President: Sarah Calhoun
Editor: Andrea Giudice
Co-editor and GDUI Immediate Past President: Penny Reeder
Guide Dog Users, Inc. (GDUI) A special interest affiliate of the American Council of the Blind (ACB) since 1972
Toll-Free: 866.799.8436
From the editor
Hello fellow GDUISters
It is that most amazing of all month’s, the one that has my very favorite holiday… National Candy Cane Day!!! Okay, seriously, I truly love Christmas! It is not for the gifts received (although I do love giving presents), and not for the religious themes (sorry Daddy)- rather it is the traditions of my family! They revolve around music, food, gatherings, inside jokes (where is that mince pie anyway?), shared memories, a tree decorated with ornaments that span 5 generations and all 7 of my guide dogs, and of course, the magic of the season!! It is true that stress, frustration, irritation, and anxiety also try to finagle invitations to all the holiday events I find myself at, however, they can’t dim the delight I take in all things Christmas in Andrea World! Okay, I am never able to completely deny their siren call, but the abundance of joy, love, fun, yumminess, and appreciation for what and who I have in my life is so much bigger than they (“they being stress, frustration, irritation, and anxiety) will ever be!
The hustle of this season and the extreme emphasis on gift giving can overshadow other features of this time of year. Everything is moving faster, demanding more of our time and attention, insisting on being bigger and better (and more expensive), and more automated! The joy of playing with a wooden truck, a simple doll or stuffed toy, sitting together and reading an actual book- these things seem lost in the fray. Yes, I sound like my grandmothers did when talking about the innerwebs! *smile* The point, for me, is to try to slow down, take a deep breath, and truly unplug for a bit. To really recognize the people(family and friends) who make my life rich and my heart full!
Well, now that I have gone all philosophical, enjoy this issue and stay safe this holiday season!
I encourage everyone to remember how easy it is to get involved in the publication of “Paws.” Please, share a favorite podcast; an interesting, silly, absurd, or touching tidbit from your local paper; something you wrote yourself or something written by someone else; a helpful app or other resource; even a yummy recipe. Remember, submissions about guide dogs, or blindness/visual impairment are not the only topics of interest to us GDUISters!
Sending cyber hugs and wags,
Andrea and Super T
From the President
Greetings GDUI Members and Friends!
Thanks to everyone who supported the GDUI Holiday fundraiser! What a terrific way to cross lots of names off your shopping list, support GDUI, and not even have to leave the comfort of home!!
As we all navigate the joys and sometimes complicated emotions of this season, remember to be kind to yourselves and give extra pats to your pups!
Happy Holidays,
Sarah and Wren
For Your Calendar
(Some items listed here are expanded upon later in this issue, others may be a little further OFF in the future)
12/10/24, 10:00 PM, ET: Submission deadline for Blessing of the Guide Dogs
12/12/24, 7:00 PM, ET: Many Faces of BARD
12/15/24, 11:59 PM, ET: submission Deadline for Sunday Edition and FIA Holiday show
12/19/24,12:00 PM – 1:00 PM, PT: Heart of Influence webinar (Live Stream Virtual Event)
12/22/24, 6:00 PM, Et: GDUI Holiday Tales, ACB Community event (virtual)
12/29/24, 5:00 PM, ET: Blessing of the Guide Dogs (virtual)
Announcement: Many Faces of BARD
The next edition of the Many Faces of BARD will be held Thursday, December 12, 2024. The topic will be “Advanced Searching: A Deep Dive into the NLS Catalog.” The program will begin with a presentation by Dominick Spinelli, head of the NLS Collection Development Section. After the presentation, we will entertain questions about the presentation or anything else relating to BARD.
The program will begin at 7:00 p.m. Eastern time and last for one hour. NLS will record this program. The session can be joined by going to https://loc.zoomgov.com/j/1619779493?pwd=ATouY0yZdgcnFyoUtqHT43HkSoJwGc.1
If you’re using your telephone to participate in the call, dial
1.669.254.5252 and use meeting ID 161 977 9493.
For Spanish, dial 1.646.964.1167, and use the same meeting ID.
The passcode is 7323464.
Announcement: Heart of Influence With Dr. Kirk Adams:
Live Stream Virtual Event, December 19, 2024
Join us for another inspiring episode of the Heart of Influence With Dr. Kirk Adams Show Date: December 19, 2024
Time- 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM, PT
Where-Live Stream Virtual Event
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from integrity-based leaders in-
- Disability-Owned Businesses
- Corporate Supplier Diversity
- Disability Advocacy
- Disabled Entrepreneurship
- Assistive Technology Innovation
Dr. Kirk Adams, former CEO of the American Foundation for the Blind, and Sean Callagy, founder of Unblinded Sales Mastery, will host an engaging discussion on disability inclusion and innovative business practices.
This monthly event brings together visionaries who believe in creating collaborative solutions and advancing opportunities for people with disabilities.
Tune in to expand your network, gain valuable insights, and be part of the conversation shaping a more inclusive future!
To watch the show, visit:
https://drkirkadams.com/webinars/heart/
We post each show here shortly after it airs live.
To learn more about this, or a future show, visit this Website: https://drkirkadams.com
Announcement: Welcome the Holidays with Sunday Edition and Friends in Art!
The holidays are almost upon us, and Sunday Edition host Anthony Corona is inviting Friends in Art back on Sunday, December 22 from 1 to 3 p.m. Eastern time. The show will be dedicated to musical or spoken word holiday themed content.
How to submit your recording:
The deadline to submit is December 15. The family-friendly contribution must be five minutes in length or less. Performances can be: spoken word, a cappella, piano or guitar accompaniment; all other musical performances must contain the required meta-data in order to be played at the holiday showcase. The file name must include your last name and the title of the piece, i.e., “Santa song jones.”
Send your submission to showcase@friendsinart.org
and include “submission for Sunday Edition” in the subject line.
Deadline for submissions is midnight Eastern time on December 15, 2024. Late submissions will not be included.
Here’s Ho-Ho Hoping to hear from you.
