Access Information News for Monday, November 6, 2023 - Volume 935

The Week's News in Access Information
https://accessinformationnews.com/

A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
https://mvsltd.com/

Access Information News. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access information.

Subscribers: 10,852 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 35 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.

This Week's Featured Advertisement: Join Industry Leaders And Begin Reaching Over 15,000 Access Professionals, Educators and Enthusiasts, All Over The World, Each Week. All While Supporting The Ongoing Distribution of This Publication For Those Very Same Readers. Only $100 USD Per Month. While Packages Last. This Issue Made Possible By Support From The Following Sponsors:

Ongoing Distribution Made Possible By Support From: Pneuma Solutions, WayAround, APH ConnectCenter, Access Ready, Inc., Total Tech Solutions, LLC, Eyes on Success, Empish J. Thomas, Hadley and the National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI). Learn more about Sponsorship today at: https://accessinformationnews.com/sponsor.

Dear Access Information News Subscriber,

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

A.) Grubhub, DoorDash and Uber Eats: Which Delivery App Has the Lowest Fees? | CNET

It turns out the size of your order might determine which delivery app will net the best price for your next night of takeout:
https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/cheapest-delivery-app-for-2023/

B.) Going Blind And Learning How To Deal With It | Joe Orozco

Did you know blindness is the "ailment" people fear most? That's not my choice of word. It comes from the results of a 2017 study conducted by the Wilmer Eye Institute — which found that people fear blindness more than AIDS, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. People fear losing their sight more than losing speech, hearing, or a limb:
https://joeorozco.com/going-blind-and-learning-how-to-deal-with-it/

C.) How This App Is Helping The Visually Impaired Navigate Around Airports

GoodMaps is an app that uses your smartphone's features to help you find your way around airports and transit stations. The app uses LIDAR mapping to create a map of building edges, allowing for optical place finding with your phone's camera for accessibility and general navigation. GoodMaps does not rely on GPS but uses your phone's accelerometer to calculate your travel speed and determine your location within 3-5 feet:
https://simpleflying.com/goodmaps-helping-visually-impaired-navigate-airports/

D.) American Council of the Blind (ACB) Wins Nationwide Disability Rights Class Action Against Quest Diagnostics for Use of Inaccessible Touch Screen Kiosks

Following a week-long bench trial in Los Angeles, a federal court in California found Quest Diagnostics in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act and permanently enjoined Quest from continuing to violate the ADA:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-council-of-the-blind-acb-wins-nationwide-disability-rights-class-action-against-quest-diagnostics-for-use-of-inaccessible-touch-screen-kiosks-301966895.html

E.) Try A New Approach To Reading Restaurant Menus | Ophthalmic Edge

David Goldfield: I'll add some additional recommendations for mobile apps that can be used to either read or assist in reading a menu. Envision AI's on the fly text reading and document scanner can be used to scan a restaurant menu. The new Be My AI feature in Be My Eyes not only allows for scanning a menu but for asking follow-up questions, such as "how much is the Philly roll" or "what low-carb items are on this page?" Finally, Menus4All is an iOS app that provides accessible menus. It is well worth the subscription cost.
Ophthalmic Edge: One of the most frequently asked questions from people living with low vision is: How do you read the restaurant menu? There are many good options for accomplishing this task depending on the degree of visual impairment. This is all about making adjustments, and accepting that picking up a menu and reading it the way you once did, may not be something you can reenact. Keep in mind, the goal is to select food you will enjoy, not to read every dish on the menu. Here are some of the ways we can successfully overcome the challenges of menu reading and return to savoring the culinary and social experience:
https://ophthalmicedge.org/patient/try-a-new-approach-to-reading-restaurant-menus/

2) Sponsorship Packages Currently Available

Are you an access-based person, business or organization whose products, services or message would benefit from reaching over 15,000 access information subscribers each week? If so, please consider becoming a Sponsor today for just $100 a month, paid either monthly, quarterly or annually. Annual Paying Sponsors receive 5 Featured Advertisements for the year, rather than 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 information subscribers in the world today, at a nearly negligible price point, please consider becoming an Access Information News Sponsor while packages last. Availability: There are currently 6 Access Information News Sponsorship Packages available:
https://www.accessinformationnews.com/sponsorship-information.html#purchase

3) Premium Subscriber Updates

Next Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 4th Issue of the 60 Most Clicked Access News Articles for October, November and December of 2023 on Monday, January 1, 2024. Back Issues: There are currently 3 back issues 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:
https://www.accessinformationnews.com/premium-subscribers.html

4) Sponsored News Items Now Available

Use Sponsored News Items to reach the access community when you need to. Whether you are a current Sponsor or not. Current Weekly Subscriber Count: Over 10K. Drive traffic to your access product and service announcements, events, updates or fundraisers using this incredibly cost-effective and easy-to-use advertisement tool. Learn more today at:
https://www.accessinformationnews.com/sponsored-news-items.html

5) Follow Access Information News On Your Preferred Channel

In addition to receiving Access Information News via email every Monday morning at 6:00 AM ET you can also pick up the newsletter and its trending articles on any of the following channels:
Email: https://accessinformationnews.com/subscribe
Facebook: https://accessinformationnews.com/facebook
LinkedIn: https://accessinformationnews.com/linkedin
Mastodon: https://accessinformationnews.com/mastodon
RSS: https://accessinformationnews.com/rss
X (Formerly Twitter): https://accessinformationnews.com/x
YouTube: https://accessinformationnews.com/youtube

6) Be My AI Had An Outage This Week, So We Asked What Happened | David Redmond | Vision Ireland

