THE TEXAS STAR

Vol. 25, No. 1 January, 2017

Neva Fairchild, Editor

Expressions from the Presidents Desk Kenneth Semien, Sr.

Tales from the Treasurer Sheila Derrick
15 Ways to Maximize Your ACBT Membership Kenneth Semien, Sr.
Transfer of VR Services to the Texas Workforce
Commission Expands Opportunities By Cheryl Fuller
Braille Revival League of Texas Neva Fairchild
Guide Dog Users of Texas LouAnn Williams
Library Users of Texas Peggy Garrett
ACBT Makes its Mark in Dallas Kenneth Semien, Sr.
Cast Your Bid to be a Winner in Dallas! Kenneth Semien, Sr.
ACBT and Social Media Will Burley
Advocacy Services/ Legislation Committee Paul Hunt
Constitution & Bylaws Committee Chris Prentice
Member Morale Committee Cindy Finley
First Timer Award Cindy Finley
2017 Who's Who Among Blind Texans Award Cindy Finley
Nominating Committee Michael Garrett
Scholarship Committee Dianna E. Carter
Web Committee Paul Hunt
Alamo Council of the Blind Shelley McMullen
East Texas Area Council of the Blind Michelle Boyd
El Paso Council of the Blind Dianna E. Carter
Greater Fort Worth Area Council Sheila Derrick
Houston Council Happenings Peggy R. Garrett

[Note: Articles printed in The Texas Star are submitted by the

subscribers and are not necessarily reflective of the membership
as a whole. The articles express only the opinion of the author.]

Page 1
Expressions from the Presidents Desk
By Kenneth Semien Sr.

Greetings Everyone:

I extend wishes for a phenomenal 2017. As opportunities are presented,

may you be prepared to take advantage of those you hoped for and
embrace those that may appear to be challenging. Seizing the moment will
launch you into a realm of positive change, personal growth and
enlightenment. Believe you can achieve and you will. The Texas Legislature
convened on Tuesday January 10th and this legislative session will require
participation by writing letters, making phone calls, and some may even give
public testimony during a public hearing. Your participation can make a huge
difference. (Refer to the Advocacy article below). Similarly, ACB Mid-Year
Meetings will be held from February 25-28 in Arlington, Virginia, with the
exception of visits to our nations capital on the 28th. Several Texas
members will join others from various states around the country to meet with
members of congress in an effort to introduce legislative imperatives that
will be of benefit to all Americans who are blind or visually impaired.

The city of Dallas will be greeted by the Board of Directors as we conduct

the Spring Board Meeting on Saturday April 29, 2017 at the Doubletree by
Hilton Dallas near the Galleria from 8:30AM to 2:00PM. We will then gather
at the same hotel for our 39th annual Conference/Convention from
September 14-17. You can begin making plans for an array of workshops,
seminars and other exciting activities. (Refer to the Conference/Convention
article placed below.

The ACB national Conference & Convention will be held from June 30th to
July 7th at the Nugget Casino Hotel in Sparks, Nevada near Reno. You can
begin making reservations by dialing (800) 648-1177. The nightly rate will be
$89 plus tax. When speaking with a reservationist, be sure to give the group
code, GACB17. Be sure to visit www.acb.org for current information, and
refer to the ACB Braille Forum and e-Forum. If you havent subscribed to the
new ACBT Group Email List, you can subscribe by sending a blank
message to acbt+subscribe@groups.io. This is your source for updated
information between distribution dates of the Texas Star publication. Keep in

Page 2
touch by sending email to president@acbtexas.org or feel free to call me by
dialing (409) 866-5838. Make it a great year!

First Vice President & Membership Chair Report

By Peggy Garrett

I recently read the following article and thought it was worth sharing with my
fellow ACBT members. As I talk to members across the state, I hear that
many of our Chapters are having issues recruiting and retaining members.
This article may help shed some light on what we all can do to make a
difference for our organization.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD TEAM MEMBER

By Dan Collins

Works for consensus on decisions

Shares openly and authentically with others regarding personal
feelings, opinions, thoughts, and perceptions about problems and
conditions
Involves others in the decision-making process
Trusts, supports, and has genuine concern for other team
members
Owns problems rather than blaming them on others
When listening, attempts to hear and interpret communication from
others points of view
Influences others by involving them in the issue(s)
Encourages the development of other team members
Respects and is tolerant of individual differences
Acknowledges and works through conflict openly
Considers and uses new ideas and suggestions from others
Encourages feedback on own behavior
Understands and is committed to team objectives
Does not engage in win/lose activities with other team members
Has skills in understanding whats going on in the group

Page 3
Tales from the Treasurer
By Sheila Derrick

******IMPORTANT PLEASE READ CAREFULLY*******

This year ACBT is requesting your help in obtaining additional demographic

information on our members that will be useful and necessary for grant and
other funding applications. The additional statistics are:

AGE RANGE: 13 to 20, 21 to 40, 41 to 59, and 60+

GENDER: male, female or other
ETHNICITY: Caucasian (white), African-American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian-
American or other.

