MEETING FUNCTIONARIES

Today’s Speaker

            Program Chair Pansy Graham introduced Dianne Raulson and Kathleen Fisler of Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic (RFB&D) -- a volunteer organization specializing in providing access to the printed word for the blind, dyslexic and learning-disabled. Originally formed following World War II -- the mid-1940’s -- as Recording for the Blind and targeted injured GI’s who lost their sight but wanted use their mustering out pay to go to college. Friends would volunteer to read the text books until the first Dictaphones were invented. Dictaphone discs could be played two or three times before the sound quality diminished to useless. In the 1950’s, tape recording became available and recordings were then archived for ongoing use. Audio cassettes made archiveing easier and today’s technology of digital recordings makes storage a lot easier.

            Dianne told the story of a long-time volunteer who was out and about when he was introduced to a blind woman. After the exchange of pleasantries and to the volunteer’s amazement, the woman said, “I know you. Your voice got me through college.”

Throughout Florida, over 75,000 children have been helped by the RFB&D. Volunteers, particularly bilingual volunteers in all languages, are needed and recording times can be mornings, afternoons or evening to fit your schedule. If you know of a child in need or wish to volunteer, contact RFB&D at (305) 666-0552

February’s Speakers

Feb. 14:         Kathy Sparger, Electronic Monitoring Systems for Critical care patients

Feb. 21:         Charlotte Dunne & Skip Taylor, the Returning GSE Team

Feb. 28:         John Wesley, Identity theft

                            It’s Your Turn:

February 14

Door Prize:            Dan McCrea

Dessert:                 Barbara Kornblau