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2019 ANNUAL Lighthouse Magazine YOUR INVITATION: NEW PORT RICHEY GRAND OPENING Martin the Guide Dog Speaks Articles about Blindness by Blind & Sighted Staff 2018-19 Annual Report Donor Recognition 2020 Royal Coronation Ball Announcement #1
2019 ANNUAL LIGHTHOUSE MAGAZINE HELLO FROM OUR RESIDENT GUIDE DOG
Martin Speaks ...............................................................3
CLIENT UPDATE
Stepping into The Light ..................................................4
“AT”–It’s Not Just About Computers Anymore ...............5
Terrific Teen Transformations ........................................6
A White Cane & O&M: Safety, Efficiency,
& Looking Good! ............................................................8
Continuum of Services—Birth to Teens .........................9
AGENCY UPDATE
Lighthouse 2018-2019 Annual Report .........................10
EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
New Port Richey Lighthouse Grand Opening..............11
New Building Donor Recognition .................................11
Chasco Coronation Ball: Elegance at its Best! ............13
Lighthouse Events & Community Outreach ................13
Low Vision & Binocular Vision Clinic of FL ..................14
DONORS’ CORNER
Donations, Grants, and Other Support ........................15
About the cover:
Each year, Lighthouse organizes a prom for visually impaired teens so they can enjoy
a true prom experience. Teens come from several Lighthouses in Florida and have a
wonderful time socializing and dancing, and they form lasting friendships. Learn about
Lighthouse’s 2019 Prom at www.lvib.org/programs/school-to-work-transition.
Photo courtesy of Photos by J David.
Page 8
NEW PORT RICHEY LIGHTHOUSE Embracing life with a white
GRAND OPENING—OCTOBER 24, 2019 cane.
Page 11
Lighthouse has a new home
in New Port Richey—you
are invited to the NPR
Grand Opening being held
on October 24, 2019.
MARTIN SPEAKS
M
y name is Martin
and, bow-wow, have
I got a story for
you! You see, I have
the greatest job in
the world. My human and I work at the
Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired
and Blind. Heather, my human, is an
instructor at the agency and works mainly
with blind children and teens, but we help
out with all the programs the organization
offers. Sometimes I get to see little babies
who are blind when their parents bring
them in for early intervention training.
Since I am working, I know I can’t lick
their little faces, but I’d like to! I especially
enjoy the days when the school-age
children and teenagers who are blind
come to the agency for classes. When
they are with us, they get a chance to
spend time with other young humans
who also have vision loss. They really
get along well, and they learn so much We’ve known Martin since Heather brought him home from Southeastern Guide Dogs. He not only helps
about how to function in a sighted world. Heather see the world in a whole new way, he is a calming force, and also very friendly.
Sometimes, they even make cookies. The
Just remember: if I am wearing my
aroma drives me crazy, but when I am on
harness that means I am working, so
the job, I avoid treats. The teens even had
don’t try to pet me. If I get distracted,
a prom and I got to go! Turns out, I am my human might get hurt. After all, my
quite a dancer!
Then there are all the adults who
come here for classes. They learn how
first job is to make sure she can do her
job. You can always pet the CEO. He is Everything we do
starving for attention (and he like treats
to cook safely, how to thread a needle,
how to travel independently, and how to
too!). here helps people
use computers and cell phones. Some of
them want to work, and we help them
Dear Reader, either become
My name is Jonathan Fister. I am
prepare for and find jobs. We even have a
room in our building where blind people
the new CEO at the Lighthouse, and I
agree with everything Martin said! I am
independent
fill orders for various products used by
state and federal governments. This is
proud to lead such a caring organization
and want to thank all our supporters for
or regain their
such an exciting place to be!
Everything we do here helps people
helping us light the way for people who
are visually impaired. ■
independence.
either become independent or regain their
independence. Our mission is to Educate, Our mission
Empower, and Employ people who are
blind. It may be a dog’s life, but for me, is to Educate,
it is a great career. By helping my human
help others, I feel like I am changing the Empower, and
world, one person at a time.
I am inviting you all to come and Employ people
visit me at the Lighthouse’s new home
at 9130 Ridge Road in New Port Richey. who are blind.
LIGHTHOUSE 3
Stepping into
The Light
D
Donna Lane, Independent Living Skills & Assistive Technology/Magnification Instructor
onna has grown up
questioning things
that were obvious to
the sighted. When she
was nine years old, her
teachers were concerned about her inability
to see the blackboard and she lacked
reading skills. At that time, the cause was
a mystery. When she was twelve, she was
prescribed glasses but, for some reason,
they did not help. The ophthalmologist
wanted Donna to stay in the hospital for
a week to run tests. Her parents could not
afford this, so the Lion’s Club funded the
expense of the stay. While being tested,
Donna recalled sitting up in her hospital
bed for the testing, with several doctors Donna stands between Ann Marie (left) and Shirley (right) at their recent Independent Living Skills
peering down at her. Each of them took Program Graduation. Many clients feel relieved when they meet Donna and other Lighthouse staff who are
turns looking into her eyes at very close visually impaired. Clients know they are not alone and they begin to see possibilities.
