GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND - ALUMNI NEWS
Volume 22 – Number 2
Theresa Stern, Director of Outreach, Admissions and Alumni Services, Editor
Leanne Bremner, Copy 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
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!
We'd like to send our very special thanks to all of our Alumni who, by their efforts and their
examples, refer others to our program.
Table of Contents
1. From Your Alumni Association
A Note from the Alumni Association Board Chair, by: Becky Andrews
New Free Apps are Making Life Easier, by: MD Support
Paws To Recognize, by: Theresa Stern
Travel Tips Through My Guide Dog’s Eyes, by: Bruce Gilmour
2. What’s New at GDB?
New Video – Campus Life, by: Karen Woon
3. In Our Own Words
Singing Songs for Fun and Funds, by: Marcia Wick
4. Development Spotlight
Nevada Day Classic 2014 Benefits GDB, by: Kelsey Mannen
New Project on the Oregon Campus, by: Debbie Hibbard
5. Alumni Bulletin Board
6. In Memoriam, In Memory, In tribute
7. Gift Shop News
8. Announcements
9. Alumni Association Board of Directors
10. List of Alumni Chapters
FROM YOUR ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
A Note from the Alumni Association Board Chair
By: Becky Andrews with Georgina
Greetings! Georgie, my guide, and I just returned home from the quarterly GDB Board Meetings
in San Rafael. It was my pleasure to represent the GDB Alumni Association Board and all of
you. I experienced the commitment that our GDB Board, CEO, Staff, and Volunteers have for
each of us and the mission of GDB. Oh, by the way, if you get a chance, check out the cute new
t-shirts at the GDB Gift Shop with PAWSOME on the back in print and in braille.
As my term serving on the GDB Alumni Association Board comes to an end, I reflect on the
quote by Helen Keller – “Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much.” In the past 5
1/2 years serving on the Alumni Board, together we have accomplished much. I have been
inspired by the many ways that we as Alumni come together to support GDB and one
another. Thank you for the many ways you make contributions to our Guide Dog community.
There are so many examples including leading and/or being involved in an alumni chapter,
reaching out to a board member and sharing your feedback, participating in an Alumni
Association speaker series call, speaking to a group/organization, and mentoring other alumnus.
The list goes on of how we help one another and our Guide Dogs for the Blind family. We are
ambassadors for Guide Dogs for the Blind and our mission each day as we carry on our lives.
Many of our Alumni Association Board Goals have come from your sharing and feedback.
Let me tell you about two of the projects that we have been working on this year.
1. Paws and Remember. As guide dog users, we treasure our beautiful partnerships. As an
Alumni Board we wanted to expand on the support that we receive from GDB during the
difficult time when our guides pass away. We are calling our support services "Paws and
Remember." We will be offering monthly support calls led by grads who have been trained by
Kim Samco, LPC, GDB Counseling Specialist. We will also be sending out a card and a small
token to our grads when we learn that their guide passes. Also, we will encourage our alumni to
write a tribute for the GDB Reflections blog. Our first support group will be Wednesday, July
29 at 4 PST – call in number is 877 668 4490 and the access code is 209 284 43.
2. Educating Businesses on the Fake Service Animal Issue and their Rights. Many of us have
experienced the challenges related to the Fake Service Animal Issue. As we know, this is a big
challenge and many organizations including GDB are taking an active role in this increasing
concern. In an effort to provide a proactive option for each of us, we have drafted an educational
letter that will soon be available to each of you to personalize and share. This letter can be taken
to businesses, community centers, schools, etc., and become an opportunity to educate on this
issue.
I am also excited to share with you our new officers for the 2015 – 2016 term. Congratulations
to Melanie Brunson – Chair, Leanne Bremner - Vice Chair, and Michelle Miller - Secretary. We
also confirmed two new board members with terms beginning on July 1, 2015, Dorianne Pollack
from Flagstaff AZ, with guide dog Dime and Marcia Wick of Colorado Springs, CO with guide
dog Viviane. Welcome Dorianne and Marcia!
Certainly, a wonderful part of serving on the Board has been having the opportunity to connect
with so many of you through phone conversations, reunions, chapter meetings, speaker series,
emails and other opportunities to hear from you. Thank you not only for your friendships, but
also your input, suggestions and feedback.
I hope to see many of you in September at our upcoming retreat and reunion: Paws around the
world in Portland, Oregon. Our Reunion Committee, along with so many at GDB, have been
working hard to create an event where you will learn, enjoy, and connect.
Happy and Safe Travels to each of you,
New Free Apps Are Making Life Easier
BY: The Team at MD Support
Editors Note: We would like to thank MD Support for their kind donation of their services in
providing indoor wayfinding for our 2015 Alumni Reunion and Retreat.
