MEET THE “NEW” ANN BYINGTON

As you will know if you read this publication’s masthead, I have accepted the editorial responsibility for the KABVI NEWS. Also, as many of you know, I have recently retired from my job of the past 27 plus years as Braille instructor at the Kansas Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (KRCBVI). No, I’m not quite retirement age, but I had the requisite age plus number of years of service equaling 85 points. The job was becoming more stressful with a greater amount of materials preparation and a perception on my part that my work was not particularly valued. It seemed like a good time to make a change.

I've played a good bit of this first month of "retirement" so now it’s time to get busy. I am planning to write an adult level Braille textbook, help with lobbying at the Capitol, and develop a publishing opportunity to produce books in expanded cell (Jumbo) Braille. I started working out at Curves and have read a couple of great books online. I also have several nieces expecting babies in the next six months so knitting is a high priority as well.

Editorially speaking, I am hoping to enlist the KABVI Board of Directors as contributors on a more regular basis. We have expertise in low vision optometry, assistive technology, the Business Enterprise program, rehab engineering, home economics, and much more. Additionally, guide dog needs will be addressed and look for a new column, “Gadgets and Gizmos.” Library Services, Audio-Reader and Wichita Radio Reading Services, Air Capital Reader and Lions’ Telephone Reader will also receive coverage. Additionally, the KSBVI Advisory committee meetings, the KSB Advisory Board and of course, KABVI happenings will be featured. Previous “Get Real” and Esther V. Taylor scholarship winners will let us know what they are doing and topics including diabetes, new ophthalmologic and optometric activities in Kansas will be shared.

If you have questions, article suggestions or even better, an article to submit, don’t hesitate to contact me. (See contact information on the masthead.) As Nancy Johnson, previous KABVI NEWS editor for the past ten plus years succeeded in doing, I want to make this newsletter informative, interesting and fun.