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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, January 8, 2024 - Volume 944

The Week's News in Access Information

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

A) BBC Sounds Reports Two Billion Plays Of Audio In 2023 | RadioToday.co UK

Two billion plays of radio, music and podcasts were made on BBC Sounds in 2023 according to the corporation. Podcast listening saw an uplift of 34% compared to the same period of January to November last year:

B) Barrier Free Canada — Make Your Voices Heard — An Invitation From Barrier Free Canada | Donna Jodhan, Founder

Now you can choose how you would like to be heard! Through you and with you!

C) Using An iPhone's Camera Without Sight | Video | @ijustine | X

A new video demonstrates the effective use of an iPhone's camera for individuals experiencing sight loss. This educational piece offers a profound insight into the adaptability and resilience required in the face of visual impairment. In particular, it highlights the positive impact of technological accessibility, contrasting the often negative perceptions associated with sight simulation. This video serves as an inspiring testament to the potential of technology in enhancing the lives of those with sight loss. The efforts made in this video are commendable for their contribution to raising awareness and offering practical solutions.

D) Get a Free Government Tablet: Your Complete Guide | James Patterson | iLounge.com

In an age where digital connectivity is pivotal, the digital divide remains a stark reality for many. Recognizing this, various government programs are stepping up to offer free or highly subsidized tablets.

E) Asking for Help and Turning It Down Too | Video with Transcript | Hadley Workshop

Part of the Adjusting to Vision Loss Series.

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4) Sponsored News Articles

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7) Access Information News Surpasses 29,000 Weekly Readers | January 1, 2024 | EINPresswire.com

Access Information News, the world's leading, not-for-profit access news publication, now serves more than 29,000 readers each week. The publication's growth is not just a testament to the quality of its content, but also to the increasing importance of access information in the daily lives of persons all over the world.

8) Celebrating Louis Braille Day | Peter Claridge Bowler | Vision Ireland

On January 4th 1809 Louis Braille was born. Who could imagine this one person could and would change the lives of millions of blind and visually impaired people across the globe, influencing so many prominent figures centuries after his death?

9) Why World Braille Day Is So Important | Inclusively.com

Each year, World Braille Day is observed on January 4th to celebrate Louis Braille, the inventor of braille, a form of reading and writing used by people who are blind or low-vision. This day is a platform for advocacy and awareness, showing the importance of Braille to millions worldwide.

10) Braille Institute Celebrates 5th Annual "Assistive Technology Month" In January

The highlight of this year's Assistive Technology Month is a series of free online workshops featuring experts in the field, some of whom are visually impaired themselves. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about leading-edge products and gain practical knowledge that can make a meaningful impact on their lives.

11) Free Braille Art And Tactile Image Libraries: World Braille Day 2024 | Veroniiiica.com

As part of a semester-long school project for one of my graduate classes, I researched several free braille art and tactile image libraries that could be used for educational activities relating to science, agriculture, ecology, and several other topics. Even though I don't personally use braille due to neuropathy in my hands, I can often access some components of tactile graphics and braille art, examining high-contrast lines and other details through touch. Here is a short list of free braille art and tactile image libraries that provide resources on accessible images for blind and low vision audiences, in honor of World Braille Day 2024. I've also included links to graphics and other resources I used specifically for this school project when possible.

12) January is Braille Literacy Month | Paths To Literacy

Celebrate the world of braille by creating meaningful experiences for everyone to learn about braille. Braille should be everywhere and it's not just for the blind.

13) Level Access Releases Fifth Annual State of Digital Accessibility Report

14) Level Access Crosses The Line; Buys Accessibility Overlay Company | Eric Eggert

In a critique of Level Access's acquisition of UserWay for approximately $99 million, the author examines the limitations of UserWay's accessibility overlays, which claim to use AI to fix website accessibility issues but only address about 30-50% of potential problems. Level Access CEO Timothy Springer's defense of overlay technology is challenged by the author, who argues that overlays often fail to significantly improve, and sometimes worsen, the user experience. The author suggests that investment in overlays could be more effectively spent on permanent solutions, such as hiring developers to address accessibility barriers. The acquisition is portrayed as profit-driven, with the author advocating for a more genuine, gradual approach to accessibility, emphasizing the importance of integrating accessibility considerations from the beginning and throughout the development process rather than relying on superficial fixes like overlays.