range with an odd-looking flashlight. visually impaired. Donna struggled with drop off ?” She also has difficulty seeing
Donna couldn’t help but wonder, “Why is the difficulties of reading, recognizing her people’s faces. It’s like, “Who is that?,” and
this happening to me?” friends, and explaining why she did not “Do I know that person?” Once, while
The doctors diagnosed Donna as drive. Being a teen, it was important to “fit walking down the street, Donna thought
having an incurable disease called Juvenile in,” but she felt awkward in most situations. she was approaching a person and she
Macular Degeneration. She has the dry During Donna’s senior year, she found said, “Hello,” but it was a street sign. Then,
type. This disease of the eyes will gradually out about a state-funded program called another question arises, “Am I crazy?”
cause scarring on the macula. When Vocational Rehabilitation, which provided After 20 years of being a full-time
damaged, this small area of the retina a way for her to go to college. This pursuit, wife and mom, Donna wanted to branch
impairs the ability to see details, like road however, was not successful. As it seemed, out. While searching for a new purpose,
signs, people’s faces, and the standard-size Donna was destined to learn things the Donna found out about the Lighthouse
print used on most things. Today, many hard way. By this time, she was diagnosed for the Visually Impaired and Blind. She
older adults are diagnosed with both wet as legally blind and continued pushing stated, “The Lighthouse extended a branch
and dry age-related Macular Degeneration. through the fog, questioning the very basics to me and, thank goodness, I grabbed it.
Juvenile and Age-related Macular of daily living. It has opened a whole new world for me.”
Degeneration are very much alike. When someone is visually impaired, Prior to coming to the Lighthouse, Donna
Donna says that, in the past, no reading can be a challenge. Donna says she was not comfortable with who she was as
one seemed to know about Macular must focus on one word at a time, as parts a visually impaired person. She felt like she
Degeneration or how to cope with it. She begin to disappear, so it’s a guessing game. had a lot more to offer, yet she was not sure
continued her education, main-streamed Walking is another basic skill, but it can also how to see it through.
in public schools, but she had never call her to wonder, “Is that a shadow or a Donna began taking Independent
heard of a teacher who worked with the step down there?” And...“How deep is the Daily Living classes at the Lighthouse,
“2019 ANNUAL LIGHTHOUSE MAGAZINE” is a publication of the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Inc.
It is used to raise awareness about blindness and Lighthouse services, increase support, and recognize our donors.
To learn more, please contact the Lighthouse or visit www.lvib.org.
Your Lighthouse contact for grants and media is Patricia Porter | pporter@lvib.org.
and openly admitted, “One of the first
things I learned was that I’m not the only
visually impaired person around. Since
I’ve lived with a vision impairment all my
life, I thought I knew everything that I
could possibly know about independent
living, but I learned so many basic tips
and techniques that have made my life
less frustrating and more hopeful.” Then,
her Orientation and Mobility (white cane)
training taught her how to use a white cane
to travel safely, to find her way, and to stay
active. When a person is unable to see
traffic lights, it is dangerous to cross streets,
but by learning safer methods, she stopped Doug (middle) helps two Lighthouse clients discover the freedom and independence that Assistive
being afraid of venturing out. Technology (AT) provides to people who are visually impaired and blind.
In addition, when she first came to
the Lighthouse and saw Close-Circuit “AT”–It’s Not Just About
TVs (CCTVs), she was relieved and
happy to finally be able to read. Learning Computers ANYMORE
to use Assistive Technology, especially Doug Schalk, Assistive Technology Instructor
magnification and a screen reader, was
also enlightening. This access technology It used to be that when one mentioned My Eyes and it is available on both Apple
provides the means for using a computer, Assistive Technology (AT), the first thing and Android phones and, the best part, it’s
smartphone, and any of the I-devices. you thought of was the special software or completely free to use.
Without this technology, people with device a person with a disability needed in Assistive Technology has also gone
vision loss can barely function in today’s order to use a computer. Fortunately, times mainstream with the advent of smart
world, but with it they are very capable have changed. Assistive Technology takes speakers like Amazon’s Alexa and Google
and independent. Finally, the group on many shapes and sizes in today’s world, Home. With these devices, the amount of
counseling sessions and the social aspect of and assistive technology levels the playing assistance one might need to make dinner
the Lighthouse were transforming. Being field for people who are visually impaired. can be considerably reduced. Just by asking,
around others who were also learning to Of course, computers still require you can get a recipe, set the timer, and play
cope with vision loss made the journey to things like screen readers for those who are music while your meal is cooking. If you
independence enjoyable. Yes, “enjoyable.” totally blind, and magnification programs take it to the next level and get the right
For Donna, taking classes at the for those with low vision who can still see appliances, you can set your thermostat and
Lighthouse was like stepping into the the screen. But there is so much more. For adjust a room’s lighting, just by issuing a
light. Having more confidence and control example, smartphones now have assistive command. When you have finished eating
of her life, she went back to college and technology built in and need only minimal your meal, you can ask your smart speaker
successfully graduated. setup once they’re out of the box. As to read the news, or a book, if you like.