Questions or comments? Contact FIA president Annie Chiappetta, president@friendsinart.org.
Announcement: GDUI Holiday Events, Fun, Community building and virtual!!
Hello, I’m Patty Fletcher, your new membership committee chair. I’d like to personally invite every member and friend of GDUI to the following two events.
These events are open to everyone member or not.
Please mark your calendars and join us as we celebrate the holidays with joy and remembrance.
SAVE THE DATES! Guide Dog Users Incorporated – GDUI HOLIDAY GATHERINGS WITH THE ACB COMMUNITY!
Guide Dog Users Incorporated. (GDUI Holiday Tales – Tails Sunday December 22, 6 PM eastern
Join Guide Dog Users Incorporated for a virtual fun-filled hour of storying as we share our favorite Guide Dog Holiday Tales – Tails.
Guide Dog Users Incorporated – GDUI 2024 Blessing of the Guide Dogs Sunday December 29, 5 PM eastern
Guide Dog Users, Inc. (GDUI), along with two lovely and generous long time GDUI members who created and recorded the Blessing, Audrey Gunter and Laurel Jean Walden invites you to the 2024 Blessing, scheduled to be held virtually on Sunday, December 29, 2024, beginning at 5:00 p.m. eastern time.
Please join us as we offer a general blessing for all current and future guides and honor by name those who have retired within the past two years. We will also feature our much-loved “Audible Candlelight” memorial, calling out the names of those guides who have passed on into Glory.
Many thanks and tail wags to all who have submitted names for our 2024 Blessing via Zoom. US Eastern Time. We want to be sure that everyone has had an opportunity to submit names, so we’re extending our deadline to Tuesday, December 10.
In addition to our general blessing, we will be honoring individual names of the following.
- Newbies (teams newly matched within the past two years)
- Retired guides
- Guides in Glory (who have crossed over “Rainbow Bridge”)
Also, if you would like to remember someone whose life represents a significant contribution to the blindness community in general or the guide dog movement specifically, we will take time to remember these names during “The Blessing.”
Feel welcome to submit these names by Email to retired51837@msn.com or phone (between 9:00 AM and 10:00 PM US Eastern Time) at 843.571.073 7. We are grateful for your participation and look forward to seeing you on Zoom.
If you’re reading and you’re not a member of any of our ACB or GDUI email groups, you may write to: community@acb.org to receive the schedule for events.
Or if you’d rather not receive that daily email you may write to me: patty.volunteer1@gmail.com for that information.
*I’m looking for people who would like to serve on the membership committee with me.
This year, as a member of the board, and membership chair my goal is to strengthen and grow our organization so we may band together and eradicate discrimination against those who choose to walk with a guide by their side forever.
We can’t win if we don’t stand together.
Announcement: Behind Our Eyes Writers with Disabilities launches third addition of their anthology
Behind Our Eyes 3: A Literary Sunburst
From the back cover:
the third anthology of its kind, six sections comprised of memoirs, fiction, and poetry share slices of life from the perspectives of those living with disabilities. While unique challenges are incorporated into some of the works, this compilation speaks to universal themes and common experiences, involving loss and grief, adversity and fear, love and passion. Tantalizing recipes accompany several works; such as those for edible salad bowls, lemon herb bread, cinnamon rolls, and frozen yogurt pops for dogs. This engaging collection promises three enriching opportunities: readers are challenged to question outdated notions of disability; invited to appreciate perspectives that differentiate us from one another; and encouraged to embrace the threads that make up the fabric of our collective human experience. Readers, disabled and not, will be inspired to hold up a mirror to their own experiences, and recognize that, reassuringly, we are all in this together.
Kelly Sargent, Creative Nonfiction Editor, The Bookends Review and author of Seeing Voices: Poetry in Motion
Editor bios:
- Kathryn G. (Kate) Chamberlin, B.S., M.A., and her husband have lived and raised three children plus two grandchildren atop the drumlin in Walworth, NY, since 1972. With the assistance of computer screen reader software, this former Elementary teacher, developed a Study Buddy Tutoring Service, presented her Feely Cans and Sniffy Jars Workshop, became the published author of three children’s books, edited a literary anthology featuring 65 writers with disabilities, and is a free-lance writer. As empty nesters, Kate and her husband enjoy having lunch out, country walks, and mall cruising or walking on their side-by-side treadmills during inclement weather.
Visit her website at: www.katechamberlin.com
- Marilyn Brandt Smith worked as a teacher, psychologist, and rehabilitation professional. She has edited magazines and newsletters since 1976, and was the first blind Peace Corps volunteer. She lives with her family on a southern Kentucky farm. Her first book, Chasing the Green Sun, published in 2012, is available from Amazon and other bookstores and in audio form. She loves writing flash fiction stories, and was the primary editor for the first Behind Our Eyes anthology, as well as “Magnets and Ladders” from 2011 through 2013. She enjoys college basketball, barbershop harmony, and adventure books.
Visit her website: http://www.marilynspages.com.
- Mary-Jo Lord writes poetry, fiction, and memoirs. A selection of her work was published in Almost Touching, a Plain View Press anthology. Her work can also be found in the anthologies Behind Our Eyes, Behind Our Eyes: A Second Look, and in past issues of “Magnets and Ladders.” She was also published in “Dialogue Magazine,” on the blog, “Walking by Inner Vision,” Mary-Jo has been the Coordinating Editor of “Magnets and Ladders” since 2014. She has a master’s degree in counseling from Oakland University, and is retired from Oakland Community College. Mary–Jo lives with her family in Rochester, Michigan. She has been blind since birth.
Announcements: News from ACB
[Retrieved from “Dots and Dashes,” The American Council of the Blind’s newsletter, December 2, 2024]
Exercise Your Creativity and Help Make National Park Brochures Accessible
Join the 2025 Descriptathons and help make national parks more accessible! ACB, the National Park Service, and UniDescription (UniD) are recruiting volunteers on the blindness spectrum to create audio descriptions for selected national park brochures. Teams are composed of people who are both sighted and blind or have low vision, all of whom will collaborate to describe maps, paintings, and visual images within park brochures. All meetings are held remotely, so you might find yourself learning about a park in your state or across the continent.
