Happy 2025! I hope you had a great holiday season. As the new year begins, many people make new year’s resolutions. I have never engaged in that practice. It seems that most resolutions don’t last very long and then people fall back into their old habits. I believe that positive affirmations are more meaningful than resolutions. I thought this was worth passing on… I hope you do, too!

Beginning today, I will no longer worry about yesterday. It is in the past and the past will never change. Only I can change by choosing to do so.

Beginning today, I will no longer worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow will always be there, waiting for me to make the most of it. But I cannot make the most of tomorrow without first making the most of today.

Beginning today, I will look in the mirror and I will see a person worthy of my respect and admiration. This capable person looking back at me is someone I enjoy spending time with and someone I would like to get to know better.

Beginning today, I will cherish each moment of my life. I value this gift bestowed upon me in the world and I will unselfishly share this gift with others. I will use this gift to enhance the lives of others.

Beginning today, I will take a moment to step off the beaten path and to revel in the mysteries I encounter. I will face challenges placed before me with courage and determination. I will overcome what barriers there may be which hinder my quest for growth and self-improvement.

Beginning today, I will take life one day at a time, one step at a time. Discouragement will not be allowed to taint my positive self-image, my desire to succeed or my capacity to love.

Beginning today, I will walk with renewed faith in human kindness. Regardless of what has gone before, I believe there is hope for a brighter and better future.

Beginning today, I will open my mind and my heart. I will welcome new experiences. I will meet new people. I will not expect perfection from myself nor anyone else. Perfection does not exist in an imperfect world. But I will applaud the attempt to overcome human foibles.

Beginning today, I am responsible for my own happiness, and I will do things that make me happy – admire the beautiful wonders of nature, listen to my favorite music, pet a kitten or a puppy, soak in a bubble bath. Pleasure can be found in the most simple of gestures.

Beginning today, I will learn something new. I will try something different. I will savor all the various flavors life has to offer. I will change what I can and the rest I will let go. I will strive to become the best me I can possibly be.

I appreciate you and look forward to a great year of positive activities and accomplishments!

Loris Van Berkom
NDAB President

Calendar for 2025

February 1, 2025 – Membership Renewal Deadline

February 13, 2025 – Giving Hearts Day

March 1, 2025 – Deadline for NDAB Award nominations

June 6 – 8, 2025 – NDAB Convention, Bismarck, ND

August 10 – 17, 2025 – NDAB Summer Camp at Elks Camp Grassick

Coffee Chat is held every Wednesday at 10 a.m. on Zoom.

NDAB Monthly Book Club

Submitted by Mary Lou Stip

NDAB’s Book of the Month Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 10 AM and 7 PM on Zoom.

Here is the list of books:

March 5th (Ash Wednesday): No Surrender: My Thirty-Year War by Hiroo Onoda. DB: 98189. Led by Doug Stip.

April 2nd: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. DB: 107538. Led by Ruth Phalen.

May 7th: An Untamed Land (Book 1 of the Red River of the North series) by Lauraine Snelling. DB: 67616. Led by Christina Powell.

June 4th: Son of the Wilderness: The Life of John Muir by Linnie Marsh Wolf. DB: 58081. Led by Carol Marshall.

July 2nd: The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks. DB 73766. Led by Mary Lou Stip.

August 6th: Cold Earth by Ann Cleeves. DB 87922. Led by Susan Dahl.

Anyone who wants to lead a book discussion can please contact me by phone at (701) 720-0738, or email: maryloustip@midco.net. Happy reading!

Welcome to Our New Members!

Russell Cusack of Mandan (returning member)

Member Deaths

Our sympathy goes out to the family and friends of NDAB members we recently lost.

Gail Melland of Edmore, ND

Violet Zentz of Binford, ND

Membership Renewal Reminder

NDAB Membership renewal forms were sent out at the end of December, so look for them in your email inbox or spam/junk folder, or if you do not have an email address, check your mailbox. If you received an email copy of the form, you can either fill out the word document and email it back to me or fill out the form online. You may either pay your dues via PayPal online or by mailing a check to: NDAB, P.O. Box 824 West Fargo, ND 58078. If you do not have an email address, please send the completed form, along with dues, in the enclosed envelope to the above address. If you did not receive a form or need help filling one out, contact me at (701) 260-8914 or lexee@ndab.org as soon as possible. Lifetime members do not need to pay dues, but I would like a copy of their completed membership renewal form. All forms and dues of $15 for adults and $3 for junior members are due no later than February 1st, 2025. Thank you for your continued membership!

Respectfully submitted,

Lexee Steffan, Vice President/Membership Chair

Save the Date: NDAB Summer Camp 2025

Submitted by Missy Miller

The 54th annual NDAB summer camp will be held at Elks Camp Grassick from August 10-17, 2025. The “Run for the Roses” banquet theme is inspired by the Kentucky Derby and is being planned by Bob Westermeyer and friends. We invite you to dress up as if attending the Derby, fancy hats and all. Or perhaps you’d like to be a horse, a jockey, or even a mint julep drink! Camp packets will be sent out June 1st, so keep an eye out for them early again this year. For more information, please contact: camp@ndab.org or call Missy Miller at (701) 298-8091 or Tim Kachel at (701) 320-3468.

Be Aware! NDAB’s 2025 Convention is Just Around the Corner

Submitted by 2025 Convention Planning Committee

Make plans to join us Friday – Sunday, June 6-8, at the Ramada Inn in Bismarck for the 2025 NDAB Convention. The Convention Planning Team has been hard at work planning a fun and productive weekend. On Friday afternoon there will be a vendor show where you will have the opportunity to try out new products and devices from a variety of vendors and learn about resources for the vision and disability community. Afterwards we will enjoy dinner together and have time to visit. On Saturday, the usual business meeting will commence, along with a special guest speaker, Ryan Botner, from Washburn, ND, who will engage, inspire, and motivate us in our own lives! At the banquet Saturday evening, Jason Romero, a blind author, speaker, and former CEO who ran across the United States, will join us virtually to share his life story. Sunday morning will conclude with our usual memorial service and caramel rolls (and maybe a few sweet surprises) along with the rest of the business meeting and elections. Be Aware and save the date! Convention packets will be mailed by early May.

