“The Iowa Council of the United Blind is a consumer-run organization dedicated to improving the equality, opportunity, and independence of blind Iowans. Through education, advocacy, and a firm belief in the potential and abilities of people with vision loss, we help each other become fully participating members of our families, communities, and workplaces.”

This mission is at the heart of everything we do. Whether we are ensuring our members stay connected and informed, creating opportunities for personal growth, advocating for accessible platforms, or requesting a voice in the Governor’s appointment of the next IDB (Iowa Department for the Blind) Director, we are committed to supporting blind Iowans. Every decision we make is rooted in our belief in the capabilities of individuals with vision loss and our dedication to building a stronger and more inclusive community.

I am looking forward to us working together to uphold these values. One of my foremost priorities is for us to ensure that every member across the state is engaged, informed, and empowered through opportunities within the organization. Engagement is crucial to members feeling connected and finding value in their membership. When members are actively involved, they develop a sense of belonging and purpose, which enhances their experience. By keeping members informed, they become aware of various opportunities available to them, empowering them to take initiative and contribute meaningfully. This participation not only fosters personal growth but also strengthens us as a whole.

ICUB uses a number of channels to reach our membership, including weekly conference calls, Facebook, our website, ICUB News, the ICUB Bulletin, Chapter emails, robo voice messages, and personal calls to members who do not use online communication. Additionally, we have introduced new initiatives, such as holding open state board meetings to allow for member comments, and creating a Listserv that will enable members to communicate with one another to receive valuable information. These efforts ensure that all members stay connected and have a voice.

There are many ways to become involved. As part of the ICUB community, you have the possibility of serving on various state committees. You can play a role in strengthening our connections with parents and families while helping us discover ways to attract new members. We are looking for volunteers to join the Ambassador Program, which focuses on outreach initiatives and mentorship. In the spring, you have a chance to attend the ACB (American Council of the Blind) Leadership Conference and advocate with us in Washington, D.C. And, working behind the scenes, your involvement can help keep our members connected. Your participation not only ensures the future success of our community but can provide you with valuable experiences and networking opportunities.

We will continue to uphold the principles of our mission by advocating for accessible absentee ballots, ensuring that every blind Iowan can participate in the democratic process both privately and independently. Our ongoing efforts include collaborating with such organizations as the National Federation of the Blind of Iowa (NFBI) and Disability Rights Iowa, engaging with legislators, and seeking out new opportunities to further advance this cause.

As we move forward, it is important that we have a voice in the Governor's appointment of the new Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) director. This leadership role directly impacts the quality and direction of services provided to blind Iowans. We have already taken multiple steps to advocate for our participation, including a joint letter to Governor Reynolds from ICUB and the NFBI written by Presidents Dolinsek and Van Gorp, a letter introducing myself to her and reaffirming our desire to be part of the hiring process, the passage of Resolution 2024-04 during our State Conference, and ongoing communication with IDB Commissioners in order to keep informed about their actions. As this process continues, we will keep the membership updated.

In conclusion, I invite each of you to join me as we begin this journey together. Thank you for your dedication in helping to build, grow, and strengthen our organization. Your commitment makes all the difference, and I encourage you to reach out to me with any questions or ideas as we move forward.

Lori Trujillo-Roush, President

2024-2025 ICUB Officers, Board, and Chapter Presidents

Officers:

President, Lori Trujillo-Roush (elected 2024; 2-yr. term)

Immediate Past President, Bettina Dolinsek (Service 2022 - 2024)

Vice President, Bob Martin (elected 2023; 2-yr. term)

Treasurer, Jeana Mowery (re-elected 2024; 2 yr.-term)

Secretary, Liz Soenen (re-elected 2023; 2-yr. term)

Directors:

Don Wirth (re-elected 2023; 2-yr. term)

Elantra Van Gorkom (elected to fill a 1-yr. term through 2025)

Mary Haupt (elected 2024; 2-yr term)

Karen Keninger (re-elected 2024; 2-yr. term)

Kay Merz (elected 2024; 2-yr. term)

Donna Seliger (re-elected 2023; 2-yr. term)

Chapter Presidents:

Don Wirth (Across Iowa Chapter President)

Cody Dolinsek (Des Moines Chapter President)

Kristen Steele (Dubuque Chapter President)

Sally Ripplinger (Waterloo Chapter President; inactive Chapter)

ICUB Long-term Service Award

by Don Wirth

In preparing for the 2024 ICUB Annual State Conference and Convention, the planning committee settled on the theme of “Honoring Our Past and Building Our Future.” Events and presentations would be developed around the idea of sharing history and laying the foundation for future growth.

