Third Annual White Cane Awareness Day

Celebrating, Sharing, and Learning

On Friday, October 14th, individuals with visual impairments, service providers, elected officials, Lions Club representatives, family and friends gathered for the third annual Mid-Hudson Valley White Cane Awareness Day at Independent Living, Inc.’s administrative headquarters in Newburgh, NY.

The program included remarks by Cheryl McNeill of Guiding Eyes for the Blind; presentations by members of the support group for individuals with visual impairments about overcoming challenges; updates on local programs and resources; and demonstrations of state-of-the-art assistive technology by C-Tech Low Vision Products.

Senator William J. Larkin, Jr. and Karen Mejia, Deputy District Representative for Congressman Maurice Hinchey spoke briefly and delivered official proclamations. Orange County Legislator Patrick Berardinelli spoke about the effort he has undertaken to have audible street-crossing signals installed, beginning with one near the Greater Hudson Valley Family Health Center on Lake Street in Newburgh.

George Hoehmann, Executive Director of the Rockland Independent Living Center presented a proclamation on behalf of the Rockland County Legislature. The Lady Vikings softball team, and Coach Frank Gaudioso, presented a check for $800, raised at a recent tournament for the support group’s transportation fund. The NYS Commission for the Blind, the Newburgh and Cornwall Lions Clubs have also provided generous sponsorships of White Cane Awareness Day and transportation for members of the support group.