15) AudioEye Has Dropped Its Suit Against Me | Adrian Roselli

AudioEye has dropped its lawsuit against Adrian Roselli as part of a settlement agreement. The specific legal details are included at the end of this post.

16) Accessibility Widgets Are Not Enough for Screen-Reader Users | NNGroup | YouTube

Website accessibility widgets add little value in making your site accessible to users with partial or no vision.

17) The Next Chapter Is A Complete Takeover | KarlGroves.com

Here Karl Groves discusses his journey in the field of web accessibility, starting from his early days of unawareness in the late 1990s to his deep involvement and eventual realization of the shortcomings in the field. Groves' career evolved from a focus on web development to a profound interest in usability and accessibility, leading him to work with companies like User-Centered Design and SSB BART Group, where he performed audits and VPATs, and developed a passion for training. He highlights the limitations of traditional approaches like consulting, audits, and tools, observing that these methods fail to compel customers to implement necessary changes for accessibility. To address these challenges, Groves founded AFixt, a company aimed at remedying websites and apps for accessibility. AFixt's mission is to efficiently bring sites into compliance with accessibility standards, avoiding ineffective audits and tools, and is built on values of veracity, quality, collaboration, and innovation.

18) For Blind Cooks, Federal Braille Program Brings Recipes Within Reach | The Washington Post: Subscription Required

Library of Congress arm offers free print-on-demand Braille cookbooks to users, and hundreds are taking advantage of it.

19) Feel Words Come to Life: Refreshable Braille Displays and the NLS eReader Program | APH ConnectCenter

Imagine a book, but instead of ink on smooth paper or pages rustling, you have a row of dots beneath your fingertips. This is possible thanks to refreshable braille displays, and revolutionary sleek and portable tools empowering people who are blind or low vision to read and write. The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) is putting these portable devices into the hands of readers, and as with all other NLS offerings, they are free!

20) Paul Parravano: Structured Negotiation Champion, Disability Advocate, Dies at 71 | Law Office of Lainey Feingold

This is an article about Paul Parravano, who died in December at age 71. Paul was a blind advocate and university administrator. He was a beloved family member active in many communities. Paul was a braille champion who served on the Board of the National Braille Press. His advocacy improved access to financial information for blind people across the United States. Paul was a friend and client of Lainey Feingold. He played an important role in Structured Negotiation cases. These included cases with American Express and the nation's credit reporting companies. Paul was a kind and generous person committed to full inclusion of disabled people in all aspects of life.

21) 8 Trip-Planning Tips for Blind or Visually Impaired Travelers | Afar.com

Travel confidently in 2024 with the aid of tour operators and resources for blind and VI travelers.

22) Calculating Confidence: APH's Abacus Bee | APH

Get Your Bee On. Does this sound like something a student you know would enjoy? Want to help set up an Abacus Bee for your region? Join in the excitement and help build a fascinating world of mathematics and beyond using the Abacus Bee! Learn more about the Abacus Bee and its different events, or contact our Northcentral Region Outreach Specialist, Jennifer Brooks, at: jbrooks@aph.org 📧️ for more info.

23) SLU Team Developing Software For Blind Learners Gets $5 Million Federal Grant

The National Science Foundation has awarded a $5 million grant to a team led by St. Louis University researchers developing software for people who are blind or visually impaired. The Inclusio software is meant to translate visual content — like a bar chart or an illustration in a geometry textbook — into formats that more readers can understand.

24) Do You Hear What I See? How Blindness Changes How You Process The Sound Of Movement | TheConversation.com

Almost nothing in the world is still. Toddlers dash across the living room. Cars zip across the street. Motion is one of the most important features in the environment; the ability to predict the movement of objects in the world is often directly related to survival — whether it's a gazelle detecting the slow creep of a lion or a driver merging across four lanes of traffic.

25) Web Accessibility for the Fitness industry (Guest Post) | Michael Taylor | UsableNet.com

Now that the holidays are over and we are into the new year, many people may consider a gym membership for a healthier start to the new year. Gym and fitness center websites are among the many businesses doing great things regarding digital accessibility. For this blog, I share some of the biggest obstacles I found last year and highlight some positive accessibility-related design changes. I hope to showcase progress while providing ideas to companies struggling with digital accessibility. I explored four gym websites, two national chains, and two local private gyms. As always, my narrative will focus exclusively on screen readers because I am a blind technology user.