Donna is now employed, utilizing a totally blind person, I can walk into a Sorry, but it won’t do the dishes for you!
her teaching abilities at the Lighthouse, cellphone store, purchase a phone, and be You would think that all this good
where it all began. As a teacher, Donna using it on my way out the door. stuff is extremely expensive, wouldn’t
recalls meeting many clients who were With Smartphones, people with visual you? Well here’s some good news. All the
often devastated, feeling as though they impairments can do so many things easily, things I’ve discussed have accessibility built
had lost control of their lives. After such as arranging rides with Uber, and in, and because there’s a huge market for
classes, learning new skills, techniques, reading our mail aloud using a scanning these devices, the prices are good and often
and strategies for coping with vision app. Smartphones allow us to see things competitive. However, all this good stuff
impairment, they seemed stronger, we’ve never “seen” before. We can use does require a bit of training, which we
hopeful, and ready to manage the video calling to engage more than a million provide here at the Lighthouse for people
challenges ahead. Donna states, “The sighted volunteers when we need to see who meet the eligibility criteria. Please feel
clients seem so appreciative. They are something such as expiration dates on milk, free to contact us if you have any questions
grateful for the organization. They seem to to identifying the color of the shirt you or if you would like to join us for some
have a better sense of purpose and a sense just took out of the closet. By the way, the training. ■
of coping with the many questions of the app I use to identify objects is called Be
visually impaired.” ■
LIGHTHOUSE 5
Terrific Teen
Transformations
H
Heather Tuck, Social Worker & Youth Programs Coordinator
ave you ever wondered not knowing what is happening around you
what it would be like or what others around you are doing?
to be unable to read Imagine being a young adult who is
someone’s body language? visually impaired. Imagine going to school,
How would you develop not being able to see that your friend is
the ability to socialize? How would you be
able to read whether someone wants to
waving to you, unable to read the body
language of the boy or girl you have a
At the
engage with you, or doesn’t want to engage
with you? As an adult, these can be difficult
crush on. These concerns and situations
are the daily struggles our youth face Lighthouse,
“cannot” is
situations to imagine. Are you in a doctor’s because of blindness and low vision. Still,
office? Or are you sitting in a waiting room our Lighthouse youth continue to go to
somewhere, where there are others in the public school and work in order to remain
room? Now, close your eyes for just a
moment. See if you can understand what is
in diverse environments, and when they
struggle in social situations, they try to do so
not part of our
vocabulary!
going on around you. Try and imagine what with a sense of humor. I’m introducing you
others in the room might be doing around to two of our extremely talented youth, and
you. Is it hard to keep your eyes closed for how they persevere through their day-to-day
lengthy periods? Do you feel uncomfortable challenges related to vision impairment.
6 LIGHTHOUSE
First, let’s talk about Branden. Branden, which we all know is great medicine for any
the young man holding a tortoise in the situation! Sierra has been using a white cane
photo on the left, has been attending our for many years, and she has shared that her
Transition Program (aka our teens’ program) white cane can reduce awkward situations,
at the Lighthouse for a couple of years. He since others know she is visually impaired.
also attends public school and works hard She uses her white cane as her “ice breaker”
to help others. In the couple of years that in new environments. We are proud of
Branden has attended the teens’ program, her continued involvement in our teens’
he has gained so much self-confidence and program, and how she has thrived in the
is now able to advocate on his own behalf years she has attended. Sierra is a faithful and
at school and in work situations. Branden consistent shining light every day!
has good functional vision, and is able to These are just two examples of our
maneuver the world without a white cane. terrific teen transformations. I could be
But he makes sure he has all the necessary here all day, bragging on our teens, and the
aides with him at all times. He carries a progress they have made through the years.
monocular for distance viewing and has a This is why the Lighthouse is here, in our
magnifier on his phone. Branden continues community—to help those who need real- During a game of goal ball, Sierra retrieves a ball
to show so much growth in his ability to life skills. The focus of the teens’ program kicked by a player on the opposing team—and
share with others what he needs in order to is to introduce our youth to ways they can gets the player out. Sierra’s determination removes
barriers to success on and off the field.
be successful, thanks to the teens’ program. live, work, and maintain their independence,
Now, let’s talk about Sierra. Sierra, the regardless of their vision loss. We teach them realize what they can do, instead of focusing
young lady on the right in the photo below, to give back, and to pay it forward in the on what they cannot do. At the Lighthouse,
has been participating in the Transition community, because their community helps “cannot” is not part of our vocabulary!
