BOLD welcomes persons 18 and older with all degrees of vision: blind, low vision, partially sighted and fully sighted.
April 2015 newsletter
BOLD Ventures (Blind Outdoor Leisure Development) April, 2015
BOLD welcomes persons 18 and older with all degrees of vision: blind, low vision, partially sighted, and fully sighted.
PO Box 8114 Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Terri Winaught, Editor
Email: boldwpa@gmail.com
Website: www.wpabold.blogspot.com
Yahoo Group: wpabold@yahoogroups.com (moderator must approve posts)
Update Line: 1-773-597-4222 (updates recorded each Friday)
Editor's Note: If you are receiving this newsletter for the first time as a courtesy, and are wondering how to join BOLD, send a $12 check or money order made payable to Western PA BOLD to 2269 Tilbury Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15217.
AWESOME APRIL
April's events include: Mall Walking at the Monroeville Mall on Wednesdays the 1st, 15th and 29th; Mall Walking at the Ross Park Mall on Thursday the 2nd; Yoga every Thursday unless four or fewer people sign up; the Board meeting on Tuesday the 7th; Lunch at the Green Door Inn followed by a hike on Sunday the 19th; the Camp Kon-o-Kwee Weekend from Friday the 24th to Sunday the 26th, and varied cultural events. There will also be an adaptive sports expo at which BOLD will have an exhibit table. For more information or to consider assisting at this informational table, phone Tammi Swiantek (number given in next sentence).
To let Tammi know you will be at April's Board meeting, phone 412-488-6298 by 10 PM on Sunday the 5th. If you mark your place with Tammi and then can't be there, thank you in advance for calling as soon as possible. (As always, addresses, reservationists and phone numbers for remaining events will be given in the calendar.)
PAST EVENTS
In addition to thanking the sensational skiers and great guides who make each season possible and better each year, this Editor realizes that many guides-especially personnel at Seven Springs-never get to read our expressions of appreciation because they're not on BOLD'S mailing list. Here's hoping that there's a way for BOLD skiers to thank the guides who don't receive this newsletter.
As of this writing, the March 14th Fundraiser, was cancelled. Information in May's newsletter.
Mall Walking continues to go well, and this Editor hopes to have information on how that event is going at Ross Park Mall for the next newsletter.
As of this writing, six BOLD members have signed up for Ray Jablonowski's Game Day and House party on March 29th. Given the consistent popularity of each event Ray hosts, the total number attending will certainly be as good as always.
So far, at least six people have signed up for Kon-o-Kwee. (Remember that there is a minimum of 20 campers for this outing to be held.)
LOOKING AHEAD
May's meeting will be on Tuesday the 5th; June's on Tuesday the 2nd; and July's on Tuesday the 7th.
Mall Walking and Yoga will continue in May, June and July along with any additional activities planned at upcoming meetings. To be part of the planning process, please feel free to bring your suggestions to a Board meeting with ideas from members always being wanted and welcomed.
Though Rowing, the Gottschalk Swim Party and Waterskiing have yet to be discussed, this Editor has no doubt that those popular events will be among our summer offerings.
PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE
"The Opera "Sumeida's Song" was really intense," Peggy Walsh shared after attending a stellar performance on February 24th. There was a point at which Peggy had mixed feelings about attending this Egyptian-American composed Chamber Opera with its tragic ending, but stated how glad she was that she went because of the exquisite vocals and expert audio description.
"Next month's opera, "Carmen" will be a lot different but also ends sadly," Peggy concluded. She won't spoil it, though, by telling us just how that opera ends.
To write or be interviewed for a Personal Perspective, phone this Editor at 412-263-2022, E-mail t.winaught@verizon.net or bring a written perspective to a Board meeting.
ADMINISTRATIVE ADD-ON
Since dues for 2015 were due by December 31st, 2014, persons who have yet to renew will receive an E-mail, a phone call or both. In her correspondence, Treasurer Veronique Schreurs will indicate the point at which you will no longer receive a newsletter if you haven't renewed.
Thank you in advance for your renewal and your ability to remain a valuable and valued BOLD member.
CULTURAL CONNECTIONS
An Art Song Recital, starting at 2 PM, will be held on Sunday, April 12th, with Opera Up Close starting at 2 PM on Sunday the 19th. The Opera being featured on April 19th is, "Daughters of the Regiment," the actual performance being May 5th.
April 12th will be a culturally rich day in that we will also see the presentation of the City Theatre Play, "Oblivion”. (For a description of this play, phone 412-431-4900 or visit www.citytheatrecompany.com
April 14th is when the Tuesday Music Club will perform their free monthly concert (info in calendar).
Thanks to Kirsten Ervin and Joyce Driben, this Editor is sharing the following information about a theater project that is seeking performers with disabilities along with family members, friends and caregivers:
My name is Shanae and I work for City of Asylum, a nonprofit arts organization in Pittsburgh's Northside. Although I've included a brief overview below of this upcoming performance, I'd still love to chat with anyone who's interested.
About the project:
City of Asylum is seeking people with disabilities, as well as their families, friends, and caregivers, to participate in the Pittsburgh production of A (micro) history of world economics, danced. The production, which has been performed in over 10 international cities, explores our collective economic history through a blend of dance and theater. The Pittsburgh performance will involve approximately 50 members of the local disability community. Participants will share their stories through writing and movement, and perform alongside professional actors. Workshops and rehearsals will be held from May 25 through June 4. The performance will be held June 5 & 6, 2015 in the New Hazlett Theater.
We are looking for individuals of all abilities to participate in the production. No experience with theater or dance is necessary. All participants will receive an honorarium. Individuals with disabilities will receive $400 per person. Friends, family members, and caregivers will receive $200 per person.
Shanae Phillips, Project Coordinator City of Asylum
432.288.5328
sphillips@cityofasylumpittsburgh.org
FUNDRAISING FACTS
Since March 14 is Pi Day -- Pi referring to the mathematical formula that begins with the numbers 3.1415, this Editor offers the following pi poem in honor of BOLD:
ABOUT BOLD (a Pi poem).
by Terri Winaught
I just love
BOLD!
Welcoming and
warm.
BOLD'S philosophy
embraces inclusion of the blind.
Through BOLD,
The blind can learn to ski.
Well trained sighted peers
teach and guide.
Adults who are blind
enjoy sports and cultural events.
It's a really great feeling
to be encouraged and supported
as we try
new things.
BOLD members
broaden our horizons as we
work together.
Pending her permission, this Editor will acknowledge in May's BOLD Ventures the pi poem Penny Fleckenstein wrote..
BOLD BITS
Get Well Wishes to Peggy Walsh who recently had surgery, and Jim Wiseman, who has been recovering from an eye infection.
A lot of appreciation to Ray Jablonowski for recruiting Nanette, a new Mall Walking guide who first participated on March 4th. Nanette is also very much interested in outdoor activities, especially hiking, so is looking forward to better, warmer weather. It speaks volumes about this new volunteer that she is willing to try new things.
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing is providing free currency readers to persons who are blind or have low vision. To place an order, phone toll-free: 1-844-815-9388. If you misplace this number, you can get it again by phoning the Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped: 412-687-2440.
HarmonEyes is a singing group, many of whose members are blind or have low vision. For more information or to join this group which is looking for more members, call Karen Good: 412-422-4331. (This Editor thanks Karen for attending March's Board meeting and providing the last two BOLD Bits at that time.)
Condolences and compassion to former BOLD member Sue Etters whose mother died in February. In addition to being a former BOLD member, Sue is also well known for being active in the Golden Triangle Council of the Blind (GTCB) where she has been an asset for many years and where she continues to be a positive presence. The Golden Triangle Council of the Blind will hold their monthly meeting on Saturday, April 18th from 1:00 to 3:30 PM. The venue is the Human Services Building: 1 Smithfield Street, Downtown Pittsburgh. Unless a meeting needs to be canceled or rescheduled, the Council always meets the third Saturday of each month.
The Lutheran Center for the Blind will host their monthly meal on Saturday, April 25th. To ask about the deadline, the menu or both, phone 412-682-1800 and leave a message for Sherri Crum.
Happy Birthday to Carrie Fisher, Karen Good, Ray Jablonowski, Jim Wiseman, Larry Wiseman and anyone else with an April birthday. Belated wishes to Nancy Gilmore and Diane Popoleo, both of whose birthdays were in March, and Sam Wagoner, whose birthday was in February.
Ever since he shared it with us, BOLD Bits has included Pat McCloskey's blog and related information. Due to this Editor's unfortunate misplacement of that info, she will be asking Pat to re-send for ongoing inclusion.
If you have a BOLD Bit, phone 412-263-2022, bring it to a Board meeting or E-mail t.winaught@verizon.net. You can also use the above information to give the Editor newsletter feedback.
APRIL CALENDAR
Editor's Note: To save space and paper, contact and related info will be given just once. To get more detailed information on a regular basis, phone the Update Line: 1-773-597-4222.
Wednesday the 1st:
Mall Walking will be held at the Monroeville Mall, starting at 9 AM and meeting at the food court entrance. An FYI for first-timers is that the mall's Access drop-off and pickup is the old Greyhound bus stop.
Thursday the 2nd: Mall Walking will be held at the Ross Park Mall from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Those who are able and want to do so are welcomed to stay for shopping and enjoying lunch at the mall's food court.
Thursday the 2nd is also when Yoga will be held from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM at Squirrel Hill's Schoolhouse Studio: 2215-17 Murray Ave., Pittsburgh, 15217.
Sunday the 5th: 10 PM deadline for letting BOLD President Tammi Swiantek know you will be at April's Board meeting: 412-488-6298.
Tuesday the 7th: BOLD'S Board will meet at the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children: 201 North Bellefield Ave., Pittsburgh, 15213. The meeting time is 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM with members and guests being welcomed. If you reserved with Tammi and then can't come, let her know ASAP.
Tuesday the 7th is also the 9 PM deadline to mark your place with Veronique for Yoga, and the 10 PM deadline to reserve with Joyce Driben for Camp Kon-o-Kwee. Veronique's number is 412-225-4038, and Joyce's number is 412-521-4385. This is also the deadline by which to send your $60 check or money order, made out to Western PA BOLD, to 2269 Tilbury Ave., Pittsburgh, 15217.
Thursday the 9th: Yoga will be held at Squirrel Hill's Schoolhouse Studio: 2215-17 Murray Ave., Pittsburgh, 15217.
Thursday the 9th is also the 9 PM deadline to sign up for Mall Walking with Joyce Driben: 412-521-4385.
Sunday the 12th: At 2 PM, the Pittsburgh City Theatre will present Oblivion. This play-preceded by a 1 PM sensory workshop for persons who are blind or have low vision-also offers Audio-description and Braille programs upon request. Address? 1300 Bingham Street.
Sunday the 12th at 2 PM is also when the Pittsburgh Opera, 2425 Liberty Ave., will present art songs. If you will need sighted guide assistance, phone Marilyn Egan the Wednesday before by 5 PM at 412-281-0312, x242. Also feel free to E-mail Marilyn at megan@pittsburghopera.org
Tuesday the 14th: The Tuesday Music Club will perform at Calvary Episcopal Church, ShadyAv and Walnut St, Pittsburgh. The starting time is 12:30 PM and these concerts are free.
Tuesday the 14th is also the 9 PM deadline to let Veronique know you are signing up for Yoga.
Wednesday the 15th: Mall Walking at the Monroeville Mall.
Wednesday the 15th is also the 9 PM deadline with Tammy 412-488-6298, for an upcoming hike in the South Side preceded by brunch.
Thursday the 16th: Yoga At the Squirrel Hill School House Studio.
Sunday the 19th: Brunch at the Green Door, Inn: 2341 East Carson Street, from 11:30 AM to 1 PM, at which time Veronique Schreurs will lead an easy hike along flat South Side trails. When the hike ends at 2, participants will return to the Green Door Inn to take Access or a ride home.
Sunday the 19th is also when the Pittsburgh Opera will present Opera Up Close, featuring music from Daughter of the Regiment to be performed in May.
Tuesday the 21st: Yoga sign-up deadline by 9 PM with Veronique.
Thursday the 23rd: Yoga in Squirrel Hill from 2:30 to 4 PM, and 9 PM Mall Walking sign-up deadline with Joyce Driben.
Friday the 24th: Leaving for Camp Kon-o-Kwee no later than 6 PM or whenever the bus arrives at Moorhead and everyone has boarded. (Terri will call the week of this outing with reminders and also in case the departure place has to be moved.)
Sunday the 26th: Between 12:30 and 12:45 PM, campers will return to the Moorhead Tower.
Tuesday the 28th: 9 PM Yoga sign-up deadline with Veronique Schreurs.
Wednesday the 29th: Mall Walking at the Monroeville Mall.
Thursday the 30th: Yoga in Squirrel Hill from 2:30 to 4 PM.
THE END