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Access Information News. The Week's News in Access Information. Symbol: Revolving Blue Globe. Six square boxes of the same size stacked two over four show people with different abilities using access information to improve their life. In the background, forty-eight square boxes of the same size stacked in six rows of eight. Inside each box is a photo of a person with a disability using access information to improve their life.

Access Information News for Monday, June 19, 2023 - Volume 915

The Week's News in Access Information
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A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
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Access Information News. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access information.

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Submit your Access Information News Item for free, with timing and placement determined by our editors, here: https://accessinformationnews.com/submit-news. Submit a Sponsored News Article, with timing and placement determined by you, here: https://accessinformationnews.com/submit-sponsored-news.


1) Top 5 Most Clicked Access Information News Articles From Last Week

A.) 2 Blind Passengers Say Being Ordered To Leave A Cruise Ship Before It Set Sail Was 'Humiliating': Report

Two blind passengers who were ordered to leave a cruise ship before it set sail said it was "humiliating" and that they "felt like criminals". Pam May and Jennie Bailie told ITV News they were asked to leave a P&O Cruises Ventura ship in May for "health and safety reasons:"
https://www.businessinsider.com/two-blind-passengers-say-were-told-leave-cruise-ship-humiliating-2023-6

B.) Best Smart Washing Machines 2023 | MakeUseOf

With a smart washing machine you can now receive notifications through an app or smart speaker to let you know the instant that your wash cycle has ended. They come with a host of customizable features and even offer more specialized wash cycles that can be downloaded to your machine. Schedule loads for particular times of day to suit your lifestyle, and even get alerts when essential maintenance is required to keep your machine running smoothly:
https://www.makeuseof.com/best-smart-washing-machines/

C.) Your Driver Has Arrived | Ophthalmic Edge

Ride-sharing apps offer a cash-free convenience, that is often quicker and cheaper than the taxis and car services we once depended on. They also add a most welcomed element of freedom to the non-driving population of people living with vision loss. While we were patiently awaiting the self-driving car, the transportation concept, formerly known as “taxicab,” was disrupted by technology. The driver is still completely necessary, but the method of getting a ride, where and when you want it, now is transacted entirely by mobile app. Uber and Lyft are the dominant services, and there are many others to choose from depending on your location. Being loyal to one app will keep the process within a comfort zone. Comparison shopping, among the services, will position you to take advantage of competitive deals. Making transportation more accessible, naturally has many upsides, and of course, there a few downsides as well. Here are some tips for overcoming the challenges:
https://ophthalmicedge.org/patient/your-driver-has-arrived/

D.) Apple's Journal App Needs To Read The Room | The Verge

Life isn't always happy, AI isn't always smart, and you should have a say about which memories you're open to reflecting on — and when:
https://www.theverge.com/23750998/apple-ios-17-journal-app-ai

E.) The Only Accessibility Specialist In The Room | Henry Swan | Tetra Logical

It's hard being the only one in your organization or team responsible for accessibility. If that sounds familiar, I salute you, and this one's for you. I've been thinking a lot recently about the challenges you face and some of the ways you can approach these, which I thought I'd throw into a post:
https://tetralogical.com/blog/2023/06/05/the-only-accessibility-specialist-in-the-room/

2) 5 Sponsorship Packages Currently Available

Are you an access-based person, business or organization whose products, services or message would benefit from reaching over 25,000 access professionals each week? If so, please consider becoming a Sponsor today for just $100 a month, paid either quarterly or annually. Annual Sponsors receive 5 Featured Advertisements for the year, as opposed to 4, and gain the additional benefit of being able to schedule their Featured Advertisements up to one year in advance. If you've been looking for a way to consistently reach the largest audience of opt-in access professionals in the world today, at a nearly negligible advertising cost, please consider becoming an Access Information News Sponsor while packages last. Availability: There are currently 5 Access Information News Sponsorship Packages remaining. Advertising Benefits: Review a complete list of advertising benefits here:
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3) Premium Subscriber Updates

Next Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 2nd issue of the 60 Most Clicked Access News Articles for April, May and June of 2023 on Monday, July 3, 2023. Back Issues: There is currently 1 back issue available. Premium Subscribers are entitled to all back issues, anytime they sign up. All available back issues will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of purchasing your subscription. Please Join Us: If you would like to support the ongoing weekly distribution of free and unbiased access news while receiving a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the 60 Most Clicked Access News Articles of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month:
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6) Access Information News Click-To-Vote Quick Poll #914 Results | Sponsored By: Access Ready, Inc. | 231 Votes

Question: Access Ready Asks: What Are Your Top Priorities In The 2024 Presidential Election?

#1 | D.) Protecting civil rights in general and in the digital space in particular?
(52 Votes / 23% of all clicks.)

#2 | B.) Supporting The GOP's war on Woke?
(47 Votes / 20% of all clicks.)

#3 | E.) None of the above.
(46 Votes / 20% of all clicks.)

#4 | A.) Countering The GOP's war on Woke?
(43 Votes / 19% of all clicks.)

#5 | C.) The economy of People with disabilities?
(43 Votes / 19% of all clicks.)

Poll Results Link: https://bit.ly/ain-poll914-results

7) Opinion — Vision-Assist Goggles Are Not 'Creepy' | The Washington Post: Subscription Required

Publisher (Di Blasi): In this short piece the Washington Post attempts to gently walk back comments made by one of its writers on June 5, 2023. Link to the original article included.
Washington Post: The Post owes an apology to the visually impaired community. Molly Roberts's June 7 op-ed, “Apple's New Goggles Are Clunky And Creepy. Good.,” was, to say the least, insensitive:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/06/14/vision-assist-goggles-creepy/

8) How To Write Hyperlink Text For Better Web Accessibility

Links. They help us navigate from one place to another. But sometimes it's tricky to know how to write useful link text:
https://business.scope.org.uk/article/how-to-write-better-link-text-for-accessibility

9) The Secret Powers of Being Nearsighted or Farsighted | CNet

By 2050, researchers predict that about half of the world's population will be nearsighted. This probably isn't a coincidence, but instead may be a result of our environment and the way our eyes are adapting to the new tasks (and books, and screens) at hand, according to Dr. Viola Kanevsky, a past president of the New York State Optometric Association:
https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/the-secret-powers-of-being-nearsighted-or-farsighted/

10) Mid-Year Digital Accessibility Legal Landscape: Trends, Tips, and Predictions | Level Access

Digital accessibility lawsuits are not slowing down. And, when coupled with proposed rulemaking on the horizon, organizations across industries should be paying attention to the accessibility of their websites, apps and platforms. That's according to leading disability rights attorney, Eve Hill, a partner at Brown Goldstein & Levy. We caught up with her to discuss notable cases since January and the trends they indicate, impending regulations around web accessibility compliance, and how organizations should prepare to meet them:
https://www.levelaccess.com/blog/mid-year-digital-accessibility-legal-landscape-trends-tips-and-predictions/

