I am a Federationist Forever !!!

In the last five weeks, I have been to the National Convention of the National Federation of the Blind in Detroit, MI; participated in the 3rd Annual March for Independence which officially kicks off the National Convention; was a mentor at Youth Slam 2009 on the campus of the University of Maryland in College Park, MD as well as the Youth March for Independence on our nation's capital in Washington D.C. which was proceeded by a rally at the Lincoln Memorial.

I have been a member of the National Federation of the Blind since 1996 when I attended the Colorado Cente for the Blind in Denver, CO.

Up until the last year or two, I freely admit I was a casual member. However, after personal experiences of discrimination and seeing my own children struggle in their efforts to achieve a quality education, I am now more determined than ever to help my children and others have a brighter future and opportunities I never had!

I am and forever will be proud to call myself a true Federationist!!! Who are we? NFB!!!!!

Science Without Sight is Exciting !!!

Yesterday, Saturday, May 16, 2009 I had the unique opportunity, privilege and honor to be a mentor for an event hosted by the National Federation of the Blind of Utah and the Utah Organization of Parents of Blind Children held at the University of Utah.

I worked with three awesome fifth graders from Ogden, Utah, McKenna, Jade and David. We had a blast !!!

In the morning we worked with the Museum of Natural History and got to explore skulls from various animals and probed for clues as to their identity. We discussed differences in their teeth structure and what we thought their type of preferred prey was or the food they ate. We then played with tools for wood carving and drilling. It was difficult to get the hang of drilling in the wood blocks we were given but it was certainly fun. David sure got a quick grasp of that particular skill.

After a nice lunch, we worked with the Biology department and I must say for myself, the best part of the day. Although I was a tad scared, I got to hold a baby alligator for the very first time. The gator I got to know was so relaxed on my leg and in my arms, it reminded me of petting my small dog and he/she falling asleep on me feeling so relaxed. We also got to hold a hen. We learned some very unique tidbits about these creatures.

All in all, it was a most rewarding and awesome experience I will be talking about for a VERY long time !!!

Now, in less than 45 days it is off to Motown, Detroit Motor City baby for the National Federation of the Blind national convention and March for Independence !!!