26) The Magical Dots That Opened My World: Celebrating World Braille Day | Blind Girl Blogs

On World Braille Day, I'm bubbling over with excitement (and maybe a bit of caffeine) to share my journey with Braille, the tiny dots that have played a gigantic role in my life. As someone who's blind, Braille isn't just a system of reading and writing for me — it's my key to a treasure chest of knowledge, stories, and independence.

27) Reflecting on 2023 | Freedom Scientific

Thanks to your valuable suggestions, the Freedom Scientific User Education and Outreach Team introduced many enhancements and new training initiatives in 2023. As the year comes to a close, we reflect on those successes and look forward to 2024.

28) Amazon Echo Frames, Third Generation. A Review From A Blindness Perspective

In this article from Drew Weber via AppleVis the Amazon Echo Frames (Third Generation) are highly praised for transforming daily life, especially from a blindness perspective. They conveniently route iPhone audio, including screen reader output, directly through the glasses, enhancing privacy and comfort compared to alternatives like bone conduction headphones. The frames, resembling normal eye wear, are comfortable and lightweight with user-friendly controls. Notable features include exceptional battery life, suitable for Voiceover use, and clear sound quality with good mids and treble, though they struggle in noisy environments. The primary drawbacks are the less accessible charging process and audio leakage in loud settings. Overall, the Echo Frames are valued for their comfort, functionality, and the seamless integration of Alexa.

29) Through The Eyes Of My Crystal Ball — Hoping For Some Shockers And Shakers | Award Winning Sight Loss Coach, Advocate and Author Donna Jodhan

It's time for me to take a long hard look and see what I can! For better or for worse! Just my two cents for today!

30) Legal Update: December 2023 | Converge Accessibility

The December 2023 legal update from Converge Accessibility focuses on recent developments in web accessibility litigation. A key theme is how courts, particularly in New York, apply the "intent to return" requirement, originally established in Calcano v. Swarovski, to dismiss cases by serial plaintiffs. This requirement necessitates plaintiffs to demonstrate a genuine interest in accessing the services of the defendant's website. A notable case, Dawkins v. Brandy Library Lounge, LLC, exemplifies a successful assertion of this intent by a plaintiff. The update also discusses a unique situation in Illinois where a class action lawsuit against Adidas America, Inc. faced jurisdictional complexities, contrasting New Jersey's nexus requirement with Illinois' rejection of this requirement. Additionally, the report delves into California's approach to web accessibility cases under the Unruh Act, highlighting Hunthausen v. Johnny Was, LLC. This case demonstrates California courts' leniency in accepting plaintiffs' allegations of intent and standing in web accessibility cases, suggesting a more plaintiff-friendly environment in the state.

31) What Should Be In Your Website's Accessibility Statement? | Kami Funk | Accessibility.com

An accessibility statement is "a public information page that relays your internal organizational policies, your accessibility goals, and your past successes when it comes to serving and working with people who have disabilities." It should be easily accessible for any visitor to your website so that they know what your commitment to accessibility is, and what you have done and are doing to uphold that commitment going forward.

32) Best Continuous Glucose Monitors of 2024 | CNet.com

Continuous glucose monitors are a convenient way to keep track of your blood sugar levels and manage diabetes. Here's how to pick the best glucose monitor for your needs.

33) Apple Books vs. Kindle — Which eBook App Should You Choose? | HistoryTools.org

As an avid reader, you may be trying to decide between using Apple Books or Amazon's Kindle app for your ebook and audiobook needs. Both platforms make it easy to access a huge digital library from your iPhone, iPad, or other device. But is one better than the other?

34) 6 Great Audiobook Apps That Aren't Audible | TechCrunch.com

We have compiled a list of six audiobook apps that we think are worth checking out. The right app for you will likely depend on your listening preferences and budget, so the list includes a variety of apps that follow different models.


➜ Featured Webinars, Training Courses and Events


January 10, 2024 | Basics of Creating Accessible Online Surveys - Part 1 (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Need to make accessible online surveys using Survey Monkey or Google Forms? Join Michael Parker from Access Ingenuity to learn how to create accessible online surveys. Discover survey design, labeling, and how to ensure your forms meet WCAG 2.2 Level AA standards. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information: Basic accessible survey design. How to apply accessible survey question labels. How to design for error messages.