Program for many years. She is severely them in so many ways. Our teens deserve If you would like to help with our
visually impaired and has additional medical the chance to feel like they belong, and that mission to bring inclusion to our community
problems that could keep her from going there is a place for them here, in Pasco, with our youth, I encourage you to share our
to public school or attending Lighthouse Hernando, and Citrus counties. But more story with others. All our programs depend
activities. However, Sierra puts on her brave than this, they should possess the confidence greatly on the generosity of our community,
face, every day, to battle through the halls to know they can go anywhere, even outside to raise awareness, to obtain donations, and
of her high school, using her white mobility of our community, and be successful. to find volunteers. Our youth are the future
cane, and she is a social butterfly. Sierra does The need for youth programs, such as leaders of our community. We want them to
not wait for others to begin a conversation our Transition Program, is necessary and have every opportunity to be successful and
with her, she takes the leading role and goes vital in giving teens who are visually impaired confident in their ability to find acceptance
with it! She has a positive attitude which or blind a new perspective on how to cope wherever they go! ■
others are drawn to, and she loves to laugh, with their vision loss, and in helping them
LIGHTHOUSE 7
A WHITE CANE & O&M FOR SAFETY,
EFFICIENCY, & LOOKING GOOD!
Kenny Ratzlaff, Orientation and Mobility Specialist & Teen Transition Program Instructor
W
various etiologies which include Macular guide techniques (sighted-guide), trailing,
hen Paul’s sister
Degeneration, Glaucoma, brain tumors, upper and lower body protection skills, and
brought him to
strokes, Retinitis Pigmentosa, and Diabetic scanning methods. Training progresses with
the Lighthouse, he
Retinopathy. the introduction of a long cane for indoor
wasn’t sure what
Orientation and Mobility is an and outdoor travel. Cane techniques include
he was doing there.
important area of learning for a person diagonal positioning, diagonal trailing, using
He was using a long white plastic pipe to
who is visually impaired. As defined by Dr. constant contact, and employing shoreline
find things in front of him. Little did he
Dona Saurburger, Orientation and Mobility and guideline techniques. The cane traveler
know that he was about to be provided
is a profession that teaches safe, efficient, learns to use safe methods for ascending
with true orientation and mobility training
and effective travel skills to people with and descending stairs and escalators. One of
(O&M) and the use of a white mobility
vision loss. Orientation refers to the ability the goals of O&M training is to allow those
cane. Paul had been diagnosed with a brain
to know where one is and where one wants with vision loss to travel independently and
tumor that was putting pressure on his
to go. Mobility refers to movement in a safe safely in residential and business areas; this
optic nerve. This resulted in a total loss of
and efficient manner. For a person who is includes negotiating street crossings and
vision.
blind or has low vision, knowing where one using public transportation.
With the proper type of orientation
wants to go can range from moving within This is where Paul is now with his
and mobility training, positive outcomes
one’s home; to walks around the block; to O&M training: the Lighthouse has taught
and well-being can be realized for people
shopping independently; to taking a bus to him how to use his long white cane, both in
of all ages experiencing vision loss. Our
work, church, or school; to using ride sharing the Lighthouse and around his community.
goal at the Lighthouse is to help those
to get to the airport; and even to hiking or He has worked with the O&M Specialist to
with visual impairments live a full and
traveling outside using technology such as a learn routes to the places he wants to go to
rewarding life, with vision loss being a
global positioning system (GPS). or explore.
minor inconvenience. At the Lighthouse,
The Lighthouse Orientation and Paul is also adjusting to his loss of
we serve clients with vision loss from
Mobility Program (O&M) begins with vision by using techniques he has learned
in other Lighthouse programs, such as
With the proper
type of orientation
and mobility
training, positive
outcomes and
well-being can
be realized for
people of all ages
experiencing
vision loss. Paul’s vision loss was unexpected and sudden, and within days he came to the Lighthouse. We immediately
began providing vision rehabilitation services to help him regain his hope, confidence, and independence.
8 LIGHTHOUSE
CONTINUUM
OF SERVICES—
BIRTH TO TEEN
• Heather Tuck, Social Worker
& Youth Programs Coordinator
• Becky Barber, Early Intervention
Teacher
Building independence starts
early at the Lighthouse. Children from
birth through five years old with visual
impairments may begin first in our
Early Intervention Program. Concept
development during that critical early
learning period will take many paths
according to each child’s particular needs.
Many children in the program have
multiple special needs in addition to vision
loss that impact their learning style.
Families are also adjusting to what
having a visual impairment will mean for
their child’s future. Therefore, families are
a big part of their child’s program. As the
child’s first and constant teachers, families
gain knowledge during the early years,
about advocating for their children and
providing opportunities best suited for
Paul walks with Betty, a Lighthouse navigator, to one of our waiting vehicles. Lighthouse provides them to learn.
transportation for Lighthouse services and also, we teach our clients how to travel independently in After the Early Intervention
their neighborhoods and on public transit. While we do provide training in using human guides, we
prepare our clients so they can move safely and independently without one.
