California - [02/08/08] - Allan Blakney, Interpreters' Advocate, Dies at Age 73:

Allan Blakney, a statewide figure with the California Workers' Compensation Interpreters Association, died on Feb. 1. He was 73.

Blakney was one of the first interpreters' advocates to lobby on behalf of interpreters in the workers' compensation system, according to Gilbert Calhoun, president of the association. Blakney, while not an actual interpreter himself, was one of the association's original members and served on its board of directors. Andrea Manriquez, co-chair of the association's issues, planning, and objectives committee, said the Canoga Park resident “bridged the gap” between interpreters, legislators and carriers.

“He was a peaceful man. In the community that we work in, different parties can see our issues as being very intense and overwhelming,” Manriquez said. “He was one that felt that if we can come together at the table and talk about our issues and reach an understanding, then that would be a huge benefit for all parties.”

Blakney started contacting industry leaders via letters and organized meetings with members of the State Compensation Insurance Fund, legislators, and carriers, Manriquez said. She noted that Blakney still attended meetings in a wheelchair during his final months, so he could have the pleasure of meeting his contacts in person.

“We worked for 7 years together improving and educating the industry about interpreters,” Manriquez said.

Blakney first became officially involved with the interpreters after he began working for his wife's company, LGB Interpreting Inc. Before that, his resume featured a professional history from the corporate world and a strong knowledge of the government.

As an original member, Blakney also helped the association expand its membership by attending meetings statewide and listening to interpreters' concerns.
“He was a very determined man, no matter where our trips took us,” Manriquez said.
Blakney died of complications stemming from an infection. He is survived by his wife, Lucy Gomez Blakney, and three sons.

- Source: WorkCompCentral