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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72"><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoPlainText>Dear Fellow Seniors<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Below is the quarterly newsletter from New Mexico. It is interesting, educational and fun to read about what other state affiliates are doing. And when I find a NFB Newsletter, I will pass it on.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>QUE PASA<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>June 2016<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Quarterly newsletter of the National Federation of the Blind of New Mexico<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>(Published in March, June, September, and December)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Adelmo Vigil, President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>E-mail: <a href="mailto:Avigil74@gmail.com">Avigil74@gmail.com</a> <<a href="mailto:Avigil74@gmail.com">mailto:Avigil74@gmail.com</a>><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>(575) 921-5422<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>James Babb, Editor<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>E-mail: <a href="mailto:jim.babb@samobile.net">jim.babb@samobile.net</a> <<a href="mailto:jim.babb@samobile.net">mailto:jim.babb@samobile.net</a>><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>(505) 291-3112<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Tonia Trapp, Assistant Editor<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>E-mail: <a href="mailto:Tonialeigh513@earthlink.net">Tonialeigh513@earthlink.net</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>(505) 856-5346<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>To submit an article or recipe for possible inclusion in this newsletter, please email it to <a href="mailto:jim.babb@samobile.net">jim.babb@samobile.net</a>. By submitting your article or other material, you are agreeing to the following:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>*You assert that your article does not violate any confidentiality, copyright, or other laws, and that it is not intended to slander, defame, or mislead.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>*The NFB of New Mexico (NFBNM) has the discretion to publish and distribute the article either in whole or in part.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>*NFBNM is authorized to edit the article for formatting, length and content.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>*NFBNM reserves the right to not publish submissions for any reason.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Table of Contents<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>PREAMBLE.. 1<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>EDITOR’S NOTE.. 2<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE.. 2<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>HISTORY OF THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF NEW MEXICO.. 3<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>HANDS ON.. 4<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>LARRY MAES. 5<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>BLIND ACADEMICS: MAKING IT AS A BLIND STUDENT IN COLLEGE.. 5<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY.. 8<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>GOOD EATING.. 9<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS AND WEBSITES. 10<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>MEETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS. 10<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>PREAMBLE<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>The National Federation of the Blind of New Mexico (NFBNM) is a 501 (c)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>3 consumer organization comprised of blind and sighted people committed to changing what it means to be blind. Though blindness is still all too often a tragedy to those who face it, we know from our own personal experience that with training and opportunity, it can be reduced to the level of a physical nuisance. We work to see that blind people receive services and training to which they are entitled and that parents of blind children receive the advice and support they need to help their youngsters grow up to be happy, productive adults. We believe that first-class citizenship means that people have both rights and responsibilities, and we are determined to see that blind people become first-class citizens of these United States, enjoying their rights and fulfilling their responsibilities. The most serious problems we face have less to do with our lack of vision than with discrimination based on the public’s ignorance and misinformation about blindness. Join us in educating New Mexicans about the abilities and aspirations of New Mexico’s blind citizens.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>(Adapted from NFB of Ohio newsletter.)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>EDITOR’S NOTE<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>by Jim Babb, Editor<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Hello Fellow Federationists and Friends,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>I hope you enjoy this issue of Que Pasa, the newsletter of the National Federation of the Blind of New Mexico. Thanks to all of you who sent articles, recipes and announcements, because without these there would be no newsletter. Thanks to Tonia Trapp, Assistant Editor, who helps organize the articles and makes necessary corrections. She also reads this newsletter onto New Mexico Newsline.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>by Adelmo Vigil, President, NFB of New Mexico<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Greetings Federation Family:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>I want to thank the Board of Directors and everyone who worked hard in planning our very successful State Convention in April. It was the largest gathering of the blind in New Mexico. We had record-breaking attendance for our sixtieth anniversary. It was great to see everyone who attended the convention. It was an honor to have President Riccobono with us at this special convention. We want to thank President Riccobono for the great job he did during all of his presentations. His banquet keynote address was awesome.