[NFBofSC] FW: [Community-Service] October 2021 Newsletter
Steve Cook
cookcafe at sc.rr.com
Mon Oct 4 22:50:49 UTC 2021
Steve Cook
District 2 State Board Member of the National Federation of the Blind of SC
President of the Columbia chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of SC
President of the Computer Science & Technology Division of the National Federation of the Blind of SC
The National Federation of the Blind of SC owns and operates Rocky Bottom Retreat & Conference Center. Below is a link to read more about Rocky Bottom and to make a reservation for a mountain retreat!
Rocky Bottom Retreat <http://rockybottomofsc.com/> & Conference Center
Please join the National Federation of the Blind of SC on Face Book at any of the below links!
National Federation of the Blind of SC on Face Book <https://m.facebook.com/NatFedofSouthCarolina/>
Computer Science <https://m.facebook.com/Computer-Science-Technology-Division-of-the-NFB-of-SC-343263089815304/> & Technology Division of the National Federation of the Blind of SC
Rocky Bottom Retreat <https://m.facebook.com/RockyBottomofSC/> & Conference Center
South Carolina Association of Blind Students
South Carolina Parents of Blind Children <https://m.facebook.com/groups/375092969314880?_rdr>
You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.
The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams.
From: Community-Service <community-service-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Maggie Stringer via Community-Service
Sent: Monday, October 4, 2021 5:59 PM
To: community-service at nfbnet.org
Cc: Maggie Stringer <ravensfan784 at gmail.com>
Subject: [Community-Service] October 2021 Newsletter
“Beyond the Six Dots”
National Federation of the Blind Community Service Division
October 2021 Newsletter
We use a white cane, slate & stylus, and screen readers in between,
We read from the left, write from the right, and will tap tap onto any scene.
We want our communities to know what we’ve got, a commitment to serve,
Beyond the Six Dots!
THE MAGIC OF AUTUMN
We are about to tickle your orange. You might wanna be careful drinking your pumpkin spice latte. It’s time to get the laughs going with the funniest autumnrrific jokes around!
1) What did the tree say to autumn? Please leaf me alone!
2) How do you fix a broken pumpkin? With a pumpkin patch!
3) What did one autumn leaf say to another? I’m falling for you!
Don’t think about it, laugh about it!
ROLLING OUT THE RED CARPET
Okay devoted readers, it’s time to get your calendars up and out! You’ve got a Blind Date with The National Federation of the Blind Community Service Division & Friends! HANDS UP & JOIN US!
With your most permanent writing utensil, mark your calendar for Saturday, October 23, 2021 at 2 PM Eastern. If you believe in arriving to appointments on the early side of the clock? Guess what? You could be a winner of a fabulous POPUP prize. Make your presence known at 1:45 PM for some Zoom Voom Room festivities.
So don’t delay! Register today! You must register and be present when your name is called to win the POPUP prizes. Registration will end on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at 5 PM Eastern. Make it a family and friends affair, and share the link with everyone you know. We’re gonna brag and say this will be our most spectacular Blind Date ever!
Without Delays, Register TO-DAY!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScXxlHQM4mGfUXV-sf4uxwsDJt4rWi0ZZBRaEkxMbAUJgLRCA/viewform?embedded=true" width="640" height="1416" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0">Loading…</iframe>
“There are many spokes on the wheel of life. First, we're here to explore new possibilities.” by Ray Charles
CONFIDENCE IN YOUR STRIDE
National White Cane Safety Day is just a tap tap away. Celebrate the skills of blind people like yourself on October 15th! This day marks the importance of one of our most prized possessions, our WHITE CANES! Our canes are not only an invaluable tool for navigation, it is also a symbol of independence.
As we pay tribute to Blind Equality Achievement Month, we must remember to continue to educate the general public on the importance and significance of our white canes. The sighted society may under estimate the scale of safety and freedom in which our white canes provide. We have all have had encounters where bystanders have disrupted our path or attempt to steer us in another direction. Let’s put an end to the unawareness and educate the world on October 15th!
Post your White Cane Awareness events on our Community Service Facebook page:
<http://www.facebook.com/communityservicedivision/> www.facebook.com/communityservicedivision/
Join the NFB of Delaware on Friday, October 15th at River Front for their White Cane Walk event! For more information, visit their website:
<https://www.nfbde.org/> https://www.nfbde.org/
“When life hands you a white cane, change the world’s view one tap at a time!”
GROWTH, MINDSET & PRIDE
Contributed by Daria Bannerman
In either my junior or senior year of high school, my peers and I were sitting in the gym on these really hard and uncomfortable bleachers. We were listening to this inspirational speaker with cerebral Palsy share her story in how she pushes through life and what it takes to be an employed, disabled woman. Her testimony was so powerful, I remember her talking about the different gears she uses to operate her vehicle and her educating us on how she advocated for her needs by learning her rights. I want to share with all of you, a brief part of her message as we honor Disability History & Awareness month.
“What is Disability History & Awareness month?
I’m glad your curiosity piqued. Each year in October, people with disabilities across the country celebrate Disability History & Awareness month to increase awareness, respect, and acceptance of people with disabilities. In addition, Disability History and Awareness Month brings a sense of pride to this population. People with or without disabilities can bring awareness to the qualities, skills, and abilities people with disabilities offer and contribute to society, whether it’s through volunteering to give back to the community, or through educating others about how people with disabilities interact with family friends, and the workforce via fun, attention grabbing presentations. Remember that people with disabilities paved the way for us to be recognized in October, and asserted the rights we have to exist, thrive, and make positive contributions to society. However, you celebrate Disability History and Awareness month, do it with a smile on your face and with pride!”
“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” by Helen Keller
SHE WALKED THROUGH THE DOOR OF FAITH
Breast Cancer Awareness month
Written by Tan Scott
Contributed by Andrea Nelson
My name is Tan Scott and I was born in Atlanta, Georgia. I went to Frederick Douglass High School and Morris Brown College, both in the City of Atlanta. I later attended The School of the Great Commission Bible College and received my doctorate in Theology. I have one daughter by natural birth and a bonus daughter and son through the union of marriage. My husband, Dwayne Scott and I have been married for 5.5 years. I love to read and write poetry for self-expression; and I walk a lot. Walking is therapeutic.
I did not know that I had breast cancer. I knew I was not feeling like myself. I was extremely fatigued and had pain in my left arm. I ignored it for about 6 months. I was a single mom and just kept going and going until the pain became unbearable.
Interestingly, my diagnosis came in stages. At first, a doctor told me I had pulled a muscle, since the pain was in my left arm. He gave me muscle relaxers, pain medicine, and sent me home. My mother insisted that I return and request an X-ray. I did. Quickly, I was asked to go for an ultrasound. I was 32 years old and at that time mammograms were not given until you were 40. After the ultrasound, I was instructed to get a mammogram. Finally, I was told that the results of those procedures were abnormal and that I needed to see a breast surgeon.
Still, after seeing the breast surgeon, I was not given a diagnosis immediately. I had to undergo a needle biopsy procedure, where breast tissue is removed and tested for cancer. The initial results indicated that there was no cancer. The doctor’s face told me that she did not agree with that finding, and she was right. After undergoing an excisional biopsy – where the entire tumor is removed, I was finally diagnosed with Stage IIIC Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) HER2 Positive.
All of what I described above happened in a span of about 2 weeks. There was very little time for reaction. If I had to use one word to describe what I was feeling, it would be: uncertain. We did not have a family history of cancer of any kind, and certainly not breast cancer. Where did this come from? Why me? I am so young (or at least that is what everyone around me kept saying; you’re so young).
My relationship with God was the biggest support and the only way I made it through. I recall God saying to me just weeks before my diagnoses, “I am placing two doors before you; fear and faith – CHOOSE!” At that time, I thought this was related to a job offer and relocation for employment. I now know God was preparing me for the fight that was before me. If I went with the door of fear; death was sure. So, faith was the only door I could open. I also had my natural and church family praying for me and with me the entire way. Their prayers gave me the strength I needed on days when my body did not want to fight.
I am still changing. I became more acquainted with God in a way I had not known Him before. I learned His voice. The small whisper became keen and present in every part of my life. For that, I am grateful. I would do it all over again for that reward. There are always life challenges. I always resort back to, “If you did it then God, you will do it now!” That is the way I live my life. For this reason, I say I am always changing. I am truly on the Potter’s wheel.
Of course, I do not know the totality of this impact. But I hear from so many that my faith moved others in a way that I was not even aware. I did not have time for fear. God had made it perfectly clear, fear or faith. Every step was moving towards healing. I was a single mother of an 11-year-old, rambunctious girl, who needed her mother. I promised God I would walk through the door of faith, and He promised me He would meet me with healing on the other side. God assured me that I would get to see my daughter grow up. And that is what He did. My hope is that my impact has been one that confirms miracles STILL happen today!
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with breast cancer, I want you to know that this cancer is not YOURS. Remember you have been DIAGNOSED; but you do not HAVE breast cancer. Who would want that? Never call it “MY cancer” instead “this or the” cancer or my diagnosis. Healing starts with you. What you believe will escape your mouth and pronounce your future. Be sure you have a relationship with God. God is a healer. God is a miracle worker; STILL. Miracles still happen, today. Pray over and for your doctors and ask God to guide them in what “cocktail” or treatment plan is best specifically for YOU. Then do it. Medicine does not negate the miracle. Find laughter in the entire process, wherever you can. Refuse to listen to ANYONE who does not speak healing. Hear the facts but believe the favor.
"Faith has a role to play in life. It is not related to success. It is the other way round. Success is related to faith. Faith comes first." by Andrea Bocelli
TEACHERS MAKING TEACHERS
Dyslexia Awareness month
Contributed by Tyler Mutz
Dyslexia is a general term for disorders that involve difficulty in learning to read or interpret words, letters, and other symbols, but that do not affect general intelligence.
“For me, I kept having difficulties in all of my reading classes and with my reading assignments. At first, my parents thought my visual impairment was getting worse, but my teachers could sense that it was something different. I was struggling in identifying speech sounds and learning how they relate to letters and words. There were times I would learn to spell a word and completely forget the next day. If a word had more than two syllables, processing the sounds was very challenging.”
There are four types of dyslexia; Phonological Dyslexia (most common), Surface Dyslexia, Double Deficit Dyslexia, and Visual Dyslexia. A person with dyslexia might see some letters as backwards or upside down. They might see text appearing to jump around on a page or they might not be able to tell the difference between letters that look similar in shape such as o and e and c. There is a common misconception that dyslexia only affect the ability to read and write. In reality, dyslexia can affect memory, organization, time-keeping, concentration, multi-tasking and communication. All impact on everyday life.
“When I was finally diagnosed with dyslexia, a huge burden had been lifted from my shoulders. I had been told there was no cure, but knowing it could be managed with special instruction and support, gave me the biggest sense of hope. I remember one of my teachers sitting down with me one afternoon and going over a list of career choices he had research for me.
He found famous and legendary musicians, artists, designers, photographers, architects, actors, scientists, engineers, and entrepreneur who were all dyslexic and living promising and successful lives. I made a mental choice that night, I was going to become an art teacher. I wanted to give back what my favorite, supportive teachers had given to me.
I want to leave you with a few things to remember when interacting with a child who is dyslexic. People tend to believe that we are not ‘trying hard enough’. I am here to tell you that effort has nothing to do with it. It’s the type of instruction that makes a difference, not how hard kids try. With good instruction and practice, kids with dyslexia can make lasting gains in reading. I am a testament to that fact!
Also, intervention makes a big difference in helping someone with dyslexia learn to read. But being able to read doesn’t mean they’re “cured.” Dyslexia is a lifelong learning difference that can affect more than just basic reading skills. There are a number of reading programs designed for struggling readers. Many uses what’s called a multisensory approach. This type of instruction uses sight, sound, and touch.
I hope I was able to provide some insight to Dyslexia Awareness. If you happen to forget everything I have written before now, try to remember this one line. Praise instills power and belief builds character.”
“Just because a man lacks the use of his eyes doesn’t mean he lacks vision.” by Stevie Wonder
WE WEAR PURPLE
Written by Cheryl E. Fields
Part 1 of 2
October is a popular month to promote awareness through community walks and races, wearing lapel pins and ribbons, using the fall décor of pumpkins and scarves, in identifying an organization or cause. But, each of them has adopted a signature color to stand out just a little bit more. Purple is the color of Domestic Violence & Intimate Partner Abuse Awareness.
>From the palest of lavenders to the rich darkness of the plums, the variety of abuses perpetrated on humanity, stretches beyond the spectrum of the color purple, and our comprehension. These crimes can be difficult to prove and prosecute. Too often, victims are not encouraged to report and they sadly, become acutely discouraged.
The statistics are recorded, maintained and gathered based on formal reports of acts of abuse. The numbers are staggering. In addition, the number of cases that result in prosecution are considerably low, outrageously so, when compared to the number of deaths due to domestic violence. Law enforcement and other professionals are certain that persons with disabilities, the LBGTQ community, women, and children suffer abuse at a much higher rate than other groups. Take a moment to consider what would those numbers be if every victim reported each crime, every time an abuse occurred? Ask yourself, how could reporting and prosecution change the world we currently live in.
So, why don’t people in marginalized communities report more often? Unfortunately, there are some that don’t realize they are being abused. Others are too scared of not being able to prove what happened to them and that no one will believe their story. Reporting is never easy and, in many instances, require advance planning. This is especially challenging for individuals with disabilities. But our communities can become a tremendous source of hope with the proper education and be a provider of the necessary resources.
The National Federation of the Blind is America’s premier organization, where the blind speaks for the blind. It’s extremely crucial for us to learn and lead without bias and exclusion. Genuine empathy and compassion for victims are truly essential qualities and necessary to nurture a safe, empowered, and supported community. Moving from awareness to action can be rather puzzling. Spend time listening to the victims, speak with the leaders in your affiliate, and make a plan! What you determine to do is far better than doing nothing at all!
A few ideas, if you need an extra nudge.
- Educate chapter and division members on boundaries and consent.
- Build a relationship with the local domestic violence agency in your city or state.
- Create a check-in process for members, especially those that are at risk.
- Maintain a resource list for your area.
Say it with us, you have the right to Live the Life We Want free from violence!
SPREAD YOUR WINGS & FLY HIGH
Written by Andrea Nelson
Part 2 of 2
There are several types of abuse- physical assault, battery, sexual, economic, emotional, intimidation, harassment and stalking.
The Crisis Hotline is a place that operates 24/7/365. If you or someone you know needs help, call our National Domestic Violence Hotline:
(800) 799-7233 (SAFE)
Or text the word, "START" to 88788
The national call center refers to local resources. Spanish plus 160 other languages are available. And there is NO CALLER ID used!
“Fine priceless China is not meant to be chipped, broken nor destroyed. Fine priceless China is valuable, exquisite and has self-worth that is far above precious jewels.”
Chelsealya ‘Cookie’ Payne, is a beautiful, successful, and empowering leader who has defied the odds and defeated the horrific obstacles of domestic violence. Cookie has so much potential and extraordinary achievements that shall continue to bless, inspire and support others to spread their wings and fly high. She wants you to believe that you too, are fine priceless China!
“Make your strengths visible.” by Marla Lee Runyan
SERVING IT UP WITH SEAFOOD
Did you know there is a month designated to seafood? It’s an annual observance that takes place in the month of October. One of our CSD members has always been a lover of shrimp and crabmeat.” Growing up in Baltimore, Maryland you never had to worry about there being a shortage on the sea goodies. The closer you are to the Bay or Ocean, the better quality of seafood you’ll find.”
Join us this month and recognize National Seafood month. Throw your line into the water and give some seafood recipes a try!
Ocean’s Yummies, Lasagna Style
by Maggie Stringer
Ingredients:
1 (16-ounce) box of Lasagna Noodles
1 green Onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons of Oil
2 tablespoons of Butter
1 (8-ounce) bottle of Clam Juice
½ cup of Chicken Broth
1 pound of Baby Portobello Mushrooms, sliced
1 pound of small Shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound of Bay Scallops
½ pound of Crabmeat, chopped
¼ teaspoon of White Pepper
2 Garlic cloves, minced
2 (16-ounce) jars Alfredo Pasta sauce
1 (16 ounce) container Ricotta Cheese
Mozzarella Cheese, approximately 20 slices
½ cup Parmesan Cheese, plus a little extra
1 Egg
1 teaspoon of Black Pepper
Directions:
1. In a large big boy pot, bring your water to a boil. You’re going to cook the noodles according to the box’s instructions. It usually takes about ten minutes.
2. Once your noodles are al dente, drain the pot and rinse the starchiness off the noodles with cold water. You don’t want your noodles to stick together, so leave your noodles in a bowl of water, until we’re ready to build.
3. In a large skillet, let’s sauté your chopped onions and minced garlic in the oil and butter. Move them around until they’re nice and tender. Then, we’re going to stir in the broth and clam juice and bring to a boil. Next, we’re going to add your mushrooms, scallops, shrimp, crabmeat, and white pepper.
4. Let the broth return to a boil, then turn down the fire to a simmer. Keep this skillet uncovered for about four to five minutes or until the scallops are nicely firm. Make sure to stir gently.
5. Moving along, you’re going to drain the shrimp mixture and smother it up with the alfredo sauce. Then, set the seafood goodness aside.
6. In one of your favorite medium sized bowls, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Then, slide it to the side.
7. Now it’s time to build your masterpiece! In a deep, well-greased 9x13 lasagna pan, Spoon a little of the alfredo sauce onto the bottom of the baking dish. We don’t want your glorious meal sticking to the bottom!
8. Carefully place your first layer of noodles. It should take at least six strips. Sometimes you’ll have to get crafty with your layering.
9. Using your best spatula, smooth half of the ricotta mixture onto the noodles. Next, layer the mozzarella greatness on top of the ricotta mixture. It should be at least nine to ten slices of the mozzarella greatness.
10. Continuing to build, you’re going to pour half of the seafood mixture on top of your cheeses.
11. Now, you’ve got this! Just repeat the above steps of layering, starting with your noodles, then your ricotta cheese, followed by the mozzarella greatness, and ending with the seafood finale.
12. Sprinkle a little or a lot (depending on your liking), of the Parmesan cheese on top of your crowning jewel!
13. Lastly, get this dish baking at 350 degrees for forty-five minutes or until your cheeses has a beautiful golden-brown color. Make sure to let the lasagna rest for about ten to fifteen minutes before your family dives in.
14. Now it’s time to have a delicious, nutritious, and healthy meal with those you love!
Notes:
*I use fresh crabmeat, but you can use imitation if desired. Plus, I always use a little extra since we love it so much!
*My husband is a big time mushroom and fresh garlic fan, but you can omit those ingredients if they’re not to your family’s liking.
*If I have time, I make homemade alfredo sauce in place of the store-bought sauce. If desired, keep your broth mixture and make up your own alfredo sauce.
"Art is all about what you can do; what you can't doesn't even enter the equation." by John Bramblitt
REPRESENT YOUR STATE
Alaska
October 15-16, 2021
Location: Anchorage (Coastal Inn)
For more information, please visit: <http://www.alaskanfb.org> www.alaskanfb.org
Arkansas
October 29-31, 2021
Location: Springdale (hybrid)
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbar.org> www.nfbar.org
California
October 21-24, 2021
Location: Virtual
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbcal.org> www.nfbcal.org
Colorado
October 28-31, 2021
Location: Denver (hybrid) (Marriott South)
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbco.org> www.nfbco.org
Connecticut
October 29-31, 2021
Location: Rocky Hill (hybrid) (Sheraton)
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbct.org> www.nfbct.org
Delaware
October 29-30, 2021
Location: Virtual
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbde.org> www.nfbde.org
District of Columbia
October 14-16, 2021
Location: Virtual
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbdc.org> www.nfbdc.org
Florida
October 1-3, 2021
Location: Tampa (Embassy Suites)
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbflorida.org> www.nfbflorida.org
Georgia
October 7-10, 2021
Location: Virtual
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbga.org> www.nfbga.org
Illinois
October 22-24, 2021
Location: Lisle (hybrid) (Sheraton)
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbofillinois.org> www.nfbofillinois.org
Indiana
October 8-10, 2021
Location: Virtual
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfb-in.org> www.nfb-in.org
Iowa
October 1-2, 2021
Location: Virtual
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbi.org> www.nfbi.org
New York
October 22-24, 2021
Location: Virtual
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbny.org> www.nfbny.org
North Dakota
October 1-2, 2021
Location: Virtual
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbnd.org> www.nfbnd.org
Oklahoma
October 22-24, 2021
Location: Virtual
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbok.org> www.nfbok.org
Rhode Island
October 22-23, 2021
Location: Virtual
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbri.org> www.nfbri.org
Virginia
October 29-31, 2021
Location: Tyson's Corner (hybrid) (Westin)
For more information, please visit: <http://www.nfbv.org> www.nfbv.org
EDITOR’S NOTES
We want to feature you in our next issue! Write about your personal experience with your community service project and submit the article by the first of the month.
We also want to help promote your community projects and state affiliate events. Share your calendar with Beyond The Six Dots and we will feature your events in the ‘Represent Your State’ section of our next issue. Contact our editor to submit your calendar events and featured articles. (The editor may edit the Length and/or wording of your article.)
NFB Community Service Division
<http://www.facebook.com/communityservicedivision/> www.facebook.com/communityservicedivision/
President Jeanetta Price
Email: <mailto:price.jeanetta at gmail.com> price.jeanetta at gmail.com
Mobile: (409) 344-1005
Newsletter Editor: Maggie Stringer
Email: <mailto:Ravensfan784 at gmail.com> Ravensfan784 at gmail.com
Mobile: (443) 750-0070
ONE MINUTE MESSAGE
The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. We are survivors!
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