The Descriptathon will take place February 25–27, 2025. Volunteers are expected to attend all three full-day sessions. Participants will likely spend ten hours of prep time in the five weeks before the kick-off on February 25 (approximately two hours a week). During this prep time, team members will learn about audio description, how to use the UniD tool to describe their brochure, and get to know their teammates. Four to six hours might be needed to finalize the brochure description after the three-day event. Volunteers should have solid computer skills and be comfortable learning new technology.
This is a unique opportunity to participate in the creation of accessible materials and demonstrate the power of “nothing about us without us.” It’s a chance to meet new people, develop technical and communication skills, learn about national parks and audio description, build confidence, and have fun.
If this sounds great and you’re ready to commit and join a team, please complete this short online form- D11 Registration form
or email brett.oppegaard@hawaii.edu
and tell him ACB sent you!
California Elects First Legally Blind Representative in 12th District
Lateefah Simon is the first legally blind woman to be elected to Congress representing California’s 12th Congressional District, which is home to over 750,000 people across Alameda County, and includes Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Oakland, Piedmont, and San Leandro. You can find her biography here: https://www.lateefahsimon.com/about
Disabled Americans rely on rideshare apps but say they still face discrimination
Kenya Hunter
[From: https://apnews.com/article/uber-lyft-disability-blind-rideshare-fad7cce25f60721d5fb679815f796a4e]
[The Editors of Paws for GDUI News You Can Use wish to thank Ron Brooks for sharing the article which appears below with us. Ron Says:
I’m sharing the text and link to an Associated Press article, from the AP’s Health Reporter,
Kenya Hunter. It’s a good discussion of the challenges those of us who travel with service animals often face when attempting to use services like Uber
and Lyft. As one of those disabled Americans who travels with a service animal, and who has spent time in front of my home, in airport rideshare pick-up
areas, in parking lots, and elsewhere, trying to figure out transportation options after being illegally denied because of the presence of my Seeing Eye
Dog, York, I’m grateful for the light that Hunter has shed on this important and ongoing challenge. I’m also grateful to her for highlighting UZURV – The
Adaptive TNC, where service animals are always welcome, and where drivers who deny them are not. My personal life experience as a blind traveler, who chooses
to travel with a guide dog, is a big part of why I chose to join UZURV, and it’s just one reason of many, that motivates me to show up and give my best
each day. Please check out Hunter’s story, and share it. And if you want more information on UZURV’s approach for ensuring a welcoming environment for
service animals, you can find our Service Animal policy at the following link:
https://uzurv.com/service-animal-policy/.
Ron Brooks,
Phoenix, Arizona]
Disabled people who use rideshare apps Lyft and Uber say their experience is not a seamless task of pressing a few buttons and being whisked to their destination minutes later. Instead, people who use wheelchairs and guide dogs have watched drivers cancel rides, charge cleaning fees for guide dogs or outright refuse
to take them where they need to go. The rideshare companies plan to push app updates soon to address cancellations and misunderstandings, but advocates
and disabled users say they want to see drivers be better educated about how to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and want the companies
to put in stricter discrimination policies. The new app features are just “window dressing,” said Lynn Dubinsky. “This option puts the burden back on the
client rather than on the companies themselves to directly address (discrimination) with their drivers,” said Dubinsky, who works for a guide-dog training school in San Rafael, California.
Uber and Lyft have been the target of past federal lawsuits that allege they didn’t follow ADA laws; Uber settled its suit in 2022 and Lyft settled a separate one in 2020.
While rideshare apps aren’t the only option for disabled people across the U.S. — public transit
agencies must also have ADA-compliant buses and trains and offer paratransit options like shuttles — the disabled community relies on rideshare more than
others, according to 2022 U.S. Bureau of Transportation statistics. That’s the case for Amber Sherrard, who is blind and has a guide dog named Della. The
32-year-old Denver resident has grown accustomed to drivers refusing to transport Della, whom she prefers to bring along instead of using a cane, which
she says is less safe. Once, she ended up getting a ride from strangers at Denver’s airport because a rideshare driver wouldn’t allow Della in the car. Uber’s
app update will give users a way to identify as blind or deaf. Lyft will allow users to tell a driver they have a service animal — something that Uber
launched as a small pilot program earlier this week in the U.S. and Canada. Both rideshare companies have hotlines for people to report drivers who refuse
to allow them into their cars with a service animal. Sherrard said she’s skeptical that the new app features will help, since she usually informs drivers
about her guide dog and figured out how to add that she’s visually impaired to her profile name to cut down on cancellations.
“Just like every other person in America working multiple jobs, trying to survive, I don’t have the time,” she said of drivers who’ve denied her rides. “I have just as many bills as
anyone else. I have just as many working hours as everyone else. I have just as many errands and things to do to survive as anyone else.”
Robert Silva has had issues with rideshare drivers because of his folding wheelchair, which he has used since losing his right leg in a car accident. The 34-year-old from
Alameda, California, said he once tried ordering a rideshare five times in an hour and a half to go to Disneyland before a driver accepted his request.
“They just see me in a wheelchair, first thing, and they’re expecting that there’s going to be a lot of baggage there,” said Silva, who usually can get into
a vehicle without assistance. “I’m sure when they see me they think it’s going to be a lot more work than it actually is.”
Uber and Lyft said their disability policies include following the ADA and not denying rides to people solely because they have a guide dog. The companies also said new drivers are made aware of the policies during onboarding, and that established drivers get occasional reminders of disability policies. If drivers wrongfully decline to accommodate
riders because of a service animal, they face a potential ban.
Under the ADA, U.S. cities that have public transportation must provide paratransit at a
comparable cost to the regular transit system.
Cathy Johnston, 70, uses Atlanta’s MARTA Mobility paratransit program so she doesn’t have to leave her power wheelchair behind for a foldable wheelchair like she does when using Uber or Lyft. It’s not as timely as rideshare; Johnston said she’s had to wait up
to 45 minutes — even after scheduling it at least 24 hours in advance.
“It makes me mad because hey, I have things I have to do,” she said.
In recent years, 36 transportation programs in 15 states and Washington, D.C., have bolstered paratransit offerings with Uzurv, a rideshare company that specializes in
door-to-door service for people with disabilities. The company says it immediately bans drivers who discriminate against disabled riders.
Portland, Oregon, lost a third of its cab fleet because of a drop in demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Soon after, TriMet, the city’s public transit operation, signed
a contract with Uzurv.It’s been an “out-of-the-box” solution that Eileen Collins Turvey, TriMet’s director of accessibility programs, is satisfied with
— so much so that she hopes to make it an on-demand service next year.
But first, she wants to be able to expand all paratransit contractors’ ability to
serve wheelchair users.
Everyone Needs a Little Dark Chocolate in Their Day (Or, The Almond Joy team for Christmas!)
By DeAnna Quietwater Noriega
Author of Fifty Years of Walking with Friends
[From: https://www.dldbooks.com/dqnoriega/]
On November 29, 2009, I was driven two hours to St. Louis to board a plane to Newark and was taken to a place that had welcomed me seven previous times. I was just out of high school when I first traveled to New Jersey. Having never flown on a jet plane before, I thought of the journey as a fabulous adventure. Numerous pet dogs had been a part of my childhood, so it only made sense to join my steps with a canine friend as I set off to conquer the world.
Now I was a grandmother who still found it hard to believe that she had actually become a grownup. I didn’t let myself get excited. I dwelt on the here, this minute, telling myself to get it done, and tried not to think about the pain that was with me. Sweet Olsen! We walked in tandem for only two years. I fought the empty feeling of your absence at my side. It was like a yanked wisdom tooth, leaving a bloody hole where a tooth should have been.
This last class of the year was limited to those who had already trained with a dog from The Seeing Eye. There were 17 people who had come from all over the country to train with new guide dogs.
Sue M., my instructor, said my new dog had a name that started with the letter R. She said that four of us had dogs with names ending in the letter A. One dog’s name ended in an O. When Sue kept saying “he” when telling me things about my prospective dog, I guessed the chances were that the O was mine. She said he was unusual. I teased her that she was planning to give me a Sharpei named Rambo. Rollo? Roscoe? (Okay, so that name ends with an E.) Reno and Rondo were possible, too.
Sue brought me Reno! I wondered if he would take a gamble on me. He was a little Labrador Retriever with eyes of gold and dark chocolate fur. Who wants milk chocolate when you can have rich, dark chocolate? It’s loaded with antioxidants to keep me young.
Our first walk was different. He was smaller, but had a nice pace and pulled into the harness. He wanted to play with his leash and chew his tie–down cable. It takes time for new dogs to decide if they can take you on as a friend. I struggled to find my balance and to synchronize my steps to match his.
I knew we could adjust to each other, but I sensed he was worried. Sue was still behind us. I needed him to trust me, and I had to try to trust him back. At first, I wasn’t doing it right. My shins were stiff and ached with each step. I was unconsciously walking tentatively, with tense muscles. I instructed myself, “Put more enthusiasm in your voice, please. Don’t step out in front of him; let the boy move first.” I didn’t remember it being this hard to learn to dance before, but I knew it must have been.
On our first night, I got up once to go to the bathroom. Reno beat the heating register with his tail. The Cocoa Puff puppy was no sleepy Labby boy.
Lukas who was an apprentice in my second class in 1978 , taught us the concept of clicker training, which uses a clicker to signal good behavior, followed by a treat as reinforcement. Leash corrections were still a tool for dealing mistakes, but now there was more emphasis on positive techniques. As usual, Lukas made me laugh and feel like I was in the presence of one of my insane brothers. Love and friendship never dimmed by time and distance are a part of returning to this enchanted Shangri–La, where human and canine animals learn to combine forces to become greater than they would be separately.
This time, there was dark chocolate and one nut to make an Almond Joy team. I caught my heel on a raised slab of sidewalk and took a sliding header on our second day together. Poor Chocolate was worried and wasn’t pulling into his harness. I asked my husband, Curt, to send my walking shoes instead of the boots with heavy treads. I didn’t need snow boots, since the sidewalks were clear. I had to get my act together to make progress. It felt as if I was doing the soft–shoe shuffle while Reno was trying to waltz.
A few days later, we were still choppy in our movements, but I managed to follow and let Reno lead without rushing him. It wasn’t perfect, but at least we were finding the beat, and if we weren’t quite in step, we were hearing the same tune. My class picture, of the five of us working with Sue, was interesting, since we had one Black Lab, one Golden Retriever, one Yellow Lab, one dainty Shepherd, and the dark chocolate truffle.
Sue, my instructor, said she understood the difficulty of going from a Lab to two Shepherds and then back to a Lab. I think my biggest issue was the change in size. There is also a difference in how the two breeds move, but my last three dogs were close in height. After three large dogs, I was working with one who was at least three to four inches shorter. He did have a bouncy walk, rather than the flowing walk of my two Shepherds, but the shorter height was also matched with a decrease in body length. Sue gave me a shorter handle, which brought me closer to his shoulder when we walked, and that was helping. At least it felt more like the usual “two left feet” issues that you have whenever you have to learn to read the body language of a successor dog.
Reno didn’t have the confidence to be decisive when I needed to move over to make a straight street crossing, but he was beginning to be happy in his work. I tried a simple modification on the harness handle to take some of the play out of it until we got our new harnesses. In addition, we were issued our dog boots and a collar bell. The boots were to be put on the dogs if they needed to walk across hot tarmac during hot days and to protect their paws from salt and snow–melting chemicals in winter.
After dinner, we worked on food distractions. Sue walked past each of us, tossing garlic bread sticks down on the floor in front of us. One pup caught it in midair. Others dived after the treat and were corrected until they could remain sitting quietly beside their handlers. It’s important that our dogs learn to ignore anything we don’t give them. Scavenging for dropped food can lead to inattention, upset stomachs, or surfing tables and counters for unauthorized snacks. My pup wanted to hide. He pressed his forehead against the back of my calf and was drooling. He wanted the food but also wanted to avoid the temptation.
We started a longer route and did some freelance work to practice escalators, revolving doors, and narrow, crowded aisles. I had a chance to buy some lightweight socks to make my street shoes more comfortable and some bath salts to do some hot soaks for sore muscles. I needed to work on my voice when giving commands. Reno was happier with a more forceful style than I had used with the timid Shepherd boys.
I was having some trouble getting the pup to find the down curb and to stop at the up curb. We did some nice work around barriers, and he was not at all dog distractible. We went to the courthouse and worked on lots of twisty turns through people and up and down stairs. I was still off on my following and reading his body language. At this point, most of the problems were mine.
Reno and I took the train a short way. He trembled while we waited inside the station, and I wondered if his tight, short coat was not enough protection in the cold. We went to PetSmart. This gave us a chance to work on sniffing, dog distraction, and close aisle work. I bought Reno a collar tag, which was a brass bone with his name and my phone number on it, a propeller squeak toy for Christmas, some oatmeal and baking soda shampoo, and ear and teeth wipes. He did beautifully with all the challenges, including sitting quietly near the cat enclosures and walking past hamsters and birds. Actually, all of Sue’s dogs did a great job, with only one dog sniffing dog food bags and one breaking a sit when a large Lab charged him.
We got our vet lecture, and I sandwiched in some boot practice and obedience. Reno acted as if the boots held his paws glued to the floor. I put them on him and he lay on his side, claiming to be in force–field restraints and unable to stand. When I fixed his dinner, he clomped in slowly and started to eat. I was able to lift each foot and remove the boot while he ate standing on three legs. Later, he walked slowly and carefully to and from the lounge three times. I returned empty feed pans to the counter. Reno seemed to think the boots were magnetized, for walking on the outside of space ships. In the afternoon, Chris Sutton came over with a power wheelchair, and we were able to give Reno some time to get used to it. Later, Sue used a manual chair in the lounge to try to get his unease down some more. This was part of my freelance work, because my employment at an Independent Living Center demanded that my dog get used to being around wheelchairs. emphasis was placed on freelance work to fit the dogs for the varied situations they were going to experience once they went home.
The Christmas trees went up. It appeared that the staff had brought toys and food items in for distribution to the community. The toys went under the tree, but Margaret kept the food in her office. I think there was also some sort of book drive going on. Click and treat techniques were being taught as an optional tool. One of the instructors taught some of us how to play with a dreidel, and we participated in a lighting of the Hanukkah candles.
After breakfast, Sue, Tom, and I worked with Reno on wheelchair de–sensitivity. We made good progress. Then it was off to New York city, where we practically walked our feet off. There were crowds, subways, and city buses, and walking past as many notable city locations as our feet could stand. There was Penn Station for escalators, Times Square, Columbus Circle, 34th Street, and Fifth Avenue. We walked past Tiffany’s, Bergdorf’s, Macy’s, and the NBC and ABC studios. We did some Christmas shopping in the kiosks at the edge of Central Park. We encountered rolling racks, street vendors selling soft pretzels or hotdogs, and Broadway ticket scalpers. We heard Christmas music and singers, and there were horse-drawn carriages giving us a traffic check. We stopped for lunch before tackling the eight blocks to the Port Authority to find the car for the drive back to the school.
On the last day before we were to go home, I walked a bit in the country, but it was really cold. I started packing. Dr. Cohen sent Reno a goodbye card and a box of homemade dog biscuits. He also got a series of drawings from one of the children in his puppy raiser home. This wonderful dog had obviously imprinted several hearts on his way to me. In the afternoon, there was a trip to town and some walking for Reno and me to work on curbs, followed by hot chocolate and buying funny pasta for presents. The shop had a rack of packages of pasta in the shapes of dog bones and paw prints.
Shannon wanted us to have our packing done so she could weigh bags. Naturally, my big case was too heavy, and my small one was light. We worked to even them out. I had to get a box to mail home the snow boots and extra jacket so the rest would fit in the suitcases. I got Karen to check my bags online and print out the boarding pass. I had my exit interview, which gave me a chance for goodbye hugs for old friends Jim and Ginger and a kiss on the cheek from Lukas. It was time for this ladybug to fly away home.
I was up early to finish jamming things in the smaller of my two cases, since that was the one that was under the weight limit. I sat on it to get the zipper to close. I had a last breakfast with four of my classmates. Then there was the trip to the airport with an apprentice named Kaylin. I was the first to leave.
I was in the bulkhead row with no one else; Reno sat up or rested his head on the seat beside me. He trembled and drooled a bit. I carefully ignored his unease and tried to seem calm and assured. When we landed, I slipped his harness on and accepted my carry–on bag from the stewardess. We quickly left the plane, and I sat at the gate, waiting for a meet–and–assist person to arrive. My cell phone let me talk to Curt, and when I was finally allowed out of the secured area, he found us. We collected my bags and left for the two–hour drive home.
Reno met the family, and we began the rest of our lives with a slow, gentle introduction to my grandchildren, two family dogs, and the cat. The next day, we were off to the office for a half day, ending with a restaurant meal with co-workers for our office party. Except for one friend who was still smarting on my behalf for the loss of Olsen, all were impressed with the Reno puppy. Jill said he wasn’t as pretty as Olsen. She loved German Shepherds, too. Reno and I were still slightly out of step, but we had only each other, now, to try to make the communication flow easily and naturally. The magical door to the safe zone that The Seeing Eye provided with its trainers had closed, and the world awaited. We stepped off together to discover what it held for our Almond Joy team.
From the Kennel Kitchen- Yummy!
All of the following would make a terrific addition to any holiday event you are hosting or attending, or a delightful treat for yourself!
EASY Homemade Chocolate Truffles
Christina Marsigliese
[From: https://scientificallysweet.com/easy-homemade-chocolate-truffles/]
Silky smooth and luscious dark chocolate truffles are perfect for the holidays or to satisfy that chocolate craving!
Prep Time, 10minutes
Cook Time, 3minutes
Chill Time, 2hours
Servings, 35 truffles
Ingredients
8 oz 227g dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa solids)
¾ cup 180ml heavy 35% whipping cream
½ teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder for rolling
assorted sprinkles for rolling
Instructions
Step 1. Finely chop the chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl.
Step 2. Combine cream and instant espresso (if you choose to use it) in a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until it just comes to a simmer. Small bubbles
will begin to form around the edges of the pan.
Step 3. Remove from heat and pour immediately over chopped chocolate. Cover the bowl and let stand without stirring for 2 minutes.
Step 4. Gently stir mixture in a circular motion using a rubber spatula, starting from the center and working your way out to the sides, until it transforms
into a smooth and glossy mixture. Let the ganache cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm.
Step 5. Scoop up heaping teaspoons of ganache, roll them into smooth balls between the palms of your hands and then roll them around in cocoa powder or
sprinkles to coat them evenly. Store in the fridge but serve at room temperature.
(The following three just require the microwave. That makes them your editor’s choice! Yes, all three!)
Easy Chocolate Mousse
[From: https://www.thekitchn.com/chocolate-mousse-22949276]
Prep time, 15 minutes
Cook time, 1 hour
Serves, 4
Ingredients
1-1/2 cups cold heavy cream, divided
1 cup good-quality chocolate chips or coarsely chopped chocolate (6 ounces)
Garnish options: grated chocolate or crunchy toppings, such as chopped nuts, toffee, or brittle
Instructions
step 1. Heat 1/2 cup of the cream in a microwave-safe bowl for 1 minute. Add 1 cup chocolate chips and stir to combine. Set the bowl aside for 5 minutes for the chocolate to melt.
step 2. Whisk the contents of the bowl together until smooth. Set aside to cool while you whip the remaining cream.
step 3. Place the remaining 1 cup cold cream in a medium bowl. Beat with an electric hand mixer or with a whisk by hand until soft peaks form. Transfer
1/2 cup of the softly-whipped cream to a small bowl and refrigerate to use as topping the finished mousse before serving. Continue whipping the remaining cream until stiff peaks
form.
step 4. Use a large rubber spatula to fold the whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture. Do this in three additions. Work swiftly and gently, and don’t stress if there
are streaks of cream in the chocolate mousse.
step 5. Divide the mixture between 4 ramekins or cocktail glasses. Refrigerate at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours, before serving, topped with a Dollop with the reserved softly
whipped cream and sprinkle with grated chocolate or chopped hazelnuts, if desired.
Note: While it isn’t mandatory, adding something a little crispy or crunchy to the top of chocolate mousse (think: crumbled toffee or brittle, even crispy
breakfast cereal) really sends it over the top flavor-wise, and cements its status as the only dessert recipe you need, ever!
These next two are submitted by the retirement Mom of, Anders, this Editor’s last guide and former member of the Paws editorial team! (You big Lummox, you are so missed!)
NO-COOK FUDGE
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 2 minutes
Ingredients:
2 cups / 12 ounces semi-sweet or milk chocolate morsels
1 can / 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish options: grated chocolate or crunchy toppings, such as chopped nuts, toffee, or brittle
Instructions:
Line an 8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, to make it easier to remove the fudge
Combine morsels with condensed milk in a microwave-safe dish, cook on high for 30-second intervals, stirring each time until melted smooth.
Stir in the vanilla extract, and chopped nuts if desired.
Spread into prepared baking pan, add any desired toppings
Refrigerate for 2 hours, then lift from pan and cut into pieces
Store in refrigerator.
NO-COOK BARK (Toto says this is his choice because it is in his “language”!)
Serves, 1 or more (you won’t want to share!)
Prep time: 5 minutes plus an hour for it to chill
Cook time: 2 to 3 minutes per chocolate flavor
Serves: depends on how well you share
Ingredients:
Chocolate – 2 or more ounces per chocolate flavor (I use the whole bag of chips)
Garnish options: almonds, crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, candy sprinkles, toffee, or anything else you like
Instructions:
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper
Put chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30 second intervals, stirring each time until chocolate is melted smooth
Pour the chocolate onto the baking sheet and sprinkle with nuts, candy, sprinkles, etc.
Get creative! Add a second color of chocolate, or a third! Use various toppings for different flavor combinations
Allow the bark to cool fully – ideally in the fridge or freezer for an hour or more – then break up into pieces and place in airtight container(s) for gifting.
Pod Casts/Blogs- Check these out!
Eyes on Success
Website: https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/
This half-hour weekly podcast and radio program discusses products, services and daily living tips for people with vision loss. It is available through radio reading services across North America, via several internet streaming services, and to everyone else as a podcast. To date, the show has been downloaded in all 50 states in the US and over 100 other countries on all the inhabited continents. Eyes On Success is hosted and produced by Peter Torpey and Nancy Goodman Torpey. Each episode is basically a success story. Some are human stories of visually impaired people’s accomplishments in academics, employment, sports or pastimes. Others are descriptions of adaptive aids that enable visually impaired people to overcome barriers. These include screen readers, magnifiers, navigation aids, and other assistive devices. In all cases, the focus is on success.
Eyes On Success has been airing weekly since January 2011. Prior to January 2013 the name of the show was Viewpoints. Other than the name, nothing has changed.
Listening To Eyes On Success
You can listen to Eyes On Success on your smart home device by saying, “play the Eyes On Success podcast.”
Subscribe to the podcast wherever you get your podcasts, or listen on Apple Podcasts, iTunes, YouTube or your local radio reading service. Listeners can also follow the show on Facebook and X (Formerly Twitter).
Connecting with Eyes On Success
Email: To contact us with questions, comments or suggestions for future shows send an e-mail to hosts@EyesOnSuccess.net.
Weekly Announcements: If you would like to receive weekly announcements of upcoming episodes, you can join our low traffic “announcements only” list by sending an e-mail to: EyesOnSuccess+subscribe@GoogleGroups.com.
Email Forum: If you would like to connect with other listeners and share your thoughts about what you’ve heard on the show, you can join our listener email forum by sending an email to: EOS_Discuss+Subscribe@GoogleGroups.com
podcast@email.hadleyhelps.org
New- Managing the Holidays with Vision Loss
The holiday season can bring added stress when adjusting to vision loss. Navigating get-togethers and interacting with family and friends may be a bit trickier this year. We have some tips for you to consider as you plan.
https://hadleyhelps.org/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts/managing-holidays-vision-loss
In case you missed these other episodes-
Losing Vision, Reconnecting to Nature and the Spirit of Giving
Join us as we chat with Ron Peterson, a retired scientist and Hadley community member, who found a way back to doing what he loves, nature walks and volunteering after losing his sight to glaucoma.
Emotions, Mental Health, and Vision Loss
Vision loss can be emotionally overwhelming. In this episode, we chat with a clinical psychologist who is legally blind herself, Dr. Ann Wagner. She shares how learning from and connecting with our emotions can bring about healing and transformation.
Disaster Preparedness with Vision Loss
Preparing for a disaster is important for everyone. But for people with vision loss, it requires some extra thought and planning. In this episode, we share some ideas on how you can prepare.
To Find All Episodes
https://hadleyhelps.org/podcasts/hadley-presents-conversation-experts#podcast-episodes
- The mission of Hadley is to create personalized learning opportunities that empower adults with vision loss or blindness to thrive — at home, at work, and in their communities. With classes like- Learn the basics of NVDA. From getting started with the program to customizing the speech to learning helpful shortcuts- Hadley’s workshops have you covered.
Founded in 1920 by William Hadley, an educator who lost his eyesight later in life, Hadley offers practical help, connection and support free of charge to anyone with a visual impairment, their families and professionals supporting them. With Hadley, you can discover new ways to do things that have become more difficult due to vision loss and connect with a network of peers who “get it.” And you don’t need to come to Hadley. Hadley’s help comes to you; online, on the phone or through the mail.
Since relaunching in July 2020, more than 70,000 people have signed up with Hadley, registering more than 200,000 workshop interactions. And our workshops have 98% satisfaction ratings. We reach all 50 states and more than 100 countries. And more people learn braille from Hadley than from any other organization worldwide.
Hadley is a proud partner of the National Eye Institute and the National Eye Health Education Program.
Hadley’s help conveniently meets learners where they are. Free of wait lists. Free of office visits. Free of charge.
(800) 323-4238
Ready to get started? Get Started- https://hadleyhelps.org/learn
Announcement: If you missed the fireside chat with Judge David Tatel, luckily it was recorded!
The Carroll Center for the Blind
This special event was hosted by our Carroll Alumni and Carroll Families programs. It was truly memorable to witness Judge Tatel’s reflections on resilience, career, and personal journeys. If you weren’t able to attend or would like to listen again, we’ve provided the recording here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKLEi1c-9j4
If you haven’t had a chance to read Judge Tatel’s memoir yet, you can purchase the Kindle, Audible, or Hardcover version here
The book is also available through BARD. To find it on BARD, search for: DB 122023, or contact your local Braille and Talking Book Library for assistance.
Snippets from Access Information News. The world’s #1 online resource for current news and trends in access information
(Access Information News for Monday, December 2, 2024 – Volume 991)
Wicked Star Marissa Bode Encourages People To Be Kind About Her Character’s Disability | DigitalTrends.com | December 1, 2024
Marissa Bode, who portrays Nessarose in the film adaptation of ‘Wicked,’ addressed ableist comments about her character’s disability, urging audiences to practice kindness and understanding.
How A Cousin’s Disability Inspired A Drive For Inclusive Housing | FT.com | December 1, 2024
Micaela Connery co-founded The Kelsey, a non-profit creating disability-inclusive and affordable housing, inspired by her cousin Kelsey Flynn O’Connor. The organization has developed inclusive communities and advocates for broader systemic change, aiming to transform housing accessibility for people with disabilities.
The Tactile Times Online, Fully-Accessible Advent Calendar Is Back For 2024 | TactileTimes.org | December 1, 2024
The Tactile Times has relaunched their fully-accessible, online advent calendar for braillists worldwide, featuring 24 surprises such as Christmas jokes and classic festive music. This screen reader-friendly calendar also includes a live countdown to Christmas day, spreading holiday cheer to all users.
‘Out Of My Mind’ Review: Disney+’s Faithful Adaptation Of Sharon Draper’s Novel | Variety.com | November 27, 2024
Disney+’s ‘Out of My Mind’ faithfully adapts Sharon Draper’s novel, offering a heartfelt portrayal of a young girl with cerebral palsy navigating a world that often underestimates her capabilities.
Cyber Safety: Some Considerations Worth Our Attention
[Editor’s note: The following two items seem to naturally ‘go together,’ the first in case you work in the field of assistive technology and therefore may find your privacy negatively affected, and the second because cyber safety is a concern that all of us must address!]
macOS Sequoia Complications: VoiceOver Issues Could Affect Technicians’ Privacy
[From: Pneuma Solutions]
Recent changes in macOS Sequoia have created some challenges for our Remote Accessibility Module, which allows seamless assistance without revealing the technician’s disability. Due to changes in how VoiceOver settings are managed in macOS Sequoia, visually impaired technicians may experience issues that disrupt their ability to perform tasks discreetly. We’ve identified these problems and are working with Apple to find a long-term solution, but we need your help to make sure this issue is prioritized. If you’ve experienced difficulties using RIM on Sequoia, we encourage you to contact Apple’s Accessibility department — accessibility@apple.com — and politely but firmly advocate the prioritization of an API that allows for safe, controlled adjustments to VoiceOver. Together, we can push for better accessibility and maintain the tools that empower visually impaired professionals, while fully preserving their dignity by preventing non-consensual disclosure of disability.
For Support, call: 650.249.1000
Online Safety for Blind Computer Users: Staying Secure in an Ever-Changing Digital World
New Book By Kim Nova and Chris Nova,
Available from National Braille Press,
In one braille volume, or BRF and Word download: $15.00
In this important and timely book, the folks from Mystic Access tackle the scarier side of the internet, showing blind computer users how to increase their security online. They cover a wide range of dangers, such as online scams and malware, and offer solutions to help you protect your identity, your personal information, and your finances. Chapters explore the ins and outs of antivirus programs, VPNs, password managers, multi-factor authentication, and much more! Stay safe out there!
iOS 18 Reference Card
By Anna Dresner, Updated by Paul Martz
Available from National Braille Press,
In one braille volume, or BRF and Word download: $12.00
Don’t miss this quick, handy guide to VoiceOver gestures (including touch and tap gestures, 3D Touch and haptic touch, flick gestures, and iPhone X and iPad slide gestures); iDevice buttons; typing and editing with a Bluetooth keyboard; and using a braille display — all in one handy booklet. Keep it within reach.
National Braille Press is the expert for producing high-quality, accurate braille. Whether you need ADA signage, accessible documents, or B2B solutions, NBP has what you’re looking for.
With almost 100 years of experience and a forward-thinking vision, we’re ready to solve your braille needs to the highest standard.
617.266.6160
Magnifiers & More
Established in 2002 by Deborah Kogler, is Northeast Ohio’s only retail store dedicated to providing products and consultations for individuals with low vision, blindness, and vision disabilities. With over forty years of experience in eye care, Deborah founded the company to create a one-stop shop for vision aids, including specialized tools for managing conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts.
The store offers a wide range of over seventy-five magnifiers, talking items, large print products, special lights, electronic aids, Braille items, glare control solutions and More.
A key figure in the company’s story is Murphy, Deborah’s Golden Retriever and original CEO, “Canine Executive Officer,” who was the store’s mascot and greeter for 15 years. Today, Jeffrey, another Golden Retriever trained as a service dog, serves as the CFO, “Canine Fun Officer,” delighting customers and supporting Deborah.
Deborah’s journey into vision rehabilitation was inspired by her grandmother’s experience with macular degeneration, sparking her passion to make vision aids accessible. She continues to advocate for and educate those living with vision disabilities, both locally and internationally.
Magnifiers & More is committed to helping people improve their quality of life through practical solutions and compassionate support.
Magnifiers & More
7775 Mentor Avenue, Mentor, Ohio 44060
Phone: 440.946.3363
Fax: 440.946.8899
https://www.magnifiersandmore.net
Innosearch.ai
Innosearch is an all-in-one shopping platform augmented with a cutting-edge AI-powered shopping assistant. This innovative feature mimics the experience of shopping in real life by allowing you to interact with the assistant using natural language. It aggregates millions of products from top US online retailers, bringing them directly to you. With this advanced generative AI, Innosearch offers personalized product recommendations, highlights the best deals, and provides comprehensive information including reviews, total prices, shipping options, and more. Innosearch delivers a seamless end-to-end shopping experience, eliminating the need to search and browse in multiple tabs across retailers.
YouTube Review By Sam Seavey: https://youtube.com/watch?v=-rjL-HAwaZY.
Key Features of the Innosearch All-in-One AI Shopping Platform include:
➜ Research Products: Easily compare products across retailers, or weigh pros and cons of similar products to make informed decisions.
➜ Uncover the Best Deals: Never miss a door buster, coupon, or clearance sale again.
Get notified about the best prices and offers.
➜ AI Summarized Trusted Reviews: See what others are saying and make confident purchases.
➜ All in One: Innosearch brings millions of products from top online retailers directly to you, allowing you to shop the best deals with easy checkout and personalized AI assistance.
➜ Shop with Confidence: Rest assured, Innosearch has you covered with free shipping and returns on every purchase.
➜ Know Before You Buy: Innosearch equips you with expert buying guides, empowering you to make well-informed decisions.
How To Shop: Simply create a free account and start shopping today!
Here’s a Fun Holiday Song about Guide Dogs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ricVxZHFe-4
Article: How to Pet-Proof Your Christmas Tree
[From Usdan Institute for Animal Health Education- PET HEALTH WEEKLY NEWSLETTER- 12/5/2024- usdaninstitute@amcny.org]
[The editors want to thank Janet Ingver for faithfully sharing these very informative items with us and with GDUI’s email discussion lists whenever they appear. Janet makes this valuable information accessible for those of us who rely on screen-readers and screen magnification, and we are very grateful. Thank you, Janet!!]
As fun and festive as the holiday season may be, it can be a confusing and dangerous time for our pets. Decorations pose unique risks and that includes Christmas trees.
If your celebration includes setting up a tree, be sure to take precautions to keep pets safe. Here are 8 tree-trimming tips to keep in mind-
- Skip the tinsel: It’s dangerous if ingested.
- Choose sturdy ornaments: Fragile glass baubles can break and cause injury.
- Sweep pine needles: Prevent upset stomachs or blockages.
- Cover the tree stand: Keep pets away from water that may contain harmful chemicals or bacteria.
- Anchor the tree: Prevent tipping accidents caused by playful pets.
- Skip edible decorations: Treats like popcorn garlands are too tempting for pets.
- Place lights wisely: Keep them out of reach to avoid shocks or burns.
- Don’t put gifts under the tree: Ribbons, bows, and food-filled packages can be tempting—and dangerous—for pets. Store gifts securely until Christmas morning.
Follow these simple steps to keep your Christmas tree festive and pet-safe!
IMPORTANT Editor’s note: Content for Paws for GDUI News You Can Use is derived from a variety of sources. Hence inclusion herein does not imply GDUI endorses, supports or verifies said contents. Information, ideas, or expressed opinions are not advice, therefore should not be treated as such. Factual errors are the responsibility of the listed source.
Sincerely,
Sarah Calhoun, President
Guide Dog Users, Inc.
Andrea Giudice, Editor
Paws for GDUI News You Can Use
Visit our web site: https://www.guidedogusersinc.org/
Call us, toll-free, at 866.799.8436
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