THE TEXAS STAR

Vol. 24, No. 3 July, 2016

Neva Fairchild, Editor

Expressions from the Presidents Desk Kenneth Semien, Sr.

Tales from the Treasurer Sheila Derrick
ACBT 2016 Conference/Convention Peggy R. Garrett
Nominating Committee Report Michael Garrett
2016 Candidacy for ACBT President Kenneth Semien, Sr.
2016 Candidacy for ACBT 1st Vice President Peggy Garrett
2016 Candidacy for ACBT Secretary Mary Alice Gary
2016 Candidacy for ACBT Treasurer Shelia Derrick
Walking for Success Kevin Ratliff
Resolutions Time Again Bob Bartlett
Guide Dog Users of Texas LouAnn Williams
Braille Revival League of Texas Neva Fairchild
Alamo Council Update Shelley McMullen
El Paso Council Dianna Carter
Fort Worth Council Gets Out and About Sheila Derrick
ACBT Advocacy Committee Paul Hunt
ACBT Website Committee Paul Hunt
ACBT Membership Committee Peggy R. Garrett
ACBT Member Morale Cindy Finley
Legally Blind Live Between Worlds Larry P. Johnson
Changes to Texas Independent Living Services Scott Bowman
Note from the Editor Neva Fairchild

Toll-free number: 866-929-2228

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

subscribers and are not necessarily reflective of the membership
as a whole. The articles express only the opinion of the author.]
Expressions from the Presidents Desk
by Kenneth Semien, Sr.

Hello, Aloha, Ciao, Hola, Bonjour:

The voyages of Summer makes way for countless forms of greetings,

creative activities, foods, excursions and formations of lasting memories. Be
encouraged to step out and explore something new as you partake of what
your local community and beyond has to offer. It could change your life for
the better.

Please allow me to begin my expressions by recognizing LouAnn Williams

of San Antonio for submitting the April 2016 Texas Star Article of the
Quarter. She allowed her unexpected and challenging experience in dealing
with eliminating the scent of a skunk to become a recipe for success of
which others can prevent having a Stinky Situation to become an obstacle.
Very creative LouAnn!

On Saturday April 30th, the annual Spring Board of Directors Meeting was
held in Austin at the Holiday Inn Midtown. Special guests included Larry
Temple, Executive Director of the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) and
members of the TWC Executive Team. We became enlightened through the
presentation of their efforts to prepare for the incorporation of the Texas
Department of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services (DARS) vocational rehab
program, Independent Living Program, and Criss Cole Rehabilitation
Center into their agency as of September 1, 2016. You are invited to request
an overview of the presentation, which includes responses to questions
submitted by board members. ACBT Webmaster, Paul Hunt introduced a
Website Re-design Project which involves the use of new technological
advances that are available to enhance our website. The submitted
proposal will be considered to its fullest extent during the upcoming months
as Paul participates in several training modules to become familiar with
developmental protocol. A Website Policy was adopted by the Board of
Directors and I would like to say thanks to Paul Hunt, Ken Sparks and
Rebecca Pierrot for agreeing to serve on the new Website Committee. Lets
greet one another and make new friends in Austin during the 38th annual
Conference/Convention of the American Council of the Blind of Texas.
Witness the festivities for yourself at the Holiday Inn Midtown from Thursday
September 22-25, 2016. Register today, without delay. Feel free to share
any comments and concerns you may have with me by using the
information below. Email: president@acbtexas.org Desk: (409) 866-5838

Au Revoir,

Kenneth Semien, Sr.

Tales from the Treasurer

by Sheila Derrick

Hello everyone. I hope all of you are enjoying a warm, sunny and drier early
Texas summer. I also hope you are already thinking ahead to the ACBT
conference this fall in Austin from September 22 - 25, 2016. I look forward
to seeing everyone there.

Please remember new members can be added at any time BUT

If they wish to be certified to vote at this years conference, I must receive
their dues from the chapter treasurer postmarked no later than AUGUST 8,
2015.

For each new member I will need the following information: first and last
name, street address, city, state, zip code, home and cell phone numbers,
e-mail address, vision status (totally blind, legally blind, vision impaired
which is corrected vision less than 20/70 but greater than legally blind at
20/200, or fully sighted) and their publication formats. The Texas Star is
available by email, audio CD and large print. We do encourage all
members with email access to please select the email format. The Braille
Forum from ACB is available in Braille, computer CD, 4-track cassette, large
print and email. Each of these newsletters is published quarterly.

