Category: Make Things Happen

Blogger-in-chief, award-winning public speaker, and disability awareness advocate Shari Cooper provides insight, humor, and reflection on a range of issues.

Float On- Easterseals Celebrates 100 Years In Rose Parade

What are you doing New Year’s Day? Hope you’ll be watching the Rose Parade for the debut of the first ever Easterseals float. The float, in the creation of a 20 foot tall three tired birthday cake, is celebrating the 100th birthday of Easterseal’s. This float represents the assistance Easterseals has provided to people with... Read more »
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Happy Holidays “Shari’s 12 Days of Xmas”

Around this time of the year, I get excited because of the holiday season. I love the holidays and I’m a social butterfly, an adventurous type person. Since my heart is filled with so much joy, I would like to pass on twelve of my favorite ways that I enjoy this season and perhaps, you... Read more »
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Be Like A Tree

As we’re well into the fall season and leaves on the trees have changed, I can’t help but to think of my friend, J.  J had autism and we worked together at Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley.   I was asked if he could assist me in doing some of my work duties twice a week about... Read more »
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Thanks President George H. W. Bush

As the world mourns the passing of President George H. W. Bush, I wanted to take time to thank him for passing a law that has made my life and others better. President Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on the South Lawn of the White House on July 26, 1990. The law... Read more »
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What Are You Thankful For

Every year brings about change and there’s always something to be thankful for; as for me, I am thankful for my puppy, Tiny.  Well, Tiny is not so small, she currently weighs 75 pounds and is still growing.  She has brought great joy into our lives. My best guy (Darryl) and I love her bunches!... Read more »
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The Empowering Energy Of The Synergy Conference 2018

I attended the Synergy Conference in October at the very magical Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky. What’s Synergy? Glad you asked. The Synergy Conference is an event partnering Professionals, Resources (PAR), advocates, family members, staff and Ohio Self Determination Association (OSDA) together for the full purpose of empowering people with disabilities. Not often can you find... Read more »
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Marines To The Rescue

A few months back when a senior citizen’s living facility caught on fire, it was the Marines to the rescue. The Marines saw the smoking building from their outpost, which was a 100 yards away. Without giving it a second thought, the Marines ran over to help people get out of the building. They were... Read more »
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The Rolling Referee

This year for Halloween, I decided to be, drum roll please…….  A referee! Just call me “The Rolling Referee”! I bet you’re wondering what made me choose this costume?  For one, I think the world of sports could use more women referees (perhaps a few on scooters wouldn’t be a bad idea either).  Two, I... Read more »
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What’s Your Theme Song?

If you had to choose a song that represents you, what would it be and why? I have three songs that represent me and every time I hear them, I say, “Yes, that’s me all the way”. First song that I love is Mustang Sally although I must admit, I call it Mustang Shari! According... Read more »
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Are You Ready For Some Football

It’s about that time when I’m starting to put away my summer wardrobe and pull out my football gear. Can someone say, Who Dey? If you haven’t figured it out by now, I’m a Cincinnati Bengals fan and proud of it . I have my Bengal’s socks, shirts, leggings and a hat just waiting for... Read more »
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