11) Easterseals Announces Two-Year Grant of $1.3M From the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation

Easterseals, the nation's leading nonprofit provider of services and advocacy for 61M individuals with disabilities in the United States, has received a two-year grant of $1.3M from the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation to expand digital literacy training among young adults with disabilities in employment programs at seven Easterseals Affiliates nationwide while also funding a national study to determine digital equity and access among BIPOC populations with disabilities:
https://corporate.comcast.com/press/releases/easterseals-announces-two-year-grant-comcast-nbcuniversal-foundation

12) How, Along With Scriptalk, CVS's Rx Reader, Though A Completely Separate System From Scriptalk, Is Very Similar, And Also Identifies Prescribed Medications For Blind Patients | Accessibility Insights

In recent years I had heard about Scriptalk, a system where blind patients can get the information about their medications through NFC. Pharmacies who offer the Scriptalk service also may offer a dedicated device that can read the information, or the patient can decide to download the Scriptalk app and read it on their smartphone:
https://accessibility-insights.com/2023/06/14/how-along-with-scriptalk-cvss-rx-reader-though-a-completely-separate-system-from-scriptalk-is-very-simular-and-also-identifies-prescribed-medications-for-blind-patients/

13) Accessible Yearbooks | Perkins School for the Blind

The end of the school year often means signing yearbooks! How can your student get their yearbook signed in a format that they can read back? Paths to Literacy has great post on accessible yearbooks:
https://www.perkins.org/accessible-yearbooks/

14) Developing Apps With Accessibility In Mind | Accessibility.com

It's important to keep accessibility in mind when designing for accessibility, whether you're creating an app for personal or business use:
https://www.accessibility.com/blog/developing-apps-with-accessibility-in-mind

15) Utilizing Access Technology for Blind and Low Vision Accessibility in the Evaluation Process | APH

The use of technology in the classroom has changed vastly over the years. Finding the best tool or device to meet a student's needs is a challenge that all teachers and practitioners in the field of blindness and low vision face. We interviewed educator Sharon Lyttle to find out how the book Access Technology for Blind and Low Vision Accessibility has aided in the evaluation process:
https://www.aph.org/utilizing-access-technology-for-blind-and-low-vision-accessibility-in-the-evaluation-process/

16) California Congressman Introduces Accessible Tech Act | GovTech

Rep. Mike Thompson introduced the Access Technology Affordability Act, and if passed, it would provide a refundable $2,000 credit to blind and vision-impaired people to purchase equipment that allows them to work:
https://www.govtech.com/policy/california-congressman-introduces-accessible-tech-act

17) FCC Requires Video Conferencing Accessibility & Proposes ASL Support

https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-requires-video-conferencing-accessibility-proposes-asl-support

18) United Airlines Class Action Alleges Airline's Website Not Accessible To Legally Blind Customers

Who: A blind woman has sued United Airlines. Why: The plaintiff says the airline's website is not accessible to those using a screen reader, in violation of the law. Where: The United Airlines class action lawsuit website was filed in an Illinois federal court. What are my options:
https://topclassactions.com/disability-class-action-lawsuit/united-airlines-class-action-alleges-airlines-website-not-accessible-to-legally-blind-customers/

19) New Airplane Seat Concept Folds To Accommodate Wheelchair Users And Make Flying A Lot More Accessible | Assistive Technology Blog

Delta Flight Products (DFP), a subsidiary of Delta Airlines, has revealed a new airplane seat concept that allows wheelchair users to remain in their own chairs throughout a flight:
https://assistivetechnologyblog.com/2023/06/airplane-seat-concept-wheelchair-users.html

20) rblind.com: RBlind - A Community On Lemmy, Brought To You By The Moderators Of The /R/Blind Subreddit

https://rblind.com is a #Lemmy instance that now exists in alpha. We're still waiting on the next release of Lemmy with a bunch of promised #accessibility fixes, we still have to write sidebars and descriptions and rules and things, and I still need to work out the remaining infrastructure bits (realtime database backups, etc). But if you're blind, visually impaired, or otherwise interested in this community, and want to play with Lemmy to kick the tires, feel free to apply for an account. Please note that this is a project of its own, and doesn't mean the end of /r/blind on Reddit, and we're not asking or expecting anyone to migrate. We're just trying out new things, and this isn't ready for anyone but extremely early adopters. #a11y
https://equestria.social/@fastfinge/110544971178282550

21) Listen Technologies Launches ListenWIFI

Listen Technologies Corporation, a leading provider of advanced wireless listening solutions for 25 years, announced the launch of ListenWIFI at InfoComm 2023:
https://hearingreview.com/inside-hearing/industry-news/listen-technologies-launches-listenwifi

22) Optimizing Sound Quality to Reach More People with Tinnitus

The sound quality of Widex PureSound is tailored to people with milder hearing loss, including those with tinnitus:
https://hearingreview.com/hearing-loss/tinnitus/tinnitus-testing/optimizing-sound-quality-to-reach-more-people-with-tinnitus

23) Disability And Loneliness | Forbes: Subscription Required

It is National Loneliness Week in the UK from 12th to 18th June and in the US, a recent survey found that whilst loneliness is decreasing since the pandemic, still 17% of Americans report feeling lonely “most of the day.” The overlap between disability and loneliness is less of a Venn Diagram and more of two circles on top of each other; with disabled people experiencing four times the levels of loneliness of non-disabled people. Some researchers have called loneliness the “invisible enemy,” leading to lower life expectancy, yet being a feature of the barriers to travel, accessibility and societal understanding rather than related to the condition itself. How does this happen and how is it relevant to the workplace?
https://www.forbes.com/sites/drnancydoyle/2023/06/12/disability-and-loneliness/

24) APH Code Jumper and Summer Fun

APH's Code Jumper is designed for young children to begin exploring computer science ideas and coding through physical, tactile pods. Coding with APH Code Jumper allows your child to be part of the planning process, to change and reconstruct music, and to create stories. Reaching out to your TVI or state lending library to borrow APH Code Jumper this summer will allow you and your child to explore coding and create amazing songs, stories, and soundscapes:
https://familyconnect.org/blog/familyconnect-a-parents-voice/aph-code-jumper-and-summer-fun/

25) The Next Phase of Telehealth: Adapting to Post-Pandemic Healthcare Changes | Amanda Bernath | APH VisionAware