Earlier this week, the Be My AI tool suffered an outage. An error message in the app read "Be My AI failed to respond, reason: You exceeded your current quota, please check your plan and billing details." This message resulted in some users having concerns that Be My Eyes was going to start charging for its AI tools, or that the company was struggling to pay its bill from AI supplier Open AI. The tool has been hugely popular in recent months, so we reached out to Be My Eyes to find out exactly what's going on. here's what they had to say on the matter:
https://www.ncbi.ie/be-my-ai-had-an-outage-this-week-so-we-asked-what-happened/

7) Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to "Be My Eyes" | Randy Pierce | Future In Sight

Artificial intelligence (AI) based image descriptors have become increasingly popular in the recent months. This creation accounts for a life-changing moment for me. I can see again in a new and incredibly useful way, one that has not been possible for me in many decades:
https://futureinsight.org/blog-artificialintelligence/

8) Accessibility Advocates Oppose Disability Simulations | Skift

After Skift Meetings published an article about a wheelchair venue tour, accessibility advocates strongly objected to disability simulation exercises. Now, we are revisiting the topic to provide a platform for the concerns that were raised:
https://meetings-skift-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/meetings.skift.com/accessibility-advocates-oppose-disability-simulations/amp/

9) Can Screen Readers Read Images? | Allyant

Screen readers generally cannot directly "read" images like they can with text. A sighted user can access the content of an image by simply looking at it, but a screen reader accesses the image only through the alternative text (alt text) or descriptions provided for images. Alt text is added to the HTML code of a web page or document, and it provides a textual description of the image's content or function. When a screen reader encounters an image with alt text, it reads the alt text aloud to the user, allowing them to understand the image's purpose or content. But alt text of an image doesn't just contribute to making the image accessible; it also offers two significant benefits:
https://allyant.com/can-screen-readers-read-images-text-on-images/

10) A Student's Experience Winning a Polly | APH

Fourth grader Russell Dorn put all three of his entries into an access technology raffle at the National Federation of the Blind convention in July. His hopes were realized when he won a Polly from APH. We spoke with Russell about his experience with this braille learning tool:
https://www.aph.org/a-students-experience-winning-a-polly/

11) More Eye Drops Are Being Recalled. Here's How to Find a Safe Brand | CNET

The FDA has issued warnings about products from several major brands. Here's what to know and how to choose the best eye drops for you:
https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/more-eye-drops-are-being-recalled-heres-how-to-find-a-safe-brand/

12) Ellume Tests Available For People Who Are Blind Or Who Have Low Vision | ACL.gov

At-home COVID-19 tests are again available at no cost through a partnership between the HHS Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response and the United States Postal Service. These tests will detect the currently circulating COVID-19 variants, are intended for use through the end of 2023, and will include clear instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates. People who are blind or who have low vision can order Ellume COVID Home Tests, which are more accessible than other options. Supplies of the more accessible tests are limited, so people are asked to order them only if they do not have a way to use the other types of tests, such as assistive technology or a trusted family member or friend who can assist (in person or via video call).
https://acl.gov/accessibletests

13) AbilityNet and Deque Partner To Build A Stronger Accessibility Community

AbilityNet and Deque Systems recently partnered to start hosting in-person round table events, bringing together accessibility professionals from a number of organizations as an opportunity for them to share their experiences and challenges candidly, and discuss the core of their accessibility strategies:
https://abilitynet.org.uk/news-blogs/abilitynet-and-deque-partner-build-stronger-accessibility-community

14) 'No One Is Doing That': Louisville Museum Under Construction Aims To Be 100% Accessible

The American Printing House for the Blind broke ground about six months ago on the Dot Experience, a museum it hopes will be unlike any other:
https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/dot-experience-museum-aph-blind-inclusive-accessible/417-5146e778-8e84-42f7-b2cc-9c983635b95a

15) You Can Control Your iPhone Without Using Your Hands. Here's How | CNBC

There is an accessibility feature on your iPhone called Voice Control that allows you to control the device with no hands. You can use it to pay credit card bills, scroll on apps and browse the internet. You can also use Voice Control in combination with Siri to get the most benefit out of the features:
https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/02/you-can-control-your-iphone-without-using-your-hands-heres-how.html

16) How I Got Here: Rory Cooper's Career In Assistive Technology Led Him To The White House | Technical.ly

The University of Pittsburgh researcher and technologist was just honored with a National Medal of Technology and Innovation. His interest in the field "came out of personal need:"
https://technical.ly/civic-news/how-i-got-here-rory-cooper-pitt-assistive-technology/

17) New Video Highlights Accessibility and Inclusion at NASA | NASA.gov

The video also shares resources for employees and supervisors to learn about the disability community at NASA, how to access information and resources about disability in the workplace, and how to support accessibility and inclusion at NASA. Accessibility focuses on creating an organization in which all people, including people with disabilities, can fully and independently participate. As one of NASA's core values, inclusion creates an environment where all employees feel welcome, respected, and engaged:
https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/msd/new-video-highlights-accessibility-and-inclusion-at-nasa/

18) Drone Found Blind Dog Missing for 3 Days in the UK | Dog Time

Publisher (Di Blasi): If you love dogs as much as I do, I think you'll find this particular use of drones to be incredibly compelling. I have had a dog in my life since the day I was born. Today, as I approach 50, I've probably loved and lost more than 12 canine best friends. Currently I have two pugs named Rebecca and Dolores Biscuit that are 2 and 3 years old respectively. They are also genetic sisters. And they are my world. So it's nice to know that if anything ever happened to them, a drone might just be able to come to the rescue.
Dog Time: According to FOX News, an 11-year-old Lab named Molly went missing from her home in the UK. The dog's family called a search and rescue team to help find the pup. Drone to Home, a UK charity founded in 2019, offered assistance. The organization specializes in reuniting missing pets with their families. It only took them two hours to locate Molly..
https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/drone-found-blind-dog-missing-204232057.html