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Now we are getting ready for our National Convention in Orlando June 30 through July 5. I look forward to seeing many of you in Orlando.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>As for our New Mexico Affiliate, we have several activities coming up this fall. In September we have the State Fair Parade, and in October we are planning a leadership seminar in Albuquerque. Also in October local chapters will be planning activities for White Cane Day and Meet the Blind Month.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>We call on members of each local chapter and division to help build the Federation of New Mexico. Together we can change what it means to be blind for children, youth and adults of all ages in New Mexico.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>The National Federation of the Blind of New Mexico 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. You can have the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>HISTORY OF THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF NEW MEXICO<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>by Art Schreiber<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Albert Gonzales, a blind lawyer, was the first President. A few years later, Pauline Gomez became President. Pauline was the first blind person to graduate from UNM with a degree in education. She couldn't find a job, so she started her own elementary school in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She and Albert became friends with the founder of the NFB, Dr. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Jacobis TenBroek. The New Mexico state agency in those days that served the blind was a division of the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation called Services for the Blind. Soon the new organization was making itself heard in government circles. Members, including Pauline and Albert, began advocating for better blind skills training and calling for the agency to get jobs for blind persons. At an early State Convention, Pauline learned the agency was going to "pack" the convention with agency employees, and they would have a majority and vote themselves into power. Pauline informed Dr. TenBroek, and when the business meeting began she banged the gavel and said, "This convention is adjourned!" The next day she closed the bank account and sent the money to Dr. TenBroek with a letter informing him there was no longer an NFB affiliate in New Mexico. Dr. TenBroek came to Albuquerque, and with Pauline and Albert they formed a new NFB affiliate, making certain the new members believed in the NFB creed.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Some eleven years later, the NFBNM worked with the legislature and Governor David Cargo to pass and sign the first White Cane bill into law. Dr. TenBroek wrote the model bill, and Governor Cargo was the first governor in the United States to create such a law.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>The NFBNM tried, unsuccessfully, for years to get the legislature to create a Commission for the Blind. Finally, in 1986 the Commission for the Blind was formed by the legislature, and Governor Toney Anaya signed the bill into law. I was appointed Chair of the first Commission, and Geetha Pai and BasiIli° Roybal were the first commissioners along with me. We appointed Frederic Schroeder to be the first director.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Soon the NFB and the Commission were instrumental in getting the legislature to pass a Braille bill. However, the publishers' lobbyists were successful in getting the bill gutted. A few years later a new Braille bill was passed and signed by the Governor.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>The NFBNM was instrumental in breaking the sad story of sexual and physical abuse of children at the New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. No agency of law enforcement took up the fight. The National Federation of the Blind, under the leadership of Dr. Kenneth Jernigan, came to the rescue. Dr. Jernigan sent an investigator to New Mexico at great cost, and the investigator's report was voluminous and comprehensive. Joe Cordova, then President of the NFBNM and an employee of the Commission, worked tirelessly and with great courage to see that the school was on the correct path. We in the NFBNM knew we needed a parent of a blind child on the Board of Regents at the school. The sitting governor already was required to appoint at least one blind person to the Regents. Joe and I testified before the House Education Committee in favor of the requirement to place a parent of a blind child on the Board. The school officials testified against us. The final vote was 16 to 0 in favor of the NFBNM!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>The NM Commission for the Blind is currently directed by Greg Trapp, a blind lawyer and graduate of UNM and the UNM Law School. Greg has served longer than the previous three directors. Art Schreiber serves as Chair, and Dallas Allen and James Babb are the other two commissioners. The Commission is recognized across the country for its service to blind individuals, and the United States Rehabilitation Services Administration recognizes the NM Commission as one of the most efficient and outstanding Commissions for the Blind in the United States.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>HANDS ON<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>by Nancy Burns<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Those dreadful words "don't touch" were probably engrained in our minds as children, as we then gave our children that same admonition. There are, obviously, certain times and places where children (as well as<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>adults) should not touch. However, the best way for me as a blind adult to "see" is to be able to touch. This is true with small items, such as produce in a grocery store, to larger objects such as automobiles, merry-go-rounds, the base of a telephone pole, refrigerators, etc.