[Nfb-editors] Alabama "The Focus" Summer 2013
Robert Leslie Newman
newmanrl at cox.net
Fri Sep 13 17:24:10 UTC 2013
The Focus
Alabama’s Blind Community at a Glance
Volume II, Number 1, Summer 2013
National Federation of The Blind
Of Alabama
Joy Harris, President
5209 Sterling Glen Drive
Pinson, AL 35126
Home: (205)520-9979
Cell: (205)515-5220
Welcome to the Summer 2013 edition of The Focus. Your interest, articles and
feedback has made this a very exciting first year. The NFB is moving forward
and there is nothing quite like being a member in Alabama!
Gail Smith, Editor
<mailto:mail.gailsmith at gmail.com> mail.gailsmith at gmail.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Frontpage...................................................................
.........................Page 1
Table of
Contents....................................................................
............Page 2
>From the President's Desk By Joy
Harris............................................Page 3
The NFB Conventions Will Never Let You Down By Allen Harris ......Page 4
>From the Editor By Gail
Smith.............................................................Page 6
Goodbye to My Alabama Friends By Alice
Hebert..............................Page 8
Blind Merchants of Alabama Now Charter Members of NABM
By Donna
Bates.......................................................................
.. .Page 8
Indy Super BLAST 2013 By Tracey
Watts.........................................Page 11
Around The State
Greater Rocket City Chapter Continues to Blast Off
By Susan
Povinelli..........................................................Page 12
Magic City, Birmingham Chapter By Cindy Jones......... ...........Page 14
Mobile Chapter
..........................................................................Pa
ge 14
Talladega Chapter
.....................................................................Page 15
Montgomery Chapter By Barbara
Manuel.................................Page 15
Considering Becoming a Dog Guide User? By Carol Braithwaite.....Page 16
National Association of Guide Dog Users Sponsors Innovative
Hotline Submitted by Marion Gwizdala
..............................................Page 18
The Long White Cane By Kate
Smith.................................................Page 20
Alabama’s White Cane
Walk..............................................................Page 23
Apple Core By Susan K.
Povinelli......................................................Page 24
Phone Faith Chat Line By Barbara
Manuel........................................Page 26
Extreme Experience
Retreat..............................................................Page 27
Easy Holiday
Recipes.....................................................................
...Page 28
Closing Remarks By Gail
Smith.........................................................Page 29
From the President's Desk
By Joy Harris
As I write this article for the Focus, I am reflecting on the wonderful
benefits I receive as a member of the Federation. I have been a member of
the Federation for many years, and there are many reasons why I am a
Federationist. I wanted a better life for myself as a blind person, and to
help change the lives of other blind persons throughout the Country. We
need to change the myths and mysteries of blindness and educate the public
about what blindness is and is not. Because of the Federation, I have had
so many blessings and opportunities which have enriched my life.
In May I was diagnosed with cancer. As you can imagine, it was quite a
shock to receive that diagnosis. With my family by my side I face some
pretty extensive surgery. The prognosis is hopeful and I am having a few
months of chemotherapy.
I received an outpouring of love, strength and prayers from members of the
Federation all over the country and I am especially thankful for the support
from my Alabama Federation family. Some of the members came to my home and
brought food, drinks, a cherry shake and a banana split, because at that
time I was struggling to find things that I felt I could eat. There is
nothing they would not have brought to me if I had asked.
I am reminded of just how meaningful my participation in the Federation has
been. I have always believed in our Federation family, but the support of
my Alabama Federation family was never more helpful than during this
difficult time.
Our work must continue and as President of the NFB of Alabama I intend to
help move us forward . For example, we have a number of projects coming up
this fall and spring such as our State board meeting on the 14th of
September and also the Magic City chapter will be holding its annual
walk-a-thon on October 12th. On October 19th there will be a cane walk for
White Cane Safety Day, and we would like to have as many members as possible
to participate in this walk.
It is not too early to plan our State convention that will be held on March
7th through the 9th 2014. It will be held in Birmingham at the Double Tree
Hotel.
In order to keep our Federation strong, we must continue our efforts on
behalf of all blind people through the programs of the NFB of Alabama.
<<< >>>
The NFB Conventions Will Never Let You Down
By Allen Harris
As some of you know, I have been going to National Federation of the Blind
Conventions since 1971 and am blessed to say that I have never missed one. I
cannot remember going to any NFB Convention and leaving with the feeling
that I did not learn something or make new and lasting friendships.
For many years I have attended such marvelous conventions that I thought
could not be duplicated or matched in future years. I am fond of telling
Dr. Maurer and Dr. Jernigan, "What on earth will we do to match or top a
particular convention?” They would always assure me that we would have even
more productive, meaningful state-of-the-art projects going on. In
addition, they would remind me that I could contribute to the success of our
NFB Conventions by finding ways to participate and work to make things
happen.