19) RNIB Launches Short Film Challenging Misconceptions About People With Sight Loss | Gus Alexiou | Forbes: Subscription Required

The Royal National Institute of Blind People has released a new short campaign film featuring actors with sight loss that uses humor to challenge public misconceptions. The #BeforeYouAsk films which are part of the U.K.-based charity's overall See The Person Not The Sight Loss campaign that launched last year are aimed at dismantling many commonly held myths about how individuals with visual impairments live their lives and what they can accomplish:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2023/10/31/rnib-launches-short-film-challenging-misconceptions-about-people-with-sight-loss/

20) NPR, ER To Release The Spoken Word Audio Report 2023 | Radio Online

Spoken word audio listening time and audience size attain record highs in the U.S. according to The Spoken Word Audio Report 2023 from NPR and Edison Research. Forty-eight percent of those in the U.S. age 13+ listen to some type of spoken word audio daily, and audio consumers in the U.S. age 13+ spend 31% of their daily audio time with spoken word:
https://news.radio-online.com/cgi-bin/rol.exe/headline_id=b17629

21) How One Blind Genetic Counselor Is Doing Her Part To Address Ableism | Helen Santoro | Stanford Medicine

Ronit Mazzoni first learned about genetic counseling from her AP biology textbook. After shadowing a genetic counselor her senior year of high school, she was sold on it as a career. "I always was interested in science, and this felt like a great synthesis of the different parts of it that I really liked," Mazzoni said. Many people mistakenly assume that because Mazzoni has been blind since birth due to a condition known as microphthalmia, her career choice must have been related to her diagnosis. "Not at all," Mazzoni said. "It had nothing to do with my blindness:"
https://scopeblog.stanford.edu/2023/10/31/blind-genetic-counselor-doing-part-to-address-ableism/

22) Visually Impaired Artist With Passion For Painting Spreads Message Of Hope, Acceptance | CBC Canada

Born visually impaired in Grand-Barachois, a small eastern New Brunswick community on the Northumberland Strait, Ysabelle Vautour connects with herself — and with others — through art. Now living in Fredericton, Vautour's disability not only inspired her to pursue a career in visual arts, but it also prompted her to create a safe space for other disabled artists in New Brunswick. Her visual impairments include colour-blindness, photosensitivity and 20/200 vision:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/nb-fredericton-ysabelles-disability-art-1.7016296

23) How 'All the Light We Cannot See' Brings an Authentic Blind Heroine to TV | News Week

Upon its release in 2014, Anthony Doerr's All the Light We Cannot See won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and landed on The New York Times best-seller list for 200 weeks. With such high expectations, adapting the novel for the screen was never going to be an easy feat, especially when it came to casting the lead role of Marie-Laure LeBlanc:
https://www.newsweek.com/how-all-light-we-cannot-see-brings-authentic-blind-heroine-tv-shawn-levy-steven-knight-1839601

24) Words That Open Doors — Let's Pay More Attention To This | Award Winning Sight Loss Coach, Advocate and Author Donna Jodhan

The world really needs to wake up and pay more attention to these 2 very magical words; thanks and please!
https://sterlingcreations.com/blog/words-that-open-doors-lets-pay-more-attention-to-this

25) How Can WayAround Make My Life Easier and More Efficient? | Jessica Hipp | Wayaround

While WayAround isn't the first company to create an audible label option for people with vision or reading limitations, our way of doing it simplifies the whole process. Instead of relying upon others to explain what something is beyond a basic naming label, our system allows all of the pertinent information needed to fully identify and use an item to be added to each tag:
https://www.wayaround.com/ease-and-effeciency-of-wayaround/

26) Making Audiobooks Accessible | Cam Waller | Accessibility.com

Audiobooks may seem modern, but they have been around for decades. But though they may not be new, they've become much more popular in recent years for the convenient, immersive literary experience they provide. And even though audiobooks have their root in providing accessibility, that doesn't mean every audiobook is accessible by default. By prioritizing inclusivity and considering diverse needs, we can help prevent barriers to accessing audiobooks, ensuring they remain an accessible way to enjoy literature:
https://www.accessibility.com/blog/making-audiobooks-accessible

➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events

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 8, 2023 | ZoomText, JAWS & Fusion: Latest Features | Assistive Technology Webinar | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
It's that time again. Not only is it the holidays but also the time when there are important updates for ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Join Ian Ramos and Marisa Church from Access Ingenuity to explore what's new in the 2024 updates and some features within the past few years. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information: Briefly explain the differences between ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion. Compare the different licenses and how you can find out if you are eligible for the latest updates. Explore new 2024 features such as Inverted Mouse Pointer, Single Wedge Cursor, Face in View, Split Braille, a new command for managing calls, etc. Review recent features, including Tethered View, Smart Glance, Notification History improvements, New Tables Only option for Smart Navigation, and more:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81878663672?pwd=Q3pYQUJKMGZWNEFGRnBndEVkaTNOQT09&mc_cid=0ef50aefc4&mc_eid=90429c1885#success