Scholarship News

Submitted by Tracy Wicken, Scholarship Committee Chair

Scholarships have been available from NDAB for several years, and now is that time of year when NDAB scholarship information is sent out to North Dakota colleges and universities as well as all the regional Vocational Rehabilitation offices. There are now three different scholarships through NDAB. They include the NDAB Scholarship, which awards a $2,000 scholarship and two $1,000 scholarships to those attending a four-year, degree institution. The Emma Skogen Scholarship is a $1,000 scholarship to anyone attending a two year or vocational degree institution. The third scholarship, and one that is new this year, is the Olga Neal Scholarship for Teachers of the Visually Impaired. This new $2,000 scholarship is available to an individual furthering their education to become a Certified Teacher of the Visually Impaired and/or a Certified Orientation and Mobility Instructor. Requirements for each scholarship are included with their respective application. All applications with their required documentation are due by March 15th of each year to the Scholarship Chairperson for review by the Scholarship Committee. The Scholarship Committee consists of Ruth Phalen, David McCloud, Helen Baumgartner, and Tracy Wicken.

Something else that is new this year is how these scholarships will be communicated to prospective applicants. We are in a digital age and have decided to send the scholarship information to the appropriate person via email who will ensure that the scholarship information is communicated to the public. They will still go to colleges, universities, and regional VR offices, but a contact person will be identified to receive the email. The scholarships and applications will also be placed on the NDAB website for anyone to access electronically.

If you know of anyone who might benefit from applying for any of these scholarships, please help to spread the word and encourage them to apply. Their application is good public relations for NDAB, and it also helps the students as possible members of NDAB.

STEM Scholarship info

The North Dakota Space Grant Consortium is once again providing a scholarship opportunity for North Dakota college students who are visually impaired and entering a STEM-related field. For more information, please visit https://ndspacegrant.und.edu/college-students/scholarships/ndvssb.html or email Emily at estenber@nd.gov.

Enhancing Lives Through Vision Rehabilitation Services

Submitted by Aimee Volk, Vision and Independent Living Services Administrator, ND Vocational Rehabilitation

In North Dakota, independence is not just a goal—it is a promise. Through dedicated efforts, North Dakota Vocational Rehabilitation is helping individuals with disabilities regain control over their lives. Vision Rehabilitation Specialists (VRS) play a pivotal role in assisting individuals to lead safe, independent, and fulfilling lives.

Embracing independence

At the heart of this mission lies the Older Individuals Who are Blind (OIB) Program. This program works with individuals aged 55 or older, have a vision impairment, and do not reside in a nursing facility. We have seven highly skilled and compassionate VRSs that provide comprehensive in-home assessments, helping participants maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. Services are available at no cost and throughout North Dakota.

Visual impairments such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa can make daily tasks challenging. However, the OIB program is here to help. Each VRS is specially trained to evaluate the unique needs to find individualized solutions that address specific challenges. They recognize that no two individuals are the same and provide personalized support to ensure each person thrives.

Sometimes, a small change can make a world of difference. For instance, placing tactile bump dots on microwave controls can allow someone to safely prepare meals. A talking watch or a large-faced clock might allow someone the independence of tracking time. In other cases, improved lighting or glare reduction can transform daily tasks and make those tasks easier. A VRS can help to find the right magnifier for reading mail, checking labels, or playing cards.

Employment goals

For individuals looking to enter, stay, or advance in the workforce, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) offers additional support. The VR employment program works with individuals with disabilities to achieve their career aspirations.

You will begin with a thorough assessment with a VR counselor and VRS to understand each individual’s unique goals, strengths, and challenges. Together you will work on an individualized employment plan that identifies the necessary resources, accommodations, and training to help you succeed.

By focusing on each individual’s potential and equipping them with the tools and resources needed, the VR employment program helps people with disabilities not only secure meaningful jobs but also build confidence, financial independence, and a sense of achievement.

For more information

If you or someone you care about could benefit from these life-changing services, please reach out to us today. North Dakota Vocational Rehabilitation is ready to help you or your loved ones embrace greater independence and opportunity.

For more information, contact us at (800) 755-2745 or email Aimee Volk at alvolk@nd.gov.

ND Lions Video Magnifier Program

Submitted by Tracy Wicken, Video Magnifier Committee Chair

It was several years ago that this program started, and it is still going strong! The program was put together to provide persons with low vision an affordable way to have access to magnification through video means which they otherwise wouldn’t have been able to afford. Through this lease program many people in North Dakota with vision loss have been able to continue to live independently doing things like read their mail, pay their bills, look at photographs, write letters to loved ones, and many other visual tasks.

The Program is administered through the ND Lions Foundation, and ND Lions have always worked with The Low Vision Store out of St. Paul, MN, for the equipment that they have available to lease. Terry Nelson was always so supportive and helpful, and his family, Sue, Josh, and Erick have continued that friendly, thoughtful support to the needs of our ND residents.

From the beginning, and even now, there is a Video Magnifier Committee comprised of eight individuals. The Committee includes two people from each of these four entities: NDAB, ND Vision Services/School for the Blind, ND Lions, and Vocational Rehabilitation. The current members are Allan Peterson and Janelle Olson from NDAB, Tracy Wicken and Amy Osvold from NDVS/SB, Helen Baumgartner and Dennis Freisz from ND Lions, and Betsy Hermanson and Mariel Zeller from Vocational Rehabilitation. They meet quarterly to go over the status of the Program and check in with each other to see how things are going regarding how the program is running.

Equipment that was available for lease included a 24” Topaz video magnifier and the SARA CE scanner/reader. Both items are made by Freedom Scientific. The SARA CE currently is no longer available and the need for a device with a smaller footprint for those living in very small residences needed to be considered. The solution was to incorporate a few more pieces of equipment to meet those people’s needs. The ND Lions Video Magnifier Program now has a 27” video magnifier from Low Vision International, Reveal 16 video magnifier from Humanware and the Lyriq scan and read device by Zyrlo LLC. All three products are available through The Low Vision Store. These new products are for new applicants to the Lions Video Magnifier Program and not for those already enrolled. The cost of leasing the equipment is an initial one-time $50 deposit and $20 per month after that.