MD Support recently launched LowViz Guide, a free indoor way-finding app for attendees at
low vision conferences. And now, Novartis Pharmaceuticals has announced development of two
apps that will make perfect partners. In collaboration with AMD Alliance International, the
company has developed two free applications called ViaOpta Navigator and ViaOpta Daily.
ViaOpta Navigator is a smartphone-based GPS which enables a blind or low vision person to
move independently when walking outdoors. It provides real-time information on upcoming
junctions, distances and directions. At any time, the user can request exact street address
positioning and receive specific turn by turn directions. The app also provides real-time
information on upcoming junctions, distances and directions.
Once the user has reached the destination, Bluetooth beacon technology such as LowViz Guide
will assist in navigating inside the building, while ViaOpta Daily will help with specific tasks. It
incorporates 6 main functions accessible from the main screen:
•
Weather
•
Magnifying glass
•
Timer
•
Contacts
•
Color recognizer
•
Money recognizer
The apps communicate information audibly even if a screen reader isn’t running on the device.
Nearly everything a person needs to accomplish basic daily functions are now available at no
cost by anyone owning a smartphone.
Indoor Wayfinding Audio System What you need to know ahead of time
When using MD Support’s new LowViz Guide app at this year’s GDB Reunion and Retreat,
here is what you need to know.
First, it is currently accessible only through iDevices - iPhone 4S or later and iPad 4 or later. The
application has been designed for IOS for the purposes of this year’s beta-testing, and the
developers are considering expanding to Android in the future if there is demand.
Second, it is important that you know your Apple Store ID and password in order to download
the LowViz Guide. You may download it ahead of time, if you wish, but remember, it will
operate only in the hotel environment. Here is where you can find the free download link, along
with more information and step-by-step instructions for using the app:
www.mdsupport.org/audioguide
Finally, with so many people expected to use this audio technology, MD Support highly
recommends that you bring earbuds. The app can be quite a chatterbox as it provides directions
and information, so let’s be kind to the ears of those around us!
“Paws” to Recognize!
By: Theresa Stern, Director of Outreach, Admissions and Alumni Services, with Wills
As you may know, the Alumni Association will be holding our fifth Alumni Reunion and Retreat
in Portland in September, “Paws Around the World”. One of the highlights of every Alumni
Reunion is our Awards Banquet. This event gives us the opportunity to celebrate staff, alumni,
volunteers, and others who have made a profound positive impact in furthering the mission of
GDB. Whether you are able to join us in September or not, we need your assistance in choosing
the individuals who so richly deserve these honors. Below you will find a list of the awards we
bestow and those individuals who have received them in the past. Please email me with any
nominations for the 2015 awards at tstern@guidedogs.com please note 2015 Awards in the
subject line. The Alumni Association Board will then choose the recipient. All nominations need
to be submitted by July 15, 2015. Many thanks for your participation!
The Most Treasured Award – for extraordinary efforts towards developing new partnerships to
support the future of Guide Dogs for the Blind
Previously Presented to: Vickie Kennedy, Michael Hingson, Betty White, Etta Allen
The Forward Award - For Extraordinary Leadership in Promoting the Guide Dog Lifestyle
Previously Presented to: Sheila Styron, Rob Sleath, Melissa Hudson, Aerial Gilbert
The Blondie Award – Named in honor of our first Guide dog and given to a volunteer who has
demonstrated selfless, enthusiastic service to GDB.
Previously Presented to: Susi Cherry, Sarah & Wayne Gabel, Debi Hays, Lucy Greco & Mike
Duigou
The Laurie Shepherd Award – Named in honor of GDB Alumna Laurie Shepherd who worked
tirelessly on behalf of the access rights of Guide Dogs and their handlers: Awarded to a member
of the GDB community who has shown excellence in advocacy.
Previously Presented to: Michael Osborn, Emily Simone, Paul Walker, Roxanne Callibraro, Jim
Power
The Sue Sullivan Superior Staff Award – Given in appreciation to a GDB staff member who has
made extraordinary contributions to the GDB community.
Previously Presented to: Sue Sullivan, Dr. Craig Dietrich, Barbara Browning, Malinda Carlson
The Lifetime Achievement Award – Given to recognize and honor the achievements of a lifetime
dedicated to Guide Dogs, their handlers, and the blind.
Previously Presented to: Ed & Tony Eames, Michele Pouliot, Norah Hamilton Straus, Brian
Francis, and Terry Barrett
NEW! The Doc Award – (Named in honor of our very own Dr. Craig Dietrich), Given to a
veterinary professional who has provided extraordinary care for our Canine Heroes.
