[Ohio-Talk] June 2021 Newsletter

[Michael Moore]

“Beyond the Six Dots”

 

National Federation of the Blind Community Service Division

June 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!

 


POP FROM THE TOP


 

The NFB COMMUNITY SERVICE DIVISION is proud to announce we are popping with service, gourmet style! Whether you want it sprinkled with salt, smothered in butter, or covered with cheese, we’ve got the best popped corn ready to be shipped to your front door!

Annual fundraiser begins on Tuesday, June 15th to Saturday, June 19th, 2021 at 5PM EASTERN daylight TIME. Proceeds gained from this fundraiser will support the efforts of the federation in addition to help promote the Community Service Division projects.

The Community Service Division is going to show everyone everywhere that we can’t stop and won’t stop POPPING! I pop! No, you pop! Wait, we all pop for…

Double Good Gourmet Delicious Popcorn!

Please contact Gloria Nathan-Cherry “The Popcorn Lady” for more information at (215) 971-6650.

“Popped in love and served with a smile!”

 


#StrongerTogether CHALLENGE


 

Share your service with us, double tap on the link and get involved!

Say it with me, “Challenge accepted!” We can’t stop, won’t stop serving! The NFB Community Service Division thanks you for accepting the challenge. We have experienced some testing times during this pandemic, which is a prime example of us being #StrongerTogether as we

spread the power of giving anywhere and everywhere. Service can certainly start here and continue here with our division’s challenge.

This challenge will help keep us united in service throughout our

various neighborhoods across our country. What follows is a questionnaire designed to collect detailed information of your volunteer efforts starting January 1, 2021 through June 30, 2021.

 <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8HWsUDqzaairJZg1p_RcFe3pFemWYDXXSatdaG_n6AjeTiw/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&usp=mail_form_link&usp=embed_facebook> https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8HWsUDqzaairJZg1p_RcFe3pFemWYDXXSatdaG_n6AjeTiw/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&usp=mail_form_link&usp=embed_facebook

 


THE COLORS OF HOPE


 

We have been hopeful and expecting brighter days! Can you sense the vibrant colors of hope appearing everywhere? Life is like a rainbow; you need both rain and sun to make its colors appear.

The magnificent arch will bring you and your friends to the National Convention of 2021 Community Service Division seminar. The dazzling colors will begin to sparkle at 1:00 p.m. eastern daylight time on Thursday, July 8th. The excitement of our seminar will be outlined in the agenda and bounce into your inbox very soon!

Come be inspired as the Community Service Division triumphantly celebrates the bright and POPPING colors of hope!

 


STAR SEARCH


 

Looking for the next Community Service Division Idol! Learn the Community service Jingle Lyrics. Practice it with friends and family. Finally, zoom into the division’s national seminar on Thursday, July 8th. Be prepared to blow the judges away with your passion and love for service.

Please learn the jingle and sing along with the Community service gang. 1-2-3-Hit it!

“We are the community service.

Helping all over the land.

We are the community service

Helping all that we can

Because we are

the community service

We are the community service.

Inviting you to join in the plan

We are the community service

A part of the NFB clan

SERVING AND LIVING

ALL BECAUSE WE CAN.”

Written by board member: Ms. Samuel JoNita Gates

 


WE APPRECIATE YOU


 

The National Federation of the Blind community service division would like to say thank you to all of our fellow federationists, family members, and friends. We greatly appreciate the outward expression of support for our 2021 community service project featuring the Ronald McDonald House of Maryland. We were truly stronger together because we worked together on this year’s community service project. We have received an abundance of blankets and words of encouragement that will surely bring smiles to the faces of all of the children and their families who are living at the Ronald McDonald House of Maryland.

Again, we thank everyone for their generosity and support.

 


THE AMERICAN SONGBOOK


Contributors: Phil Walters, John Colbert

We honor the innovative artists whose musical expressions has moved us, brighten our daily lives, and bring us together. “To me, Black Music Appreciation month allows us to celebrate and recognize what our culture has brought to the music industry,” says John Colbert, a disc jockey from Washington, D.C. Across the generations, Black music has pioneered the way we listen to music while preserving Black cultural traditions and sharing the unique experiences of the Black community. “I remember learning about our black pioneers as a teenager and it still brings up so many emotions to this day.”

The creativity and spirit of Black artists has inspired many young men and women to start their own musical journey. Phil states, “listening to artist like Sam Cooke, Mahalia Jackson, Edwin Hawkins has significantly influenced my career as a singer, songwriter, and producer.” Walters, a musician from North Carolina. The voices and instruments of black musicians have dramatically influenced what we all hear and feel through music. “Some of the legendary musicians are bass player Larry Graham from Sly & The Family Stone, guitarist George Benson, and bass player Louis Johnson from the Johnson Brothers, to name a few,” says John. “I didn’t just listen to music; the radio was my best friend. When I was older, I discovered that becoming a DJ was the best way for me to channel my passion for music.”

Black music has shaped our society, entertained and inspired us, and helped write and tell the story of our Nation. “It’s important to keep educating future generations on the rich history of black music. Inviting young people to community events gives me a chance to teach them about all genres and styles that’s been lost in the public school system,” says John also known as ‘DJ Double M’. All around the world, black musicians have been energizing audiences and inspiring millions. “mentoring young blind musicians has been a wonderful blessing to me,” says Phil. Performing at local benefit shows and singing for wounded veterans is one of the many ways Phil Walters gives back to his community. “Having a month set aside for Black Music Appreciation helps show the diversities within the black music experience.”

 


WE’VE GOT SUNSHINE! 


We believe there is power in the ability to laugh. Here’s your sunshine for the month of June!

Summer Fun

Question: What did the pig say on the really hot day?

Answer: I’m bacon!

 


PROUD TO BE YOUR KID


Contributor: Lindsey Fritz

Fathers and male role models play a vital role in every child’s life. This role can have a large impact on a child and help shape him or her into the person they become.

“If you’ve ever met my father, you’d know he’s one of the greatest leaders around”, says Lindsey Fritz of Madison, Wisconsin. Lindsey is the oldest daughter of seven, grew up in Louisiana, and has a wonderful outgoing personality. She is a member of the Wisconsin Association of Blind students and serves on the board as the current treasurer. Lindsey is also working at a health care facility while pursuing her nursing degree at Madison college.

“Father’s day is just as important as Christmas in my family.” Lindsey reflects on fond memories of bomb fires and big grill outs over the years. She shares that it is important to her and her siblings to show their Dad how much they love and appreciate him. “We try to make sure he knows we are always there for him.”

Studies have shown that when fathers are affectionate and supportive, it instills an overall sense of well-being and self-confidence. “My Dad has taught me a lot about responsibility and leadership,” says Lindsey. “He has shown me and walked me through the process of advocating for myself.” She also shares how her father has worked with her one-on-one in public speaking and has encouraged her to be a advocate for people with visual impairments.

Lindsey’s Dad has made sure to surround his family with lots of positive influences and taught her and her siblings the importance of giving back. He has inspired Lindsey to serve the blind community by volunteering her time and experiences as an advocate for disability rights. “I’m studying to be a nurse and want other visually impaired people to know they can study anything they want to be. And I will help them get there.”

 


YOU ARE NOT ALONE


 

Headache & Migraine Awareness Month

Written by: Trent Arnold

Contributors: Kelsi Lawson, Timothy Meyers, Maggie Stringer

To most people, migraines can be somewhat of a mystery. You know the pain can be unbearable and debilitating, but it's hard to understand how people who get migraines really feel. And if you've ever had one of these painful headaches, you can tell people just how excruciating they can be—physically. But it's hard to communicate the psychological challenges that go along with a condition that can strike with or without warning.

So, what do people really wish migraine-free people knew? We asked a few individuals with frequent migraines to share their experiences.

It's not "just a headache.”

This was number one on the list that we heard from people who get migraines. While most people have had a headache at some point, not everyone has had a migraine. “I’m actually happy when I get ‘just a headache,” said Maggie Stringer from Ohio.

Migraine-associated head pain is severe, can be on one or both sides of the head, and is usually characterized by an intense throbbing. Nausea, vomiting, extreme light and sound sensitivity, blurred vision, and more can also accompany them. “My worst migraines come with light and sound sensitivity, where I can’t have my eyes open because it will hurt, and talking takes a huge amount of effort,” says Kelsi Lawson from California. “They can be truly disabling.” A lot of people don’t realize just how much migraines impact a person’s life. There are a number of days missed from work or school, the loss of time with family, friends or at social events, and the inability to do household chores and other daily tasks.

“Migraines last longer than headaches”

Migraine pain can last for extended periods of time—even 3 days or more. The range can be from 4 to 72 hours (or longer) if untreated. Headaches, on the other hand, have fewer symptoms, are easier to treat, and subside more quickly. “Sometimes my migraine only lasts a day, but there are also times it has kept me in bed for three to four days,” said Timothy Meyers from Arizona.

You can do everything "right" and still get migraines

Even people who make lifestyle changes, take preventative and emergency medication, and avoid their triggers can still struggle with migraines. “Although myself and my doctors have done a better job of trying to prevent my migraines, you never know when a migraine could come on,” says Timothy. “Preventive measure can help reduce the frequency of attacks and make symptoms more manageable, but it’s not a perfect science.”

“Migraines can go hand-in-hand with psychological issues”

Oftentimes, individuals with migraines can be concerned that they’re going to get a migraine attack. This can cause anxiety because individuals are so aware of how disabling it can be. “I volunteer my time at a local food bank and it upsets me every time I have to call in to say I can’t come in that day. I have this nagging fear they think I just make up excuses and one day will tell me they don’t need my help anymore,” said Kelsi.

“Physical activity doesn't necessarily make it better”

Exercise may help ease the pain of some types of headaches because it relieves tension and can boost pain-relieving endorphins. But that's not true for people experiencing a migraine. The nausea alone can make rapid movement impossible. Sunlight, loud noises, and strong odors can be unbearable. Most often, the only way to deal with an attack is to retreat to a dark, cool room that is as quiet as possible.

“Migraines can be mentally exhausting”

The four migraine stages can wreak havoc on a person's mental and physical wellbeing. Auras can be scary on their own, but the stress is amplified by the fact that they signal an impending attack. And even after the headache is over, it's not really over. The physical pain of the attack segues into the postdrome symptoms of fatigue and grogginess. “Sometimes I feel exhausted because the pain is so intense,” says Maggie. “And sometimes I have a hard time concentrating or focusing.”

“People with migraines can look perfectly healthy”

Migraines affect 12% of the U.S. population, and are three times more common in women than men. Migraines are highly disruptive, affecting people mentally and physically, as well as socially and professionally. There is a lot of stigmas attached to migraine, and many people feel misunderstood because it seems “invisible” to others. “A lot of the public doesn’t understand that migraine is a debilitating condition, it’s not just a headache,” says Timothy. “They can affect your ability to go to school, work, or volunteer your time.”

“Social events—even important ones—can be interrupted”

One reason people with migraine might be more prone to anxiety and depression? Migraines can make it impossible to attend (or stay at) life events, even important ones. Maggie has missed dozens of events due to her migraines, from weddings to community service projects to family get-togethers. "I’ve had to leave places early or abruptly,” she says. “In all of those instances and in many more, I’ve was trying to find a way to escape from all of the sounds and smells.”

“Even simple tasks can be impossible”

If the only relief comes in the form of a dark, quiet room, it can be difficult to find a safe place as quickly as you need it. Sometimes, people have to deal with their migraines and go about their day until they can find relief. “There were times I couldn’t even walk to the bus stop because the street lights and headlights of other cars would intensify a migraine that much more,” says Kelsi.

“We just want to be believed and know that you care”

While there’s no cure for Migraine, there are ways to show our love and support. The care of spouses, friends, family, and community support is so empowering. June is headache and migraine awareness month and we want to shed light on how this disorder may affect those in our circles. “Help us suffer less and give us the time to heal,” says Kelsi. “Be patient, aware, and understanding of our needs,” said Timothy. Let’s take away the negativity guilt and show our family, friends, and neighbors we can be #StrongerTogether!

 


RESOURCES


 

Summer often implies warmth, fun, and sunshine, but it can also bring safety hazards. We want to keep you and your friends moving and serving this summer! Here are a few summer safety tips:

- Moderate your exposure to the sun and heat, especially during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

- Stay hydrated and drink lots of water throughout the day

- Protect your skin with sunscreen and remember to reapply every hour

- Practice water safety and always have adult supervision for children

- Protect your eyes and wear sunglasses whenever you are out in the sun

- When playing sports, warm up, stretch, gear up, go with a buddy, and remember to cool down and stretch afterwards

Now we’re ready to go! Let’s tap tap and serve!

 

Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month

Get HELP FOR PTSD

If you need help right away:

Call (800) 273-8255

Disaster Distress Helpline:

Call (800) 985-5990 or text TalkWithUs (66746)

provides crisis counseling and support for anyone in the U.S. experiencing distress or other behavioral health concerns related to any natural or human-caused disaster, including public health emergencies.

For more information on PTSD visit:

 <https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/> https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/

 

EDITOR’S NOTES

We 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.

 

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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