Members of the Denver Chapter and Providence Club attended two events recently held by the Women's Center of Rhode Island. This year's key note speaker was Denise Brown, sister of Nicole Brown-Simpson. Pioneers had an opportunity to talk one-on-one with Ms. Brown at a reception the evening before the event and hear her the following day at the recognition luncheon. Women and men in the community, as well as a former victim of violence, were recognized for their commitment and strength to rise above their circumstances to become independent and free of abuse. Denver Chapter and the Providence Club are proud supporters of the Women's Center through their donation of items collected during Verizon's Shower for the Shelter program which is held during the month of May.

(Photo, L-R:) Laura Martens from New Hope, Inc., Carol Baker, Denise Brown, Deb Foley and Marion Ward).

Upper Darby Council, Liberty Bell Chapter, was presented an award from the Domestic Abuse Project (DAP) of Delaware County on June 16. The plaque reads: "The Board of Directors of the Domestic Abuse Project of Delco, Inc. presents the annual community service award to the Verizon Pioneers of Upper Darby in recognition of their support and commitment to the agencies on behalf of domestic violence victims."

Members of the council have been volunteering with DAP for over 25 of the organization's 30 years by distributing hug-a-bears, books, dictionaries, new toys, groceries and bath products to residents of the shelter in Media, PA. They have spent holidays with them, bringing joy to victims of domestic violence. Over the years, the council has donated hundreds of dollars in gift cards to supermarkets and department stores so residents transitioning to private housing can purchase much needed items.

When the award was given, Rita Buckley-Connolly, executive director of DAP said "God bless all of the Verizon Pioneers. You mean a great deal to us. We gratefully acknowledge this check for $500. It will make a significant difference to the lives of our clients."

(Photo, L-R:) Upper Darby Council Past President Bud Pipe, Treasurer Roseanne Pipe, President Barbara Caldwell, DAP Executive Director Rita Buckley-Connolly.

Carol Warburton of the Old Dominion Chapter
Pioneer Day at Kings Dominion is the biggest Pioneer fundraiser for the Old Dominion Chapter. When the Pioneers start planning for this special day, the top name on the list is Carol Warburton. Carol works on Kings Dominion year round and is always ready to make each year better. She does everything from talking with Kings Dominion management to selling tickets at the gate. Carol has been known to drive to locations and distribute tickets so last minute buyers can get into the park on the day of the event. Carol always strives to make the event better each year. When the Chapter asked her to change the event from Sunday to Saturday this year, she said no problem and started talking to Kings Dominion about the change.

Carol is the president of the Tidewater Council and does other projects for her council. She was very instrumental in finding an organization to apply for a Verizon Foundation Grant. She also worked with the YWCA on a domestic violence project. She never stops when it comes to helping out others.

"On behalf of James Billington, the Librarian of Congress, Frank Kurt Cylke, the National Library Service Director, the Canadian National Institute for the Blind and the millions of Talking Book readers across North America, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for an extraordinary 50 years, for the skilled service of thousands of Pioneers who have kept the program's record players, cassette players and now digital players in first class condition," said Michael Katzman, Chief of NLS Materials.

The Pioneers' relationship with the National Library Service (NLS) began in 1960 and ten years later with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. Since then, under the guidance of the Talking Books Repair Regional Coordinator's Committee, volunteers have crystallized their long-established tradition of telephone service into an effective pattern of community service and have:
· repaired 3.6 million machines (72,000/year on average)
· contributed 7,200,000 hours in service
· contributed $150,120,000 worth of service based on the 2009 Independent Sector Rate of a Volunteer Hour of $20.85
· saved taxpayers $216 million based on NLS's estimate of $60/machine repaired

If you would like to help ensure that an ample supply of playback machines are available for Talking Book patrons and be a part of the longest running Pioneers project in the organization's 100 year history, please contact your local Pioneers unit or the Pioneers Members Resource Center at 800-976-1914 or info@pioneersvolunteer.org. For more information on the Talking Book Program, please visit the Pioneer website.

On June 26 at Town Park Point Lookout, NY, eight veterans were honored by the Town of Hempstead for their military service. One of those honored was Dominick Schiavone of the South Bay Life Member Club of the Paumanok Chapter. He was inducted in the United States Infantry on November 11, 1944. After basic training, he was transferred to Heavy Maintenance Ordnance Division. He finished his tour in Manila as SGT (T3) and was discharged on December 2, 1946.

Dom worked for New York Telephone Company for 37-1/2 years and, during those years, he served in the Auxiliary Police in Bellmore as a volunteer for 16-1/2 years, retiring as a lieutenant. He has been a member of the Knights of Columbus for more than 25 years, serving 2-1/2 years as president. Dom has been president of the South Bay Life Member Club for three years giving many volunteer hours. He also has been a member of the Lowrey Wellness Program for three years, taking lessons and playing the organ at concerts at Maestro Music Center.

