<META HTTP-EQUIV="Content-Type" CONTENT="text/html; charset=utf-8">
<html xmlns:v="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:vml" xmlns:o="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" xmlns:w="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:word" xmlns:m="http://schemas.microsoft.com/office/2004/12/omml" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40"><head><meta name=Generator content="Microsoft Word 14 (filtered medium)"><style><!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;}
@font-face
{font-family:"Segoe UI Emoji";
panose-1:2 11 5 2 4 2 4 2 2 3;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:8.0pt;
margin-left:0in;
line-height:106%;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";}
p.MsoTitle, li.MsoTitle, div.MsoTitle
{mso-style-priority:10;
mso-style-link:"Title Char";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
font-size:28.0pt;
font-family:"Cambria","serif";
letter-spacing:-.5pt;}
p.MsoTitleCxSpFirst, li.MsoTitleCxSpFirst, div.MsoTitleCxSpFirst
{mso-style-priority:10;
mso-style-link:"Title Char";
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
font-size:28.0pt;
font-family:"Cambria","serif";
letter-spacing:-.5pt;}
p.MsoTitleCxSpMiddle, li.MsoTitleCxSpMiddle, div.MsoTitleCxSpMiddle
{mso-style-priority:10;
mso-style-link:"Title Char";
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
font-size:28.0pt;
font-family:"Cambria","serif";
letter-spacing:-.5pt;}
p.MsoTitleCxSpLast, li.MsoTitleCxSpLast, div.MsoTitleCxSpLast
{mso-style-priority:10;
mso-style-link:"Title Char";
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-add-space:auto;
font-size:28.0pt;
font-family:"Cambria","serif";
letter-spacing:-.5pt;}
a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
text-decoration:underline;}
a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:purple;
text-decoration:underline;}
p
{mso-style-priority:99;
mso-margin-top-alt:auto;
margin-right:0in;
mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
margin-left:0in;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";}
span.EmailStyle17
{mso-style-type:personal-compose;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
color:windowtext;}
span.TitleChar
{mso-style-name:"Title Char";
mso-style-priority:10;
mso-style-link:Title;
font-family:"Cambria","serif";
letter-spacing:-.5pt;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
--></style><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:shapedefaults v:ext="edit" spidmax="1026" />
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:shapelayout v:ext="edit">
<o:idmap v:ext="edit" data="1" />
</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link=blue vlink=purple><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoTitle align=center style='text-align:center'><b><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>“Beyond the Six Dots”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>National Federation of the Blind Community Service Division<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>March 2023 Quarterly Newsletter<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>We use a white cane, slate & stylus, and screen readers in between,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>We read from the left, write from the right, and will tap tap onto any scene.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>We want our communities to know what we’ve got, a commitment to serve,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Beyond the Six Dots!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="WE%20SHALL%20OVERCOME"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>WE SHALL OVERCOME</span></b></a><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Reflections by Daria Bannerman<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>On a chilly, but beautifully sunny Monday morning, I spent the day volunteering at Fayetteville Urban Ministries.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Fayetteville Urban Ministry is a nonprofit organization located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and provides assistance with food, clothing, utility assistance, and employee readiness services.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>When I arrived at FUM, I was greeted with such wonderful, warm, and friendly volunteers who were just like me, ready to serve!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>My first task was to proudly sign my name as a volunteer. Once that was completed, next was to meet my team members, and see where we would roll up our sleeves and work together to sort and organize the clothes closet. Once assignments were issued, the director of the organization led everyone outside to provide a little background on their growing organization. One of the fun facts I learned, this local organization has been around for over forty years! And they have been providing services to over ten thousand people in Fayetteville! I can’t tell you how much that touched my heart. Although the cold Winter air was trying to rattle our bones, the intoxicating spirit of gratitude and willingness to serve others, kept everyone warm and smiles bright.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>FUM has a monthly event called Service Saturdays, where members of the community can volunteer one Saturday a month. However, on this special Monday, the dedicated organization wanted to observe Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>It was beautiful to see people of all ages volunteering to help organize the food pantry and sort through all of the donated clothing. Everyone came together to work along with other strangers, communicated about everyday life, and discovered creative solutions as a team. I definitely plan to return as a volunteer and have already set my next visit for March 25<sup>th</sup>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>I strongly encourage all of you to find a way to serve in your local communities, in whichever way you can. And remember, you can still participate in virtual opportunities, as well as in-person. When your heart is in the right place, the impact you will have on others, will last a lifetime.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>“Everybody can be great because everybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love.” </span></i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>by Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>**If you have recently served within your community, share your experience with us. Write a reflection and send it to our editor by email.