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Talking Information Center

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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21 Volunteers Honored at Talking Information Center’s Awards Ceremony

Jim Bunnell with volunteers Norm Blair of Marshfield, Nick Guarda of Middleboro, Christine Knapp of Duxbury, Herb Robinson of Marshfield, and Elizabeth Schmellick of Canton who were recognized for five years of service.

The Talking Information Center (TIC) recognized 21 volunteers for their years of dedicated service at their Annual Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast and awards ceremony held last month.

TIC, the award-winning nonprofit reading service and the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, which broadcasts 24-hours a day to thousands of visually impaired and otherwise print impaired listeners throughout the state, honored their Marshfield studio volunteers at a Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast held at, and sponsored by, the Village at Proprietors Green Assisted Living Facility in Marshfield, MA.

In an awards ceremony following the breakfast, State Representative James Cantwell presented the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award to volunteers recognized for volunteering more than 100 hours in one calendar year. Elizabeth Schmellick, a resident of Canton, Cathleen Maye of Marshfield, Judy Picariello of Marston Mills, Maryanna Abren and Ann Cavanaugh of Middleboro, Joe Best of Randolph, and Corinne DItalia of Weymouth were honored with a personalized certificate, official pin, and a congratulatory letter from the President of the United States.

Award pins were presented to volunteers with 5, 10, 20 and 25 years of service. Those recognized for five years of service include Elizabeth Schmellick of Canton, Jay Clare of Carver, Christine Knapp of Duxbury, Melissa Bristol of Kingston, Norm Blair, Herb Robinson and Fred Tilley of Marshfield, Nick Guarda of Middleboro, and Pat Cotta of Plymouth.

Stan Troupe of Hanson was recognized for 10 years of service. Pat Flaherty of Duxbury was recognized for 20 years of service. Trish Garnett of Marshfield, Marcia Babcock of Norwell and Philip Drosdik of Pembroke were recognized for 25 years of service.

“TIC simply could not operate without the generous support of our volunteers and we are so grateful to every one of them,” said Jim Bunnell, Executive Director.

TIC wishes to thank guest speakers Representative Cantwell, Colleen Ferguson, Executive Director of Village at Proprietors Green, Susan Romboldi, a longtime TIC listener, Christine James of WATD-FM and TIC Board Chair, and Lorraine Bottelli, TIC Volunteer Coordinator.

TIC operates with the help of more than 500 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.

To view a Marshfield Community Television’s video of TIC’s Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast, visit  https://vimeo.com/215228795.

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 Focuses on Team With A Vision at Boston Marathon 2017

TIC’s Jim Bunnell and Anna Dunbar after the Hyannis Half-Marathon 2017

The executive team of the Talking Information Center (TIC), a nonprofit reading service based in Marshfield, MA, which broadcasts 24 hours a day to visually impaired and otherwise print impaired listeners throughout Massachusetts, has joined Team With A Vision for the 2017 Boston Marathon and will race to raise awareness and funds for the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI).

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 MABVI. This year is Team With A Vision’s 24th year running the Boston Marathon.

Anna Dunbar, Assistant Executive Director of TIC, is an ambassador runner for Team With A Vision and so far has raised over $7,000 for MABVI.

“I am beyond thrilled to be a part of Team With A Vision for the 2017 Boston Marathon and to raise funds for such a wonderful and important organization,” said Dunbar. “TIC provides 24/7 programming 365 days a year for the visually impaired or otherwise print disabled, and TIC’s mission and MABVI’s mission align perfectly. TIC and MABVI work to provide the support to help individuals with visual impairment live independent lives.”

Jim Bunnell, TIC’s Executive Director, along with Chase Fleming, a Northern California Tech Rep based in San Francisco, will be Team With A Vision sighted guides for Jennifer Herring, a legally blind computer engineer from Hamilton, New Jersey. Herring, who has completed 13 Boston Marathons and 28 marathons total, has been running with Team With A Vision for the past several years.

“With Team With A Vision, I get to meet people with similar problems with vision,” said Herring. “Team With A Vision is a wonderful community that comes together every year and helps others. It’s great to be a part of, and to help people in the same situation and share the same passion. The guides are great and often become friends.”

This year, there are 120 Team With A Vision members, comprised of 30 athletes who qualified in the visually impaired division, as well as their sighted guides and individuals who have qualified, registered and want to give meaning to their miles.

“We are so honored to have so many involved with and supporting Team With A Vision. It is beyond hard to hit the qualifying time for the Boston Marathon and we’re always grateful to those who want to guide,” said Andrea Croak, Coordinator of Team With A Vision and Manager of Special Events and Corporate Sponsorships at MAB Community Services. Croak has previously run the Boston Marathon and volunteered as a sighted guide. This year, in addition to organizing the team, she is supporting another runner in training.

Croak continued, “There are so many factors that affect visually impaired individuals, from depression to a high rate of unemployment to socialization. Team With A Vision enables them to socialize and engage in the community. With the right support anything is possible.”