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>As parents of blind children it is especially important to allow a small blind child to explore the world by touching. The task for such a parent is not to limit the experiences for such a blind child. Caution and safety are factors which must be monitored just as for a sighted child. Textures, shapes and even temperature, such as with an ice cube, are all to be considered. The importance of this kind of exploration cannot be down-played. If you hand a blind child a cup of milk, does that child know that it comes from a carton which is housed in a refrigerator? If a child is given slices of apple, does this child know what an apple looks like? Time and effort must be put into these exercises, but this is the basis for the child's understanding of the world around her.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>As my friends know, I love to shop. I enjoy walking down the rows of clothes looking for something that tweaks my fancy. If I find something I might like, I hold it up to someone, my husband Don if he is around, or a nearby customer for color and size. I have found that shoppers generally enjoy describing colors and providing other information for me. I remember one instance when I found a blazer I thought I might like. Two women were cruising the same area, so I held it up and asked them to tell me the color. It was a rather different shade of blue, but they involved themselves in a conversation telling me what other colors would work with the garment.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>As seniors who are recently experiencing vision loss, this behavior is not always comfortable. It simply takes some time, determination, and an adventurous spirit to just get out there and do it. A healthy dose of the NFB along with peer counseling would be beneficial.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Don and I were ambling through the New Mexico State Fair one fall where I loved to stop at the various vendors and ask, "And what do you have?" <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>We had wandered through an area displaying jewelry, hats, wallets, and a variety of such items. We came to a large space where there were several Monster Trucks. I know the basic shape of a truck but had never been around a Monster Truck. The thing is huge! I touched the tires, which were practically as tall as I am. My only regret is that I didn't ask the owner if I could climb up into it. Not sure how I would have managed it, but wouldn't that have been fun?<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Don and I live in a large apartment complex on the Northwest side of Albuquerque, incidentally within walking distance of the Cottonwood Mall. We were recently advised that some construction work and painting would be going on. Don, with his limited vision, noticed that there were two Zoom Booms parked near our apartment. Guess what? I wanted to see a Zoom Boom. Don worked in construction for many years and has mentioned such a vehicle in passing, but I gave it little thought. I had never been close enough to get my hands on one, so this morning we walked out into the parking area and I got a Zoom Boom lesson. These are gigantic heavily weighted motors that hydraulically telescope to a basket in front which goes up several stories high. The person in the basket controls the movement with all sorts of dials and levers. When Don said basket, I pictured some safe, enclosed compartment. Not so. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>There is a floor with bars surrounding it, and that is about it. It can lift, extend, and pivot. >From front to back it can be 40, 50, or more feet depending on how long it is extended. It was early and no workers were around, but I was pleased when Jeff walked up and spoke to us. He is the project supervisor of the construction work and sometimes Zoom Boom driver. I explained what I was doing and he got it. I mentioned that even though I am blind, heights really bother me. Don jokingly said for me to get in and he would give me a ride. Jeff reached into his pocket and said, "I have the keys." My response, after thanking him for the information, was, "I'm out of here."<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>LARRY MAES<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>by Diana Marquez<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Larry Maes, who passed away on Wednesday, April 13th, belonged to the National Federation of the Blind of New Mexico, Albuquerque Chapter. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>There are some people who might have known Larry from both the Albuquerque Chapter and West Mesa Chapter.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>BLIND ACADEMICS: MAKING IT AS A BLIND STUDENT IN COLLEGE<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>by Scott Bray, Ph.D.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Having spent 21.5 years in college with 16.5 of those years in graduate work, I offer some suggestions for blind students arriving on a university campus for the first time.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Most blind college students will need some kind of formal disability accommodation for their classes, often in the form of testing accommodations. Contact the office for students with disabilities at your college several months before you will begin classes so you can get signed up for their services and have the accommodations in place and ready to go.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Ask the office for students with disabilities what kind of accessible computer technology is available on your campus and where it is located. It is helpful to know what resources are available to you should you need them. However, because many of today's college classes require using a computer and having online access, I very strongly recommend that you come to college equipped with your own computer and adaptive technology. If you need help obtaining such equipment, talk to your counselor at the New Mexico Commission for the Blind.