**<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="file:///C:\Users\raven\Dropbox\J&M\Documents%20and%20information\National%20Federation%20of%20the%20Blind\Willing%20Worker\2022\December%20Festivities\THE%20BEST%20GIFT"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>WE’VE</span></b></a><span class=MsoHyperlink><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'> GOT SUNSHINE</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>Our days will start getting longer, flowers will begin to bloom, and the sweetness of warmer weather allows us to spend more time enjoying the great outdoors. Make sure to grab your sunglasses and share our awesome chuckles wherever you go!</span><span style='color:black;background:white'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>Question: How do you know flowers are friendly? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>Answer: They always have new bugs!!!! <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>“Don’t think about it, laugh about it!”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="file:///C:\Users\raven\Dropbox\J&M\Documents%20and%20information\National%20Federation%20of%20the%20Blind\Willing%20Worker\2023\March\CSD!%20THE%20BIGGEST%20KETTLES%20THAT%20COULD"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>CSD! THE BIGGEST KETTLES THAT COULD</span></b></a><b><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>We Really Got It Poppin’ In 2023!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Written by Daria Bannerman<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>From the bottom of our enormous hearts, the Community Service Division and the Willing Workers’ Committee would like to thank you so much for allowing this poptastic Double Good popcorn fundraiser to be a popin’ success! Because of your love for the Butter Believe It, The main Cheese, and Sweet and Salty, we were able to raise over $17,000!!!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Our division will be able to use these essential funds to assist with community service projects, as well as, providing scholarships for people who are blind and visually impaired to reach their desired goals and dreams. Thank you, again, for your generous support, and thank you, Gloria, for organizing this fantastic popcorn fundraiser!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>We hope, <b>EVERYONE</b>, will pop with us in 2024!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:16.2pt'><i>“Here's to those who inspire us and don't even know it."</i> by Anonymous <o:p></o:p></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:16.2pt'><a href="file:///C:\Users\raven\Dropbox\J&M\Documents%20and%20information\National%20Federation%20of%20the%20Blind\Willing%20Worker\2023\March\THE%20POWER%20OF%20YOUR%20KERNEL%20DOLLARS"><b>THE POWER OF YOUR KERNEL DOLLARS</b></a><b><o:p></o:p></b></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:16.2pt'>2021 CSD Fundraiser<o:p></o:p></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:16.2pt'>Written by Jeanetta Price<o:p></o:p></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:16.2pt'>Every year the National Federation of the Blind Community Service Division participates in a community service project during the exciting days of our national convention. Our 2021 partnership benefited Ronald McDonald House Charities of Maryland. This is a home away from home for seriously ill children and their families. There were two activities we had taken part in for our community service projects. We wrote notes of encouragement to the families and children staying at the Ronald McDonald House. We also provided comfort to the families and children by collecting over 100 new blankets.<o:p></o:p></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:16.2pt'>Our service project was a success, because of our federation family, and friends beyond the six dots! Often, we as blind individuals are denied opportunities to serve due to low expectations and lack of knowledge of blindness. When given the opportunity, we will exceed all expectations. With honor, we share the reflection from<i> </i>Kim Davis, Director of Volunteers, Ronald McDonald House.<o:p></o:p></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:16.2pt'>“Looking back on working with the National Federation of the Blind makes my heart very happy. Jeanetta first reached out to me asking to team up and work together a month or back and I thought, of course we want to do this! But little did I know how above and beyond this amazing group of people would go! Everyone came together and put a lot of effort into getting us items that we need around the Ronald McDonald House that help make the families that stay with us more comfortable and feel at Home. These items are so important to us and the families here at RMH. So having a group of people willing to come together to get us blankets, toiletry kits, snack bags, notes of encouragement, and just overall love and support was absolutely amazing. We really felt the love! We knew to be expecting these items for delivery, but let me tell you, when they came in, we were truly over joyed by the outcome. You could tell so much love and support were put into the project. Everything was so nice and cute and perfectly packaged for us to hand out to the families. The blankets were adorable and cozy. We were so insanely excited to get everything to the families because we knew they were going to love everything as much as we did. And of course, the Notes of Encouragement, including some with braille was just so special. I felt like it really connected the groups together. You never know what others are going through but being able to learn about and support others even when you're going through something difficult is just so beautiful. This idea really touched my heart as I'm sure it did with our families here as well. And we can't forget about the wonderful CSD seminar. The energy was electric. I was smiling the whole time. So much happiness and joy and love. What an amazing and wonderful group of people!! I am so so so grateful for everything the National Federation of the Blind did for RMH Maryland. We are so appreciative and grateful for the support you all provided to us. We can't thank you enough. We love you!”<b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:16.2pt'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>It Gets Bigger & Better Every Year!