As the committee talked about our past, we realized we had no method of regularly recognizing the efforts of people who had worked so hard and so long to bring ICUB to where we are today. It was suggested that we develop an annual award recognizing those individuals, as well as those who will carry us forward. While we had the Linda Dietrich Volunteer of the Year Award that recognizes one facet of important service to ICUB, we didn’t have an award for those who had given multiple years of broad and various services to ICUB.

As we discussed the idea, certain criteria were developed. Among them was length of service. We settled on a minimum of 15 years. Additionally, this award was to honor more than just membership. The honorees had to have taken formal and/or informal leadership roles as mentors, Chapter or State office holders, and be active participants in planning, organizing, and participating in social, business, outreach and mentoring events. It also had to be an annual award rather than a one-time award presented in conjunction with just the 2024 Convention.

While we were having our discussion, Jeana Mowery pulled up our original charter document and read through the names of the original signees– “our founding parents.” Some of the signees are still active members of ICUB.

A committee was formed to draft a proposed long-term service award policy. The policy was approved by the ICUB Executive Committee. Names of nominees for the first award were submitted and approved.

The result was that the “Iowa Council of the United Blind Seliger-Slayton-Stratton Long-Term Service Award” was presented at the 2024 Annual State Convention. The award was named for three original signee families who are still serving ICUB. The first honorees were Donna Seliger, Jo Slayton and Rose Stratton. Their combined years of service are nearly uncountable. If you also add in the years of service of their husbands, it is easy to see why the award was named to honor them.

As part of the new policy, the ICUB President will appoint a committee in December of each year to review nominees for the long-term service award. Information about how to nominate someone you feel is deserving of this award will be distributed in January, 2025. Please watch for it and help us honor other worthy ICUB members.

Jacob Longmire Wins New ICUB Scholarship

At this summer’s ICUB Convention, President Bettina Dolinsek presented the new ICUB Scholarship to high school graduate Jacob Longmire of Coralville. The $2,500 scholarship, funded primarily by an anonymous donor in partnership with ICUB, recognizes a blind student for academic excellence, leadership qualities, and participation in both school and extracurricular activities.

Jake graduated this year from the Perkins School for the Blind. Along with his academic studies, he participated in DND (Dungeons and Dragons) Club, Goalball, Track, Cultural club, and Radio club. He also volunteered at the Boston Museum of Science. Jake plans to study history and is attending Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts this fall. Congratulations, Jake, on your well-deserved award!

Meet the New Board Members

Mary Haupt lives in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She joined the Across Iowa chapter of ICUB in 2020, taking advantage of the new Zoom format. Today she serves as Secretary of the Across Iowa Chapter and leads a Bingo game on Zoom for ICUB twice a month. At the national level, her involvement with ACB also includes facilitating two weekly ACB Community calls, serving on the Board of the Library Users of America, working on the ACB Auction Committee, and assisting with Braille Revival League activities. In her free time, Mary enjoys playing word and number games on her iPhone.

Kay Merz is the Vice-President of the Dubuque Chapter of ICUB. Blind since the age of nine, she says she has two grown daughters and three grandchildren with one more on the way. She enjoys reading and spending time with her friends and family. “I look forward to serving on the ICUB Board and getting to know all of you better,” she says.

Elantra Van Gorkom moved to Iowa and joined ICUB last year. She is currently attending college.

We Remember

by Jo Slayton

Below is a list of members of the blindness community we have lost this past year. Each of them has had a positive influence on the lives of blind Iowans. They will be missed, and our condolences go out to their families and friends.

STEVE BARBER

MARY ELLEN (FITE) HALVERSON

DANA KAYE HARR

PEARL MARGARET IRMITER

JOEL JEFFRIES

KENNY MCCLAIN

MAVIS GWEN MCVEETY

DORIS MORITZ

LARRY SHANK

JIM SNIDER

LYNN (CURTIS) STOCKSTILL

JIM SWANSON

DENNIS THURMAN

BILL WALKER

ELIZABETH WARREN

ICUB 2024 Annual Conference and Convention Resolutions

The following resolutions were passed at the ICUB 2024 Annual Conference and Convention.

