The bism grapevine Summer 2013

SILVER Retreat Offers Seniors Valuable Training by Kasey Beaver and Rob Ennamorato

BISM’s SILVER residential retreat took place from June 4-7 in Baltimore and was a great success! Twelve blind and low vision senior participants from Maryland experienced four days of blindness skills training and confidence building activities with BISM senior instructors and support staff.

The majority of the participants were receiving nonvisual training for the first time and they immersed themselves in classes that included White Cane Travel, Computer Technology, and Independent Living. The classes supplied the seniors with the skills and confidence to resume an active lifestyle and regain their independence. The SILVER Retreat also included blindness discussions, product demonstrations, leisure activities, group meals, and much more.

A highlight of the SILVER Retreat, which is funded by a grant from Maryland’s Independent Living Older Blind (ILOB) program, was a tour of Baltimore-Washington International Airport. Retreaters used their recently acquired cane travel skills and were given an in-depth tour of the airport by BWI staff, had a Q&A with Southwest Airlines representatives, and participated in a TSA screening demonstration and security checkpoint walkthrough. The purpose of the tour was to provide participants with the confidence and knowledge to enjoy independent travel to any destination and fully utilize all airport facilities and services.

On the final day of the SILVER Retreat, there was a closing ceremony that included testimonials from the seniors that demonstrated a deep appreciation for their time together and with BISM staff. Congratulations to SILVER Retreat graduates!

Blind Bowl Fundraiser Continues To Grow by Roger Williamson

More than two dozen bowlers and interested supporters were on hand for BISM’s 3rd annual Blind Bowl fundraiser on May 11 at The Bowler Family Fun Center in LaVale, MD. Members of the general public took the opportunity to experience bowling from the perspective of someone who is blind by bowling while wearing a blindfold. Kids and adults from a birthday party several lanes down even joined in the fun! The generosity of local merchants and friends who donated merchandise, gift cards and handmade items for the silent auction helped raise nearly $600 for Cumberland’s Rehabilitation department. Thanks to everyone who participated in the Blind Bowl and a special Thank You to staff from The Bowler, who help make our event possible every year. We look anxiously forward to an even bigger Blind Bowl event next year!

Walk At Work Program For Associates Debuts by Donna Clark, RN

BISM introduced a Walk at Work program in May for all associates to help promote a healthier lifestyle. Pedometers (which count steps) were distributed to the participating associates, and team captains from each location/division were given the responsibility of recording each participant’s steps at the end of the week. At the end of a month, team captains submit the amount of steps recorded by each associate to myself with prizes awarded to the monthly winners.

The Walk at Work program officially kicked off in June and 197 pedometers were distributed to BISM associates! Associates from all of our locations are taking part and have made an effort to incorporate exercise into their daily routines.

The Walk at Work competition was heated in the month of June. Congratulations to the following division winners for June: Jared Waller (Salisbury Cutting) 562,952 steps; Russell Rummer (Cumberland) 506,297 steps; Amy Crouse (Salisbury Training Center) 386,248 steps; Ruth Hairsine (Baltimore Sales/ Reception) 378,238 steps; Will Medus (Raleigh) 286,218 steps; Linwood Boyd (Baltimore Production) 275,012 steps; Barry Council (Base Supply Centers) 274,239 steps; Carla Coates-Hutchinson (Accounting) 199,669 steps; Donna Wagner (Baltimore Cutting) 181,841 steps; and Auido Kelly-Barrett (Salisbury Sewing) 156,685 steps.

At the end of six months, the associate with the most steps wins a Grand Prize and at the end of a year the associate with the most steps wins the Super Grand Prize.

Work To Independence Student Shares Her Thoughts by Ellana Crew

I really wasn’t sure exactly what to expect when I arrived at the Work To Independence program in June. I was honestly rather worried at first, and the intensity of the first week didn’t do very much to ease that worry. However, the longer I’ve been here, the more I began to realize that this program was probably the best thing I’ve ever done for myself.