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:16.2pt'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>2022 CSD Fundraiser<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:16.2pt'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Written by Stacie Leap<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>I have been participating for the past two years and this year marks three! They say third time is a charm and I hope that this fundraiser is more successful than previous years. I remember in my first year thinking that I would not do it. I thought about how many people might not like popcorn or might turn it down because there are so many different fundraisers for every cause. I was very mistaken. A lot of my friends sent it to their friends and I was able to raise a little over $300 of my $500 goal. I, myself, bought some popcorn to see how it taste and oh my goodness! it was really amazing. I enjoyed every flavor so far but my favorite flavors are Caramel DM and Sargent Salt and Pepper. The titles are so catchy and it made a lot of my friends smile! You Butter Believe It was nothing I expected. I definitely told myself, "Sweety, You Salty" </span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Segoe UI Emoji","sans-serif"'>😊</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>During the second year, I surpassed my goal! I was so hype! I started to get into a flow of how and when to advertise the fundraiser. A lot of my supporters came back and asked me when I am doing it again. I even noticed that they increased their quantities from last year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>The excitement around the fundraiser was definitely exhilarating. All of the people who made a store had a friendly competition but yet we all encouraged each other to push our limits and never stop! Even though it was virtual, it was definitely the best fundraiser I experienced.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>All of the funds went back to our division. In 2021, we used the money to make care boxes and blankets for the Ronald McDonald house. Last year, we provided a barbeque for the children of Covenant House in New Orleans, Louisiana. We had a luncheon with our Willing Workers Committee as a thank you for all their hard work. also gave back to our members, providing them with a stipend so they can attend and enjoy our 2022 national convention. We even gave an opportunity for a family to attend convention for the first time. Service is definitely placed in the heart of all our CSD Willing Workers and I expect much more love, service, and commitment.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>A special shout-out to Gloria Nathan-Cherry, our Popcorn lady, for bringing this idea to the Community Service Division and for encouraging all of us to do it! Also, hats off to our Popcorn Kim, Marvin, who has sold the most popcorn in all three years. All kernels bow down to you sir!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>"Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all." </span></i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>by Dale Carnegie<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="file:///C:\Users\raven\Dropbox\J&M\Documents%20and%20information\National%20Federation%20of%20the%20Blind\Willing%20Worker\2023\March\MORE%20SMILING,%20LESS%20WORRYING"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>MORE SMILING LESS WORRYING</span></b></a><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>National Stress Awareness Month<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Written by Kanya Harris<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Stress! Stress! Stress! How many of us have it?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Stress! Stress! Stress! How many ways to combat it?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Stress! Stress! Stress! Let me count the ways…<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Here are my Top 10 Peachy tips to debunk the stressful day to day situations; don’t throw in the towel or pull your hair out!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>1. Find your inner peace for starters. When you find it protect it at all cost. Never let anything or anyone shake your foundation or take your power.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>2. Daily affirmations. Speak positivity over your day. Cast out all negativity. “No matter what my day is going to be Great!”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>3. Take a walk. Walk away gather your thoughts and center your being. It’s perfectly ok to take a time out rather than POP a blood vessel.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>4. Channel that emotion find something peaceful like journal writing, listening to your favorite music, or reading a good book such as The Write 2 Heal.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>5. Pray to the Highest for peace, a positive mind set, and to allow love in without resistance.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>6. Yep, I will eat that donut, cookie, and/or cake anyway it will make me feel better I don’t know about you it works for me<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'> At the end of the day the last four are the E’s to my peace. Evaluate the situation, Eliminate the source, Encourage myself, and I will Enjoy all the days of my Life and keep all my hair. HAHA!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are."</span></i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'> by Theodore Roosevelt<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="file:///C:\Users\raven\Dropbox\J&M\Documents%20and%20information\National%20Federation%20of%20the%20Blind\Willing%20Worker\2023\March\DO%20YOU%20REMEMBER%20HOW%20CSD%20SPELLS%20APRIL%3f"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>DO YOU REMEMBER HOW CSD SPELLS APRIL?</span></b></a><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>National Volunteer Week & Global Volunteer Month<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>April 16<sup>th</sup> to April 22<sup>nd </sup>of 2023<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>National Volunteer Week takes place every April during Global Volunteer Month. We encourage each person, and all groups, committees, chapters, divisions, and every affiliate to take part in National Volunteer Week. It is an opportunity to recognize and support the profound impact on the act of serving others. As a volunteer, there is tremendous power in being able to tackle society’s greatest challenges, to build stronger communities, and be a force that transforms the world.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>Every year, the Community Service Division challenges all of its members, along with friends and families to lend their time, talents, and voice to make a difference in their communities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>Post your upcoming Volunteer Week & Global Volunteer Month opportunities on our Facebook page:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://www.facebook.com/CommunityServiceDivision/"><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";background:white'>https://www.facebook.com/CommunityServiceDivision/</span></i></a><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'><o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>Share all of your upcoming volunteer opportunities on our email list:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="mailto:community-service@nfbnet.org"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";background:white'>community-service@nfbnet.org</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>We hope all of you, plus the person to your left, and the person to your right, will celebrate 2023 Volunteer Week the CSD way, with<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>Action!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>Passion!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>Respect!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>Inspiration!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>& Love!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>“If you want to touch the past, touch a rock. If you want to touch the present, touch a flower. If you want to touch the future, touch a life.” </span></i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'> by Anonymous<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="file:///C:\Users\raven\Dropbox\J&M\Documents%20and%20information\National%20Federation%20of%20the%20Blind\Willing%20Worker\2023\March\NAVIGATING%20MOTHERHOOD%20BY%20STARLIGHT"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>NAVIGATING MOTHERHOOD BY STARLIGHT</span></b></a><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>National Mother’s Day, Celebrating An Out of Sight Mother<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Written by Carol King-Ries<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Recently, I had the privilege of interviewing Stacie Leap, an extraordinary woman and mother who through the darkest time of her life, was guided back into the light by a little shining star named Alana. In 2016, Stacie found out that she was pregnant, but she was also in a long-term abusive relationship that she desperately wanted to leave. When she was two months pregnant, her boyfriend beat her so severely that she lost her vision, and her neck was broken. She could not have surgery because they feared whether the baby would survive, so she had to go through the first part of her pregnancy wearing a large neck brace to prevent her from damaging her spinal cord and possibly becoming paralyzed or dying. According to Stacie, these were dark times for her. She was in pain, depressed, and very afraid about what would happen to her and the baby. However, due to concern for her baby, she asked for help. Albert Einstein Medical Center found a place for her to rehab from her physical injuries, they got her some mental health counseling, and they provided her with a doula. A doula is a woman, without obstetric training, who provides experienced guidance and support to a woman during her pregnancy. This proved to be a good and empowering decision. Stacie ended up having life-threatening complications which caused her to have a c-section, and her daughter was born prematurely. Both Stacie and Alana were in the hospital for 19 days recovering from the premature birth. Thankfully, Alana had no lasting complications from the birth, and her presence became the light that would help to pull Stacie out of the darkness.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Stacie remained depressed after her baby was born. She only got out of bed to feed Alana, and to take care of her. Her doula came by every day and came up with all kinds of “out of sight” tricks to help her learn to care for her baby as a blind woman. This included techniques to do things like prepare formula, to bathe the baby, and to wash her baby’s clothes. Stacie became comfortable with her role and responsibilities, and she was able to care for her child without the help of the doula. However, she was still depressed. But, once again the draw of the shining star, Alana, brought someone else into her life.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Stacie was a person who volunteered in the community before she lost her sight. One of the people she volunteered with heard that she was in poor physical health, and that she just had a baby. That person came to visit her, and according to Stacie, she was still a crying, depressed mess. She told Stacie she would come back the next day, and she continued to come back to help Stacie and Alana. She eventually became one of Stacie’s best friends and Alana’s godmother.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Due to her vocational rehabilitation, Stacie heard about and joined the NFB of Pennsylvania and became active in the Keystone Chapter and the affiliate. She started a blind parent’s group because she was unable to find one anywhere, and her need became her mission. This group meets via Zoom every third Saturday of the month. They have discussed the book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families” and have had a guest speaker series that discussed positive parenting. They also discuss health issues and had a speaker from Accessible Pharmacy to discuss safe administration of medicines to children. If you are interested in participating in this group, which consist of people from all over the United States and Canada, contact Stacie at stacie.leap@gmail.com. Stacie also participates in the Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students, the Pennsylvania Organization of Parents of Blind Children, and she was recently name to the National Federation of the Blind Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. She also volunteers at her daughter’s school. Her community service is exemplary, and she stands out whatever she does.