Program, the child begins working toward
self-awareness as it pertains to their
Independent Living Skills. Our programs of cars on the road, specifically when independence and their ability to work
have given Paul the skills to adapt and crossing the narrow bridge near the end as they become adults. The Children’s
manage situations that can sometimes be of his route. He relies on his cane and his Program at the Lighthouse is for children
difficult for people with vision loss. knowledge of the local traffic to help him age 5 to 13. This is the first exposure
For example, Paul always takes a cross safely to the other side of the bridge. they will have to the world of work and
moment before leaving his home to adjust to Paul understands that his life has developing their minds to overcoming
the darkness of being blind, then he grasps changed, and he is willing to embrace his their vision loss and learning to socialize
his white cane and sets off down the street. new life and regain his independence. He is with others. As the child has begun to
Paul is a fast walker and uses a longer-than- looking good with his long white cane! If grasp these early concepts, they move into
average cane to ensure he has adequate time you have a vision loss, you should come to our Transition Program.
to avoid obstacles discovered in his path. the Lighthouse…and be like Paul! The Transition Program is for 14 to
Since there are no sidewalks on this route, he Also, be on the lookout for White 22 year olds. It is in this program, that
sweeps the narrow tip of his cane back and Cane Awareness Day. Every October, they will be given the tools for successful
forth along the road. He detects bumps in people all over the U.S. are out in full force and appropriate employment for their
the asphalt and circumvents a mailbox that and all over social media on this day, to individual needs. In addition, young adults
intrudes out into the street. After his first bring awareness to White Cane Law. Did will be given opportunities to work with
turn onto a crossing road, just a few blocks you know that pedestrians using a white the community on comprehensive projects
from his house, he pauses at a worn-out cane or a guide dog have right-of-way for and integrating themselves into their
section of pavement that passes a small safety? You can learn all about White Cane community. This is the program where
ditch full of water. Knowing this, he adjusts Law, and Orientation and Mobility at the they will learn to advocate on their own
his line of travel and continues his journey, Lighthouse at www.lvib.org/programs/ behalf and fine tune their social skills to
avoiding the ditch. Paul listens for the sound orientation-and-mobility. ■ transition into adulthood. ■
LIGHTHOUSE 9
Lighthouse 2018-2019
Annual Report
The Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind is a 501(c)3 2018-2019 Clients Served By
non-profit agency that provides Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus residents Program
424
who are visually impaired with vision rehabilitation that enables them
to live more safely and independently. Since 1983, Lighthouse has 262
served over tens of thousands of people. Lighthouse programs and
78
services are provided by 18 staff members, 8 of whom are visually 22 12 19 31
impaired. In the fiscal year ending June 30, 2019, we served 346
clients and 78 of their family members. Charts on the right offer
various breakdowns by program, in addition to the administration and
fundraising percentage for the agency. Going forward, the number of
clients is expected to increase as we have relocated to the New Port
Richey Lighthouse. The new location is much larger than our previous
location so multiple programs are now offered simultaneously. 2018-2019 Program Percentages
Also in the 2018-2019 fiscal year, we said thank you and farewell of Total Hours Served
to CEO Sylvia Perez. After leading the Lighthouse for 10 years, she
2% 11% Babies/Early Intervention
9%
left in December 2018 to work at the national level, to help ensure the Children's Program
availability of high-quality programs for all people who are visually 8% Teen Transition
impaired. In February 2019, Sylvia was succeeded by Jonathan Fister. Voc Rehab
Formerly, Jonathan was the President/CEO of the Keystone family of 29% Adult Program
Older Blind
7 non-profit agencies for blind persons in Pennsylvania, a position he
30% Enhancement
held for 40 years. Jonathan plans on expanding Lighthouse programs
Family
and services, and creating alternate revenue streams to ensure program 5%
6%
availability.
current Lighthouse programs include:
2018-2019 Program Expense
• The Babies Program serves clients age 0 through 5. The goal is to
maximize the child’s abilities, prepare him/her for independence Breakdown
Babies/Early Intervention
and education, and provide information for the parents/caregiver.
• The Children’s Program serves clients age 5 through 13. Children 8% 8%
Children's Program
learn communication, self-help, self-advocacy, orientation and 8% 7% Teen Transition
mobility (O&M), assistive technology, and other skills. Voc Rehab & Job Readiness
16%
• The Teens’ Transitional Program serves clients age 14 through Independent Living Skills for Adults
& Seniors
22, with an emphasise on the skills required for transitioning to 41% 12% Industry
high school, trade school or college, moving into an apartment or Other Programs
dormitory, or finding and maintaining employment.
Subject to financial audit.
• The Vocational Rehabilitation/Job Readiness Program works
with adults and seniors who are looking for employment or need
assistance with maintaining employment.
2018-2019 Program Versus
• The Adult Program and the Older Blind Program provides Administration & Fundraising
instruction in independent living skills. Services such as vision Expense
rehab therapy, O&M, assistive technology, screen magnification, Administration &
adjustment to blindness counseling, sun shield assessment, and Fundraising
8%
Braille literacy are offered as required. Total Revenue
• The Industry Program provides employment for visually eligible
individuals.
