From nchadwick at nfbar.org Wed Aug 6 16:27:52 2025 From: nchadwick at nfbar.org (Nena Chadwick) Date: Wed, 6 Aug 2025 11:27:52 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Fwd: Vacancy Announcement: Public Information Coordinator (Grants Manager), 22094973 References: Message-ID: <4A812F90-ADB7-407D-8FD9-055A05EB77C9@nfbar.org> Please pass this o to anyone that is looking for work. Nena Chadwick, President National Federation of the Blind of Arkansas Phone: 479-435-8348 Email: nchadwick at nfbar.org Website: www.nfbar.org Live the Life you want - Making it Happen. > Begin forwarded message: > > From: "Angela Powell (AEDC)" > Subject: Vacancy Announcement: Public Information Coordinator (Grants Manager), 22094973 > Date: August 6, 2025 at 11:16:59 AM CDT > To: Undisclosed recipients:; > > Arkansas Economic Development Commission <> is recruiting for a Public Information Coordinator (Grants Manager). The complete functional job description for the Public Information Coordinator, 22094973, is attached to the job vacancy announcement. Please note, this position requires on-site employment with no remote or hybrid options available.  Thoroughly read the functional for position qualifications, job responsibilities, and expected results. <> > > The recruitment period: Wednesday, August 06, 2025, and will end Wednesday, August 13, 2025. This position is currently posted on the ARCareers website, https://arcareers.arkansas.gov/. Please apply through the website and upload your resume with your application. > > Each applicant is expected to respond to the position-relevant questions that are posted near the end of the electronic employment application. We wish each applicant much success in his\her career endeavors. > > Public Information Coordinator > > 22094973 - https://arcareers.arkansas.gov/job-invite/51818/ Req Id#51818 Little Rock > > > Best Regards, > > Angela M. Powell > Human Resources Analyst – Recruitment > Arkansas Department of Commerce > O: 501-682-5902 >  > > Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are the property of the State of Arkansas, are confidential, and are for authorized use only by the intended recipient. If you are not the intended recipient or otherwise have reason to believe that you have received this message in error, please notify the sender by reply email and delete this message immediately from your computer. Any unauthorized use, retention, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited and may be punishable under Federal or State law. >  -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 36143 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Public Information Coordinator (Grants Manager) - 22094973.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 393799 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cindyscotthuisman at gmail.com Wed Aug 20 21:46:55 2025 From: cindyscotthuisman at gmail.com (Cindy Scott-Huisman) Date: Wed, 20 Aug 2025 16:46:55 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals Message-ID: I came across these leadership ideas and wanted to share. It's good to have goals for how we function as a team! The premise that a team will be more productive when they are happier makes intuitive sense. Innovation: Leaders’ openness to input and ideas. Direct management: clarity and truthfulness of communication. Organizational effectiveness: non-bureaucratic, efficient processes. Engagement: leadership that supports learning and growth. Emotional connection: a culture that fosters friendships among all involved. Organizational alignment: a good match between the organization’s external mission and its internal culture. Listen for concerns and learn new ideas: Leaders should look for ways to get as much feedback as possible, and then show they’ve really heard it and thought about how to use it. Act and speak with clarity and truth: As a general rule, people don’t appreciate doublespeak and confusion. Always be frank and explicit about what people need to know for their roles even if the truthful answer is “I don’t know what’s going to happen”. Look for ways to support learning and develop team members: The teammates you want to keep are the ones who love to learn new skills and grow in ability. Look for ways to encourage that growth. Live up to the organization’s external mission. Whether you are a leader or serve another role, remember that no one is perfect. Everyone will respect you more if you simply own your imperfect human-ness from time to time. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From april.nfbar at gmail.com Thu Aug 21 01:56:10 2025 From: april.nfbar at gmail.com (APRIL SCURLOCK) Date: Wed, 20 Aug 2025 20:56:10 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Great stuff!!! April Scurlock, 2nd Vice President National Federation of the Blind of Arkansas Cell: 870.490.1825 Email: April.nfbar at gmail.com Website: www.NFBAR.org “We Live the Life We Want” On Wed, Aug 20, 2025 at 4:48 PM Cindy Scott-Huisman via NFB-Arkansas < nfb-arkansas at nfbnet.org> wrote: > I came across these leadership ideas and wanted to share. > > It's good to have goals for how we function as a team! > > > The premise that a team will be more productive when they are happier > makes intuitive sense. > > > > Innovation: > > Leaders’ openness to input and ideas. > > > > Direct management: > > clarity and truthfulness of communication. > > > > Organizational effectiveness: > > non-bureaucratic, efficient processes. > > > > Engagement: > > leadership that supports learning and growth. > > > > Emotional connection: > > a culture that fosters friendships among all involved. > > > > Organizational alignment: > > a good match between the organization’s external mission and its internal > culture. > > > > Listen for concerns and learn new ideas: > > Leaders should look for ways to get as much feedback as possible, and then > show they’ve really heard it and thought about how to use it. > > > > Act and speak with clarity and truth: > > As a general rule, people don’t appreciate doublespeak and confusion. > Always be frank and explicit about what people need to know for their roles > even if the truthful answer is “I don’t know what’s going to happen”. > > > > Look for ways to support learning and develop team members: > > The teammates you want to keep are the ones who love to learn new skills > and grow in ability. Look for ways to encourage that growth. > > > > Live up to the organization’s external mission. > > > > Whether you are a leader or serve another role, remember that no one is > perfect. Everyone will respect you more if you simply own your imperfect > human-ness from time to time. > _______________________________________________ > NFB-Arkansas