November 8, 2023 | Code Jumper: Coding for Families | APH ConnectCenter

4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT
In a high-tech ever-changing world coding is a skill many children are learning. How do we teach coding to a child who is blind or has low vision? APH Product Manager will share all things Code Jumper and answer your questions at the end. Join us to hear about Code Jumper, a tactile way to help teach, explore, and develop a passion for coding:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dV16TYK3TjiFZi0OJ_sRcw#/registration

November 8, 2023 | How to Prepare for Accessibility Testing (Part 1) | TPGi

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 4PM GMT
Presenter: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. This webinar covers creating an accessibility test plan that organizes manual and automated testing. Attendees will receive a test plan template ready for use at their organization and sure to garner buy-in from all the stakeholders across an organization. Attendees learn to select a set of test samples representative of an entire application. It's rarely feasible to test every page or widget within an application. Therefore, a representative sample is the starting point for accessibility testing. Attendees will gain fundamental, ready-to-use knowledge about accessibility testing:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-november-8-at-12pm-et-how-to-prepare-for-accessibility-testing-part-1/

November 8, 2023 | Accommodations In The Digital Age — How Captions Can Be Necessary For Some, But Boost Learning For All | Glean

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
During this installment we'll be diving into how captions can be necessary for some, but boost learning for all. We'll explore how live captions during lectures allow students to actively listen and participate as well as how captions support more effective note taking, boost engagement, and increase accessibility. Over the course of the series, attendees will also be in with a chance to win some amazing prizes by entering our live quizzes:
https://glean.co/events/how-captions-can-boost-learning-for-all?utm_source=forum_athen_us&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=q4_23

November 9, 2023 | From Classroom to Cash Flow: How Earning in School Can Shape a Brighter Future For Blind And Low Vision Students | Richard Rueda | APH ConnectCenter

3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 10PM GMT
Discover the transformative power of earning money while in school for students with vision loss! This compelling presentation will unveil the benefits of cultivating strong money management habits and seeking accessible part-time work to foster independence. Learn how to save for the future while safeguarding government benefits and find out how families can play a pivotal role in this empowering journey:
https://aph.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bcrdsBoFS36Dc7hD8v_9Bg

November 14, 2023 | How Beginners Can Easily Test for JAWS Screen Reader Accessibility | TPGi

8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 3PM GMT
Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead. JAWS Inspect enables rapid JAWS testing without the complexity of the end-user product. Using transcripts of JAWS speech you can quickly pinpoint accessibility and usability issues. This demonstration will walk you through some simple JAWS accessibility tests that can be run quickly even by novice accessibility testers and provide a good indicator of accessibility levels as well as an introduction to the challenges assistive technology users face. Testing with assistive technologies. JAWS compatibility testing. Introduction to accessibility testing. Understanding the user experience. Register today:
https://www.tpgi.com/webinar-november-14-at-11am-et-how-beginners-can-easily-test-for-jaws-screen-reader-accessibility/

November 14, 2023 through November 17, 2023 | The Design + Accessibility Summit By CreativePro

Join us at the 3rd annual Design + Accessibility Summit, the essential HOW-TO event for design professionals who need to master accessibility, coming to a device near you November 14-17, 2023. It's no secret that accessibility is a hot topic. In fact, ensuring your documents are accessible is not just a good idea: it's the law. Whether you're extending your company's DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) focus, expanding your market to include the estimated 25% of the population who have disabilities, or safeguarding your company against legal risks, it's important to make accessibility a business priority. Creative professionals must learn how to design documents that are accessible for people with vision and hearing impairments, mobility challenges, cognitive, and other disabilities. And those who ramp up their knowledge and expertise in accessibility will find themselves in high demand supporting their business' efforts; while those who don't will risk falling behind. At The Design + Accessibility Summit, you will learn practical techniques for building accessible documents with InDesign, Acrobat, PowerPoint, and other tools widely used by creative professionals:
https://creativepro.com/design-accessibility-summit/

November 14, 2023 | Access Academy Part 2: Teaching Touch and Exploratory Skills to Prepare for Tactile Graphics Learning | APH

1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 8PM GMT
This webinar is part two of the Tactile Graphics Literacy for Students with Visual Impairments: 4 Part Series. Join this webinar to discover how to teach touch and exploratory skills to developing tactile learners. Learn how the development of exploratory skills serves as a foundation for braille readiness and meaningful tactile graphics experiences for students with visual impairments:
https://www.aph.org/events/teaching-touch-and-exploratory-skills-to-prepare-for-tactile-graphics-learning/

November 14, 2023 | Power of Experiential Giving | Richard Rueda | APH ConnectCenter

12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 7PM GMT
Consider gifting experiences this holiday season. Discover unique gift ideas for digital enthusiasts and fashion that all can enjoy:
https://aphconnectcenter.org/webinars/experiential-gift-giving-digital-music-fashion-and-more/

November 15, 2023 | What's New in WCAG 2.2? | Digital Accessibility Webinar | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
After the approval of WCAG 2.2, you may be wondering about the impact on your accessibility testing and certification processes. Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to learn what changed with WCAG 2.2 and how it impacts the accessibility of your digital content. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information. Overview of WCAG 2.2. Accessibility benefits for users with disabilities. How to test for the new criteria:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82292206539?pwd=Rzl5UFI1TEw3bW0vWGNWV3lPZnorZz09&mc_cid=0ef50aefc4&mc_eid=90429c1885#success

November 15, 2023 | Diving Into Braille Displays From Humanware In Collaboration With Eye.T