Travel Tips Through My Guide Dog’s Eyes – a Good Start Is Tied to a Good
Finish
By: Bruce Gilmour with Marley
My name is Bruce Gilmour and currently I carry on an active and healthy daily life through the
freedom and independence provided by my fifth golden retriever guide, Marley. As a Director
of the GDB Alumni Association Board, I am assisting with the planning for the forthcoming
2015 Reunion and Retreat in Portland.
Thirty years of partnerships in guide dog harnesses have bolstered my confidence to continue to
seek new experiences. From back country hiking, to single engine sea planes, to helicopters, to
cruise ships, and to short and long haul commercial flights, I have collected tales of high anxiety
and adventure, hysteria, kindness, upgrades, and lessons with take aways! The following six
points are my and my guide dog’s optics on achieving positive travel outcomes. This
information is shared as an opportunity to reinforce these ideas in the minds of the experienced
GDB traveler, as well as to inform and hopefully inspire those of you who are not as
adventurous. I hope these suggestions enhance your travel by helping you to leave home
comfortable, knowing you have prepared yourself and your puppy for minimal stress and
maximum enjoyment as you travel!
1. Time is your friend and can be your enemy! Thinking ahead in advance of your travel is key.
Make a list of what you want packed into your carry-on bag, versus what you wish to pack into
the checked luggage. This will ensure that you reach cruising altitude knowing that you have
thought of everything. Just ask my wife and guide dogs!
2. You are the expert on you and the relationship you have with your guide dog. Ideally, if any
customer service employee does not know what to do, they will ask. When they do, their job
now is to listen. When you travel, you become an advocate. Being an advocate is challenged if
your time is squeezed when transitioning through terminal systems plagued with unexpected
delays like passenger volume, getting assistance to complete documentation, tripping the metal
detector, delayed gate agent assistance, construction, and so on. The norm is to expect the
unexpected for me in air travel experiences! Allow time for these real circumstances and you
will arrive at your gate relaxed with a guide dog performing as they should.
3. Now a challenging topic – communication systems designed to manage the details of a
passenger’s reservation. Communication technologies are a tool that can enhance our travel and
support our independence. The catch or “turbulence” you encounter through your travel will not,
however, be a systems problem, but how the information you communicated was summarized
and put into the system such that the arrangements you require upon arrival, are appropriately in
place.
I start at the beginning with the airline reservations agent (travel agent) and continue to reconfirm my arrangements with each point of contact through the travel experience. Typically,
this includes: reservations agent, ticket agent, gate agent, and again with the flight attendant
working in the section where I am sitting on the aircraft.
When I make my reservation I provide my airline membership number. My profile states I am
blind and accompanied by a guide dog. I ask for a Special Services Request (SSR). The SSR
communicates into the reservations system that I am blind and accompanied by a guide
dog. Additional travel related information goes to a second field, the Free Flow Line (FFL). In
the FFL, notes are put into the reservations system about arrival assistance to retrieve luggage
and connect with ground transportation. If travel circumstances are such, the request could
include that of making a flight connection and assistance to the guide and service dog relieving
area.
Upon departure at the ticket agent position, when documentation and ticketing is completed, I
ask the agent if we can review the SSR. When the SSR and FFL are reviewed and confirmed, an
important extension of communication has been completed. Your travel related requests have
been now relayed into the airport system. Upon ticketing, you are now confirmed on that
particular flight manifest with SSR beside your name and on your boarding pass. I am assured
by my airline that it is just fine to review things again when arriving at the gate and too much
information is better than none!
Note: Assuming the SSR and FFL have been correctly put into the systems and you are flying
with your intended carrier and you have allowed for enough time to deflect any possibility for
anxiety, your travel experience is about to unfold. However, passengers can end up flying on
what is known as a code shared flight. For example, I book Air Canada for flights to San
Francisco. Reservations and ticketing and gate experience, all completed through Air Canada,
but. But the aircraft I board is operated by United Airlines. The SSR has probably followed
your communication sequence, however, the FFL nine times out of ten, has not followed you
because of differences in communications software and encoding language! On code chair
flights, it is a really good practice to re-confirm your needs. Developing a good rapport with the
flight attendant helps to remove anxiety. If the passenger manifest confirms your SSR but not
the FFL, the flight attendant can aid you through the aircraft flight deck with something called
the DataLink, whereby details of your meet and assist request can be transmitted to your
destination from the flight deck.
5. Lastly, I like to take advantage of the pre-board option. While sitting at the gate you will hear
an announcement calling for passengers who need more time to board the aircraft to pre-board.
