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Massachusetts Reading Network

Talking Information Center Announces New Radio Drama Series this Summer

TIC volunteer, Karen Hayes, auditioning for the TIC Radio And Podcast Players

As the weather heats up, so does the drama at the Talking Information Center (TIC), where a brand new production of three radio plays will air this summer!

Listeners will be able to tune in to TIC, the award-winning nonprofit reading service which broadcasts 24-hours a day to thousands of visually impaired and otherwise print impaired listeners throughout the state, on Thursday, June 29, 2017 at 7 p.m. for the live broadcast of “Sorry, Wrong Number”, the legendary thriller by Lucille Fletcher, which premiered in 1943.

TIC Radio and Podcast Players, comprised of 45 TIC volunteers who auditioned for parts, will perform each radio play in front of a live studio audience backstage at TIC. “Sorry, Wrong Number”, the first in the series, features a talented cast of 12: Dianne Legro, Bill Zirpolo, Steve Virta, Joan Dowd, Maryellen Walsh, Norman Blair, Karen Ferrari, who are all Marshfield residents; Loretta Patterson of Duxbury; Joanne Salines of Hanover; Susan Romboldi (who is blind and will read the script in Braille), Bob Churchill and Richard Bodurtha of Plymouth.

TIC’s Producer John Shea and Eric Joseph, Executive Director of The Bay Colony Shakespeare Company (BCSC), will lead the all-volunteer radio drama production. Shea and Joseph worked together on TIC’s successful production of “Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night”, which was performed by BCSC actors. Joseph, who is a resident of Cohasset, has a BFA in Drama from Syracuse University and has produced over forty PIE (Performance In Education) touring Shakespearean performances and faculty workshops. Prior to BCSC, Joseph worked for Clear Channel Entertainment in Manhattan on 22 Broadway shows as Senior Vice President of Sponsorship and Marketing, including “The Producers”, “Movin Out” and “Billy Crystal’s 700 Sundays”.

“Since radio drama is all vocal, casting is done by pitch. There has to be variety in the tone of voices so that each character is distinct,” explained Joseph. “The one requirement for cast members? They have to be a volunteer at TIC.”

No tickets will be sold to TIC’s Radio Drama production, but donations may be made in support of it. Businesses that wish to support this production may become part of the show through unique underwriting messages. Title and break sponsorships are available.

“The goal of this new programming is to bring live theater to those who might not have access to it otherwise due to accessibility, transportation or financial issues and to bring our audience of over 30,000 listeners fresh, new and exciting content,” said Jim Bunnell, TIC’s Executive Director. “We are delighted to work with renowned director Eric Joseph and our amazing volunteers to bring the thrill of live radio drama to listeners.”

To become a sponsor, contact TIC’s Anna Dunbar at (781) 834-4400.

For more information about BCSC, visit  www.baycolonyshakespeare.org.

The Hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut.

TIC programming may be accessed several ways: via live audio stream at http://www.ticnetwork.org; by utilizing a specially tuned radio receiver; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025 from a home or cell phone; or by smartphone app. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

In 1977, Ed Perry, the founder of radio station WATD-FM in Marshfield, MA, donated his Subsidiary Carrier Authorization signal for use as the first radio reading service in New England. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area. The Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind oversee TIC, which is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

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Talking Information Center’s Wine Dinner Fundraiser A Tremendous Success

Paul Vercollone, State Representative Jim Cantwell, Jonathan Bond and Jim Bunnell
Paul Vercollone, State Representative Jim Cantwell, Jonathan Bond and Jim Bunnell

With 136 guests in attendance and contributions from over 100 businesses, institutions and individuals, the Talking Information Center’s (TIC) 24th Annual Wine Dinner Fundraiser held at The Barker Tavern in Scituate, was a tremendous success.

The non-profit reading service broadcasts from their Marshfield studio, 24-hours a day to thousands of visually impaired and otherwise print disabled listeners and relies on the generosity of donors, sponsors and volunteers to support their programming. The Annual Wine Dinner event, which is TIC’s major fundraiser, raised a net of $34K, a 48 percent increase over last year’s event.

“For over 38 years there have been thousands of blind and visually impaired individuals who have relied on TIC to keep them connected and informed on news and other critical information they need on a daily basis. Today, with the collaboration of five other State Reading Service studios and over 600 volunteers, we are delivering unique programs to a vast print impaired audience of all ages and disabilities,” said Jim Bunnell, Executive Director. “We are very grateful to all of our supporters, as the success of our Annual Wine Dinner is essential to the continuity and expansion of our programming.”