New member information and dues should be mailed to: Sheila Derrick,
309 Paloverde Lane, Fort Worth, TX 76112-1122. Dues to ACBT are $7.00
for chapter members, $10.00 for at-large members and $3.00 for junior
members whose age is 13-18 years. Junior members whose dues are
received by August 8th have full voting rights and privileges at the
conference.
Thanks to all members who are actively supporting the ACBT fundraising
efforts. Watch for several new campaigns that will be coming soon.
Schwans is doing well and every item purchased adds to our coffers.

ACBT 2016 Conference/Convention

by Peggy R. Garrett, Conference/Convention Coordinator

Yes, its July already! That means that we are getting very close to our
upcoming Conference/Convention. With just over two months before the
2016 American Council of the Blind of Texas 38th annual
Conference/Convention begins, we hope that you are finalizing your plans
To meet us in Austin!

Established in 1978, the American Council of the Blind of Texas turned 38

this year! The theme Serving, Inspiring, Making A Difference captures the
mission, goals and vision of the organization. The 2016
Conference/Convention will offer attendees the chance to learn more
about the organization with an Open House session facilitated by
President Kenneth Semien, Sr..

For those people who are contemplating taking on leadership roles, but
arent sure they are ready, there is a session on Friday afternoon,
Discovering the Leader In You, designed to help develop and fine tune
your skills to step up and become a future leader !.

Registration packets have been mailed, and registration forms will be

posted to the ACBT website. In a few weeks, I will begin sending email
messages with more detailed information on sessions and other activities.
Stay tune for updates, and please remember to share information with
members and friends who may not receive emails.

Join us at the Holiday Inn Austin Midtown September 22-25 for the 38th
annual state Conference/Convention. The room rate is $99.00 plus 15% tax
($113.85). Reservations can be made by calling the hotel at 512-451-5757.
The deadline to make reservations and receive the group rate is September
2, 2016. Remember that in order to be assured that you receive the group
rate, you must mention that you are with ACBT when you make your
reservations.
Nominating Committee Report
by Michael Garrett

The elections, to be held at the 2016 Conference/Convention, are fast

approaching. This is indeed an important process in which each member
can participate, as it determines the direction of our organization. The
leaders we choose are the face of ACBT.

All candidates must be familiar with the duties of, and relating to the office
being sought, as stated in the ACBT Constitution and Bylaws. They must
also read the entire Constitution and Bylaws.,.

The Nominating Committee presents the following 2016 slate of officers:

President: Kenneth Semien, Sr.
First Vice President: Peggy Garrett
Secretary: Mary Alice Gary
Treasurer: Sheila Derrick

Of course, nominations can be made from the floor; however, you must
have talked to the person being nominated to be sure that the individual is
willing to serve and fulfill the duties of that office. Also, he or she must have
a bio which includes answers to the following questions which will be read
on the conference floor during elections. The candidates bio should consist
of a brief introductory paragraph which includes the office being sought, ,
and the answers to the following questions:

Below the list of questions are the bios of each person on the slate of
officers. The questions are stated here so each candidate does not need to
include the questions with his/her answers.

1) What is your reason(or reasons) for seeking this office?

2) What experience and expertise can you contribute to this office, and
ACBT?
3) What actions would you take to assist ACBT in fulfilling its mission and
achieve its goals?
4) Fundraising is vital to keeping any organization alive. Name two
possible fundraising events and tell how you would personally
contribute to the success of these events.\
 5) When do you feel that it is necessary for change to take place in an
organizations practices and procedures?
6) What do you see as the biggest challenges facing ACBT over the next
two to three years, and how would you help ACBT deal with these
challenges?

2016 Candidacy for ACBT President

Kenneth Semien, Sr.

Greetings ACBT Nominating Committee and Members:

In an effort to continue serving you and establishing greater possibilities for

a fruitful future for ACBT, I hereby submit my notice of candidacy for the
office of President for the term of 2016-2018, which will be my final term of
three. I am honored to have had the opportunity to share my energy, skills
and abilities with you for the past two terms. With your vote of confidence on
Sunday September 25th, we will be afforded the privilege to progressively
position and sustain ACBT for growth and further advancement. Its
imperative that we work as a team to offer unwavering support, promote
independence and secure enhancements to programs and services, thereby
improving the quality of life for all Texans who are blind, have low vision,
and those who will join our population as they advance through the aging
process. Together we have made strides and built undeniable momentum. I
look forward to responding to your questions prior to and during the
Candidates Forum scheduled for Saturday September 24, 2016. Always
remember, Together We Win.

1) In addition to not being able to currently identify a qualified candidate

to perform the work of the president, it is necessary for me to continue
serving during my final term to ensure that key imperatives are fulfilled
without question, with an accent placed on assisting ACBT in
advancing to a higher level of accomplishment.
2) With the level of work involved, in addition to duties referenced in the
Bylaws, I believe that my ability to organize, demonstrate efficiency
standards, lead by example, pay close attention to detail, and
constantly monitor progress in order to discover and take preventive
measures to avoid and overcome potential obstacles while presenting
new and innovative ideas for organizational growth is an asset to our
organization.
 3) I will increase personal efforts to broadcast our mission while
employing the assistance of the Public Relations, Advocacy and
Legislation, and Membership committees to develop a team project for
the distribution of educational material. Additionally, I will direct
attention to the annual budget with an emphasis on purpose-driven
fundraising that would ensure increased funding to meet our financial
goals.
4) I will continue efforts to develop needed programs and collaboratively
work with the budget and finance committee, fundraising committee,
and the Board of Directors to position our organization to qualify for
grants and additional corporate sponsorships. Furthermore, I propose
that we initiate a statewide fundraising event to include all 10 chapters
on the same day or within the same month, on a local basis while
implementing a Fund Sharing Program that would allow each chapter
to retain 50% for their personal use. I am willing to work with the
fundraising committee to determine the type of fundraiser that would
benefit all involved.
5) It is my personal opinion that all organizational practices and
procedures should be considered for revision on an annual basis.
Moreover, it would be advantageous to monitor trends on an ongoing
basis, as they may have become obsolete as the organizational
structure, the membership and leadership team changes.
6) Due to a decline in identifying interested and qualified candidates for
offices, our board, and committee appointments to willingly learn and
gain an interest in sustaining ACBT, I have initiated the annual
leadership seminar, Club FLT for younger members who are willing to
prepare for future leadership opportunities, and will continue to
promote the importance of an ongoing Project Future initiative to
strengthen communication of our needs throughout our membership.

2016 Candidacy for ACBT 1st Vice President

by Peggy Garrett

My name is Peggy Garrett and I am seeking reelection to the office of 1st

Vice President of the American Council of the Blind of Texas for the term
2016-2018.

1) I am seeking to serve a second term in this position because I believe

in the mission and vision of ACBT. As the number of people who are
 blind or visually impaired continues to increase, it is imperative that
there is strong representation for the blindness community. I want to
help ensure that ACBT continues to be that representative and strong
voice for all blind people of Texas!

2) Having served on the Membership Committee of ACB for the past

eleven years and in this position for the past two years, I will use the
knowledge and experience I have gained to assist ACBT to become a
stronger organization. AS Chair of the Membership Committee, I plan
to continue hosting focus calls designed to provide information to
Chapters and Special Interest Affiliates that can assist them to recruit
and retain members and to create more awareness in their local
communities by increasing their outreach efforts.

3) To assist ACBT to achieve its mission and goals, I will take advantage
of every opportunity to create awareness of ACBT and its advocacy
efforts, leadership training and programs designed to provide inclusion
for people of all ages. I will share these opportunities with ACBT
Chapters and Special Interest Affiliates as well.

4) As a member of the Fund Raising Committee and

Conference/Convention Coordinator, I am constantly seeking new
avenues to raise funds for ACBT. I will continue to secure corporate
sponsorships, donations and support for ACBT from all possible
avenues.

5) I dont believe in change for the sake of change. However, I believe

that in a world that is constantly changing, we must reevaluate our
current practices and procedures to ensure that we are taking
advantage of all opportunities to achieve our mission and goals. This
includes using the latest social media outlets to reach as many people
as possible, especially the youth we so desperately need to ensure the
growth and continuation of our organization.

6) A major challenge facing ACBT continues to be the recruitment and

retention of younger members. I have been serving on the Younger
Members sub-committee of the ACB Membership Committee. This
provides the opportunity to network with other affiliates on how they are
effectively recruiting and retaining youth. My goal is to bring new ideas
 to ACBT on reaching youth and recruiting and retaining them as
members of ACBT.

2016 Candidacy for ACBT Secretary

by Mary Alice Gary

My name is Mary Alice Gary, and I currently fill the office of Secretary for
The American Council of the Blind of Texas (ACBT). At this time, I would like
to run for the position of Secretary of ACBT, as my two year term comes to
an end and would appreciate your vote. At the state level I also serve on
several committees such as, Membership, Budget, and Credential
Committees. I am also active in my local ACBT chapter in El Paso, Texas.
With The El Paso Council of the Blind (EPCB) I am Treasurer and sit on the
committees of Transportation, Membership, Fundraising and The
Constitution and By Laws.

In addition, I also serve in other capacities with the city of El Paso. Most
recently, I was appointed to the Accessibility Advisory Committee to serve a
three year term on the board which meets monthly. Currently, I have been
involved with meetings with the Election Department regarding accessible
voting throughout El Paso County. I also currently represent EPCB as I sit
on the Passenger Advisory Committee (PAC). We meet bi-monthly to
discuss resolutions to Para-transit issues, and provide feedback to assist in
improving services to clients. I also have the privilege of meeting and
interacting with new Paratransit drivers to educate them with helpful tips on
assisting individuals in the blindness community.

1) By continuing as Secretary it would allow me to be more active on the

state level. By communicating with members from other Chapters,
trading ideas and suggestions, we can all learn from each other and
use this knowledge to help ACBT and our local communities become
more aware of blindness related issues and advocate in a positive
manner to help break down barriers.
2) For the past 2 years as Secretary, I have diligently recorded, typed,
and distributed the Minutes for ACBTs Board Meetings. Previously
working in the accounting field reinforces the need to provide accurate
and detailed information in the Minutes.
3) Becoming active in the community by advocating and educating in a
positive way to improve the quality of life for people in the community
 living with blindness. With my positive attitude and energy, I feel I can
help ACBT accomplish its goals.
4) Fundraising goals can be accomplished on a statewide level with
active communication. Communicating with local Chapters by email to
keep them informed is a must. Each Chapter should have a
representative on the Fundraising Committee, so information is past
down to local members. One idea may be to have an ACBT raffle
during the Conference. Instead of giving away Door Prizes, sell raffle
tickets instead. Depending on the value and number of prizes, could
determine the cost of the tickets.
5) In order to grow as an Organization, change must occur, especially in
todays fast paced world. Procedures and policies need to be re-
evaluated or fine-tuned when they are not running efficiently. I believe
most resolutions can be done with discussion during a Board Meeting.
6) Retaining and increasing ACBT membership is important. I have
contributed ideas and will continue to assist ACBT to find ways to bring
in additional members from all age groups, especially young adults
and youth. Using social media and various forms of advertising to
increase membership may be an option.

2016 Candidacy for ACBT Treasurer

by Shelia Derrick

Im Sheila Derrick, a member of the Greater Fort Worth chapter, and I am

seeking re-election to the position of treasurer. I have held that post for the
past four years and have also been my chapter treasurer since 2010. I look
forward to continuing to use my skills for the benefit of ACBT. Even though I
am now partially sighted, I still enjoy the challenge of balancing budgets and
maintaining accurate financial records.

1) Volunteering has always been an important part of my life but, due to

transportation difficulties since moving to Texas, I have not been as
active as I would like. This position affords me the opportunity to use
my skills and give to an organization that has a vital role in supporting
the blind community while allowing most of the work to be done at
home.
2) I have 30 years of basic bookkeeping experience through my
employment as a medical practice office manager and I have had 2
college level accounting courses. Currently I am serving my second
 term as ACBT treasurer, my third term as Fort Worth treasurer and my
fourth year as Conference treasurer.
3) I am a member of the Finance and Budget Committee, and with the
help of the committee, we are responsible for creating, amending, and
submitting a budget to the Board. I am also on the Fund Raising
Committee, the Membership Committee, and the State Conference
Committee where I am charged with all registration duties and also the
treasurer responsibilities. I support the mission of the organization by
supporting the behind the scenes daily functions of ACBT and by
representing my local chapter at community events.
4) Unfortunately, I am not a creative, out of the box type of thinker and
have difficulty presenting new fundraising ideas. I do wholeheartedly
participate in all of the ACBTT fundraisers, actively solicit donations
and advertising subscriptions for the conference and donating monthly
through the ACB giving program.
5) When an organization strays from its mission statement or begins to
place too much emphasis on only one part of its programs, then it is
time to re-evaluate its practices. All human interactions come with
differences of ideas, but the goals of the organization should always be
the anchor for the direction the group pursues.
6) Our biggest challenge is reaching new members, both young and old.
The Youth Advantage Program is off to an impressive beginning with
praise from the DARS/DBS staff and this years youth participation in
the conference should be bigger than last. The goal is continued
growth and the addition of a program for college age students as they
move beyond the YAP. Our further challenge is reaching the ever
increasing population of Texans with vision loss due to macular
degeneration and other age related eye diseases. Representation of
both our local chapters and ACBT at as many community events as
possible is necessary to spread our message. Word of mouth is the
best means of advertisement.

Walking for Success

by Kevin Ratliff

Announcing the American Council of the Blind of Texas (ACBT) 2016 "Walk
for Success" Walk-a-thon. Put on your best walking shoes, and get ready to
Walk for Success with ACBT!
The ACBT Walk-a-thon Success Team will be comprised of members,
family, friends, and other supporters who will diligently collect donations and
walk together on Saturday, September 24th, 2016, at the Texas School for
the Blind and Visually Impaired, in Austin Texas, during the 38th Annual
ACBT Conference and Convention. Everyone is encouraged to participate,
or have someone walk in their place, if they are unable to do so. In addition,
if for any reason it is not feasible for you or a designated representative of
your choice to join the Walk for Success, we encourage you to take
advantage of the Virtual Walk Option which provides flexibility and the
opportunity for you, or a representative of your choice, to walk in your home
town or any other suitable location. Some individuals may select a city park,
school or university track, a mall, or other highly populated area in which
they feel safe.

You automatically become an ACBT Success Partner when you submit

your ten dollar entry fee as you register for the conference, and accept
additional donations in support of ACBT. As you accept donations, you will
be supporting the fundraising activities of ACBT. These activities support the
goal of advancing and enriching the quality of life for Texans who are blind
or visually impaired through advocacy, education, awards, scholarships, and
support.

Get active and get fit with ACBTs 2016 Walk for Success, while having
lots of fun and winning some fabulous prizes! You might possibly be the
lucky one to win the first, second, or third place prize for finishing the walk,
or for raising the most funds. There also will be plenty of goodies to keep
you well-nourished and energized during the walk. Look forward to a fun-
filled time of socializing, as we Walk for Success!
In addition, support ACBT when you shop at Amazon.com with the Amazon
Smile program. When you check out, you will have an opportunity to choose
a charity (American Council of the Blind of Texas) with the Fort Worth
address, and Amazon will donate a portion of your purchase to the
organization. Please keep our wonderful organization in mind when you
shop at Amazon.com.
Resolutions Time Again

by Bob Bartlett

Once again it is time to submit resolutions to the committee in order to have

them presented on the convention floor as your voice being heard. This is
how you can help direct the efforts of our Board members and officers with
projects you feel need consideration. You can either call me, Bob Bartlett, at
713-645-6370) or submit by email to rlb119@att.net. If you just want to talk
about an idea simply call and we can help flesh the idea into a resolution.
Your Resolutions Committee wants to hear from you.

Guide Dog Users of Texas

by LouAnn Williams

Where has the year gone! It wont be long before it is time to gather at the
ACBT annual Conference/Convention once again. Hopefully there will be
an overall great turn out and a good turnout for GDUT as well. The
Conference/Convention is a convenient time to pay your annual dues for
2017. So, remember it is that time again. If you cant come this year, you
may send your dues to our Treasurer Neil Finley. Dues are $15.00. This
includes membership for Guide Dog Users, Inc., on the national level.

Neil Finley
3710 70th St
Lubbock, TX 79413
Home Phone: 806-795-0216

Come to an informative GDUT program at the Conference/Convention. The

topic will be Access Rights and Fake Service Animals. This has been an
ongoing topic on several of the National GDUI conference calls this year.
Our group leader will be Jamie Massey, GDMI from Guide Dogs of Texas.
Hopefully we will have several representatives from other guide dog
Schools to provide additional input.

Come join the fun and you might just receive a door prize, for your guide
dog, from www.Chewy.com. They are a great company to order from for all
your dogs needs. If you are a pet owner for cats or other small pets they
have a wide variety to choose from. I have found their 24/7 phone service
to be most helpful. Hope to see you soon!

Braille Revival League of Texas

by Neva Fairchild

At the 2015 ACBT Conference/Convention, many of you purchased a

chance to win an iPod Touch. We continued to sell chances after the
conference ended, and although we intended to sell 100, we actually sold
90. We are pleased to announce that Jennifer Yooer is our winner and the
brand new 64GB iPod Touch will be purchased and provided before the
beginning of August. Congratulations, Jennifer and thanks to all who
supported the work of BRLT by purchasing a chance.

Play games and win $$$! During the 2016 Conference/Convention in Austin,
join BRLT on Friday afternoon to play games and win some money. Braille
reading is a plus, but certainly not required to participate. We will offer both
braille and large print clues. You can always team up with someone who is a
good braille reader. Check us out and ask any of us if you are curious about
learning to read braille. Its never too late.

The Conference/Convention is also a great time to pay your 2017 BRLT

dues. If you cant attend this year, send your dues to Margarine Beaman.
Dues are $15.00 and your national membership in the Braille Revival
League is included.

Alamo Council Update

by Shelley McMullen

The Alamo Council of the Blind began our summer with a trip to the San
Antonio zoo. Volunteers offered sighted guide assistance and a good time
was had by all. We are very excited about our up-coming events and
activities in 2016. In August, we will be awarding scholarships to three
deserving college students. A picnic is scheduled at Morgan's Wonderland
on October 1. Elections will be held in November. The final event of the year
will be our Christmas party, location to be announced. Stay cool, and enjoy
your summer, everyone!
El Paso Update
by Dianna E. Carter

Greetings to everyone! We hope your summer is off to a great start. The El

Paso Council of the Blind has been busy working on several projects
throughout the city. Several of our members, in partnership with the City of
El Paso, helped plan the citys first Disabilities Awareness Summit, which
was held on June 25, 2016. The summit received city sponsorship to
include catered snacks and lunch for all participants. The event was held at
the Judson F. Williams Convention Center. The approximate 100 attendees
heard presentations on various topics on disabilities as well as an ADA
attorney who was very informative about ADA standards as they apply to
businesses open to the public. Thank you to all who participated.
Our iPad camp was such a success that we caught the attention of
Homeland Security employees, who were impressed with the program. The
great surprise our council received was the news that the Homeland
Security employees held their own fundraiser and presented our council
with all the proceeds to purchase even more iPads. Stay tuned!
We would like to send a big congratulations to our Vice President, Miguel
Palomar, on being awarded the J.P. Morgan Chase Fellowship Leader
Award. The recognition will be given at the annual ACB National
Conference. The eyes of Texas will be upon you Miguel!
Finally, our members continue to be active in Passenger Advisory
Committees, Accessibility Advisory Committees, Paratransit re-certifications,
Voter Advocacy and Sensitivity Training. We thank everyone for their hard
work. See you in September!

Fort Worth Council Gets Out and About

by Sheila Derrick

At our April meeting, the Fort Worth Council decided that one way to
increase membership was to increase our presence in the community and
so we have embraced that endeavor.

In mid-April we enjoyed a delightful afternoon at the Amon Carter Museum

of Art exploring two paintings in their permanent collection that have been
included in their Tactile Art Program for the visually impaired and blind. The
paintings are recreated, on a smaller scale, using various tactile mediums.
While we were exploring the works with our hands, the curator gave a
detailed description of the paintings physical attributes, as well as, its
history and reasons for its choice of subject. It was a fascinating
experience and is a new program at the Amon Carter. We were proud to be
asked for input on the presentation. We look forward to our next visit!

Our May meeting brought Mr. Scott Townsend, Assistant to Tarrant County
Commissioner J.D. Johnson, with some good news about future transit
plans being considered for the entire county. He requested our assistance
in providing facts and figures on the blind/visually impaired Tarrant County
population and our most pressing transportation needs. Mr. Townsend is a
huge supporter of the blind community and has been part of our White Cane
Safety Day celebration since its inception.

June brought us to downtown Fort Worth as we held our meeting in the

Sundance Square Plaza, an outdoor area recently added to the city scape
featuring several seating areas including tables with umbrellas and
benches, large shade structures and two water features including an
expansive in ground fountain. Following the meeting, we strolled down
Main Street and enjoyed lunch at Risckys BBQ, a Fort Worth tradition.
There we had the opportunity to educate the staff on serving those with less
than normal vision. Everyone left happy, well-fed, and proud to be out and
about as a group on our own.

ACBT Advocacy Committee

by Paul Hunt

Members of the advocacy committee are monitoring the activities of the

Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), the Health and Human Services
Commission (HHSC) and the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative
Services (DARS). This includes reviewing the state plans and commenting
on proposed regulations. The advocacy Committee will continue to monitor
the transition and will inform ACBT members on actions they should take.
During the next legislative session, we expect legislators to file
Transportation Network Company (TNC) and Texting and Driving bills.
Finally, the Advocacy committee is planning a workshop during the 2016
ACBT Conference/Convention. The workshop is titled Advocacy in Action:
ACBT at the Legislative Seminar. Texas has thirty-six representatives and
two senators. Its important to send a large delegation to the Legislative
seminar so that we can effectively advocate for the issues that are important
to ACBT.

ACBT Website Committee

by Paul Hunt

During the past six months, the ACBT Website committee (COMMITTEE)
was reorganized. The current members are Kenneth Semien, Sr., Rebecca
Pierrot, Ken Sparks and Paul Hunt. The COMMITTEE sincerely thanks Mike
Firth for his service to ACBT as our web master.

Paul is the new Web master and Rebecca is working with him. Kenneth and
Ken will review content and help test the website. The COMMITTEE will
continue to maintain the current website while developing a new site in
Drupal, a content management system (CMS). The CMS will allow us to add
new features such as online registration, online scholarship applications, at
large membership applications, etc. We will also be able to enable ACBT
officers and committee chairs to publish their content directly to the site.
We are excited about the future of the ACBT website.

Membership Committee
by Peggy R. Garrett

One of the issues facing both Chapters and Special Interest Affiliates is
recruiting and retaining members. On our first conference call, we shared
ideas for reaching out and attracting new members. We would like to share
these ideas with all of you as well.

Tips for Attracting New Members:

1) Participate in community events, such as health fairs, community

planning, advocacy groups, etc..
2) Disseminate chapter brochures and flyers for upcoming meetings and
events.
3) Participate in city council meetings and other official events.
4) Visit senior centers and invite seniors to attend meetings and other
activities.
 5) Acknowledge visitors at meetings and contact them and invite them to
become a member.
6) Invite students and other youth and encourage them to assist with
Facebook and twitter.
7) Display brochures at physicians and ophthalmologists offices.
8) Take brochures, flyers and/or business cards with you to hand out at
every opportunity.
9) Ask each member to bring a person to a meeting or other activity
hosted by the chapter.
10) Contact former members and ask them to join again.
11) Form a Membership Committee to brainstorm ideas for recruiting and
retaining members.

We hope that you will find these tips helpful as you work to grow your
membership.

We are planning the next focus call for the fall. If you have a topic you
would like the Membership Committee to discuss on one of the calls, please
do not hesitate to let us know. You may send your suggestion to me directly
at prcgarrett@sbcglobal.net.

Member Morale
by Cindy Finley

By the time you receive the July Texas Star, this years fourth of July will
have come and gone. However you celebrated our countrys birthday this
year, join me in helping to wish another birthday greeting: Happy 240th
Birthday to the United States of America. WOW!! How large of a cake
would it take to hold 240 candles? Did you know the original Declaration of
Independence is housed in the National Archives in Washington, D.C.? July
4 was designated a national holiday to commemorate the day the United
States laid down its claim to be a free and independent nation.
The Member Morale Committee would like to share some quotes that we
hope speak to you in some way.

A word of encouragement can make the difference between giving up

or going on. Delores Cannon

Compliments cost nothing but can make someone feel like a million
bucks. Angela Martinez

The smallest good deed is better than the grandest good intention.
Unknown

Real winners are ordinary people with extraordinary determination.

Unknown

Be strong. You never know who you are inspiring. Jeremy Chan

We may not always agree, but we must be willing to listen.