mailing list > NFB-Arkansas at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > NFB-Arkansas: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org/april.nfbar%40gmail.com > -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From shelley.keeland at gmail.com Fri Aug 22 18:04:35 2025 From: shelley.keeland at gmail.com (shelley.keeland at gmail.com) Date: Fri, 22 Aug 2025 13:04:35 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <000201dc138f$38775cf0$a96616d0$@gmail.com> Good afternoon! I know I have no voice with respect to NFBAR, but I’m on the mailing list. These are good suggestions that Cindy has shared, and I hope that there will be a time when all members of NFBAR feel heard and that their input is valuable. Having to experience the tension at meetings and feeling pressured to take a side when you don’t know all the facts from both sides and aren’t aware of why there may be valid concerns that might lead to an opposing opinion to yours is not comfortable at all. The NFBAR Board represents the entire membership, and each person has to vote in the way they feel will most benefit everyone. I don’t always understand the need for certain policies and why they’re implemented instead of taking a vote. It’s not always easy for newer members to grasp why things are a certain way, and I think that’s where the importance of clarity comes in. Sometimes the enthusiasm for the work and the strong opinions about what we’re doing and how we go about it can make others feel as if what they have to offer isn’t needed. There are so many skills and much talent within the group, and that should be a benefit to everyone to take that into consideration at both the affiliate and chapter levels. I also just want to state that when I ran for the position of State Secretary in 2024 at State Convention in Jonesboro, I had no idea that there had been a consensus in 2021, without a vote from the attendees, that all conventions would be around the first weekend in April. The convention I am speaking about was the second weekend of the month, due to the eclipse. I had no idea this wasn’t a subject that could be readdressed every couple of years, just as the place for each convention can be decided. I am never available the first weekend in April because of a family conflict, and I would not have made the decision to run if I had known this issue wasn’t flexible. We did have a totally new board, and I wasn’t the only one who didn’t know this. I took my responsibility seriously. Having had to type the minutes from a meeting at which I was not acting secretary, I would not trust having to get a recording of the meeting later when I could not be present. At the Jonesboro meeting, I did ask some clarification questions to make sure I knew who was speaking. It’s easy sometimes to forget to state your name when you make a motion or comment, and it’s just not professional, in my opinion, to try to do it that way at every convention. I realize there will never be a weekend that’s convenient for everyone; however, aside from any emergency that might prevent a member of the Board from being present, I felt it would be important for the State Secretary to be there. I just wanted to make that position clear. I’m so glad that the job is in wonderful hands with Gene, much better than what I was able to offer, and I do not regret stepping away. I only regret that I didn’t know everything I should have been aware of before taking on that responsibility a second time. I think the blindness movement needs all the willing hearts and hands we can offer to work toward the goals of equity and inclusion, accessibility, and outreach. I realize it’s impossible to always agree, but please let each member be plugged in at whatever level they feel comfortable when it comes to participating. As State Secretary, I also asked to be included on the membership committee but was told that wouldn’t be possible because the chair had already chosen who they wanted from each chapter. I understand that’s a viable and reasonable response, but I felt that was one way I could be helpful. It seemed that the same two members of the At Large Chapter were on both membership and fundraising for the State, and they were doing the same work and planning for the chapter. I don’t have many skills, but one of my responsibilities was to keep up with the membership and I wanted to have a voice when it came to ideas. I’m not an experienced fundraiser, but I had ideas along those lines as well. I understand now that the candy fundraiser I wanted is going forward, and I’m so happy about that. These are not resentments or complaints. I have so much admiration for the work that all of you are doing for blind people in Arkansas. It requires much time and effort on your part, and it’s rewarding to be a part of such good work and to have the friendships that I’ve made along the way. My involvement brought some much-needed confidence, and that’s a wonderful feeling. These are just thoughts I have had for a while, and I hoped they might be meaningful at some point. I have frankly shared my views with Nena, and I am not in any way trying to cause hurt feelings. It is sometimes a good and positive step to let others know why a decision is made that it’s healthier and less stressful for a member to decide that it’s time to leave an organization. If and when there is anything I can do to help, outside of joining again right now, I am more than willing to be involved in any small way I can. I will be buying candy in the fall and will get friends and family to do so as well. See’s Candy is something I buy every year around the holidays. Much love to all! Shelley From: NFB-Arkansas On Behalf Of Cindy Scott-Huisman via NFB-Arkansas Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 4:47 PM To: NFB of Arkansas Internet Mailing List Cc: Cindy Scott-Huisman Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals I came across these leadership ideas and wanted to share. It's good to have goals for how we function as a team! The premise that a team will be more productive when they are happier makes intuitive sense. Innovation: Leaders’ openness to input and ideas. Direct management: clarity and truthfulness of communication. Organizational effectiveness: non-bureaucratic, efficient processes. Engagement: leadership that supports learning and growth. Emotional connection: a culture that fosters friendships among all involved. Organizational alignment: a good match between the organization’s external mission and its internal culture. Listen for concerns and learn new ideas: Leaders should look for ways to get as much feedback as possible, and then show they’ve really heard it and thought about how to use it. Act and speak with clarity and truth: As a general rule, people don’t appreciate doublespeak and confusion. Always be frank and explicit about what people need to know for their roles even if the truthful answer is “I don’t know what’s going to happen”. Look for ways to support learning and develop team members: The teammates you want to keep are the ones who love to learn new skills and grow in ability. Look for ways to encourage that growth. Live up to the organization’s external mission. Whether you are a leader or serve another role, remember that no one is perfect. Everyone will respect you more if you simply own your imperfect human-ness from time to time. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From shelley.keeland at gmail.com Thu Aug 21 16:58:28 2025 From: shelley.keeland at gmail.com (shelley.keeland at gmail.com) Date: Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:58:28 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <007501dc12bc$d199ee30$74cdca90$@gmail.com> Good morning! I know I have no voice with respect to NFBAR, but I’m on the mailing list. These are good suggestions that Cindy has shared, and I hope that there will be a time when all members of NFBAR feel heard and that their input is valuable. Having to experience the tension at meetings and feeling pressured to take a side when you don’t know all the facts from both sides and aren’t aware of why there may be valid concerns that might lead to an opposing opinion to yours is not comfortable at all. The NFBAR Board represents the entire membership, and each person has to vote in the way they feel will most benefit everyone. I don’t always understand the need for certain policies and why they’re implemented instead of taking a vote. It’s not always easy for newer members to grasp why things are a certain way, and I think that’s where the importance of clarity comes in. Sometimes the enthusiasm for the work and the strong opinions about what we’re doing and how we go about it can make others feel as if what they have to offer isn’t needed. There are so many skills and much talent within the group, and that should be a benefit to everyone to take that into consideration at both the affiliate and chapter levels. I also just want to state that when I ran for the position of State Secretary in 2024 at State Convention in Jonesboro, I had no idea that there had been a consensus in 2021, without a vote from the attendees, that all conventions would be around the first weekend in April. The convention I am speaking about was the second weekend of the month, due to the eclipse. I had no idea this wasn’t a subject that could be readdressed every couple of years, just as the place for each convention can be decided. I am never available the first weekend in April because of a family conflict, and I would not have made the decision to run if I had known this issue wasn’t flexible. We did have a totally new board, and I wasn’t the only one who didn’t know this. I took my responsibility seriously. Having had to type the minutes from a meeting at which I was not acting secretary, I would not trust having to get a recording of the meeting later when I could not be present. At the Jonesboro meeting, I did ask some clarification questions to make sure I knew who was speaking. It’s easy sometimes to forget to state your name when you make a motion or comment, and it’s just not professional, in my opinion, to try to do it that way at every convention. I realize there will never be a weekend that’s convenient for everyone; however, aside from any emergency that might prevent a member of the Board from being present, I felt it would be important for the State Secretary to be there. I just wanted to make that position clear. I’m so glad that the job is in wonderful hands with Gene, much better than what I was able to offer, and I do not regret stepping away. I only regret that I didn’t know everything I should have been aware of before taking on that responsibility a second time. I think the blindness movement needs all the willing hearts and hands we can offer to work toward the goals of equity and inclusion, accessibility, and outreach. I realize it’s impossible to always agree, but please let each member be plugged in at whatever level they feel comfortable when it comes to participating. As State Secretary, I also asked to be included on the membership committee but was told that wouldn’t be possible because the chair had already chosen who they wanted from each chapter. I understand that’s a viable and reasonable response, but I felt that was one way I could be helpful. It seemed that the same two members of the At Large Chapter were on both membership and fundraising for the State, and they were doing the same work and planning for the chapter. I don’t have many skills, but one of my responsibilities was to keep up with the membership and I wanted to have a voice when it came to ideas. I’m not an experienced fundraiser, but I had ideas along those lines as well. I understand now that the candy fundraiser I wanted is going forward, and I’m so happy about that. These are not resentments or complaints. I have so much admiration for the work that all of you are doing for blind people in Arkansas. It requires much time and effort on your part, and it’s rewarding to be a part of such good work and to have the friendships that I’ve made along the way. My involvement brought some much-needed confidence, and that’s a wonderful feeling. These are just thoughts I have had for a while, and I hoped they might be meaningful at some point. I have frankly shared my views with Nena, and I am not in any way trying to cause hurt feelings. It is sometimes a good and positive step to let others know why a decision is made that it’s healthier and less stressful for a member to decide that it’s time to leave an organization. If and when there is anything I can do to help, outside of joining again right now, I am more than willing to be involved in any small way I can. I will be buying candy in the fall and will get friends and family to do so as well. See’s Candy is something I buy every year around the holidays. Much love to all! Shelley From: NFB-Arkansas On Behalf Of Cindy Scott-Huisman via NFB-Arkansas Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 4:47 PM To: NFB of Arkansas Internet Mailing List Cc: Cindy Scott-Huisman Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals I came across these leadership ideas and wanted to share. It's good to have goals for how we function as a team! The premise that a team will be more productive when they are happier makes intuitive sense. Innovation: Leaders’ openness to input and ideas. Direct management: clarity and truthfulness of