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Did you know that Stacie’s last name, Leap, means lucky in the Cambodian language? When Alana was in Kindergarten, Stacie met a woman on Clubhouse, a social media app, while she was discussing the lack of accessibility in school apps and websites. Because of this encounter, Stacie was hired as an accessibility support specialist for her Tech company. Her advocacy for Alana guided her to her new vocation! Stacie’s favorite quote is from 2 Corinthians 5:7 in the Bible… She walks by faith, and not by sight, and this faith walk has led her to some incredible opportunities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>She was one of the original authors of the Write 2 Heal Anthology, a book featuring the work of eight out of sight authors telling their story their way. Her chapter is entitled “Leap of Faith”. If you would like to hear more about Stacie’s story in her own words, the book can be purchased on Amazon and is also on Audible. Stacie’s story, like all the others, is extraordinary and empowering.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>When I asked Stacie what her biggest hopes for the future are, she said that she does not want any blind parents to lose their children due solely to the fact that they are blind. She wants to advocate for legislation and programs to prevent this from ever happening again. When Alana was 4, her abusive boyfriend came back into her life threatening to sue for custody of her daughter because she was blind, and he alleged that she could not take care of her. She also wants to continue to instill in Alana, the shining star that led her out of darkness that she is worthy of love, and that the greatest love she will ever find comes from within herself, right where God put it. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Happy Mother’s Day to all the out of sight mothers and mothers to be!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>“Mother is a verb. It's something you do. Not just who you are." </span></i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>by<i> </i>Cheryl Lacey Donovan<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><a href="EMPOWERMENT%20OF%20WOMEN"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN</span></b></a><b><u><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>International Women’s History Month<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>An Interview with Stephanae McCoy<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Contributed by the American Printing House<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re learning about women making a difference who also have a visual impairment. We interviewed Stephanae McCoy about how losing her sight led to her founding her own business, Bold Blind Beauty.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Meet Stephanae<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Stephanae’s sight loss journey spanned over four years. It began with the development of a macular hole, which led to further complications and eventually a glaucoma diagnosis. After many pokes, prods, and laser surgeries, Stephanae’s sight deteriorated, and she was declared legally blind.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Founding Bold Blind Beauty<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Stephanae decided to create Bold Blind Beauty when she was asked to give a presentation on makeup for a group of women who were blind and had low vision. Unable to find information about the topic online, Stephanae created the presentation based on her own process of applying makeup.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>“There was such a great discussion afterward I knew I had to do something to address the void in this area,” said Stephanae. “Bold Blind Beauty began as a blog to empower women on the blindness spectrum. It has since evolved into an advocacy platform that demystifies blindness through storytelling and the celebration of our diverse and inclusive community through empowerment, connection, and barrier-breaking.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Today, Bold Blind Beauty offers several services. One of these services, The Beyond Sight Magazine, aims to highlight members of the blindness community through storytelling. Other services offered are the Virtual Work Experience Program for high school/college students with disabilities, InSIGHT Through Inclusion Speaker Series, Ambassador Program, and the Bold Blind Beauty On A.I.R. Podcast.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>The Impact of Bold Blind Beauty: Q&A with Stephanae<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Q: The mission of Bold Blind Beauty is to “improve humanity by changing the way we perceive one another.” Why is this mission important to you?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>A: The mission is so important to me because people are important. From the time I was very young, I recognized I was different simply because of the color of my skin. Today, as a woman over 60 with an acquired disability, I am intimately aware of what discrimination feels like. Because of my lived experience, I firmly believe that no one wants, or deserves, to be reduced.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>People who are perceived as different have to justify their existence because other people and systems refuse to accept them as they are. Everyone has biases, and it’s up to us…to acknowledge our bigotry and work on ourselves. This work isn’t easy, and…we need to leave our assumptions at the door so that we can learn to fully embrace people without judgment. The work of changing perceptions begins within each of us, and it’s ongoing.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Q: How does the mission of Bold Blind Beauty benefit the blindness community?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>A: The mission benefits the blindness community because we believe everyone has value. By sharing our stories, we prove to the world that even though we are on the blindness spectrum, this doesn’t prevent us from being productive members of society. We simply move through the world a little differently, and this is our superpower.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Q: What does beauty look like to you?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>A: Beauty looks like courage to me. Having the courage to be uniquely me is beautiful.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Q: Can you tell us about the acronyms A.I.R. and BLIND? How have these acronyms helped change people’s perceptions of blindness?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>A: A.I.R. stands for Access, Inclusion, and Representation. These are the main themes on Bold Blind Beauty, which is why we created the podcast Bold Blind Beauty On A.I.R. Everyone needs air to survive. People with disabilities need A.I.R. to survive and thrive. BLIND = Bold Leaders Illuminating New Directions. This acronym was our positive take on the word “blind.” Anyone can be a Bold Leader Illuminating New Directions.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Q: How do you hope Bold Blind Beauty impacts the future history for women who are blind?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>A: It’s my hope that women who are on the blindness spectrum and are making huge moves will become more largely recognized.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Q: What do you hope people will take away or learn from visiting your website?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>A: I hope that people will take away the idea that appreciating differences and accepting people where they are is at the heart of humanity. When we take the time to stop, listen, and learn from others’ lived experiences, the tapestry of life becomes more enriched. Many of us look at adventurers and risk-takers as bold people. However, depending on where we are in our stories, being bold can be something as simple as getting out of bed. For onlookers, it takes a bold person to open their hearts and minds to understand that differences are beautiful.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>“Outer beauty attracts, but inner beauty captivates.”</span></i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'> by Kate Angell<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><a href="file:///C:\Users\raven\Dropbox\J&M\Documents%20and%20information\National%20Federation%20of%20the%20Blind\Willing%20Worker\2023\March\NEVER%20FORGET,%20FOREVER%20HONOR"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>NEVER FORGET, FOREVER HONOR</span></b></a><b><u><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>National Memorial Day<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Contributed by Rachel Levitt<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:.5in;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>On Monday, May 29th, 2023, we will remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. Presidents, politicians, public figures and foreign dignitaries will lay wreaths on thousands of tombs of the Unknown soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery. As we remember and honor our heroes, we want to count our blessings and stand proud of our service members.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>This Memorial Day, we invite you to take a moment of silence <u>at 3:00</u>PM EST as we remember those who courageously gave their lives.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>We also want to provide a few additional ideas on how you, your friends, neighbors, and family, can all honor this upcoming Memorial Day:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>1. Take a Walk Through Your Local Veterans Cemetery<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Most states have national veterans’ cemeteries where you can pay a visit and honor the fallen. Many cemeteries might have adjusted hours or be only open to family members, but this varies across the country.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>2. Brush Up on Your Memorial Day Knowledge<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Many people easily confuse Memorial Day with Veterans Day or other military holidays. You can refresh your memory on the difference between these holidays in five minutes or less.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>3. Participate in a Memorial Day Walk or Running Race<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>There are many annual Memorial Day weekend running races – virtual or in-person – and you can participate in one of these races in your local community as a way to honor the fallen. From 5Ks to half marathons, there are plenty of options available through run-hosting organizations across the country – all it takes to find them is a quick internet search!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>4. Learn About Gold Star Families<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>The designation “Gold Star Family” is reserved for families of military members who have died in the line of duty. This title is meant to honor the service member’s ultimate sacrifice while acknowledging their family’s loss, grief and continued healing. Spend a few moments this weekend learning about Gold Star Families in honor of Memorial Day.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>5. Investigate Your Family’s Military History<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>When is the last time you asked family members about their connection to the U.S. military? Their answers might surprise you! Spend a few moments this weekend talking to relatives about family members that have served in the military. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>6. Watch the National Memorial Day Parade<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>While this annual tradition will be closed in-person to the public, it will be filmed and aired on television for families all across the nation to enjoy on major broadcast networks, including ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox. Check your TV listings to find the airtime of the program near you.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>7. Virtually Visit a War Memorial in D.C.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>In 2019, the USO headed out throughout the capital region and captured 360-degree videos of several D.C.-area war memorials, including the World War II Memorial and the Vietnam Memorial. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>8. Try a CrossFit Hero Workout from the Comfort of your Home<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Often referred to as a WOD (Workout of the Day) in the CrossFit community, these Hero WODs are designed to commemorate a fallen war hero and can be a healthy way to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>One of the popular hero workouts to tackle on Memorial Day weekend is the “Murph,” named in honor of Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Michael Murphy, who died in the line of duty in 2005 alongside two fellow Navy SEALs. To complete the workout, participants must run 1 mile; do 100 pull ups, 200 pushups and 300 squats; and run another mile – all while wearing a weighted vest or body armor.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>9. Learn about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>Arguably Arlington National Cemetery’s most iconic memorial, the white stone sarcophagus is guarded 365 days a year, 24 hours a day and honors the unidentified soldiers who have given the ultimate sacrifice.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>10. Watch a Movie About the U.S. Military<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>There are dozens, if not hundreds, of movies about life in the U.S. military. From movies about World War II to memoirs of Vietnam, spend some time on Memorial Day weekend watching a film that pays tribute to the service men and women who have sacrificed for the nation. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'>“Remember Freedom has a Price. Remember Freedom is not free. Remember those who served. All gave some, Some gave all.”</span></i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black;background:white'> Anonymous<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="file:///C:\Users\raven\Dropbox\J&M\Documents%20and%20information\National%20Federation%20of%20the%20Blind\Willing%20Worker\2022\December%20Festivities\RESOURCES"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>RESOURCES</span></b></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>To learn more about American Printing House, visit,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><a href="https://www.aph.org/"><b><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>https://www.aph.org/</span></i></b></a><b><i><u><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></u></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";color:black'>To learn more about Bold Blind Beauty, visit,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://boldblindbeauty.com/"><b><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>https://boldblindbeauty.com/</span></i></b></a><b><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Do you know a blind or visually impaired wounded warrior or veteran?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Operation Freedom Bell, Changing What It Means To Be Blind<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Operation Freedom Bell provides rehabilitation services in an NFB training center. The rehabilitation training is a six-to-nine-month residential program. Blind or visually impaired wounded warriors participate in intensive one-on-one and group training to learn blindness skills needed for independence. For more information, please visit:<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://knfbreader.nfb.org/blind-wounded-warriors"><b><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>https://knfbreader.nfb.org/blind-wounded-warriors</span></i></b></a><b><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="file:///C:\Users\raven\Dropbox\J&M\Documents%20and%20information\National%20Federation%20of%20the%20Blind\Willing%20Worker\2022\September%20Festivities\EDITORS%20NOTES"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>EDITOR’S NOTES</span></b></a><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>We want to feature you in our next issue! Write about your personal experience with your community service project and submit the article by the first of the month.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>We also 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 and featured articles. (The editor may edit the Length and/or wording of your article.)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>NFB Community Service Division<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="http://www.facebook.com/communityservicedivision/"><b><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>www.facebook.com/communityservicedivision/</span></i></b></a><b><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>President Jeanetta Price<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Email: </span><a href="mailto:price.jeanetta@gmail.com"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>price.jeanetta@gmail.com</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Mobile: (409) 344-1005<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Newsletter Editor: Maggie Stringer<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Email: </span><a href="mailto:Ravensfan784@gmail.com"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Ravensfan784@gmail.com</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>Mobile: (443) 750-0070<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="file:///C:\Users\raven\Dropbox\J&M\Documents%20and%20information\National%20Federation%20of%20the%20Blind\Willing%20Worker\2022\September%20Festivities\ONE%20MINUTE%20MESSAGE"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>ONE MINUTE MESSAGE</span></b></a><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'>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!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div><div id="DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2"><br /><table style="border-top: 1px solid #D3D4DE;"><tr><td style="width: 55px; padding-top: 13px;"><a href="https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campaign=sig-email&utm_content=emailclient" target="_blank"><img src="https://s-install.avcdn.net/ipm/preview/icons/icon-envelope-tick-round-orange-animated-no-repeat-v1.gif" alt="" width="46" height="29" style="width: 46px; height: 29px;"/></a></td><td style="width: 470px; padding-top: 12px; color: #41424e; font-size: 13px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Virus-free.<a href="https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campaign=sig-email&utm_content=emailclient" target="_blank" style="color: #4453ea;">www.avast.com</a></td></tr></table><a href="#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2" width="1" height="1"> </a></div></body></html>