At least three positive events now unfold. One, your carry on will be placed in the closest
overhead bin to your seat as possible. Two, your guide dog is comfortably introduced to the feet
space area below your seat. If possible, the flight attendant is going to do what they can to
ensure you, your guide dog, and other passengers are provided what space can be made available
for a comfortable flight. And three, by pre-boarding, I quickly reassure with the attending flight
attendant my dog has traveled before and when he/she has a moment, I would be pleased to
spend a little bit of time to review aircraft safety features, the end route service, and to answer
any questions they might have about how to provide assistance. For example, leave lids on salad
dressing and creamers and yes please thank you very much, I only want to know which paper
package is the pepper! I feel good about the connection just made and the flight attendant has
returned to greet the boarding passengers, relaxed in the knowledge the blind passenger and their
guide dog are going to be fun passengers to serve and assist.
My guide dog Marley also has a couple tips he wishes to share. He reminds me of the
importance of my Kibble Bag as a few pieces of kibble take his mind off the jet engines winding
up and the takeoff. On longer flights Marley keeps hydrated by licking ice cubes. He also likes
it when I reach down for a re-assuring rub of his ears and a light back or tummy scratch. I keep
the harness body on and take the handle off. The decision about harness on or off relates directly
to what feet space area Marley has to settle into as determined by aircraft type and class of
seating. And oh yes, for those who don’t know, a guide dog team does not fit into any aircraft
washroom I have ever experienced. Hence the importance of traveling equipped with a
collapsible cane.
Finally, my knowledge and experience has stood by me at security whereby I never ever
relinquish control of Marley except for those accepted procedures for clearing security. My
guide dog’s leash, school issued collar, and harness are not ever removed from my dog.
Thank you for this opportunity to share what works for me in controlling turbulence when I
travel by air!
WHAT’S NEW AT GDB?
New Video – “Campus Life”
BY: Karen Woon, Director of Marketing
We are excited to publically debut our new "Campus Life" video! It provides a comprehensive
overview of what our clients can expect when coming to class to receive their new guide dogs.
Thank you to everyone on both campuses who was involved in the production of the video and
to everyone behind the scenes – it truly was a team effort! Super special thanks to Sierra Fish,
Marketing Specialist for doing such a wonderful job spearheading this project!!
This will be a great tool for our Admissions and Outreach departments, in particular, to provide
an in-depth overview of our training program here at GDB. We hope this video makes you proud
to be a GDB Alum and we encourage you to share it with anyone you know who may be
considering a guide dog.
It can be found on our website, as well as our YouTube channel (guidedogsaregreat):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yhuj6wU9R-k, and on Facebook.
IN OUR OWN WORDS
Singing Songs for Fun and Funds!
By: Marcia Wick with Viviane
Every ski season, a group of visually impaired and blind skiers along with their sighted guides
from VIBeS (the Visually Impaired and Blind Skiers of Colorado Springs), puts together a little
song and dance act to raise money for the non-profit organization. The silly songsters take a
familiar song like “I’m A Believer” by The Monkeys, or “Cecilia” by Simon and Garfunkel and
create new hits like “I’m a Blind Skier” by The Spunkees, or “I Feel Ya” by The Sounds of
Guidance.
As a tribute to my guide dog, Viviane, my husband and I have paraphrased the popular Beach
Boys Hit “Surfer Girl” turning it into a new hit – “Guider Dog!” Enjoy the lyrics and try a tribute
song of your own!
Little Vivi, little one
You make my walking so much fun
Do you love me, do you guider dog?
Guider dog, my little guider dog
You are waiting on the floor
Looking out the front screen door
Do you help me, do you guider dog?
Working dog, guider dog
We could walk the trail together
Summer heat or snow
In your harness, I would take you
Everywhere I go
Grooming day, you pee and poo
I will feed you kibbles, too
Do you work hard, do you guider dog?
Viviane, my little guider dog
Dog, guider dog, my little guider dog
Dog, guider dog, my little guider dog
(repeat refrain 3 times – fill in with new lyrics)
DEVELOPMENT SPOTLIGHT
Nevada Day Classic 2014 Benefits Guide Dogs for the Blind
By: Kelsey Mammen, Puppy Raising Club Leader
An annual event since 1989, the Nevada Day Classic is an 8K run, 2-mile run, and 2-mile walk
held in beautiful Carson City, Nevada in conjunction with the Nevada Day celebration and
parade. The October 2014 event benefited Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB). The Carson City
Guide Dog club partnered with the Tahoe Mountain Miler running club to organize the race.
Guide dog puppies as well as working guide dogs flocked to the Carson Nugget to welcome race
participants at the start of the race. Guide dog puppies and their raisers directed runners during
the race as they explored historic downtown Carson City.
Members of the Carson City Guide Dog Club and Tahoe Mountain Milers worked hard for
months to gain sponsorships from local businesses and made efforts to promote the race to the
public. This hardworking group of people believes strongly in the mission of GDB: to prepare
highly qualified guide dogs to serve and empower visually impaired clients. These services are
offered free of charge to the blind person, and are made possible in part by fund raising efforts
like the Nevada Day Classic.
After the race, participants were able to visit with puppies, and listen to guest speaker and guide
dog handler, Elena Thomason. Elena offered her personal perspective on living visually impaired
and guide dog handling. Elena's guide dog, Tahoe, was raised in Carson City by Emily Cook and
Kelsey Mammen, two assistant leaders of the Carson City Guide Dog Club. Fates aligned that a
dog with a Nevada namesake, raised in Carson City would return to contribute to the event. Race
activities also included a brunch after the race, and a costume contest in celebration of
Halloween. Despite snow and rain, over 600 participants showed up on race day, and the event
raised over $16,000 to benefit GDB. Organizers are already in the process of promoting next
year's race, which will also benefit GDB.
New Project on the Oregon Campus
By: Debbie Hibbard, Regional Development Officer
We have exciting news about a special project on the Oregon campus. Guide Dogs for the Blind
(GDB) needs to replace its waste water treatment plant as it approaches the end of its working
lifespan. Due to the location of the campus, water and sewage is not available from the city.
Thankfully, a donor has agreed to match gifts that are donated for this project up to $500k
through June 30, 2015. How you can help – please share this important project with family and
friends and remember all their gifts will be doubled!
Donations designated for this project can be made online or through the mail. The gift must
clearly state the funds should be used for the Waste Water Treatment project, so that we can
make sure it gets counted towards the match. For naming opportunities (sure, why not) or
questions – please call Debbie Hibbard, Development Officer at dhibbard@guidedogs.com.
ALUMNI BULLETIN BOARD
Alum Larry Marcum with Brinkley (class 729) have been very busy the past 3 years in leadership
roles in Lions Clubs International. This year Larry is District Governor of district 4-C1 in
northern California, which consists of 46 clubs with a total of 1,070 members in 12 counties.
During these 3 years, Brinkley, a 5 year old black lab, has guided Larry during a total of 23,000
air miles involving countless airports, plus visiting all 46 clubs and dozens of events, conferences
and conventions all over California and other states, and the international convention in Toronto.
Hundreds of Lions have now been exposed to the amazing things that GDB does for us,
changing our lives and helping to make dreams come true. As Larry often says, “Guide Dogs do
more than guide; Guide Dogs help a person to live their dreams”.
Hot tip on pick-up bags! GDB Grad Dion Junior with Meryl phoned to say Big Lots has a great
deal on American Kennel Club pick-up bags, a huge number of rolls and bags for $8.00 – happy
shopping!
GDB Grad Terry Coakley with Eden has been winning awards for several years at the Orange
County Fair for her Jams and canning. She has recently been included in a new book! A big
shout out to Terry.
Big congrats to Phillip DiMeo with Tesla who has just released a book that includes information
about his experience with his first GDB guide dog, Ladonna. You can learn about the book
called, Binoculars – Masquerading as a Sighted Person through this link,
http://www.newhorizonpressbooks.com/new/binoculars.php. Kudos also goes to GDB Field
Services Manager Lauren Ross who penned the forward for this book!!
On March 27th, GDB Alumna Jenny Anderson completed a course to recertify as a chaplain, this
time her guide dog Neve joined her. Way to go ladies!
Fantastic news for James Hogan with Hoosier, a longtime member of the Southern California
Regional Group of the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) and a volunteer with the
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System for the past 12
years, was recognized as VA’s National Male Volunteer of the Year. Congratulations Jim!
Are you a lawyer or studying to be one? GDB grad Karin Bagn with Walter would like some
assistance, here is her inquiry: “How do you do legal research? I am studying to be called to the
bar in Canada. There are 3 legal research options of which I am aware: CANLII (free but
incomplete); Lexis/Nexis and WestLaw (latter two both more complete and very expensive.) I
am able to review pdf documents and use sighted assistants to convert pdf to MS Word, but I am
not able to access websites and search online. Can other no or low vision legal researchers offer
any tips or guidance for working with these or other research tools?” If you can help, please
contact Karin at: kbsirius@gmail.com 250 442 2248 (Canada), 970 349-9399 (U.S.)
GDB Alum Bruce Breslauer with Numbus is a ham operator who has used guide dogs from
Guide Dogs for the Blind since 1978. His amateur call sign is AC7SL and he holds an amateur
extra class license which he just renewed in January 2015. He is wondering whether there would
be any interest in starting a ham radio group among dog guide users. He suggests that rather
than using conference calls, perhaps the group could pick a frequency and start a ham net. If you
are interested, please contact Theresa Stern at tstern@guidedogs.com Bruce sends 73’s to
everyone.
Congratulations to GDB Alum Terry Blosser who just earned his Executive Masters of Public
Administration degree with honors distinction and his guide Bryson who also earned an
Honorary Executive Masters of Public Administration degree. This was the first time that the
program has ever awarded an honorary Master’s degree to a canine!
IN MEMORIAM, IN MEMORY, IN TRIBUTE
In Memoriam
Mr. Ted Chism of Cincinnati OH with male Lab/Golden Cross Scott (OR 266 – January 2014)
In Memory – Remembering Guides Who Have Died
Miami, female Black Lab guide for Lisa Horn of Perham, MN (CA 628 – October 2002)
Texan, male Golden Retriever guide for Don Ashcraft of Osburn, ID (OR 98 – April 2004)
Olive, female Yellow Lab guide for Debbie Bacon of Alameda, CA (CA 670 – December 2006)
Carnation, female Yellow Lab guide for Roxanne Calibraro of Arlington Heights, IL (CA 622 –
June 2002)
Lettie, female Black Lab guide for Donna Corson of Deltona, FL (OR 69 – October 2001)
DeeDee, female Black Lab guide for Lynette Frison of Dartmouth, NS (CA 685 – June 2008)
River, female Yellow Lab guide for Ethan Meigs of Long Beach, CA (CA 695 – June 2009)
Carmel, female Black Lab guide for Elaine Harrison of London, ON (CA 657 – September
2005)
Quantas, female Black Lab guide for guide for Megan Green of Stayton, OR (OR 99 – May
2004)
Fennel, female Yellow Lab guide for Gregory Evangelatos of Redondo Beach, CA (CA 649 –
November 2004)
Halo, female Golden Retriever guide for Deb Lewis of Louisville, KY (OR 153 – October 2008)
Thelma, female Yellow Lab guide for Roy Ramsey of Fontana, CA (OR 110 – April 2005)
Liza, female Yellow Lab guide for Janice Walth of Lodi, CA (CA 648 – October 2004)
Melanie, female Lab/Golden Cross guide for Calynn Hendrickson of Hopkins, MN (CA 614 –
May 2001)
Lombardi, male Golden Retriever guide for Rob Sleath of Richmond, BC (CA 627 – August
2002)
Miriam, female Yellow Lab guide for Luann Bowers of Liberty Center, OH (OR 146 – April
2008)
Magician, male Yellow Lab guide for Heather Williams of Denver, CO (OR 78 – July 2002)
RoAnne, female Yellow Lab guide for Veronica Rodriguez of Denver, CO (CA 639 – November
2003)
Quest, male Yellow Lab guide for Lynn Janssen of Lakewood, CO (CA 633 – April 2003)
In Tribute – Honoring Guides Who Have Retired
Bristol, male Yellow Lab / Golden Cross guide for Ken Altenburger of Petaluma, CA (CA 655 June 2005)
Forester, male Yellow Lab guide for Sharon Ruttan of Hamilton, ON (CA 685 - June 2008)
Bradshaw, male Yellow Lab guide for Richard Marion of Coquitlam, BC (CA 672 – March
2007)
Cranberry, female Yellow Lab guide for Janine Prindle of Enumclaw, WA (OR 135 – May
2007)
Pascal, male Black Lab guide for Deanna Lewis of Cincinnati, OH (CA 694 – May 2009)
Tressa, female Yellow Lab guide for Traci Graves of Loveland, CO (OR 134 – April 2007)
Yale, male Yellow Lab guide for Richard Brewton of Meadville, PA (CA 674 – May 2007)
GIFT SHOP NEWS – May 2015
By: Michelle McNew
Listed below are new items that have arrived in the gift shop recently:
3 in 1 pen - This is a sleek black and silver 3 in 1 aluminum ballpoint stylus with LED light.
Black pen cap with guidedogs.com in silver, writes in black ink. Sold in a velvet pouch. $5.00
GDB Water Bottle - BPA free bottle holds 20 oz. of cold beverage. The acrylic top of the bottle
unscrews to allow ease of adding ice cubes and features a drink-through spout. Not dishwasher
safe or microwavable. $9.00
Geo Tumbler - Double wall design keeps beverages cold for up to 4 hours and hot for up to 2.
Features colored geometric inner liner. Holds up to 16 oz. when full. Please note: hand wash
recommended, do not microwave. $10.00
Women’s Paw-some V Tee - fine jersey v neck longer length tee. This tee has a slightly modern
styling with a ribbed v neck collar. Adorned with our GDB stacked logo on the left front chest in
pink and a paw design with pawsome in script and braille in pink on the back 93% cotton/7%
polyester, offered in fuchsia, available in sizes small through XXL $20.00
Women’s Paws-some Crewneck Tee- super soft women’s lightweight crewneck tee. At 4.5 oz.,
made of 60% polyester and 40% combed ring spun cotton, it will be a great summer tee.
