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The White Cane Bulletin March - April 2026
Articles for the White Cane Bulletin must be submitted to Sally Benjamin no later than the 15th of the month before it is published. Sally’s email is: editor@fcb.org.
If you do not have access to a computer and email, please find someone in your chapter to help you. We want to hear from anyone who wants to contribute to our newsletter, so if you cannot find a way to submit your article, call Sally and she will be glad to assist you.
Articles published in The White Cane Bulletin are in compliance with Public Law No. 104197, Copyright Law Amendment of 1996. This law allows authorized entities to distribute copies of previously published non-dramatic literary works in specialized formats, including Braille, audio or digital text that are exclusively for use by Blind people or those with disabilities. Any further distributing of such articles in another than a specialized format is an infringement of copyright.
Those much-needed contributions, which are Tax-deductible, can be sent to the Florida Council of the Blind Treasurer, Mark Lear, at:
P.O. BOX 214235
DAYTONA BEACH, FL 32121.
To remember the Florida Council of the Blind in your Last Will and Testament, you may include a special paragraph for that purpose in your Will or Trust. If your wishes are complex, please contact the FCB at
800-267-4448.
The FCB is a 501(c)(3) organization.
For other ways to support the Florida Council of the Blind, visit our Fundraising page found at www.fcb.org.
ARE YOU MOVING? – Sally Benjamin
If you are moving, please notify me of your new address so you will continue to receive your White Cane Bulletin. Also, if you know of anyone interested in joining FCB and who would like to receive the White Cane Bulletin and the Braille Forum, please contact me at: (850) 980-0205 or E-mail: editor@fcb.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FCB 73rd Annual Convention in Orlando by Kati Lear
Activities Committee Events at the 2026 FCB Convention by the Activities Committee
2026 FCB Awards: Recognition of Excellence! By Cachet Wells
Jottings from Jacksonville: Now and Beyond by Paul Edwards
Book Corner Submitted by: Sheila Young
FCB Auction 2026 by: Leslie Spoone
On the Road Activities by Greg Lindberg
In The Spotlight with Paul Edwards by Alicia Eidson
Candidates Corner
FCB Officer Candidate for President by: Mikey Wiseman
FCB Officer Candidate for First Vice President by Cassandra Jessie
FCB Officer Candidate for 2nd Vice President by Shelley Sawyer
FCB Officer Candidate for Recording Secretary by Elizabeth Bowden
FCB Officer Candidate for Membership Secretary by Chantale Napier
The Light Chronicles: Love Letter To Me by Cachet Wells
Chapter News
Florida Happenings! by Greg Lindberg
Halifax Council of the Blind Fundraiser
FCCLV Convention Happenings by Jeanne Struhar
March-April 2026 GOCB Update by Martha James
Tech Tips by John Richards for the Technology Committee
Poetry Corner Submitted by Shelley Sawyer
FCB OFFICERS, 2024 – 2026
2024-2026 CHAPTER & SPECIAL AFFILIATE OFFICER LIAISONS
Handy Telephone Number References
FCB 73rd Annual Convention in Orlando by Kati Lear
Make plans to attend our FCB 73rd convention in Orlando, Florida Thursday, May 14 through Sunday, May 17, 2026. Our convention hotel is the Four Points by Sheraton at 5905 International Drive in Orlando, near Universal Studios. The room rates are $122 per night plus tax. The room block is open for your reservations. Call 407-351-2100. Ask for reservations and you will be connected to the Sheraton Central Reservations line. The code is Florida Council of the Blind 2026. To book a room online go to Book your group rate for Florida Council of the Blind 2026 Convention. These room rates are good for three days before and three days after the convention.
On Thursday evening, the activities Committee will host an Oldies But Goodies Open Mic Talent Showcase featuring the ‘50s through the ‘80s. We invite you to perform music, spoken word, comedy, poetry, or a karaoke song from one of these decades.
The FCB banquet will move from Saturday night to Friday night at seven PM. The Education, Leadership and Scholarships Committee will present scholarships to deserving students. Our speaker will be Ted Henter and the FCB live auction will be open to bid on items.
On Saturday there will be an Awards Luncheon for presentation of state and chapter awards. There will not be a banquet Saturday night. This will give you a chance to mingle and socialize with friends.
We are in the midst of writing the convention program. A big thank you goes out to the chapters and committees who have submitted excellent program write ups. Some of the programs you can choose from are: Guide Dog Users of Florida, Get Up and Get Moving, the employment committee, the Blind Kitchen, smart glasses, InnoSearch, Bricks for the Blind, the legislative seminar, and the opening ceremony. On Sunday morning President Mikey Wiseman will conduct the business meeting and we will be electing state officers this year.
So please join us in May at the Four Points by Sheraton or on Zoom. The convention program and registration will be online at our website around March 15.
If you have any convention questions, please email me at floridacouncil@comcast.net or call 386-763-3836.
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Activities Committee Events at the 2026 FCB Convention by the Activities Committee
Come join the Activities Committee for our events at the 2026 FCB Convention in Orlando!
First, we’ll have some fun and enjoy entertainment at the Welcome Night on the evening of Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 7 PM to 10 PM. This event will be an Oldies But Goodies Open Mic Talent Showcase featuring the ‘50s through the ‘80s. We invite you to perform music, spoken word, comedy, poetry, or a karaoke song from one of these decades. Feel free to dust off your poodle skirts or bell-bottoms and dress for the occasion. Maybe you’ll win a door prize too! Even if you don’t want to perform, come cheer on your fellow FCB members and enjoy music from our DJ. Registration to attend is $20, which includes a delicious buffet.
We encourage you to sign up to perform in the talent showcase by completing this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1eJ2n7o1qdO0VkxwJNPj9nQwIYEBlwisBStdIM5t...
The Activities Committee also invites you to help save lives! FCB is partnering with OneBlood for members to participate in the Florida Council of the Blind Janeen Lea Memorial Blood Drive on Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 9 AM to 2 PM. You can donate blood via the mobile bus on site at the hotel. You may schedule an appointment prior to arriving for convention at the following link or visit the Activities Committee table in the Exhibit Hall:
https://donor.oneblood.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/1749601.
To conclude our convention activities on Saturday evening, the Activities Committee will host a Game Night in the hospitality room from 9 PM to 10 PM. We invite you to come out for some fun and laughs! There is no cost to attendees for this event.
We look forward to seeing you in Orlando!
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2026 FCB Awards: Recognition of Excellence! By Cachet Wells
It is an honor to celebrate the dedication, commitment and work of those who contribute to the progress and success of our FCB vision and mission through our prestigious awards. Nominations were open until March 2, 2026 at 11:59pm for the following state awards.
Awards & Criteria
R. HENRY P. JOHNSON AWARD
The person that this award was named after trained as a lawyer. He had very little formal training when it was necessary for him to adjust to substantial visual impairment. Nevertheless, he remained active in his community and constantly sought to extend the boundaries of activities that he and other blind persons could become involved in.