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT
Announcing a new addition to Eye.t Screen Reader Curriculum, "Diving into Braille Displays", sponsored by Humanware! Topics include choosing the right braille display for you, connecting your display to your computer and editing using your new display! Humanware will be hosting a webinar for our brand new course on November 15 at 2 PM EST, giving everyone who attends a FREE license to the course. Register to secure your spot:
https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2aknhgjUSMu_xRUX_3MMUA#/registration

November 15, 2023 | Power of Experiential Giving, Part 2 | Richard Rueda | APH ConnectCenter

4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 11PM GMT
Consider gifting experiences this holiday season. Enjoy a touch tour at a museum, make dinner then watch an audio described film with your family member or friend who is blind or low vision. Hear from presenters about unique gift ideas that all can participate in and enjoy:
https://aphconnectcenter.org/webinars/experiential-gift-giving-hobbies-sports-and-more/

November 16, 2023 | Accessible Word Documents Webinar | ADA Great Lakes Center

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT
Description: In this informative presentation, we will delve into the world of accessible Word documents, exploring the key principles, techniques, and tools needed to make your documents inclusive and user-friendly. This presentation is designed for individuals and organizations that want to make a positive impact on their audience by ensuring that their Word documents are accessible to all. Join us and take the first step towards creating content that is inclusive, compliant, and enhances the user experience for everyone. Individuals will be able to submit questions for the speaker in advance during the registration process. This session will have human generated real-time captioning provided. Continuing Education Recognition Available. Certificate. Credit hours ACTCP: 1.5. Certificate of Attendance: 1.5. Speakers: Gaby de Jongh, IT Accessibility Specialist, UW-IT, Accessibility Technology Services, University of Washington:
https://accessibilityonline.org/ada-tech/session/?id=111084

November 16, 2023 | Unveiling the Latest BrailleNote Touch Updates: A KeySoft Showcase

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM GMT
Join Peter Tucic and Andrew Flatres as they unveil the latest enhancements to the BrailleNote Touch Plus. With the recent launch of HumanWare's KeySoft, this informative webinar will highlight the features and advancements released. Notably, we'll delve into the introduction of the new onboard Dictionary, and will also explore the braille-centric KeyCode coding application. Join us for a comprehensive overview of what's hot and happening in the world of BrailleNote Touch Plus. As always, we look forward to hearing from you during a questions and answer portion of the webinar. Time permitting, we'll address any questions or insights you'd like to share. Register now and be part of the conversation:
https://humanware.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_79Y5CXVSTECgCGGKs5uZhQ#/registration

November 21, 2023 | Accessible Music Publishing Round Table | RNIB, DAISY Consortium

2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 9PM GMT
Introduction: The international DAISY Consortium and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) invite music publishers, composers, and music-setters/engravers to take part in our upcoming online Round Table on Accessible Music Publishing. The event aims to explore and understand various sector requirements, through presentations and discussions between: Mainstream music publishers (including exam boards). Braille and other accessible format producers. Blind, partially sighted, and print-disabled musicians. Music setters/engravers. Music notation software producers. We will discuss steps that the global sector can take to ensure equitable access to published scores, in response to legislation and to take advantage of technological advances, with the aim of establishing a sector Working Group and trialling some solutions:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/accessible-music-publishing-round-table-tickets-732765169347

November 28, 2023 | Access Academy Part 3: Strategies and Resources for the Instruction and Evaluation of Tactile Graphicacy Skills | APH

1:30PM PT, 2:30PM MT, 3:30PM CT, 4:30PM ET, 8:30 PM GMT
This webinar is part three of the Tactile Graphics Literacy for Students with Visual Impairments: 4 Part Series. Participate in this webinar to learn instructional strategies pertinent to effective graph reading and tactual perceptual skills. Explore methods for creation of tactile graphics and resources for evaluating tactile graphicacy capabilities of students with visual impairments.
https://www.aph.org/events/strategies-and-resources-for-the-instruction-and-evaluation-of-tactile-graphicacy-skills/

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

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM 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

November 29, 2023 | ONYX Family of Magnifiers: Portable & Powerful | ACVREP CE Approved, Assistive Technology Webinar | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 5PM GMT
The ONYX family of video magnifiers combines ease of use with powerful yet portable features to help people retain their independent lifestyle — reading, writing, viewing photographs, and engaging in hobbies. Did you know there are three different ONYX models? The ONYX Deskset and ONYX OCR offer larger screens and can adapt to multiple environments and tasks for productivity at school, work, and home. Modern cameras produce high-definition images with color-coded controls and adjustable magnification. The ONYX Pro combines portability with the Surface 7 tablet, providing the ultimate tool for mobile magnification and reading tasks. During this webinar, we discuss the features and benefits all the ONYX models can give in specific situations. Join Ian Ramos and Joe McDaniel from Vispero as they dive deep into these powerful tools to help those challenged by vision loss. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. Teachers of the visually impaired (TVI) can earn ACVREP continuing education credit by attending this approved presentation. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information: Features of all ONYX models. How to determine which model fits your needs best. How adding speech capability can take you further. Benefits of portable, powerful visual tools:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85400848456?pwd=eUdyUFRGeFlncXlWdnkyTFo5SkdwQT09&mc_cid=0ef50aefc4&mc_eid=90429c1885

December 1, 2023 and December 2, 2023 | Blind Health Expo 2023 | Exhibitor and Attendee Registration Now Open

The Blind Health Expo is the largest virtual event of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals in the blind, low vision, and disability communities. Exhibitors can: Register for free. Interact with thousands of attendees. Showcase their products and services:
https://accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo-2023/