• Enrichment programs are also provided and include Art Class, 92%
Book Club, CCTV Lending Program, family counseling, and
Subject to financial audit.
client support groups (Veterans, technology users, drop-in).
• Lighthouse also provides community services. Please refer to
“LVIB Events & Community Outreach” on page 13. ■
10 MAGAZINEPlease join us to celebrate...
The New Port Richey Lighthouse
Grand Opening
9130 Ridge Road, New Port Richey, FL 34654
Thursday, October 24, 2019
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 5:30 p.m.
Tours & Social from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. & 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
RSVP 727-815-0303
or npr-lvib-grand-opening.eventbrite.com
LVIB.org Join us for a celebration of our Grand Opening and all
the good the Lighthouse does in the Tampa Bay Community.
Free to attend; please RSVP and include your number of guests.
New building • Benny Capicchioni • Lions Club of Zephyrhills
T
• Citarella Termite & Pest Management • Lions of West Pasco & Clara S. Anderson
donor Recognition • Community Service Council of West Pasco Charitable Foundation
he New Port Richey • Diane Dare • Lutz-Land O Lakes (Lions) Foundation
Lighthouse exists because of • Kay & Richard Davison • The Lyon Family
the tremendous outpouring • Barbara De Simone • Hung & Chi Mai
of support from the • Faith Baptist Church • John & Debbie Mann
community. We received a • Farrell Home Services • Joann Marshall & Ron Spencer
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban • Katie Firmani • Bruce & Monica Mills
Development Community Development • Jonathan Fister and Ann Peterson • Ruby Molitor
Block Grant through Pasco County • Kennedy, Reagan, Richey & Audrey Flege • Myers & Fotopoulos MDS PA DBA New
Community Development Department • GFWC Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Image Dermatology
in the amount of $400,000, and Florida Club • Marjorie Nantz & Kenny Ratzlaff
Senator Wilton Simpson was responsible for • Terry & Mary Haas • The Novak Family
supporting an appropriation in the amount • Linda & Alicia Hajjar • Pasco Aging Network
of $200,000. We also received dozens of • Harper Family Charitable Foundation • J. Bruce & Maria Pienkos
donations to further assist with the cost • Alfred & Diane Heiler • The Poblick Family
of the land and the new building. New • Heritage Pines Community • Edward & Eileen Quigley Jr.
building donors of $250 or more are known • High Point Lions Club • Eva Reichenbaugh
as Legacy Builders. A special ceremony to • Margot Hoglind • Sun Roberts
recognize our Legacy Builders will be held • Daisy Hogue • Rotary Club of Trinity
at NPR Lighthouse Grand Opening on • Ken & Jan Huber • Geraldine & Thomas Seitz
October 24. The following is our growing • Hudson-Bayonet Point Lions Foundation • Wayne & Jennifer Selk
list of Legacy Builders. • Jones & Company CPAs P.A. • Spanish Trails West Women’s Club
• Louis & Christine Anzalone • Dale & Patricia Kerr • Reynold & Mildred Stewart
• Cami Austin • F. Coyne Knight • Dale Strand
• Don & Barbara Baker • Rhonda & Robert Koning • Suncoast Clinical Research
• Raola Bear • Joanne Krapf & Mary Anne Richard • Carolyn Vicari ■
LIGHTHOUSE 11e a r
35 th Y
March 27th, 2020
Cocktails 6pm • Dinner 7pm
Public Formal
e!
Welcom Spartan Manor Gala!
6121 Massachusetts Avenue
New Port Richey, FL 34653
To benefit
The Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Inc.
tions
NominaAccepted!
ing
Now Be rch 11, 2020
te Ma
Due da obtained by emaoilm
ing
an be mail.c
Forms c onBall@hush
n ati
Coro
Tickets $125.00 per person
obtained by contacting Chairperson Jamie Mick
at 727-642-8041 or Chascoballticket@gmail.com
Go to: LVIB.org
Sponsorship Opportunities are also available
by contacting Chascoballsponsors@gmail.com or 727-642-8041.
12 LIGHTHOUSEChasco Coronation Ball:
Elegance at its Best!