January 11, 2024 | Career Conversations: An Interview With Claire Stanley, Public Policy Analyst For National Disability Rights Network | APH ConnectCenter

3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 11PM GMT
Join APH CareerConnect for our very popular Career Conversations Series. Claire Stanley, J.D., Public Policy Analyst for National Disability Rights Network, will speak about her work in public policy. Often, people think of having a degree in law and going to court as a lawyer. Claire, uses her voice to influence public policy related to disability issues on the national level. Claire will share her journey from college into her current career working on public policy.

January 11, 2024 | Blind Gaming with Ross Minor | Braille Institute

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Ross Minor is one of the leading blind gamers and gaming accessibility consultants in the world. He'll share his life story, the latest and greatest in accessible gaming, and tips for new and experienced blind gamers. Register today.

January 11, 2024 | A Comprehensive Guide to ARC Toolkit | TPGi

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT
Presenter: Aaron Farber, Senior Accessibility Platform Consultant. Easily scan pages and report accessibility issues with TPGi's free browser extension, ARC Toolkit. This webinar provides a comprehensive overview of ARC Toolkit — it's a must-attend even for those already using ARC Toolkit. Many use ARC Toolkit simply to scan a page, but it does much more than that. ARC Toolkit contains a suite of semi-guided automated accessibility tools — beyond the scan. Attendees learn how to use ARC Toolkit's advanced features to: Scope scan results to specific components on a page. Visualize a page's focus order — and generate compelling screenshots. Test whether a page conforms to WCAG's text spacing requirements. Review a page's ARIA usage -Cover common gaps in test coverage such as CSS background images. This webinar also provides an in-depth comparison of automated accessibility engines — TPGi's exclusive ARC Rules and the open-source, axe-core. We'll review the differences in the findings generated by each engine. We'll also cover the now-obsolete WCAG Success Criterion 4.1.1 Parsing and the impact on automated accessibility findings. The objective is for each attendee to become a master at using ARC Toolkit to understand, test, and solve accessibility on their own sites.

January 11, 2024 | Many Faces of BARD: An Open Forum With the NLS Download Technical Support Team | NLS Bard

4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT, 1/12
The Many Faces of BARD program on Thursday, January 11, 2024 will be an open forum with the NLS Download technical support team. The team will take questions related to any BARD product. The program will last for one hour. This program will be recorded. Do not speak if you do not wish to be on the recording. If you wish to speak, you may request to do so by raising your hand. On a PC, press Alt Y to toggle raising and lowering your hand; on a Mac, press Option Y; and if dialing in via telephone, press Star 9. To mute or unmute yourself on a PC, press Alt A; on a Mac, press Command-Shift A; and on a telephone, press Star 6. If you choose to dial in to the call, use the telephone numbers provided below. The Zoom.gov ID will not work with standard Zoom.us.

January 11, 2024 | Celebrate Braille Literacy with Focus | Freedom Scientific

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT
Vispero Presenters: Bill Kilroy, Ron Miller, and Shelly Klure. Summary: Join us for a webinar celebrating braille literacy month with the Focus Braille Displays. Ron Miller will demonstrate Split Braille, how to connect the braille display to a variety of devices and discuss the importance of braille literacy. Don't miss out on this educational hour as we demonstrate live and answer your questions in real-time. Objectives: We will provide an overview of the Focus Braille Displays and show how you or your clients can benefit from the lightweight and compact design. We will demonstrate how to: Connect up to five devices via Bluetooth and one with USB-C cable. Use the Split Braille feature. Improve braille literacy with a refreshable braille display. And much more. ACVREP credits will be available for those who attend the live webinar.

January 12, 2024 | Getting Started with BARD Mobile | Braille Institute

2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 10PM GMT
Learn how to get free audiobooks from the Braille Institute Library, and get started with the app BARD Mobile, available for smartphones and tablets.

January 12, 2024 | Getting Started with BARD Mobile Workshop | Braille Institute

2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 10PM GMT
Learn how to get free audiobooks from the Braille Institute Library, and get started with the app BARD Mobile, available for smartphones and tablets.

