed: (add to section B)
3. At least seventy-five percent (75%) of the membership of
any special interest affiliate must be members of ACBT through a
chapter affiliate or as a member-at-large.
ARTICLE VII
AMENDMENTS
Current:
A. This constitution may be amended at any annual or
specially called conference/convention by a vote of two-thirds of
the members present and voting after having been submitted, in
writing, to the members at least thirty (30) days prior to the voting
on said amendment.
Proposed:
A. This constitution may be amended at any annual or specially
called conference/convention by a vote of two-thirds of the
members present and voting after having been submitted, in
writing, to the members at least thirty (30) days prior to the voting
on said amendment. Any proposed amendment to this
constitution must be submitted in writing to the Constitution and
-29Bylaws committee no later than one hundred twenty (120) days
before the beginning of the annual conference/convention.
BYLAW III
DUES
Proposed: (if accepted, subsequent sections will be relettered)
D. Junior members: Junior members shall pay annual dues
of three dollars ($3.00).
BYLAW IV
DUTIES OF OFFICERS
A. The President shall serve as executive head of ACBT and
perform the following duties:
Current:
11) To serve as delegate to the American Council of the
Blind national conference/convention.
Proposed:
11) To serve as delegate to the American Council of the
Blind national conference/convention and representative to the
ACB nominating committee, or appoint a representative to the
nominating committee.
B. The First Vice President shall perform the following duties:
Current:
5) Serve as the alternate delegate to the American Council
of the Blind national conference/convention. Should the President
be unable to attend the national conference/convention, the First
Vice President shall serve as the delegate. Should both the
President and First Vice President be unable to attend the
conference/convention, this process shall continue through the list
-30of officers. It no officer is able to attend the conference/
convention, the President will appoint a delegate and/or alternate
delegate.
Proposed:
5) Serve as the alternate delegate to the American Council
of the Blind national conference/convention. Should the President
be unable to attend the national conference/convention, the First
Vice President shall serve as the delegate. Should both the
President and First Vice President be unable to attend the
conference/convention, this process shall continue through the list
of officers. It no officer is able to attend the conference/
convention, the President will appoint a delegate and alternate
delegate.
C. The Second Vice President shall perform the following duties:
Current:
1) Chair the fundraising committee and coordinate all
fundraising activities.
2) Coordinate all grant writing efforts.
Proposed:
1) Chair the Fundraising committee and coordinate all
fundraising activities.
2) Actively participate in raising funds to meet the annual
budget.
3) Plan and direct a major fundraising event each year to be
held in conjunction with the ACBT conference/convention, as
determined by the Board of Directors.
4) Serve as a member of the Finance and Budget committee
in order to support appropriate goal-setting for annual fundraising
endeavors.
5) Coordinate all grant writing efforts.
6) Perform other duties as delegated by the president.
-31Add the following to the list of duties for all officers, including
elected directors and chapter and affiliate representatives:
“Actively participate in raising funds to meet the annual budget.”
BYLAW V
DUTIES OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors of ACBT shall perform the following duties:
A. Set all policy for the efficient operation of ACBT.
Current:
B. At a regular or called meeting of the Board of Directors
which occurs at least 90 days prior to the opening of the annual
conference/convention of the American Council of the Blind, elect
the delegate and alternate delegate to the nominating committee
which meets at the national conference/convention. The ACBT
representative attending the nominating committee meeting shall
seek input and recommendations from the ACBT delegates
attending the national conference/convention, as well as from
other ACBT members prior to the meeting.
Proposed:
Eliminate Section B.
Resolutions Committee Report
Bob Bartlett
We hope you have had your thinking caps on and are now
ready to share with us your desire to have a resolution prepared.
Each member of the committee is ready to give you a hand.
Remember, ours is not to criticize, ours it to make your ideas
ready for presentation to the convention.
You can call Bob Bartlett at 713-645-6370, LouAnn Williams
at 210-884-7778, or Ed Bradley at 713-393-7549. We look
-32forward to hearing from you. Please remember that resolutions
must be submitted by 5 pm on convention Friday.
Member Morale Article
Cindy Finley
By the time you read this, our country will have celebrated its
238 birthday. Independence Day honors the birthday of the
United States of America and the adoption of the Declaration of
Independence on July 4, 1776. On that day, the Second
Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of
Independence, announcing the colonies' separation from Great
Britain. The Constitution provides the legal and governmental
framework for the United States, however, the Declaration, with its
eloquent assertion, "all Men are created equal," is equally beloved
by the American people. Although our country has its challenges
and is fraught with turmoil, Americans are privileged to celebrate
our independence on July 4 of each year.
People with disabilities celebrate a landmark federal
disabilities law on each July 26. On July 26, 1990, President
George H. W. Bush signed into law the Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990. The ADA recognizes and protects the civil
rights of people with disabilities and is modeled after earlier
landmark laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race and
gender. The ADA covers a wide range of disabilities, from
physical conditions affecting mobility, stamina, sight, hearing, and
speech to conditions such as emotional illness and learning
disorders. The ADA addresses access to the workplace (title I),
state and local government services (title II), and places of public
accommodation and commercial facilities (title III). It also requires
phone companies to provide telecommunications relay services
for people who have hearing or speech impairments (title IV) and
miscellaneous instructions to Federal agencies that enforce the
law (title V). Regulations issued under the different titles by
various Federal agencies set requirements and establish
th
-33enforcement procedures. To understand and comply with the
ADA, it is important to follow the appropriate regulations.
If you would like to receive notifications by E-mail when new
ADA information is available, go to
https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOJ/subscriber/new?c
ategory_id=USDOJ_C26. Also, if you would like general
information about the Americans with Disabilities Act, or want to
file a complaint, the ADA hotline is 800-514-0301.
Late-Breaking News from the ACB Conference and
Convention
Kenneth Semien, Sr.
Approximately twenty-five Texans were in attendance at the
Fifty-third Annual ACB Conference and Convention in Las Vegas
between the dates of July 10 and 19. We were able to witness
advanced technology developments from the Exhibit Hall, and are
looking forward to a few of the vendors joining us in San Antonio
during the ACBT Conference/Convention. Google demonstrated
the Chrome Book, which is a small device that allows users who
are blind to access anything on the Internet, including e-mail,
instant messaging, and chat services while on the go, for the price
of $250. Massage Therapy presented the easy to use Hidow
massage equipment commonly used in doctor's offices for the
price of $250. Educational, religious, health and wellness,
personal care products, guide dog schools, and so much more
was right at our fingertips. A number of beneficial items were
provided at no cost.
The daily general sessions yielded opportunities to become
aware of useful information and resources. The Panel that shared
product demonstrations of devices being provided to persons who
are blind or visually impaired, due to structured negotiations led
by ACB, offered accessible drug labeling and access to
prescription information for independent use.
-34Walmart Pharmacy provides Script Talk, Walgreen's
provides the Talking Pill Reminder, AccessaMed shared a unique
approach to its accessible drug labeling device
(accessamed.com), and AudibleRX.com provides patient
medication education at no cost to users and their pharmacies.
In closing, the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing
supplied free currency readers to attendees, and we can expect a
presence from the Talking Book Program in Texas as they accept
names for further distribution of the currency readers at a date to
be announced. If you have not received your currency reader, get
your name on the waiting list by dialing (800) 252-9605, then ask
for Dina Abramson. Stay tuned for more news.
Leadership Training
Barbara J. Madrigal,
Assistant Commissioner, DARS-Division for Blind Services (DBS)
Many of you are familiar with the proverb, “Give a man a fish
and you feed him for the day; teach a man to fish and you feed
him for a lifetime.” No saying or proverb could better represent
DBS’ approach and belief in training. Training is the cornerstone
to independence and self-sufficiency. Training at DBS comes in a
variety of forms. It may be as simple as showing a parent the
many ways to use a developmental toy with their infant, to the
comprehensive training an adult receives from a DBS specialist.
DBS focuses on the needs of the consumers to be successful and
to help them reach their goals. We provide training in individual
and group settings. In the Blind Children’s and Transition
programs, we not only provide training to consumers, we often
include the whole family in training sessions depending on the
information and skills being taught.
Providing these trainings leads consumers to be
empowered, to be their own advocate, determine the course they
want to follow, reach their goals, set even bigger goals, and be an
excellent role model for their friends, family, and community. We
-35see amazing successes and incredible potential daily. We know
that within our consumers lie new leaders in the area of blindness
and visual impairment.
For a number of years the Blind Children’s and Transition
programs have been involved with the Texas School for the Blind
and Visually Impaired (TSBVI) Family Leadership Series. TSBVI,
DBS, and various Education Service Centers work together to
help family members become well-informed, competent leaders.
Parents have the opportunity to attend the following workshops/
training sessions:
 Eye Play – designed for parents with younger children (birth
to five years). This training is an overview of the special
education system and how to become an effective partner. It is
full of basic information, giving parents an opportunity to meet
other parents of children with visual impairments; it also
encourages families to envision the possibilities for their
children. Family members become knowledgeable about active
learning techniques and materials that teach concepts leading
to communication and literacy for children with vision and/or
hearing loss, including those with other disabilities.