Resolution 2024-1

Subject: Recognition of the Excellent Work of the Iowa Department for the Blind Library for the Blind and Print Disabled

Whereas, the Iowa Department for the Blind Library for the Blind and Print Disabled has provided over six decades of excellent services to the blind and print disabled residents of Iowa; and

Whereas, the Library is often the first service through which clients have contact with the Department; and

Whereas, access to such reading materials as books, magazines, music and other items provides many blind Iowans with the first step in realizing they have the potential to develop the skills that will allow them to live the lives they choose; and

Whereas, the Library has been staffed with many dedicated, hard-working employees and volunteers--many of whom are at this Convention and are members of ICUB; and

Whereas, during the pandemic shutdown of 2020, when many libraries for the blind across the country were closed and unable to serve their patrons, the library never missed a day of fulfilling patron requests and shipping out materials; and

Whereas, the Library staff developed the process of “super-dupe”—now used by many libraries for the blind throughout the country--allowing them to download up to twenty books on a single cartridge, saving money and providing better service; and

Whereas, the Library has expanded outreach efforts that provide creative library services and educational tools to borrowers of all ages, including the Peek-a-Box for Adults and Braille, STEM, and career exploration training for school-age children; and

Whereas, the Library has implemented the Athena data management system, which gives real-time access to project management to schools, teachers and vendors, thereby streamlining document development and saving money; And

Whereas, the Library was chosen as one of the first libraries in the country to distribute Braille eReaders to patrons, thus bringing a new and exciting Braille-reading device to its borrowers; and

Whereas, as a result of these and many other accomplishments, the Library was recognized in 2021 as the top-rated library for the blind in the country by the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled.

Now therefore be it resolved by the Iowa Council of the United Blind in convention assembled this 24th day of August, 2024, in the city of Ankeny, Iowa, that our organization and members strongly express our gratitude for the outstanding efforts of the Library staff and volunteers past and present for the work they have performed in making our lives better through communicating with the world of words; and

Be it further resolved that the President of ICUB present this resolution to the Library Director to be shared with the Library staff and volunteers to acknowledge and commend them for the life-changing work they perform.

Resolution 2024-2

Subject: Overhaul of the Iowa Department for the Blind Website

Whereas, an organization’s website is its public face, thereby making that agency responsible for ensuring that its website clearly presents its mission, programs, services, and other pertinent information, and that it keeps its website accurate, up to date, and easy to use; and

Whereas, the website of the Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) reflects poorly on the agency, even though the site claimed in June 2023 to be in the process of being updated “to create a more streamlined experience,” although it has made little discernable progress in achieving this goal; and

Whereas, for example, a full list of IDB programs and services and links to more information about them does not appear on the home page, some links throughout the site are broken, some information is inconsistent and out-of-date, and the audio and text transcripts of the personal interviews gathered as part of the Iowa Blind History Project have been removed; and

Whereas, because of these deficiencies, the website reflects poorly on the IDB and its distinguished reputation, giving users the impression that the agency lacks in effective programs, services, and organization, thereby being of little value to those seeking blindness-related information and services.

Now therefore be it resolved by the Iowa Council of the United Blind in Convention assembled this 24th day of august, 2024, in the city of Ankeny, Iowa, that the IDB overhaul and then constantly maintain its website so that the information it presents is organized, accurate, up to date, easy to use, and fully accessible; and

Be it further resolved that this overhaul be done with the highest of standards so that the website reflects positively on the IDB and its programs and services; and

Be it further resolved that, because of the importance of preserving Iowa’s blindness history, all documents from the Iowa Blind History Project, including audio and text transcripts of personal interviews, be fully restored to the website; and

Be it further resolved that all other historical documents, objects, films, images, photos, and other relevant materials in the Department’s possession be archived, stored, and indexed in such a manner that they are preserved and easily located; and

Be it further resolved that the ICUB President send a copy of this resolution by September 15, 2024, to the IDB Acting Director, Program Administrators, and Commissioners along with a letter asking them to develop and carry out an action plan addressing these concerns.