During the height of the pandemic, many services, including healthcare, education, shopping, and entertainment, shifted to online platforms. My favorite pandemic changes were the rise of online shopping and the expansion of delivery options and curbside pick-up. The new level of convenience was amazing, especially when it meant I didn't need to wrangle kiddos through the stores with me anymore or spend hours on-site selecting my desired goods:
https://visionaware.org/blog/visionaware-blog/the-next-phase-of-telehealth-adapting-to-post-pandemic-healthcare-changes/

26) Mindset Matters: What's Next In The Business Of Disability? | Forbes: Subscription Required

Firstly, it could be argued that the title of this week's column is a bit misleading. The fact remains that when we look at business through the lens of disability, we are always exploring areas that are intersectional, but even more so, the notion that what impacts the disability community has an inherent influence on us all. Looking at where we are today, we are living in uncertain complex, and interdependent times. The aftermath of a global pandemic has brought a heightened sense of turbulence that leaves us all questioning what we need moving forward. The business community is continuing to investigate what it needs in this 'new normal.' The disability narrative embraces change, highlights collaboration and problem-solving, and gives way to creating opportunities for a competitive advantage:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jonathankaufman/2023/06/09/mindset-matters-whats-next-in-the-business-of-disability/

27) Why Beauty For The Visually Impaired Needs To Go Beyond Braille | Beauty Matter

The beauty industry has recently been awakening to its ableist tendencies, with conglomerates and indie brands alike launching products that address the needs of those dealing with conditions such as limited mobility, vision, and dexterity. But when it comes to visual impairment specifically, the industry's efforts need to go beyond braille. In order to truly create an inclusive environment, companies need to further explore the challenging touchpoints of this previously unaddressed demographic. Globally, 2.2 billion people have vision impairment. That's a huge segment of the population who can't simply walk into a store and pick a product off the shelf or read product reviews online before deciding on a purchase, let alone easily differentiate what product they are picking up off their bathroom counter:
https://beautymatter.com/articles/beauty-for-visually-impaired-needs-to-go-beyond-braille

28) Cable TV Turns 75 Years Old This Month... How More Years Does it Have Left?

In June of 1948, John Walson set up an antenna on top of the New Boston Mountain in Mahanoy City, PA. There he ran a cable down to the town so it could get TV signals that had been blocked by the mountain in the past. From there, he connected homes in the town and started the creation of what we know now as cable TV. That cable TV company is still running today as SECTV:
https://cordcuttersnews.com/cable-tv-turns-75-years-old-this-month-how-more-years-does-it-have-left/

29) The Post Pandemic Landscape — It's Here To Stay | Award Winning Sight Loss Coach, Advocate and Author Donna Jodhan

This landscape will continue to evolve and many changes are yet to come. We might as well accept and embrace it:
https://sterlingcreations.com/blog/the-post-pandemic-landscape-its-here-to-stay

30) Non-Invasive Glucose Monitoring: Hope or Hype?

For years, people with diabetes have sought out an accurate way to measure glucose without the need for finger sticks or fluid samples. Here's a look at the latest in research and development of non-invasive glucose monitoring devices:
https://www.diabetesdaily.com/blog/non-invasive-glucose-monitoring-hope-or-hype-2-712106/

31) Blind Ohio Woman Returns From Mars Simulation, Promotes Accessibility

A Bowling Green woman just returned home from a so-called Mars colony in Arizona. She had one mission: making sure space is accessible for everyone:
https://www.13abc.com/2023/06/06/local-woman-returns-mars-simulation-promotes-accessibility/


➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events

Submit your access information related Webinar, Training Course or Event for consideration within this section using this form: https://accessinformationnews.com/submit-event.


June 21, 2023 | On the Road Again: Accessible Solutions for Travelers Who are Blind or Visually Impaired | The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc.

4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT
Have you ever found it difficult to locate a bus stop, cross a street, or travel to local businesses independently? If so, join us for this month's interactive webinar from The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. as we explore mobility aids, indoor and outdoor GPS navigation apps, remote assistance, and a variety of other accessible travel and wayfinding options. Our expert presenters, Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist, Timothy Paulding, and world traveler, Everett Elam, will share their extensive knowledge and experience in the field of accessible travel. During the webinar, you'll have the opportunity to interact with the presenters and ask questions about specific roadblocks you may be facing. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative session that will empower you to hit the road with confidence and independence. Register now to reserve your spot!
https://thelighthousefortheblindinc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zxg3FzfmTqeWga-uxB3KcQ

June 21, 2023 | Understand, Test, Solve: ARIA

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT
Presenters: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. TPGi's Accessibility Resource Center (ARC) platform empowers teams to solve common accessibility issues while growing their understanding over time. The monthly “Understand, Test, and Solve” webinar series covers fundamental concepts in accessibility. Attendees learn how to address the set of WCAG Success Criteria for each concept. Over the course of this series, teams achieve full WCAG coverage in their testing:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-june-21-at-12pm-et-understand-test-solve-aria/

June 21, 2023 | Canva: Is Accessible Content Possible? (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
Explore the Canva program to author documents and discover how posters, flyers, and other files made in Canva can have accessibility hurdles. Join Rachel Reeves to learn about the possibility of creating accessible content on Canva. Learning Outcomes: Using Canva to create Graph/Chart images and meet Color Contrast Requirements. How does Canva impact accessibility? How to create accessible documents with Canva. | Meeting ID: 821 5591 4679 | Passcode: 600843 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,82155914679#,,,,*600843# US (San Jose). Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82155914679?pwd=K1BjcG9JV29RbFhSSUdYZTdJeUZMdz09&mc_cid=83e69f69f3&mc_eid=90429c1885#success

June 27, 2023 | Blind, Equity, Inclusion Free Webinar | NSITE

11:30AM PT, 12:30PM MT, 1:30PM CT, 2:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT
Learn about BEI (Blind, Equity & Inclusion) and how you can increase your ROI. Recognize unconscious bias; examine "blind spots" in your diversity hiring; recognize "diverse abilities"; identify the bottom line and ROIs of hiring this talent. Presented by NSITE's DEI Team Rikki Howie & Doug Goist:
https://bit.ly/NSITE-BEI

June 27, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out

June 28, 2023 | Must Have Soft Skills For Success In The Modern Workforce For The Blind Community | Clusiv

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
If you are blind or visually impaired and looking to achieve your career goals, click the link to register for this webinar and come prepared to learn some essential skills. Our presenters have decades of their own lived experience being blind, have interacted with hundreds of others in the blind community in their career journey, and want to share the three key foundational soft skills you need to succeed in the modern workforce to help you achieve your goals:
https://bit.ly/3NvfT0j