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Order from Bookshare any books available for your studies. Do this early as these books are free from Bookshare but cost a lot of money if purchased at the bookstore.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>If you need to scan books yourself, do it immediately. Your first few days should be entirely scanning, after finding the dorm, the cafeteria, and the health clinic.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Take some time to familiarize yourself with the campus and the locations of your classes before they begin. If you have very limited or no sight and will need Orientation and Mobility training to help you learn how to get around the campus, talk with your Commission for the Blind counselor three months before classes begin, earlier if possible, so there will be adequate time to make arrangements. If you are not already a client of the Commission and want to apply for services, contact them as early as possible to start the application process.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Try to get permission to arrive on campus early. If possible take a light summer schedule before the fall so you can get used to the campus. There are lots of four-way stops on college campuses.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Ask your teachers for each class syllabus long before you arrive on campus via email if you know what courses you will need to take. Try to get your assignments early. Start reading immediately.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>For your first semester, keep away from killer classes such as biology, chemistry, calculus, or physics. These are the classes used to separate the wheat from the chaff. If someone you know tells you not to take a class from a certain teacher, follow their directions.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Using a digital recorder in class can be somewhat helpful to fill in gaps in your notes, but it can never replace taking your own notes. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Take notes on your laptop with a headset and use the notes to hit those sections in your books. Some teachers are inefficient in their notes. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Other teachers give their entire exams in their class notes. Pay attention. Once you know what kind of teacher you have, take notes accordingly.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Be a good self-advocate by telling your professors what you need as a blind student. For instance, ask them to read important information aloud that they are writing on the board. Visit them in their office hours if you need help understanding a concept or assignment. Talk to blind students who preceded you at the college to ask them which teachers they recommend.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Read. Read. Read. Study. Study. Study. Find a quiet place to do your studying, somewhere you can concentrate. Set established study habits. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Do your work at the same time each day. Keep a daily planner and mark all important events in it.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Most research can be done on the Internet, so the library may be obsolete. If you have a research project, follow the instructor’s directions exactly. If he/she wants Times New Roman, do not use Ariel or Gothic to be cute.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Forget the parties. College is tough enough, and concentration in the first four weeks will pay off in great dividends all semester long. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Stay away from booze, drugs, and unsafe sex.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Before an exam: If you read your notes each evening before you fall asleep, you need do little studying for an exam. Your brain can process the information easily enough. However, listening to your notes repeatedly the evening before an exam makes an “A” more likely. If you do this just before you fall asleep, it will help you be ready the next morning. Always check the spelling and learn all critical words so they become ingrained on your brain. If you have read all your class materials in a quiet and concentrated manner before an exam, the information will appear like it is written on your brain at test time. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Always look up new words. Vocabulary is the essence of an educated person.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Get some regular exercise. Visit the campus swimming pool or gym as often as you can, aiming for 3-4 times per week.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>In the cafeteria, try to eat healthy foods. We all love hamburgers, Whoppers and Big Macs, but we really need lots of green, leafy veggies, pasta, wheat breads, and healthy foods. This is easier to say than to do.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>The first semester is the most critical one. Forget about mom, dad, and little brother Sammy and sister Tammy. Concentrate on your work.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Make an appointment with a counselor and see one if you get upset or are having difficulties. If you are in New Mexico, your Commission for the Blind counselor is another helpful resource.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Religious organizations have ministers and priests on campus. Find the one of your choice. Attend church services if you desire. These provide social opportunities.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Do not walk alone late at night on a college campus if you can help it. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>If you have to be out walking when it is late because of a class you need to take or for another reason, find out ahead of time if the college's security office or campus police can send someone to escort you to your destination at those times to help ensure your safety. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Always keep a whistle with you on campus late at night. Buy a steel whistle from Big 5 and buy a rubber mount for it so you do not break your teeth. Better to be safe than sorry.