[nfbwatlk] An Idea for the Future?

[Mike Freeman]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "East Hillsborough Chapter NFBF" <blind411 at verizon.net>
To: "nfbf List" <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
Sent: Saturday, October 14, 2006 1:07 PM
Subject: [Nfbf-l] White Cane Safety Day Event a Huge Success!


Dear Fellow Federationists,
    Today (October 14) the East Hillsborough Chapter of the national 
Federation of the Blind of Florida conducted its annual White Cane Safety 
Day event. Chapter members gathered under our tent in the parking lot of our 
local McDonald's to raise awareness of the traffic laws that assist blind 
pedestrians in our safe and independent travel. We distributed information 
and participated in a traffic enforcement activity with the Hillsborough 
County Sherrif's Office. As the result of the traffic enforcement activity, 
a total of twelve citations were issued: ten for violation of Florida's 
White Cane Law, one for violating the right-of-way of two other pedestrians, 
and one misdemeanor citation for driving without a valid drivers' license!
    In addition, we got some great media attention. An article appeared in 
the Tampa Tribune on Thursday, October 12 about the upcoming project and the 
event was covered by our NBC Affiliate, WFLA-Channel 8, as well as by the 
Tampa Tribune. This media coverage will reach tens of thousands of people, 
markedly raising the awareness of the public about this important issue. 
Also, two other people with blind relatives stopped by our tent and received 
information about the NFB. Our event was a great success on every front.
    After the event, Chapter members were treated to lunch by McDonald's, 
which is distributing an estimated 10,000 leaflets to their patrons about 
the White Cane Law. This invaluable partnership is creating a long-term 
relationship with Caspars Company, the local franchisee for McDonald's that 
will generate tremendous resources for the Chapter and the Affiliate in the 
Future.
    I wish to thank all of the members of the East Hillsborough Chapter for 
their hard work and dedication. I would also like to thank Deputy Ed Hoskins 
of the Hillsborough County Sherrif's Office who volunteered his time to 
conduct the traffic enforcement activity. A big "Thanks!" goes out to Bob 
Conigliaro,Vice President of Community Relations for Caspars Company for his 
assistance and generosity. The East Hillsborough Chapter is truly changing 
what it means to be blind!

Fraternally yours,
Marion Gwizdala, President
East Hillsborough Chapter
National Federation of the Blind of Florida


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