The National Trail Life Member Club of the Fort Pitt Chapter recently presented a check to the First Christian Church of Washington, PA, to help with its homeless and domestic abuse ministries. In addition, Pat O'Brien, president of the Club, refinished two benches for use in the church's park.

"First Christian Church would like to thank the Fort Pitt Chapter for restoring the two park benches that are located at the main entrance of the church. Pat O'Brien did the refinishing work on these benches and they look like new," said Joyce Johns, church secretary.

In June, we ran a story asking for winter weather clothing and school supplies to be sent by the McCully Upstate Chapter in care of MSG Chad Rhinehart to the children in Panjshir, Afghanistan. Last month, we ran a follow up article mentioning the support of the Fort Pitt Chapter, but inadvertently left out the fact that McCully Upstate spearheaded the project. We sincerely apologize to the members of the McCully Upstate Chapter for this omission. The project was initiated by MSG Chad Rhinehart, grandson of Warren Life Member Club Fellowship Chairperson Connie Rhinehart.

Dear Chapter 44 Pioneers,

Oscar Wilde once said, "The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention." With all the wonderful acts of kindness that you have shown over the years, none is more deserving of attention and gratitude than the wonderful volunteers of your organization.

The culture of giving that you have created has provided our community with a personal touch that has proven to be priceless in the times of need. Your comprehensive methods of service have benefitted thousands, extending from school children to the elderly, from domestic violence victims to veterans of war. The services that you have provided have touched countless lives, including many current Verizon employees.

A recent college graduate, who interns with Verizon, shared her story with us about the impact of a colorful painting that appeared one day on her elementary school playground. This simple map of the United States has enriched her personal educational development. The seemingly anonymous artwork sparked the interest of geography in many classrooms in the school.

She fondly recalls the time spent outside learning about the states and their capitals. This map provided teachers with a resource for interactive lessons outside of the classroom setting and provided students an escape from fluorescent lighting. The impact this donation had on the young children clearly left a lasting impression and the benefits that it has provided is vastly undeniable.

This colorful map painting, along with the many other services and experiences you have provided our community have touched the lives of many. In a society of economic downturn, even money cannot compare to the presence of someone willing to extend a helping hand. The personal touch and intangible value of presence that is experienced by those in need is immensely indescribable.

Each project and act of kindness that you have taken part in, over the years, has directly impacted numerous children and adults. One act of kindness truly goes a long way. To give to someone without any reward or recognition is a special quality in itself, which each of you have demonstrated throughout your years of service as a Pioneer.

On behalf of Verizon Maryland, I sincerely thank you for all your hard work and dedication over the years. Your service to the community has enhanced the lives from the young to the elderly. Words cannot express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for all the support, guidance and time you have, and continue to provide as a Verizon Maryland Pioneer.

Yours truly,
William R. Roberts
Verizon President for MD/DC

P.O. Box 4406 . Salem, MA 01970

Domestic Abuse Project

Upper Darby Council, Liberty Bell Chapter, was presented an award from the Domestic Abuse Project (DAP) of Delaware County on June 16. The plaque reads: "The Board of Directors of the Domestic Abuse Project of Delco, Inc. presents the annual community service award to the Verizon Pioneers of Upper Darby in recognition of their support and commitment to the agencies on behalf of domestic violence victims." Members of the council have been volunteering with DAP for over 25 of the organization's 30 years by distributing hug-a-bears, books, dictionaries, new toys, groceries and bath products to residents of the shelter in Media, PA. They have spent holidays with them, bringing joy to victims of domestic violence. Over the years, the council has donated hundreds of dollars in gift cards to supermarkets and department stores so residents transitioning to private housing can purchase much needed items. When the award was given, Rita Buckley-Connolly, executive director of DAP said "God bless all of the Verizon Pioneers. You mean a great deal to us. We gratefully acknowledge this check for $500. It will make a significant difference to the lives of our clients." (Photo, L-R:) Upper Darby Council Past President Bud Pipe, Treasurer Roseanne Pipe, President Barbara Caldwell, DAP Executive Director Rita Buckley-Connolly.

The Life Member Spotlight is on...

Carol Warburton of the Old Dominion Chapter Pioneer Day at Kings Dominion is the biggest Pioneer fundraiser for the Old Dominion Chapter. When the Pioneers start planning for this special day, the top name on the list is Carol Warburton. Carol works on Kings Dominion year round and is always ready to make each year better. She does everything from talking with Kings Dominion management to selling tickets at the gate. Carol has been known to drive to locations and distribute tickets so last minute buyers can get into the park on the day of the event. Carol always strives to make the event better each year. When the Chapter asked her to change the event from Sunday to Saturday this year, she said no problem and started talking to Kings Dominion about the change. Carol is the president of the Tidewater Council and does other projects for her council. She was very instrumental in finding an organization to apply for a Verizon Foundation Grant. She also worked with the YWCA on a domestic violence project. She never stops when it comes to helping out others.

Half a Century of Talking Books

"On behalf of James Billington, the Librarian of Congress, Frank Kurt Cylke, the National Library Service Director, the Canadian National Institute for the Blind and the millions of Talking Book readers across North America, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for an extraordinary 50 years, for the skilled service of thousands of Pioneers who have kept the program's record players, cassette players and now digital players in first class condition," said Michael Katzman, Chief of NLS Materials. The Pioneers' relationship with the National Library Service (NLS) began in 1960 and ten years later with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. Since then, under the guidance of the Talking Books Repair Regional Coordinator's Committee, volunteers have crystallized their long-established tradition of telephone service into an effective pattern of community service and have: · repaired 3.6 million machines (72,000/year on average) · contributed 7,200,000 hours in service · contributed $150,120,000 worth of service based on the 2009 Independent Sector Rate of a Volunteer Hour of $20.85 · saved taxpayers $216 million based on NLS's estimate of $60/machine repaired If you would like to help ensure that an ample supply of playback machines are available for Talking Book patrons and be a part of the longest running Pioneers project in the organization's 100 year history, please contact your local Pioneers unit or the Pioneers Members Resource Center at 800-976-1914 or info@pioneersvolunteer.org. For more information on the Talking Book Program, please visit the Pioneer website.

Veteran Honored

On June 26 at Town Park Point Lookout, NY, eight veterans were honored by the Town of Hempstead for their military service. One of those honored was Dominick Schiavone of the South Bay Life Member Club of the Paumanok Chapter. He was inducted in the United States Infantry on November 11, 1944. After basic training, he was transferred to Heavy Maintenance Ordnance Division. He finished his tour in Manila as SGT (T3) and was discharged on December 2, 1946. Dom worked for New York Telephone Company for 37-1/2 years and, during those years, he served in the Auxiliary Police in Bellmore as a volunteer for 16-1/2 years, retiring as a lieutenant. He has been a member of the Knights of Columbus for more than 25 years, serving 2-1/2 years as president. Dom has been president of the South Bay Life Member Club for three years giving many volunteer hours. He also has been a member of the Lowrey Wellness Program for three years, taking lessons and playing the organ at concerts at Maestro Music Center.

Park Bench Restoration

The National Trail Life Member Club of the Fort Pitt Chapter recently presented a check to the First Christian Church of Washington, PA, to help with its homeless and domestic abuse ministries. In addition, Pat O'Brien, president of the Club, refinished two benches for use in the church's park. "First Christian Church would like to thank the Fort Pitt Chapter for restoring the two park benches that are located at the main entrance of the church. Pat O'Brien did the refinishing work on these benches and they look like new," said Joyce Johns, church secretary.

Operation Panjshir Article Correction

In June, we ran a story asking for winter weather clothing and school supplies to be sent by the McCully Upstate Chapter in care of MSG Chad Rhinehart to the children in Panjshir, Afghanistan. Last month, we ran a follow up article mentioning the support of the Fort Pitt Chapter, but inadvertently left out the fact that McCully Upstate spearheaded the project. We sincerely apologize to the members of the McCully Upstate Chapter for this omission. The project was initiated by MSG Chad Rhinehart, grandson of Warren Life Member Club Fellowship Chairperson Connie Rhinehart.

Verizon appreciates the Pioneers

Dear Chapter 44 Pioneers, Oscar Wilde once said, "The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention." With all the wonderful acts of kindness that you have shown over the years, none is more deserving of attention and gratitude than the wonderful volunteers of your organization. The culture of giving that you have created has provided our community with a personal touch that has proven to be priceless in the times of need. Your comprehensive methods of service have benefitted thousands, extending from school children to the elderly, from domestic violence victims to veterans of war. The services that you have provided have touched countless lives, including many current Verizon employees. A recent college graduate, who interns with Verizon, shared her story with us about the impact of a colorful painting that appeared one day on her elementary school playground. This simple map of the United States has enriched her personal educational development. The seemingly anonymous artwork sparked the interest of geography in many classrooms in the school. She fondly recalls the time spent outside learning about the states and their capitals. This map provided teachers with a resource for interactive lessons outside of the classroom setting and provided students an escape from fluorescent lighting. The impact this donation had on the young children clearly left a lasting impression and the benefits that it has provided is vastly undeniable. This colorful map painting, along with the many other services and experiences you have provided our community have touched the lives of many. In a society of economic downturn, even money cannot compare to the presence of someone willing to extend a helping hand. The personal touch and intangible value of presence that is experienced by those in need is immensely indescribable. Each project and act of kindness that you have taken part in, over the years, has directly impacted numerous children and adults. One act of kindness truly goes a long way. To give to someone without any reward or recognition is a special quality in itself, which each of you have demonstrated throughout your years of service as a Pioneer. On behalf of Verizon Maryland, I sincerely thank you for all your hard work and dedication over the years. Your service to the community has enhanced the lives from the young to the elderly. Words cannot express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for all the support, guidance and time you have, and continue to provide as a Verizon Maryland Pioneer. Yours truly, William R. Roberts Verizon President for MD/DC