June 28, 2023 | JAWS: Tables in Word & HTML (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
Many JAWS users avoid tables in both Word and the internet because they don't have training in navigating tables using JAWS. Along with not navigating a table, people also believe that creating a table in Word is not accessible with JAWS. Join Michael Parker and Marisa Church to learn techniques, apply settings, navigate tables, and create tables using JAWS. Learning Outcomes: Navigating tables in Word. The different ways of navigating a table. Demonstrating column and row titles and how to set them using the JAWS quick settings. Inserting and deleting columns and rows. How to create a table. Navigating tables in HTML. Using smart navigation. | Meeting ID: 867 2021 6234 | Passcode: 157521 | One tap mobile: +16699009128,,86720216234#,,,,*157521# US (San Jose) | Dial by your location: +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose):
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86720216234?pwd=c1R2R3VRQ3J5RXZFd0QrNkRjOEtVdz09&mc_cid=83e69f69f3&mc_eid=90429c1885#success

July 1, 2023 through July 6, 2023 | NFB 2023 National Convention in Houston, Texas

The National Federation of the Blind is the transformative membership and advocacy organization of blind people. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. Each year we come together for important discussions, decisions, and information sharing. As an attendee, take advantage of the opportunity to: Network with thousands of blind role models. Connect with leaders in the field of blindness. Attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics. Learn about the latest in technology and innovation. And more! The convention is open to all. Important note: Our constitution states that only members of the Federation have the right to participate in decision-making when it comes to organizational policy. If you are not already a member, please connect with your state affiliate at:
https://nfb.org/about-us/state-affiliates

July 12, 2023 | Conquer Accessibility Challenges During Software Design & Development | TPGi

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT
Presenters: David Sloan, Practice Manager, UX, and Roxana Fischer, Product Manager, Blind and Low Vision Software. This presentation will provide insights into software development practices that focus on accessibility and usability. It will emphasize the significance of involving users in the earliest design and development stages to meet their needs. Also it will specifically delve into the challenges of developing screen reader and screen magnifier software; these tools offer users a different perspective on UI, which requires special considerations during development. The four key areas covered in this session include: Testing with real users. Using inclusive tools. Hiring users with disabilities. Gathering field feedback. Attendees will gain an understanding of how we design and develop our internal Assistive Technology:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-july-12-at-12pm-et-conquer-accessibility-challenges-during-software-design-development/

July 25, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out

July 25, 2023 | U.S. Access Board Town Hall Meeting in Baltimore

10:30PM PT, 11:30PM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 5:30PM GMT
The U.S. Access Board will hold a public town hall meeting at the national headquarters of the National Federation of the Blind in Baltimore, Maryland. Presidentially appointed Access Board members and representatives from other federal member agencies will be present to hear from the local community about the state of accessibility in Baltimore and the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia area. Following the town hall meeting, there will be a reception and networking opportunity from 3:30 — 4:30 (ET), sponsored by the Maryland Department of Disabilities. The town hall meeting and reception are open to all members of the public. Please register for in-person attendance by July 1, 2023. To register, send an email to events@access-board.gov 📧️ with your name and organization. The Access Board invites in-person oral comments on accessibility. Registrants who wish to make in-person oral comments must indicate their request to speak when emailing events@access-board.gov. Public commenters will be allotted two minutes to make their comments

August 22, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out

September 21, 2023 | Inclusive Design 24

Inclusive Design 24 (#id24) is a free 24-hour online event for the global community. It celebrates inclusive design and shares knowledge and ideas from analogue to digital, from design to development, from planners to practitioners, and everything and everyone in between:
https://inclusivedesign24.org/2023/

September 26, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out

October 24, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 12AM GMT Next Day
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out

November 6, 2023 through November 10, 2023 | Accessing Higher Ground | Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD)

Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference. Hilton Denver City Center, Denver, Colorado:
https://accessinghigherground.org/

November 28, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 11PM GMT
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out

December 26, 2023 | Tech It Out | Monthly Hadley Discussion Group

5PM PT, 6PM MT, 7PM CT, 8PM ET, 11PM GMT
4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM CT. Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.
https://hadley.edu/discussion-groups/tech-it-out


➜ Directories


1) Access Information Email Newsletter Directory

https://accessinformationnews.com/email-newsletter-directory.html


Sponsors may submit or update their Classified Advertisement at any time by submitting this short form: https://accessinformationnews.com/submit-sponsor-classified.


Sponsor: Total Tech Solutions, LLC


Total Tech Solutions, LLC logo.

Sponsor Since: April 4, 2023 Calendar icon.

Website: https://blindtech.org/ 🌐️

About: TTS (Total Tech Solutions) is a startup technology company owned and operated in the Dallas Fort Worth area which specializes in offering services for the blind and visually impaired. While this is it's main focus, TTS also caters to the general public. Since its founding, TTS continues to make strides in demonstrating the countless ways blind and visually impaired individuals can contribute in all aspects of the workforce. This is one of the reasons why this company chooses to hire applicants who are visually impaired; to prove that there is a place in society for persons of any type of visual impairment, and to create a positive environment so one can thrive, live life to their fullest potential and to be a positive example to their communities and their families.

Shop: BlindShell Classic | Shop: ARxWear | Shop: All Products | Services | Events | About | Contact Us


Sponsor: NSITE.org


NSITE.org logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: NSITE Connects Employers With Talented People Who Are Blind Or Low-Vision And Supports Talent To Gain Employment

NSITE.org is the first non-profit organization, offering a continuum of services to connect employers with talented job seekers who are blind or low-vision and provides training, employment and career services to these job seekers. Using the NSITE Connect Job Board, which is designed exclusively for individuals who experience vision loss, employers can fill open positions with talent who are blind or have low vision. Job postings are also open to veterans. NSITE-U provides accessible on-demand and virtual instructor-led classes, programs and workshops to support career skills training and professional development for individuals who are blind or have low vision or are veterans. For more information about NSITE and all its services including a free Job Seekers Toolkit developed with APH, American Printing House for the Blind, visit us and use this form to reach NSITE's team for information about programs, classes and services, connect:
https://nsite.org/

Sponsor Since: March 6th 2023 Calendar icon.

Website: https://nsite.org/ 🌐️

About: NSITE provides a continuum of employment services that connect employers with talented, dedicated people who are blind, low-vision, and/or veterans to meet their workforce needs. As you move through the hiring process, NSITE is with you every step of the way to ensure that finding the right employee-employer match is as smooth and seamless as possible.

NSITE works with employers to identify potential candidates who are blind, low-vision, and/or veterans. From there, NSITE assists with accessibility needs, onboarding, and training, then prepares both parties for job placement. Our work does not end there; it continues with ongoing support to accommodate changes in accessible technology and employer requirements.

NSITE Connect: Linking employers with talented individuals who are blind, low-vision, and/or veterans. Access the NSITE Connect Job Board here.