Dr. Oce Harrison, Ed.D, Project Director of the New England ADA Center at the Institute for Human Centered Design in Boston, Brian Switzer from Team with a Vision, State Representative Jim Cantwell, and Collin Ryder of Masciarelli Wine Company were the evening’s featured speakers. A silent auction, “Buy It Now” table and Ring Bling raffle was followed by a spirited live auction with auctioneer Paul Vercollone. Guests enjoyed a decadent four course meal, with a Filet Mignon main course, created specifically for this event by head chef George Jordan. Each course was perfectly paired with wine generously donated by Masciarelli Wine Company.

TIC would like to thank the following: The Emilson Family as title sponsor; Sheriff Joe McDonald, Emerson-Swan, Inc., VERC Enterprises, The Clifford Family, Rockland Trust, Gilcoine & Burke Insurance Agency, Commonwealth Cooperative Bank and Tiny & Sons Auto Glass as table sponsors; Mike and Darlene Kelly, Charles David Salons and South Shore Senior News as benefactor sponsors.

TIC also thanks special donors Fred Williams, Inc., The Whalen Company, The Barker Tavern, Masciarelli Wine Company, Bond Printing Company, WATD, Jeff and Linda Dirksen, Bellestar Jewelry and Carol McClintock, along with their network affiliates in Mashpee, Pittsfield, Lowell, Springfield and Worcester and their incredible Board members.

All proceeds from the Annual Wine Dinner directly benefit TIC, which serves the listening needs of thousands of visually impaired and otherwise print disabled listeners throughout Massachusetts, southern New Hampshire and Connecticut through its network affiliates in Mashpee, Pittsfield, Lowell, Springfield and Worcester.

“We received a lot of positive feedback and many in attendance had never attended a TIC event before or knew very little about our services and programming,” Bunnell continued. “Thank you to everyone who made TIC’s 24th Annual Wine Dinner Fundraiser a tremendous success! Guests, sponsors, donors, board members and volunteers – we simply couldn’t have done it without you.”

Reaching New Audiences

According to the National Federation of the Blind, 136,500 people of all ages in Massachusetts reported to have a visual disability in 2013. Two out of three aging Americans confront vision loss. Others who experience vision problems are living with AIDS, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, paralysis and other physical ailments that make it difficult to hold a publication or turn its pages. Approximately 10,000 people turn 65 every day in the U.S. and in Massachusetts, 34 percent of people with disabilities are 65 and older.

TIC has thousands of blind/visually impaired listeners statewide, yet there is a broader audience who can benefit. There are a growing number of seniors and veterans seeking informational, entertaining broadcasts that just aren’t available elsewhere, and that’s where TIC comes in.

The Hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut. TIC operates with the help of more than 600 volunteers statewide, broadcasting newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. TIC also offers cultural programming such as old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry. Two of TIC’s newest shows include Veterans Voice Radio and Veterans Voice Story Hour, which are specifically geared toward military veterans and their families.

TIC programming may be accessed several ways: via live audio stream at http://www.ticnetwork.org; by utilizing a specially tuned radio receiver; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025 from a home or cell phone; or by smartphone app. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

In 1977, Ed Perry, the founder of radio station WATD-FM in Marshfield, MA, donated his Subsidiary Carrier Authorization signal for use as the first radio reading service in New England. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area. The Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind oversee TIC, which is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

Talking Information Center’s Wine Dinner Fundraiser A Tremendous SuccessRead More

Talking Information Center Launches Annual Appeal, Joins the #GivingTuesday Movement

PrintTalking Information Center (TIC), a non-profit reading service based in Marshfield, MA, which broadcasts 24 hours a day to visually impaired and otherwise print disabled listeners, is launching their Annual Appeal to raise funds to support programming and is participating in the #GivingTuesday movement.

With thousands of blind/visually impaired, senior and veteran listeners statewide, TIC provides informational, entertaining broadcasts that just aren’t available elsewhere. Operating with the help of more than 600 volunteers statewide, TIC broadcasts newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and more.

Turning Print Into Sound

Every year, TIC must cover the cost of print subscriptions, which are the heart of TIC programming as they provide the content that volunteers read. TIC subscribes to more than 60 newspapers and magazines, from The Boston Globe and The Washington Post to Diabetes Self Management, Consumer Reports, Reader’s Digest and others.

In order to continue providing quality print-based programming to listeners, TIC is fundraising to defray subscription costs. For example, a $25 donation could sponsor a full year of Time Magazine and a $150 donation could sponsor six months of The Wall Street Journal.

Supporting a Good Cause on #GivingTuesday

TIC is a registered nonprofit organization with 38 years of success and sustainability. TIC asks those in the community to consider making a donation to help cover the cost of print subscriptions and support programming on #GivingTuesday, November 29, 2016, which is the global day dedicated to giving.

Donations may be made online at www.ticnetwork.org. Donations may also be made by check or money order (made out to “Talking Information Center”) and mailed to Talking Information Center, PO Box 519, Marshfield, MA 02050.

A Growing Demand

Approximately 10,000 people turn 65 every day in the U.S. and in Massachusetts, 34 percent of people with disabilities are 65 and older. Others who experience vision problems are living with AIDS, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, paralysis and other physical ailments that make it difficult to hold a publication or turn its pages.

“Two out of three aging Americans confront vision loss. Baby boomers are the fastest growing segment of our audience,” explained Jim Bunnell, TIC’s Executive Director. “Without the community’s generous support, TIC listeners would not be able to access the news and information they have come to rely on and which greatly enriches the quality of their lives.”

The Hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut. TIC operates with the help of more than 600 volunteers statewide, broadcasting newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. TIC also offers cultural programming such as old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry. Two of TIC’s newest shows include Veterans Voice Radio and Veterans Voice Story Hour, which are specifically geared toward military veterans and their families.

TIC programming may be accessed several ways: via live audio stream at http://www.ticnetwork.org; by utilizing a specially tuned radio receiver; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025 from a home or cell phone; or by smartphone app. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

In 1977, Ed Perry, the founder of radio station WATD-FM in Marshfield, MA, donated his Subsidiary Carrier Authorization signal for use as the first radio reading service in New England. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area. The Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind oversee TIC, which is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

Talking Information Center Launches Annual Appeal, Joins the #GivingTuesday MovementRead More

Talking Information Center Appoints New Assistant Executive Director

Anna Dunbar
Anna Dunbar

The award-winning Talking Information Center (TIC), a non-profit reading service based in Marshfield, MA, which broadcasts 24 hours a day to thousands of visually impaired and otherwise disabled listeners, has appointed Anna Dunbar as Assistant Executive Director.

In her new role, Ms. Dunbar will oversee financial operations, development and marketing at TIC. She will work alongside TIC’s Executive Director, Jim Bunnell and the Board of Directors to achieve the organization’s goals for continued financial stability, while enhancing the impact and mission of its program.

Previously, Ms. Dunbar served as the Financial Manager at Gateway Arts, a service of Vinfen, located in Brookline, and as Director of Operations at Galerie d’Orsay of Newbury Street, Boston. Prior to that, Ms. Dunbar worked at Graham Waste Services of Cohasset where she had been promoted to Office Manager for the last two of the seven years she was with the company.

Ms. Dunbar holds a Bachelor’s degree in Art History from Bridgewater State University. In her free time, she volunteers at Rock Steady Boxing, a non-contact boxing fitness program for people suffering with Parkinson’s disease, located in Marshfield.

A native of Scituate, Ms. Dunbar resides in Rockland.

Reaching New Audiences

According to the National Federation of the Blind, 136,500 people of all ages in Massachusetts reported to have a visual disability in 2013. Two out of three aging Americans confront vision loss. Others who experience vision problems are living with AIDS, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, paralysis and other physical ailments that make it difficult to hold a publication or turn its pages. Approximately 10,000 people turn 65 every day in the U.S. and in Massachusetts, 34 percent of people with disabilities are 65 and older. Military veterans are seeking programs that have a ‘veteran’s voice’.

TIC has thousands of blind/visually impaired listeners statewide, yet there is a broader audience who can benefit. There are a growing number of seniors and veterans seeking informational, entertaining broadcasts that just aren’t available elsewhere, and that’s where TIC comes in.

TIC operates with the help of more than 600 volunteers statewide and approximately 200 volunteers in their Marshfield studio alone, broadcasting newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. They also offer cultural programming such as old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry. Two of TIC’s newest shows include Veterans Voice Radio and Veterans Voice Story Hour, which are specifically geared toward military veterans and their families.