Ann Peterson, Services Advisor
T
As legend would have it, in 1586,
he luxurious Spartan a young boy and girl were part of a
Manor was the venue of Spanish expedition that was captured
the 34th Annual Chasco by the Calusa tribe who inhabited the
Coronation Ball held area around (now) New Port Richey. LIGHTHOUSE
March 29, 2019. From the The youngsters became members of
Greek-style fountain and patio, where the tribe and later became Prince Pithla EVENTS &
many attendees posed for pictures, to
COMMUNITY
and Queen Chasco (or King and Queen,
the superb dinner suitable for kings and depending on which version of the
queens, the evening was full of charming
events. After dinner, past kings and queens
legend you read). They were named
for the Pithlachascotee River (now OUTREACH
paraded through the ballroom. The new referred to as the Cotee River) which
nominees were introduced and the new runs through New Port Richey and In addition to client programs and
King Pithla and Queen Chasco, King empties into the Gulf of Mexico. In services, Lighthouse also provides
Paul Friedlander and Queen Lisa Shippy- 1922, a Chasco Fiesta evolved (of which or holds:
Gonzalez, were selected. the Chasco Coronation Ball is the now
The two were chosen for their the opening event) to raise money to The Chasco Coronation Ball
charitable work and dedication to the build The Avery Library. The festivities
community. Lisa, a Rotarian, is active included a decorative boat parade which A Surprise Hernando County
in Junior Achievement, PACE Center was the first one of its kind in Florida. Fundraising Event coming in 2020
for Girls, Good Samaritan Clinic and Although the Chasco Coronation
Wheelchairs for Kids, to name a few of Ball and the Chasco Fiesta evolved from Customized Lighthouse Tours
her activities, and she has received several this legend, the occasion still remains
community awards. Paul, also a Rotarian, a fundraising event for non-profit
Simulated Vision Loss Experiences
is active in the West Pasco Chamber of organizations. The Lighthouse is very
Commerce, Pasco Kids First, Community
Understanding Vision Loss In‑services
fortunate that the Chasco Coronation
Service Council, PACE Center for Girls Ball has chosen the Lighthouse as
for doctors’ offices & medical facilities
and Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, its beneficiary, and raises thousands
among other organizations. He has been
Guest Speakers for clubs & businesses
of dollars each year to help us meet
a recipient of numerous awards. After the the needs for Lighthouse services. Website Reviews for accessibility
coronation, the lights were lowered and Dedicated committee members,
the floor was cleared for dancing. generous sponsors, and silent auction Class Observations & Participation
A Silent Auction was available donors help to make the ball a very in Program Graduations by special
throughout the evening, offering enticing successful event each year. In 2019,
golf packages, boat and plane rides,
arrangement
Morton Plant North Bay Hospital
dinners, chocolates, jewelry, craft beers, / BayCare Health System was the Low Vision & Binocular Vision
and wine. Bidding was very competitive! Presenting Sponsor. Other sponsors
New this year was a Wine Pull, where,
Clinic of FL
included Rotary Club of New Port
for a nominal fee, participants could select Richey, Kemp, Ruge & Green Law Garden Club coming soon
a bottle of wine. The bottles were all Group, Lema Construction, The Hook
beautifully wrapped, so it was unknown Law Group, Citarella Termite & Pest Internship Opportunities for college and
what kind of wine you had chosen until Management, and Havana Dreamers. university students
you removed the paper. The 35th Annual Chasco
A little history about King Pithla and Coronation Ball takes places on Friday, Learn about Lighthouse events
Queen Chasco… March 27, 2020. To get on the mailing at www.lvib.org/events.
list, please email events@lvib.org. ■
LIGHTHOUSE 13Donations, Grants,
& Other Support
Lighthouse services are provided at Kelly McKnight Goelz & Leonard Goelz,
no cost, thanks to the Florida Division of Robert & Tammi Green, Robert Haas, Havana
Blind Services, the United Way of Pasco and Dreamers Cuban Café, Hernando Computer
Hernando counties, and several donors and Club, Steven Higger, Hilton Garden Inn
volunteers. Throughout the year, our donors Suncoast Parkway, Holladay Whitco Insurance,
and volunteers have responded to our requests ICTC Internet Connect Cable Technologies
for support by providing funds and gifts-in- Corp., Innovative Mortgage, Inspiration
kind, by attending our fundraising events, and Foundation, Patrick & Dianne Kerr, Kelvin &
by volunteering. 75 volunteers (including our Carol Kinnard, Kiwanis Club of Brooksville, Earlier this year, thirteen employees from LGI
Board of Directors) donated 2,242 hours of La Boutique of Spring Hill, LGI Homes- Homes-Florida, LLC, volunteered with our teens to
support in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2019. Florida, Life Care Center of New Port Richey, help them organize their classroom. LGI Homes-
Lighthouse events and projects included: Wendy Longman | Windsong Charters & Florida also made a generous donation to help us
provide their program.
Boat Rentals, Gene & Sharon Magrini, Master
• New Port Richey Lighthouse Mechanics of New Port Richey, Marjorie’s
Hope, Master Title Service, George Medler, Dining in the dark sponsorships
(construction, design and furnishings)
Nativity Lutheran Church, Natural Choice Lema Construction (Platinum), Publix
• Brooksville Lighthouse (upcoming
Pest Control, Network for Good, Elinor & Bill Super Markets Charities, Citarella Termite &
renovation)
Paladine, Pit Boss B~B~Q Restaurant Little Pest Management, Synovus Securities, Oak
• Chasco Coronation Ball
Rd., John & Beth Powanda, Progressive Air Hill Hospital, Felten Professional Adjustment
• Dining in the Dark
Systems, PRP Wine Intl., RE/MAX Marketing Team, Denise Sabatino, PA., The Eye Center,
• Beeping Easter Egg Hunt
Specialists - The Hardy Team, Regional Medical Medical & Surgical Eye Care, H.T. Mai, and
• Lighthouse/USABA Sports Day
Center Bayonet Point, Bill & Mary Repper, Windsong Charters & Boat Rentals.
