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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>National Federation of the Blind</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Community Service Division</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>May 2021 Newsletter</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>“Beyond The Six Dots”</span></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>We use a white cane, slate & stylus, and screen readers in between,</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>We read from the left, write from the right, and will tap tap onto any scene.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>We want our communities to know what we’ve got, a commitment to serve, <b>Beyond the Six Dots!”</b></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Are you the next Community Service Division Idol?</span></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Learn the Community service Jingle Lyrics. Practice it with friends and family. Finally, zoom into the division national seminar prepared to blow the judges away with the passion and love in your voice for service.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> Please sing along with us!</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>“We are the community service.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Helping all over the land.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>We are the community service</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Helping all that we can</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Because we are</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>the community service</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>We are the community service.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Inviting you to join in the plan</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>We are the community service</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>A part of the NFB clan</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>SERVING AND LIVING</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>ALL BECAUSE WE CAN.”</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> Written by Board Member, Ms. Samuel JoNita Gates</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>ROLLING OUT THE RED CARPET</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>2021 Community Service Project</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Collection deadline <u>June 4th, 2021</u></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>“Give A Little”</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Our newest community service project. It’s an opportunity to bring</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>smiles, hope, encouraging words, and warmth to the Ronald McDonald</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>House Charity in Maryland! This is a home away from home for seriously</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>ill children and their families.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>What We Need?</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>SMILES times 2!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>We are writing notes of encouragement to the families and children</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>staying at the Ronald McDonald House</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>(Please refrain from any religious messaging. If you’re going to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>braille your letters, please include a companion print copy.)</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>WARMTH times 4!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>We are providing comfort to the families and children by collecting</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>new blankets. These cozy and warm throws should be child safe and</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>brand new.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>DEADLINE JUNE 4th</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Ship Items To:</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Jeanetta Price</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/8035+San+Bruno+Street++%0D%0A+Beaumont,+Texas+77+708?entry=gmail&source=g"><span style='color:#0000CC'>8035 San Bruno Street</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/8035+San+Bruno+Street++%0D%0A+Beaumont,+Texas+77+708?entry=gmail&source=g"><span style='color:#0000CC'>Beaumont, Texas 77</span></a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/8035+San+Bruno+Street++%0D%0A+Beaumont,+Texas+77+708?entry=gmail&source=g"><span style='color:#0000CC'>708</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>For more information send an email to Jeanetta Price at:</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/h/2ivetu5723dk/?&cs=wh&v=b&to=price.jeanetta@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0000CC'>price.jeanetta@gmail.com</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Give a hug with,</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>SMILES & WARMTH!!!!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>#StrongerTogether Challenge</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Share your service with us, double tap on the link and get involved!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Say it with me, “Challenge accepted!” We can’t stop, won’t stop serving! The NFB Community Service Division thanks you for accepting the challenge. We have experienced some testing times during this pandemic, which is a prime example of us being #StrongerTogether as we spread the power of giving anywhere and everywhere. Service can certainly start here and continue here with our division’s challenge. This challenge will help keep us united in service throughout our various neighborhoods across our country. What follows is a questionnaire designed to collect detailed information of your volunteer efforts <u>starting January 1, 2021 through June 30, 2021</u>.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8HWsUDqzaairJZg1p_RcFe3pFemWYDXXSatdaG_n6AjeTiw/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&usp=mail_form_link&usp=embed_facebook" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0000CC'>https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8HWsUDqzaairJZg1p_RcFe3pFemWYDXXSatdaG_n6AjeTiw/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&usp=mail_form_link&usp=embed_facebook</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>2020 COMMUNITY SERVICE DIVISION CHALLENGE WINNER</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Miranda Borka’s Refection</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>As a volunteer crisis counselor, I received 30 hours of training. My experience with the training platform as someone who is visually impaired and uses assistive technology was pretty positive. In the areas where the technology did not cooperate, I utilized Aira at a free Aira free access location to complete those inaccessible portions of training. Overall, the training was comprehensive. The support I have received prior to, during, and following my training has been top-notch. My coach is always available to answer questions when I am not actively engaging with texters on the platform. My fellow crisis counselors and supervisors have also been a welcoming wealth of knowledge and support on the platform as well. Supervisors are mental health professionals, and as someone pursuing my master’s in social work, this encourages me as I enter the profession. There are numerous tools and resources that are updated frequently to further aid crisis counselors in engaging our texters. Crisis counselors are encouraged and motivated to grow, and organizational leadership has been receptive to making necessary changes to embrace overall growth and development.