This program has been very successful and beneficial. The VM Committee and the ND Lions Foundation thanks you for any support you can give and for the support you have given in the past.

Our Trip to Jacksonville: Part 2

Submitted by Mary Lou and Doug Stip

This article covers the second half of our trip to Jacksonville for the ACB Convention which concluded July 11th.

Tuesday morning’s general session featured an address from an international guest, Kenneth Surrat, Executive Officer of the Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Center from Port of Spain. Also, there was news from the National Library Service, and this year’s featured Talking Book narrator, Mare Trevathan, from Books to Life in Denver, Colorado. We went to hear her again that afternoon.

It’s easy to forget, as much as we enjoy listening to Talking Books, the sheer amount of work involved in recording just one book. It isn’t simply the matter of reading for the recording; rather, there’s a whole production process involved including editing, re-recording in places where necessary, and so forth. It’s fun listening to the narrators talking about their craft.

Tuesday evening’s activity for us was Bingo sponsored by ACB Families. We have enjoyed these in past years; however, this one was a disappointment. It was noisy and hard to hear the Bingo caller, and with a cash bar thrown into the mix, this time the event became something we’d rather forget, and as such, we don’t think we’ll do THAT again, LOL!

Elections for various candidates were held Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. This year, because the convention was both virtual and in-person, we needed our individual voter codes, which we used to phone in our votes at designated times in the afternoons. In the evenings we met with the rest of our North Dakota delegation via Zoom to discuss how we’d vote for the various candidates. A big thanks goes to everyone who helped on the Zoom meetings.

Whenever there are elections, there are individual and affiliate vote totals. Affiliate votes aren’t always unanimous. An affiliate can apportion its vote total if there is no clear consensus among the members for a particular candidate. For example, an affiliate with ten votes can split them, say, five for one and five for another, and so forth. An affiliate with an odd number of votes can also split its vote in half, say, 3.5 votes apiece in the case of an affiliate with 7 votes.

Thursday night’s ACB banquet featured a keynote speaker of considerable accomplishment. Judge David S. Tatel spent years denying and working around his blindness before finally embracing it as a part of his identity, according to the convention program. He is the author of Vision: A Memoir of Blindness and Justice. (DB 122023 from the Talking Book Library). He served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit for thirty years, retiring in 2024. He is now Senior Counsel at Hogan Lovells where he founded and led the education practice. He also headed the Office of Civil Rights for the Department of Health, Education and Welfare under the Carter administration.

A highlight of the banquet is the raffle drawing for cash prizes at the end. The ACB Braille Forum sells raffle tickets for $50 as a fundraiser and somehow Allan Peterson seems to have some kind of knack for selling winning tickets! One ticket he sold was to Ardis Bazyn, a public speaker and writer who has been active in ACB conventions for years. This time our very own President Loris Van Berkom won the $5,000 top prize! This helped send us all home on a high note. Fortunately, our flights home were uneventful and we were happy to be back in Fargo late on July 12th after the week’s adventures.

Williston Wanderings Winter 2025 by Janelle F. Olson

I am borrowing words from Susan to open up and later close our collective contribution to this issue. She says while Christmas and the New Year can be a downtime, a time of rest, a time for wondering and pondering, it can also be a time of growth. We shall see if what we all have been up to recently falls into any of these categories.

Loris says the time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s seemed to fly by according to her. Decorating her home and then putting it away again takes her longer every year. She hosted a brunch for some friends and a pizza party for another bunch. Attending Christmas activities as well as caroling with her church group is always a special part of Advent. She took a train trip to the St. Cloud area to spend Christmas with her daughter and family. She celebrated New Year’s Day at a friend’s house enjoying a delicious Danish lunch.

Susan and Glenn are back in Arizona. She enjoys morning stretches and walking. She also takes part in chair exercise and water aerobics. She is currently involved in a book study of Amos with twenty other women. Susan reminds us that the God who created the moon and stars is still working on each one of us.

Brenda and her brother Lyle traveled with their brother Allan and sister-in-law to Arizona where they stayed ten days over Thanksgiving. Christmas was spent in Powell, Wyoming. Unfortunately, she is currently pondering over a pinched meniscus which has landed her in physical therapy, leaving her wondering just how quickly this can be resolved. We wish you a speedy recovery.

Our friend Minerva says she continues to exercise, attends a weekly Bible study with Carol and Brenda, and is making plans to travel on the train to Seattle to visit a friend. Brenda is always sharing recipes with her, and Brenda will be happy to know that the day I called Minerva, she had just baked a cake.

Sheryl very clearly is wondering how it is she appears to be so cold in Kentucky when it was in her plan to move south where it is supposed to be warm. As of right now, it isn’t. She attended the wedding of a granddaughter at the beginning of December, spent Christmas Eve with her son and family, and spent a quiet Christmas Day at home.

Carol’s daughter Anna flew home from Washington, D.C. for a six-day Christmas visit. Travis is a busy freshman and is at the beginning of basketball season. The family’s older dog, Cuddles, really took the concept of holiday resting to heart. After being let outside one evening to do his business, he didn’t come back in when called. It was too dark for Carol to locate him, and Travis went out on the hunt. He was found sleeping comfortably under a tree.

I recently took the leap and upgraded to a new iPhone. My right thumb is now out of a job as it appears the home key went the way of phones with curly cords, stuck to kitchen walls. Please, no judgment. I don’t know anything about a “Dynamic Island,” but my new phone tells me all the time mine is empty. Jeff and I had a quiet Christmas Eve. On Christmas Day, we hopped in the car, heading south to Bismarck for Jeff’s appointment on the 26th. We were thankful to find the Bismarck Perkin’s open for business. While Matt and Dan thankfully have not been directly affected by the horrific fires in California, they have friends and work associates who have suffered great losses.

