Out of Sight - Information for the blind community, from the blind community has once again served a local radio reading service very well. For the ninth time in the last eight years, Audio Journal, the radio reading service for individuals living in Worcester County who are blind, was awarded by the International Association of Audio Information Services for excellence in programming at a recent conference held in Jackson, MS.
And for the fourth consecutive year the Program of the Year winner was "Out of Sight," a monthly offering of subjects from a blindness perspective, hosted by a blind individual. This year two-time winner Jason Rufo produced, directed and hosted a visit to WGBH in Boston, where descriptive movies are tailored from first-run offerings. This growing service enables blind movie patrons the opportunity to enjoy newly released films in specially equipped theatres. Descriptive soundtracks are added to the film's sound, narrating the actions on the screen, and are accessed through individual headsets. Locally, Showcase Cinema North in Worcester, and Blackstone Valley Cinema DeLux in Millbury offer the service. Mr. Rufo interviewed the people at WGBH responsible for making the accessibility possible, and included samples of two films with descriptive video soundtracks, "Batman Begins," and "Cinderella Man."
For Audio Journal, this year's recognition is especially meaningful, as the award-winning agency celebrates its 20th year of service to Worcester County's blind residents. The celebration will culminate with a wine tasting dinner and auction on November 5 at Viva Bene Ristorante in Worcester. Interested parties should contact the agency.
Starting in 1987 from an unused closet in the Worcester Public Library, the non-profit organization now operates from fully accessible studios at 799 West Boylston Street in Worcester. With the assistance of 150 volunteers, current local newspapers are read each day, to go along with general interest programming such as travel, dining, history and science, specifically pertinent programs on elderly, disability, and blindness issues, and cultural and entertainment programs such as radio theatre. Programming runs 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, and is heard on special radio receivers provided by the agency, on cable access TV in 28 local towns, and on the Internet www.audiojournal.net. There is no cost for the service.
For more information about Audio Journal, including volunteer opportunities or upcoming events, please contact them at 508-797-1117 or info@audiojournal.net.