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>POP FROM THE TOP</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The NFB COMMUNITY SERVICE DIVISION is proud to announce that we are popping in service all over the world. Our annual fundraiser begins on Tuesday, <u>June 15-19, 2021</u> <u>at 5PM EASTERN TIME</u>. Proceeds gained from this fundraiser will support the efforts of the federation in addition to help promote the Community Service Division projects. With that being said, get your popcorn ready, 'cause the Community Service Division is going to show everyone everywhere that we can’t stop and won’t stop POPPING! I pop, you pop, we all pop for <b><i>Double Good Gourmet Delicious Popcorn.</i></b></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Please contact Gloria Nathan-Cherry “The Popcorn Lady” for more information at (215)-971-6650.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Love is sharing your popcorn, and sharing is caring so let’s pop in the name of love.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>CREATE WHAT YOU IMAGINATE</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The Community Service Division is calling on all visionaries! Our</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>‘Beyond The Six Dots’ newsletter title is missing one thing; a fabulous logo! I’m glad you are wondering what this means to you. We want your help in creating the best logo to pair with our newsletter title. Draw it, paint it, stencil it, however you do it, dream it then share it! All creations need to be submitted by <u>June 30th</u>! The final</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>selection will be announced in July during the virtual national convention! Fabulous logo ideas are to be emailed to: <a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/h/2ivetu5723dk/?&cs=wh&v=b&to=ravensfan784@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0000CC'>ravensfan784@gmail.com</span></a> with the subject line, ‘Logo Submission’. We</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>can’t wait to see what your imagination creates!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>THE IMPACT OF WAR</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>On May 31st, 2021</span></u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>, we will remember the brave men and women who made</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>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. We have freedom because of courageous individuals like Lee Martin Senior of Indiana. After serving in the Vietnam war, he attended Indiana State University</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>where he took business courses and went into management. His experience and work ethics led him to pursue other opportunities in Indianapolis, Indiana where he resides today. He worked for Daimler Chrysler for seven years as a Foundry Technician and Safety Coordinator prior to losing his eyesight. Lee lost his sight to a condition called sclerotic. His condition, however, did not stop him from continuing his efforts to fight for the rights of others. His federal lawsuit was featured in The Indianapolis Star newspaper, Braille Monitor as well as the Indiana Business Journal for employment discrimination. He continues his activism doing presentations around the state of Indiana to the general public and to the blind community to engage, encourage and inspire Indiana citizens to pursue their inalienable rights. As president of the Circle City Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind, Lee and his chapter brings awareness to the urban community with outreach initiatives with, churches, community centers, summer youth camps, support groups, Town Hall meetings etc.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Lee Martin Senior is an admirable leader not only in the blind</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>community, but in the community at-large. A true inspiration of</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>resilience despite the unforeseen circumstances he was faced with. His philosophy is that “this is a gift of blindness” that was given to do</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>the work God intended. We are honored to call Lee Martin Senior an American veteran and have been blessed by his invaluable contribution to the blind community.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>This Memorial Day, we invite you to take a moment of silence <u>at 3:00</u></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>pm EST as we remember those who courageously gave their lives.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>WE’VE GOT SUNSHINE!</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>We believe there is power in the ability to laugh. Here’s your</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>sunshine for the month of May celebrations!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>National Barbecue Month</span></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>“I was at a barbecue party when a cow from a nearby farm charged me</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>and chased me into a corner. It was at that moment I realized my life</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>was at steak!”</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>MAXIMIZE THE FLAVOR</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Recipe for BBQ BABY BACK RIBS</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>by Marvin Griffin “Griff the Great!”</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Prep Time: I don’t know? LOL</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Cook Time: Nice and slow</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Ingredients:</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>1 slab baby back pork ribs</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>yellow mustard</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>BBQ rub (your favorite)</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>brown sugar</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>bourbon</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>apple juice.