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Governor Scott has proclaimed June 26 - July 2 as the Helen Keller Deaf-Blind Awareness Week. The purpose of HKDBA Week is to change the assumption that Helen Keller is the only recognizable person who was deaf-blind. The intent of this special week is to show the diversity, accomplishments, and potential of today's deaf-blind community.
Years after her death, most people still think only of Helen Keller when they hear about a person who is deaf-blind. As a result, they are often unaware that those around them - their co-workers, neighbors, and community members, may also be experiencing vision and hearing loss. From tech savvy teens to baby boomers and older adults, deaf-blindness is non-discriminatory. It affects all ages and all ethnic and cultural groups.
Victoria Magliocchino,
Florida Deaf-Blind Association President
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It was a wonderful experience to be 1 of several speakers at the Vision Summit on February 8, 2011. The report written by Vicky is already made but I want to express my own experience. The Vision Summit was held at the old Capitol. My speech began at 10:10 AM. When I approached up to the front, I was at ease and expressed the great appreciation along with the Deaf-blind residents in the state of Florida having the wonderful Support Service Providers (SSPs) assisting DBs. I then explained how much DBs need to have SSP program in Florida and described the frustrations we face. SSPs are able to empower DBs to be able to access into many, many things outside of ther home. I gave several more descriptions then I said that FDBA is striving to start the SSP program but we can't do it alone. I lastly explained that I went to the Governor's Square Mall with a SSP and felt so good to be able to communicate with a salesperson in purchasing a new lipstick. With a male SSP, I was able to deal with a femal salesperson to select the color of the new lipstick. And, I was able to "watch" the Super Bowl through a SSP and truly enjoyed the game. After my speech I felt at peace and was so glad that I expressed a lot as I feel that the audience needs to be told and understood our frustrations. I know that I poured everything out of my heart and doing it for DBs in Florida. Now, FDBA will have to start somewhere with SSP program and we hope others will help us. |
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It has been a week since our HKDBA event down in Lake Worth at Palm Beach County Association of the Deaf's clubhouse. This clubhouse is simply perfect with bright lights and space for socializing and meeting. 19 Deaf-Blind individuals attended along with about 40 SSPs, interpreters, and visitors and family members. The program went very smoothly. I started with welcome remarks, and we then had an icebreaker of telling two truths and one lie. We also played the guess game and participated in the sculpture contest. Afghan and birdhouse raffles were available. Gina of Florida Reading and Vision Technology came to showcase devices. Kathy Zarate demonstrated how the Deaf Blind Communicator (DBC) works. Before a delicious luncheon of Chinese dishes, Cheryl Rhodes presented a very moving prayer. After lunch, I spoke briefly about the current exciting Deaf Blind trends. The Deaf Blind Citizen of the Year award went to David Roberts for his awesome work on our professional-looking displays and his devotion towards FDBA. A Certificate of Appreciation went to Arthur Nolden for his generous donation towards FDBA. He was not present to receive the certificate. It will be mailed to him. Another Certificate of Appreciation was presented to PBCAD for letting us use their wonderful clubhouse. The guess game winner was Winnie Tunison who guessed 9 correct items out of 10 in the bag. David Roberts was the winner of the sculpture contest. His sculpture of a DB person using the white cane was voted the best. We then played BINGO, and Winnie Tunison and a visitor each won a round. All in all, everyone had a grand time. I wish to sincerely thank the following people: -Kathy Zarate for taking care of our mouth-watering luncheon, dessert, this, and that!! -Beth Bystrycki for reserving the clubhouse and finding interpreters -David Roberts for setting up our FDBA, FOP, and HKNC displays and distributing Afghan and Birdhouse raffles -Maureen, PBCAD president and other PBCAD members for helping out in many big and small ways -Interpreters: Corey Langridge, Caroline Partin, and Malia Johnston -SSPs: Rey Vega, Martin Zarate, Steven Rhodes, Robin Sullivan, Barbara Chandler, Marion Roberts, Kevin Inman, Pam Nemahias, Joe Naulty's sister, June McMahon, Don and Irene Sirios, Barry and Randy Sue Rothman, Roxanne Harvell, Harvey Ward, Jim and Janice Harden, Marilyn Brook, Sandra Moscano, Allan Evans, Martin Bystrycki, Joseph Veres, and Lissette Molina-Wood. -19 DBs for coming out for the FUN day! -Everyone for invaluable support as always!! Let me know if I miss anyone. I do not mean to leave someone out. Every single person deserves a pat on your shoulder for the success of the celebration. Thank you! Thank you! My thanks are infinite.... |
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