 IDEAL Partners – Quality Education for your Child with
Sensory Impairments - This training in an in-depth workshop
on the special education process, how to read and understand
their child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), discover
strategies that leads to positive outcomes for their child’s
education and to build their confidence in their role as a
member of their educational team.
 Personal Family Leadership Series – This four-weekend
training is designed not only to help parents and other adult
family members (siblings, grandparents, aunts, and uncles) in
becoming more knowledgeable and stronger advocates for
their children, but also how to step outside their comfort zone
to be leaders in the community. The theme of the training is
Know Yourself, Know Your Child, and Know Your Community.
It provides training in the areas of peer mentoring, raising a
-36child with a visual impairment and deaf-blindness, quality
educational programming, and utilizing community resources.
The goal is for family members to join with others to improve
and shape services not only for their child, but other children
across the state.
 Family Leadership within Different Systems Series– this
is the advanced level of the family leadership training. Over the
course of three weekends, participants meet leaders in the
areas of legislative, medical, state agency, community, and
educational systems; learn about various leadership
opportunities within existing systems; and broaden their
understanding of the issues surrounding visual impairments
and blindness beyond their own child. In this training, the
participants design, develop, and complete a personal project
that will impact services and support for children with visual
impairments.
The Family Leadership training began at TSBVI in 2004 as
part of the Texas Deaf-Blind Project grant initiative. Over the
years, the training grew and included families of children who
were blind or visually impaired. In the past ten years, more than
160 parents have participated in the training. Family Leadership is
not just about educating; it is much more. Parents learn to match
their passions and talents to leadership opportunities so they can
effectively partner with others in accomplishing their goals. Some
of the powerful and exciting things that have come from the
Leadership training include:
 Developed the Texas CHARGERS, a statewide organization
for families who have children with CHARGE Syndrome, which
hosts an annual family conference and is active in both state
and national efforts to improve the lives of people living with
CHARGE Syndrome.
 Established non-profit organizations that provide services to
children with visual impairments.
 Assumed leadership roles within the Texas legislative
process that led to the passage of numerous bills that improve
-37services for Texans who are blind, such as the deafblind/multiple disabilities waiver and the new orientation and
mobility law requiring an evaluation on all students receiving
vision services.
 Served as board members for many community and state
organizations such as the Deaf-Blind Multihandicapped
Association of Texas (DBMAT), the Texas Association for
Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (TAPVI), the
TSBVI Board of Directors, and the Texas Parent to Parent
Board of Directors.
 Designed and presented breakout sessions at multiple
training events and conferences, such as the Texas Parent to
Parent Annual Conference, Texas Focus, and the International
AERBVI Conference.
 Served within their local school districts on boards and
advisory committees.
People across the nation have been watching Texas and have
borrowed from our success. Family leadership trainings similar to
the TSBVI/DARS leadership training have been developed in
many states including New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington.
It is exciting to know that across this great nation, more and more
consumers and family members are making the world a better
place for people who are blind or visually impaired.
-38-
Projects and activities are financed by annual dues,
fundraisers, and tax deductible donations made to ACBT by
members, friends, and other interested persons. ACBT
appreciates the continued support of its members and friends. For
more information about ACBT, please contact any state officer,
director, or your nearest chapter, call 866-929-2228 and leave a
message, or visit www.acbtexas.org.
-39-
Thanks to our Sponsors
Amerigroup provides STAR, CHIP, STAR+PLUS, and
Medicare programs in counties throughout Texas. This includes
helping mothers, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities
with their physical, behavioral, and social needs. For more
information, call 1-800-600-4441.
HealthSpring works with the State of Texas to help people
with Medicaid get health care in the STAR+PLUS Program.
STAR+PLUS is a Texas Medicaid managed care program for
people who have disabilities or are age 65 or older. For more
information, call 1-800-964-2777.
Return to:
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c/o Neil Finley, Editor
4831 52nd St
Lubbock, TX 79414
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Domestic Mail Manual Sec. E 040)
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American Council of the Blind of Texas, Inc.
President
1st Vice President
2nd Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Past President
Kenneth Semien, Sr.
Blake Lindsay
Kevin Ratliff
Cynthia Julun
Sheila Derrick
Carol Edwards
A publication of the American Council of the Blind of
Texas, an affiliate of the American Council of the Blind