No matter the times we may encounter in 2025 as we travel through each day and month, Susan challenges us to remember that we are works in progress.

Bismarck & Other News from Robert Westermeyer

The Bismarck Supper Club had an enchilada party at a member’s house on December 27th and ate at the Olive Garden on January 15th.

Sporting Chance, an organization that provides outdoor recreational opportunities for those who otherwise wouldn’t have the chance, will host two events two summer:

Fishing – the Geyger Fishing Event is scheduled for June 7 at Grainer Bottoms near Mandan. A fish fry will follow. For more info, contact J.R. Casper at 226-6578.

Adaptive Water Skiing – Escape to the Lake, an event which offers adaptive water-skiing opportunities, is scheduled for Saturday, June 21 at Nelson Lake near Center. For more information contact Leslie at 739-5349.

If you’re like me, your medication list is growing longer. Spoken Rx is an audible service that will read your prescriptions for you. A sticker is placed on the bottom of your container, which is then set on a platform. Push the button with the raised dot and it will read the information out loud. For more information, contact the Bismarck CVS Pharmacy at (701) 255-1335, or your local pharmacy.

Spotlight on NDAB Member: Gerald Byron

Each month we profile an NDAB member. This month, meet Gerald Byron from Edinburg.

Tell us about yourself.
My name is Gerald Byron, and I live in Edinburg, ND. I’m married to Lisa, and we have two daughters, Heather and Kelsey, and 5 grandchildren, Shelby, Braven, Bridger, Berlyn, and Derek. My vision loss was caused by non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in my eyes.

What are some of your hobbies?
I used to like hunting. I love fishing, gardening and spending time with the grandkids when they can spare the time.

How long have you been a member of NDAB?
10-12 years

Why did you become a member?
I thought it would help to meet people in the same situation as myself. I wish I would have gotten more involved sooner than 4 years ago.

What is your favorite memory from NDAB events?
Fishing at Camp Grassick. And planning the banquet with my friends at Camp Grassick.

What do you consider NDAB’s greatest accomplishment?
Camp and Dining in the Dark.

Is there anything you think NDAB should add or do differently?
An ice fishing derby!

Why should someone join NDAB?

It is a great help to be with people with vision impairments because we all understand each other.

How do you see blind possible?
You learn to adapt, and everything remains possible even if it feels impossible.

Spotlight on NDAB Member: Emily Zilka

Each month we profile an NDAB member. This month, meet Emily Zilka from Grand Forks, ND.

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Emily Zilka and I’m from Grand Forks, North Dakota. I have an identical twin sister, two younger brothers, and a Boston Terrier named Virgil. I was born with a genetic condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP for short) which causes progressive vision loss. I currently see like I’m looking through a tunnel, so I have central vision and no peripheral vision.

What are some of your hobbies?

I love fashion, especially Western fashion. I love putting outfits together and I love how confident I feel when I put on a nice outfit. I love listening to music, especially Miranda Lambert. I love to travel; Arizona is my favorite place that I’ve been to. When I go to Arizona, I love to go horseback riding. I also love archery and basket weaving; these are hobbies that I picked up from camp.

How long have you been a member of NDAB?

I believe I’ve been a member of NDAB since 2021. It’s hard to remember exactly when, but I know I become a member after attending my first year at camp in 2021.

Why did you become a member?

I became a member because I love getting to connect with other blind people and it’s so refreshing being around other people who understand what it’s like to live with blindness. I’ve been able to try new things that I never thought I could do before, but the great thing about being in NDAB is that we always find a way to do things. I’ve made some really close friends through NDAB and that’s probably my favorite reason why I became a member.

What is your favorite memory from NDAB events?

It’s so hard to pick a favorite memory because there’s so many! I think for me, hearing all the laughter at camp is my favorite. I also love when I got a bullseye in archery for the first time. Just hearing the clang of the cast iron pan when my arrow hit the bullseye made me feel so excited, and I couldn’t believe that I did that! I also love that I learned braille for the first time. It made me feel even more connected to the blind community, and I can’t believe how quickly I picked that up!

What do you consider NDAB’s greatest accomplishment?

I think camp and Dining in the Dark are NDAB’s greatest accomplishments. I love camp so much; I’ve loved it ever since I went for the first time in 2021. It’s an opportunity to rest, recharge, and have lots of fun with friends! Camp is an opportunity to try new things that you thought you couldn’t do before. Camp feels like home to me. Dining in the Dark is another accomplishment of NDAB. We’re able to educate sighted people on blindness while they’re blindfolded through a four-course meal and it’s such a unique experience. Answering all their questions about blindness is really fun because they leave the experience knowing more about blindness than they did before they sat down. They leave knowing that we’re not objects of pity or inspiration, but that we’re human beings who just do things a little differently.

Why should someone join NDAB?

NDAB is a wonderful organization to be a part of because you’re able to connect with other blind people and try things that you thought you wouldn’t be able to do. It’s also a great way to make lots of friends!

Anything else you want to share?

NDAB is a wonderful family to be a part of. I’m so proud to be a member of this organization.

Spotlight on NDAB Member: Kelly Clarey

Each month we profile an NDAB member. This month, meet Kelly Clarey from Fargo.

Tell us about yourself.
I’m 71 years old. I lost my vision in my right eye about 40 years due to central vein occlusion. Back then there was nothing they could do, but it was not supposed to happen to the other eye. But in November 2018, it started happening in my left eye. By then they had injections you could get to try to stop the vision from deteriorating. I started getting them, but it didn’t stop it completely. I only see about 20/400 out of my left eye. So, I retired early, and my wife Linda and I moved to Fargo.

I was born and raised on a farm south of Fairmont, ND, the youngest of nine kids. I pretty much lived in the Wahpeton area all my life until I lost my vision.

Linda and I got married in 2013. We’re a blended family. Linda has 1 daughter, and I have 3 kids. Together we have 9 grandkids.

Just before we moved to Fargo, in March of 2019, I went to North Dakota Vision Services/School for the Blind. That was an excellent experience. They are awesome people up there, the whole group. All of them taught me a lot. I had no idea what to expect. I was not in a good spot at that point in time because I assumed I wouldn’t be able to do anything without my vision. But they taught me a lot of simple things that made a big difference. Probably one of the best things was that I realized you can do anything but drive. And luckily I have a beautiful chauffeur!

What are some of your hobbies?
When we moved to Fargo, we got involved with Allan Peterson’s Insight group. Allan and his wife Judy are great people, and the group teaches us a lot of the technical stuff that is available. That was a huge thing, to find out what was available to people who are visually impaired. Until you connect with others who are going through what you are, you really have no idea. We also got involved with Vince Ulstad’s group, the FM Visions Group. We are really blessed to be part of those groups and to get to know the community who are visually impaired.

We love to go to the community theatre when Karla Pederson provides audio description. That is such a good thing. We were a part of the White Cane Safety Day walk this fall.

How long have you been a member of NDAB?
We signed up in 2021, I think. We got to help with the Fargo Convention, which was a lot of work but a good experience. There are a lot of people who good things for the BVI community. I’m glad to be a part of that.

Why should someone become a member of NDAB?
I’d highly recommend they join. Just to be connected with other people who have a visual impairment and to be a part of that community, that makes a huge difference. NDAB advocates for the visually impaired; that’s huge. And to be a part of a group that’s likeminded and to spread the word on the services that are available. To be aware of things that can assist you, and that are free to you.

NDAB’s new theme for 2025 is “Be Aware.” What do you think the world should “be aware” of regarding vision loss?
I think a lot of it is etiquette. A lot of people don’t understand what to do or what not to do when they see someone with a white cane. To be aware that you shouldn’t just grab a person and drag them around, but to offer an elbow.

Is there anything else you want to share?
I’ve met some real good people from this experience – the people at the School for the Blind, Allan Peterson, Vince Ulstad, Doug and Mary Lou Stip, and Greg Otis – who have taught me a lot. There is good camaraderie between us all. That makes a huge difference. I’ve been very blessed throughout my life.

Be NDAB Aware in 2025 on Giving Hearts Day

Submitted by Allan Peterson

“Be NDAB Aware” will serve as the theme for our participation in Giving Hearts Day (GHD) in 2025.

This theme reflects the objectives we seek to gain from our participation in GHD. We not only seek to acquire the funding support we need but also seek to build awareness about NDAB and to dispel attitudes that loss of eyesight is the end of hope for a happy productive life.

2025 marks the ninth year that we have participated in this regionwide event. Fortunately, each year we have increased our support through our participation in this appeal, and with your help we will continue this trend.

To prepare for GHD, participating organizations must create a Match Fund. Match Fund donors are solicited in advance with the intent that their contributions will be used as an incentive for Giving Hearts Day donors. Simply put, money in the Match Fund is used to match dollar-for-dollar donations made by Giving Hearts Day donors.

Admittedly, the concept of a Match Fund and how Giving Hearts Day donations differ can be confusing. Giving Hearts Day donors are solicited to make their donations either online or by check during the designated giving period, whereas Match Fund donations are secured in advance of GHD. This year the GHD designated giving period began on Monday, January 13 and culminates on Giving Hearts Day, Thursday, February 13, 2025.

Acknowledgements and words of praise and gratitude to our Giving Hearts Day Team:

Rebecca for her work to do the job of tracking our donations and sending the thank you notes to our donors. The thank you messages are an extremely important key in keeping donors acknowledged and appreciated. Her work on thank you notes never stops.

Michelle and Zelda for their time and diligence to do updates in our master donor list. This list is vital in that it is the primary tool used to communicate with donors.

Kaity Young for her work and skills to make our web site visually appealing. To Brant Adams to make our web site accessible as updates continue to be made.

Emily Brown for the work to post messages to NDAB’s Facebook page about our participation in Giving Hearts Day plus her editing skills.

Lilly Dunrud for her excellent graphic design and editing skills.

Trampes, David Olson, and Zelda for their work to send messages via Mail Chimp. Mail Chimp has proven to be invaluable to monitor the interest of contacts from our master donor list.

Donors have two basic ways to make a 2025 Giving Hearts Day donation:

First, online: Giving Hearts Day donations can be made online beginning Monday, January 13, and will end on Thursday, February 13, 2025. The focus date for Giving Hearts Day is February 13, 2025. The giving period will end at 11:59 PM on that day. Donations received after this date will not be considered an eligible GHD donation. To make a secure online contribution, go to www.givingheartsday.org and click on the Giving Hearts Day Donate button and then select North Dakota Association of the Blind from among the listed charities. Donations can be made by credit or debit card. Donations must be at least $10 to qualify for the match. All donations are eligible for a tax deduction.

Second, by check: Donations can also be made by check prior to February 13. Checks should be dated February 13, 2025; write “Giving Hearts” on the memo line, and mail to our treasurer, Rebecca Anderson, PO Box 824, West Fargo, ND 58078. Checks should be mailed at least 10 days before February 13 so they can be received and counted as a Giving Hearts Day donation.

Note: Online donations can be made beginning on Monday, January 13, 2025. These donations are counted as if they were made on Giving Hearts Day itself and this option continues through Giving Hearts Day on February 13, 2025. So, a wonderful way to lower the stress of donating would be by making an online donation before February 13.

A Match Fund of $20,000 has been established for Giving Hearts Day in 2025. Our goal is then to match this amount by donations made for this endeavor beginning January 13 and continuing through the end of the day on February 13.

To help focus on our Giving Hearts Day participation we have planned to host a “Bowling While Blind” event at Sunset Lanes in Moorhead, MN, from 4 to 6 PM on January 30. Invitations to participate in this event will be given to local media, area Lions Clubs, NDAB members, and any others interested in attending this event.

Any questions or comments call or text me at (701) 429-7209 or email me at allan.c.peterson@gmail.com.

Development Report Winter 2025

Submitted by Allan Peterson and Zelda Gebhard

Happy New Year! Out with the old, in with the new. Goodbye 2024 – sad to see you go, glad to be alive in 2025!

We invite you to join with us in making the following new year’s resolution: “We from NDAB hereby do resolve to advocate for passage of beneficial legislative policies for people with sight loss in 2025”.

For better or worse, the 2024 general election is over, and the next chapter in state and federal governance has begun. Both the 69th session of the North Dakota Legislature and the 119th session of the U.S. Congress have convened and begun their deliberations in January 2025.

Yes, elections do have consequences. North Dakota’s new governor is former Congressman Kelly Armstrong, and the replacement to fill his seat in the U.S. House is former public service commissioner, Julie Fedorchak. Senator Kevin Cramer won reelection to a 2nd term for his seat in the U.S. Senate.

Republicans continue to hold super majorities in our North Dakota Legislature and hold all the elected offices in state government. They enjoy a 42 to 5 majority in the State Senate and an 83 to 11 majority in the State House of Representatives. Plus, they continue to hold each of North Dakota’s 3 seats in Congress. Besides Congresswoman Fedorchak and Senator Cramer, Senator John Hoeven is currently serving his third term as one of the two U.S. Senators for North Dakota.

The issue that dominates each state legislative session is adopting the budget that authorizes operating funding for state government for the next two-year biennium. The Governor’s budget serves as the template for the State Legislature to accept and/or modify. When all the deliberations on appropriation bills have been finalized, this will determine how state spending is allocated during the 2025 – 2027 North Dakota biennium.

In preparation for our advocacy for the appropriations for institutions dealing with blindness specific services, we, at our 2024 NDAB Convention in June at the Enchanted Castle in Regent, ND, adopted resolutions in support of services from North Dakota Vision Services School for the Blind, the Talking Book Program at the State Library, the Older Individuals Who Are Blind Program within the ND Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Public Transit Program within the North Dakota Department of Transportation. These resolutions will support our testimony when we are allowed to speak to the Appropriations Committees in the North Dakota House and Senate. In addition, we will be tracking any legislation that affects people with disabilities throughout the session with help from the North Dakota Protection and Advocacy Program.

During this state legislative session, appropriations for Vision Services School for the Blind and the Older Individuals Who Are Blind program will begin in the House and after crossover will be sent to the Senate Appropriations Committee. The outcome for these and all appropriations are not known definitively until all parties agree and the governor signs these bills – one of the last things to happen at the close of the session, typically late in April or early in May.

Our advocacy at the federal level is done in collaboration with the American Council of the Blind (ACB). State affiliates like NDAB are invited and encouraged to attend the annual ACB Legislative Seminar held in March. The Legislative Seminar is part of the meeting package referred to as Leadership Meetings of the American Council of the Blind (ACB). This year these meetings will be held as hybrid meetings March 15 through 18.

Each session of Congress begins with a clean slate. Meaning bills from the previous session are no longer viable. If legislative action on those topics is still desired, new bills addressing those issues must be reintroduced. At this point we have not heard what legislative priorities the ACB Advocacy Committee and ACB Leadership have selected for this year’s ACB Legislative Seminar.

At our 2024 NDAB Convention, we adopted 4 resolutions in support of ACB’s most recent federal legislative priorities. These resolutions supported passage of these bills in the 118th session of Congress (1) the Medical Device Non-Visual Act, (2) the Websites & Software Applications Act, (3) the Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility Act, and (4) the Medicare and Medicaid Dental, Vision, and Hearing Benefits Act. Legislation that addresses these issues will need to be reintroduced for consideration by the 119th session of Congress.

As you can well appreciate, passage of legislation like these bills requires a lot of time and effort by ACB and all of us working together.

On January 29, the North Dakota Disability Advocacy Consortium NDDAC will host its Disability Awareness Day at the State Capitol. This is an opportunity for people with disabilities as a community to advocate for policies that are beneficial to the community of people with disabilities as a whole and to specific disability groups within this community like North Dakota Association of the Blind.

We thank you for your involvement and support and ask you to remain ready to respond to a call or email request for your personal advocacy during the 2025 State Legislative session and for policies beneficial to people with blindness under consideration by Congress.

Donations October – December 2024

Submitted by Rebecca Anderson, Treasurer/Registered Agent
Donations October to December Total $14,427.98

Gaming $1,450.00

Drake Columbian Club

Edgeley American Legion

Ellendale American Legion

Maddock Rural Fire

Napoleon American Legion

Tolley Fire Department

Walk for Vision $2,655.00

Doris Anderson

Jane Anderson

James Bloom

Jackie Brodshaug

Mark Brodshaug

Lona Daley Getz

Gini Duval

John and Carol Fjelstad

Bruce Furness

Lonie Hass

Kenneth and Loralee Heiser

Debra Helvik

Hometown Credit Union

Irvin Houkom

Neil Jordheim

Karen Kooren

Jon Lindgren

Roald Lund

Dr L Masciarelli

Carolyn Nelson

Mark & Rita Peterson

Jane Pettinger

Elwood Rieke

Mona Rindy

Thomas Saddler Jr

Douglas Schindler

Gene Taylor

Taylor Lions Club

Steven Trandem

Chad and Kristen Wolsky

Lions $2,800.00

Lions

Bismarck Capital City Lions

Kenmare Lions

Zeeland Lions

Lions Parade of Green

Beulah Lions

Fargo Gateway Lions

Grand Forks South Forks Lions

Jamestown Lions

Lake Metigoshe Lions

West Fargo Lions

Williston Korner Lions

Sports & Rec $2,000.00

Prairie Grit Adaptive Sports

Memorials and Other Donations $5,522.98

Sharon Johnson in memory of Elsie Friez for Camp

ACB MMS

Anonymous

Jane Cumber

State Bank & Trust of Kenmare

Thrivent

North Dakota Association of the Blind
Special Board Meeting Minutes

September 26, 2023

Motion was made by Lexi and second by Allan to offer reimbursement of up to $500 in mileage per driver up to three drivers plus room and board if requested by transportation providers. Motion was approved.

Submitted by Trampes Brown

North Dakota Association of the Blind, Inc. Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

October 21, 2024

BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Loris VanBerkom, Lexee Steffan, Rebecca Anderson, Helen Baumgartner, Gerald Byron, Janelle Olson, Allan Peterson and Trampes Brown

BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT: Elias Youngblom

GUESTS: Michelle Zentz, Mary Stip and Elamin Abaker

CALL TO ORDER: Loris called the meeting to order at 7:31 pm via Zoom. Roll call was taken.

REGULAR AGENDA: Loris read the items on the agenda. Allan made a motion to approve the agenda, seconded by Janelle. MC

PUBLIC COMMENT: None

BUSINESS AGENDA:

Secretary: On September 2nd, a motion was made by Gerald, seconded by Lexee, to approve the August 29th minutes. MC

Treasurer: A motion was made by Allan, seconded by Gerald to accept the August and September Treasurer’s reports. MC Condit will be doing the Financial Review.

Finance: Allan reported the Walk for Vision went well, with representation from various groups in attendance. Since June 1st, $8290 has been received in donations. Work on GHD has begun. It will be held February 13, 2025.

Membership: Lexee reported the following new applicants – Stephanie Suko, Dickinson, sighted and Crystal Dueker, Fargo, sighted. Returning members: Menuka Rai, Fargo, blind and Morgan Foster, Spiritwood, visually impaired. Lexee made a motion to approve all members, seconded by Allan. MC Janelle will be making phone calls to get more information from our new members to share with the board.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Dining in the Dark: Janelle reported that the North Star Lions from Bismarck have scheduled a DITD for October 25th, 2025. She is working on a DITD Manual.

Scholarship: Helen reported that she spoke to a Voc Rehab Regional Administrator to see if a client receiving a scholarship would jeopardize their Voc Rehab funding. He assured us that this is not the case. Scholarships are encouraged by VR to help pay for daily living expenses. He is a member of the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities and they have trouble giving out scholarships as well. They plan to put the applications out electronically to see if that helps. Tracy Wicken encouraged NDAB to do the same. She would like to get the application to NDAB and have it put on the website. She will be sending Helen some scholarship application samples and Helen will try to make the scholarship application specific to the Olga Neal scholarships for TVI students.

Sports & Rec: The Fall Retreat went well. Some new activities were experienced. Trampes thought the venue was good, but not accessible. There were 12 participants, 6 staff helping throughout the weekend.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Ski for Light Transportation: Lexee reported on her attempts to get drivers. David McCloud is willing to drive. He can take two people. Crystal Dueker is willing to give a ride to 5 people. The driver’s mileage will be paid at .65/mile. The dates are January 19th – 24th, 2025. Transportation is a total expense to NDAB. NDVS/SB and the Gateway Lions no longer give support.

Digitizing NDAB’s History: No Report

Grandpa’s White Cane: A simulated child’s cane will be use when presenting to the schools. Committee members will attend schools in areas close to their homes. A letter will be sent out to schools, followed by a phone call. Third grade students will be targeted. Schools that want this presentation will be sent a book about a week prior to the presentation. Each child will be given a name tag in braille and possibly candy. A NDAB resource guide with NDAB services will be included with the book. Crystal from the Gateway Lions is keeping a list of the schools she is going to so there is no duplication with NDAB. The book should end up in the school’s library.

NEW BUSINESS:

Approving Updated Manuals:

Convention Guidelines – Gerald made a motion to approve the updated guidelines, seconded by Lexee. MC

` Handbook for ACB Delegate 2024 – Janelle made a motion to approve the handbook, seconded by Lexee. MC

Awards Committee manual – Lexee made a motion to approve the manual, seconded by Allan. MC

Nominations Guidelines August 2024 – Janelle made a motion to approve the guidelines, seconded by Gerald. MC

President’s Manual October 2024 – Gerald made a motion to approve the manual, seconded by Janelle. MC

Purchase hitch and light system for trailer: Allan made a motion to purchase a hitch and light system for the trailer, seconded by Janelle. After discussion, Allan made a motion to table the motion and revisit it at the next meeting, seconded by Janelle. MC

ACB Holiday Auction: Allan made a motion to send $100 to the ACB Holiday Auction, seconded by Lexee. MC

Life Enrichment: This program has not been used by many members. A suggestion was made that technology be purchased with the same guidelines. The Life Enrichment Committee will present this at the next convention.

Angie Kokott Donation: A donation was given to NDAB from Angie Kokott’s family in the amount of $3,414.13 The camp committee will discuss some possibilities of how to utilize the funds. There was also a donation from Elsie Friesz’s family in the amount of $150 to be used for camp.

NEXT MEETING: January 6th, 2025 at 7:30 pm

ADJOURN: Allan made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Lexee. MC The meeting adjourned at 9:16 pm.

Respectfully Submitted, Helen Baumgartner, NDAB Secretary

North Dakota Association of the Blind, Inc.
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

January 13, 2025

BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Loris VanBerkom, Lexee Steffan, Rebecca Anderson, Helen Baumgartner, Gerald Byron, Janelle Olson, Elias Youngblom, Allan Peterson and Trampes Brown

GUESTS: Missy Miller, Brant Adams, Angela Christle, Tracy Wicken, Mary Stip, Mike Beck and Michelle Zentz

CALL TO ORDER: Loris called the meeting to order at 7:34 pm via Zoom. Roll call was taken.

REGULAR AGENDA: Loris read the agenda. Allan added a Legislative Report

PUBLIC COMMENT: None

BUSINESS AGENDA:

Secretary: On October 25th, a motion was made by Janelle, seconded by Gerald, to approve the October 21st minutes. MC

Sympathy cards were sent out to Paula Anundson and Michelle Zentz.

Treasurer: A motion was made by Allan, seconded by Gerald to accept the revised September, October, November and December Treasurer’s reports. MC

Finance: The theme for GHD is Bee NDAB Aware. Our match fund is $20,000. GHD is Feb. 13, but donations can be made immediately. MailChimp has been updated. The website has been updated for GHD by Kaity Young. Emily Stenberg has put information on Facebook in regards to this event. GHD emails and direct mailings will be sent out. An event in conjunction with GHD will be held on Jan. 30 at a local bowling alley.