Unknown

When you come to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.
Unknown

Legally blind Live Between Worlds

by Larry P. Johnson

Much harder than being blind is being not quite blind. As we get older our
hearing, vision, memory and everything else begins to slowly decline. And,
because it often happens to us gradually, we dont notice it or, if we do, we
are reluctant to admit it. When we fail to recognize someone who waves to
us from across the street or have to give up reading the newspaper because
the print is too small, we feel frustrated and annoyed. We make excuses to
our friends and to ourselves. Strangers become impatient when we take
extra time to read the menu at a drive-through restaurant. I know many
people, most of them seniors who have lost vision due to macular
degeneration, glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy, who steadfastly refuse to
carry a white cane because, in their mind, it labels them as blind. They
prefer to be guided by a sighted spouse or friend, not realizing or admitting
that this limits their independence even more.

There are many terms to describe those who live between the worlds of the
fully sighted and totally blind: low vision, visually impaired, legally blind and
partially sighted. Some people who are now classified as legally blind once
had 20/20 vision. Others may have no concept of what its like to have
normal vision. Some can see colors or shadows. Others may only see
parts of things and spend their life figuratively trying to put together the
pieces of a puzzle. Some may be able to see a tiny speck of paper on the
floor but will run into a chair that wasnt pushed in. For many their ability to
see may be dependent on such factors as the lighting in a room, the
weather outside or how tired they are.

Natasha Baebler is a writer, yoga instructor and the founder of UD for Yoga,
an organization that brings yoga to children and adults with disabilities in the
St. Louis area. She is also partially sighted. She writes: Never knowing if
you will be able to see something today that you could see yesterday is
confusing for partially sighted people. We have a condition where we live in
the gray area of the world. We work hard with what we have. We get
frustrated. We rejoice. We compensate and compromise. Maybe glasses or
contacts help. Maybe they dont. Maybe we use a long white cane just in
unfamiliar areas and travel without a mobility aide in areas we know well. So
the next time you encounter someone who is partially sighted and curiosity
is getting the better of you, she says, remember that blindness is a
spectrum and an individual experience. If you ask about a persons visual
impairment, be open to an out-of-the-box answer because the person you
asked is stepping outside of their box for your benefit. And thats how I see
it.

Changes to Texas Independent Living Services

by Scott Bowman

As a result of legislation passed during the Texas 84th Legislative session in

spring 2015, significant changes are coming this fall for consumers
receiving services from the Texas Department of Assistive and
Rehabilitative Services (DARS). Beginning September 1, 2016, consumer
services programs currently provided by DARS will be moved to Texas
Workforce Commission (TWC) or to the Texas Health and Human Services
Commission (HHSC). Centers for Independent Living (CILs) located
throughout Texas will be providing the Part B (Title VII, Part B of the
Rehabilitation Act) services under contracts with HHSC. Specifically, DARS
is working collaboratively with HHSC and CILs to contract independent
living (IL) services to 16 Texas CILs; each Texas county will be served by
one of those CILs. The contracted agreement for services will be between
HHSC and CILs, and is expected to be in place by the time of this
publication.

Services for Independent Living for Older Individuals who are Blind (OIB
grant) will be transitioned to TWC. TWC plans to contract with HHSC to
provide OIB services through the same CIL contracts.
Draft standards for the contracted services can be located here: Texas CIL
Standards. Proposed rules were posted for public comment through July 24.
The latest version is available at this site: Texas IL Program Rules.
A limited number of staff currently working in the DARS IL program will
transition to HHSC on September 1, 2016, to provide technical assistance
and training or contract oversight to the CILs. Those staff as well as CIL
staff and directors are being trained by DARS this summer.

To pave the way for a smooth transition, DARS, HHSC and Texas CILs
continue to work closely as those caseloads are transferred to the CILs this
summer. You may learn more about the current status of the IL transition
and the contracted CILs at: Texas IL Outsourcing.

To find more information about the other DARS programs that will transition,
please visit: Texas DARS Transition.

Notes from the Editor

by Neva Fairchild

I am pleased to bring you this edition of the ACB Texas Star and hope you
find it informative and easy to access. I welcome your feedback and can be
reached most easily at acbtstar@gmail.com or 972-897-4171. Thank you to
our sponsors for making this newsletter possible.
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 - Membership Chair- Peggy R. Garrett
Second Vice President - Fundraising Chair- Kevin Ratliff
Treasurer - Finance & Budget Chair- Sheila Derrick
Secretary- Mary Alice Gary
Immediate Past President - Constitution & Bylaws Chair- Carol Edwards
Andrew De Avila - Director
Chris D. Prentice - Director
Ken B. Sparks - Director
LouAnn Williams - Director