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Contact the National Federation of the Blind and sign up for Newsline for the Blind. You can hear your local news in most large New Mexico communities. This is also an excellent resource for current events and research for some classes.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>If you encounter difficulty with a particular course or professor in regard to your disability or disability-related accommodations, do not simply ignore the problem: that is the worst thing you can do. Contact your specialist at the office for students with disabilities right away to discuss the issue with them and seek a quick resolution. If you cannot get the help you need that way, then your next logical step would be to find out who supervises the director of the office for students with disabilities so you can contact that person.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>A final word of caution: It would be nice to believe all the people in the world, especially in college, are people with honesty, integrity, and values similar to ours. This is not the case. Never ever put down your cell phone or laptop unless you can see it or feel it and know it is there. Never get up to rush to the restroom or engage in a conversation even a few feet from your study area, leaving these priceless items alone. They will be stolen pronto. Be safe and stay on track. College is the best possible place on earth and lots of fun. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Just hold on tightly to your personal stuff. Leave the purse at home, if female, and have your wallet in your front pocket. Use a phone holder on your belt. Hold that laptop in your hands even in the toilet area. Learning this lesson the hard way can result in a tragedy and end your college semester or bomb your grades.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Your task is to become an educated independent person. Blindness is no big deal if you have good blindness skills. You can overcome all obstacles.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>“Come my friends, ‘tis not too late…to seek a newer world…” Tennyson<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>by Larry Lorenzo<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>On April 27, 2016, the White Sands Chapter of the NFBNM hosted a Tips And Tricks seminar in Alamogordo, NM. The idea was borrowed from the Albuquerque Chapter who hosted a similar event last year. This article will examine the planning, promotion and execution of the event. The intent is not only to share general information, but also, some specific details which might help other interested chapters.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>The event was originally planned for "Meet the Blind Month" in October. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>But, as sometimes happens, life got in the way and it was postponed to April. In order for the event to be successful, three important areas were identified: planning, promotion and collaboration.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Planning: The Albuquerque event provided a starting point, but input was actively encouraged from the community. In addition to chapter members, participants in a low vision senior support group and other persons were asked for suggestions of topics of interest. This was to be a consumer-driven event. Peggy Hayes was appointed Planning Committee Chair, and the process was begun.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Finding a venue presented a challenge since the number of participants was unknown. A range of 25 to 50 participants was targeted. This number was ambitious given the size of the community. After some serious leg-work, the Saint John's Episcopal Church community hall was determined to meet the needs. It was centrally located and accessible. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>The space could accommodate the high-end number of participants. It was acoustically friendly. It is surprising how many meetings are held in acoustically challenging venues. A chapter member also provided a public address sound system to ensure adequate hearing for participants.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Marketing and promotion: A proactive promotion and marketing effort was started. Larry Lorenzo was appointed Chair. Several factors were addressed. Advertising the event had to reach a broad section of the community. Organizations that serve blind or visually impaired persons had to be contacted. Multimedia platforms had to be used. The announcement needed to reflect the positive philosophy of the NFB and address issues of practical importance.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>The announcement was published in the local paper and posted on bulletin boards at the senior center and public library. The local independent living center was also notified. A copy of the announcement was published in the NMSU-A Accessibility Services newsletter. Peggy Hayes and Larry Lorenzo were guests on a local radio talk show discussing the seminar and blindness awareness in general. Promoting the seminar became a community outreach effort in itself.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Collaboration: While the Whites Sands Chapter of NFBNM was going to host the seminar, it was agreed that collaboration efforts needed to include other organizations and agencies. The New Mexico Commission for the Blind (NMCB) was invited to participate. Specifically, independent living services would be of interest. Barbara Hayes and Paula Johnson from NMCB agreed to present and be available for questions. The director of the local public transportation agency was invited to talk about services including fixed-route and para-transit services. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Students attending the NMCB Orientation Center were invited. It was believed that the seminar would complement their training at the Center. As noted earlier, numerous community organizations were contacted directly.