communication. Organizational effectiveness: non-bureaucratic, efficient processes. Engagement: leadership that supports learning and growth. Emotional connection: a culture that fosters friendships among all involved. Organizational alignment: a good match between the organization’s external mission and its internal culture. Listen for concerns and learn new ideas: Leaders should look for ways to get as much feedback as possible, and then show they’ve really heard it and thought about how to use it. Act and speak with clarity and truth: As a general rule, people don’t appreciate doublespeak and confusion. Always be frank and explicit about what people need to know for their roles even if the truthful answer is “I don’t know what’s going to happen”. Look for ways to support learning and develop team members: The teammates you want to keep are the ones who love to learn new skills and grow in ability. Look for ways to encourage that growth. Live up to the organization’s external mission. Whether you are a leader or serve another role, remember that no one is perfect. Everyone will respect you more if you simply own your imperfect human-ness from time to time. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cindyscotthuisman at gmail.com Fri Aug 22 20:31:51 2025 From: cindyscotthuisman at gmail.com (Cindy Scott-Huisman) Date: Fri, 22 Aug 2025 15:31:51 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals In-Reply-To: <000201dc138f$38775cf0$a96616d0$@gmail.com> References: <000201dc138f$38775cf0$a96616d0$@gmail.com> Message-ID: Thank you for the thoughtful replies. So glad to receive responses. Some really good points are made here. I truly believe that our affiliate is meant to function amicably. I will continue to seek ways I can serve. Thanks to each person who helps make this organization better, Cindy On Fri, Aug 22, 2025 at 1:12 PM shelley.keeland--- via NFB-Arkansas < nfb-arkansas at nfbnet.org> wrote: > Good afternoon! > > > > I know I have no voice with respect to NFBAR, but I’m on the mailing list. > These are good suggestions that Cindy has shared, and I hope that there > will be a time when all members of NFBAR feel heard and that their input is > valuable. Having to experience the tension at meetings and feeling > pressured to take a side when you don’t know all the facts from both sides > and aren’t aware of why there may be valid concerns that might lead to an > opposing opinion to yours is not comfortable at all. The NFBAR Board > represents the entire membership, and each person has to vote in the way > they feel will most benefit everyone. I don’t always understand the need > for certain policies and why they’re implemented instead of taking a vote. > It’s not always easy for newer members to grasp why things are a certain > way, and I think that’s where the importance of clarity comes in. Sometimes > the enthusiasm for the work and the strong opinions about what we’re > doing and how we go about it can make others feel as if what they have to > offer isn’t needed. There are so many skills and much talent within the > group, and that should be a benefit to everyone to take that into > consideration at both the affiliate and chapter levels. > > > > I also just want to state that when I ran for the position of State > Secretary in 2024 at State Convention in Jonesboro, I had no idea that > there had been a consensus in 2021, without a vote from the attendees, that > all conventions would be around the first weekend in April. The convention > I am speaking about was the second weekend of the month, due to the > eclipse. I had no idea this wasn’t a subject that could be readdressed > every couple of years, just as the place for each convention can be > decided. I am never available the first weekend in April because of a > family conflict, and I would not have made the decision to run if I had > known this issue wasn’t flexible. We did have a totally new board, and I > wasn’t the only one who didn’t know this. I took my responsibility > seriously. Having had to type the minutes from a meeting at which I was not > acting secretary, I would not trust having to get a recording of the > meeting later when I could not be present. At the Jonesboro meeting, I did > ask some clarification questions to make sure I knew who was speaking. It’s > easy sometimes to forget to state your name when you make a motion or > comment, and it’s just not professional, in my opinion, to try to do it > that way at every convention. I realize there will never be a weekend > that’s convenient for everyone; however, aside from any emergency that > might prevent a member of the Board from being present, I felt it would be > important for the State Secretary to be there. I just wanted to make that > position clear. I’m so glad that the job is in wonderful hands with Gene, > much better than what I was able to offer, and I do not regret stepping > away. I only regret that I didn’t know everything I should have been aware > of before taking on that responsibility a second time. > > > > I think the blindness movement needs all the willing hearts and hands we > can offer to work toward the goals of equity and inclusion, accessibility, > and outreach. I realize it’s impossible to always agree, but please let > each member be plugged in at whatever level they feel comfortable when it > comes to participating. As State Secretary, I also asked to be included on > the membership committee but was told that wouldn’t be possible because the > chair had already chosen who they wanted from each chapter. I understand > that’s a viable and reasonable response, but I felt that was one way I > could be helpful. It seemed that the same two members of the At Large > Chapter were on both membership and fundraising for the State, and they > were doing the same work and planning for the chapter. I don’t have many > skills, but one of my responsibilities was to keep up with the membership > and I wanted to have a voice when it came to ideas. I’m not an experienced > fundraiser, but I had ideas along those lines as well. I understand now > that the candy fundraiser I wanted is going forward, and I’m so happy about > that. These are not resentments or complaints. I have so much admiration > for the work that all of you are doing for blind people in Arkansas. It > requires much time and effort on your part, and it’s rewarding to be a part > of such good work and to have the friendships that I’ve made along the way. > My involvement brought some much-needed confidence, and that’s a wonderful > feeling. These are just thoughts I have had for a while, and I hoped they > might be meaningful at some point. I have frankly shared my views with > Nena, and I am not in any way trying to cause