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GUIDE NEWS The Quarterly Publication of Guide for the Blind

2015 ISSUE 2

MICHELLE YOO WITH GUIDE OSCAR

GDB career change Meet GDB’s chefs, Meet JR Quevedo, a dogs are doing wonderful Catherine Coppett and talented artist from things in their new jobs, David Wilson. These San Francisco, who has including conservation two whip up delectable found new inspiration work and medical meals for our clients for his work in his

detection, among other attending class at our guide dog, yellow WHAT’S COOKING? COOKING? WHAT’S

things. p5 campuses. p7 SPOTLIGHT ALUMNI Lab Griff. p8 NEW LEASH ON LIFE ON LEASH NEW A NON-PROFIT, CHARITABLE IN REMEMBRANCE ORGANIZATION 800.295.4050 Guide Dogs for the Blind recently said goodbye to two GUIDEDOGS.COM longtime champions of our mission. National Office/California Campus: 350 Los Ranchitos Road San Rafael, CA 94903 RICHARD D. GRAFFIS Oregon Campus: (1932-2015) of Orinda, Calif., 32901 S.E. Kelso Road Boring, OR 97009 was an enthusiastic volunteer,

Officers leader, and supporter at GDB, Bob Burke—Chair and was always a friendly Christine Benninger—President & CEO Cathy Martin—Treasurer & CFO face on our California campus Stuart Odell—Vice Chair Ruth Ann Dodson—Vice Chair, PNW and at our fundraising events. Joan Boyd—Vice Chair, Finance Dick served on our board Jay Harris—Secretary of directors for ten years, Directors Len Almalech including a two-year term as Sigrid Button Melissa Hudson board chair. Deborah Kendrick George Kerscher Stephen Mansfield JOHN PAUL MANZELLA Andrew Mathieson Jack Scott (1928-2015) of San Leandro, Todd Bradley, Advisor Calif., was also an ardent Lyle L. Hoover, Director Emeritus supporter of GDB. Not only Photo Credits was John a loyal attendee Morry Anne Angell - p3, p6, p9, p11, p12 Sierra Fish - cover, p7, p8, p10 of our Festive Holiday Ed Smith - p2, p11 (top) Submitted - p2, p4 Luncheon (he is pictured, left at the Luncheon with

Guide Dogs for the Blind follows his wife, Lola, in 2004), the guidelines recommended by the Council of U.S. Dog Guide he produced annual golf Schools for the humane care and training of our dogs, and the tournaments for many years to benefit Guide Dogs for the Full Member instruction and services offered to our students and alumni. Blind. In addition, John served on the California State Board Guide Dog News is published for the information of GDB supporters. All rights of Guide Dogs for the Blind between 1984 and 2003. reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without permission from Guide Dogs for the Blind. We thank Dick and John for their generosity and support, © Guide Dogs for the Blind and our condolences go to their families and loved ones. Please recycle this newsletter! GREETINGS FROM THE CEO President and CEO Christine Benninger Warm regards, hearts, souls,andexpertiseinpreparingpuppies tofulfilltheirparticularpurpose. extend ourdeepestgratitudetoamazingpuppy raiserswhohaveinvestedtheir We aresoproudthatourcareerchangedogs makingadifferenceintheworldand proud ofourdogswhoareblessingfamilieswith theirloyalandlovingcompanionship. efforts byidentifyingrareplantsand/orpeststhat threatenthem.And,weareequally positive presenceforhospitalpatientsandtheirfamilies,evenhelpconservation experiencing PTSDandtestifyingindifficultcourtcases;bestowanurturing alert andsearchrescuework;helpprovideemotionalsupporttoindividuals lives throughtheseorganizations’efforts:theyareengagedinlife-savingmedical organizations. Itisamazingtoseehowmanydifferentwaysdogsareenhancingour our relationships withotherleadingassistancedogagenciesandnon-profit strengthened opportunities forourcareerchangedogstoserveinsignificantways.Wehave I amalsohappytosharethatwecontinuedeepenourcommitmentfinding more aboutthisexcitingevent. Portland, Ore.Seepage11tolearn Alumni ReunionandRetreatin of theseteamsintheFallatour We lookforwardtoseeingmany and theirguidesthrivingtogether. find greatjoyinseeingouralumni dogs withexceptionalpeople.We to partneringexceptionalguide are morecommittedthanever every dogmakesadifference.We At GDB,westronglybelievethat great yearthusfar! Welcome tothesecondissueofGuideDogsNewsfor2015.Ihopeyouarehavinga Dear friends, CHRIS BENNINGER, PRESIDENT AND CEO 3 4 PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE PROFILE both inspirit andindeed.Thankyou, Elaine,foryoursupport ofGuideDogsforthe Blind. retirement,” shesaid.With herfirmbeliefingivingbacktothecommunity, Elainedoesthat support. “GuideDogsfor theBlindensuresthatdogshavegoodand healthylivesafter As aGDBPresident’sCircle member,Elainesaidthatit’sourcareofthe dogsthatinspiresher the kids!” favorite isthereadtodogsprogramatalocal library,”Elainesaid,“helovesworkingwith volunteer opportunitiesatvariousfacilities,such asnursinghomesandhospitals.“ retired orcareerchangedogsfromGDBastherapy dogs,andthenconnectstheteamswith a partnershipbetweenGDBandDoveLewisEmergency AnimalHospitalwhichcertifies team. TheyaremembersofthePACTTprogram (PortlandAreaCanineTherapyTeams), said. SheandClarkhavefollowedinAshlyn’spawprints,becomingacertifiedcaninetherapy and wasavailableforadoption.“TherenodoubtthatIwouldbringhimhome,”Elaine fate haddifferentplans.Clark—thepuppysheraised—hadbeenretiredfromguidework When Ashlynpassedaway,Elainethoughtshemighttakeabreakfromhavingdog,but Ashlyn continuedtoleadalong,purposefullifewithhernewjob. the duowentontocompletetheircaninetherapyteamcertification.Elainewasthrilledthat Black LabAshlyn,aguidedogthathadbeenretiredduetoglaucoma.Afteradopting career changeorretiredguidedogandbecomingcertifiedasacaninetherapyteam.Enter become aguidedoginWashington.Shethensethersightsonanothergoal:adoptingGDB That goalwasmetin2006whensheraisedBlackLabradorRetriever her classtosharetheirstories,andhadagoalraisepuppyherselfwhensheretired. many differentrolesintheworldadditiontobeingpets.She’dinviteGDBpuppyraisers education aboutserviceanimalsintohercurriculum,teachingstudentsthathave When ElaineWildermanofBeaverton,Ore.,wasathirdgradeteacher,sheincorporated DOG, CLARK. NOW PACTTTHERAPY WITH RETIREDGUIDE, ELAINE WILDERMAN Clark, whowentonto Clark’s Ashlyn, Our career change dogs are making a huge difference in communities across North America. Here are snapshots of four incredible dogs. Follow us on

Facebook or visit our blog, No Bones About it, guidedogs.blogspot.com, for more great stories.

Cabo serves as a court dog for the San Diego District attorney’s office and is also a certified who has worked in a variety of settings, including: a Veterans Administration Hospital to visit wounded soldiers, hospice care and hospitals, library reading programs for children, developmental adult centers, nursing homes, women’s shelters, and others.

Kilo is currently being trained in Northern California by Working Dogs for Conservation (WDC.) This nonprofit organization trains dogs for scent detection work to locate invasive and/or endangered plant and animal life. wd4c.org

Izumi is being trained to be a medical alert dog by Dogs4Diabetics (D4D). D4D is a charitable non-profit organization of dedicated volunteers training medical alert dogs to detect hypoglycemia in insulin-dependent diabetics. dogs4diabetics.com

Tolkien is partnered with a veteran experiencing PTSD. Tolkien was trained by Paws Assisting Veterans (PAVE), a non-profit organization dedicated to training service dogs for veterans with mental and/or physical

and to advance public knowledge of service dogs and the essential roles they play. paveusa.org CAREER CHANGE CORNER CHANGE CAREER

5 ANDY How many people do you know who actually have MATHIESON their dream job? Happily, GDB Board Member Andy Mathieson is one of them. Andy is the founder and managing partner of Fairview Capital, an independent advisory firm with over $1.6 billion in assets under management. Andy shares, “I have my dream job— running an investment firm, managing a talented team, and working with great clients. It was also an ideal job as my wife Ann and I were raising our four kids. It enabled me to be present and involved in the way I really wanted to be.” He adds with a chuckle, “I also used to dream of being a center fielder, helping to bring a world championship to long-suffering Red Sox and/or Cubs fans. I guess the job is still available with regard to the Cubs.”

Andy’s position on the GDB board began in 2011 and he brings deep financial and non-profit expertise to the role as well as his lifelong interest in dogs. He shares, “I’ve had a lot of non-profit board experience, and given my professional background I’m usually tasked with financial and development roles. I’m comfortable serving as a fiduciary, and my attitude is to try and support the mission however and whenever I can.” GDB’s mission really struck a chord with Andy, as he is also an avid dog lover having grown up with several different breeds, including: a Beagle, a Gordon , and a . He and his wife have adopted three rescue , two of which are still living with the couple. Andy and Ann love to take the dogs out for long walks on Mt. Tamalpais and he also enjoys running, cycling, and enjoying the outdoors.

Andy is extremely passionate about GDB’s mission and loves seeing it come to life: “The graduations are always inspirational, and a great reminder and validation of our reason for being. I also greatly enjoy meeting the volunteers that are so critical to our organization.” Andy is an ardent ambassador for GDB and wishes there were a few things that everyone knew. “First, I wish that people knew that we don’t charge for any aspect of our services,” he said. “Second, that this highly unique model is made possible only through the continued generosity in both time and treasure from our exceptional base of volunteers and donors. This is particularly important as GDB provides its graduates with a lifetime of support.” Many thanks to Andy for his BOARD PROFILE ongoing support, stewardship, and enthusiasm for all things GDB! 6 Guide Dogs for the Blind is fortunate to have two highly trained chefs working in the student residences on both of our campuses. They not only provide three complete nutritious meals a day for clients, but they also play a key role in creating a comforting atmosphere during the two-week training period.

Catherine Coppett is the chef on our Oregon campus and is originally from Iowa. She attended the Western Culinary Institute in Portland, Ore., and then went to work as the head chef of a restaurant in Austin, Texas. She joined the team at GDB in September of 1995. “Over the years, I have learned so much from our clients about what they like to eat,” she said. “If I can alleviate dietary concerns by listening and offering alternative solutions, that is especially rewarding. I’m always happy GDB CHEFS CATHERINE COPPETT (TOP) to hear when our clients come back, and AND DAVID WILSON (BOTTOM). that the hospitality services we provide were one of their reasons for choosing us again.” Catherine enjoys running, playing guitar and piano, cooking vegetables from the garden, and grilling outside in the summertime. She currently lives in Portland with her partner and their daughter, along with a well-fed hamster named Fuzzy.

David Wilson is the chef on our California campus and is originally from Colorado. He attended City College of San Francisco’s Hotel & Restaurant Program. After 27 years in the food service industry, David came to GDB in 2014. “I really enjoy the positive atmosphere at GDB and the fact that my dog is welcomed,” he said. “The highlight is seeing the uncontrollable happiness of the clients in class.” David enjoys surfing, playing drums, and grilling the perfect rib eye. He currently lives in San Rafael and has three teenage children.

“Both Catherine and David’s willingness and desire to accommodate our clients’ needs plays a significant role in our ability to support and contribute to the mission,” said GDB Dormitory Manager Scott Kahler. “When clients know that their food-related STAFF PROFILE needs and preferences will be met, they can focus on the task at hand.” 7 8 GRAD PROFILE About itatguidedogs.blogspot.com . Youcanalso followJRonInstagram @urbsters. To readmore ofJR’sstoryandtosee moreofhisartwork, please visitourblog, And thebestpart—it’sjust thebeginning!” confidence tobecome more ofarisktakerandhaveinitiativenow whenI’moutside. by myside,I’vegottento knowSanFranciscoalotmore,”JRsaid.“Ihave thisnew confident teamreadytotakeontheworld.“In theshortamountoftimehaving Upon graduatingfromGDBinFebruaryofthis year, JRand surroundings—I justlovetotellstoriesthrough illustrations.” away fromwhereIcanliterallykissmyartwork. I’minspiredbyexperiencesandmy and storytellingisverymuchalive,”hesaid.“Idraw onpaperwheremyeyeisinches development throughstorytelling.“Imightbevisuallyimpaired,butmyimagination San Francisco.Heisagraphicillustratorwithpassionfortypographyandvisual JR hasadegreeingraphicdesignfromTheArtInstituteandAcademyofArts handler, IpracticedeveryturninmyroomwhilewasatGDB—Idancednight.” a lottodowithbodypositioningandfootwork,especiallyonturns,”recallsJR.“Asnew Griff, heremembersthinkingitwaslikeballroomdancing.“Workingwithaguidedoghas When JohnRosd“JR”Quevedowasinclasstoreceivehisfirstguidedog,yellowLab JR’SARTWORK (RIGHT). JR QUEVEDO AND GRIFF; Griff returnedhomeasa Griff No Bones • Marla Runyan of Boston, with her • Dan McKay, with guide dog Hansel, was

guide dog Grafton, was recently honored for his work for people with honored as a “Hero Among Us” disabilities by the City of Timmons, Calif. by the Boston Celtics Shamrock in March; his name will be included on the Foundation. Marla was recognized city’s Human Rights Wall of Fame. for being an inspirational role model • Did you know guide dogs are also news for athletes who are blind, and for ? Recently, Alyssa Minwell and encouraging children with disabilities her guide Adella were featured in The to reach their full potential. Marla is a San Antonio Express-News, while Laurel two-time Olympian in long-distance Wheeler and her guide Stockard graced running, and currently is a teacher at the pages of The Oklahoma Daily. In the esteemed Perkins School for Oregon, Sue Phillips and her guide Kabuki the Blind. were profiled inThe Cedar Mill News, and

• Janine Brindle of Eunemclaw, Wash., the article was written by fellow alumna

and her now-retired guide, Cranberry, Jennifer Hemmeyer who has guide dog were recognized by the American Fred. On television, Phil Dimeo, with his Kennel Club with an honorable guide Tessie, was on a Milwaukee morning mention ACE award (Awards for show to discuss his book, Binoculars, and

Canine Excellence). Cranberry is the Laura Ann Grymes was on KBTX-TV in first working guide dog to earn the College Station, Texas, educating viewers coveted AKC Utility Dog Title. Janine about ADA and state access laws for

and Cranberry worked together for guide dogs after being denied access to a six years to attain the title. restaurant with her guide, Dyson. ALUMNI UPDATES

We are pleased to share with you our new video, “Campus Life,” which provides a comprehensive overview of what our clients can expect when coming to class at GDB to receive their new guide dogs. It’s a must-watch for anyone considering attending or recommending Guide Dogs for the Blind as their guide dog school of choice. ON THE SET FOR THE FILMING OF Please visit our website to check it out, OUR NEW VIDEO, “CAMPUS LIFE.” guidedogs.com. 9 SAVE THE DATE

CANINE HEROES AUCTION SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2015 SAN FRANCISCO, CA

FEATURING KEYNOTE SPEAKERS LORRIE AND CAPTAIN “SULLY” SULLENBERGER

PAWS & PINTS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2015 SEATTLE, WA

Visit guidedogs.com/events for more information or to register.

LEGACY SOCIETY MEMBERS SANDY HONTALAS AND FORMER BOARD CHAIR PHIL SPALDING WITH GDB PRESIDENT AND CEO CHRIS BENNINGER.

LEGACY SOCIETY LUNCHEON In April, more than 150 Bay Area Legacy Society members gathered at The City Club of San Francisco for a luncheon to thank them for their commitment to our mission. Guests were treated to a delicious meal, and enjoyed an inspirational keynote address by GDB

alumna Sarah Outwater with her black Lab guide, Ferdinand. Guide Dogs for the Blind’s Legacy Society honors the generosity of those who have chosen to include GDB in their estate plans. Their visionary planning will ensure that Guide Dogs for the Blind remains a

HAPPENINGS world leader in guide for the blind and visually impaired for many years to come. For more information or to enroll, please visit guidedogs.com/plannedgiving. 10 JOIN US AT THE 2015 ALUMNI REUNION RETREAT

GDB Alumni, raisers, family, and friends are invited to GDB’s 2015 Alumni Reunion Retreat in Portland, Ore., September 11-13. The theme of this year’s retreat is “Paws around the World,“ and topics for seminars and activities FILE PHOTO: ALUMNI REUNION 2013. will relate to all the great adventures—both big and small—our alums have with their guides. Attendees will learn more about fulfilling dreams of travel as well as pausing to enjoy life’s everyday journeys. Attendees will also learn about guide dog schools worldwide and how technology can enhance national and international travel. In addition, there will be a number of excursions that capitalize on some of Portland’s finest offerings, including a chocolate decadence tour, a craft beer/brewery tour, and a picnic lunch at GDB’s Oregon campus. To learn more or to register, please visit guidedogs.com/reunion. See you there!

PINOT & PUPS GDB’s 8th annual Pinot & Pups fundraising auction was held in May at the Portland Art Museum. Attended by 320 GDB supporters, the event featured wines from the Pacific Northwest, an elegant dinner, silent and live auctions, and of course, plenty of ! GDB alumna Vickie Kennedy,

with guide dog Angela, gave a stirring keynote address, and a highlight of the live auction came during the fund-a- need paddle raise. The event raised more than $300,000; proceeds will be used to offset the costs of training GDB clients with their new guide dogs.

Thank you to all of our sponsors. Companion Sponsor: US Bank Charitable Services. Buddy Sponsors: Alaska Airlines, American Steel, Banner Bank, Kuni BMW, OnPoint Community Credit Union. Winery Sponsors: Alexana Winery, Andrew Rich Wines, Bergstrom Winery, De Ponte TOP: BIDDING ACTION DURING THE Cellars, Elk Cove Vineyards, McCleskey Cellars, Major Creek LIVE AUCTION AT PINOT & PUPS. Cellars, Thomas Cellars. Brewery Sponsor: Hair of the ABOVE: BOARD MEMBER SIGRID BUTTON AND DAUGHTER WHITNEY. Dog Brewing Co. 11 NONPROFIT ORG

U.S. POSTAGE P.O. Box 151200 San Rafael, California PAID 94915-1200 DMS

CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY = YOU CAN MAKE Income for your life, and a gift A DIFFERENCE! to Guide Dogs for the Blind • SEND A DONATION TODAY Please use our mailing address for donations: Guide Dogs for the Blind, P.O. Box 3950, San Rafael, CA 94912-3950. You can also donate online: guidedogs.com.

• ELIMINATE CHECKS/POSTAGE Direct your bank to automatically transfer your donation.

• MAKE AN HONOR OR MEMORIAL GIFT Pay tribute to a friend, relative, or pet; cards of celebration or sympathy will be sent in your name.

• CREATE A LEGACY IN Want to learn more? Simply complete and send us the coupon below, YOUR ESTATE or visit us online at guidedogs.com/plannedgiving. Name GDB in your will, trust, or as a beneficiary of your annuity, life insurance policy, IRA, or retirement plan. We honor such commitments with membership in our Legacy ! Society.

GIFT ANNUITY PROPOSAL • DESIGNATE YOUR GIFT q How would a charitable gift annuity work for me? Designate your donation to go (Minimums: age 50, $5,000 gift) toward a specific GDB program. Contact us for more info. My birthdate: ______My spouse’s birthdate: ______Guide Dogs for the Blind will, on Sample gift amount: q $5,000 q $10,000 q $25,000 q Other: $ ______occasion, share donor information with Name: ______like-minded non-profit organizations in an effort to better fulfill our mission and Address: ______serve our clients. If you do not wish to have your information shared, please Phone: ______Email: ______call our Development Department at Return to Joan Scott, Planned Giving Coordinator 800.295.4050 extension 4160 or email Guide Dogs for the Blind, P.O. Box 151200, San Rafael, CA 94915-1200 us at [email protected]. 800.295.4050, ext. 4073