January 12, 2024 | Discuss Technology & Daily Living Tips in Cantonese | Support Group for Cantonese Speaking VIP | JBVC (Joy Beyond Vision Community)

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT
A safe platform for Cantonese-speaking individuals experiencing vision loss to come together, learn, and support one another in overcoming life's challenges. Together, we strive to live a life with dignity and purpose. The group meets every Friday at 2pm EST.

January 12, 2024 | VIP Prayer Support Group | JBVC English Speaking Support Group | JBVC (Joy Beyond Vision Community)

6:30AM PT, 7:30AM MT, 8:30AM CT, 9:30AM ET, 2:30PM GMT
A community — for sighted and non-sighted individuals to support each other in facing life's challenges through Bible sharing and praying. Group meets every Friday at 9:30am EST.

January 16, 2024 | Using Screen Reader Testing Tools to Evaluate the Accessibility of a User Journey — Part 1 | TPGi

8AM PT, 9AM MT, 10AM CT, 11AM ET, 4PM GMT
Presenter: Charlie Pike, Platform Success Lead. User Journeys are a great way to segment complex sites and applications for accessibility testing, helping you to prioritize the user experience. This webinar will provide a background to screen reader testing tools and how and where to use them with user journeys in your development pipelines, particularly JAWS Inspect, a dedicated testing tool for JAWS compatibility testing. Using sample user flows, we will demonstrate testing in action, including how to select steps and components for a user journey, the automation options available and the skills and roles required. Future webinars in this series will look at specific types of user journeys in different settings, such as large public websites and software applications. Testing with assistive technologies. JAWS compatibility testing. Selecting user journeys. Testing the accessibility of user journeys. Introduction to accessibility testing.

January 16, 2024 | Envision AI Glasses Workshop | Braille Institute Anaheim Center

3PM PT, 4PM MT, 5PM CT, 6PM ET, 11PM GMT
The Envision device with glasses allows people to read printed text without vision, either by taking a picture of the pages or by connecting to the Aira app for assistance. There is also a smart phone app called Envision AI which is free of charge. Andrea de Klotz, an access technology professional and Braille Institute student and volunteer, will demonstrate the device and app. Please call (714) 821-5000 📱️ if you need assistance registering. Registration closes 4PM PT the day before the workshop.

January 17, 2024 | Creating Accessible and Inclusive Presentations | A11yTalks.com

9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT
In this session, we'll go over what we can do as presenters to ensure inclusivity for all our attendees regardless of how they consume the content, beyond the basics of captions and color contrast. We'll briefly cover accessibility definitions, standards, and guidelines and then share practical tips and examples to help make presentation slide decks and the presentations more accessible.

January 17, 2024 | PixBlaster: Enhancing Braille and Graphics with TSS 8.1 | APH ConnectCenter

1PM PT, 2PM MT, 3PM CT, 4PM ET, 9PM GMT
In the next version, Tiger Software Suite 8.1 is set to boost PixBlaster's braille and tactile graphic output. Catch ViewPlus CEO Dan Gardner at the January Partner Showcase, where he'll walk you through the updates and delve into the advantages for braille and tactile graphic production. Register below for PixBlaster: Enhancing Braille and Graphics with TSS 8.1.

January 17, 2024 | Navigating & Editing Text with JAWS (Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Are you new to JAWS or want to improve your navigating and editing skills while using the screen reading program? Join Ian Ramos and Marisa Church from Access Ingenuity as they present techniques and strategies to sharpen your navigating and editing text skills with JAWS. We will discuss methods to navigate text, demonstrate commands to develop your editing text skills, and provide you with tools, such as the Find and Find & Replace commands and the navigation quick keys to promote your experience. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information: Briefly describe the layout of a window. Discuss Windows and JAWS commands for navigating text. Demonstrate useful commands for editing text. Present the Find, Find & Replace, and the navigation quick keys.

January 18, 2024 | Braille & Beyond | Michael Doise & Jessica Hipp | Wayaround

11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT
At our January webinar, we're talking all things Braille. What can a technology like WayAround do for a Braille user? What are good resources for learning Braille? What if Braille doesn't work for you? Join Michael Doise and Jessica Hipp on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at 2PM Eastern, 1PM Central to discuss how you can combine Braille & digital technology like WayAround to be more efficient, productive, and independent. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is required.

