[Community-Service] June 2021 Newsletter

[Maggie Stringer]

“Beyond the Six Dots”



National Federation of the Blind Community Service Division

June 2021 Newsletter

We use a white cane, slate & stylus, and screen readers in between,

We read from the left, write from the right, and will tap tap onto any
scene.

We want our communities to know what we’ve got, a commitment to serve,

Beyond the Six Dots!


*POP FROM THE TOP*



The NFB COMMUNITY SERVICE DIVISION is proud to announce we are popping with
service, gourmet style! Whether you want it sprinkled with salt, smothered
in butter, or covered with cheese, we’ve got the best popped corn ready to
be shipped to your front door!

Annual fundraiser begins on Tuesday, June 15th to Saturday, June 19th, 2021
at 5PM EASTERN daylight TIME. Proceeds gained from this fundraiser will
support the efforts of the federation in addition to help promote the
Community Service Division projects.

The Community Service Division is going to show everyone everywhere that we
can’t stop and won’t stop POPPING! I pop! No, you pop! Wait, we all pop for…

Double Good Gourmet Delicious Popcorn!

Please contact Gloria Nathan-Cherry “The Popcorn Lady” for more information
at (215) 971-6650.

“Popped in love and served with a smile!”


*#StrongerTogether CHALLENGE*



Share your service with us, double tap on the link and get involved!

Say it with me, “Challenge accepted!” We can’t stop, won’t stop serving!
The NFB Community Service Division thanks you for accepting the challenge.
We have experienced some testing times during this pandemic, which is a
prime example of us being #StrongerTogether as we

spread the power of giving anywhere and everywhere. Service can certainly
start here and continue here with our division’s challenge.

This challenge will help keep us united in service throughout our

various neighborhoods across our country. What follows is a questionnaire
designed to collect detailed information of your volunteer efforts starting
January 1, 2021 through June 30, 2021.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8HWsUDqzaairJZg1p_RcFe3pFemWYDXXSatdaG_n6AjeTiw/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&usp=mail_form_link&usp=embed_facebook


*THE COLORS OF HOPE*



We have been hopeful and expecting brighter days! Can you sense the vibrant
colors of hope appearing everywhere? Life is like a rainbow; you need both
rain and sun to make its colors appear.

The magnificent arch will bring you and your friends to the National
Convention of 2021 Community Service Division seminar. The dazzling colors
will begin to sparkle at 1:00 p.m. eastern daylight time on Thursday, July
8th. The excitement of our seminar will be outlined in the agenda and
bounce into your inbox very soon!

Come be inspired as the Community Service Division triumphantly celebrates
the bright and POPPING colors of hope!


*STAR SEARCH*



Looking for the next Community Service Division Idol! Learn the Community
service Jingle Lyrics. Practice it with friends and family. Finally, zoom
into the division’s national seminar on Thursday, July 8th. Be prepared to
blow the judges away with your passion and love for service.

Please learn the jingle and sing along with the Community service gang.
1-2-3-Hit it!

“We are the community service.

Helping all over the land.

We are the community service

Helping all that we can

Because we are

the community service

We are the community service.

Inviting you to join in the plan

We are the community service

A part of the NFB clan

SERVING AND LIVING

ALL BECAUSE WE CAN.”

Written by board member: Ms. Samuel JoNita Gates


*WE APPRECIATE YOU*



The National Federation of the Blind community service division would like
to say thank you to all of our fellow federationists, family members, and
friends. We greatly appreciate the outward expression of support for our
2021 community service project featuring the Ronald McDonald House of
Maryland. We were truly stronger together because we worked together on
this year’s community service project. We have received an abundance of
blankets and words of encouragement that will surely bring smiles to the
faces of all of the children and their families who are living at the
Ronald McDonald House of Maryland.

Again, we thank everyone for their generosity and support.


*THE AMERICAN SONGBOOK*

Contributors: Phil Walters, John Colbert

We honor the innovative artists whose musical expressions has moved us,
brighten our daily lives, and bring us together. “To me, Black Music
Appreciation month allows us to celebrate and recognize what our culture
has brought to the music industry,” says John Colbert, a disc jockey from
Washington, D.C. Across the generations, Black music has pioneered the way
we listen to music while preserving Black cultural traditions and sharing
the unique experiences of the Black community. “I remember learning about
our black pioneers as a teenager and it still brings up so many emotions to
this day.”

The creativity and spirit of Black artists has inspired many young men and
women to start their own musical journey. Phil states, “listening to artist
like Sam Cooke, Mahalia Jackson, Edwin Hawkins has significantly influenced
my career as a singer, songwriter, and producer.” Walters, a musician from
North Carolina. The voices and instruments of black musicians have
dramatically influenced what we all hear and feel through music. “Some of
the legendary musicians are bass player Larry Graham from Sly & The Family
Stone, guitarist George Benson, and bass player Louis Johnson from the
Johnson Brothers, to name a few,” says John. “I didn’t just listen to
music; the radio was my best friend. When I was older, I discovered that
becoming a DJ was the best way for me to channel my passion for music.”

Black music has shaped our society, entertained and inspired us, and helped
write and tell the story of our Nation. “It’s important to keep educating
future generations on the rich history of black music. Inviting young
people to community events gives me a chance to teach them about all genres
and styles that’s been lost in the public school system,” says John also
known as ‘DJ Double M’. All around the world, black musicians have been
energizing audiences and inspiring millions. “mentoring young blind
musicians has been a wonderful blessing to me,” says Phil. Performing at
local benefit shows and singing for wounded veterans is one of the many
ways Phil Walters gives back to his community. “Having a month set aside
for Black Music Appreciation helps show the diversities within the black
music experience.”


*WE’VE GOT SUNSHINE! *

We believe there is power in the ability to laugh. Here’s your sunshine for
the month of June!

Summer Fun

Question: What did the pig say on the really hot day?

Answer: I’m bacon!


*PROUD TO BE YOUR KID*

Contributor: Lindsey Fritz

Fathers and male role models play a vital role in every child’s life. This
role can have a large impact on a child and help shape him or her into the
person they become.

“If you’ve ever met my father, you’d know he’s one of the greatest leaders
around”, says Lindsey Fritz of Madison, Wisconsin. Lindsey is the oldest
daughter of seven, grew up in Louisiana, and has a wonderful outgoing
personality. She is a member of the Wisconsin Association of Blind students
and serves on the board as the current treasurer. Lindsey is also working
at a health care facility while pursuing her nursing degree at Madison
college.

“Father’s day is just as important as Christmas in my family.” Lindsey
reflects on fond memories of bomb fires and big grill outs over the years.
She shares that it is important to her and her siblings to show their Dad
how much they love and appreciate him. “We try to make sure he knows we are
always there for him.”

Studies have shown that when fathers are affectionate and supportive, it
instills an overall sense of well-being and self-confidence. “My Dad has
taught me a lot about responsibility and leadership,” says Lindsey. “He has
shown me and walked me through the process of advocating for myself.” She
also shares how her father has worked with her one-on-one in public
speaking and has encouraged her to be a advocate for people with visual
impairments.

Lindsey’s Dad has made sure to surround his family with lots of positive
influences and taught her and her siblings the importance of giving back.
He has inspired Lindsey to serve the blind community by volunteering her
time and experiences as an advocate for disability rights. “I’m studying to
be a nurse and want other visually impaired people to know they can study
anything they want to be. And I will help them get there.”


*YOU ARE NOT ALONE*



Headache & Migraine Awareness Month

Written by: Trent Arnold

Contributors: Kelsi Lawson, Timothy Meyers, Maggie Stringer

To most people, migraines can be somewhat of a mystery. You know the pain
can be unbearable and debilitating, but it's hard to understand how people
who get migraines really feel. And if you've ever had one of these painful
headaches, you can tell people just how excruciating they can
be—physically. But it's hard to communicate the psychological challenges
that go along with a condition that can strike with or without warning.

So, what do people really wish migraine-free people knew? We asked a few
individuals with frequent migraines to share their experiences.

It's not "just a headache.”

This was number one on the list that we heard from people who get
migraines. While most people have had a headache at some point, not
everyone has had a migraine. “I’m actually happy when I get ‘just a
headache,” said Maggie Stringer from Ohio.

Migraine-associated head pain is severe, can be on one or both sides of the
head, and is usually characterized by an intense throbbing. Nausea,
vomiting, extreme light and sound sensitivity, blurred vision, and more can
also accompany them. “My worst migraines come with light and sound
sensitivity, where I can’t have my eyes open because it will hurt, and
talking takes a huge amount of effort,” says Kelsi Lawson from California.
“They can be truly disabling.” A lot of people don’t realize just how much
migraines impact a person’s life. There are a number of days missed from
work or school, the loss of time with family, friends or at social events,
and the inability to do household chores and other daily tasks.

“Migraines last longer than headaches”

Migraine pain can last for extended periods of time—even 3 days or more.
The range can be from 4 to 72 hours (or longer) if untreated. Headaches, on
the other hand, have fewer symptoms, are easier to treat, and subside more
quickly. “Sometimes my migraine only lasts a day, but there are also times
it has kept me in bed for three to four days,” said Timothy Meyers from
Arizona.

You can do everything "right" and still get migraines

Even people who make lifestyle changes, take preventative and emergency
medication, and avoid their triggers can still struggle with migraines.
“Although myself and my doctors have done a better job of trying to prevent
my migraines, you never know when a migraine could come on,” says Timothy.
“Preventive measure can help reduce the frequency of attacks and make
symptoms more manageable, but it’s not a perfect science.”

“Migraines can go hand-in-hand with psychological issues”

Oftentimes, individuals with migraines can be concerned that they’re going
to get a migraine attack. This can cause anxiety because individuals are so
aware of how disabling it can be. “I volunteer my time at a local food bank
and it upsets me every time I have to call in to say I can’t come in that
day. I have this nagging fear they think I just make up excuses and one day
will tell me they don’t need my help anymore,” said Kelsi.

“Physical activity doesn't necessarily make it better”

Exercise may help ease the pain of some types of headaches because it
relieves tension and can boost pain-relieving endorphins. But that's not
true for people experiencing a migraine. The nausea alone can make rapid
movement impossible. Sunlight, loud noises, and strong odors can be
unbearable. Most often, the only way to deal with an attack is to retreat
to a dark, cool room that is as quiet as possible.

“Migraines can be mentally exhausting”

The four migraine stages can wreak havoc on a person's mental and physical
wellbeing. Auras can be scary on their own, but the stress is amplified by
the fact that they signal an impending attack. And even after the headache
is over, it's not really over. The physical pain of the attack segues into
the postdrome symptoms of fatigue and grogginess. “Sometimes I feel
exhausted because the pain is so intense,” says Maggie. “And sometimes I
have a hard time concentrating or focusing.”

“People with migraines can look perfectly healthy”

Migraines affect 12% of the U.S. population, and are three times more
common in women than men. Migraines are highly disruptive, affecting people
mentally and physically, as well as socially and professionally. There is a
lot of stigmas attached to migraine, and many people feel misunderstood
because it seems “invisible” to others. “A lot of the public doesn’t
understand that migraine is a debilitating condition, it’s not just a
headache,” says Timothy. “They can affect your ability to go to school,
work, or volunteer your time.”

“Social events—even important ones—can be interrupted”

One reason people with migraine might be more prone to anxiety and
depression? Migraines can make it impossible to attend (or stay at) life
events, even important ones. Maggie has missed dozens of events due to her
migraines, from weddings to community service projects to family
get-togethers. "I’ve had to leave places early or abruptly,” she says. “In
all of those instances and in many more, I’ve was trying to find a way to
escape from all of the sounds and smells.”

“Even simple tasks can be impossible”

If the only relief comes in the form of a dark, quiet room, it can be
difficult to find a safe place as quickly as you need it. Sometimes, people
have to deal with their migraines and go about their day until they can
find relief. “There were times I couldn’t even walk to the bus stop because
the street lights and headlights of other cars would intensify a migraine
that much more,” says Kelsi.

“We just want to be believed and know that you care”

While there’s no cure for Migraine, there are ways to show our love and
support. The care of spouses, friends, family, and community support is so
empowering. June is headache and migraine awareness month and we want to
shed light on how this disorder may affect those in our circles. “Help us
suffer less and give us the time to heal,” says Kelsi. “Be patient, aware,
and understanding of our needs,” said Timothy. Let’s take away the
negativity guilt and show our family, friends, and neighbors we can be
#StrongerTogether!


*RESOURCES*



Summer often implies warmth, fun, and sunshine, but it can also bring
safety hazards. We want to keep you and your friends moving and serving
this summer! Here are a few summer safety tips:

- Moderate your exposure to the sun and heat, especially during the peak
hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

- Stay hydrated and drink lots of water throughout the day

- Protect your skin with sunscreen and remember to reapply every hour

- Practice water safety and always have adult supervision for children

- Protect your eyes and wear sunglasses whenever you are out in the sun

- When playing sports, warm up, stretch, gear up, go with a buddy, and
remember to cool down and stretch afterwards

Now we’re ready to go! Let’s tap tap and serve!



Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month

Get HELP FOR PTSD

If you need help right away:

Call (800) 273-8255

Disaster Distress Helpline:

Call (800) 985-5990 or text TalkWithUs (66746)

provides crisis counseling and support for anyone in the U.S. experiencing
distress or other behavioral health concerns related to any natural or
human-caused disaster, including public health emergencies.

For more information on PTSD visit:

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/



*EDITOR’S NOTES*

We want to help promote your community projects and state affiliate events.
Share your calendar with Beyond The Six Dots and we will feature your
events in the ‘Represent Your State’ section of our next issue. Contact our
editor to submit your calendar events.



NFB Community Service Division

www.facebook.com/communityservicedivision/

President Jeanetta Price

Email: price.jeanetta at gmail.com

Mobile: (409) 344-1005

Newsletter Editor: Maggie Stringer

Email: Ravensfan784 at gmail.com

Mobile: (443) 750-0070



*ONE MINUTE MESSAGE*

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. We are survivors!
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