Resolution 2024-3

Subject: Celebration of the Centennial of the Iowa Department for the Blind

Whereas, the Iowa Commission for the Blind—now the Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB)--was established in April 2025; and

Whereas, the Department has provided a variety of effective, innovative, and nationally recognized services to blind Iowans, including blindness training, employment, technology, and library services, that have enhanced their ability to live independently and work competitively; and

Whereas, many ICUB members have been positively impacted by the IDB as clients, employees, and volunteers; and

Whereas, ICUB has partnered with the Department on many activities to promote IDB’s mission and positive approach to blindness in order to demonstrate to sighted and blind people alike that the blind can live full and active lives with vision loss.

Now therefore be it resolved by the Iowa Council of the United Blind in convention assembled this 24th day of august, 2024, in the city of Ankeny, Iowa, that this organization congratulate the Iowa Department for the Blind on its one hundred years of excellent service to blind Iowans; and

Be it further resolved that ICUB continue to dedicate itself to working with the Department in providing training and education to all Iowans based on valid information about blindness; and

Be it further resolved that the ICUB President present this resolution to the IDB Director and that the Director share it with all staff.

Resolution 2024-4

Subject: Appointment of New Director of the Iowa Department for the Blind

Whereas, the Realignment Bill of 2023 transfers the power to appoint the Director of the Iowa Department for the Blind from the three-member Commission for the Blind, who are appointed by the governor, to the governor alone; and

Whereas, Emily Wharton has resigned her position as Director of the Iowa Department for the Blind as of July 18, 2024; and

Whereas, the Iowa Council of the United Blind has a vested interest in the direction a new Director will take in the provision of services to blind consumers with respect to their employment, independence, and ability to lead productive and fulfilling lives; and

Whereas, the new Director should be a blind person who has intimate knowledge of blindness and therefore can understand its problems and how to overcome them; and

Whereas, the new Director must have a thorough knowledge of and belief in a positive philosophy of blindness and substantial and successful experience in implementing this philosophy in blind rehabilitation programs; and

Whereas, the new Director should be aware of current technologies in use by the blind so as to understand their importance and further the technological education of blind Iowans.

Now therefore be it resolved by the Iowa Council of the United Blind in Convention assembled this day, August 24, 2024, in the city of Ankeny, Iowa, that Governor Kim Reynolds be urged to appoint a new Director of the Iowa Department for the Blind whose primary concern is the interests of the blind themselves; and

Be it further resolved that Governor Reynolds carefully consider appointing a new director for the agency who is blind, thus providing a positive role model to the blind and the larger community, exemplifying the mission of the Iowa Department for the Blind, which is to “empower blind Iowans to be gainfully employed and live independently;” and

Be it further resolved that the Governor appoint a new director who understands the positive approach to blindness and how to implement it in the Department’s rehabilitation programs and services, since hiring an individual without these traits would run counter to the Department’s mission and vision; and

Be it further resolved that Governor Reynolds hire a new Director who demonstrates competency in the various technologies used by the blind and promotes the use of these technologies by the agency and blind Iowans; and

Be it further resolved that the President of ICUB present a copy of this resolution to Governor Kim Reynolds and the three Commissioners by August 31, 2024.

Fourth Grader Wins Perkins Brailler Award

by Mike Hoenig

Leo Mendoza, a fourth grader at Hoover Elementary School in Bettendorf, is the 2024 Marie Hoenig Memorial Perkins Brailler Award recipient. Accompanied by his parents, grandparents, and three younger siblings, Leo accepted the Award during Saturday’s ICUB Convention luncheon.

“Yesterday was my first day in fourth grade,” Leo told his attentive audience. “I’m so happy to win this Brailler. Just so you know, I’m an author and have already written two books. I’m available to sign autographs later!”

Following his acceptance speech, Leo wasted no time testing out the Brailler. Our luncheon speaker, retired Teacher of the Visually Impaired Judy Deutsch, quickly read the resulting sentence: “My name is Leo.”

On behalf of the Hoenig family, I wish to thank ICUB and the selection committee for your continued support of and involvement with this award and for requiring winners, if at all possible, to receive the award at our annual Convention. Len Mendoza, Leo’s grandfather, said, “It was well worth the trip to Des Moines!”