January 19, 2024 | Be My AI Workshop | Braille Institute Santa Barbara

2PM PT, 3PM MT, 4PM CT, 5PM ET, 10PM GMT
The Be My Eyes smartphone app has a new feature, Be My AI, which describes your surroundings like never before, when you take pictures of people, places, and products. We will offer a demonstration of the app and take questions.

January 23, 2024 | Blind Creator's YouTube Video Guide Workshop | Braille Institute Los Angeles

10:30AM PT, 11:30AM MT, 12:30PM CT, 1:30PM ET, 6:30PM GMT
From Access Technology Specialist, Earth Kidkul, you will learn basic techniques she uses when creating video content on YouTube.

January 24, 2024 | JAWS Screen Reader | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Learn how we can assist your organization or business. We will discuss the physical products and software we sell, highlight our digital accessibility services, and what types of files and formats the Access Ingenuity team can make accessible. Join Michael Vitagliano and Rachel Reeves from Access Ingenuity as they demonstrate using the JAWS screen reader on a document and a webpage. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information: Overview of assistive technology options that include magnification, braille, and screen readers. Dive into the different documents we can make accessible: PDF, InDesign, and more. Discover the online platforms we have experience with, including websites, learning systems, social media, and others. Provide solutions to make videos accessible. Discuss alternative formats, including audio CDs, large print, and braille.

January 31, 2024 | RUBY Handheld Video Magnifiers | Access Ingenuity

10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Did you know there are five RUBY models to help with your low vision needs? RUBY handheld video magnifiers provide the help that many people with low vision need to read text and see details. All RUBY models have a crisp, sharp image, high-contrast modes, and built-in LEDs. The streamlined design means RUBY can go with you anywhere, giving you easy access to photos, letters, prescriptions, packaging labels, and menus, even in a dark restaurant. With its broad range of adjustable, undistorted magnification, a RUBY video magnifier outperforms a drawerful of traditional magnifiers. There is even a model that is capable of full-page OCR. With a button, you can scan pages and have them read aloud. Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero to discuss the features and benefits of all the RUBY models and the assistance each can give in specific situations. 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 RUBY models. How to determine the right size for you. How adding speech capability can take you further.

February 20, 2024 through February 22, 2024 | 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.

April 8, 2024 and April 9, 2024 | 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 📧️

April 16, 2024 through April 17, 2024 | EmTech Digital (UK) Europe | MIT Technology Review's Signature AI Conference

Our best-in-class live journalism, exclusive content, and trusted insights from leading industry experts — now in London. Join us for the inaugural EmTech Digital Europe in April 2024.

May 22, 2024 through May 23, 2024 | EmTech Digital (USA) | MIT Technology Review's Signature AI Conference

Now in its 12th year on the iconic MIT Campus, EmTech Digital is where we gather to determine what the future of AI looks like for business and what it means for society. Join us.


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A beautiful photograph of Hadley offices.

Classified Advertisement: New NVDA Workshops at Hadley | Hadley

Learn the basics of NVDA. From getting started with the program to customizing the speech to learning helpful shortcuts, Hadley's workshops have you covered.

Sponsor Since: September 18th 2023 Calendar icon.

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: Eyes on Success


Eyes on Success logo. The logo is a black square with rounded corners and has the letters EOS in silver across the top with 4 silver lines fanning out downwards from the bottom of the O. Since the initials of the show's name (Eyes On Success) spell the name of the Greek goddess of the dawn (EOS), the logo was designed to give the impression of a sunrise which in turn provides a positive uplifting feeling in keeping with the theme of the show. We are grateful to our daughter Allison for the graphic design work.

Sponsor Since: August 21, 2023 Calendar icon.

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

You can listen to Eyes On Success on your smart home device by saying “play the Eyes On Success podcast”, subscribe to the podcast wherever you get your podcasts, or listen on Apple Podcasts, iTunes, YouTube or your local radio reading service. Listeners can also follow the show on Facebook and X (Formerly Twitter).

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


Total Tech Solutions, LLC logo.

Classified Advertisement: Be My AI Fun | Total Tech Solutions, LLC

I apologize for poking fun at Be My AI, but I couldn't resist having a little bit of fun. Join us.