Embellished with the GDB stacked logo on the left chest in purple, the back of the shirt displays
a paw design, including the word pawsome in script and braille in purple. Fit: juniors, please
order a size up. Offered in heather green Available in sizes Small through XXL. $20.00
Women’s Scoop neck Tee – Tri blend scoop neck, half sleeve tee At 4.7 oz., made of preshrunk
50% polyester , 25% combed ring spun cotton, and 25% rayon, it is very soft and lightweight.
Embellished with the GDB logo on the left chest in a light purple to contrast the heather eggplant
shirt color Fit: semi fitted silhouette Available in sizes Small through XXL $20.00
Women’s Zip Hoodie - premium deluxe fleece zip hoody. Made with a stylish 2-color fabric
combination that has set it apart from every other sweatshirt Contrast flat draw cord, unlined
hood and 1x1 ribbing at cuffs and waistband Garment details: 7.5oz pre-laundered 65% cotton
35% polyester blend fleece, Twill neck tape and MP3 holder and eyelet in front pouch pocket.
Available in black/charcoal with teal logo or Teal sweatshirt with maroon logo juniors sizes
Small thru XXL. Recommended tumble dry low. $35.00
Men’s Paw-some pocket tee - Hanes 6.1oz Beefy tee with pocket 100% preshrunk cotton with
the GDB stacked logo in teal on the front right chest. The back of the tee features a paws design
with the word pawsome in script and braille in teal as well. Available in black in sizes Small
through XXL $20.00
Men’s Pawsome tee - super soft crewneck tee Weighing 4.5 oz. with 65% cotton/35% polyester,
this will be your go to tee for the summer. Fit: semi fitted Available in heather navy in sizes
Small through XXL $20.00
Men’s Sherpa Hoodie - Men's Sherpa Lined Full Zip Hoodie. At 14 oz. total weight, this hoodie
will keep you nice and toasty on a cold day. Weighing in at 8.5 oz. 80% cotton 20% polyester
blend fleece exterior, 5.5 oz. 100% polyester Sherpa lined interior, with Split stitch double
needle sewing on all seams and Twill neck tape Please tumble dry low for best results. Available
in Navy with gray GDB logo on left chest $39.00
Bait bag - This bag is made by the Dog Gone Good Company. The magnetic closure with pull
cord allows for quick open/close operation. Equipped with an inside jackpot pocket (5.5" W x
3.25" H) with Velcro closure to store high value treats or separate any item you want in the main
pocket. The exterior features two side pockets with a waste-bag dispenser feature (one side only),
fits clickers, small leads and more. A zippered back compartment is roomy enough for cell
phones, keys, credit cards and more. Belt clip and belt loops allow you to choose multiple ways
to wear your pouch (belt included).Made of durable 600 denier polyester ("backpack") material
measuring 5.75" L x 6.75 " H x 2.75" D (open). Embellished with the Guide Dogs for the Blind
logo on the front pouch Available in Purple, Black. Blue and Red $18.00
Coming soon:
Rubber coaster
Guide dog shaped key ring
Treat jar
Visor – gray with 3 pups design
Men’s and Women’s ¼ zip tech long sleeve dry weave
Vinyl Decals
Dog Collar – new design
Dog bone shaped Carabiner
Trio blanket
New design photo frame
All orders are subject to applicable tax and shipping fees.
You can order Gift Shop merchandise online at store.guidedogs.com, or call 1-800-295-4050
x4151 or 415-499-4151 and our volunteers will take your order by telephone.
Please check our website periodically for new merchandise updates.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Guide or Assistance Dog Graduate, PAWS for Independence is pleased to invite you to attend
their 11th biennial Guide and Assistance Dog Conference, to be held October 15, 16 & 17, 2015
at the Hilton Vancouver Metrotown Hotel, Burnaby, BC, Canada. The conference schedule is as
follows:
Thursday evening: Dinner banquet, entertainment, awards and silent auction.
Friday & Saturday: Dog related seminars, including refreshments and lunches
Total cost $100.
Friday & Saturday Seminars only with morning refreshments and lunches - Total cost $75.
Dinner Banquet only - Total cost $75.
The Hilton hotel has a block of rooms at the conference rate of $149 per night
An exciting range of topics and speakers will be available on our website when confirmed:
www.pawsforindependence.ca
Please contact Rosamund van Leeuwen or Wendy Galt with any questions you may have at:
rosamundvL@gmail.com 604-922-9339.