December 2, 2023 | Succeed Without Sight Summit | Thriving Blind Academy

7AM PT, 8AM MT, 9AM CT, 10AM ET, 2PM GMT
Thriving Blind Academy's 4th Annual Succeed Without Sight Summit is The Ultimate Game Changer for the Blind and Low Vision Community, Igniting Success-Driven Mindsets like No Other Event! Imagine a world where vision knows no bounds, where limitless potential thrives in the absence of sight. This groundbreaking summit is your ticket to an inspiring convergence of resilience, innovation, and boundless determination. Join us as we unlock the secrets to achieving success beyond sight's limitations, featuring incredible stories, expert insights, and powerful strategies. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this transformative event. (FYI, it is a heck of a lot of fun too!):
https://thrivingblindacademy.org/summit

December 6, 2023 and December 7, 2023 | Sight Tech Global — Shaping New Technologies to Create a More Accessible World for People with Blindness and Visual Impairments

Sight Tech Global is the first global, virtual conference dedicated to fostering discussion among technology pioneers on how rapid advances in AI and related technologies will fundamentally alter the landscape of assistive technology and accessibility:
https://sighttechglobal.com/?mc_cid=0f086fc102&mc_eid=eb245f25da

December 12, 2023 | Access Academy Part 4: The Monarch: Tactile Access to Digital Learning | APH

1:30PM PT, 2:30PM MT, 3:30PM CT, 4:30PM ET, 8:30PM GMT
This webinar is part four of the Tactile Graphics Literacy for Students with Visual Impairments: 4 Part Series. Join this webinar to learn about the skills and background knowledge a student requires to benefit from the use of a multi-line, graphics-capable, refreshable braille display like the Monarch.
https://www.aph.org/events/the-monarch-tactile-access-to-digital-learning/

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

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 6PM 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

February 20, 2023 through February 22, 2023 | Axe-Con 2024 | Deque Systems

Why attend axe-con? Building accessible digital experiences requires a team effort, across design, development, management, testing, accessibility experts, and of course, legal. Axe-con is the first of its kind, dedicating topics to each of these key players. This is not an assistive technology convention. Talks at axe-con will include case studies from enterprise companies leading in large-scale accessibility efforts, as well as best practices and updates from technology leaders around the world. Attendance of axe-con sessions can also be used towards continuing education (CE) towards IAAP certification. Topics of focus will include accessibility in development, accessibility in design, organizational success with accessibility, and a wildcard track. If you'd like to learn more about previous sessions and speakers, you can view last year's schedule here. Join us to learn how to build, test, monitor, and maintain digital accessibility:
https://www.deque.com/axe-con/register/

April 8, 2024 and April 9, 2023 | 24th Annual Multiple Perspective On Access, Inclusion & Disability Conference | The Ohio State University — Columbus, Ohio

To be on the mailing list for the conference, send email to:
ADA-OSU@osu.edu 📧️

➜ Directories

1) Access Information Email Newsletter Directory

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

➜ Sponsor Classified Ads

Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions

Sponsor Since: November 7th 2022

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: National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI)

Sponsor Since: September 18th 2023

Website: https://www.ncbi.ie/ 🌐️

Phone: 1800 911 250 📱️

Make A Referral: https://www.ncbi.ie/supporting-you/make-a-referral/

We are happy to take referrals from anyone who is having significant challenges with their vision that cannot be improved with conventional correction glasses or medical treatment. Our online referral process provides a quick and easy way for you to request services, either for yourself, a family member, or a patient. We contact all new referrals to conduct an assessment.

Donate: https://www.ncbi.ie/supporting-us/donate-now/ ❤

Your support is Vital, for over 90 years, people like you have helped NCBI make Ireland a better place for those who are blind or vision impaired.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ncbilabs 📹

We regularly deliver Technology Podcasts on topics that support you. Show content ranges from chats and debates about the latest Inclusive Tech, Meet the Team interviews, interviews with developers about their latest innovations, Tech Tips, and Seeing it Your Way interviews where we speak to NCBI Service Users about how Technology has enabled them by breaking down barriers and leveling playing fields.

Online Store: https://www.ncbi.ie/shop-with-us/online-store/ 🛒

Shop Low Vision Aids. Our dedicated store supplies a range of household items, magnification aids, daily living aids, and technology devices all designed to assist you to live more independently. Check out our extensive range of low-vision aids, devices, and gadgets all designed to assist you in daily tasks.

NCBI Retail: https://www.ncbi.ie/shop-with-us/retail-stores/shop-locations/ 🛒

Visit our 130+ NCBI stores located across the country and shop for an extensive range of pre-loved quality clothing, accessories, and furniture. NCBI is proud to play a part in promoting environmentally friendly practices through reusing and recycling. We've got something for everyone, you can transform your home and wardrobe for less while helping to fund our vital work around Ireland with people living with sight loss.

About: NCBI's mission is to enable people who are blind and vision impaired to overcome the barriers that impede their independence and participation in society.

Inspired by the determination to overcome any obstacle, NCBI transforms the lives of people who are blind or vision impaired to deliver tangible change to today's needs. We offer timely information and support, relevant technology and innovative programs to sustain those with a vision impairment in education, in the workplace, and in wider society.

The National Council for the Blind of Ireland, the country's leading sight loss charity serving the approximate 55,000 people who are blind or vision impaired to live confidently and independently.

Our suite of programs provides practical and emotional support, rehabilitation and opening pathways to education, employment, and full participation in community and public life. It means raising awareness to ensure children and adults with a significant sight loss have the same opportunities, rights, and choices as anyone else in society.

NCBI works every day across the country with people of all ages, from young babies through to older members of our community. We provide services to approximately 7,000 people each year.