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>1. Rinse slab and pat dry with paper towels. Using a butterknife</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Remove membrane from backbones of ribs. This allows the seasoning to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>set in the meat between the bones.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>2. Squeeze a line of mustard onto the ribs as a binder. This helps</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>the BBQ rub to stick.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>3. Sprinkle the BBQ rub, liberally, on both sides of rib.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>4. Lightly coat both sides with brown sugar.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>5. Allow the ribs to sit out for about 30 minutes. This allows the</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>meat to get to room temperature which gives a more evenly cooked slab</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>of ribs.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>6. Set your grill up to maintain a temperature of 225 degrees F. Add</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>wood splits or chunks (pecan, apple, hickory, or whatever your</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>preference is). This adds a great smoke flavor to the meat!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>7. Allow the meat to continue to smoke for at least 2 ½ to 3 hours,</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>checking the temperature with your meat thermometer. The desired</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>cooked temperature for pork is around 160°F.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>8. Make a fifty-fifty mixture using your favorite bourbon and apple</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>juice, then pour into a spray bottle.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>9. While the ribs are on the smoker, you will use this mixture to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>spray the meat every 30 minutes or so. This will allow the meat to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>stay moist while it cooks.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>10. Once the meat reaches the desired temperature, then you can wrap</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>the ribs in a heavy-duty aluminum foil. Before you close the foil</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>completely, add a little bit more of the bourbon apple juice mixture</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>around the ribs. Wrapping these ribs will allow them to continue to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>absorb the flavor and moisture as the ribs continue to cook.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>11. Allow the ribs to smoke for an additional 2 hours. You also have</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>the option to finish cooking the ribs in an oven at the same</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>temperature.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>12. To check if the ribs are ready to eat, the little bones at the</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>end of the rib should be sticking out about an inch or so.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>13. Ribs are done! If you want extra sauce, add a little more BBQ</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>sauce, then place the ribs back on the grill or in the oven for 7 to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>10 more minutes.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Bon Appetit!!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>“I GOT IT FROM MY MAMA” Community Service Division May meeting reflections of how our mothers influenced our community service.</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Kamille Richardson’s reflection</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The community service division of the National Federation of the Blind</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>recently hosted A Mother’s Day event entitled “I got it from my Mama.”</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>President Jeanetta Price, who also served as the hostess with the</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>mostest, headed up this momentous occasion with her grace and a flair</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>that is uniquely her own. participants in the program were given 90</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>seconds to reflect on their mother and how she influenced them to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>serve in their community. A few of us even brought our own mamas into</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>the festivities so they could add their 90 seconds of flavor to the</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>mix. I was honored to speak about my mother and how she has made such a tremendous impact on my life and the lives of others. I was also</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>grateful that she was able to share her story as well. I was moved to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>tears while listening to my fellow members reflect on the beautiful</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>contributions of their mother. There were also plenty of door prizes</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>sprinkled throughout the program. This event was fit for the queens</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>that are our mothers.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Misty Hagan’s Reflection</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>I am very blessed to have had an opportunity to talk about the three</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>inspirational women in my life. I shared how I cannot see myself being the woman that I am today without their love & kindness. I asked my son, Joshua, if he would join the ‘I Got It From My Mama’ event. He</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>was so moved by the stories; he surprised me and spoke at the event.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>To hear him say, “I love you, Mom! You are my best friend and I will</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>always look at you as my role model. You chose to be my Mom; I am so</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>lucky you did.” I was at a loss for words when I heard him speak. I</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>could not have asked for a better gift.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Gloria Nathan-Cherry Reflection</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>I would like to thank Ms. Jeanetta Price for giving me the opportunity to share my mother, Ms. Georgia Ann Nathan during the “I Got It From My Mama“ program. This was bitter sweet for me because my mother passed away 23 years ago but I really enjoyed reflecting on some of the things that she instilled in me. Her teaching taught me the importance of community service and volunteering to help others. I</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>can still hear her saying, “Sharing is caring” and “Caring is sharing. I will always remember that these words show how important it is to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>make time for others.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> In Loving Memory of</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> “Mrs. Irene Townsend”</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> A Celebration of life!</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>On behalf of the Community Service Division, we send our deepest condolences to Talana Townsend and your family. We thank you so much for sharing your mother with all of us during our program, “I got it from my MAMA!” You spoke of your mother with so much love, passion, admiration, and respect till we all felt like we knew her by the end of your presentation. It was wonderful to hear a young woman reflect back on all of the positive things that her mother had instilled in her life. We all know that these qualities will remain with you all throughout your life, and we are grateful that you shared with us the wonderful woman who instilled all these values in you.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Written by Gloria Nathan-Cherry</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Words of encouragement</span></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The season of transitioning to a perfect place of peaceful rest. We want to encourage you to keep speaking boldly about your mom, and how she influenced your service to others. We will continue to keep your family in prayer. We love you and God Bless! “What we once have enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes part of us.”– Helen Keller</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Mental Health Awareness Month</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>KEEP MOVING FORWARD</span></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Contributors: Rachele Tibbs, Brooke Motes, Marlene Wilson</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Being a housewife, you come to expect certain life adjustments. The</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>ten-year-old fell off his bike and fractured his third base throwing</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>arm. The five-year-old turns out to be allergic to bees and the nearest hospital is an hour away. The husband is supposing to pick up</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>the family from the dental office, but the car breaks down on the</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>highway. No need to panic, Moms do what Moms do. They quickly spin</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>through their mental rolodex and find the best solution for their</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>family. All of my life. I watched my own Mom, Aunts, and Grandmas do</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>whatever it took to take care of our family” Marlene recalls. But then, one day the news media started using alien words like pandemic, COVID-19, corona virus, and stay at home orders. Without warning panic, confusion and mass chaos ensued the entire world!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Families far and wide had no choice but to buckle down and find ways</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>to pull their loved ones through these unprecedented times. Brooke didn’t expect to become her kids home-school teacher. Rachele felt she was putting her Mom at risk every time she came home from working at the grocery store. And Marlene never thought she would have to make the choice between having food in the cupboard or using the last of the money to pay rent. For most of 2020, it felt like this virus was determined to shake this planet to its core.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>How do we remain positive, strong, healthy, and resilient during this pandemic? Rachele started making yoga and meditation a priority in her</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>fay-to-day routine. “It helps remove the everyday stresses of life and</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>allows me to focus on being calm.” For Brooke, working out has given</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>her energy and has helped her to feel better about her body and overall health. “I use a smart app that is very descriptive with all its workouts, along with my light weights and treadmill machine.” Marlene found renewed strength in power walking with her church family. “I don’t mind wearing the mask just as long as we can continue to fellowship together!”</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>These beautiful Moms knew they had to be proactive or the world’s</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>worries were going to swallow them whole. They had come too far in</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>life to keep allowing a pandemic to shelter them from happiness or</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>self-confidence. Brooke, Marlene, and Rachele took charge by setting</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>personal goals for themselves. And decided it was long overdue for</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>some Me time! In doing so, they have rediscovered joy, hope, love,</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>peace, and forgiveness. These empowered women found ways to keep moving forward!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>MOVING FORWARD CHECKLIST</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>- Treat yourself with kindness and respect.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>- Listen to what your body needs.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>- Surround yourself with the best people.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>- Volunteer your time and energy.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>- Learn how to deal with stress.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>- Make time for quiet</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>- Set realistic goals for yourself</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>- Don’t be afraid of change</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>TURNING TRADEGY INTO TRIUMPH</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>By Jason Jones</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>For the past 15 months, this world has witnessed great loss on a scale</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>never experienced in our lifetime. Yes, we do experience the loss of</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>a loved one from time to time. However, this pandemic has shown me that life is very precious and should not be taken lightly. People</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>may ask: why does the Lord allow such tragedy to occur at once?</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>There are times where the Lord will use a major event in life to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>instantly grab our attention. How do we turn such great tragedy into triumph? The first thing we need to remember is that just because a</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>pandemic is taking place, does not mean God’s plan changes for your</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>life. I always remember to count my blessings even more now than ever. Let us also remember to love on each other even more due to life being so precious. Take the time to remember all of the positives in your life each day. The best way to overcome tragedy is to face it.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>There is no need to fear that which the Lord has given us the power to</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>beat. Since this pandemic started, I have realized each moment is a</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>gift. Remember that all victory is based on overcoming any tragedy</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>in life. I know for certain that the light is staring us in the face in terms of the pandemic coming to an end. The Lord will continue to see us through the situation no matter the intensity. I love you all, and continue to keep your eyes on Christ.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>‘<b><u>Represent Your State’</u></b></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Utah State Convention</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>June 3rd to June 5th, 2021</span></u><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Location: Hybrid - Sheraton, Salt Lake City and on Zoom</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>For more information, please visit <u><a href="http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fnfbutah.org%2Finfo&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEZur_NNDqbBP7TrfMSKY3NJVXIkA" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0000CC'>nfbutah.org/info</span></a></u>.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Save these dates! Don’t be late, make sure you clear your slate and</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>serve with style!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>RESOURCES</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>You are not alone. Help is available. If you are in crisis and need</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>help immediately, please consult one of the following toll-free</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>national hotlines or contact your local police or emergency services.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>All hotlines are free.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Child Help: <u>(800) 422-4453</u></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Provides <u>24/7</u> assistance in 170 languages to adults, children and</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>youth with information and questions regarding child abuse. All calls</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>are anonymous and confidential.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: <u>(800) 273-8255</u></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Support and assistance <u>24/7</u> for anyone feeling depressed, overwhelmed</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>or suicidal.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>National Domestic Violence Hotline: <u>(800) 799-7233</u></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>National call center refers to local resources; Spanish plus 160 other</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>languages available; no caller ID used.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>National Sexual Assault Hotline: <u>(800) 656-4673</u></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network - RAINN)</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Nationwide referrals for specialized counseling and support groups:</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>(800) 656-4673</span></u><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Routes calls to local sex assault crisis centers for resources and</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>referrals. Spanish available.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>EDITOR’S NOTES</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>We want to help promote your community projects and state affiliate events. Share your calendar with Beyond The Six Dots and we will</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>feature your events in the ‘Represent Your State’ section of our next</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>issue. Contact our editor to submit your calendar events.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>NFB Community Service Division</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><u><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><a href="http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fcommunityservicedivision%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNH7LkeMNhzk0-4LXM6ICmdUIIqviA" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0000CC'>www.facebook.com/communityservicedivision/</span></a></span></u><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>President Jeanetta Price</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Email: <u><a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/h/2ivetu5723dk/?&cs=wh&v=b&to=price.jeanetta@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0000CC'>price.jeanetta@gmail.com</span></a></u></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Mobile: <u>(409) 344-1005</u></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Newsletter Editor: Maggie Stringer</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Email: <u><a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/h/2ivetu5723dk/?&cs=wh&v=b&to=Ravensfan784@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0000CC'>Ravensfan784@gmail.com</span></a></u></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Mobile: <u>(443) 750-0070</u></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>ONE MINUTE MESSAGE</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><b><i><span style='font-size:9.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>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!</span></i></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>