Yes, the nonvisual training was difficult, especially the first week, but I’ve adjusted to it now and find myself sometimes wearing the sleep shades even when it’s not required in order to challenge myself and to see if I can overcome the challenge. I began to realize that there were many more things I could do without full sight that I didn’t realize I could do at first.

I am only halfway through the program at this point, but I’ve accomplished so much since I’ve been here. When I first arrived, I was shy, quiet, and didn’t think I could do hardly anything for myself. Now, I am probably the loudest, most amusing one in the bunch, and have several good friends including counselors. I had hardly even touched a white cane before I came to BISM, nor did I even know what sleep shades were. Now I’m finding myself growing more and more accustomed to wearing sleep shades, and doing rather well with my travel class. I find it remarkable what I’ve been able to do since I’ve been here and I now have much more belief in what I, as a legally blind individual, can do.

Even the atmosphere of the Work To Independence program is great. The counselors always have faith in you and not only do they say it, but they believe it. I’ve rarely been around such encouragement. No matter how frustrated you get during classes, they’re always willing to work with you and help you through it.

However, it isn’t just all work at the program. Staff and students have become very close over the past three weeks, and even during classes, there is always room for a little fun. We also do some fun activities outside of class time like rock climbing, sailing, and mall trips.

The program can have its moments at times where things don’t go quite as planned, but for the most part, things work out pretty well. I never thought I’d get the chance to be in a place like his, but here I am, doing well and writing for BISM’s own Grapevine newsletter.

Development Department Earns Three Youth Grants

Development Specialist Jacqueline Ober announced two new grants in June for our Work To Independence program currently taking place in Baltimore. The Safeway Foundation awarded a grant for $2,500 and the Helen P. Denit Trust awarded a grant for $10,000! In May, for the second consecutive year, the Thomas W. Bradley Foundation awarded a grant to the Work To Independence program. The Bradley Foundation increased their support from $7,500 in 2012 to $8,000 in 2013! BISM sincerely thanks these foundations for helping to make our Youth programs such a success!

CORE Program Connects With Entire BISM Organization by Kasey Beaver

Over the past few months, some wonderful connections have been made throughout the CORE adult training program and different BISM departments. BISM hired former CORE student Nate Greene in Baltimore’s Shipping and Receiving Department. Nate always had a great work ethic as a student and is shining through in his new position. Tom Fox, a member of BISM’s Management Development Program, completed five weeks of sleep shade training in the CORE program, culminating in a large meal of steak and rice that he prepared for all of his new peers. Current CORE student Jessica Brasseal was hired to work with our Youth summer program, Work To Independence, as a Technology/Braille instructor. To continue on with the theme of BISM working together as a single unit, Rehabilitation staff and students prepared and served a brunch under sleep shades for the entire Baltimore plant. This was a great way to celebrate BISM! On June 1, CORE program staff and students walked in the 6th annual VisionWalk, a two-mile walk around Baltimore’s Inner Harbor in support of the Foundation for Fighting Blindness. Students and staff had a blast and even stayed around downtown to participate in the Taste of Baltimore Food Truck competition.

HR Corner: Open Communication by Tony Warner

No one will argue that communication is important. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines communication as “a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs or behavior.” At BISM, open communication is so important that it is one of our core values. So, what is open communication? The Direct Dictionary defines open communication at work as “the freedom of people to communicate what they like to whoever they like within an organization.”

Open communication occurs when all associates are able to express ideas to one another, such as in a conversation or debate. This means that all associates are free to ask questions, and receive answers to their questions about what BISM is doing and why. Open communication helps eliminate negativity, and shifts attitudes to one of cooperation and mutual respect. Associates are free to focus on what’s really important and that improves productivity, workplace satisfaction, and morale.

Let’s remember that BISM’s goal is fostering positive working relationships with all associates, and to have personnel policies that help make the experience at BISM a rewarding one. Your input and suggestions are encouraged and BISM has an open door policy for all associates. Do not be afraid to communicate!

Here are some tips on how you can foster open communication at BISM: Understand that good communication is a two-way street; Be direct and to the point; Show consideration, respect, and recognition of the person with whom you are communicating; Focus on the specifics; Explain your reactions; and Listen intently, concentrating on the individual and what is being said.