Over the years, I have had the pleasure of assisting in our Federation in a
wide range of activities. Moreover, I have been blessed to be in leadership
positions as well.
I was President of the Teachers Division from 1977 through 1985. I did not
exactly campaign for this position, but the truth is that the President did
not show up. For the first number of years, I would recruit Mrs. Maurer to
help with our meetings. She, among her other jobs, was a credentialed
teacher and we moved the Teachers Division in a positive direction.
In 1981 in , Baltimore, MD, I was elected to the Board of Directors of the
National Federation of the Blind. My ability to participate fully in our
Convention opened up even more opportunities to do things which I wanted to
do in an effort to be worthy of the honor I had been given.
In 1985, I was elected as Secretary of the National Federation of the Blind.
What an honor! But I soon found out that much responsibility came with the
position.
I am not going to list all of the offices I had the pleasure of
serving in, but I never thought of the next opportunity. I did my best to
uphold the values and serious work we do in the Federation.
Of course, not all of our members are going to hold leadership
positions, but I can tell you that being a dependable, active person
committed to our Federation is an honor. Think of the meaningful work each
of us can do. You can participate in your local chapter. You can get new
persons to come as guests to a Chapter or State Meeting. Some of us are
able to sell items to raise money for our work and to support activities
that strengthen our Federation. Not a person who likes to sell? Well.
there are other things each of us can contribute to improve the lives of the
blind.
The National Federation of the Blind has become the most elevated and
influential organization in the field of blindness. We followed our
Federation Philosophy, we never gave up on a matter of importance to blind
persons until we finished the work. Think about your participation in the
NFB and reconsider additional contributions you are able to make. Do not
wait to be selected for an assignment in your Chapter or State Affiliate.
Raise your voice and volunteer. Each of us can work to make and keep our
Federation strong. If all of us come together, we possess many individuals
to work for our rights. We are working for "first class citizenship."
However, we know there is much work ahead. If one of us is being
discriminated against because of blindness, everyone of us must see this
circumstance as an obstacle the NFB will overcome.
So you wonder why I began this opinion piece with my thoughts about
conventions? It was because the NFB National Conventions have such a great
impact on the lives of those who attend and are very influential in my life
personally. You may also wonder why I told you about my personal
opportunities to work in the NFB. I wanted to share my experiences in order
to hopefully inspire others, because all of us can give of ourselves to
help, no matter how great or small our contribution. I believe you will
share my belief that the National Federation of the Blind is the most
effective, forward looking and successful organization on behalf of the
Blind.
<<< >>>
>From the Editor
By Gail Smith
The Alabama Affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind has many
accomplishments of which to be proud. We are continuing to grow and strive
to impact the lives of more blind/low vision people in our state. The
members are very committed, as was evidenced by the attendance in Huntsville
at the 2013 NFB of Alabama State Convention. It consisted of three
outstanding days full of seminars and informative presentations by leaders
in the blindness field. We heard from special guest speakers such as Kevan
Worley from the National Association of Blind Merchants and Anil Lewis from
our National Center in Baltimore. What an inspiring three days!
On Sunday, the last day of our state convention, we held our NFB of Alabama
business meeting. During that meeting, among other items on the agenda, we
held elections for some of the board positions.
The 2nd Vice-President, Minnie K. Walker, declined to run again. She has
served the State well over the last decade. She has been the President of
the Mobile Chapter since 2002 and continues to hold that position, as well
as being 2nd Vice-President of the National Division of the Diabetes Action
Network. Soon after becoming the President of the Mobile Chapter, she was
elected to the State Board and has served our state as Vice-President, 2nd
Vice-President and President. We would like to thank her for all her
services to the NFB of Alabama State Board!
During this business meeting, Alice Hebert was re-elected as State
Treasurer. However, in the spring it was necessary for her to move out of
state because of her job. Alice has contributed so much of her time and
efforts to the NFB of Alabama over the last eleven years. She joined the
Magic City Chapter and soon became the chapter secretary. She served as
President of the Magic City Chapter for the last 7 years. Alice also served
on the State Board as secretary and then as treasurer. She has also helped
with NFB of Alabama Convention registration and convention planning. Alice
we would like to thank you for your hard work and dedication!
The following is a list of the NFB of Alabama Board members:
Joy Harris, President
Cindy Jones, 1st Vice-President
Vince Armstrong, 2nd Vice-President
Larry Povinelli, Treasurer
Gail Smith, Secretary
Robert Kelly Jr., Board Member
Jeffrey Wilson, Board Member
Tracey Watts, Board Member
Barbara Manuel, Board Member
Ellen Jones, Board Member
< >
Good-bye to My Alabama Friends
By Alice M Hebert
Just a short note to say Good-bye to all of my Alabama friends.
My job with AT&T sent me to Minneapolis, MN so I can be reached at:
2101 Bryant Ave. S
# 209
Minneapolis, MN 55405
My e-mail and cell number have not changed for now. I do plan to join all
of you in Birmingham for your 2014 state convention.
Until we meet again, Roll Tide, War Eagle and go LSU Tigers!
<<< >>>
Blind Merchants of Alabama Now Charter Members of NABM
By Donna Bates
“The Blind Merchants of Alabama has recently celebrated its one-year
anniversary, which means we are now charter members of the National
Association of Blind Merchants. During this time we have grown our
membership to over thirty people and plan to continue to expand our efforts
as we move forward,” said founding President, Barbara Manuel.
We were pleased to have several of our members represent our group on a
national level at the BLAST held in Indianapolis last May. At that
convention, Manual was the first recipient of the Scott Young Award for her
tireless efforts to advance blind people in business and because she was a
leading force in forming the Blind Merchants of Alabama in April 2012.
On behalf of all of the merchants, I would like to thank Southern Foods for
providing transportation to and from the BLAST convention. They generously
provided a minibus and driver to our group for the trip, which allowed us to
travel safely and helped to keep conference expenses more affordable.
Merchants who attended the BLAST include: Ray Dennis, Eldridge Hardy,
Lataria Johnson, Robert Kelly Jr., Barbara Manual, Donna Moore, Richard
Norwood, Michael Talley, Karen Underwood and Tracy Watts.
We were so proud that so many of our entrepreneurs could attend and make a
positive showing on a national level. This was an excellent opportunity for
our managers to network with other BEP managers across the country. During
the recent BLAST convention, Miss Manual was asked by Daniel Frye, from the
United States Department of Education, to speak on a leadership panel (The
Randolph Shepherd National Forum) in Baltimore, Maryland at the end of
August. She is honored to be serving on this panel of three Business
Enterprise Program managers, who will be sharing their personal journey and
their contributions toward the success of our current BEP Program.
The Alabama Blind Merchants is an active and involved group of blind
entrepreneurs who are committed to raising awareness about blind individuals
who manage successful businesses and who network to share effective business
practices and technology. One example of this is the Amerisource rebate
program. Managers can sign up by calling Pat Skidmore at 706-397-2456 and
receive a quarterly check based on their volume of vending sales.
Many of the merchants traveled to Orlando for the annual NFB Convention in
July as well. Each conference is a new opportunity to reach out to, and
learn from, others in similar circumstances.
The Alabama Blind Merchants will hold their next quarterly meeting in
October on the phone chat line. Please contact Barbara Manual at
b.manual11 at att.net if you are interested in learning more about the Blind
Merchants of Alabama.
Barbara Manuel receiving NABM of AL Charter
from Kevan Worley
<<< >>>
Indy Super BLAST 2013
By Tracey Watts
The Indy Super BLAST 2013 was a huge success! It was by far the biggest
and best BLAST yet. With more than 500 people in attendance, the general
sessions were full and the speakers gave truly dynamic presentations. Many
merchants and entrepreneurs in attendance were able to bring home knowledge
and tools that can be used to help us continued to have success in our
business endeavors and in our lives.
On Monday, May 20, the buzz was all about the exclusive state licensing
agency training. It was packed wall-to-wall. It was a very informative day
of training. In this industry we have to cover every angle of every
situation and this SLA training helps us accomplish that. Also on Monday was
a first time Women With Purpose Seminar. Jean Brown, a blind entrepreneur
and wife of Ron Brown, blind vender an O and M instructor, has a Day Spa
that offers all of your pampering needs in an elegant setting. Several
blind venders participated in the specials that Mrs. Brown offered at her
Spa
Tuesday, May 21, was kicked off with an inspirational speech by Jim Gashel,
Vice President of Business Development for K-NFB Reading Technology, Inc.
Later the Healthy Vending Panel presented on the proposed healthy snack
ratios that could seriously affect blind operators. The excitement did not
fade later as anticipation for that afternoon’s trade show had attendees
outside the doors. Once they opened, entrepreneurs made their way from booth
to booth, filling their bags with products and talking with executives from
Coca-Cola, Einstein Bagels, National Vending, AT Guys, and more.
Wednesday, May 22, was the luncheon that was outrageous! Our own Barbara
Manuel received the first time Scott Young Award. We, the NABMA, are very
proud of her. Keep up the good work.
On Thursday, May 23, the general session came to a close with the teaser
that the next BLAST will be heading to Texas in the Fall of 2014.
Merchants, let’s do something outrageous!
Barbara Manuel was honored with the Scott Young Award at BLAST 2013
<<< >>>
AROUND THE STATE
Greater Rocket City Chapter Continues to Blast Off
By Susan Povinelli
Greetings from the Greater Rocket City Chapter of the National Federation of
the Blind of Alabama.
We were delighted to see 162 of our fellow NFB Alabamians at this year’s NFB
of Alabama convention. A lot of good business was conducted, we raised over
$3000, and a lot of fun was had by all. The Greater Rocket City chapter
hosted the 2013 convention and we want to thank everyone for making it the
best NFB of Alabama convention ever.
Since hosting the convention, our members have been busy the past five
months. Several members attended the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind
(AIDB) Technology Symposium in June. Also, 6 members attended the National
Federation of the Blind Convention in Orlando, Florida. We want to
congratulate Terry Matney on receiving a Kenneth Jernigan fellowship to
attend his first national convention. I know everyone who attended learned
about new technologies for the blind, heard about self-advocacy, networked
with blind people from all over and had a good old federation good time.
The Rocket City Chapter hosted several fundraisers: a pancake breakfast at
Applebee’s in June, and selling cane mittens at the convention.
We had some great speakers during our chapter meetings, such as, Bob and
Dona Lovelace; from the Madison Lions Club, discussed their Mexico mission
trip where they assisted those less fortunate in Mexico to see with new
glasses. Also, Earl Williams, Massage Therapist, came to our meeting and
told us how he has been running a successful business for over 10 years as a
totally blind person.
The chapter conducted several outreach events: We hosted an information
table at “The Miracle Worker,” a play about Helen Keller, held at the James
Clemens High School in Madison.
Mrs. Susan Povinelli participated in the AIDB High School Forum in Leeds,
Alabama. At the forum, Susan shared her work experiences with blind high
school students. She talked about working as a Materials Engineer with the
Navy and Program Manager with the Army
If you are ever in the Huntsville area on the second Tuesday of the month at
6:45 p.m., stop by the Huntsville Library, located at 915 Monroe Street in
downtown Huntsville, and come on in and say hi.
We continue to blast off and change what it means to be blind in the Rocket
City.
< >
Magic City Chapter
By Cindy Jones, President
On October 12, 2013 The Magic City Chapter will hold its annual walk-a-thon.
The walk will be held at Crestwood Park, which is located at 5400 Crestwood
Blvd. in Birmingham. There is a 5 dollar registration fee for adults and 3
dollars for children over the age of 5. Registration will begin at 8:00 that
Saturday morning.
This walk is designed to be a fundraiser for our NFB chapter, but it is so
much more. It is a time for fun, fellowship and family, for we are brothers
and sisters in the federation. Please come visit with our NFB family on
October 12, 2013 and join in our fun. If you have any questions, please
contact the walk’s coordinator, Tracy Watts, at 205-907-4727.
< >
Mobile Chapter News
Meetings are held the first Saturday of each month at the West Mobile
Regional Library, 5555 Grelot Road, Mobile, Alabama, 36609. Meeting time is
1:00 PM.
Minnie K. Walker, President
Tameka Williams, Vice-President
Ruby Anderson, Secretary
< >
Talladega Chapter
Meets monthly on the first Tuesday of each month at the Alabama Industries
For The Blind Cafeteria at 5:00 PM.
Alabama Industries is located at:
1209 Fort Lashley Avenue
Talladega, AL 35160
The Talladega Chapter board members are: Vincent Armstrong, President;
Jeffrey Wilson, Vice President; Martha Thompson, Secretary; Thelma Turner,
Treasurer; Willie Ward, Board Member; Pazater Turner, Board Member;
Antonito Wiggins, Board Member.
< >
Montgomery Chapter News
By Barbara Manuel
Reaching the Blind, One Person at a Time
The Montgomery Chapter of NFB is continuing to seek out persons to share the
exciting things we are doing on a state and local level. Currently, each
month we are participating with a local group of visually impaired
individuals at Aldersgate Church where information is being shared by all.
The Louisiana Center for the Blind is on our radar for this year. We are
nailing down final plans with Pam Allen, Director of LCB. October is almost
here and we will plan a membership drive.
Meetings are every fourth Tuesday via the telephone. Mr. Robert Kelly Jr. is
continually looking for ways to inspire and connect our community and
telling everyone about the benefits and privileges of becoming a part of
this great movement.
<<< >>>
Consider Becoming a Dog Guide User?
By Carol Braithwaite
“Why would a person want to use a dog guide instead of a cane? A vocational
rehabilitation counselor recently asked me. ” It’s a good question. The only
good answer is “personal choice.” It’s like preferring an Acura over a BMW,
or like choosing to remain single n instead of getting married. Different
people are suited to different choices.
I consider it a great privilege to have the choice to use a dog guide in
addition to using a cane, because other people who care about blind people
having choices have made it possible for me to team up with one of these
very specialized animals. It costs between $50,000 and $75,000 to train a
dog guide team for the entire life of the dog. That covers breeding,
veterinary care, puppy-raising, food and grooming tools, toys, travel
expenses for emergency care if the dog must return to the schools’ vet for
treatment, AND trainers’ and administrators’ salaries. It also covers
training costs for the handler who ends up as the dog’s partner. For some
schools that means room, board, and travel costs as well as paying training
and administration costs. I have had two dog guides provided by others’
generosity
Traveling with my Guide Dog Reyna gives me freedom in certain ways that
using a cane does not. For instance, I can hike with my husband without
having to depend on him to tell me about every overhanging branch I should
avoid. When one comes along, Reyna stops briefly for me to check in front of
me to see tactually what she sees visually. With Reyna I can run up a flight
of stairs or travel through a puddly parking lot without wading in a big
puddle. She also keeps me out of dangers that a cane cannot. For instance,
when a Prius is backing up in a parking lot I am crossing, she sees it
rolling toward us before there is any sound coming from the engine to alert
me to get out of the way, and she pushes my leg to let me know which way to
move to get out of the way. This actually happened to us at work one day
I have more opportunities to interact with people around me out in public
because they are curious about my dog or want to pet her. This gives me the
opportunity to politely say “no” or to take her harness off to oblige them.
Reyna always loves that, to be petted, and it gives me the chance to chat
about how enjoyable life is in spite of, or sometimes even because of, being
blind. It also gives me the chance to increase their awareness of how a
person who has some vision, as I do, can be blind. I like advocating for us
in this way. Using a cane does not arouse as much curiosity from the public
as Reyna does. Somehow people seem to want to avoid a person with a cane
more often than not. Reyna helps me to stay in the mainstream of life.
With the freedom of traveling with a dog guide comes certain
responsibilities, of course. I had to consider all of these carefully before
committing to train with my first guide Daniela in 2002. The dog must be
supervised at all times, which is somewhat like having a child with you
24/7. Even when Reyna sleeps, I have her within earshot so I can be aware if
she is sick or needs to go outside during the night (which hardly ever
happens, thankfully). I must keep her groomed daily, which includes
regularly brushing her teeth. I must keep her skills sharp by going through
her obedience routine often and walking with her regularly. I must pay for
food, toys, medicines, some vet care, and maybe kennel care upon rare
occasions. I must keep other people from feeding her, interacting with her
when the harness is on or hurting her. Sometimes people who fear dogs scream
when we come near, and sometimes people do not control their children around
Reyna. Sometimes they are downright rude by, insisting upon petting my dog
even after I have asked them to leave her alone. I must be prepared to be
patient with the public’s ignorance, patient with their questions, firm with
setting their boundaries, and considerate of their fears. I must give my
attention, approval, discipline, and lots of love-- sometimes even when all
I want to do is be left alone.
I must commit wholeheartedly to being a team player. That’s a tall order. I
chose to live this way, though, and it is one of the most freeing things I
have ever done. To travel through a mall without fear of running into people
or benches or kiosks while reading store signs is so much faster and fun
than using my cane. Crossing busy streets where the traffic is so loud I
cannot tell by the sound that a car is turning right on red in front of me
is not nearly so much work with a well-trained guide dog as with a cane
because my furry friend will not go forward into the street, even if I tell
her to. When the harness is off and my guide becomes just a well-trained
pet for a while, my family and I have the joy of playing with her. This is
especially fun at the beach, where she snaps at foam as the waves roll in
and furiously digs for sand crabs. At the lake she swims for two hours at a
time with no break except to paddle over to me occasionally, roll on her
back, and rest her head on my shoulder.
I hope I have given you readers who are considering training with a dog
guide some insight as you make your decision. And you devotees of the long
white cane, I want you to know that I am still appreciative of my long cane
and use it every day when Reyna is on tie-down. A person cannot even qualify
to get a dog guide without first being a proficient cane traveler, and a dog
guide is never a full replacement for the cane’s invaluable ticket to
freedom
Cane traveler, dog guide traveler--they are equally worthy lifestyles, and
each skill carries with it its own challenges and joys for the traveler.
<<< >>>
National Association of Guide Dog Users Sponsors
INNOVATIVE HOTLINE
Submitted by Marion Gwizdala
The National Association of Guide Dog Users (NAGDU), a strong & proud
division of the National Federation of the Blind, sponsors an innovative
telephone service. The NAGDU Information & Advocacy Hotline not only offers
information about the legal rights of individuals who use service animals,
it offers the option to speak with an advocate who is trained to resolve
access denials. According to the federal guidelines that took effect on
March 15, 2011, , a service animal is “any dog that is individually trained
to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a
disability”. (28 CFR Part 35.104 & 28 CFR Part 36.104).
“We find that most access problems are the result of a lack of information,”
says Michael Hingson, the Association’s Vice President who serves as Project
Manager for the hotline. “This hotline is an excellent resource for accurate
information.”
The NAGDU Education & Advocacy Hotline currently offers general information
about service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as
well as specific guidance concerning restaurants, taxicabs, and health care
facilities. Callers needing immediate assistance can connect directly to a
live trained advocate. Future plans for the hotline include summaries of
each of the state laws concerning service animals, more industry specific
information, and guidance in a variety of languages, such as Spanish,
Mandarin and Arabic. The Hotline is available anytime by calling,
toll-free,888-NAGDU411 (888-624-3841).
The NAGDU Information & Advocacy Hotline was created by a grant from the
National Federation of the Blind’s (NFB) Imagination Fund, as well as with
contributions from the California and Florida Associations of Guide Dog
Users. The National Association of Guide Dog Users is a strong and proud
division of the NFB. NAGDU conducts public awareness campaigns on issues of
guide dog use, provides advocacy support for guide dog handlers who face
discrimination, supports effective legislation to protect the rights of
service animal users, offers educational programs to school and civic
organizations, and functions as an integral part of the National Federation
of the Blind. For more information about the National Association of Guide
Dog Users or to support its work, you can visit their website at
<http://www.nagdu.org/> HTTP://WWW.NAGDU.ORG
Or send an email message to
<mailto:Info at NAGDU.ORG> Info at NAGDU.ORG
<<< >>>
The Long White Cane
By Kate Smith
I just finished a summer teaching in the Summer Training and Employment
Project (STEP) at the Louisiana Center for the Blind. It was a remarkable
experience in so many ways, but one thing that was particularly eye-opening
for me was how thoroughly the STEP teenagers embraced the long white cane.
They even wrote and performed a song for their talent show which included
the line "find yourself with a long white cane." Isn't that awesome? They
really took to heart the NFB message that the cane meant independence and
freedom for them. And what teenager does not want independence and freedom?
A few days after I returned from Louisiana, I had the pleasure of going to
my daughter's baby shower. A dear old friend, Georgia, was there, wearing a
lovely pink outfit honoring my soon-to-be-born granddaughter. Georgia is in
her early 80s and she has macular degeneration. As usual, when we meet these
days, Georgia and I talked about our mutual encroaching blindness. Georgia
knows all about my training at the LCB and this time, she was curious about
my decision to teach in the STEP program. I quickly stepped onto my soapbox
to tell her how dismal education services can be for blind and partially
sighted K-12 kids, and set about describing how the STEP program, like all
the programs offered at LCB, encourages blind people to be independent.
I told Georgia that some of the teens had a little useful vision and had not
used a cane very much before the summer, but their skills rapidly improved
in the STEP program. I described how one of the girls who feared crossing
streets under a blindfold had stayed at a street corner for nearly half an
hour on her first day in class, never making the decision to go -- and how
that same girl was confidently and proudly crossing streets after a few
weeks in the program. I enthusiastically told Georgia how the STEP students
walked home from a restaurant at night, attended the Peach Festival in
Ruston, went to the farmer's market, and independently shopped at the
Boardwalk in Shreveport.
"They did all those things?" Georgia was impressed that vision-impaired
teenagers could be so independent. "Sure," I answered, "they were really
motivated and excited about doing things with their peers--and without their
parents hovering about." She chuckled at that, and shook her head
knowingly. Like myself, Georgia knows from personal experience that
teenagers value their independence above all else. That desire for
independence keeps a lot of younger folks committed to their training in
STEP and the LCB adult program.
Before we parted, I told Georgia that there are retreat weekends for seniors
at the LCB and reminded her that she could get a free cane at the NFB site
on the Internet. Although her son began to make encouraging noises, Georgia
quickly shook her head dismissively. "I don't need that yet," she said.
Of course, I said no more. Georgia has her own choices to make about how to
deal with her vision loss. But I am always curious when I meet a blind
person who resists carrying a white cane because they have some limited
vision. Why not use every tool available to deal with the difficulties?
Now, I really shouldn't be wondering that at all, because I resisted
learning blindness techniques myself for many years. And probably for the
same reason ... like Georgia, I have residual vision enough to navigate
around obstacles and see bright colors like pink. Until recently, I just
didn't think of myself as being blind. But my "vision impairment" sure
caused me a lot of problems. Before I learned how to use a cane, I could
not walk around at night and I wouldn't consider going to a crowded street
festival or the farmers market. Shopping by myself was out of the
question, too.
And that was not all. While I was still stubbornly insisting I wasn't blind,
I expected my daughter to help me shop for groceries and I wanted my son to
take the day off from work and drive me to the doctor. I repeatedly asked
my husband to look for my sweater ... my cell phone ... my tea cup. And he
had to sweep the floor ... walk the dog ... fold my socks ... plug in the
lamp ... fill the coffeepot ... in short, endlessly wait on me. Because I
didn't know how to do those things anymore. Or rather, the way I had
learned to do those things was not working for me anymore. In fact, I was
clearly blind long before I was willing to believe it.
I knew I needed to change the way I did things, so I finally learned some
blindness techniques like using the white cane. But everyone is different.
Perhaps Georgia does not feel too restricted by her vision loss. And maybe
her family lives closer and doesn't work or raise children. I only hope
that Georgia does not tell herself she's too old to learn new things or to
do much anyway. She has too many good years left to sit rocking on the
porch.
And I wonder if Georgia has considered how a cane could help her in ways
other than getting around obstacles? I know I did not know how a cane could
help me until I had been using one for a while. Did you know that you can
use a cane to find something you dropped just by laying it flat on the
ground and sweeping it in a wide arc around you? And of course, a cane can
tell you whether that dark spot on the ground in front of you is a shadow or
a hole. My husband suggests that it could be used to poke one's spouse
awake -- I promise you I have never done that. But, hmmm, that brings to
mind all sorts of possibilities . . . .
Seriously, I know some folks think carrying a cane is like carrying a sign
that shouts, "I am blind." But who do they think they are kidding? When
they go shopping they hold a can of beans two inches from one of their eyes
and tilt their head sideways so as not to block the light. And then they
ask their companion if it’s a can of beans. And at the family reunion, they
bend way down close to the buffet table, looking for the mashed potatoes but
looking for all the world like they are sniffing the food. They carry on a
conversation with the person next in line at the grocery store, not
realizing his comments are directed to the person at the other end of his
cell phone call. And they have, at least once, tried to get into a
stranger's car just because it’s the same color as the car they came in.
I have done all of those things and I have heard many similar stories from
my blind compatriots, particularly those who lost their sight slowly and
incompletely. There is something about that little bit of vision that keeps
our brains believing we are getting along alright doing things the same old
way. We have just enough vision to get us in trouble.
Maybe Georgia will eventually see some value in getting a cane. She has
already begun to show one sign of acceptance -- she tells her friends and
relations that she can no longer see well enough to recognize who they are.
When I started to do that, I had crossed a Rubicon -- every time I
communicated my vision loss to others, I was admitting to my heart and soul
that I was going blind. The relief was tremendous, because I was no longer
working so hard to keep up appearances. It was only a small step from there
to being glad that the cane announced my blindness to the world. It was a
relief to know I could ask the kid at the cash register in McDonald's for
help reading the menu, and that he could see I wasn't illiterate.
For me, the white cane represents more than a means to get around physical
obstacles; it represents a way to get around the obstacles I built for
myself in my head. It reminds me that, instead of thinking, "I can't do
that," I need to think "how can I do that?" And, yes, it tells the entire
world that I am blind. But that's not all it says. In fact, it proudly
shouts, “I am blind, and I'm dealing with it and I'm OK." And I can live
with that.
<<< >>>
White Cane Walk
Please join the Alabama White Cane Walk being held on October 19, 2013 at
the Disability Rights & Resources Center, 1418 Sixth Avenue, North,
Birmingham. The route is from the Disability Rights and Resources Center to
Linn Park. Registration begins at 8:00 AM and the walk begins at 9:00.
The following activities will take place: Free Vision Screenings; Hands-On
Activities; Recreation; Entertainment; Career Exploration; Assistive
Technology; Low Vision Aids; Blind and Low Vision Resources & Assistance
For more information and to register online, visit our website at:
<http://alabamawhitecaneday2013.weebly.com>
http://alabamawhitecaneday2013.weebly.com
<<< >>>
Apple Core
Where Did I Put My Shopping List?
By Susan K. Povinelli
I remember growing up that my mother had a note taker which contained a four
inch roll of paper. She used the note taker to write her grocery list, or a
to-do list. These notes were helpful reminders of what items my mom needed
or what tasks she had to accomplish. Now that I think about it, she would
post notes in many different places. She would also hang notes on the
kitchen cupboard door or on the front of the refrigerator by using magnets.
I guess I have picked up a few of her bad habits. I love using my slate and
stylus to generate shopping lists, but I find it difficult to check them off
when I am done. I also hate it when you get to the store and remember your
shopping list is still hanging on the refrigerator. And, what about the
times when your spouse reminds you that you need to buy something and you
are miles away from your list?
One thing I wanted to learn to do with my IPhone was to create lists. I
tried a few of the grocery list applications, but they weren’t user
friendly. Then I came across Listo by SlippySoft, Inc. Listo helps you
keep grocery lists, a list of books to read, your to-do list and on and on.
The lists are available whenever and wherever you need them. Listo is simple
to use. You double-tap on the “Add New list” button and then type in the
list name and press Done.
Once you have created the list, open it by double-tapping on the list name.
Once in the list, you will see the following buttons: “My List Back,”
“Export List,” “Re-order Items,” “Clear Complete,” and “Add Items.” Just
like paper lists, you add items and cross them off. Cross off completed
item such as cheese, by double-tapping on the item. The item is visually
crossed off, Voice Over says “Cheese completed,” and the completed item
moves to the bottom of the list. I like this feature because I don't have
to read them again. You can turn off this automatic feature in settings.
Completed items remain on your list, so you can un-cross them to re-use next
week, or double-tap the “clear completed” button to remove all the completed
items from your list.
The items on a list can be rearranged. Double-tap on the “Re-order Item”
button. You will hear “re-order (the item name), dragable” button.
Double-tap and hold until you hear the chime. Slide your finger in any
direction until you get to the desired position on the list, lift your
finger, and then double-tap on the “Done” button.
I have sent lists by email or text message to Larry when I wanted him to
pick something up at the store for me, by double-tapping on the “Export
Items” button. Listo does not have the capability of printing directly to a
printer. I work around this difficulty by sending my list to my printer’s
email address.
Listo uses iCloud to keep your lists instantly up-to-date on all your ios
devices. Listo assigns a device tag for each item so you know who added it
to the list. Share and Unshare lists by tapping on the gear icon to access
list settings. In the settings application, ensure that all your devices are
logged into the same iCloud account and that "Documents & Data" is on. I
would recommend that you use a bluetooth earphone so you can hear it better
while shopping.
So stop writing yourself notes on sticky notes, 3 by 5 cards, or the back of
that napkin. Stop losing those paper lists you leave laying around the
house. Join the technology age and create a list in Listo and you'll never
lose your list again. You can always call your phone and find it.
<<< >>>
Phone Faith Chat Line is Going Strong
By Barbara Manual
The Chat Line is reaching its goal of educating, inspiring and connecting
the blind community. We are receiving the approval and support of more and
more individuals willing to join the movement!
Recently we initiated a “Fitness Room,” room 348, Monday through Friday,
8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Jenny from Indiana hosts “Walk Away the Pounds.”
Michael Talley continues to “WOW” everyone with “The BEP Round Table. People
are calling in from Massachusetts, Oregon, Texas, Florida, Georgia, and
South Carolina, just to mention a few states participating.
All roads will lead to Montgomery this December as we once again have our
“Great Gathering” with our Phone Faith Family!
Join us as we forge into our “Bright Future!”
<<< >>>
EXTREME EXPERIENCE RETREAT (E E R)
September 29 – October 2nd, 2013 --Andalusia, Alabama
4 days and 3 nights All inclusive fellowship, education, recreation
and joy-filled community. Come “see” Blue Lake Camp through different eyes
as we host the 4th Annual Extreme Experience Vision Retreat for blind and
sight-impaired adults. Independent living skills, technology training,
medical awareness, and everyday tips are taught by experts who are
themselves sight impaired. Attendees swim in Blue Lake, enjoy the water
Slides, go fishing, shoot archery, hit the driving range, crafts, community
sharing and campfire and many other exciting activities are offered!
Extreme Experience Retreat is a partnership of Blue Lake Camp and the
Covington County Blind and Low Vision Outreach group
$190.00 for this all inclusive learning workshop.
Call for more details!
Wanda Scroggins (334) 428-3335
Email: <mailto:wareaglewanda at gmail.com> wareaglewanda at gmail.com .
Or
<http://www.BLUELAKECAMP.com> www.BLUELAKECAMP.com
334-222-5407
8500 Oakwood Lane Andalusia, AL. 36420
<<< >>>
Easy Holiday Recipes
Submitted by The Magic City Chapter
SPOON BREAD CASSEROLE:
(6-8 Servings)
• 1 pkg. "JIFFY" Corn Muffin Mix
• 1/2 cup margarine or butter, melted
• 1 can (8 oz.) whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 can (8 oz.) cream style corn
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 eggs
________________________________________
Preheat oven to 375°, grease 1-1/2 quart casserole dish.
Pour margarine or butter and corn into prepared dish. Blend in sour cream.
In separate bowl, beat eggs and stir into casserole along with muffin mix.
Blend thoroughly. Bake 35-40 minutes or until center is firm. Serve hot with
butter.
Submitted by Montgomery Chapter
CRANBERRY AMBROSIA:
2 cups sugar
3 cups water
2 apples
2 oranges
2 cups cranberries
Boil sugar and water together for 5 minutes. Add peeled and sliced apples
and cook slowly for 15 minutes. Add oranges, cut in thin slices, and
cranberries, and continue cooking for 10 minutes longer.
Serve cold with meat or poultry, or as a dessert.
EASY CHRISTMAS WASSAIL:
1 qt. cranapple juice
2 cinnamon sticks
6 whole cloves
Simmer for at least 20 minutes on low to medium. Let spices sit in juice for
an hour before turning on heat for best flavor.
This looks so pretty in clear mugs with an orange slice on the mug.
<<< >>>
Thank you for reading this issue of The Focus: Alabama's Blind Community At
A Glance. Our first year has been a success. We appreciate those who took
the time to contribute articles to this issue.
Contact me if you have any questions or comments concerning this newsletter.
We would like to hear from you.
Gail Smith, Editor
mail.gailsmith at gmail.com
(205) 221-1514
Robert Leslie Newman
Personal Website-
Adjustment To Blindness And Visual impairment
http//www.thoughtprovoker.info
NFB Writers’ Division, president
http://www.nfb-writers-division.net
Chair of the NFB Communications Committee
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