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2015 – 2016 Alumni Association Board Meetings:
Sept 10, 2015: Dec 5, 2015: March 5, 2016: June 4, 2016
Officers
Melanie Brunson with Sparta
Vienna, VA
Board Chair
703-307-6478 (Mobile)
mbrunson@guidedogs.com
Leanne Bremner with Ayanna
Toronto, ON
Board Vice-Chair
416-921-8984
lbremner@guidedogs.com
Michelle Miller with Tango
Alexandria, VA
Board Secretary
703-664-0369
mmiller@guidedogs.com
MEMBERS AT LARGE
Samantha Adams with Lotto
Gold River, CA
916-903-7065
sadams@guidedogs.com
Maile George with Jasmin
Concord, CA
925-381-7899
mgeorge@guidedogs.com
Bruce Gilmore with Marley
Vancouver, BC
604-828-5513
bgilmour@guidedogs.com
Dudley Hanks with Michener
Edmonton, AB
780-461-9358
dhanks@guidedogs.com
Scott Wilcock with Senator
Harrisville, UT
801-737-9536
swilcock@guidedogs.com
Dorianne Pollack with Dime
Flagstaff, AZ
928-606-3025
doriannepollack@gmail.com
Marcia Wick with Viviane
Colorado Springs, CO
719-651-2221 (Mobile)
marciajbarber@aol.com
marcia.wick@d11.org
EX Officio Members
George Kerscher
Missoula, MT
GDB Board of Directors Representative
406-549-4687
gkerscher@guidedogs.com
Deborah Kendrick with Flo
Cincinnati, OH
GDB Board of Directors Representative
513-673-4474
dkendrick@guidedogs.com
Past President
Becky Andrews with Georgina
Bountiful, UT
801-259-3883 (Mobile)
bandrews@guidedogs.com
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CHAPTERS
As of January 2015
British Columbia
Linda Weber
lmweber@shaw.ca
Colorado Rocky Rovers
Richard Faubion
rfaubion@blindness.org
Northern Colorado
Sherry Gomes
sherriola@gmail.com
DC Metro
Mary Wilson
marymobile@me.com
Foggy Doggies San Francisco
Lauri Shay and Maile George
laurishay@gmail.com
haolegal@astound.net
GDB Cruisers
Paul Walker
herospaw@ameritech.net
Special Interest: Cruising
GDBCruisers@gmail.com
GDB Handlers of the Northeast
Cynthia Detro
cynthia.detro@gmail.com
www.gdbhne.net
GDB Paws of Fame Los Angeles County
Melissa Hudson
Melissa.v.hudson@gmail.com
GDB Surfer Dogs San Diego
Juliet Cody
julietcody@cox.net
GDB Tech Dogs
Deborah Kendrick
dkkendrick@earthlink.net
Special Interest: Technology
www.tech-dogs.net
Great White North GDB Alumni Chapter Canada
David Greene
mrgreened@gmail.com
Great-White-North@yahoogroups.com
Greater Toronto Area GDB Alumni Chapter
Sylvia Jonas
sjonas213@gmail.com
Greatest Paws on Earth Utah
Patty Ehle
pattiehle@gmail.com
Guide Dog Handlers All Ways
Paula Barton
pbarton1611@comcast.net
Special Interest: Multiple Disabilities
Guide Dog Handlers of the Midwest Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and Michigan
Deanna Lewis
Deannakay03@gmail.com
Guide Dog Teams of Orange County
Linda Becker
gofishun@cox.net
iSee Paws Guide Dogs Montreal Chapter
Kim Holdbrook
kimholdbrook3@gmail.com
gdbmontreal@googlegroups.com
Las Vegas
Jean Peyton
lander718@aol.com
Forming
Mommies with Guides
Tracy Boyd
tmcgee3917@aol.com
Special Interest: Parents
Montana and Wyoming Guide Dog Handlers
Bruce Breslauer
bjb5757@bresnan.net
North State Guide Dog Handlers Chico
Judy Alexander
pearlsmom01@hotmail.com
Oklahoma City GDB Alumni Chapter
Sandi Webster
sandi.webster@cox.net
Reigning Canines Portland
Bobi Earp
bobiearp@clearwire.net
PawsRock-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
River City Guide Dog Users Sacramento
Samantha Adams
samwell@comcast.net
San Diego Alumni Chapter of Guide Dog Handlers
Launa Hardy
launahardy@gmail.com
Sunshine Guide Dog Teams Florida
Alicia Eidson
Prof.alicia.eidson@gmail.com
gdbfl@googlegroups.com
Washington State GDB Alumni
Danette Dixon
danettedixon63@gmail.com
Windy City Chapter Chicago
Roxanne Calibraro
rcalibraro@earthlink.net