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: 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 | 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 | Access Ready, Inc.

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.

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 | Access Ready, Inc.

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.

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 | Access Ready, Inc.

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.

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! | APH ConnectCenter

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.

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.


Sponsor: WayAround


WayAround logo.

Classified Advertisement: Save 10% On All Waytags @ Wayaround.Com With Coupon Code "joy10" Through December 20, 2023 | Wayaround

WayAround is a smartphone-based labeling app that works with your preferred accessibility settings. You just need the free mobile app and some WayTags ® to label items in the kitchen, garden, closet, office & more.

If you want to label something that's inside, outside, wet, dry, hot, or cold, there's a WayTag that will attach securely. WayTags come as stickers, buttons, magnets, and clips. Each of the different styles of WayTags work exactly the same. Simply choose the WayTag that's best for what you want to label.

• Label your kitchen, clothing, or medication.
• Tag specialty items and tools for hobbies.
• Organize lots of information about one thing on a single WayTag.
• Scan each WayTag 100,000 times or more.

Keep adding more WayTags! There's no limit to the number of WayTags you can use. So you can rely on one system to label all your things.

Save 10% on any order of WayTags at WayAround.com. Enter "joy10" at checkout. WayLink Scanner is not eligible. Ends 12/20/2023.

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&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1


Sponsor: Pneuma Solutions


Pneuma Solutions logo.

Classified Advertisement: Experience Meetings and Webinars The Way they were Intended with Scribe for Meetings: the Only Accessible Conference Presentation Viewer! Free for Attendees, as Little as $10 for the Host! | Pneuma Solutions

Experience next level meeting/webinar accessibility like you've never seen before! Meet Scribe for Meetings, the robust solution that provides instant access to a meeting's slide deck! Grant your visually impaired attendees unparalleled access to your slides in mere minutes! Register your meeting, upload your slide deck, and drop the link in your invite — it's as easy as 1 2 3! Before you know it, the same slides seen by everyone else will be presented in accessible format to your attendees in perfect sync with your screen-share! And that's not all! You can let your attendees download a copy of your deck in many accessible formats - Word, HTML, and much more! Scribe for Meetings is fully equipped to handle any Zoom or Teams meeting, with more platforms on the way! Attendees can get in free of charge, and presenters can grant attendees this unparalleled access for as little as $10 for a single meeting! Scribe for Meetings: Ensuring no visually impaired attendees are left behind!

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: Barrier Free Canada


Left: Barrier Free Canada Logo. Image of a light blue maple leaf with a white diagonal section of the leaf missing, giving the appearance of a circle with a line through it that bans what is on the inside. This maple leaf is intended to ban inaccessibility. To the right of the light blue maple leaf are the words, 'Barrier Free Canada' and 'Sans Barrieres Canada'. Right: A proud businesswoman in a wheelchair smiles into the camera while sitting in front of her team during a seminar. Empowerment through accessibility and inclusion concept.

Classified Advertisement: Enhance Your Services With Our Services - A Powerful Way | Barrier Free Canada, Donna Jodhan, Founder

See how you can enhance your services with our help! We can help you to reach thousands of readers!

Sponsor Since: November 10, 2023 Calendar icon.

Website: https://barrierfreecanada.org/ 🌐️

About: Barrier-Free Canada/Canada Sans Barrieres (BFC/CSB) advocates for the Canadian Parliament to enact a strong and effective Canadians with Disabilities Act (CDA) to achieve a barrier-free Canada for all persons with disabilities.

To this end, BFC/CSB is seeking endorsements from national disability organizations to build a non-partisan community coalition. BFC/CSB would also like to identify point persons from these organizations to act as key contacts.

The steering committee of BFC/CSB has drafted a set of principles concerning a CDA that are drawn from the principles that underpin the provincial disability legislation in Ontario and Manitoba. A CDA is not meant to replace provincial disability legislation. It will complement such legislation and benefit Canadians living in provinces with and without provincial disability legislation. At this point in time, CNIB, March of Dimes Canada, Canadian Hearing Society and MS Society of Canada have endorsed the BFC/CSB principles and confirmed their support for the movement to enact a CDA. There is no individual or organizational charge for membership in BFC/CSB.

Please contact Donna Jodhan, Founder of Barrier-Free Canada, at info@barrierfreecanada.org 📧️ with any questions or to express your organization's support and identify a key contact.

Social: Facebook | X (Formerly Twitter) | Mastodon (Search For: @news@mastodon.barrierfreecanada.org).


Sponsor: Vision Ireland


Vision Ireland logo next to an image of one person giving advise to another.

Sponsor Since: September 18th 2023 Calendar icon.

Website: https://vi.ie/ 🌐️

Phone: 1800 911 250 📱️

Make A Referral: https://vi.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://vi.ie/supporting-us/donate-now/

Your support is Vital, for over 90 years, people like you have helped Vision Ireland 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 Vision Ireland Service Users about how Technology has enabled them by breaking down barriers and leveling playing fields.

Online Store: https://vi.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.

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

Visit our 130+ Vision Ireland stores located across the country and shop for an extensive range of pre-loved quality clothing, accessories, and furniture. Vision Ireland 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: Formerly National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI), Vision Ireland'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, Vision Ireland 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.

Vision Ireland 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. Vision Ireland empowers those living with sight loss in several meaningful ways to enable them to continue living independent and fulfilling lives. Vision Ireland 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



Access Information News is the world's leading not-for-profit access information news publication that reaches over 29,000 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 24 Sponsorship Packages which are used to support the ongoing distribution of the publication.

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!

Spacer image. QR Code. Donate a one-time amount of your choosing to assist with the ongoing distribution of the Access Information News Publication.
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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:


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.

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Silver Supporters:


Become an Access Information News Silver Supporter today.

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Bronze Supporters:


Become an Access Information News Bronze Supporter today.

1.) Your name here.
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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.) Sharyn Sobel
One Time Supporter on November 28, 2023

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

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


➜ 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

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.

Publisher (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology

Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in adaptive technology. Masthead logo includes title as well as five stylized access logos, clockwise a long cane user, enlarged print, fingers signing interpreter, full braille cell, hearing aid user.

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

Logo. Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Two large curly braces hold at their center a cloud of colored dots of varying sizes and colors. The dots represent your data. The curly braces represent the many solutions provided by Mind Vault that help your data succeed. Learn more today at: https://mvsltd.com.

Certified:

Digital Marketing Associate
Meta Certified (2022 - Present) ✔

Social Marketing Professional
Hootsuite Certified (2020 - Present) ✔

Email Marketing Professional
Constant Contact Certified (2019 - Present) ✔

Specializing in:

Digital Strategy and Content Marketing ⚙
Social Media Advertising ⚙
Online Fundraising ⚙
ADA, WCAG and Section 508 Compliance

Website | Email | Subscribe (Free) | Subscribe (Premium) | Donate | Sponsor | Facebook | X (Formerly Twitter) | Mastodon | LinkedIn | YouTube | RSS | Search | Archive | Publisher


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

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.

Editorial Contributor (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology

Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in adaptive technology. Masthead logo includes title as well as five stylized access logos, clockwise a long cane user, enlarged print, fingers signing interpreter, full braille cell, hearing aid user.

Board of Trustees (2006 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.

Logo. Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Two large curly braces hold at their center a cloud of colored dots of varying sizes and colors. The dots represent your data. The curly braces represent the many solutions provided by Mind Vault that help your data succeed. Learn more today at: https://mvsltd.com.

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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

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.

Editorial Contributor (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology

Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in adaptive technology. Masthead logo includes title as well as five stylized access logos, clockwise a long cane user, enlarged print, fingers signing interpreter, full braille cell, hearing aid user.

Project Management Professional (2022 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.

Logo. Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Two large curly braces hold at their center a cloud of colored dots of varying sizes and colors. The dots represent your data. The curly braces represent the many solutions provided by Mind Vault that help your data succeed. Learn more today at: https://mvsltd.com.

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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.

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

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.

Editorial Contributor (2023-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology

Top Tech Tidbits. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in adaptive technology. Masthead logo includes title as well as five stylized access logos, clockwise a long cane user, enlarged print, fingers signing interpreter, full braille cell, hearing aid user.

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.

Vision Australia logo. Live the life you choose. We're here to support all Australians who are blind or have low vision.

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ABOUT:

Founded in 2022, Access Information News is the world's leading not-for-profit access information news publication that reaches over 29,000 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 most recent issues here. 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. 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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