About | Media | Employers | Job Seekers | Training Programs | Job Board | Contact Us


Sponsor: Clusiv


Clusiv logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Clusiv Is The World's First eLearning Platform Built For And By People Who Are Blind. Our Courses Are Designed To Equip People Who Are Blind Or Visually Impaired For Employment In The Modern Workforce. Learn More At Clusiv.Io.

Navigating the employment process can be challenging if you are blind or visually impaired. Technology is difficult to figure out, there is a lot of extra material to learn, and there isn't much quality training available.

That's where Clusiv comes in. We help to provide the training you need to succeed in the modern workforce. Our courses teach assistive technology skills and how to apply those skills to many of the business software programs used in the modern workforce, such as email, Microsoft and Google apps, video conferencing, and more. We also teach soft skills such as resume and interview preparation, disclosures and accommodations, internet safety, and financial literacy. Lastly, our training can teach specific career skills, such as becoming an accessibility analyst. Plus, our courses are self-paced.

To learn more, visit https://clusiv.io/ and fill out a form with your information. We work with state vocational rehabilitation agencies to provide access to our course content.

Sponsor Since: January 16th 2023 Calendar icon.

Website: https://clusiv.io/ 🌐️

About: As there are many challenges people in the blind community face in employment and education, Clusiv has built the world's first e-learning platform designed for the blind to provide the training, tools, and resources needed to remove barriers to the modern workforce. Our courses teach you occupational and technology skills you need towards employment. Plus, we are working to connect our graduates to internship and job opportunities. Our courses are remote, self-paced, and we provide support throughout your whole journey through our student success team, and even provide lifetime access to our courses so you can keep up to date as technology evolves. You can request Clusiv training through your vocational rehabilitation counselor and fill out the form in the link below on our website. If you are a counselor wanting to learn more about Clusiv for your clients, or an employer looking to hire Clusiv graduates, click the respective link below and fill out a form to get more info.

Person Looking To Enroll In Clusiv Courses

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Looking To Learn More About Clusiv For Their Clients

Employer Looking To Hire Clusiv Graduates


Sponsor: Access Ready, Inc.


Access Ready, Inc. logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Access Ready Seeks Your Support at the Public Policy Level

Moving the public policy needle is both difficult and costly. Access Ready has one of the most experienced teams in the business who have shown results. We have fostered Congressional language on accessible websites, elections, healthcare, communications, and other areas touched by information and communications technologies. These efforts are costly and we need your help to continue. Become an Access Ready supporter and create an accessible future for people with disabilities:
https://accessready.org/

Sponsor Since: December 19th 2022 Calendar icon.

Website: https://accessready.org/ 🌐️

Email: info@accessready.org 📧️

Phone: (727) 531-1000 📱️

About: Access Ready Inc. is a certified, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The mission of Access Ready Inc., a nonprofit cross-disability rights advocacy organization, is to promote a policy of accessibility benefiting all people regardless of ability across information and communications technology utilized for two way communications.

The purpose of Access Ready Inc. is to educate the public and private sectors of the importance of accessible information and communications technology to the future of all people regardless of ability.

To support this education by developing initiatives that promote policies that ensure the creation and maintenance of accessible technologies utilized for two way communications at all levels which allow for easy use by people with the widest range of abilities possible.

To develop employment and business opportunities for people with disabilities that support its educational activities in the field of information and communications technology and related areas.

To provide consulting and educational services to buyers, developers, and users of information and communications technology that promotes its highest and best use in society.

To promote the concept of a technologically accessible society which fosters:

Freedom of expression, speech, and worship.
Freedom from fear, ignorance, and want.
Freedom from dishonesty, exclusion, and immorality.
Freedom of aspiration, invention, and inclusion.


Sponsor: Access Ready, Inc.


Access Ready, Inc. logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Access Ready Provides Access To The Best In The Business

If you need assistance with a new accessible website, document remediation or disability consulting of other kinds, Access Ready can help. We seek out the best in the business and bring them to you already vetted as to quality, professionalism and ability. By going through AccessReady.org to one of our qualified providers, you're not only getting the best, but supporting our advocacy and technological development efforts as well:
https://accessready.org/

Sponsor Since: December 13th 2022 Calendar icon.

Website: https://accessready.org/ 🌐️

Email: info@accessready.org 📧️

Phone: (727) 531-1000 📱️

About: Access Ready Inc. is a certified, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The mission of Access Ready Inc., a nonprofit cross-disability rights advocacy organization, is to promote a policy of accessibility benefiting all people regardless of ability across information and communications technology utilized for two way communications.

The purpose of Access Ready Inc. is to educate the public and private sectors of the importance of accessible information and communications technology to the future of all people regardless of ability.

To support this education by developing initiatives that promote policies that ensure the creation and maintenance of accessible technologies utilized for two way communications at all levels which allow for easy use by people with the widest range of abilities possible.

To develop employment and business opportunities for people with disabilities that support its educational activities in the field of information and communications technology and related areas.

To provide consulting and educational services to buyers, developers, and users of information and communications technology that promotes its highest and best use in society.

To promote the concept of a technologically accessible society which fosters:

Freedom of expression, speech, and worship.
Freedom from fear, ignorance, and want.
Freedom from dishonesty, exclusion, and immorality.
Freedom of aspiration, invention, and inclusion.


Sponsor: Access Ready, Inc.


Access Ready, Inc. logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Access Ready Seeks Guidance On New Accessible Technologies

What Technologies do you see in the market that are not accessible, but should be? What accessible technologies can you imagine that can make the lives of people with all kinds of disabilities better? We will advocate with developers to make existing technologies accessible on your behalf. We will advocate with developers to build new accessible technologies on your behalf. Give us your guidance and support. Your guidance charts our path toward what is most important. Your support funds our efforts on your behalf:
https://accessready.org/

Sponsor Since: December 1st 2022 Calendar icon.

Website: https://accessready.org/ 🌐️

Email: info@accessready.org 📧️

Phone: (727) 531-1000 📱️

About: Access Ready Inc. is a certified, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The mission of Access Ready Inc., a nonprofit cross-disability rights advocacy organization, is to promote a policy of accessibility benefiting all people regardless of ability across information and communications technology utilized for two way communications.

The purpose of Access Ready Inc. is to educate the public and private sectors of the importance of accessible information and communications technology to the future of all people regardless of ability.

To support this education by developing initiatives that promote policies that ensure the creation and maintenance of accessible technologies utilized for two way communications at all levels which allow for easy use by people with the widest range of abilities possible.

To develop employment and business opportunities for people with disabilities that support its educational activities in the field of information and communications technology and related areas.

To provide consulting and educational services to buyers, developers, and users of information and communications technology that promotes its highest and best use in society.

