Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND - ALUMNI NEWS
Volume 23 – Number 3Theresa Stern, Vice President of Outreach, Admissions and Alumni Services, EditorLeanne Bremner and Maile George, Copy EditorsSend submissions to the editor via tape, phone, mail, or e-mail [email protected]
Alumni Association Mission StatementThe 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 StatementConnecting 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 [email protected]. 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 Contents1. FROM YOUR ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
o A Message from the Alumni Association Board Chair, By: Melanie Brunson
o Remembering Two Alumni Association Board Members, By: Melanie Brunson
o Alumni Association Seeks New Members o A New Resource for You from the Advocacy Committee o Your Ideas Are Important to Us o They Walk Among Us – Congratulations Gary Skinner, RFS Scholarship
Recipient, By: Samantha Adams o Reach for the Stars Scholarship Information o Dear Flanders, By: Maile George
2. CHAPTER CHATo Stick Stretches for Good Posture, By: Laurie Shay o GDB Book Hounds Update and Invitation, By: Sheila
Shulleetao Come Fly with Us, by Danette Dixon
3. NEWS YOU CAN USEo Who’s on First, By: Theresa Stern
4. IN OUR OWN WORDSo Access Problem for Guide Dog Solved by Education, By: Bruce
Breslauer
5. ALUMNI BULLETIN BOARD 6. IN MEMORIAM, IN MEMORY, IN TRIBUTE 7. GIFT SHOP NEWS 8. ANNOUNCEMENTS 9. ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS 10. ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CHAPTERS 11. GUIDE DOG NEWS 12.
FROM YOUR ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
A Message from the Alumni Association Board ChairBy: Melanie Brunson with Sparta
The Alumni Association board has been busy working to connect grads, the GDB family and our broader communities. We were delighted with the success of the alumni reunion in Portland last September. For the first time, the Alumni Association held a leadership workshop for chapter presidents as part of this event. A number of topics were discussed including: setting goals; running a successful meeting or conference call; recruiting new members; marketing and social media; and the role chapters can play in raising funds for GDB. The rest of the weekend was packed with workshops, tours, opportunities to make new friends, and a scavenger hunt! A great time was had by all.
I am pleased with the progress the Alumni Association Board is making with respect to our other goals and projects. The next Speaker Series call will be held on March 17 and will cover the topic of communicating with your guide dog. Also, we continue hosting the monthly Paws and Remember peer support calls for grads who are making decisions about a guide’s retirement, as well as those who are dealing with a guide’s death, with the next meeting on March 23rd.
Following are a few highlights of some of the other projects our committees have underway: We are collaborating with GDB’s marketing staff to distribute a letter to business owners
on fraudulent service animals (more info in this issue to follow); We are investigating concerns grads have raised about signs in Starbucks welcoming “all
service animals” and the impact that might have on legitimate guide dog users; We are working on a long range plan for disseminating information to grads about
legislative proposals from around the U.S. and Canada regarding service animal issues, and assisting those who want to become involved in advocacy regarding such legislation;
We are collaborating with GDB outreach staff to develop sample presentations and other materials for use in telling the GDB story;
We are developing additional info for alumni about chapter formation and management; We are acting as a resource and providing feedback regarding the needs of grads related
to the GDB website; We are exploring options to improve our current system of communicating with graduates
by email; We are collecting information from alumni on topics that they would like to see covered in
future Speakers Series presentations and Alumni News articles; We have identified a recipient for the 2015-16 Reach for the Stars Scholarship and an
article about our recipient follows in this issue; and We will be looking for new Directors to join the Alumni Association Board and are working
on an onboarding packet for new members.
We are very pleased to welcome two new Alumni Association Chapters this quarter: the Missouri Show Me Dogs, and the Paws Around the World, a special interest chapter which will focus on travel topics. The presidents of each chapter meet quarterly via conference call to discuss chapter related matters of interest. At our last President’s Forum meeting the group formed a sub-committee to explore the possibility of reaching out to local airports to assist in setting up appropriate dog relief areas in the secure area of the airport allowing passengers with service animals to quickly relieve their dogs prior to boarding connecting flights.
With so many great ideas and projects, we are fortunate to have a group of people on our board who are committed and enthusiastic about making progress on our goals. We will keep you posted as we move forward.
Remembering Two Alumni Association Board MembersBy: Melanie Brunson with Sparta
We had to say a very untimely good-by to our Secretary and friend, Michelle Miller who died suddenly at the end of February. Michelle was respected for her attention to detail, which was evidenced by her ability to capture all that happened during our Board meetings, as well as coordinate our most recent GDB Alumni reunion. She was appreciated for her love of fun and her creativity. She was frequently consulted for her extensive knowledge of advocacy. But the thing Michelle will be remembered for most was her kindness toward others. She was generally the one who went out of her way to make newcomers feel welcome, encourage someone who was frustrated or embarrassed, and otherwise put people at ease. By so doing, she enriched both business meetings and social gatherings. Please join the Alumni Association Board in honouring the life of Michelle and her many contributions to the GDB family and expressing our deepest condolences to her friends and family.
We would also like to thank Dudley Hanks for his time on the Alumni Association Board. We reluctantly accepted Dudley’s resignation as he was a valued member. Dudley brought extensive experience in working with community organizations and was a tremendous resource for adaptive technologies. He has a long history as a respected advocate for guide dog users. We wish him well in his future endeavours.
GDB Alumni Association Board Seeks New Board Members!The Nominating Committee is seeking applicants to fill open positions on the Alumni Association Board of Directors. If you’re interested in serving the Alumni Association of Guide Dogs for the Blind, please Read on for more details!
Alumni Board meetings and subcommittee meetings are held on Saturday morning (Pacific time)/early afternoon (Eastern time), once a month, eight months out of the year. Most meetings are held via teleconference, with one in-person meeting held per year at either the San Rafael or Oregon campus. Much of the board work is accomplished via email, and each board member is expected to serve on several subcommittees and complete various tasks independently outside the meetings. The subcommittees are as follows: Advocacy, Communications, Nominating, Outreach, and Special Events. Each Committee selects several goals and works hard throughout the year to achieve them.
Any GDB Graduate is eligible to apply, with at least two years' experience working a Guide Dog, preferred. The board is especially interested in applicants with excellent communication and organizational skills; those who pay attention to detail, who enjoy working independently and with others on projects. We are looking for applicants who strive to represent the diverse spectrum of experiences and insights of the Alumni Association members throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Each new board member serves a three-year term, with an option to serve one additional term. If interested, please send a cover letter and resume to nominating chair, Samantha Adams, at: [email protected], and copy Theresa Stern, at: [email protected]. In
the subject line of your email, please enter: 2016 GDB Alumni Board application. Attach your cover letter and resume as two separate documents, each titled with your name and the document type. For example, if your name is Jane Smith, your attached documents should be titled: Smith, Jane Resume.doc and Smith, Jane cover Letter.doc.