TIC Live Broadcast at the Boston Marathon

Tune in to get up-close and personal with Team With A Vision runners and their sighted guides at the 2017 Boston Marathon via TIC’s live radio broadcast of the event. TIC producer John Shea will take listeners from the Hopkinton starting line to the finish line in a narrative of the race that will include interviews with a number of Team With A Vision runners.

About Team With A Vision

Team With A Vision is part of the 2017 Boston Athletic Association Boston Marathon Official Charity Program. For the last 24 years members of Team With A Vision have toed the starting line on Marathon Monday and shown the world that with the right support anything is possible. Their international team of blind and sighted runners race to support individuals throughout Massachusetts living with vision loss. Their efforts allow the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired to deliver professional, peer and volunteer support to over 1,100 individuals each year, giving them the support they need to live with dignity and independence.

All funds raised support MABVI’s statewide network of vision rehabilitation services, which include 14 low vision clinics, 34 low vision support groups, and 300 volunteers matched 1:1 with blind individuals.

About the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (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

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’s Boston Studio at MCB Now Open

Talking Information Center (TIC), the award-winning, nonprofit reading service based in Marshfield, MA, which broadcasts 24 hours a day to visually impaired and otherwise print impaired listeners throughout Massachusetts, recently announced the opening of a second studio in Boston.

TIC is proud to announce that their Boston studio, located at the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB), 600 Washington Street, Boston, is now in operation. The new location serves as a direct link to their Marshfield studio and provides a more convenient location for state officials and other guests who would otherwise have to commute to Marshfield.

“We are thrilled to be able to record interviews in our Boston studio as it better facilitates scheduling of our guests who are located in town,” noted James Bunnell, Executive Director of TIC. “Our Boston studio may be used to advocate for different agencies, as it enables MCB and others to reach the community.”

In addition to their Boston and Marshfield studios, TIC has affiliates in Mashpee, Pittsfield, Lowell, Springfield, and Worcester broadcasting their diverse programs 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

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 Boston Studio at MCB Now OpenRead More

Talking Information Center Participates in “Wonder Fair”

Jim Bunnell

The Talking Information Center (TIC), a nonprofit reading service based in Marshfield, MA and the hub of the Massachusetts Reading Network, which broadcasts 24 hours a day to visually impaired and otherwise print impaired listeners throughout Massachusetts, recently participated in Furnace Brook Middle School’s “Wonder Fair” for sixth graders held January 27th.

Designed to raise awareness and give the Marshfield middle school students a better understanding of what it would be like to have vision or hearing impairment, learning disorder or other disability, the Wonder Fair offered different “simulator” stations.

Jim Bunnell, Executive Director of TIC led the station simulating visual impairment. Working with more than 300 students in groups of six at a time, Bunnell helped to teach the students about visual impairment and blindness awareness, including how to assist and guide someone with a visual impairment and how to approach someone who has a visual impairment. In an exercise that was similar to the Blindfold Run/Walk that TIC held with Furnace Brook Middle School last October, the children participated in an exercise where they were paired together, one guiding the other blindfolded partner, for a firsthand experience of what it is like to be blind.

“The number of individuals with vision impairment is expected to increase significantly over the next 10 years. Creating greater awareness and understanding is key. I really enjoyed working with the students, as they had no idea of the challenges without sight. They do now,” explained Bunnell.

At the close of each session, Bunnell asked the students if they had any questions and many students made comments along the lines of “I never realized how lonely and dark it is without being able to see.”

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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Plymouth Lions Club Donation Helps Support Talking Information Center’s Print Subscriptions & Programming

Talking Information Center (TIC), the non-profit reading service based in Marshfield, MA, which broadcasts 24 hours a day to visually impaired and otherwise print disabled listeners throughout Massachusetts, would like to thank the Plymouth Lions Club for their generous donation and ongoing support.

The Plymouth Lions Club has donated $1,000 to TIC to support their print subscription drive and programming.

With thousands of blind/visually impaired, senior and veteran listeners statewide, TIC provides informational, entertaining broadcasts that just aren’t available elsewhere. TIC broadcasts newspapers, magazines, books, special consumer information, medical and stock market updates, jobs, sports, supermarket specials, voting guides, community newspapers, and more, operating with the help of more than 200 volunteers in their Marshfield studio.

Print subscriptions are the heart of TIC programming as they provide the content that volunteers read. TIC subscribes to more than 60 newspapers and magazines every year, and donations help to cover the cost of these subscriptions.

“Our missions are similar. Both of our organizations have a long history of improving the lives of sight impaired individuals,” noted James Bunnell, Executive Director of TIC. “We are very grateful to the Plymouth Lions Club for their donation and their ongoing support.”

The Plymouth Lions Club serves the local community by undertaking activities that support the eradication of preventable blindness and projects that benefit and support the needs of all people living in the Greater Plymouth Area. For more information about the Plymouth Lions Club, visit http://www.theplymouthlions.org.

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. 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.

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.

Plymouth Lions Club Donation Helps Support Talking Information Center’s Print Subscriptions & ProgrammingRead More

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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