To promote the concept of a technologically accessible society which fosters:

Freedom of expression, speech, and worship.
Freedom from fear, ignorance, and want.
Freedom from dishonesty, exclusion, and immorality.
Freedom of aspiration, invention, and inclusion.


Sponsor: APH ConnectCenter


APH ConnectCenter logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Prepare For Your Future Today With The All-New APH ConnectCenter's Job Seekers Toolkit!

The APH ConnectCenter and NSITE have partnered to update the Job Seeker's Toolkit, an accessible, self-paced, free online training course. The Toolkit includes five sections covering self-awareness, career exploration tools, the preliminary employment process, the interview, and maintaining employment. We are bringing the Job Seeker's Toolkit to a larger audience and in a Learning Management System format for today's learners, at no cost. Visit APHCareerConnect.org to get started with the Job Seekers Toolkit today at:
https://aphcareerconnect.org/lesson-plans-for-teachers-and-professionals/the-job-seekers-toolkit/

Sponsor Since: November 29th 2022 Calendar icon.

Website: https://aphconnectcenter.org/ 🌐️

Email: connectcenter@aph.org 📧️

APH ConnectCenter Information and Referral Line:
(800) 232-5463 📱️

Hours: Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET

Facebook (CareerConnect) | Facebook (FamilyConnect) | Facebook (VisionAware) | Twitter | YouTube

About: The APH ConnectCenter offers curated advice and resources to assist children, parents, adults, and job seekers who are blind or visually impaired, and their associated professionals, leading to greater independence and success in their lives.



Menus4ALL logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: A Revolution in Resolution — Menus for Everyone

No matter when, where or who, the Menus4ALL iPhone app gives you the info you need quickly. No more multiple Google searches to research menus before going out. Info is organized to give you quick access to what you are looking for — the menu! Optimized to give you the best viewing experience. No more struggling to see small print, or looking at a menu in a dimly lit restaurant. Do you use magnification, large print, VoiceOver, a braille display or Voice Control? Enjoy 750,000 fully accessible menus. Download the app today at:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/menus4all/id1640547801?platform=iphone

Sponsor Since: November 20th 2022 Calendar icon.

Website: https://www.menus4all.com/ 🌐️

Email: stephanie@menus4all.com 📧️

About: 750,000 Accessible Restaurant Menus. On your iPhone ® in the palm of your hand.

App Restaurant Menu, Search and Waiter Alert Screens.

Yes, that's not a typo. The Menus4ALL iPhone app offers 500,000 accessible menus in the United States and 250,000 accessible menus in Canada.

Wherever you are and whenever you want The Menus4ALL iPhone app is the largest network of restaurant menus in one place and all of the menus are fully accessible.

Perfect for when you are out running errands and want to know what restaurants are near your current location. Great for planning a night out with friends. Favorite menus that you want to look at later or when you know you are going back for that amazing dish.

Download The App (Apple): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/menus4all/id1640547801?platform=iphone


Sponsor: WayAround


WayAround logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: HURRY — Stock Up on WayTags Before Prices Increase on June 1!

WayAround is the best way to label things if you're blind or have low vision. You just need the free mobile app and some WayTags ® to label items in the kitchen, garden, closet, office & more. Prices on WayTags will increase on June 1, so stock up today on your favorite tags.
https://www.wayaround.com/shop/?utm_source=AssistiveTech&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=AccessInfoNewsSponsorAd

Sponsor Since: November 18th 2022 Calendar icon.

Website: https://www.wayaround.com/ 🌐️

General Sales & Support: (888) 898-4465 📱️

Business Sales & Support: (888) 898-4465 📱️

Email: connect@wayaround.com 📧️

About: WayAround is the app for your smart device that provides on-demand details about everyday things. The simple tag-and-scan approach lets you quickly and easily identify things around you. It also provides extra details, like how something works or when it expires. The result? Doing more of the things you want, with more confidence and more independence.

All the information you want with just a tap of your phone. No more waiting around to ask someone. You need just two things to get started: The free mobile app for iOS or Android and some of our smart WayTags®.

Accessible labels for the blind, deafblind, and anyone with vision loss. Your biggest problem isn't poor eyesight. It's that so much of the information in the world is visual. But you shouldn't have to wait around for someone else to get the information you need. Or carry around a bulky, outdated device. There is a better way to get accurate and complete information every time. So you can reduce stress and gain independence.

Download The App (Apple): https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/wayaround-tag-and-scan/id1294361140?mt=8

Download The App (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wayaround.wayaround


Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions


Pneuma Solutions logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Remote Incident Manager for Mac: Cruising Right Along!

The development of Remote Incident Manager for Mac has hit several milestones in the past couple weeks. We've introduced the ability to control a Mac fully unattended, the implementation of seamless file transfers on Mac targets, and the ability to gracefully assist a Mac through a reboot process! For those of you who have yet to experience the world's first cross-platform fully accessible remote support package, get in on the action at: https://pneumasolutions.com/remote-incident-manager-for-mac-public-beta/! Giving and receiving help has never been easier or more accessible, particularly for our Mac crowd. Prepare for a seamless experience that will forever change the way you receive and/or provide remote support and training. And if something isn't working quite right, please don't hesitate to give us feedback at: https://pneumasolutions.com/contact/! Remote Incident Manager: For the first time ever, remote help for the Mac is just a keyword away.

Sponsor Since: November 7th 2022 Calendar icon.

Website: https://pneumasolutions.com/ 🌐️

Email Newsletter: Click here to receive periodic news via email concerning Pneuma Solutions products for business, consumers and education.

Sales: (866) 202-0520 📱️

Support: (650) 249-1000 📱️

About: Backed by two decades of creating award-winning accessible cloud technologies for people with visual impairments, Pneuma Solutions is the global leader in accessible cloud-based solutions. Pneuma Solutions was founded by long-time accessibility developers Mike Calvo and Matt Campbell. For more information on their individual profiles, click on their respective bio pages. We're proud to be the first company to develop cloud-based accessibility at the network level. Our tools provide organizations, like yours, a way to deliver secure, accessible information right from your network or from our secure servers. You can provide your print disabled consumers, students, employees, and citizens with a multitude of accessible options. Additionally, we offer a suite of cloud-based applications to blind and print disabled consumers directly from our website. Our consumer products are designed to make the day-to-day lives of blind and print disabled individuals more accessible and simpler to manage. Access to information is not a privilege, it's a right. It's also your right to obtain affordable, accessible cloud solutions to serve your end user. When organizations like yours implement our tools, together we help make it a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Want to know more about how we can help you become more inclusive?

Contact us here. We'll be happy to discuss how our tools can help with your accessibility needs.


Sponsor: Living Blindfully


Left: Jonathan Mosen talking into a microphone with a Braille display and studio mixer in front of him. Right: The Living Blindfully logo.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Be Informed First. Join Living Blindfully Plus

Whether it's a product demo, a hot topic or an in-depth interview, the Living Blindfully podcast is a must-hear to find out what's on the mind of the blind community. Ensure you're among the first to be in the know. Join Living Blindfully Plus to receive episodes three days before they're public. Pay what you can afford or what you think it's worth. Set it and forget it with a recurring subscription which you can cancel any time, or just pay for a single month, the choice is yours. And when you subscribe to Living Blindfully Plus, you're supporting an important resource for the blind community where the global conversation continues every week. Join today and enjoy your Plus benefits immediately.
https://LivingBlindfully.com/plus

Sponsor Since: May 29, 2023 Calendar icon.

Website: https://www.livingblindfully.com/ 🌐️

About: Living Blindfully is the podcast devoted to helping you live your best life with blindness or low vision. Sight is a highly dominant sense. If you have it, naturally you'll use it for a lot of things. But if you don't have it, or you don't have as much sight as you used to, it's still possible to live a rich, full life. This podcast is all about how it's done.

We discuss tips and tricks, but we frankly discuss the barriers too, ranging from attitudinal barriers to accessibility barriers and more.

You'll hear plenty about technology on Living Blindfully, because when blind people have the skills to use it and when the tech is behaving itself, it's key to functional and economic independence. Whether it's a tech question from our community, a handy tip about getting the most from your screen reader, a demonstration of a cool new app for your smartphone, or discussion about a serious accessibility issue that is causing problems, you'll learn about it on Living Blindfully. We geek out sometimes, but we always make a point of bringing people along for the ride and making sense of it all.

But technology is simply a tool to help us live blindfully, so our podcast discusses much more. The topics on each episode vary a lot, but it's not uncommon to hear discussion about travel, cooking, relationships, self-care, sleep, history and even politics. After all, blind people have as diverse a mix of interests and opinions as anyone else.

While we welcome sighted allies and family members who have an interest in what blind people are thinking and talking about, Living Blindfully is unapologetically for blind people, by blind people. There are other great places to go to learn about how blind people do what we do. But there are few places that proudly cater to the blind community. So, if you're not blind but you're interested in an unfiltered discussion about what's occupying the blind community, you've come to the right place and you're very welcome.

Jonathan Mosen is the host and facilitator of Living Blindfully, and often conducts interviews and produces product demonstrations. But you'll also hear from our engaged community of listeners who share their thoughts in writing and in audio. You're very welcome to contribute on anything you hear during the show, or something new that's on your mind.


Sponsor: Carrie on Accessibility


Carrie on Accessibility. Accessibility Explored. Shows technology to the right with accessibility features enabled.

Sponsor Since: May 29, 2023 Calendar icon.

Website: https://carrieonaccessibility.com/ 🌐️

Email: email@carrieonaccessibility.com 📧️

About: Carrie's mission with Carrie on Accessibility (CoA) is to promote accessibility and to empower those, like herself, who are blind and visually impaired. Through her YouTube channel and other social media platforms, she shares videos exploring accessibility and assistive technology, along with other resources and encouragement that can benefit the community.

Carrie on Accessibility emphasizes accessibility, which is the path forward to equal access for those with disabilities. Designing with accessibility in mind is incredibly important. WCAG compliance is necessary and right, but compliance does not always equal accessibility. End user testing is the ultimate test. Through Carrie on Accessibility's Accessibility Review, businesses can evaluate the real world usability and functionality of their products and services.

Whether you're a content creator, small business owner, startup, organization, or corporation, Carrie on Accessibility can help you push beyond the limits to provide and promote accessibility.


Sponsor: Hartgen Consultancy


Left: Hartgen Consultancy logo. A pointed oval contains the words 'Hartgen Consultancy' written in a stylized script on a dark background. Right: The hands of a blind technician use a braille notetaker to troubleshoot a PC. QWERTY keyboard and braille notetaker visible.

➜ Classified Advertisement: Be Productive and Enjoy Working With Leasey!

Leasey is your ultimate tool for productivity and fun. Directly from within JAWS for Windows, create text macros, shortcuts to folders and web pages, store notes under different categories and access them from any application. Listen to over 80,000 radio stations. Quickly access over 80 news sources, seven-day hour-by-hour weather forecast, RSS feeds, podcasts, recipes, holiday dates, YouTube videos, Amazon and eBay. Do you have an ElBraille? There's no need to remember key sequences. Just type the Windows shortcut you want or create an abbreviation. Want enhanced access to apps such as WhatsApp, Twitter, Spotify and VLC Media Player? No problem. Use utilities such as mapping folders to drive letters or the special Leasey Start Menu, completely configurable. Hundreds of pages of documentation and audio tutorials through the LeaseyBites Podcast, available from major podcast directories. Leasey: a power house of tools for your JAWS screen-reader! | Follow us on Mastodon! | Learn more at:
https://www.leaseycentral.com

Sponsor Since: May 29, 2023 Calendar icon.

Website: https://www.hartgenconsultancy.com/ 🌐️

About: Hartgen Consultancy was established with a mission to provide accessible training and usable software tools to individuals with vision loss and to the deaf Blind community. Product offerings have and continue to significantly contribute to the employability and productivity of these communities. Our vision of inclusiveness and accessibility; a vision that informs every training module, all adaptive products, and excellent customer service, embodies the commitment to the core values of the company.

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Your Business or Organization Name Here


➜ Classified Advertisement: Your Weekly Classified Advertisement Title Here (256 characters or less including spaces.)

Your weekly Classified Advertisement here.
(1000 characters or less including spaces.)

Your logo here.

Sponsor Since: Today Calendar icon.

Website: https://accessinformationnews.com/ 🌐️

Phone: (855) 578-6660 📱️

Email: news@accessinformationnews.com 📧️

About: Access Information News is the world's leading not-for-profit access information news publication that reaches over 25,000 access professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Access Information refers to informational topics that directly affect the lives of people with disabilities. Access Information includes any and all information related to bettering the lives of people who are blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled. Access Information News is a Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication.



Access Information News is the world's leading not-for-profit access information news publication that reaches over 25,000 access professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week.

Access Information refers to informational topics that directly affect the lives of people with disabilities. Access Information includes any and all information related to bettering the lives of people who are blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled.

Access Information News offers a total of 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.

Availability: There are currently  5  of  18  Sponsorship Packages available. All 18 Sponsorship Packages are offered on a first-come, first serve basis.

Waiting List: If you would like to become an Access Information News Sponsor but there are no sponsorship packages currently available, we encourage you to join our waiting list by sending an email to: sponsorships@accessinformationnews.com 📧️. Once you have joined our waiting list we will notify you the next time a current sponsor decides not to renew. You will then have 72 hours to secure your sponsorship before it is offered to the next sponsor on the list.

Pricing Options: When available you can secure one of these packages for just $300.00 USD for the next 3 months, or $1,200.00 USD for the next year. Annual sponsors gain the ability to schedule all 4 of their Featured Advertisement dates up to one year in advance.


➜ Access Information News Supporters:

We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your support!

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Why: Access Information News Supporters donate an amount of their choosing either one time or annually in order to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Access Information News publication.

Benefits: All Access Information News Supporters receive a listing within the "Our Supporters" section of each weekly newsletter, as well as a listing within the "Our Supporters" section of the Access Information News website.

One Time Donation: If you would like to become an Access Information News Supporter by making a one time donation in an amount of your choosing to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Access Information News publication, you may utilize this donate link, or scan the QR code to the right.

Annual Donation: If you would like to become an Access Information News Supporter by making a small annual donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Access Information News publication, we also offer the following options, all with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support.

Support: In tandem with Our Sponsors, these are the people that make the ongoing distribution of Access Information News possible.


Platinum Supporters:


Ornate Platinum Medallion.

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Platinum Supporter Since: December 5, 2022

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Platinum Supporter Since: March 24, 2023

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➜ Access Information News Team


Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi (Volunteer)


Photo of Aaron Di Blasi.

Volunteer Publisher Since: November 7th 2022

Location: Mayfield Heights, Ohio

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST/EDT) (GMT-5/GMT-4)

In addition to serving as Publisher for Access Information News Aaron also serves as Publisher for the Top Tech Tidbits Publication and is also the President and Senior Project Management Professional for Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.

As Publisher Aaron oversees the weekly distribution of Access Information News on behalf of Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.

Aaron also serves as a Volunteer Editorial Contributor to Access Information News.

Aaron Di Blasi, PMP

Publisher (2022-Present)
Access Information News
The Week's News in Access Information
https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐️

Publisher (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐️

Sr. Project Management Professional (2006 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
https://mvsltd.com 🌐️


Editorial Contributor #1: John Hanlin (Volunteer)


Volunteer Editorial Contributor Since: November 7th 2022

Location: Boulder, Colorado

Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST/MDT) (GMT-7/GMT-6)

In addition to serving as an Editorial Contributor to Access Information News, John also serves as an Editorial Contributor to the Top Tech Tidbits Publication and is also an attorney-at-law specializing in long-term disability claims for blind and visually impaired persons.

John is also a long-time contractor and member of the Board of Trustees at Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.

John Hanlin, Esq.

Editorial Contributor (2022-Present)
Access Information News
The Week's News in Access Information
https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐️

Editorial Contributor (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐️

Board of Trustees (2006 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
https://mvsltd.com 🌐️


Editorial Contributor #2: Jenna Lang (Volunteer)


Volunteer Editorial Contributor Since: November 7th 2022

Location: Des Moines, Iowa

Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST/CDT) (GMT-6/GMT-5)

In addition to serving as an Editorial Contributor to Access Information News, Jenna also serves as an Editorial Contributor to the Top Tech Tidbits Publication and runs her own advocacy foundation.

Jenna also serves as a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) for Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.

Jenna's son was born blind and she is always seeking new and innovative ways to empower him through technology.

Jenna Lang, PMP

Editorial Contributor (2022-Present)
Access Information News
The Week's News in Access Information
https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐️

Editorial Contributor (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐️

Project Management Professional (2022 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd.
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
https://mvsltd.com 🌐️


Editorial Contributor #3: David Woodbridge (Volunteer)


Photo of David Woodbridge.

Volunteer Editorial Contributor Since: February 6th 2023

Location: Central Coast, New South Wales, Australia

Time Zone: Australia Eastern Standard Time (AEST/AEDT) (GMT+10)

In addition to serving as an Editorial Contributor to Access Information News, David is also the National Commercial Assistive Technology Advisor for Vision Australia where he has worked since 1990. Over this time he has assisted people who are blind or vision impaired in their home, education, and work settings to take advantage of the benefits of using assistive and main stream technology.

In the last seventeen years, he has also been involved with evaluating technology for use by people who are blind or vision impaired covering both low and high tech equipment (including Microsoft, Samsung, Google, Amazon, and Apple). David is also one of the key spokespersons for Vision Australia relating to technology.

He has been an Apple Ambassador for Apple Australia since 2009 with a group of other Ambassadors / Apple Distinguished Educators (ADE)'s covering the range of Apple's Accessibility solutions throughout Australia.

David produces a range of podcasts (since 2011) covering Apple and other technologies which are distributed on his own podcast (http://davidwoodbr.podbean.com). In addition, he also has a regular Talking Tech program (since 2013) which can be heard every Tuesday at 4:30 Eastern Summer Time on Vision Australia Radio Melbourne (available online) or via https://omny.fm/shows/talking-tech-vision-australia-radio

David also runs a weekly Tech Monday where people can chat about assistive and main stream technology, share information, and any tips and tricks.

David lost his sight when he was 8 years old and had to learn Braille. Since then, he completed high school, went to Sydney University receiving a Social Work degree, spent 4 years drug and alcohol counselling, and then moved into his current job.

As a person who is blind, David believes that as a user of the technology that he recommends to others, that he is well situated to look at the strengths and shortcomings of the assistive technology that he comes across in both his professional and personal life, in particular, mainstream technology that is accessible.

Twitter: @dwoodbridge
Mastodon: woody@dragonscave.space
iSee Podcast: https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com
Vision Australia Radio Talking Tech: https://omny.fm/shows/talking-tech-vision-australia-radio

In addition to his weekly contributions to Access Information News, David's regularly occurring activities are his weekly tech radio show, bi-monthly exploring tech webinars for Vision Australia, his iSee podcast when something of note grabs his attention, and the weekly Tech Monday chat sessions.

David Woodbridge

Editorial Contributor (2023-Present)
Access Information News
The Week's News in Access Information
https://accessinformationnews.com 🌐️

Editorial Contributor (2023-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits
The Week's News in Access Technology
https://toptechtidbits.com 🌐️

National Commercial Assistive Technology Advisor (1990 - Present)
Vision Australia
Live the life you choose. We're here to support all Australians who are blind or have low vision.
https://www.visionaustralia.org/ 🌐️

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Access Information News is the world's leading not-for-profit access information news publication that reaches over 25,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week. Subscribe here. Review the archive here. Access Information News is a Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication. Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi. Contributing Editors: John Hanlin, Jenna Lang and David Woodbridge. Access Information News is a sponsor and reader supported publication.

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