• Teen Prom
• Program Celebrations for our children Robert Memoli & Florida Luxury Realty, Friends of the Lighthouse
and teens Rotary Club of Holiday, Rotary Club of New ANNUAL GIVING PROGRAM donors
• Year-end request for support Port Richey, Security Fire Equipment, Ralph Sandy & Victoria Barley, Berkshire Hathaway
Segarra, Servi-Stat, Shapes Fitness for Women Home Services of FL Properties Grp., Thomas
In this magazine, we recognize our WC, Adam & Sue Shoemaker, Silverthorn and Corinne Gray, John & Debbie Mann,
NPR Legacy Builders and sponsors for the Country Club, Sir Speedy Professional Printing Douglas & Joyce Martin, Joseph Mayer &
Chasco Coronation Ball, on pages 11 and 13 & Mktg Svs, Southern Hills Plantation Golf Susan Domingues Mayer, Jamie & Rod Mick,
respectively. We also recognize the following Club, Spring Hill Rotary, Staywell, A WellCare Bruce & Monica Mills, Dr. & Mrs. S.K. Rao
donors who supported the Lighthouse Company, Tarpon Total Health Care, Thrivent Musunuru, Edward & Eileen Quigley Jr.,
monetarily and through gifts-in-kind since our Financial for Lutherans, United States George Sgarro, and Susan Vowels.
last publication. Association of Blind Athletes (USABA),
United Way of Hernando County, United Way special awards
Donors of $200+ (12/12/18–09/18/19) of Pasco County, Vitreo Retinal Surgeons, Periodically, we provide awards to
ABCO Graphics & Commercial Print, Walden Insurance Network., Walmart individuals who have made a huge impact
Accuform Angels/Accuform Signs, All Neighborhood Market #6207 Spring Hill, on our clients. This year, we recognized Kay
Corners Home Inspections, American Victory Walmart Supercenter #3418 Wesley Chapel, Davison with the Bright Light Award, and
Ship Mariners Museum, Suzanne Andersen, Walmart Supercenter #988 Lutz, West Pasco Wendy Longman with the Teens’ Program
Ayantek, LLC, Bene’s International School CoC (Ambassadors & YPG Programs), and Appreciation Award.
of Beauty, Black Diamond Ranch, Margaret David Wright | Photos by J David.
Blum, Kim & Trish Bogart, Boulevard Beef message from the ceo
& Ale, BPOE Pinellas Park, Brooklyn’s Best BEQUESTS A huge THANK YOU to all our
Pizza, Brooksville Country Club at Majestic Bequests were received from the Mary supporters, for helping us meet our mission
Oaks, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Cason Ann Hess Revocable Living Trust and the in 2018-2019. We look forward to another
Photography, Chefs of Napoli, Doris Cynamon Vincent Sylvia Titone Foundation. exciting year of helping people who are
Day Law Office, ESP Enterprises, Farrell MEMORIALS visually impaired meet their individual goals
Power Company, First Lutheran Church East Donations were made in the memory for independence. If you would like to help
Hernando - Mary Martha’s Guild, First United of Max (Harold) Bear, Carole H. Chambers, or learn more, please visit the Lighthouse.
Methodist Church, Florida Cracker Kitchen, Manetta Erikson, Cecelia Gilbert, Marjorie We need your support in order to meet the
Florida House of Representatives, District 35, Metheny, Ruby Molitor, Donald Morelock, and growing needs of our clients.
Florida Orchestra, Gary Blackwell Charitable Arthur Stevens. Sincerely, Jonathan Fister ■
Foundation, GlenLakes Golf & Country Club,
LIGHTHOUSE 15SURPRISE
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
HERNANDO Permit No. 6525
Tampa, FL
COUNTY
FUNDRAISING
EVENT
COMING
IN 2020!
STAY TUNED!
Mailing label
LVIB.org
Contact the Lighthouse LighthousefortheV.I.
lighthouse@lvib.org Pasco.Hernando.Citrus
LighthouseVIB
Pasco County
9130 Ridge Road
New Port Richey, FL 34654
Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind
Phone (727) 815-0303 is an AbilityOne® Authorized Provider, and
Fax (727) 815-0203 is sponsored by the Florida Department of
Education, Division of Blind Services and the
Hernando & Citrus Counties United Ways of Pasco and Hernando counties.
6492 California Street
Brooksville, FL 34604
Phone (352) 754-1132
Fax (352) 754-5118
Lighthouse for the visually impaired and Blind, Inc. (LVIB) is a non-profit 501(C)3 charity, Registration number CH662. A copy of the
lighthouse’s official registration/Financial information may be obtained from the Florida Division of Consumer Services by calling
toll-free 1-800-435-7352. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state.You can also read