Membership: Lexee moved to approve Russell Cusack as a returning sighted member from Mandan, seconded by Trampes. MC Membership forms were sent out on 12/27/2024. We have 60 paid members for 2025. Gail Melland of Edmore passed away on 6/21/2024. Violet Zentz of Binford passed away on 11/24/24.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Scholarship: Tracy Wicken reported she has updated the NDAB scholarships. She will be putting them on NDAB’s website. The Olga Neal TVI Scholarship has been composed. Helen made a motion to approve the composed Olga Neal Scholarship, seconded by Lexee. MC Trampes made a motion to place all scholarship information and applications on the NDAB website, seconded by Janelle. MC Tracy will also send the applications to the VR offices, all Disability Services Offices at colleges and universities, NDVS/SB staff and the Director of the TVI Program at UND. Tracy will send the scholarship information to Brant to put on the NDAB website.

Camp Report: Camp will be August 10 – 17, with a theme of Run for the Roses, hosted by Bobby Westermeyer and friends. Packets will be sent out by June 1st. Any contact information for a band for Friday night can be sent to Missy.

2025 Convention: The convention will be June 6 – 8 at the Ramada in Bismarck. The committee is trying to get vendors for Friday night. There are two speakers scheduled, Jason Romero, for the banquet and Ryan Botner for Saturday morning. Room rates are $139.

Legislature: Four resolutions were approved at the convention in June. One is being discussed on Jan. 16. January 29th is Disability Awareness Day. The ACB Leadership meetings are March 15 – 18 in DC.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Ski for Light Transportation: Dave McCloud and Keith Lewis are the drivers. Donnie, Shirley, Kenny, Lexee and Brant are traveling with the two drivers.

Purchase hitch and lights: A motion was tabled at the last meeting to purchase a hitch and lights for the trailer. Trampes requested that the motion be withdrawn. Allan withdrew the motion and Janelle withdrew her second.

Archiving Talent Shows: Elias informed the board that he has the materials that need to be digitized. He stated he was informed the Communications Committee would be in charge. A statement will be placed on the membership application for people to indicate that they do not wish to have their picture placed on social media or our website.

Storing Manuals: Loris reported the manuals can be stored on the website and in the cloud.

Grandpa’s White Cane: Trampes reported the Communications Committee has not met, so had no report. Gerald has visited one school. He has two more scheduled.

NEW BUSINESS:

Supporting HB1012: Mike Beck spoke on the bill supporting the Older Blind Program. He asked NDAB members to contact their legislators requesting a $100,000 annual increase in the 10% state match of $25,000.

Funding for Voc Rehab: Mike Beck asked for NDAB to volunteer to contact Amy Volk to give a $5,000 donation to support Voc. Rehab. No action was taken on this request.

Public Comment: Michelle asked if the President has formed a Nominating Committee. Loris has appointed Janelle to chair the committee.

NEXT MEETING: March 24, 2025 at 7:30 pm

ADJOURN: Allan made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Lexee. MC The meeting adjourned at 8:53 pm.

Respectfully Submitted, Helen Baumgartner, NDAB Secretary

Leadership Roster

President: Loris Van Berkom

Membership Chairperson/VP: Lexee Steffan

Secretary: Helen Baumgartner

Treasurer/Registered Agent: Rebecca Anderson

Past President: Trampes Brown

Legislative Liaison: Zelda Gebhard

Director: Elias Youngblom

Director: Janelle Olson

Director: Gerald Byron

Development Director/Leg. Liaison: Allan Peterson

Historian: Open

Webmaster: Brant Adams

Promoter Editor: Emily Stenberg Brown

Camp Committee Chair: Missy Miller

Committee Chairpersons:

Awards: Mary Lou Stip

Communications: Trampes Brown

Dining in the Dark: Janelle Olson

Finance: Rebecca Anderson

Scholarship: Tracy Wicken

Sports and Recreation: Elias Youngblom

Public Relations: Zelda Gebhard

Nominations: Janelle Olson

Local News Reporters:

Bismarck: Robert Westermeyer

Lake Region: Carol Schmitt

Minot: Dianne Giessinger

Williston: Janelle Olson

Fargo: Mary Lou Stip

Grand Forks: Ruth Phalen

Communication Connections:

Website: www.ndab.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoDakAB/

Communication submissions: comms@ndab.org

Address: NDAB, PO Box 824, West Fargo, ND 58078

All members are encouraged to submit items of interest to the editor at promoter@ndab.org for publication. Deadline is the 10th of the month prior to quarterly publications of February, May, August, and November.

NDAB is a nonprofit organization which promotes the interest of ND residents who are blind and visually impaired. As a nonprofit organization, we welcome donations to help in advancing the cause of persons who are blind and visually impaired. For more information about NDAB, visit www.ndab.org.

Table of contents

From the President

Calendar for 2025

NDAB Monthly Book Club

Welcome to Our New Members!

Member Deaths

Membership Renewal Reminder

Save the Date: NDAB Summer Camp 2025

Be Aware! NDAB’s 2025 Convention is Just Around the Corner

Scholarship News

STEM Scholarship info

Enhancing Lives Through Vision Rehabilitation Services

ND Lions Video Magnifier Program

Our Trip to Jacksonville: Part 2

Williston Wanderings Winter 2025 by Janelle F. Olson

Bismarck & Other News from Robert Westermeyer

Spotlight on NDAB Member: Gerald Byron

Spotlight on NDAB Member: Emily Zilka

Spotlight on NDAB Member: Kelly Clarey

Be NDAB Aware in 2025 on Giving Hearts Day

Development Report Winter 2025

Donations October – December 2024

North Dakota Association of the Blind Special Board Meeting Minutes

North Dakota Association of the Blind, Inc. Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

North Dakota Association of the Blind, Inc. Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

Leadership Roster

Committee Chairpersons:

Local News Reporters:

Communication Connections:

North Dakota Association of the Blind
Special Board Meeting Minutes

North Dakota Association of the Blind, Inc.
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes