Access Information News for Monday, February 12, 2024 - Volume 949
The Week's News in Access Information
📰 🧑🦯 🦯 🦮 🧏 🦱 ♿ 🧑🦽 🧑🦼 🦾 🦿
Access Information News. The world's #1 online resource for current news and trends in access information.
A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication
Subscribers: 13,186 Opt-In Subscribers were sent this issue via email. 31 Premium Subscribers were sent this issue via email.
This Week's Featured Advertisement:
Ongoing Distribution Made Possible By Support From:
Dear Access Information News Subscriber,
1.) Top 5 Most Clicked News Articles From Last Week
These buildings are primarily designed for blind people to help them understand what buildings feel like, but they are made to be visually attractive as well. Buildings are made of white PLA, which feels like plastic. Buildings are listed below with a link to a detailed description, which is meant to be used with the building in hand.
In an era of Artificial Intelligence, connected devices, smart homes, and the digitization of products and services, our team is working toward a fully accessible future — a future where no human is marginalized because of poor product design, UX, or customer experience. On our way towards a fully accessible future, we have a few predictions about the next year.
This article delves into the challenges of creating truly accessible urban environments, despite advancements in legislation. Learn about the ongoing struggle to make cities inclusive for all, despite policy improvements. Understand the gap between legal progress and practical implementation in urban accessibility.
My final thoughts? Something very important is missing here! What happens after you pass the exam? And that is if the exam is even accessible? Are there opportunities for persons who are blind/vision impaired to even find lucrative employment with Apple and its affiliates? Just my two cents for today.
Explore the challenges of digital accessibility in airline booking from a visually impaired perspective. This UsableNet blog post details the struggle with non-descriptive links and screen reader incompatibility, highlighting the crucial need for web accessibility compliance.
Would your product, service or message benefit from reaching over 29,000 access subscribers each week? If so, please consider becoming a Sponsor today for just $100 a month. If you've been looking for a way to consistently reach the largest audience of opt-in access subscribers in the world, at a nearly negligible price point, consider becoming an Access Information News Sponsor today. Availability: There are currently 7 of 18 Access Information News Sponsorship Packages available.
Sponsorship Package Benefits | Secure My Package
Next Issue: Premium Subscribers will receive their 5th issue of the Top 60 Most Clicked News Articles for January, February and March of 2024 on Monday, April 1, 2024. Back Issues: There are currently 4 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 receive a perfectly formatted and searchable Word Document with each of the Top 60 Most Clicked News Articles of the last 3 months listed neatly within it, please consider joining us today for just $1 a month.
Use Sponsored News Articles to reach the access community when you need to. Whether you are a current Sponsor or not. 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.
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 | Facebook | LinkedIn | Mastodon | RSS | X (Formerly Twitter) | YouTube
This article will outline, step-by-step, how you can get free website traffic reporting on any link to your domain (AKA domain name, website or web address) that has been published by Access Information News since January 22, 2024, when we launched this feature.
Be sure to shop the weekly Access Information News Classified Ads section located at the very bottom of every Access Information News weekly newsletter. Here you will find sales, deals, promotions and discounts on a wide variety of access technology products and services offered by Access Information News Sponsors.
This article discusses five technology gadgets designed to assist visually impaired individuals. These gadgets include the Ring doorbell, which uses audio to identify visitors, and the Amazon Echo Show, which employs voice commands and a unique 'Show and Tell' feature for identifying objects. Apple's iPad is highlighted for its accessibility features like VoiceOver and text magnification. The Hable One, a Braille-inspired Bluetooth keyboard, facilitates smartphone use, and the Uccello Kettle, designed for safe water pouring, showcases simplicity in assistive design.
Discover essential tips for blind individuals on solo travel, from navigating with mapping apps to planning activities and staying safe. A guide to embracing new experiences with confidence.
This guide outlines ten creative gift ideas for blind individuals, focusing on personalization, sensory engagement, and accessibility. It includes personalized Braille jewelry, tickets to live performances, aromatic items like scented candles, music-related gifts, and tactile experiences like guided tours. The guide highlights the importance of thoughtful, inclusive gifts that resonate with the recipient's interests and sensory world.
Visual media has undergone remarkable advancements in accessibility, particularly for individuals with varying levels of sight. Historically, options were limited, but the contemporary landscape offers innovative solutions like live audio description. This practice offers spoken narration of visual elements during live broadcasts, and can significantly enhance understanding and enjoyment for viewers with visual impairments. This article will explore how live audio description works, its role in fostering equitable media engagement for users with visual impairments, and best practices for its implementation in live programming.
Explore Eric Eggert's insightful reflections on his career in web accessibility and the industry's challenges. From his start in 2008 to his time at W3C/WAI, Eggert discusses the slow progress in making the web accessible, critiques industry leaders, and emphasizes the importance of genuine efforts over superficial fixes. His blog is a candid look at the hopes and disappointments in striving for a web inclusive for all.
Explore the daily challenges and societal misconceptions faced by people with disabilities in this insightful article. Learn about the "Crip Tax," the importance of language, and the need for better accessibility and equality. A compelling call for awareness and action.
Explore the challenges of inclusivity for disabled individuals in the beauty industry. This article delves into the gap between discussion and tangible changes in product design and accessibility, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to inclusivity.
It's impressive enough to be the first person who is blind to provide live audio description for the Oscars. But knowing that Nefertiti Matos Olivares has only been doing voice acting for a little more than two years is almost hard to believe.
Discover the Fediverse and Mastodon with "Fedi.Tips — An Unofficial Guide." Learn how this decentralized network of social media servers works, enabling users to seamlessly interact across various platforms like photo sharing, video sharing, and more, all connected by the ActivityPub standard.
The U.S. Census Bureau suspends planned changes to disability questions in the American Community Survey following advocacy backlash. The halt allows consultation with the disability community to develop more inclusive and accurate questions for future surveys. This decision is seen as an important step in ensuring fair resource distribution and accurate disability representation.
The "Words Matter Act," introduced by U.S. Senators Bob Casey and Jerry Moran, aims to replace derogatory terms in U.S. law concerning people with disabilities. The bill proposes changing the term "mentally retarded" to "persons of moderate intellectual disabilities" in the U.S. Code, specifically in sections relating to Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare. This bipartisan effort follows the 2010 Rosa's Law, which began the process of updating federal language. Casey emphasizes the need to treat people with disabilities with dignity and respect, reflecting his long-standing advocacy for disability rights.
My final thoughts? We need to speak up and identify this Hospital for its recklessness and unacceptable behavior! There are several others like them in Toronto! Just my two cents for today.
Five U.S. pharmacy and grocery chains settled with the Justice Department to make their COVID-19 vaccination registration portals accessible to people with disabilities, adhering to WCAG 2.1 guidelines.
Here Deque explores the hidden risks of inaccessible websites: brand damage, missed market opportunities, costly short-term fixes, and limited talent pool. Understand why web accessibility is not just compliant but also a smart business strategy.
➜ Featured Events
10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Workshop series hosted by Pandas, NumFOCUS, and Iota. Weekly from Tuesday, February 6, 2024 to Tuesday, March 5, 2024. 1PM - 3PM EST. Free and open to the public. Registration required. Seats may be limited. Recordings will be provided to all registrants. Workshops will be hosted on Zoom. A Windows desktop or laptop is required. The NVDA screen reader will be used during the workshops. This five-workshop series will teach the fundamentals of data analysis and sonification using nonvisual tools and technologies. The workshops are designed for those who are blind, low vision, or who otherwise have difficulty accessing visual tools for data science. The workshops will cover some basics of the Python programming language, an introduction to the Pandas data science library, working interactively to explore data, preparing a data set for sonification, and using sonification to represent data. The workshop series will use the NVDA screen reader on Windows, and will be taught by blind / low vision practitioners. No prior experience with Python or data science is needed, but some familiarity with Windows and NVDA will be helpful.
10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
The video magnifier has a 10-inch touchscreen and three dedicated cameras, and it can magnify letters, magazines, labels, and photos. The swing-out arm allows you to view items in your hand and write. When extended, it also enables full-page OCR. With a button, you can scan pages and have them read aloud. The third camera can see objects at a short distance, such as signs and menus on a wall. Users can utilize cutting-edge magnification features with industry-leading OCR to maximize the reading experience. Join Ian Ramos from Access Ingenuity and Joe McDaniel from Vispero as they demonstrate the advanced capabilities of the latest low-vision solution from Freedom Scientific, the RUBY 10. Note that everybody is welcome and can benefit from this presentation. If you are a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), ACVREP continuing education credit is approved for this presentation. Learning Outcomes & Zoom Webinar Information: How RUBY 10 uses cutting-edge view modes not seen in any other device. Discover different uses of the RUBY 10. How the RUBY 10 differs from the other models. Why having OCR in a portable unit can be a game-changer.
QQQ WORKING 1
12PM PT, 1PM MT, 2PM CT, 3PM ET, 8PM GMT
Join this webinar to learn about the U.S. Department of Education's new assistive technology guidance for students with disabilities. Key speakers like Assistant Secretary Wright-Gallo will discuss resources and strategies to integrate AT in education.
11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT
Are you making the most of your smartphone, or is it a source of frustration? Knowing the accessibility features can help you make the most of your smartphone. We'll talk about some of our favorite features, and make sure you know the difference between voice assistants (like Siri or Google) and screen readers (like VoiceOver or TalkBack).
9AM PT, 10AM MT, 11AM CT, 12PM ET, 5PM GMT
Join us to learn how to navigate and customize your Outlook calendar more efficiently with JAWS. We'll provide an overview of how to navigate your calendar, plus offer customization tips to increase productivity. These include scheduling appointments and meetings, sharing your calendar, setting calendar options, and more. Register for this event, which will take place on the Zoom Conferencing platform. ACVREP credits are available to those who attend the live webinar.
11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT
Have you ever taken a picture in an unfamiliar environment and instantly received a written or spoken description of the entire scene, replete with wall art, furniture, people and the clothing they are wearing? Or have you wondered if your kids (or you) could feed a couple facts to an electronic device and get BACK a full-blown essay or short story in response? What about music? Would you like to write a song for your parents' anniversary that has tiny personal details about them and their years together right there in the chorus? And HAVE you taken full advantage of the power available right there in your Amazon Echo (Alexa), who could tell you everything from how to fold a fitted sheet or preserve fresh basil, TO ways to teach your cat a new trick, or tune your ukulele? These are the kinds of worlds that will be explored in the realm of Artificial Intelligence, “AI and You”, hosted by the Florida Outreach Center For The Blind. Come learn and laugh with us as we explore what AI can do for people who are blind and visually impaired. This workshop will be on Zoom. | One tap mobile: +13126266799,,83581605488# | Dial directly: +1 (312) 626 6799 ☎ | Meeting ID: 835 8160 5488
10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Workshop series hosted by Pandas, NumFOCUS, and Iota. Weekly from Tuesday, February 6, 2024 to Tuesday, March 5, 2024. 1PM - 3PM EST. Free and open to the public. Registration required. Seats may be limited. Recordings will be provided to all registrants. Workshops will be hosted on Zoom. A Windows desktop or laptop is required. The NVDA screen reader will be used during the workshops. This five-workshop series will teach the fundamentals of data analysis and sonification using nonvisual tools and technologies. The workshops are designed for those who are blind, low vision, or who otherwise have difficulty accessing visual tools for data science. The workshops will cover some basics of the Python programming language, an introduction to the Pandas data science library, working interactively to explore data, preparing a data set for sonification, and using sonification to represent data. The workshop series will use the NVDA screen reader on Windows, and will be taught by blind / low vision practitioners. No prior experience with Python or data science is needed, but some familiarity with Windows and NVDA will be helpful.
11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT
This webinar by HLAA features insights on OTC hearing aids with Dr. Charlotte S. Yeh and Dr. Kelly King. This public event on February 20, 2024 includes live captioning, question submissions, and focuses on the FDA-approved class of OTC hearing aids for mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Join to gain valuable knowledge and clarify doubts about these innovative products.
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.
11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT
Have you ever wanted to learn how to write scripts for the well-known screen-reader JAWS for Windows? Do you work with an application which is only partly accessible and you would like to do more so as to improve the experience? Have you tried scripting yourself but you do not find working through help topics or the Scripting Manual particularly easy? If the answer to any of the above questions is yes, then why not learn scripting in our training course.
10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Are you adding graphs or charts to your documents? Ensure they meet the necessary Color Contrast Requirements, including the use of color, text contrast, and non-text contrast as per WCAG guidelines. All images need meaningful alternative text. Join Rachel Reeves to learn about accessible graphs and charts, discuss solutions for common color contrast failures, and discover best practices for creating alternative text.
4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 7PM ET, 12AM GMT on 2/22
Join The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. for an interactive webinar exploring ways to access digital and printed information. We'll interview Danielle Miller, explore the Zoomax NLS refreshable braille e-reader, dive into the Voice Dream reader for iOS, and learn about assistive technology for library access. This event is perfect for those with visual impairments or print disabilities.
11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT
Bring your questions, tips, and tricks, and talk with other Voiceover users! This workshop will take place online.
10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Workshop series hosted by Pandas, NumFOCUS, and Iota. This five-workshop series will teach the fundamentals of data analysis and sonification using nonvisual tools and technologies. Designed for those who are blind, low vision, or who have difficulty accessing visual tools for data science. No prior experience with Python or data science is needed.
10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Join Marisa Church and Michael Vitagliano to learn about navigating and working with JAWS and Excel. This webinar will cover worksheet navigation, cell editing, basic formulas, formatting, and ribbon options. Ideal for both new and experienced JAWS users.
5AM PT, 6AM MT, 7AM CT, 8AM ET, 1PM GMT
Join AbilityNet's free webinar on Feb 28, 2024, for older adults to learn digital skills. Discover tips for using digital devices, insights on Alexa and Echo, and enhance your digital independence. Register for post-session recordings.
10AM PT, 11AM MT, 12PM CT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT
Final workshop in the series focusing on data analysis and sonification using nonvisual tools. Designed for the blind, low vision, or those having difficulty with visual tools in data science. Covers Python basics, Pandas library, data exploration, and sonification.
Ability Summit is a one-day, free digital event on March 7, 2024. It celebrates people with disabilities, allies, and accessibility leaders. The event will provide learning opportunities, focusing on inclusive culture and accessible technology, with real-life stories and discussions on accessibility.
The CSUN Assistive Technology Conference from March 18 to 22, 2024, is a premier forum on technology for all persons with disabilities. Sponsored by California State University, Northridge's Center on Disabilities, the conference is a platform for sharing knowledge and innovations in assistive technology.
11AM PT, 12PM MT, 1PM CT, 2PM ET, 7PM GMT
Bring your questions, tips and tricks and talk with other Voiceover users! This workshop will take place online.
To be on the mailing list for the conference, send email to: ADA-OSU@osu.edu ✉
6AM PT, 7AM MT, 8AM CT, 9AM ET, 2PM GMT
Power Up is an annual conference held by Missouri Assistive Technology providing opportunities to learn more about assistive technology for various purposes. The conference will be held at the Holiday Inn Executive Center in Columbia, MO.
Join the inaugural EmTech Digital Europe in London, April 2024. Experience live journalism, exclusive content, and insights from industry experts.
In its 12th year at MIT, EmTech Digital focuses on the future of AI in business and society. Join this notable conference in May 2024.
➜ Directories
➜ Sponsor Classified Ads
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
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.
Purchase a 25-pack of any style of WayTag and get a free Sampler Pack so you can try all seven different WayTags. Enter the coupon code SAMPLE at checkout and the Sampler Pack will automatically be added to your cart. This is a $14.99 value! Limit one Sample pack per order.
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.
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&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1
Our first of its kind Remote Incident Manager has long since prided itself on providing unmatched remote desktop accessibility across both Windows and Mac. As we approach the anniversary of the Mac OS port of RIM's big reveal, we celebrate with present-day improvements! Among the many new features - voice conversations during unattended sessions (with target user consent), ability to install without admin on Windows, etc. one of our most exciting features for Mac support pros is the ability to view a list of running packages and installed apps on the target Mac! The excitement doesn't stop there, however. Remember our weekend support package? The price hasn't changed, but the unlimited weekend support time that comes with the package just saw an increase! Current and future weekend support subscribers can now provide unlimited support from 7:00 PM (according to local timezone) until 11:59 PM on Sunday! There's never been a better time to get in on the action!
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.
Now you can choose how you would like to be heard! Submit an article, write a blog, or express yourself through our facebook group bfc advocating for change! Remember! your voice matters!
Sponsor Since: November 10, 2023
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 Since: September 18th 2023
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
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
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 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
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 📧️
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
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
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
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.
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
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.
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
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 Since: Today
Website: https://accessinformationnews.com/dearsponsor 🌐️
Phone: (855) 578-6660 📱️
Email: news@accessinformationnews.com 📧️
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 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.
In addition, all Access Information News Supporters automatically become Premium Subscribers as well, and therefore enjoy all of the benefits that a Premium Subscription has to offer.
One Time Donation: If you would like to become a 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 a 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.
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 ...
Become an Access Information News Gold Supporter today.
1.) Your name here.
Gold Supporter since ...
Become an Access Information News Silver Supporter today.
1.) Your name here.
Silver Supporter since ...
Become an Access Information News Bronze Supporter today.
1.) Your name here.
Bronze Supporter since ...
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 News Team
Distribution Since: 2022
As of November 7, 2022 the distribution of Access Information News is made possible by our Sponsors, our Supporters and Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd., a leading international provider of professionally outsourced marketing administration and consultation services.
Any time the Access Information News Publication carries less than its Sponsor limit, Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. donates the remaining dollars necessary to keep the publication running.
Please help us to support the ongoing distribution of this publication. Learn more today at: https://accessinformationnews.com/dearsponsor.
Volunteer Publisher Since: November 7, 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 Editor to Access Information News.
Aaron Di Blasi, PMP
Email: publisher@accessinformationnews.com 📧️
Toll-Free: +1 (855) 578-6660 📱️
Publisher (2022-Present)
Access Information News 🌐
The Week's News in Access Information
Publisher (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
Sr. Project Management Professional (2006 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
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
Volunteer Editor Since: November 7, 2022
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST/MDT) (GMT-7/GMT-6)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Access Information News, John also serves as an Editor 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
Editorial Contributor (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
Board of Trustees (2006 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
Volunteer Editor Since: November 7, 2022
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST/CDT) (GMT-6/GMT-5)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Access Information News, Jenna also serves as an Editor 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
Editorial Contributor (2020-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
Project Management Professional (2022 - Present)
Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. 🌐
Innovative ideas. Solutions that perform.
Volunteer Editorial Contributor Since: February 6, 2023
Location: Central Coast, New South Wales, Australia
Time Zone: Australia Eastern Standard Time (AEST/AEDT) (GMT+10)
In addition to serving as an Editor to Access Information News, David also serves as an Editor to the Top Tech Tidbits Publication and 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.
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
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
Editorial Contributor (2023-Present)
Access Information News 🌐
The Week's News in Access Information
Editorial Contributor (2023-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week's News in Access Technology
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.
|