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>On April 27th approximately 40 persons gathered for 5 hours and shared a day of information and awareness. This included chapter members, students at the Orientation Center, and people from the community with no previous contact with blind people.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Two weeks after the seminar I met with several participants at a low vision support group I facilitate at the senior center. This presented a unique opportunity for follow-up questions and evaluation. One individual who was dealing with macular degeneration and had lost significant vision in the past year had much to say.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Question: Did you learn anything that was interesting or helpful?<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Answer: Yes! I didn't know much about living with little or no eyesight. My ophthalmologist is a good doctor, but he doesn't talk about living without vision.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Question: Did you learn some practical ideas or information?<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Answer: Oh yes! There were many practical ideas and useful information. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>What I remember most was the positive energy in the room. I left with a new sense of hope.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Suggestions for improvement included the following: (1) although resource info was given to participants, written handouts would help reinforce presentations; (2) a recording of the event might also offer the chance to review presentation content at one's own pace; and (3) social media could be better used to share information about events in the future.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>The seminar took considerable work by the entire chapter. If the result means making a positive difference in the lives of community members, it was truly worth the effort.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>GOOD EATING<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Peanut Butter Cookies<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>by Veronica Smith<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>For our State Convention that occurred April 7 through April 10, 2016, I made a batch of these cookies to be enjoyed at Caf� Sage on Friday morning.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1/2 cup butter, softened<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1/2 cup shortening<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1 cup packed brown sugar<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1/2 packet of sugar substitute like Splenda<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1 cup peanut butter<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>2 eggs<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1 and 1/2 cups flour<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1 cup old-fashioned oats<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1 teaspoon baking soda<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1 teaspoon salt<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Cream sugars, peanut butter, butter and shortening together until creamy. Add one egg at a time until well blended.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking soda and salt.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>While beater is running, add in flour mixture and mix until well incorporated.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Add in oats just until moistened.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Drop by teaspoon onto ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly brown. We baked them 12 minutes.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>I’m assuming everyone liked them because by the end of the event, the tray was bare, and all I had to take home was an empty tray!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS AND WEBSITES<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><a href="http://www.unroll.me">www.unroll.me</a> <<a href="http://www.unroll.me">http://www.unroll.me</a>><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>This is good for blocking unwanted promotional emails.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><a href="http://www.peekyou.com">www.peekyou.com</a> <<a href="http://www.peekyou.com">http://www.peekyou.com</a>><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>This site allows you to do a background check on yourself or others, or to find info on past friends, etc.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1-800-373-3411<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>This is the latest version of a free telephone number service.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><a href="http://www.icanconnect.org">www.icanconnect.org</a> <<a href="http://www.icanconnect.org">http://www.icanconnect.org</a>><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Also known as the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Go here to find out more about free equipment for deaf-blind and the qualifications needed. You may also call 1-800-825-4595 or TTY 1-888-320-2656.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>MEETINGS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Arthur Schreiber’s book Out of Sight: Blind and Doing All Right is now available from the NM Library for the Blind. Call them at<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>1-800-456-5515 and ask for book # DNM00403.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>June 17 Meeting of the NM State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind at the Albuquerque, New Mexico office of the NM Commission for the Blind<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>August 17 Meeting of the NM Commission for the Blind in Alamogordo, New Mexico<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>September 10 NM State Fair Parade Albuquerque, New Mexico<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>October 1 Annual White Cane Celebration Banquet. Details will be forthcoming.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div></body></html>