About TIC

The Talking Information Center (TIC), a non-profit reading service located in Marshfield, MA, broadcasts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to visually-impaired and print-handicapped listeners including those suffering from AIDS, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, paralysis or other physical illness that makes holding a publication or turning pages impossible.

TIC programming may be accessed several ways: via live audio stream at www.ticnetwork.org, by utilizing a specially tuned radio receiver; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025 from a home or cell phone; or by smartphone app. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is also the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut.

In 1977, Ed Perry, the founder of radio station WATD-FM in Marshfield, MA, donated his Subsidiary Carrier Authorization signal for use as the first radio reading service in New England. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area. TIC is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

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Talking Information Center and Furnace Brook Middle School Raise Vision Impairment Awareness Through Blindfold Run/Walk

Furnace Brook Middle School Principal, Patrick Sullivan, with his son Cooper at the “I Am...Not Alone. We’re in this Together” Blindfold Run/Walk.
Furnace Brook Middle School Principal, Patrick Sullivan, with his son Cooper at the “I Am…Not Alone. We’re in this Together” Blindfold Run/Walk.

In partnership with the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI) and Team with a Vision, the Talking Information Center (TIC), a non-profit reading service based in Marshfield, MA, which broadcasts 24 hours a day to thousands of visually impaired and otherwise disabled listeners, recently participated in the “I Am…Not Alone. We’re in this Together” Blindfold Run/Walk with Furnace Brook Middle School in Marshfield.

Twenty teams of two participated in the Blindfold Run/Walk held Sunday, October 16th, 2016 at Martinson Elementary School track in Marshfield. The event was geared towards raising awareness of the challenges of blind and visually impaired individuals. Participants included Marshfield sixth, seventh and eighth graders and their family members, TIC and Furnace Brook Middle School staff, and community members.

The runners/walkers took turns being blindfolded while their teammate remained sighted and served as a guide as they ran or walked the Martinson Elementary School track two laps each for one-mile total. The guides held the tether rope of their blindfolded partner and provided verbal direction throughout the entire race.

In addition to the race, participants had an opportunity to try on visual impairment glasses, which simulated low vision (courtesy of Capeway Opticians) and enjoy family friendly games designed to help children empathize with those who have vision issues.

A $10 donation was asked of participants, with all proceeds going to TIC to help fund special assistive radio technologies that benefit thousands who are blind or vision impaired. Tiny & Sons Glass Co., Capeway Opticians, Bond Printing and Marketing, Furnace Brook Middle School, MABVI and Team with a Vision sponsored this event.

“The Blindfold Run raised awareness of the hardships people with vision challenges face and it fit our school’s mission to be Peace Builders in being an event that encouraged empathy and helped others. We are lucky to have the TIC, Tiny and Sons, and St. Christine’s parish peer ministry support our school’s endeavors,” said Teresa DeLuca, Librarian at Furnace Brook Middle School.

“According to the National Federation of the Blind, 136,500 people of all ages in Massachusetts reported to have a visual disability in 2013,” explained Jim Bunnell, TIC’s Executive Director.”Through the Blindfold Run/Walk, we were able to provide a better understanding of the challenges of individuals with visual impairment. We had a very positive response from everyone involved.”

He continued, “We’d like to expand this initiative and continue to raise awareness by holding the Blindfold Run/Walk at other schools throughout the South Shore.”

Schools that are interested in holding a Blindfold Run/Walk event may contact Anna Dunbar of TIC (781) 834-4400.

Reaching New Audiences

Two out of three aging Americans confront vision loss. Others who experience vision problems are living with AIDS, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, paralysis and other physical ailments that make it difficult to hold a publication or turn its pages. Approximately 10,000 people turn 65 every day in the U.S. and in Massachusetts, 34 percent of people with disabilities are 65 and older.

TIC has thousands of blind/visually impaired listeners statewide, yet there is a broader audience who can benefit. There are a growing number of seniors and veterans seeking informational, entertaining broadcasts that just aren’t available elsewhere, and that’s where TIC comes in.

The Hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut. TIC operates with the help of more than 600 volunteers statewide, broadcasting newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. TIC also offers cultural programming such as old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry. Two of TIC’s newest shows include Veterans Voice Radio and Veterans Voice Story Hour, which are specifically geared toward military veterans and their families.

TIC programming may be accessed several ways: via live audio stream at http://www.ticnetwork.org; by utilizing a specially tuned radio receiver; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025 from a home or cell phone; or by smartphone app. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

In 1977, Ed Perry, the founder of radio station WATD-FM in Marshfield, MA, donated his Subsidiary Carrier Authorization signal for use as the first radio reading service in New England. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area. The Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind oversee TIC, which is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

Talking Information Center and Furnace Brook Middle School Raise Vision Impairment Awareness Through Blindfold Run/WalkRead More

Talking Information Center Announces Dr. Oce Harrison as Speaker for Annual Wine Dinner Fundraiser

PrintTalking Information Center (TIC), a non-profit reading service based in Marshfield, MA, which broadcasts 24 hours a day to thousands of visually impaired and otherwise disabled listeners, is pleased to announce that Oce Harrison, Ed.D, Project Director of the New England ADA Center at the Institute for Human Centered Design in Boston, will be the guest speaker for their 24th Annual Wine Dinner Fundraiser on Thursday, November 3, 2016.

Dr. Harrison has directed the New England ADA Center since 2001 and provides ADA Title I Employment trainings throughout New England. She collaborated with the Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University, which yielded groundbreaking research methods on various topics including “The Triumph of the Older Worker Despite the Great Recession.” She also led the region’s two largest events marking the 20th and the 25th Anniversary of the ADA on Boston Common.

TIC’s fundraising dinner will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Barker Tavern, a beautifully restored 17th century building located at 21 Barker Road in Scituate. Guests will enjoy a four course meal created specifically for this event by George Jordan, head chef at The Barker Tavern. Each meal will perfectly complement a corresponding wine.

The evening will also feature live and silent auctions that will include a trip to Baltimore to see the Red Sox take on the Orioles, admission passes to museums, foursomes with carts at the area’s most prestigious golf clubs, and even a tour of the State House by Representative Jim Cantwell.

All proceeds from the Annual Wine Dinner directly benefit TIC, which serves the listening needs of thousands of visually impaired and otherwise disabled listeners throughout Massachusetts, southern New Hampshire and Connecticut through its network affiliates in Mashpee, Pittsfield, Lowell, Springfield and Worcester. To donate an auction item or to sponsor this event, contact TIC’s Anna Dunbar at 781-834-4400 or adunbar@ticnetwork.org.

Seating is limited. The Annual Wine Dinner is a very popular fundraising event and advanced reservations are required. To make reservations, visit www.ticnetwork.org.

Reaching New Audiences

According to the National Federation of the Blind, 136,500 people of all ages in Massachusetts reported to have a visual disability in 2013. Two out of three aging Americans confront vision loss. Others who experience vision problems are living with AIDS, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, paralysis and other physical ailments that make it difficult to hold a publication or turn its pages. Approximately 10,000 people turn 65 every day in the U.S. and in Massachusetts, 34 percent of people with disabilities are 65 and older.

TIC has thousands of blind/visually impaired listeners statewide, yet there is a broader audience who can benefit. There are a growing number of seniors and veterans seeking informational, entertaining broadcasts that just aren’t available elsewhere, and that’s where TIC comes in.

The Hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut. TIC operates with the help of more than 600 volunteers statewide, broadcasting newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. TIC also offers cultural programming such as old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry. Two of TIC’s newest shows include Veterans Voice Radio and Veterans Voice Story Hour, which are specifically geared toward military veterans and their families.

TIC programming may be accessed several ways: via live audio stream at http://www.ticnetwork.org; by utilizing a specially tuned radio receiver; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025 from a home or cell phone; or by smartphone app. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

In 1977, Ed Perry, the founder of radio station WATD-FM in Marshfield, MA, donated his Subsidiary Carrier Authorization signal for use as the first radio reading service in New England. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area. The Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind oversee TIC, which is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

 

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Talking Information Center Provides Libraries with a “Listening” Option

TIC imageThe Talking Information Center (TIC), a non-profit reading service which broadcasts 24 hours a day to thousands of visually impaired and otherwise disabled listeners, exhibited at the 2016 Massachusetts Library Association (MLA) Annual Conference in Hyannis in an effort to create greater awareness about TIC’s accessible technology for libraries.

TIC offers their special radio receivers to libraries, which in turn enables library patrons to “tune-in” to TIC’s informational and entertaining broadcasts. The receivers, which resemble traditional radio receivers, may be installed in a dedicated room at a library, to be utilized by listeners who do not have access to the Internet and who rely on their public library for a variety of services.

During the  MLA conference, TIC’s Executive Director Jim Bunnell spoke to library decision-makers about how TIC “turns print into sound” and demonstrated how to use the special receivers and review TIC’s daily broadcast schedule.

TIC broadcasts newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. They also offer cultural programming such as old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry. Two of TIC’s newest shows include Veterans Voice Radio and Veterans Voice Story Hour, which are specifically geared toward military veterans and their families.

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is also the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area.

Bunnell explained, “TIC has thousands of visually impaired and otherwise disabled listeners throughout the state, yet there is a broader audience seeking informational, entertaining broadcasts that just aren’t available elsewhere, who can benefit from our programming.”

Libraries may arrange for TIC’s specially tuned radio receiver to be installed on-site by calling TIC at (781) 834-4400. For more information about TIC’s programming, visit www.ticnetwork.org.

About TIC

The Talking Information Center (TIC), a non-profit reading service located in Marshfield, MA, broadcasts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to visually-impaired and otherwise disabled listeners including those suffering from AIDS, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, paralysis or other physical illness that makes holding a publication or turning pages impossible.

TIC programming may be accessed several ways: via live audio stream at http://www.ticnetwork.org; by utilizing a specially tuned radio receiver; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025 from a home or cell phone; or by smartphone app. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

TIC’s mission is to provide human voice(d) broadcasts to visually and mobility impaired listeners throughout Massachusetts to promote independence and enrich quality of life. TIC broadcasts newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. Cultural programming such as old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry is also provided. Two of TIC’s newest shows include Veterans Voice Radio and Veterans Voice Story Hour, which are specifically geared toward military veterans and their families. TIC is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

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Talking Information Center Focuses on Team With A Vision at 2016 Boston Marathon

John Shea, producer at Talking Information Center reading service for the visually impaired (right) with Boston Mayor Martin Walsh and runners Sarah Dever and her sighted guide Sammie Nunziata of Team With A Vision during Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired Volunteer Appreciation Brunch.
John Shea, producer at Talking Information Center reading service for the visually impaired (right) with Boston Mayor Martin Walsh and runners Sarah Dever and her sighted guide Sammie Nunziata of Team With A Vision during Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired Volunteer Appreciation Brunch.

Thousands of visually impaired listeners were able to tune in and get up-close and personal with Team With A Vision runners and their sighted guides at the 2016 Boston Marathon via the Talking Information Center (TIC) non-profit reading service’s live radio broadcast of the event.

TIC producer John Shea took listeners from the Hopkinton starting line to the finish line of the 120th running of the Boston Marathon in a narrative of the race that included interviews with Boston Mayor Martin Walsh and a number of Team With A Vision runners.

Team With A Vision is comprised of runners with visual impairment and their sighted guides who take part in events all around the country to raise funds and awareness for the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI). This year marked Team With A Vision’s 24th year running the Boston Marathon. According to Team With A Vision’s Boston Marathon page, the group has raised more than $137K, and all funds raised support MABVI’s statewide network of vision rehabilitation services.

Shea discussed some of the challenges of the race with Team With A Vision member John Chan, a visually impaired runner from Staten Island, NY who has run in more than 40 marathons and was running for the second time with Team With A Vision.

“The biggest thing would be just the obstacles along the course, which are potholes, curves and turns, and there’s train track in some parts of it too… If it wasn’t for the guide, I wouldn’t be able to run it efficiently,” explained Chan.

To hear the personal stories of Team With A Vision runners and learn more about the challenges, their goals and how they communicate with their sighted guides during the race, tune in to TIC’s Mission Possible archived segment from April 18th: http://ticnetwork.com/audio/wire/mission.htm.

About MABVI

The Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI) is the oldest social service agency in the country providing services to individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Their mission is to work with individuals with vision loss to eliminate barriers and create opportunities. For more information about MABVI and Team With A Vision, visit www.mabcommunity.org/mabvi/home.

About TIC

The Talking Information Center (TIC), a non-profit reading service located in Marshfield, MA, broadcasts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to visually-impaired and print-handicapped listeners including those suffering from AIDS, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, paralysis or other physical illness that makes holding a publication or turning pages impossible.

TIC programming may be accessed several ways: via live audio stream at http://www.ticnetwork.org; by utilizing a specially tuned radio receiver; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025 from a home or cell phone; or by smartphone app. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

TIC’s mission is to provide human voice(d) broadcasts to visually and mobility impaired listeners throughout Massachusetts to promote independence and enrich quality of life. TIC broadcasts newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. Cultural programming such as old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry is also provided. Two of TIC’s newest shows include Veterans Voice Radio and Veterans Voice Story Hour, which are specifically geared toward military veterans and their families.

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is also the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area. TIC is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

 

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Talking Information Center Announces Alliance with ESC of New England

TIC imageThe award-winning Talking Information Center (TIC), a nonprofit reading service located in Marshfield, MA which broadcasts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to thousands of print and visually impaired listeners, has engaged the services of Executive Service Corps (ESC) of New England to assist in the development of a strategic plan.

In their alliance with ESC, TIC has embarked on the development of a long-term strategic plan that will serve as a road map to ensure that the organization continues to provide their valued reading services to the visually impaired throughout Massachusetts and beyond.

ESC offers consulting services to the nonprofit community to enable organizations to operate more effectively to meet the needs of their constituencies. ESC consultants Marietta Joseph, Jack Wallace and Ed Haddad make up TIC’s core consulting team. Ms. Joseph recently served as Vice President of MassDevelopment, where she assisted nonprofit organizations with tax-exempt debt financing for capital projects. Mr. Wallace is a seasoned leader, marketer, mentor and business development professional with over 30 years of varied, consulting-based experience working for such national brands as Fidelity Investments, Talbots and General Motors. Mr. Haddad, now retired, is the former Vice President of Intellectual Property at New Balance Athletic Shoe Inc.

“We are extremely pleased to have the opportunity to work with ESC’s distinguished executives Marietta, Jack and Ed,” explained Jim Bunnell, TIC’s Executive Director. “Several areas that we will focus on in the creation of a strategic plan include marketing, finance, funding, organization and governance. Our vision is to evolve TIC to a more professionally organized and financially sound operation.”

With limited government funding, TIC relies on the generosity of donors and operates with the help of more than 600 volunteers statewide and approximately 200 volunteers in their Marshfield studio alone. TIC staff and volunteer readers broadcast local news, articles, and items of interest to listeners to promote independence and enrich quality of life. TIC coordinates a network of affiliates throughout the state to provide broadcasts to blind/visually impaired listeners as well as other individuals with disabilities who do not have access to the written word and who rely on this service. TIC brings not only news and information, but companionship to those who have limited access to the communities in which they live.

About ESC

ESC of New England is a 501(c)3 charitable nonprofit that provides management consulting and capacity building services to other nonprofits in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. ESC’s mission is to enhance the overall impact of the nonprofit community by enabling organizations to operate more effectively to meet the needs of their constituencies. ESC accomplishes this through the provision of affordable, high-impact management consulting and related services by senior level executives and professionals from the private, nonprofit, and public sectors who donate their time and expertise. For more information visit www.escne.org.

About TIC

The Talking Information Center (TIC), a nonprofit reading service located in Marshfield, MA, broadcasts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to visually and print-impaired listeners including those suffering from AIDS, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, paralysis or other physical illness that makes holding a publication or turning pages impossible. TIC programming may be accessed by specially tuned radio receivers; through AudioNow by calling 712-832-7025; or via live audio stream on the TIC website, www.ticnetwork.org. Listeners with smartphones may download the free TIC app by typing “Talking Information Center” in Apple or in the Google Play store for Android devices.

In 1977, Ed Perry, the founder of radio station WATD-FM in Marshfield, MA, donated his Subsidiary Carrier Authorization signal for use as the first radio reading service in New England. Now reaching 25,000 listeners, TIC broadcasts newspapers, magazines, books, and special consumer information on subjects including medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and television programs. TIC also broadcasts cultural programming including old-time radio drama, theater, and poetry.

TIC is a proud member of the International Association of Audible Information Services (IAAIS), and is also the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, broadcasting to all of Massachusetts as well as southern New Hampshire and Connecticut. Operating similarly to other broadcast networks, TIC has affiliates throughout the state of Massachusetts that provide inserts of local news and information that is of interest to listeners in their area. TIC is located at 130 Enterprise Drive, (P.O. Box 519), in Marshfield, MA 02050. For more information visit www.ticnetwork.org or call (781) 834-4400.

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