Associate Of The Quarter Winners

Congratulations to the BISM Associate of the Quarter award winners for the 2nd Quarter of 2013: Ashley Moore (AbilityOne BSCs); Natalie Langston (Cutting); Larry Richardson (Production); and Alycia Breitschwerdt (Rehabilitation).

Happy Birthday Associates!

July

Alberta Clawson—Cumberland 3

Dezman Jackson—Baltimore 3

Rodney Serisis—Baltimore 6

Chuck Slavotinek—Baltimore 6

Linwood Boyd—Baltimore 7

Safia Choudhry—Salisbury Cut. 9

Lavaughn Price—Salisbury 11

Telicia Bennett-Maycock—Salisbury 12

Thararat Boone—Raleigh 13

Hilda Colindrez-Estrada—Salisbury Cut. 13

Charles Collier—Baltimore 14

Rudolph Hill—Baltimore 14

Brent Jones—Raleigh 16

Shane Jones—Raleigh 16

Robbie Johnson—Cumberland 16

Kathleen Schultz—Salisbury 19

Connie Ellingsen—Salisbury 20

Jacob Nelson—BISM Beverage 20

Judy Bosler—Ft. Knox BSC 22

Jennifer Fagan—Andrews BSC 25

Jerry Kendall—Cumberland 25

Pauline Muir—Cumberland 26

Lola Hudson—Baltimore 27

Pandora Walters—Salisbury 27

Bernice Maddox—Salisbury 28

Carol Tremblay—Salisbury 29

August

Gary Klatt—Cumberland 3

Rita Williams-Ellingwood—Baltimore 3

Cindy Casey—Ft. Knox BSC 6

Hazel Miller—Raleigh 7

Terri Emrick—Cumberland 9

Sherri Hill—Cumberland 9

Charles O’Hara—Aberdeen BSC 9

Guy DeRossi—Baltimore 11

JongPyo Son—Salisbury 11

Anica Zlotescu—Baltimore 11

Tom Fox—Baltimore 12

James Carr—Baltimore 15

Kenneth Chrane—Baltimore 15

Gary Snow—Cumberland 16

George Brittingham—Salisbury 17

John Ward—Baltimore 17

Frederick Puente—Baltimore 18

Norma Rounds—Salisbury 19

Danielle Earl—Salisbury 24

Dioiris Kelly—Salisbury Cut. 24

Mark Donohue—Baltimore 25

Soon Lee—Salisbury 25

Michael White—Baltimore 25

Lizbeth Lozano—Salisbury Cut. 26

Richard Brown—Salisbury Cut. 27

Tammy Humbertson—Cumberland 27

Roy Sonne—Salisbury 29

Shirley Barnes—Baltimore 30

Joy Brode—Cumberland 30

Russell Rummer—Cumberland 31

William Wittekind—Baltimore 31

How To Make The Most Of Your Morning by Tony Warner

Every moment of your time is valuable. Follow these five simple steps to get the most out of those early hours:

1. Track Your Time: Start by analyzing how you are currently spending your mornings.

2. Picture The Perfect Morning: Decide how you can most constructively have a perfect morning.

3. Think Through The Logistics: Map out how you’re going to schedule your morning hours.

4. Build The Habit: Change takes time—you’ll need time to build the new system.

5. Tune Up As Necessary: As you attempt to make the most of your morning, flexibility is key.

SAIL Program Celebrates Five Graduations by Kasey Beaver

A lot of inspiring things have been going on in the Seniors Achieving Independent Living (SAIL) program! There have been five SAIL graduations since the last issue of the BISM Grapevine newsletter: Bernadette McCutheon on April 15; Glenda Blanchard on May 2; Evelyn Parham on May 14; Walter McLarin on May 29; and Sandra Burchette on June 18. Congratulations to the SAIL graduates and we wish them the best of luck in future endeavors!

BISM Seniors Take Part In Activities Across The State

On June 13, BISM Baltimore’s SAIL members and staff participated in Everyman Theatre’s Touch Tour, which provided blind and low vision seniors with a unique opportunity to walk on stage and touch the props and costumes for Everyman’s current production of The Beaux Stratagem. It was a great experience for all involved – thanks to the Everyman Theatre staff for offering the tour!

On June 24, the Salisbury Senior Support Group enjoyed a beautiful day in Ocean City on the boardwalk and beach for our June meeting! The seniors loved the sun, breeze, sounds, smells, and tastes discovered at the beach. Activities included shopping, playing skee ball, feasting on famous OC treats, visiting the haunted house, and walking in the hot sand. BISM seniors do not miss any opportunity to go to fun places and enjoy good times together and Ocean City is always a favorite destination of the support group!

On June 27, the Cumberland Senior Support Group took part in an off-site training excursion to the Flight 93 National Memorial 9/11 crash site in Shanksville, PA. Ten participants from BISM toured the educational and moving memorial exhibit. Accessible brochures printed in Braille were available. Raised-print names of the 40 brave passengers and crew who thwarted the attack on the U.S. Capitol were displayed on the monument. Tribute items from across the globe have been left at the Flight 93 National Memorial in remembrance of the passengers and crew.

Upcoming Events

BISM Pro-Invitational Golf Classic

The Golf Classic returns for a fifth consecutive year to the exclusive Suburban Golf Club on September 27! Foursomes will play with a PGA club pro and prizes and giveaways are awarded. The event also features lunch and dinner, and kicks off with a cocktail reception on September 26. The Golf Classic benefits BISM’s Youth Independence summer residential programs. Contact Liz King at 410-737-2641 to register. For sponsorship opportunities, call Jackie Ober at 410-737-2617.

TEAM BISM – Baltimore Running Festival

TEAM BISM wants you! Join the TEAM BISM charity team at the Baltimore Running Festival on October 12 for a fun-filled day of running or walking in a variety of events. As a TEAM BISM member, you receive two race shirts, a carb loading party, access to our charity tent on race day, and plenty of food and beverages. To register, contact Rene Alonso at 410-299-6628, Jenn Fagan at 443-509-0598, or Arhea Lazzelle at 410-737-2608. You don’t want to miss it!

Something For Everyone At Shrimp, Oyster, and Bull Roast

On April 27, BISM held its annual Shrimp, Oyster & Bull Roast fundraiser at the Patapsco Arena in Baltimore. The fun-filled event included great food, plenty of opportunities to win prizes, music by DJ Steve Hairsine, and dancing. The event netted over $4,800 for BISM’s Rehabilitation programs and the Associate Activities Committee. Thank you to all of the attendees, sponsors and gift donors for supporting BISM’s programs and services!

Catching Up

BISM Salisbury Associate Passes Away

The entire BISM organization was saddened at the death of Salisbury Cutting associate Patrick Tilghman on June 21 at the age of 54. Tilghman was a native of Salisbury and was employed at BISM since 2000. Our thoughts and prayers are with Patrick’s family and friends.

Work To Independence Students Take Part In Rock Climbing

On June 28, the 2013 Work To Independence Program students and staff took part in rock climbing at Earth Treks in Timonium. This was the first confidence building activity of the seven-week program for blind and low vision high school students. Several of the participants made it to the top of the climb and everyone had a great time!

Hagerstown Senior Support Group Learns About Music

On June 21, the Hagerstown Senior Support Group enjoyed a soulful harp performance by Celtic harpist and musician Lynn Barnes-Dale. Seniors also had the opportunity to tactilely explore the harp and all its intricate features. Other instruments were also demonstrated and seniors were guided through instruction to play their instrument of choice in synchronized harmony.

SAIL Salisbury Members Plant Garden

Salisbury SAIL members got into the seasonal spirit on May 20 by planting flowers, vegetables, and herbs in the raised garden beds located behind BISM’s Salisbury Training Center for Blind Seniors. The seniors were taught effective nonvisual planting methods and also made Braille labels for each plant. Working together in the garden was both productive and enjoyable!

Cumberland Hires New Associate For Rehabilitation Department