WHEREAS, the white cane, which every blind citizen of our city has the right to carry, demonstrates and symbolizes his/her ability to achieve a full and independent life, and his/her capacity to work productively in competitive employment; and

WHEREAS, the white cane, by allowing every blind person to move freely and safely from place to place, makes it possible for him/her to participate fully in and contribute to our society; and

WHEREAS, motorists should be aware that the law requires that blind pedestrians carrying a white cane or using a dog guide shall have the right-of-way; and

WHEREAS, California law calls upon employers, both public and private, to be aware of and utilize the employment skills of blind citizens by recognizing their worth as individuals and their productive capacities as employees; and

WHEREAS, through the public education and outreach efforts of the National Federation of the Blind of California, citizens of this city can look forward to a continued expansion of employment opportunities for and greater acceptance of blind persons in the competitive labor market.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Donna Jordan, Mayor of the City of Carpinteria, do hereby proclaim October 15, 1997, as:

in the City of Carpinteria.

IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the official seal of the City of Carpinteria, California, to be affixed this 22rd day of September, 1997.

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City Clerk, City of Carpinteria