It is now time to prepare your membership lists for delivery

to me by Feb. 15, 2017 along with the dues for your members.
Please help by sending ONLY information for members who have actually
paid their dues for 2017. Again, we are encouraging all members who have
email access to please request their publications by email. For each
member, I need: full name, address, home and cell phone numbers email
address, vision status (totally blind, legally blind, visually impaired or fully
sighted), Texas Star format (email, large print, or CD ONLY) and Braille
Forum format (email, Braille, large print, 4 track cassette or non-audio
computer data CD). Membership lists can be sent by paper or electronically
in word document, or excel spread sheet. Dues are as follows: chapter
members $7.00, Special Interest Affiliate members $2.00, at-large members
$10.00, Junior members $3.00, ACB Life member $2.00, ACBT Life member
$5.00, and life member of both $0.00. Please remember to include life
members on your list even though you may not collect any dues for them.
Please mail dues and/or membership lists to: Sheila Derrick 309 Paloverde
Lane Ft. Worth, TX 76112-1122. My email is sjderrick212@hotmail.com
and my phone is 817 507-3964. Please contact me, if you have any
questions.

On December 13, 2016, the ACBT Board of Directors voted to adopt the
proposed budget for 2017. We are still working with a fiscally conservative
budget and again, I will encourage all members to support the ACBT
statewide fundraising activities to the best of your abilities
Page 4
15 Ways to Maximize Your ACBT Membership
By Kenneth Semien, Sr.

Preface: All too often, people join organizations without taking advantage of
the opportunity to truly know intricate details of its purpose, mission, and
operating practices. This can very well result in a lack of participation and
could ultimately result in a decision to forfeit what could have been the ideal
vehicle to enhance ones life, build great relationships and effectively share
personal skills and abilities that can make an enormous difference. In an
effort to encourage you to explore the meaningful efforts of ACBT, I have
included the tips listed below to assist you in being all you can be as you
join with others that can complement what you have to offer as we move
forward in maximizing the power of teamwork.

1. Be inquisitive and don't hesitate to ask questions.

2. Become familiar with the ACBT history, mission, vision and purpose by
reviewing it often enough to be able to repeat it to others. In turn
someone may realize that this is the organization they have been
looking for.
3. Make a personal commitment to identify ways to get involved in service
and team efforts.
4. Find out who the officers are and become acquainted with them and
their roles and responsibilities, as well as members you observe
actively participating in events and projects initiated within our
organization.
5. Make your skills and abilities known to leaders of your chapter, special
interest affiliate and the ACBT president.
6. Make every effort to participate in chapter, committee, affiliate and
national meetings, seminars, conferences and conventions.
7. Inquire about available committees you may be able to serve on to
assist the organization in achieving its goals and objectives. Seek to
join committees that allow you to utilize your skills and abilities in the
most effective and efficient manner.
8. If you have access to the Internet, sign up for up to date news and
announcements from all levels of our organization. Ask a president or
member to share how you can take advantage of this option.
Page 5
 Remember to subscribe to the ACBT Group Email List to receive and
share announcements, resources and supportive information by
sending a blank message to acbt+subscribe@groups.io.
9. Listen to or read newsletter publications distributed by our organization
on all levels. This is one of the best ways to learn about useful
resources, access inspirational stories, scholarships, awards, and
upcoming projects and events.
10. Identify Special Interest Groups (otherwise known as Special Interest
Affiliates) that meet your personal needs. These groups provide you
with a great networking opportunity with others sharing common
interests, such as your prior or current occupation, hobbies, health
concerns and so much more.
11. Obtain your own copy of the Constitution & Bylaws to learn of the
agreed upon operating practices and procedures of our organization.
The Constitution & Bylaws Committee accepts proposed amendments
on an annual basis.
12. Get involved in the legislative process, which is the key vehicle to
promote positive change for all Texans who are blind or visually
impaired. Becoming familiar with your state representative and local
government officials opens the door to greater possibilities. Writing a
letter, making a phone call or participating in a public hearing could
make a huge difference. Feel free to ask for support from the Advocacy
Committee.
13. Connect with us through our social media networks; such as Facebook
and Twitter. This is a great way to introduce others to the work and
accomplishments of ACBT. Ask the Public Relations Committee for
assistance.
14. Explore the websites of your chapter, state affiliate and our national
organization. You may locate information on the website that you didn't
think of inquiring about.
ACB: www.acb.org
ACBT: www.acbtexas.org
15. Pay your annual dues faithfully and encourage others to do the same.