Often when a person learns that they or a loved one — a parent, child or partner — is losing their sight, they have a lot of questions and fears. They are faced with a new version of their life — one that initially seems limited and scary. NCBI empowers those living with sight loss in several meaningful ways to enable them to continue living independent and fulfilling lives. NCBI has a crucial role to play in creating a world without barriers for people with sight loss. We want to support, educate and change how people see sight loss in this country.

Social: Facebook | X (Formerly Twitter) | YouTube | Instagram

Sponsor: Hadley

Sponsor Since: September 18th 2023

Website: https://hadleyhelps.org/ 🌐️

Email: info@hadleyhelps.org 📧️

Phone: (800) 323-4238 📱️

Get Started: https://hadleyhelps.org/learn 🎓

What would you like to learn today?

Donate: https://hadleyhelps.org/donate/support-hadley ❤

A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Hadley relies on contributions from individuals, foundations, and corporations to fund its programs.

About: The mission of Hadley is to create personalized learning opportunities that empower adults with vision loss or blindness to thrive — at home, at work, and in their communities.

Founded in 1920 by William Hadley, an educator who lost his eyesight later in life, Hadley offers practical help, connection and support free of charge to anyone with a visual impairment, their families and professionals supporting them. With Hadley, you can discover new ways to do things that have become more difficult due to vision loss and connect with a network of peers who "get it." And you don't need to come to Hadley. Hadley's help comes to you; online, on the phone or through the mail.

Since relaunching in July 2020, more than 70,000 people have signed up with Hadley, registering more than 200,000 workshop interactions. And our workshops have 98% satisfaction ratings. We reach all 50 states and more than 100 countries. And more people learn braille from Hadley than from any other organization worldwide.

Hadley is a proud partner of the National Eye Institute and the National Eye Health Education Program.

Hadley's help conveniently meets learners where they are. Free of wait lists. Free of office visits. Free of charge.

Social: Facebook | X (Formerly Twitter) | YouTube

Sponsor: Empish J. Thomas

Sponsor Since: August 21, 2023

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

About: Hello. I'm so glad you're here. I'm Empish, a freelance writer and blogger specializing in vision loss and disability. I have a deep passion for the disability community and enjoy using my writing skills to bring awareness. Ever since I was a small child I have always been intrigued by the written word. Checking out children's books at my local library to reading the newspaper out loud to my parents, words have always moved and compelled me. Now, fast forward to my adult life. I had a journalism degree with a promising career. But six months after graduation I developed severe headaches and sensitivity to light prompting me to go see an eye doctor for the first time in my life. I was diagnosed with Uveitis in its most aggressive form and within a few years I was totally blind.

Despite this diagnosis my love for the written word did not diminish. I had noticed the negative and sometimes incorrect portrayal of the disabled in the news media. I wanted to be proactive in changing that image. Language is powerful and that people with disabilities must tell their own story.

This is why I love the Nigerian proverb “Don't let the lion tell the giraffe's story,” because it speaks to my career as a journalist and disability advocate. As we know, the lion is the king of the jungle and rules the animal kingdom. His voice is heard the strongest and the loudest the majority of the time.

But there are also other animals too. Ones like the giraffe that have a voice and a story to tell. Their voices are just as important. Just as powerful. Just as valuable. As you review and read my work my goal is to give the giraffe that voice.

Topics That Spark Joy

As a freelance writer and blogger, I use this site to talk about my life as a disabled person. Like Marie Kondo, you will find blog posts on the things that spark joy. I love reading audiobooks and watching audio described movies. I also love talking about accessibility and how it impacts my life. I include my daily routine. You know those mundane things we all do like grocery shopping, exercising, paying bills, voting and anything else I find interesting.

Let Me Write For You

Now that you know a little about me, are you looking for a freelance writer? One who can write a captivating story. ONE WITH excellent writing and organizational skills. One who understands the importance of deadlines. Let's chat. Shoot me an email from my Contact Page and let's discuss how I can meet your writing needs.

Sponsor: Eyes on Success

Sponsor Since: August 21, 2023

Website: https://www.eyesonsuccess.net/ 🌐️

About: This half-hour weekly podcast and radio program discusses products, services and daily living tips for people with vision loss. It is available through radio reading services across North America, via several internet streaming services, and to everyone else as a podcast. To date, the show has been downloaded in all 50 states in the US and over 100 other countries on all the inhabited continents. Eyes On Success is hosted and produced by Peter Torpey and Nancy Goodman Torpey.

Each episode is basically a success story. Some are human stories of visually impaired people's accomplishments in academics, employment, sports or pastimes. Others are descriptions of adaptive aids that enable visually impaired people to achieve things. These include screen readers, magnifiers, navigation aids, and others. In all cases, the focus is on success.

Eyes On Success has been airing weekly since January 2011. Prior to January 2013 the name of the show was ViewPoints. Other than the name, nothing has changed.

Listening To Eyes On Success

Connecting with Eyes On Success

Email: To contact us with questions, comments or suggestions for future shows send an e-mail to hosts@EyesOnSuccess.net 📧️.

Weekly Announcements: If you would like to receive weekly announcements of upcoming episodes, you can join our low traffic "announcements only" list by sending an e-mail to: EyesOnSuccess+subscribe@GoogleGroups.com 📧️.

Email Forum: If you would like to connect with other listeners and share your thoughts about what you've heard on the show, you can join our listener email forum by sending an email to: EOS_Discuss+Subscribe@GoogleGroups.com 📧️

Sponsor: Total Tech Solutions, LLC

Sponsor Since: April 4, 2023

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: Clusiv

Sponsor Since: January 16th 2023

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.