IDB Director’s Update

by Sarah Willeford, Acting Director

The Iowa Department for the Blind’s quarterly Commission meeting was held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024. During the meeting, the budget for State Fiscal Year SFY) 2026 was submitted and approved. The total requested amount for SFY 2026 is $12,210,436.00, an increase of $120,019.00 over the current SFY2025. It includes $53,019.00 in state appropriations, which will enable us to access an additional $129,347.00 in federal funds designated for cost-of-living expenses and $67,000.00 to restore the funding no longer provided under the State Plan for Independent Living. A capital appropriation was also requested in the amount of $559,000.00 to replace the chiller at the IDB building.

I want to extend my gratitude to the Iowa Council of the United Blind for inviting IDB staff to speak at your 2024 annual convention. Additionally, thank you for presenting resolutions to both IDB staff and the Commission Board. In response to Resolution 2024-2 concerning the IDB website, we have developed goals and a plan to enhance the website, ensuring it effectively reflects the programs and services offered by the Department.

Our efforts in agency-wide team building and communication continue to enhance cross-agency collaboration. Notable examples include our work on the new case management system and the planning for our upcoming Centennial Celebration. The Leadership Team is concentrating on leveraging our collective expertise to optimally serve our youth through various programs and services.

News You Can Use

by Norma A. Boge

Mattel has taken a significant step towards inclusivity with the introduction of their first-ever blind Barbie doll. Designed in partnership with the American Foundation for the Blind, this doll features a unique eye gaze, a white cane, and sunglasses to accurately represent individuals with visual impairments. This groundbreaking move not only provides a more diverse range of play options for children but also helps to promote understanding and acceptance of disabilities. The ACB has awarded blind Barbie an honorary membership, officially recognizing her potential to promote awareness and understanding of blindness around the world. Blind Barbie sells for $10.99 and is available from Amazon, Wal-Mart and similar retailers.

A staple remover is the perfect instrument for conquering key rings. The sharp "teeth" are slimmer than your fingertips and stronger than your nails, making them perfect for wedging between the ring's coils. Once you've inserted the tip of the teeth, squeeze down on the staple remover. This will force the wider part of the metal between the rings and create an opening big enough for you to slide something in there. You can complete the process in a few seconds without sacrificing your fingers or your sanity.

The ElevenLabs Reader App for iOS lets you listen to any text content, with its ElevenLabs voices, on the go. This expands your library of audio content to any article, PDF, ePub, newsletter, or any other text on your phone. And with an expansive, ever growing voice library, you can find a voice to suit any content, mood, or occasion. Find information at: https://elevenlabs.io/blog/introducing-elevenlabs-reader-app .

Have you been frustrated with the quality of responses from Alexa? To provide feedback to your Amazon smart speaker, simply say, "Alexa, I want to give you feedback." The speaker will then prompt you to describe the issue or suggest an improvement. You can be as specific or general as you'd like. Giving feedback to your Amazon smart speaker helps improve its capabilities and user experience. By sharing your thoughts, you're directly contributing to the development of a more intelligent and helpful device.

Want to protect yourself from online threats? Here are a few easy steps:

1. Strong Passwords: Create unique, complex passwords for each account and avoid using the same one multiple times.

2. Be Wary of Phishing: Be cautious of emails or messages asking for personal information, especially if they seem suspicious or urgent.

3. Keep Your Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, web browser, and antivirus software to patch security vulnerabilities.

4. Use Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling two-factor authentication, which requires a code be sent to your phone or email to be used in addition to your password.

5. Think Before You Click: Be mindful of what you click on and download online. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.

By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to online scams and data breaches.

Did you know that rideshare customers with disabilities, or their attendants, can request a waiver of wait time fees by submitting a certification of disability? The process is easy and requires no additional documentation. To complete the certification or for more information, go to Uber at https://tinyurl.com/bdfd22ks . Or, contact Lyft at: https://tinyurl.com/5n6ku9bt .

Innosearch is a user-friendly e-commerce platform designed to make online shopping accessible for everyone, especially those who are blind or have low vision. With millions of products and deals, Innosearch offers a fully accessible shopping experience that works seamlessly with screen readers. Key features include:

• All-in-one shopping: Shop from multiple retailers without leaving the platform.

• Product research: Easily compare products and find the best deals.

• Free shipping and returns: Shop with confidence knowing your purchases are backed by customer-friendly policies.

Innosearch is committed to making online shopping accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Go to: https://www.innosearch.ai/ .

In July, United Airlines became the first in the U.S. to begin adding Braille to aircraft interiors. Braille markings are being placed on individual rows and seat numbers, as well as inside and outside the lavatories. United expects to complete outfitting its entire mainline fleet with Braille by the end of 2026.

AppleVis is thrilled to announce its partnership with Be My Eyes and the reopening of its website. Following an overwhelming response to the news of its potential closure, AppleVis has received generous support from individuals and organizations. This renewed commitment to the AppleVis community ensures continued access to valuable resources, including in-depth coverage of iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia features for blind and deaf blind users.

Selecting ICUB as a Beneficiary

If you or a friend would like to remember the Iowa Council of the United Blind in your will, you may do so by using the following language: “I grant, devise, or bequeath unto the Iowa Council of the United Blind, a non-profit charitable organization, the sum of ______ dollars, ____ percent of my net estate, or the following stocks and bonds (please list them) to be used for its worthy purposes on behalf of blind persons.” If you have questions or your wishes are more complex, you or your attorney can contact ICUB by calling 866-436-0141 or through the webpage at: www.icublind.org.

Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled

by Sarah Willeford

Summer Reading Program Recap: The Youth Summer Reading program was held in June and July. This year’s theme was “Read, Repeat, Renew.” Sessions were conducted virtually on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The activity kit for each session was mailed to participants so they would have the materials needed to participate each week. Thirty-two youth patrons joined Denise Bean, our Youth Services Librarian, for Guest Quest Mondays, Adventure in Arts on Wednesdays, and STEAM Theme on Fridays. The library also held an 8-week STEM experience for teens 14 years and older this summer. The programs included special guest speakers introducing different topics and hands-on STEM activities.

Fall Program at the Library: Explore everything that the NLS eReader has to offer with our bi-monthly Q&A and training program, “eReader Essentials.” This program will be hosted every two months on the first Thursday of the month from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Zoom by the Service Specialist for the IMC, Leland Smith. The first session, “eReader Essentials: Getting Started,” was held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 3. For more information and to register go to the iowalibrary.blog under Adult Programs.

This fall, the Youth Services Librarian, Denise Bean will unveil the much-anticipated afterschool program! Crafting Your Story After School Program is designed to bring joy and creativity to your week. Join us for an unforgettable experience that combines learning and laughter, creating a perfect blend of education and entertainment for everyone. The program is held virtually on Zoom each Tuesday, September 17, 2024 – April 15, 2025, from 4:15 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. For more information and to register, go to the iowalibrary.blog under Youth Library.

Makerspace Monday Workshops are designed to get your creative juices flowing while inviting the whole family to participate. All ages are welcome! It is held on the second Monday of the month at 6:00 p.m. from October through May. It is offered in-person at the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (524 Fourth Street, Des Moines) or you can register and request the activity kit and link to the activity video that will be sent to you to participate via Zoom. Registration is required. For more information and to register go to the iowalibrary.blog under Youth Library.

Braille Challenge: Save the date for the 25th Anniversary Braille Challenge on February 22, 2025! The Braille Challenge is the only academic competition of its kind in North America for kids in grades 1 to 12 who are blind or visually impaired. Be a part of the challenge!

If you don't already, be sure to follow the Library on social media. Find IDB Library on Facebook, @idblibrary on Instagram, @IDBlibrary on X(Twitter), Library News Podcast on Spotify/Castos, and Iowa Department for the Blind on YouTube for important updates, fun and exciting posts, and to increase awareness of IDB! Information can also be found on the library’s two blogs: Turning the Pages Library blog at https://iowalibrary.blog/ and the Instructional Materials Center blog at https://idbimclibrary.blog/ .

Donating Your Vehicle to Benefit ICUB

Do you need to dispose of a used vehicle? ICUB's Used Vehicle Donation Program offers a perfect solution. Your vehicle will be picked up from your home and sold at auction. A portion of the proceeds go directly to ICUB. You can claim a tax deduction equal to the dollar value of the vehicle. Call 800-899-4925 for more information.

Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf

by Carrie Chapman

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (see notes)

• 1 box Stove Top Stuffing (any flavor)

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, dry stuffing mix, eggs, water, and HALF of the ketchup.

3. Place the mixture into a greased bread loaf pan. If you don't have one, you can form a loaf and place it on a foil-lined baking sheet. Fold the edges of the foil up to keep the beef juices contained for easier clean-up.

4. Spread the remaining ketchup over top. You can also use barbecue sauce, chili sauce or a combination of sauces.

5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160° F.

6. Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

Note: Ground beef with a higher fat content works best for this recipe. The breadcrumbs from the box of stuffing absorb a lot of the moisture. If you're using a lean pack of ground beef, you may need to add a little extra water, a splash of milk, or an additional egg.

Across Iowa Chapter Report

by Don Wirth, Chapter President

The Across Iowa Chapter has been in a bit of a lull. We held our annual in-person meeting at the Annual ICUB State Convention where we enjoyed pizza. A $20 door prize was given to a member who attended the meeting in person or via zoom.

Because our September meeting would have been only a week later, we cancelled it.

In October we had a presentation by Debra Erickson, founder of the “Blind Kitchen,” about accessible cooking.

Across Iowa members continue to host the bi-weekly book group on Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. and bingo games throughout the month. Watch the monthly calendars for more information on these events.

Our meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m. via the ICUB zoom line. Drop in and visit with us.

Des Moines Chapter Report

by Cody Dolinsek, Chapter President

The Des Moines Chapter, as I said at our State Convention in August, continues to rock and roll. I will say something about our monthly meetings as well as about upcoming events.

At our meeting in August, we heard from Sarah Baebler-Hall about her experiences growing up and how she largely independently discovered the techniques and skills of blindness, including Braille. She described her teaching techniques with her students, stating that she often creates obstacles for her students that they need to figure out how to overcome.

In September, Dr. Dennis Goldford, Professor Emeritus of Political Science at Drake University, spoke to our Chapter about the Electoral College. The meeting was well attended.

Nominations for Chapter offices and Board positions will be open in November. Up for nomination are the president, vice president, treasurer, and one Board position.

On October 5th, the Des Moines Chapter is holding its annual picnic at Legion Park in West Des Moines from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. On October 15th, we are holding a fundraiser at the Panera Bread location in Johnston, Iowa from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The fundraiser is for covering some costs of our Legislative and Leadership Conference held in March and for the ACB National Convention scholarship.

We are holding our annual trivia bowl at Felix and Oscar’s on November 2nd from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. As many of our readers know, the team that wins the trivia bowl gets to donate the proceeds to whatever charity it wishes. The point of this bowl is to give back to an organization that benefits the community.

Finally, we will end the year with our holiday party, which will be held at the Lodge of Ashworth on December 14th. Stay tuned for more details.

Dubuque Chapter Report

by Kristen Steele, Chapter President

Our Chapter has had an exciting 2024! In March we hosted our most successful fundraiser yet by selling Double Good Ultra-Premium Popcorn. Our pop-up store reached as far as Ohio and Washington DC. We are especially grateful to those who purchased and enjoyed our delicious treats.

Our second annual bowling party was held on June 1 at Maple Lanes in Waterloo. Several members participated, and fun was had by all.

I was honored to offer chair massages to support our Chapter at our exhibit hall table at our Annual State Convention. In addition, our Chapter created homemade aromatherapy rice bags, which were sold at Convention and are currently for sale for $10 apiece. Please contact Kristen at dbqblind@gmail.com to purchase them. We will be holding a similar fundraiser on September 28 in Dubuque, taking part in The Largest Flea Market at the Tristate Blind offices.

We continue to strive to bring more opportunities to eastern Iowans who are blind. We would love to have you join our next in-person event or bring your ideas to our monthly meetings. Please contact Kristen Steele or Kay Merz to see how you can be a part of our growing Chapter.

To obtain a current list of State Board members and Chapter Presidents, including their contact information, go to our website, icublind.org, and click on the “Who We Are” link. You can also get this information by emailing us through the form at the bottom of our website page.

The ICUB Bulletin is available in large print, via e-mail, and on an NLS-compliant digital audio cartridge. To subscribe to the cartridge edition, please contact the Iowa Department for the Blind Library at 515-281-1323 or 800-362-2587, option 2. Please direct other questions about format choice and address changes to Co-Editor Sandy Tigges.

ICUB offers a BIG thank you to Catherine Witte for so meticulously proofreading each issue, as well as to everyone else who plays a part in producing the Bulletin, including the Greater Iowa Credit Union for providing a grant to fund the large-print copy of the Bulletin.

ICUB BULLETIN Fall 2024

Table of Contents

President’s Report