[Nfbk] NFBK Kentucky Cardinal Winter 2016

[Lora J Felty]

Table of Contents

 

 

Step up to the Plate. 3

NFB-NEWSLINE Kentucky Update. 4

2016 NFB Washington Seminar 7

An Update from Kaley Outlaw: 8

All About Our NFB of Kentucky Academic Scholarship Program   10

NFB of Kentucky Scholarships. 12

NFB National Scholarship Program.. 13

Chapter and Division News and Updates. 14

Have You Heard?. 20

Cruise News. 22

Cook's Nook. 23

Executive Officers. 26

Board of Directors. 27

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE KENTUCKY CARDINAL

WINTER 2016

 

A publication of the National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky

 

Cathy Jackson, President

210 Cambridge Drive

Louisville, Kentucky 40214

Phone: (502) 366-2317

 

 

Edited by: Lora Felty Stephens & Todd Stephens

1127 Sharon Court

Ashland, Kentucky 41101

Phone: (606) 324-3394

E-mail:

 <mailto:lorafelty at windstream.net> lorafelty at windstream.net or
<mailto:todde.stephens at windstream.net> todde.stephens at windstream.net 

 

Editorial staff:

 

Jennifer Hall

Email:   <mailto:Jennifer.hall at tds.com> Jennifer.hall at tds.com

Kennetta Freholm

Email:  <mailto:Kennetta.freholm at ky.gov> Kennetta.freholm at ky.gov 

 

We invite and encourage your participation in this newsletter.  Articles may
be edited for length, and the editors reserve the right to judge suitability
for this publication.  Material must take the form of an attachment to an
e-mail and may be submitted to any of the editors.

 

 


Step up to the Plate


 

A Message from Our President:

 

Cathy Jackson

 

First of all, let me say a big thanks to those of you who have always been
there to take on whatever task or tasks need to be done in our Affiliate.  I
have said it many times before and it deserves to be said again; "I can't do
it without all of you."

 

I try very hard to spread the work load around.  Most often I will start by
assigning our NFB of Kentucky board members chair positions and committee
appointments.  I try to look around to see who the active and interested
members are.  This is often times a more difficult task than you might
imagine.  Too many times I find myself assigning the same people to the same
positions year after year because I have failed to look deeper into the
membership.  The squeaky wheel usually gets the grease.  If someone
approaches me asking to take on a specific project I am grateful and
normally I don't hesitate to say YES.  Sometimes this method works, and
other times it doesn't.

 

I have been accused of showing favoritism.  I plead guilty to the charge.
When you have been in this organization for as long as I have, and the
president for sixteen years, it is almost easier to just let individuals
keep doing the jobs they are doing.  One learns very quickly who will follow
through without having to be coaxed and prodded every step of the way.  It
is disappointing and frustrating when individuals are given a task to do,
they agree to take on that task, then, they don't follow through.  Then,
others are left to scramble and pull things together that should have
already been done.  Some members are happy working behind the scenes while
others are more outgoing and can take on the bigger responsibilities.

You can help me make the National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky a more
productive Affiliate.  I invite you and encourage you to do so.  If you have
a particular interest and want to get involved please don't hesitate to let
me know.  My crystal ball isn't always so crystal clear.  I can't possibly
know the interests of every member.  There are individuals that say they
aren't active because they aren't given a job to do.  I understand
completely.  We all need to feel needed and welcomed as a part of the group.
But, it is your responsibility to voice your concerns to me directly, and
not your neighbor or best friend.  I am open to listening to your thoughts
and concerns.  Unfortunately, in the past, by the time I heard the rumors
that individuals were upset and feeling left out of the important work of
this organization, the appointments to the various committees were already
made. Let me say, there is plenty of work for all of us to do in this
organization, and there are numerous areas where your participation is
needed and encouraged.  Some of these opportunities are: legislation,
fundraising, scholarships, awards, mentoring, help with convention weekend
details, and membership building.  We are always looking for good writers
who can help with the editing and publishing of our Kentucky Cardinal
newsletter.

 

If you are interested in getting involved in a particular committee or
project, let me know.  If you have an idea or suggestion, I want to hear it
from you.  If I tell you that we have tried your idea before and it failed,
it is your chance and challenge to convince me that you can make it work.
Believe me, there is plenty of room for new ideas and a new twist to some
old ideas.  If you are willing to step up to the plate and take a swing, I
invite and encourage you to contact me by phone at 502-366-2317, or by email
at  <mailto:cathyj1949 at gmail.com> cathyj1949 at gmail.com.

 

What are your interests?  In what areas of the organization will your
talents be most useful?  It is up to all of us, members of the National
Federation of the Blind of Kentucky to use our gifts and talents to work
together to make our affiliate a strong and productive one.  This is your
chance to hit a homerun for the team. Go team NFBK!!!

 


NFB-NEWSLINE Kentucky Update


 

Below, Todd E. Stephens, State Coordinator and Project Manager of the
NFB-NEWSLINE Kentucky project provides an update of recent changes to the
management of the service and some new offerings it provides.

 

I'm sure than many, if not most, are already aware that the NFB-NEWSLINE
Kentucky project is now under the management of The National Federation of
the Blind of Kentucky. The service was formally managed by Independence
Place of Kentucky for more than a decade; however, at the end of the
contract period (October 31, 2015), both Independence Place and the National
Federation of the Blind felt it prudent not to consider extending the
contract beyond the current contract term. The NFB-NEWSLINE Kentucky
contract was subsequently awarded to NFB of Kentucky starting November 1,
2015.

 

I've served as state coordinator and project manager since January 2015 and
will continue to serve in this capacity under contract for the National
Federation of the Blind of Kentucky. Allow me to introduce the other members
of the Kentucky NFB-NEWSLINE team. Cathy Jackson serves as our NFB-NEWSLINE
Kentucky Program Manager. Adam Adkins of Louisville is our technical
coordinator and will be primarily responsible for the text mark-up necessary
to upload the Kentucky Bench and Bar Magazine onto the NEWSLINE service.
Diana Cline of Ashland is our Subscriber Support Representative and will be
responsible for subscriber outreach and monitoring our social media content.
Cathy and I are pleased to have both Adam and Diana working on this project.
We are fortunate to have Diana join the Kentucky NEWSLINE team as a
volunteer. Funding continues to be challenging, but we are hopeful that at
some point, we will be able to expand our current team. Recently, I have
written several grants and will continue to explore those options for
funding. As project manager, I will continue to seek the grants that are a
good match by which NFB-NEWSLINE appears to be an attractive proposition to
fund sponsors with regard to their philanthropic giving criteria. In the
meantime, let's all continue to spread the good word about NFB-NEWSLINE;
let's never overlook anyone who could potentially qualify for this service
based on a print impairment.

 

Social media is an excellent and inexpensive marketing tool. NEWSLINE
Kentucky has 1,934 current subscribers, which is a mere 1.5% of potential
subscribers in Kentucky. Not all who qualify will register for NEWSLINE, but
our goal is to introduce the NFB-NEWSLINER service as well as the countless
attractive features of this audio reading information service to the public
so that those who are print impaired can make an informed decision about
potentially subscribing. With this said, I am pleased to announce that
NFB-NEWSLINE Kentucky is now on Facebook! Check out the brand new
NFB-NEWSLINE Kentucky Facebook page! Be sure to click on the access link
below and Like Us. Please share your comments and experiences as well. The
links to the page are as follows:
<https://www.facebook.com/NFB-Newsline-Kentucky-1682406502002632/?> Facebook
<https://www.facebook.com/NFB-Newsline-Kentucky-1682406502002632/?> and the
alternative accessible link to Facebook
<https://m.facebook.com/audionewskentucky/?> M.Facebook
<https://m.facebook.com/audionewskentucky/?>.

 

Now, on to the less than pleasant topic that we must communicate to current
NFB-NEWSLINER subscribers. I must remind all NFB-NEWSLINER subscribers that
it is in violation of the terms and conditions of the service to share your
codes with anyone. These codes have been assigned to you and only you. If
you are married to or live with someone who is print impaired who is
interested in the service, they must establish their own credentials. I
would be remiss in not addressing forwarding email content captured on the
NEWSLINE service as well. It is never permissible to forward NFB-NEWSLINE
content. If said person is not signed up for the service, this would be an
excellent opportunity to refer them to me, or to our website:
<http://www.nfbnewsline-ky.org> http://www.nfbnewsline-ky.org where they can
complete our online application. Simply refer the current NFB-NEWSLINE
subscriber to the content/article where they can also capture and retrieve
the article via email.

 

The NFB National Office is always diligent in looking for ways to minimize
expenses as all responsible and successful organizations are. Current
subscribers who have free long distance plans can help to minimize telecom
charges incurred at the national level by simply selecting a Local Number to
use rather than the toll free number (888) 882-1629). You can select any
local access number of your choosing by following the instructions at:
<https://www.nfbnewsline.net/Nl2/NL2LocalAccessLookup.jsp>
https://www.nfbnewsline.net/Nl2/NL2LocalAccessLookup.jsp.

 

Over the last several months, the Kentucky Information Channel has gone
through a bit of an overhaul. There is more content, including content from
community partners. You can find the Wheels Paratransit Riders Guide, which
has been posted for quite some time, but more recently posted is the TARC
Rider's Guide. There could be an event posted just for you! Be sure you make
your way over to what's happening in our state.

 

Thank you all for your time. Let's pump NFB-NEWSLINER!

 


2016 NFB Washington Seminar


 

Well, the 2016 Washington Seminar of the National Federation of the Blind
was nearly the Washington Seminar that didn't happen.  During the weekend
prior to the beginning of the Washington Seminar our nation's capital was
bombarded with two feet of snow, Federationists scrambled to decide how to
deal with these circumstances.  In the over 30 years that our NFBK
president, Cathy Jackson, has attended Washington Seminars, this was the
first time that something like this had happened.  She said that in her
recollection, the seminar had often just missed snow, either prior to or
just after, and the seminar had not been affected.  Well, this year was a
bit different.  Originally, six Federationists from Kentucky planned to
attend the 2016 seminar, but due to flight cancellations and other
circumstances, only three members from Kentucky made it to D.C. this year.
Our president, Cathy Jackson, NFB of Greater Louisville treasurer, Jayne
Seif, and NFB of Lexington member, Chris Stewart braved the adversity and
arrived in D.C. to make our presence known.  Below is Jayne's account of
their experiences of the 2016 Washington Seminar.

 

They say that everything happens for a reason.  As we walked into the quiet
of the Washington Seminar we didn't at first know what that reason would be.

So much was different that one couldn't help but wonder what we were all
doing here.  We would soon find out.

 

At the end of the first day we knew that the government offices were closed.
The Great Gathering in had been moved to Tuesday morning.  And again with so
many missing and a change of schedule no one knew quite what to expect.
>From the first moment of the Great Gathering in the energy was as always
evident.  Emails were flying back and forth from people in the ball room to
the offices of Congress.  We expressed our willingness to still meet and so
many of them were willing as well.  And if they couldn't were much more open
to figure out a way to fit us in.   It is an atmosphere experienced only in
those moments where so many people are out of their normal lives and see a
certain camaraderie with others fighting the same circumstances. And I think
it made a difference this year even before we walked through the doors.

 

They say that everything happens for a reason and as we gathered on Tuesday
night we soon saw our reason.  As the intrepid blind met on force on an all
but deserted capitol hill, friendships were formed, contacts were made, and
the recognition of the spirit of people willing to brave the odds to get a
message heard was felt.  So many of our comrades from throughout the nation
met with Senators and Representatives that in years past were too busy to
meet with us. .  The stories poured out and fed the energy to go fourth on
the second day, despite outrageous emergency cab fares, and mountains of
piled snow reaching over the heads of most of us walking the streets of
Capitol Hill.

 

Though the trip was different than those of us in Kentucky had originally
anticipated, with some of our group unable to get out of the snowed in
airports, we as true Federationists got the job done.  We met with people in
the offices of all but one of our congress persons.  As a team we really
felt that we had said well all that we had come to say.  And for the first
time, though we have tried in years past, we were able to sit and talk with
Senator Rand Paul for the first time face to face.  Yes, this year may have
been a little different, but maybe this was the reason. We were able to show
that as with everything else in our lives the members of the National
Federation of the Blind are always going to show up in strength, to face
adversity, and have our message be heard.

 

 


An Update from Kaley Outlaw:


Our 2015 NFB of Kentucky Scholarship Winner

 

Hello everyone!

 

I have so many things to thank this organization for. The scholarship, of
course but also the experience of being at a convention surrounded by people
who are brilliantly and unapologetically blind, which was amazing. Thank you
for that.

 

My college experience has been absolutely amazing. I joined the loving
sisterhood of Pi Beta Phi Women's Fraternity and became the first legally
blind member of the Eastern Kentucky University Honors Program. As a legally
blind student, I'm faced with the added stress of having a disability. But
luckily, I've had amazing professors who go out of their way to work with
me, and wonderfully accepting friends that see my blindness as part the
beautifully wrapped package that is me.

 

I like to consider myself brilliantly blind; my friends would agree. I don't
hide my disability from them; I don't pretend to be something that I'm not.
In fact we joke about my blindness, a lot. I believe that laughter is the
best coping mechanism for something as impactful as a disability. I
understand that everyone deals with their disability in their own way and
that is their right, but this is my way. I laugh when I bump into things,
when I walk through the wrong door, when I bring out my mobility cane, when
I fall down, and they laugh too...right after they help me up. I bring up my
disability and I make them bring it up to encourage familiarity. This is
important. Because of that familiarity, when they meet another blind person
or any disabled person they'll feel comfortable enough to have a
conversation and treat them as a person, without the disability holding it
back. I understand that can be a little tricky, especially if you've never
seen a disabled person, or if you've only seen the stereotypical disabled
person. I know, I get it. People are unintentionally rude but I represent my
disability. Therefore it is my responsibility to disprove as many
stereotypes as I can and to leave a positive impact on whomever I can in the
best way possible. One less ignorant person is one more person on our side
of the line.

 

The National Federation OF THE Blind is a unique organization in that the
majority of its members are blind, legally blind, or visually impaired.
There are rules in place to keep it that way. Of course, you know this.
However, I call this "unique" because it is, and it shouldn't be. I've been
doing some research on disabilities. For my final paper in my honors class I
discussed "Disability and Quality of Life." I didn't focus on whether or not
a disabled person can live with a high quality of life, that's not what
intrigued me. What did was whether the answer was "yes" or "no". It was
almost always determined by someone without a disability. The perspective of
the disabled person whose life was being analyzed wasn't even considered.
That person's opinion on their own quality of life wasn't taken seriously.
Now of course, disability is a broad spectrum of functionality and severity,
but in all situations, no one took into account the opinion of the disabled
person. This came across to me as "disabled people don't have a say in
determining their own quality of life; their opinions don't matter." Which
is wrong! That's what I wrote my paper on, and I'm noticing that line of
thinking more and more. I'm planning continuing my research and presenting
it at a National Conference. I would love your blessing and input as I do
this.

 

Thank you again for the experience and with the warmest regards,

 

Kaley Outlaw

 


All About Our NFB of Kentucky Academic Scholarship Program


 

Lora Felty Stephens, chair of the NFB of Kentucky scholarship committee
shares some exciting changes to our scholarship program.

 

The National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky Scholarship Program began
nearly 20 years ago in 1997 when the Emerson Foulke Memorial Scholarship was
established to honor the recently deceased Emerson Foulke who had been a
long time, influential member of the NFB.  Our 1997 convention was one of
new beginnings and final farewells.  For those of us who have been around
for a number of years, we will remember that this convention was held at the
Holiday Inn on Broadway in downtown Louisville.  This was a special state
convention because we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the National
Federation of the Blind of Kentucky.

As a part of the celebration, we chartered our Kentucky Association of Blind
Students Division (KABS) during a Saturday luncheon.  Our former President
Emeritus, Kenneth Jernigan attended this convention as our national
representative.  Sadly, not long after the conclusion of this convention,
Dr. Jernigan learned that he had cancer.  As it turned out, our NFB of
Kentucky 50th anniversary convention would be the last state convention he
would attend before he passed away in 1998.

 

The first Emerson Foulke Memorial Scholarship was presented that year to Gnu
Nuenin, a student at the University of Louisville.  As time passed, and the
National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky suffered the loss of our own,
beloved state president, Betty J. Niceley in 2000, the Betty J. Nicely
Memorial Scholarship was established in 2004 to honor all of Betty's hard
work and dedication to the advancement of Braille literacy for the blind.
The first Betty J. Niceley Memorial Scholarship was presented to Mary
Harrod, also a student at the University of Louisville.

 

In 2008, our scholarship program continued to grow when long time members of
the National Federation of the Blind, Charles and Betty Allen worked to
endow the Charles and Betty Allen Scholarship fund.  As a celebration of
this new scholarship fund, three Charles and Betty Allen Scholarships were
presented to three individuals that year, along with the two established
scholarships.  So, a total of five scholarships were awarded at our 2008
state convention.

 

In reviewing the criteria for our established scholarships, the NFB of
Kentucky scholarship committee and board of directors realized that the
established criteria was somewhat limiting in the awards that we could
bestow.  Therefore, The NFB of Kentucky leadership agreed to establish the
NFB of Kentucky Scholarships.  These scholarships could be awarded to any
blind individual pursuing post-secondary education, even individuals who
attend school on a part time basis.  Several NFB of Kentucky Scholarships
have been awarded over the years.

 

Our academic scholarship program continues to evolve.  Lora Felty Stephens,
chairperson of the NFB of Kentucky scholarship committee, along with
scholarship committee members are in the process of developing an on-line
application.  Until now, the application was a paper application that could
be submitted by either Email or snail mail.  The committee feels that moving
to an on-line application makes the application process more efficient and
streamlined.

 

Below, you will see the specific criteria for our various scholarships.  If
you are a post-secondary student, we encourage you to apply for our
scholarship program.  If you are not in post-secondary study, we ask that
you share information regarding our scholarships to individuals who may be
eligible.

 

NFB of Kentucky Scholarship Awards and Honors

 

Emerson Foulke Memorial Scholarship

 

This scholarship in the amount of $1,000 is presented by the NFB of Kentucky
in honor of Emerson Foulke.  Emerson was a long time Federationist.  In his
career he worked as a professor of psychology at the University of
Louisville, where he served as director of the Perceptual alternatives lab.
He conducted countless research projects dealing with all aspects of
perception.  This scholarship will be presented to an individual studying
for a degree in psychology, science, research, technology or
education/teaching.

 

 

Betty J. Niceley Memorial Scholarship

 

This scholarship in the amount of $1,000 is awarded by the NFB of Kentucky
in memory of Betty J. Niceley, long time president of the NFB of Kentucky.
Betty worked for many years at the Kentucky Department for the Blind.  She
served as president of NAPUB (National Association to Promote the Use of
Braille) and served on the BANA (Braille Authority of North America) board.
Braille was near and dear to Betty's heart.  Throughout her life, she was a
tremendous advocate for Braille.  This scholarship will be awarded to an
individual who reads Braille and finds it an essential part of his/her daily
life.

 

Charles and Betty Allen Scholarships

 

These scholarships in the amount of $1,000 are endowed by Charles and Betty
Allen, long time members of the Frankfort Chapter of the NFB of Kentucky.
Charles Allen has served in various leadership positions on both a state and
national level, and his wife, Betty has been by his side to support all of
the work of the NFB.  In order to be eligible for this scholarship, an
individual must be a resident of Kentucky and a member of the National
Federation of the Blind of Kentucky.  The applicant must be recommended by a
fellow member of the NFB of Kentucky.  Individuals receiving this
scholarship must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 and must provide
proof of enrollment in a full-time college or university program.  Priority
will be given to any applicants who are totally blind.

 


NFB of Kentucky Scholarships


 

NFB of Kentucky scholarships in the amount of $500 and/or $1,000 may also be
awarded to deserving candidates.  These scholarships may be awarded to
either full time or part time students who meet the criteria set forth below
in the general eligibility criteria section.

 

General Eligibility Criteria:

 

All applicants must be either legally blind or visually impaired and/or
eligible to receive services from the Kentucky Office for the Blind.  Proof
of legal blindness or a statement of eligibility from the Kentucky Office
for the Blind must be provided as documentation.

Students receiving scholarships must attend an accredited college,
university or on-line program.

Applicants must reside in Kentucky and/or attend a post-secondary school in
Kentucky.  Students who participate in on-line programs based in Kentucky,
but do not have any physical ties to Kentucky, i.e. are not physically in
Kentucky, are not eligible to apply for these scholarships.

Scholarship finalists must attend and participate in all activities at the
annual state convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky.
The NFB of Kentucky state convention takes place annually during a weekend
in late September or early October.  Convention expenses are covered as a
part of the scholarship program.  .  Scholarship winners will be chosen
during the annual state convention.  Information in regards to convention
date and location is forthcoming.

 

Please visit our website at  <http://www.nfbofky.org>
www.nfbofky.org/scholarship.php for more information about our NFB of
Kentucky academic scholarship program.  Please note that the scholarship
application will be open on March 1, 2016 and the deadline to submit
applications and supporting documentation is July 15, 2016.

 

 


NFB National Scholarship Program


 

Now that you have heard all about our NFBk Scholarships, we want to put a
plug in for our national scholarship program.  The NFB offers 30
scholarships that range from $3,000 to $12,000.  These scholarships are
awarded during the banquet of the National Federation of the Blind that will
be held in Orlando, FL this summer.  The deadline to apply is March 31,
2016.  Please visit the  <http://www.nfb.org> www.nfb.org web site for more
details about these scholarships.  We encourage all post-secondary students
to apply.  If you are not a student, please share this opportunity with any
blind college students who you know.

 

 


Chapter and Division News and Updates


 

Lora Felty Stephens, president of the Ashland Chapter of NFBK tells of
recent happenings in the Ashland Chapter.

 

Christmas is a time to share warm memories with family and friends.  Once
again the members of the Ashland Chapter were welcomed into the home of
Michael and Kennetta Freholm to share the blessings of the Christmas season.
For those of you who don't know, Michael is an avid collector of antique
Christmas decorations.  Inside their home and all across their yard, we were
treated to a menagerie of Christmas magic.  This year, instead of an
ornament exchange, members decided to have a "white elephant" gift exchange.
So, what is that, you say?  Well.it can be nearly anything from an actual
"white elephant" to lemons for lemonade!  We all had a wonderful time making
new Christmas memories.

 

On February 8, Todd, Lora and Michael met other NFBK members in Frankfort to
meet with our Lieutenant Governor, Jenean Hampton, as well as, the Secretary
of the Workforce Development and Education Cabinet, Hal Heiner, and Senior
Senator, Julian Carroll to encourage legislators to continue to provide
funding for NFB Newsline and the Kentucky Office for the Blind.  It was an
exhausting day, but we were received positively and hope to make a
difference.

 

 

Ranelle Mackey, secretary of the Frankfort Chapter has this to share about
all of the Happenings in Frankfort since state convention.

 

Toward the end of November, us being such family oriented people, we decided
to let the turkey & fixings & pumpkin pie have priority over our meeting.

Then of course, we are heading into December and still in the family-party
mode.  We decided to have a potluck at Ranelle & George's home.  OH, What a
fun time!  As you know, we do lots of things to help children and others who
are less fortunate than ourselves.  So this year, once again, Charlie &
Betty Allen asked for each person to bring an unwrapped little toy to give
away.  As always, we had a pile of trucks, dolls, games, etc.  These were
taken to the Simon House and the Salvation Army.  This gave us a "Feel Good
Feeling".  Then of course we play a game called "Right-Left".  Now let me
explain, we all sit in a circle and everyone had brought a gift to exchange.
You number them and then each person gets a number in the circle (easier to
pass than actual gifts).  Ranelle read a cute story about the Wright Family
(totally made up) and Christmas and you guessed it, every time Wright or
Left was said, you passed your numbers accordingly.  At the end of the story
that is the number on the gift that you received.  Now we also like to toot
our own horn, or as in this case, ring our own bells.  Charlie & Betty Allen
set us up with a time and place, being Walmart, to make a little noise and
collect a little money for the Salvation Army.  Charlie, please, next year,
pick a day with no wind and a bit warmer.  We like to have frozen!  But, all
in all, with the help of Charlie, Betty, Ranelle, George, and Calvin Samuels
(one of our newer members), and others, we covered the day and had a good
time.  Now let me say a few words about "Mr. Calvin" OMG, does he have the
gift of gab.  Calvin has a heart the size of Texas!!  And a deep, rich voice
and had no problems using them.  He wished every person who passed by, donor
or not, blessings and a smile.  What a neat guy he is and we are truly
blessed to have him as a member of our organization.

 

Jennifer Hall, president of the NFBK Four Rivers Chapter has this to say
about the recent happenings in her chapter.

 

The four rivers chapter has had quite an exciting winter! In November, we
held our meeting and celebrated Thanksgiving at Chin's restaurant in
Paducah. It was an awesome experience in learning how to help one another
navigate such a restaurant! There were many different stations of Asian
cuisine to travel around. The staff was excellent in learning how to address
our needs.  In December, we celebrated Christmas and held our meeting at
Casa Mexicana restaurant in Paducah. We decided at the November meeting to
bring a special bit of Christmas to a visually impaired student who was in
need. Some of the members bought individual gifts to give to our student and
we held a raffle which helped us raise $100 to give to the family. In
January, we travel to the movies! Our goal was to teach both members and
movie employees about the importance of audio description. We still ran into
a few issues about not having the devices on the right setting. We are
continuing to have dialogue with the theater on an individual basis. We have
had some very exciting times getting to know one another and going over
issues that we would like to address over the next year! We would like to
wish everyone warmest wishes for the remainder of winter!

 

Tim McCann, a new member of the NFBK and the Four Rivers chapter is pleased
to be a part of our newest chapter of the NFBK.  Here is what he has to say.

 

The most immediate benefit of joining our Chapter was to expand my social
circle.    Since our group is so new I've yet to associate voices with
names, but that will come as we venture out into our community for new
experiences.  Already, we have taken in activities and speaking for myself,
I wouldn't have done on my own if not for our group.   For example, recently
we went to the local Cinemark Theater Complex to try out the Audio
Narration.     I had no clue such technology existed, but now that I know,
I'll be able to enjoy a movie with friends and family in the future.
Unfortunately, the theater staff mistakenly assumed all the units were
working properly, so everyone, depending on the narration, had to depend on
the old fashioned "theater of the mind",    but it wasn't all bad because
all of us were reminded to have the equipment tested before leaving the
counter.

 

Generally, joining the Four Rivers Chapter has been a really positive
experience for me and I look forward to the new friendships and things I'll
learn in the future.

 

Katie Adkins, president of the Greater Louisville Chapter of NFBK updates us
on the happenings in Louisville.  Here is what she has to say.

 

Greetings from Louisville!  The winter months have come to represent the
busiest, but best time of year for our chapter.

In December we held our annual Christmas party.   We had an untraditional
(but delicious!) meal catered by Mark's Feed Store, Santa came to visit our
wonderful kiddos, and we got to see some faces we hadn't seen at a meeting
in months/years.   Our members also came out in full force to show their
generosity and donate gifts to a family in need again this year.

As I write this article, I find our chapter less than a week away from our
annual chili supper and auction.  On February 20th, at Christ Church
Cathedral we will once again meet for our biggest fundraiser of the year.
Our members have worked diligently to get donations, and after compiling the
auction list I have no doubt that this year will be another success for our
chapter!   We hope our friends from across the state will once again be able
to make it this year!

Finally, we are in the early stages of planning this year's April Luncheon.
Look for more information to come on the NFBK listserv or our
Facebook/Twitter accounts.

 

Pamela Glisson, president of the NFB of Lexington has this to say about
happenings in Lexington and their participation in White Cane events during
Meet the Blind Month last October.

 

Reflections on the Eye Opening Symposium:

Looking ahead to Meet the Blind events in October 2016

 

The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) of Lexington has been an integral
part of raising awareness about the abilities of people who are blind and
organizing community events during October in recognition of the White Cane
Safety Day Act for the past twenty-one years.

 

In the mid-1990s, just after the chapter of the NFB of Lexington was
organized, the chapter began to host White Cane Safety Day events annually
during the month of October in the community to raise awareness and share
information regarding blindness issues.  Some examples of these events
included, Informational seminars, with the mayor presenting a proclamation
regarding White Cane Safety Day, exhibits at the public library to braille
names of patrons and disseminate materials about people who are blind and
share the National Federation of the Blind philosophy.  There were also
White Cane Day walkathons which promoted inclusion, independence and
empowerment to the participants who were blind.

 

White Cane Safety Day is a national observance in the United States,
celebrated on October 15 of each year since 1964. The date is set aside to
celebrate the achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired
using the white cane, an important symbol of blindness and a tool of
independence.

 

The background of the White Cane Safety Day Act is as follows:

In convention on July 6, 1963 the National Federation of the Blind called
upon the governors of the fifty states to proclaim October 15th of each year
as White Cane Safety Day in each of our fifty states. On October 6, 1964, a
joint resolution of the Congress, HR 753, was signed into law authorizing
the President of the United States to proclaim October 15th of each year as
"White Cane Safety Day." This resolution said: "Resolved by the Senate and
House of Representatives", that the President is hereby authorized to issue
annually a proclamation designating October 15 as White Cane Safety Day and
calling upon the people of the United States to observe such a day with
appropriate ceremonies and activities.'

 

Within hours of the passage of the congressional joint resolution
authorizing the President to proclaim October 15th as White Cane Safety Day,
then President Lyndon B. Johnson recognized the importance of the white cane
as a staff of independence for blind people. In the first Presidential White
Cane Proclamation President Johnson commended the blind for the growing
spirit of independence and the increased determination to be self-reliant
that the organized blind had shown. The Presidential proclamation said:

 

The white cane in our society has become one of the symbols of a blind
person's ability to come and go on his own. Its use has promoted courtesy
and special consideration to the blind on our streets and highways. To make
our people more fully aware of the meaning of the white cane, and of the
need for motorists to exercise special care for the blind persons who carry
it, Congress by a joint resolution approved as of October 6, 1964, has
authorized the President to proclaim October 15 of each year as White Cane
Safety Day.

 

Now, therefore, I, Lyndon B. Johnson, President of the United States of
America do hereby proclaim October 15, 1964 as White Cane Safety Day.

 

With those stirring words President Johnson issued the first White Cane
Proclamation which was the culmination of a long and serious effort on the
part of the National Federation of the Blind to gain recognition for the
growing independence and self-sufficiency of blind people in America, and
also to gain recognition of the white cane as the symbol of that
independence and that self-reliance.

There was a time when it was unusual to see a blind person on the street, to
find a blind person working in an office, or to see a blind person operating
machinery in a factory. This is still all too uncommon. However it does
happen more often.  People who are blind are able to participate in
community activities and compete with all others in society by the use of
the white cane.  With the proper training and use of the white cane, people
who are blind gain freedom, self-confidence, self-esteem and independence.

 

After a number of years of hosting and participating in community events, as
NFB of Lexington has continued to reach out into the community, it became
apparent that many times when people who are losing their vision or who have
family members who are blind or losing their vision, they did not know where
to turn after the diagnosis.  In addition, the health professionals did not
know where to refer the person when there was nothing more medically that
could be done.  Therefore, NFB of Lexington in collaboration with community
partners organized another annual White Cane Safety Day event, which is now
called Meet the Blind events, to bring together the health professionals,
blind professionals and service providers.  The focus was to provide
information about eye disease, eye research, as well as, consumer
organizations, services and programs.  The health professionals, service
providers and other participants learned that there is life after blindness.
The consistency of planning, organizing and developing partnerships brought
a number of community partners to the table to plan the Eye Opening
Symposium which was held on October 15, 2015.  This event was a grand
success with record breaking participant and vendor attendance.  Many
traveled from around the state to attend the widely publicized event.  There
were two hundred participants, thirty-four vendors and nine presenters.

 

Perhaps, this White Cane Safety Day event was so successful because of the
momentum that has grown with the annual events that NFB of Lexington has had
in the community of organizing these events and the inclusion of community
partners with the common goal to outreach and share information.  It was the
most successful to date and took months of planning, message in the media
and hard work.  The Symposium Planning Committee has had follow up meetings
to review participant's surveys and to wrap up the 2015 event.  The planning
committee is not quite sure what can be done to top the 2015 Symposium, yet
the committee is in the beginning stages of planning development.  NFB of
Lexington is excited to participate in the planning of the next Symposium
which will be October 6, 2016.  While the next White Cane Safety Day or Meet
the Blind event in your local community may not have 200 in attendance, now
is a good time to begin to plan for an event in October.  Community outreach
activity is important so that the nation's blind may live the life we want.
Organize a committee, set a date, reserve a location, develop an agenda and
let's Rock October with Meet the Blind events!

 

Todd E. Stephens, President of the NFB Kentucky Technology Assistance
Division shares the success of the 2015 TAD Symposium, as well as upcoming
plans for the 2016 event.  Here is what Todd has to say.

 

We had another fabulous turn-out for the NFBK TAD Symposium that took place
on Friday, September 25, 2015 at the Galt House in Louisville, KY. I want to
take this time, once again, to express our gratitude to our awesome
presenters: Barbara Penegor with Kentucky Talking Books; Danielle Burton
(TAD Board member) presenting on the KNFB Reader app; Roseanne Hoffman and
Larry Skutchan from American Printing House; Jim Fortman from Vision Aid
Systems; Dave Wilkinson from Hims Inc.; VaShaun Jones and Damashe Thomas
from Fedora Outlier, LLC; Jimmy Brown and Jerry Wheatley from Kentucky
Assistive Technology Service (KATS) Network; MacArthur Darby, Chris Stewart,
Danielle Burton, Cindy Sheets, and Jennifer Hall (Moderator), NFB-NEWSLINE
Roundtable Panelists; and last, but not least, Tonia Boyd-Gatton,
Extraordinaire Mistress of Ceremonies!

 

Where there is a will, there is a way! VaShaun Jones and Damashe Thomas
traveled from Atlanta Georgia on the Megabus, on their own dime arriving in
Louisville about 8:30 p.m. on the eve of the TAD Symposium. On the morning
of, VaShaun called me at 6:00 a.m. to ask me how he could help with the
set-up. I was thoroughly impressed by this gesture of friendship, kindness
and support. I'll have you know that VaShaun and Damashe Thomas stole the
show with their usual presentation of excellence on all things Apple. They
presented, answered all questions and departed about 45 minutes after their
presentation to catch Uber to get to their Megabus stop, which departed for
Atlanta a little after 4:00 p.m. They arrived safely in Atlanta early
Saturday morning. When I asked VaShaun to be a part of this symposium, he
said, "you ask and I'm there" Over the years, I've heard those words too
many times to count, but VaShaun didn't leave us hanging and he certainly
backed it up!

 

VaShaun is the President of Fedora Outlier. His firm is the first
nationally-recognized firm delivering consulting, teaching, and support in
blindness-related assistive technology for Apple. To learn more about Fedora
Outlier, VaShaun Jones, Damashe Thomas and the rest of the Fedora Outlier
staff, you may find their website at  <http://www.fedoraoutlier.com>
http://www.fedoraoutlier.com.

 

The Technology Assistance Division has gotten an early jump of exploring
funding options for the 2016 TAD Symposium. We are excited about as well as
hopeful that we can deliver an impactful symposium in 2016. The focus will
be a bit different from those in prior years. Our content has been in
training the trainer. The objectives in 2016, however, is to identify those
training opportunities that are most in demand from NFBK members and others
in the community that are affected by vision loss, so that we can offer
break-out training sessions giving all an opportunity to reach their goals
in learning more about assistive technology devices and software. We plan to
circulate a survey to find out from you where your interests in assistive
technology applications might be. The survey will be generated by Survey
Monkey, so stay tuned.

 

Thank you for this opportunity and don't forget to visit our website at
<http://www.nfbkentuckytad.org> http://www.nfbkentuckytad.org.

 

 


Have You Heard?


 

Congratulations to Katie Adkins, president of the NFB of Greater Louisville
and 1st vice-president of the NFB of Kentucky.  Last semester she completed
her student teaching, and in December Katie graduated from the University of
Louisville with a Master's of Arts in Teaching.  Katie is in the midst of
interviewing for a teaching position in Jefferson County Public Schools.
Congratulations, Katie, and best of luck with the job search!

 

Our warmest congratulations go out to Danielle Burton, a junior at Morehead
State University and member of the Kentucky Technology Assistance Division
board of directors.  Danielle entered the Onkyo Braille Essay Contest, with
only a hope of being among the top entries.   The Onkyo Braille Essay
Contest is an international contest sponsored by the World Blind Union. The
National Federation of the Blind coordinates the North-American and
Caribbean region of the competition. Competitors in the Braille Essay
Contest must submit an essay of 800 to 1000 words in hard copy braille along
with a digital copy. The essays had to pertain to at least 1 of 3 topics
which were: 1. How blind persons acquire knowledge through braille or audio.
2.  How blind persons become independent through braille literacy, and 3.
World peace from the viewpoint of an individual with a disability.

The essay contest was divided into two categories, a junior and senior
division. The junior category was for individuals under age 25 and the
senior category was for individuals over 25.  Prizes are awarded in each
category, with a top prize winner being selected among both categories. This
top award is the OOTUSKI award and is given to one winner among all the
essays in both categories.  Danielle Burton received the 2015 Ootuski award
in the Onkyo Braille Essay Contest. She was awarded $2,000, along with a
plaque, and an iPod Shuffle. Danielle says, "I entered the contest with only
a hope of placing. I never dreamed I would receive the top award!"
Danielle, congratulations!  We are very proud of your accomplishments!  If
you would like to read Danielle's award-winning essay, please click on
<http://www.nfbofky.org/danielle_burton_essay.rtf> Danielle Burton's Braille
Essay, which is located on the NFB of Kentucky website.

 

Joseph Boggs to receive the Yes I Can Award

 

Joseph Boggs, a deaf/blind student at Tates Creek High School and member of
NFB of Lexington has been selected to receive the Yes I Can award in
recognition of his achievements.  He will receive this award in June, 2016.
The Yes I Can awards honor children and youth with exceptionalities who
shine.  The Council for Exceptional Children has recognized the
accomplishments of thousands of students since the program started in 1982.

Award Benefits:

Each 2016 Yes I Can award recipient will attend a special awards ceremony
and celebration of the Council for Exceptional Children 2016 Convention and
Expo in St. Louis, MO, receive two nights hotel accommodations, receive a
Yes I Can Star trophy, be featured on the Council for Exceptional Children
web site, be asked to share his story to help promote the Yes I Can program
and to help the Council for

Exceptional Children advocate for children and youth with disabilities to
share gifts or talents.

In addition, Joseph has been invited to speak to a large group of educators
at the University of Kentucky.  Joseph's family provides strong support to
him and NFB of Lexington is honored to be a part of Joseph's support system.
Joseph's hard work, determination and self-advocacy to live independently
are commendable and NFB of Lexington is excited to celebrate with him.

 

Congratulations, Joseph, to you and the entire Boggs family.  We in the NFB
of Kentucky are very proud of you and your accomplishments!  Have a
wonderful time in St. Louis this summer!

 


Cruise News


 

While most of us remained here in Kentucky enduring the frigid winter
temperatures, some of our friends from Frankfort and Louisville sailed off
to the sunny, warm Caribbean for a week of relaxing in the warm sunshine.
Here is what Ranelle Mackey has to say about their adventures.

 

In January Ranelle and George, of the Frankfort Chapter, along with friends
from Greater Louisville, took a trip that must be mentioned.  Denise &
Dennis Franklin, along with their daughter and son-in-law, as well as our
state president, Cathy Jackson & former OFB counselor, Ann Burge, went
Cruising. Not cars think BIG, SHIP! Independence of the Sea!  What a great
bunch to travel with! We had such a good time in Jamaica & Haiti!  We left
in the nick of time, as snow & ice arrived as we made our escape (plane had
to be de-iced before takeoff).  Then, it was smooth sailing in warm
temperatures, 80-90 degrees!  Then on our return home we came back to single
digits!  What a shock to our systems!  People asked, "Why did you come
back?"  Funds were depleted, so sad!  All were homeward bound.  It was back
to reality for all of us, but we have lots of wonderful memories of our fun
days in the sun!

 

 


Cook's Nook


 

The following recipes come from the kitchen of Jayne Seif, who serves as
treasurer of the Greater Louisville Chapter.  Jayne's husband, Phil, serves
as the web master for our NFB of Kentucky website.  I am sure that husband
Phil and their three daughters quite enjoy these delicious recipes.

 

Jayne's Taco Supper

 

This recipe is quick and easy.  Perfect for work or school nights

 

Ingredients:

1 lb. Ground Beef or Ground Turkey

1 Can Refried Beans

1/4-1/2 Cups Taco Sauce of your choice

1 Can Crescent Rolls

8oz. Sour Cream

2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese

 

Brown Ground beef and in the same pan add refried beans and taco sauce.
Cover bottom of 9/13 inch cake pan with crescent rolls. Layer meat mixture
on top of rolls.  After spreading smooth, a fork works best to do this,
layer sour cream and cheese on top.  Cover with foil and bake on 350 degrees
for 25 minutes.

Variations:

If you want some crunch inside, add a layer of crushed Doritos or Cheez-it
crackers on top of the crescent rolls.  Additionally you can add bell
peppers, onions, or cilantro to the meat mixture.  Depending on your own
personal taste, you can experiment and have fun with this recipe.  Enjoy!!!

 

Broccoli Salad

 

This is a delicious addition to any meal.

 

Ingredients:

1 head of broccoli

6-8 slices of bacon cooked and crumbled

1/2 cup chopped red onion

1/2 raisins, optional

8 oz. of sharp cheddar, cut into very small cubes

1 cup of mayonnaise

2 tbs white vinegar

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes

1 small bag sliced almonds

1/2 cup sunflower seeds

Salt and pepper if desired

 

Remove stalks and cut and wash broccoli. Put your bite sized broccoli into a
large bowl.  Add the crumbled bacon, onion, raisins, and cheese.  Combine
all other ingredients in small bowl and stir well. Add to the large bowl and
toss gently.

 

Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

 

For those of you who won those yummy chocolate chip cookies that were given
as door prizes during the 2015 NFBK state convention, well, here is the
recipe.  You can make them for yourself when you are craving a delicious,
sweet snack.

 

Ingredients:

2 sticks Margarine

3/4 Cups Brown Sugar

1/4 Cups Granulated Sugar

2 Eggs

1 tsp. Vanilla

1 tsp. Baking Soda

1 Small Package Vanilla Instant Pudding

2 1/2 Cups Flour

12 oz. Chocolate Chips

 

Mix softened margarine, sugars, and eggs, with a fork for best results. Add
in all other ingredients, following the list above.  Be sure everything is
mixed thoroughly.  Drop by teaspoonful onto a cookie sheet and bake at 375
degrees for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.

Variations: Although the recipe calls for 12oz. of chocolate chips, I often
use half the bag, as the cookies are so rich.  Additionally, feel free to
use any flavor of pudding or chips you like to give this cookie a new flair.
Feel free to be creative!!

 

 

National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky

Officers and Board of Directors

2015-2016

 


Executive Officers


 

Cathy Jackson, President

210 Cambridge Dr.

Louisville, KY 40214

(502) 366-2317

 <mailto:cathyj1949 at gmail.com> cathyj1949 at gmail.com

 

Katie Adkins, First-Vice President

2025 Brownsboro Rd.

Louisville, KY 40206

(502) 533-5933

 <mailto:kcpenn01 at louisville.edu> kcpenn01 at louisville.edu

 

Dennis Franklin, Second-Vice President

3639 Hurstbourne Ridge Blvd.

Louisville, KY 40299

(502) 499-0759

 <mailto:franklinvending2003 at yahoo.com> franklinvending2003 at yahoo.com

 

Lora Felty Stephens, Secretary

1127 Sharon Ct.

Ashland, KY 41101

(606) 324-3394

 <mailto:lorafelty at windstream.net> lorafelty at windstream.net

 

J. Mike Freholm, Treasurer

2012 Harris Way

Russell, KY 41169

(606) 839-0577

 <mailto:mike at SoundAdviceAdvocates.com> mike at SoundAdviceAdvocates.com

 


Board of Directors


 

Nickie Jackson Pearl

1014 Camden Ave

Louisville, Ky 40215

(502) 489-4457

 <mailto:NJP at twc.com> NJP at twc.com

 

Denise Franklin,

3639 Hurstbourne Ridge Blvd.

Louisville, KY 40299

(502) 499-0759

 <mailto:kyfranks at yahoo.com> kyfranks at yahoo.com

 

Jennifer Hall

216 Maddux Ave.

Salem, KY 42078

270-559-1780

 <mailto:Jennifer.hall at tds.net> Jennifer.hall at tds.net

 

George Stokes

202 Manor House Ln.

Frankfort, KY 40601

(502) 875-3111

george4581 at gmail.com

 

Michael Freholm

P.O. Box 6925

Raceland, KY 41169

(859) 608-2470

 <mailto:mfreholm at unbridledaccess.net> mfreholm at unbridledaccess.net

 

Todd Stephens

1127 Sharon Ct.

Ashland, KY 41101

859-433-5023

 <mailto:todde.stephens at windstream.net> todde.stephens at windstream.net

 

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