The Nominating Committee will accept applications until Friday, April 22, 2016.
If you applied for a board position in the past, we strongly encourage you to apply again. Please let us hear from you. We work hard, but we have a terrific time!
A New Resource for You from the Advocacy CommitteeBy: Bruce Gilmour with Marley
During its 2014-2015 service year, your Alumni Association Board set a goal to assist business owners understanding of their rights, and the rights of legitimate service dog teams. The Board has now developed an informative letter targeted to business owners/ managers with the relevant information. Please go to the Alumni home page for this print ready letter.
www.guidedogs.com/alumni
On behalf of your Alumni Association Board, thank you for your individual efforts as an advocate for access.
Your Ideas Are Important To Us By: The Communications Committee of the Alumni Association Board
We would appreciate any suggestions you have for future topics for the Alumni Speaker Series. The Speaker Series is hosted by the Alumni Association Board and held by conference call 3 or 4 times a year to share knowledge relevant to guide dog handlers. Over the last few years, past topics have included: what to know when you take a cruise with your Guide Dog; be prepared for an emergency; your ADA rights and advocacy; Meet the new GDB CEO; and Ask the Experts about puppy training, veterinary, training departments and more. We want these events to be useful and informative for you. Please take a minute to email Theresa Stern ([email protected]) with your suggestions for future topics.
Thank you in advance for your time. Your input will help the Alumni Association serve you better.
They Walk Among US – Congratulations Gary Skinner, Reach for the Stars RecipientBy: Samantha Adams with Lotto
“They walk among us.” This is a phrase usually associated with those silly e-mail messages my family sends announcing the Darwin awards for the year. Customarily, this phrase is somewhat derogatory; however, I am choosing to put a positive spin on it. They walk among us. “They” are the remarkable members of the GDB family who are out there in the world working with their guides and inspiring everyone they encounter to examine their own role in the world and to rise to new challenges. Do you realize that GDB graduates are among
some of the most interesting and diverse people in the world and they are part of our very own family?
You may or may not be aware that the GDB Alumni Board has been vested with the responsibility of selecting a scholarship recipient every year. The value of the scholarship is $1500. The selection process assesses the applicant’s academic accomplishments in addition to their community involvement and leadership. Every year, the Board is introduced to a whole new slate of motivated grads making a difference.
I am pleased to introduce to you the 2015 recipient of the Reach for the Stars scholarship – Mr. Gary Skinner and his guide Hogan ofArizona. Gary is a 64 year old psychology student at Grand Canyon University.
Gary was born and raised in Bradford Pennsylvania. He was diagnosed with RP as a teenager but continued to function in the sighted world doing things the sighted way for quite a while. He worked in various locations in the insurance industry in various capacities until 1984 when he returned to Pennsylvania. He then opened his own computer business specializing in custom design, networking, business application and custom built computers. He operated this business until 2004 when he moved to Tucson, Arizona for health reasons.
Gary started his current educational journey when most would be considering retirement. He graduated summa cum laude with his Bachelor of Science degree and is currently working on his master’s degree in General Counselling. He anticipates graduating in 2018 at the age of 67. Gary says he is not ready to retire yet. He’s having too much fun. Perhaps he might retire when he turns 80, but until then, he’s “not old enough”. Gary’s references included a strong endorsement from one of his instructors who characterized him as a leader in the classroom and as contributing to the learning of all students in his classes.
Gary thinks he would like to ultimately work with people with disabilities which are the result of an injury leading to a changed capacity. He is leaning towards specializing in the area of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
In the midst of a busy academic schedule Gary found himself widowed in 2015 with the sudden death of his wife of 16 years, Shannon. Shannon left behind a working guide dog. Since then, Gary’s second guide, Heritage, has retired. With the endorsement of GDB, Gary has been able to pick up the harness with Hogan, his wife’s guide. Gary’s household consists of a working guide, a retired guide, lap dogs, cats and his adult daughter. In his spare time, Gary enjoys cooking and working with his hands. Gary is also active in his church where he is a Sunday school director and teaches a men’s Sunday school class.
Reach for the Stars Scholarship Application InformationThe Guide Dogs for the Blind Alumni Association invites you to apply for the Reach for the Stars Scholarship. This $1500 scholarship is for a GDB Alumnus who is pursuing post-secondary education or training. The scholarship funds can be used to help offset costs of tuition, books, supplies, adaptive equipment, etc.
To apply, please submit the following in electronic format.
1) A letter of introduction to the committee which includes your email address, phone number and mailing address.
2) An essay (not to exceed 500 words) that describes your course of study, your career aspirations, and how our investment in your success will help to realize those goals.
3) Transcripts for the past semester and proof of registration for the upcoming semester.
4) A letter of recommendation from a member of the faculty at your school.
All application materials are to be submitted as email attachments using the following file name convention:
Last Name_First Name_Introduction Letter_RSS
Last Name_First Name_Essay_RSS
Last Name_First Name_Transcript_RSS
Last Name_First Name_Recommendation Letter_RSS
In order to provide the Nominating Committee ample time to consider your Reach for the Stars Scholarship application, please email all required documents to Theresa Stern (email address: [email protected]) by May 15, 2016.
Good luck in your endeavors and we look forward to hearing from you!
Dear FlandersBy: Maile George with Jasmin
I can’t believe it’s been almost five years since that heartbreaking moment when we stroked your soft Golden fur, told you how much we loved you and said goodbye. I sure hope your life over the Rainbow Bridge is everything you deserve! I’m writing to assure you that I think of you often and things are pretty good here at home.
I have such happy memories of you walking so confidently by my side - your gait so graceful and smooth, your Golden feathered tail so swooshy, , and your head happily bobbing along as we went so many wonderful places together. From the moment I picked up your harness, you cleared every obstacle in our path and trotted right up to the edge of each curb.
That is not to say everything was perfect right from the start of our partnership! Oh no! Despite your excellent guide work, your house behavior needed some serious adjustments. At home, you were one crazy canine, especially when anyone came to our front door – you jumped, barked and acted as if our visitor was your very best playmate! And then there was that Valentine’s Day when you ate part of the box of Godiva chocolates, and the other time when we turned our backs and you’d managed to swallow a whole cube of slightly softened butter! I think there was a barbecued salmon incident somewhere in there too. Oh yeah, and then there was the time I Heard you chewing on something- what I’d assumed was a Nylabone - only to discover just a few minutes later that it was my insulin pump-ruined!
Let’s also not forget those mornings when I’d be heading for my computer, only to step barefoot in a pile of gooshy poo!
During those first few challenging years, I’ll admit that there were times when I seriously thought about calling GDB to ask if I could turn you in, but your guide work was flawless, your personality engagingly fun, your inquisitive nature endearing, and your light Golden coat so gorgeous . How could I even think of giving up on you? In fact, it’s likely it was precisely because you helped me to become a more patient person that I grew to appreciate and love you so deeply.
I’ll never forget when I first discovered that oozy sore on your neck, and your vet telling me he didn’t like the looks of it. The biopsy revealed that it was a mast cell tumor, and I was told that you needed to retire immediately. Shocked, I went into complete denial because except for the sore on your neck, you remained the same spunky, sassy girl who had wiggled her way into my heart nine years before. Despite the numerous chemotherapy treatments, you enjoyed going wherever I went. Each morning, Mark would drive us to my office, and you slept by my desk, even though you were officially retired. You still enjoyed hiking and swimming at Lake Tahoe, the abundance of the beautifully decorated gourmet doggie treats we started buying for you, and, of course, the sound of the doorbell! You apparently didn’t know you were sick, and I started to believe you would be the first dog ever to beat cancer!
Then, just five months after you finished your last chemo treatment, the cancer returned, more virulent than ever.
The good news is that I’ve moved beyond feeling sad whenever I say your name. I’m now grateful for how much you enriched my life. I enjoy reflecting on how you won the hearts of so many, including your vet, Dr. Atwater. His pet name for you was “sweet girl,” and, when we knew it was the end, he offered to come to our house to set your spirit free. I remember thinking how surreal that day seemed, and what a bittersweet memory it is to think about how your tail swooshed for the very last time as you calmly greeted Dr. Atwater at the front door. Mark and I knelt beside you and placed our hands on your cancer-ridden body and lovingly gave you permission to go. As I felt your spirit leave, I felt as if my heart would never mend. I will always be grateful to you- my full of life sweet Golden girl who captured my heart. It’s taken me almost five years to finally stop feeling sad at the mention of your name, but the Paws and Remember peer support calls have helped me turn my grief into gratitude. I’m immensely grateful to you for teaching me patience, for walking beside me on our many adventures and for the tremendous joy you brought to my life.
With love and gratitude for ten years of life, love and laughter !
Paws and Remember calls take place on the third Wednesday of each month from 4:00 to 5:00 pm (Pacific)/ 7:00 to 8:00 pm (Eastern).
“If dogs don’t go to heaven, I want to go where they go!”
Will Rogers, actor
CHAPTER CHAT
Stick stretches for Good PostureBy: Lauri Shay, Foggy Doggies Chapter Co-Chair with Arthur
Have you ever wondered what you can do with your white cane besides use it as a mobility tool? During a recent meeting of the Foggy Doggies alumni chapter, members learned from chiropractor, Dr. Doug Ross that a cane can be used as a stick to help stretch the upper body. With much laughter, verbal descriptions, and hands-on demonstrations, participants learned a series of stretches that can be accomplished with the cane. These exercises help with posture and loosen muscles that are often over used when partnered with a Guide Dog. As a result of the simple stretches done with the white canes or the sticks, which were actually lengths of inexpensive PVC pipe, chapter members reported that the tightness they felt prior to doing the stretches was almost completely eliminated.
At the end of the meeting, chapter members enjoyed socializing and eating festive finger foods to help kick off the 2015 holiday season. Everyone had a good time!
GDB Book Hounds, Update and InvitationBy: Sheila Shulleeta with Tulsa
Technical difficulties with our book club as a Facebook group prompted me to move the group from Facebook to a Google group. So far it's working much, much better. Unfortunately, some of the members were lost during the transition. My apologies if that happened to you. Please send me an email and I will make sure you are added back in. If you aren't a member and would like to be, do the same-- send requests to [email protected] and I will send an invitation to you.
We are currently discussing the book My Beloved World by Sonya Sotomayor. Our March book for discussion is My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout.
Hope you will join us! Happy Reading!
Come Fly with Guide Dogs and Alaska Airlines By: Danette Dixon with Mayor
Wow, what an amazing time we had at Alaska Airlines hangar on October 22nd.We had a chance to meet a pilot, co pilots, and many other people who work for Alaska airlines and we also had an opportunity to See Chris Benninger again.There were around 40 people there some GDB alumni and some students fromWashington Department services for the Blind. There were enough employees from Alaska airlines, that each person had their own personal tour of the Boeing 737. Once on the plane, I sat in FIRST CLASS, and went through all the motions of flying. WE took a quick trip to Hawaii. We were oriented to where all the overhead buttons were and what they did. I put on the Air mask, and the life vest, and found out how to use the emergency exit over the wing. I had an opportunity to sit in the pilot’s seat and touch all the buttons with the real pilot sitting next to me explaining everything. Everyone I talked to afterward had an enjoyable time and thought the Alaska airlines employees were very helpful. I had a wonderful time connecting with puppy raisers and new friends. And to make the event even more memorable, I met a puppy raiserwho is raising a puppy named, you guessed it, ALASKA.
Thank you GDB, Chris Benninger and Alaska Airlines.
NEWS YOU CAN USE
Who’s on first? By: Theresa Stern with Wills
With spring on the way we are all familiarizing ourselves with the new rosters of our favorite baseball teams so I thought it was a good time to get all of you up to date on the 2016 GDB Team Roster! Over the last year or so we have had many staffing changes, retirements, promotions, transfers and new hires and frankly it can get a little confusing, so here are some of the highlights.
Let’s travel through the departments…
Training – In mid-2015 Kristin Lucas and Susan Armstrong were promoted from their positions as Director of Training, CA, and Director of Training, Oregon to become the Vice Presidents of Training Operations. This left the two Director of Training positions open and they have now been filled by Vanessa Lyens in California and Cheryl Vincent in Oregon. We have two new supervisors in Oregon, Sioux Strong and Candace Tuomikoski, one of whom is filling the spot vacated by Cheryl’s promotion and the other to fill the spot left by Keith Laber retiring. This year also saw the retirement of another long-time employee, Kathy Kelly. Kathy was serving as our Apprentice Manager; this role is now being filled by the promotion of Amy Gunn. We have also hired ten new apprentices this past year, they come from a variety of interesting backgrounds and will be a great asset to GDB’s future.
Nursing – We are very pleased to welcome our new Nursing Manager for San Rafael, Noreen Kimelman.
Client Services – We are excited to announce that we have hired two new Field Services Managers, Michelle Cliborn and Will Henry – Michelle will cover CO and TX and Will takes on the Eastern Seaboard states. Marc Gillard has transferred from his post as a Support Center Specialist to become our first ever Orientation and Mobility Services Specialist in our Outreach Department. Toby Contreras and Lucy Waite are now Field Service Support Specialists, spending time in both the Support Center and providing field support throughout the U.S. and Canada. Joining Ken Altenburger as a Support Center Generalist is GDB grad Matt Easton.
Vet Clinic – As you all know Dr. Craig Dietrich retired in late 2014, and now we have hired three new veterinarians, Dr. Theresa Keating, Dr. Kristin Conover, and Dr. Kristen Haviland, who will join Dr. Kris Gonzales and Dr. Patti Van De Coevering. Also Crystal Glass formerly of the vet clinic has now joined Jaclyn Lufkins on our VFA team.
Our Executive Team has had a few changes over the last few years so here is our latest:
CEO – Chris Benninger
CFO – Cathy Martin
VP Human Resources – Katie Petcavich
VP Canine Community Programs – Brent Ruppel
VP Training Operations CA – Kristin Lucas
VP Training Operations, OR – Susan Armstrong
VP Canine and Veterinary Operations – Rachel Long
Director of Information Technology – Laura Peabody-Park
VP Marketing – Karen Woon
VP Outreach, Admissions and Alumni Services – Theresa Stern
So, there you have it – the 2016 lineup highlights! The staff at GDB is a fantastic group of warm, caring, talented people. We are sad to part with those who have moved on and retired, proud of our friends who have been promoted, and excited to welcome are new colleagues!
IN OUR OWN WORDS
Access Problem for Guide Dogs Solved by EducationBy: Bruce E. Breslauer COMS CVRT ®with Ninbus
As a vision rehabilitation therapist and O&M specialist using a guide dogs, I am often called upon for my work to visit assisted care facilities to help older blind consumers with mobility needs or low vision issues. Up until late this year, I never had a problem accessing such facilities with my guide dog. This situation changed with a phone call I received in early December from a social worker at a care facility in Conrad, Montana. This small town is located about sixty miles north of Great Falls, Montana, where the main Rehab office for north-central Montana is located, and this town falls within the seventeen-county area which we serve.
In my conversation with the social worker, I happened to mention that I would be accompanied by my guide dog, Nimbus (GDB California Class 790, July, 2014). She immediately said that in order to bring my guide dog into the facility I would have to present a copy of my guide's inoculation record. I pointed out in reply that in the nine years I have worked for Vocational Rehabilitation services in Montana I had never before been asked to produce an inoculation record for my guide dog when I visited care facilities. She said that the facility just wanted to make sure that my guide dog was healthy, and that he would not transmit any diseases to the residents of the facility, many of whose health was severely compromised. I ended the conversation by saying that presenting an inoculation record of this kind was not necessary, but that I would do some further checking and research on this matter.
I contacted Guide Dogs for the Blind and spoke to Mark Gillard, one of the senior outreach specialists at the school, who furnished me with material from the Seeing Eye web site. The material in summary said that health care facilities could not ask for inoculation records when dog guides entered their facilities, further stating that dog guides were allowed anywhere the public was admitted. I also contacted the Montana ADA coordinator who sent me a ruling from the Department of Justice supporting this information.
A few days later I called the assisted care facility in Conrad and found out that the social worker with whom I had talked previously had done some homework of her own. She informed me that she had found out on her own that inoculation records could not be asked for by such a facility and that my guide dog would be most welcome to accompany me on my visit.
The whole situation about the inoculation record turned out to be a non-issue. I write this story hoping that it will help others in a climate of increasing scrutiny by health facilities of all service animals. Have your facts in order, and be ready to educate the public.
ALUMNI BULLETIN BOARDGDB Alum Minh Ha wants to pass along info for a new Facebook group for GDB Alumni that she and a friend recently created, she invites you all to check it out at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gdbalumni?_rdr=p
Here’s another way to connect. GDB grad Carl Belnap is the owner of a general guide dog board (chat line) open to all guide dog handlers from all schools. You can find them by calling 712---432---6498, then press three pound and go to the guide dog board which is the third board.
Cliff Rogers wants to share his facebook page, here’s the link:l https://m.facebook.com/GuideDogBettman/On April 18, 2016, Orange County GDB Graduate, Frank Frand will host his 12th annual golf tournament, Tee Off for Dogs, at Oak Creek Golf Course in Irvine, CA For a $200 donation, honor a guide, retired guide, puppy-in-training, career change dog or raiser club with a custom poster-sized tee sign tobe seen by every golfer and to bring home after the tournament. This is a special opportunity just for grads, puppy raisers, sittersand clubs. Do some boasting while supporting GDB! We also hope that you will join us at the tournament.
Graduate Roxanne Calibraro was recently elected to the board of the Cook County Regional Transit Authority (RTA). The RTA runs all public transportation in metropolitan Chicago. Way to go Roxanne!
IN MEMORIAM, IN MEMORY, IN TRIBUTE
In Memoriam – Remembering GDB Alumni who have diedMs. Michelle Miller of Tulsa, OK with Golden Retriever guide Tango (CA 682 – March 2008)
Mr. Everett Finn of Sun City, AZ with female Black Lab guide, Varuna (CA 663 - March 2006)
Mr. Thomas Rovello of Houston, TX with male Yellow Lab guide, Fritz (CA780 – Feb 2014)
Mr. Michael Webb of Phoenix, AZ with male Black Lab guide, Actor (OR145 – March 2008)
In Memory – Remembering guides who have diedPlease note out of respect for the privacy of our alumni, you must request that your dog’s name be placed in this section in order for it to appear.
Floris, female, Yellow Lab guide for Suzanne Wilson of Lowell, MA (CA 631 – February 2003)
Frampton, male Yellow Lab guide for Cathy Tuton of Oklahoma, OK (CA 676 – July 2007)
Miller, male Yellow Lab guide for Kelly Dunn of Lynn, MA (CA 660 – December 2005)
Bryant, male Yellow guide for Rosalyn Butt of Phoenix, AZ (CA 681 – January 2008)
Marlette, female Yellow Lab guide for Peggy Brown of Sandy Springs, GA (OR 85 – March 2003)
Herman, male Black Lab guide for Calynn Hendrickson of Hopkins, MN, (OR 152 – September 2008)
Leisl, female Yellow Lab guide for Kathryn Keenan of Spring Lake Park, MN (OR 102 – July 2004)
Lundy, male Yellow Lab guide for Sandra Montgomery of Oil City, PA (CA 663 – April 2006)
Kudo, male Yellow Lab guide for Deborah Swenson of Eagan, MN (OR 97 – February 2004)
Rhea, female Yellow Guide guide for Sheila Vleck of Grayslake, IL (CA 713 – October 2010)
Paragon, male Yellow Lab guide for Anthony Edwards of Elizabethtown, KY (OR 99 – May 2004)
In Tribute – Honoring Guides That Have RetiredTango, male Golden Retriever Guide for Michelle Miller of Tulsa, OK (CA 682 – March 2008)
Velma, female Yellow Lab guide for Danette Dixon of Lynwood, WA (OR 150 – July 2008)
GIFT SHOP NEWSListed below are new items that have arrived in the gift shop recently:
Women's 3 dog design V neck Tee
Show your GDB pride with this 50/50 cotton poly v neck tee. The front left chest is decorated with the GDB logo in mauve; the back design has a 3 dog design that displays the 3 life stages of a guide dog. The back design is very colorful. The puppy is blue, the young adult
dog is green and the guide dog is orange. Written under the dog design is guidedogs.com in mauve. This shirt is sure to catch everyone's eyes, as the colors are bright and fun. Available in white in sizes Extra Small thru Extra Extra Large. $20.00
Women's 3 dog design Crewneck Tee
This crewneck tee for Women is made from 50/50 cotton/poly, it is sure to be your favorite tee this summer. The front left chest is decorated with the GDB logo in teal blue, the back design has a 3 dog design that displays the 3 life stages of a guide dog. The back design is very colorful. The puppy is blue, the young adult dog is green and the guide dog is orange. Written under the dog design is guidedogs.com in mauve. This shirt is sure to catch everyone's eyes, as the colors are bright and fun. Available in charcoal in sizes Extra Small thru Extra Extra Large. $20.00
Women’s Windbreaker
This techno lite jacket is a mid length jacket with an attached lined hood. The hood can be rolled into the collar. With a vented horizontal back yoke, you are sure to stay cool. Featuring a shock cord drawstring at hem and elastic cuff band with adjustable tab closure. The outer shell is 100% coated with water resistant finish. Available in Cranberry in sizes Extra Small through Extra Extra Large. $35.00
Men's 3 dog design tee
This 100% cotton, preshrunk tee is super soft and cozy. At 6 oz, it is sure to become your favorite tee in your wardrobe. The front left chest is decorated with the GDB logo in orange; the back design has a 3 dog design that displays the 3 life stages of a guide dog. The back design is very colorful. The puppy is blue, the young adult dog is green and the guide dog is orange. Written under the dog design is guidedogs.com in mauve. This shirt is sure to catch everyone's eyes, as the colors are bright and fun. Available in charcoal in sizes Extra Small thru Extra Extra Large.
Men’s Windbreaker
This techno lite jacket is a mid length jacket with an attached lined hood. The hood can be rolled into the collar. With a vented horizontal back yoke, you are sure to stay cool. Featuring a shock cord drawstring at hem and elastic cuff band with adjustable tab closure. The outer shell is 100% coated with water resistant finish. Available in alpine green in sizes Extra Small through Extra Extra Large. $35.00
Umbrella
Stay out of the rain and see where you're going with the Two Tone Safety Umbrella with a 44' arc. This durable umbrella is great for the golf courses, travel companies, resorts, colleges and schools. Features a two tone design with a clear panel to see through. The umbrella has an easy grip handle with carrying strap. There is also a reflective strip along the umbrella's perimeter and the shaft is metal. The umbrella is accompanied by a sleeve for storage of the same color with a reflective strip. Available in orange. $12.00
All orders are subject to applicable tax and shipping fees.
You can order Gift Shop merchandise online at store.guidedogs.com , 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.
ANNOUNCEMENTSResearch Studies:
Alex Cohen is a blind doctoral student in the marketing department at Drexel University in Philadelphia. All of his research involves creating a more inclusive shopping environment for the disabled community. He is currently conducting two studies and he would appreciate your participation.
Study One
Calling All Blind And Vision Impaired Sport Fans! I am researching the accessibility of sport teams’ websites and how the blind and vision impaired use these sites. As a blind Ph.D. student, I evaluated all of the official professional team websites, and many NCAA sites, and found them to be woefully inaccessible. Lawsuits end in settlements or confusion about responsibilities. Legislation for online accessibility in the private sector isn’t too close either. My goal is to increase the accessibility of these websites by showing that the blind and vision impaired are also sports fans who are an unconsidered market. As a “thank you” for your participation, you may choose from one of an assortment of organizations benefiting the blind and vision impaired to receive a $2.00 donation for your fully completed survey.
Before starting the survey, we ask that you visit the official website of your favorite sports team and spend a few minutes navigating the website. After clicking on the link to begin the survey you will be asked about this experience and what makes you a sports fan. Please do not hesitate to contact me, Alex Cohen at [email protected], if you have any difficulty with the survey, or if you have any comments or questions. You may stop taking the survey at any time for any reason, and your response will not be counted. Here’s the link! https://drexel.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6Wf7ehxqweaLGm1
Please feel free to share this survey with any blind and vision impaired sports fan you know.!
Study Two
Research is being conducted at Drexel University to examine how a bad shopping experience, perceived by the consumer to be attributable to one or more of the shopper’s
demographic characteristics such as gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation/preference, financial status, or disability, affects their internalized feelings of inclusion and acceptance in the shopping environment. As a “thank you” for completing the survey you may choose for either the anti-bullying organization Stop The Hate, or the Foundation Fighting Blindness to receive $2.00 donation. If you choose to participate, you will first be asked to briefly describe a recent personal bad shopping experience. You will then be asked to complete a short survey. You will fill out the survey only once and completion of the survey will take about ten minutes. You may stop at any time. If you choose to stop participation, no information will be collected, and your survey will not be considered as part of the donation total. You may contact Alex Cohen ([email protected]) if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. To take the survey, use the following link: https://drexel.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_9SMKqFC3ZBKHNwVNew Offer from Sprint
Have you heard the latest news?
Sprint is excited to share a NEW BLIND AND LOW VISION Custom Service PLAN! It includes unlimited talk and text with 2GB of data while on the Sprint network for only $45 a monthwith Sprint Easy Pay or Sprint Lease device options.
This is a great deal! I’m Kelly Egan, an outreach specialist for Sprint to the blind and low-vision community. We’re committed to providing affordable plans, accessible devices and extraordinary customer service to our blind and low vision customers.
To find out more about Sprint’s $45 monthly service plan, plus Unlimited Talk and Text, with 2 GB Data, visit www.sprint.com/accessnow, that’s Sprint.com slash access now. Or contact our Sprint Support for Customers with Disabilities at 855-885-7568 or email [email protected]
Offer/coverage not available everywhere or for discounted phones. Excludes taxes, surcharges, roaming, international and premium content. Subject to new-line, thirty-six dollars activation fee and credit. Prohibited network use rules & throughput reduction applies. Restrictions apply. See store for details.
Legally blind retired engineer and GDB alum invents a cup holder to help others with vision loss
"The Stress Less Drink Holder was invented in response to my own experience and frustration with vision loss. Six months after retiring as Vice President of Engineering, I began to experience rapid vision loss and a few months later I was legally blind. One of the most frustrating things for me was frequently knocking over beverages while I was trying to locate the drink or when reaching for another item and not "seeing" that the beverage was in my way. I was making messes all the time! It was frustrating and I felt embarrassed. And...that gave birth to the Stress Less Drink Holder. After two years in development, we have our first production run and I'm now able to share it with others. The drink holder is an essential tool I use every day and since I've been using it, I've noticed how it has given me more confidence, more independence and a lot less to worry about! My wife has also seen the benefits of it because she is spending less time cleaning up after my spills and we have a better quality of life now. The holder retails for $14.99 and if you order two or more you receive free shipping. It holds coffee mugs, cocktail glasses, stemless wine glasses and
large tumblers. It sits on a square base that also serves as a coaster and has a holder in front for personal items! Please visit my webstore (Link below) to order and learn more. Thank you for your support and I hope the Stress Less Drink Holder helps you as much as it has helped me!"
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS2015 – 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)
Leanne Bremner with Ayanna
Toronto, ON
Board Vice-Chair
416-921-8984
Members at Large
Samantha Adams with Lotto
Gold River, CA
916-903-7065
Maile George with Jasmin
Concord, CA
925-381-7899
Bruce Gilmore with Marley
Vancouver, BC
604-828-5513
Scott Wilcock with Senator
Harrisville, UT
801-737-9536
Dorianne Pollack with Dime
Flagstaff, AZ
928-606-3025
Marcia Wick with Viviane
Colorado Springs, CO
719-651-2221 (Mobile)
EX Officio Members
George Kerscher
Missoula, MT
GDB Board of Directors Representative
406-549-4687
Deborah Kendrick with Flo
Cincinnati, OH
GDB Board of Directors Representative
513-673-4474
Past President
Becky Andrews with Georgina
Bountiful, UT
801-259-3883 (Mobile)
Guide Dogs for the Blind Alumni Chapters(Updated February, 2016)
British Columbia - BC Dogwoods
Linda Weber
California- Foggy Doggies (San Francisco)
Lauri Shay and Maile George
California - GDB Paws of Fame (Los Angeles County)
Melissa Hudson
California-GDB Surfer Dogs (San Diego)
Juliet Cody
California- North State Guide Dog Handlers (Chico)
Judy Alexander
California- Orange County Guide Dogs
Linda Becker
California- River City Guide Dog Users (Sacramento)
Samantha Adams
California- San Diego Alumni Chapter of Guide Dog Handlers
Launa Hardy
Colorado - Northern, Long’s Peak Guides
Sherry Gomes
Colorado Rocky Rovers
Richard Faubion
DC Metro – Capitol Canines (Washington)
Mary Wilson
Florida- Sunshine Guide Dog Teams
Alicia Eidson and Reggie Alvarado
GDB Tech Dogs
Special Interest: Technology
Deborah Kendrick
www.tech-dogs.net
Guide Dog Handlers All Ways
Special Interest: Multiple Disabilities
Paula Barton
Missouri – Show Me Guide Dogs
Nick Whitney
Mommies with Guides
Special Interest: Parenting
Tracy Boyd
Montreal- icy Paws Guide Dogs
Kim Holdbrook
Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and Michigan- Guide Dog Handlers of the Midwest
Deanna Lewis
Oklahoma City GDB Alumni Chapter
Sandi Webster
Oregon- Reigning Canines (Portland)
Bobi Earp
[email protected] Or [email protected]
Paws Around the World
Special Interest- Travel
Donna Permar
Utah- Greatest Paws on Earth
Michelle Foulger
Washington State GDB Alumni
Danette Dixon
Illinois- Windy City Chapter (Chicago)
Roxanne Calibraro
GUIDE DOG NEWS - 2015, Issue #4
COVER PHOTO
Oregon Fall Luncheon Keynote Speaker Trevor Thomas with his guide dog, Tennille.
INSIDE Paws in Portland: We hosted the 2015 Alumni Reunion and Retreat in Portland, Ore. in
September. The travel-based theme was “Paws Around the World.” Friendly Faces: GDB is excited to welcome two new staff members to our Development
Department team. Meet Sue Dishart and Nora Niesen. Events are Us: We’ve been busy with events around here! From fundraisers to educational
experiences, check out recaps of our recent activities in the Happenings section.
KudosCongratulations to GDB puppy raiser Kelley Mellott of Lemoore, Calif. who won a $500 scholarship and the second place National FFA Proficiency Award in Small Animal Production and Care for her participation in the GDB puppy raising program. GDB puppy raising is an approved Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project, a required component of the FFA program.
As a member of the Lemoore chapter of the FFA, Kelley became eligible for the national award after winning the California State FFA competition earlier this year when she was a high school senior (she is now a freshman at Fresno State University). She was recognized at the national finals during the 88th
National FFA Convention & Expo in Louisville, Ky. in October. The proficiency awards recognize outstanding student achievement in agribusiness gained through establishment of a new business, working for an existing company, or otherwise gaining hands-on career experience. The Small Animal Production and Care-Entrepreneurship/Placement Award is one of 49 proficiency program areas in which FFA members can participate to develop valuable experience and leadership skills at the local, state, and national levels.
Greetings from the CEOGreetings,
As the year draws to a close, I have been reflecting on how blessed we are to have so many wonderful people in our community. Our alums, staff, donors, raisers and other volunteers are simply amazing! They all bring so much passion and care to all that they do. We simply couldn’t fulfill our mission without them and we are so very grateful to be surrounded by so many amazing individuals!
I had the pleasure of taking part in my first alumni reunion this Fall in Portland. The theme of the reunion was “Paws Around the World” and it focused on traveling with one’s guide both near and far. It was an amazing event and the largest attendance to date! It was wonderful to see so many grads and their guides gathered in one place, reconnecting with friends and forging new friendships as well. It was a bit chaotic with three conventions sharing the hotel, but our grads handled it all with grace, humor, and skill, doing a great job navigating these unfamiliar places and spaces! The tenor of the event was overwhelmingly positive and grads reveled in sharing their wisdom and funny stories about travel. It was very rewarding to hear how proud they are to be part of our world class alumni association and that they are very happy with the services they receive and the staff that support them. Check out pages 4 and 5 to see some highlights from the event.
I hope that you have a joyous and safe holiday season!
Wishing you all the best,
Christine Benninger, President and CEO
Alumni Reunion & RetreatIn September, GDB hosted an Alumni Reunion and Retreat in Portland, Ore. Held every other year, the event brings together alumni, puppy raisers, and volunteers for an extended weekend of fun activities, educational seminars, and social gatherings. More than 150 people and their dogs from across the U.S. and Canada enjoyed activities in the City of Roses, such as a chocolate decadence walking tour and a beer tasting outing, and took in seminars covering informative and diverse topics such as self defense and wayfinding using GPS technology.
The theme of the reunion was “Paws Around the World,” and at the reunion’s Saturday night awards banquet, the keynote speaker, GDB board member and experienced traveler George Kerscher, regaled guests with stories of exploring the world through the years with his guide dogs (his first guide was Mikey; his current guide is Kroner). The banquet was also a special time to celebrate the contributions made to the guide dog community by fellow GDB alumni, staff, and volunteers. Honorees included:
Puppy raiser Megan Minkiewicz, The Most Treasured Award, for extraordinary efforts towards developing new partnerships to support the future of Guide Dogs for the Blind.
GDB alumna Tracy Boyd, The Forward Award, for extraordinary leadership in promoting the guide dog lifestyle.
Volunteer Joyce Shea, The Blondie Award, named in honor of one of our first guide dog and given to a volunteer who has demonstrated selfless, enthusiastic service to GDB.
Puppy raiser and founder/CEO of Dogs for Diabetics Mark Ruefenacht, 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.
GDB Veterinarian Dr. Patti Van De Coevering, The Doc Award, for providing extraordinary care for canine heroes.
GDB Support Center Specialist Marc Gillard, The Sue Sullivan Superior Staff Award, given in appreciation to a GDB staff member who has made extraordinary contributions to the GDB community.
GDB Class Supervisor Keith Laber, Lifetime Achievement Award, given to recognize and honor the achievements of a lifetime dedicated to guide dogs, their handlers, and the blind.
The reunion concluded on Sunday with a tour and lunch at our Oregon campus. GDB is one of the only guide dog schools in the world to have an alumni association and we’re so proud to host this special event to celebrate our amazing graduates and their partnerships.
Pictured: Scenes from the 2015 Alumni Reunion and Retreat. To see all of the photos, visit our Flickr site: flickr.com/photos/guidedogsfortheblind.
President’s Circle ProfileJamie Smith Carr’s affiliation with Guide Dogs for the Blind began ten years ago when friends introduced her to the organization at a GDB ”friend raising” event at their home. “I liked what I heard,” Jamie said. “Puppies, dogs, and helping to provide an improved quality of life for people… what could be better? So I decided to look further into the program and see what I could do to help spread the word about GDB’s wonderful work.”
Shortly thereafter, Jamie visited our California campus in San Rafael and immediately was impressed. “Not only were the puppies adorable, but I observed several clients working with their guide dogs. Everything about the program spoke to my heart.” Jamie then went on to host her own friend raising event in her home in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. and has been an ardent supporter ever since.
“I’ve gotten to know a couple of the clients and their guides, and marvel at these relationships,” she said. “Hearing about how people’s lives are transformed once they connect with their guide dogs is inspiring. What impresses me most is the commitment GDB has for the life of its guide dog teams and the continued care provided to the dogs. Helping to support the programs at GDB brings me happiness knowing I am helping to make a difference in someone’s life in a very significant way. A guide dog gives a person who is blind or visually impaired the gift of freedom to move about in this world in a way they may not otherwise be able to experience. I like being a part of the formula!”
Sidebar 1Give the gift of love this holiday season. Shop for gifts and provide essentials for guide dogs in training at guidedogs.com/catalog.
Sidebar 2It just got easier to help us fulfill our life-changing mission: now accepting PayPal on guidedogs.com/ donate.
Board ProfileAs a long-time resident of Marin County and dog enthusiast, Jack Scott was thrilled to be invited to join GDB’s board several years ago. “One of my friends was on the board for many years and in 2001 we moved to our current house down the street from GDB and became neighbors. I tried to volunteer for GDB on a couple of occasions over the years, but it never quite worked out,” he said. “Finally in 2012, I was called about serving on the board by another friend and I jumped at the chance to make a contribution.”
Jack has indeed been a strong contributor to our board, bringing passion for our mission along with deep expertise in talent management. He has spent his career as a consultant and recruiter developing and advising high performance management teams and is currently the operating partner responsible for human capital at the private equity firm Friedman, Fleischer, and Lowe in San Francisco. Jack previously worked for other notable firms such as Heidrick and Struggles and Korn/Ferry, and has also helped a number of non-profits figure out how to best attract and retain top talent. In addition to his role at GDB, Jack has helped advise the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the San Francisco Symphony, KQED, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Jack is impressed by the talent he sees in action at GDB and says he wishes more people knew how committed the staff are to our graduates and to the dogs. “I have never seen an organization with SO much passion and SO much talent,” he said. His affiliation with GDB has been very positive noting, “the most rewarding part is seeing the difference we make in people’s lives every day and working with such a talented group of directors.”
When Jack isn’t busy working or supporting GDB, he enjoys many artistic and athletic pursuits: “I am a huge sports and music fan and an art enthusiast,” he said. “Most of all, I love to spend time with my family, but I also love to ski, play golf, hike, travel, deep sea fish, draw, and paint with water colors.” He is such a fan of the arts in fact, that if he were to pursue a different career path, he might just become an artist and a teacher. “I love to paint and I love to teach and be a mentor to young people. For my senior project in high school I taught an art class and someday I hope to do that again.” GDB is fortunate to be the beneficiary of Jack’s enthusiasm, expertise, and diverse perspectives.
Staff ProfileGuide Dogs for the Blind is pleased to introduce two new members of our Development team: Planned Giving Officer Sue Dishart and Corporate and Foundation Gifts Manager Nora Niesen.
Prior to coming to GDB, Sue held senior development positions with the Girl Scouts of America in Pittsburgh, Pa., and Pleasantville, NY, and most recently was the development director at Guiding Eyes for the Blind in Yorktown Heights, NY. She has experience directing corporate, foundation, and major individual fundraising strategies through annual fund donations, capital project support, and planned gifts. In her role at GDB, Sue works with our Legacy Society members who have included GDB in their estate plans.
“I feel blessed to be a part of the largest guide dog school in the country,” Sue said. “GDB does such great work and provides high quality training services and support for our clients. Our innovation, passion, and dedication are apparent in everything we do.” Sue is originally from the Pittsburgh area and currently lives in Novato, Calif. She and her husband have three grown children.
Nora is excited to combine her professional and personal passions here at GDB. She previously worked in business development at the Foundation Center and in higher education funding at the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation in New York, and in sales for Houghton Mifflin in both New York and New Mexico. She also has experience volunteering and fundraising for animal welfare organizations across the country. At GDB, Nora oversees corporate and foundation donor partnerships, including grant writing.
“I’m inspired daily by the dedication of GDB’s staff, volunteers, and clients,” Nora said. “Everyone is committed to ensuring our teams get the best care imaginable at every stage. Guide dogs add invaluable safety and confidence to partnerships, and to see teams interact on a daily basis is so inspiring.” Originally from the Boston area, Nora currently lives in San Francisco with her husband and 17-year-old cat.
“We are very excited to have these two experienced professionals join our Development team,” said GDB’s Vice President of Philanthropy Tom Horton. “Both Sue and Nora have strong development backgrounds and will greatly contribute to our mission and fundraising efforts moving forward.”
Alumni UpdatesPictured: Melissa Pardon’s yellow Lab guide Cameo enjoying some down time by snuggling up with Melissa’s 8.5 month-old daughter and a good book. Cameo is recovering from a recent surgery near her eye and has fallen in love with the baby. We’d say the feeling is mutual!
Anne Ng of Washington, D.C. was recently recognized as one of the recipients of the 2015 Secretary of Defense Awards for Outstanding Department of Defense Employees and Service Members with Disabilities. These awards honor the accomplishments and abilities of employees and service members with disabilities who have made significant contributions to their components’ missions. Ann is a management analyst for the Department of the Navy at the Pentagon. Her guide dog is black Lab Iza.
Ashley Melero, along with her guide dog, yellow Lab Truffle, spent a month this summer in Washington, D.C. where Ashley had an internship at the U.S. Capitol with Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Ashley is a senior at Texas Tech University, with a double major in social work and sociology, and wanted to see the policy side of social work in action. “I couldn’t even have imagined that it would be the way it is,” Ashley said. She had the opportunity to do things such as write floor statements and letters requesting support for bills authored by the congresswoman. “I’ve been pleasantly surprised at the work [we were tasked with] in this office,” she said. As for Truffle, the Hill’s only canine intern? Sometimes she would get a little too comfortable under Ashley’s desk. “Truffle snores!” Ashley said with a laugh. The duo is pictured below with their fellow Texas Tech congressional interns.
Happenings
Canine Heroes AuctionIn September, GDB’s signature fundraising event, our Canine Heroes Auction, made its debut in San Francisco. Held in the historic Presidio, the 13th annual event raised more than $737,000 to support veterinary care for GDB program dogs and puppies. The evening featured a reception and silent auction, followed by an elegant dinner by McCalls Catering and a spirited live auction led by Auctioneer Greg
Quiroga. More than 400 guests enjoyed the keynote address by longtime GDB supporters Lorrie and Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger (pictured, with their retired GDB breeder dog, Fame). Many thanks to our sponsors: Presenting Sponsor: Kiewit Infrastructure West. Gold: Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP. Silver: Callan Associates, GCM Grosvenor, JP Morgan/Highbridge Capital Management. Bronze: Dodge and Cox, Goldman Sachs, Invesco, Mesirow Financial, Standish Mellon Asset Management.
Dog Days of SummerFor the first time, on the night prior to our Canine Heroes Auction, GDB held a separate event in the same venue called Dog Days of Summer. More than 100 people came out to dance to the beats of DJ Matt Haze and HUSH Silent Disco, and enjoy food and libations from Anchor Brewing Company, ANEW Wines, Bella Luxe Catering, Green Chile Kitchen, Krumbs Cakes, Motto Wines, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and Three Twins Ice Cream. The event was a fun and affordable way for people to support GDB, learn more about our mission, and meet puppies!
Oregon Fall LuncheonGDB’s autumn tradition continued the first week of November with our sold-out Oregon Fall Luncheon, held at The Nines Hotel in Portland. GDB graduate and long-distance solo hiker Trevor Thomas delighted a sold-out crowd of 325 people with tales of his adventures on the trail and in life with his guide dog, black Lab Tennille. A puppy delivery rounded out the event, where seven puppy raisers received their new pups. Thank you to our sponsors: Companion and Puppy Delivery Sponsor: NW Natural. Buddy Sponsors: OnPoint Community Credit Union, The Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation. Friend Sponsors: Charles Schwab-Portland Oregon Branch, Dunn Carney Allen Higgins & Tongue LLP, Perkins & Co.
Photos: Barbara Coit Yeager gets a visit from a GDB puppy during the Oregon Fall Luncheon puppy delivery.
Class Supervisor Lori Brown giving a guide dog training demo on stage.
Alaska Airlines Hangar Event
GDB recently teamed up with our partner, Alaska Airlines, for a simulated airplane travel event. Held at an Alaska Airlines hangar in Seattle, more than a dozen GDB puppy raisers, alumni, and their dogs participated in a mock flight to learn the ins and outs of the boarding, deplaning, and safety procedures associated with commercial air travel. Participants also got to touch and explore different areas of the airplane, including visits to the cockpit. The experience benefitted not only our grads and raisers as they learned how best to navigate a plane with dogs at their sides, but was also educational for the volunteer Alaska Airlines staff since they were able to ask lots of questions about how best to provide exceptional customer service for people who are visually impaired or those who are traveling with service dogs. Many thanks to Alaska Airlines for hosting such an informative and interactive experience!
Save the DatePinot & Pups Wine Auction: Saturday, June 18, 2016, Portland, OR
Visit guidedogs.com/events for more info.
Thank You for Your Gifts
Please consider a gift to Guide Dogs for the Blind in your estate plan. For more information on estate planning, visit guidedogs.com/plannedgiving, or call our planned giving team at 800.295.4050 ext. 2289 (Sue) or ext. 4073 (Joan).
Pictured: JR Quevedo and his guide dog Griff
You Can Make a Difference
Send a donation today
Please use our mailing address for donations: Guide Dogs for the Blind, P.O. Box 17068, Baltimore, MD 21297-0334. You can also donate online: guidedogs.com.
Eliminate checks and postageDirect your bank to automatically transfer your donation.
Make an Honor or Memorial giftPay tribute to a friend, relative or pet; we will send cards of celebration or sympathy in your name.
Create a Legacy in your estateName GDB in your will, trust or as a beneficiary of your annuity, life insurance policy, IRA or retirement plan. We honor such commitments with membership in our Legacy Society.
Designate your giftDesignate your donation to go toward a specific GDB program. Contact us for more info.
Guide Dogs for the Blind will occasionally share donor information with like-minded nonprofit organizations in an effort to better fulfill our mission and serve our clients. If you do not wish to have your information shared, please call us at the phone number below, or email us at [email protected].
For more info, please contact our Development Department at (800) 295-4050 extension 4160.
![GDB telux ver090906 - cs.tau.ac.il · (gdb) watch expr –stops whenever the value of the expression changes (gdb ) i b (gdb) clear [arg ] (gdb) delete [bnum ] Without arguments deletes](https://img.pdfslide.us/doc/110x75/5ae0abbc7f8b9ab4688daeeb/gdb-telux-ver090906-cstauacil-gdb-watch-expr-stops-whenever-the-value-of.jpg)