In conclusion, the more you know and the more you become involved, the
more you will begin to know that you have joined a phenomenal
organization that is continuing to grow.
Have a Happy ACBT Adventure!
Page 6
Transfer of VR Services to the Texas Workforce Commission
Expands Opportunities
By Cheryl Fuller

On September 1, 2016, vocational rehabilitation (VR) services and staff

were transferred to the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) from the
former Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS).
These services, which help Texans with visual and other disabilities prepare
for, obtain, retain and advance in competitive employment, were transferred
as the result of legislation passed during the 84th Texas Legislative Session.

Staff from TWC and DARS worked together to ensure a smooth transfer of
services for VR customers. The addition of VR services to the Texas
Workforce Solutions networkmade up of TWC, 28 workforce development
boards and service-providing partnerswill benefit Texans with disabilities.
Benefits include access to more employment-related training, education and
support services, and expanded employment opportunities and initiatives.
TWCs Texas HireAbility campaign is one of these new initiatives. Launched
in October in partnership with the Governors Committee on People with
Disabilities and the Texas Workforce Solutions network, the campaigns goal
is to raise awareness about the benefits of hiring people with disabilities and
highlight their contributions in the workplace through educational materials.

TWCs VR and Independent Living Services for Older Individuals who are
Blind programs continue to coordinate with the former DARS programs that
transitioned to the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). These
programs include the Blind Childrens Vocational Discovery and
Development Program and the Independent Living (IL) Services program.
IL is now operated by Centers for Independent Living (CILs) across Texas.
TWC is committed to collaborating with HHSC and the CILs to ensure timely
referrals and effective coordination of services for Texans with disabilities.
Stay up-to-date about the VR transition by visiting the DARS Program
Transition webpage. For questions about VR services, visit the Vocational
Rehabilitation Services webpage or contact a customer service
representative at 800-628-5115 or customers@twc.state.tx.us.

Braille Revival League of Texas

Page 7
By Neva Fairchild

I am excited to share with all of you that Larry Johnson recently wrote a
piece to submit as an entry to the Onkyo International Braille Essay contest
sponsored by the Onkyo Corporation and the Braille Mainichi. I am thrilled
to announce that it won the Otsuki 2016 Grand Prize award for the North
American-Caribbean Region. It will be included in a collection of essays to
be published next year. In the meantime, it appeared in the December 31
edition of the San Antonio Express-News and will be in the January issue of
the Braille Forum. Here it is for your enjoyment.

Braille Funnies
By Larry P. Johnson

January 4 is Luis Brailles 208th birthday. Ive been a Braille user for over 75
years. Using Braille has brought me more than a few chuckles. Checking in at
the Hilton Hotel in Kansas City a few years ago, I kidded the bell person
because they had placed the Braille numeral outside my room upside down.
Later that evening, I returned to the hotel, took the elevator up to my floor and
promptly forgot my room number. Embarrassed, I began walking along the
corridor reading the room numbers and trying to remember mine, when
suddenly my fingers came across a Braille numeral that was upside down.
Voila! Their mistake was my salvation.

I did my undergraduate study at Northwestern University in Evanston, just

outside Chicago. The winters there are bitterly cold. I commuted each day to
class, which meant a 30 min. bus ride, a block and a half walk to catch the
El train, and then a 6 block walk to the campus. Not a difficult journey when
the weather was mild, but during mid-January it could be frigidly numbing,
with the wind blowing off the lake at 20 miles an hour and the temperature
hovering around zero. Arriving to my 8 AM radio announcing class, I asked
the professor if he would schedule me last to read the commercials we were
assigned to read over the microphone, because my fingers were so frozen
that I couldn't feel the Braille dots on my script. His roguish reply drew
raucous laughter from my classmates, "I thought I'd heard all the excuses. I
guess Ill just have to give you an F for frozen fingers.

Page 8
Then theres the other extreme. It was a wonderful surprise one sunny
August afternoon here in San Antonio, when I was visiting our beautiful San
Antonio Botanical Gardens, where volunteers had placed Braille inscriptions
on copper plaques identifying the plants and herbs. I certainly appreciated
their desire to make information accessible to blind folks like me, but, I will
tell you this, it takes a really dedicated Braille reader to be willing to run
his/her fingers across those Brailled copper plaques after theyve been
heated up a few hours by our ferocious tropical Texas sun.

One big advantage of Braille is that you can read your presentation to an
audience while looking straight at them. However, some sighted people are
confused by this. Recently I delivered a short talk to a group of seniors at an
inauguration ceremony. As I was speaking, a woman turned to a friend and
commented: Do you notice how nervous he is? He keeps fumbling with his
papers. The friend replied, Silly, hes not fumbling with his papers, hes
reading Braille.

On another occasion in college, as the professor turned to the blackboard

and began writing and speaking I began taking notes in Braille. She stopped
and turned around. So, I stopped writing. After a pause, she turned again to
the blackboard and resumed her lecture and writing. I resumed by note-
taking. Stopping this time in mid-sentence she turned to the class and
demanded to know who was making that tapping noise while she was talking.
I lifted my slate off my desk and showed it to her. Its me. I said. She had
never before seen Braille or a slate and stylus. She was embarrassed. But,
that day, she was also educated. For some, Braille may be a "bumpy road to
knowledge", but for me, it has been a wonderful way to keep in touch. And
thats how I see it.

Guide Dog Users, Inc. of Texas

By LouAnn Williams

Welcome, Happy 2017 to each of you! Time is speeding by and this will be
the last Star reminder to join GDUI Texas before the official Texas list is sent
in to national GDUI. The GDUI office must have received everything from
the Affiliates no later than March 1, 2017. Individuals on this list will be able
to vote in the Guide Dog Users, Inc. May 2017 elections. So, please send
your $15.00 dues in to Neal Finley, 3710 70th St, Lubbock, TX 79413, no
Page 9
later than February 15, 2017. New members are always encouraged to join
and you dont have to be a guide dog user.

Now for a few updates from GDUI. GUDIs Public Relations Committee
worked with their web master to move the web site
www.guidedogusersinc.org to a new hosting service. This allowed
expansion of web resources. They will be working in upcoming months to
make improvements to the web pages so that internet users seeking
information about guide dogs and blindness, will find the web site much
improved. There are several GDUI e-mail list you may want to consider
joining. The new GDUI-Business list, for the ins and outs of administering
the organization. The GDUI-Chat for everyday chat and the GDUI-
Announce list that shares information at least once a month.

GDUI stresses that all members are welcomed as guest to every GDUI
Board meeting. There is an opportunity for members to voice their opinions
at the end of each meeting.

The best to each of you for a wonderful New Year!

Library Users of Texas

By Peggy Garrett

Educators say that reading is fundamental. That may be true, but we, the
members of LUA of Texas also believe that reading should be fun! Isnt it
just fun to curl up with a good book and get totally absorbed? Can you
imagine yourself shadowing your favorite characters in exotic places? And
doesnt it make you just a little excited when the reader can create voices
for each character in the book? Ooh! Let me finish this and get back to my
book! But before I go, let me tell you a few things.

LUA of Texas is excited to begin a new calendar year. We will continue to

keep in close contact with the Texas State Library Talking Book Program
(TBP) to stay abreast of any news coming down from NLS or potential
changes at TBP. We will also continue to promote National Library Week
which will be held in April. We encourage each local chapter to host an
event or at least contact your local library to establish a relationship.
Page 10
But back to reading. If you enjoy books as much as we do, you might want
to share your book list or something about a book youve read. We are in
the midst of establishing an electronic forum by which you can let us know
what youve been reading and perhaps share with us some suggested
reading material. Stay tuned!

Its never too late to join LUA of Texas. For more information, contact me at
prcgarrett@sbcglobal.net Or our Treasurer, Michael Garrett at
Megarrett4443@sbcglobal.net.

Happy New Year and happy Reading!

ACBT Makes its Mark in Dallas

By Kenneth Semien, Sr.

The ACBT Conference/Convention Committee is happy to announce the

39th Annual Conference/Convention of the American Council of the Blind of
Texas will be held at the Doubletree by Hilton Dallas near the Galleria, 4099
Valley View Lane, from September 14 to 17, 2017. The nightly room rate is
$95 plus $12.35 (13% tax) which comes to a total of $107.35 for two guests.
2 additional guests can share the same room for a total room rate of $105
plus 13% tax per night. You may begin making your reservations now by
dialing (800) 222-8733. The deadline is August 30, 2017. To be sure to get
the negotiated rate, let the reservationist know that the group code is ACB.

We are happy to report that the Dallas Area Council is joining us to plan this
great event. We highly appreciate the support. The theme for this years
Conference/Convention is ACBT on the Move: Eliminating Barriers,
Creating Connections. Attendees can expect an array of sessions on
topics, such as leadership, diabetes, Low Vision, advocacy, transportation,
employment, technology, and much more. You will definitely want to take
advantage of the Exhibit Hall. Spread the word. We are preparing a fun time
for those who are ages 13 and above.

The fundraising committee is planning the biennial Auction and other

funfilled activities to add an extra spark to the weekend festivities. Peggy
Garrett is now serving as the Hotel Liaison and the ACBT President serves
Page 11
as the Conference/Convention Committee Chair. ACBT Treasurer, Sheila
Derrick will handle Conference/Convention registration, and Gene and
LouAnn Williams are serving as Exhibit Coordinators. Direct
Conference/Convention questions to president@acbtexas.org or dial
(409)866-5838. We look forward to greeting you in Dallas!

Cast Your Bid to be a Winner in Dallas!

By Kenneth Semien, Sr.

Join in on the fun as the ACBT Fundraising Committee gives special

attention to the 2017 ACBT Auction scheduled for Saturday, September 16,
2017 during the ACBT Conference/Convention in Dallas. We have great
expectations for this fundraising event to be the best ever, as we come
together to support efforts to accomplish our mission and purpose.

Each chapter, member and ACBT supporter can help to make the auction a
success by obtaining donated items that would be of interest and value to
participants of the auction, while considering that new or gently used items
which are in great working condition and are small enough to be stored
while traveling will be attractive to all.

Lets creatively identify and collect items, such as: family games, jewelry,
talking products, afghans and throws, collectibles like coins, stamps, and
sports cards, major chain restaurant and department store gift cards,
weekend get-aways, small appliances, rolling totes and luggage, tickets to
theme parks, symphony performances, museums, and sports events, to
name only a few.

As you make plans to attend the 39th Annual ACBT

Conference/Convention, be sure to invite others and put extra money aside
for interesting items you will want to take home for yourself or give as a gift
to someone you care about. Place your bid and the highest bidder wins.
Cash, Checks and credit cards will be accepted.

Don't delay, collect and send auction items right away! If items are being
mailed, they must be received no later than Monday September 11th and
Page 12
the deadline to submit items during the Conference/Convention will be
7:00PM on Friday September 15th. It is important that a detailed description
and value of each item be sent as soon as possible.

Contact Kenneth Semien, Sr. to acquire a physical address to send those

great items and ask any questions by sending email to
semien@sbcglobal.net or dial (409) 866-5838.

ACBT and Social Media

By Will Burley

The Public Relations (PR) Committee has been tasked with developing a
strategy to promote the ideals of the American council of the Blind of Texas
(ACBT) and it can only be done with your help!

The first step of the Committee was to create a new social media presence
that would adequately put forward the good works of our organization from
the annual State conference to the events held by our chapters and special-
interest affiliates. I encourage you, if you havent done so already, to take a
moment to be a committee of one to assist in promoting these events on
social media by liking our Facebook page found at facebook.com/ACBTx
and following our Twitter profile @TXACB. When we work together to
increase our followers and share the messages, we will slowly but surely be
able to deliver our message of advancing the cause of blind Texans.

The members of the Committee are: Ed Henderson, Gayle Metoyer, Miguel

Palermo and Belinda Skloss. If a committee, chapter or special-interest
affiliate would like to promote an event, please send an email to
acbtprteam@gmail.com.

Advocacy Services / Legislation Committee

By Paul Hunt

Page 13
Hello ACBT members from your 2016 -2017 advocacy Services / Legislation
Committee. We all hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday and start to
the new year. Your members for this years committee are:

Allen Dunbar, Belinda Skloss, Brian McCullough (chair person), Michael

Garrett, Sheryl Hunt, and Will Burley

Wondering about where you can easily get information about your Texas
Legislature when the new session begins on January 10, 2017? The
legislature has an excellent web site that is easily negotiable by most web
browsers and screen readers. The web page is:http://www.legis.state.tx.us
Do be aware that this site is sometimes referred to as TLO which is short
for Texas Legislature On-line.

How about making it your New Years resolution to explore the site and look
up your State Representative and State Senator? It is easily done on this
site by just inputting your address. Send each of them an e-mail and
introduce yourself as one of their constituents and a member of ACBT. It is
a simple task to introduce yourself and then later to let them know about
what issues and priorities are important to you and other blind or visually
impaired Texans. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact a
committee member and we will be happy to help or find an answer.

Brian McCullough
Phone: 817-584-0329
E-mail: nalcobrian@gmail.com

Constitution & Bylaws Committee

By Chris Prentice

As a new year begins, it is time again to look at our governing documents to

see if they appropriately serve our organizations needs. If you think
changes are needed in our Constitution or Bylaws, simply send me an email
prior to May 25, 2017. Any proposals will be considered by the Constitution
and Bylaws Committee. The current versions of these documents can be
found on our website www.acbtexas.org. If you have questions or
discussion items, please contact me at cprentice61@att.net or by telephone
at (512)2152032. Lets make 2017 the best ever for ACBT!
Page 14
Member Morale Committee
By Cindy Finley

The Member Morale Committee hopes you are having a positive beginning
to 2017. We would like to share ten rules that might be helpful as you go
through this year and beyond.

Ten Rules to Live By (from Power of Positivity):

1. Always, always, always be thankful.
2. Sometimes silence is better than being right.
3. Love is not what you say. Love is what you do.
4. Let go of whats gone, but keep the lesson.
5. If its what you love, never give up. Keep going
6. Dont let others steal your peace.
7. Be patient. Things will get better.
8. Integrity is everything!
9. Its okay to be afraid but dont let fear stop you.
10. Live in the moment, but look forward to what is coming next.

First Timer Award

By Cindy Finley

Have you ever considered applying for the American Council of the Blind of
Texas Ed and Linda Bradley First Timer Award? The First Timer Award was
established so that members who have never attended an ACBT
conference could have an opportunity to attend. Because of budget
constraints, this years First Timer Award will fund conference registration,
two nights lodging, and travel expense for one member (or possibly two) to
attend the ACBT state conference to be held in Dallas, September 14-17,
2017.

To be eligible to apply, you must have been a member in 2016 as well as

being a current ACBT member in good standing. Also, you must never have
attended an ACBT state conference and must be a Texas resident who is
legally blind.

Page 15
If you would like to apply for the 2017 Ed and Linda Bradley First Timer
Award, please submit your letter of application to the Member Morale
Committee. This letter needs to include your name, address, phone number,
email address, ACBT affiliation, visual status, and other information about
yourself, including activities which are important to you. Also, tell us why you
would like to attend the conference and how you think it will benefit you and
your participation in ACBT.

All application letters must be received by July 17, 2017, if sending your
application by email, or postmarked by July 17, 2017, if using snail mail. The
Member Morale Committee will review all applications and notify the
recipient of this years award no later than August 15, 2017. Please send all
applications to: Cindy Finley, Member Morale Committee Chair, 3710 70th
St, Lubbock, TX 79413, phone 806-795-0216, email:
cpfinley@sbcglobal.net.

2017 Who's Who Among Blind Texans Award

By Cindy Finley

The American Council of the Blind of Texas will honor three individuals with
the 2017 "Who's Who Among Blind Texans award during the Sunday
morning Awards Breakfast at the ACBT state conference to be held in
Dallas, September 14-17, 2017. Two of the awards must be given to ACBT
members, and the third award will be given to a non-member. These awards
promote and acknowledge positive contributions made to the State of Texas
and local communities by persons who are blind or visually impaired. Their
contributions can be made through advocacy, education, outreach, public
awareness, and other meaningful volunteer efforts.

Each recipient will receive a Certificate of Membership into the prestigious

ACBT Honor Society and receive special recognition in the "Who's Who
Among Blind Texans" Honor Showcase of The Texas Star newsletter, the
ACBT website, etc.

Page 16
Nominations for "Who's Who Among Blind Texans" will be accepted through
July 17, 2017. The Member Morale Committee will consider all nominees,
and the top two ACBT members and the top nonmember will be presented
his/her award during the Sunday morning Awards Breakfast.

Family members, friends, or organizations that have witnessed any

individual meeting the above criteria are encouraged to submit nominations.
Each nomination should contain the name, email and home address, and
phone number, as well as a one to two page narrative of the nominee's
contributions. If you have submitted a name in the past and that person was
not chosen, feel free to resubmit that persons name this year. All
nominations must be received by July 17, 2017, if emailed, or postmarked
by July 17, 2017, if mailed. Please send all nominations to: Cindy Finley,
Member Morale Committee Chair, 3710 70th St, Lubbock, TX 79413, phone
806-795-0216, email: cpfinley@sbcglobal.net.

Nominating Committee
By Michael Garrett

We hope the new year finds you with new faith, new energy and a new zest
for life! Even in the midst of challenges, opportunities for success abound.
As always, your participation is needed to identify board members who will
serve our organization well. This year, there will be two board positions up
for election. Now is the time to begin thinking about whether you would like
to serve, or asking someone who you believe would serve well, to think
about running for one of these positions.

Those eligible to run are individuals who are 18 years or older and have
been a member of ACBT for one year or more. Candidates must present a
written bio and answer the questions which have been prepared by the
Nominating Committee. Those questions will appear in the next issue of the
Texas Star. For further information, contact Michael Garrett by email at:
Megarrett4443@sbcglobal.net.

Remember that ACBT needs your help as we strive to fulfill our mission of
Advancing the Cause of Blind Texans.

Scholarship Committee
Page 17
By Dianna E. Carter

The American Council of the Blind of Texas awards scholarships on an

annual basis to deserving students who will be entering college or who are
currently attending a college, university, or career school. The 2017 ACBT
scholarship applications will be available beginning March 1, 2017.

Qualified students must be Texas residents. Application packets may be

obtained from the following sources:
Texas Workforce Solutions/Blind Services Division Counselors
Education Service Centers
The ACBT website www.acbtexas.org
Dianna Carter, ACBT Scholarship Committee Chair.

Completed scholarship applications and all supporting documents must be

received by Friday, July 7, 2017. Recipients will be notified by Friday,
August 11, 2017. We encourage all scholarship recipients to attend the
conference/convention so they may be recognized for their great
achievement during the Awards Breakfast on Sunday, September 17th.
Please submit Scholarship Packets or requests for further information to the
address below:
Dianna E. Carter, Scholarship Committee Chair
12106 Swaps Drive
El Paso, Texas 79936
(915) 539-6919
E-mail: mailto:ddcarter2000@gmail.com

Web Committee
By Paul Hunt

During the past year, the Web committee created the first fillable convention
registration form. The committee also implemented a new ACBT mailing list.
If you havent subscribed yet, just send an email to
acbt+subscribe@groups.io. After the moderator approves your subscription
and your first email message, you will have full access to the list. We also
appreciate the way our subscribers have been following the guidelines.
Page 18
During 2017, we will be working on a new site that will enable us to
complete convention registrations and other applications on line.
Now that were starting a new year, its time to update the Chapters and
Special Interest affiliate page. Please designate an individual from your
chapter or special interest affiliate To provide the web master with your
update. Please email updates to webmaster@acbtexas.org.

Alamo Council of the Blind

By Shelley McMullen

The Alamo Council of the Blind held our annual election in November. The
new officers are:
LuAnn Williams, President
Larry Roser, First vice President
Dianne Cooke, second vice President
Rosalyn Benevides, Secretary
Kevin Dunlap, Treasurer
Gene Williams, Assistant Treasurer

Congratulations to the new officers! We held our Christmas party at

Crumpets. The food was delicious, and the service was great. We also had
a gift exchange. We look forward to 2017 with hope for greater productivity,
more members and new projects under the leadership of LuAnn Williams
and her administration.
Lastly we want to wish all ACBT members and friends a peaceful,
prosperous New Year.

East Texas Area Council of the Blind

By Michelle Boyd

The East Texas Area Council of the Blind will start 2017 with energy and
excitement. We continue to think of ways to engage and increase the
membership. We keep it simple!

How simple have we kept our ideas for our chapter? We decided t-shirts
might be a winning start in 2016. So we designed and purchased shirts for

Page 19
the chapter. We now have our t-shirts and are wearing them! Wearing these
t-shirts can spark conversations and questions from the public. We also
wear them each time we meet at our monthly meeting, which is held the
third Saturday of each month, from 2 to 3 p.m.at the Tyler Public Library,
located at 201 North College Street.

We continue to prepare, plan and participate throughout the community so

that we can reach more fellow east Texans who have vision loss.

El Paso Council of the Blind

By Dianna E. Carter

Greetings Everyone! We hope you had a Christmas filled with blessings and
good company. We are thankful for another year of friendship and
community service. As Election Day neared, members Eleanor and Dianna
were featured in a local television show to discuss voting with vision loss.
They demonstrated accessible voting equipment as well as the process of
requesting an accessible ballot. We received very positive feedback from
voters who used the audible ballot; some were first-time voters.
Christmas followed and we gathered for our annual party. The white
elephant gift exchange got very competitive and resulted in much laughter.
Congratulations to our ugly sweater winners. They included gift wrap
suspenders with a matching tie and a Christmas wreath sweater. We
enjoyed a good dinner and great company.

As part of our yearly tradition, we provided meals and toys for children and
their families in need. We would like to send our appreciation to the
members and volunteers who made our program such a success.
As the New Year draws closer, we wish everyone health, happiness,
fellowship and the success of another year of improving the lives of Bline
persons throughout Texas. Happy New Year!

Greater Fort Worth Area Council

By Sheila Derrick

Page 20
Best wishes to everyone for a great 2017 and we hope each of you enjoyed
a wonderful holiday season. The Fort Worth chapter concluded 2016 with
celebrations, outreach, and great participation from all our members.

October began with the Bedford Library Low Vision Fair where President
James Goin and member Karin Hicks demonstrated both the Perkins Braille
Writer and the slate and stylus as a means of writing in Braille. They Brailed
attendees names on index cards and passed out Braille alphabet cards
along with the names. Sharon Williams read Braille books to children and
other interested patrons. The Fair is an annual event and one of our best
opportunities for community exposure.

In November, Ginger Kraft shared her 80th birthday celebration with the Fort
Worth Council by not only inviting all of us to her party, but also using the
occasion to raise money for our scholarship program. She generously
requested that, in lieu of gifts, donations be made to the chapter.
It was a great time of friendship and fellowship.

December was another month of sharing and good times as we met at Joe
T. Garcias restaurant for our annual holiday luncheon. Joe Ts, as it is
known locally, has been a Fort Worth landmark for many, many years and
this was a first opportunity for some of our group to experience it. Despite a
cold and rainy day, it was warm and cozy inside and a great time was had
by all as we enjoyed their signature family style enchiladas and fajitas.

Houston Council Happenings

By Peggy R. Garrett

As usual, the Houston Council of the Blind has been busy hosting activities
and participating in community happenings!

During the last quarter of 2016, our members participated in a number of

community events including: the FFB Vision Walk, helping organize the
White Cane Safety Day March and celebration, sponsoring an NRG
Stadium tour, meeting with TWC Field Directors for agency updates and to
advocate for consumers, attending paratransit meetings for updates and

Page 21
input on services, and singing Christmas carols at the Sheltering Arms Day
Center

Elections were held in November, 2017. Board members include: Michael

Garrett President, Gayle Metoyer First VP, Cuqui Soto Second VP, Thomas
Morrison Secretary, Karen Spraig Treasurer, Board members Michael
McCulloch, Sandhya Rao and Diego Demaya.

HCB members wish a Happy New Year to all of our ACBT family!

Page 22
Amerigroup provides STAR, CHIP, STAR+PLUS, and Medicare programs in
counties throughout Texas. This includes helping mothers, children, the
elderly, and people with disabilities with their physical, behavioral, and social
needs. For more information, visit www.amerigroup.com.

Cigna HealthSpring works with the State of Texas to help people with
Medicaid get health care in the STAR+PLUS Program. STAR+PLUS is a
Texas Medicaid managed care program for people who have disabilities or
are age 65 or older. For more information, visit www.cigna.com.

Superior HealthPlan, Inc. (tm) (Superior) is a health maintenance

organization. Superior is a subsidiary of Centene Corporation, a leading,
multi-line healthcare enterprise that provides programs and related services
to individuals receiving benefits under Medicaid, including Supplemental
Security Income (SSI) and the State Childrens Health insurance Program
(SCHIP). For more information visit www.superiorhealthplan.com.

The ACBT Board of Directors is comprised of 5 elected Officers, 4 Directors,

an Immediate Past President, and an appointed representative from each
Chapter and Special Interest Affiliate. The appointed representatives are
selected by their respective Chapter or Special Interest Affiliate.
Directors are elected for staggered 4 year terms.

ACBT Officers
President - Kenneth Semien, Sr.
First Vice President - Peggy R. Garrett
Secretary- Mary Alice Gary
Treasurer- Sheila Derrick
Immediate Past President - Carol Edwards
Chris D. Prentice - Director
Ken B. Sparks - Director
LouAnn Williams - Director

Toll-free number: 866-929-2228

Page 23