hurt feelings. It is > sometimes a good and positive step to let others know why a decision is > made that it’s healthier and less stressful for a member to decide that > it’s time to leave an organization. If and when there is anything I can do > to help, outside of joining again right now, I am more than willing to be > involved in any small way I can. I will be buying candy in the fall and > will get friends and family to do so as well. See’s Candy is something I > buy every year around the holidays. Much love to all! > > > > Shelley > > *From:* NFB-Arkansas *On Behalf Of *Cindy > Scott-Huisman via NFB-Arkansas > *Sent:* Wednesday, August 20, 2025 4:47 PM > *To:* NFB of Arkansas Internet Mailing List > *Cc:* Cindy Scott-Huisman > *Subject:* [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals > > > > I came across these leadership ideas and wanted to share. > > It's good to have goals for how we function as a team! > > > > The premise that a team will be more productive when they are happier > makes intuitive sense. > > > > Innovation: > > Leaders’ openness to input and ideas. > > > > Direct management: > > clarity and truthfulness of communication. > > > > Organizational effectiveness: > > non-bureaucratic, efficient processes. > > > > Engagement: > > leadership that supports learning and growth. > > > > Emotional connection: > > a culture that fosters friendships among all involved. > > > > Organizational alignment: > > a good match between the organization’s external mission and its internal > culture. > > > > Listen for concerns and learn new ideas: > > Leaders should look for ways to get as much feedback as possible, and then > show they’ve really heard it and thought about how to use it. > > > > Act and speak with clarity and truth: > > As a general rule, people don’t appreciate doublespeak and confusion. > Always be frank and explicit about what people need to know for their roles > even if the truthful answer is “I don’t know what’s going to happen”. > > > > Look for ways to support learning and develop team members: > > The teammates you want to keep are the ones who love to learn new skills > and grow in ability. Look for ways to encourage that growth. > > > > Live up to the organization’s external mission. > > > > Whether you are a leader or serve another role, remember that no one is > perfect. Everyone will respect you more if you simply own your imperfect > human-ness from time to time. > _______________________________________________ > NFB-Arkansas mailing list > NFB-Arkansas at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > NFB-Arkansas: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org/cindyscotthuisman%40gmail.com > -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From april.nfbar at gmail.com Fri Aug 22 21:21:33 2025 From: april.nfbar at gmail.com (APRIL SCURLOCK) Date: Fri, 22 Aug 2025 16:21:33 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals In-Reply-To: References: <000201dc138f$38775cf0$a96616d0$@gmail.com> Message-ID: Shelley, you have very valid points. I know many people were calling it the Charles/April show, but we have a passion for this group that we want to see all blind people involved with NFBAR. We are all great people and want the same for all blind people. I hope you get back into it and put your talents to use also. April Scurlock, 2nd Vice President National Federation of the Blind of Arkansas Cell: 870.490.1825 Email: April.nfbar at gmail.com Website: www.NFBAR.org “We Live the Life We Want” On Fri, Aug 22, 2025 at 3:33 PM Cindy Scott-Huisman via NFB-Arkansas < nfb-arkansas at nfbnet.org> wrote: > Thank you for the thoughtful replies. > > So glad to receive responses. > > Some really good points are made here. > > > > I truly believe that our affiliate is meant to function amicably. > > > > I will continue to seek ways I can serve. > > Thanks to each person who helps make this organization better, > > Cindy > > On Fri, Aug 22, 2025 at 1:12 PM shelley.keeland--- via NFB-Arkansas < > nfb-arkansas at nfbnet.org> wrote: > >> Good afternoon! >> >> >> >> I know I have no voice with respect to NFBAR, but I’m on the mailing >> list. These are good suggestions that Cindy has shared, and I hope that >> there will be a time when all members of NFBAR feel heard and that their >> input is valuable. Having to experience the tension at meetings and feeling >> pressured to take a side when you don’t know all the facts from both sides >> and aren’t aware of why there may be valid concerns that might lead to an >> opposing opinion to yours is not comfortable at all. The NFBAR Board >> represents the entire membership, and each person has to vote in the way >> they feel will most benefit everyone. I don’t always understand the need >> for certain policies and why they’re implemented instead of taking a vote. >> It’s not always easy for newer members to grasp why things are a certain >> way, and I think that’s where the importance of clarity comes in. Sometimes >> the enthusiasm for the work and the strong opinions about what we’re >> doing and how we go about it can make others feel as if what they have to >> offer isn’t needed. There are so many skills and much talent within the >> group, and that should be a benefit to everyone to take that into >> consideration at both the affiliate and chapter levels. >> >> >> >> I also just want to state that when I ran for the position of State >> Secretary in 2024 at State Convention in Jonesboro, I had no idea that >> there had been a consensus in 2021, without a vote from the attendees, that >> all conventions would be around the first weekend in April. The convention >> I am speaking about was the second weekend of the month, due to the >> eclipse. I had no idea this wasn’t a subject that could be readdressed >> every couple of years, just as the place for each convention can be >> decided. I am never available the first weekend in April because of a >> family conflict, and I would not have made the decision to run if I had >> known this issue wasn’t flexible. We did have a totally new board, and I >> wasn’t the only one who didn’t know this. I took my responsibility >> seriously. Having had to type the minutes from a meeting at which I was not >> acting secretary, I would not trust having to get a recording of the >> meeting later when I could not be present. At the Jonesboro meeting, I did >> ask some clarification questions to make sure I knew who was speaking. It’s >> easy sometimes to forget to state your name when you make a motion or >> comment, and it’s just not professional, in my opinion, to try to do it >> that way at every convention. I realize there will never be a weekend >> that’s convenient for everyone; however, aside