CRITERIA
The R. Henry P. Johnson Award will be presented to a legally blind person who has, through his or her work and through service to his or her community, demonstrated the kind of pioneering spirit and exemplary adjustment that Mr. Johnson demonstrated. Individuals who are likely to be considered for this award must succeed far beyond the average visually-impaired person.
DOLLY GAMBLE AWARD
This award was named for a lady who, by her actions and example, was able to establish a climate in which the Miami Lighthouse could be started. Throughout her adult life, Ms. Gamble worked tirelessly to promote the betterment of blind people in her community, state, and the nation.
CRITERIA
The recipient of the Dolly Gamble award must have demonstrated a commitment to and success with the extension of services for the blind and visually-impaired people of this state. The recipient may be blind or sighted, but should, in general, represent a high level of expertise and commitment to serving blind individuals.
WILLIAM ALFRED OUZTS AWARD
William Alfred Ouzts, known as W. A., was a member of FCB from 1971 until the time of his death in 1992. He held state office for 20 of those years, including 12 as treasurer and 4 years as president. For many years, he had the White Cane Bulletin printed, prepared and mailed. whatever his official status, W. A. was always quietly working and networking with other members behind the scenes. Officer, consultant, advisor, supporter, worker, whatever his role, W. A. never sought recognition for what he did.
CRITERIA
While no one could replace W. A., a recipient of this award would display many of the superb qualities exhibited by W. A., including dedication to FCB, responsibility and effectiveness. The individual must have taken a leadership role in numerous FCB projects and actively participated in the organization for a minimum of 10 years. This award would only be given to an outstanding FCB member, an individual we would all wish to emulate.
WILLIAM (BILL) FERRELL "JUST BILL" HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Bill Ferrell worked at the Tennessee Agency for the Blind for many years. He was first employed there as a counselor, and proceeded up the ladder to hold the position of Director.
Retiring did not mean stopping for Bill. He helped to organize the Brevard chapter in 1981. Although he was a simple man in his estimation, he had a huge impact on the forming and continuation of FCB.
Bill was involved in visual impairment issues for much of his life. He was a Project Insight peer advisor since that program's inception. He worked endlessly both locally, in Brevard County and at the state level, serving as a member of several vital FCB committees and representing his chapter on the FCB Board of Directors for many years.
Bill was a calm, introspective man, yet nothing got by him without thorough examination. If the need arose, he would give his view of an issue with an informed politeness and in a politically correct manner.
When addressed as Mr. Ferrell, he would invariably respond, "I'm just Bill." So, Bill, our tribute to you is to try to be more like you. "We will communicate, educate, facilitate and update to ensure equality, independence and dignity for all! Bill, we will always love and respect you!"
CRITERIA
The recipient of this award may be blind or sighted but must have gone to great lengths to better the quality of life of people, be they sighted or not.
The recipient should have demonstrated a sincere concern for his/her fellow humans, just as Bill always did. A good candidate for this award would be one who has worked in the field of rehabilitation i.e. mobility instructors, teachers, or rehab councilors, for example. Membership in Florida Council of the Blind is not a prerequisite for this award. Anyone who, over the years, has contributed their time and caring for others, especially people who are blind or visually impaired, may be a candidate for this award.
Recipients of this award will be selected based upon their demonstration of humanitarian qualities, which emphasize efforts to improve the quality of life for others, having communicated, educated, facilitated and updated to ensure equality, independence and dignity for others.
LEGISLATIVE AWARD
The purpose of this award is to honor a Florida elected official who through his/her statewide and/or federal legislative efforts must have made a significant and positive impact on the welfare of blind and visually-impaired people in Florida.
COOK CHAPTER PRESIDENT'S AWARD
Each chapter may nominate a chapter president from the previous year to receive this award.
The following accomplishments will be considered when selecting a recipient for this award: regularity of meetings, effective programs, increases in membership, cooperation in local and state projects, participation in community organizations.
Overall leadership skills, including innovation and cooperation with neighboring chapters, as well as the state organization will be considered when assessing the performance of a nominee.
OUTSTANDING HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR AWARD
This award is intended to honor a legally blind high school senior in Florida, who in academics, school and community has performed better than all his/her peers. The award may consist of a plaque. At the time of graduation, the student will be presented the plaque. Should the student choose to attend FCB's Annual Convention FCB will offer to pay the student's transportation expenses.
CRITERIA
The name and address of the school, as well as the names of the principal and teachers must accompany the narrative nomination. Evidence of superior scores on the SAT, ACT, College Boards or an equivalent instrument shall be presented with the nomination. The narrative should include details of the student's involvement in extra-curricular activities, student government and community service. Supporting letters from teachers, employers, etc. would be helpful.
MOBILITY AWARD
This award is intended to honor a high school senior at the Florida School for the Deaf & Blind who has demonstrated the most improvement in orientation and mobility while at the school. Two nominations will be solicited from the head of the mobility department.
The FCB Awards Committee will make the final selection. The award consists of a plaque to be presented to the student at graduation. FCB shall pay the student's transportation expenses if the student chooses to attend FCB's Annual Convention.
CRITERIA
This award is intended to honor the Florida School for the Deaf & Blind senior who has made the most improvement and succeeded in overcoming greater than usual barriers to effective mobility. The mobility department should consider such factors as multiple impairments, perseverance and attitude as well as excellence of orientation and mobility skills.
CHAPTER/SPECIAL INTEREST AFFILIATE AWARD
Each chapter or special interest affiliate may submit the name(s) of local recipient(s) they wish to honor. The criteria for the selection is up to the chapter/special interest affiliate. All that is required by FCB's Awards Committee is the name of the recipient, as the chapter/special interest affiliate wishes it to be printed, and the name of the chapter/special interest affiliate submitting the name. Each chapter/special interest affiliate shall pay for each plaque they desire to present.
As Chairperson, and on behalf of the Awards Committee, we wish to thank each of you for every well-deserved nomination submitted this year. We appreciate your continued support and we look forward to you registering for convention and joining us for the FCB Awards Luncheon in Orlando, Florida on May 16, 2026 at the Four Points by Sheraton Orlando International Drive.
***
Jottings from Jacksonville: Now and Beyond by Paul Edwards
I am certainly not the only person who believes that the last year has seen disability rights disrespected, devalued and deplored! Whether we are talking about changing the font on the state department's web site or removing landmarks of disability accomplishment from official web sites or the suit aimed at gutting disability rights when it is not even people with disabilities who are being attacked! In a very real sense we have taken huge steps backward because a substantial portion of the population is being told to perceive us as unworthy of the respect we used to be accorded! We are a tiny minority and like other minorities we are being wished out of existence! In the new history of our country there was no discrimination! Slavery was an economic necessity with no moral implications! The isolation, mistreatment and sterilization of people with disabilities is acceptable because Americans were doing the best they could trying to deal with "those people".
People who are blind were the first group of disabled people to demand rights from a society that was much more comfortable seeing us marginalized and pitiable! We exchanged our acceptance of charity for an acceptance of ourselves as valuable, capable competent people who had rights we were prepared to fight to obtain and retain!
We accomplished a lot! When the Americans with Disabilities Act was passed it clearly enunciated that people with disabilities had civil rights as the rest of our society does! Built into the regulations that were published were expectations about what the courts and the Federal government would do to protect the civil rights the law proclaimed. Children in school would be protected from exclusion and under-education! Adults would be given a better chance at qualifying for and being hired for jobs! Communities were required to assure that their policies and practices were inclusive! I could go on but you know what I mean.
Other countries have built into their legal systems approaches that allow citizens to raise issues that their government must examine and, if necessary, try to remedy. Our country uses complaints as the center of keeping people law-abiding! Whether we like it or not section 504 and the rest of the Rehab Act of 1973 as amended and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 as amended rely on somebody saying that there are problems with the way the law is being handled. There were whole sections of the Department of Education that were responsible for responding to these complaints. Most of the Civil Rights division of the department is gone now. Though I do not know it for sure I suspect that other Federal departments have jettisoned many who are supposed to assure that the laws they administer are being fairly upheld. Transportation, Medicare and small businesses are just three of the areas outside of the Department of Education and the Department of Justice where we can expect a diminution of effort to enforce laws that the current administration regards as inappropriate.
Unfortunately, it is not only the protections the law affords that are being eroded. There are innumerable examples of clearly derogatory comments about people with disabilities that have been made by members of the administration. Minorities are being blamed whenever possible for anything that can be pinned on us. It is now politically correct in some circles to mock and insult people with disabilities as a matter of course. What has tended to happen when such insults emerge is that a coalition of disability groups get together and write a response that asks that people with disabilities be treated with respect. That is perfectly appropriate but I think most of those responses are disregarded and ignored.
There are some who suggest that the best way to respond to these attacks is to hunker down and wait till the political climate changes. There is lots of criticism of the current administration. Maybe the next election cycle will replace these folks with a group who will be more respectful of us. Others say that we should look carefully at the points that the administration is making and seek to model our requests for change in terms that are likely to meet with the approval of legislators and officials who have accepted the new notion of who minorities are and how they should be treated.
A third group thinks it's time we attacked full bore and showed those disrespectors that we are not going to take it any more! They say that sitting back and only responding to the most egregious insults creates an environment where the new notion of who we are will be allowed to harden into a new paradigm that the country will come to accept. Without meaning to be unkind the general public will go back to thinking of us as less capable than we are and more in need of charity and pity. The truth is that no matter what we do a huge swath of our countrymen are going to accept that we are not what we know we are!
Here is the rest of the story! As our children with disabilities receive less protection from the Federal government they will fall further behind! As adults are served by a rehabilitation system whose staff is being cut and whose initiatives are being undercut by the repealing of regulations that are perceived as burdensome there will be less chance that employment will happen. Most estimate say that 300,000 people have left the Federal government. Many of those folks will be competing with people with disabilities for jobs! I believe that artificial intelligence is likely to impact entry level jobs and telephonic jobs that have been among the most commonly held jobs for people who are blind.
Another approach that is being suggested is that we recognize that there is little we can do at the Federal level so we need to concentrate at the state level and at the local level to preserve as much as we can. Unfortunately many states have administrations that are likely to want to operate in the same way as the Federal government does! What is true of states may be true of municipalities as well!
I hope I have persuaded you that things are not wonderful as 2026 begins and it is likely that things will get worse before they get better! I think however that there is much that we can and should do! I also believe that we know who we are and can be persuaded to stand up and be counted!
History is cyclical. At the beginning of the depression in 1929 there were moves in several states to start providing services to people who were blind. The depression killed most of those efforts! A bill was passed in Florida but was repealed by 1935. It wasn't until 1940 that Helen Keller, on her second visit to the legislature, awoke the state to the need for services to people who are blind. Even since the services were regarded as indispensable there have been times when budgets have been cut and when attitudes have been less than wonderful.
What is true for people with disabilities is true for every other under-served minority in this country. We must seek to build coalitions where we can and must continue to advocate for the rights we have earned by our efforts as members of the Florida Council of the Blind. We are far better off than we were fifty years ago but cannot afford to sit idly by while the notion of who we are is attacked. Rather than waiting around for things to change we must go out into the community and show people our capabilities. We must be at city council meetings. We must continue to interact with the legislature as we have for the past three years in Florida. We must continue to expect that our role as empowered citizens is respected by constantly asking for the changes that will continue to make our lives better! I believe as did Abraham Lincoln that the arc of history tends toward justice! That means I expect things to get better! It won't happen if we don't continue to tell our story to anyone who will listen. I am proud to be blind and am proud of the Florida Council of the Blind and of the American Council of the Blind of which we are a part. We have the ability to shape both organizations by what we expect of them. Each of us has a voice and every one of us must use that voice to constantly and continuously stand up and make sure people know who we are and what we stand for.
The history of the blindness movement is a proud one! We have made life unquestionably better for every blind person in this country by our efforts. We can continue to do that. We may not win victories at the legislature but we can win in our communities every day by our involvement in what the community is doing and by our example of being out there letting our capabilities shine forth. We don't have to constantly challenge the misrepresentations! We must constantly force the rest of society to see us as competent, capable active members of our community working to make things better for everybody!
We have one more responsibility that is just as sacrosanct as is our need to be seen and heard. That is our responsibility to vote! Whatever our political views are each of us must go to the polls and accept the obligation democracy makes on all of us! Freedom must be earned! Democracy must be protected! History demands it!
***
Book Corner Submitted by: Sheila Young
Lessons in Chemistry
DB107538
Author: Bonnie Garmus
Historical fiction
Reading time: 11 hours
In the early 1960s, chemist Elizabeth Zott has a lot of challenges as the only woman on her team at Hastings Research Institute. She falls for colleague Calvin Evans, but the double standards of the day eventually have her looking for a new chapter outside academia, hosting a television cooking show. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. 2022.
***
FCB Auction 2026 by: Leslie Spoone
Hello FCB Family,
Come and enjoy our annual virtual auction for The Florida Council of the Blind. We will have lots of exciting items including gift cards, jewelry, crafts and homemade goodies to share with someone special or just keep them for yourself. The annual auction will be on Sunday, May 3 starting at 7:00pm ET on Zoom and on ACB Media. we will also be Having our live auction on Friday, May 15th at the Banquet. So, get ready for a bidding frenzy. We look forward to hearing you and seeing you at our annual FCB Auction this year.
Happy Bidding!
Leslie Spoone
FCB Auction Chair
***
On the Road Activities by Greg Lindberg
With so many great things happening around the Sunshine State, we don’t want you to miss out on any of them. No matter if it's to celebrate a special cause, gather to honor White Cane Day, or a fundraising event, we want to help provide an avenue to advertise to a wider audience of members to increase engagement in your planned events.
The Florida Council of the Blind Activities Committee invites you to share your upcoming Chapter and Special Interest Affiliate events with us that are being held throughout the month. This allows members to review and plan ahead to attend other local area events. We want to help you by supporting and promoting your efforts to raise awareness about what you're doing and maximize participation.
For each event, please provide the following:
- A detailed summary of the event (who, what, when, where, and cost)
- Contact information for the event (contact person’s name, phone number and/or email address)
The deadline to submit this information is the 5th of each month by sending to Activities@fcb.org to have it included in the FCB Activities Committee communications channels.
Thank you, and we look forward to helping support your activities!
The FCB Activities Committee
***
In The Spotlight with Paul Edwards by Alicia Eidson
A Life Defined by Movement, Resilience, and Advocacy
Some lives unfold quietly. Others feel like a journey across continents, causes, and communities constantly evolving and leaving lasting impact wherever they go. Paul Edwards’ story is very much the latter.
Born at Grace Memorial Hospital in San Francisco, California, Paul began life in Sausalito before moving to Belvidere Island, a small and rather posh island near San Francisco. For a young blind child, Belvidere offered freedom and safety. With only two roads and little traffic, Paul and his brother ran everywhere, exploring the world with curiosity and confidence.
He lived there until the age of seven, when his parents divorced and life shifted once again. A short stay in Carmel followed before a much bigger move — one that would shape Paul’s global perspective.
When asked whether moving so frequently was difficult, Paul reflected thoughtfully:
"I did not perceive it as hard. It was certainly different and interesting. We later moved to Canada and lived in Calgary. I went to school in Vancouver. They were about 1500 miles apart. I went to a school for the blind and then ended up at a school for boys'"
He described those school years as great fun, though not without challenge. One principal pushed him relentlessly, believing that as a blind student he must work harder than everyone else. Despite earning a remarkable 94% average, she insisted he could do better, a philosophy rooted in preparing him for a world that often demanded more from blind individuals.
Looking at Paul’s accomplishments today, perhaps she saw something extraordinary early on, way before the rest of us.
Family Stories Worthy of a Soap Opera
Paul’s personal life includes moments that feel almost unbelievable.
His mother remarried several times, each relationship bringing unexpected turns. One husband passed away just a year and a half after their marriage. Another died following a terrible fall down basement stairs. Later, a man convinced her that he owned half of Jamaica, prompting a massive relocation involving Paul, his brother, three dogs, and approximately thirteen tons of furniture.
As it turned out, that man was later arrested for fraud in Canada — a truly soap-opera-worthy twist.
Despite the chaos, Paul and his family spent approximately eight years in Jamaica, where some of his most formative educational experiences took place.
Breaking Barriers in Education
Paul attended the University of the West Indies, part of the University of London system, becoming the university’s very first blind student. He earned his degree in history before continuing his studies at a branch of the Institute of International Relations of Geneva located in Trinidad.
Meanwhile, his older brother followed a dramatically different path — running away from home and working a variety of adventurous jobs including shrimping, sailing, and trucking.
Paul also shared that he was one of many individuals affected by retinopathy of prematurity — likely having usable vision at birth but losing it in the incubator, a sadly common occurrence during that time.
Teaching, Marriage, and Life in Trinidad
While living in Trinidad, Paul married and began his teaching career. He first taught at a very small school for minimal pay before moving to Trinity College, part of the Anglican College of Trinidad, where he taught history and general studies for ten years.
When I asked how he met his wife, Paul simply explained that she served as his reader during graduate school while he was working toward his International Relations degree.
Returning to Florida and Building a Career
In 1976, Paul relocated his wife and three children, Margaret, Katheryn, and Paul to Florida. Today, he proudly celebrates ten grandchildren and, as of this year, his first great-grandchild.
Their first stop was Miami, where the Division of Blind Services promised support. Paul did not feel they delivered as effectively as they could have. Eventually, he moved to Daytona Beach to teach and counsel before transitioning to Jacksonville to run Lighthouse. Later, he returned to Miami to work at Miami Dade College. Paul and his first wife divorced in 1985.
Reflecting on this chapter, Paul said:
"I was in charge of services for students of disabilities on the north campus. I did that from 1986 until I retired in 2013."
It was during this time that he met current Florida State Council President Mikey Wiseman. Five years ago, Paul returned to Jacksonville, where he believes he will stay — especially now that he has reached the young age of 80.
Leadership at Every Level: FCB, ACB, and Beyond
Paul’s involvement with FCB began during rehabilitation in Daytona Beach after meeting Carl McCoy, who encouraged him to attend an ACB convention. Although he initially declined, he soon became deeply involved when a local chapter formed.
He and Doug Hall became known as the “young radicals” of the group. Due to his employment with DBS, Paul avoided holding certain leadership roles early on but remained deeply engaged.
He eventually served as president of a Miami chapter and later became President of FCB in the early 2000s, stepping down after two years following the death of his wife.
Paul attended his first ACB convention in 1984 in Philadelphia and was immediately asked to chair the resolutions committee. Reflecting on that experience, he said:
"I made lots of mistakes that first year and made many people mad. I became pretty well known."
He later served as ACB President for six years, even before becoming state president of Florida, demonstrating his remarkable leadership trajectory. Leadership at this level was not easy due to how others perceive your goals and desires to see the organization grow or change. He spoke of being in a meeting where so many there were throwing things at him at so many levels and he called for a short break and walked to reflect and cry. This was heartbreaking to hear.
When asked about leadership differences, Paul explained that the core skills remain the same at every level, though the scope grows significantly, at the national level.
"There are so many things that you have to juggle," reflects Paul.
During his presidency, ACB Radio (now ACB Media) was created, accessible street crossings became a focus, and new inclusive chapters were formed, such as the chapter for those who are gay.
Advocacy, Policy, and the Power of Resolutions
Advocacy lies at the heart of Paul’s philosophy. When asked what comes to mind when hearing the word advocacy, he responded:
"I think that's what ACB, NFB and FCB and our local chapters are set up to do and if we're not doing that, then we are failing to live up to the expectations that I think people ought to have of us as blind people who are part of an organization that takes money for making things better for folks that are blind."
Paul believes strongly in resolutions as tools for shaping organizational policy, emphasizing that meaningful change requires thoughtful debate, collaboration, and clarity.
Braille, Literacy, and Library Access
Few topics ignite Paul’s passion more than Braille. He explained:
"Braille is the medium that creates literacy for people who learn it. Literacy is categorically important."
He believes Braille literacy significantly increases independence and employment opportunities.
Paul is also a strong advocate for public library accessibility, encouraging local chapters to work with libraries to provide screen readers, magnification software, and greater inclusion for blind patrons.
Tuesday Topics and Meaningful Conversation
Paul spoke highly of Tuesday Topics, a program he helps facilitate. Originally prerecorded and only one hour, the show evolved into a live two-hour format after a proposal he submitted around the pandemic.
He described it this way:
"It's fun to do and we are now it's gradually developed and we have a nice team that's involved in doing Tuesday Topics where we can use the first part of the program to set the topic up among ourselves and then we can open it up to the rest of the folks."
Technology, Growth, and Lasting Pride
From Braille writers and slates to modern digital media, Paul has witnessed tremendous change within the blindness community. He takes great pride in helping build ACB Media and in bringing Jonathan Mosen to the United States — contributions that shaped technology and radio for years to come.
The Person Behind the Advocate
Paul is as relatable as he is accomplished. He loves steak, dark chocolate, peach cobbler, and prefers pie over cake. His favorite color is blue, and he explained his unique perspective by saying:
"It's all associations rather than realities." He gave some examples, like he does not like yellow because the first thing he thinks of when he hears "yellow" is pee!
He has loved folk music since the 1960s — especially Joan Baez, Peter, Paul and Mary, Phil Oaks, and Tom Paxton. When "God was little", he enjoyed Star Trek, though today he rarely watches television, today.
He remains an avid reader of history, science fiction, and fantasy, enjoys cruising, participates in Library Without Walls, and still hopes to visit Germany and Canada’s Maritime Provinces.
Love, Loss, and Lasting Impact
Paul spoke deeply and tenderly of Gayle Kraus, his partner of twenty years, who was from Ohio.
"She was very much the love of my life."
They met at an ACB convention and it didn't take long for him to fall in love. They married and stayed together for 20 years. Her strength, independence, and professional success left a profound mark on him.
Final Reflections
This interview revealed the remarkable life of a man who has shaped the American Council of the Blind, Florida and advocacy issues at local, state, and national levels. Through leadership, literacy, technology, and community building, Paul Edwards has helped pave the way for countless blind individuals.
Spending this time learning from Paul was truly one of my most meaningful interview experiences.
***
Candidates Corner
FCB Officer Candidate for President by: Mikey Wiseman
hello fellow Florida Council of the Blind members!
This letter/outreach/publication is to announce my candidacy for a second term as president of FCB. I kindly ask for your consideration to continue to work with a great executive committee and represent all of you for a second term. As I reflect back on these last two years of challenges and accomplishments, I am very proud of the direction of the organization, the continued and strengthened collaboration with American Council of the Blind, as well as other organizations throughout the state of Florida. We have continued to promote the good name of Florida Council of the Blind, and have earned much respect and acknowledgment throughout the state. Our advocacy efforts at the state level have managed to protect services for Blind and visually impaired individuals as well as ensure access to necessary services.
It would be my pleasure to continue to serve all of you for the next two years and I thank you in advance for considering me for this honorable position as president.
Respectfully,
Mikey
***
FCB Officer Candidate for First Vice President by Cassandra Jessie
My name is Cassandra Jessie, and I currently serve as your First Vice President of Florida Council of the Blind “FCB.” I am interested in continuing to serve you in this capacity. During the last few years, I have worked hard to ensure that you had rewarded and meaningful experiences when attending any event that is held by FCB.
My past involvement in the community includes serving as your First Vice President of the Florida Council of the Blind for the last two years. In this position I have worked with the president who also is the hotel Coordinator as well as collaborated with fellow Board members to insure that everyone was taken care of; I have also worked hard at insuring that everyone who attends the Convention or Board meeting never has to wait for long for any type of assistance. I am also the Membership Committee Chair for Florida Council of the Blind.
I am active in the community and have held several offices in the Halifax Council of the Blind, including President, 1st and 2nd Vice President, and have served on several committees: Bylaws, Fundraising, as well as the White Cane Committee. I currently Serve as a vice Chair of our Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board. I am the pass chair of the board of directors for Disability Solutions which is a Local Provider in Daytona Beach FL. I have held the office of 1st and 2nd Vice President of the Tallahassee Council of the Blind, and I served three years as president of ACCESS; an organization for disabled students at Florida State University. The role of ACCESS is to ensure accessibility for disabled students on the FSU campus.
I received a master’s degree in Vision Rehab Therapy from Western Michigan University in 2021, a degree in Rehabilitation Counseling with a Minor in “Independent Living” from Florida State University in 2009. Additionally, I received an Associate of Arts Degree from St. John’s River Community College in St. Augustine, Florida in 2004.
I am currently employed with my local Light house, Lighthouse of the Big Bend (LBB) in Tallahassee. In this position I hold the title of specialist. I work with older blind consumers in Leon county. I have collaborated with people with disabilities for almost 30 years in various capacities, including Camp Counselor for the Florida Lions Camp and Senior Residential Instructor at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind. I have also worked as an Administrative Assistant for the Division of Blind Services, Teacher Aid for Leon County Schools, and as a Training Instructor for Leon County ARC program where I collaborated with people with various Disabilities to insure that they were ready for work every day and insured that they were able to maintain their apartments.
I participate in my local church. My interests include recreational reading, horseback riding, listening to music, spending time with family, and advocating for people with disabilities.
It would be a pleasure to continue to serve you all to help bring about political, educational, social, and economic changes, and continue to fight alongside you to raise awareness of accessibility issues in this state. If you wish to contact me, please email me at cassandrajessie@gmail.com or call (850) 567-4288.
***
FCB Officer Candidate for 2nd Vice President by Shelley Sawyer
Dear FCB Members and Friends:
My name is Shelley Sawyer. Many of you know me, but for those who do not, I currently live in Tallahassee. I am employed parttime as a medical transcriptionist, working remotely for the Lighthouse of Houston.
I am hereby announcing my intention to run for a second term for the office of 2nd vice president of FCB at this year’s State Convention in May.
If I remember correctly, I have been a member of FCB since approximately 2000. I am a member of the Tallahassee Council of the Blind, (TCB)and I am currently 1st vice president of that chapter. I have also previously been a member of Greater Orlando Council of the Blind, (GOCB). Throughout my FCB membership, I have held all officer positions in my affiliate chapters with the exception of treasurer. I am also currently the recording secretary for the Florida School for the Blind Alumni and have held this position for a number of years.
My interests and hobbies include: attending church services, reading, listening to music, streaming TV shows and taking walks in my neighborhood.
At this point, I wish to restate what I wrote in my campaign article two years ago. I am well aware that our organization faces many challenges, as do most organizations these days. However, I am also aware that we have much room for growth, as well as members with tuns of talent. It is my true belief that if we all work together to grow the organization, and if we all work together and assist one another, we can and will grow, and we can and will reach the goals we set for ourselves and our organization. I would welcome the opportunity to continue to be a part of our Board of Directors and to work with them and our membership to face our challenges, reach our goals and realize the hopes and dreams we have for our organization. It is ours; and as with everything we have that we treasure, it requires work and maintenance.
I would greatly appreciate your support and your vote at the FCB State Convention this year. Thank you for your time and patience in reading this, and thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Shelley Sawyer
***
FCB Officer Candidate for Recording Secretary by Elizabeth Bowden
Hello Everyone,
This is Liz Bowden, recording secretary of FCB. As archives chair, I had the honor and privilege to examine copies of minutes. Some of these were made as long as 50 years ago. While doing that, I was struck by the idea that the documents were documentation and stories of past history. Last election when I was nominated for the office of recording secretary, I felt that I could contribute to the history of FCB by preserving events and meeting outlines. I have done this and would like to continue as your recording secretary. I am requesting your support during elections.
Thanks for reading!
Elizabeth Bowden
Recording Secretary, FCB
***
FCB Officer Candidate for Membership Secretary by Chantale Napier
Hello!
Some of you may know me, but for those who don’t my name is Chantale Napier. I’m the current President of the Southwest Florida Chapter. SWFCB. I’m in my second term and looking for additional challenges. One way to do this is by becoming Membership Secretary. When I attended my first convention, I met Sally Benjamin. I think I peppered her with a ton of questions, not just about the conventions, but her role in the organization. After listening to her, I felt this was something I could do and still believe it’s something I would enjoy doing.
Being involved, no matter how large or small the role, is important. Being a member has taught me that my voice matters and there are people willing to stand with me and for me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Chantale
***
The Light Chronicles: Love Letter To Me by Cachet Wells
Fog fills the sky, blowing wind chimes, busy free flowing traffic, and the sound of kids playing at the park are just a few memories of days gone by. As little children, the liberating freedom that come with no bills, no responsibilities and not a care to be had by them at all. Freedom to sleep when you’re ready, Freedom to expect meals when you’re hungry and the Unwavering freedom of protection from the big bears and giants of this world. All of which were those initial freedoms introduced and provided to us by my parents. They instilled in me the basic concepts of freedom in Self-worth, Integrity and love. Loving me and the skin I was born in, from day one until the very end.
That no matter the circumstance or surroundings, knowing who you are is life’s true equity to my existence. That who you profess to be is whom you should be representing daily through your Integrity. That just because they loved me doesn't mean that everybody else would will like everything about you. For after all love is the first emotion we learn. It’s expressed through our words but also seen in our individual actions. Loving me and the skin I was born in, from day one until the very end.
From the very minute that we enter this earth, we are taught to embrace love from the first day of our birth. That first look and cry out that says come love on me. To those next moments of skin to skin, can’t you just see how it all began. We are only little children for a season but adults of our own choosing for a lifetime. Carving away at a journey of our own life choices. You see the very values that are deposited in us lay the groundwork to such a bigger plan. Brick by brick, it paves the course work of how we navigate this very land that we charter every day. Loving me and the skin I was born in, from day one until the very end.
Now fully grown, but not to capacity for there is yet so much more for me to see. Yes of equity, resources, venues, destinations and of the accomplishments that are yet to be. However, more importantly those essential things like cultural consciousness, racial sensitivities and gender harmony between Americans no matter of the color that’s seen. Key characteristics for knowing where you’re going has to start from a place of knowing your history and where you’ve been. Those days of old have become days anew, so quickly changing one day there here and the next they are through. No do overs or reminders for this is just how it is in the land of America the beautiful's mind. Loving me and the skin I was born in, from day one until the very end.
My love letter to me is one so unique because the greatest lesson of love started within thee. Not relying on others to celebrate, honor or appreciate the characteristics, qualities and traits I’m built of. That responsibility is solely mine and that is the personal goal I’ll continually strive to rise above. I know who I am and exactly what I want as a black, blessed, blind woman. As a woman, I’m asked what is it that you actually want. Simply stated, to be embraced as the person for which I am, not for what I look like. After all, embracing others to whom I don’t resemble is what’s given without question. Just like our families and friends, we give respect until it’s not reciprocated back. Protective of the relationships we forge, so we shield them, cover them and certainly reveal to them our deepest treasures. All that is on our hearts and mind to share, like eve in the garden, we stood beside man bare. Sharing all of whom we are in the beauty for which the creator has made us. Filling up the pages of my love letter to me is rightfully just. Loving me and the skin I was born in from day one until the very end.
What a woman wants is as complex as she is, but it is also quite simplistic as we travel down the list. She wants her life to empower and impact all that is in her heart to give. Which can often be so difficult sometimes in the times we currently live in. With much love and kindness to share with so many. What a woman want first is to give of herself through her purpose, her passion and of her heart’s desire to love and nurture. Generosity, care, genuineness with integrity is who she is rolled all up into one being. The love she offers to those she loves is a representation of her love letter to herself put into action. A true reflection of her purpose given from Him alone who sits above. A open heart and a helpful hand to walk the distance of this journey of life only paved for her. The honest road of trust, patience and humility to offer along the way as she must. Understanding my love letter with empathy and valuing the plan to succeed because she reciprocates loyalty, honesty and friendship to everyone that crosses her path. What she continually realizes is that people matter, and to that point it boils down to that simple math. That what women want is to be loved and respected by those she chooses to build, partner and connect with because it’s offered to them. My love letter to me is a beautiful story of positive energy, trust, and genuineness in every friendship. Reciprocating towards others that in which I want to receive. That highest level of reverence and dignity we can give that not only is heard in words, but seen in actions. To be patient, engaging and understanding to the sensitivities of others and myself. Recognizing that what a woman really wants is to be given every opportunity to live in her own truth. Standing flat-footed on her foundation and freedom of love. Enough to put herself first, Loving me and the skin I was born in from day one until the very end. This my dear friend is my love letter to me of a journey to always be better and that’s how I will always win.
***
Chapter News
Florida Happenings! by Greg Lindberg
From the northern line of Florida to the shores of its southern beauty, extending as far west as the panhandle to its eastern borders, there is lots to do in the Sunshine State. Looking for more ways to connect with other members? Just need a quick getaway to relax and recharge? Here is a roundup from the Activities Committee of what's happening within the Florida Council of the Blind and communities near you.
Halifax Council of the Blind Fundraiser
The Halifax Council of the Blind is having a City Pop fundraiser until Easter on April 5, 2026. City Pop is known for its many delicious flavors of popcorn, but it doesn't end there. They also have soft pretzels, cotton candy, and seasoned pretzels. Check out their wide variety of delicious treats.
You can place your order directly by phone with the City Pop Fundraising Team at 303-335-9582, and they'll be happy to take care of everything for you.
You can also place your order online at
https://citypopfundraising.com/collections/citypop-snacks?bg_ref=sZGLguq...
The Halifax Council of the blind will be getting 50% of all you send them. If you think the prices are a little high, remember that this is a fundraising project and half of what you pay will come to us. If you would like to help and don't want to buy any snacks, you can always donate directly to Halifax Council of the blind using our Zelle or PayPal accounts. halifaxcob@yahoo.com.
In the past year, we spent money on buying clothing and school supplies to send two children to the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. We also spent money to assist a disabled person whose caretaker ripped her off, stealing many things from her house. At Christmas time, we gave Christmas gifts to four underprivileged children. We have also assisted visually impaired members of our organization to go to the Florida Council of the Blind state convention.
For Additional questions, contact:
John Harden.
HCB Treasurer
halifaxcob@yahoo.com
Audio-Described Events
Visit the following page for a list of upcoming audio-described shows in Orlando and Deland:
https://weareadi.org/events/
***
FCCLV Convention Happenings by Jeanne Struhar
The Convention Program for the Florida Council of Citizens with Low Vision (FCCLV) will be held on Saturday afternoon of the FCB Convention, May 16. Along with our Annual Business Meeting, a special presentation has been planned you won’t want to miss. Dr. Francisco Richardson, a well-known Low Vision Specialist, has been invited to speak about Age-Related Macular Degeneration as a secondary diagnosis as well as other advances in eye care. Dr. Richardson, of Winter Park, Florida, has years of experience providing low vision services to people living with vision loss. Dr. Richardson is involved in helping research for treatments and medical advances that would maintain or improve vision for people living with visual impairments affecting their retina. He is the Education Chair of Foundation Fighting Blindness. Dr. Richardson is a great advocate for people with Low Vision. He has spoken at many conferences.
Dr. Richardson’s practice, Eyes of Winter Park, has helped hundreds of patients discover the best low vision devices to help gain or maintain independence. He is a military veteran and served in the US Army, receiving extensive specialized training in low vision and advanced eye care technology. Dr. Richardson has participated in humanitarian mission trips to Peru, Guatemala and Ecuador. As well as overseas travel, he volunteers in his local community, in organizations such as the Lions Club. Dr. Richardson will prove to be a very interesting presenter
FCCLV will be holding Elections during their Business Meeting. All positions are open, President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. All members in good standing are eligible to run for an office. For more information, attend our next meeting, Monday March 16 at 7:00 PM. Even if you are not interested in running for an office, come anyway, to any of our meetings. FCCLV meets every 3rd Monday of the month at 7:00 PM. Plan to attend and learn more about the organization and how you can join and become part of FCCLV.
***
March-April 2026 GOCB Update by Martha James
We had our holiday luncheon in January, and had a wonderful turn out and a great time!
Our trivia night will be on March 28. As usual, the VFW will provide the food and one free drink. There will be a silent auction. Asli Goncer will perform between rounds. The price is $150 for a table of six, and $25 for individuals.
Our state convention will take place in May. It will be held in Orlando.
We are honored to be the host chapter for this year’s convention!
We hope to see many of you then!
***
Tech Tips by John Richards for the Technology Committee
Is Your Smart TV Spying On You?
Some believe their smart tv is actually spying on them, as in audio monitoring and video surveillance. With the current level of technology available, that could most likely be achievable. The fact is, personal data is collected through the default privacy settings on your device by many of the major brands such as, LG, Samsung, TCL and others.
Streaming providers such as Hulu and Netflix also collect this data unbeknownst to the consumer. They can collect information, even if you don't sign in and also from the voice data from the mic on your voice remote. These tactics are all used in targeting advertising by monitoring the consumers viewing habits.
By turning off a technology called automatic content recognition, or ACR, you can reduce the data snooping. ACR samples pixels from your screen to identify what content you're viewing. Below are ways to adjust the privacy settings on smart TVs listed by brand.
1. Samsung TVs
Samsung QN90C Neo QLED TV
Samsung TVs use Tizen software and include tracking features for viewing data, voice recognition, and advertising.
Go to Settings, then Support, then Terms & Privacy, then Privacy Choices. This menu contains all the privacy settings you need to adjust. Select Viewing Information Services to disable ACR tracking. This stops Samsung from monitoring what content you watch
To turn off personalized ad tracking, select Interest-Based Advertising. This prevents Samsung from using your viewing data to target ads. If you use Samsung's voice features, select Voice Recognition Services to disable voice data collection. This stops the TV from recording and analyzing voice commands.
2. LG TVs
The LG G5 OLED at Tom's Guide's Labs.
LG smart TVs run webOS and collect viewing data through several separate services, which means you’ll need to disable more than one setting to fully opt out.
First, go to Settings, General (or System, depending on your model) and select Live Plus, then turn it off. This disables LG’s Automated Content Recognition (ACR), which identifies what you’re watching across apps and external devices.
Next, return to Settings, General, Advertisements and enable Do Not Sell My Personal Information or Limit Ad Tracking. This limits how LG uses your data for targeted advertising.
Finally, open Settings, User Agreements and review each option carefully. Opt out of Viewing Information, Interest-Based Advertising, Voice Information, and Live Plus Automatic Content Recognition wherever those toggles appear.
3. Amazon Fire TVs
Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED Series TV (2025) on a table
Amazon Fire TV devices, including Fire TV Edition TVs from brands like Toshiba and Insignia, collect viewing and usage data through Amazon’s platform.
Go to Settings, Preferences, and Privacy Settings. This menu contains Amazon’s main privacy controls. First, select Device Usage Data and turn it off. This limits how Amazon collects information about how you use the device and its features.
Next, select Collect App and Over-the-Air Usage and disable it. This reduces tracking of which apps you use and what live or broadcast TV content you watch. Finally, select Interest-Based Ads and turn it off. This stops Amazon from using your activity to personalize ads, though you’ll still see advertising.
4. Roku TVs
Roku TV 2023
Roku TVs (initially made by TCL, Hisense, and sold under Roku's own brand) and Roku streaming devices collect viewing data through the Roku platform.
First, go to Settings, then Privacy. This menu contains all privacy-related options. Select Smart TV Experience and disable "Use Info from TV Inputs." This turns off ACR tracking for content from external devices like cable boxes.
To adjust ad tracking settings and limit personalized advertising, select Advertising. Select Microphone to control settings for Channel Microphone Access and Channel Permissions if your Roku remote has voice features.
5. Android and Google TVs
Google TV Streamer remote
TVs running Android TV or Google TV — including models from Sony, TCL, Hisense, and others, collect viewing and usage data primarily through Google’s advertising and account services. Some models also include third-party Automated Content Recognition (ACR), such as Samba TV.
To limit Google’s ad tracking, go to Settings, Privacy, and Ads. Then turn off Ad Personalization to prevent Google from using your activity on the TV to personalize ads. On some models, this may instead appear under Settings, Accounts, Google, and Ads.
If you’re signed into a Google account on your TV, you can also manage ad settings at the account level by selecting your Google account and reviewing privacy and ad preferences.
On Sony TVs, there is an additional ACR system to disable. Go to Settings, System or Settings, Privacy and turn off Samba Interactive TV. This stops Samba TV from identifying what you’re watching across apps and external inputs.
6. Vizio TVs
Vizio E Series
Vizio SmartCast TVs collect detailed viewing data through an ACR system built directly into the platform. This makes disabling these settings especially important if privacy is a concern.
Go to Settings and Admin & Privacy. This is where Vizio groups its privacy controls. Select Viewing Data and turn it off. This disables Vizio’s ACR system, preventing the TV from identifying what you’re watching across apps and connected devices.
Next, select Advertising and disable it to limit ad personalization and tracking tied to your viewing behavior.
Portions of this article were derived from articles written by Kaycee Hill, Tom's Guide's How-To Editor and Consumer Reports Senior Electronics Editor James K. Willcox
***
Poetry Corner Submitted by Shelley Sawyer
Greetings, Dear Readers:
This past trip around the sun has been a bit rocky for me. I lost my husband and at least three good friends. I am always aware that these things are part of the journey; and I am ever mindful that as we grow older, they happen more and more often. Still, sometimes it definitely puts bumps in the road of a journey that is challenging, even on a good day. Therefore, I find myself more and more frequently putting on a headset and telling my faithful iPhone, “Shuffle my songs”. I sit back, put up my feet and just roll with it. More often than one might think, I am surprised and aided along my journey by what I hear. I had recently added an album to my library without listening to it first; so I hadn’t heard this song before. It touched more than one spot in my heart. I hope, just maybe, it might assist you as well. Thank God for music.
SO MANY SUMMERS
By Trisha Yearwood, Jim "Moose" Brown, and Erin Enderlin.
When I was just eight years old,
I'd take my bike and hit the road;
Suppertime by the time I'd get back home.
My dog Skeeter and a climbin' tree,
I'd read a book, set my mind free;
I was Wonder Woman in the yard,
Dirt under my nails, playin' hard;
It was a good day
Yeah, that was a good day.
You only get so many summers, so many glasses of sweet tea;
So many calls home to your mama, soak it up, make a memory.
Life's a short trip 'round the sun, full of love and wonder;
Blue skies will fade to red 'cause you only get
So many summers.
Thirty-four, got a call from a girlfriend;
Dropped it all, drove to the beach for the weekend,
And I didn't know it then,
But it'd be the last time.
Drank margaritas 'til the stars said goodnight;
Laughed and cried about how time flies;
And, damn, it was hard to say goodbye;
But that was a good day
Yeah, that was a good day.
You only get so many summers, so many walks in the sand;
So many "I love yous," so say 'em when you can.
Life's a short trip 'round the sun, full of love and wonder;
Blue skies will fade to red 'cause you only get
So many summers.
That's what makes it sweet, I guess.
You only get
So many summers.
***
FCB OFFICERS, 2024 – 2026
President, Mikey Wiseman
Miami, president@fcb.org (305) 331-4870
1st Vice-President, Cassandra Jessie
Tallahassee, vp1@fcb.org (850) 567-4288
2nd Vice President, Shelley Sawyer
Tallahassee, vp2@fcb.org (407) 403-2099
Treasurer, Mark Lear
P.O. BOX 214235
DAYTONA BEACH, FL 32121
treasurer@fcb.org (386) 788-0463
Membership Secretary, and White Cane Bulletin Editor, Sally Benjamin
Tallahassee, (850) 980-0205
Membership Email: membership@fcb.org
White Cane Bulletin Email: editor@fcb.org
Recording Secretary, Elizabeth Bowden
Tallahassee, recordingsec@fcb.org (850) 345-0822
Immediate Past President, Sheila Young
Orlando, sheilayoung125@att.net (407) 425-9200
FCB Administrative Assistant, Kati Lear
(800) 267-4448, (386) 763-3836 floridacouncil@comcast.net
***
2024-2026 CHAPTER & SPECIAL AFFILIATE OFFICER LIAISONS
Please contact your officer liaison if we can be of assistance or if you need anything from the Executive Committee.
CALM (Chapter At Large Members): Mikey Wiseman
president@fcb.org
(305) 331-4870
Greater Orlando Council of the Blind: Mark Lear
treasurer@fcb.org
(386) 788-0463
Halifax Council of the Blind: Sheila Young
sheilayoung125@att.net
(407) 425-9200
Jacksonville Council of the Blind: Cassandra Jessie
vp1@fcb.org
(850) 567-4288
Manatee County Council of the Blind: Sally Benjamin
membership@fcb.org
(850) 980-0205
Miami Metro Council of the Blind: Mikey Wiseman
president@fcb.org
(305) 331-4870
Northwest Florida Chapter of the Florida Council of the Blind: Elizabeth Bowden
recordingsec@fcb.org
(850) 345-0822
Palm Beach Council of the Blind: Cassandra Jesse
vp1@fcb.org
(850) 567-4288
Pinellas Council of the Blind: Sheila Young
sheilayoung125@att.net
(407) 425-9200
Sarasota Council of the Blind: Shelley Sawyer
vp2@fcb.org
(407) 403-2099
Southwest Florida Council of the Blind: Elizabeth Bowden
recordingsec@fcb.org
(850) 345-0822
Tallahassee Council of the Blind: Sheila Young
sheilayoung125@att.net
(407) 425-9200
Tampa Council of the Blind: Cassandra Jessie
vp1@fcb.org
(850) 567-4288
Braille Revival League of Florida: Shelley Sawyer
vp2@fcb.org
(407) 403-2099
Coalition for the Concerns of the Totally Blind: Elizabeth Bowden
recordingsec@fcb.org
(850) 567-4288
Florida Council of Citizens with Low Vision: Cassandra Jessie
vp1@fcb.org
(850) 567-4288
Guide Dog Users of Florida: Shelley Sawyer
vp2@fcb.org
(407) 403-2099
***
Handy Telephone Number References
Project Insight: (800) 267-4448
Bureau of Braille & Talking Book Library: (800) 226-6075
Division of Blind Services, State Office: (800) 342-1828
American Council of The Blind: (800) 424-8666
(Available 3:00 to 5:30 P.M. EST Monday-Friday only)
ACB Legislative Hotline: (800) 424-8666
(Available evenings 8:00 P.M. to 12:00 Midnight EST and weekends 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. only)
AT&T Disability Services: (800) 872-3883
Press 00 and speak with your long-distance carrier, or Florida only: (800)982-2891
BellSouth Disability Services: (800) 982-2891
(From anywhere)
Social Security: (800) 772-1213
(24-hour voice and touch tone accessible)