Sponsor Since: December 19th 2022

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.

Sponsor Since: December 13th 2022

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.

Sponsor Since: December 1st 2022

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

Sponsor Since: November 29th 2022

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.

Sponsor: WayAround

Sponsor Since: November 18th 2022

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

Your Business or Organization Name Here

Sponsor Since: Today

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 15,000 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.

Sponsorship Packages Currently Available

Access Information News is the world's leading not-for-profit access information news publication that reaches over 15,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled 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 18 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.

➜ Availability: There are currently  6  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.

➜ Payment Options: When available you can secure one of these packages for just $100.00 USD per month, $300 USD per quarter or $1,200.00 USD per year.

➜ Payment Option Benefits: Monthly Sponsors receive Zero (0) Featured Advertisements. Quarterly Sponsors receive One (1) Featured Advertisement per quarter. Annual Sponsors receive Five (5) Featured Advertisements per year. All other benefits remain the same.

➜ Access Information News Supporters:

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

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:

Become an Access Information News Platinum Supporter today.

1.) James Hulme
Platinum Supporter Since: December 5, 2022

2.) Donna Jodhan
Platinum Supporter Since: March 24, 2023

3.) Your name here.
Platinum Supporter since ...

Gold Supporters:

Become an Access Information News Gold Supporter today.

1.) Your name here.
Gold Supporter since ...

Silver Supporters:

Become an Access Information News Silver Supporter today.

1.) Your name here.
Silver Supporter since ...

Bronze Supporters:

Become an Access Information News Bronze Supporter today.

1.) Your name here.
Bronze Supporter since ...

One Time Supporters:

One Time Supporters donate an amount of their choosing — one time to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Access Information News Publication.

Become an Access Information News One Time Supporter today.

1.) Amanda Lee
One Time Supporter on July 31, 2023

2.) Your name here.
One Time Supporter on ...

➜ Access Information News Team

Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi (Volunteer)

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)

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.

X (Formerly 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/ 🌐️

Email: editor@accessinformationnews.com 📧️
Subscribe: https://accessinformationnews.com/subscribe
Facebook: https://accessinformationnews.com/facebook
X (Formerly Twitter): https://accessinformationnews.com/x
LinkedIn: https://accessinformationnews.com/linkedin
RSS Feed: https://accessinformationnews.com/rss
Donate: https://accessinformationnews.com/donate
Sponsorship Information: https://accessinformationnews.com/sponsor
Archive Search: https://accessinformationnews.com/search
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication: https://toptechtidbits.com

➜ Subscription Information

ABOUT:

Access Information News is the world's leading not-for-profit access information news publication that reaches over 15,000 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.

RELEASE SCHEDULE:

Access Information News is released every Monday morning at 6:00 AM ET.

SUBSCRIBE:

Do you, a friend, or colleague wish to receive the Access Information Newsletter? If so, please use or pass along our CAPTCHA-free sign-up link, which is: https://accessinformationnews.com/subscribe. You can also subscribe to receive the Access Information Newsletter on the Access Information News Website at: https://accessinformationnews.com. Either of these methods will provide you with an accessibly friendly and secure medium through which you can subscribe to our mailing list. Just enter your email address, click send, and begin receiving the Access Information Newsletter. It's that easy.

SPONSOR:

If you would like to become 1 of only 18 Access Information News Sponsors whose annual support makes the distribution of Access Information News possible, we offer you the following benefits, with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support: https://accessinformationnews.com/sponsorship-information.html.

SUPPORT:

If you would like to become an Access Information News Supporter by making a small one time or annual donation to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Access Information News publication, we offer the following options, with our sincerest thanks, and most heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support: https://accessinformationnews.com/donate.html.

WEBSITE:

Visit the Access Information News website online at https://accessinformationnews.com.

FACEBOOK:

Are you on Facebook? Stop by and "Like" Access Information News to begin receiving current news and trends in access information as part of your Facebook News Feed: https://accessinformationnews.com/facebook.

X (FORMERLY TWITTER):

Are you on X? Follow Access Information News to begin receiving current news and trends in access information as part of your X News Feed: https://accessinformationnews.com/x.

MASTODON:

Are you on Mastodon? Follow Access Information News to begin receiving current news and trends in access information as part of your Mastodon News Feed by visiting https://mastodon.accessinformationnews.com/@news or searching for @news@mastodon.accessinformationnews.com on your server today.

LINKEDIN:

Are you on LinkedIn? Follow Access Information News to begin receiving current news and trends in access information as part of your LinkedIn News Feed: https://accessinformationnews.com/linkedin.

YOUTUBE:

Are you on YouTube? Follow Access Information News to begin receiving current news and trends in access information as part of your YouTube Video Feed: https://accessinformationnews.com/youtube.

RSS:

Do you prefer RSS? Follow Access Information News via RSS today to begin receiving current news and trends in access information using your choice of news aggregator: https://accessinformationnews.com/rss.

QUESTIONS:

If you have questions regarding any of the material published in Access Information News please feel free to reach out to our Publisher at publisher@accessinformationnews.com 📧️ or our Editors at editors@accessinformationnews.com 📧️ and we will attempt to provide you with answers as time and knowledge permit.

ARCHIVE

Visit the Access Information News Archive at: https://accessinformationnews.com/archive.html where you can grab back issues.

CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS:

Any information for future issues of Access Information News may be submitted online via our Access Information News Item Submission Form at: https://accessinformationnews.com/submit-news or directed to our Editors at: editors@accessinformationnews.com 📧️.