from any emergency that >> might prevent a member of the Board from being present, I felt it would be >> important for the State Secretary to be there. I just wanted to make that >> position clear. I’m so glad that the job is in wonderful hands with Gene, >> much better than what I was able to offer, and I do not regret stepping >> away. I only regret that I didn’t know everything I should have been aware >> of before taking on that responsibility a second time. >> >> >> >> I think the blindness movement needs all the willing hearts and hands we >> can offer to work toward the goals of equity and inclusion, accessibility, >> and outreach. I realize it’s impossible to always agree, but please let >> each member be plugged in at whatever level they feel comfortable when it >> comes to participating. As State Secretary, I also asked to be included on >> the membership committee but was told that wouldn’t be possible because the >> chair had already chosen who they wanted from each chapter. I understand >> that’s a viable and reasonable response, but I felt that was one way I >> could be helpful. It seemed that the same two members of the At Large >> Chapter were on both membership and fundraising for the State, and they >> were doing the same work and planning for the chapter. I don’t have many >> skills, but one of my responsibilities was to keep up with the membership >> and I wanted to have a voice when it came to ideas. I’m not an experienced >> fundraiser, but I had ideas along those lines as well. I understand now >> that the candy fundraiser I wanted is going forward, and I’m so happy about >> that. These are not resentments or complaints. I have so much admiration >> for the work that all of you are doing for blind people in Arkansas. It >> requires much time and effort on your part, and it’s rewarding to be a part >> of such good work and to have the friendships that I’ve made along the way. >> My involvement brought some much-needed confidence, and that’s a wonderful >> feeling. These are just thoughts I have had for a while, and I hoped they >> might be meaningful at some point. I have frankly shared my views with >> Nena, and I am not in any way trying to cause hurt feelings. It is >> sometimes a good and positive step to let others know why a decision is >> made that it’s healthier and less stressful for a member to decide that >> it’s time to leave an organization. If and when there is anything I can do >> to help, outside of joining again right now, I am more than willing to be >> involved in any small way I can. I will be buying candy in the fall and >> will get friends and family to do so as well. See’s Candy is something I >> buy every year around the holidays. Much love to all! >> >> >> >> Shelley >> >> *From:* NFB-Arkansas *On Behalf Of *Cindy >> Scott-Huisman via NFB-Arkansas >> *Sent:* Wednesday, August 20, 2025 4:47 PM >> *To:* NFB of Arkansas Internet Mailing List >> *Cc:* Cindy Scott-Huisman >> *Subject:* [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals >> >> >> >> I came across these leadership ideas and wanted to share. >> >> It's good to have goals for how we function as a team! >> >> >> >> The premise that a team will be more productive when they are happier >> makes intuitive sense. >> >> >> >> Innovation: >> >> Leaders’ openness to input and ideas. >> >> >> >> Direct management: >> >> clarity and truthfulness of communication. >> >> >> >> Organizational effectiveness: >> >> non-bureaucratic, efficient processes. >> >> >> >> Engagement: >> >> leadership that supports learning and growth. >> >> >> >> Emotional connection: >> >> a culture that fosters friendships among all involved. >> >> >> >> Organizational alignment: >> >> a good match between the organization’s external mission and its internal >> culture. >> >> >> >> Listen for concerns and learn new ideas: >> >> Leaders should look for ways to get as much feedback as possible, and >> then show they’ve really heard it and thought about how to use it. >> >> >> >> Act and speak with clarity and truth: >> >> As a general rule, people don’t appreciate doublespeak and confusion. >> Always be frank and explicit about what people need to know for their roles >> even if the truthful answer is “I don’t know what’s going to happen”. >> >> >> >> Look for ways to support learning and develop team members: >> >> The teammates you want to keep are the ones who love to learn new skills >> and grow in ability. Look for ways to encourage that growth. >> >> >> >> Live up to the organization’s external mission. >> >> >> >> Whether you are a leader or serve another role, remember that no one is >> perfect. Everyone will respect you more if you simply own your imperfect >> human-ness from time to time. >> _______________________________________________ >> NFB-Arkansas mailing list >> NFB-Arkansas at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> NFB-Arkansas: >> > >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org/cindyscotthuisman%40gmail.com >> > _______________________________________________ > NFB-Arkansas mailing list > NFB-Arkansas at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > NFB-Arkansas: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org/april.nfbar%40gmail.com > -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cindyscotthuisman at gmail.com Sat Aug 23 23:19:24 2025 From: cindyscotthuisman at gmail.com (Cindy Scott-Huisman) Date: Sat, 23 Aug 2025 18:19:24 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <20542B39-3622-487F-9402-8A38224DFD86@gmail.com> An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From april.nfbar at gmail.com Sun Aug 24 01:14:35 2025 From: april.nfbar at gmail.com (APRIL SCURLOCK) Date: Sat, 23 Aug 2025 20:14:35 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals In-Reply-To: <20542B39-3622-487F-9402-8A38224DFD86@gmail.com> References: <20542B39-3622-487F-9402-8A38224DFD86@gmail.com> Message-ID: I agree with you. On Sat, Aug 23, 2025 at 6:19 PM Cindy Scott-Huisman < cindyscotthuisman at gmail.com> wrote: > I was labeled a troublemaker yet much of what was happening was me > responding to situations. Not instigating them > > The people who can’t be manipulated are the ones who are on the outside. > Life is short and dictation is faster — please pardon any errors. > > > On Aug 22, 2025, at 4:21 PM, APRIL SCURLOCK wrote: > >  > > Shelley, you have very valid points. I know many people were calling it > the Charles/April show, but we have a passion for this group that we want > to see all blind people involved with NFBAR. We are all great people and > want the same for all blind people. I hope you get back into it and put > your talents to use also. > > April Scurlock, 2nd Vice President > National Federation of the Blind of Arkansas > Cell: 870.490.1825 > Email: April.nfbar at gmail.com > Website: www.NFBAR.org > > “We Live the Life We Want” > > > On Fri, Aug 22, 2025 at 3:33 PM Cindy Scott-Huisman via NFB-Arkansas < > nfb-arkansas at nfbnet.org> wrote: > >> Thank you for the thoughtful replies. >> >> So glad to receive responses. >> >> Some really good points are made here. >> >> >> >> I truly believe that our affiliate is meant to function amicably. >> >> >> >> I will continue to seek ways I can serve. >> >> Thanks to each person who helps make this organization better, >> >> Cindy >> >> On Fri, Aug 22, 2025 at 1:12 PM shelley.keeland--- via NFB-Arkansas < >> nfb-arkansas at nfbnet.org> wrote: >> >>> Good afternoon! >>> >>> >>> >>> I know I have no voice with respect to NFBAR, but I’m on the mailing >>> list. These are good suggestions that Cindy has shared, and I hope that >>> there will be a time when all members of NFBAR feel heard and that their >>> input is valuable. Having to experience the tension at meetings and feeling >>> pressured to take a side when you don’t know all the facts from both sides >>> and aren’t aware of why there may be valid concerns that might lead to an >>> opposing opinion to yours is not comfortable at all. The NFBAR Board >>> represents the entire membership, and each person has to vote in the way >>> they feel will most benefit everyone. I don’t always understand the need >>> for certain policies and why they’re implemented instead of taking a vote. >>> It’s not always easy for newer members to grasp why things are a certain >>> way, and I think that’s where the importance of clarity comes in. Sometimes >>> the enthusiasm for the work and the strong opinions about what we’re >>> doing and how we go about it can make others feel as if what they have to >>> offer isn’t needed. There are so many skills and much talent within the >>> group, and that should be a benefit to everyone to take that into >>> consideration at both the affiliate and chapter levels. >>> >>> >>> >>> I also just want to state that when I ran for the position of State >>> Secretary in 2024 at State Convention in Jonesboro, I had no idea that >>> there had been a consensus in 2021, without a vote from the attendees, that >>> all conventions would be around the first weekend in April. The convention >>> I am speaking about was the second weekend of the month, due to the >>> eclipse. I had no idea this wasn’t a subject that could be readdressed >>> every couple of years, just as the place for each convention can be >>> decided. I am never available the first weekend in April because of a >>> family conflict, and I would not have made the decision to run if I had >>> known this issue wasn’t flexible. We did have a totally new board, and I >>> wasn’t the only one who didn’t know this. I took my responsibility >>> seriously. Having had to type the minutes from a meeting at which I was not >>> acting secretary, I would not trust having to get a recording of the >>> meeting later when I could not be present. At the Jonesboro meeting, I did >>> ask some clarification questions to make sure I knew who was speaking. It’s >>> easy sometimes to forget to state your name when you make a motion or >>> comment, and it’s just not professional, in my opinion, to try to do it >>> that way at every convention. I realize there will never be a weekend >>> that’s convenient for everyone; however, aside from any emergency that >>> might prevent a member of the Board from being present, I felt it would be >>> important for the State Secretary to be there. I just wanted to make that >>> position clear. I’m so glad that the job is in wonderful hands with Gene, >>> much better than what I was able to offer, and I do not regret stepping >>> away. I only regret that I didn’t know everything I should have been aware >>> of before taking on that responsibility a second time. >>> >>> >>> >>> I think the blindness movement needs all the willing hearts and hands we >>> can offer to work toward the goals of equity and inclusion, accessibility, >>> and outreach. I realize it’s impossible to always agree, but please let >>> each member be plugged in at whatever level they feel comfortable when it >>> comes to participating. As State Secretary, I also asked to be included on >>> the membership committee but was told that wouldn’t be possible because the >>> chair had already chosen who they wanted from each chapter. I understand >>> that’s a viable and reasonable response, but I felt that was one way I >>> could be helpful. It seemed that the same two members of the At Large >>> Chapter were on both membership and fundraising for the State, and they >>> were doing the same work and planning for the chapter. I don’t have many >>> skills, but one of my responsibilities was to keep up with the membership >>> and I wanted to have a voice when it came to ideas. I’m not an experienced >>> fundraiser, but I had ideas along those lines as well. I understand now >>> that the candy fundraiser I wanted is going forward, and I’m so happy about >>> that. These are not resentments or complaints. I have so much admiration >>> for the work that all of you are doing for blind people in Arkansas. It >>> requires much time and effort on your part, and it’s rewarding to be a part >>> of such good work and to have the friendships that I’ve made along the way. >>> My involvement brought some much-needed confidence, and that’s a wonderful >>> feeling. These are just thoughts I have had for a while, and I hoped they >>> might be meaningful at some point. I have frankly shared my views with >>> Nena, and I am not in any way trying to cause hurt feelings. It is >>> sometimes a good and positive step to let others know why a decision is >>> made that it’s healthier and less stressful for a member to decide that >>> it’s time to leave an organization. If and when there is anything I can do >>> to help, outside of joining again right now, I am more than willing to be >>> involved in any small way I can. I will be buying candy in the fall and >>> will get friends and family to do so as well. See’s Candy is something I >>> buy every year around the holidays. Much love to all! >>> >>> >>> >>> Shelley >>> >>> *From:* NFB-Arkansas *On Behalf Of *Cindy >>> Scott-Huisman via NFB-Arkansas >>> *Sent:* Wednesday, August 20, 2025 4:47 PM >>> *To:* NFB of Arkansas Internet Mailing List >>> *Cc:* Cindy Scott-Huisman >>> *Subject:* [NFB-Arkansas] Leadership Goals >>> >>> >>> >>> I came across these leadership ideas and wanted to share. >>> >>> It's good to have goals for how we function as a team! >>> >>> >>> >>> The premise that a team will be more productive when they are happier >>> makes intuitive sense. >>> >>> >>> >>> Innovation: >>> >>> Leaders’ openness to input and ideas. >>> >>> >>> >>> Direct management: >>> >>> clarity and truthfulness of communication. >>> >>> >>> >>> Organizational effectiveness: >>> >>> non-bureaucratic, efficient processes. >>> >>> >>> >>> Engagement: >>> >>> leadership that supports learning and growth. >>> >>> >>> >>> Emotional connection: >>> >>> a culture that fosters friendships among all involved. >>> >>> >>> >>> Organizational alignment: >>> >>> a good match between the organization’s external mission and its >>> internal culture. >>> >>> >>> >>> Listen for concerns and learn new ideas: >>> >>> Leaders should look for ways to get as much feedback as possible, and >>> then show they’ve really heard it and thought about how to use it. >>> >>> >>> >>> Act and speak with clarity and truth: >>> >>> As a general rule, people don’t appreciate doublespeak and confusion. >>> Always be frank and explicit about what people need to know for their roles >>> even if the truthful answer is “I don’t know what’s going to happen”. >>> >>> >>> >>> Look for ways to support learning and develop team members: >>> >>> The teammates you want to keep are the ones who love to learn new skills >>> and grow in ability. Look for ways to encourage that growth. >>> >>> >>> >>> Live up to the organization’s external mission. >>> >>> >>> >>> Whether you are a leader or serve another role, remember that no one is >>> perfect. Everyone will respect you more if you simply own your imperfect >>> human-ness from time to time. >>> _______________________________________________ >>> NFB-Arkansas mailing list >>> NFB-Arkansas at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> NFB-Arkansas: >>> >> >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org/cindyscotthuisman%40gmail.com >>> >> _______________________________________________ >> NFB-Arkansas mailing list >> NFB-Arkansas at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> NFB-Arkansas: >> >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfb-arkansas_nfbnet.org/april.nfbar%40gmail.com >> > -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From bmackey88 at gmail.com Wed Aug 27 10:48:52 2025 From: bmackey88 at gmail.com (Brian Mackey) Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2025 06:48:52 -0400 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] FW: [NFBNET-Webmasters] Save the Date In-Reply-To: <0cb001dc173a$62d795b0$2886c110$@sc.rr.com> References: <0cb001dc173a$62d795b0$2886c110$@sc.rr.com> Message-ID: <21f401dc1740$2df24470$89d6cd50$@gmail.com> From: NFBNET-Webmasters On Behalf Of Steve Cook via NFBNET-Webmasters Sent: Wednesday, August 27, 2025 6:07 AM To: 'NFB Net dot org web masters list' Cc: Steve Cook Subject: [NFBNET-Webmasters] Save the Date 📅 Save the Date! 📅 Steve Cook, Chairperson of the Website Coordinators Committee (WCC), along with the entire WCC, invites you to Save the Date for an exciting and much-anticipated training session: 🗓 Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025 🕗 Time: 8:00 PM Eastern Time Due to popular demand, the WCC will be launching a series of trainings focused on creating CIVI Forms! These sessions are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to confidently build and manage CIVI Forms for your organization. Important Details: * 📹 All trainings will be recorded and shared afterward for future reference. * 📝 Please come prepared to take your own notes during the sessions. * 📧 A detailed agenda and Zoom login information will be sent out as the date approaches. We’re excited to learn together and build our skills as a team—see you there! Steve Cook Chairperson of the Website Coordinators Committee -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- _______________________________________________ NFBNET-Webmasters mailing list NFBNET-Webmasters at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbnet-webmasters_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for NFBNET-Webmasters: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbnet-webmasters_nfbnet.org/bmackey88%40gmail.com From vanharris62 at gmail.com Thu Aug 28 01:32:12 2025 From: vanharris62 at gmail.com (Tanya VanHouten) Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2025 20:32:12 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] FW: Thank You for Attending #NFB25 In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <03d901dc17bb$95364fc0$bfa2ef40$@gmail.com> From: National Federation of the Blind Sent: Monday, August 25, 2025 4:02 PM To: Tanya VanHouten Subject: Thank You for Attending #NFB25 Thank You for a Successful #NFB25 Thank you for your participation, engagement, and support during the National Federation of the Blind's 2025 National Convention. Your active membership and participation are essential to the advancement of our movement. Convention Highlights The 2025 convention highlights are now available. Access the presidential report, resolutions, banquet speech, and more. All content is available in multiple formats. Convention Awards We presented several awards and scholarships honoring blind individuals and organizations whose work benefits the blind community. Congratulations to our award winners. * Distinguished Educator of Blind Students: Dan Kelley of Ohio * Blind Educator of the Year: Maurice Peret of Hawaii * Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award winners: Casey Robertson, Dr. Mika Baugh, Sam Seavey, and the NFB-NEWSLINER Indiana Television Show. * Jacobus tenBroek Award winners: Julie Deden and Glen Gordon. * NFB scholarship winners: Thirty students each received an $8,000 scholarship. * Kenneth Jernigan Scholarship winner: Millie Rivera. Save the Date: 2026 National Convention We can't wait to be with you in Austin, Texas, next year, from July 3-8, 2026. Find more details at nfb.org/convention . 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. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back. National Federation of the Blind | 200 E Wells Street | Baltimore, MD 21230 | 410-659-9314 Unsubscribe from this mailing list | Opt out of all mailing lists | Sign up for our newsletter 200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place Baltimore, MD 21230 United States .. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cindyscotthuisman at gmail.com Thu Aug 28 01:38:43 2025 From: cindyscotthuisman at gmail.com (Cindy Scott-Huisman) Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2025 20:38:43 -0500 Subject: [NFB-Arkansas] FW: Thank You for Attending #NFB25 In-Reply-To: <03d901dc17bb$95364fc0$bfa2ef40$@gmail.com> References: <03d901dc17bb$95364fc0$bfa2ef40$@gmail.com> Message-ID: An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: