From helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com Thu May 1 02:55:32 2014 From: helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com (helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com) Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2014 22:55:32 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 Message-ID: <9CE134983B3D43BE95EEA88BED8E9E0A@Helga> Hi all, this is Helga. How are you all? Does anyone here work in the apple store? Just curious! I’m having a problem doing the IOS7.11 update on my iPhone 5. I actually did all my updates before this one very wellwithout having any problems at all, but now I’m having an issue where I can’t download it for some reason that I don’t know! Just to let you know, whenever I double tap on the download and install button, VoiceOver tells me that is dimn. I really don’t know what is going on! Before it never told me that is dimn. All my updates downloaded and installed successfully! I will really like to have this new update since it contains improvements, bug fixes, and security updates. I wil really appreciate it a lot, if yu could help me with this. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: wlEmoticon-smile[1].png Type: image/png Size: 1046 bytes Desc: not available URL: From arielle71 at gmail.com Thu May 1 03:19:57 2014 From: arielle71 at gmail.com (Arielle Silverman) Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2014 21:19:57 -0600 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 In-Reply-To: <9CE134983B3D43BE95EEA88BED8E9E0A@Helga> References: <9CE134983B3D43BE95EEA88BED8E9E0A@Helga> Message-ID: Hi Helga, I know once you've started a download, if you try to tap the button again VoiceOver says dimmed. I'm guessing maybe you had a slow Internet connection so it was trying to download but failing? Perhaps try again at a different time of day or a different location and after re-starting your phone, and see if you still have the problem? I'm not sure what else it would be. I hope this helps! Arielle On 4/30/14, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com wrote: > Hi all, this is Helga. How are you all? Does anyone here work in the apple > store? Just curious! I’m having a problem doing the IOS7.11 update on my > iPhone 5. I actually did all my updates before this one very wellwithout > having any problems at all, but now I’m having an issue where I can’t > download it for some reason that I don’t know! Just to let you know, > whenever I double tap on the download and install button, VoiceOver tells me > that is dimn. I really don’t know what is going on! Before it never told me > that is dimn. All my updates downloaded and installed successfully! I will > really like to have this new update since it contains improvements, bug > fixes, and security updates. I wil really appreciate it a lot, if yu could > help me with this. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God > bless!! From helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com Thu May 1 04:01:11 2014 From: helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com (helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com) Date: Thu, 1 May 2014 00:01:11 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 In-Reply-To: References: <9CE134983B3D43BE95EEA88BED8E9E0A@Helga> Message-ID: <86E178DA204248E69529D83C85FB0D7A@Helga> Hi Arielle. I was trying to download it since yesterday, but it didn't work! I actually never download it before it told me that it was dimned. Yesterday, my iPhone told me that there was a new update, and I decided to download it. So I went to software update. And I went to the download and install button, the dimned message was already there without me even downloading the update first! I don't know what's going on! Hope to hear from you soon.Thanks and God bless!! :) -----Original Message----- From: Arielle Silverman Sent: Wednesday, April 30, 2014 11:19 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 Hi Helga, I know once you've started a download, if you try to tap the button again VoiceOver says dimmed. I'm guessing maybe you had a slow Internet connection so it was trying to download but failing? Perhaps try again at a different time of day or a different location and after re-starting your phone, and see if you still have the problem? I'm not sure what else it would be. I hope this helps! Arielle On 4/30/14, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com wrote: > Hi all, this is Helga. How are you all? Does anyone here work in the apple > store? Just curious! I’m having a problem doing the IOS7.11 update on my > iPhone 5. I actually did all my updates before this one very wellwithout > having any problems at all, but now I’m having an issue where I can’t > download it for some reason that I don’t know! Just to let you know, > whenever I double tap on the download and install button, VoiceOver tells > me > that is dimn. I really don’t know what is going on! Before it never told > me > that is dimn. All my updates downloaded and installed successfully! I will > really like to have this new update since it contains improvements, bug > fixes, and security updates. I wil really appreciate it a lot, if yu could > help me with this. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God > bless!! _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com From alpineimagination at gmail.com Thu May 1 04:37:37 2014 From: alpineimagination at gmail.com (Vejas) Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2014 21:37:37 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 Message-ID: <5361cf90.c394420a.4b52.ffff8ab5@mx.google.com> Helga, I=20have=20a=20couple=20of=20suggestions: 1.=20=20How=20about,=20try=20rebooting=20the=20phone? 2.=20=20You=20could=20try=20to=20download=20the=20new=20software=20using=20= a=20different=20 Internet=20connection=20(because=20I=20know=20in=20one=20of=20your=20previo= us=20 e-mails=20you=20said=20that=20your=20connection=20is=20very=20finicky) 3.=20=20I=20don't=20know=20what's=20going=20on,=20but=20maybe=20you=20can=20= ask=20a=20sighter=20 person,=20such=20as=20a=20family=20member=20or=20friend,=20to=20start=20the= =20download=20 process=20for=20you.=20=20Just=20remember=20that=20if=20they're=20going=20t= o=20help,=20 it's=20best=20to=20turn=20voice-over=20off=20for=20them,=20so=20that=20they= =20can=20 enlarge=20the=20screen=20to=20make=20it=20easier=20for=20them=20to=20see=20= what's=20on=20 there. HTH, Vejas =20-----=20Original=20Message=20----- From:=20=20wrote: =20Hi=20all,=20this=20is=20Helga.=20=20How=20are=20you=20all?=20Does=20anyo= ne=20here=20work=20 in=20the=20apple =20store?=20Just=20curious!=20I=E2=80=99m=20having=20a=20problem=20doing=20= the=20IOS7.11=20 update=20on=20my =20iPhone=205.=20=20I=20actually=20did=20all=20my=20updates=20before=20this= =20one=20very=20 wellwithout =20having=20any=20problems=20at=20all,=20but=20now=20I=E2=80=99m=20having=20= an=20issue=20where=20 I=20can=E2=80=99t =20download=20it=20for=20some=20reason=20that=20I=20don=E2=80=99t=20know!=20= Just=20to=20let=20you=20 know, =20whenever=20I=20double=20tap=20on=20the=20download=20and=20install=20butt= on,=20 VoiceOver=20tells =20me =20that=20is=20dimn.=20=20I=20really=20don=E2=80=99t=20know=20what=20is=20g= oing=20on!=20Before=20it=20 never=20told =20me =20that=20is=20dimn.=20=20All=20my=20updates=20downloaded=20and=20installed= =20 successfully!=20I=20will =20really=20like=20to=20have=20this=20new=20update=20since=20it=20contains= =20 improvements,=20bug =20fixes,=20and=20security=20updates.=20=20I=20wil=20really=20appreciate=20= it=20a=20lot,=20 if=20yu=20could =20help=20me=20with=20this.=20=20Hope=20to=20hear=20from=20you=20soon.=20=20= Thanks=20so=20much=20 and=20God =20bless!! _______________________________________________ nabs-l=20mailing=20list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20acco= unt=20info=20 for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreib er26%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l=20mailing=20list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20acco= unt=20info=20 for=20nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina tion%40gmail.com From ryan.bishop96 at gmail.com Thu May 1 05:06:45 2014 From: ryan.bishop96 at gmail.com (Ryan Bishop) Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2014 22:06:45 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 In-Reply-To: <5361cf90.c394420a.4b52.ffff8ab5@mx.google.com> References: <5361cf90.c394420a.4b52.ffff8ab5@mx.google.com> Message-ID: Hi all, I would personally recommend connecting your IPhone to ITunes on a PC or MAC and doing the update from there. That is always more stable if its possible. Ryan Ryan Bishop Ryan.bishop96 at gmail.com 480-221-5195 Secretary Arizona Association of blind students http://az.nfb.org/aabs Webmaster National Federation of the Blind of Arizona http://az.nfb.org Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further, and may qualify you for a tax deduction. Donate your unwanted car to the National Federation of the Blind= today! For more information, please visit: http://www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 The problem of blindness is not the lack of eyesight. The real problem is the misunderstanding and lack of information that exists. If a blind person= has proper training and opportunity, blindness is only a physical nuisance.= Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. As such, dispensing of this information should only be to individuals on a need-to-know basis. If you are not the intended recipient,= please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Vejas Sent: Wednesday, April 30, 2014 09:38 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 Helga, I have a couple of suggestions: 1. How about, try rebooting the phone? 2. You could try to download the new software using a different Internet connection (because I know in one of your previous e-mails you said that your connection is very finicky) 3. I don't know what's going on, but maybe you can ask a sighter person, such as a family member or friend, to start the download process for you. Just remember that if they're going to= help, it's best to turn voice-over off for them, so that they can enlarge the screen to make it easier for them to see what's on there. HTH, Vejas ----- Original Message ----- From: wrote= : Hi all, this is Helga. How are you all? Does anyone here work in the apple store? Just curious! I?=99m having a problem doing the IOS7.11 updat= e on my iPhone 5. I actually did all my updates before this one very wellwithout having any problems at all, but now I?=99m having an issue whe= re I can?=99t download it for some reason that I don?=99t know! Just to let y= ou know, whenever I double tap on the download and install button, VoiceOver tells me that is dimn. I really don?=99t know what is going on! Before i= t never told me that is dimn. All my updates downloaded and installed successfully! I will really like to have this new update since it contains= improvements, bug fixes, and security updates. I wil really appreciate it= a lot, if yu could help me with this. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks= so much and God bless!! _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreib er26%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina tion%40gmail.com --- This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protec= tion is active. http://www.avast.com From dandrews at visi.com Thu May 1 14:45:11 2014 From: dandrews at visi.com (David Andrews) Date: Thu, 01 May 2014 09:45:11 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Services for the Blind in Chicago In-Reply-To: <8B930ECB-3873-4A78-9CEF-FD252F1ECC45@gmail.com> References: <8B930ECB-3873-4A78-9CEF-FD252F1ECC45@gmail.com> Message-ID: Public transportation is good, at least it was when I lived there -- but it has been a while. The nfb affiliate has an active list, il-talk http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/il-talk_nfbnet The student division also has a list, iabs-talk http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/iabs-talk_nfbnet.org Dave At 05:51 PM 4/30/2014, you wrote: >Hi everybody, > >I have a question about Chicago. What experiences can anyone share >about services provided from the state agency? What is public >transportation like? > >Happy Wednesday! > >Jordan > >Jordan Richardson >Community Corps Member >Minnesota Reading Corps. |. AmeriCorps State & National >Sent from my iPad From steve.jacobson at visi.com Thu May 1 17:52:41 2014 From: steve.jacobson at visi.com (Steve Jacobson) Date: Thu, 01 May 2014 12:52:41 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 In-Reply-To: <86E178DA204248E69529D83C85FB0D7A@Helga> Message-ID: Helga, When you are doing the download, are you connected to WI-FI? Arielle mentioned that a slow internet connection could be the problem, and it is even possible that the download can't occur on your cell connection depending upon your plan and your signal level. Also, as I recall, the process may not start if your battery is below a certain level so you might have to have the battery fully charged or possibly have your phone connected to AC power. I think I ran into that once, but believe there was a message to that effect when it happened to me. Best regards, Steve Jacobson On Thu, 1 May 2014 00:01:11 -0400, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com wrote: >Hi Arielle. I was trying to download it since yesterday, but it didn't work! >I actually never download it before it told me that it was dimned. >Yesterday, my iPhone told me that there was a new update, and I decided to >download it. So I went to software update. And I went to the download and >install button, the dimned message was already there without me even >downloading the update first! I don't know what's going on! Hope to hear >from you soon.Thanks and God bless!! :) >-----Original Message----- >From: Arielle Silverman >Sent: Wednesday, April 30, 2014 11:19 PM >To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 >Hi Helga, I know once you've started a download, if you try to tap the >button again VoiceOver says dimmed. I'm guessing maybe you had a slow >Internet connection so it was trying to download but failing? Perhaps >try again at a different time of day or a different location and after >re-starting your phone, and see if you still have the problem? I'm not >sure what else it would be. I hope this helps! >Arielle >On 4/30/14, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com wrote: >> Hi all, this is Helga. How are you all? Does anyone here work in the apple >> store? Just curious! Iâ¬"m having a problem doing the IOS7.11 update on my >> iPhone 5. I actually did all my updates before this one very wellwithout >> having any problems at all, but now Iâ¬"m having an issue where I canâ¬"t >> download it for some reason that I donâ¬"t know! Just to let you know, >> whenever I double tap on the download and install button, VoiceOver tells >> me >> that is dimn. I really donâ¬"t know what is going on! Before it never told >> me >> that is dimn. All my updates downloaded and installed successfully! I will >> really like to have this new update since it contains improvements, bug >> fixes, and security updates. I wil really appreciate it a lot, if yu could >> help me with this. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God >> bless!! >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/steve.jacobson%40visi.com From mikgephart at icloud.com Thu May 1 19:29:44 2014 From: mikgephart at icloud.com (Mikayla Gephart) Date: Thu, 01 May 2014 15:29:44 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: I always plug in when doing updates. Sent from my iPad > On May 1, 2014, at 1:52 PM, Steve Jacobson wrote: > > Helga, > > When you are doing the download, are you connected to WI-FI? Arielle mentioned that a slow internet connection > could be the problem, and it is even possible that the download can't occur on your cell connection depending upon > your plan and your signal level. Also, as I recall, the process may not start if your battery is below a certain > level so you might have to have the battery fully charged or possibly have your phone connected to AC power. I > think I ran into that once, but believe there was a message to that effect when it happened to me. > > Best regards, > > Steve Jacobson > >> On Thu, 1 May 2014 00:01:11 -0400, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com wrote: >> >> Hi Arielle. I was trying to download it since yesterday, but it didn't work! >> I actually never download it before it told me that it was dimned. >> Yesterday, my iPhone told me that there was a new update, and I decided to >> download it. So I went to software update. And I went to the download and >> install button, the dimned message was already there without me even >> downloading the update first! I don't know what's going on! Hope to hear >> from you soon.Thanks and God bless!! :) > >> -----Original Message----- >> From: Arielle Silverman >> Sent: Wednesday, April 30, 2014 11:19 PM >> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 > >> Hi Helga, I know once you've started a download, if you try to tap the >> button again VoiceOver says dimmed. I'm guessing maybe you had a slow >> Internet connection so it was trying to download but failing? Perhaps >> try again at a different time of day or a different location and after >> re-starting your phone, and see if you still have the problem? I'm not >> sure what else it would be. I hope this helps! >> Arielle > >>> On 4/30/14, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com wrote: >>> Hi all, this is Helga. How are you all? Does anyone here work in the apple >>> store? Just curious! Iâ¬"m having a problem doing the IOS7.11 update on my >>> iPhone 5. I actually did all my updates before this one very wellwithout >>> having any problems at all, but now Iâ¬"m having an issue where I canâ¬"t >>> download it for some reason that I donâ¬"t know! Just to let you know, >>> whenever I double tap on the download and install button, VoiceOver tells >>> me >>> that is dimn. I really donâ¬"t know what is going on! Before it never told >>> me >>> that is dimn. All my updates downloaded and installed successfully! I will >>> really like to have this new update since it contains improvements, bug >>> fixes, and security updates. I wil really appreciate it a lot, if yu could >>> help me with this. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God >>> bless!! > >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com > > >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/steve.jacobson%40visi.com > > > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/mikgephart%40icloud.com From clb5590 at gmail.com Thu May 1 19:43:39 2014 From: clb5590 at gmail.com (Cindy Bennett) Date: Thu, 1 May 2014 12:43:39 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Asking a Favor: Quick Survey for a Class Project Message-ID: Hi NABS, I worked with some undergrad info majors at the University of Washington to advise them on a design project they are doing. They are looking for some more blind participants to fill out their survey. It will take literally just 5 minutes. They are mainly asking what types of information blind people would want to have about their environment around them. This is a class project for them, and their first project working on designs for people who are blind, so I am sure they will appreciate any information you can provide. Here's the link. Thanks in advance. :) https://catalyst.uw.edu/webq/survey/nwinkelb/227930 -- Cindy Bennett Secretary: National Association of Blind Students B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington clb5590 at gmail.com From helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com Thu May 1 22:26:31 2014 From: helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com (helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com) Date: Thu, 1 May 2014 18:26:31 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] 2014 NFB Student Scholarship Winners Message-ID: Hi all, this is Helga! How are you all? I just wanted to ask you, do you know when they are going to announce the students who won the 2014 student scholarship program? And where is it going to be located the information about it? Just curious! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: wlEmoticon-smile[1].png Type: image/png Size: 1046 bytes Desc: not available URL: From arielle71 at gmail.com Fri May 2 00:56:21 2014 From: arielle71 at gmail.com (Arielle Silverman) Date: Thu, 1 May 2014 18:56:21 -0600 Subject: [nabs-l] 2014 NFB Student Scholarship Winners In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: If you win they will call you. I'm not sure if they have decided yet. It's usually right around this time. If you don't get a call by the end of May you can assume you probably did not win. Arielle On 5/1/14, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com wrote: > Hi all, this is Helga! How are you all? I just wanted to ask you, do you > know when they are going to announce the students who won the 2014 student > scholarship program? And where is it going to be located the information > about it? Just curious! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God > bless!! From marissat789 at gmail.com Fri May 2 01:05:45 2014 From: marissat789 at gmail.com (Marissa) Date: Thu, 01 May 2014 18:05:45 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Need help with this Message-ID: <5362ef86.cab0420a.0c02.ffff9dde@mx.google.com> It's my band director's birthday on May 19. I want to make him braille music with "Happy Birthday" on his main instrument, the trombone. I asked him what key it was in and he said it was base clef. That it was a b-flat instrument, but the music is written in a c. Either that way or the other way round. I don't want to make it look complicated, so is there a simple way I could write it? I'm having one of my friends write the notes for me. I'm thinking I should just write the notes to it in either piano, (c), or clarinet, (b-flat). The only problem with that is that Happy Birthday can be played in so many different keys. Please help. Much appreciated. I want to make my director's birthday mean a little more something this year. He's only been my director for one year. From lilliepennington at fuse.net Fri May 2 01:38:49 2014 From: lilliepennington at fuse.net (Lillie Pennington) Date: Thu, 1 May 2014 21:38:49 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] 2014 NFB Student Scholarship Winners In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <5763A8CC-A421-4AEB-A806-D93511AB59BC@fuse.net> I feel like they announce to the public on the 15th. It is usually on the website or through an email blast. This is just my memory of last year, so I could be wrong. Sent from my iPhone > On May 1, 2014, at 8:56 PM, Arielle Silverman wrote: > > If you win they will call you. I'm not sure if they have decided yet. > It's usually right around this time. If you don't get a call by the > end of May you can assume you probably did not win. > > Arielle > >> On 5/1/14, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com wrote: >> Hi all, this is Helga! How are you all? I just wanted to ask you, do you >> know when they are going to announce the students who won the 2014 student >> scholarship program? And where is it going to be located the information >> about it? Just curious! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God >> bless!! > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net From clb5590 at gmail.com Fri May 2 02:45:57 2014 From: clb5590 at gmail.com (Cindy Bennett) Date: Thu, 1 May 2014 19:45:57 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] 2014 NFB Student Scholarship Winners In-Reply-To: <5763A8CC-A421-4AEB-A806-D93511AB59BC@fuse.net> References: <5763A8CC-A421-4AEB-A806-D93511AB59BC@fuse.net> Message-ID: The meeting of the scholarship committee is this weekend; a bit later than it has been in the past. I have not won a scholarship but imagine that they contact all winners individually before publishing the list a couple of weeks later. Cindy On 5/1/14, Lillie Pennington wrote: > I feel like they announce to the public on the 15th. It is usually on the > website or through an email blast. This is just my memory of last year, so I > could be wrong. > > Sent from my iPhone > >> On May 1, 2014, at 8:56 PM, Arielle Silverman >> wrote: >> >> If you win they will call you. I'm not sure if they have decided yet. >> It's usually right around this time. If you don't get a call by the >> end of May you can assume you probably did not win. >> >> Arielle >> >>> On 5/1/14, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com >>> wrote: >>> Hi all, this is Helga! How are you all? I just wanted to ask you, do you >>> know when they are going to announce the students who won the 2014 >>> student >>> scholarship program? And where is it going to be located the information >>> about it? Just curious! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and >>> God >>> bless!! >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gmail.com > -- Cindy Bennett Secretary: National Association of Blind Students B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington clb5590 at gmail.com From alpineimagination at gmail.com Fri May 2 02:53:41 2014 From: alpineimagination at gmail.com (Vejas) Date: Thu, 01 May 2014 19:53:41 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Need help with this Message-ID: <536308b6.ac81420a.57ae.ffffd01d@mx.google.com> Hi Marissa, Although I don't know the answer to your question, I have a great resource for you. It's the music talk list, which is another NFB list. To subscribe, send a blank e-mail to musictlk-subscribe at nfbnet.org. After that they will send you a confirmation e-mail. If you reply to that e-mail, you'll be on the list, and can post your question there. Hope this helps, Vejas ----- Original Message ----- From: Marissa , Music Talk References: <5763A8CC-A421-4AEB-A806-D93511AB59BC@fuse.net> Message-ID: Calls went out at the very end of April last year. But, as the scholarship committee is apparently meeting this weekend, I think they've missed that deadline. ------------------------------------ Edgar "Chopper" Johnson President, Student Division, National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina epjohnso at g.cofc.edu chopper992 at gmail.com (843) 817-5321 On Thu, May 1, 2014 at 10:45 PM, Cindy Bennett wrote: > The meeting of the scholarship committee is this weekend; a bit later > than it has been in the past. I have not won a scholarship but imagine > that they contact all winners individually before publishing the list > a couple of weeks later. > > Cindy > > On 5/1/14, Lillie Pennington wrote: > > I feel like they announce to the public on the 15th. It is usually on the > > website or through an email blast. This is just my memory of last year, > so I > > could be wrong. > > > > Sent from my iPhone > > > >> On May 1, 2014, at 8:56 PM, Arielle Silverman > >> wrote: > >> > >> If you win they will call you. I'm not sure if they have decided yet. > >> It's usually right around this time. If you don't get a call by the > >> end of May you can assume you probably did not win. > >> > >> Arielle > >> > >>> On 5/1/14, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com > >>> wrote: > >>> Hi all, this is Helga! How are you all? I just wanted to ask you, do > you > >>> know when they are going to announce the students who won the 2014 > >>> student > >>> scholarship program? And where is it going to be located the > information > >>> about it? Just curious! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and > >>> God > >>> bless!! > >> > >> _______________________________________________ > >> nabs-l mailing list > >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org > >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > >> nabs-l: > >> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net > > > > _______________________________________________ > > nabs-l mailing list > > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > > nabs-l: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gmail.com > > > > > -- > Cindy Bennett > Secretary: National Association of Blind Students > > B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington > clb5590 at gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/chopper992%40gmail.com > From helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com Fri May 2 05:13:48 2014 From: helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com (helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com) Date: Fri, 2 May 2014 01:13:48 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 In-Reply-To: <5361cf90.c394420a.4b52.ffff8ab5@mx.google.com> References: <5361cf90.c394420a.4b52.ffff8ab5@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <3C08C0292B9A45509AB04DD220133FD2@Helga> Hi Vejas and all. I just wanted to ask you, how do I reboot my phone? And if I reboot my phone, will all my information will be erase or disappear automatically? Just curious! Also, how can I download the new update with another internet connection? Just wondering! By the way, do you think if I go next week to the apple store after I finish my finals, do you think they could help me with this issue? I will really appreciate it, if yu could help me with this and give me some suggestions regarding this. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks and God bless!! :) -----Original Message----- From: Vejas Sent: Thursday, May 1, 2014 12:37 AM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 Helga, I have a couple of suggestions: 1. How about, try rebooting the phone? 2. You could try to download the new software using a different Internet connection (because I know in one of your previous e-mails you said that your connection is very finicky) 3. I don't know what's going on, but maybe you can ask a sighter person, such as a family member or friend, to start the download process for you. Just remember that if they're going to help, it's best to turn voice-over off for them, so that they can enlarge the screen to make it easier for them to see what's on there. HTH, Vejas ----- Original Message ----- From: wrote: Hi all, this is Helga. How are you all? Does anyone here work in the apple store? Just curious! I?�m having a problem doing the IOS7.11 update on my iPhone 5. I actually did all my updates before this one very wellwithout having any problems at all, but now I?�m having an issue where I can?�t download it for some reason that I don?�t know! Just to let you know, whenever I double tap on the download and install button, VoiceOver tells me that is dimn. I really don?�t know what is going on! Before it never told me that is dimn. All my updates downloaded and installed successfully! I will really like to have this new update since it contains improvements, bug fixes, and security updates. I wil really appreciate it a lot, if yu could help me with this. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreib er26%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina tion%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com From alpineimagination at gmail.com Fri May 2 06:02:17 2014 From: alpineimagination at gmail.com (Vejas) Date: Thu, 01 May 2014 23:02:17 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 Message-ID: <536334e9.c341420a.4ce1.5b20@mx.google.com> Hi=20Helga, To=20reboot=20the=20phone,=20=20hold=20the=20home=20button=20and=20the=20lo= ck-screen=20 button=20together.=20=20If=20I'm=20not=20mistaken,=20you'll=20know=20when=20= the=20 reboot=20is=20finished=20when=20Voice-Over=20starts=20up.=20=20If=20you've= =20waited=20a=20 while=20and=20triple-click=20has=20turned=20off,=20go=20to=20Siri=20and=20s= ay,=20"Turn=20 on=20voice-over"=20and=20it=20will=20do=20it=20for=20you. And=20no,=20you=20won't=20lose=20your=20data=20by=20rebooting. By=20using=20a=20different=20Internet=20connection,=20I=20mean=20going=20so= mewhere=20 else=20to=20do=20it.=20=20If=20the=20one=20at=20your=20house=20doesn't=20wo= rk,=20go=20to=20 someplace=20like=20a=20coffee=20shop,=20and=20connect=20with=20the=20connec= tion=20 there.=20=20Then=20try=20downloading. You=20could=20go=20to=20the=20Apple=20store=20for=20someone=20to=20help=20y= ou=20download,=20 though=20you=20really=20don't=20have=20to.=20=20All=20you=20have=20to=20do= =20is=20go=20to=20a=20 friend=20or=20family=20member.=20=20Turn=20off=20voice-over=20and=20tell=20= them,=20"I'm=20 having=20trouble=20downloading=20the=20update-can=20you=20look=20at=20the=20= screen=20 and=20see=20what's=20going=20on?"=20They=20can=20explain=20what's=20happeni= ng=20on=20 the=20screen=20and=20may=20even=20be=20able=20to=20do=20the=20download=20fo= r=20you. The=20reason=20why=20I=20say=20to=20turn=20off=20voice-over=20when=20someon= e=20is=20 helping=20you=20is=20because=20when=20it's=20on,=20it's=20sometimes=20harde= r=20to=20see=20 what's=20on=20the=20screen=20and=20they=20are=20not=20familiar=20with=20the= =20 Voice-Over=20functions. Hope=20this=20helps, Vejas -----=20Original=20Message=20----- From:=20=20wrote: Hi=20all,=20this=20is=20Helga.=20=20How=20are=20you=20all?=20Does=20anyone= =20here=20work in=20the=20apple store?=20Just=20curious!=20I?=99m=20having=20a=20problem=20doing=20the=20IO= S7.11 update=20on=20my iPhone=205.=20=20I=20actually=20did=20all=20my=20updates=20before=20this=20= one=20very wellwithout having=20any=20problems=20at=20all,=20but=20now=20I?=99m=20having=20an=20is= sue=20where I=20can?=99t download=20it=20for=20some=20reason=20that=20I=20don?=99t=20know!=20Just=20= to=20let=20you know, whenever=20I=20double=20tap=20on=20the=20download=20and=20install=20button,= VoiceOver=20tells me that=20is=20dimn.=20=20I=20really=20don?=99t=20know=20what=20is=20going=20o= n!=20Before=20it never=20told me that=20is=20dimn.=20=20All=20my=20updates=20downloaded=20and=20installed successfully!=20I=20will really=20like=20to=20have=20this=20new=20update=20since=20it=20contains improvements,=20bug fixes,=20and=20security=20updates.=20=20I=20wil=20really=20appreciate=20it= =20a=20lot, if=20yu=20could help=20me=20with=20this.=20=20Hope=20to=20hear=20from=20you=20soon.=20=20Th= anks=20so=20much and=20God bless!! _______________________________________________ nabs-l=20mailing=20list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20acco= unt=20info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreib er26%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l=20mailing=20list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20acco= unt=20info for=20nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina tion%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l=20mailing=20list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20acco= unt=20info=20 for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreib er26%40gmail.com From alpineimagination at gmail.com Fri May 2 06:05:11 2014 From: alpineimagination at gmail.com (Vejas) Date: Thu, 01 May 2014 23:05:11 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 Message-ID: <53633598.2814320a.6937.53ac@mx.google.com> Also,=20good=20luck=20on=20your=20finals. Vejas =20-----=20Original=20Message=20----- From:=20=20wrote: Hi=20all,=20this=20is=20Helga.=20=20How=20are=20you=20all?=20Does=20anyone= =20here=20work in=20the=20apple store?=20Just=20curious!=20I?=99m=20having=20a=20problem=20doing=20the=20IO= S7.11 update=20on=20my iPhone=205.=20=20I=20actually=20did=20all=20my=20updates=20before=20this=20= one=20very wellwithout having=20any=20problems=20at=20all,=20but=20now=20I?=99m=20having=20an=20is= sue=20where I=20can?=99t download=20it=20for=20some=20reason=20that=20I=20don?=99t=20know!=20Just=20= to=20let=20you know, whenever=20I=20double=20tap=20on=20the=20download=20and=20install=20button,= VoiceOver=20tells me that=20is=20dimn.=20=20I=20really=20don?=99t=20know=20what=20is=20going=20o= n!=20Before=20it never=20told me that=20is=20dimn.=20=20All=20my=20updates=20downloaded=20and=20installed successfully!=20I=20will really=20like=20to=20have=20this=20new=20update=20since=20it=20contains improvements,=20bug fixes,=20and=20security=20updates.=20=20I=20wil=20really=20appreciate=20it= =20a=20lot, if=20yu=20could help=20me=20with=20this.=20=20Hope=20to=20hear=20from=20you=20soon.=20=20Th= anks=20so=20much and=20God bless!! _______________________________________________ nabs-l=20mailing=20list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20acco= unt=20info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreib er26%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l=20mailing=20list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20acco= unt=20info for=20nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina tion%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l=20mailing=20list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20acco= unt=20info=20 for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreib er26%40gmail.com From steve.jacobson at visi.com Fri May 2 14:03:58 2014 From: steve.jacobson at visi.com (Steve Jacobson) Date: Fri, 02 May 2014 09:03:58 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 In-Reply-To: <53633598.2814320a.6937.53ac@mx.google.com> Message-ID: Helga, Maybe I missed it, but have you connected your phone to a WI-FI network at some point? One thing I noticed this time is that when I went to do the update I was told that the update had already been downloaded. This leads me to believe that the update is being automatically downloaded so it is ready when you want to do the update. What I am guessing is happening for you is that the download has started but not completed. This would cause the download button to be dimmed. Also, make certain that you do not have another button that would let you complete the upgrade. I do not remember seeing a dimmed download button when I did the update but I didn't look for it. It is possible that you already have the update but need to press another button to start it. Use the left-to- right and right-to-left finger swipe to be sure you have located all buttons or icons on the screen.. Best regards, Steve Jacobson > ----- Original Message ----- >From: To: "National Association of Blind Students mailing list" >Date sent: Fri, 2 May 2014 01:13:48 -0400 >Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 >Hi Vejas and all. I just wanted to ask you, how do I reboot my >phone? And if >I reboot my phone, will all my information will be erase or >disappear >automatically? Just curious! Also, how can I download the new >update with >another internet connection? Just wondering! By the way, do you >think if I >go next week to the apple store after I finish my finals, do you >think they >could help me with this issue? I will really appreciate it, if yu >could help >me with this and give me some suggestions regarding this. Hope >to hear from >you soon. Thanks and God bless!! :) >-----Original Message----- >From: Vejas >Sent: Thursday, May 1, 2014 12:37 AM >To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 >Helga, >I have a couple of suggestions: >1. How about, try rebooting the phone? >2. You could try to download the new software using a different >Internet connection (because I know in one of your previous >e-mails you said that your connection is very finicky) >3. I don't know what's going on, but maybe you can ask a sighter >person, such as a family member or friend, to start the download >process for you. Just remember that if they're going to help, >it's best to turn voice-over off for them, so that they can >enlarge the screen to make it easier for them to see what's on >there. >HTH, >Vejas >----- Original Message ----- >From: To: "National Association of Blind Students mailing list" >Date sent: Thu, 1 May 2014 00:01:11 -0400 >Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 >Hi Arielle. I was trying to download it since yesterday, but it >didn't work! >I actually never download it before it told me that it was >dimned. >Yesterday, my iPhone told me that there was a new update, and I >decided to >download it. So I went to software update. And I went to the >download and >install button, the dimned message was already there without me >even >downloading the update first! I don't know what's going on! Hope >to hear >from you soon.Thanks and God bless!! :) >-----Original Message----- >From: Arielle Silverman >Sent: Wednesday, April 30, 2014 11:19 PM >To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Problems Updating to IOS7.11 on my iPhone 5 >Hi Helga, I know once you've started a download, if you try to >tap the >button again VoiceOver says dimmed. I'm guessing maybe you had a >slow >Internet connection so it was trying to download but failing? >Perhaps >try again at a different time of day or a different location and >after >re-starting your phone, and see if you still have the problem? >I'm not >sure what else it would be. I hope this helps! >Arielle >On 4/30/14, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com > wrote: >Hi all, this is Helga. How are you all? Does anyone here work >in the apple >store? Just curious! I?"m having a problem doing the IOS7.11 >update on my >iPhone 5. I actually did all my updates before this one very >wellwithout >having any problems at all, but now I?"m having an issue where >I can?"t >download it for some reason that I don?"t know! Just to let you >know, >whenever I double tap on the download and install button, >VoiceOver tells >me >that is dimn. I really don?"t know what is going on! Before it >never told >me >that is dimn. All my updates downloaded and installed >successfully! I will >really like to have this new update since it contains >improvements, bug >fixes, and security updates. I wil really appreciate it a lot, >if yu could >help me with this. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much >and God >bless!! >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >for >nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreib >er26%40gmail.com >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina >tion%40gmail.com >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >for >nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreib >er26%40gmail.com From crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com Fri May 2 14:48:33 2014 From: crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com (Kaiti Shelton) Date: Fri, 2 May 2014 10:48:33 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] AP statistics In-Reply-To: <6CD3D37F-EC7D-4F62-BACE-A47656FB88E2@fuse.net> References: <000601cf5b80$de8a49a0$9b9edce0$@net> <003f01cf60bf$55bbe130$0133a390$@net> <1DCF7AAF-48D3-42BD-9442-87DF34E43A2F@gmail.com> <6CD3D37F-EC7D-4F62-BACE-A47656FB88E2@fuse.net> Message-ID: Hi Lillie, I don't know your exact situation, but it sounds like this guy is causing significant problems for you, and not really doing much to actually help you succeed. My question is, is he actually performing an essential function which is actually useful or helpful to you? IF the answer is no, I would kindly inform the person who handles the contracting with the county educational services center that you no longer need the services of a TVI, and you could be rid of him. This happened to me in my senior year. Until that point I kept my TVIs around, and we basically worked on whatever I had in math since that was a struggle subject for me. However, in my senior year I lost the TVI I had, and wasn't taking math any more anyway. The teacher they gave me was not helpful to me at all, and I thought that having the weekly lessons in which we would do absolutely nothing beneficial for me was pointless, and a waste of everyone's time. She was also very unreliable; I remember the last time she came, I waited and waited for 20 minutes out of my study hall. My braillist said that I could go ahead and actually go to study hall and get some work done, and she would come to get me if or when the teacher came. Sure enough, I walk back to the braille room when first period was over to see that she had just walked in the door. Apparently she thought I was going to stay and complete the lesson, because she was pretty shocked when I said, "Sorry, I was just coming to pick up some textbook volumes. I have to go to music theory now," and walked on to class. Then my braillist kindly informed her that I had said a week or so before that I didn't feel the braille lessons were necessary (since I had planned to do this in our lesson, but didn't have the chance since she was late). The funny part was that she called my mom to complain, and my mom was totally supportive of me not continuing with TVI instruction for my senior year, and felt that my reason for stopping it made total sense. It was almost like she was trying to rat me out to my own mother, which was ridiculous since I had obviously told my mom the lessons were pointless beforehand, and you would think that if a TVI had a capable person on their hands that they might want to drop them from their heavy caseload. I still received everything else I needed from the county, but braille was not an issue. My braillist provided all the materials I needed, and was very seasoned at it after working with me for so long, so having a TVI around was not crucial for either of us. I think that if you are in the situation where the TVI isn't doing anything for you, and he's only bringing you down, it would be reasonable to get rid of him altogether. If I remember correctly, I don't think I had to call an IEP meeting to have the service taken out, since I was the one who made the final call to tell the school I no longer needed the instruction, but if you do need to call an ammendment meeting, it should be fairly short and straight forward with the reasons you have presented to the list. Also, if you do need to present reasons for it and really do nothing in your lessons, feel free to say, "We don't really do much, and I'm not really being instructed on anything." HTH On 4/29/14, Lillie Pennington wrote: > Thank you for this. I will definitely try this over looking at four page > Braille tables. :) > Sent from my iPhone > >> On Apr 29, 2014, at 7:59 PM, Arielle Silverman >> wrote: >> >> For anyone taking either AP stats or intro stats in college, I would >> highly recommend using >> www.graphpad.com/quickcalcs >> to access your critical values instead of trying to read the tables in >> the back of your textbook. I used the textbook tables when I took the >> course ten years ago, but no matter how you have your textbook, >> accessing those tables is bound to be at least a little annoying, >> especially if you have a multi-volume Braille book. >> On the Graphpad website, however, you can just select "distributions >> and interpreting p-values" from the main page, then select "calculate >> p, t or z from a probability" then put in your probability as .05 and >> it will spit out the critical values for your particular test. >> I'm sure this doesn't make much sense if you haven't taken the course >> yet, but you can hang on to this email for future reference. In >> addition, critical values can be calculated in Excel. I don't remember >> the formula, but can look it up and send it to you if you need it. >> >> Best, >> Arielle >> >>> On 4/28/14, Julie McGinnity wrote: >>> Hi Lillie, >>> >>> I took AP stats back in 2008-2009, so I'm sure the course has changed >>> by now. But I didn't have a graphing calculator, and I did well >>> without one. I do remember that there were these AP Stats practice >>> materials from College Board that our class used, and I had those. >>> >>> Some of the units were extremely nonvisual, and others did require >>> graphs and tables. But the graphs aren't super complex, from what I >>> remember. So you could probably describe them pretty easily. I >>> remember AP stats being a lot of writing and interpreting and some >>> formulas. I had to do a lot of studying, but for the most part, >>> accessing the visuals wasn't a huge concern. I hope you have a >>> similar experience without having to study as much as I did. :) >>> >>> >>> >>>> On 4/28/14, Phil wrote: >>>> Hi Lillie, >>>> Echoing what Arielle said, you can go through a Stats course without >>>> using graphing function in graphing calculator. I didn't use it when I >>>> took my 3 Stats courses in college either. >>>> You might also want to ask your teacher what software if any is used? >>>> For example, in college intro Stats courses they sometimes use >>>> software called STATA and SPSS. There's also a software called SAS but >>>> highly unlikely to be used in AP Stat. >>>> Hope this helps a bit. >>>> Best, >>>> Phil >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>>> On 4/27/14, Greg Aikens wrote: >>>>> I agree. At this point you need to get your parents involved. I love >>>>> to >>>>> hear >>>>> how you have advocated for yourself, but it sounds as though that >>>>> avenue >>>>> has >>>>> been ineffective on several issues this year. The next step would be >>>>> to >>>>> appeal to someone with more authority to advocate on your behalf, and >>>>> your >>>>> parents are the best choice. >>>>> >>>>> I am a TVI and unfortunately I also encounter the negative attitudes >>>>> you >>>>> guys refer to among my colleagues. The best solution I can think of is >>>>> to >>>>> have mor blind students go into this field. :) >>>>> >>>>> Best of luck with your advocacy effort. >>>>> >>>>> -Greg >>>>> >>>>> On Apr 25, 2014, at 4:33 PM, Arielle Silverman >>>>> wrote: >>>>> >>>>>> Hi Lillie, >>>>>> >>>>>> I am a little confused about what your TVI is recommending. Does he >>>>>> think you should take trig instead, or that you shouldn't take the >>>>>> ACT? Either way I completely agree it is not his place to be >>>>>> questioning your choice of courses. He is not a guidance counselor, >>>>>> and even if he were, he is still bound to respect your informed >>>>>> decisions. >>>>>> >>>>>> My guess is that this guy has a power complex and that may be part of >>>>>> the reason he has decided to teach blind students. I do not think his >>>>>> actions are based on anything you have done in the past. You can >>>>>> certainly try talking to him, but I am not sure if it will be >>>>>> effective. It is great that your parents are supporting you because >>>>>> until you turn 18 they are primarily in charge of your education and >>>>>> can overrule anything your TVI does or at least can legally advocate >>>>>> on your behalf. I would strongly suggest having your mom or dad talk >>>>>> to your TVI about his actions and perhaps even request a meeting with >>>>>> you and he to discuss his actions. Your TVI may not have much respect >>>>>> for blind teens and may not listen to you but he is obligated to >>>>>> listen to your parents. >>>>>> >>>>>> Best, >>>>>> Arielle >>>>>> >>>>>>> On 4/25/14, Lillie Pennington wrote: >>>>>>> Hi Arielle and all, >>>>>>> >>>>>>> I apologize for my horrible email responsive habits again. I met >>>>>>> with >>>>>>> my >>>>>>> stats teacher today for next year. The meeting itself was good, and >>>>>>> the >>>>>>> teacher seemed willing to work with me. She said that she rarely >>>>>>> uses >>>>>>> excel >>>>>>> or hand graphs and instead uses a graphing calculator. She said she >>>>>>> would >>>>>>> send me a list of functions so that I could have the summer to work >>>>>>> out >>>>>>> what >>>>>>> I needed to do. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> However, one thing that did not go well was my TVI. I apologize if I >>>>>>> need >>>>>>> to >>>>>>> start a new thread for this. While he did let me deal directly with >>>>>>> my >>>>>>> teacher (which surprised me), when my teacher mentioned that there >>>>>>> was >>>>>>> some >>>>>>> trig that would be on the ACT that I would need to know just as a >>>>>>> sort >>>>>>> of >>>>>>> FYI thing to consider, my TVI kept bringing the conversation back to >>>>>>> the >>>>>>> ACT >>>>>>> and math in general, and if she thought I should switch out, >>>>>>> although >>>>>>> she >>>>>>> had previously said that it was just a thing to consider. I thanked >>>>>>> the >>>>>>> teacher for her concern and said that I had consulted with multiple >>>>>>> sources, >>>>>>> and although there was some trepidation it was not going to be a >>>>>>> huge >>>>>>> gaping >>>>>>> concern to me in the long run. I had spoken to my TVI about this >>>>>>> beforehand >>>>>>> and he was not listening to me about the issue. >>>>>>> I walked out of a meeting that was supposed to turn out pretty good >>>>>>> feeling >>>>>>> very concerned and upset; not because of the class, but because of >>>>>>> my >>>>>>> TVI's >>>>>>> actions. I respect and understand the fact that he has concerns, but >>>>>>> he >>>>>>> is >>>>>>> addressing them in a way that isn't the best. He says stuff like "I >>>>>>> don't >>>>>>> think you can handle this" or "I don't think your parents know what >>>>>>> you >>>>>>> are >>>>>>> doing." Although I have my parents entire support on this, he has >>>>>>> not >>>>>>> contacted them about it. He tried to get my guidance counselor to >>>>>>> dissuade >>>>>>> me from taking AP classes, but my counselor sited with me. My >>>>>>> parents >>>>>>> and >>>>>>> I >>>>>>> have agreed that I need to speak to him on Monday about how that was >>>>>>> probably not the best course of action to take on his part and how I >>>>>>> and >>>>>>> my >>>>>>> parents have made this decision and he needs to respect it. >>>>>>> His actions in this respect and his negative actions in general are >>>>>>> completely destroying what little confidence I had both in blindness >>>>>>> and >>>>>>> as >>>>>>> a person. I feel like I have no right to speak against him or that >>>>>>> he >>>>>>> will >>>>>>> not take me seriously no matter how I phraise anything because no >>>>>>> matter >>>>>>> what I'm just a dumb blind teenager who knows absolutely nothing >>>>>>> about >>>>>>> her >>>>>>> capabilities or about anything in general. There are incidents >>>>>>> besides >>>>>>> this >>>>>>> one where I have felt like I was being questioned. I do not think I >>>>>>> have >>>>>>> done anything to make him question me like this. >>>>>>> He is completely destroying my confidence and I need to salvage what >>>>>>> little >>>>>>> I have left to make him stop treating me like this. I understand >>>>>>> that >>>>>>> everyone has different ways of dealing with people, but I do not >>>>>>> think >>>>>>> whether he knows it or not, he should not be aiming to destroy my >>>>>>> confidence >>>>>>> or make me feel like I have to prove something to him. I understand >>>>>>> that >>>>>>> not >>>>>>> all of this is his fault and through my actions I have probably done >>>>>>> something to earn this, but I would like to know what. >>>>>>> I apologize for complaining here, and I am not trying to get pitty. >>>>>>> I >>>>>>> do >>>>>>> plan to talk to him on Monday so I can at least try to do something >>>>>>> constructive about the situation. He has done some good things, but >>>>>>> the >>>>>>> bad >>>>>>> things overshadow the good things he has done. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Thanks, >>>>>>> Lillie >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> -----Original Message----- >>>>>>> From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Arielle >>>>>>> Silverman >>>>>>> Sent: Saturday, April 19, 2014 12:10 AM >>>>>>> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >>>>>>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] AP statistics >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Hi Lillie, >>>>>>> >>>>>>> I don't know exact answers to most of your questions, but just >>>>>>> wanted >>>>>>> to >>>>>>> let >>>>>>> you know that I've taken five statistics courses (including >>>>>>> graduate-level) without ever using a graphing calculator. While >>>>>>> sighted >>>>>>> students might be expected to use a graphing calculator and the >>>>>>> stats >>>>>>> functions on yours might be accessible, even if they are not, you >>>>>>> can >>>>>>> definitely participate without using a graphing calculator. In fact, >>>>>>> I >>>>>>> think >>>>>>> graphing is a very minor part of the course curriculum. That said, I >>>>>>> don't >>>>>>> know what the AP test looks like, and you might have to use a >>>>>>> graphing >>>>>>> calculator on the test. >>>>>>> Sometimes the graphing requirements are altered for blind students, >>>>>>> so >>>>>>> you >>>>>>> may want to find out what the regular test requires and then contact >>>>>>> the >>>>>>> college board to see if any inaccessible parts of the normal >>>>>>> requirements >>>>>>> are modified (I'm guessing your TVI may not be the best person to >>>>>>> ask >>>>>>> based >>>>>>> on your other posts). >>>>>>> >>>>>>> If hand-graphing is required, I always just wrote out detailed >>>>>>> descriptions >>>>>>> of the graphs. Again, I don't think actually seeing the graph is >>>>>>> important >>>>>>> for understanding the underlying math and interpreting results. I >>>>>>> just >>>>>>> did >>>>>>> it to appease the teacher's requirements on exams and such. >>>>>>> You can do most of the required calculations either in Excel or with >>>>>>> a >>>>>>> web-based calculator at www.graphpad.com/quickcalcs/ Your teacher >>>>>>> may >>>>>>> or >>>>>>> may >>>>>>> not know about GraphPad, but you might offer to use that instead of >>>>>>> any >>>>>>> inaccessible software that's required. >>>>>>> Braille Note stats functions may also work, but it depends on >>>>>>> whether >>>>>>> you're >>>>>>> expected to calculate basics like means and standard deviations by >>>>>>> calculator or by hand. In college stats we had to do it by hand, >>>>>>> using >>>>>>> a >>>>>>> standard calculator to compute square roots and other basic math. I >>>>>>> used >>>>>>> JAWS to read me the data and then used my Braille Note calculator >>>>>>> for >>>>>>> computations, and Excel will also work for that. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Sorry I can't offer more help without knowing more details, but I'm >>>>>>> happy >>>>>>> to >>>>>>> consult when you have more specific questions. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Best, >>>>>>> Arielle >>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 4/18/14, Lillie Pennington wrote: >>>>>>>> Hi Everyone >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> I will be taking AP statistics next year. I am going to contact the >>>>>>>> teacher of the class next week, but I want to know what I am >>>>>>>> talking >>>>>>>> about before I have a meeting. If anyone has taken this class, >>>>>>>> answering these questions would be very helpful. I am not sure how >>>>>>>> college stats classes work, but I'd think they would be similar. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> 1. Are graphing calculators needed? I have the TI84 from APH >>>>>>>> and >>>>>>>> used it this year. Are the statistical functions accessible? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> 2. Is excel used? Roughly what parts? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> 3. What about the statistical functions part of the Braille >>>>>>>> note >>>>>>>> calculator? Is this used? Again, what functions? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> 4. Roughly are there any new Nemeth symbols introduced? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> 5. Is there any reason I would have to hand-draw a graph at >>>>>>>> any >>>>>>> point >>>>>>>> if I have the calculator and excel available to me? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> 6. Are there parts of the course, minus inaccessible >>>>>>>> software, >>>>>>>> that >>>>>>>> are inaccessible? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Thanks >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >>>>>>>> for >>>>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail. >>>>>>>> com >>>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >>>>>>> for >>>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse. >>>>>>> net >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >>>>>>> for >>>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >>>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>> nabs-l: >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/philso1003%40gmail.com >>>>> >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/kaybaycar%40gmail.com >>>> >>> >>> >>> -- >>> Julie McG >>> National Association of Guide dog Users board member, National >>> Federation of the Blind performing arts division secretary, >>> Missouri Association of Guide dog Users President, >>> and Guiding Eyes for the Blind graduate 2008 >>> "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that >>> everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal >>> life." >>> John 3:16 >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >>> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From ichoosechrist2 at gmail.com Sat May 3 03:32:22 2014 From: ichoosechrist2 at gmail.com (ichoosechrist2 at gmail.com) Date: Fri, 2 May 2014 21:32:22 -0600 Subject: [nabs-l] iPhone composing mail and visual tracking Message-ID: <25AF578B-5D5D-47C0-92C7-13896D316535@gmail.com> Hi list, I have been trying to compose emails and when I compose them the screen does not visually show all the text that I have been typing. I have to scroll over in order to see the whole message. Does anyone know how to fix this? Thank you for your time. Lora Sent from my iPhone From crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com Sun May 4 05:49:05 2014 From: crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com (Kaiti Shelton) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 01:49:05 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses Message-ID: Hello all, I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback that can be provided. I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a long way since I started practicum in mid February. However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more so they can hear me." Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any information about it. Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken care of when I signed the other form so that communication could easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is obviously a factor. It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as justification. What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working relationships with professors around the university. Even when I struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, and the music department has assumed responsibility for my accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate hearing about them as well. -- Kaiti From freethaught at gmail.com Sun May 4 06:02:42 2014 From: freethaught at gmail.com (Antonio Guimaraes) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 02:02:42 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] In person versus online for the summer In-Reply-To: <1398801779.5801.BPMail_high_noncarrier@web122605.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> References: <1398801779.5801.BPMail_high_noncarrier@web122605.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <2458D071-1EE2-4229-9D5D-FDD33379F342@gmail.com> Hi all, I actually attend an online only University at the moment. Western Governors University has a very different model that would take a while to explain, and I would miss something. I will tell you next that I will not be at Western Governors University for very long from now. My actual plans are to transfer to what has been called a real college experience. I will change the rhetoric a little bit and just say I'm going to a brick-and-mortar school. I have very strong feelings that are opposed to online experiences for college. At my university for instance, there are no real deadlines except for the very end of semester. UART responsible for the material, all of it, at least 12 credits of it, at the end of the six-month period. Yes, a semester is actually six months in length at my university. It is feasible to fit many more credits into that space. If you are disciplined enough. I have never met a single student that goes to my university. I never sat down in front of a professor. Granted, I can speak with professors one on one by phone. I find participating on board kind of useless. If that's what you call meeting your fellow students, I would much rather skip it, and I do skip it. I just want to get the material, get a grade, and MoveOn. My preference is for sitting down next to people, interacting, asking questions, playing with, and maneuvering around the physical, and intellectual experience that is the University. Maybe this is unique to Western Governors, but I only get pass and fail grades. If you look at my transcript, a passing grade is explained as a B or better. When a real college looks at it, my passing grade is only as good as a bee. That means that a perfect GPA for me in the eyes of many colleges is a 3.0. I think eventually the Science will prove that online experiences for college are inferior to interactions in person. This will remains to be seen in probably 10 or 20 years. I will be the first to embrace technology, and promote it. I have seen good ideas, and implementation of technology and educational setting. Take Khan Academy for instance. The program gives people illustrated, thought out, actual lectures on focused subjects. Granted, the on-screen information is not accessible to blind person, but such is life, in the world. I cannot of course advocate for the lack of accessibility. if Khan Academy were to be implemented in formal educational settings, we would run into a problem that would need fixing. But, I cannot in good conscience sit here and diss Khan Academy for creating so much content, and not having thought of blind students. My own college tests online. People can go to testing centers like Prometrix, and I had a fight with the college to test like everyone else: quickly, conveniently, and at home. I am looking right now at taking an exam that includes a map. I have never seen the map, and that is a problem I need to figure out someway. The disability support services office is clueless as to how to help me look at this map. They have consulted with me on material for different classes for another blind student, and they seemed clueless as to how to present visual information to blind students. There is a lot more to be said, and the jury will be out for a while on the effectiveness of an online education. If any person reading this is considering attending Western Governors University specifically, keep in mind that I highly discourage anyone from doing so, especially if you're blind. If you want a stellar 3.0 GPA, go right ahead. I think myself to be a pretty competent user of technology, and I resourceful person when it comes to getting access to materials. And, I have a hard time getting through to the school for things that I actually do need, and that they could be providing. My disability support services office hardly even knows what will share is. Learning Ally is probably news to them, and jaws might as well be a movie. Someone suggested that you treat an online class a lot like an actual physical class. That is, the person said you could approach the professor in advance, after having asked if the class is accessible. I doubt colleges will know if the class is fully accessible, and it will be up to you to be surprised at how you can, or cannot access the materials. Some of you electronic environment is very unforgiving. For instance, in my map experience, if I get those questions wrong, and failed the exam, there is no way to know how I answered the map material, and no opportunity to actually test on my knowledge of the material. I will like to hear more about accessible, effective, and positive online education experiences, but, I predict these will be few and far between. Long-distance formats were treacherous when I took a class back into thousand one, and in some ways, it has gotten worse, not better. To be sure, the future, however bright it might be, is headed towards online education. We should expect that, and we have a very long fight I had to make that stuff accessible. It will be accessible, but it won't be pretty. I wish someone would find us articles on the online education debate. I am not an expert in psychology, cognitive sciences, and so on. But my experience speaks loudly as to how frustrating and ineffective online education can be. I will make my sad point again. I just can't stand it, and I will drive the point home. I congratulate every scholarship winner, past and present. This includes myself as a scholarship winner in 2010. I envy future scholarship winners, because they can actually get above a 3.0 grade point average. Happy online studies,, Antonio On Apr 29, 2014, at 4:02 PM, Leye-Shprintse wrote: > > BS'D > > Becky, > > This is how I would do it; bene note, I am not located in the United States. > > Firstly, I would contact the university and ask if their course platform is accessible with screen readers such as JAWS and VoiceOver. > > Secondly, I would contact the department which gives the courses and tell them that I am blind and need the material in an accessible format. I would request to get the list of literature now so that I would have time to get it before the courses start. I would also Contact the teacher and give a bref introduction of myself and beg he or she to Contact me if they have some questions. If you have asked all questions before your course start it will be any problems, G-d willing. > > Finally, my experience is that you need to be well prepared before you start your courses, then you have done anything in your power to get it to work. > > Good luck! > > LeSholom, > Leye-Shprintse <3 > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%40gmail.com From justin.williams2 at gmail.com Sun May 4 13:05:52 2014 From: justin.williams2 at gmail.com (justin williams) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 09:05:52 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <004e01cf6799$94d09ab0$be71d010$@gmail.com> Did you call the music therapist yourself? You could just get her method and employ it. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kaiti Shelton Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 1:49 AM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses Hello all, I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback that can be provided. I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a long way since I started practicum in mid February. However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more so they can hear me." Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any information about it. Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken care of when I signed the other form so that communication could easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is obviously a factor. It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as justification. What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working relationships with professors around the university. Even when I struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, and the music department has assumed responsibility for my accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate hearing about them as well. -- Kaiti _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From ichoosechrist2 at gmail.com Sun May 4 14:04:08 2014 From: ichoosechrist2 at gmail.com (ichoosechrist2 at gmail.com) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 08:04:08 -0600 Subject: [nabs-l] Test and question Message-ID: <3571B95F-1BA8-42B1-B807-560BB3F169ED@gmail.com> Hello list, is this message going through? I sent out a message a few days ago and have not received a response. When I type on my iPhone the screen visually tracks what I'm typing And does not display the entire message. Do you know how to fix this? Thank you Lora Sent from my iPhone From justin.williams2 at gmail.com Sun May 4 14:07:07 2014 From: justin.williams2 at gmail.com (justin williams) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 10:07:07 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Test and question In-Reply-To: <3571B95F-1BA8-42B1-B807-560BB3F169ED@gmail.com> References: <3571B95F-1BA8-42B1-B807-560BB3F169ED@gmail.com> Message-ID: <005901cf67a2$22ddfc50$6899f4f0$@gmail.com> Got you. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of ichoosechrist2 at gmail.com Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 10:04 AM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: [nabs-l] Test and question Hello list, is this message going through? I sent out a message a few days ago and have not received a response. When I type on my iPhone the screen visually tracks what I'm typing And does not display the entire message. Do you know how to fix this? Thank you Lora Sent from my iPhone _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From ligne14 at verizon.net Sun May 4 14:07:47 2014 From: ligne14 at verizon.net (sami osborne) Date: Sun, 04 May 2014 10:07:47 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college Message-ID: <0N5100LGIZA53710@vms173019.mailsrvcs.net> Hi all. I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be graduating next ywhar. My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I want to do require at least a college degree. However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go to college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year between the end of high school and the end of college). Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since first of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in the long run. Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know that there are benefits to both. I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that you want to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more training in daily living skills. So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go straight to college or take a gap year and then go? I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this decision. Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to college, I would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, do you think she's right? Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of activities can I do during this year? Thanks. Sami. From justin.williams2 at gmail.com Sun May 4 15:03:53 2014 From: justin.williams2 at gmail.com (justin williams) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 11:03:53 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college In-Reply-To: <0N5100LGIZA53710@vms173019.mailsrvcs.net> References: <0N5100LGIZA53710@vms173019.mailsrvcs.net> Message-ID: <006101cf67aa$113486b0$339d9410$@gmail.com> If you take a gap year, attend an NFB center, or a center for independent living skills of your choice. That would be the only reason to take a year off. That would get some of the away from home jitters under control in a safe learning environment. Also, do you feel prepared to go to college; are you ready for it right now? If not, then go to a center, if so, then go to college. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of sami osborne Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 10:08 AM To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college Hi all. I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be graduating next ywhar. My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I want to do require at least a college degree. However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go to college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year between the end of high school and the end of college). Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since first of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in the long run. Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know that there are benefits to both. I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that you want to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more training in daily living skills. So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go straight to college or take a gap year and then go? I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this decision. Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to college, I would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, do you think she's right? Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of activities can I do during this year? Thanks. Sami. _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com Sun May 4 16:12:24 2014 From: crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com (Kaiti Shelton) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 12:12:24 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: <004e01cf6799$94d09ab0$be71d010$@gmail.com> References: <004e01cf6799$94d09ab0$be71d010$@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi Justin, I have been in frequent contact with this music therapist, and have asked her specific questions to try to use her methods and try to adapt her methods to suit my needs. I'm not looking for knowledge on her methods since I already have what she can tell me. What I need is my professors to talk to her because their documentation expectations are not something I can do right now. There has to be some give and take from them, and I've done all I know to do. On 5/4/14, justin williams wrote: > Did you call the music therapist yourself? You could just get her method > and employ it. > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kaiti Shelton > Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 1:49 AM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses > > Hello all, > > I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback that > can be provided. > > I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum > coursework. > For those who don't know, practicum courses involve interacting with > potential clients, and are used to develop clinical skills in young human > services professionals. They're very common in psychology coursework, and > in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I had a practicum working with > some > geriatric residents at a local assisted living/nursing facility. I truly > loved the experience, and developed my skills in terms of interpersonal > interaction, meeting residents where they are in the moment, and using > music > to engage them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have > come a long way since I started practicum in mid February. > > However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. > The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically had > 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular participants we > had others who would come and go between sessions. > Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. > It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they were > sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even know who was > present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a hard time staying > engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more so they can hear me." > > Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were doing. > One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead was movement > to > music. This typically involved instructing the residents in moving to > pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a manipulative. Usually, the > leader of the movement experience would sit in a chair at the front of the > room, so all residents in the semi-circle around the area would be able to > see the movement. > However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were doing. > Where they following my directions? Where they not doing exactly what I > wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing something which > demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of motion improving? I > really was not able to get the answers to these questions from where I was > sitting, and totally relied on conversation with my partners and the > debriefings after the sessions to get any information about it. > > Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not able to > be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, and did not > know > how to be so. I did start documenting things I picked up auditorally, such > as, "Client C vigorously clapped along with the rhythm of the melody," or > "Client M made several comments with positive vocal infletion." However, > these did nothing for the problem regarding my ability to not see their > movement. I got to my wits end later in the semester, and asked my > instructor if I could lead the movement while moving around the room so I > would be closer to the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I > was concerned that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents > while observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and > they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is > clear > to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and something which > would not be effective in the settings I want to work in. I grew more > comfortable asking residents what their names were, but I think a few > thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't remember their names from > Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of some of the regulars too, which > helped a lot. > > What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I have to > retake the course next year and could be as much as a year behind in my > studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I even went out > into > the field, I told my instructors that I know a music therapist who is > totally blind, and she would be more than happy to offer suggestions and > consult on best practices for accommodation. > I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and > having > seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very qualified to > offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how she does her work > to > try to accommodate myself throughout the course. > About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her phone > number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so later I > asked > the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed to have a > conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. > She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman based out > of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak to the > professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, and thought > everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the term I was sent > the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn it in during finals > week. I was floored that this had not been taken care of when I signed the > other form so that communication could easily go both ways. All along the > music therapist had been able to speak to my professors about me, but they > were not allowed by law to speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss > my > lack of progress, and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling > my > accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even > though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked > repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have instrumental > in helping all of us at my university through this course work, they said I > failed to adequately make my needs known. My professor in charge of the > course knew the issues I was struggling with, and also knew that in spite > of > these issues I was developing musically and establishing rappore with > residents. I was not totally making progress, but I was struggling in the > areas where vision is obviously a factor. > > It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know of > several music therapists who successfully meet the professional standards > while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, that in terms > of > advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a hard place. I feel that > if I were uch more relentless than I was this semester that I would just > annoy the professors who I need to help me, and I frankly expected them to > do as they said they would by making contact where it needed to be made. > On > the other hand, even though every time I did say something this semester > and > was told, "I'm going to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard > enough. I don' > want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help me, but > I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me to be > successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new experience > for > me. I told the professors the information I had which could be helpful for > all involved to know, but this is not like an English or Math class where I > know the specific accomodations I need, and the ways that work best from > years of experience. I feel like in some circumstances, because this is > new > to me, that I don't know what exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't > know, and I think that goes for every student in my major because the point > of practicums is to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, > however, there was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also > understand that this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I > feel like more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone > call, and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as > justification. > > What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with > professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working > relationships with professors around the university. Even when I struggled > in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent about meeting in > office hours, talking to learning services, and trying to find our own ways > to problem-solve. I don't think I'm getting the same sort of team effort > here, and it is in the classes that are part of my major. And I feel stuck > because I've provided all the resources I can to the professors, and said > everything I know to say, but the result is that I have to take this course > again and will likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time > in school since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of > sequence, > or in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is difficult > to involve learning services, because they are the first to admit they know > very little about music therapy or music in general, and the music > department has assumed responsibility for my accomodations in those > classes. > I can't financially afford to spend an extra year at school, nor do I want > to keep taking classes over again. And I feel like this should be a team > effort, but not knowing anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to > make > it more that way. > > If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, please > let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, if there are > any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate hearing about them as > well. > > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail > .com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From arielle71 at gmail.com Sun May 4 17:09:23 2014 From: arielle71 at gmail.com (Arielle Silverman) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 11:09:23 -0600 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: References: <004e01cf6799$94d09ab0$be71d010$@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi Kaiti, This situation sounds incredibly frustrating. It's ridiculous that FERPA would get in the way of your professor's talking with your music therapist friend about professional concerns. The fact that you happened to be her client as a child isn't at all relevant to the present issue. Here's what I would suggest: Try to set up a meeting with you, the blind therapist, and your instructor present to discuss accommodations. If that can't happen, then I would recommend asking the blind therapist to write a signed, notarized letter to your instructor explaining what blindness accommodations are reasonable for blind trainees and professionals. The key is for her to authoritatively say that documenting clients' nonverbal behavior is not an essential function of the job, or if it is, what accommodations, like readers, can help accomplish that. In fact, both a meeting and a letter might be the best course of action. If you have it in writing that waiving the nonverbal documentation is reasonable, and your instructors continue to insist that you document nonverbal behavior, then you can complain to a third party. My other suggestions would be to ask about this on the human-services list and to inform your disability services office if you have not already done so. Best, Arielle On 5/4/14, Kaiti Shelton wrote: > Hi Justin, > > I have been in frequent contact with this music therapist, and have > asked her specific questions to try to use her methods and try to > adapt her methods to suit my needs. I'm not looking for knowledge on > her methods since I already have what she can tell me. What I need is > my professors to talk to her because their documentation expectations > are not something I can do right now. There has to be some give and > take from them, and I've done all I know to do. > > On 5/4/14, justin williams wrote: >> Did you call the music therapist yourself? You could just get her method >> and employ it. >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kaiti >> Shelton >> Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 1:49 AM >> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >> Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses >> >> Hello all, >> >> I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback that >> can be provided. >> >> I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum >> coursework. >> For those who don't know, practicum courses involve interacting with >> potential clients, and are used to develop clinical skills in young human >> services professionals. They're very common in psychology coursework, >> and >> in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I had a practicum working with >> some >> geriatric residents at a local assisted living/nursing facility. I truly >> loved the experience, and developed my skills in terms of interpersonal >> interaction, meeting residents where they are in the moment, and using >> music >> to engage them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have >> come a long way since I started practicum in mid February. >> >> However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. >> The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically >> had >> 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular participants we >> had others who would come and go between sessions. >> Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. >> It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they were >> sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even know who >> was >> present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a hard time staying >> engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more so they can hear me." >> >> Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were doing. >> One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead was movement >> to >> music. This typically involved instructing the residents in moving to >> pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a manipulative. Usually, the >> leader of the movement experience would sit in a chair at the front of >> the >> room, so all residents in the semi-circle around the area would be able >> to >> see the movement. >> However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were >> doing. >> Where they following my directions? Where they not doing exactly what I >> wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing something which >> demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of motion improving? I >> really was not able to get the answers to these questions from where I >> was >> sitting, and totally relied on conversation with my partners and the >> debriefings after the sessions to get any information about it. >> >> Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not able >> to >> be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, and did not >> know >> how to be so. I did start documenting things I picked up auditorally, >> such >> as, "Client C vigorously clapped along with the rhythm of the melody," or >> "Client M made several comments with positive vocal infletion." However, >> these did nothing for the problem regarding my ability to not see their >> movement. I got to my wits end later in the semester, and asked my >> instructor if I could lead the movement while moving around the room so I >> would be closer to the residents. She said this was okay to do, however >> I >> was concerned that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents >> while observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and >> they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is >> clear >> to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and something which >> would not be effective in the settings I want to work in. I grew more >> comfortable asking residents what their names were, but I think a few >> thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't remember their names from >> Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of some of the regulars too, which >> helped a lot. >> >> What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I have >> to >> retake the course next year and could be as much as a year behind in my >> studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I even went out >> into >> the field, I told my instructors that I know a music therapist who is >> totally blind, and she would be more than happy to offer suggestions and >> consult on best practices for accommodation. >> I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and >> having >> seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very qualified >> to >> offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how she does her work >> to >> try to accommodate myself throughout the course. >> About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her phone >> number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so later I >> asked >> the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed to have a >> conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. >> She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman based >> out >> of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak to the >> professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, and >> thought >> everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the term I was sent >> the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn it in during >> finals >> week. I was floored that this had not been taken care of when I signed >> the >> other form so that communication could easily go both ways. All along >> the >> music therapist had been able to speak to my professors about me, but >> they >> were not allowed by law to speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss >> my >> lack of progress, and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling >> my >> accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even >> though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked >> repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have >> instrumental >> in helping all of us at my university through this course work, they said >> I >> failed to adequately make my needs known. My professor in charge of the >> course knew the issues I was struggling with, and also knew that in spite >> of >> these issues I was developing musically and establishing rappore with >> residents. I was not totally making progress, but I was struggling in >> the >> areas where vision is obviously a factor. >> >> It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know of >> several music therapists who successfully meet the professional standards >> while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, that in terms >> of >> advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a hard place. I feel >> that >> if I were uch more relentless than I was this semester that I would just >> annoy the professors who I need to help me, and I frankly expected them >> to >> do as they said they would by making contact where it needed to be made. >> On >> the other hand, even though every time I did say something this semester >> and >> was told, "I'm going to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard >> enough. I don' >> want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help me, >> but >> I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me to be >> successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new experience >> for >> me. I told the professors the information I had which could be helpful >> for >> all involved to know, but this is not like an English or Math class where >> I >> know the specific accomodations I need, and the ways that work best from >> years of experience. I feel like in some circumstances, because this is >> new >> to me, that I don't know what exactly to ask, or I don't know what I >> don't >> know, and I think that goes for every student in my major because the >> point >> of practicums is to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, >> however, there was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also >> understand that this is a new experience for the professors as well, but >> I >> feel like more could have been done on their part by making a simple >> phone >> call, and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) >> as >> justification. >> >> What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with >> professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working >> relationships with professors around the university. Even when I >> struggled >> in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent about meeting in >> office hours, talking to learning services, and trying to find our own >> ways >> to problem-solve. I don't think I'm getting the same sort of team effort >> here, and it is in the classes that are part of my major. And I feel >> stuck >> because I've provided all the resources I can to the professors, and said >> everything I know to say, but the result is that I have to take this >> course >> again and will likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my >> time >> in school since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of >> sequence, >> or in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is >> difficult >> to involve learning services, because they are the first to admit they >> know >> very little about music therapy or music in general, and the music >> department has assumed responsibility for my accomodations in those >> classes. >> I can't financially afford to spend an extra year at school, nor do I >> want >> to keep taking classes over again. And I feel like this should be a team >> effort, but not knowing anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to >> make >> it more that way. >> >> If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, please >> let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, if there >> are >> any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate hearing about them >> as >> well. >> >> -- >> Kaiti >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail >> .com >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com >> > > > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com > From freethaught at gmail.com Sun May 4 17:55:41 2014 From: freethaught at gmail.com (Antonio Guimaraes) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 13:55:41 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college In-Reply-To: <0N5100LGIZA53710@vms173019.mailsrvcs.net> References: <0N5100LGIZA53710@vms173019.mailsrvcs.net> Message-ID: <483774F2-0A4E-4775-8AF0-D0E9DAC3D1CF@gmail.com> You may not have the sufficient training ad skills to take a year off and get job experience. You'll speed things up a lot if you go straight to college, or take time to get needed blindness skills as needed. Do I read it right that your mom thinks you should not be 18-years old ad interact with older students? Welcome to the world, and to becoming a adult. Whether you are ready, feel ready, or your parents feel you're ready to face the world, you must at some point puss off of their protective wings. They are not against you, but they probably fear loosing the parental control they naturally have now. Good luck. Antonio On May 4, 2014, at 10:07 AM, sami osborne wrote: > Hi all. > > I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be graduating next ywhar. > My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I want to do require at least a college degree. > However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go to college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year between the end of high school and the end of college). > Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since first of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in the long run. Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know that there are benefits to both. > I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that you want to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more training in daily living skills. > > So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go straight to college or take a gap year and then go? > I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this decision. > > Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to college, I would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, do you think she's right? > Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of activities can I do during this year? > Thanks. > > Sami. > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%40gmail.com From alpineimagination at gmail.com Sun May 4 18:16:36 2014 From: alpineimagination at gmail.com (Vejas) Date: Sun, 04 May 2014 11:16:36 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college Message-ID: <53668409.a7f9420a.41a5.ffff9ebb@mx.google.com> Hi Sami, I suggest that you go to an NFB training center, which is what I'm doing. Another idea is that you could go to another country for a year. If you speak another language besides English, you could go to that country and be an exchange student or just learn the language and experience the culture. I think your mother is mitaken. You are not on the "young side" at 18. I am 17 and will be graduating from high school next year at 18 as are many of my friends. I wouldn't call 18 young, I would call it normal. Vejas ----- Original Message ----- From: Antonio Guimaraes wrote: Hi all. I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be graduating next ywhar. My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I want to do require at least a college degree. However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go to college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year between the end of high school and the end of college). Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since first of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in the long run. Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know that there are benefits to both. I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that you want to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more training in daily living skills. So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go straight to college or take a gap year and then go? I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this decision. Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to college, I would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, do you think she's right? Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of activities can I do during this year? Thanks. Sami. _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%4 0gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina tion%40gmail.com From sgermano at asu.edu Sun May 4 18:23:57 2014 From: sgermano at asu.edu (Suzanne Germano) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 11:23:57 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college In-Reply-To: <483774F2-0A4E-4775-8AF0-D0E9DAC3D1CF@gmail.com> References: <0N5100LGIZA53710@vms173019.mailsrvcs.net> <483774F2-0A4E-4775-8AF0-D0E9DAC3D1CF@gmail.com> Message-ID: I think the only reason to take a year off is if you think you need to go to a center to gain blindness skills or if you were doing something like volunteering for a year and it would benefit your degree or if you really do not know what you want to major in and do not want to end up taking 6 years for a BS because you change majors and have to take extra classes. But that won't necessarily happen. My daughter started in civil engineering and ended up with a BS in biology and has extra courses like differential equations and surveying that she did not need for bio. She still graduated in 4 years Summa Cum Laude but had one semester with 21 units and had some summer courses.. Your parents are wrong. Most college freshman are 18 and straight out of high school. Most people do not take a year off. If you take a year off you need to expakin that year to future employers. I returned to school at 48. My Calc 3 class last semester was almost all kids straight out of high school and 18 years old. Suzanne On Sun, May 4, 2014 at 10:55 AM, Antonio Guimaraes wrote: > You may not have the sufficient training ad skills to take a year off and > get job experience. > > You'll speed things up a lot if you go straight to college, or take time > to get needed blindness skills as needed. > > Do I read it right that your mom thinks you should not be 18-years old ad > interact with older students? Welcome to the world, and to becoming a adult. > > Whether you are ready, feel ready, or your parents feel you're ready to > face the world, you must at some point puss off of their protective wings. > They are not against you, but they probably fear loosing the parental > control they naturally have now. > > Good luck. > > Antonio > > On May 4, 2014, at 10:07 AM, sami osborne wrote: > > > Hi all. > > > > I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be graduating > next ywhar. > > My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I want to > do require at least a college degree. > > However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go to > college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year between the > end of high school and the end of college). > > Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since first > of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in the long run. > Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know that there > are benefits to both. > > I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that you want > to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more training in > daily living skills. > > > > So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go > straight to college or take a gap year and then go? > > I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this decision. > > > > Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to college, I > would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, do you > think she's right? > > Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of activities can I > do during this year? > > Thanks. > > > > Sami. > > > > _______________________________________________ > > nabs-l mailing list > > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%40gmail.com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sgermano%40asu.edu > From bookwormahb at earthlink.net Sun May 4 18:54:12 2014 From: bookwormahb at earthlink.net (Ashley Bramlett) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 14:54:12 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <4B5EB4A90FAB4553A6617A1F96E9DA2C@OwnerPC> Kaiti, What a tough situation. You're right everyone is uncertain in practicums; you are learning after all. But its like you have to know the answers acording to these professors. I think you should sign the documents to allow the professor and the blind therapist to talk. I think you advocated fine and not much you can do. I think it’s a discriminatory situation. When I mentioned my blind friend was discouraged from pursuing music therapy and he changed majors, he ran into a similar issue during his practicum. I cannot say specifics, but he did face discrimination in the practicum semester. I also struggle with learning names and seeing what people do. I was attempting to watch and tutor upper elementary kids at a nonprofit center; I ran into the same challenges. I did not know who was where and in fact that being there twice a week did not afford me the opportunity to familarize myself with voices, although I learned some of them. For people leaving the room, you could place something on the door you'd hear. Maybe ask them to state names at the beginning and then if they leave, have them tell you; it could be a silent message with a card, for instance. I suggest you get a list of names and make name tags; also having them announce names to you from the outset when speaking helps. For the movement, haven't found a solution. How about walking around to the groups so you can observe them closer; you have some vision and you can also hear them more. I think you should ask the human services list too. HTH, ashley -----Original Message----- From: Kaiti Shelton Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 1:49 AM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses Hello all, I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback that can be provided. I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a long way since I started practicum in mid February. However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more so they can hear me." Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any information about it. Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken care of when I signed the other form so that communication could easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is obviously a factor. It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as justification. What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working relationships with professors around the university. Even when I struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, and the music department has assumed responsibility for my accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate hearing about them as well. -- Kaiti _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From clb5590 at gmail.com Sun May 4 19:35:30 2014 From: clb5590 at gmail.com (Cindy Bennett) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 12:35:30 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college In-Reply-To: References: <0N5100LGIZA53710@vms173019.mailsrvcs.net> <483774F2-0A4E-4775-8AF0-D0E9DAC3D1CF@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi Sami, I completely agree with the afore mentioned comments. If you believe at all that you could benefit from training, then go to a center for that gap year. I am saying this from the perspective of someone who was overconfident before college and who did not get the full college experience because once I actually went to college, I was intimidated by the real world and actually lacked confidence and relied on my friends too much. So go to a center in that gap year! I have a friend who volunteered for a year. That is a wonderful thing to do if you have the time and a place to stay. Volunteering can really enrich your experience. I think that too many college kids know little about the real world when they graduate. So whether you take time off school to volunteer or go straight to college, just try to have well rounded experiences during your summers and get a part-time job during school or get very involved in a volunteer organization in the community. However, to me, training should come first if you think that is necessary. It is best to do it as soon as possible so you maximize your years on earth with great blindness skills and the confidence to try new things and get great experiences. Plus, you will likely not have another time in your life that is as convenient to get traning. Once you start having to pay bills, you have to work, and often when you start working, you have to quit your job to go to training as you can't get that much time off. You can also volunteer in your free time while you're at a center. Cindy On 5/4/14, Suzanne Germano wrote: > I think the only reason to take a year off is if you think you need to go > to a center to gain blindness skills or if you were doing something like > volunteering for a year and it would benefit your degree or if you really > do not know what you want to major in and do not want to end up taking 6 > years for a BS because you change majors and have to take extra classes. > > But that won't necessarily happen. My daughter started in civil engineering > and ended up with a BS in biology and has extra courses like differential > equations and surveying that she did not need for bio. She still graduated > in 4 years Summa Cum Laude but had one semester with 21 units and had some > summer courses.. > > Your parents are wrong. Most college freshman are 18 and straight out of > high school. Most people do not take a year off. If you take a year off you > need to expakin that year to future employers. > > I returned to school at 48. My Calc 3 class last semester was almost all > kids straight out of high school and 18 years old. > > Suzanne > > > On Sun, May 4, 2014 at 10:55 AM, Antonio Guimaraes > wrote: > >> You may not have the sufficient training ad skills to take a year off and >> get job experience. >> >> You'll speed things up a lot if you go straight to college, or take time >> to get needed blindness skills as needed. >> >> Do I read it right that your mom thinks you should not be 18-years old ad >> interact with older students? Welcome to the world, and to becoming a >> adult. >> >> Whether you are ready, feel ready, or your parents feel you're ready to >> face the world, you must at some point puss off of their protective >> wings. >> They are not against you, but they probably fear loosing the parental >> control they naturally have now. >> >> Good luck. >> >> Antonio >> >> On May 4, 2014, at 10:07 AM, sami osborne wrote: >> >> > Hi all. >> > >> > I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be >> > graduating >> next ywhar. >> > My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I want >> > to >> do require at least a college degree. >> > However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go to >> college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year between the >> end of high school and the end of college). >> > Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since first >> of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in the long >> run. >> Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know that there >> are benefits to both. >> > I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that you want >> to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more training >> in >> daily living skills. >> > >> > So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go >> straight to college or take a gap year and then go? >> > I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this decision. >> > >> > Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to college, I >> would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, do you >> think she's right? >> > Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of activities can >> > I >> do during this year? >> > Thanks. >> > >> > Sami. >> > >> > _______________________________________________ >> > nabs-l mailing list >> > nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> > >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%40gmail.com >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sgermano%40asu.edu >> > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gmail.com > -- Cindy Bennett Secretary: National Association of Blind Students B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington clb5590 at gmail.com From mikgephart at icloud.com Sun May 4 20:44:17 2014 From: mikgephart at icloud.com (Mikayla Gephart) Date: Sun, 04 May 2014 16:44:17 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Speech For Teachers Message-ID: Hi, all, At the beginning of the 2013-2014 school year, I gave a speech to all of my teachers. I am going to the Tech school, and they have my teachers decided. I will be talking to them on Thursday. I edited the speech I gave at the beginning of this school year to reflect me now. What do you think? Mikayla -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Speech For Teachers.docx Type: application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document Size: 8322 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- Sent from my iPad From gcazares10 at gmail.com Sun May 4 20:53:49 2014 From: gcazares10 at gmail.com (Gabe Cazares) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 15:53:49 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Calling for May NABS Notes Announcements Message-ID: <000001cf67da$f3c57810$db506830$@com> Dear Friends, It's that time again! Your diligent NABS Communications Committee is gearing up to put together the May edition of the NABS Notes, and we need your help! If your state student division is working on an exciting program, project, seminar, or if your state student division is just awesome and you want to share the news with us, don't delay! Get your state announcements to Bre Brown, bre.brown24 at gmail.com, or me, gcazares at nfbtx.org, to be included in the May edition of the NABS Notes! Also, if your student division is planning exciting fundraisers for National Convention, it's not too early to start advertizing. All announcements must be received no later than Wednesday May 7, 2014 by 5:00 PM Central Standard Time to be included. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Bre Brown or me off-list. Hope finals aren't treating y'all too badly! Best, ...Gabe Gabe Cazares, President Texas Association of Blind Students A Division of the National Federation of the Blind of Texas Phone: 281-965-9583 Follow me on Twitter Friend me on Facebook "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr From brice.smith319 at gmail.com Sun May 4 21:03:02 2014 From: brice.smith319 at gmail.com (Brice Smith) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 17:03:02 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Google Hangouts Message-ID: Hi, Does anyone know how to use Google Hangouts to video conference with JAWS? I've searched around the web for answers and I'm still not even sure if it's possible. I tried the iPhone application ... no luck. I installed Chrome, but I don't know what I'm doing. I have experience with Google Docs and Mozilla. I'm in a tight spot because my team wants to video chat and share screens, and I'm the one holding things up. Any advice or experience would be helpful. Brice From lilliepennington at fuse.net Sun May 4 21:16:08 2014 From: lilliepennington at fuse.net (Lillie Pennington) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 17:16:08 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Speech For Teachers In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <57C029C7-3345-4DFB-9CD8-07115C529538@fuse.net> Hi makayla I am meeting with all of my teachers next year right now so I am in a similar situation. If I may ask, why are you giving a speech to them all at once? Personally I find one on one meetings extremely helpful but this is just me. During the meeting I phraise requests if you can as a it would really help me if you could do this because vs a you need to do this approach. If your tvi is there ask if you can lead the meeting. Also make sure to stress that you are just like everyone else and are upheld to the same standards as everyone else. Let me know if you have any questions. Hth Sent from my iPhone > On May 4, 2014, at 4:44 PM, Mikayla Gephart wrote: > > Hi, all, > At the beginning of the 2013-2014 school year, I gave a speech to all of my teachers. I am going to the Tech school, and they have my teachers decided. I will be talking to them on Thursday. I edited the speech I gave at the beginning of this school year to reflect me now. What do you think? > Mikayla > > > > > > Sent from my iPad > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net From gpaikens at gmail.com Sun May 4 21:58:56 2014 From: gpaikens at gmail.com (Greg Aikens) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 17:58:56 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> Hi Kaiti, I’m so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. It sounds as though you did all the right things. You provided your professors with a resource they could consult to determine what is reasonable. You made them aware of your difficulties throughout the semester and sought their input on solutions. Did they give you any warning before the end of the semester that you might not pass the course? In my opinion, it is unacceptable for them to fail you for this when you clearly did your best to come up with strategies and solutions to compensate. It sounds as though their rationale is that they can’t give you a passing grade because if you can’t make accommodations in their class, you won’t be able to be a competent professional in the field, all this without really having a good grasp on what appropriate accommodations might be. That might sound logical, but the reality is that as a professional, you will have more control over your environment, caseload, etc. than in a practicum setting. This was true for me and student teaching. There were things I definitely failed at during my practicum hours and student teaching semester, but as long as I reflected on why what I had tried didn’t work and came up with new strategies to try next time, my supervising professor was satisfied that I would come up with the best method in time. As a teacher, I structure my lessons, classroom, and schedule to avoid situations in which I will be less successful. Making non visual accommodations will be different for each setting and each client you interact with, and it’s something you will improve at over time. The having to take an extra semester or year to complete your degree is the part that really makes it worth fighting. I would get the Learning Center involved. Even if they don’t really know what accommodations should be appropriate, their job is to work with professors to figure that out. I would try to set up a meeting with your professors, the Learning Center, and hopefully the music therapist where you can present your case. Show them how you grew and learned as a professional throughout your experiences. Reflect on the strategies and accommodations you made, whether or not they were successful, and accommodations you plan to try next. Make the case that gaining information about non verbal behavior is not a trivial task for a blind music therapist, but it can be done through creative problem solving and constant adaptation on your part. Show that you have done these things so far in your practice and that it is something you will continue to work on because you know it is core to being a competent professional in your field. If they are still not satisfied because you did not have success with these tasks during the semester, see if they will let you complete some extra practicum hours, probably no more than 20% of the total number you had to complete already (but I just made that number up). Extra hours is not ideal, but it sounds better than having to retake the entire course and perhaps pay for another semester or two of school. Best of luck as you decide what to do. Feel free to contact me on or off list if I can be of any assistance. Best, Greg On May 4, 2014, at 1:49 AM, Kaiti Shelton wrote: > Hello all, > > I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback > that can be provided. > > I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum > coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve > interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical > skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in > psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I > had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local > assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and > developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting > residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage > them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a > long way since I started practicum in mid February. > > However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. > The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically > had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular > participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. > Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. > It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they > were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even > know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a > hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more > so they can hear me." > > Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were > doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead > was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the > residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a > manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would > sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the > semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. > However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were > doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing > exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing > something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of > motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these > questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation > with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any > information about it. > > Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not > able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, > and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I > picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along > with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments > with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the > problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my > wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could > lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to > the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned > that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while > observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and > they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is > clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and > something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work > in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, > but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't > remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of > some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. > > What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I > have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year > behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I > even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a > music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy > to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. > I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and > having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very > qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how > she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. > About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her > phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so > later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed > to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. > She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman > based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak > to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, > and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the > term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn > it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken > care of when I signed the other form so that communication could > easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to > speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to > speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, > and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my > accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even > though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked > repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have > instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course > work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My > professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling > with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing > musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally > making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is > obviously a factor. > > It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know > of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional > standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, > that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a > hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this > semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, > and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making > contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though > every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going > to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' > want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help > me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me > to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new > experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which > could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an > English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, > and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in > some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what > exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that > goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is > to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there > was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that > this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like > more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, > and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as > justification. > > What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with > professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working > relationships with professors around the university. Even when I > struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent > about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and > trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm > getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes > that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all > the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to > say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will > likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school > since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or > in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is > difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to > admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, > and the music department has assumed responsibility for my > accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend > an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over > again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing > anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. > > If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, > please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, > if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate > hearing about them as well. > > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com From arielle71 at gmail.com Sun May 4 22:07:42 2014 From: arielle71 at gmail.com (Arielle Silverman) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 15:07:42 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college In-Reply-To: References: <0N5100LGIZA53710@vms173019.mailsrvcs.net> <483774F2-0A4E-4775-8AF0-D0E9DAC3D1CF@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi Sami, I agree with what everyone else has said. Most college freshmen are 18, and a few are still 17. So your age alone should not be a factor. I think it makes sense to take a gap year only if you have a clear plan for something to do during that year. Training at a good blindness center, like an NFB center, is a great idea. However, I don't think it's necessary for everybody to do it before college. What are you planning to major in? Best, Arielle On 5/4/14, Cindy Bennett wrote: > Hi Sami, > > I completely agree with the afore mentioned comments. If you believe > at all that you could benefit from training, then go to a center for > that gap year. I am saying this from the perspective of someone who > was overconfident before college and who did not get the full college > experience because once I actually went to college, I was intimidated > by the real world and actually lacked confidence and relied on my > friends too much. So go to a center in that gap year! > > I have a friend who volunteered for a year. That is a wonderful thing > to do if you have the time and a place to stay. Volunteering can > really enrich your experience. I think that too many college kids know > little about the real world when they graduate. So whether you take > time off school to volunteer or go straight to college, just try to > have well rounded experiences during your summers and get a part-time > job during school or get very involved in a volunteer organization in > the community. > > However, to me, training should come first if you think that is > necessary. It is best to do it as soon as possible so you maximize > your years on earth with great blindness skills and the confidence to > try new things and get great experiences. Plus, you will likely not > have another time in your life that is as convenient to get traning. > Once you start having to pay bills, you have to work, and often when > you start working, you have to quit your job to go to training as you > can't get that much time off. You can also volunteer in your free time > while you're at a center. > > Cindy > > On 5/4/14, Suzanne Germano wrote: >> I think the only reason to take a year off is if you think you need to go >> to a center to gain blindness skills or if you were doing something like >> volunteering for a year and it would benefit your degree or if you really >> do not know what you want to major in and do not want to end up taking 6 >> years for a BS because you change majors and have to take extra classes. >> >> But that won't necessarily happen. My daughter started in civil >> engineering >> and ended up with a BS in biology and has extra courses like differential >> equations and surveying that she did not need for bio. She still >> graduated >> in 4 years Summa Cum Laude but had one semester with 21 units and had >> some >> summer courses.. >> >> Your parents are wrong. Most college freshman are 18 and straight out of >> high school. Most people do not take a year off. If you take a year off >> you >> need to expakin that year to future employers. >> >> I returned to school at 48. My Calc 3 class last semester was almost all >> kids straight out of high school and 18 years old. >> >> Suzanne >> >> >> On Sun, May 4, 2014 at 10:55 AM, Antonio Guimaraes >> wrote: >> >>> You may not have the sufficient training ad skills to take a year off >>> and >>> get job experience. >>> >>> You'll speed things up a lot if you go straight to college, or take time >>> to get needed blindness skills as needed. >>> >>> Do I read it right that your mom thinks you should not be 18-years old >>> ad >>> interact with older students? Welcome to the world, and to becoming a >>> adult. >>> >>> Whether you are ready, feel ready, or your parents feel you're ready to >>> face the world, you must at some point puss off of their protective >>> wings. >>> They are not against you, but they probably fear loosing the parental >>> control they naturally have now. >>> >>> Good luck. >>> >>> Antonio >>> >>> On May 4, 2014, at 10:07 AM, sami osborne wrote: >>> >>> > Hi all. >>> > >>> > I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be >>> > graduating >>> next ywhar. >>> > My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I want >>> > to >>> do require at least a college degree. >>> > However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go to >>> college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year between the >>> end of high school and the end of college). >>> > Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since first >>> of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in the long >>> run. >>> Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know that >>> there >>> are benefits to both. >>> > I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that you want >>> to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more training >>> in >>> daily living skills. >>> > >>> > So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go >>> straight to college or take a gap year and then go? >>> > I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this decision. >>> > >>> > Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to college, >>> > I >>> would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, do you >>> think she's right? >>> > Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of activities can >>> > I >>> do during this year? >>> > Thanks. >>> > >>> > Sami. >>> > >>> > _______________________________________________ >>> > nabs-l mailing list >>> > nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> > >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%40gmail.com >>> >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sgermano%40asu.edu >>> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gmail.com >> > > > -- > Cindy Bennett > Secretary: National Association of Blind Students > > B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington > clb5590 at gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com > From dsmithnfb at gmail.com Sun May 4 22:34:28 2014 From: dsmithnfb at gmail.com (Darian Smith) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 15:34:28 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] 2014 NFB Student Scholarship Winners In-Reply-To: References: <5763A8CC-A421-4AEB-A806-D93511AB59BC@fuse.net> Message-ID: <7FB94288-F563-4CE6-AE40-5A5B962BDFD3@gmail.com> Nothing to Worry about. The Committee typically wraps up[ selections and contacts around now and news should be made official to the public in a week or two Darian On May 1, 2014, at 8:00 PM, Chopper Johnson wrote: > Calls went out at the very end of April last year. But, as the scholarship > committee is apparently meeting this weekend, I think they've missed that > deadline. > > > ------------------------------------ > Edgar "Chopper" Johnson > President, Student Division, National Federation of the Blind of South > Carolina > epjohnso at g.cofc.edu > chopper992 at gmail.com > (843) 817-5321 > > > On Thu, May 1, 2014 at 10:45 PM, Cindy Bennett wrote: > >> The meeting of the scholarship committee is this weekend; a bit later >> than it has been in the past. I have not won a scholarship but imagine >> that they contact all winners individually before publishing the list >> a couple of weeks later. >> >> Cindy >> >> On 5/1/14, Lillie Pennington wrote: >>> I feel like they announce to the public on the 15th. It is usually on the >>> website or through an email blast. This is just my memory of last year, >> so I >>> could be wrong. >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone >>> >>>> On May 1, 2014, at 8:56 PM, Arielle Silverman >>>> wrote: >>>> >>>> If you win they will call you. I'm not sure if they have decided yet. >>>> It's usually right around this time. If you don't get a call by the >>>> end of May you can assume you probably did not win. >>>> >>>> Arielle >>>> >>>>> On 5/1/14, helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com >>>>> wrote: >>>>> Hi all, this is Helga! How are you all? I just wanted to ask you, do >> you >>>>> know when they are going to announce the students who won the 2014 >>>>> student >>>>> scholarship program? And where is it going to be located the >> information >>>>> about it? Just curious! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and >>>>> God >>>>> bless!! >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gmail.com >>> >> >> >> -- >> Cindy Bennett >> Secretary: National Association of Blind Students >> >> B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington >> clb5590 at gmail.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/chopper992%40gmail.com >> > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From dsmithnfb at gmail.com Sun May 4 22:57:12 2014 From: dsmithnfb at gmail.com (Darian Smith) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 15:57:12 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Speech For Teachers In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <9EFBFFE5-D9EF-47B1-AC03-7A41C5BA496D@gmail.com> Hi Makayla, Do you have these conversations one-on-one? do you have them a speech with the entire group of teachers you plan to be in class with at once? I personally would have a conversation with each teacher individually. this allows you the opportunity to express any concerns you might have and address any they might have which may be unique to the course you are taking. As well, you probably want to get across the idea that you don’t see your blindness as a big deal, so you would expect your teachers to view it similarly. Somehow I think that a prepared speech might not do that quite so well. just my thoughts. Darian On May 4, 2014, at 1:44 PM, Mikayla Gephart wrote: > Hi, all, > At the beginning of the 2013-2014 school year, I gave a speech to all of my teachers. I am going to the Tech school, and they have my teachers decided. I will be talking to them on Thursday. I edited the speech I gave at the beginning of this school year to reflect me now. What do you think? > Mikayla > > > > > Sent from my iPad > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From haleysumner at sbcglobal.net Sun May 4 23:15:14 2014 From: haleysumner at sbcglobal.net (Haley Sumnerr) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 19:15:14 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Speech For Teachers In-Reply-To: <9EFBFFE5-D9EF-47B1-AC03-7A41C5BA496D@gmail.com> References: <9EFBFFE5-D9EF-47B1-AC03-7A41C5BA496D@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hey everyone, Darian, I agree with this as well. I talked to my teachers individually at the beginning of every year Sent from my iPhone > On May 4, 2014, at 6:57 PM, Darian Smith wrote: > > Hi Makayla, > > Do you have these conversations one-on-one? do you have them a speech with the entire group of teachers you plan to be in class with at once? > I personally would have a conversation with each teacher individually. this allows you the opportunity to express any concerns you might have and address any they might have which may be unique to the course you are taking. > As well, you probably want to get across the idea that you don’t see your blindness as a big deal, so you would expect your teachers to view it similarly. > Somehow I think that a prepared speech might not do that quite so well. > just my thoughts. > Darian >> On May 4, 2014, at 1:44 PM, Mikayla Gephart wrote: >> >> Hi, all, >> At the beginning of the 2013-2014 school year, I gave a speech to all of my teachers. I am going to the Tech school, and they have my teachers decided. I will be talking to them on Thursday. I edited the speech I gave at the beginning of this school year to reflect me now. What do you think? >> Mikayla >> >> >> >> >> Sent from my iPad >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/haleysumner%40sbcglobal.net From ligne14 at verizon.net Sun May 4 23:19:09 2014 From: ligne14 at verizon.net (sami osborne) Date: Sun, 04 May 2014 19:19:09 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college Message-ID: <0N520062UOT4KP30@vms173023.mailsrvcs.net> Thanks guys for all your comments. I especially like Vehas suggestion of going to another a country to study a language for my gap year. I myself, like to travel to other countries (we go to France every summer to visit my mom's family, as she is originally from France). I also would like to be a langubde interpreter or a teacher, and therefore to answer your question Arielle, Still am planning to major in languages. Btw, Vehas, how did you know that I want to work in the languages field? Sami. ----- Original Message ----- From: Arielle Silverman wrote: Hi Sami, I completely agree with the afore mentioned comments. If you believe at all that you could benefit from training, then go to a center for that gap year. I am saying this from the perspective of someone who was overconfident before college and who did not get the full college experience because once I actually went to college, I was intimidated by the real world and actually lacked confidence and relied on my friends too much. So go to a center in that gap year! I have a friend who volunteered for a year. That is a wonderful thing to do if you have the time and a place to stay. Volunteering can really enrich your experience. I think that too many college kids know little about the real world when they graduate. So whether you take time off school to volunteer or go straight to college, just try to have well rounded experiences during your summers and get a part-time job during school or get very involved in a volunteer organization in the community. However, to me, training should come first if you think that is necessary. It is best to do it as soon as possible so you maximize your years on earth with great blindness skills and the confidence to try new things and get great experiences. Plus, you will likely not have another time in your life that is as convenient to get traning. Once you start having to pay bills, you have to work, and often when you start working, you have to quit your job to go to training as you can't get that much time off. You can also volunteer in your free time while you're at a center. Cindy On 5/4/14, Suzanne Germano wrote: I think the only reason to take a year off is if you think you need to go to a center to gain blindness skills or if you were doing something like volunteering for a year and it would benefit your degree or if you really do not know what you want to major in and do not want to end up taking 6 years for a BS because you change majors and have to take extra classes. But that won't necessarily happen. My daughter started in civil engineering and ended up with a BS in biology and has extra courses like differential equations and surveying that she did not need for bio. She still graduated in 4 years Summa Cum Laude but had one semester with 21 units and had some summer courses.. Your parents are wrong. Most college freshman are 18 and straight out of high school. Most people do not take a year off. If you take a year off you need to expakin that year to future employers. I returned to school at 48. My Calc 3 class last semester was almost all kids straight out of high school and 18 years old. Suzanne On Sun, May 4, 2014 at 10:55 AM, Antonio Guimaraes wrote: You may not have the sufficient training ad skills to take a year off and get job experience. You'll speed things up a lot if you go straight to college, or take time to get needed blindness skills as needed. Do I read it right that your mom thinks you should not be 18-years old ad interact with older students? Welcome to the world, and to becoming a adult. Whether you are ready, feel ready, or your parents feel you're ready to face the world, you must at some point puss off of their protective wings. They are not against you, but they probably fear loosing the parental control they naturally have now. Good luck. Antonio On May 4, 2014, at 10:07 AM, sami osborne wrote: Hi all. I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be graduating next ywhar. My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I want to do require at least a college degree. However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go to college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year between the end of high school and the end of college). Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since first of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in the long run. Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know that there are benefits to both. I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that you want to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more training in daily living skills. So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go straight to college or take a gap year and then go? I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this decision. Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to college, I would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, do you think she's right? Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of activities can I do during this year? Thanks. Sami. _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%4 0gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sgermano%40as u.edu _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gma il.com -- Cindy Bennett Secretary: National Association of Blind Students B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington clb5590 at gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40g mail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/ligne14%40ver izon.net From mikgephart at icloud.com Sun May 4 23:35:42 2014 From: mikgephart at icloud.com (Mikayla Gephart) Date: Sun, 04 May 2014 19:35:42 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Speech For Teachers In-Reply-To: <9EFBFFE5-D9EF-47B1-AC03-7A41C5BA496D@gmail.com> References: <9EFBFFE5-D9EF-47B1-AC03-7A41C5BA496D@gmail.com> Message-ID: <8E7B9F13-FD5D-4056-96DE-5CE093FF632C@icloud.com> I am speeking with them together, but as I am touring the school, I see them individually. Mikayla Sent from my iPad > On May 4, 2014, at 6:57 PM, Darian Smith wrote: > > Hi Makayla, > > Do you have these conversations one-on-one? do you have them a speech with the entire group of teachers you plan to be in class with at once? > I personally would have a conversation with each teacher individually. this allows you the opportunity to express any concerns you might have and address any they might have which may be unique to the course you are taking. > As well, you probably want to get across the idea that you don’t see your blindness as a big deal, so you would expect your teachers to view it similarly. > Somehow I think that a prepared speech might not do that quite so well. > just my thoughts. > Darian >> On May 4, 2014, at 1:44 PM, Mikayla Gephart wrote: >> >> Hi, all, >> At the beginning of the 2013-2014 school year, I gave a speech to all of my teachers. I am going to the Tech school, and they have my teachers decided. I will be talking to them on Thursday. I edited the speech I gave at the beginning of this school year to reflect me now. What do you think? >> Mikayla >> >> >> >> >> Sent from my iPad >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/mikgephart%40icloud.com From jsoro620 at gmail.com Sun May 4 23:57:22 2014 From: jsoro620 at gmail.com (Joe) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 19:57:22 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college In-Reply-To: <0N520062UOT4KP30@vms173023.mailsrvcs.net> References: <0N520062UOT4KP30@vms173023.mailsrvcs.net> Message-ID: <000a01cf67f4$978460b0$c68d2210$@gmail.com> Is college worth it at all? I wrote a blog post on the subject. I also wrote one about the worth of graduate school. Read them here: http://joeorozco.com/blog_is_college_worth_it -- Twitter: @ScribblingJoe Visit my blog: http://joeorozco.com/blog -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of sami osborne Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 7:19 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] making a decision about college Thanks guys for all your comments. I especially like Vehas suggestion of going to another a country to study a language for my gap year. I myself, like to travel to other countries (we go to France every summer to visit my mom's family, as she is originally from France). I also would like to be a langubde interpreter or a teacher, and therefore to answer your question Arielle, Still am planning to major in languages. Btw, Vehas, how did you know that I want to work in the languages field? Sami. ----- Original Message ----- From: Arielle Silverman wrote: Hi Sami, I completely agree with the afore mentioned comments. If you believe at all that you could benefit from training, then go to a center for that gap year. I am saying this from the perspective of someone who was overconfident before college and who did not get the full college experience because once I actually went to college, I was intimidated by the real world and actually lacked confidence and relied on my friends too much. So go to a center in that gap year! I have a friend who volunteered for a year. That is a wonderful thing to do if you have the time and a place to stay. Volunteering can really enrich your experience. I think that too many college kids know little about the real world when they graduate. So whether you take time off school to volunteer or go straight to college, just try to have well rounded experiences during your summers and get a part-time job during school or get very involved in a volunteer organization in the community. However, to me, training should come first if you think that is necessary. It is best to do it as soon as possible so you maximize your years on earth with great blindness skills and the confidence to try new things and get great experiences. Plus, you will likely not have another time in your life that is as convenient to get traning. Once you start having to pay bills, you have to work, and often when you start working, you have to quit your job to go to training as you can't get that much time off. You can also volunteer in your free time while you're at a center. Cindy On 5/4/14, Suzanne Germano wrote: I think the only reason to take a year off is if you think you need to go to a center to gain blindness skills or if you were doing something like volunteering for a year and it would benefit your degree or if you really do not know what you want to major in and do not want to end up taking 6 years for a BS because you change majors and have to take extra classes. But that won't necessarily happen. My daughter started in civil engineering and ended up with a BS in biology and has extra courses like differential equations and surveying that she did not need for bio. She still graduated in 4 years Summa Cum Laude but had one semester with 21 units and had some summer courses.. Your parents are wrong. Most college freshman are 18 and straight out of high school. Most people do not take a year off. If you take a year off you need to expakin that year to future employers. I returned to school at 48. My Calc 3 class last semester was almost all kids straight out of high school and 18 years old. Suzanne On Sun, May 4, 2014 at 10:55 AM, Antonio Guimaraes wrote: You may not have the sufficient training ad skills to take a year off and get job experience. You'll speed things up a lot if you go straight to college, or take time to get needed blindness skills as needed. Do I read it right that your mom thinks you should not be 18-years old ad interact with older students? Welcome to the world, and to becoming a adult. Whether you are ready, feel ready, or your parents feel you're ready to face the world, you must at some point puss off of their protective wings. They are not against you, but they probably fear loosing the parental control they naturally have now. Good luck. Antonio On May 4, 2014, at 10:07 AM, sami osborne wrote: Hi all. I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be graduating next ywhar. My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I want to do require at least a college degree. However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go to college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year between the end of high school and the end of college). Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since first of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in the long run. Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know that there are benefits to both. I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that you want to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more training in daily living skills. So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go straight to college or take a gap year and then go? I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this decision. Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to college, I would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, do you think she's right? Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of activities can I do during this year? Thanks. Sami. _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%4 0gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sgermano%40as u.edu _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gma il.com -- Cindy Bennett Secretary: National Association of Blind Students B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington clb5590 at gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40g mail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/ligne14%40ver izon.net _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jsoro620%40gmail.com From justin.williams2 at gmail.com Mon May 5 00:32:55 2014 From: justin.williams2 at gmail.com (justin williams) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 20:32:55 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college In-Reply-To: <000a01cf67f4$978460b0$c68d2210$@gmail.com> References: <0N520062UOT4KP30@vms173023.mailsrvcs.net> <000a01cf67f4$978460b0$c68d2210$@gmail.com> Message-ID: <00c001cf67f9$8fda9be0$af8fd3a0$@gmail.com> It is great as a base; good to find a job, but real success comes from the person. If you have a great idea, or a good plan, it is not strictly necessary. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Joe Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 7:57 PM To: 'National Association of Blind Students mailing list' Subject: Re: [nabs-l] making a decision about college Is college worth it at all? I wrote a blog post on the subject. I also wrote one about the worth of graduate school. Read them here: http://joeorozco.com/blog_is_college_worth_it -- Twitter: @ScribblingJoe Visit my blog: http://joeorozco.com/blog -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of sami osborne Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 7:19 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] making a decision about college Thanks guys for all your comments. I especially like Vehas suggestion of going to another a country to study a language for my gap year. I myself, like to travel to other countries (we go to France every summer to visit my mom's family, as she is originally from France). I also would like to be a langubde interpreter or a teacher, and therefore to answer your question Arielle, Still am planning to major in languages. Btw, Vehas, how did you know that I want to work in the languages field? Sami. ----- Original Message ----- From: Arielle Silverman wrote: Hi Sami, I completely agree with the afore mentioned comments. If you believe at all that you could benefit from training, then go to a center for that gap year. I am saying this from the perspective of someone who was overconfident before college and who did not get the full college experience because once I actually went to college, I was intimidated by the real world and actually lacked confidence and relied on my friends too much. So go to a center in that gap year! I have a friend who volunteered for a year. That is a wonderful thing to do if you have the time and a place to stay. Volunteering can really enrich your experience. I think that too many college kids know little about the real world when they graduate. So whether you take time off school to volunteer or go straight to college, just try to have well rounded experiences during your summers and get a part-time job during school or get very involved in a volunteer organization in the community. However, to me, training should come first if you think that is necessary. It is best to do it as soon as possible so you maximize your years on earth with great blindness skills and the confidence to try new things and get great experiences. Plus, you will likely not have another time in your life that is as convenient to get traning. Once you start having to pay bills, you have to work, and often when you start working, you have to quit your job to go to training as you can't get that much time off. You can also volunteer in your free time while you're at a center. Cindy On 5/4/14, Suzanne Germano wrote: I think the only reason to take a year off is if you think you need to go to a center to gain blindness skills or if you were doing something like volunteering for a year and it would benefit your degree or if you really do not know what you want to major in and do not want to end up taking 6 years for a BS because you change majors and have to take extra classes. But that won't necessarily happen. My daughter started in civil engineering and ended up with a BS in biology and has extra courses like differential equations and surveying that she did not need for bio. She still graduated in 4 years Summa Cum Laude but had one semester with 21 units and had some summer courses.. Your parents are wrong. Most college freshman are 18 and straight out of high school. Most people do not take a year off. If you take a year off you need to expakin that year to future employers. I returned to school at 48. My Calc 3 class last semester was almost all kids straight out of high school and 18 years old. Suzanne On Sun, May 4, 2014 at 10:55 AM, Antonio Guimaraes wrote: You may not have the sufficient training ad skills to take a year off and get job experience. You'll speed things up a lot if you go straight to college, or take time to get needed blindness skills as needed. Do I read it right that your mom thinks you should not be 18-years old ad interact with older students? Welcome to the world, and to becoming a adult. Whether you are ready, feel ready, or your parents feel you're ready to face the world, you must at some point puss off of their protective wings. They are not against you, but they probably fear loosing the parental control they naturally have now. Good luck. Antonio On May 4, 2014, at 10:07 AM, sami osborne wrote: Hi all. I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be graduating next ywhar. My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I want to do require at least a college degree. However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go to college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year between the end of high school and the end of college). Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since first of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in the long run. Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know that there are benefits to both. I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that you want to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more training in daily living skills. So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go straight to college or take a gap year and then go? I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this decision. Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to college, I would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, do you think she's right? Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of activities can I do during this year? Thanks. Sami. _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%4 0gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sgermano%40as u.edu _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gma il.com -- Cindy Bennett Secretary: National Association of Blind Students B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington clb5590 at gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40g mail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/ligne14%40ver izon.net _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jsoro620%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com Mon May 5 01:32:05 2014 From: trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com (Winona Brackett) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 21:32:05 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Orientation and Mobility Training to college campus Message-ID: Hi All, I will be attending Stetson University in the fall as a freshman. I have been talking with the Division of Blind Services (in Florida) about receiving orientation to the campus so I can become familiar with my new surroundings and travel independently. How long before move in day should I start orientation to campus? I am excited to go to college, but at the same time, I am worried that I will have to rely on sighted peers too much. Thanks for all the advice and suggestions in advance. Winona trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it." -Lou Holtz Sent from my iPhone using VoiceOver From minh.ha927 at gmail.com Mon May 5 01:47:10 2014 From: minh.ha927 at gmail.com (minh ha) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 21:47:10 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Orientation and Mobility Training to college campus In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hey Winona, I started orientation to my college campus a month and a half in advance of move in day. My O&M instructor and I met every week for about four hours and just worked on the basic routes that I needed, like my dorm, my classes and the dining hall. She also came during the semester to work with me on stuff as they came up such as a building that I needed to get to for an extracurricular activity. If it helps you, ask your instructor to make a tactile map of the campus as a reference. I'm a really spacial learner and with the aid of the map that my instructor created for me, I was able to get myself in the general area of a building, even if I've never been there before. And don't be afraid to ask for help if you get lost; trust me, it's a rite of passage for freshmen to get lost on campus. Minh On 5/4/14, Winona Brackett wrote: > Hi All, > > I will be attending Stetson University in the fall as a freshman. I have > been talking with the Division of Blind Services (in Florida) about > receiving orientation to the campus so I can become familiar with my new > surroundings and travel independently. > > How long before move in day should I start orientation to campus? > > I am excited to go to college, but at the same time, I am worried that I > will have to rely on sighted peers too much. > > Thanks for all the advice and suggestions in advance. > > Winona > > trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com > > "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. > Attitude determines how well you do it." -Lou Holtz > > Sent from my iPhone using VoiceOver > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/minh.ha927%40gmail.com > -- "All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible." T. E. Lawrence From gpaikens at gmail.com Mon May 5 02:45:06 2014 From: gpaikens at gmail.com (Greg Aikens) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 22:45:06 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Google Hangouts In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <2ACAF0DE-CAE5-4556-AFA6-7981C8BBB43F@gmail.com> Hi Brice, I can’t speak to using google hangouts with Jaws but I have been moderately successful doing so with Voiceover on a mac. What problems have you run into specifically? What works best for me is for someone else to invite me. If I don’t have google hangouts open, it will send a link to my email telling me I missed the invite. If I click on the join link, and then find the join button on the page that comes up, I’m usually fine to get into the chat. Just make sure you have whatever plug ins installed that you need. The interface doesn’t play real nice with screen readers. I find that my cursor focus moves unpredictably but I am generally able to find the buttons to turn my camera and microphone on and off. I also tried using Chrome and Chromevox but had much more success in Safari. I know you are using a different screen reader, but perhaps some of this carries over to JAWS and windows. Best, Greg On May 4, 2014, at 5:03 PM, Brice Smith wrote: > Hi, > > Does anyone know how to use Google Hangouts to video conference with > JAWS? I've searched around the web for answers and I'm still not even > sure if it's possible. I tried the iPhone application ... no luck. I > installed Chrome, but I don't know what I'm doing. I have experience > with Google Docs and Mozilla. I'm in a tight spot because my team > wants to video chat and share screens, and I'm the one holding things > up. Any advice or experience would be helpful. > > Brice > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com From dsmithnfb at gmail.com Mon May 5 03:21:18 2014 From: dsmithnfb at gmail.com (Darian Smith) Date: Sun, 4 May 2014 20:21:18 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Orientation and Mobility Training to college campus In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <976EF3CA-B729-44D9-91CB-A86A4C34BFAC@gmail.com> Hello, I am not going to repeat what’s been said because those points are good ones in my view. I would say that in addition to a tactual map, and being willing to ask for directions from folks on campus, you’ll want to think about learning basic routes. To Class, to dining hall, to dorm room. Keep in mind how long it generally takes you to get yourself acclimated to an area because some people need to go over a route three or four times while others can do it once or twice. When I start to figure out my way around campus I take note of any landmarks that stand out (Thea fountain, a statue, or the Science hall, or the student union). Getting to campus is going to be very exciting and you are going to be nervous. If you have a roommate, maybe you both go and grab a bite to eat and explore the campus a bit. You both are going to be new and you both need to scope the area out anyway. I wish you the best, Darian On May 4, 2014, at 6:47 PM, minh ha wrote: > Hey Winona, > > I started orientation to my college campus a month and a half in > advance of move in day. My O&M instructor and I met every week for > about four hours and just worked on the basic routes that I needed, > like my dorm, my classes and the dining hall. She also came during the > semester to work with me on stuff as they came up such as a building > that I needed to get to for an extracurricular activity. If it helps > you, ask your instructor to make a tactile map of the campus as a > reference. I'm a really spacial learner and with the aid of the map > that my instructor created for me, I was able to get myself in the > general area of a building, even if I've never been there before. And > don't be afraid to ask for help if you get lost; trust me, it's a rite > of passage for freshmen to get lost on campus. > > Minh > > On 5/4/14, Winona Brackett wrote: >> Hi All, >> >> I will be attending Stetson University in the fall as a freshman. I have >> been talking with the Division of Blind Services (in Florida) about >> receiving orientation to the campus so I can become familiar with my new >> surroundings and travel independently. >> >> How long before move in day should I start orientation to campus? >> >> I am excited to go to college, but at the same time, I am worried that I >> will have to rely on sighted peers too much. >> >> Thanks for all the advice and suggestions in advance. >> >> Winona >> >> trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com >> >> "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. >> Attitude determines how well you do it." -Lou Holtz >> >> Sent from my iPhone using VoiceOver >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/minh.ha927%40gmail.com >> > > > -- > "All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty > recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: > but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on > their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible." T. E. Lawrence > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From alpineimagination at gmail.com Mon May 5 03:26:29 2014 From: alpineimagination at gmail.com (Vejas) Date: Sun, 04 May 2014 20:26:29 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college Message-ID: <536704ec.01f5420a.2e40.ffff8a83@mx.google.com> Sami, I didn't know you had an interest in languages, it was just a suggesttion. But that's really cool. I'm a second generation Lithuanian. Our immediate family has pretty much all come here, but there are still some relatives left there. I'll be going there this summer and am very excited. My parents first started talking to me in Lithuanian (before English), and I'm okay at it. Although I already have plans to take my gap year at LCB, I'd maybe like to go back to Lithuania. Teaching Lithuanian kids English would be fun. Vejas ----- Original Message ----- From: sami osborne wrote: Hi Sami, I completely agree with the afore mentioned comments. If you believe at all that you could benefit from training, then go to a center for that gap year. I am saying this from the perspective of someone who was overconfident before college and who did not get the full college experience because once I actually went to college, I was intimidated by the real world and actually lacked confidence and relied on my friends too much. So go to a center in that gap year! I have a friend who volunteered for a year. That is a wonderful thing to do if you have the time and a place to stay. Volunteering can really enrich your experience. I think that too many college kids know little about the real world when they graduate. So whether you take time off school to volunteer or go straight to college, just try to have well rounded experiences during your summers and get a part-time job during school or get very involved in a volunteer organization in the community. However, to me, training should come first if you think that is necessary. It is best to do it as soon as possible so you maximize your years on earth with great blindness skills and the confidence to try new things and get great experiences. Plus, you will likely not have another time in your life that is as convenient to get traning. Once you start having to pay bills, you have to work, and often when you start working, you have to quit your job to go to training as you can't get that much time off. You can also volunteer in your free time while you're at a center. Cindy On 5/4/14, Suzanne Germano wrote: I think the only reason to take a year off is if you think you need to go to a center to gain blindness skills or if you were doing something like volunteering for a year and it would benefit your degree or if you really do not know what you want to major in and do not want to end up taking 6 years for a BS because you change majors and have to take extra classes. But that won't necessarily happen. My daughter started in civil engineering and ended up with a BS in biology and has extra courses like differential equations and surveying that she did not need for bio. She still graduated in 4 years Summa Cum Laude but had one semester with 21 units and had some summer courses.. Your parents are wrong. Most college freshman are 18 and straight out of high school. Most people do not take a year off. If you take a year off you need to expakin that year to future employers. I returned to school at 48. My Calc 3 class last semester was almost all kids straight out of high school and 18 years old. Suzanne On Sun, May 4, 2014 at 10:55 AM, Antonio Guimaraes wrote: You may not have the sufficient training ad skills to take a year off and get job experience. You'll speed things up a lot if you go straight to college, or take time to get needed blindness skills as needed. Do I read it right that your mom thinks you should not be 18-years old ad interact with older students? Welcome to the world, and to becoming a adult. Whether you are ready, feel ready, or your parents feel you're ready to face the world, you must at some point puss off of their protective wings. They are not against you, but they probably fear loosing the parental control they naturally have now. Good luck. Antonio On May 4, 2014, at 10:07 AM, sami osborne References: <976EF3CA-B729-44D9-91CB-A86A4C34BFAC@gmail.com> Message-ID: <013c01cf6815$564f4030$02edc090$@gmail.com> Make sure you do some scoping on y ou own as well; you are going to use different markers anth cues than your sighted counterparts; I love the word counterparts, but seriously, make sure you do your own exploring. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Darian Smith Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 11:21 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Orientation and Mobility Training to college campus Hello, I am not going to repeat what's been said because those points are good ones in my view. I would say that in addition to a tactual map, and being willing to ask for directions from folks on campus, you'll want to think about learning basic routes. To Class, to dining hall, to dorm room. Keep in mind how long it generally takes you to get yourself acclimated to an area because some people need to go over a route three or four times while others can do it once or twice. When I start to figure out my way around campus I take note of any landmarks that stand out (Thea fountain, a statue, or the Science hall, or the student union). Getting to campus is going to be very exciting and you are going to be nervous. If you have a roommate, maybe you both go and grab a bite to eat and explore the campus a bit. You both are going to be new and you both need to scope the area out anyway. I wish you the best, Darian On May 4, 2014, at 6:47 PM, minh ha wrote: > Hey Winona, > > I started orientation to my college campus a month and a half in > advance of move in day. My O&M instructor and I met every week for > about four hours and just worked on the basic routes that I needed, > like my dorm, my classes and the dining hall. She also came during the > semester to work with me on stuff as they came up such as a building > that I needed to get to for an extracurricular activity. If it helps > you, ask your instructor to make a tactile map of the campus as a > reference. I'm a really spacial learner and with the aid of the map > that my instructor created for me, I was able to get myself in the > general area of a building, even if I've never been there before. And > don't be afraid to ask for help if you get lost; trust me, it's a rite > of passage for freshmen to get lost on campus. > > Minh > > On 5/4/14, Winona Brackett wrote: >> Hi All, >> >> I will be attending Stetson University in the fall as a freshman. I >> have been talking with the Division of Blind Services (in Florida) >> about receiving orientation to the campus so I can become familiar >> with my new surroundings and travel independently. >> >> How long before move in day should I start orientation to campus? >> >> I am excited to go to college, but at the same time, I am worried >> that I will have to rely on sighted peers too much. >> >> Thanks for all the advice and suggestions in advance. >> >> Winona >> >> trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com >> >> "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. >> Attitude determines how well you do it." -Lou Holtz >> >> Sent from my iPhone using VoiceOver >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/minh.ha927%40gmai >> l.com >> > > > -- > "All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty > recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: > but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on > their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible." T. E. Lawrence > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail. > com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From freethaught at gmail.com Mon May 5 18:35:10 2014 From: freethaught at gmail.com (Antonio Guimaraes) Date: Mon, 5 May 2014 14:35:10 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] making a decision about college In-Reply-To: <000a01cf67f4$978460b0$c68d2210$@gmail.com> References: <0N520062UOT4KP30@vms173023.mailsrvcs.net> <000a01cf67f4$978460b0$c68d2210$@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi Joe, I'll admit I haven't read your blog entries about college attendance, so I will come in with my own bias, and experiences. If income matters to you, mulla, dinero, you know, good old cash, a higher income and higher standard of living, then college has been proven to raise income by as much as 8 percent per year in college. This has been sited again and again by economists in the Freakonomics podcast, and supported by experts appearing in the Marketplace Money podcast, both from National Public Radio. I attend college, and have spent my own, as well as public funds on my education, so perhaps it would be wise to research before making this commitment in funds and time. But I frankly do not wish to be influenced by too many skeptics, and arguments about people who left college to launch startups, and the like. Much of it is how much you really put into it. And remember, Bill Gates is the exception, not the rule. Antonio On May 4, 2014, at 7:57 PM, Joe wrote: > Is college worth it at all? I wrote a blog post on the subject. I also wrote > one about the worth of graduate school. Read them here: > > http://joeorozco.com/blog_is_college_worth_it > > -- > Twitter: @ScribblingJoe > > Visit my blog: > http://joeorozco.com/blog > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of sami osborne > Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 7:19 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] making a decision about college > > Thanks guys for all your comments. > I especially like Vehas suggestion of going to another a country to study a > language for my gap year. > I myself, like to travel to other countries (we go to France every summer to > visit my mom's family, as she is originally from France). > I also would like to be a langubde interpreter or a teacher, and therefore > to answer your question Arielle, Still am planning to major in languages. > Btw, Vehas, how did you know that I want to work in the languages field? > Sami. > > > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Arielle Silverman To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Date sent: Sun, 04 May 2014 15:07:42 -0700 > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] making a decision about college > > Hi Sami, > > I agree with what everyone else has said. Most college freshmen are 18, and > a few are still 17. So your age alone should not be a factor. > I think it makes sense to take a gap year only if you have a clear plan for > something to do during that year. Training at a good blindness center, like > an NFB center, is a great idea. However, I don't think it's necessary for > everybody to do it before college. > What > are you planning to major in? > > Best, > Arielle > > On 5/4/14, Cindy Bennett wrote: > Hi Sami, > > I completely agree with the afore mentioned comments. If you believe at > all that you could benefit from training, then go to a center for that gap > year. I am saying this from the perspective of someone who was > overconfident before college and who did not get the full college > experience because once I actually went to college, I was intimidated by > the real world and actually lacked confidence and relied on my friends too > much. So go to a center in that gap year! > > I have a friend who volunteered for a year. That is a wonderful thing to > do if you have the time and a place to stay. Volunteering can really > enrich your experience. I think that too many college kids know little > about the real world when they graduate. So whether you take time off > school to volunteer or go straight to college, just try to have well > rounded experiences during your summers and get a part-time job during > school or get very involved in a volunteer organization in the community. > > However, to me, training should come first if you think that is necessary. > It is best to do it as soon as possible so you maximize your years on earth > with great blindness skills and the confidence to try new things and get > great experiences. Plus, you will likely not have another time in your > life that is as convenient to get traning. > Once you start having to pay bills, you have to work, and often when you > start working, you have to quit your job to go to training as you can't get > that much time off. You can also volunteer in your free time while you're > at a center. > > Cindy > > On 5/4/14, Suzanne Germano wrote: > I think the only reason to take a year off is if you think you > need to go > to a center to gain blindness skills or if you were doing > something like > volunteering for a year and it would benefit your degree or if > you really > do not know what you want to major in and do not want to end up > taking 6 > years for a BS because you change majors and have to take extra > classes. > > But that won't necessarily happen. My daughter started in civil > engineering > and ended up with a BS in biology and has extra courses like > differential > equations and surveying that she did not need for bio. She > still > graduated > in 4 years Summa Cum Laude but had one semester with 21 units > and had > some > summer courses.. > > Your parents are wrong. Most college freshman are 18 and > straight out of > high school. Most people do not take a year off. If you take a > year off > you > need to expakin that year to future employers. > > I returned to school at 48. My Calc 3 class last semester was > almost all > kids straight out of high school and 18 years old. > > Suzanne > > > On Sun, May 4, 2014 at 10:55 AM, Antonio Guimaraes > wrote: > > You may not have the sufficient training ad skills to take a > year off > and > get job experience. > > You'll speed things up a lot if you go straight to college, or > take time > to get needed blindness skills as needed. > > Do I read it right that your mom thinks you should not be > 18-years old > ad > interact with older students? Welcome to the world, and to > becoming a > adult. > > Whether you are ready, feel ready, or your parents feel you're > ready to > face the world, you must at some point puss off of their > protective > wings. > They are not against you, but they probably fear loosing the > parental > control they naturally have now. > > Good luck. > > Antonio > > On May 4, 2014, at 10:07 AM, sami osborne > wrote: > > Hi all. > > I am currently a junior in high school, and will therefore be > graduating > next ywhar. > My intention is to go to college after I graduate, as the jobs I > want > to > do require at least a college degree. > However, my parents and I have been talking about whether to go > to > college right after high school or taking a gap year (a year > between the > end of high school and the end of college). > Only thing is, this is a really tough decision on my part, since > first > of all I know that it is my decision, and not my parent's, in > the long > run. > Secondly, this is also a hard decision to make because I know > that > there > are benefits to both. > I know that in college you can study for the kind of job that > you want > to do, and in taking a gap year, you can for instance get more > training > in > daily living skills. > > So I'm therefore asking, what would you guys advise me to do, go > straight to college or take a gap year and then go? > I would really apreciate it if you could help me with this > decision. > > Also, another thing, my mom told me that if I go strasght to > college, > I > would be 18, I would be on the young side of the other students, > do you > think she's right? > Also, if you advise me to do the gap year, what sort of > activities can > I > do during this year? > Thanks. > > Sami. > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account > info for > nabs-l: > > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%4 > 0gmail.com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account > info for > nabs-l: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sgermano%40as > u.edu > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account > info for > nabs-l: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gma > il.com > > > > -- > Cindy Bennett > Secretary: National Association of Blind Students > > B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington > clb5590 at gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account > info for > nabs-l: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40g > mail.com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info > for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/ligne14%40ver > izon.net > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jsoro620%40gmail.com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%40gmail.com From crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com Mon May 5 22:51:51 2014 From: crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com (Kaiti Shelton) Date: Mon, 5 May 2014 18:51:51 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Orientation and Mobility Training to college campus In-Reply-To: <013c01cf6815$564f4030$02edc090$@gmail.com> References: <976EF3CA-B729-44D9-91CB-A86A4C34BFAC@gmail.com> <013c01cf6815$564f4030$02edc090$@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi Winona, Like Minh, I think I started learning the campus about a month before I was supposed to arrive. My situation was a little different, since I moved in a week early for marching band camp, but I think my mom just pointing out landmarks everytime we have gone up there for tours, visits with the disabilities services, and music auditions helped me a lot. So knowledge of that stuff from past visits will only help you. For example, I knew from my mom telling me on repeated visits that the engineering building was basically the center of campus, and it was across from the humanities plaza, with the music building set back between the two buildings. On the far side, away from the music building, was a parking lot which I could walk through to get to my dorm, and other student residence buildings. Though I wasn't familiar with the spatial aspects of this area any more, I was able to recall what my mom had told me and confirm my hunches with the instructor. This helped us cover more ground in a short amount of time, I believe. I worked with my instructor for 2 to 4 hours 4 or 5 weeks in a row. Each time I grew more familiar with the routes I would need to get to my academic buildings, and we even managed to find shortcuts. I was really lucky in that my dorm was really close to the main cafeteria on campus, and for most of the year there is a fountain outside of it. Using the fountain was great for getting me on the right path towards the student union, and by the time the fountain was shut off in November I didn't have to rely upon it any more. One other recommendation I would have would be to get a rehab teacher to help you as well. I got lucky to get a guy who was a certified orientation and mobility instructor as well as a certified rehab teacher, so some of the time we were together at school was spent labeling different things. I was able to get bump dots put on the washers so I would know where the dial needed to go, and my mailbox got a braille label on it so I could look for my name rather than try to read the tiny print room number. He also made sure I was familiar with how the microwave and air conditioning unit in my room were set up, which was really nice because I got to see my room early. One other thing that students typically struggle with is navigating the cafeteria. Often it can be pretty difficult to navigate crowds, or know what is where in buffet situations. I got lucky in that there are people to serve most things to you when you order them at stations in the cafeteria, and the cafeteria food court is basically set up like a horseshoe; everyone goes in at one end of the horshshoe, and circles around till they find the station they want to order from. On the opposite side of the horseshoe is a drink station, and then there are 4 or so registers you can go to for payment. The only thing that is a bit tricky for me to work with is the salad bar, since it is pretty rarely staffed, but typically salad bars will have the same kinds of things in the same areas from day to day, and you can learn them as you go. Having access to online menues helps a lot as well. Hope this helps, and good luck with starting college. It's really an exciting time! On 5/4/14, justin williams wrote: > Make sure you do some scoping on y ou own as well; you are going to use > different markers anth cues than your sighted counterparts; I love the word > counterparts, but seriously, make sure you do your own exploring. > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Darian Smith > Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2014 11:21 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Orientation and Mobility Training to college campus > > Hello, > I am not going to repeat what's been said because those points are good > ones in my view. > I would say that in addition to a tactual map, and being willing to ask > for directions from folks on campus, you'll want to think about learning > basic routes. To Class, to dining hall, to dorm room. > Keep in mind how long it generally takes you to get yourself acclimated > to an area because some people need to go over a route three or four times > while others can do it once or twice. > When I start to figure out my way around campus I take note of any > landmarks that stand out (Thea fountain, a statue, or the Science hall, or > the student union). > Getting to campus is going to be very exciting and you are going to be > nervous. If you have a roommate, maybe you both go and grab a bite to eat > and explore the campus a bit. You both are going to be new and you both > need to scope the area out anyway. > > I wish you the best, > Darian > On May 4, 2014, at 6:47 PM, minh ha wrote: > >> Hey Winona, >> >> I started orientation to my college campus a month and a half in >> advance of move in day. My O&M instructor and I met every week for >> about four hours and just worked on the basic routes that I needed, >> like my dorm, my classes and the dining hall. She also came during the >> semester to work with me on stuff as they came up such as a building >> that I needed to get to for an extracurricular activity. If it helps >> you, ask your instructor to make a tactile map of the campus as a >> reference. I'm a really spacial learner and with the aid of the map >> that my instructor created for me, I was able to get myself in the >> general area of a building, even if I've never been there before. And >> don't be afraid to ask for help if you get lost; trust me, it's a rite >> of passage for freshmen to get lost on campus. >> >> Minh >> >> On 5/4/14, Winona Brackett wrote: >>> Hi All, >>> >>> I will be attending Stetson University in the fall as a freshman. I >>> have been talking with the Division of Blind Services (in Florida) >>> about receiving orientation to the campus so I can become familiar >>> with my new surroundings and travel independently. >>> >>> How long before move in day should I start orientation to campus? >>> >>> I am excited to go to college, but at the same time, I am worried >>> that I will have to rely on sighted peers too much. >>> >>> Thanks for all the advice and suggestions in advance. >>> >>> Winona >>> >>> trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com >>> >>> "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you > do. >>> Attitude determines how well you do it." -Lou Holtz >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone using VoiceOver >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/minh.ha927%40gmai >>> l.com >>> >> >> >> -- >> "All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty >> recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: >> but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on >> their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible." T. E. Lawrence >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail. >> com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail > .com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com Mon May 5 23:02:19 2014 From: crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com (Kaiti Shelton) Date: Mon, 5 May 2014 19:02:19 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> References: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> Message-ID: Thanks all for your suggestions. Here is a little more information about the situation. An in-person meeting really is probably not possible for me, the music therapist I know, and the faculty simply because she is based in my hometown, and I go to school in a city that is about an hour away. Getting transportation for her certainly would not be impossible, but it would be really expensive for an hour or so of time to meet. That is why I suggested phone conversations, because then geography would not be an issue, and they could have more frequent consultations with her. The professors mentioned in our meeting that they are thinking of driving to her to see her clinical work, but the questions I have are that if they were going to do this, why did they wait so long to do it, and when are they planning to do this? I had a very lengthy conversation with my disabilities services counselor before leaving campus, and I went to her immediately after the meeting for an additional conversation as well. She has agreed to step in, and has the idea that if the groups can not be made accessible to me, then perhaps the best answer would be to adjust the practicum so that I have a smaller number of clients, or are in a different setting with different documentation requirements. I told her what the music therapist told me about documentation. She said that she has never had to document things as specifically as I am having to do, and she just keeps track of the goals and objectives, the session plans, and the progress her clients make towards reaching their goals and objectives in documents on her notetaker. So, it is very clear that the definition of acceptable documentation, and what information is truly salient for the MT to know, is not concrete. The problemwith not knowing who comes and leaves is a difficult one. First, the room we were in was more like a day room that was just set off of a hallway. There were no doors to open or shut. If a resident wanted to go back to their room, so long as they were ambulatory, they could just get up, leave the semicircle, and go down the hall. Also, it is difficult to pay attention to any noises people like that might make when you're facilitating a song. One of my problems I had to work on this semester was learning to project with my voice since I am not a vocalist by trade, so for a while and to this day it has felt like I'm shouting when really I'm just singing at a reasonable volume for the residents, many of whom have hearing impairments, to hear. Also, when we'd come into the room we'd have to push this big set of tables back towards the opposite wall to make room for the semicircle, and sometimes residents would come in late and sit themselves behind the table where some of the staff waits on-hand than insert themselves into the group. We had one resident who tended to do this a lot, and I would always feel really bad if I was passing out instruments or scarves and failed to give her one. I was given feedback on evaluations, and was consistently told to be more specific, but the problem was that I simply did not know how to. I was providing information on what I knew and heard about in the discussions after sessions, but it's difficult to provide information and document something you didn't know happened. I also understand that I should be held to the same expectations as everyone else, but not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot do. There has to be a compromise. I am planning to seek information from the folks on the Human Services list. That was a great suggestion that I really want to take, but I thought I'd try to see if students had a perspective first, since I know the human services division actually doesn't have a lot, if any, music therapists. I have been on the list a few times, and am still hoping a professional will pop up on there for me to network with. Greg brought up an interesting point, and one I really agree with. It is clear from what my music therapist contact told me that I'm probably not going to need to be as specific when I document in the job sector as I am going to need to be in practicum. I understand that by teaching us to do more work that it will be easier when we don't have to do as much after graduating, but it makes it difficult to get to that point if the expectations don't have a modification that would allow me to be successful. Unfortunately, I have to do what my supervising professors want me to do in order to earn the freedom to document in a way that is more suitable for me. I'm very frustrated; I have never had any academic issues till this year, and so far the 2 problems I've encountered are in classes I need for my major. All my gen ed professors and I form working relationships so easily, and while it is obvious where I struggle and where I don't (math and science courses verses English and History, psychology, and philosophy respectively), I do my best, and the professors adjust their requirements when necessary. E.G, in biology we had journal assignments, where we had to find a journal article, review it, and write a summary. The original requirements stated that we had to underline the parts of the journal article we used. Since I could not underline something that was already published on the web, I underlined the parts of my written document which I paraphrased from the article. When my teacher saw this on the second of these assignments, she asked me why I didn't follow directions and I told her why. Even though she missed the reasoning behind it, and forgot to even take the fact that I couldn't physically underline something into account, she took note of it. I actually got a few points added on to my first assignment as well, which she had taken off for the underlining issue. If a biology professor who I had for one semester can do this, it makes me nervous that the professors I will need to work with in my major to get my degree cannot. The worst part is that it is effecting me much more than academically too; I am now not as confident as I was, since I am so used to being an A B student, and this is really the first time I feel like my blindness is an issue. To tell the truth, it's the first time I've really felt self-conscious about it, and it's not a good feeling at all. The profs say my disability has nothing to do with it other than the fact that I didn't communicate my needs well enough, but I honestly don't believe that is the case. It really does feel like my blineness, and the disagreements over how to teach me and accommodate it, are what has caused me to require an extra year of college. I just heard for sure that this has put me an entire year behind in the practicum sequence this afternoon, and it is difficult to fathom what to do next, how to handle myself when I go back for my second try, and how I'll even pay for the fifth year I was not at all expecting to take. I guess on the bright side, I can get my second minor that those same advisors were advising me to drop, since I'll need to take some courses in order to remain a full time student for financial aid purposes if I'm going to afford it at all. And, I'll be able to file the fafsa as an independent student since I won't be younger than 21 or have a job at the time, but this is just very hard for me to accept having grown up with excellent grades and no major problems related to my education. On 5/4/14, Greg Aikens wrote: > Hi Kaiti, > I'm so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. It sounds as though > you did all the right things. You provided your professors with a resource > they could consult to determine what is reasonable. You made them aware of > your difficulties throughout the semester and sought their input on > solutions. Did they give you any warning before the end of the semester that > you might not pass the course? In my opinion, it is unacceptable for them to > fail you for this when you clearly did your best to come up with strategies > and solutions to compensate. It sounds as though their rationale is that > they can't give you a passing grade because if you can't make accommodations > in their class, you won't be able to be a competent professional in the > field, all this without really having a good grasp on what appropriate > accommodations might be. > > That might sound logical, but the reality is that as a professional, you > will have more control over your environment, caseload, etc. than in a > practicum setting. This was true for me and student teaching. There were > things I definitely failed at during my practicum hours and student teaching > semester, but as long as I reflected on why what I had tried didn't work and > came up with new strategies to try next time, my supervising professor was > satisfied that I would come up with the best method in time. As a teacher, I > structure my lessons, classroom, and schedule to avoid situations in which I > will be less successful. Making non visual accommodations will be different > for each setting and each client you interact with, and it's something you > will improve at over time. > > The having to take an extra semester or year to complete your degree is the > part that really makes it worth fighting. I would get the Learning Center > involved. Even if they don't really know what accommodations should be > appropriate, their job is to work with professors to figure that out. I > would try to set up a meeting with your professors, the Learning Center, and > hopefully the music therapist where you can present your case. Show them how > you grew and learned as a professional throughout your experiences. Reflect > on the strategies and accommodations you made, whether or not they were > successful, and accommodations you plan to try next. Make the case that > gaining information about non verbal behavior is not a trivial task for a > blind music therapist, but it can be done through creative problem solving > and constant adaptation on your part. Show that you have done these things > so far in your practice and that it is something you will continue to work > on because you know it is core to being a competent professional in your > field. If they are still not satisfied because you did not have success with > these tasks during the semester, see if they will let you complete some > extra practicum hours, probably no more than 20% of the total number you had > to complete already (but I just made that number up). Extra hours is not > ideal, but it sounds better than having to retake the entire course and > perhaps pay for another semester or two of school. > > Best of luck as you decide what to do. Feel free to contact me on or off > list if I can be of any assistance. > > Best, > Greg > > > On May 4, 2014, at 1:49 AM, Kaiti Shelton > wrote: > >> Hello all, >> >> I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback >> that can be provided. >> >> I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum >> coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve >> interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical >> skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in >> psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I >> had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local >> assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and >> developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting >> residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage >> them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a >> long way since I started practicum in mid February. >> >> However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. >> The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically >> had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular >> participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. >> Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. >> It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they >> were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even >> know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a >> hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more >> so they can hear me." >> >> Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were >> doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead >> was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the >> residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a >> manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would >> sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the >> semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. >> However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were >> doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing >> exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing >> something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of >> motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these >> questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation >> with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any >> information about it. >> >> Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not >> able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, >> and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I >> picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along >> with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments >> with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the >> problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my >> wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could >> lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to >> the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned >> that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while >> observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and >> they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is >> clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and >> something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work >> in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, >> but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't >> remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of >> some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. >> >> What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I >> have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year >> behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I >> even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a >> music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy >> to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. >> I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and >> having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very >> qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how >> she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. >> About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her >> phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so >> later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed >> to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. >> She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman >> based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak >> to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, >> and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the >> term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn >> it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken >> care of when I signed the other form so that communication could >> easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to >> speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to >> speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, >> and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my >> accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even >> though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked >> repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have >> instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course >> work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My >> professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling >> with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing >> musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally >> making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is >> obviously a factor. >> >> It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know >> of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional >> standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, >> that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a >> hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this >> semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, >> and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making >> contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though >> every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going >> to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' >> want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help >> me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me >> to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new >> experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which >> could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an >> English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, >> and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in >> some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what >> exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that >> goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is >> to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there >> was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that >> this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like >> more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, >> and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as >> justification. >> >> What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with >> professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working >> relationships with professors around the university. Even when I >> struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent >> about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and >> trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm >> getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes >> that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all >> the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to >> say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will >> likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school >> since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or >> in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is >> difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to >> admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, >> and the music department has assumed responsibility for my >> accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend >> an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over >> again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing >> anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. >> >> If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, >> please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, >> if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate >> hearing about them as well. >> >> -- >> Kaiti >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From arielle71 at gmail.com Tue May 6 02:29:16 2014 From: arielle71 at gmail.com (Arielle Silverman) Date: Mon, 5 May 2014 20:29:16 -0600 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: References: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi Kaiti, I have a little bit of experience on the professor side of the desk, not in a practicum field per se, but having taught a course and been a teaching assistant for some others. Based on this experience my suspicion is that your professors did not intentionally discriminate against you, but that they got busy and forgot to follow up with the music therapist until they realized you were struggling. It doesn't excuse their behavior at all, but is a problem at universities where professors are often overworked. When teaching multiple classes, possibly doing research or seeing their own clients too, professors may simply neglect to attend to individual students' needs. I had several students with learning disabilities and exam modifications in my class, and while I tried hard to keep track of their unique learning needs, it was difficult at times and I occasionally forgot to send a PowerPoint to a student in advance, for example. I think that in the future it will be very important for you to be the sole organizer of your own accommodation requests and information requests. Instead of waiting for your professor to drive over and visit the music therapist or to call her, why not organize a conference call yourself, ask them when they are free, set up the call and all your prof has to do is be there at the agreed-upon time? The less extra work it is for them, the more likely it is that your accommodation needs will be met in an appropriate, timely way. It is unfair that you as the student have to do the extra work, but in today's ablist society, and with professors overworked and teaching responsibilities a low priority for them, this is often what has to happen. Again, if a call or meeting is not possible, or even if it is possible, I would strongly recommend having the blind therapist write a letter stating clearly that documentation of the kind they are requiring is not essential on the job. It is possible that you will be required to do the documentation anyway, and if that is the case, might disability services or voc rehab help you pay for a reader to tell you after each session what went down visually so you can include it on your reports? I know this experience is stressful and can affect your confidence, but I think it says more about the strict bureaucracy of the professional training than it says about your ability to be a music therapist. You may just need to be a little creative about meeting the bureaucratic requirements with some temporary strategies, like using readers, to get through this part of your training. I do think this experience is a good lesson for you and everyone else about how important it is for us to take charge of our own accommodations as much as we can and depending as little as possible on anyone else (be it a professor, or the disability services office) to carry out an accommodations plan. This includes getting your own supporting materials (like a letter from the blind music therapist) justifying the accommodations you think are best. It is unfair that we should have to do this, but ultimately we are the only ones who are really invested in our own futures. It's not a big deal from the professor's perspective that you have to retake practicum, but it is a big deal for you, so it behooves you to push as hard as possible to get full access to the curriculum and be sure you are meeting the requirements. Again, having the requirements changed seems appropriate, but if they are not willing to do that, there are still ways for you to meet the same requirements as the other students. Best, Arielle On 5/5/14, Kaiti Shelton wrote: > Thanks all for your suggestions. Here is a little more information > about the situation. > > An in-person meeting really is probably not possible for me, the music > therapist > I know, and the faculty simply because she is based in my hometown, > and I go to school in a city that is about an hour away. Getting > transportation for her certainly would not be impossible, but it would > be really expensive for an hour or so of time to meet. That is why I > suggested phone conversations, because then geography would not be an > issue, and they could have more frequent consultations with her. The > professors mentioned in our meeting that they are thinking of driving > to her to see her clinical work, but the questions I have are that if > they were going to do this, why did they wait so long to do it, and > when are they planning to do this? > > I had a very lengthy conversation with my disabilities services > counselor before leaving campus, and I went to her immediately after > the meeting for an additional conversation as well. She has agreed to > step in, and has the idea that if the groups can not be made > accessible to me, then perhaps the best answer would be to adjust the > practicum so that I have a smaller number of clients, or are in a > different setting with different documentation requirements. I told > her what the music therapist told me about documentation. She said > that she has never had to document things as specifically as I am > having to do, and she just keeps track of the goals and objectives, > the session plans, and the progress her clients make towards reaching > their goals and objectives in documents on her notetaker. So, it is > very clear that the definition of acceptable documentation, and what > information is truly salient for the MT to know, is not concrete. > > The problemwith not knowing who comes and leaves is a difficult one. > First, the room we were in was more like a day room that was just set > off of a hallway. There were no doors to open or shut. If a resident > wanted to go back to their room, so long as they were ambulatory, they > could just get up, leave the semicircle, and go down the hall. Also, > it is difficult to pay attention to any noises people like that might > make when you're facilitating a song. One of my problems I had to > work on this semester was learning to project with my voice since I am > not a vocalist by trade, so for a while and to this day it has felt > like I'm shouting when really I'm just singing at a reasonable volume > for the residents, many of whom have hearing impairments, to hear. > Also, when we'd come into the room we'd have to push this big set of > tables back towards the opposite wall to make room for the semicircle, > and sometimes residents would come in late and sit themselves behind > the table where some of the staff waits on-hand than insert themselves > into the group. We had one resident who tended to do this a lot, and > I would always feel really bad if I was passing out instruments or > scarves and failed to give her one. > > I was given feedback on evaluations, and was consistently told to be > more specific, but the problem was that I simply did not know how to. > I was providing information on what I knew and heard about in the > discussions after sessions, but it's difficult to provide information > and document something you didn't know happened. I also understand > that I should be held to the same expectations as everyone else, but > not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot > do. There has to be a compromise. > > I am planning to seek information from the folks on the Human Services > list. That was a great suggestion that I really want to take, but I > thought I'd try to see if students had a perspective first, since I > know the human services division actually doesn't have a lot, if any, > music therapists. I have been on the list a few times, and am still > hoping a professional will pop up on there for me to network with. > > Greg brought up an interesting point, and one I really agree with. It > is clear from what my music therapist contact told me that I'm > probably not going to need to be as specific when I document in the > job sector as I am going to need to be in practicum. I understand > that by teaching us to do more work that it will be easier when we > don't have to do as much after graduating, but it makes it difficult > to get to that point if the expectations don't have a modification > that would allow me to be successful. Unfortunately, I have to do > what my supervising professors want me to do in order to earn the > freedom to document in a way that is more suitable for me. > > I'm very frustrated; I have never had any academic issues till this > year, and so far the 2 problems I've encountered are in classes I need > for my major. All my gen ed professors and I form working > relationships so easily, and while it is obvious where I struggle and > where I don't (math and science courses verses English and History, > psychology, and philosophy respectively), I > do my best, and the professors adjust their requirements when > necessary. E.G, in biology we had journal assignments, where we had > to find a journal article, review it, and write a summary. The > original requirements stated that we had to underline the parts of the > journal article we used. Since I could not underline something that > was already published on the web, I underlined the parts of my written > document which I paraphrased from the article. When my teacher saw > this on the second of these assignments, she asked me why I didn't > follow directions and I told her why. Even though she missed the > reasoning behind it, and forgot to even take the fact that I couldn't > physically underline something into account, she took note of it. I > actually got a few points added on to my first assignment as well, > which she had taken off for the underlining issue. If a biology > professor who I had for one semester can do this, it makes me nervous > that the professors I will need to work with in my major to get my > degree cannot. The worst part is that it is effecting me much more > than academically too; I am now not as confident as I was, since I am > so used to being an A B student, and this is really the first time I > feel like my blindness is an issue. To tell the truth, it's the first > time I've really felt self-conscious about it, and it's not a good > feeling at all. The profs say my disability has nothing to do with it > other than the fact that I didn't communicate my needs well enough, > but I honestly don't believe that is the case. It really does feel > like my blineness, and the disagreements over how to teach me and > accommodate it, are what has caused me to require an extra year of > college. I just heard for sure that this has put me an entire year > behind in the practicum sequence this afternoon, and it is difficult > to fathom what to do next, how to handle myself when I go back for my > second try, and how I'll even pay for the fifth year I was not at all > expecting to take. I guess on the bright side, I can get my second > minor that those same advisors were advising me to drop, since I'll > need to take some courses in order to remain a full time student for > financial aid purposes if I'm going to afford it at all. And, I'll be > able to file the fafsa as an independent student since I won't be > younger than 21 or have a job at the time, but this is just very hard > for me to accept having grown up with excellent grades and no major > problems related to my education. > On 5/4/14, Greg Aikens wrote: >> Hi Kaiti, >> I'm so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. It sounds as >> though >> you did all the right things. You provided your professors with a >> resource >> they could consult to determine what is reasonable. You made them aware >> of >> your difficulties throughout the semester and sought their input on >> solutions. Did they give you any warning before the end of the semester >> that >> you might not pass the course? In my opinion, it is unacceptable for them >> to >> fail you for this when you clearly did your best to come up with >> strategies >> and solutions to compensate. It sounds as though their rationale is that >> they can't give you a passing grade because if you can't make >> accommodations >> in their class, you won't be able to be a competent professional in the >> field, all this without really having a good grasp on what appropriate >> accommodations might be. >> >> That might sound logical, but the reality is that as a professional, you >> will have more control over your environment, caseload, etc. than in a >> practicum setting. This was true for me and student teaching. There were >> things I definitely failed at during my practicum hours and student >> teaching >> semester, but as long as I reflected on why what I had tried didn't work >> and >> came up with new strategies to try next time, my supervising professor >> was >> satisfied that I would come up with the best method in time. As a teacher, >> I >> structure my lessons, classroom, and schedule to avoid situations in which >> I >> will be less successful. Making non visual accommodations will be >> different >> for each setting and each client you interact with, and it's something >> you >> will improve at over time. >> >> The having to take an extra semester or year to complete your degree is >> the >> part that really makes it worth fighting. I would get the Learning Center >> involved. Even if they don't really know what accommodations should be >> appropriate, their job is to work with professors to figure that out. I >> would try to set up a meeting with your professors, the Learning Center, >> and >> hopefully the music therapist where you can present your case. Show them >> how >> you grew and learned as a professional throughout your experiences. >> Reflect >> on the strategies and accommodations you made, whether or not they were >> successful, and accommodations you plan to try next. Make the case that >> gaining information about non verbal behavior is not a trivial task for a >> blind music therapist, but it can be done through creative problem >> solving >> and constant adaptation on your part. Show that you have done these >> things >> so far in your practice and that it is something you will continue to >> work >> on because you know it is core to being a competent professional in your >> field. If they are still not satisfied because you did not have success >> with >> these tasks during the semester, see if they will let you complete some >> extra practicum hours, probably no more than 20% of the total number you >> had >> to complete already (but I just made that number up). Extra hours is not >> ideal, but it sounds better than having to retake the entire course and >> perhaps pay for another semester or two of school. >> >> Best of luck as you decide what to do. Feel free to contact me on or off >> list if I can be of any assistance. >> >> Best, >> Greg >> >> >> On May 4, 2014, at 1:49 AM, Kaiti Shelton >> wrote: >> >>> Hello all, >>> >>> I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback >>> that can be provided. >>> >>> I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum >>> coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve >>> interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical >>> skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in >>> psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I >>> had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local >>> assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and >>> developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting >>> residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage >>> them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a >>> long way since I started practicum in mid February. >>> >>> However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. >>> The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically >>> had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular >>> participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. >>> Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. >>> It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they >>> were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even >>> know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a >>> hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more >>> so they can hear me." >>> >>> Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were >>> doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead >>> was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the >>> residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a >>> manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would >>> sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the >>> semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. >>> However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were >>> doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing >>> exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing >>> something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of >>> motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these >>> questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation >>> with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any >>> information about it. >>> >>> Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not >>> able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, >>> and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I >>> picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along >>> with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments >>> with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the >>> problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my >>> wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could >>> lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to >>> the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned >>> that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while >>> observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and >>> they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is >>> clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and >>> something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work >>> in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, >>> but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't >>> remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of >>> some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. >>> >>> What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I >>> have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year >>> behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I >>> even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a >>> music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy >>> to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. >>> I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and >>> having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very >>> qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how >>> she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. >>> About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her >>> phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so >>> later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed >>> to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. >>> She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman >>> based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak >>> to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, >>> and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the >>> term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn >>> it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken >>> care of when I signed the other form so that communication could >>> easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to >>> speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to >>> speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, >>> and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my >>> accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even >>> though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked >>> repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have >>> instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course >>> work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My >>> professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling >>> with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing >>> musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally >>> making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is >>> obviously a factor. >>> >>> It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know >>> of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional >>> standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, >>> that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a >>> hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this >>> semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, >>> and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making >>> contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though >>> every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going >>> to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' >>> want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help >>> me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me >>> to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new >>> experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which >>> could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an >>> English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, >>> and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in >>> some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what >>> exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that >>> goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is >>> to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there >>> was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that >>> this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like >>> more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, >>> and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as >>> justification. >>> >>> What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with >>> professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working >>> relationships with professors around the university. Even when I >>> struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent >>> about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and >>> trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm >>> getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes >>> that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all >>> the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to >>> say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will >>> likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school >>> since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or >>> in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is >>> difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to >>> admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, >>> and the music department has assumed responsibility for my >>> accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend >>> an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over >>> again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing >>> anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. >>> >>> If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, >>> please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, >>> if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate >>> hearing about them as well. >>> >>> -- >>> Kaiti >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com >> > > > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com > From justin.williams2 at gmail.com Tue May 6 05:28:15 2014 From: justin.williams2 at gmail.com (justin williams) Date: Tue, 6 May 2014 01:28:15 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: References: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> Message-ID: <000301cf68eb$fc0d0a30$f4271e90$@gmail.com> I agree with you Arielle, everything you said. However, she did the best she could with what she had at the time. Thumbs up Kaiti; we'll just have a better plan next time. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Arielle Silverman Sent: Monday, May 05, 2014 10:29 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses Hi Kaiti, I have a little bit of experience on the professor side of the desk, not in a practicum field per se, but having taught a course and been a teaching assistant for some others. Based on this experience my suspicion is that your professors did not intentionally discriminate against you, but that they got busy and forgot to follow up with the music therapist until they realized you were struggling. It doesn't excuse their behavior at all, but is a problem at universities where professors are often overworked. When teaching multiple classes, possibly doing research or seeing their own clients too, professors may simply neglect to attend to individual students' needs. I had several students with learning disabilities and exam modifications in my class, and while I tried hard to keep track of their unique learning needs, it was difficult at times and I occasionally forgot to send a PowerPoint to a student in advance, for example. I think that in the future it will be very important for you to be the sole organizer of your own accommodation requests and information requests. Instead of waiting for your professor to drive over and visit the music therapist or to call her, why not organize a conference call yourself, ask them when they are free, set up the call and all your prof has to do is be there at the agreed-upon time? The less extra work it is for them, the more likely it is that your accommodation needs will be met in an appropriate, timely way. It is unfair that you as the student have to do the extra work, but in today's ablist society, and with professors overworked and teaching responsibilities a low priority for them, this is often what has to happen. Again, if a call or meeting is not possible, or even if it is possible, I would strongly recommend having the blind therapist write a letter stating clearly that documentation of the kind they are requiring is not essential on the job. It is possible that you will be required to do the documentation anyway, and if that is the case, might disability services or voc rehab help you pay for a reader to tell you after each session what went down visually so you can include it on your reports? I know this experience is stressful and can affect your confidence, but I think it says more about the strict bureaucracy of the professional training than it says about your ability to be a music therapist. You may just need to be a little creative about meeting the bureaucratic requirements with some temporary strategies, like using readers, to get through this part of your training. I do think this experience is a good lesson for you and everyone else about how important it is for us to take charge of our own accommodations as much as we can and depending as little as possible on anyone else (be it a professor, or the disability services office) to carry out an accommodations plan. This includes getting your own supporting materials (like a letter from the blind music therapist) justifying the accommodations you think are best. It is unfair that we should have to do this, but ultimately we are the only ones who are really invested in our own futures. It's not a big deal from the professor's perspective that you have to retake practicum, but it is a big deal for you, so it behooves you to push as hard as possible to get full access to the curriculum and be sure you are meeting the requirements. Again, having the requirements changed seems appropriate, but if they are not willing to do that, there are still ways for you to meet the same requirements as the other students. Best, Arielle On 5/5/14, Kaiti Shelton wrote: > Thanks all for your suggestions. Here is a little more information > about the situation. > > An in-person meeting really is probably not possible for me, the music > therapist I know, and the faculty simply because she is based in my > hometown, and I go to school in a city that is about an hour away. > Getting transportation for her certainly would not be impossible, but > it would be really expensive for an hour or so of time to meet. That > is why I suggested phone conversations, because then geography would > not be an issue, and they could have more frequent consultations with > her. The professors mentioned in our meeting that they are thinking > of driving to her to see her clinical work, but the questions I have > are that if they were going to do this, why did they wait so long to > do it, and when are they planning to do this? > > I had a very lengthy conversation with my disabilities services > counselor before leaving campus, and I went to her immediately after > the meeting for an additional conversation as well. She has agreed to > step in, and has the idea that if the groups can not be made > accessible to me, then perhaps the best answer would be to adjust the > practicum so that I have a smaller number of clients, or are in a > different setting with different documentation requirements. I told > her what the music therapist told me about documentation. She said > that she has never had to document things as specifically as I am > having to do, and she just keeps track of the goals and objectives, > the session plans, and the progress her clients make towards reaching > their goals and objectives in documents on her notetaker. So, it is > very clear that the definition of acceptable documentation, and what > information is truly salient for the MT to know, is not concrete. > > The problemwith not knowing who comes and leaves is a difficult one. > First, the room we were in was more like a day room that was just set > off of a hallway. There were no doors to open or shut. If a resident > wanted to go back to their room, so long as they were ambulatory, they > could just get up, leave the semicircle, and go down the hall. Also, > it is difficult to pay attention to any noises people like that might > make when you're facilitating a song. One of my problems I had to > work on this semester was learning to project with my voice since I am > not a vocalist by trade, so for a while and to this day it has felt > like I'm shouting when really I'm just singing at a reasonable volume > for the residents, many of whom have hearing impairments, to hear. > Also, when we'd come into the room we'd have to push this big set of > tables back towards the opposite wall to make room for the semicircle, > and sometimes residents would come in late and sit themselves behind > the table where some of the staff waits on-hand than insert themselves > into the group. We had one resident who tended to do this a lot, and > I would always feel really bad if I was passing out instruments or > scarves and failed to give her one. > > I was given feedback on evaluations, and was consistently told to be > more specific, but the problem was that I simply did not know how to. > I was providing information on what I knew and heard about in the > discussions after sessions, but it's difficult to provide information > and document something you didn't know happened. I also understand > that I should be held to the same expectations as everyone else, but > not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot > do. There has to be a compromise. > > I am planning to seek information from the folks on the Human Services > list. That was a great suggestion that I really want to take, but I > thought I'd try to see if students had a perspective first, since I > know the human services division actually doesn't have a lot, if any, > music therapists. I have been on the list a few times, and am still > hoping a professional will pop up on there for me to network with. > > Greg brought up an interesting point, and one I really agree with. It > is clear from what my music therapist contact told me that I'm > probably not going to need to be as specific when I document in the > job sector as I am going to need to be in practicum. I understand > that by teaching us to do more work that it will be easier when we > don't have to do as much after graduating, but it makes it difficult > to get to that point if the expectations don't have a modification > that would allow me to be successful. Unfortunately, I have to do > what my supervising professors want me to do in order to earn the > freedom to document in a way that is more suitable for me. > > I'm very frustrated; I have never had any academic issues till this > year, and so far the 2 problems I've encountered are in classes I need > for my major. All my gen ed professors and I form working > relationships so easily, and while it is obvious where I struggle and > where I don't (math and science courses verses English and History, > psychology, and philosophy respectively), I do my best, and the > professors adjust their requirements when necessary. E.G, in biology > we had journal assignments, where we had to find a journal article, > review it, and write a summary. The original requirements stated that > we had to underline the parts of the journal article we used. Since I > could not underline something that was already published on the web, I > underlined the parts of my written document which I paraphrased from > the article. When my teacher saw this on the second of these > assignments, she asked me why I didn't follow directions and I told > her why. Even though she missed the reasoning behind it, and forgot > to even take the fact that I couldn't physically underline something > into account, she took note of it. I actually got a few points added > on to my first assignment as well, which she had taken off for the > underlining issue. If a biology professor who I had for one semester > can do this, it makes me nervous that the professors I will need to > work with in my major to get my degree cannot. The worst part is that > it is effecting me much more than academically too; I am now not as > confident as I was, since I am so used to being an A B student, and > this is really the first time I feel like my blindness is an issue. > To tell the truth, it's the first time I've really felt self-conscious > about it, and it's not a good feeling at all. The profs say my > disability has nothing to do with it other than the fact that I didn't > communicate my needs well enough, but I honestly don't believe that is > the case. It really does feel like my blineness, and the > disagreements over how to teach me and accommodate it, are what has > caused me to require an extra year of college. I just heard for sure > that this has put me an entire year behind in the practicum sequence > this afternoon, and it is difficult to fathom what to do next, how to > handle myself when I go back for my second try, and how I'll even pay > for the fifth year I was not at all expecting to take. I guess on the > bright side, I can get my second minor that those same advisors were > advising me to drop, since I'll need to take some courses in order to > remain a full time student for financial aid purposes if I'm going to > afford it at all. And, I'll be able to file the fafsa as an > independent student since I won't be younger than 21 or have a job at > the time, but this is just very hard for me to accept having grown up > with excellent grades and no major problems related to my education. > On 5/4/14, Greg Aikens wrote: >> Hi Kaiti, >> I'm so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. It sounds as >> though you did all the right things. You provided your professors >> with a resource they could consult to determine what is reasonable. >> You made them aware of your difficulties throughout the semester and >> sought their input on solutions. Did they give you any warning before >> the end of the semester that you might not pass the course? In my >> opinion, it is unacceptable for them to fail you for this when you >> clearly did your best to come up with strategies and solutions to >> compensate. It sounds as though their rationale is that they can't >> give you a passing grade because if you can't make accommodations in >> their class, you won't be able to be a competent professional in the >> field, all this without really having a good grasp on what >> appropriate accommodations might be. >> >> That might sound logical, but the reality is that as a professional, >> you will have more control over your environment, caseload, etc. than >> in a practicum setting. This was true for me and student teaching. >> There were things I definitely failed at during my practicum hours >> and student teaching semester, but as long as I reflected on why what >> I had tried didn't work and came up with new strategies to try next >> time, my supervising professor was satisfied that I would come up >> with the best method in time. As a teacher, I structure my lessons, >> classroom, and schedule to avoid situations in which I will be less >> successful. Making non visual accommodations will be different for >> each setting and each client you interact with, and it's something >> you will improve at over time. >> >> The having to take an extra semester or year to complete your degree >> is the part that really makes it worth fighting. I would get the >> Learning Center involved. Even if they don't really know what >> accommodations should be appropriate, their job is to work with >> professors to figure that out. I would try to set up a meeting with >> your professors, the Learning Center, and hopefully the music >> therapist where you can present your case. Show them how you grew and >> learned as a professional throughout your experiences. >> Reflect >> on the strategies and accommodations you made, whether or not they >> were successful, and accommodations you plan to try next. Make the >> case that gaining information about non verbal behavior is not a >> trivial task for a blind music therapist, but it can be done through >> creative problem solving and constant adaptation on your part. Show >> that you have done these things so far in your practice and that it >> is something you will continue to work on because you know it is core >> to being a competent professional in your field. If they are still >> not satisfied because you did not have success with these tasks >> during the semester, see if they will let you complete some extra >> practicum hours, probably no more than 20% of the total number you >> had to complete already (but I just made that number up). Extra hours >> is not ideal, but it sounds better than having to retake the entire >> course and perhaps pay for another semester or two of school. >> >> Best of luck as you decide what to do. Feel free to contact me on or >> off list if I can be of any assistance. >> >> Best, >> Greg >> >> >> On May 4, 2014, at 1:49 AM, Kaiti Shelton >> >> wrote: >> >>> Hello all, >>> >>> I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback >>> that can be provided. >>> >>> I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum >>> coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve >>> interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical >>> skills in young human services professionals. They're very common >>> in psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. >>> Anyway, I had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a >>> local assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the >>> experience, and developed my skills in terms of interpersonal >>> interaction, meeting residents where they are in the moment, and >>> using music to engage them. In these respects, I've managed to >>> learn a lot, and have come a long way since I started practicum in mid February. >>> >>> However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. >>> The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We >>> typically had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were >>> regular participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. >>> Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. >>> It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they >>> were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even >>> know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a >>> hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room >>> more so they can hear me." >>> >>> Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were >>> doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead >>> was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the >>> residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a >>> manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would >>> sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the >>> semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. >>> However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were >>> doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing >>> exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing >>> something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of >>> motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these >>> questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on >>> conversation with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions >>> to get any information about it. >>> >>> Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not >>> able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, >>> and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I >>> picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along >>> with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments >>> with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the >>> problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my >>> wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could >>> lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer >>> to the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was >>> concerned that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents >>> while observing another, particularly on the edges of the >>> semicircle, and they would not be able to see me. It worked then >>> and there, but it is clear to me now that that method was only a >>> temporary fix, and something which would not be effective in the >>> settings I want to work in. I grew more comfortable asking >>> residents what their names were, but I think a few thought it was >>> odd that I seemingly couldn't remember their names from Tuesday to >>> Thursday. I learned voices of some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. >>> >>> What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I >>> have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year >>> behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before >>> I even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a >>> music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than >>> happy to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. >>> I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, >>> and having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be >>> very qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking >>> of how she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. >>> About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her >>> phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so >>> later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had >>> managed to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. >>> She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman >>> based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could >>> speak to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied >>> quickly, and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last >>> day of the term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was >>> instructed to turn it in during finals week. I was floored that >>> this had not been taken care of when I signed the other form so that >>> communication could easily go both ways. All along the music >>> therapist had been able to speak to my professors about me, but they >>> were not allowed by law to speak to her. A meeting was called to >>> discuss my lack of progress, and I was told that there was >>> difficulty in reconciling my accomodations with the professional >>> competencies of my field, and even though I had provided my >>> professors with a great resource and asked repeatedly if they had >>> contacted the one person who could have instrumental in helping all >>> of us at my university through this course work, they said I failed >>> to adequately make my needs known. My professor in charge of the >>> course knew the issues I was struggling with, and also knew that in >>> spite of these issues I was developing musically and establishing >>> rappore with residents. I was not totally making progress, but I >>> was struggling in the areas where vision is obviously a factor. >>> >>> It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I >>> know of several music therapists who successfully meet the >>> professional standards while compensating for their lack of sight. >>> I feel though, that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between >>> a rock and a hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless >>> than I was this semester that I would just annoy the professors who >>> I need to help me, and I frankly expected them to do as they said >>> they would by making contact where it needed to be made. On the >>> other hand, even though every time I did say something this semester >>> and was told, "I'm going to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' >>> want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help >>> me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for >>> me to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a >>> new experience for me. I told the professors the information I had >>> which could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not >>> like an English or Math class where I know the specific >>> accomodations I need, and the ways that work best from years of >>> experience. I feel like in some circumstances, because this is new >>> to me, that I don't know what exactly to ask, or I don't know what I >>> don't know, and I think that goes for every student in my major >>> because the point of practicums is to learn from the supervising >>> professor. In my case, however, there was a disconnect with some >>> harsh consequences. I also understand that this is a new experience >>> for the professors as well, but I feel like more could have been >>> done on their part by making a simple phone call, and that they are >>> using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as justification. >>> >>> What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems >>> with professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, >>> working relationships with professors around the university. Even >>> when I struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both >>> diligent about meeting in office hours, talking to learning >>> services, and trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't >>> think I'm getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in >>> the classes that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because >>> I've provided all the resources I can to the professors, and said >>> everything I know to say, but the result is that I have to take this >>> course again and will likely have to tack on at least an extra >>> semester to my time in school since the courses can not be doubled >>> up, or taken out of sequence, or in different semesters from which >>> they are offered. And it is difficult to involve learning services, >>> because they are the first to admit they know very little about >>> music therapy or music in general, and the music department has >>> assumed responsibility for my accomodations in those classes. I >>> can't financially afford to spend an extra year at school, nor do I >>> want to keep taking classes over again. And I feel like this should >>> be a team effort, but not knowing anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. >>> >>> If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, >>> please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. >>> Also, if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would >>> appreciate hearing about them as well. >>> >>> -- >>> Kaiti >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >>> for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail >>> .com >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104 >> %40gmail.com >> > > > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail. > com > _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From bookwormahb at earthlink.net Tue May 6 13:45:16 2014 From: bookwormahb at earthlink.net (Ashley Bramlett) Date: Tue, 6 May 2014 09:45:16 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: References: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> Message-ID: <1804098C62004FBF9822F4C267B22A4F@OwnerPC> Kaiti, Just think that you're going to be more educated than your fellow graduates. What will your minors be in? My friend, andrew, had a problem similar, his practicum professor discriminated against him and I'm not even sure the outcome. He changed his major. It set him back too; like you, all his nonmajor course professors were understanding; like now he is taking environmental science, and has found few problems in that class. For conducting which is a general music requirement, the professor showed him the moves. But, for music therapy, he found his professors teach visually and it fell apart in the practicum class. Sorry to hear about your problems. I agree that knowing who comes in and out of a room while your busy leading would be a challege; and in fact, I'm sure sighted students miss some of that too. I mean, they see, but can they really focus on the whole room with a crowd? How many are there. The only modification I can think up is have them leave you a note of some sort when they leave. Maybe even have a sign out sheet at the door. Since you have some vision, would you see it if it was in large print or if you had a magnifier? If you cannot see the print, you could have them leave you a note in braille that was embossed ahead of time. It could be index cards stating their name and saying they are leaving that they leave on a designated table. Anyway, I agree with greg that practicums where its unfamiliar environment and not your own territory will be more a challenge. I'm sure documentation will not be this picky in the jobs. I know you're real discouraged, but keep trying and I'm sure you'll do alright. Everyone has to take classes over in college and other students fall behind a year too for various reasons. So, in the scheme of things, when you come out with a double minor and a music degree, you'll look fine. Unless employers see your transcripts, they won't even know about the extra time it took, or that you retook a class. Take care, Ashley -----Original Message----- From: Kaiti Shelton Sent: Monday, May 05, 2014 7:02 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses Thanks all for your suggestions. Here is a little more information about the situation. An in-person meeting really is probably not possible for me, the music therapist I know, and the faculty simply because she is based in my hometown, and I go to school in a city that is about an hour away. Getting transportation for her certainly would not be impossible, but it would be really expensive for an hour or so of time to meet. That is why I suggested phone conversations, because then geography would not be an issue, and they could have more frequent consultations with her. The professors mentioned in our meeting that they are thinking of driving to her to see her clinical work, but the questions I have are that if they were going to do this, why did they wait so long to do it, and when are they planning to do this? I had a very lengthy conversation with my disabilities services counselor before leaving campus, and I went to her immediately after the meeting for an additional conversation as well. She has agreed to step in, and has the idea that if the groups can not be made accessible to me, then perhaps the best answer would be to adjust the practicum so that I have a smaller number of clients, or are in a different setting with different documentation requirements. I told her what the music therapist told me about documentation. She said that she has never had to document things as specifically as I am having to do, and she just keeps track of the goals and objectives, the session plans, and the progress her clients make towards reaching their goals and objectives in documents on her notetaker. So, it is very clear that the definition of acceptable documentation, and what information is truly salient for the MT to know, is not concrete. The problemwith not knowing who comes and leaves is a difficult one. First, the room we were in was more like a day room that was just set off of a hallway. There were no doors to open or shut. If a resident wanted to go back to their room, so long as they were ambulatory, they could just get up, leave the semicircle, and go down the hall. Also, it is difficult to pay attention to any noises people like that might make when you're facilitating a song. One of my problems I had to work on this semester was learning to project with my voice since I am not a vocalist by trade, so for a while and to this day it has felt like I'm shouting when really I'm just singing at a reasonable volume for the residents, many of whom have hearing impairments, to hear. Also, when we'd come into the room we'd have to push this big set of tables back towards the opposite wall to make room for the semicircle, and sometimes residents would come in late and sit themselves behind the table where some of the staff waits on-hand than insert themselves into the group. We had one resident who tended to do this a lot, and I would always feel really bad if I was passing out instruments or scarves and failed to give her one. I was given feedback on evaluations, and was consistently told to be more specific, but the problem was that I simply did not know how to. I was providing information on what I knew and heard about in the discussions after sessions, but it's difficult to provide information and document something you didn't know happened. I also understand that I should be held to the same expectations as everyone else, but not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot do. There has to be a compromise. I am planning to seek information from the folks on the Human Services list. That was a great suggestion that I really want to take, but I thought I'd try to see if students had a perspective first, since I know the human services division actually doesn't have a lot, if any, music therapists. I have been on the list a few times, and am still hoping a professional will pop up on there for me to network with. Greg brought up an interesting point, and one I really agree with. It is clear from what my music therapist contact told me that I'm probably not going to need to be as specific when I document in the job sector as I am going to need to be in practicum. I understand that by teaching us to do more work that it will be easier when we don't have to do as much after graduating, but it makes it difficult to get to that point if the expectations don't have a modification that would allow me to be successful. Unfortunately, I have to do what my supervising professors want me to do in order to earn the freedom to document in a way that is more suitable for me. I'm very frustrated; I have never had any academic issues till this year, and so far the 2 problems I've encountered are in classes I need for my major. All my gen ed professors and I form working relationships so easily, and while it is obvious where I struggle and where I don't (math and science courses verses English and History, psychology, and philosophy respectively), I do my best, and the professors adjust their requirements when necessary. E.G, in biology we had journal assignments, where we had to find a journal article, review it, and write a summary. The original requirements stated that we had to underline the parts of the journal article we used. Since I could not underline something that was already published on the web, I underlined the parts of my written document which I paraphrased from the article. When my teacher saw this on the second of these assignments, she asked me why I didn't follow directions and I told her why. Even though she missed the reasoning behind it, and forgot to even take the fact that I couldn't physically underline something into account, she took note of it. I actually got a few points added on to my first assignment as well, which she had taken off for the underlining issue. If a biology professor who I had for one semester can do this, it makes me nervous that the professors I will need to work with in my major to get my degree cannot. The worst part is that it is effecting me much more than academically too; I am now not as confident as I was, since I am so used to being an A B student, and this is really the first time I feel like my blindness is an issue. To tell the truth, it's the first time I've really felt self-conscious about it, and it's not a good feeling at all. The profs say my disability has nothing to do with it other than the fact that I didn't communicate my needs well enough, but I honestly don't believe that is the case. It really does feel like my blineness, and the disagreements over how to teach me and accommodate it, are what has caused me to require an extra year of college. I just heard for sure that this has put me an entire year behind in the practicum sequence this afternoon, and it is difficult to fathom what to do next, how to handle myself when I go back for my second try, and how I'll even pay for the fifth year I was not at all expecting to take. I guess on the bright side, I can get my second minor that those same advisors were advising me to drop, since I'll need to take some courses in order to remain a full time student for financial aid purposes if I'm going to afford it at all. And, I'll be able to file the fafsa as an independent student since I won't be younger than 21 or have a job at the time, but this is just very hard for me to accept having grown up with excellent grades and no major problems related to my education. On 5/4/14, Greg Aikens wrote: > Hi Kaiti, > I'm so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. It sounds as > though > you did all the right things. You provided your professors with a resource > they could consult to determine what is reasonable. You made them aware of > your difficulties throughout the semester and sought their input on > solutions. Did they give you any warning before the end of the semester > that > you might not pass the course? In my opinion, it is unacceptable for them > to > fail you for this when you clearly did your best to come up with > strategies > and solutions to compensate. It sounds as though their rationale is that > they can't give you a passing grade because if you can't make > accommodations > in their class, you won't be able to be a competent professional in the > field, all this without really having a good grasp on what appropriate > accommodations might be. > > That might sound logical, but the reality is that as a professional, you > will have more control over your environment, caseload, etc. than in a > practicum setting. This was true for me and student teaching. There were > things I definitely failed at during my practicum hours and student > teaching > semester, but as long as I reflected on why what I had tried didn't work > and > came up with new strategies to try next time, my supervising professor was > satisfied that I would come up with the best method in time. As a teacher, > I > structure my lessons, classroom, and schedule to avoid situations in which > I > will be less successful. Making non visual accommodations will be > different > for each setting and each client you interact with, and it's something you > will improve at over time. > > The having to take an extra semester or year to complete your degree is > the > part that really makes it worth fighting. I would get the Learning Center > involved. Even if they don't really know what accommodations should be > appropriate, their job is to work with professors to figure that out. I > would try to set up a meeting with your professors, the Learning Center, > and > hopefully the music therapist where you can present your case. Show them > how > you grew and learned as a professional throughout your experiences. > Reflect > on the strategies and accommodations you made, whether or not they were > successful, and accommodations you plan to try next. Make the case that > gaining information about non verbal behavior is not a trivial task for a > blind music therapist, but it can be done through creative problem solving > and constant adaptation on your part. Show that you have done these things > so far in your practice and that it is something you will continue to work > on because you know it is core to being a competent professional in your > field. If they are still not satisfied because you did not have success > with > these tasks during the semester, see if they will let you complete some > extra practicum hours, probably no more than 20% of the total number you > had > to complete already (but I just made that number up). Extra hours is not > ideal, but it sounds better than having to retake the entire course and > perhaps pay for another semester or two of school. > > Best of luck as you decide what to do. Feel free to contact me on or off > list if I can be of any assistance. > > Best, > Greg > > > On May 4, 2014, at 1:49 AM, Kaiti Shelton > wrote: > >> Hello all, >> >> I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback >> that can be provided. >> >> I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum >> coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve >> interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical >> skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in >> psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I >> had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local >> assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and >> developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting >> residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage >> them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a >> long way since I started practicum in mid February. >> >> However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. >> The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically >> had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular >> participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. >> Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. >> It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they >> were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even >> know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a >> hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more >> so they can hear me." >> >> Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were >> doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead >> was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the >> residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a >> manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would >> sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the >> semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. >> However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were >> doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing >> exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing >> something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of >> motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these >> questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation >> with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any >> information about it. >> >> Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not >> able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, >> and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I >> picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along >> with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments >> with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the >> problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my >> wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could >> lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to >> the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned >> that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while >> observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and >> they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is >> clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and >> something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work >> in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, >> but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't >> remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of >> some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. >> >> What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I >> have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year >> behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I >> even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a >> music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy >> to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. >> I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and >> having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very >> qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how >> she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. >> About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her >> phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so >> later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed >> to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. >> She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman >> based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak >> to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, >> and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the >> term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn >> it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken >> care of when I signed the other form so that communication could >> easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to >> speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to >> speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, >> and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my >> accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even >> though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked >> repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have >> instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course >> work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My >> professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling >> with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing >> musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally >> making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is >> obviously a factor. >> >> It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know >> of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional >> standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, >> that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a >> hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this >> semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, >> and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making >> contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though >> every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going >> to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' >> want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help >> me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me >> to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new >> experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which >> could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an >> English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, >> and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in >> some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what >> exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that >> goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is >> to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there >> was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that >> this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like >> more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, >> and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as >> justification. >> >> What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with >> professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working >> relationships with professors around the university. Even when I >> struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent >> about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and >> trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm >> getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes >> that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all >> the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to >> say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will >> likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school >> since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or >> in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is >> difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to >> admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, >> and the music department has assumed responsibility for my >> accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend >> an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over >> again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing >> anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. >> >> If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, >> please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, >> if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate >> hearing about them as well. >> >> -- >> Kaiti >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From dandrews at visi.com Tue May 6 15:23:36 2014 From: dandrews at visi.com (David Andrews) Date: Tue, 06 May 2014 10:23:36 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Miss Rovig is leaving the building, or Goodbye MD, Hello MN! Message-ID: My Federation Friends, It’s time to let you in on my plan. I bought a house in southern Minnesota because I’m retiring from my work at the National Federation of the Blind, and moving my membership from Maryland to Minnesota. Not having done it yet, I’m not sure how living on my retirement plan is going to work out when it comes to the fun extras of life, so the 2014 July convention in Orlando may be my last national convention. Although, if the money permits, I can see me coming back like former students go to their high school reunion just to enjoy being with their old friends. My last day on the staff will be July 11, 2014. Now when did this all start, you may ask. After all, I’m a sighted guy. Back in the summer of 1975, I had decided not to sign the contract to continue as the librarian at a 500-student high school in southern Wisconsin because I had nothing in common with anyone in that small town. So, job hunting are us! One fine summer day on a bulletin board in the multi-story library school of the University of Wisconsin Madison campus, from which I had received my masters in library science degree, I saw a 3 by 5 typed card that said, “Librarian Needed. Must have some knowledge of textbooks. Iowa Commission for the Blind, Des Moines, Iowa, (phone number).” A teacher in the library school was passing by just as I finished reading and I asked her, “Have you ever heard of this library?” She said she’d heard it was the largest library for the blind in the country. Well! After a tiny high school, that sounded interesting! And Iowa being next to Wisconsin, I could drive back to visit my family on the holidays. That it was “for the blind” never really registered with me. I figured a library was a library. Oh, my! Little did I know how my life was changing from that very minute. So I called and made an appointment to interview. As it happened (here comes Fate dropping in again), my brother was buying a house to be close to his new job in northwest Iowa so he and his wife and I rode in the same car. He dropped me off in Des Moines, where I was to interview for a few hours. Then I rode with them up to see their new home, and would come back to Des Moines to have a second interview “if” I was invited to do so. During the first interview –with Head Library Florence Grannis, and Duane Gerstenberger, her replacement in training, it was all about my ability as a librarian. The Iowa Commission for the Blind had a large library – a point in its favor, and, when fully staffed, six librarians serving patrons statewide! I was interviewing to be in charge of obtaining textbooks from APH or our own transcribers for all (300?) of Iowa’s K-12 and college-level blind and visually impaired students and all the adults who needed materials for their work, plus the Braille collection, the large type collection, and the small professional collections of print books by blind authors or about blindness and the historical collection of early Braille, New York Point, Moon Type, and such books. Nope, I did not know Braille; did not know anything about the NFB, or about how blind persons handle things. But I did instinctively know that “Gone with the Wind” is still “Gone with the Wind” whether it is in print or in Braille; and I passed Mrs. Grannis’s several tests of my competency. So Mr. Gerstenberger gave me a stack of banquet speeches that agency director Kenneth Jernigan had made in his other job as president of a federation for blind people, and I was set up for a second interview. Hello Fate. All the long way to northeast Iowa I read the speeches. Very interesting! And solid philosophy! Those speeches just made sense to me. Of course blind Americans should not be treated that way! And I read them some more all the way back to Des Moines. I got my second interview, this time with Kenneth Jernigan. I sat in the chair across from Dr. Jernigan at his big desk and his assistant, Mrs. Anderson (now Mrs. Jernigan), sat on a couch to my right side. As I figured out later, this was a subtle test of attitude­would I look and speak to the sighted person or the blind boss? Right. It just made sense to me to talk to the boss and, well, I got hired. July 23, 1975, 8 a.m., I started work at the Iowa Commission for the Blind as one of their six librarians, and I continued working there for nearly 13 years. I am proud to be part of “the Iowa connection.” I joined the NFB at the July 1975 chapter meeting. As part of staff training, Dr. Jernigan had me reading several decades of back issues of “Braille Monitor,” in class with Jim Omvig as our teacher for blind civil rights history, and taking cane travel lessons under sleepshades with Field Op counselor Dick Davis as my instructor. I really liked cane travel. For my graduation exercise, I walked a four-mile route around Des Moines. No problem. I learned how to do some other things under sleepshades too. All of this got me started in understanding how a blind guy handles whatever he or she wants to do. And in September1975, President Jernigan invited me to his annual Labor Day weekend NFB Leadership Seminar at the old Randolph Hotel, where I met Diane McGeorge and my first guide dog. I am a proud alumna of the Bathroom Seminar, along with Barbara Pierce, Barbara Beech (Walker Loos), and many other current leaders of the Federation (not all of them named Barbara). I went on many weekend protests against NAC, driving for the first time ever a huge15-passenger van to get to that hotel near the O’Hare Airport, on the crazy Chicago freeways, and this was before GPS was invented. I marched on Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis. With Tami Dodd (now Mrs. Jones), Eric Duffy, and Sharon (now Monthei)­those three blind and all of us wearing sleepshades to prove we weren’t peeking­I swung my cane and marched in our NFB White Cane Marching Team in three town parades and at one NFB national convention. I drove for tons of candy sales. Thank goodness one of the blind students that rode to Oskaloosa knew how to change the tire on the van when it went flat halfway there, surrounded by cornfields. None of us in the van will forget the time I drove the four-hour trip to the Minnesota state convention and Curtis Willoughby and Bob Ray taught us songs to sing in a bar, and I ran out of gas on that Interstate superhighway, but coasted down the miraculously appearing ramp right into a gas station and next to a pump! After a few years, a new chunk got added to my library work, I became the boss of Iowa’s radio reading program and along with one other staff person would cut up the “Des Moines Register” to precisely fit our time slot before being one of our many readers on the air. We were proud to know our radio service was one of only two RRS in the country that operated on a public channel. Thanks to using the radio station at the Des Moines tech high school, we were heard as far as 50 miles out of the city! A truck driver told me he listened as he made deliveries to farms outside the city. Dr. Jernigan and his extraordinary Orientation and Adjustment Center for blind adults went on all around us in that multi-story building at 4th and Keo. We’d find newly blind and scared cane travelers lost in the Talking Book stacks or get out of their way as after a few weeks they’d be striding down the city sidewalks outside on their errands. Students made wonderful smells (and some not so much) come out of the kitchens; students came to check out a first shortest book possible to practice reading Braille. They’d be gathered in our comfortable library reading room late into the night, reading and talking. We who were there every day saw in the change in the students, from their first day to their graduation. We literally could see that the NFB method of teaching worked splendidly. We saw students learn a new positive attitude along with their skills, and we saw those few students who did not learn the NFB attitude toward blindness. They would go home with their skills, more or less, but sooner or later start again to be what the sighted folks around them thought they should be since, after all, they were blind. Students that joined and got involved with their support group, the National Federation of the Blind, were the adults that thrived. Dr. Jernigan did not just hang out in his fancy office. He taught you, whether you were student or staff, and not just about blindness. He was funny, wise, eccentric, surprising, demanding, giving, super-smart, super-educated, totally plugged in to Iowa politics, and sometimes ignorant of current cultural icons (like John Denver and his music!). He read 420 words of Braille per minute­I timed him, and he was a terrifically good cane traveller. We were walking downhill on Keo one day at his cane-swinging, lickety-split speed and me in my two-inch heels nearly sprinting to keep up, until one of my heels broke and he hammered it back on with his cane handle. That man did more work in a day and night than three other people. Of course he had two full-time jobs­simultaneously the elected President of the National Federation of the Blind, building the Federation and working on serious issues nationwide, and the Director of the statewide vocational rehabilitation center for the blind, which included the training center for blind adults, the field services department with offices around the state offering home teachers and counselors, a store for products handmade by (agency-inherited) elderly blind women, the statewide Business Enterprise Program (which went from the previous popcorn and packaged candy counters to full-service cafeterias), the statewide regional library for the blind and physically handicapped, the lending office for NLS Talking Book machines, the textbooks for the blind program, the volunteer Braillists program (including for a number of years an operation in Iowa’s biggest prison), the volunteer readers making open reel masters which became cassette books at our building, and the radio reading service. We were everything for the blind except the school for the blind at Vinton, Iowa, and the checks from Social Security. About three years after I was hired, Dr. Jernigan resigned his state job and moved the headquarters of the National Federation of the Blind to Baltimore, Maryland. A series of blind directors followed him; none making innovations worth commenting on and the NFB no longer recommended to students, nor, in some years, even mentioned in a favorable way. I continued to be a steady member of the NFB, attending local meetings, the state conventions, and the national conventions. One day in July 1987, I got a phone call from Baltimore. It was Dr. Jernigan. He said, (read this in a deep, deep voice), “Miss Rovig, How would you like to be director of Job Opportunities for the Blind?” I said, “But Dr. Jernigan, I’m not blind.” And he said, “Miss Rovig, How would you like to be the director of Job Opportunities for the Blind?” Not being dumb twice, I said, “Yes sir, I would.” I was the director of JOB for 10 years. At various times during that decade, Dr. Jernigan also put me in charge of the single staff person cleaning all the bedrooms in our bedroom wing (I personally cleaned every toilet we owned many times), cassette production (which, if I remember right, was more than 60,000 copies per year); and for a very brief period back in 1975, I was the reader and first engineer of the brand new NFB studio. Larry McKeever, “the voice of the Braille Monitor,” designed it to be, as he told me, equal to a big-time studio in Nashville. He taught me how to run the giant board and all the equipment over a couple days. As time went on and the monthly “Presidential Release” was recorded, Dr. Jernigan and I discovered I was an okay reader but a poor engineer. Yes, I lost that piece of the job. (Whew!) JOB was a big part of my job. The NFB’s innovative program, Job Opportunities for the Blind, was funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. Mary Ellen Reihing (now Mrs. Gabias) and I used the NFB studio to produce six cassette newsletters per year. Half of it was articles about blind workers (I usually did the interviews and wrote them up) plus job hunting advice, and half of it was reading real job listings for all kinds of jobs all over the country­as long as they were not specifically to hire a driver of a vehicle or a life guard at a swimming pool. My all-time favorite came from the “Baltimore Sun” and said, “Seamstress needed. Steady work. Baltimore Casket Company.” I got calls from all over the US­blind job seekers asking advice and, occasionally, an employer worried about the new ADA. What helped folks the most was our rock solid belief in their goal, and introducing a blind job hunter to someone who was blind and already at work in that same field or one with similar requirements. Networking built that essential positive attitude and provided the practical advice that one who is in a field knows. Once a year I wrote a four-page “Employer’s Bulletin” like the one in 1995 called, “Employer Nightmares about Hiring Blind Employees.” It started like this, “This bulletin is for employers who have hidden worries about hiring a blind person.” Some bulletins are still posted on the NFB website, but they surely need updating. Then we had the three-hours long JOB Seminars at national conventions for a live audience of two to three hundred NFB members. I was the MC for our lineup of blind speakers. I’ll never forget the presentations by John Fritz on doctoring his Wisconsin dairy herd; Doug Lane of Nebraska, a professional baker for a large hotel; Joe Urbanek, owner of a B&B for newlyweds; Lloyd Watts, house parent in a group home for adult men with low IQs; Carla McQuillan on childcare in the home (before she started her Montessori school); Allen Schaefer of Illinois, a public high school music director and teacher (whose students went all the way to state several times), so many others. But, golly, my number one favorite was Robert Munz of Long Island, New York, telling us about his interview and his job working the Price Club fast food counter. He got the job of defrosting the pizzas and warming the big dough pretzels when he told the sighted HR lady that he cooked a meal for 40 as part of his training at the Louisiana Center for the Blind, and she said, “I couldn’t do that!” and Bob said, “You could if you tried.” I am proud to say I started the JOB convention breakfast meetings targeted to different professions. Out of that networking, people found each other and they grew our NFB divisions for science and engineering, for voc rehab workers, and for medical fields, among others. One day, Dr. Jernigan asked me, “Miss Rovig, would you like to go to the United Nations?” The NFB was invited to run an information table in the lobby of the UN in New York City alongside other self-help groups because it was The Year of the Disabled. And one very memorable day, Dr. Jernigan asked me, “Miss Rovig, how would you like to go to Japan?” Of course, I said, “Yes sir, I would.” The Japanese government office that ran training centers to train blind persons for employment asked for a keynote speaker to come to their convention to explain how the NFB worked on employment issues. Their chief push was to teach the use of the Opticon. Unfortunately that was the last year the machine was manufactured. Anyway, what a wonderful trip and what an honor to be chosen. I heard later from our contact, Chuji san, that my speech had been translated and published in the main Tokyo daily newspaper with my photo. Well, after I’d done this job for ten years, DOL decided we’d been funded way longer than they normally would fund any program (normally only two or three years!) and ended our funding, so Dr. Jernigan switched me to being the writing-driving-reading assistant to our staff in the IBTC, the International Braille and Technology Center for the Blind. Working this job for two years, I learned a lot about modern equipment for blind persons. I loved the time Robert Jaquiss and I drove to several high tech companies and saw the amazing, new, 3D printing machines. After a while my several layers of bosses and I discovered I was an editor and proofreader. My job changed to working in our Advocacy and Protection Department, mostly proofreading print documents that leave our building­letters, emails, petitions, invoices, language in new legislative bills, posters, website pages, fact sheets, and official reports. I helped proof the opus, “Walking Alone and Marching Together”­all thousand-plus pages of it. I wrote the wording for the Bolotin Award online under Jim Gashel’s direction. I began to proofread the “Braille Monitor” and “Future Reflections.” This is what I’ve done for the last decade. Dr. Jernigan had a dream of a national headquarters for the National Federation of the Blind, one that would work on all the different issues, with room for things like a library to educate the researchers and a research institute run our way, an educational center figuring out best practices, and lots of room for offices and meeting rooms to cover all the different jobs the NFB is doing and will want to do in the unknown future. This is not a school, but a think-tank at work to innovate ideas and train the trainers. We had 18 million dollars to raise so I helped build it. I had NFB accounting take a small portion of my paycheck every month to give $5,000 to the building of our National Center for the Blind, 200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place, Baltimore, Maryland 21230. Yup, my name is on the wall in the Wells Street lobby. Five years ago, President Maurer changed my job again by appointing me to assist Anil Lewis, NFB state president in Georgia, with all the paperwork for our national scholarship program. Under Anil’s direction, I wrote the information on our scholarship website; answered half a zillion phone calls and emails, printed and filed the 500 to 700 or so scholarship applications we get each year, and handled lots of other time-consuming details. After a couple years, Anil accepted a staff position here in NFB’s home office and Patti Chang, Esquire, a full-time lawyer in Chicago and president of the NFB of Illinois, became my boss for this part of my job. It is so very strange to think this is my last year working on this fun, important, expensive program. I so enjoy meeting our thirty winners at convention and helping them find out that what the National Federation of the Blind offers to them goes way beyond a one-time check and a week in a big hotel. I have been to every NFB national convention since 1976. This convention will be number 39. It’s the most fun you can have in a week and still be legal. I’ve been to every NFB state convention in the state in which I lived (Iowa or Maryland) plus some extra state conventions just for fun: Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Virginia, and Washington, DC. All were so different and yet all were totally NFB. There’s never been a national convention that I didn’t have several jobs. I met and got to know hundreds and hundreds of our members when I had the job for many years of training and supervising volunteers for the NFB Store. Remember the time we had no customers at all, so joking around we got Ellen Ringlein to do an advertisement and demonstration for her table of Braille tools in German and got Fatos Floyd to advertise her Braille equipment in Turkish? Many of our volunteers had a first Braille lesson, many learned how to use the click rule and the abacus, and many strangers became friends as they sat beside each other. So many good times! Looks like I’m writing a book here, and not a goodbye! It somehow doesn’t seem proper to say only, “So long, and thanks for all the fish.” Fellow members and friends, if you read between the lines, you know I will always treasure these things­getting to know the most extraordinary man I’ve ever met­Dr. Jernigan; having the chance to work, protest, and laugh with the many wonderful, hard-working members I’ve met since 1975; and, yes, I very much treasure the fact that, using such gifts as I have, I have helped the movement of all blind Americans toward full equality. The conclusion I reached in a car crossing the hot summer landscape of Iowa in 1975 hasn’t changed­equality for the blind just makes sense. So see you in Orlando! If you come to Minnesota’s NFB events, look for me there, or find me on NFB listservs. With appreciation for the past and anticipation of the future, Lorraine (also known as, Miss Rovig) >Lorraine Rovig >Assistant to Chairperson Patti Chang, Esq. > >Scholarship Program >NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND >200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place >Baltimore, MD 21230 >Office: (410) 659-9314, x2415; >Email: scholarships at nfb.org >Website: www.nfb.org/scholarships > >The National Federation of the Blind knows that >blindness is not the characteristic that defines >you or your future. Every day we raise the >expectations of blind people, because low >expectations create obstacles between blind >people and our dreams. You can live the life you >want; blindness is not what holds you back. > >To make a donation to the National Federation of >the Blind Imagination Fund campaign, please >visit >https://nfb.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=5. > From trillian551 at gmail.com Tue May 6 20:51:11 2014 From: trillian551 at gmail.com (Mary Fernandez) Date: Tue, 6 May 2014 16:51:11 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] the 2014 NABS mentoring program! Message-ID: Hi all! Please read the announcement below. If you have any questions, please contact me at trillian551 at gmail.com Spread the word to your divisions. We will have an informational call on the program later in the month. The 2014 NABS MENTORING PROGRAM! Students, young professionals, successful blind adults, ambitious young adults, listen up, this one is for you. For the second year, NABS will be sponsoring a mentoring program which will kick off during the 2014 convention, and build relationships which will hopefully last a lifetime. What: Blind students and professionals in the student's field of interest will be matched. When: On July 2nd, we will hold our introduction meet-and-greet, which will be filled with fun games, and activities to kick off the mentoring relationship. Who: Blind students and first time convention attendees will be mentees, blind professionals, and seasoned convention attendees will serve as our mentors. How: If you'd like to participate as a mentor or mentee, you simply have to fill out a five minute form, which the committee will review. For mentors go to: http://nabslink.org/content/mentor-form For mentees go to: http://nabslink.org/content/mentee-form These links can be found in the nabslink.org website. The only way we can have a successful program is by having mentors and mentees, so come one and come all! Spread the word! See you in Orlando! -- Mary Fernandez "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." -- Maya Angelou From jsoro620 at gmail.com Tue May 6 22:26:58 2014 From: jsoro620 at gmail.com (Joe) Date: Tue, 6 May 2014 18:26:58 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Miss Rovig is leaving the building, or Goodbye MD, Hello MN! In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <010501cf697a$4b85cbe0$e29163a0$@gmail.com> Excellent! It's biographies like this that make me want to get back in the game. -- Twitter: @ScribblingJoe Visit my blog: http://joeorozco.com/blog -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of David Andrews Sent: Tuesday, May 06, 2014 11:24 AM To: david.andrews at nfbnet.org Subject: [nabs-l] Miss Rovig is leaving the building, or Goodbye MD, Hello MN! My Federation Friends, It's time to let you in on my plan. I bought a house in southern Minnesota because I'm retiring from my work at the National Federation of the Blind, and moving my membership from Maryland to Minnesota. Not having done it yet, I'm not sure how living on my retirement plan is going to work out when it comes to the fun extras of life, so the 2014 July convention in Orlando may be my last national convention. Although, if the money permits, I can see me coming back like former students go to their high school reunion just to enjoy being with their old friends. My last day on the staff will be July 11, 2014. Now when did this all start, you may ask. After all, I'm a sighted guy. Back in the summer of 1975, I had decided not to sign the contract to continue as the librarian at a 500-student high school in southern Wisconsin because I had nothing in common with anyone in that small town. So, job hunting are us! One fine summer day on a bulletin board in the multi-story library school of the University of Wisconsin Madison campus, from which I had received my masters in library science degree, I saw a 3 by 5 typed card that said, "Librarian Needed. Must have some knowledge of textbooks. Iowa Commission for the Blind, Des Moines, Iowa, (phone number)." A teacher in the library school was passing by just as I finished reading and I asked her, "Have you ever heard of this library?" She said she'd heard it was the largest library for the blind in the country. Well! After a tiny high school, that sounded interesting! And Iowa being next to Wisconsin, I could drive back to visit my family on the holidays. That it was "for the blind" never really registered with me. I figured a library was a library. Oh, my! Little did I know how my life was changing from that very minute. So I called and made an appointment to interview. As it happened (here comes Fate dropping in again), my brother was buying a house to be close to his new job in northwest Iowa so he and his wife and I rode in the same car. He dropped me off in Des Moines, where I was to interview for a few hours. Then I rode with them up to see their new home, and would come back to Des Moines to have a second interview "if" I was invited to do so. During the first interview -with Head Library Florence Grannis, and Duane Gerstenberger, her replacement in training, it was all about my ability as a librarian. The Iowa Commission for the Blind had a large library - a point in its favor, and, when fully staffed, six librarians serving patrons statewide! I was interviewing to be in charge of obtaining textbooks from APH or our own transcribers for all (300?) of Iowa's K-12 and college-level blind and visually impaired students and all the adults who needed materials for their work, plus the Braille collection, the large type collection, and the small professional collections of print books by blind authors or about blindness and the historical collection of early Braille, New York Point, Moon Type, and such books. Nope, I did not know Braille; did not know anything about the NFB, or about how blind persons handle things. But I did instinctively know that "Gone with the Wind" is still "Gone with the Wind" whether it is in print or in Braille; and I passed Mrs. Grannis's several tests of my competency. So Mr. Gerstenberger gave me a stack of banquet speeches that agency director Kenneth Jernigan had made in his other job as president of a federation for blind people, and I was set up for a second interview. Hello Fate. All the long way to northeast Iowa I read the speeches. Very interesting! And solid philosophy! Those speeches just made sense to me. Of course blind Americans should not be treated that way! And I read them some more all the way back to Des Moines. I got my second interview, this time with Kenneth Jernigan. I sat in the chair across from Dr. Jernigan at his big desk and his assistant, Mrs. Anderson (now Mrs. Jernigan), sat on a couch to my right side. As I figured out later, this was a subtle test of attitude-would I look and speak to the sighted person or the blind boss? Right. It just made sense to me to talk to the boss and, well, I got hired. July 23, 1975, 8 a.m., I started work at the Iowa Commission for the Blind as one of their six librarians, and I continued working there for nearly 13 years. I am proud to be part of "the Iowa connection." I joined the NFB at the July 1975 chapter meeting. As part of staff training, Dr. Jernigan had me reading several decades of back issues of "Braille Monitor," in class with Jim Omvig as our teacher for blind civil rights history, and taking cane travel lessons under sleepshades with Field Op counselor Dick Davis as my instructor. I really liked cane travel. For my graduation exercise, I walked a four-mile route around Des Moines. No problem. I learned how to do some other things under sleepshades too. All of this got me started in understanding how a blind guy handles whatever he or she wants to do. And in September1975, President Jernigan invited me to his annual Labor Day weekend NFB Leadership Seminar at the old Randolph Hotel, where I met Diane McGeorge and my first guide dog. I am a proud alumna of the Bathroom Seminar, along with Barbara Pierce, Barbara Beech (Walker Loos), and many other current leaders of the Federation (not all of them named Barbara). I went on many weekend protests against NAC, driving for the first time ever a huge15-passenger van to get to that hotel near the O'Hare Airport, on the crazy Chicago freeways, and this was before GPS was invented. I marched on Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis. With Tami Dodd (now Mrs. Jones), Eric Duffy, and Sharon (now Monthei)-those three blind and all of us wearing sleepshades to prove we weren't peeking-I swung my cane and marched in our NFB White Cane Marching Team in three town parades and at one NFB national convention. I drove for tons of candy sales. Thank goodness one of the blind students that rode to Oskaloosa knew how to change the tire on the van when it went flat halfway there, surrounded by cornfields. None of us in the van will forget the time I drove the four-hour trip to the Minnesota state convention and Curtis Willoughby and Bob Ray taught us songs to sing in a bar, and I ran out of gas on that Interstate superhighway, but coasted down the miraculously appearing ramp right into a gas station and next to a pump! After a few years, a new chunk got added to my library work, I became the boss of Iowa's radio reading program and along with one other staff person would cut up the "Des Moines Register" to precisely fit our time slot before being one of our many readers on the air. We were proud to know our radio service was one of only two RRS in the country that operated on a public channel. Thanks to using the radio station at the Des Moines tech high school, we were heard as far as 50 miles out of the city! A truck driver told me he listened as he made deliveries to farms outside the city. Dr. Jernigan and his extraordinary Orientation and Adjustment Center for blind adults went on all around us in that multi-story building at 4th and Keo. We'd find newly blind and scared cane travelers lost in the Talking Book stacks or get out of their way as after a few weeks they'd be striding down the city sidewalks outside on their errands. Students made wonderful smells (and some not so much) come out of the kitchens; students came to check out a first shortest book possible to practice reading Braille. They'd be gathered in our comfortable library reading room late into the night, reading and talking. We who were there every day saw in the change in the students, from their first day to their graduation. We literally could see that the NFB method of teaching worked splendidly. We saw students learn a new positive attitude along with their skills, and we saw those few students who did not learn the NFB attitude toward blindness. They would go home with their skills, more or less, but sooner or later start again to be what the sighted folks around them thought they should be since, after all, they were blind. Students that joined and got involved with their support group, the National Federation of the Blind, were the adults that thrived. Dr. Jernigan did not just hang out in his fancy office. He taught you, whether you were student or staff, and not just about blindness. He was funny, wise, eccentric, surprising, demanding, giving, super-smart, super-educated, totally plugged in to Iowa politics, and sometimes ignorant of current cultural icons (like John Denver and his music!). He read 420 words of Braille per minute-I timed him, and he was a terrifically good cane traveller. We were walking downhill on Keo one day at his cane-swinging, lickety-split speed and me in my two-inch heels nearly sprinting to keep up, until one of my heels broke and he hammered it back on with his cane handle. That man did more work in a day and night than three other people. Of course he had two full-time jobs-simultaneously the elected President of the National Federation of the Blind, building the Federation and working on serious issues nationwide, and the Director of the statewide vocational rehabilitation center for the blind, which included the training center for blind adults, the field services department with offices around the state offering home teachers and counselors, a store for products handmade by (agency-inherited) elderly blind women, the statewide Business Enterprise Program (which went from the previous popcorn and packaged candy counters to full-service cafeterias), the statewide regional library for the blind and physically handicapped, the lending office for NLS Talking Book machines, the textbooks for the blind program, the volunteer Braillists program (including for a number of years an operation in Iowa's biggest prison), the volunteer readers making open reel masters which became cassette books at our building, and the radio reading service. We were everything for the blind except the school for the blind at Vinton, Iowa, and the checks from Social Security. About three years after I was hired, Dr. Jernigan resigned his state job and moved the headquarters of the National Federation of the Blind to Baltimore, Maryland. A series of blind directors followed him; none making innovations worth commenting on and the NFB no longer recommended to students, nor, in some years, even mentioned in a favorable way. I continued to be a steady member of the NFB, attending local meetings, the state conventions, and the national conventions. One day in July 1987, I got a phone call from Baltimore. It was Dr. Jernigan. He said, (read this in a deep, deep voice), "Miss Rovig, How would you like to be director of Job Opportunities for the Blind?" I said, "But Dr. Jernigan, I'm not blind." And he said, "Miss Rovig, How would you like to be the director of Job Opportunities for the Blind?" Not being dumb twice, I said, "Yes sir, I would." I was the director of JOB for 10 years. At various times during that decade, Dr. Jernigan also put me in charge of the single staff person cleaning all the bedrooms in our bedroom wing (I personally cleaned every toilet we owned many times), cassette production (which, if I remember right, was more than 60,000 copies per year); and for a very brief period back in 1975, I was the reader and first engineer of the brand new NFB studio. Larry McKeever, "the voice of the Braille Monitor," designed it to be, as he told me, equal to a big-time studio in Nashville. He taught me how to run the giant board and all the equipment over a couple days. As time went on and the monthly "Presidential Release" was recorded, Dr. Jernigan and I discovered I was an okay reader but a poor engineer. Yes, I lost that piece of the job. (Whew!) JOB was a big part of my job. The NFB's innovative program, Job Opportunities for the Blind, was funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. Mary Ellen Reihing (now Mrs. Gabias) and I used the NFB studio to produce six cassette newsletters per year. Half of it was articles about blind workers (I usually did the interviews and wrote them up) plus job hunting advice, and half of it was reading real job listings for all kinds of jobs all over the country-as long as they were not specifically to hire a driver of a vehicle or a life guard at a swimming pool. My all-time favorite came from the "Baltimore Sun" and said, "Seamstress needed. Steady work. Baltimore Casket Company." I got calls from all over the US-blind job seekers asking advice and, occasionally, an employer worried about the new ADA. What helped folks the most was our rock solid belief in their goal, and introducing a blind job hunter to someone who was blind and already at work in that same field or one with similar requirements. Networking built that essential positive attitude and provided the practical advice that one who is in a field knows. Once a year I wrote a four-page "Employer's Bulletin" like the one in 1995 called, "Employer Nightmares about Hiring Blind Employees." It started like this, "This bulletin is for employers who have hidden worries about hiring a blind person." Some bulletins are still posted on the NFB website, but they surely need updating. Then we had the three-hours long JOB Seminars at national conventions for a live audience of two to three hundred NFB members. I was the MC for our lineup of blind speakers. I'll never forget the presentations by John Fritz on doctoring his Wisconsin dairy herd; Doug Lane of Nebraska, a professional baker for a large hotel; Joe Urbanek, owner of a B&B for newlyweds; Lloyd Watts, house parent in a group home for adult men with low IQs; Carla McQuillan on childcare in the home (before she started her Montessori school); Allen Schaefer of Illinois, a public high school music director and teacher (whose students went all the way to state several times), so many others. But, golly, my number one favorite was Robert Munz of Long Island, New York, telling us about his interview and his job working the Price Club fast food counter. He got the job of defrosting the pizzas and warming the big dough pretzels when he told the sighted HR lady that he cooked a meal for 40 as part of his training at the Louisiana Center for the Blind, and she said, "I couldn't do that!" and Bob said, "You could if you tried." I am proud to say I started the JOB convention breakfast meetings targeted to different professions. Out of that networking, people found each other and they grew our NFB divisions for science and engineering, for voc rehab workers, and for medical fields, among others. One day, Dr. Jernigan asked me, "Miss Rovig, would you like to go to the United Nations?" The NFB was invited to run an information table in the lobby of the UN in New York City alongside other self-help groups because it was The Year of the Disabled. And one very memorable day, Dr. Jernigan asked me, "Miss Rovig, how would you like to go to Japan?" Of course, I said, "Yes sir, I would." The Japanese government office that ran training centers to train blind persons for employment asked for a keynote speaker to come to their convention to explain how the NFB worked on employment issues. Their chief push was to teach the use of the Opticon. Unfortunately that was the last year the machine was manufactured. Anyway, what a wonderful trip and what an honor to be chosen. I heard later from our contact, Chuji san, that my speech had been translated and published in the main Tokyo daily newspaper with my photo. Well, after I'd done this job for ten years, DOL decided we'd been funded way longer than they normally would fund any program (normally only two or three years!) and ended our funding, so Dr. Jernigan switched me to being the writing-driving-reading assistant to our staff in the IBTC, the International Braille and Technology Center for the Blind. Working this job for two years, I learned a lot about modern equipment for blind persons. I loved the time Robert Jaquiss and I drove to several high tech companies and saw the amazing, new, 3D printing machines. After a while my several layers of bosses and I discovered I was an editor and proofreader. My job changed to working in our Advocacy and Protection Department, mostly proofreading print documents that leave our building-letters, emails, petitions, invoices, language in new legislative bills, posters, website pages, fact sheets, and official reports. I helped proof the opus, "Walking Alone and Marching Together"-all thousand-plus pages of it. I wrote the wording for the Bolotin Award online under Jim Gashel's direction. I began to proofread the "Braille Monitor" and "Future Reflections." This is what I've done for the last decade. Dr. Jernigan had a dream of a national headquarters for the National Federation of the Blind, one that would work on all the different issues, with room for things like a library to educate the researchers and a research institute run our way, an educational center figuring out best practices, and lots of room for offices and meeting rooms to cover all the different jobs the NFB is doing and will want to do in the unknown future. This is not a school, but a think-tank at work to innovate ideas and train the trainers. We had 18 million dollars to raise so I helped build it. I had NFB accounting take a small portion of my paycheck every month to give $5,000 to the building of our National Center for the Blind, 200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place, Baltimore, Maryland 21230. Yup, my name is on the wall in the Wells Street lobby. Five years ago, President Maurer changed my job again by appointing me to assist Anil Lewis, NFB state president in Georgia, with all the paperwork for our national scholarship program. Under Anil's direction, I wrote the information on our scholarship website; answered half a zillion phone calls and emails, printed and filed the 500 to 700 or so scholarship applications we get each year, and handled lots of other time-consuming details. After a couple years, Anil accepted a staff position here in NFB's home office and Patti Chang, Esquire, a full-time lawyer in Chicago and president of the NFB of Illinois, became my boss for this part of my job. It is so very strange to think this is my last year working on this fun, important, expensive program. I so enjoy meeting our thirty winners at convention and helping them find out that what the National Federation of the Blind offers to them goes way beyond a one-time check and a week in a big hotel. I have been to every NFB national convention since 1976. This convention will be number 39. It's the most fun you can have in a week and still be legal. I've been to every NFB state convention in the state in which I lived (Iowa or Maryland) plus some extra state conventions just for fun: Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Virginia, and Washington, DC. All were so different and yet all were totally NFB. There's never been a national convention that I didn't have several jobs. I met and got to know hundreds and hundreds of our members when I had the job for many years of training and supervising volunteers for the NFB Store. Remember the time we had no customers at all, so joking around we got Ellen Ringlein to do an advertisement and demonstration for her table of Braille tools in German and got Fatos Floyd to advertise her Braille equipment in Turkish? Many of our volunteers had a first Braille lesson, many learned how to use the click rule and the abacus, and many strangers became friends as they sat beside each other. So many good times! Looks like I'm writing a book here, and not a goodbye! It somehow doesn't seem proper to say only, "So long, and thanks for all the fish." Fellow members and friends, if you read between the lines, you know I will always treasure these things-getting to know the most extraordinary man I've ever met-Dr. Jernigan; having the chance to work, protest, and laugh with the many wonderful, hard-working members I've met since 1975; and, yes, I very much treasure the fact that, using such gifts as I have, I have helped the movement of all blind Americans toward full equality. The conclusion I reached in a car crossing the hot summer landscape of Iowa in 1975 hasn't changed-equality for the blind just makes sense. So see you in Orlando! If you come to Minnesota's NFB events, look for me there, or find me on NFB listservs. With appreciation for the past and anticipation of the future, Lorraine (also known as, Miss Rovig) >Lorraine Rovig >Assistant to Chairperson Patti Chang, Esq. > >Scholarship Program >NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND >200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place Baltimore, MD 21230 >Office: (410) 659-9314, x2415; >Email: scholarships at nfb.org >Website: www.nfb.org/scholarships > >The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the >characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the >expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles >between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want; >blindness is not what holds you back. > >To make a donation to the National Federation of the Blind Imagination >Fund campaign, please visit >https://nfb.org/c ivicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=5. > _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jsoro620%40gmail.com From carlymih at comcast.net Wed May 7 12:31:35 2014 From: carlymih at comcast.net (Carly Mihalakis) Date: Wed, 07 May 2014 05:31:35 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] In person versus online for the summer In-Reply-To: <00ea01cf63b0$ee0f2e80$ca2d8b80$@mediacombb.net> References: <7.0.1.0.2.20140428071519.01e05e50@comcast.net> <00ea01cf63b0$ee0f2e80$ca2d8b80$@mediacombb.net> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140507052949.01deec10@comcast.net> Good morning, Loren, Your points are well taken so, I guess it depends on your path, your learning style and other factors, I just know for me and for a path in Socialogy, an in-person environment is a must. for today, car At 06:42 AM 4/29/2014, Loren Wakefield wrote: >Hi, > >As I believe someone already said, online is where the future is headed. I >love classes on line. I'm not going to say they are for everyone. But they >are a great thing for certain situations. > >As to it being real or not, It is no more or less real than sitting in a >classroom with people. > >Schools are going to have to reach out to our mobile population. If we are >going to keep demanding that we have higher and higher credentials for jobs, >then we've got to have a way to obtain them. Online can fit in to your >schedule many times when attending a class in a traditional setting will >not. > >Loren > > > >-----Original Message----- >From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Carly Mihalakis >Sent: Monday, April 28, 2014 9:21 AM >To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >Subject: Re: [nabs-l] In person versus online for the summer > >Good morning, > > I ought to make clear my position of studying anything "On-Line" >not being a good idea, particularly if you deeply care for the material. I >mean, how is one expected to glean a deep and hands-on experience being >steeped in the subject matter, being in a room with like-minded people, >engaging in class discussions all On-Line? My belief is that things done >On-Line aren't really real. >that's all. Besides, the points you make about advantages to a virtually >empty campus are, I think valid ones. Those are my thoughts. Good luck! >for today, Car >408-209-3239 > >At 09:54 PM 4/27/2014, you wrote: > >Good evening, I hope everyone is doing well. I am faced with a > >difficult decision this evening. ... whether or not to go to my > >university and take one class and stay in the dorm for six weeks, or > >take the same class online. I feel that there are both negative and > >positive aspects to each of the two decisions. > >Regardless, I will be attending the University I am writing about in > >the fall. A couple advantages that icy to being on campus for the six > >weeks are being able to completely mapped the campus with very few > >people there, and being able to interact with my professor on a more > >one to one basis, including in person, and same holds true for the Dss > >office. I have been on campus before once. I have also sent an email > >with my accommodation letter to the professor who's class I plan to > >take if I were to take it face-to-face at the University. > >Some of my family is hesitant to allow me to do the six week session, > >and they would rather see me complete the courses online. > >They say that I would still be able to get to the campus a few days > >before the start of fall semester, but I feel like I would need more > >time that way I can know the campus, the city I will be residing in, > >and the Dss office staff, among other important things. > >I have had some difficulty with online classes in the past, they were > >college algebra classes that had an online homework component. > >The staff at the Dss office has informed me that online classes through > >the University I will be attending are conducted using blackboard. How > >accessible, or inaccessible, is blackboard? I have an iPhone, a Mac, > >and a Windows machine. > > Also, if faced with this decision, what would you do (which > >decision would you make), and why would you make that decision? I know > >in the end it will be my decision to make, I would just like > >suggestions from each of you. Thank you in advance for any suggestions > >you may provide. > > > >Sent from my iPhone 5S Using VoiceOver > >_______________________________________________ > >nabs-l mailing list > >nabs-l at nfbnet.org > >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >nabs-l: > >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast. > >net > > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/theweird1%40mediacombb.n >et > > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From trillian551 at gmail.com Wed May 7 13:17:01 2014 From: trillian551 at gmail.com (Mary Fernandez) Date: Wed, 7 May 2014 09:17:01 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Correction to 2014 nabs mentoring program announcement Message-ID: All, Yesterday I sent out an announcement for the 2014 NABS mentoring program. Our first meeting will be held Tuesday July 1 at 6 pm (the first day of convention). I apologize for the confusion. Below is the corrected announcement. Thanks. The 2014 NABS MENTORING PROGRAM! Students, young professionals, successful blind adults, ambitious young adults, listen up, this one is for you. For the second year, NABS will be sponsoring a mentoring program which will kick off during the 2014 convention, and build relationships which will hopefully last a lifetime. What: Blind students and professionals in the student's field of interest will be matched. When: On July 1st at 6:00 pm, we will hold our introduction meet-and-greet, which will be filled with fun games, and activities to kick off the mentoring relationship. Who: Blind students and first time convention attendees will be mentees, blind professionals, and seasoned convention attendees will serve as our mentors. How: If you'd like to participate as a mentor or mentee, you simply have to fill out a five minute form, which the committee will review. For mentors go to: http://nabslink.org/content/mentor-form For mentees go to: http://nabslink.org/content/mentee-form These links can be found in the nabslink.org website. The only way we can have a successful program is by having mentors and mentees, so come one and come all! Spread the word! See you in Orlando! -- Mary Fernandez "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." -- Maya Angelou From louvins at gmail.com Wed May 7 13:28:49 2014 From: louvins at gmail.com (Joshua Hendrickson) Date: Wed, 7 May 2014 08:28:49 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] In person versus online for the summer In-Reply-To: <7.0.1.0.2.20140507052949.01deec10@comcast.net> References: <7.0.1.0.2.20140428071519.01e05e50@comcast.net> <00ea01cf63b0$ee0f2e80$ca2d8b80$@mediacombb.net> <7.0.1.0.2.20140507052949.01deec10@comcast.net> Message-ID: Hi to all. I know I've commented on my online experience in a previous message. However, I'd say that contacting your professor who is conducting your online class before the class begins is crucial to better your chances of succeeding in the class. I've heard of blackboard for online classes, but I only have experience with canvas. It wasn't to hard to figure out how to use it after a couple tries. I did have help at first when answering some questions on quizzes and other assignments. My professor was very accomidating I could email if I had questions, and she would respond very promptly. If I had questions about my grade, she would answer them. I believe I was the first blind student she had had take her online class. The class was a science class that dealt with astronomy. If I had done better on the quizzes my grade would have been higher. I received a b in the class which for me was an excilent grade. Science was never one of my strong points. I'd say to all of you who don't like, or are dreading taking an online class, to just be positive and do the best you can. I know you have to be motivated to just get your assignments done, but it was a great experience for me, because it caused me to be disciplined and very serious if I wanted a passing grade. My GPA right now, is something like 3.90 or very close to it. I'm glad I could get my associates degree with that GPA. I took a lot of history classes as electives which were a lot of fun. I had a wonderful instructor who was very acomidating and would reddily answer any questions I had about the materials. We never had any actual textbooks during the course, which did help a lot. Just a couple book reports, one ten page research paper, and a couple tests. Good luck all, as you all continue your education. On 5/7/14, Carly Mihalakis wrote: > Good morning, Loren, > > Your points are well taken so, I guess it depends on your > path, your learning style and other factors, I just know for me and > for a path in Socialogy, an in-person environment is a must. > for today, car At 06:42 AM 4/29/2014, Loren Wakefield wrote: >>Hi, >> >>As I believe someone already said, online is where the future is headed. >> I >>love classes on line. I'm not going to say they are for everyone. But >> they >>are a great thing for certain situations. >> >>As to it being real or not, It is no more or less real than sitting in a >>classroom with people. >> >>Schools are going to have to reach out to our mobile population. If we >> are >>going to keep demanding that we have higher and higher credentials for >> jobs, >>then we've got to have a way to obtain them. Online can fit in to your >>schedule many times when attending a class in a traditional setting will >>not. >> >>Loren >> >> >> >>-----Original Message----- >>From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Carly >> Mihalakis >>Sent: Monday, April 28, 2014 9:21 AM >>To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >>Subject: Re: [nabs-l] In person versus online for the summer >> >>Good morning, >> >> I ought to make clear my position of studying anything "On-Line" >>not being a good idea, particularly if you deeply care for the material. I >>mean, how is one expected to glean a deep and hands-on experience being >>steeped in the subject matter, being in a room with like-minded people, >>engaging in class discussions all On-Line? My belief is that things done >>On-Line aren't really real. >>that's all. Besides, the points you make about advantages to a virtually >>empty campus are, I think valid ones. Those are my thoughts. Good luck! >>for today, Car >>408-209-3239 >> >>At 09:54 PM 4/27/2014, you wrote: >> >Good evening, I hope everyone is doing well. I am faced with a >> >difficult decision this evening. ... whether or not to go to my >> >university and take one class and stay in the dorm for six weeks, or >> >take the same class online. I feel that there are both negative and >> >positive aspects to each of the two decisions. >> >Regardless, I will be attending the University I am writing about in >> >the fall. A couple advantages that icy to being on campus for the six >> >weeks are being able to completely mapped the campus with very few >> >people there, and being able to interact with my professor on a more >> >one to one basis, including in person, and same holds true for the Dss >> >office. I have been on campus before once. I have also sent an email >> >with my accommodation letter to the professor who's class I plan to >> >take if I were to take it face-to-face at the University. >> >Some of my family is hesitant to allow me to do the six week session, >> >and they would rather see me complete the courses online. >> >They say that I would still be able to get to the campus a few days >> >before the start of fall semester, but I feel like I would need more >> >time that way I can know the campus, the city I will be residing in, >> >and the Dss office staff, among other important things. >> >I have had some difficulty with online classes in the past, they were >> >college algebra classes that had an online homework component. >> >The staff at the Dss office has informed me that online classes through >> >the University I will be attending are conducted using blackboard. How >> >accessible, or inaccessible, is blackboard? I have an iPhone, a Mac, >> >and a Windows machine. >> > Also, if faced with this decision, what would you do (which >> >decision would you make), and why would you make that decision? I know >> >in the end it will be my decision to make, I would just like >> >suggestions from each of you. Thank you in advance for any suggestions >> >you may provide. >> > >> >Sent from my iPhone 5S Using VoiceOver >> >_______________________________________________ >> >nabs-l mailing list >> >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>nabs-l: >> >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast. >> >net >> >> >>_______________________________________________ >>nabs-l mailing list >>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>nabs-l: >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/theweird1%40mediacombb.n >>et >> >> >>_______________________________________________ >>nabs-l mailing list >>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/louvins%40gmail.com > From carlymih at comcast.net Wed May 7 18:09:35 2014 From: carlymih at comcast.net (Carly Mihalakis) Date: Wed, 07 May 2014 11:09:35 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages In-Reply-To: <52d85950.b56c8c0a.7cd5.ffff86f2@mx.google.com> References: <52d85950.b56c8c0a.7cd5.ffff86f2@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140507110703.01de8d98@comcast.net> Good morning, Lizzy, In high school, I studied Japanese language and, realizing that I simply needed to learn tenji (Japanese braille,) my Dad looked up the code on the Net and I sort of taught myself. At 03:12 PM 1/16/2014, lizzy wrote: >Hi All, >Has anyone here taken a language that is lesser known? I really mean >anything other than french spanish or german; I'm thinking languages >like Chinese, Russian and Estonian. The college that I will be >attending next year offers some pretty cool languages that I am >hoping to take advantage of. Has anyone taken a language like this >before? What resources did you use to teach yourself the braille >code? Or did you go about it in a completely different way? >Thanks for any help you can give me, >Lizzy > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From christel.chrissu at gmail.com Wed May 7 18:31:17 2014 From: christel.chrissu at gmail.com (Christel Sogenbits) Date: Wed, 7 May 2014 21:31:17 +0300 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages In-Reply-To: <7.0.1.0.2.20140507110703.01de8d98@comcast.net> References: <52d85950.b56c8c0a.7cd5.ffff86f2@mx.google.com> <7.0.1.0.2.20140507110703.01de8d98@comcast.net> Message-ID: <536a7bf7.c2ae0e0a.42c2.3c5e@mx.google.com> Hey! If you take Estonian then I can help you. Im from Estonia. Let me know! Tervitades / With greetings Christel Sogenbits GSM: +372 58 440 521 E-mail: christel.chrissu at gmail.com Skype: christel.chrissu -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Carly Mihalakis Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2014 9:10 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list; nabs-l at nfbnet.org Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages Good morning, Lizzy, In high school, I studied Japanese language and, realizing that I simply needed to learn tenji (Japanese braille,) my Dad looked up the code on the Net and I sort of taught myself. At 03:12 PM 1/16/2014, lizzy wrote: >Hi All, >Has anyone here taken a language that is lesser known? I really mean >anything other than french spanish or german; I'm thinking languages >like Chinese, Russian and Estonian. The college that I will be >attending next year offers some pretty cool languages that I am hoping >to take advantage of. Has anyone taken a language like this before? >What resources did you use to teach yourself the braille code? Or did >you go about it in a completely different way? >Thanks for any help you can give me, >Lizzy > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast. >net _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/christel.chrissu%40gmail .com From crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com Wed May 7 19:52:12 2014 From: crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com (Kaiti Shelton) Date: Wed, 7 May 2014 15:52:12 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: <1804098C62004FBF9822F4C267B22A4F@OwnerPC> References: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> <1804098C62004FBF9822F4C267B22A4F@OwnerPC> Message-ID: Hi all, I agree with Arielle, and this has been a lesson learned the hard way in beaurocracy. What's really frustrating though, is that I could not really take charge and organize the conference call; if I were allowed to do that, trust that I would have, but the professors still would have not been allowed to speak to her, and she to the professors, without the confidentiality paperwork being signed. I had no idea that the paperwork needed to be signed though, since I know my disabilities office asks for outside help using, "We have a student who is visually impaired and requires X, Y, and Z," as a general way of skirting around confidentiality. I guess that since this woman knows me, and the professors obviously know they would be speaking about me, they felt confidentiality stuff was necessary. The puzzling thing, though, is that I work in the disabilities office as a web accessibility consultant, and know a lot of the students who come in and out of the office. When my boss says, "We need you to test dragon for a student with limited motor control so he can take his test," I have a fairly good idea of who they're specifically talking about. Likewise, since I'm pretty well connected with the blind students in my state, I knew who my disabilities coordinator was referring to when she said, "Can you test the old CCTV we have in the lab? We have a prospective student who will need to use it if she comes here." My coordinator knows I know most of the students around the state through OABS and just living in the Cincinnati area where blind students between the undergraduate and high school ages now are pretty common. The sample of the student's textbook I had to read on the CCTV was the nail in the coffin that even confirmed who the student was, but my bosses could have just as easily said, "Just go test the CCTV or Dragon," with no further explanation at all. And the explanations they provide me don't breach confidentiality laws, even though both of us have a good idea of who is being referred to. I am just wondering why confidentiality was such a big deal, or if it really had to be in the first place. I really have never considered the possibility of using a reader, partially because I have never needed one before and have always tried to do everything myself, and partially because at the beginning of practicum my supervisor said, "We always debrief afterwards, so you should be able to get the information you need there." However, if it is what I will need to be successful, I will do it. I could even perhaps get someone through my disability services office; I think a volunteer notetaker could just as easily come along and take notes on what the residents did visually, then email them to me so I can use them in documentation. Another possibility is that, since there are actually several people from my class who did not even make it into practicum on time and will be taking it with me next spring in addition to the sophomores who will be on time, that our groups will be pretty large and will have several students sitting out of the session observing. I could ask the observers to take notes on visual events as well, since they'll need to take notes anyway. That might be the best way to kill 2 birds with 1 stone, and it would be a win win situation since they'll be strengthening their clinical awareness too. But, if neither of these things are possible, I will go through VR to hire a reader to take notes and discuss visual aspects of the session with me. On 5/6/14, Ashley Bramlett wrote: > Kaiti, > > Just think that you're going to be more educated than your fellow graduates. > > What will your minors be in? > > My friend, andrew, had a problem similar, his practicum professor > discriminated against him and I'm not even sure the outcome. He changed his > > major. It set him back too; like you, all his nonmajor course professors > were understanding; like now he is taking environmental science, and has > found few problems in that class. For conducting which is a general music > requirement, the professor showed him the moves. > But, for music therapy, he found his professors teach visually and it fell > apart in the practicum class. > > Sorry to hear about your problems. I agree that knowing who comes in and out > > of a room while your busy leading would be a challege; and in fact, I'm > sure sighted students miss some of that too. I mean, they see, but can they > > really focus on the whole room with a crowd? How many are there. The only > modification I can think up is have them leave you a note of some sort when > > they leave. Maybe even have a sign out sheet at the door. Since you have > some vision, would you see it if it was in large print or if you had a > magnifier? If you cannot see the print, you could have them leave you a note > > in braille that was embossed ahead of time. It could be index cards stating > > their name and saying they are leaving that they leave on a designated > table. > > Anyway, I agree with greg that practicums where its unfamiliar environment > > and not your own territory will be more a challenge. I'm sure documentation > > will not be this picky in the jobs. > > I know you're real discouraged, but keep trying and I'm sure you'll do > alright. Everyone has to take classes over in college and other students > fall behind a year too for various reasons. So, in the scheme of things, > when you come out with a double minor and a music degree, you'll look fine. > > Unless employers see your transcripts, they won't even know about the extra > > time it took, or that you retook a class. > > Take care, > Ashley > > -----Original Message----- > From: Kaiti Shelton > Sent: Monday, May 05, 2014 7:02 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses > > Thanks all for your suggestions. Here is a little more information > about the situation. > > An in-person meeting really is probably not possible for me, the music > therapist > I know, and the faculty simply because she is based in my hometown, > and I go to school in a city that is about an hour away. Getting > transportation for her certainly would not be impossible, but it would > be really expensive for an hour or so of time to meet. That is why I > suggested phone conversations, because then geography would not be an > issue, and they could have more frequent consultations with her. The > professors mentioned in our meeting that they are thinking of driving > to her to see her clinical work, but the questions I have are that if > they were going to do this, why did they wait so long to do it, and > when are they planning to do this? > > I had a very lengthy conversation with my disabilities services > counselor before leaving campus, and I went to her immediately after > the meeting for an additional conversation as well. She has agreed to > step in, and has the idea that if the groups can not be made > accessible to me, then perhaps the best answer would be to adjust the > practicum so that I have a smaller number of clients, or are in a > different setting with different documentation requirements. I told > her what the music therapist told me about documentation. She said > that she has never had to document things as specifically as I am > having to do, and she just keeps track of the goals and objectives, > the session plans, and the progress her clients make towards reaching > their goals and objectives in documents on her notetaker. So, it is > very clear that the definition of acceptable documentation, and what > information is truly salient for the MT to know, is not concrete. > > The problemwith not knowing who comes and leaves is a difficult one. > First, the room we were in was more like a day room that was just set > off of a hallway. There were no doors to open or shut. If a resident > wanted to go back to their room, so long as they were ambulatory, they > could just get up, leave the semicircle, and go down the hall. Also, > it is difficult to pay attention to any noises people like that might > make when you're facilitating a song. One of my problems I had to > work on this semester was learning to project with my voice since I am > not a vocalist by trade, so for a while and to this day it has felt > like I'm shouting when really I'm just singing at a reasonable volume > for the residents, many of whom have hearing impairments, to hear. > Also, when we'd come into the room we'd have to push this big set of > tables back towards the opposite wall to make room for the semicircle, > and sometimes residents would come in late and sit themselves behind > the table where some of the staff waits on-hand than insert themselves > into the group. We had one resident who tended to do this a lot, and > I would always feel really bad if I was passing out instruments or > scarves and failed to give her one. > > I was given feedback on evaluations, and was consistently told to be > more specific, but the problem was that I simply did not know how to. > I was providing information on what I knew and heard about in the > discussions after sessions, but it's difficult to provide information > and document something you didn't know happened. I also understand > that I should be held to the same expectations as everyone else, but > not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot > do. There has to be a compromise. > > I am planning to seek information from the folks on the Human Services > list. That was a great suggestion that I really want to take, but I > thought I'd try to see if students had a perspective first, since I > know the human services division actually doesn't have a lot, if any, > music therapists. I have been on the list a few times, and am still > hoping a professional will pop up on there for me to network with. > > Greg brought up an interesting point, and one I really agree with. It > is clear from what my music therapist contact told me that I'm > probably not going to need to be as specific when I document in the > job sector as I am going to need to be in practicum. I understand > that by teaching us to do more work that it will be easier when we > don't have to do as much after graduating, but it makes it difficult > to get to that point if the expectations don't have a modification > that would allow me to be successful. Unfortunately, I have to do > what my supervising professors want me to do in order to earn the > freedom to document in a way that is more suitable for me. > > I'm very frustrated; I have never had any academic issues till this > year, and so far the 2 problems I've encountered are in classes I need > for my major. All my gen ed professors and I form working > relationships so easily, and while it is obvious where I struggle and > where I don't (math and science courses verses English and History, > psychology, and philosophy respectively), I > do my best, and the professors adjust their requirements when > necessary. E.G, in biology we had journal assignments, where we had > to find a journal article, review it, and write a summary. The > original requirements stated that we had to underline the parts of the > journal article we used. Since I could not underline something that > was already published on the web, I underlined the parts of my written > document which I paraphrased from the article. When my teacher saw > this on the second of these assignments, she asked me why I didn't > follow directions and I told her why. Even though she missed the > reasoning behind it, and forgot to even take the fact that I couldn't > physically underline something into account, she took note of it. I > actually got a few points added on to my first assignment as well, > which she had taken off for the underlining issue. If a biology > professor who I had for one semester can do this, it makes me nervous > that the professors I will need to work with in my major to get my > degree cannot. The worst part is that it is effecting me much more > than academically too; I am now not as confident as I was, since I am > so used to being an A B student, and this is really the first time I > feel like my blindness is an issue. To tell the truth, it's the first > time I've really felt self-conscious about it, and it's not a good > feeling at all. The profs say my disability has nothing to do with it > other than the fact that I didn't communicate my needs well enough, > but I honestly don't believe that is the case. It really does feel > like my blineness, and the disagreements over how to teach me and > accommodate it, are what has caused me to require an extra year of > college. I just heard for sure that this has put me an entire year > behind in the practicum sequence this afternoon, and it is difficult > to fathom what to do next, how to handle myself when I go back for my > second try, and how I'll even pay for the fifth year I was not at all > expecting to take. I guess on the bright side, I can get my second > minor that those same advisors were advising me to drop, since I'll > need to take some courses in order to remain a full time student for > financial aid purposes if I'm going to afford it at all. And, I'll be > able to file the fafsa as an independent student since I won't be > younger than 21 or have a job at the time, but this is just very hard > for me to accept having grown up with excellent grades and no major > problems related to my education. > On 5/4/14, Greg Aikens wrote: >> Hi Kaiti, >> I'm so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. It sounds as >> though >> you did all the right things. You provided your professors with a >> resource >> they could consult to determine what is reasonable. You made them aware >> of >> your difficulties throughout the semester and sought their input on >> solutions. Did they give you any warning before the end of the semester >> that >> you might not pass the course? In my opinion, it is unacceptable for them >> >> to >> fail you for this when you clearly did your best to come up with >> strategies >> and solutions to compensate. It sounds as though their rationale is that >> they can't give you a passing grade because if you can't make >> accommodations >> in their class, you won't be able to be a competent professional in the >> field, all this without really having a good grasp on what appropriate >> accommodations might be. >> >> That might sound logical, but the reality is that as a professional, you >> will have more control over your environment, caseload, etc. than in a >> practicum setting. This was true for me and student teaching. There were >> things I definitely failed at during my practicum hours and student >> teaching >> semester, but as long as I reflected on why what I had tried didn't work >> and >> came up with new strategies to try next time, my supervising professor >> was >> satisfied that I would come up with the best method in time. As a teacher, >> >> I >> structure my lessons, classroom, and schedule to avoid situations in which >> >> I >> will be less successful. Making non visual accommodations will be >> different >> for each setting and each client you interact with, and it's something >> you >> will improve at over time. >> >> The having to take an extra semester or year to complete your degree is >> the >> part that really makes it worth fighting. I would get the Learning Center >> involved. Even if they don't really know what accommodations should be >> appropriate, their job is to work with professors to figure that out. I >> would try to set up a meeting with your professors, the Learning Center, >> and >> hopefully the music therapist where you can present your case. Show them >> how >> you grew and learned as a professional throughout your experiences. >> Reflect >> on the strategies and accommodations you made, whether or not they were >> successful, and accommodations you plan to try next. Make the case that >> gaining information about non verbal behavior is not a trivial task for a >> blind music therapist, but it can be done through creative problem >> solving >> and constant adaptation on your part. Show that you have done these >> things >> so far in your practice and that it is something you will continue to >> work >> on because you know it is core to being a competent professional in your >> field. If they are still not satisfied because you did not have success >> with >> these tasks during the semester, see if they will let you complete some >> extra practicum hours, probably no more than 20% of the total number you >> had >> to complete already (but I just made that number up). Extra hours is not >> ideal, but it sounds better than having to retake the entire course and >> perhaps pay for another semester or two of school. >> >> Best of luck as you decide what to do. Feel free to contact me on or off >> list if I can be of any assistance. >> >> Best, >> Greg >> >> >> On May 4, 2014, at 1:49 AM, Kaiti Shelton >> wrote: >> >>> Hello all, >>> >>> I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback >>> that can be provided. >>> >>> I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum >>> coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve >>> interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical >>> skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in >>> psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I >>> had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local >>> assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and >>> developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting >>> residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage >>> them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a >>> long way since I started practicum in mid February. >>> >>> However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. >>> The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically >>> had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular >>> participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. >>> Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. >>> It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they >>> were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even >>> know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a >>> hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more >>> so they can hear me." >>> >>> Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were >>> doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead >>> was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the >>> residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a >>> manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would >>> sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the >>> semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. >>> However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were >>> doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing >>> exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing >>> something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of >>> motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these >>> questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation >>> with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any >>> information about it. >>> >>> Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not >>> able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, >>> and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I >>> picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along >>> with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments >>> with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the >>> problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my >>> wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could >>> lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to >>> the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned >>> that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while >>> observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and >>> they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is >>> clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and >>> something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work >>> in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, >>> but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't >>> remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of >>> some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. >>> >>> What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I >>> have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year >>> behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I >>> even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a >>> music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy >>> to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. >>> I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and >>> having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very >>> qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how >>> she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. >>> About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her >>> phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so >>> later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed >>> to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. >>> She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman >>> based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak >>> to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, >>> and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the >>> term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn >>> it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken >>> care of when I signed the other form so that communication could >>> easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to >>> speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to >>> speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, >>> and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my >>> accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even >>> though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked >>> repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have >>> instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course >>> work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My >>> professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling >>> with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing >>> musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally >>> making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is >>> obviously a factor. >>> >>> It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know >>> of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional >>> standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, >>> that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a >>> hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this >>> semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, >>> and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making >>> contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though >>> every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going >>> to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' >>> want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help >>> me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me >>> to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new >>> experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which >>> could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an >>> English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, >>> and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in >>> some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what >>> exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that >>> goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is >>> to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there >>> was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that >>> this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like >>> more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, >>> and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as >>> justification. >>> >>> What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with >>> professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working >>> relationships with professors around the university. Even when I >>> struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent >>> about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and >>> trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm >>> getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes >>> that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all >>> the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to >>> say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will >>> likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school >>> since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or >>> in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is >>> difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to >>> admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, >>> and the music department has assumed responsibility for my >>> accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend >>> an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over >>> again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing >>> anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. >>> >>> If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, >>> please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, >>> if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate >>> hearing about them as well. >>> >>> -- >>> Kaiti >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com >> > > > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net > > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From alpineimagination at gmail.com Wed May 7 19:55:45 2014 From: alpineimagination at gmail.com (Vejas) Date: Wed, 07 May 2014 12:55:45 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages Message-ID: <536a8fcb.8b13450a.58a5.ffffb428@mx.google.com> Lizzy, My family language is Lithuanian. If you're committed, you should be able to learn the grammar. Lithuanian Braille is VERY easy. Lithuanians have the same alphabet as we do, and most of the letters are the same. There are a few variations on some of the letters. For example, Lithuanian has 3 types of us: a regular u (dots 1-3-6), a long u which is dots 1-2-5-6, and a u with a nose (that's the best way I can translate it) dots 3-4-6. That's just an example. All vowels except o have either a long form of their letters or a "nose." If you're interested in learning Lithuanian, if you e-mail me off-list I can give you the rest of the unique symbols. Vejas ----- Original Message ----- From: Carly Mihalakis ,nabs-l at nfbnet.org Date sent: Wed, 07 May 2014 11:09:35 -0700 Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages Good morning, Lizzy, In high school, I studied Japanese language and, realizing that I simply needed to learn tenji (Japanese braille,) my Dad looked up the code on the Net and I sort of taught myself. At 03:12 PM 1/16/2014, lizzy wrote: Hi All, Has anyone here taken a language that is lesser known? I really mean anything other than french spanish or german; I'm thinking languages like Chinese, Russian and Estonian. The college that I will be attending next year offers some pretty cool languages that I am hoping to take advantage of. Has anyone taken a language like this before? What resources did you use to teach yourself the braille code? Or did you go about it in a completely different way? Thanks for any help you can give me, Lizzy _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40co mcast.net _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina tion%40gmail.com From alpineimagination at gmail.com Wed May 7 19:55:47 2014 From: alpineimagination at gmail.com (Vejas) Date: Wed, 07 May 2014 12:55:47 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages Message-ID: <536a8fcd.8b13450a.58a5.ffffb429@mx.google.com> Hi, Does Estonian Braille use the regular alphabet just like Lithuanian Braille does? Vejas ----- Original Message ----- From: "Christel Sogenbits" References: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> <1804098C62004FBF9822F4C267B22A4F@OwnerPC> Message-ID: Hi Kaiti, I strongly suspect somebody got confused and was mistaken about the need for confidentiality. Your professors were asking your therapist about her professional experiences, not about your childhood records with her. But I could see an office assistant at your therapist's practice hearing your name, knowing you were a former patient and mistakenly thinking the call is about your patient record. The only reason to sign a release, as far as I know, is if your patient record or your academic record is being discussed, and your professors could easily get the info they need without either of those things happening. However, it sounds like you have been given the needed paperwork and signed it, so hopefully things can proceed ahead. If not, having her write them a letter about an appropriate accommodation should be helpful and shouldn't require any releases from you. Having the other practicum students observe for you sounds like a great idea. Arielle On 5/7/14, Kaiti Shelton wrote: > Hi all, > > I agree with Arielle, and this has been a lesson learned the hard way > in beaurocracy. What's really frustrating though, is that I could not > really take charge and organize the conference call; if I were allowed > to do that, trust that I would have, but the professors still would > have not been allowed to speak to her, and she to the professors, > without the confidentiality paperwork being signed. I had no idea > that the paperwork needed to be signed though, since I know my > disabilities office asks for outside help using, "We have a student > who is visually impaired and requires X, Y, and Z," as a general way > of skirting around confidentiality. I guess that since this woman > knows me, and the professors obviously know they would be speaking > about me, they felt confidentiality stuff was necessary. > > The puzzling thing, though, is that I work in the disabilities office > as a web accessibility consultant, and know a lot of the students who > come in and out of the office. When my boss says, "We need you to > test dragon for a student with limited motor control so he can take > his test," I have a fairly good idea of who they're specifically > talking about. Likewise, since I'm pretty well connected with the > blind students in my state, I knew who my disabilities coordinator was > referring to when she said, "Can you test the old CCTV we have in the > lab? We have a prospective student who will need to use it if she > comes here." My coordinator knows I know most of the students around > the state through OABS and just living in the Cincinnati area where > blind students between the undergraduate and high school ages now are > pretty common. The sample of the student's textbook I had to read on > the CCTV was the nail in the coffin that even confirmed who the > student was, but my bosses could have just as easily said, "Just go > test the CCTV or Dragon," with no further explanation at all. And the > explanations they provide me don't breach confidentiality laws, even > though both of us have a good idea of who is being referred to. > > I am just wondering why confidentiality was such a big deal, or if it > really had to be in the first place. > > I really have never considered the possibility of using a reader, > partially because I have never needed one before and have always tried > to do everything myself, and partially because at the beginning of > practicum my supervisor said, "We always debrief afterwards, so you > should be able to get the information you need there." However, if it > is what I will need to be successful, I will do it. I could even > perhaps get someone through my disability services office; I think a > volunteer notetaker could just as easily come along and take notes on > what the residents did visually, then email them to me so I can use > them in documentation. Another possibility is that, since there are > actually several people from my class who did not even make it into > practicum on time and will be taking it with me next spring in > addition to the sophomores who will be on time, that our groups will > be pretty large and will have several students sitting out of the > session observing. I could ask the observers to take notes on visual > events as well, since they'll need to take notes anyway. That might > be the best way to kill 2 birds with 1 stone, and it would be a win > win situation since they'll be strengthening their clinical awareness > too. But, if neither of these things are possible, I will go through > VR to hire a reader to take notes and discuss visual aspects of the > session with me. > > On 5/6/14, Ashley Bramlett wrote: >> Kaiti, >> >> Just think that you're going to be more educated than your fellow >> graduates. >> >> What will your minors be in? >> >> My friend, andrew, had a problem similar, his practicum professor >> discriminated against him and I'm not even sure the outcome. He changed >> his >> >> major. It set him back too; like you, all his nonmajor course professors >> were understanding; like now he is taking environmental science, and has >> found few problems in that class. For conducting which is a general music >> requirement, the professor showed him the moves. >> But, for music therapy, he found his professors teach visually and it >> fell >> apart in the practicum class. >> >> Sorry to hear about your problems. I agree that knowing who comes in and >> out >> >> of a room while your busy leading would be a challege; and in fact, I'm >> sure sighted students miss some of that too. I mean, they see, but can >> they >> >> really focus on the whole room with a crowd? How many are there. The only >> modification I can think up is have them leave you a note of some sort >> when >> >> they leave. Maybe even have a sign out sheet at the door. Since you have >> some vision, would you see it if it was in large print or if you had a >> magnifier? If you cannot see the print, you could have them leave you a >> note >> >> in braille that was embossed ahead of time. It could be index cards >> stating >> >> their name and saying they are leaving that they leave on a designated >> table. >> >> Anyway, I agree with greg that practicums where its unfamiliar >> environment >> >> and not your own territory will be more a challenge. I'm sure >> documentation >> >> will not be this picky in the jobs. >> >> I know you're real discouraged, but keep trying and I'm sure you'll do >> alright. Everyone has to take classes over in college and other students >> fall behind a year too for various reasons. So, in the scheme of things, >> when you come out with a double minor and a music degree, you'll look >> fine. >> >> Unless employers see your transcripts, they won't even know about the >> extra >> >> time it took, or that you retook a class. >> >> Take care, >> Ashley >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: Kaiti Shelton >> Sent: Monday, May 05, 2014 7:02 PM >> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses >> >> Thanks all for your suggestions. Here is a little more information >> about the situation. >> >> An in-person meeting really is probably not possible for me, the music >> therapist >> I know, and the faculty simply because she is based in my hometown, >> and I go to school in a city that is about an hour away. Getting >> transportation for her certainly would not be impossible, but it would >> be really expensive for an hour or so of time to meet. That is why I >> suggested phone conversations, because then geography would not be an >> issue, and they could have more frequent consultations with her. The >> professors mentioned in our meeting that they are thinking of driving >> to her to see her clinical work, but the questions I have are that if >> they were going to do this, why did they wait so long to do it, and >> when are they planning to do this? >> >> I had a very lengthy conversation with my disabilities services >> counselor before leaving campus, and I went to her immediately after >> the meeting for an additional conversation as well. She has agreed to >> step in, and has the idea that if the groups can not be made >> accessible to me, then perhaps the best answer would be to adjust the >> practicum so that I have a smaller number of clients, or are in a >> different setting with different documentation requirements. I told >> her what the music therapist told me about documentation. She said >> that she has never had to document things as specifically as I am >> having to do, and she just keeps track of the goals and objectives, >> the session plans, and the progress her clients make towards reaching >> their goals and objectives in documents on her notetaker. So, it is >> very clear that the definition of acceptable documentation, and what >> information is truly salient for the MT to know, is not concrete. >> >> The problemwith not knowing who comes and leaves is a difficult one. >> First, the room we were in was more like a day room that was just set >> off of a hallway. There were no doors to open or shut. If a resident >> wanted to go back to their room, so long as they were ambulatory, they >> could just get up, leave the semicircle, and go down the hall. Also, >> it is difficult to pay attention to any noises people like that might >> make when you're facilitating a song. One of my problems I had to >> work on this semester was learning to project with my voice since I am >> not a vocalist by trade, so for a while and to this day it has felt >> like I'm shouting when really I'm just singing at a reasonable volume >> for the residents, many of whom have hearing impairments, to hear. >> Also, when we'd come into the room we'd have to push this big set of >> tables back towards the opposite wall to make room for the semicircle, >> and sometimes residents would come in late and sit themselves behind >> the table where some of the staff waits on-hand than insert themselves >> into the group. We had one resident who tended to do this a lot, and >> I would always feel really bad if I was passing out instruments or >> scarves and failed to give her one. >> >> I was given feedback on evaluations, and was consistently told to be >> more specific, but the problem was that I simply did not know how to. >> I was providing information on what I knew and heard about in the >> discussions after sessions, but it's difficult to provide information >> and document something you didn't know happened. I also understand >> that I should be held to the same expectations as everyone else, but >> not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot >> do. There has to be a compromise. >> >> I am planning to seek information from the folks on the Human Services >> list. That was a great suggestion that I really want to take, but I >> thought I'd try to see if students had a perspective first, since I >> know the human services division actually doesn't have a lot, if any, >> music therapists. I have been on the list a few times, and am still >> hoping a professional will pop up on there for me to network with. >> >> Greg brought up an interesting point, and one I really agree with. It >> is clear from what my music therapist contact told me that I'm >> probably not going to need to be as specific when I document in the >> job sector as I am going to need to be in practicum. I understand >> that by teaching us to do more work that it will be easier when we >> don't have to do as much after graduating, but it makes it difficult >> to get to that point if the expectations don't have a modification >> that would allow me to be successful. Unfortunately, I have to do >> what my supervising professors want me to do in order to earn the >> freedom to document in a way that is more suitable for me. >> >> I'm very frustrated; I have never had any academic issues till this >> year, and so far the 2 problems I've encountered are in classes I need >> for my major. All my gen ed professors and I form working >> relationships so easily, and while it is obvious where I struggle and >> where I don't (math and science courses verses English and History, >> psychology, and philosophy respectively), I >> do my best, and the professors adjust their requirements when >> necessary. E.G, in biology we had journal assignments, where we had >> to find a journal article, review it, and write a summary. The >> original requirements stated that we had to underline the parts of the >> journal article we used. Since I could not underline something that >> was already published on the web, I underlined the parts of my written >> document which I paraphrased from the article. When my teacher saw >> this on the second of these assignments, she asked me why I didn't >> follow directions and I told her why. Even though she missed the >> reasoning behind it, and forgot to even take the fact that I couldn't >> physically underline something into account, she took note of it. I >> actually got a few points added on to my first assignment as well, >> which she had taken off for the underlining issue. If a biology >> professor who I had for one semester can do this, it makes me nervous >> that the professors I will need to work with in my major to get my >> degree cannot. The worst part is that it is effecting me much more >> than academically too; I am now not as confident as I was, since I am >> so used to being an A B student, and this is really the first time I >> feel like my blindness is an issue. To tell the truth, it's the first >> time I've really felt self-conscious about it, and it's not a good >> feeling at all. The profs say my disability has nothing to do with it >> other than the fact that I didn't communicate my needs well enough, >> but I honestly don't believe that is the case. It really does feel >> like my blineness, and the disagreements over how to teach me and >> accommodate it, are what has caused me to require an extra year of >> college. I just heard for sure that this has put me an entire year >> behind in the practicum sequence this afternoon, and it is difficult >> to fathom what to do next, how to handle myself when I go back for my >> second try, and how I'll even pay for the fifth year I was not at all >> expecting to take. I guess on the bright side, I can get my second >> minor that those same advisors were advising me to drop, since I'll >> need to take some courses in order to remain a full time student for >> financial aid purposes if I'm going to afford it at all. And, I'll be >> able to file the fafsa as an independent student since I won't be >> younger than 21 or have a job at the time, but this is just very hard >> for me to accept having grown up with excellent grades and no major >> problems related to my education. >> On 5/4/14, Greg Aikens wrote: >>> Hi Kaiti, >>> I'm so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. It sounds as >>> though >>> you did all the right things. You provided your professors with a >>> resource >>> they could consult to determine what is reasonable. You made them aware >>> of >>> your difficulties throughout the semester and sought their input on >>> solutions. Did they give you any warning before the end of the semester >>> that >>> you might not pass the course? In my opinion, it is unacceptable for >>> them >>> >>> to >>> fail you for this when you clearly did your best to come up with >>> strategies >>> and solutions to compensate. It sounds as though their rationale is that >>> they can't give you a passing grade because if you can't make >>> accommodations >>> in their class, you won't be able to be a competent professional in the >>> field, all this without really having a good grasp on what appropriate >>> accommodations might be. >>> >>> That might sound logical, but the reality is that as a professional, you >>> will have more control over your environment, caseload, etc. than in a >>> practicum setting. This was true for me and student teaching. There were >>> things I definitely failed at during my practicum hours and student >>> teaching >>> semester, but as long as I reflected on why what I had tried didn't work >>> and >>> came up with new strategies to try next time, my supervising professor >>> was >>> satisfied that I would come up with the best method in time. As a >>> teacher, >>> >>> I >>> structure my lessons, classroom, and schedule to avoid situations in >>> which >>> >>> I >>> will be less successful. Making non visual accommodations will be >>> different >>> for each setting and each client you interact with, and it's something >>> you >>> will improve at over time. >>> >>> The having to take an extra semester or year to complete your degree is >>> the >>> part that really makes it worth fighting. I would get the Learning >>> Center >>> involved. Even if they don't really know what accommodations should be >>> appropriate, their job is to work with professors to figure that out. I >>> would try to set up a meeting with your professors, the Learning Center, >>> and >>> hopefully the music therapist where you can present your case. Show them >>> how >>> you grew and learned as a professional throughout your experiences. >>> Reflect >>> on the strategies and accommodations you made, whether or not they were >>> successful, and accommodations you plan to try next. Make the case that >>> gaining information about non verbal behavior is not a trivial task for >>> a >>> blind music therapist, but it can be done through creative problem >>> solving >>> and constant adaptation on your part. Show that you have done these >>> things >>> so far in your practice and that it is something you will continue to >>> work >>> on because you know it is core to being a competent professional in your >>> field. If they are still not satisfied because you did not have success >>> with >>> these tasks during the semester, see if they will let you complete some >>> extra practicum hours, probably no more than 20% of the total number you >>> had >>> to complete already (but I just made that number up). Extra hours is not >>> ideal, but it sounds better than having to retake the entire course and >>> perhaps pay for another semester or two of school. >>> >>> Best of luck as you decide what to do. Feel free to contact me on or off >>> list if I can be of any assistance. >>> >>> Best, >>> Greg >>> >>> >>> On May 4, 2014, at 1:49 AM, Kaiti Shelton >>> wrote: >>> >>>> Hello all, >>>> >>>> I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback >>>> that can be provided. >>>> >>>> I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum >>>> coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve >>>> interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical >>>> skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in >>>> psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I >>>> had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local >>>> assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and >>>> developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting >>>> residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage >>>> them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a >>>> long way since I started practicum in mid February. >>>> >>>> However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. >>>> The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically >>>> had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular >>>> participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. >>>> Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. >>>> It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they >>>> were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even >>>> know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a >>>> hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more >>>> so they can hear me." >>>> >>>> Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were >>>> doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead >>>> was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the >>>> residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a >>>> manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would >>>> sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the >>>> semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. >>>> However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were >>>> doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing >>>> exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing >>>> something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of >>>> motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these >>>> questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation >>>> with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any >>>> information about it. >>>> >>>> Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not >>>> able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, >>>> and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I >>>> picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along >>>> with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments >>>> with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the >>>> problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my >>>> wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could >>>> lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to >>>> the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned >>>> that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while >>>> observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and >>>> they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is >>>> clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and >>>> something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work >>>> in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, >>>> but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't >>>> remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of >>>> some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. >>>> >>>> What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I >>>> have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year >>>> behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I >>>> even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a >>>> music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy >>>> to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. >>>> I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and >>>> having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very >>>> qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how >>>> she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. >>>> About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her >>>> phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so >>>> later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed >>>> to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. >>>> She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman >>>> based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak >>>> to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, >>>> and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the >>>> term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn >>>> it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken >>>> care of when I signed the other form so that communication could >>>> easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to >>>> speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to >>>> speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, >>>> and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my >>>> accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even >>>> though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked >>>> repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have >>>> instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course >>>> work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My >>>> professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling >>>> with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing >>>> musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally >>>> making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is >>>> obviously a factor. >>>> >>>> It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know >>>> of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional >>>> standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, >>>> that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a >>>> hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this >>>> semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, >>>> and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making >>>> contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though >>>> every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going >>>> to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' >>>> want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help >>>> me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me >>>> to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new >>>> experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which >>>> could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an >>>> English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, >>>> and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in >>>> some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what >>>> exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that >>>> goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is >>>> to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there >>>> was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that >>>> this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like >>>> more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, >>>> and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as >>>> justification. >>>> >>>> What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with >>>> professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working >>>> relationships with professors around the university. Even when I >>>> struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent >>>> about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and >>>> trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm >>>> getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes >>>> that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all >>>> the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to >>>> say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will >>>> likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school >>>> since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or >>>> in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is >>>> difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to >>>> admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, >>>> and the music department has assumed responsibility for my >>>> accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend >>>> an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over >>>> again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing >>>> anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. >>>> >>>> If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, >>>> please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, >>>> if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate >>>> hearing about them as well. >>>> >>>> -- >>>> Kaiti >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com >>> >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com >>> >> >> >> -- >> Kaiti >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com >> > > > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com > From ligne14 at verizon.net Wed May 7 21:32:06 2014 From: ligne14 at verizon.net (sami osborne) Date: Wed, 07 May 2014 17:32:06 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages Message-ID: <0N5800DGG3UU7HK0@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> Hi Lizzy, I think it's really cool that you want to learn those languages. I personally don't know any of those languages fluently; I only speak French and Spanish other than English, but I have taught myself some Japanese and Italian. I am intending to lstudy more of those languages and perhaps more when I get to college, as I am considering being an interpreter UN (the United Nations), and I heard that you need to "know at least 4 to 5 languages. Currently, I am planning to learn German, as that's very similar to English, I would also to learn Italian and Portugese, as those are similar to French and Spanish, and then, some languages like Chinese or Japanese which don't use the Latin alphabet, first of all because I'm curious as to how other alphabets are used, and second because I know that will introduce a whole new catagory of languages of what I already know. Btw, I can't believe that you and I have the same interest! That's cool, isn't it? Good luck with your learning! Sami. ----- Original Message ----- From: Vejas References: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> <1804098C62004FBF9822F4C267B22A4F@OwnerPC> Message-ID: Hi Arielle and all, Yeah; the even stranger thing though, is that I never really was a patient. I was in the agency database because I volunteered with this woman throughout high school, so I could see what doing music therapy would be like. Perhaps there is a clause about volunteer confidentiality or something that I don't know about, but I am puzzled by all of this. I just really need the professors to talk to her; I wish it were as easy as taking charge and getting a letter written, but I frankly don't know what exactly to ask, and this music therapist does not necessarily know the situation practicum provides. I would imagine that there are different strategies which could be useful when working with different populations and with different locations, but I'm hoping that now that whatever confidentiality stuff is out of the way, my professors will be able to talk to her. I was really hoping for the people who know what I need to learn, and the person who knows realistically how it can be done as a blind person, to come together so we can figure something out. The best thing I've gotten out of this conversation is the knowledge that, even though I am not in practicum next semester, I'm going to have to be on my professors so that things are straightened out before practicum starts. If they're not going to work with me to solve issues as they arise, then they need to be dealt with ahead of time. In this sense, there wasn't much that could be done since I didn't know what to expect in practicum for the first time, but now that I have an idea I can work to fix it before problems start presenting themselves. I intend to follow this one step ahead approach for all subsequent practicum courses, because at least then I'll have a semester of leeway so my professors can get their stuff together. I really need them to be on board with me since I am not as familiar with the milestones I have to meet and when I should meet them as they are, and sometimes I think they see things I'm not doing and should that I don't know about. In any case, I do not want to be in the situation again where I think I'm doing great, then find out at the end of the semester that I can't continue. On 5/7/14, Arielle Silverman wrote: > Hi Kaiti, > > I strongly suspect somebody got confused and was mistaken about the > need for confidentiality. Your professors were asking your therapist > about her professional experiences, not about your childhood records > with her. But I could see an office assistant at your therapist's > practice hearing your name, knowing you were a former patient and > mistakenly thinking the call is about your patient record. The only > reason to sign a release, as far as I know, is if your patient record > or your academic record is being discussed, and your professors could > easily get the info they need without either of those things > happening. However, it sounds like you have been given the needed > paperwork and signed it, so hopefully things can proceed ahead. If > not, having her write them a letter about an appropriate accommodation > should be helpful and shouldn't require any releases from you. > Having the other practicum students observe for you sounds like a great > idea. > > Arielle > > On 5/7/14, Kaiti Shelton wrote: >> Hi all, >> >> I agree with Arielle, and this has been a lesson learned the hard way >> in beaurocracy. What's really frustrating though, is that I could not >> really take charge and organize the conference call; if I were allowed >> to do that, trust that I would have, but the professors still would >> have not been allowed to speak to her, and she to the professors, >> without the confidentiality paperwork being signed. I had no idea >> that the paperwork needed to be signed though, since I know my >> disabilities office asks for outside help using, "We have a student >> who is visually impaired and requires X, Y, and Z," as a general way >> of skirting around confidentiality. I guess that since this woman >> knows me, and the professors obviously know they would be speaking >> about me, they felt confidentiality stuff was necessary. >> >> The puzzling thing, though, is that I work in the disabilities office >> as a web accessibility consultant, and know a lot of the students who >> come in and out of the office. When my boss says, "We need you to >> test dragon for a student with limited motor control so he can take >> his test," I have a fairly good idea of who they're specifically >> talking about. Likewise, since I'm pretty well connected with the >> blind students in my state, I knew who my disabilities coordinator was >> referring to when she said, "Can you test the old CCTV we have in the >> lab? We have a prospective student who will need to use it if she >> comes here." My coordinator knows I know most of the students around >> the state through OABS and just living in the Cincinnati area where >> blind students between the undergraduate and high school ages now are >> pretty common. The sample of the student's textbook I had to read on >> the CCTV was the nail in the coffin that even confirmed who the >> student was, but my bosses could have just as easily said, "Just go >> test the CCTV or Dragon," with no further explanation at all. And the >> explanations they provide me don't breach confidentiality laws, even >> though both of us have a good idea of who is being referred to. >> >> I am just wondering why confidentiality was such a big deal, or if it >> really had to be in the first place. >> >> I really have never considered the possibility of using a reader, >> partially because I have never needed one before and have always tried >> to do everything myself, and partially because at the beginning of >> practicum my supervisor said, "We always debrief afterwards, so you >> should be able to get the information you need there." However, if it >> is what I will need to be successful, I will do it. I could even >> perhaps get someone through my disability services office; I think a >> volunteer notetaker could just as easily come along and take notes on >> what the residents did visually, then email them to me so I can use >> them in documentation. Another possibility is that, since there are >> actually several people from my class who did not even make it into >> practicum on time and will be taking it with me next spring in >> addition to the sophomores who will be on time, that our groups will >> be pretty large and will have several students sitting out of the >> session observing. I could ask the observers to take notes on visual >> events as well, since they'll need to take notes anyway. That might >> be the best way to kill 2 birds with 1 stone, and it would be a win >> win situation since they'll be strengthening their clinical awareness >> too. But, if neither of these things are possible, I will go through >> VR to hire a reader to take notes and discuss visual aspects of the >> session with me. >> >> On 5/6/14, Ashley Bramlett wrote: >>> Kaiti, >>> >>> Just think that you're going to be more educated than your fellow >>> graduates. >>> >>> What will your minors be in? >>> >>> My friend, andrew, had a problem similar, his practicum professor >>> discriminated against him and I'm not even sure the outcome. He changed >>> his >>> >>> major. It set him back too; like you, all his nonmajor course professors >>> were understanding; like now he is taking environmental science, and has >>> found few problems in that class. For conducting which is a general >>> music >>> requirement, the professor showed him the moves. >>> But, for music therapy, he found his professors teach visually and it >>> fell >>> apart in the practicum class. >>> >>> Sorry to hear about your problems. I agree that knowing who comes in and >>> out >>> >>> of a room while your busy leading would be a challege; and in fact, I'm >>> sure sighted students miss some of that too. I mean, they see, but can >>> they >>> >>> really focus on the whole room with a crowd? How many are there. The >>> only >>> modification I can think up is have them leave you a note of some sort >>> when >>> >>> they leave. Maybe even have a sign out sheet at the door. Since you have >>> some vision, would you see it if it was in large print or if you had a >>> magnifier? If you cannot see the print, you could have them leave you a >>> note >>> >>> in braille that was embossed ahead of time. It could be index cards >>> stating >>> >>> their name and saying they are leaving that they leave on a designated >>> table. >>> >>> Anyway, I agree with greg that practicums where its unfamiliar >>> environment >>> >>> and not your own territory will be more a challenge. I'm sure >>> documentation >>> >>> will not be this picky in the jobs. >>> >>> I know you're real discouraged, but keep trying and I'm sure you'll do >>> alright. Everyone has to take classes over in college and other students >>> fall behind a year too for various reasons. So, in the scheme of things, >>> when you come out with a double minor and a music degree, you'll look >>> fine. >>> >>> Unless employers see your transcripts, they won't even know about the >>> extra >>> >>> time it took, or that you retook a class. >>> >>> Take care, >>> Ashley >>> >>> -----Original Message----- >>> From: Kaiti Shelton >>> Sent: Monday, May 05, 2014 7:02 PM >>> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Accomodating in experiential learning courses >>> >>> Thanks all for your suggestions. Here is a little more information >>> about the situation. >>> >>> An in-person meeting really is probably not possible for me, the music >>> therapist >>> I know, and the faculty simply because she is based in my hometown, >>> and I go to school in a city that is about an hour away. Getting >>> transportation for her certainly would not be impossible, but it would >>> be really expensive for an hour or so of time to meet. That is why I >>> suggested phone conversations, because then geography would not be an >>> issue, and they could have more frequent consultations with her. The >>> professors mentioned in our meeting that they are thinking of driving >>> to her to see her clinical work, but the questions I have are that if >>> they were going to do this, why did they wait so long to do it, and >>> when are they planning to do this? >>> >>> I had a very lengthy conversation with my disabilities services >>> counselor before leaving campus, and I went to her immediately after >>> the meeting for an additional conversation as well. She has agreed to >>> step in, and has the idea that if the groups can not be made >>> accessible to me, then perhaps the best answer would be to adjust the >>> practicum so that I have a smaller number of clients, or are in a >>> different setting with different documentation requirements. I told >>> her what the music therapist told me about documentation. She said >>> that she has never had to document things as specifically as I am >>> having to do, and she just keeps track of the goals and objectives, >>> the session plans, and the progress her clients make towards reaching >>> their goals and objectives in documents on her notetaker. So, it is >>> very clear that the definition of acceptable documentation, and what >>> information is truly salient for the MT to know, is not concrete. >>> >>> The problemwith not knowing who comes and leaves is a difficult one. >>> First, the room we were in was more like a day room that was just set >>> off of a hallway. There were no doors to open or shut. If a resident >>> wanted to go back to their room, so long as they were ambulatory, they >>> could just get up, leave the semicircle, and go down the hall. Also, >>> it is difficult to pay attention to any noises people like that might >>> make when you're facilitating a song. One of my problems I had to >>> work on this semester was learning to project with my voice since I am >>> not a vocalist by trade, so for a while and to this day it has felt >>> like I'm shouting when really I'm just singing at a reasonable volume >>> for the residents, many of whom have hearing impairments, to hear. >>> Also, when we'd come into the room we'd have to push this big set of >>> tables back towards the opposite wall to make room for the semicircle, >>> and sometimes residents would come in late and sit themselves behind >>> the table where some of the staff waits on-hand than insert themselves >>> into the group. We had one resident who tended to do this a lot, and >>> I would always feel really bad if I was passing out instruments or >>> scarves and failed to give her one. >>> >>> I was given feedback on evaluations, and was consistently told to be >>> more specific, but the problem was that I simply did not know how to. >>> I was providing information on what I knew and heard about in the >>> discussions after sessions, but it's difficult to provide information >>> and document something you didn't know happened. I also understand >>> that I should be held to the same expectations as everyone else, but >>> not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot >>> do. There has to be a compromise. >>> >>> I am planning to seek information from the folks on the Human Services >>> list. That was a great suggestion that I really want to take, but I >>> thought I'd try to see if students had a perspective first, since I >>> know the human services division actually doesn't have a lot, if any, >>> music therapists. I have been on the list a few times, and am still >>> hoping a professional will pop up on there for me to network with. >>> >>> Greg brought up an interesting point, and one I really agree with. It >>> is clear from what my music therapist contact told me that I'm >>> probably not going to need to be as specific when I document in the >>> job sector as I am going to need to be in practicum. I understand >>> that by teaching us to do more work that it will be easier when we >>> don't have to do as much after graduating, but it makes it difficult >>> to get to that point if the expectations don't have a modification >>> that would allow me to be successful. Unfortunately, I have to do >>> what my supervising professors want me to do in order to earn the >>> freedom to document in a way that is more suitable for me. >>> >>> I'm very frustrated; I have never had any academic issues till this >>> year, and so far the 2 problems I've encountered are in classes I need >>> for my major. All my gen ed professors and I form working >>> relationships so easily, and while it is obvious where I struggle and >>> where I don't (math and science courses verses English and History, >>> psychology, and philosophy respectively), I >>> do my best, and the professors adjust their requirements when >>> necessary. E.G, in biology we had journal assignments, where we had >>> to find a journal article, review it, and write a summary. The >>> original requirements stated that we had to underline the parts of the >>> journal article we used. Since I could not underline something that >>> was already published on the web, I underlined the parts of my written >>> document which I paraphrased from the article. When my teacher saw >>> this on the second of these assignments, she asked me why I didn't >>> follow directions and I told her why. Even though she missed the >>> reasoning behind it, and forgot to even take the fact that I couldn't >>> physically underline something into account, she took note of it. I >>> actually got a few points added on to my first assignment as well, >>> which she had taken off for the underlining issue. If a biology >>> professor who I had for one semester can do this, it makes me nervous >>> that the professors I will need to work with in my major to get my >>> degree cannot. The worst part is that it is effecting me much more >>> than academically too; I am now not as confident as I was, since I am >>> so used to being an A B student, and this is really the first time I >>> feel like my blindness is an issue. To tell the truth, it's the first >>> time I've really felt self-conscious about it, and it's not a good >>> feeling at all. The profs say my disability has nothing to do with it >>> other than the fact that I didn't communicate my needs well enough, >>> but I honestly don't believe that is the case. It really does feel >>> like my blineness, and the disagreements over how to teach me and >>> accommodate it, are what has caused me to require an extra year of >>> college. I just heard for sure that this has put me an entire year >>> behind in the practicum sequence this afternoon, and it is difficult >>> to fathom what to do next, how to handle myself when I go back for my >>> second try, and how I'll even pay for the fifth year I was not at all >>> expecting to take. I guess on the bright side, I can get my second >>> minor that those same advisors were advising me to drop, since I'll >>> need to take some courses in order to remain a full time student for >>> financial aid purposes if I'm going to afford it at all. And, I'll be >>> able to file the fafsa as an independent student since I won't be >>> younger than 21 or have a job at the time, but this is just very hard >>> for me to accept having grown up with excellent grades and no major >>> problems related to my education. >>> On 5/4/14, Greg Aikens wrote: >>>> Hi Kaiti, >>>> I'm so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. It sounds as >>>> though >>>> you did all the right things. You provided your professors with a >>>> resource >>>> they could consult to determine what is reasonable. You made them aware >>>> of >>>> your difficulties throughout the semester and sought their input on >>>> solutions. Did they give you any warning before the end of the semester >>>> that >>>> you might not pass the course? In my opinion, it is unacceptable for >>>> them >>>> >>>> to >>>> fail you for this when you clearly did your best to come up with >>>> strategies >>>> and solutions to compensate. It sounds as though their rationale is >>>> that >>>> they can't give you a passing grade because if you can't make >>>> accommodations >>>> in their class, you won't be able to be a competent professional in the >>>> field, all this without really having a good grasp on what appropriate >>>> accommodations might be. >>>> >>>> That might sound logical, but the reality is that as a professional, >>>> you >>>> will have more control over your environment, caseload, etc. than in a >>>> practicum setting. This was true for me and student teaching. There >>>> were >>>> things I definitely failed at during my practicum hours and student >>>> teaching >>>> semester, but as long as I reflected on why what I had tried didn't >>>> work >>>> and >>>> came up with new strategies to try next time, my supervising professor >>>> was >>>> satisfied that I would come up with the best method in time. As a >>>> teacher, >>>> >>>> I >>>> structure my lessons, classroom, and schedule to avoid situations in >>>> which >>>> >>>> I >>>> will be less successful. Making non visual accommodations will be >>>> different >>>> for each setting and each client you interact with, and it's something >>>> you >>>> will improve at over time. >>>> >>>> The having to take an extra semester or year to complete your degree is >>>> the >>>> part that really makes it worth fighting. I would get the Learning >>>> Center >>>> involved. Even if they don't really know what accommodations should be >>>> appropriate, their job is to work with professors to figure that out. I >>>> would try to set up a meeting with your professors, the Learning >>>> Center, >>>> and >>>> hopefully the music therapist where you can present your case. Show >>>> them >>>> how >>>> you grew and learned as a professional throughout your experiences. >>>> Reflect >>>> on the strategies and accommodations you made, whether or not they were >>>> successful, and accommodations you plan to try next. Make the case that >>>> gaining information about non verbal behavior is not a trivial task for >>>> a >>>> blind music therapist, but it can be done through creative problem >>>> solving >>>> and constant adaptation on your part. Show that you have done these >>>> things >>>> so far in your practice and that it is something you will continue to >>>> work >>>> on because you know it is core to being a competent professional in >>>> your >>>> field. If they are still not satisfied because you did not have success >>>> with >>>> these tasks during the semester, see if they will let you complete some >>>> extra practicum hours, probably no more than 20% of the total number >>>> you >>>> had >>>> to complete already (but I just made that number up). Extra hours is >>>> not >>>> ideal, but it sounds better than having to retake the entire course and >>>> perhaps pay for another semester or two of school. >>>> >>>> Best of luck as you decide what to do. Feel free to contact me on or >>>> off >>>> list if I can be of any assistance. >>>> >>>> Best, >>>> Greg >>>> >>>> >>>> On May 4, 2014, at 1:49 AM, Kaiti Shelton >>>> wrote: >>>> >>>>> Hello all, >>>>> >>>>> I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback >>>>> that can be provided. >>>>> >>>>> I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum >>>>> coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve >>>>> interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical >>>>> skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in >>>>> psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I >>>>> had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local >>>>> assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and >>>>> developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting >>>>> residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage >>>>> them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a >>>>> long way since I started practicum in mid February. >>>>> >>>>> However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. >>>>> The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically >>>>> had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular >>>>> participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. >>>>> Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. >>>>> It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they >>>>> were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even >>>>> know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a >>>>> hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more >>>>> so they can hear me." >>>>> >>>>> Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were >>>>> doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead >>>>> was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the >>>>> residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a >>>>> manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would >>>>> sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the >>>>> semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. >>>>> However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were >>>>> doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing >>>>> exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing >>>>> something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of >>>>> motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these >>>>> questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation >>>>> with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any >>>>> information about it. >>>>> >>>>> Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not >>>>> able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, >>>>> and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I >>>>> picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along >>>>> with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments >>>>> with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the >>>>> problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my >>>>> wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could >>>>> lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to >>>>> the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned >>>>> that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while >>>>> observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and >>>>> they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is >>>>> clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and >>>>> something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work >>>>> in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, >>>>> but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't >>>>> remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of >>>>> some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. >>>>> >>>>> What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I >>>>> have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year >>>>> behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I >>>>> even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a >>>>> music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy >>>>> to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. >>>>> I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and >>>>> having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very >>>>> qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how >>>>> she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. >>>>> About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her >>>>> phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so >>>>> later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed >>>>> to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. >>>>> She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman >>>>> based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak >>>>> to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, >>>>> and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the >>>>> term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn >>>>> it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken >>>>> care of when I signed the other form so that communication could >>>>> easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to >>>>> speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to >>>>> speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, >>>>> and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my >>>>> accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even >>>>> though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked >>>>> repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have >>>>> instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course >>>>> work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My >>>>> professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling >>>>> with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing >>>>> musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally >>>>> making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is >>>>> obviously a factor. >>>>> >>>>> It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know >>>>> of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional >>>>> standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, >>>>> that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a >>>>> hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this >>>>> semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, >>>>> and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making >>>>> contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though >>>>> every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going >>>>> to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' >>>>> want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help >>>>> me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me >>>>> to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new >>>>> experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which >>>>> could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an >>>>> English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, >>>>> and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in >>>>> some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what >>>>> exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that >>>>> goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is >>>>> to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there >>>>> was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that >>>>> this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like >>>>> more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, >>>>> and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as >>>>> justification. >>>>> >>>>> What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with >>>>> professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working >>>>> relationships with professors around the university. Even when I >>>>> struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent >>>>> about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and >>>>> trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm >>>>> getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes >>>>> that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all >>>>> the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to >>>>> say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will >>>>> likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school >>>>> since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or >>>>> in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is >>>>> difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to >>>>> admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, >>>>> and the music department has assumed responsibility for my >>>>> accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend >>>>> an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over >>>>> again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing >>>>> anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. >>>>> >>>>> If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, >>>>> please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, >>>>> if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate >>>>> hearing about them as well. >>>>> >>>>> -- >>>>> Kaiti >>>>> >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>> nabs-l: >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com >>>> >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com >>>> >>> >>> >>> -- >>> Kaiti >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net >>> >>> >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com >>> >> >> >> -- >> Kaiti >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >> > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com Wed May 7 23:50:52 2014 From: helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com (helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com) Date: Wed, 7 May 2014 19:50:52 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages In-Reply-To: <0N5800DGG3UU7HK0@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> References: <0N5800DGG3UU7HK0@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> Message-ID: <3AEDB9E7D539497F9920FF4ACE611B67@Helga> Hi all, since you are talking about languages! I would like to learn how to speak Hebrew, German, and I would like to know how to read and write Hebrew, German, and Spanish in Braille! As you all know, I'm from Peru and my name and last name are German! And the reason I want to learn Hebrew is because I'm curious since I'm part of a Jewish descendant due to my dad's side, which his grand father was from German! And I'm curious! to learn the Language! Just to let you know, I'm not Jewish, I'm Christian! Do you know where can I find Braille books or links that will help me to learn the Braille codes, and who can teach me how to speak the languages? I will really appreciate it, if you could help me and give me some suggestions regarding this? Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! :) -----Original Message----- From: sami osborne Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 5:32 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages Hi Lizzy, I think it's really cool that you want to learn those languages. I personally don't know any of those languages fluently; I only speak French and Spanish other than English, but I have taught myself some Japanese and Italian. I am intending to lstudy more of those languages and perhaps more when I get to college, as I am considering being an interpreter UN (the United Nations), and I heard that you need to "know at least 4 to 5 languages. Currently, I am planning to learn German, as that's very similar to English, I would also to learn Italian and Portugese, as those are similar to French and Spanish, and then, some languages like Chinese or Japanese which don't use the Latin alphabet, first of all because I'm curious as to how other alphabets are used, and second because I know that will introduce a whole new catagory of languages of what I already know. Btw, I can't believe that you and I have the same interest! That's cool, isn't it? Good luck with your learning! Sami. ----- Original Message ----- From: Vejas References: <0N5800DGG3UU7HK0@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> <3AEDB9E7D539497F9920FF4ACE611B67@Helga> Message-ID: I'm a Spanish teacher but I also speak German. I read and write in both languages. If you can give me a couple days, I will obtain some resources for Spanish Braille. I will also obtain some German resources. Hope Paulos > On May 7, 2014, at 7:50 PM, wrote: > > Hi all, since you are talking about languages! I would like to learn how to speak Hebrew, German, and I would like to know how to read and write Hebrew, German, and Spanish in Braille! As you all know, I'm from Peru and my name and last name are German! And the reason I want to learn Hebrew is because I'm curious since I'm part of a Jewish descendant due to my dad's side, which his grand father was from German! And I'm curious! to learn the Language! Just to let you know, I'm not Jewish, I'm Christian! Do you know where can I find Braille books or links that will help me to learn the Braille codes, and who can teach me how to speak the languages? I will really appreciate it, if you could help me and give me some suggestions regarding this? Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! :) > > -----Original Message----- From: sami osborne > Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 5:32 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > > Hi Lizzy, > > I think it's really cool that you want to learn those languages. > I personally don't know any of those languages fluently; I only > speak French and Spanish other than English, but I have taught > myself some Japanese and Italian. > I am intending to lstudy more of those languages and perhaps more > when I get to college, as I am considering being an interpreter > UN (the United Nations), and I heard that you need to "know at > least 4 to 5 languages. > Currently, I am planning to learn German, as that's very similar > to English, I would also to learn Italian and Portugese, as those > are similar to French and Spanish, and then, some languages like > Chinese or Japanese which don't use the Latin alphabet, first of > all because I'm curious as to how other alphabets are used, and > second because I know that will introduce a whole new catagory of > languages of what I already know. > > Btw, I can't believe that you and I have the same interest! > That's cool, isn't it? > Good luck with your learning! > > Sami. > > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Vejas To: National Association of Blind Students mailing > list Date sent: Wed, 07 May 2014 12:55:47 -0700 > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > > Hi, > Does Estonian Braille use the regular alphabet just like > Lithuanian Braille does? > Vejas > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Christel Sogenbits" To: "'National Association of Blind Students mailing list'" > Date sent: Wed, 7 May 2014 21:31:17 +0300 > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > > Hey! > > If you take Estonian then I can help you. Im from Estonia. > Let me know! > > > Tervitades / With greetings > Christel Sogenbits > GSM: +372 58 440 521 > E-mail: christel.chrissu at gmail.com > Skype: christel.chrissu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of > Carly Mihalakis > Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2014 9:10 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list; > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > > Good morning, Lizzy, > > In high school, I studied Japanese language and, > realizing that I > simply needed to learn tenji (Japanese braille,) my Dad looked up > the code > on the Net and I sort of taught myself. At 03:12 PM 1/16/2014, > lizzy wrote: > Hi All, > Has anyone here taken a language that is lesser known? I really > mean > anything other than french spanish or german; I'm thinking > languages > like Chinese, Russian and Estonian. The college that I will be > attending next year offers some pretty cool languages that I am > hoping > to take advantage of. Has anyone taken a language like this > before? > What resources did you use to teach yourself the braille code? Or > did > you go about it in a completely different way? > Thanks for any help you can give me, > Lizzy > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info > for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40co > mcast. > net > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info > for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/christel.chri > ssu%40gmail > .com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info > for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina > tion%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info > for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/ligne14%40ver > izon.net > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/hope.paulos%40gmail.com From helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com Thu May 8 00:46:16 2014 From: helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com (helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com) Date: Wed, 7 May 2014 20:46:16 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages In-Reply-To: References: <0N5800DGG3UU7HK0@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net><3AEDB9E7D539497F9920FF4ACE611B67@Helga> Message-ID: <91A32D4A65F443799756098D2B24DF4C@Helga> Hi Hope Paulos, this is Helga! Yeah, thanks a lot for your help! Thanks and God bless! ;) P.S. I just wanted to ask you, is German difficult to learn? Just wondering! Thanks again! :) -----Original Message----- From: Hope Paulos Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 8:22 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages I'm a Spanish teacher but I also speak German. I read and write in both languages. If you can give me a couple days, I will obtain some resources for Spanish Braille. I will also obtain some German resources. Hope Paulos > On May 7, 2014, at 7:50 PM, wrote: > > Hi all, since you are talking about languages! I would like to learn how > to speak Hebrew, German, and I would like to know how to read and write > Hebrew, German, and Spanish in Braille! As you all know, I'm from Peru and > my name and last name are German! And the reason I want to learn Hebrew is > because I'm curious since I'm part of a Jewish descendant due to my dad's > side, which his grand father was from German! And I'm curious! to learn > the Language! Just to let you know, I'm not Jewish, I'm Christian! Do you > know where can I find Braille books or links that will help me to learn > the Braille codes, and who can teach me how to speak the languages? I will > really appreciate it, if you could help me and give me some suggestions > regarding this? Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! > :) > > -----Original Message----- From: sami osborne > Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 5:32 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > > Hi Lizzy, > > I think it's really cool that you want to learn those languages. > I personally don't know any of those languages fluently; I only > speak French and Spanish other than English, but I have taught > myself some Japanese and Italian. > I am intending to lstudy more of those languages and perhaps more > when I get to college, as I am considering being an interpreter > UN (the United Nations), and I heard that you need to "know at > least 4 to 5 languages. > Currently, I am planning to learn German, as that's very similar > to English, I would also to learn Italian and Portugese, as those > are similar to French and Spanish, and then, some languages like > Chinese or Japanese which don't use the Latin alphabet, first of > all because I'm curious as to how other alphabets are used, and > second because I know that will introduce a whole new catagory of > languages of what I already know. > > Btw, I can't believe that you and I have the same interest! > That's cool, isn't it? > Good luck with your learning! > > Sami. > > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Vejas To: National Association of Blind Students mailing > list Date sent: Wed, 07 May 2014 12:55:47 -0700 > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > > Hi, > Does Estonian Braille use the regular alphabet just like > Lithuanian Braille does? > Vejas > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Christel Sogenbits" To: "'National Association of Blind Students mailing list'" > Date sent: Wed, 7 May 2014 21:31:17 +0300 > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > > Hey! > > If you take Estonian then I can help you. Im from Estonia. > Let me know! > > > Tervitades / With greetings > Christel Sogenbits > GSM: +372 58 440 521 > E-mail: christel.chrissu at gmail.com > Skype: christel.chrissu > > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of > Carly Mihalakis > Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2014 9:10 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list; > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > > Good morning, Lizzy, > > In high school, I studied Japanese language and, > realizing that I > simply needed to learn tenji (Japanese braille,) my Dad looked up > the code > on the Net and I sort of taught myself. At 03:12 PM 1/16/2014, > lizzy wrote: > Hi All, > Has anyone here taken a language that is lesser known? I really > mean > anything other than french spanish or german; I'm thinking > languages > like Chinese, Russian and Estonian. The college that I will be > attending next year offers some pretty cool languages that I am > hoping > to take advantage of. Has anyone taken a language like this > before? > What resources did you use to teach yourself the braille code? Or > did > you go about it in a completely different way? > Thanks for any help you can give me, > Lizzy > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info > for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40co > mcast. > net > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info > for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/christel.chri > ssu%40gmail > .com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info > for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina > tion%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info > for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/ligne14%40ver > izon.net > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/hope.paulos%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com From dsmithnfb at gmail.com Thu May 8 00:58:46 2014 From: dsmithnfb at gmail.com (Darian Smith) Date: Wed, 7 May 2014 17:58:46 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Local Chapters Message-ID: Hey NABS Family, As you already know, the National Federation of the Blind is an organization of the blind speaking for themselves in all matters that concern the blind. We come together to educate the public, elected representatives and ourselves about blindness and the true abilities of blind people. The most effective way of coming together is on the local level via our chapters. We have over 700 chapters last I heard and chances are that there is one near where you live or go to school. If there isn’t a physical chapter there almost always is a at-large chapter in your state which meets via telephone. ?We believe there is no real substitute for the in-person interaction and bonding that comes from a local in-person chapter meeting, but the most important thing is to connect. I’ve given this lon-winded introduction to ask you this question: Are you a member of a chapter? if so, what has your experience been? if not, what holds you back from the involvement in a chapter that you desire. interested to hear your thoughts. Darian Darian Smith 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students (415) 215-9809 dsmithnfb at gmail.com. twitter: @goldengateace www.nabslink.org Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. “ A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” - Nelson Mandela. > > Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further > Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! > For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 From carlymih at comcast.net Thu May 8 01:14:28 2014 From: carlymih at comcast.net (Carly Mihalakis) Date: Wed, 07 May 2014 18:14:28 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages In-Reply-To: <0N5800DGG3UU7HK0@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> References: <0N5800DGG3UU7HK0@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140507175841.01e1c7c0@comcast.net> Good afternoon, Sami, Personally, as a pre-teen, I became quite intrigued by a "tonal," monosyllabic nature of such languages as Thai and Vietnamese, that is, each word expressed has a different meaning depending on which tone to which it happens to be attached. in the case of Chinese, 5 tones and in the case of such languages as Hmong which has 8 tones I believe, or Vietnamese, 6 tones. If you per sue this study you will learn all the tones and more importantly, how to attach them to the monosyllables. I found then and still find arrangements of such languages particularly pleasing to the ear, although that is not a prevalent finding of most Westerners. Keep us posted, Sami. Feel free to call: 408-209-3239 for today, Car nature of such languages as Vietnamese and Chinese which, many westerners tend to deride the sound of such languages for its monosyllabic=c, tonal nature. makes such languages 7/2014, you wrote: >Hi Lizzy, > >I think it's really cool that you want to learn those languages. >I personally don't know any of those languages fluently; I only >speak French and Spanish other than English, but I have taught >myself some Japanese and Italian. >I am intending to lstudy more of those languages and perhaps more >when I get to college, as I am considering being an interpreter UN >(the United Nations), and I heard that you need to "know at least 4 >to 5 languages. >Currently, I am planning to learn German, as that's very similar to >English, I would also to learn Italian and Portugese, as those are >similar to French and Spanish, and then, some languages like Chinese >or Japanese which don't use the Latin alphabet, first of all because >I'm curious as to how other alphabets are used, and second because I >know that will introduce a whole new catagory of languages of what I >already know. > >Btw, I can't believe that you and I have the same interest! That's >cool, isn't it? >Good luck with your learning! > >Sami. > > >----- Original Message ----- >From: Vejas To: National Association of Blind Students mailing listDate sent: Wed, 07 May 2014 12:55:47 -0700 >Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > >Hi, >Does Estonian Braille use the regular alphabet just like >Lithuanian Braille does? >Vejas >----- Original Message ----- >From: "Christel Sogenbits" To: "'National Association of Blind Students mailing list'" >Date sent: Wed, 7 May 2014 21:31:17 +0300 >Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > >Hey! > >If you take Estonian then I can help you. Im from Estonia. >Let me know! > > >Tervitades / With greetings >Christel Sogenbits >GSM: +372 58 440 521 >E-mail: christel.chrissu at gmail.com >Skype: christel.chrissu > > >-----Original Message----- >From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of >Carly Mihalakis >Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2014 9:10 PM >To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list; >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > >Good morning, Lizzy, > > In high school, I studied Japanese language and, >realizing that I >simply needed to learn tenji (Japanese braille,) my Dad looked up >the code >on the Net and I sort of taught myself. At 03:12 PM 1/16/2014, >lizzy wrote: >Hi All, >Has anyone here taken a language that is lesser known? I really >mean >anything other than french spanish or german; I'm thinking >languages >like Chinese, Russian and Estonian. The college that I will be >attending next year offers some pretty cool languages that I am >hoping >to take advantage of. Has anyone taken a language like this >before? >What resources did you use to teach yourself the braille code? Or >did >you go about it in a completely different way? >Thanks for any help you can give me, >Lizzy > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >for >nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40co >mcast. >net > > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >for >nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/christel.chri >ssu%40gmail >.com > > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina >tion%40gmail.com > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/ligne14%40ver >izon.net > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From hope.paulos at gmail.com Thu May 8 01:35:57 2014 From: hope.paulos at gmail.com (Hope Paulos) Date: Wed, 7 May 2014 21:35:57 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages In-Reply-To: <91A32D4A65F443799756098D2B24DF4C@Helga> References: <0N5800DGG3UU7HK0@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> <3AEDB9E7D539497F9920FF4ACE611B67@Helga> <91A32D4A65F443799756098D2B24DF4C@Helga> Message-ID: <8C250032-3BFF-4BC8-A1EA-42F71B10EBF4@gmail.com> It is much more complicated than Spanish, but if English is your second language, it is not complicated to learn. English is much more so. Hope Paulos > On May 7, 2014, at 8:46 PM, wrote: > > Hi Hope Paulos, this is Helga! Yeah, thanks a lot for your help! Thanks and God bless! ;) > P.S. I just wanted to ask you, is German difficult to learn? Just wondering! Thanks again! :) > > -----Original Message----- From: Hope Paulos > Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 8:22 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > > I'm a Spanish teacher but I also speak German. I read and write in both languages. If you can give me a couple days, I will obtain some resources for Spanish Braille. > I will also obtain some German resources. > Hope Paulos > >> On May 7, 2014, at 7:50 PM, wrote: >> >> Hi all, since you are talking about languages! I would like to learn how to speak Hebrew, German, and I would like to know how to read and write Hebrew, German, and Spanish in Braille! As you all know, I'm from Peru and my name and last name are German! And the reason I want to learn Hebrew is because I'm curious since I'm part of a Jewish descendant due to my dad's side, which his grand father was from German! And I'm curious! to learn the Language! Just to let you know, I'm not Jewish, I'm Christian! Do you know where can I find Braille books or links that will help me to learn the Braille codes, and who can teach me how to speak the languages? I will really appreciate it, if you could help me and give me some suggestions regarding this? Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! :) >> >> -----Original Message----- From: sami osborne >> Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 5:32 PM >> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages >> >> Hi Lizzy, >> >> I think it's really cool that you want to learn those languages. >> I personally don't know any of those languages fluently; I only >> speak French and Spanish other than English, but I have taught >> myself some Japanese and Italian. >> I am intending to lstudy more of those languages and perhaps more >> when I get to college, as I am considering being an interpreter >> UN (the United Nations), and I heard that you need to "know at >> least 4 to 5 languages. >> Currently, I am planning to learn German, as that's very similar >> to English, I would also to learn Italian and Portugese, as those >> are similar to French and Spanish, and then, some languages like >> Chinese or Japanese which don't use the Latin alphabet, first of >> all because I'm curious as to how other alphabets are used, and >> second because I know that will introduce a whole new catagory of >> languages of what I already know. >> >> Btw, I can't believe that you and I have the same interest! >> That's cool, isn't it? >> Good luck with your learning! >> >> Sami. >> >> >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: Vejas > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing >> list> Date sent: Wed, 07 May 2014 12:55:47 -0700 >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages >> >> Hi, >> Does Estonian Braille use the regular alphabet just like >> Lithuanian Braille does? >> Vejas >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: "Christel Sogenbits" > To: "'National Association of Blind Students mailing list'" >> > Date sent: Wed, 7 May 2014 21:31:17 +0300 >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages >> >> Hey! >> >> If you take Estonian then I can help you. Im from Estonia. >> Let me know! >> >> >> Tervitades / With greetings >> Christel Sogenbits >> GSM: +372 58 440 521 >> E-mail: christel.chrissu at gmail.com >> Skype: christel.chrissu >> >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of >> Carly Mihalakis >> Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2014 9:10 PM >> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list; >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages >> >> Good morning, Lizzy, >> >> In high school, I studied Japanese language and, >> realizing that I >> simply needed to learn tenji (Japanese braille,) my Dad looked up >> the code >> on the Net and I sort of taught myself. At 03:12 PM 1/16/2014, >> lizzy wrote: >> Hi All, >> Has anyone here taken a language that is lesser known? I really >> mean >> anything other than french spanish or german; I'm thinking >> languages >> like Chinese, Russian and Estonian. The college that I will be >> attending next year offers some pretty cool languages that I am >> hoping >> to take advantage of. Has anyone taken a language like this >> before? >> What resources did you use to teach yourself the braille code? Or >> did >> you go about it in a completely different way? >> Thanks for any help you can give me, >> Lizzy >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >> for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40co >> mcast. >> net >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >> for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/christel.chri >> ssu%40gmail >> .com >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >> for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina >> tion%40gmail.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >> for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/ligne14%40ver >> izon.net >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/hope.paulos%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/hope.paulos%40gmail.com From programmer651 at comcast.net Thu May 8 01:42:11 2014 From: programmer651 at comcast.net (Tyler) Date: Wed, 07 May 2014 21:42:11 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Local Chapters Message-ID: <20140508014210.25607.28924.levelstar.mail@everest> I belong to the Internet mailing list of the Michigan Association of Blind Students. However, they do not talk about much on that list, and they've only announced one conference call on that list (back in November). Either they need to hold more calls, or announce the calls they do have on the MI-ABS list. Tyler Z On Wed, 7 May 2014 17:58:46 -0700, Darian Smith wrote: >Hey NABS Family, >As you already know, the National Federation of the Blind is an organization >of the blind speaking for themselves in all matters that concern the blind. >We come together to educate the public, elected representatives and ourselves >about blindness and the true abilities of blind people. >The most effective way of coming together is on the local level via our >chapters. >We have over 700 chapters last I heard and chances are that there is one near >where you live or go to school. If there isnt a physical chapter there almost >always is a at-large chapter in your state which meets via telephone. >?We believe there is no real substitute for the in-person interaction and >bonding that comes from a local in-person chapter meeting, but the most >important thing is to connect. >Ive given this lon-winded introduction to ask you this question: Are you a >member of a chapter? if so, what has your experience been? if not, what holds >you back from the involvement in a chapter that you desire. >interested to hear your thoughts. >Darian > > >Darian Smith >2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students >(415) 215-9809 >dsmithnfb at gmail.com. >twitter: @goldengateace > >www.nabslink.org >Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. >A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination >- Nelson Mandela. >> >>Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further >>Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! >>For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call >>1-855-659-9314 > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/programmer651%40comcast.net From lilliepennington at fuse.net Thu May 8 02:28:13 2014 From: lilliepennington at fuse.net (Lillie Pennington) Date: Wed, 7 May 2014 22:28:13 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages In-Reply-To: <8C250032-3BFF-4BC8-A1EA-42F71B10EBF4@gmail.com> References: <0N5800DGG3UU7HK0@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> <3AEDB9E7D539497F9920FF4ACE611B67@Helga> <91A32D4A65F443799756098D2B24DF4C@Helga> <8C250032-3BFF-4BC8-A1EA-42F71B10EBF4@gmail.com> Message-ID: I had been wanting to ask this question for a while, and hope that I am not too off course of the thread. One of my life goals is to be fluent in Spanish, French, German, and Russian, if not more languages. I am dropping Spanish after taking it for 3 years but I would like to retain. What I know now plus learn more. For these languages that I do learn, I do not just want to learn phraises, I want to learn and imerce myself in the language. Is there any resources that could help me?ent from my iPhone > On May 7, 2014, at 9:35 PM, Hope Paulos wrote: > > It is much more complicated than Spanish, but if English is your second language, it is not complicated to learn. English is much more so. > > Hope Paulos > >> On May 7, 2014, at 8:46 PM, wrote: >> >> Hi Hope Paulos, this is Helga! Yeah, thanks a lot for your help! Thanks and God bless! ;) >> P.S. I just wanted to ask you, is German difficult to learn? Just wondering! Thanks again! :) >> >> -----Original Message----- From: Hope Paulos >> Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 8:22 PM >> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages >> >> I'm a Spanish teacher but I also speak German. I read and write in both languages. If you can give me a couple days, I will obtain some resources for Spanish Braille. >> I will also obtain some German resources. >> Hope Paulos >> >>> On May 7, 2014, at 7:50 PM, wrote: >>> >>> Hi all, since you are talking about languages! I would like to learn how to speak Hebrew, German, and I would like to know how to read and write Hebrew, German, and Spanish in Braille! As you all know, I'm from Peru and my name and last name are German! And the reason I want to learn Hebrew is because I'm curious since I'm part of a Jewish descendant due to my dad's side, which his grand father was from German! And I'm curious! to learn the Language! Just to let you know, I'm not Jewish, I'm Christian! Do you know where can I find Braille books or links that will help me to learn the Braille codes, and who can teach me how to speak the languages? I will really appreciate it, if you could help me and give me some suggestions regarding this? Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! :) >>> >>> -----Original Message----- From: sami osborne >>> Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 5:32 PM >>> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages >>> >>> Hi Lizzy, >>> >>> I think it's really cool that you want to learn those languages. >>> I personally don't know any of those languages fluently; I only >>> speak French and Spanish other than English, but I have taught >>> myself some Japanese and Italian. >>> I am intending to lstudy more of those languages and perhaps more >>> when I get to college, as I am considering being an interpreter >>> UN (the United Nations), and I heard that you need to "know at >>> least 4 to 5 languages. >>> Currently, I am planning to learn German, as that's very similar >>> to English, I would also to learn Italian and Portugese, as those >>> are similar to French and Spanish, and then, some languages like From juanitaherrera1991 at gmail.com Thu May 8 02:47:36 2014 From: juanitaherrera1991 at gmail.com (Juanita Herrera) Date: Wed, 7 May 2014 19:47:36 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Local Chapters In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <87000566-7CFF-472D-B911-487B81E006D5@gmail.com> I have made multiple attempts to reach out to various Chapter Presidents within my area and have never received any response regarding meeting times, location, or meeting dates. Therefore, I figured I wasn't welcome to the chapter meetings, which in turn makes it difficult to join the local chapters. Juanita Herrera Sent from my iPhone > On May 7, 2014, at 5:58 PM, Darian Smith wrote: > > Hey NABS Family, > As you already know, the National Federation of the Blind is an organization of the blind speaking for themselves in all matters that concern the blind. > We come together to educate the public, elected representatives and ourselves about blindness and the true abilities of blind people. > The most effective way of coming together is on the local level via our chapters. > We have over 700 chapters last I heard and chances are that there is one near where you live or go to school. If there isn’t a physical chapter there almost always is a at-large chapter in your state which meets via telephone. > ?We believe there is no real substitute for the in-person interaction and bonding that comes from a local in-person chapter meeting, but the most important thing is to connect. > I’ve given this lon-winded introduction to ask you this question: Are you a member of a chapter? if so, what has your experience been? if not, what holds you back from the involvement in a chapter that you desire. > interested to hear your thoughts. > Darian > > > Darian Smith > 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students > (415) 215-9809 > dsmithnfb at gmail.com. > twitter: @goldengateace > > www.nabslink.org > Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. > “ A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” > - Nelson Mandela. >> >> Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further >> Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! >> For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/juanitaherrera1991%40gmail.com From sweetpeareader at gmail.com Thu May 8 11:36:24 2014 From: sweetpeareader at gmail.com (Sophie Trist) Date: Thu, 08 May 2014 06:36:24 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Local Chapters Message-ID: <536b6c41.2b8f320a.798d.69b9@mx.google.com> I=20have=20the=20same=20problem=20as=20Tyler.=20I=20am=20on=20the=20Louisia= na=20 Association=20of=20Blind=20Students'=20mailing=20list,=20but=20it's=20prett= y=20much=20 a=20dead=20list=20except=20around=20convention=20time.=20I=20would=20like=20= to=20be=20 part=20of=20a=20chapter,=20but=20the=20only=20ones=20close=20to=20me=20are= =20about=20an=20 hour=20away,=20and=20school=20and=20my=20family's=20schedule=20doesn't=20al= low=20for=20 me=20to=20carve=20out=20three=20to=20four=20hours=20a=20week=20to=20go=20th= ere.=20There=20 probably=20is=20an=20at-large=20chapter=20for=20Louisiana,=20but=20I=20have= n't=20 looked=20into=20joining=20it.=20I=20honestly=20don't=20know=20why--I=20thin= k=20it=20 would=20be=20a=20great=20thing.=20I=20think=20about=20searching=20for=20it= =20every=20now=20 and=20then,=20but=20I=20always=20forget=20and=20don't=20have=20time.=20This= =20 discussion=20has=20given=20me=20a=20lot=20to=20think=20about. =20-----=20Original=20Message=20----- From:=20Juanita=20Herrera=20=20 wrote: =20Hey=20NABS=20Family, =20=20As=20you=20already=20know,=20the=20National=20Federation=20of=20the=20= Blind=20is=20an=20=20 organization=20of=20the=20blind=20speaking=20for=20themselves=20in=20all=20= matters=20 that=20concern=20the=20blind. =20We=20come=20together=20=20to=20educate=20the=20public,=20elected=20repre= sentatives=20 and=20ourselves=20about=20blindness=20and=20the=20true=20abilities=20=20=20= of=20blind=20 people. =20The=20most=20effective=20way=20of=20coming=20together=20is=20on=20the=20= local=20level=20 via=20our=20=20chapters. =20We=20have=20over=20700=20chapters=20last=20I=20heard=20and=20=20chances= =20are=20=20that=20 there=20is=20one=20near=20where=20you=20live=20or=20go=20to=20school.=20=20= If=20there=20 isn=E2=80=99t=20a=20physical=20chapter=20there=20almost=20always=20is=20a=20= at-large=20 chapter=20in=20your=20state=20which=20meets=20via=20telephone. =20?We=20believe=20there=20is=20no=20real=20=20substitute=20=20for=20the=20= in-person=20 interaction=20and=20bonding=20that=20comes=20from=20a=20local=20in-person=20= chapter=20 meeting,=20but=20the=20most=20important=20=20thing=20is=20to=20connect. =20=20I=E2=80=99ve=20given=20this=20lon-winded=20introduction=20to=20ask=20= you=20this=20 question:=20=20Are=20you=20a=20member=20of=20=20a=20chapter?=20if=20so,=20w= hat=20has=20your=20 experience=20been?=20if=20not,=20what=20=20holds=20you=20back=20from=20the= =20 involvement=20in=20a=20chapter=20that=20you=20desire. =20=20interested=20to=20hear=20your=20thoughts. =20=20Darian =20Darian=20Smith =202nd=20Vice=20President,=20National=20Association=20of=20Blind=20Students= =20(415)=20215-9809 =20dsmithnfb at gmail.com. =20twitter:=20 at goldengateace =20www.nabslink.org =20Follow=20the=20National=20Association=20of=20Blind=20Students=20on=20twi= tter:=20 @nabslink. =20=E2=80=9C=20A=20good=20Head=20and=20a=20good=20heart=20are=20always=20a= =20formidable=20 combination=E2=80=9D =20-=20Nelson=20Mandela. =20Vehicle=20Donations=20Take=20the=20Blind=20Further =20Donate=20your=20car=20to=20the=20National=20Federation=20of=20the=20Blin= d=20today! =20For=20more=20information,=20please=20visit:=20www.carshelpingtheblind.or= g=20 or=20call=201-855-659-9314 =20_______________________________________________ =20nabs-l=20mailing=20list =20nabs-l at nfbnet.org =20http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org =20To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20a= ccount=20 info=20for=20nabs-l: =20 http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/juanitaherrer a1991%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l=20mailing=20list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20acco= unt=20info=20 for=20nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sweetpeareade r%40gmail.com From carlymih at comcast.net Thu May 8 11:45:58 2014 From: carlymih at comcast.net (Carly Mihalakis) Date: Thu, 08 May 2014 04:45:58 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Languages In-Reply-To: References: <0N5800DGG3UU7HK0@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> <3AEDB9E7D539497F9920FF4ACE611B67@Helga> <91A32D4A65F443799756098D2B24DF4C@Helga> <8C250032-3BFF-4BC8-A1EA-42F71B10EBF4@gmail.com> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140508044321.01bf7400@comcast.net> Good morning, Lillie, You might check out Pimsleur, see if they have an ap. I know they have audio stuff. If you read the thinking behind the Pimsleur courses it's very interesting, a whole different way of seeing language learning. Keep us posted, and good luck! for today, Car 408-209-3239 t 07:28 PM 5/7/2014, Lillie Pennington wrote: >I had been wanting to ask this question for a while, and hope that I >am not too off course of the thread. One of my life goals is to be >fluent in Spanish, French, German, and Russian, if not more >languages. I am dropping Spanish after taking it for 3 years but I >would like to retain. What I know now plus learn more. For these >languages that I do learn, I do not just want to learn phraises, I >want to learn and imerce myself in the language. Is there any >resources that could help me?ent from my iPhone > > > On May 7, 2014, at 9:35 PM, Hope Paulos wrote: > > > > It is much more complicated than Spanish, but if English is your > second language, it is not complicated to learn. English is much more so. > > > > Hope Paulos > > > >> On May 7, 2014, at 8:46 PM, wrote: > >> > >> Hi Hope Paulos, this is Helga! Yeah, thanks a lot for your help! > Thanks and God bless! ;) > >> P.S. I just wanted to ask you, is German difficult to learn? > Just wondering! Thanks again! :) > >> > >> -----Original Message----- From: Hope Paulos > >> Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 8:22 PM > >> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > >> > >> I'm a Spanish teacher but I also speak German. I read and write > in both languages. If you can give me a couple days, I will obtain > some resources for Spanish Braille. > >> I will also obtain some German resources. > >> Hope Paulos > >> > >>> On May 7, 2014, at 7:50 PM, wrote: > >>> > >>> Hi all, since you are talking about languages! I would like to > learn how to speak Hebrew, German, and I would like to know how to > read and write Hebrew, German, and Spanish in Braille! As you all > know, I'm from Peru and my name and last name are German! And the > reason I want to learn Hebrew is because I'm curious since > I'm part of a Jewish descendant due to my dad's side, which his > grand father was from German! And I'm curious! to learn the > Language! Just to let you know, I'm not Jewish, I'm Christian! Do > you know where can I find Braille books or links that will help me > to learn the Braille codes, and who can teach me how to speak the > languages? I will really appreciate it, if you could help me and > give me some suggestions regarding this? Hope to hear from you > soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! :) > >>> > >>> -----Original Message----- From: sami osborne > >>> Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 5:32 PM > >>> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > >>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Languages > >>> > >>> Hi Lizzy, > >>> > >>> I think it's really cool that you want to learn those languages. > >>> I personally don't know any of those languages fluently; I only > >>> speak French and Spanish other than English, but I have taught > >>> myself some Japanese and Italian. > >>> I am intending to lstudy more of those languages and perhaps more > >>> when I get to college, as I am considering being an interpreter > >>> UN (the United Nations), and I heard that you need to "know at > >>> least 4 to 5 languages. > >>> Currently, I am planning to learn German, as that's very similar > >>> to English, I would also to learn Italian and Portugese, as those > >>> are similar to French and Spanish, and then, some languages like > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From trising at sbcglobal.net Thu May 8 13:29:04 2014 From: trising at sbcglobal.net (trising at sbcglobal.net) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 09:29:04 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Local Chapters In-Reply-To: <536b6c41.2b8f320a.798d.69b9@mx.google.com> References: <536b6c41.2b8f320a.798d.69b9@mx.google.com> Message-ID: I am the President of a local Chapter in Ann Arbor Michigan. Anyone, young or old is welcome. I am sorry others have felt less than welcome in local chapters. Please contact me at trising at sbcglobal.net if you are in the Ann Arbor Michigan area and I can hook you up with our local Chapter. Sincerely, Terri Wilcox From zmason.northwindsfarm at gmail.com Thu May 8 14:35:45 2014 From: zmason.northwindsfarm at gmail.com (Zach Mason) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 10:35:45 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accessibility in Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry Message-ID: <00ed01cf6aca$cceb8980$66c29c80$@gmail.com> Hello, I'd like to learn about adaptive ways for studying organic and biochemistry for students with little or no usable vision. I myself fall into this category. I graduated from Cornell in 2012, with a degree in animal science, and now am planning to go back for graduate studies in animal physiology. While at Cornell I concentrated in dairy farm management, and food science. Unfortunately I did not have the time and finances to take the core microbiology, genetics, calc II, and chemistries that would have made for an easier transition and stronger application to graduate studies. Presently I am looking into taking the full year of organic chemistry (lec and lab), and at least one semester of biochemistry. I've heard of Independent Science and wondered if someone could share their first hand experiences using the probe ware. Any suggestions as how to take notes, study, and various formats others have used to read course material in these classes, and other resources would be greatly appreciated too. Kind regards, Zac P.S. This might be really pushing the envelope, but I wondered if anyone might have experience taking orgo and biochem online? The nearest school in the US that offers these courses are a couple hours' drive from where I live. Zachary Mason Assistant Shepherd and Young Stock Manager Northwinds Farm (603) 922-8377 Work (603) 991-6747 Cell zmason at northwindsfarm@gmail.com 806 U.S. Route 3 North Stratford, NH 03590 From Zunaira.Wasif at dbs.fldoe.org Thu May 8 14:44:32 2014 From: Zunaira.Wasif at dbs.fldoe.org (Wasif, Zunaira) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 14:44:32 +0000 Subject: [nabs-l] Accessibility in Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry In-Reply-To: <00ed01cf6aca$cceb8980$66c29c80$@gmail.com> References: <00ed01cf6aca$cceb8980$66c29c80$@gmail.com> Message-ID: For Organic chem 1 and 2 I built models of compounds in order to visualize better. For Mass Spec and Infra Red, I needed the diagrams in raised line format from OSD, a lot of times I got a friend to draw it really quick for me after class. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Zach Mason Sent: Thursday, May 08, 2014 10:36 AM To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org Subject: [nabs-l] Accessibility in Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry Hello, I'd like to learn about adaptive ways for studying organic and biochemistry for students with little or no usable vision. I myself fall into this category. I graduated from Cornell in 2012, with a degree in animal science, and now am planning to go back for graduate studies in animal physiology. While at Cornell I concentrated in dairy farm management, and food science. Unfortunately I did not have the time and finances to take the core microbiology, genetics, calc II, and chemistries that would have made for an easier transition and stronger application to graduate studies. Presently I am looking into taking the full year of organic chemistry (lec and lab), and at least one semester of biochemistry. I've heard of Independent Science and wondered if someone could share their first hand experiences using the probe ware. Any suggestions as how to take notes, study, and various formats others have used to read course material in these classes, and other resources would be greatly appreciated too. Kind regards, Zac P.S. This might be really pushing the envelope, but I wondered if anyone might have experience taking orgo and biochem online? The nearest school in the US that offers these courses are a couple hours' drive from where I live. Zachary Mason Assistant Shepherd and Young Stock Manager Northwinds Farm (603) 922-8377 Work (603) 991-6747 Cell zmason at northwindsfarm@gmail.com 806 U.S. Route 3 North Stratford, NH 03590 _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/zunaira.wasif%40dbs.fldoe.org From lilliepennington at fuse.net Thu May 8 16:31:20 2014 From: lilliepennington at fuse.net (Lillie Pennington) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 12:31:20 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Local Chapters In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: I am the recording secretary for my state student devision as well as an at large board position in my chapter. I think it is a shame for chapters to not respond to new member inquiries. I had a question about going out of state for schools as well as cities. I know I can be in multiple chapters as a general member, what about student divisions and leadership positions? What about if you attend a school in another state but it is close to your home. I live in Cincinnati Ohio but northern Kentucky university, a school I am considering is about 20 minutes from my house. I do not want to look like I am double dipping but I am not sure what protocol is in that situation. Sent from my iPhone > On May 7, 2014, at 8:58 PM, Darian Smith wrote: > > Hey NABS Family, > As you already know, the National Federation of the Blind is an organization of the blind speaking for themselves in all matters that concern the blind. > We come together to educate the public, elected representatives and ourselves about blindness and the true abilities of blind people. > The most effective way of coming together is on the local level via our chapters. > We have over 700 chapters last I heard and chances are that there is one near where you live or go to school. If there isn’t a physical chapter there almost always is a at-large chapter in your state which meets via telephone. > ?We believe there is no real substitute for the in-person interaction and bonding that comes from a local in-person chapter meeting, but the most important thing is to connect. > I’ve given this lon-winded introduction to ask you this question: Are you a member of a chapter? if so, what has your experience been? if not, what holds you back from the involvement in a chapter that you desire. > interested to hear your thoughts. > Darian > > > Darian Smith > 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students > (415) 215-9809 > dsmithnfb at gmail.com. > twitter: @goldengateace > > www.nabslink.org > Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. > “ A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” > - Nelson Mandela. >> >> Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further >> Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! >> For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net From dsmithnfb at gmail.com Thu May 8 17:25:50 2014 From: dsmithnfb at gmail.com (Darian Smith) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 10:25:50 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Local Chapters In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <2C19C34C-F020-4EAA-9C19-8120AD9DD519@gmail.com> Hi all, I think that it is certainly unfortunate when anyone doesn’t get connected with a local chapter, especially in this case a student. Chapters can benefit from the energy and ideas students bring, and students benefit from the experience and support more experienced members offer. Tyler: it is unfortunate that you don’t hear enough from your state student division. have you first considered sending a message on the list inquiring as to the details into the next meeting and expressing interest in being a part of it? you might want to ask about chapters near you. I believe a chapter president from your state did post to this thread and they should be able to connect you to your nearest chapter. Juanita: because last I checked i reside in the same state as you, I’m glad to help you connect with a chapter. Just contact me off-list and I’ll be glad to help facilitate contact. Sophie: I would definitely look into the at-large chapter option. Last I spoke with your affiliate president, she told me one was in the works, so please do get a hold of her. Of course you and Tyler are welcome to be in touch if you should run into any problems. Lily: As far as I’m aware there is no limit to the number of chapters you can be a member of, or divisions (student or otherwise in the federation). you can join as a member and you are just as welcome as an at-large member or a member of a chapter board. you obviously want to be mindful of how many hats you wear, but that’s something any of us shouldn’t be thinking about once we branch out in the Organization When you go to a new state, look up the affiliate president as your first good resource to find a chapter or state division. of course we are just as happy on the NABS board to help you find a student division i if you are looking for one. I hope this is helpful. On May 8, 2014, at 9:31 AM, Lillie Pennington wrote: > I am the recording secretary for my state student devision as well as an at large board position in my chapter. I think it is a shame for chapters to not respond to new member inquiries. > I had a question about going out of state for schools as well as cities. I know I can be in multiple chapters as a general member, what about student divisions and leadership positions? What about if you attend a school in another state but it is close to your home. I live in Cincinnati Ohio but northern Kentucky university, a school I am considering is about 20 minutes from my house. I do not want to look like I am double dipping but I am not sure what protocol is in that situation. > Sent from my iPhone > >> On May 7, 2014, at 8:58 PM, Darian Smith wrote: >> >> Hey NABS Family, >> As you already know, the National Federation of the Blind is an organization of the blind speaking for themselves in all matters that concern the blind. >> We come together to educate the public, elected representatives and ourselves about blindness and the true abilities of blind people. >> The most effective way of coming together is on the local level via our chapters. >> We have over 700 chapters last I heard and chances are that there is one near where you live or go to school. If there isn’t a physical chapter there almost always is a at-large chapter in your state which meets via telephone. >> ?We believe there is no real substitute for the in-person interaction and bonding that comes from a local in-person chapter meeting, but the most important thing is to connect. >> I’ve given this lon-winded introduction to ask you this question: Are you a member of a chapter? if so, what has your experience been? if not, what holds you back from the involvement in a chapter that you desire. >> interested to hear your thoughts. >> Darian >> >> >> Darian Smith >> 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students >> (415) 215-9809 >> dsmithnfb at gmail.com. >> twitter: @goldengateace >> >> www.nabslink.org >> Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. >> “ A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” >> - Nelson Mandela. >>> >>> Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further >>> Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! >>> For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com Darian Smith President, National Federation of the Blind of California, San Francisco Chapter 1st Vice President, California Association of Blind Students 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students Chairperson, Community Service Group,National Federation of the Blind. (415)215-9809 dsmithnfb at gmail.com The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can have the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back. From justin.williams2 at gmail.com Thu May 8 18:11:55 2014 From: justin.williams2 at gmail.com (justin williams) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 14:11:55 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accessibility in Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry In-Reply-To: <00ed01cf6aca$cceb8980$66c29c80$@gmail.com> References: <00ed01cf6aca$cceb8980$66c29c80$@gmail.com> Message-ID: <017701cf6ae8$ff420f30$fdc62d90$@gmail.com> My mother taught chemistry for 40 years. She would use that skill to take noodles, or anything which was tactual and make things for me to feel. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Zach Mason Sent: Thursday, May 08, 2014 10:36 AM To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org Subject: [nabs-l] Accessibility in Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry Hello, I'd like to learn about adaptive ways for studying organic and biochemistry for students with little or no usable vision. I myself fall into this category. I graduated from Cornell in 2012, with a degree in animal science, and now am planning to go back for graduate studies in animal physiology. While at Cornell I concentrated in dairy farm management, and food science. Unfortunately I did not have the time and finances to take the core microbiology, genetics, calc II, and chemistries that would have made for an easier transition and stronger application to graduate studies. Presently I am looking into taking the full year of organic chemistry (lec and lab), and at least one semester of biochemistry. I've heard of Independent Science and wondered if someone could share their first hand experiences using the probe ware. Any suggestions as how to take notes, study, and various formats others have used to read course material in these classes, and other resources would be greatly appreciated too. Kind regards, Zac P.S. This might be really pushing the envelope, but I wondered if anyone might have experience taking orgo and biochem online? The nearest school in the US that offers these courses are a couple hours' drive from where I live. Zachary Mason Assistant Shepherd and Young Stock Manager Northwinds Farm (603) 922-8377 Work (603) 991-6747 Cell zmason at northwindsfarm@gmail.com 806 U.S. Route 3 North Stratford, NH 03590 _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From gmanmesa at gmail.com Thu May 8 18:24:02 2014 From: gmanmesa at gmail.com (James Mooney) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 11:24:02 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] making geology class accessible Message-ID: hello, My DRC is wondering how to make an geology class accessible. They have a student who wants to take a geology class, but the professors are opposed to the idea. So in order to prove them wrong that a blind student can take a geology class they are asking for ways to make it accessible. -- Garret Mooney President Arizona Association of Blind Students Board Director National Federation of the Blind students at az.nfb.org 480.433.8003 From programmer651 at comcast.net Thu May 8 18:38:06 2014 From: programmer651 at comcast.net (Tyler) Date: Thu, 08 May 2014 14:38:06 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Local Chapters Message-ID: <20140508183805.4427.46422.levelstar.mail@everest> I was never sure if it was polite to ask about meetings on the list. I always thought it was the responsibility of the head of the division/chapter to post first. But I guess that, because of lack of information being posted, I have to request. Tyler Z On Thu, 8 May 2014 10:25:50 -0700, Darian Smith wrote: >Hi all, >I think that it is certainly unfortunate when anyone doesnt get connected >with a local chapter, especially in this case a student. >Chapters can benefit from the energy and ideas students bring, and students >benefit from the experience and support more experienced members offer. >Tyler: it is unfortunate that you dont hear enough from your state student >division. have you first considered sending a message on the list inquiring as >to the details into the next meeting and expressing interest in being a part of >it? >you might want to ask about chapters near you. I believe a chapter president >from your state did post to this thread and they should be able to connect you >to your nearest chapter. >Juanita: because last I checked i reside in the same state as you, Im glad to >help you connect with a chapter. >Just contact me off-list and Ill be glad to help facilitate contact. >Sophie: I would definitely look into the at-large chapter option. Last I spoke >with your affiliate president, she told me one was in the works, so please do >get a hold of her. Of course you and Tyler are welcome to be in touch if you >should run into any problems. >Lily: As far as Im aware there is no limit to the number of chapters you can >be a member of, or divisions (student or otherwise in the federation). you >can join as a member and you are just as welcome as an at-large member or a >member of a chapter board. >you obviously want to be mindful of how many hats you wear, but thats something >any of us shouldnt be thinking about once we branch out in the Organization >When you go to a new state, look up the affiliate president as your first good > resource to find a chapter or state division. of course we are just as >happy on the NABS board to help you find a student division i if you are >looking for one. >I hope this is helpful. > >On May 8, 2014, at 9:31 AM, Lillie Pennington wrote: > >>I am the recording secretary for my state student devision as well as an at >>large board position in my chapter. I think it is a shame for chapters to not >>respond to new member inquiries. >>I had a question about going out of state for schools as well as cities. I know >>I can be in multiple chapters as a general member, what about student divisions >>and leadership positions? What about if you attend a school in another state >>but it is close to your home. I live in Cincinnati Ohio but northern Kentucky >>university, a school I am considering is about 20 minutes from my house. I do >>not want to look like I am double dipping but I am not sure what protocol is in >>that situation. >>Sent from my iPhone >> >>>On May 7, 2014, at 8:58 PM, Darian Smith wrote: >>> >>>Hey NABS Family, >>>As you already know, the National Federation of the Blind is an organization >>>of the blind speaking for themselves in all matters that concern the blind. >>>We come together to educate the public, elected representatives and ourselves >>>about blindness and the true abilities of blind people. >>>The most effective way of coming together is on the local level via our >>>chapters. >>>We have over 700 chapters last I heard and chances are that there is one near >>>where you live or go to school. If there isnt a physical chapter there almost >>>always is a at-large chapter in your state which meets via telephone. >>>?We believe there is no real substitute for the in-person interaction and >>>bonding that comes from a local in-person chapter meeting, but the most >>>important thing is to connect. >>>Ive given this lon-winded introduction to ask you this question: Are you a >>>member of a chapter? if so, what has your experience been? if not, what holds >>>you back from the involvement in a chapter that you desire. >>>interested to hear your thoughts. >>>Darian >>> >>> >>>Darian Smith >>>2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students >>>(415) 215-9809 >>>dsmithnfb at gmail.com. >>>twitter: @goldengateace >>> >>>www.nabslink.org >>>Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. >>>A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination >>>- Nelson Mandela. >>>> >>>>Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further >>>>Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! >>>>For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call >>>>1-855-659-9314 >>> >>>_______________________________________________ >>>nabs-l mailing list >>>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net >> >>_______________________________________________ >>nabs-l mailing list >>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com > > > >Darian Smith >President, National Federation of the Blind of California, San Francisco Chapter >1st Vice President, California Association of Blind Students >2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students >Chairperson, Community Service Group,National Federation of the Blind. >(415)215-9809 >dsmithnfb at gmail.com >The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the >characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the >expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles >between blind people and our dreams. You can have the life you want; >blindness is not what holds you back. > > > > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/programmer651%40comcast.net From trising at sbcglobal.net Thu May 8 18:55:23 2014 From: trising at sbcglobal.net (trising at sbcglobal.net) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 14:55:23 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Local Chapters In-Reply-To: <20140508183805.4427.46422.levelstar.mail@everest> References: <20140508183805.4427.46422.levelstar.mail@everest> Message-ID: <99614390D701410EA35F23925AA7C575@nickPC> Tyler, are you close to Ann Arbor? You may not want to reveal that on list. The Ann Arbor Chapter meets the first Sunday of each month except July when we do not meet and August when we do something like meet for lunch during the week and then go to a pool with a water slide. The meetings are from 12:30 to 3:30 at Pizza Pinos Restaurant at 221 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. I hope this helps. Sincerely, Terri Wilcox From dsmithnfb at gmail.com Thu May 8 19:21:27 2014 From: dsmithnfb at gmail.com (Darian) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 12:21:27 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Local Chapters In-Reply-To: <20140508183805.4427.46422.levelstar.mail@everest> References: <20140508183805.4427.46422.levelstar.mail@everest> Message-ID: If I remember correctly, The Michigan student division list is a very low traffic list. I think it is fine to say something like "hi, I am a a blind Michigander and my name is (insert name) I am from this part of Michigan and am very excited to find this list. I'm looking forward to connect with other students in Michigan on this list, and want to get involved in the Michigan student division. When do you all meet? Please keep me informed" Maybe not this exactly, but you kind of get the idea I hope. This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > On May 8, 2014, at 11:38 AM, Tyler wrote: > > I was never sure if it was polite to ask about meetings on the list. I always thought it was the > responsibility of the head of the division/chapter to post first. But I guess that, because of lack > of information being posted, I have to request. > Tyler Z > On Thu, 8 May 2014 10:25:50 -0700, Darian Smith wrote: > > >> Hi all, >> I think that it is certainly unfortunate when anyone doesnt get connected >> with a local chapter, especially in this case a student. >> Chapters can benefit from the energy and ideas students bring, and students >> benefit from the experience and support more experienced members offer. >> Tyler: it is unfortunate that you dont hear enough from your state student >> division. have you first considered sending a message on the list inquiring as >> to the details into the next meeting and expressing interest in being a part of >> it? >> you might want to ask about chapters near you. I believe a chapter president >> from your state did post to this thread and they should be able to connect you >> to your nearest chapter. >> Juanita: because last I checked i reside in the same state as you, Im glad to >> help you connect with a chapter. >> Just contact me off-list and Ill be glad to help facilitate contact. >> Sophie: I would definitely look into the at-large chapter option. Last I spoke >> with your affiliate president, she told me one was in the works, so please do >> get a hold of her. Of course you and Tyler are welcome to be in touch if you >> should run into any problems. >> Lily: As far as Im aware there is no limit to the number of chapters you can >> be a member of, or divisions (student or otherwise in the federation). you >> can join as a member and you are just as welcome as an at-large member or a >> member of a chapter board. >> you obviously want to be mindful of how many hats you wear, but thats something >> any of us shouldnt be thinking about once we branch out in the Organization >> When you go to a new state, look up the affiliate president as your first good >> resource to find a chapter or state division. of course we are just as >> happy on the NABS board to help you find a student division i if you are >> looking for one. >> I hope this is helpful. >> >>> On May 8, 2014, at 9:31 AM, Lillie Pennington wrote: >>> >>> I am the recording secretary for my state student devision as well as an at >>> large board position in my chapter. I think it is a shame for chapters to not >>> respond to new member inquiries. >>> I had a question about going out of state for schools as well as cities. I know >>> I can be in multiple chapters as a general member, what about student divisions >>> and leadership positions? What about if you attend a school in another state >>> but it is close to your home. I live in Cincinnati Ohio but northern Kentucky >>> university, a school I am considering is about 20 minutes from my house. I do >>> not want to look like I am double dipping but I am not sure what protocol is in >>> that situation. >>> Sent from my iPhone >>> >>>> On May 7, 2014, at 8:58 PM, Darian Smith wrote: >>>> >>>> Hey NABS Family, >>>> As you already know, the National Federation of the Blind is an organization >>>> of the blind speaking for themselves in all matters that concern the blind. >>>> We come together to educate the public, elected representatives and ourselves >>>> about blindness and the true abilities of blind people. >>>> The most effective way of coming together is on the local level via our >>>> chapters. >>>> We have over 700 chapters last I heard and chances are that there is one near >>>> where you live or go to school. If there isnt a physical chapter there almost >>>> always is a at-large chapter in your state which meets via telephone. >>>> ?We believe there is no real substitute for the in-person interaction and >>>> bonding that comes from a local in-person chapter meeting, but the most >>>> important thing is to connect. >>>> Ive given this lon-winded introduction to ask you this question: Are you a >>>> member of a chapter? if so, what has your experience been? if not, what holds >>>> you back from the involvement in a chapter that you desire. >>>> interested to hear your thoughts. >>>> Darian >>>> >>>> >>>> Darian Smith >>>> 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students >>>> (415) 215-9809 >>>> dsmithnfb at gmail.com. >>>> twitter: @goldengateace >>>> >>>> www.nabslink.org >>>> Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. >>>> A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination >>>> - Nelson Mandela. >>>>> >>>>> Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further >>>>> Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! >>>>> For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call >>>>> 1-855-659-9314 >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >> >> >> >> Darian Smith >> President, National Federation of the Blind of California, San Francisco Chapter >> 1st Vice President, California Association of Blind Students >> 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students >> Chairperson, Community Service Group,National Federation of the Blind. >> (415)215-9809 >> dsmithnfb at gmail.com >> The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the >> characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the >> expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles >> between blind people and our dreams. You can have the life you want; >> blindness is not what holds you back. >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/programmer651%40comcast.net > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From mikgephart at icloud.com Thu May 8 20:37:56 2014 From: mikgephart at icloud.com (Mikayla Gephart) Date: Thu, 08 May 2014 16:37:56 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Moodle Message-ID: Hi, My meeting with my teachers went well. However, most teachers in the school use Moodle. Is it accessible, and if not, are there any good equivilents? They will use whatever works best. Mikayla Sent from my iPad From matt.dierckens at me.com Thu May 8 20:43:28 2014 From: matt.dierckens at me.com (Matthew Dierckens) Date: Thu, 08 May 2014 16:43:28 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Moodle In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hello. As far as I know, it's accessible on the Mac. Not sure about windows, or iOS. Sent from my iPhone > On May 8, 2014, at 16:37, Mikayla Gephart wrote: > > Hi, > My meeting with my teachers went well. However, most teachers in the school use Moodle. Is it accessible, and if not, are there any good equivilents? They will use whatever works best. > Mikayla > > Sent from my iPad > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me.com From hope.paulos at gmail.com Thu May 8 20:44:12 2014 From: hope.paulos at gmail.com (Hope Paulos) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 16:44:12 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Moodle In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <2C8FEE38-AC87-436C-9235-4AE4519D926E@gmail.com> Yes, Moodle is very accessible. Hope Paulos > On May 8, 2014, at 4:37 PM, Mikayla Gephart wrote: > > Hi, > My meeting with my teachers went well. However, most teachers in the school use Moodle. Is it accessible, and if not, are there any good equivilents? They will use whatever works best. > Mikayla > > Sent from my iPad > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/hope.paulos%40gmail.com From freethaught at gmail.com Fri May 9 03:08:20 2014 From: freethaught at gmail.com (Antonio Guimaraes) Date: Thu, 8 May 2014 23:08:20 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] making geology class accessible In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <3964B0F4-D5E4-4E34-B7B4-651E84A50F30@gmail.com> Jerat Vermeij is a successful blind geologist. Google him, and you'll find a few of his writings on how he got to where he is, including professorship at UC Davis. He is a very busy guy, but may be accessible to your student and the professor, if it helps dispel a few myths, and break down the walls to science for the blind. Feel free to write privately if you think you will need more info. Jerat wrote a book titled Privileged Hands, where he talked about his work, ad impact in the field as a blind geologist. Good luck, Antonio On May 8, 2014, at 2:24 PM, James Mooney wrote: > hello, > > My DRC is wondering how to make an geology class accessible. They have > a student who wants to take a geology class, but the professors are > opposed to the idea. So in order to prove them wrong that a blind > student can take a geology class they are asking for ways to make it > accessible. > > -- > Garret Mooney > President Arizona Association of Blind Students > Board Director National Federation of the Blind > students at az.nfb.org > 480.433.8003 > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/freethaught%40gmail.com From carlymih at comcast.net Fri May 9 04:47:29 2014 From: carlymih at comcast.net (Carly Mihalakis) Date: Thu, 08 May 2014 21:47:29 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Moodle In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140508214159.01d35f58@comcast.net> Hi, Mikayla, Most teachers at my school also use MOODLE which, upon first looking at it and not knowing if it is now accessible, I just worked out a thing with the instructors to send assignments to them the regular way. Then, they couild simply send any comments to me directly without involving outfits like Moodle. Just me. I'm not interested in figuring out such a sight, would much rather do it the regular way. In this case, just do what you feel! Don;'t think yourself obligated to get involved with Moodle unless you feel you must or because it's what everyone else happens to be doing. Good luck and keep us posted! for today, car wjocj O At 01:37 PM 5/8/2014, you wrote: >Hi, > My meeting with my teachers went well. However, most > teachers in the school use Moodle. Is it accessible, and if not, > are there any good equivilents? They will use whatever works best. >Mikayla > >Sent from my iPad > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From matt.dierckens at me.com Fri May 9 11:01:09 2014 From: matt.dierckens at me.com (Matthew Dierckens) Date: Fri, 09 May 2014 07:01:09 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Moodle In-Reply-To: <7.0.1.0.2.20140508214159.01d35f58@comcast.net> References: <7.0.1.0.2.20140508214159.01d35f58@comcast.net> Message-ID: <2930E4F0-9D4C-4E82-8D84-432273B5B640@me.com> Or, why not, I don't know, try to learn the software? As I said, I've been told that its accessible under OSX, and Hope said that it is on windows, so why not give it a shot? :) Matthew Dierckens Macintosh Trainer Blind Access Training www.blindaccesstraining.com 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 On May 9, 2014, at 12:47 AM, Carly Mihalakis wrote: > Hi, Mikayla, > > Most teachers at my school also use MOODLE which, upon first looking at it and not knowing if it is now accessible, I just worked out a thing with the instructors to send assignments to them the regular way. Then, they couild simply send any comments to me directly without involving outfits like Moodle. Just me. I'm not interested in figuring out such a sight, would much rather do it the regular way. > In this case, just do what you feel! Don;'t think yourself obligated to get involved with Moodle unless you feel you must or because it's what everyone else happens to be doing. > Good luck and keep us posted! > for today, car > > wjocj O At 01:37 PM 5/8/2014, you wrote: >> Hi, >> My meeting with my teachers went well. However, most teachers in the school use Moodle. Is it accessible, and if not, are there any good equivilents? They will use whatever works best. >> Mikayla >> >> Sent from my iPad >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me.com From sandragayer7 at gmail.com Fri May 9 11:25:24 2014 From: sandragayer7 at gmail.com (Sandra Gayer) Date: Fri, 9 May 2014 12:25:24 +0100 Subject: [nabs-l] Sandra Gayer is starting another project for students. Message-ID: Straight a's cover letter draft2 Hello Everyone, I teach a lot of students, ranging from teenagers to post graduate level. I have noticed common detrimental habits which often thwart their potential exam success. To this end, I have created a study course for students and wish to fine- tune the content before release. Attached is a short survey, designed to help me achieve this and I would be really grateful if you could spend a few moments to complete and return it to me. (off- list and sandragayer7 at gmail.com is the email address). As a thank you, I will send everyone who completes this, my favourite fact file from the course, 'Five Fun Facts about Examiners'. Many thanks for your help. Very best wishes, Sandra. -- Soprano Singer www.sandragayer.com Broadcast Presenter www.insightradio.co.uk/music-box.html Voiceover Artist www.archangelvoices.co.uk/content/sandra-gayer -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: The Yellow Brick Road to Straight A's.doc Type: application/msword Size: 25088 bytes Desc: not available URL: From sgermano at asu.edu Fri May 9 15:33:09 2014 From: sgermano at asu.edu (Suzanne Germano) Date: Fri, 9 May 2014 08:33:09 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] making geology class accessible In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Maybe you can contact Dr Geerat Vemeij at gjvermeij at ucdavis.edu (530) 752-2234 He is a blind professor at UC Davis with a PhD in Geology and Biology. On Thu, May 8, 2014 at 11:24 AM, James Mooney wrote: > hello, > > My DRC is wondering how to make an geology class accessible. They have > a student who wants to take a geology class, but the professors are > opposed to the idea. So in order to prove them wrong that a blind > student can take a geology class they are asking for ways to make it > accessible. > > -- > Garret Mooney > President Arizona Association of Blind Students > Board Director National Federation of the Blind > students at az.nfb.org > 480.433.8003 > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sgermano%40asu.edu > From lilliepennington at fuse.net Sat May 10 02:12:53 2014 From: lilliepennington at fuse.net (Lillie Pennington) Date: Fri, 9 May 2014 22:12:53 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication Message-ID: <000001cf6bf5$59bd9530$0d38bf90$@net> Hello All, A local hospital in my area is starting a youth suicide prevention council for local high school students next year, and I am applying now because it both sounds interesting and I think it could be good for me. There are several written response questions on the application, such as what is your biggest challenge in life. My answer would be blindness. However, I do not know how to exactly deal with the phraising of my answers. I want to treat it like a casual thing; sort of like, although blindness does present its own special challenges, I have adjusted reasonably well and live a pretty normal life. I am afraid that I will become a hero and be admitted solely on that fact, or not admitted because I talked about blindness and the powers that be do not want to deal with that. I am not asking you to write my answer for me, but how can I better phraise my approach, or what are some key words? Thanks in advance for any help. This sounds like an awesome opportunity. From jsoro620 at gmail.com Sat May 10 02:45:49 2014 From: jsoro620 at gmail.com (Joe) Date: Fri, 9 May 2014 22:45:49 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication In-Reply-To: <000001cf6bf5$59bd9530$0d38bf90$@net> References: <000001cf6bf5$59bd9530$0d38bf90$@net> Message-ID: <017101cf6bf9$f4023d90$dc06b8b0$@gmail.com> There's a philosophical discussion in here somewhere. Blindness ought not to be your biggest challenge in life, but if you do make that your response, I would exhibit it in as a casual way as you did in your post. It's no big deal. Talk about the positives you've been able to derive from your blindness, empathy or whatnot. -- Twitter: @ScribblingJoe Visit my blog: http://joeorozco.com/blog -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lillie Pennington Sent: Friday, May 09, 2014 10:13 PM To: 'National Association of Blind Students mailing list' Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication Hello All, A local hospital in my area is starting a youth suicide prevention council for local high school students next year, and I am applying now because it both sounds interesting and I think it could be good for me. There are several written response questions on the application, such as what is your biggest challenge in life. My answer would be blindness. However, I do not know how to exactly deal with the phraising of my answers. I want to treat it like a casual thing; sort of like, although blindness does present its own special challenges, I have adjusted reasonably well and live a pretty normal life. I am afraid that I will become a hero and be admitted solely on that fact, or not admitted because I talked about blindness and the powers that be do not want to deal with that. I am not asking you to write my answer for me, but how can I better phraise my approach, or what are some key words? Thanks in advance for any help. This sounds like an awesome opportunity. _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jsoro620%40gmail.com From minh.ha927 at gmail.com Sat May 10 03:16:06 2014 From: minh.ha927 at gmail.com (minh ha) Date: Fri, 9 May 2014 23:16:06 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication In-Reply-To: <017101cf6bf9$f4023d90$dc06b8b0$@gmail.com> References: <000001cf6bf5$59bd9530$0d38bf90$@net> <017101cf6bf9$f4023d90$dc06b8b0$@gmail.com> Message-ID: I sort of agree with what Joe said. The fact that blindness is the biggest challenge in your life could bring up some questions as why that is, but each person's situation is different and none of us can tell you otherwise. Personally I don't often talk about blindness as a challenge because I face bigger hurdles in my life, but you can definitely paint blindness as a challenge in a positive light. Talk about how your blindness has taught you to be more empathetic and compassionate towards others due the prejudices you have face. Describe the advocacy skills you have learned because of blindness. People reading applications don't really want to read a sob story, but they love it when essays can show how they overcome their difficulties. Minh On 5/9/14, Joe wrote: > There's a philosophical discussion in here somewhere. Blindness ought not > to > be your biggest challenge in life, but if you do make that your response, I > would exhibit it in as a casual way as you did in your post. It's no big > deal. Talk about the positives you've been able to derive from your > blindness, empathy or whatnot. > > -- > Twitter: @ScribblingJoe > > Visit my blog: > http://joeorozco.com/blog > > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lillie > Pennington > Sent: Friday, May 09, 2014 10:13 PM > To: 'National Association of Blind Students mailing list' > Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication > > Hello All, > > > > A local hospital in my area is starting a youth suicide prevention council > for local high school students next year, and I am applying now because it > both sounds interesting and I think it could be good for me. > > There are several written response questions on the application, such as > what is your biggest challenge in life. My answer would be blindness. > However, I do not know how to exactly deal with the phraising of my > answers. > > > I want to treat it like a casual thing; sort of like, although blindness > does present its own special challenges, I have adjusted reasonably well > and > live a pretty normal life. > > I am afraid that I will become a hero and be admitted solely on that fact, > or not admitted because I talked about blindness and the powers that be do > not want to deal with that. I am not asking you to write my answer for me, > but how can I better phraise my approach, or what are some key words? > > > > Thanks in advance for any help. This sounds like an awesome opportunity. > > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jsoro620%40gmail.com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/minh.ha927%40gmail.com > -- "All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible." T. E. Lawrence From sarah.meyer55 at gmail.com Sat May 10 03:33:03 2014 From: sarah.meyer55 at gmail.com (Sarah Meyer) Date: Fri, 9 May 2014 23:33:03 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Success with VR! Message-ID: Hi all, I just wanted to share the awesome news I received this week that VR is approving training at CCB for me!! Wahooo!!! I don't know the exact timeline, but I will continue working full time for the next couple of months, then attend CCB's full training program, and then return to Indiana to pursue my Master's degrees. I am so excited!! Thanks to all of the support and guidance I received from several of you on the list, as well as the center directors, and my State president, I was able to build a strong case with lots of documentation, including letters from my doctor and other healthcare providers to recommend the Independence Training Program. Historically, getting VR in Indiana to send students out of state has been a battle, but I am thankful to those who paved the way, and those who helped me to prepare, so it would not even be a battle for me. Just wanted to share the good news! Best, Sarah -- Sarah K. Meyer NFB of Indy - Community Outreach, Advocacy, and Legislation (COAL), Chair IndyGo/IPTC Mobility Advisory Committee (MAC), Member (317) 402-6632 From dandrews at visi.com Sat May 10 03:59:11 2014 From: dandrews at visi.com (David Andrews) Date: Fri, 09 May 2014 22:59:11 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Fwd: room available at rosen center hotel for convention Message-ID: >From: Georgia Kitchen >To: david.andrews at nfbnet.org >Subject: room available at rosen center hotel for convention >Date: Fri, 09 May 2014 20:18:46 -0400 > >Hi David, > >Would you please post this message to the appropriate lists >including the nfb of mi list? > >Thanks > >Georgia Kitchen > >Here is the message: > >I have a room available to sell/transfer. It is at the Rosen Center. >I am sharing a room with 2 other folks during the convention. >. Please contact me at my email address. It is >gkitchen at samobile.net or call my cell at >810-240-3816 if interested . > >Georgia kitcchen > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 10 04:20:02 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (David Andrews via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 09 May 2014 23:20:02 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Problems with E-mail Message-ID: Hi: About a day ago I wrote everybody telling you about a problem that the entire mailing list world, including nfbnet.org is having. I am currently testing a fix that our software provider has developed. I have instituted it on a few of our busiest lists, including this one, and intend to test for a couple days to make sure it is ok. You may notice that the From: line is a bit different. The main difference however is that the reply and reply-all commands in your mail program may not behave as they previously did. This is a byproduct of the change, and there is nothing I can do about it. Let me know of any other problems you have. Thanks for your patience. Dave From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 10 04:28:59 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 10 May 2014 00:28:59 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication In-Reply-To: <000001cf6bf5$59bd9530$0d38bf90$@net> References: <000001cf6bf5$59bd9530$0d38bf90$@net> Message-ID: Lily, I'd say put this in a casual way; be positive. say its challenging but it taught you to strengthen other areas such as advocacy and problem solving. If you highlight your skills coupled with some things you've done, the application should be considered on its own merrits as a whole; don't worry too much about their perceptions. Ashley -----Original Message----- From: Lillie Pennington Sent: Friday, May 09, 2014 10:12 PM To: 'National Association of Blind Students mailing list' Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication Hello All, A local hospital in my area is starting a youth suicide prevention council for local high school students next year, and I am applying now because it both sounds interesting and I think it could be good for me. There are several written response questions on the application, such as what is your biggest challenge in life. My answer would be blindness. However, I do not know how to exactly deal with the phraising of my answers. I want to treat it like a casual thing; sort of like, although blindness does present its own special challenges, I have adjusted reasonably well and live a pretty normal life. I am afraid that I will become a hero and be admitted solely on that fact, or not admitted because I talked about blindness and the powers that be do not want to deal with that. I am not asking you to write my answer for me, but how can I better phraise my approach, or what are some key words? Thanks in advance for any help. This sounds like an awesome opportunity. _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 10 04:32:08 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (justin williams via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 10 May 2014 00:32:08 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication In-Reply-To: References: <000001cf6bf5$59bd9530$0d38bf90$@net> Message-ID: <002201cf6c08$ce393eb0$6aabbc10$@gmail.com> Is it necessary that you use blindness as your greatest challenge? If so, then fine do so, but is it? I'm just asking; not saying you shouldn't. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l Sent: Saturday, May 10, 2014 12:29 AM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication Lily, I'd say put this in a casual way; be positive. say its challenging but it taught you to strengthen other areas such as advocacy and problem solving. If you highlight your skills coupled with some things you've done, the application should be considered on its own merrits as a whole; don't worry too much about their perceptions. Ashley -----Original Message----- From: Lillie Pennington Sent: Friday, May 09, 2014 10:12 PM To: 'National Association of Blind Students mailing list' Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication Hello All, A local hospital in my area is starting a youth suicide prevention council for local high school students next year, and I am applying now because it both sounds interesting and I think it could be good for me. There are several written response questions on the application, such as what is your biggest challenge in life. My answer would be blindness. However, I do not know how to exactly deal with the phraising of my answers. I want to treat it like a casual thing; sort of like, although blindness does present its own special challenges, I have adjusted reasonably well and live a pretty normal life. I am afraid that I will become a hero and be admitted solely on that fact, or not admitted because I talked about blindness and the powers that be do not want to deal with that. I am not asking you to write my answer for me, but how can I better phraise my approach, or what are some key words? Thanks in advance for any help. This sounds like an awesome opportunity. _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink. net _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 10 05:44:54 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 9 May 2014 22:44:54 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Success with VR! In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Congratulations and best of luck! This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > On May 9, 2014, at 8:33 PM, Sarah Meyer wrote: > > Hi all, > > I just wanted to share the awesome news I received this week that VR > is approving training at CCB for me!! Wahooo!!! I don't know the > exact timeline, but I will continue working full time for the next > couple of months, then attend CCB's full training program, and then > return to Indiana to pursue my Master's degrees. I am so excited!! > Thanks to all of the support and guidance I received from several of > you on the list, as well as the center directors, and my State > president, I was able to build a strong case with lots of > documentation, including letters from my doctor and other healthcare > providers to recommend the Independence Training Program. > Historically, getting VR in Indiana to send students out of state has > been a battle, but I am thankful to those who paved the way, and those > who helped me to prepare, so it would not even be a battle for me. > Just wanted to share the good news! > > Best, > > Sarah > > -- > Sarah K. Meyer > NFB of Indy - Community Outreach, Advocacy, and Legislation (COAL), Chair > IndyGo/IPTC Mobility Advisory Committee (MAC), Member > (317) 402-6632 > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 10 10:03:35 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (justin williams via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 10 May 2014 06:03:35 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Success with VR! In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <005201cf6c37$1bfcd7f0$53f687d0$@gmail.com> Congratulations, well done. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Darian via nabs-l Sent: Saturday, May 10, 2014 1:45 AM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Success with VR! Congratulations and best of luck! This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > On May 9, 2014, at 8:33 PM, Sarah Meyer wrote: > > Hi all, > > I just wanted to share the awesome news I received this week that VR > is approving training at CCB for me!! Wahooo!!! I don't know the > exact timeline, but I will continue working full time for the next > couple of months, then attend CCB's full training program, and then > return to Indiana to pursue my Master's degrees. I am so excited!! > Thanks to all of the support and guidance I received from several of > you on the list, as well as the center directors, and my State > president, I was able to build a strong case with lots of > documentation, including letters from my doctor and other healthcare > providers to recommend the Independence Training Program. > Historically, getting VR in Indiana to send students out of state has > been a battle, but I am thankful to those who paved the way, and those > who helped me to prepare, so it would not even be a battle for me. > Just wanted to share the good news! > > Best, > > Sarah > > -- > Sarah K. Meyer > NFB of Indy - Community Outreach, Advocacy, and Legislation (COAL), > Chair IndyGo/IPTC Mobility Advisory Committee (MAC), Member > (317) 402-6632 > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail. > com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 10 12:19:31 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 10 May 2014 08:19:31 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Success with VR! In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <0E39C8EA2E6C4F8CA93435E9F8098326@nickPC> Congratulations Sarah! That is so awesome! Sincerely, Terri Wilcox From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 10 20:34:51 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Cindy Bennett via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 10 May 2014 13:34:51 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Success with VR! In-Reply-To: <0E39C8EA2E6C4F8CA93435E9F8098326@nickPC> References: <0E39C8EA2E6C4F8CA93435E9F8098326@nickPC> Message-ID: Hi Sarah, Congratulations! I am so excited that vr and your graduate program understood that you know what is best for you. It is awesome to hear about positive experiences with vr on the list since so often, we email for advice about tricky situations. But a lot of us on the list have had success in getting to an NFB center and Sarah now will too! So maybe this will motivate some of you who are still nervous about making an informed choice about training even if it isn't popular with vr. Cindy On 5/10/14, via nabs-l wrote: > Congratulations Sarah! That is so awesome! > > Sincerely, > Terri Wilcox > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gmail.com > -- Cindy Bennett Secretary: National Association of Blind Students B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington clb5590 at gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 10 20:57:35 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Joshua Hendrickson via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 10 May 2014 15:57:35 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Success with VR! In-Reply-To: References: <0E39C8EA2E6C4F8CA93435E9F8098326@nickPC> Message-ID: Hi Sarah. I'm glad you are able to go to the NFB center. I would have tried to get the rehab here in ILLINOIS to pay my way to to blind INC. but I didn't want to deal with all the letters and paper work. Also, I really want to go to a university since getting my associates degree, and didn't know if I wanted to take an entire year off for training. Its nice that we have options available to us. Good luck on your training. On 5/10/14, Cindy Bennett via nabs-l wrote: > Hi Sarah, > > Congratulations! I am so excited that vr and your graduate program > understood that you know what is best for you. > > It is awesome to hear about positive experiences with vr on the list > since so often, we email for advice about tricky situations. But a lot > of us on the list have had success in getting to an NFB center and > Sarah now will too! So maybe this will motivate some of you who are > still nervous about making an informed choice about training even if > it isn't popular with vr. > > Cindy > > On 5/10/14, via nabs-l wrote: >> Congratulations Sarah! That is so awesome! >> >> Sincerely, >> Terri Wilcox >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gmail.com >> > > > -- > Cindy Bennett > Secretary: National Association of Blind Students > > B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington > clb5590 at gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/louvins%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 11 09:30:52 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (David Dunphy via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 11 May 2014 05:30:52 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] OT: The Djd Invasion Officially Retires From Internet Radio And The Retirement Party Is Tonight Message-ID: <536F434C.5000107@gmail.com> ***Please Note*** If you got this email, it's cause you were a fan at one time of my Djd Invasion, which is going off the air after being on for 13 plus years. If it troubles you that you received this, I apologize in advance. Hi All! Well, the subject states it all. Tune in at 6 PM eastern tonight for a special four hour Djd Invasion program. I have decided after a 13 plus year run to retire The Djd Invasion internet radio show concept. To learn more about this, you can listen to the official announcement I made on audio boo about this at https://audioboo.fm/boos/2139888 So to honor the run of the invasion show, we'll be doing a 6 hour retirement party, four hours tonight from 6 to 10PM eastern, and a two hour rap up from 7 to 9 PM eastern featuring the finalists from the trivia event done a few weeks back competing for the 20 dollar gift card of their choice from either amazon or ITunes. Tonight's party will be your chance to.... Share any Djd Invasion memories you have Get some insight into the future. What if anything will I do to replace this show? Hear the variety of different musical genres and songs that have always made this show special Interact, interact, interact, oh, and did I say, interact on and off air during the show with friends of the show and anyone else who might call in too. We'll even play a round of Press Your Luck! And of course, with it being Mother's Day, we'll show some love to the mommies out there too! And speaking of that, whether you're the proud mom of a son/daughter, puppy or kitty, or anything else cool like that, have a happy Mother's Day! As has always been the case during a Djd Invasion show, you can submit requests or get in touch in a variety of ways, and tonight will be no different. You can get in touch via skype at daviddunphyradio Via twitter at ddunphyradio or my personal twitter at crazyyetfun2014 Via telephone at 516 945 9165 Or via email at internetradioentertainer at gmail.com In addition, you'll be able to search my music library for a song you'd like to hear by going to http://www.daviddunphyradio.com/requests So with all this in mind, come help me celebrate the retirement of the show that got my internet radio career launched, The Djd Invasion, and be excited about what the future will hold for this show. Oh, I almost forgot, to listen either go to http://www.daviddunphyradio.com and click the play link to start the stream on your mobile device or computer Go to http://www.wdjm3.com/player and click the play link to tune in with your mobile device or computer. Or put the following into your media player of choice's location bar/address bar: http://199.180.72.17:9880 Regardless of how you tune in, I hope you'll come to the party tonight! Can't wait to see you there! From David Dunphy From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 11 13:53:45 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 11 May 2014 06:53:45 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an application In-Reply-To: <000001cf6bf5$59bd9530$0d38bf90$@net> References: <000001cf6bf5$59bd9530$0d38bf90$@net> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140511064029.01bf6ca8@comcast.net> Good morning, "Lillie, My first thought is how you seem to be vastly over thinking an explanation of this important layer of your identity and if, in fact, blindness really is all the Federation claims it isn't, nothing more than a "nuisance," meThinks they say, than why not talk about it as such rather than simply parroting that phrase? One thing that bugs me about the so-called organized blind is that, so often other people's profound struggles are not taken into account. Blindness can be a bitch, however, is it any more debilitating than the myriads dealing with problems that AR much more significant and debilitating such as mentally ill people or, in my case, the brain damaged? for today, Car: 408-1209-3239 5/9/2014, Lillie Pennington wrote: >Hello All, > > > >A local hospital in my area is starting a youth suicide prevention council >for local high school students next year, and I am applying now because it >both sounds interesting and I think it could be good for me. > >There are several written response questions on the application, such as >what is your biggest challenge in life. My answer would be blindness. >However, I do not know how to exactly deal with the phraising of my answers. > > >I want to treat it like a casual thing; sort of like, although blindness >does present its own special challenges, I have adjusted reasonably well and >live a pretty normal life. > >I am afraid that I will become a hero and be admitted solely on that fact, >or not admitted because I talked about blindness and the powers that be do >not want to deal with that. I am not asking you to write my answer for me, >but how can I better phraise my approach, or what are some key words? > > > >Thanks in advance for any help. This sounds like an awesome opportunity. > > > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 11 14:02:25 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 11 May 2014 07:02:25 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] In person versus online for the summer In-Reply-To: <1398714456.72299.BPMail_high_noncarrier@web122605.mail.ne1 .yahoo.com> References: <1398714456.72299.BPMail_high_noncarrier@web122605.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140511065945.01bf35b0@comcast.net> Good morning, Leye-Shprintse, It depends on the learning style of the student in question, I would think. And, each point you made might be true for some students. On-line questions, then, are not inherently negative. Have a good day, Leye-Shprintse! ! for today, Car 408-1209-3239trueAt 12:47 PM 4/28/2014, Leye-Shprintse wrote: >BS'D > >Carly, > >I think that you're very negative; maybe you >haven't had good experiences with online >education. As for courses on campus; courses >online can also be bad; none of them are perfect if you ask me. > >I've taken online courses on both upper >secondary school- and university level and I've >some nightmares but also very many fabulous >moments! Everything depends on the teacher; if >the teacher are a devoted online teacher your >studies can be a dream! When I studied >Literature at the University of Dalarna, we'd >weekly seminaries where we talked with our >teacher via Adobë Connect and we could e-mail >our teachers with questions and schedule >meetings with them on Adobë Connect. I loved >that form and I can absolutely Think of return to them again. > >Some universities are good at online studies and >some are absolutely not; it isn't because online >studies are bad but instead because of the >teachers attitudes to this form of education. > >I think online studies are a part of the future, >people aren't willing to move to get an >education anymore. In my country, many people >start at the university later; we don't have the >'college culture' which you've in the States. > >Last but not least, to say that online studies >aren't real that's not fair at all. I'm equal to >you; I've studied hard and my studies haven't >been a dance on roses either only because I've >studied online. That's what I call prejudices. > >LeSholom, >Leye-Shprintse <3 > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 11 14:36:21 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 11 May 2014 10:36:21 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication In-Reply-To: <002201cf6c08$ce393eb0$6aabbc10$@gmail.com> References: <000001cf6bf5$59bd9530$0d38bf90$@net> <002201cf6c08$ce393eb0$6aabbc10$@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi Lillie and all? My thinking, if this is true in your case of course, is that it would be acceptable to split this answer between blindness and something else, (of course, only if you want to do it this way). I might use this space on an application to say, "My biggest physical limitation is my blindness, however I have found ways to adapt such as X, Y, Z." This let's the people know that, although I have this perceived challenge in their eyes, that it is not something that will prevent me from doing the job with basic accomodations. Then, I might go on to talk about another challenge which is more of an issue for me. Confidence, shyness when meeting new people, turning purple whenever someone says the word "Chicken," you name it. It's just a suggestion if you want to kill 2 birds with one stone. HTH. On 5/10/14, justin williams via nabs-l wrote: > Is it necessary that you use blindness as your greatest challenge? If so, > then fine do so, but is it? I'm just asking; not saying you shouldn't. > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Ashley > Bramlett > via nabs-l > Sent: Saturday, May 10, 2014 12:29 AM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication > > Lily, > I'd say put this in a casual way; be positive. say its challenging but it > taught you to strengthen other areas such as advocacy and problem solving. > > If you highlight your skills coupled with some things you've done, the > application should be considered on its own merrits as a whole; don't worry > too much about their perceptions. > > Ashley > > -----Original Message----- > From: Lillie Pennington > Sent: Friday, May 09, 2014 10:12 PM > To: 'National Association of Blind Students mailing list' > Subject: [nabs-l] representing blindness on an aplication > > Hello All, > > > > A local hospital in my area is starting a youth suicide prevention council > for local high school students next year, and I am applying now because it > both sounds interesting and I think it could be good for me. > > There are several written response questions on the application, such as > what is your biggest challenge in life. My answer would be blindness. > However, I do not know how to exactly deal with the phraising of my > answers. > > > I want to treat it like a casual thing; sort of like, although blindness > does present its own special challenges, I have adjusted reasonably well > and > live a pretty normal life. > > I am afraid that I will become a hero and be admitted solely on that fact, > or not admitted because I talked about blindness and the powers that be do > not want to deal with that. I am not asking you to write my answer for me, > but how can I better phraise my approach, or what are some key words? > > > > Thanks in advance for any help. This sounds like an awesome opportunity. > > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink. > net > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail > .com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 11 15:24:44 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Chris Nusbaum via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 11 May 2014 11:24:44 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Success with VR! In-Reply-To: <005201cf6c37$1bfcd7f0$53f687d0$@gmail.com> References: <005201cf6c37$1bfcd7f0$53f687d0$@gmail.com> Message-ID: Congratulations, Sarah! How awesome! Best of luck to you during your training and all future endeavors. Chris Nusbaum Sent from my iPhone > On May 10, 2014, at 6:03 AM, justin williams via nabs-l wrote: > > Congratulations, well done. > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Darian via > nabs-l > Sent: Saturday, May 10, 2014 1:45 AM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Success with VR! > > Congratulations and best of luck! > > > This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > >> On May 9, 2014, at 8:33 PM, Sarah Meyer wrote: >> >> Hi all, >> >> I just wanted to share the awesome news I received this week that VR >> is approving training at CCB for me!! Wahooo!!! I don't know the >> exact timeline, but I will continue working full time for the next >> couple of months, then attend CCB's full training program, and then >> return to Indiana to pursue my Master's degrees. I am so excited!! >> Thanks to all of the support and guidance I received from several of >> you on the list, as well as the center directors, and my State >> president, I was able to build a strong case with lots of >> documentation, including letters from my doctor and other healthcare >> providers to recommend the Independence Training Program. >> Historically, getting VR in Indiana to send students out of state has >> been a battle, but I am thankful to those who paved the way, and those >> who helped me to prepare, so it would not even be a battle for me. >> Just wanted to share the good news! >> >> Best, >> >> Sarah >> >> -- >> Sarah K. Meyer >> NFB of Indy - Community Outreach, Advocacy, and Legislation (COAL), >> Chair IndyGo/IPTC Mobility Advisory Committee (MAC), Member >> (317) 402-6632 >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail. >> com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail > .com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dotkid.nusbaum%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 11 17:51:16 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Leye-Shprintse via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 11 May 2014 10:51:16 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [nabs-l] In person versus online for the summer Message-ID: <1399830676.41090.BPMail_high_noncarrier@web122601.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> BS'D Carly, I think that my points are valid in general. Online education isn't worse than on campus education. As we've seen on this list, students have problems with both forms of education and generally, the problem isn't the education, but instead the professor/teacher. I think that as a student you need to find out your own learning style; and therefore it isn't wrong to test different learning styles whereof online education is one of them. Kind regards, Leye-Shprintse Öberg From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 11 18:27:25 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (sami osborne via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 11 May 2014 14:27:25 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] OT: The Djd Invasion Officially Retires From Internet RadioAnd The Retirement Party Is Tonight Message-ID: <0N5F003489Z7F1J0@vms173025.mailsrvcs.net> Hi David, First of all I'd like to appologize in advance if replying to emails like this is not allowed, since I noticed that noone has responded to an email regarding the radio before. Second of all David, I'm really sorry to here that the Djd Invasion show will be retiring. Although I have only listened to it a couple of times, I have enjoyed it very much. Wow, 13 years. Although I don't know exactly the reasons for this retirement (I couldn't access the announcment), I completely understand why you would do that after so many years of broadcast. In my opinion, you are one of the best DJ's I have ever listened to! For one thing, I believe you play all the songs that people have requested, and you do everything you can think of to make the night fun! I believe that is exactly what a dj should do on the radio. I'm therefore sorry that I've only got to listen to a few shows before it is retiring. I hope that, as you said, there will be a show that will replace the Djd Invasion. Also, as I have just said before, I could not access your announcement on AudioBoo with my BrailleNote. Can you talk about the reasons you decided to retire on the show tonight? If you don't want to, that's fine, just let me know how I can access the announcement. Just to let you know, I not only have a BrailleNote but also a Windows computer and an IPad. I wish you best of luck in your future endeavors. Sami. ----- Original Message ----- From: David Dunphy via nabs-l Saw this article while doing some research and thought some of you might find it interesting. Best, Darian http://www.pointsoflight.org/blog/2014/01/16/here%E2%80%99s-how-find-volunteer-opportunities-%E2%80%93-when-you-want-where-you-want Here’s How to Find Volunteer Opportunities – When You Want, Where You Want Let’s say you love animals and want to volunteer your time helping abandoned pets in your community. Or, you’re looking for a way to give back this holiday weekend, to recognize the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. In seconds you can have a list of options, as The Huffington Post reports in “13 Websites That Will Match You With The Perfect Opportunity To Make A Difference.” Two of those sites – AllforGood.org and generationOn.org are brought to you by Points of Light. Try them out today to find volunteer opportunities near you that are meaningful to you. At AllforGood.org, you can search by your area of interest, keywords, and your city, state or zip code. The Huffington post writes, “The largest database of volunteer opportunities online, All for Good is the ultimate platform for finding ways to make a difference. Each month, the site hosts 150,000 local volunteer listings in major cities.” And generationOn.org “gives young people the tools and know-how to create change in the world,” The Huffington Post says. “From veterans to the environment to bullying, generationOn gives young people concrete concepts and a how-to for ideas, such as recipes to make for families in need or holding a park cleanup.” See a list of projects here. Check out AllforGood.org and generationOn.org to make volunteer plans this weekend and whenever you have time to give. Darian Smith Chairperson, Community Service Group -National Federation of The Blind. (415)215-9809 dsmithnfb at gmail.com The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can have the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back. “ "I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve” - Albert Schweitzer. Your unwanted vehicle can be just what the blind need to make possibilities reality. > Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! > For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 12 18:25:06 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian Smith via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 12 May 2014 11:25:06 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Last Post. Message-ID: <0B468DE5-7BF0-405D-B386-A0F8B9BEDD21@gmail.com> Greetings, I had meant to make the proper notation that this was off-topic, but I thought it might be interesting/useful if involvement in community service interested you. so, please forgive the premature posting and hope you enjoy still. Darian From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 12 19:19:27 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Gabe Cazares via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 12 May 2014 14:19:27 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] May NABS Notes Message-ID: <000001cf6e17$186d1960$49474c20$@com> Dear Friends, Here is the May edition of the NABS Notes. Remember that we rely heavily on you and your state for content, so please make sure you get any state updates to Bre Brown, bre.brown24 at gmail.com, or me, gcazares at nfbtx.org, to be included in the NABS Notes. I hope you enjoy this month's NABS Notes! Best, ...Gabe Gabe Cazares, President Texas Association of Blind Students A Division of the National Federation of the Blind of Texas -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: NABS Notes May 2014.doc Type: application/msword Size: 29184 bytes Desc: not available URL: From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 12 19:44:55 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Mary Fernandez via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 12 May 2014 15:44:55 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] May NABS Notes In-Reply-To: <000001cf6e17$186d1960$49474c20$@com> References: <000001cf6e17$186d1960$49474c20$@com> Message-ID: Correction: the NABS mentoring greet and meet will be July 1st not July 2nd. That is my fault. Thanks On 5/12/14, Gabe Cazares via nabs-l wrote: > Dear Friends, > > Here is the May edition of the NABS Notes. Remember that we rely heavily on > you and your state for content, so please make sure you get any state > updates to Bre Brown, bre.brown24 at gmail.com, or me, gcazares at nfbtx.org, to > be included in the NABS Notes. > > I hope you enjoy this month's NABS Notes! > > Best, > > > > ...Gabe > > > > Gabe Cazares, President > > Texas Association of Blind Students > > A Division of the National Federation of the Blind of Texas > > > > -- Mary Fernandez "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." -- Maya Angelou From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 13 15:06:19 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Loew, Ruth C via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 13 May 2014 15:06:19 +0000 Subject: [nabs-l] NABS meeting at Convention Message-ID: Hi - Does anyone know when the NABS meeting will be during Convention? Will there be any other NABS activities? If so, when? Thanks! Ruth C. Loew, Ph.D. Assistant Director Office of Disability Policy, ETS phone: 609-683-2984 fax: 609-683-2220 ----------------------------------------- This e-mail and any files transmitted with it may contain privileged or confidential information. It is solely for use by the individual for whom it is intended, even if addressed incorrectly. If you received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender; do not disclose, copy, distribute, or take any action in reliance on the contents of this information; and delete it fromyour system. Any other use of this e-mail is prohibited. Thank you for your compliance. ----------------------------------------- From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 13 17:43:40 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (justin williams via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 13 May 2014 13:43:40 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] NABS meeting at Convention In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <04f301cf6ed2$e0dde620$a299b260$@gmail.com> Probablly on july second; it is usually the day after evetything starts. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Loew, Ruth C via nabs-l Sent: Tuesday, May 13, 2014 11:06 AM To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org Subject: [nabs-l] NABS meeting at Convention Hi - Does anyone know when the NABS meeting will be during Convention? Will there be any other NABS activities? If so, when? Thanks! Ruth C. Loew, Ph.D. Assistant Director Office of Disability Policy, ETS phone: 609-683-2984 fax: 609-683-2220 ----------------------------------------- This e-mail and any files transmitted with it may contain privileged or confidential information. It is solely for use by the individual for whom it is intended, even if addressed incorrectly. If you received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender; do not disclose, copy, distribute, or take any action in reliance on the contents of this information; and delete it fromyour system. Any other use of this e-mail is prohibited. Thank you for your compliance. ----------------------------------------- _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 13 19:50:05 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (David Andrews via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 13 May 2014 14:50:05 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Fwd: [duxnews] Message-ID: >From: "Anne Ronco" >To: , >Subject: [duxnews] >Date: Tue, 13 May 2014 14:00:50 -0400 > >Dear Duxnews and Duxuser listers, > > >Duxbury Systems has released a service release for DBT 11.2 SR2 (build >date 2014-5-6). > >DBT 11.2 SR2 is now shipping and available on the Web for download. > > >Those with existing licenses can use Help/Check for Updates (Alt-H-U) to >download DBT 11.2 SR2 and check if their licenses are within the eligibility >period for receiving DBT 11.2 as a free update. Those with licenses outside >of the eligibility period can run DBT 11.2 as a time-limited trial for up to >45 days. > >DBT 11.2 SR2 can also be downloaded from our main web site home page: >www.duxburysystems.com > >The DBT 11.2 SR2 download will run as a demo version for those without a >license. > >Here is a list of what's new since DBT 11.2 SR1: > > >Word 2007, 2010, 2013 >-- The importer for docx files has been improved to allow better recognition >of character fonts. Superscript and subscripts are again properly >recognized. >-- Braille fonts and Courier (and Consolas) fonts are recognized. >-- Bold, Italic, and Underline recognized when applied through a character >style, unless the character style is mapped into a DBT style. >-- The latest BANA Template for Word has been included. > >Unified English Braille (UEB) > >UEB will begin being formally taught in UK schools in September this year >(2014). Users are therefore advised to ensure that upgrades have been >applied to older versions. >-- There have been a number of very minor changes made to the UEB tables in >this release due to clarification of some rules by ICEB. >-- A new template, named "English (Unified) - UK formatting" has been added >to simplify the production of UEB braille while using current UK formatting >conventions. The template parallels the existing "English (British) - with >capitals" template in that it contains all of the same style names. Most >styles are identically defined, but where necessary style definitions have >been adapted for UEB. In particular, the style has been set to >null since no special treatment is required for acronyms in UEB. >-- A new template, named "English (Unified) - BANA" has been added to >simplify the production of UEB braille while using BANA formatting >conventions. The template parallels the existing "English (American Textbook >DE) - BANA" template in that it contains all of the same style names, thus >enabling production using Word in the same manner as now set up for >production of pre-UEB American braille following BANA guidelines. Most >styles are identically defined, but where necessary style definitions have >been adapted for UEB. Styles have also been added for script, Maori, >Hawaiian and Portuguese. > >Mathematics > >We continue to improve DBT's math braille capabilities, and are grateful to >those who have helped us in this regard. >-- In MathType imports, we fixed some issues which caused extra blank lines. >-- Handling of over/under math characters has been enhanced. >-- Additional characters and a few more tabular structures are now >supported. >-- In LaTeX imports we have added support for \widetilde. >-- For UEB math (not used in the United States), there is an issue about >inserting optional spaces around signs of comparison for beginners. Please >see the following link for details: >http://www.duxburysystems.com/documentation/ueb_math_spacing.htm > >Languages >At least 16 different language tables have been updated. > >For a more detailed list, see >http://www.duxburysystems.com/dbtwhst.asp. > > >Regards, > > >Anne Ronco >email: info at duxsys.com > >Duxbury Systems, Inc. >270 Littleton Road, #6; Westford, MA 01886-3523 USA >TEL: + 978-692-3000 FAX: + 978-692-7912 >Email (general): info at duxsys.com >Web site: http://www.DuxburySystems.com >Duxbury Systems, the first name in software for Braille - since 1975. > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 13 20:12:04 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian Smith via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 13 May 2014 13:12:04 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] NABS meeting at Convention In-Reply-To: <04f301cf6ed2$e0dde620$a299b260$@gmail.com> References: <04f301cf6ed2$e0dde620$a299b260$@gmail.com> Message-ID: The meeting is typically the second day (registration day) of convention from 7-10 p.m. All who wish to attend should be prepared to show up for registration at 6:15 as the line does tend to get rather lengthy. Pre-registration is going to be to your benefit for sure, but I would be aware that this line it’s self is still long in its own right, but significantly less so, in other words you will be doing yourself a favor to pre-register and show up early. Stay tuned for more info about for pre-registration and more regarding this and other NABS events! Also keep an eye out for the agenda of the National Convention which should come along within the next few weeks! See you in Orlando! Darian On May 13, 2014, at 10:43 AM, justin williams via nabs-l wrote: > Probablly on july second; it is usually the day after evetything starts. > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Loew, Ruth C > via nabs-l > Sent: Tuesday, May 13, 2014 11:06 AM > To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org > Subject: [nabs-l] NABS meeting at Convention > > Hi - Does anyone know when the NABS meeting will be during Convention? Will > there be any other NABS activities? If so, when? Thanks! > > Ruth C. Loew, Ph.D. > Assistant Director > Office of Disability Policy, ETS > phone: 609-683-2984 > fax: 609-683-2220 > > > > > > ----------------------------------------- > > This e-mail and any files transmitted with it may contain privileged or > confidential information. It is solely for use by the individual for whom > it is intended, even if addressed incorrectly. If you received this e-mail > in error, please notify the sender; do not disclose, copy, distribute, or > take any action in reliance on the contents of this information; and delete > it fromyour system. Any other use of this e-mail is prohibited. > > Thank you for your compliance. > > ----------------------------------------- > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail > .com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com Darian Smith 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students (415) 215-9809 dsmithnfb at gmail.com. twitter: @goldengateace www.nabslink.org Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. “ A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” - Nelson Mandela. > > Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further > Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! > For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 14 00:36:14 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Lillie Pennington via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 13 May 2014 20:36:14 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] NABS meeting at Convention In-Reply-To: References: <04f301cf6ed2$e0dde620$a299b260$@gmail.com> Message-ID: What if I want to attend two meetings at the same time? How do I register for nabs? From looking at the convention agenda from last year as sort of a guide for this year, it looks like the nabs meeting and crafters meeting at the same time. However, it looks like the crafters meeting only lasts from 7 to 9, so I could in theory quietly swing into nabs for the last bit. How does one handle registration? Thanks Sent from my iPhone > On May 13, 2014, at 4:12 PM, Darian Smith via nabs-l wrote: > > The meeting is typically the second day (registration day) of convention from 7-10 p.m. > All who wish to attend should be prepared to show up for registration at 6:15 as the line does tend to get rather lengthy. Pre-registration is going to be to your benefit for sure, but I would be aware that this line it’s self is still long in its own right, but significantly less so, in other words you will be doing yourself a favor to pre-register and show up early. > Stay tuned for more info about for pre-registration and more regarding this and other NABS events! > Also keep an eye out for the agenda of the National Convention which should come along within the next few weeks! > See you in Orlando! > Darian >> On May 13, 2014, at 10:43 AM, justin williams via nabs-l wrote: >> >> Probablly on july second; it is usually the day after evetything starts. >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Loew, Ruth C >> via nabs-l >> Sent: Tuesday, May 13, 2014 11:06 AM >> To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> Subject: [nabs-l] NABS meeting at Convention >> >> Hi - Does anyone know when the NABS meeting will be during Convention? Will >> there be any other NABS activities? If so, when? Thanks! >> >> Ruth C. Loew, Ph.D. >> Assistant Director >> Office of Disability Policy, ETS >> phone: 609-683-2984 >> fax: 609-683-2220 >> >> >> >> >> >> ----------------------------------------- >> >> This e-mail and any files transmitted with it may contain privileged or >> confidential information. It is solely for use by the individual for whom >> it is intended, even if addressed incorrectly. If you received this e-mail >> in error, please notify the sender; do not disclose, copy, distribute, or >> take any action in reliance on the contents of this information; and delete >> it fromyour system. Any other use of this e-mail is prohibited. >> >> Thank you for your compliance. >> >> ----------------------------------------- >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail >> .com >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com > > > > Darian Smith > 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students > (415) 215-9809 > dsmithnfb at gmail.com. > twitter: @goldengateace > > www.nabslink.org > Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. > “ A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” > - Nelson Mandela. >> >> Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further >> Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! >> For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 14 01:24:23 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 13 May 2014 18:24:23 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] NABS meeting at Convention In-Reply-To: References: <04f301cf6ed2$e0dde620$a299b260$@gmail.com> Message-ID: <2F5C7101-6912-4DE5-9B8C-8D3A32F69C6D@gmail.com> Each division is different, I suspect that you could preregister for the student meeting and then register in person for crafters division. Generally, there are a lot of things going on at the same time during convention and you just have to pick which activity/event you want to be at at which time. This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > On May 13, 2014, at 5:36 PM, Lillie Pennington wrote: > > What if I want to attend two meetings at the same time? How do I register for nabs? From looking at the convention agenda from last year as sort of a guide for this year, it looks like the nabs meeting and crafters meeting at the same time. However, it looks like the crafters meeting only lasts from 7 to 9, so I could in theory quietly swing into nabs for the last bit. How does one handle registration? Thanks > Sent from my iPhone > >> On May 13, 2014, at 4:12 PM, Darian Smith via nabs-l wrote: >> >> The meeting is typically the second day (registration day) of convention from 7-10 p.m. >> All who wish to attend should be prepared to show up for registration at 6:15 as the line does tend to get rather lengthy. Pre-registration is going to be to your benefit for sure, but I would be aware that this line it’s self is still long in its own right, but significantly less so, in other words you will be doing yourself a favor to pre-register and show up early. >> Stay tuned for more info about for pre-registration and more regarding this and other NABS events! >> Also keep an eye out for the agenda of the National Convention which should come along within the next few weeks! >> See you in Orlando! >> Darian >>> On May 13, 2014, at 10:43 AM, justin williams via nabs-l wrote: >>> >>> Probablly on july second; it is usually the day after evetything starts. >>> >>> -----Original Message----- >>> From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Loew, Ruth C >>> via nabs-l >>> Sent: Tuesday, May 13, 2014 11:06 AM >>> To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> Subject: [nabs-l] NABS meeting at Convention >>> >>> Hi - Does anyone know when the NABS meeting will be during Convention? Will >>> there be any other NABS activities? If so, when? Thanks! >>> >>> Ruth C. Loew, Ph.D. >>> Assistant Director >>> Office of Disability Policy, ETS >>> phone: 609-683-2984 >>> fax: 609-683-2220 >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> ----------------------------------------- >>> >>> This e-mail and any files transmitted with it may contain privileged or >>> confidential information. It is solely for use by the individual for whom >>> it is intended, even if addressed incorrectly. If you received this e-mail >>> in error, please notify the sender; do not disclose, copy, distribute, or >>> take any action in reliance on the contents of this information; and delete >>> it fromyour system. Any other use of this e-mail is prohibited. >>> >>> Thank you for your compliance. >>> >>> ----------------------------------------- >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail >>> .com >>> >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >> >> >> >> Darian Smith >> 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students >> (415) 215-9809 >> dsmithnfb at gmail.com. >> twitter: @goldengateace >> >> www.nabslink.org >> Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. >> “ A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” >> - Nelson Mandela. >>> >>> Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further >>> Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! >>> For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 14 03:04:39 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian Smith via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 13 May 2014 20:04:39 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Planning the path of service together: community Service Group Strategic Planning call. In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <2C943369-00AF-4B5B-912C-1BCFB35CAC65@gmail.com> a bit off-topic, but maybe some might be interested. > > Fellow Federationests, > > The Community Service Group of the National Federation of the Blind is looking for your input on the future of our group. > We are specifically looking for thoughts/ideas for programs, activities, initiatives, etc the group might want to undertake over the next several years ( call it a five-year strategic plan or road map. > We are holding a conference call Next Tuesday, May 20 at 9pm Eastern time to discuss this, and welcome all who wish to discuss further. Call-in information and background on who we are, what we want to do, and how we want to do it can all be found below: > (712)432-0140. Code: 808277 > Purpose > The purpose of the group is to promote jointly the positive philosophy of the NFB and the benefits of community service by educating the blind about how to become involved in service, educating the sighted about the true abilities of the blind via involvement in service, and encouraging such involvement in members, chapters, and affiliates of the NFB. We acknowledge the positive effects of community service and service learning with our assertion that service is not only a path to employment and a way to educate, but also a way to learn about oneself and the issues faced in one’s community and country. > What We Do > We work to promote and encourage community service and service learning at the local, state, and national levels of the NFB and to advance the goal of full integration for the blind on the basis of equality. We coordinate service projects that develop confidence in blindness and the alternative techniques that the blind use, create workshops and trainings that develop competent leaders, serve as a resource for the blind and sighted alike about the service field with an emphasis on how the blind can contribute, and promote a positive philosophy of blindness through action and service. > What We Believe > Through these means, we aim to change the perception that the blind are passive recipients of service rather than active providers of service. In order to do this, we must challenge ourselves and others to rethink what service-related activities the blind can do with the proper basic training and understanding of the given service project and the proper non-visual techniques. We believe that taking on projects that allow us to look beyond blindness is instructive both for ourselves and the community. The group thrives with the collective efforts of all who believe in service, the NFB, and the power that comes with collective action and the belief that we can address our country’s most pressing problems alongside our sighted friends, family, and neighbors. Ultimately, we wish to participate in service not as blind people, but as citizens of our communities with the ability and desire to give back. > Who Can Get Involved > Our membership consists of people at all levels of service, from those who have a wealth of service experience, to those who serve from time to time, to those who are interested in serving but may feel nervous or uncertain about getting involved in projects or may not know how to get involved. We strive to meet everyone where they are in their service experience and to serve as a network and support system for those who have a common interest in serving their communities. We also actively seek and welcome partnerships and collaborations with agencies, organizations, and individuals who share our philosophy and our belief in the ability of the blind to participate in community service. > > if you can’t make the call for whatever reason, but would still wish to contribute your valuable suggestions/thoughts, please send an e-mail to me at dsmithnfb at gmail.com with the subject line “strategic plan suggestions”. > Many thanks for your interest and involvement. > Yours in service and in the movement, > Darian > > > > > > > Darian Smith > Chairperson, Community Service Group -National Federation of The Blind. > (415)215-9809 > dsmithnfb at gmail.com > The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the > characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the > expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles > between blind people and our dreams. You can have the life you want; > blindness is not what holds you back. > > > “ > "I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve” > - Albert Schweitzer. > > > > Your unwanted vehicle can be just what the blind need to make possibilities reality. >> Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! >> For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 > > > > > > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 14 17:57:03 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (James Mooney via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 14 May 2014 10:57:03 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Raising awareness about Google on college campuses Message-ID: <3069F58C-6455-43B6-B9F8-43A0AE2922B4@gmail.com> I am a student at a community college in Arizona. Some of the applications that are college uses are made by Google. In the last year the University of Michigan band the promotion and use of Google products on their campus. I am currently making the steps to do the same thing on my own campus. I was wondering if there are any other students out there raising the awareness of the inaccessibility with Google applications? Sent from my iPhone From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 14 19:18:29 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (justin williams via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 14 May 2014 15:18:29 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Raising awareness about Google on college campuses In-Reply-To: <3069F58C-6455-43B6-B9F8-43A0AE2922B4@gmail.com> References: <3069F58C-6455-43B6-B9F8-43A0AE2922B4@gmail.com> Message-ID: <007101cf6fa9$4a8881d0$df998570$@gmail.com> No, but we should; there accessibility is a craft shoot; and quite annoying. -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of James Mooney via nabs-l Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2014 1:57 PM To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org Subject: [nabs-l] Raising awareness about Google on college campuses I am a student at a community college in Arizona. Some of the applications that are college uses are made by Google. In the last year the University of Michigan band the promotion and use of Google products on their campus. I am currently making the steps to do the same thing on my own campus. I was wondering if there are any other students out there raising the awareness of the inaccessibility with Google applications? Sent from my iPhone _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail .com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 14 19:36:22 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 14 May 2014 12:36:22 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Raising awareness about Google on college campuses In-Reply-To: <007101cf6fa9$4a8881d0$df998570$@gmail.com> References: <3069F58C-6455-43B6-B9F8-43A0AE2922B4@gmail.com> <007101cf6fa9$4a8881d0$df998570$@gmail.com> Message-ID: <2E9E769E-42C0-4ED5-8EBC-211EE116E423@gmail.com> We should. How do you propose that we collectively go about doing this? This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > On May 14, 2014, at 12:18 PM, justin williams via nabs-l wrote: > > No, but we should; there accessibility is a craft shoot; and quite annoying. > > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of James Mooney > via nabs-l > Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2014 1:57 PM > To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org > Subject: [nabs-l] Raising awareness about Google on college campuses > > I am a student at a community college in Arizona. Some of the applications > that are college uses are made by Google. > In the last year the University of Michigan band the promotion and use of > Google products on their campus. I am currently making the steps to do the > same thing on my own campus. I was wondering if there are any other students > out there raising the awareness of the inaccessibility with Google > applications? > > Sent from my iPhone > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail > .com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 14 19:41:59 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (James Mooney via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 14 May 2014 12:41:59 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Raising awareness about Google on college campuses In-Reply-To: <2E9E769E-42C0-4ED5-8EBC-211EE116E423@gmail.com> References: <3069F58C-6455-43B6-B9F8-43A0AE2922B4@gmail.com> <007101cf6fa9$4a8881d0$df998570$@gmail.com> <2E9E769E-42C0-4ED5-8EBC-211EE116E423@gmail.com> Message-ID: I cannot speak for others, but the way I have gone about it is through the student government on campus. From that point I was able to get the advisor for the program on my side. She is currently working on a meeting between me and the director of the IT department. Sent from my iPhone > On May 14, 2014, at 12:36 PM, Darian wrote: > > We should. > How do you propose that we collectively go about doing this? > > This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > >> On May 14, 2014, at 12:18 PM, justin williams via nabs-l wrote: >> >> No, but we should; there accessibility is a craft shoot; and quite annoying. >> >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of James Mooney >> via nabs-l >> Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2014 1:57 PM >> To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> Subject: [nabs-l] Raising awareness about Google on college campuses >> >> I am a student at a community college in Arizona. Some of the applications >> that are college uses are made by Google. >> In the last year the University of Michigan band the promotion and use of >> Google products on their campus. I am currently making the steps to do the >> same thing on my own campus. I was wondering if there are any other students >> out there raising the awareness of the inaccessibility with Google >> applications? >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail >> .com >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 14 19:46:17 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (James Mooney via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 14 May 2014 12:46:17 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Raising awareness about Google on college campuses In-Reply-To: <2E9E769E-42C0-4ED5-8EBC-211EE116E423@gmail.com> References: <3069F58C-6455-43B6-B9F8-43A0AE2922B4@gmail.com> <007101cf6fa9$4a8881d0$df998570$@gmail.com> <2E9E769E-42C0-4ED5-8EBC-211EE116E423@gmail.com> Message-ID: <113963AC-657F-42DD-BF28-B57638B836F7@gmail.com> On no it only takes one person to speak out, and for that one person to get someone with authority on their side. If I remember right, it was a blind staff member at the University of Michigan who was able to make a change. Sent from my iPhone > On May 14, 2014, at 12:36 PM, Darian wrote: > > We should. > How do you propose that we collectively go about doing this? > > This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > >> On May 14, 2014, at 12:18 PM, justin williams via nabs-l wrote: >> >> No, but we should; there accessibility is a craft shoot; and quite annoying. >> >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of James Mooney >> via nabs-l >> Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2014 1:57 PM >> To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> Subject: [nabs-l] Raising awareness about Google on college campuses >> >> I am a student at a community college in Arizona. Some of the applications >> that are college uses are made by Google. >> In the last year the University of Michigan band the promotion and use of >> Google products on their campus. I am currently making the steps to do the >> same thing on my own campus. I was wondering if there are any other students >> out there raising the awareness of the inaccessibility with Google >> applications? >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/justin.williams2%40gmail >> .com >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 14 20:38:52 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 14 May 2014 13:38:52 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] NFB and canes and travel In-Reply-To: References: <57C9107E-AD06-49E0-A380-04F11D4369DC@gmail.com> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140514133412.01d4ab68@comcast.net> Good afternoon, Kirt, I'm no Federationist although i do use the NFB stick as well as the NFB tips but, you are describing my cane habits pretty completely. I too am one who slides from grip to grip and from technique to technique according to the dictates of the situation. After all, there isn't a single style or technique that is universally applicable, 'sfar as I know. And, open palm technique is great! for today, Car :30 PM 1/19/2014, Kirt wrote: >Pat, While open palm can certainly be a bit >awkward at first I think the principle of it >would make more sense once you see just how line >these straight canes are, in addition to the >handles/Grits being completely different. My >personal opinion is that, while constant contact >might give you A whole bunch of extra >information, certainly useful sometimes, The >echo I get from tapping my cane is usually more >important to me. I typically use a slide touch >technique where I will tap my cane on the left >side of my arc, then do more or less constant >contact until the right side of my arc, then >bring it back to my left where I again tap I've >done it enough where I don't even think about >it anymore and can go to either two-point touch >or constant contact exclusively if it ever seems >needed tthough Cindy's example of finding light >rail tracks is the only situation which I >regularly deal with where I pretty much use >constant contact exclusively. I think that's an >accurate statement, anyhow, I usually just do >what seems natural to me at the time without >thinking about it too much. Best, Kirt Sent from >my iPhone > On Jan 19, 2014, at 6:17 PM, Patrick >Bennet wrote: > > >Thank you for all the nice responses, everyone. >I find this > fascinating. I've been looking >more at the NFB website and reading the > >monthly newsletter. I must admit I've never >given this any real > thought before. I've never >found the cane I use heavy or bothersome, > but >then again it's all I've ever really known. >Until I started > reading about it I didn't know >people had preferences or that there > were >different types and styles. The philosophy >component is different > than what I'm used to. >I've never thought about hiding my blindness >or > anything like that, but I've never looked >at the cane as anything more > than a useful >tool that simply gives me information. > > The >light weight of your cane seems like a definite >advantage here. I > don't really understand the >advantage of the two point touch, though. > I >guess logically, it seems that you get more >information by sliding > and/or would miss >information in front of you if the cane only >touches > down at two points instead of >constantly keeping contact with the > ground. My >gut reaction to some of your thoughts on small >cars, > classrooms and restaurants is that a >nonfolding cane would indeed be > cumbersome. >But maybe that's more of an attitude adjustment >than > anything. If it's free, why not try it? I >can only learn something > new, right? > > I >also don't really understand the palm-up >technique. I just tried > gripping my cane with >my palm facing the sky and it felt really odd. >I > had trouble figuring out how to swing and >move it, although again that > might just be >because I've never used it before. > > Thanks, > >Pat > >> On 1/19/14, Cindy Bennett > wrote: >> Hi Pat, >> >> >Great questions! I was a huge NFB cane critic, >and I refused to use >> one until I worked at a >camp for blind kids and my folding cane tip >> >broke. I knew it would be a while before a new >one would ship in the >> mail, so I resorted to >our cane bin of peoples’ old canes which >were >> all straight. By the time I got my new >cane tip, I loved my NFB cane >> and returned >the tip. >> >> I like NFB canes because they are >lighter. Often, when walking for >> long >distances, my wrist would hurt, and I did not >like that. I >> thought it was just a side >effect of using a cane, but I realized it >> was >a side effect of using a heavier cane. >> >> I >like the awesome feedback I get. The metal tip >echoes well and picks >> up fine differences in >types of ground such as bricks vs concrete, >> >cracks in the sidewalk, etc. >> >> Although I >don’t use constant contact as a main >technique, I do a >> sweeping motion at a corner >after I cross a street to survey it, and I >> do >not have trouble with this. The cane is >lightweight, and I have >> developed a method of >using my cane where my arm stays flexible, so >my >> sweeping motion is smooth and doesn’t >usually catch. I find that using >> a 2 point >touch technique is easier for me and gives me >the >> information I need, and I save the >constant technique for when I need >> to locate >something very hard to define like light rail >tracks >> imbedded in the street. Furthermore, >the cane’s lightweight quality >> combined >with a flexible usage allows the cane to bend a >lot if people >> trip over it. A lot of people >think that NFB canes break more often, >> and >they might, but I have found that being relaxed >while I use my >> cane means it is quite >bendable and resilient. >> >> I had the same >ideas about storing my NFB cane. I admit that in >some >> small cars full of people, it can be >inconvenient. However, you can >> store your >cane along the side of the car, along the door, >and >> similarly beside the fuselage on >airplanes. When I go to restaurants, >> and if I >am asked for my preference, I ask for a booth or >a table >> along a wall. I do find these types >of tables easier for storing >> canes. However, >if I am at a table in the middle of a >restaurant, I >> lay it on the floor across the >table and it rarely is an >> inconvenience. If I >am at a table in the middle and I notice a post >or >> some other structure against which my cane >can stand, I will store it >> there. When I got >to theaters or to classroom settings, I lay my >cane >> on the floor. I might tell my neighbors >that it is there just so they >> know, but it is >rarely an inconvenience to anyone. I have >occasionally >> had to ask someone to move their >foot or bag to pick up my cane, but >> it really >hasn’t raised an issue for me. Like cirt said, >the benefits >> outweigh the negatives for >me. >> >> The philosophical component of using a >straight cane is this. We don’t >> like to >hide blindness. We believe that it is >respectable to be blind >> and that we do not >need to “fold it up” and “put blindness >away.” In >> my personal experience, back when >I did not respect myself, I often >> folded up >my cane as soon as I could. Often, new >acquaintances did not >> know what my cane was >and did not know how to ask questions about >it >> because it disappeared so often. >Furthermore, I associated it with >> >embarrassment. By using a straight cane, I >immediately make it clear >> that I am blind. I >can’t hide it anymore, and from practicing >that, I >> have gained more respect for myself, >and I have become a lot more >> comfortable with >answering questions and a lot more confident. >My >> transition contained a lot more components >than switching to straight >> canes, but it was >one of the most public displays that marked a >> >positive transition in my life. >> >> I would >encourage you to order a free NFB cane from our >website, >> www.nfb.org. You can get a free one >and try it for yourself. When you >> start to >use it, feel free to ask us questions. At first, >you will >> think that it is too light and that >you are going to drop it >> constantly. But I >promise that if you stick with it for a week, >you >> will get more of an idea of whether it >works better for you. >> >> I also have ordered >a folding NFB cane. I always keep this in my >> >bookbag. Having a backup cane and backup tips is >always smart, and >> there are rare occasions >like Cirt’s amusement park example in which >> >bringing your folding cane can be >advantageous. >> >> Great to meet you. Too bad >you spell your last name incorrectly. :) >> >> >Cindy >> >>> On 1/19/14, Kirt > wrote: >>> Pat, >>> >I've had lots of experience with both styles of >cane and I think it boils >>> down entirely too >personal preference. I like the rigid NFB cane >because >>> it >>> is light, it is longer and I >really rely on the metal tip, both for the >>> >increased tactile feedback and for the Way that >it echoes off of >>> buildings >>> and such when >I tap it. That echo is particularly valuable for >me, >>> Especially in new/unfamiliar places. The >biggest downside to this cane >>> is, >>> of >course, it's inability to folder collapse but I >haven't ffound this to >>> be >>> as big of an >issue as some people claim it to be. At most, >it's slightly >>> annoying every once in a >while, and the canes redeeming qualities >more >>> than >>> make up for that in my book. >There are also NFB folding (not telescopic) >>> >canes which I kind of like every once in a while >for those rare >>> occasions, >>> like some >amusement parks where storage really can become >more than a >>> slight >>> inconvenience. >However, if you're happy with the aluminum cane, >and if it >>> doesn't hinder your ability to >travel wherever you want to go whenever >>> >you >>> want to go there, I won't tell you Myway >would be better for you just >>> because it >works better for me. However, if that's >something you can't do >>> efficiently most of >the time, or if you are relying on unstable >vision to >>> do >>> it, I would strongly >encourage you to find a good center where you >can >>> learn >>> structure discovery and at >least give th Fiberglas straight cane a try >it >>> certainly works for me. >>> Best, >>> >Kirte >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone >>> >>>> On >Jan 19, 2014, at 1:49 PM, Patrick Bennet >>>> > >>>> >wrote: >>>> >>>> Hey everyone, >>>> >>>> I just >joined the list. I have some questions about >cane travel and I >>>> hope you might be able to >help me with this. Before I ask, I should >>>> >probably explain. >>>> >>>> For years I received >instruction in O&M through my school district. >I >>>> was given a folding cane with a standard >rolling tip, which seems to >>>> be pretty >commonly ordered by most agencies and districts. >I think >>>> they come from a place in Canada >.... but don't quote me on that. That >>>> is >what I've always been used to. They seem decent >enough. >>>> >>>> But, I've read some online >literature from the NFB about cane travel, >>>> >including structured discovery (as opposed to >routes) and a different >>>> kind of cane you >use that is lighter an uses a metal tip. I've >also >>>> heard about something called a >rainshine tip. Maybe they are the same >>>> >things. >>>> >>>> Anyway, I've always been >taught to hold the cane with the palm of >the >>>> hand over it, with the index finger >pointing down the flat side. This >>>> allows >the cane with a roller tip to stay on the >ground, also called >>>> constant contact. Is >this not correct? From what I've read on the >NFB >>>> website, your canes have metal tips, >which would seem harder to slide >>>> over rough >or cracked areas but would give more feedback. I >also read >>>> somewhere that the grip is >supposed to be different. In short, I'm >>>> >wondering what the differences and advantages >are. If so, I'd like to >>>> learn more. I've >already read that they are lighter. Do you use >them >>>> or hold them differently with another >grip? Can NFB canes take roller >>>> tips and >use constant contact, and if not, why? Is there >really that >>>> much of an advantage to a cane >that doesn't fold? I'm curious to learn >>>> >about the differences, because I've never heard >about them otherwise. >>>> >>>> Thanks, >>>> >Pat >>>> >>>> >_______________________________________________ > > >>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options >or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/kirt.crazydude%40gmail.com > >>> >>> >_______________________________________________ > > >> nabs-l mailing list >>> >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or >get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gmail.com > >> >> >> -- >> Cindy Bennett >> Secretary: >National Association of Blind Students >> >> >B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington >> >clb5590 at gmail.com >> >> >_______________________________________________ > > > nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or >get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/patrick.bennet807%40gmail.com > > > >_______________________________________________ > > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or >get your account info for nabs-l: > >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/kirt.crazydude%40gmail.com >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get >your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Thu May 15 17:26:21 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (justin williams via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 15 May 2014 13:26:21 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] g w micro keystrokes for skipe Message-ID: <001601cf7062$ca987a10$5fc96e30$@gmail.com> Cananyone send me the latest g w micro keystrokes for skipe? From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 00:29:56 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Marissa via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 15 May 2014 17:29:56 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Anyone who can read sheet music, please help Message-ID: <53755c3e.63a5440a.551c.ffffc807@mx.google.com> Hi all, I need help. Some of you know that I'm trying to make Happy Birthday in sheet music. Here is what I have. I know it's not in the correct key, but I'd rather not have to deal with sharps and flats. I think quarter notes are correct for this one, but I could be wrong. Please help. Thanks. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Notes for HB.brf Type: application/octet-stream Size: 65 bytes Desc: not available URL: From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 00:50:21 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Kerri Kosten via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 15 May 2014 20:50:21 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... Message-ID: Hi Everyone: I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I am on academic suspension. I have several questions and a lot to say. If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I also know being a waitress isn't likely. So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? What was your first job? What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? Where is the best place to look for jobs? To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication skills. Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming (figuratively, not literally.) I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really makes me sad. Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and depressed. For example, how do you "break down" a game? Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere online afterwords and write about the game that way? Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't really know the games at all. This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and depressed. How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively all the time? How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've never really had to work or really do anything? Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure things out? I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use to motivate me? Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I really really struggle when it's just me and myself. I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone sort of on me about getting things done? Am I the only one who works in this way? I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I could have possibly done better in school? How do you all deal with this? How do you continuously stay so determined? For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do you force yourself to work so hard? I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great on happy good days. Thanks, Kerri From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 02:23:58 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Anjelina via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 15 May 2014 22:23:58 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <807A92EB-7E82-4103-893E-BF9D6E59C6F5@att.net> Hi Kerri and all, My first jo b in high school was wroking at Taco Bell in the dish room and the prep line. Kerri, I am so sorry to hear you have been feeling down. I will try my best to answer your questions and give you some points to ponder from my own life experienes. First of all, you are not a failure. College is not for everyone. There's no rule book saying you have to go to college in order to be successful. I am a recent college grad and have struggled to find a job. College does not automatically equal a job in your field of interest. If you are looking for jobs such as working at a grocery store, you can do it. While I lived in Iowa I worked sacking groceries at Hy-Vee. Remember soe of the most successful people started at the bottom, not the top. It sounds as if you have come to a lot of personal realizations and I commend you for posting to a public list for input. If you feel school isn't for you, then what is your next step? What jobs are they hiring for at your local store? Remember you have to do things for yourself, not always for others no matter how influencial they are. I am not at all saying not to have role models, because they are helpful in keeping up going when we don't think we can... I would encourage you to think about what you want and where you want to be. Kerri, don't give up yet. This is just a small detour and some day you will look back on all these lessons with wisdom you can pass onto others. I am always here for you. -Anjelina Sent from my iPad > On May 15, 2014, at 8:50 PM, Kerri Kosten via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi Everyone: > > I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. > I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working > out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned > in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one > class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to > this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I > am on academic suspension. > I have several questions and a lot to say. > If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do > so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go > for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a > bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at > Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I > also know being a waitress isn't likely. > So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? > What was your first job? > What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? > I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting > applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a > bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? > Where is the best place to look for jobs? > To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my > grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out > for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, > and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, > sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a > journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation > in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication > skills. > Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is > I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The > other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth > is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just > been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in > training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I > was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and > actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe > deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all > that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. > The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when > something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of > time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever > work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last > minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming > (figuratively, not literally.) > I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do > what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director > whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I > looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to > return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor > (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of > consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see > what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more > independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. > But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment > where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is > work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. > I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry > that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end > up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to > contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends > me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with > school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many > nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on > schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. > Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I > have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to > recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been > tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I > always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I > was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to > someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am > talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different > than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big > story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I > always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I > don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I > read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN > rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to > sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of > an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes > me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really > makes me sad. > Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have > never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is > interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my > questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. > I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like > everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all > amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no > idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably > don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to > sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I > am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and > depressed. > For example, how do you "break down" a game? > Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere > online afterwords and write about the game that way? > Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites > such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, > Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing > based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? > Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I > listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but > many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't > really know the games at all. > This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm > afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the > rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and > depressed. > How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? > How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively > all the time? > How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've > never really had to work or really do anything? > Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could > help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I > could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they > could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure > things out? > I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up > to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove > me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to > motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use > to motivate me? > Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved > onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the > center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am > just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I > really really struggle when it's just me and myself. > I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind > to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, > negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. > I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to > look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone > sort of on me about getting things done? > Am I the only one who works in this way? > I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I > could have possibly done better in school? > How do you all deal with this? > How do you continuously stay so determined? > For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were > always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do > you force yourself to work so hard? > I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't > know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, > doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great > on happy good days. > Thanks, > Kerri > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/anjelinac%40att.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 02:25:26 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Joe via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 15 May 2014 22:25:26 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <000b01cf70ae$19b0c7b0$4d125710$@gmail.com> Kerri, First, let's start with the positives. You have excellent self-awareness. You'd be far worse off if you were oblivious to your own shortcomings. Second, you are honest. It makes very little difference if you're aware of your shortcomings if you aren't willing to admit them out loud. Finally, and in this case most importantly, you are a superb writer. That's far more difficult to teach and learn than people realize. Okay, now the negatives: Umm, there aren't any. You see, your concerns are not unique. A lot of would-be writers struggle with a version of your fears and uncertainties. I have a full-time job, a part-time business, and I still find myself longing to write a young adult novella. It's coming along at a fair clip, but every other day it seems I start worrying about an overused plot. Anyway, here's my advice: 1. Few people will have a groundbreaking approach to sports. Everyone saw the same game, and there is only so much analysis people can derive from a single play. What's important is that people will hear a game reported with your voice, something no one else can mimic. Pick any five reports covering tonight's Wizards' basketball game. If you can find truly unique qualities among each article, I'll be a monkey's uncle. 2. Volunteer. Try to submit articles to Patch.com or one of the syndicated news outlets that allow public contributions. Get your name out there. 3. Start a sports blog. Do you know how crazy cool it would be to have a blind sports commentator? 4. Take to Twitter and do some live tweets of games in process. Join the dialogue around the popular hashtags. Get your name out there and simultaneously promote your blog. 5. If necessary, start small. Approach high schools or small universities and ask about assisting with game broadcasts. I have to think school radio stations are always interested in a little extra help. 6. For interviews, do some test runs with familiar people. Don't do sports at first. Just interview someone about another familiar topic. Slowly transition into sports, and don't think so much of it as an interview as much as a natural conversation. Now, as for jobs, where do you live? I know people take a dim view of the Lighthouse and the National Industries for the Blind. I think a job's a job. You need to do something to build up your resume and pay for you to spend your time off doing what you're really passionate about, which appears to be sports journalism. Finding a typical mainstream job at the entry level could prove difficult, but I like telling the story of my blind friend who spent a lot of his high school years working at Pizza Hut. Somehow he got their computer system to work with JAWS, and we're talking an old version of JAWS too. Easy? Of course not, but think outside of the box a little. You'll have to learn to advocate for yourself in ways our sighted peers do not have to do. I'd give you a kick in the ass. I may write you off-list since writers are on an eternal quest to find brothers and sisters in arms, but honestly, I think you're doing a good job of that all on your own. Eventually though you really will have to stop the moping and start forming an action plan. It's overwhelming, but I genuinely have a sense that you'll go far when you stop doubting your abilities. Joe -- Twitter: @ScribblingJoe Visit my blog: http://joeorozco.com/blog -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kerri Kosten via nabs-l Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2014 8:50 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list; Anjelina Cruz; Arielle Silverman Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... Hi Everyone: I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I am on academic suspension. I have several questions and a lot to say. If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I also know being a waitress isn't likely. So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? What was your first job? What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? Where is the best place to look for jobs? To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication skills. Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming (figuratively, not literally.) I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really makes me sad. Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and depressed. For example, how do you "break down" a game? Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere online afterwords and write about the game that way? Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't really know the games at all. This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and depressed. How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively all the time? How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've never really had to work or really do anything? Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure things out? I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use to motivate me? Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I really really struggle when it's just me and myself. I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone sort of on me about getting things done? Am I the only one who works in this way? I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I could have possibly done better in school? How do you all deal with this? How do you continuously stay so determined? For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do you force yourself to work so hard? I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great on happy good days. Thanks, Kerri _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jsoro620%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 04:36:01 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 16 May 2014 00:36:01 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Kerri, Sorry to hear you feel down and directionless. I echo what Anjelina said. You might try college later. I have no clue why you failed it because its clear you can write and articulate your thoughts which is a good study skill. but, maybe you can do it later. Maybe you're just not emotionally ready for it. As Anjelina said, college isn't for everyone and college degrees don't equal a job in your field of interest. Know what? There is a blind young guy on the journalists list; he graduated with a journalism degree from Arizona State university. Well, he does not have a job yet. He posted this year to the list when he had been out of school nearly a year. So, while I'm sure his grades were excellent, with no work experience or a network, he had no job. he is looking and I gave him internship info for this area. So there are many people with liberal arts degrees like journalism that are seeking work, especially in this economy. I assume you're at home and thinking what to do. Main goal is stay busy! As a college grad with a liberal arts degree, I also am career searching and sometimes feel directionless. I might go for training but when I get back, I'm in the same rutt. No one hires without experience; I had some internships, but the federal government did not give me enough substantive work experience where I did my internships. I did one summer at national crime prevention council, ncpc, where I did get experience working on an anti bullying campaign. But that was the main real job even though it was unpaid. I say job as I had real responsibilities and really contributed to a project. I suggest four main things. I'll list them so its more organized and not rambling so much. 1. I suggest you career explore. You seem unsure of if sports writing is for you. Interviewing is a challenge to begin, it’s a skill itself. But there's more to it than a good interview. So job shadow some people; you can conduct informational interviews which are structured interviews where you simply ask a person about their job. Read online about sports writers as well to see their duties. 2. Volunteer in your community. I assume you have little or no work experience. Volunteering will not only keep you busy, but it will get you out there contributing to a cause and using job skills. Volunteer anywhere there is a need you feel you can fulfill. Ideally find something in writing. Nonprofits often have newsletters that you might be able to contribute to. You might also do something like serve food at a homeless shelter or soup kitchen. Read to kids at an after school program or even lead an activity for kids at a community center if there is one around. You could even lead activities or discussions about sports with kids and teens as they love that. This should boost self esteem too. 3. If you continue to feel depressed, seek medical help through a mental health counselor. I think this is a good idea to talk through your self esteem issues. I don't know your history so do not know where it comes from. I have struggles with self esteem too. But, if you read an earlier post of mine, you know my mother is not the most encouraging one about independence. She is critical about minor mistakes I make and I struggle with basics of appearance. I struggle with keeping my hair combed nicely so it looks okay. So, of course, I have low self esteem when I feel such a basic mundane thing is so hard. it seems like no matter how careful I am and comb systematically, I miss a spot and mom or dad says the hair is stuck up or uncombed in some spot. I also have low self esteem due to seeing all the barriers and I just wonder if I can ever surmount them. Barriers to jobs include inaccessible software, employer attitudes, lack of experience, fact that jobs are more fast paced and multi tasked based, transportation and social barriers. 4. As for jobs, I'd say something with phone work like customer service is a good place to begin. Now your other questions. I'll answer them one by one. So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? Answer: most blind people without degrees work in customer service areas; the call centers. You can get a job at nib without a college degree. What was your first job? Answer: I did not have jobs throughout public school years and I doubt you did either. My first job was after my sophmore year of college for a dept of defence agency as an intern; I did not do a lot of work though; it was so boring. I did research and some admin tasks. but not enough to fill the day. What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? Answer: Considering my jobs amounted to just sitting around and getting checks from the government, I say my first real job was my unpaid internship for NCPC . Here I was kept fairly busy and felt accountable as my supervisor checked in maybe once a week. This is what I call real work experience. I did a lot of research to identify partner organizations for the anti bullying initiative. I also researched books for their online book club they planned to launch. I also wrote a few blogs. I did more but that's some highlights. Kerri, with some searching you'll find a good fit. I suggest a way to find out if you can sports write is to try it. you cannot simply paraphrase other commentary, you have to make your own spin. So try it and have others critique it if possible. Do you have friends that can do this? Write a sports blog. Once you feel more confident, perhaps submiting articles to local news outlets or online local sites like patch.com will help get your name out there. I know its hard but try to think positive. It seems like you need structure. try to stay busy and create structure in your days. try not to do what I did which was sleep too much and this in turn made me feel more lazy and sleepy and also unhappy. You also said you thrive on consequences. I also bet you thrive on rewards. so why not set some goals and when you accomplish the goals, give yourself a reward? This has helped me some. Looking for experience, volunteer or job based, is a full time thing til you find it. So set some goals to do things with a time frame and then at the end of a week or two look back and see if you did them. I find making lists helps. For instance, I might make a list of past coworkers to reach out to to network. This also helps me stay on track. You need to break things down into manageable small steps with a time frame to accomplish them. Here are some examples I used to find my last unpaid internship which ended up in customs and borders. 1. I attended a disability mentoring day over at customs and border patrol. This goal followed. Follow up with mentors from event. Remind them of my skill areas and job interests. 2. Follow up with coworker from army publishing to find out about jobs or internships within her department. 3. Check usajobs for openings. 4. Search for job fairs. 5. Distribute current resume to 3 contacts from past jobs. If you job search, you could make a list of things to do. This could include Set up 3 job search accounts on websites; they email you jobs in your area if you set it up that way; like indeed.com or monster.com. Attend local job fairs. Network in the community with friends and their friends. Search for so many jobs per day; such as search for 3 jobs a day on local paper websites. Notice these goals are written with a verb and a specific amount. Do this and decide whether you wish to check on your progress weekly or bi weekly. Don't just say apply to several jobs; write apply to 3 jobs in xxx area of interest. When I looked for internships, I kept track of what nonprofits and company websites I reviewed so I wouldn't forget or go back to reread job openings. I also kep track of where I sent my resumes and cover letters and the day I sent them. I suggest you do something similar when seeking a job. I hope this helps and feel free to ask more questions. Its not easy finding a career path or even an entry level job. Ashley -----Original Message----- From: Kerri Kosten via nabs-l Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2014 8:50 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list ; Anjelina Cruz ; Arielle Silverman Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... Hi Everyone: I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I am on academic suspension. I have several questions and a lot to say. If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I also know being a waitress isn't likely. So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? What was your first job? What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? Where is the best place to look for jobs? To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication skills. Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming (figuratively, not literally.) I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really makes me sad. Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and depressed. For example, how do you "break down" a game? Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere online afterwords and write about the game that way? Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't really know the games at all. This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and depressed. How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively all the time? How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've never really had to work or really do anything? Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure things out? I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use to motivate me? Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I really really struggle when it's just me and myself. I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone sort of on me about getting things done? Am I the only one who works in this way? I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I could have possibly done better in school? How do you all deal with this? How do you continuously stay so determined? For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do you force yourself to work so hard? I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great on happy good days. Thanks, Kerri _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 07:53:04 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (James Hulme via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 16 May 2014 03:53:04 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hello Kerri Kosten of West Virginia, I am sorry but I might know of a better solution. I am in New Jersey and received some sort of therapy for depression before. If WVU allows you to switch majors you might want to pick up a few basic courses in Communications if you seem to think college doesn't work for you. If you want I am welcome to answer any of your questions off-list. Can I please ask what is your e-mail address or mobile number or home number?? How would you best like to be contacted off list? It looks like Carruth Counseling is for WVU students only (304-293-4431) and you def. WANT GROUP THERAPY otherwise I found two other places within Morgantown, WV that you could go to. Please feel free to e-mail me at jim.hulme at gmail.com I look forward to trying to assist you. Please answer me back either here or off-list at jim.hulme at gmail.com Have a great day!!! On Thu, May 15, 2014 at 8:50 PM, Kerri Kosten via nabs-l wrote: > Hi Everyone: > > I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. > I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working > out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned > in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one > class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to > this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I > am on academic suspension. > I have several questions and a lot to say. > If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do > so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go > for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a > bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at > Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I > also know being a waitress isn't likely. > So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? > What was your first job? > What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? > I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting > applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a > bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? > Where is the best place to look for jobs? > To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my > grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out > for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, > and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, > sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a > journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation > in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication > skills. > Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is > I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The > other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth > is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just > been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in > training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I > was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and > actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe > deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all > that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. > The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when > something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of > time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever > work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last > minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming > (figuratively, not literally.) > I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do > what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director > whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I > looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to > return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor > (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of > consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see > what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more > independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. > But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment > where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is > work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. > I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry > that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end > up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to > contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends > me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with > school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many > nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on > schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. > Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I > have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to > recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been > tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I > always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I > was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to > someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am > talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different > than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big > story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I > always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I > don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I > read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN > rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to > sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of > an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes > me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really > makes me sad. > Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have > never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is > interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my > questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. > I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like > everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all > amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no > idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably > don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to > sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I > am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and > depressed. > For example, how do you "break down" a game? > Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere > online afterwords and write about the game that way? > Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites > such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, > Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing > based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? > Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I > listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but > many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't > really know the games at all. > This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm > afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the > rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and > depressed. > How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? > How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively > all the time? > How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've > never really had to work or really do anything? > Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could > help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I > could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they > could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure > things out? > I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up > to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove > me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to > motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use > to motivate me? > Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved > onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the > center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am > just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I > really really struggle when it's just me and myself. > I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind > to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, > negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. > I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to > look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone > sort of on me about getting things done? > Am I the only one who works in this way? > I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I > could have possibly done better in school? > How do you all deal with this? > How do you continuously stay so determined? > For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were > always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do > you force yourself to work so hard? > I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't > know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, > doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great > on happy good days. > Thanks, > Kerri > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jim.hulme%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 11:28:54 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Kevin Chao via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 16 May 2014 04:28:54 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] PMIflyer.pdf Message-ID: <1049286E-2D1E-425A-9C2A-82DD4A5B147B@gmail.com> -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: PMIflyer.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 356590 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- Sent from my iPhone From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 16:56:20 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Shickeytha Chandler via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 16 May 2014 12:56:20 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hi Kerri, I am sorry to hear you are going through such a difficult time. I am sure several people on this list can identify with at least some of what you are feeling-I know I can. First, I would encourage you not to give up on college just yet. I grew up in a rural town where I was the only visually impaired student in the town/county and I struggled a lot in school, partly because there just were not many accommodations or resources for the visually impaired. I didn't know what was available or how to ask for it. (How do you ask for an accommodation that you do not even know exists?) So I ended up getting a GED and starting slowly at a community college. I started out by only taking a class or two per semester and I didn't have a clue what I wanted to do as a career. Like I said, I had been in a very small town and sheltered environment my whole life. After a couple of years, I got stronger academically and emotionally and my confidence and motivation grew. I began learning more about accommodations and technology and about what worked best for me as far as study habits, etc. It wasn't an automatic change, but a gradual one. I eventually transferred to a university and now have two undergraduate degrees and will begin working on a Master's this fall. I am not bragging, but my cumulative undergraduate GPA ended up being a 3.3, though I either failed or withdrew from some of my classes in the early days. So don't give up! As for jobs, my first full-time job was for a call center. My second and most recent full-time job was with a federal agency in Maryland. This turned out to be a job that I was only at for a little over a year. There are a lot of challenges out there for blind and visually impaired students and employees, and I have lived through just about all of them. But don't be afraid of the challenges. Don't be afraid of failing. Your experiences will make you stronger and each step will move you closer and closer to your goals, even if things don't always turn out the way you hope or plan for them to turn out. You will always be learning more about your skills and interests, and sometimes you might feel discouraged when you realize maybe you aren't as good at something as you originally thought you would be. But don't let that get you down. You will also discover things that you are good at and strengths you didn't even know you had. While you certainly want to consider the opinions of sighted people regarding your skills and abilities, don't let what they say be your gage. Sighted people often have no clue what visually impaired people are capable of and have very low expectations. So you often will not get many votes of confidence from them. (Or else you will get a lot of empty praise, as you mentioned.) But just develop that confidence deep within yourself that you are a valuable person with unique strengths and abilities, and the fact that you are visually impaired cannot change that! Best, Shickeytha On 5/16/14, James Hulme via nabs-l wrote: > Hello Kerri Kosten of West Virginia, > > > > I am sorry but I might know of a better solution. I am in New Jersey and > received some sort of therapy for depression before. If WVU allows you to > switch majors you might want to pick up a few basic courses in > Communications if you seem to think college doesn't work for you. If you > want I am welcome to answer any of your questions off-list. Can I please > ask what is your e-mail address or mobile number or home number?? How would > you best like to be contacted off list? > > > It looks like Carruth Counseling is for WVU students only (304-293-4431) > and you def. WANT GROUP THERAPY otherwise I found two other places within > Morgantown, WV that you could go to. Please feel free to e-mail me at > jim.hulme at gmail.com > > > I look forward to trying to assist you. Please answer me back either here > or off-list at jim.hulme at gmail.com > > Have a great day!!! > > > > On Thu, May 15, 2014 at 8:50 PM, Kerri Kosten via nabs-l > wrote: > >> Hi Everyone: >> >> I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. >> I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working >> out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned >> in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one >> class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to >> this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I >> am on academic suspension. >> I have several questions and a lot to say. >> If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do >> so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go >> for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a >> bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at >> Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I >> also know being a waitress isn't likely. >> So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a >> degree? >> What was your first job? >> What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? >> I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting >> applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a >> bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? >> Where is the best place to look for jobs? >> To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my >> grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out >> for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, >> and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, >> sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a >> journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation >> in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication >> skills. >> Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is >> I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The >> other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth >> is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just >> been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in >> training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I >> was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and >> actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe >> deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all >> that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. >> The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when >> something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of >> time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever >> work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last >> minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming >> (figuratively, not literally.) >> I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do >> what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director >> whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I >> looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to >> return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor >> (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of >> consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see >> what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more >> independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. >> But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment >> where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is >> work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. >> I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry >> that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end >> up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to >> contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends >> me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with >> school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many >> nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on >> schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. >> Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I >> have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to >> recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been >> tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I >> always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I >> was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to >> someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am >> talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different >> than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big >> story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I >> always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I >> don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I >> read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN >> rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to >> sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of >> an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes >> me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really >> makes me sad. >> Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have >> never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is >> interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my >> questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. >> I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like >> everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all >> amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no >> idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably >> don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to >> sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I >> am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and >> depressed. >> For example, how do you "break down" a game? >> Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere >> online afterwords and write about the game that way? >> Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites >> such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, >> Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing >> based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? >> Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I >> listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but >> many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't >> really know the games at all. >> This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm >> afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the >> rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and >> depressed. >> How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? >> How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively >> all the time? >> How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've >> never really had to work or really do anything? >> Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could >> help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I >> could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they >> could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure >> things out? >> I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up >> to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove >> me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to >> motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use >> to motivate me? >> Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved >> onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the >> center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am >> just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I >> really really struggle when it's just me and myself. >> I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind >> to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, >> negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. >> I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to >> look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone >> sort of on me about getting things done? >> Am I the only one who works in this way? >> I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I >> could have possibly done better in school? >> How do you all deal with this? >> How do you continuously stay so determined? >> For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were >> always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do >> you force yourself to work so hard? >> I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't >> know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, >> doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great >> on happy good days. >> Thanks, >> Kerri >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jim.hulme%40gmail.com >> > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/shickeytha%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 17:09:36 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Shickeytha Chandler via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 16 May 2014 13:09:36 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: One thing I wanted to add... I know I said you won't get many votes of confidence from the sighted, but on a positive note I will say that over the years I have met a few (I could probably count them on one hand, definitely on two hands) sighted folks (professors, mentors, friends, etc.) who have demonstrated genuine confidence in my abilities as a visually impaired person, so I certainly don't want to generalize and say that all sighted people will doubt you. But my opinion is that many of them will not have accurate perceptions of what the visually impaired can do. On 5/16/14, Shickeytha Chandler wrote: > Hi Kerri, > > I am sorry to hear you are going through such a difficult time. I am > sure several people on this list can identify with at least some of > what you are feeling-I know I can. > > First, I would encourage you not to give up on college just yet. I > grew up in a rural town where I was the only visually impaired student > in the town/county and I struggled a lot in school, partly because > there just were not many accommodations or resources for the visually > impaired. I didn't know what was available or how to ask for it. (How > do you ask for an accommodation that you do not even know exists?) So > I ended up getting a GED and starting slowly at a community college. I > started out by only taking a class or two per semester and I didn't > have a clue what I wanted to do as a career. Like I said, I had been > in a very small town and sheltered environment my whole life. After a > couple of years, I got stronger academically and emotionally and my > confidence and motivation grew. I began learning more about > accommodations and technology and about what worked best for me as far > as study habits, etc. It wasn't an automatic change, but a gradual > one. I eventually transferred to a university and now have two > undergraduate degrees and will begin working on a Master's this fall. > I am not bragging, but my cumulative undergraduate GPA ended up being > a 3.3, though I either failed or withdrew from some of my classes in > the early days. So don't give up! > > As for jobs, my first full-time job was for a call center. My second > and most recent full-time job was with a federal agency in Maryland. > This turned out to be a job that I was only at for a little over a > year. > > There are a lot of challenges out there for blind and visually > impaired students and employees, and I have lived through just about > all of them. But don't be afraid of the challenges. Don't be afraid of > failing. Your experiences will make you stronger and each step will > move you closer and closer to your goals, even if things don't always > turn out the way you hope or plan for them to turn out. You will > always be learning more about your skills and interests, and sometimes > you might feel discouraged when you realize maybe you aren't as good > at something as you originally thought you would be. But don't let > that get you down. You will also discover things that you are good at > and strengths you didn't even know you had. > > While you certainly want to consider the opinions of sighted people > regarding your skills and abilities, don't let what they say be your > gage. Sighted people often have no clue what visually impaired people > are capable of and have very low expectations. So you often will not > get many votes of confidence from them. (Or else you will get a lot of > empty praise, as you mentioned.) But just develop that confidence deep > within yourself that you are a valuable person with unique strengths > and abilities, and the fact that you are visually impaired cannot > change that! > > Best, > > Shickeytha > > > > On 5/16/14, James Hulme via nabs-l wrote: >> Hello Kerri Kosten of West Virginia, >> >> >> >> I am sorry but I might know of a better solution. I am in New Jersey and >> received some sort of therapy for depression before. If WVU allows you >> to >> switch majors you might want to pick up a few basic courses in >> Communications if you seem to think college doesn't work for you. If you >> want I am welcome to answer any of your questions off-list. Can I please >> ask what is your e-mail address or mobile number or home number?? How >> would >> you best like to be contacted off list? >> >> >> It looks like Carruth Counseling is for WVU students only (304-293-4431) >> and you def. WANT GROUP THERAPY otherwise I found two other places within >> Morgantown, WV that you could go to. Please feel free to e-mail me at >> jim.hulme at gmail.com >> >> >> I look forward to trying to assist you. Please answer me back either here >> or off-list at jim.hulme at gmail.com >> >> Have a great day!!! >> >> >> >> On Thu, May 15, 2014 at 8:50 PM, Kerri Kosten via nabs-l >> wrote: >> >>> Hi Everyone: >>> >>> I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. >>> I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working >>> out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned >>> in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one >>> class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to >>> this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I >>> am on academic suspension. >>> I have several questions and a lot to say. >>> If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do >>> so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go >>> for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a >>> bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at >>> Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I >>> also know being a waitress isn't likely. >>> So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a >>> degree? >>> What was your first job? >>> What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? >>> I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting >>> applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a >>> bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? >>> Where is the best place to look for jobs? >>> To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my >>> grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out >>> for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, >>> and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, >>> sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a >>> journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation >>> in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication >>> skills. >>> Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is >>> I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The >>> other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth >>> is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just >>> been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in >>> training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I >>> was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and >>> actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe >>> deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all >>> that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. >>> The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when >>> something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of >>> time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever >>> work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last >>> minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming >>> (figuratively, not literally.) >>> I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do >>> what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director >>> whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I >>> looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to >>> return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor >>> (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of >>> consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see >>> what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more >>> independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. >>> But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment >>> where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is >>> work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. >>> I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry >>> that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end >>> up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to >>> contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends >>> me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with >>> school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many >>> nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on >>> schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. >>> Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I >>> have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to >>> recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been >>> tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I >>> always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I >>> was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to >>> someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am >>> talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different >>> than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big >>> story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I >>> always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I >>> don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I >>> read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN >>> rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to >>> sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of >>> an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes >>> me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really >>> makes me sad. >>> Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have >>> never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is >>> interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my >>> questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. >>> I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like >>> everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all >>> amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no >>> idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably >>> don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to >>> sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I >>> am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and >>> depressed. >>> For example, how do you "break down" a game? >>> Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere >>> online afterwords and write about the game that way? >>> Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites >>> such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, >>> Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing >>> based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? >>> Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I >>> listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but >>> many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't >>> really know the games at all. >>> This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm >>> afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the >>> rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and >>> depressed. >>> How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? >>> How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively >>> all the time? >>> How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've >>> never really had to work or really do anything? >>> Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could >>> help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I >>> could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they >>> could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure >>> things out? >>> I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up >>> to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove >>> me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to >>> motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use >>> to motivate me? >>> Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved >>> onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the >>> center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am >>> just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I >>> really really struggle when it's just me and myself. >>> I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind >>> to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, >>> negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. >>> I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to >>> look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone >>> sort of on me about getting things done? >>> Am I the only one who works in this way? >>> I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I >>> could have possibly done better in school? >>> How do you all deal with this? >>> How do you continuously stay so determined? >>> For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were >>> always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do >>> you force yourself to work so hard? >>> I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't >>> know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, >>> doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great >>> on happy good days. >>> Thanks, >>> Kerri >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jim.hulme%40gmail.com >>> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/shickeytha%40gmail.com >> > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 19:47:50 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 16 May 2014 12:47:50 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140516124653.01d79fc0@comcast.net> Good afternoon, Shickeytha, Very, very well said! for today, Car 408-2209-3239 At 09:56 AM 5/16/2014, Shickeytha Chandler via nabs-l wrote: >Hi Kerri, > >I am sorry to hear you are going through such a difficult time. I am >sure several people on this list can identify with at least some of >what you are feeling-I know I can. > >First, I would encourage you not to give up on college just yet. I >grew up in a rural town where I was the only visually impaired student >in the town/county and I struggled a lot in school, partly because >there just were not many accommodations or resources for the visually >impaired. I didn't know what was available or how to ask for it. (How >do you ask for an accommodation that you do not even know exists?) So >I ended up getting a GED and starting slowly at a community college. I >started out by only taking a class or two per semester and I didn't >have a clue what I wanted to do as a career. Like I said, I had been >in a very small town and sheltered environment my whole life. After a >couple of years, I got stronger academically and emotionally and my >confidence and motivation grew. I began learning more about >accommodations and technology and about what worked best for me as far >as study habits, etc. It wasn't an automatic change, but a gradual >one. I eventually transferred to a university and now have two >undergraduate degrees and will begin working on a Master's this fall. >I am not bragging, but my cumulative undergraduate GPA ended up being >a 3.3, though I either failed or withdrew from some of my classes in >the early days. So don't give up! > > As for jobs, my first full-time job was for a call center. My second >and most recent full-time job was with a federal agency in Maryland. >This turned out to be a job that I was only at for a little over a >year. > >There are a lot of challenges out there for blind and visually >impaired students and employees, and I have lived through just about >all of them. But don't be afraid of the challenges. Don't be afraid of >failing. Your experiences will make you stronger and each step will >move you closer and closer to your goals, even if things don't always >turn out the way you hope or plan for them to turn out. You will >always be learning more about your skills and interests, and sometimes >you might feel discouraged when you realize maybe you aren't as good >at something as you originally thought you would be. But don't let >that get you down. You will also discover things that you are good at >and strengths you didn't even know you had. > >While you certainly want to consider the opinions of sighted people >regarding your skills and abilities, don't let what they say be your >gage. Sighted people often have no clue what visually impaired people >are capable of and have very low expectations. So you often will not >get many votes of confidence from them. (Or else you will get a lot of >empty praise, as you mentioned.) But just develop that confidence deep >within yourself that you are a valuable person with unique strengths >and abilities, and the fact that you are visually impaired cannot >change that! > >Best, > >Shickeytha > > > >On 5/16/14, James Hulme via nabs-l wrote: > > Hello Kerri Kosten of West Virginia, > > > > > > > > I am sorry but I might know of a better solution. I am in New Jersey and > > received some sort of therapy for depression before. If WVU allows you to > > switch majors you might want to pick up a few basic courses in > > Communications if you seem to think college doesn't work for you. If you > > want I am welcome to answer any of your questions off-list. Can I please > > ask what is your e-mail address or mobile number or home number?? How would > > you best like to be contacted off list? > > > > > > It looks like Carruth Counseling is for WVU students only (304-293-4431) > > and you def. WANT GROUP THERAPY otherwise I found two other places within > > Morgantown, WV that you could go to. Please feel free to e-mail me at > > jim.hulme at gmail.com > > > > > > I look forward to trying to assist you. Please answer me back either here > > or off-list at jim.hulme at gmail.com > > > > Have a great day!!! > > > > > > > > On Thu, May 15, 2014 at 8:50 PM, Kerri Kosten via nabs-l > > wrote: > > > >> Hi Everyone: > >> > >> I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. > >> I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working > >> out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned > >> in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one > >> class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to > >> this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I > >> am on academic suspension. > >> I have several questions and a lot to say. > >> If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do > >> so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go > >> for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a > >> bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at > >> Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I > >> also know being a waitress isn't likely. > >> So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a > >> degree? > >> What was your first job? > >> What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? > >> I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting > >> applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a > >> bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? > >> Where is the best place to look for jobs? > >> To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my > >> grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out > >> for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, > >> and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, > >> sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a > >> journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation > >> in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication > >> skills. > >> Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is > >> I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The > >> other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth > >> is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just > >> been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in > >> training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I > >> was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and > >> actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe > >> deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all > >> that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. > >> The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when > >> something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of > >> time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever > >> work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last > >> minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming > >> (figuratively, not literally.) > >> I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do > >> what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director > >> whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I > >> looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to > >> return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor > >> (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of > >> consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see > >> what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more > >> independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. > >> But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment > >> where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is > >> work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. > >> I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry > >> that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end > >> up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to > >> contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends > >> me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with > >> school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many > >> nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on > >> schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. > >> Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I > >> have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to > >> recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been > >> tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I > >> always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I > >> was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to > >> someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am > >> talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different > >> than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big > >> story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I > >> always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I > >> don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I > >> read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN > >> rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to > >> sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of > >> an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes > >> me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really > >> makes me sad. > >> Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have > >> never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is > >> interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my > >> questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. > >> I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like > >> everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all > >> amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no > >> idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably > >> don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to > >> sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I > >> am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and > >> depressed. > >> For example, how do you "break down" a game? > >> Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere > >> online afterwords and write about the game that way? > >> Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites > >> such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, > >> Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing > >> based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? > >> Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I > >> listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but > >> many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't > >> really know the games at all. > >> This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm > >> afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the > >> rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and > >> depressed. > >> How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? > >> How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively > >> all the time? > >> How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've > >> never really had to work or really do anything? > >> Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could > >> help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I > >> could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they > >> could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure > >> things out? > >> I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up > >> to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove > >> me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to > >> motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use > >> to motivate me? > >> Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved > >> onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the > >> center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am > >> just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I > >> really really struggle when it's just me and myself. > >> I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind > >> to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, > >> negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. > >> I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to > >> look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone > >> sort of on me about getting things done? > >> Am I the only one who works in this way? > >> I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I > >> could have possibly done better in school? > >> How do you all deal with this? > >> How do you continuously stay so determined? > >> For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were > >> always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do > >> you force yourself to work so hard? > >> I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't > >> know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, > >> doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great > >> on happy good days. > >> Thanks, > >> Kerri > >> > >> _______________________________________________ > >> nabs-l mailing list > >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org > >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > >> nabs-l: > >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jim.hulme%40gmail.com > >> > > _______________________________________________ > > nabs-l mailing list > > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > > nabs-l: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/shickeytha%40gmail.com > > > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 16 23:55:45 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Arielle Silverman via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 16 May 2014 16:55:45 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: <7.0.1.0.2.20140516124653.01d79fc0@comcast.net> References: <7.0.1.0.2.20140516124653.01d79fc0@comcast.net> Message-ID: Hi Kerri, Are you stil considered a WVU student on academic probation or have you actually been withdrawn from the university? If you still have a student affiliation with WVU, I would urge you to take advantage of any counseling ortherapy services available to you. This is exactly what therapists are trained to help people with and the vast majority of the thought and feeling patterns you describe are experienced by many sighted people as well. I agree with the advice not to give up on college. Instead, perhaps the online course environment doesn't work well for you, and you will probably do better in in-person classes where you have teachers you will get to know. You might also do better in a community college setting. I think it's not a matter of yur skills and abilities but more an issue of finding the right kind of educational environment where you can thrive. I also think that sometimes we drag ourselves down by comparing ourselves unnecessarily to other people particularly sighted people we don't know. Such comparisons aren't very useful and are often inaccurate. A sighted competitor may have some advantages on you but they probably also have disadvantages which you may not even know about. It's hard to compare ourselves with other people who have had different childhood experiences, passions, etc. In general, I think that our abilities average out to be roughly equal to those of sighted people. We just have the added challenge of figuring out where we best belong and where others will best appreciate what we have to bring to the table. Best, Arielle On 5/16/14, Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l wrote: > Good afternoon, Shickeytha, > > Very, very well said! > for today, Car > 408-2209-3239 > > At 09:56 AM 5/16/2014, Shickeytha Chandler via nabs-l wrote: >>Hi Kerri, >> >>I am sorry to hear you are going through such a difficult time. I am >>sure several people on this list can identify with at least some of >>what you are feeling-I know I can. >> >>First, I would encourage you not to give up on college just yet. I >>grew up in a rural town where I was the only visually impaired student >>in the town/county and I struggled a lot in school, partly because >>there just were not many accommodations or resources for the visually >>impaired. I didn't know what was available or how to ask for it. (How >>do you ask for an accommodation that you do not even know exists?) So >>I ended up getting a GED and starting slowly at a community college. I >>started out by only taking a class or two per semester and I didn't >>have a clue what I wanted to do as a career. Like I said, I had been >>in a very small town and sheltered environment my whole life. After a >>couple of years, I got stronger academically and emotionally and my >>confidence and motivation grew. I began learning more about >>accommodations and technology and about what worked best for me as far >>as study habits, etc. It wasn't an automatic change, but a gradual >>one. I eventually transferred to a university and now have two >>undergraduate degrees and will begin working on a Master's this fall. >>I am not bragging, but my cumulative undergraduate GPA ended up being >>a 3.3, though I either failed or withdrew from some of my classes in >>the early days. So don't give up! >> >> As for jobs, my first full-time job was for a call center. My second >>and most recent full-time job was with a federal agency in Maryland. >>This turned out to be a job that I was only at for a little over a >>year. >> >>There are a lot of challenges out there for blind and visually >>impaired students and employees, and I have lived through just about >>all of them. But don't be afraid of the challenges. Don't be afraid of >>failing. Your experiences will make you stronger and each step will >>move you closer and closer to your goals, even if things don't always >>turn out the way you hope or plan for them to turn out. You will >>always be learning more about your skills and interests, and sometimes >>you might feel discouraged when you realize maybe you aren't as good >>at something as you originally thought you would be. But don't let >>that get you down. You will also discover things that you are good at >>and strengths you didn't even know you had. >> >>While you certainly want to consider the opinions of sighted people >>regarding your skills and abilities, don't let what they say be your >>gage. Sighted people often have no clue what visually impaired people >>are capable of and have very low expectations. So you often will not >>get many votes of confidence from them. (Or else you will get a lot of >>empty praise, as you mentioned.) But just develop that confidence deep >>within yourself that you are a valuable person with unique strengths >>and abilities, and the fact that you are visually impaired cannot >>change that! >> >>Best, >> >>Shickeytha >> >> >> >>On 5/16/14, James Hulme via nabs-l wrote: >> > Hello Kerri Kosten of West Virginia, >> > >> > >> > >> > I am sorry but I might know of a better solution. I am in New Jersey >> > and >> > received some sort of therapy for depression before. If WVU allows you >> > to >> > switch majors you might want to pick up a few basic courses in >> > Communications if you seem to think college doesn't work for you. If >> > you >> > want I am welcome to answer any of your questions off-list. Can I >> > please >> > ask what is your e-mail address or mobile number or home number?? How >> > would >> > you best like to be contacted off list? >> > >> > >> > It looks like Carruth Counseling is for WVU students only >> > (304-293-4431) >> > and you def. WANT GROUP THERAPY otherwise I found two other places >> > within >> > Morgantown, WV that you could go to. Please feel free to e-mail me at >> > jim.hulme at gmail.com >> > >> > >> > I look forward to trying to assist you. Please answer me back either >> > here >> > or off-list at jim.hulme at gmail.com >> > >> > Have a great day!!! >> > >> > >> > >> > On Thu, May 15, 2014 at 8:50 PM, Kerri Kosten via nabs-l >> > wrote: >> > >> >> Hi Everyone: >> >> >> >> I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. >> >> I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working >> >> out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned >> >> in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one >> >> class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to >> >> this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I >> >> am on academic suspension. >> >> I have several questions and a lot to say. >> >> If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do >> >> so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go >> >> for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a >> >> bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at >> >> Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I >> >> also know being a waitress isn't likely. >> >> So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a >> >> degree? >> >> What was your first job? >> >> What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? >> >> I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting >> >> applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a >> >> bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? >> >> Where is the best place to look for jobs? >> >> To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my >> >> grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out >> >> for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, >> >> and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, >> >> sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a >> >> journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation >> >> in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication >> >> skills. >> >> Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is >> >> I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The >> >> other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth >> >> is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just >> >> been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in >> >> training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I >> >> was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and >> >> actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe >> >> deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all >> >> that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. >> >> The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when >> >> something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of >> >> time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever >> >> work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last >> >> minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming >> >> (figuratively, not literally.) >> >> I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do >> >> what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director >> >> whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I >> >> looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to >> >> return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor >> >> (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of >> >> consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see >> >> what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more >> >> independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. >> >> But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment >> >> where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is >> >> work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. >> >> I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry >> >> that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end >> >> up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to >> >> contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends >> >> me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with >> >> school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many >> >> nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on >> >> schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. >> >> Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I >> >> have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to >> >> recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been >> >> tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I >> >> always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I >> >> was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to >> >> someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am >> >> talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different >> >> than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big >> >> story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I >> >> always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I >> >> don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I >> >> read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN >> >> rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to >> >> sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of >> >> an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes >> >> me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really >> >> makes me sad. >> >> Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have >> >> never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is >> >> interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my >> >> questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. >> >> I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like >> >> everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all >> >> amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no >> >> idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably >> >> don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to >> >> sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I >> >> am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and >> >> depressed. >> >> For example, how do you "break down" a game? >> >> Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere >> >> online afterwords and write about the game that way? >> >> Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites >> >> such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, >> >> Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing >> >> based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? >> >> Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I >> >> listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but >> >> many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't >> >> really know the games at all. >> >> This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm >> >> afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the >> >> rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and >> >> depressed. >> >> How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? >> >> How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively >> >> all the time? >> >> How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've >> >> never really had to work or really do anything? >> >> Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could >> >> help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I >> >> could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they >> >> could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure >> >> things out? >> >> I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up >> >> to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove >> >> me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to >> >> motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use >> >> to motivate me? >> >> Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved >> >> onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the >> >> center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am >> >> just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I >> >> really really struggle when it's just me and myself. >> >> I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind >> >> to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, >> >> negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. >> >> I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to >> >> look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone >> >> sort of on me about getting things done? >> >> Am I the only one who works in this way? >> >> I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I >> >> could have possibly done better in school? >> >> How do you all deal with this? >> >> How do you continuously stay so determined? >> >> For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were >> >> always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do >> >> you force yourself to work so hard? >> >> I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't >> >> know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, >> >> doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great >> >> on happy good days. >> >> Thanks, >> >> Kerri >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> >> nabs-l mailing list >> >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> >> nabs-l: >> >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jim.hulme%40gmail.com >> >> >> > _______________________________________________ >> > nabs-l mailing list >> > nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> > nabs-l: >> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/shickeytha%40gmail.com >> > >> >>_______________________________________________ >>nabs-l mailing list >>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 17 02:01:10 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 16 May 2014 22:01:10 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] How do I add a new email account to Windows Live Mail Message-ID: <1DB6B67CD2E2411EA8718EE7BC5052A9@Helga> Hi all, this is Helga. How are you all? I just wanted to tell you that I use Windows Live Mail, which is an email client; instead, of using web base in order to receive, write, and send emails. I just wanted to ask you, How do I addd a new gmail account to Windows Live Mail? I’m just wondering since I really don’t know how to do it. Actually, my lighthouse instructor helped me add my gmail email account that I’m using right now to write you to Windows Live Mail two years ago, but she didn’t teach me how to do it by myself! Just to let you know, I’m a member of Phi Theta Kappa, honor society of my college, and currently my friend and I got elected as the New Fund-raisers Coordinators for this upcoming Fall semester! So in that case my friend told me that she created an gmail email account in order for us to communicate and receive emails from the Phi Theta Kappa E-board members and members. So I would like to add this new email account to Windows Live Mail in order to make it easier for me since I already use it,, rather than accessing web base mail. I will really appreciate it a lot, if you could help me with this by telling me step by step in how to do it! And if you can, you can also do JAWS tandom with me by taking over my computer, and in that way we can do it together and you can explain me step by step in how can I do it! by myself. Only if you want of course! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! P.S. By the way, I have JAWS 14, and I use windows 8. Thanks again! -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: wlEmoticon-smile[1].png Type: image/png Size: 1046 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: wlEmoticon-winkingsmile[1].png Type: image/png Size: 1135 bytes Desc: not available URL: From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 17 02:46:44 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 16 May 2014 22:46:44 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <7259DB9670F54C4E98E4E2885BEAAAAF@OwnerPC> Kerry, As I reread your message, it is unclear of your academic status. I have the same question as Arielle. It sounds like you returned to school for one semester and got two bad grades. So, what is your status? Typically, students are not kicked out, withdrawn, after one bad semester. So you said its academic suspension. Do you mean academic probation? Academic probation means it’s a time where you can raise your GPA before being withdrawn. If its suspension, tell us what that means. do you mean you are suspended temporarily and can return later? If you were not withdrawn, then you may try college again. I just suggest rethinking college and giving it a try because you will have a better chance of getting a job with a degree. If you are toward the end of your studies, getting a summer internship is a good idea. This gives you work experience in your field without graduating. I don't know which classes you took. College can be tough especially in certain classes especially if you are not an abstract thinker; and visual taught classes like math and science can be rough. A C isn't actually too bad; its average after all. I bet you many freshman get C's. They are getting used to college after all and may not realize how much studying they have to do. While its bad you failed a class your first time back, many students fail classes at one time or another. I probably would have failed a few classes too had it not been for professors who just wanted to pass me as to not be seen retaking their class. So, all this to say, you might try school again if you were not withdrawn. But its up to you and if not in school,do find a volunteer position of interest to you. Ashley -----Original Message----- From: Kerri Kosten via nabs-l Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2014 8:50 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list ; Anjelina Cruz ; Arielle Silverman Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... Hi Everyone: I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I am on academic suspension. I have several questions and a lot to say. If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I also know being a waitress isn't likely. So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? What was your first job? What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? Where is the best place to look for jobs? To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication skills. Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming (figuratively, not literally.) I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really makes me sad. Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and depressed. For example, how do you "break down" a game? Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere online afterwords and write about the game that way? Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't really know the games at all. This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and depressed. How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively all the time? How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've never really had to work or really do anything? Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure things out? I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use to motivate me? Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I really really struggle when it's just me and myself. I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone sort of on me about getting things done? Am I the only one who works in this way? I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I could have possibly done better in school? How do you all deal with this? How do you continuously stay so determined? For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do you force yourself to work so hard? I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great on happy good days. Thanks, Kerri _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 17 20:30:20 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (James Mooney via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 17 May 2014 13:30:20 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Roommate for convention Message-ID: <162C5125-9C59-4D04-945C-8CF0699ADBB5@gmail.com> Hello, I posted to the list a month ago about a roommate for a convention. I found two people to roommate, but we are trying to fit one more person in the room. If anybody's interested please contact me off the list. Sent from my iPhone From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 17 22:02:22 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Vejas via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 17 May 2014 15:02:22 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] SAT prep class district support Message-ID: <5377dc87.84ab440a.57c1.3769@mx.google.com> Hi All, I am taking the SAT in 3 weeks, and to help me get ready, am taking an SAT Prep Class. - Have any of you also taken a Prep Class? - How did you get the Prep Class materials in an accessible format? - Did the school or VI program help with the brailling of text and embossing of diagrams, or did you hire a reader and do it verbally? - Did you end up needing to find a non-district transcriber to braille the test and emboss the diagrams? - Our local VI program has chosen to view the SAT Prep Class as "extracurricular" and is unwilling to provide transcriber support. I would really appreciate hearing all of your stories, whether positive or negative. Thanks so much. Vejas From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 18 01:11:51 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Desiree Oudinot via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 17 May 2014 21:11:51 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hi Kerri, I can relate to a lot of what you've said in your message. I don't want to minimize what you're going through by saying that, but I can definitely identify with a lot of your struggles with confidence and finding a place to belong in the world. I don't know much about sportscasting, but I do have a friend who's blind and in college to get into that field. Since it's a fairly recent friendship that we have, I don't know how comfortable he would be with talking with you about this, but I can ask him if he would mind giving you some more details in that area. He seems pretty sure that this is the path he wants to take, and i would be more than happy to see if he would be willing to help you. As far as failing college is concerned, that's one of the reasons I've never went. When I was in public school, I either did very poorly or very well, depending on whether the teacher thought I shouldn't fail because of my blindness or was uncomfortable with it. There was more to it, of course, like the fact that I went to a tiny school in a rural area where none of the teachers or students had ever encountered a blind student before. Because of the constant bullying I endured, as well as the often bad attitudes of teachers, I wasn't motivated to try very hard, and I was very depressed. I also struggled quite a bit in subjects like math and science. Then, I went to a school for the blind for my high school years. While it was in some respects better, it was also much worse academically. We weren't expected to really do much with our lives once we graduated, so not much emphasis was placed on academic success. I honestly don't want to sound like I'm bragging, but I barely had to lift a finger to get A's in the work we were given. The only thing that saved me from becoming overconfident in that situation was my previous harsh background. I knew two things: A. I would be expected to be much, much more in the workforce or college than I was in such a sheltered environment, and B. unlike a lot of people I associated with at that time, I knew that there was a lot more than just that tiny segment of the world out there. When I graduated from high school, there was a lot of pressure on me to go to college. I felt academically unprepared, as well as fearful that I would only be victimized and doubted by sighted people. If there's one thing I've learned from my many, many bad experiences in school, it's that students have no rights, no recourse when things go south. Especially as an adult, you're supposed to just be glad you're getting educated at all. So I didn't go, and, to be honest, I don't regret it. Sure, it would help in the long run, but a college degree does not a successful person make. I was recently offered a call center job, and, while it wouldn't be my ideal choice, if I get it, I'm going to embrace and make the best of it. I'm not getting any younger, and I've always been someone who wanted an average job, an average life. I don't want to be a blind superstar; I just want to be me. And "me" is someone who prefers to blend into the background as much as possible, to be left alone except for the few who I allow into my world. I, too, wish that more entry-level jobs were available to us. I would have taken one if I could have. In fact, my dream job would be to work in an independent record store. There are actually a couple well-known ones right in my backyard, so to speak. It doesn't seem like much of an aspiration, I know, but I've been a vinyl collector for years, and to be able to share that passion with others, to be able to keep a dying art a little further away from its deathbed, would make me happy. People think it's downright weird for a young person such as myself to be into that, but I am, no matter how much I tried to suppress it in my younger days, and if I worked at a place like that, maybe it would help me feel less alone and freakish. Of course, though, it really can't happen. I wouldn't be able to sort records, nor check for excessive wear and damage if people brought in their collections to sell. Usually, places like that have pretty high standards for quality. I don't expect you or anyone else to understand why this would be my dream job, but I do honestly know the hollowness you probably feel at your perceived inability to do the one thing you love right. I also know how it is to believe that you're not good at anything. I don't, but I guess that's kind of a paradox, seeing as how mediocrity is my ambition. It's jus fine when it comes to how I want my life to be, or the lives of others, but when it comes to myself, I don't really think I'm good enough at anything to be taken seriously. I could name a thousand things, and think of probably a thousand people who can do those things better than I can. It's not even that I want to be the best at any given thing; I just want to know that I'm good at it, in the realm of being recognized. Not to be called out for it, mind you, just to know, to be told, for once in my life, that I'm doing ok. Praise isn't something I'm comfortable with, for two reasons. First, as you mentioned, it usually only comes to us when it's not really necessary. That never got my confidence up; on the contrary, it made me angry. There are people out there who never get the recognition they deserve, and yet, here I am, doing some mundane task, and I'm getting as much praise heaped on me as if I've just single-handedly won the World Series. yeah, that bothers me. Luckily, it doesn't happen too often, because most of the adults in my life tend to believe the opposite, that I'm blind and helpless and/or stupid. All this to say...I don't think I can offer any concrete advice. I would be a hypocrite if I did. But if you ever want to reach out to a fellow traveler down this frustrating road, I'm here. You can email me privately at turtlepower17 at gmail.com if you want to discuss this, or anything else, further. I also have Skype, if that's something you're more comfortable with. And, as I said, I'll talk with my friend and see if I can't get his input about sportscasting. On 5/15/14, Kerri Kosten via nabs-l wrote: > Hi Everyone: > > I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. > I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working > out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned > in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one > class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to > this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I > am on academic suspension. > I have several questions and a lot to say. > If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do > so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go > for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a > bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at > Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I > also know being a waitress isn't likely. > So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? > What was your first job? > What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? > I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting > applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a > bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? > Where is the best place to look for jobs? > To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my > grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out > for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, > and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, > sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a > journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation > in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication > skills. > Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is > I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The > other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth > is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just > been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in > training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I > was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and > actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe > deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all > that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. > The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when > something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of > time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever > work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last > minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming > (figuratively, not literally.) > I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do > what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director > whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I > looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to > return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor > (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of > consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see > what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more > independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. > But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment > where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is > work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. > I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry > that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end > up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to > contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends > me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with > school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many > nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on > schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. > Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I > have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to > recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been > tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I > always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I > was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to > someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am > talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different > than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big > story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I > always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I > don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I > read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN > rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to > sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of > an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes > me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really > makes me sad. > Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have > never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is > interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my > questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. > I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like > everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all > amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no > idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably > don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to > sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I > am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and > depressed. > For example, how do you "break down" a game? > Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere > online afterwords and write about the game that way? > Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites > such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, > Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing > based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? > Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I > listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but > many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't > really know the games at all. > This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm > afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the > rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and > depressed. > How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? > How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively > all the time? > How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've > never really had to work or really do anything? > Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could > help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I > could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they > could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure > things out? > I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up > to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove > me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to > motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use > to motivate me? > Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved > onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the > center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am > just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I > really really struggle when it's just me and myself. > I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind > to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, > negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. > I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to > look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone > sort of on me about getting things done? > Am I the only one who works in this way? > I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I > could have possibly done better in school? > How do you all deal with this? > How do you continuously stay so determined? > For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were > always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do > you force yourself to work so hard? > I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't > know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, > doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great > on happy good days. > Thanks, > Kerri > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/turtlepower17%40gmail.com > -- Desiree From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 18 02:19:20 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Zachary N. Griego-Dreicer via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 17 May 2014 20:19:20 -0600 Subject: [nabs-l] Bug in Google maps transit mode References: <49A28859-2EFA-48A5-B55C-701EA35406A8@gmail.com> Message-ID: <70902970-FE99-44D4-A784-68080807F9DE@gmail.com> Hi everybody, I'm running an iPhone 5s, iOS 7.1 .1. I am a regular commuter on multiple buses in multiple cities around the United States. When planning routes since the new Google maps update, VoiceOver will no longer speak the route information once you put in a starting point, and ending point, and set your departure/arrival preferences. For example, if the route involved both the 66 bus, and then the 29 bus in Denver to get somewhere, voiceover used to say something like, 55 minutes via E. Arapaho Rd. and S. Colorado Blvd. at 17:19. Bus 66, bus 29. The Google maps app in voiceover no longer save this information, and I have to double tap on each route option in order for route information to be displayed. Have an a other Google maps app users noticed this? If so, please report it to Google and make our voices heard! Thanks! > > Sent from my iPhone 5S Using VoiceOver > Sent from my iPhone 5S Using VoiceOver > > -- > With Questions, concerns, or suggestions please email the list owner to alberto.a775 at gmail.com, skype ID alberto.a777, or send an iMessage to alberto.a775 at gmail.com. > --- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "gold-idevice" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to gold-idevice+unsubscribe at googlegroups.com. > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 18 02:50:56 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Chris Nusbaum via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 17 May 2014 22:50:56 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Bug in Google maps transit mode In-Reply-To: <70902970-FE99-44D4-A784-68080807F9DE@gmail.com> References: <49A28859-2EFA-48A5-B55C-701EA35406A8@gmail.com> <70902970-FE99-44D4-A784-68080807F9DE@gmail.com> Message-ID: <000001cf7243$fe5f0890$fb1d19b0$@gmail.com> Zach, Though I do not use Google Maps on my iPhone, I am told that some accessibility was broken in the latest release of Google Maps. In my limited experience with the app I have found Google Maps to be generally confusing and inefficient. Therefore, I would recommend the HopStop app for public transportation trip planning. This app allows you to enter a starting and ending address and the mode of transportation you would like to utilize (subway, bus, etc.) Directions will then be given based on what you have chosen. I find it very useful especially in cities whose public transportation systems are unfamiliar to me. Chris -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Zachary N. Griego-Dreicer via nabs-l Sent: Saturday, May 17, 2014 10:19 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: [nabs-l] Bug in Google maps transit mode Hi everybody, I'm running an iPhone 5s, iOS 7.1 .1. I am a regular commuter on multiple buses in multiple cities around the United States. When planning routes since the new Google maps update, VoiceOver will no longer speak the route information once you put in a starting point, and ending point, and set your departure/arrival preferences. For example, if the route involved both the 66 bus, and then the 29 bus in Denver to get somewhere, voiceover used to say something like, 55 minutes via E. Arapaho Rd. and S. Colorado Blvd. at 17:19. Bus 66, bus 29. The Google maps app in voiceover no longer save this information, and I have to double tap on each route option in order for route information to be displayed. Have an a other Google maps app users noticed this? If so, please report it to Google and make our voices heard! Thanks! > > Sent from my iPhone 5S Using VoiceOver Sent from my iPhone 5S Using > VoiceOver > > -- > With Questions, concerns, or suggestions please email the list owner to alberto.a775 at gmail.com, skype ID alberto.a777, or send an iMessage to alberto.a775 at gmail.com. > --- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "gold-idevice" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to gold-idevice+unsubscribe at googlegroups.com. > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dotkid.nusbaum%40gmail.c om From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 18 03:43:01 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Zachary N. Griego-Dreicer via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 17 May 2014 21:43:01 -0600 Subject: [nabs-l] Bug in Google maps transit mode In-Reply-To: <000001cf7243$fe5f0890$fb1d19b0$@gmail.com> References: <49A28859-2EFA-48A5-B55C-701EA35406A8@gmail.com> <70902970-FE99-44D4-A784-68080807F9DE@gmail.com> <000001cf7243$fe5f0890$fb1d19b0$@gmail.com> Message-ID: <3572270B-13C5-4F1E-8523-8426187145FA@gmail.com> Thanks… I have both applications and use each of them. Sent from my iPhone 5S Using VoiceOver > On May 17, 2014, at 20:50, "Chris Nusbaum" wrote: > > Zach, > > Though I do not use Google Maps on my iPhone, I am told that some > accessibility was broken in the latest release of Google Maps. In my limited > experience with the app I have found Google Maps to be generally confusing > and inefficient. Therefore, I would recommend the HopStop app for public > transportation trip planning. This app allows you to enter a starting and > ending address and the mode of transportation you would like to utilize > (subway, bus, etc.) Directions will then be given based on what you have > chosen. I find it very useful especially in cities whose public > transportation systems are unfamiliar to me. > > Chris > > -----Original Message----- > From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Zachary N. > Griego-Dreicer via nabs-l > Sent: Saturday, May 17, 2014 10:19 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: [nabs-l] Bug in Google maps transit mode > > Hi everybody, I'm running an iPhone 5s, iOS 7.1 .1. I am a regular commuter > on multiple buses in multiple cities around the United States. When > planning routes since the new Google maps update, VoiceOver will no longer > speak the route information once you put in a starting point, and ending > point, and set your departure/arrival preferences. For example, if the > route involved both the 66 bus, and then the 29 bus in Denver to get > somewhere, voiceover used to say something like, 55 minutes via E. Arapaho > Rd. and S. Colorado Blvd. at 17:19. Bus 66, bus 29. The Google maps app in > voiceover no longer save this information, and I have to double tap on each > route option in order for route information to be displayed. Have an a other > Google maps app users noticed this? If so, please report it to Google and > make our voices heard! Thanks! >> >> Sent from my iPhone 5S Using VoiceOver Sent from my iPhone 5S Using >> VoiceOver >> >> -- >> With Questions, concerns, or suggestions please email the list owner to > alberto.a775 at gmail.com, skype ID alberto.a777, or send an iMessage to > alberto.a775 at gmail.com. >> --- >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "gold-idevice" group. >> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to gold-idevice+unsubscribe at googlegroups.com. >> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dotkid.nusbaum%40gmail.c > om > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 18 05:42:56 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Helga Schreiber via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 01:42:56 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Fwd: How do I add a new email account to Windows Live Mail References: <1DB6B67CD2E2411EA8718EE7BC5052A9@Helga> Message-ID: Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: > From: > Date: May 16, 2014 at 10:01:10 PM EDT > To: > Cc: "Florida Association of Blind Students" > Subject: How do I add a new email account to Windows Live Mail > > Hi all, this is Helga. How are you all? I just wanted to tell you that I use Windows Live Mail, which is an email client; instead, of using web base in order to receive, write, and send emails. I just wanted to ask you, How do I addd a new gmail account to Windows Live Mail? I’m just wondering since I really don’t know how to do it. Actually, my lighthouse instructor helped me add my gmail email account that I’m using right now to write you to Windows Live Mail two years ago, but she didn’t teach me how to do it by myself! Just to let you know, I’m a member of Phi Theta Kappa, honor society of my college, and currently my friend and I got elected as the New Fund-raisers Coordinators for this upcoming Fall semester! So in that case my friend told me that she created an gmail email account in order for us to communicate and receive emails from the Phi Theta Kappa E-board members and members. So I would like to add this new email account to Windows Live Mail in order to make it easier for me since I already use it,, rather than accessing web base mail. I will really appreciate it a lot, if you could help me with this by telling me step by step in how to do it! And if you can, you can also do JAWS tandom with me by taking over my computer, and in that way we can do it together and you can explain me step by step in how can I do it! by myself. Only if you want of course! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! > P.S. By the way, I have JAWS 14, and I use windows 8. Thanks again! From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 18 13:42:40 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (sami osborne via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 09:42:40 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] an interesting article Message-ID: <0N5R00FLYVF7MO80@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> Hi all. Below I will paste an article that my mom emailed to me yesterdayou The article is about a Braille phone designed by a British company called OwnPhone. I have found this article interesting so I thought that you guys might also be interested. It describes the phone that they made and also what kinds of phones they have made in the past. You can ignore the ending, as it just describes VoiceOver and Android, and we all know about them, don't we? Note: currently, this phone is only avialable in the UK, so people like Sandra Gayer can buy it. By the way Sandra, feel free to chime in if you already have it and share how you like it. So as promised, the article below which Ow will paste right now. Let me know what you think. Thanks, Sami. Braille phone goes on sale in 'world first' London-based firm OwnFone has released what it says is the world's first Braille phone. The front and back of the phone is constructed using 3D printing techniques and can be customised. Other companies have designed Braille phones in the past, but OwnFone says its device is the first of its kind to go on sale. For those who can't read Braille, the company can print raised text on the keypad. The phone, currently only available in the UK, retails for £60 and according to its inventor Tom Sunderland, 3D printing the front and back of the device helped to keep the costs down. "3D printing... provides a fast and cost-effective way to create personalised Braille buttons," he says. The device is designed to provide an instant connection between blind users and their friends and family. Haptic touchscreen In 2012, OwnFone launched what was one of the world's first partially 3D printed phones. A year later, the company developed a special child-friendly version called 1stFone, a credit-card sized device with programmable buttons for crucial contacts. OwnFone's new Braille phone is based on these previous two devices, keeping its small form factor and colourful design From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 18 15:52:32 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Suzanne Germano via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 11:52:32 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Kerri What were the issues that led to the C and F? I know you said you turned in most assignments on time. Why didn't you do all the assignments? was it an accessibility issue? What services does your college offer? My school has tons of free help available including tutoring centers, extra review classes, extra recitation classes, supplementary instruction classes. My school also has something called TRIO which is extra tutoring at no charge available to those who qualify which is disability and income issues plus some others. Did you look into what your school offers? Having a degree doesn't guarantee success but in most case will lead to a much higher paying job. Suzanne On Sat, May 17, 2014 at 9:11 PM, Desiree Oudinot via nabs-l < nabs-l at nfbnet.org> wrote: > Hi Kerri, > I can relate to a lot of what you've said in your message. I don't > want to minimize what you're going through by saying that, but I can > definitely identify with a lot of your struggles with confidence and > finding a place to belong in the world. > I don't know much about sportscasting, but I do have a friend who's > blind and in college to get into that field. Since it's a fairly > recent friendship that we have, I don't know how comfortable he would > be with talking with you about this, but I can ask him if he would > mind giving you some more details in that area. He seems pretty sure > that this is the path he wants to take, and i would be more than happy > to see if he would be willing to help you. > As far as failing college is concerned, that's one of the reasons I've > never went. When I was in public school, I either did very poorly or > very well, depending on whether the teacher thought I shouldn't fail > because of my blindness or was uncomfortable with it. There was more > to it, of course, like the fact that I went to a tiny school in a > rural area where none of the teachers or students had ever encountered > a blind student before. Because of the constant bullying I endured, as > well as the often bad attitudes of teachers, I wasn't motivated to try > very hard, and I was very depressed. I also struggled quite a bit in > subjects like math and science. > Then, I went to a school for the blind for my high school years. While > it was in some respects better, it was also much worse academically. > We weren't expected to really do much with our lives once we > graduated, so not much emphasis was placed on academic success. I > honestly don't want to sound like I'm bragging, but I barely had to > lift a finger to get A's in the work we were given. The only thing > that saved me from becoming overconfident in that situation was my > previous harsh background. I knew two things: A. I would be expected > to be much, much more in the workforce or college than I was in such a > sheltered environment, and B. unlike a lot of people I associated with > at that time, I knew that there was a lot more than just that tiny > segment of the world out there. > When I graduated from high school, there was a lot of pressure on me > to go to college. I felt academically unprepared, as well as fearful > that I would only be victimized and doubted by sighted people. If > there's one thing I've learned from my many, many bad experiences in > school, it's that students have no rights, no recourse when things go > south. Especially as an adult, you're supposed to just be glad you're > getting educated at all. So I didn't go, and, to be honest, I don't > regret it. > Sure, it would help in the long run, but a college degree does not a > successful person make. I was recently offered a call center job, and, > while it wouldn't be my ideal choice, if I get it, I'm going to > embrace and make the best of it. I'm not getting any younger, and I've > always been someone who wanted an average job, an average life. I > don't want to be a blind superstar; I just want to be me. And "me" is > someone who prefers to blend into the background as much as possible, > to be left alone except for the few who I allow into my world. > I, too, wish that more entry-level jobs were available to us. I would > have taken one if I could have. In fact, my dream job would be to work > in an independent record store. There are actually a couple well-known > ones right in my backyard, so to speak. It doesn't seem like much of > an aspiration, I know, but I've been a vinyl collector for years, and > to be able to share that passion with others, to be able to keep a > dying art a little further away from its deathbed, would make me > happy. People think it's downright weird for a young person such as > myself to be into that, but I am, no matter how much I tried to > suppress it in my younger days, and if I worked at a place like that, > maybe it would help me feel less alone and freakish. > Of course, though, it really can't happen. I wouldn't be able to sort > records, nor check for excessive wear and damage if people brought in > their collections to sell. Usually, places like that have pretty high > standards for quality. I don't expect you or anyone else to understand > why this would be my dream job, but I do honestly know the hollowness > you probably feel at your perceived inability to do the one thing you > love right. > I also know how it is to believe that you're not good at anything. I > don't, but I guess that's kind of a paradox, seeing as how mediocrity > is my ambition. It's jus fine when it comes to how I want my life to > be, or the lives of others, but when it comes to myself, I don't > really think I'm good enough at anything to be taken seriously. I > could name a thousand things, and think of probably a thousand people > who can do those things better than I can. It's not even that I want > to be the best at any given thing; I just want to know that I'm good > at it, in the realm of being recognized. Not to be called out for it, > mind you, just to know, to be told, for once in my life, that I'm > doing ok. Praise isn't something I'm comfortable with, for two > reasons. First, as you mentioned, it usually only comes to us when > it's not really necessary. That never got my confidence up; on the > contrary, it made me angry. There are people out there who never get > the recognition they deserve, and yet, here I am, doing some mundane > task, and I'm getting as much praise heaped on me as if I've just > single-handedly won the World Series. yeah, that bothers me. Luckily, > it doesn't happen too often, because most of the adults in my life > tend to believe the opposite, that I'm blind and helpless and/or > stupid. > All this to say...I don't think I can offer any concrete advice. I > would be a hypocrite if I did. But if you ever want to reach out to a > fellow traveler down this frustrating road, I'm here. You can email me > privately at turtlepower17 at gmail.com if you want to discuss this, or > anything else, further. I also have Skype, if that's something you're > more comfortable with. And, as I said, I'll talk with my friend and > see if I can't get his input about sportscasting. > > On 5/15/14, Kerri Kosten via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi Everyone: > > > > I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. > > I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working > > out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned > > in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one > > class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to > > this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I > > am on academic suspension. > > I have several questions and a lot to say. > > If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do > > so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go > > for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a > > bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at > > Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I > > also know being a waitress isn't likely. > > So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a > degree? > > What was your first job? > > What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? > > I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting > > applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a > > bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? > > Where is the best place to look for jobs? > > To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my > > grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out > > for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, > > and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, > > sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a > > journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation > > in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication > > skills. > > Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is > > I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The > > other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth > > is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just > > been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in > > training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I > > was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and > > actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe > > deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all > > that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. > > The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when > > something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of > > time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever > > work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last > > minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming > > (figuratively, not literally.) > > I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do > > what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director > > whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I > > looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to > > return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor > > (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of > > consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see > > what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more > > independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. > > But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment > > where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is > > work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. > > I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry > > that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end > > up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to > > contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends > > me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with > > school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many > > nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on > > schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. > > Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I > > have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to > > recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been > > tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I > > always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I > > was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to > > someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am > > talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different > > than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big > > story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I > > always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I > > don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I > > read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN > > rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to > > sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of > > an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes > > me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really > > makes me sad. > > Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have > > never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is > > interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my > > questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. > > I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like > > everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all > > amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no > > idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably > > don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to > > sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I > > am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and > > depressed. > > For example, how do you "break down" a game? > > Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere > > online afterwords and write about the game that way? > > Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites > > such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, > > Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing > > based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? > > Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I > > listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but > > many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't > > really know the games at all. > > This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm > > afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the > > rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and > > depressed. > > How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? > > How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively > > all the time? > > How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've > > never really had to work or really do anything? > > Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could > > help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I > > could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they > > could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure > > things out? > > I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up > > to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove > > me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to > > motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use > > to motivate me? > > Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved > > onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the > > center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am > > just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I > > really really struggle when it's just me and myself. > > I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind > > to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, > > negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. > > I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to > > look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone > > sort of on me about getting things done? > > Am I the only one who works in this way? > > I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I > > could have possibly done better in school? > > How do you all deal with this? > > How do you continuously stay so determined? > > For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were > > always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do > > you force yourself to work so hard? > > I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't > > know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, > > doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great > > on happy good days. > > Thanks, > > Kerri > > > > _______________________________________________ > > nabs-l mailing list > > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > > nabs-l: > > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/turtlepower17%40gmail.com > > > > > -- > Desiree > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sgermano%40asu.edu > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 18 21:59:46 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Arielle Silverman via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 14:59:46 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] an interesting article In-Reply-To: <0N5R00FLYVF7MO80@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> References: <0N5R00FLYVF7MO80@vms173021.mailsrvcs.net> Message-ID: I think the article was cut off. As I recall, the latter part of the article says the phone includes just four programmable speed-dials;I assume no standard keypad. I love Braille a lot, and love any public promotion of Braille we can find, but in today's age who would pay $120 for a phone that can only call four people? Perhaps we should wait until the 3D-printed phone is fully functional and competitive. Arielle On 5/18/14, sami osborne via nabs-l wrote: > Hi all. > > Below I will paste an article that my mom emailed to me > yesterdayou > The article is about a Braille phone designed by a British > company called OwnPhone. > I have found this article interesting so I thought that you guys > might also be interested. > > It describes the phone that they made and also what kinds of > phones they have made in the past. You can ignore the ending, as > it just describes VoiceOver and Android, and we all know about > them, don't we? > > Note: currently, this phone is only avialable in the UK, so > people like Sandra Gayer can buy it. > By the way Sandra, feel free to chime in if you already have it > and share how you like it. > So as promised, the article below which Ow will paste right now. > > Let me know what you think. > > Thanks, > > Sami. > Braille phone goes on sale in 'world first' > London-based firm OwnFone has released what it says is the > world's first Braille phone. > The front and back of the phone is constructed using 3D > printing techniques and can be customised. > Other companies have designed Braille phones in the past, but > OwnFone says its device is the first of its kind to go on sale. > For those who can't read Braille, the company can print raised > text on the keypad. > The phone, currently only available in the UK, retails for £60 > and according to its inventor Tom Sunderland, 3D printing the > front and back of the device helped to keep the costs down. > "3D printing... provides a fast and cost-effective way to > create personalised Braille buttons," he says. > The device is designed to provide an instant connection between > blind users and their friends and family. > Haptic touchscreen > In 2012, OwnFone launched what was one of the world's first > partially 3D printed phones. > A year later, the company developed a special child-friendly > version called 1stFone, a credit-card sized device with > programmable buttons for crucial contacts. > OwnFone's new Braille phone is based on these previous two > devices, keeping its small form factor and colourful design > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 18 23:48:05 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 19:48:05 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access Message-ID: Hi all, Well, I have a library card and may soon find out what I can use. It seems to me we get minimal access at university libraries; like only one pc with jaws and most databases are not real accessible. But, at public libraries, we cannot even use the pcs. This has bothered me for some time as an active citizen. Do you access your public library? Now, I realize we cannot read print. But, with jaws, we can use the e audiobooks and evideos. So questions. 1. does your library have jaws, zoomtext, or any software for the vi population? 2. Most libraries use overdrive for e resource material. This means ebooks, e-audiobooks, and evideos. Is overdrive accessible? If you used it for an e audiobook, how is it divided up? by chapter? I’m sure its not as much as our daisy books. 3. If you’ve gone to a library to get books that you might read via your own CCTV, magnifier, or with a reader, were the staff helpful? Also, anyone want to comment on what electronic resources they found accessible at public libraries using your own equipment like a laptop? Our libraries have free wireless access so I’m sure this is pretty standard elsewhere. So, you could bring your own equipment in and search the databases. I’m wondering if encyclopedias like Gale Reference library or Grolier online are usable. My hunch would be yes, but have not tried. I plan to though as I would like to do some research on historical famous composers and women soon. Thanks. Ashley From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 18 23:56:22 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Littlefield, Tyler via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 19:56:22 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <537948A6.8000600@tysdomain.com> I've only been to one library that was accessible and it was in Phoenix. Most libraries are ran on grants, donations and whatever other money they can pull together. Installing a random $1200 copy of jaws just in case is generally out of the question--do you know how many books can be bought for that much money? On 5/18/2014 7:48 PM, Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l wrote: > Hi all, > > Well, I have a library card and may soon find out what I can use. > > It seems to me we get minimal access at university libraries; like only one pc with jaws and most databases are not real accessible. > But, at public libraries, we cannot even use the pcs. > > This has bothered me for some time as an active citizen. > Do you access your public library? > Now, I realize we cannot read print. > But, with jaws, we can use the e audiobooks and evideos. > > So questions. > > 1. does your library have jaws, zoomtext, or any software for the vi population? > 2. Most libraries use overdrive for e resource material. This means ebooks, e-audiobooks, and evideos. Is overdrive accessible? If you used it for an e audiobook, how is it divided up? by chapter? I’m sure its not as much as our daisy books. > > 3. If you’ve gone to a library to get books that you might read via your own CCTV, magnifier, or with a reader, were the staff helpful? > > Also, anyone want to comment on what electronic resources they found accessible at public libraries using your own equipment like a laptop? > Our libraries have free wireless access so I’m sure this is pretty standard elsewhere. So, you could bring your own equipment in and search the databases. I’m wondering if encyclopedias like Gale Reference library or Grolier online are usable. My hunch would be yes, but have not tried. I plan to though as I would like to do some research on historical famous composers and women soon. > > Thanks. > Ashley > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/tyler%40tysdomain.com -- Take care, Ty http://tds-solutions.net He that will not reason is a bigot; he that cannot reason is a fool; he that dares not reason is a slave. From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 00:05:23 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Mary Fernandez via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 20:05:23 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] NABS mentoring program 2014! Message-ID: All, Hope that everyone had a lovely restful weekend. Two weeks after having opened the application to the mentoring program, we have had a wonderful response. But we still need more mentors and mentees! If you know of a student who has never attended a national convention, or who would benefit from this program, please forward this information. If you, or someone you know wants to volunteer to mentor someone please apply. There is nothing quite as powerful as forming personal relationships when we want to bring in new members. Even if they don't become members, I want every student who participates in this program to walk away with the knowledge that they can do whatever it is that they want to do. So, sign up today. Contact me if you have any questions or concerns. The application forms are at www.nabslink.org in the homepage there is a National convention mentoring program link. The first meet and greet will be July 1st, not July 2nd as I previously mistakenly wrote. Thank you and see you at convention! -- Mary Fernandez "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." -- Maya Angelou From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 01:30:42 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Zach Mason via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 21:30:42 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... Message-ID: <001101cf7301$f438fa10$dcaaee30$@gmail.com> Hi Kerri, As Desiree said, I can sympathize with your situation, and I am not a sports person at all, unless you count bull riding. Also, feel free to contact me off list if you wish. I do have a B.S. in animal science, but am facing very similar challenges that you are at present. Personally I accept that I am going to work harder to achieve my ideal career path, but as one prof told me there are two types of people in life. Those who find the work that fits them, and those who change to fit the work available. Neither way is wrong. I remember in college feeling, and still feeling today like I am not an expert in my field. I didn't take the full year of organic chemistry, biochemistry, and those chemistries I did take I got C's in. I encourage you to take time to examine your strengths, maybe meditate some. From reading your message you might have the solutions to your problems. As a former school newspaper reporter, I can tell you a tape recorder is your best friend, blind or not. Concerning the need for consequence to meet deadlines, that's really not all that abnormal. I knew plenty of people, Cornell students no less, who wrote papers the night before they were due and had better grades than I got. I'm not sure if this helped at all. I felt compelled to respond to your post as I could really relate. I suspect plenty of others on the list can too. Regards, Zac _______________________________________________ Hi Everyone: I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I am on academic suspension. I have several questions and a lot to say. If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I also know being a waitress isn't likely. So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? What was your first job? What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? Where is the best place to look for jobs? To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication skills. Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming (figuratively, not literally.) I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really makes me sad. Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and depressed. For example, how do you "break down" a game? Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere online afterwords and write about the game that way? Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't really know the games at all. This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and depressed. How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively all the time? How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've never really had to work or really do anything? Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure things out? I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use to motivate me? Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I really really struggle when it's just me and myself. I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone sort of on me about getting things done? Am I the only one who works in this way? I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I could have possibly done better in school? How do you all deal with this? How do you continuously stay so determined? For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do you force yourself to work so hard? I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great on happy good days. Thanks, Kerri _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/turtlepower17%40gm ail.com -- Desiree ------------------------------ Message: 4 Date: Sat, 17 May 2014 20:19:20 -0600 From: "Zachary N. Griego-Dreicer via nabs-l" < From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 01:45:55 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Lillie Pennington via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 21:45:55 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <007701cf7304$135eff50$3a1cfdf0$@net> Hi Carrie, I am going to go through every part of your email and write my comments in this reply. Hopefully my comments as to what part of the email I am referring to are clear; if not, let me know if anything is unclear. The parts I mention about myself are mainly here for example and context; I am not trying to tell you what to do or spout off stuff that I haven't semi-experienced. I know that I am in a different stage of my life than you, but hopefully some of this advice helps you some, or helps you to think. First off, I am sorry that you had such a tough time at school. If I may ask, (and you can think these to yourself in evaluating your next plan of action or provide these answers on the list so that we could better help you), how much of the assignments did you turn in, meaning what percentage? Were there other reasons besides not feeling up to working that caused you to have a problem? What reasons made you not want to work. Did you have a difficult time understanding the class material? Did you have family/friend support while you were in school? Also, do not be ashamed of your lack of confidence. This is a struggle for many blind/visually impaired people, including myself. By posting to this list, you are taking one of the first steps to helping yourself; the first step was recognizing that you had these challenges and limitations. Working through your struggles will take a lot of time, and it will be an ongoing process. In terms of your confidence, you need to start small and build yourself up gradually. Unfortunately, there will be parts in your life, as well as people and certain situations that will attempt, and may partially succeed at tearing you down. However, you cannot let this stop you. Resilience (being able to get back up after you fall, so to speak) is one of the most helpful qualities that a blind person can have. Resilience can also take a long time to build. I would recommend following Joes advice of starting a blog. I started a blog about my crafting adventures a few months ago. The purpose of my blog is to write about my experiences, as well as help others by providing resources and directions for various resources related to crafting of any medium that could particularly help blind people; and to serve as an inspiration and a starting point for those who want to do some sort of craft or art. This blog helps with commitment, as well as confidence. Commitment in the fact that I need to write regularly to maintain readership, and confidence in the fact that its cool to have people, no matter the number look at something you've written. I would recommend writing about your passion. If sports are your passion, go for that. If you don't know what to do, start it out as a blog about a young adult who is blind trying to find her place in life. The only reason I suggest that topic is because I would very strongly recommend writing about a specific theme so that you have something to write about and not just a general interest blog. Everyone else has given you really good advice and I do not want to repeat what has already been said. Remember, it is way easier to tear someone down than it is to build someone up; and right now, you need to do things that will solidly build you up in terms of confidence. I hope this helps. Lillie -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kerri Kosten via nabs-l Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2014 8:50 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list; Anjelina Cruz; Arielle Silverman Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... Hi Everyone: I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I am on academic suspension. I have several questions and a lot to say. If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I also know being a waitress isn't likely. So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? What was your first job? What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? Where is the best place to look for jobs? To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication skills. Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming (figuratively, not literally.) I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really makes me sad. Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and depressed. For example, how do you "break down" a game? Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere online afterwords and write about the game that way? Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't really know the games at all. This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and depressed. How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively all the time? How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've never really had to work or really do anything? Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure things out? I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use to motivate me? Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I really really struggle when it's just me and myself. I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone sort of on me about getting things done? Am I the only one who works in this way? I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I could have possibly done better in school? How do you all deal with this? How do you continuously stay so determined? For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do you force yourself to work so hard? I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great on happy good days. Thanks, Kerri _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse. net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 02:58:52 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Sophie Trist via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 21:58:52 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access Message-ID: <53797385.2241320a.72ad.4a51@mx.google.com> I am the VI population in my hometown, so my library's computers aren't accessible. I have played with the Overdrive app on the iPhone, and my reaction to it is iffy. Thing is, the app is updated often. Some updates are more accessible than others. The fun part is that I have a friend who works at the library, so I give her feedback on accessibility or lack thereof. When the overdrive app works, I've found it very useful and enjoyable. The auidobooks are divided into sections, not exactly by chapter. They don't have a massive selection, but hey, free audiobooks are free audiobooks. ----- Original Message ----- From: Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l References: Message-ID: <1400477796.54953.YahooMailNeo@web126106.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Mary, I appreciate the fine work you are doing, but want to point out one area that may be over-looked.  Because of the economy and all the cuts in Federal, state and local programs, many blind seniors have been forced to go back to work or get more schooling, like myself.  Therefore, I might suggest the formation of a mentoring group for blind seniors or/and adults returning to school.  I am just getting my membership in the NBF and plan on becoming very active at both the national and state levels.  At this point, I am the Secretary/Treasurer of the Wisconsin chapter of the Blind Veterans Association and on the Legislative Lobbying Committee of the Wisconsin Council for the Blind.  What can I do to help?  With regards, Tom Peralta On Sunday, May 18, 2014 7:06 PM, Mary Fernandez via nabs-l wrote: All, Hope that everyone had a lovely restful weekend. Two weeks after having opened the application to the mentoring program, we have had a wonderful response. But we still need more mentors and mentees! If you know of a student who has never attended a national convention, or who would benefit from this program, please forward this information. If you, or someone you know wants to volunteer to mentor someone please apply. There is nothing quite as powerful as forming personal relationships when we want to bring in new members. Even if they don't become members, I want every student who participates in this program to walk away with the knowledge that they can do whatever it is that they want to do. So, sign up today. Contact me if you have any questions or concerns. The application forms are at www.nabslink.org in the homepage there is a National convention mentoring program link. The first meet and greet will be July 1st, not July 2nd as I previously mistakenly wrote. Thank you and see you at convention! -- Mary Fernandez "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." -- Maya Angelou _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/tinypaws8491%40yahoo.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 05:36:36 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Thomas Peralta via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 18 May 2014 22:36:36 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [nabs-l] NABS mentoring program 2014! In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <1400477796.54953.YahooMailNeo@web126106.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Mary, I appreciate the fine work you are doing, but want to point out one area that may be over-looked.  Because of the economy and all the cuts in Federal, state and local programs, many blind seniors have been forced to go back to work or get more schooling, like myself.  Therefore, I might suggest the formation of a mentoring group for blind seniors or/and adults returning to school.  I am just getting my membership in the NBF and plan on becoming very active at both the national and state levels.  At this point, I am the Secretary/Treasurer of the Wisconsin chapter of the Blind Veterans Association and on the Legislative Lobbying Committee of the Wisconsin Council for the Blind.  What can I do to help?  With regards, Tom Peralta On Sunday, May 18, 2014 7:06 PM, Mary Fernandez via nabs-l wrote: All, Hope that everyone had a lovely restful weekend. Two weeks after having opened the application to the mentoring program, we have had a wonderful response. But we still need more mentors and mentees! If you know of a student who has never attended a national convention, or who would benefit from this program, please forward this information. If you, or someone you know wants to volunteer to mentor someone please apply. There is nothing quite as powerful as forming personal relationships when we want to bring in new members. Even if they don't become members, I want every student who participates in this program to walk away with the knowledge that they can do whatever it is that they want to do. So, sign up today. Contact me if you have any questions or concerns. The application forms are at www.nabslink.org in the homepage there is a National convention mentoring program link. The first meet and greet will be July 1st, not July 2nd as I previously mistakenly wrote. Thank you and see you at convention! -- Mary Fernandez "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." -- Maya Angelou _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/tinypaws8491%40yahoo.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 14:16:41 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Gabe Cazares via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 19 May 2014 09:16:41 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Preconvention NABS Notes Announcements Message-ID: <000001cf736c$f78ed930$e6ac8b90$@com> Howdy Friends, Your diligent NABS Communications Committee is gearing up to assemble the June preconvention edition of the NABS Notes. Since this will be our preconvention edition, we are asking for state student leaders to send any announcements to us no later than Friday May 30, 2014 by 5:00 PM CDT. This will allow us ample time to put together the monthly bulletin in a timely manner. If your state student division has any fundraising activities planned for convention, or you have updates you'd like to share, please send your announcements to me at: gcazares at nfbtx.org. Thanks, and I look forward to seeing many of you in Orlando! Best, ...Gabe Gabe Cazares, President Texas Association of Blind Students A Division of the National Federation of the Blind of Texas From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 14:51:32 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Suzanne Germano via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 19 May 2014 10:51:32 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] NABS mentoring program 2014! In-Reply-To: <1400477796.54953.YahooMailNeo@web126106.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> References: <1400477796.54953.YahooMailNeo@web126106.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: I think that is a great idea and agree. I am 50 and just returned to school Spring 2013. I think I could really benefit form a mentor in my field who is VI or blind. Suzanne On Mon, May 19, 2014 at 1:36 AM, Thomas Peralta via nabs-l < nabs-l at nfbnet.org> wrote: > Mary, > I appreciate the fine work you are doing, but want to point out one area > that may be over-looked. Because of the economy and all the cuts in > Federal, state and local programs, many blind seniors have been forced to > go back to work or get more schooling, like myself. Therefore, I might > suggest the formation of a mentoring group for blind seniors or/and adults > returning to school. I am just getting my membership in the NBF and plan > on becoming very active at both the national and state levels. At this > point, I am the Secretary/Treasurer of the Wisconsin chapter of the Blind > Veterans Association and on the Legislative Lobbying Committee of the > Wisconsin Council for the Blind. What can I do to help? With regards, Tom > Peralta > On Sunday, May 18, 2014 7:06 PM, Mary Fernandez via nabs-l < > nabs-l at nfbnet.org> wrote: > > > > All, > Hope that everyone had a lovely restful weekend. Two weeks after > having opened the application to the mentoring program, we have had a > wonderful response. But we still need more mentors and mentees! If you > know of a student who has never attended a national convention, or who > would benefit from this program, please forward this information. If > you, or someone you know wants to volunteer to mentor someone please > apply. There is nothing quite as powerful as forming personal > relationships when we want to bring in new members. Even if they don't > become members, I want every student who participates in this program > to walk away with the knowledge that they can do whatever it is that > they want to do. So, sign up today. Contact me if you have any > questions or concerns. > The application forms are at www.nabslink.org in the homepage there is > a National convention mentoring program link. > The first meet and greet will be July 1st, not July 2nd as I > previously mistakenly wrote. > Thank you and see you at convention! > -- > Mary Fernandez > "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will > forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them > feel." > -- > Maya Angelou > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/tinypaws8491%40yahoo.com > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sgermano%40asu.edu > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 15:39:39 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Sean Whalen via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 19 May 2014 11:39:39 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] National Convention Deadlines Quickly Approaching Message-ID: <01cc01cf7378$8cd8c540$a68a4fc0$@gmail.com> Good Monday morning NABS! I'm just writing with a quick reminder that the deadline for our room block in Orlando (May 28), as well as the convention preregistration deadline (May31) are nearly upon us. The 2014 National Federation of the Blind National Convention, to be held at the Rosen Centre July 1-6, is rapidly approaching. If you have not yet preregistered or reserved your room at the Rosen Centre, we encourage you to do so as soon as possible. You won't want to miss what is always the largest and most exciting gathering of blind people in the country, and, of course, all the exciting NABS events! Rooms at the Rosen Centre are available on a first-come, first-served basis until our block is filled or until May 28, whichever comes first. After our block is filled and/or after May 28, the hotel has no obligation to accept any further reservations. The room block often fills up before the deadline. To make a reservation now and ensure you don't miss out on the special room rates associated with our block, please call the Rosen Centre at (800) 204-7234. The deadline for preregistration for the national convention is also quickly approaching - preregistration ends at midnight on May 31. As always, we encourage you to preregister online ( http://lx-web.nfb.org/convention) and avoid waiting in the long lines at convention. You will also save some money by preregistering -the preregistration fee for convention is $25 ($30 on site) and the cost of a banquet ticket is $55 ($60 on site). I look forward to seeing many of you in Orlando! Take care, Sean From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 15:58:27 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian Smith via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 19 May 2014 08:58:27 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] NABS mentoring program 2014! In-Reply-To: <1400477796.54953.YahooMailNeo@web126106.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> References: <1400477796.54953.YahooMailNeo@web126106.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <6EDAD3EA-0A89-42E7-AFD3-8DF89374B7E9@gmail.com> Hi Tom, Thank you for your thoughtful suggestions. I would respond by saying that the National Association of Blind Students is a division made up of students who are from many different walks of life, having many different experiences, interests, desires and needs. We come together to help each other reach our goals, and are very supportive of the needs of each other. In the past we supported the forming of a committee in which non- traditional students could come together to help bring about more focused attention to this portion of our membership. We’ve also attempted the same but for our high school members. We would be open to doing this again, provided there is a good amount of interest to do it, and reasonable commitment to back it up. I hope that this helps. If you would like some assistance in organizing such a committee, feel free to send me a note off-list and I will be glad to lend what I can as I am able. Again, I thank you for your thoughts, and am happy that you are interested in involvement in the work that we do to raise expectations for blind people. On May 18, 2014, at 10:36 PM, Thomas Peralta via nabs-l wrote: > Mary, > I appreciate the fine work you are doing, but want to point out one area that may be over-looked. Because of the economy and all the cuts in Federal, state and local programs, many blind seniors have been forced to go back to work or get more schooling, like myself. Therefore, I might suggest the formation of a mentoring group for blind seniors or/and adults returning to school. I am just getting my membership in the NBF and plan on becoming very active at both the national and state levels. At this point, I am the Secretary/Treasurer of the Wisconsin chapter of the Blind Veterans Association and on the Legislative Lobbying Committee of the Wisconsin Council for the Blind. What can I do to help? With regards, Tom Peralta > On Sunday, May 18, 2014 7:06 PM, Mary Fernandez via nabs-l wrote: > > > > All, > Hope that everyone had a lovely restful weekend. Two weeks after > having opened the application to the mentoring program, we have had a > wonderful response. But we still need more mentors and mentees! If you > know of a student who has never attended a national convention, or who > would benefit from this program, please forward this information. If > you, or someone you know wants to volunteer to mentor someone please > apply. There is nothing quite as powerful as forming personal > relationships when we want to bring in new members. Even if they don't > become members, I want every student who participates in this program > to walk away with the knowledge that they can do whatever it is that > they want to do. So, sign up today. Contact me if you have any > questions or concerns. > The application forms are at www.nabslink.org in the homepage there is > a National convention mentoring program link. > The first meet and greet will be July 1st, not July 2nd as I > previously mistakenly wrote. > Thank you and see you at convention! > -- > Mary Fernandez > "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will > forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them > feel." > -- > Maya Angelou > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/tinypaws8491%40yahoo.com > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com Darian Smith 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students (415) 215-9809 dsmithnfb at gmail.com. twitter: @goldengateace www.nabslink.org Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. “ A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” - Nelson Mandela. > > Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further > Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! > For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 17:38:58 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 19 May 2014 10:38:58 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Several Questions... In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140519102141.01e18008@comcast.net> Good morning, Desiree, Great letter and suggestions for Kerri. I too am but 30 years old yet, I find this new fang led digital infrastructure to be strangely fake, lacking in a tangibility. n satisfyingly tangible even though I am but 30 years old! As for your idea of working in a recordshop, why don't you get a buddy to give the merchandise a once-over while you provide what sounds like vast knowledge and engage the patrons in discussions about the music? This way, it would seem to me, everybody wins? What do you think? for today, Car 408-209-3239 You could get like, a buddy of your's to eyeball the merchandise your store cells while you contribute know how tangible like albums , appreciate a love of vin al albums, since I find that, this digital infrastructure they're building now seems to e to be kind of fak At 06:11 PM 5/17/2014, Desiree Oudinot via nabs-l wrote: >Hi Kerri, >I can relate to a lot of what you've said in your message. I don't >want to minimize what you're going through by saying that, but I can >definitely identify with a lot of your struggles with confidence and >finding a place to belong in the world. >I don't know much about sportscasting, but I do have a friend who's >blind and in college to get into that field. Since it's a fairly >recent friendship that we have, I don't know how comfortable he would >be with talking with you about this, but I can ask him if he would >mind giving you some more details in that area. He seems pretty sure >that this is the path he wants to take, and i would be more than happy >to see if he would be willing to help you. >As far as failing college is concerned, that's one of the reasons I've >never went. When I was in public school, I either did very poorly or >very well, depending on whether the teacher thought I shouldn't fail >because of my blindness or was uncomfortable with it. There was more >to it, of course, like the fact that I went to a tiny school in a >rural area where none of the teachers or students had ever encountered >a blind student before. Because of the constant bullying I endured, as >well as the often bad attitudes of teachers, I wasn't motivated to try >very hard, and I was very depressed. I also struggled quite a bit in >subjects like math and science. >Then, I went to a school for the blind for my high school years. While >it was in some respects better, it was also much worse academically. >We weren't expected to really do much with our lives once we >graduated, so not much emphasis was placed on academic success. I >honestly don't want to sound like I'm bragging, but I barely had to >lift a finger to get A's in the work we were given. The only thing >that saved me from becoming overconfident in that situation was my >previous harsh background. I knew two things: A. I would be expected >to be much, much more in the workforce or college than I was in such a >sheltered environment, and B. unlike a lot of people I associated with >at that time, I knew that there was a lot more than just that tiny >segment of the world out there. >When I graduated from high school, there was a lot of pressure on me >to go to college. I felt academically unprepared, as well as fearful >that I would only be victimized and doubted by sighted people. If >there's one thing I've learned from my many, many bad experiences in >school, it's that students have no rights, no recourse when things go >south. Especially as an adult, you're supposed to just be glad you're >getting educated at all. So I didn't go, and, to be honest, I don't >regret it. >Sure, it would help in the long run, but a college degree does not a >successful person make. I was recently offered a call center job, and, >while it wouldn't be my ideal choice, if I get it, I'm going to >embrace and make the best of it. I'm not getting any younger, and I've >always been someone who wanted an average job, an average life. I >don't want to be a blind superstar; I just want to be me. And "me" is >someone who prefers to blend into the background as much as possible, >to be left alone except for the few who I allow into my world. >I, too, wish that more entry-level jobs were available to us. I would >have taken one if I could have. In fact, my dream job would be to work >in an independent record store. There are actually a couple well-known >ones right in my backyard, so to speak. It doesn't seem like much of >an aspiration, I know, but I've been a vinyl collector for years, and >to be able to share that passion with others, to be able to keep a >dying art a little further away from its deathbed, would make me >happy. People think it's downright weird for a young person such as >myself to be into that, but I am, no matter how much I tried to >suppress it in my younger days, and if I worked at a place like that, >maybe it would help me feel less alone and freakish. >Of course, though, it really can't happen. I wouldn't be able to sort >records, nor check for excessive wear and damage if people brought in >their collections to sell. Usually, places like that have pretty high >standards for quality. I don't expect you or anyone else to understand >why this would be my dream job, but I do honestly know the hollowness >you probably feel at your perceived inability to do the one thing you >love right. >I also know how it is to believe that you're not good at anything. I >don't, but I guess that's kind of a paradox, seeing as how mediocrity >is my ambition. It's jus fine when it comes to how I want my life to >be, or the lives of others, but when it comes to myself, I don't >really think I'm good enough at anything to be taken seriously. I >could name a thousand things, and think of probably a thousand people >who can do those things better than I can. It's not even that I want >to be the best at any given thing; I just want to know that I'm good >at it, in the realm of being recognized. Not to be called out for it, >mind you, just to know, to be told, for once in my life, that I'm >doing ok. Praise isn't something I'm comfortable with, for two >reasons. First, as you mentioned, it usually only comes to us when >it's not really necessary. That never got my confidence up; on the >contrary, it made me angry. There are people out there who never get >the recognition they deserve, and yet, here I am, doing some mundane >task, and I'm getting as much praise heaped on me as if I've just >single-handedly won the World Series. yeah, that bothers me. Luckily, >it doesn't happen too often, because most of the adults in my life >tend to believe the opposite, that I'm blind and helpless and/or >stupid. >All this to say...I don't think I can offer any concrete advice. I >would be a hypocrite if I did. But if you ever want to reach out to a >fellow traveler down this frustrating road, I'm here. You can email me >privately at turtlepower17 at gmail.com if you want to discuss this, or >anything else, further. I also have Skype, if that's something you're >more comfortable with. And, as I said, I'll talk with my friend and >see if I can't get his input about sportscasting. > >On 5/15/14, Kerri Kosten via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi Everyone: > > > > I don't know what to do so figured I'd write to the list for help. > > I tried returning to school last semester but it didn't end up working > > out. I tried a lot harder than I would have in the past, and I turned > > in most of the assignments on time and all, but I still got a C in one > > class and a F in the other class. It was my second time applying to > > this college, and I felt fortunate I got readmitted. Now, I believe I > > am on academic suspension. > > I have several questions and a lot to say. > > If school is not going to work for me, I need to find something to do > > so was considering trying to find a job. If I were sighted I'd just go > > for one of those starter minimum wage jobs such as a waitress or a > > bookseller at Barnes and Noble. However, I know being a bookseller at > > Barnes and Noble isn't likely since I can't read the print books. I > > also know being a waitress isn't likely. > > So, what minimum wage starting jobs can a blind person do without a degree? > > What was your first job? > > What was the first thing you did that gave you real work experience? > > I know our local grocery store, Kroger is always accepting > > applications. Has anyone ever worked in a grocery store? Could I be a > > bagger or a customer service person at Kroger? > > Where is the best place to look for jobs? > > To be honest with everyone, I am really sad. I was heartbroken by my > > grades. I'm sad that It doesn't look like school is going to work out > > for me and I won't get a degree. I've always had a passion for sports, > > and have said since I was 15 years old I want to be a sportswriter, > > sports reporter, sports caster, or something with sports. I was a > > journalism major, figuring journalism would give me a good foundation > > in helping me become a better writer and would help my communication > > skills. > > Please don't judge me too harshly for this, but the problem with me is > > I have zero confidence in myself, and I have zero self-esteem. The > > other problem with me (and I am ashamed to say this) is that the truth > > is I've never really had to work in my entire life. I've always just > > been the star without having to really work. I worked when I was in > > training, but that was it. I also worked in high school, but again I > > was always the star and got huge praise for just turning in and > > actually doing the work. Though I again hate to admit this, I believe > > deep deep down though I hate this about myself I have engrained all > > that praise. I am also a very, very impatient person. > > The reason I am saying all of this is because I feel like when > > something is a lot of work or it is something that requires a lot of > > time, I become so impatient because I just want to finish whatever > > work it is, I either don't do the work or I do it but at the very last > > minute, hating to do it the whole time, doing it kicking and screaming > > (figuratively, not literally.) > > I also work best with consequences. In training, I knew if I didn't do > > what was required/asked of me I would first disappoint the director > > whom I looked up to, I would second disappoint the staff members who I > > looked up to, I would likely get kicked out which would mean having to > > return home and having to explain to my family and rehab counselor > > (who I also look up to) why I got kicked out. That is a lot of > > consequences and of course I didn't want to face any of them or see > > what would happen. I also wanted to learn the skills to be more > > independent for myself so I worked as hard as I could. > > But, it seems unless there are consequences, or I am in an environment > > where I am forced to do the work I become very lazy and if there is > > work (such as for school or something) I dread doing it. > > I also admit, I often feel depressed. I am often afraid and will worry > > that I will never find my passion or figure anything out and will end > > up doing nothing for the rest of my life and will be unable to > > contribute to society. This makes me feel helpless and that then sends > > me into a negative depression. As I said earlier, I forced myself with > > school and got most of the work done I needed to but there were many > > nights where I would be so negative and depressed I couldn't focus on > > schoolwork and would have to wait until the next day. > > Another thing that really brings me down and depresses me is that I > > have always been passionate about sports. The thing I have come to > > recently realize is that maybe even with sports I've sort of been > > tricked. When I was a teenager/younger, and I would talk to people I > > always brought up sports. I would say a few things, a few stats and I > > was always the star, always "amazing" or whatever. Even now, to > > someone who isn't into sports it looks like I really know what I am > > talking about. But, being able to say a few things is a lot different > > than having to write a whole article. I feel like when there is a big > > story going on, I often feel like I should write about it since I > > always say I want to be a sportswriter but when I sit down to write I > > don't know what to say. I often feel like my thoughts come from what I > > read on sites such as ESPN.com or what I hear on ESPNRadio or ESPN > > rather than myself forming my own opinion. Even when I listen to > > sports talk radio (which I do constantly) I am amazed at how much of > > an expert they seem to be. It makes me honestly feel stupid and makes > > me really question my wanting to be a sportswriter. This then really > > makes me sad. > > Another thing that is big in sports journalism but that I admit I have > > never really done but that really really freaks me out a lot is > > interviewing. I am terrified if I ever have to interview anyone my > > questions will be horrible and they'll see right through me. > > I just feel that similarly with the rest of my life, it's like > > everyone let me go through life just talking and smiling and being all > > amazing but when it comes to the real thing I am horrible and have no > > idea and though I listen to sports talk radio all the time I probably > > don't know nearly as much as I think I do especially in comparison to > > sighted males who have studied this stuff their whole lives. Again, I > > am just begun to realize all of this and this all makes me so sad and > > depressed. > > For example, how do you "break down" a game? > > Do you take notes during the game, then get the stats from somewhere > > online afterwords and write about the game that way? > > Is it normal to do a bunch of reading about a certain story from sites > > such as Espn, Si (Sports Illustrated), Bleacher Report, FoxSports, > > Yahoo Sports, and Cbs Sports and then write a little opinion thing > > based on what you have read and your own opinions/knologe? > > Sometimes, I even wonder if I really know that much about the games I > > listen to. Sure, I know the basics of football and basketball, but > > many times when I listen to sports talk radio I feel like I don't > > really know the games at all. > > This all worries me, makes me feel depressed, and negative and I'm > > afraid I'll never figure any of this out and will have to spend the > > rest of my life doing nothing and that makes me feel so negative and > > depressed. > > How can I develop a better self-esteem and have more confidence? > > How can I teach myself to think more positively rather than negatively > > all the time? > > How can I teach myself to be more determined/work harder when I've > > never really had to work or really do anything? > > Is there someone I could talk to every week or something that could > > help me learn to work? Like, maybe give me writing prompts or maybe I > > could try writing a sports column/opinion piece for them and they > > could look at it? Like, they could help me take baby steps to figure > > things out? > > I was very motivated in training. Having consequences and looking up > > to the staff members and not wanting to disappoint them really drove > > me to work hard. Is there something from training I could use to > > motivate me? Is there something I'm not thinking of that I could use > > to motivate me? > > Of course since I've graduated and the staff have understandably moved > > onto other students I don't really get to talk to people from the > > center much. I understand all of this, but I feel being back here I am > > just all by myself and I realize this is part of being an adult but I > > really really struggle when it's just me and myself. > > I somehow need consequences, or someone on me or something in my mind > > to look up/be motivated by. Otherwise, I seem to really get depressed, > > negative, and end up failing/not wanting to do anything. > > I realize I am an adult, but is there any way to find something to > > look up to or is there any way I could have consequences or someone > > sort of on me about getting things done? > > Am I the only one who works in this way? > > I wonder if I would've had someone nagging at me constantly whether I > > could have possibly done better in school? > > How do you all deal with this? > > How do you continuously stay so determined? > > For those of you who have had similar childhoods as me where you were > > always told you are amazing and were never made to really work how do > > you force yourself to work so hard? > > I am sorry to post such a long message with so many questions. I don't > > know where or who else to post this to. I can't just keep going on, > > doing nothing, and just being depressed certain days and then be great > > on happy good days. > > Thanks, > > Kerri > > > > _______________________________________________ > > nabs-l mailing list > > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > > nabs-l: > > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/turtlepower17%40gmail.com > > > > >-- >Desiree > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 19 23:11:53 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Patrick Molloy via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 19 May 2014 19:11:53 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] dealing with the LSAC/preparing for the LSAT Message-ID: Hi All, I'm wondering if any of you have any suggestions on dealing with the LSAC? I'm looking to take the LSAT this September, and I'm hoping to take the test using my computer and JAWS, since that's how I've tested in the past. What's the best way to go about communicating this to the LSAC? On a similar note, does anyone know of any good practice materials for the LSAT? I know Bookshare has some things, but I wasn't sure if there were materials in other places that I should look at. Basically any advice I can get here would be appreciated. Patrick From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 00:46:14 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Joe via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 19 May 2014 20:46:14 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <000c01cf73c4$e7b0c660$b7125320$@gmail.com> Hi Ashley, It may depend on the library, but you might be able to load something like NVDA onto a USB and plug that into one of the terminals. I would hope they would give you admin access just for running the software on at least a one-time basis. It ought to be more, but I confess I've never utilized a public library the way I should. You can do something similar with JAWS, but FS is stupid and wants to charge people $50 to run JAWS from a dongle. -- Twitter: @ScribblingJoe Visit my blog: http://joeorozco.com/blog -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l Sent: Sunday, May 18, 2014 7:48 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access Hi all, Well, I have a library card and may soon find out what I can use. It seems to me we get minimal access at university libraries; like only one pc with jaws and most databases are not real accessible. But, at public libraries, we cannot even use the pcs. This has bothered me for some time as an active citizen. Do you access your public library? Now, I realize we cannot read print. But, with jaws, we can use the e audiobooks and evideos. So questions. 1. does your library have jaws, zoomtext, or any software for the vi population? 2. Most libraries use overdrive for e resource material. This means ebooks, e-audiobooks, and evideos. Is overdrive accessible? If you used it for an e audiobook, how is it divided up? by chapter? I’m sure its not as much as our daisy books. 3. If you’ve gone to a library to get books that you might read via your own CCTV, magnifier, or with a reader, were the staff helpful? Also, anyone want to comment on what electronic resources they found accessible at public libraries using your own equipment like a laptop? Our libraries have free wireless access so I’m sure this is pretty standard elsewhere. So, you could bring your own equipment in and search the databases. I’m wondering if encyclopedias like Gale Reference library or Grolier online are usable. My hunch would be yes, but have not tried. I plan to though as I would like to do some research on historical famous composers and women soon. Thanks. Ashley _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jsoro620%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 00:57:01 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Joe via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 19 May 2014 20:57:01 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] dealing with the LSAC/preparing for the LSAT In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <001201cf73c6$694ebb40$3bec31c0$@gmail.com> Hi Patrick, If you're planning on taking the exam in September, I'd accelerate the accommodations process. Start that as soon as possible, because I found the LSAC staff abnormally difficult. Granted, this was 2009, but they seem especially hell-bent on operating two decades behind where efficiency is concerned. I myself took the exam in Braille. I got a Perkins brailler for the logic puzzles. I know someone here argued to be allowed to use a computer for more than just the writing exercise. As for prep material, I never enrolled in any of the Kaplan courses. They were too expensive for my poor soul. :) I found Braille copies of old exams from a transcriber in New York. I found plenty of practice exams online. The first few times I just took the tests freestyle. Then I began timing myself for more realistic practice. I also bought copies of the Bible series, that is: Logic Games Bible, Logic Reasoning Bible, and the Reading Comprehension Bible. You may get better responses on the BlindLaw list. -- Twitter: @ScribblingJoe Visit my blog: http://joeorozco.com/blog -----Original Message----- From: nabs-l [mailto:nabs-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Patrick Molloy via nabs-l Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 7:12 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: [nabs-l] dealing with the LSAC/preparing for the LSAT Hi All, I'm wondering if any of you have any suggestions on dealing with the LSAC? I'm looking to take the LSAT this September, and I'm hoping to take the test using my computer and JAWS, since that's how I've tested in the past. What's the best way to go about communicating this to the LSAC? On a similar note, does anyone know of any good practice materials for the LSAT? I know Bookshare has some things, but I wasn't sure if there were materials in other places that I should look at. Basically any advice I can get here would be appreciated. Patrick _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jsoro620%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 02:41:28 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Lillie Pennington via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 19 May 2014 22:41:28 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <2EC8746C-9610-4751-BA10-A3B527D20D36@fuse.net> I can't answer most of your questions, but I can answer some. The databases I used when I was using databases for a research paper were accessible. The only tricky part is getting the text of the article since the database generally only provides a citation and abstract. I just googled the article name and author name. Once I had the full text I pasted it in a word doc in my drop box in a folder where I kept stuff relating to my paper. You should be able to use most databases at home. In terms of audio books, your library may have a collection of CDs that are audio books. Hath Sent from my iPhone > On May 18, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi all, > > Well, I have a library card and may soon find out what I can use. > > It seems to me we get minimal access at university libraries; like only one pc with jaws and most databases are not real accessible. > But, at public libraries, we cannot even use the pcs. > > This has bothered me for some time as an active citizen. > Do you access your public library? > Now, I realize we cannot read print. > But, with jaws, we can use the e audiobooks and evideos. > > So questions. > > 1. does your library have jaws, zoomtext, or any software for the vi population? > 2. Most libraries use overdrive for e resource material. This means ebooks, e-audiobooks, and evideos. Is overdrive accessible? If you used it for an e audiobook, how is it divided up? by chapter? I’m sure its not as much as our daisy books. > > 3. If you’ve gone to a library to get books that you might read via your own CCTV, magnifier, or with a reader, were the staff helpful? > > Also, anyone want to comment on what electronic resources they found accessible at public libraries using your own equipment like a laptop? > Our libraries have free wireless access so I’m sure this is pretty standard elsewhere. So, you could bring your own equipment in and search the databases. I’m wondering if encyclopedias like Gale Reference library or Grolier online are usable. My hunch would be yes, but have not tried. I plan to though as I would like to do some research on historical famous composers and women soon. > > Thanks. > Ashley > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 11:35:49 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Sophie Trist via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 06:35:49 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access Message-ID: <537b3e31.8514320a.7d27.282f@mx.google.com> She's=20right=20about=20the=20CD's.=20I=20often=20go=20to=20my=20public=20l= ibrary=20with=20 a=20reader=20who=20knows=20what=20genres=20I'm=20into--sci-fi=20fantasy--an= d=20 helps=20me=20look=20over=20the=20CD's.=20It's=20a=20good=20way=20to=20acces= s=20free=20 audiobooks. =20-----=20Original=20Message=20----- From:=20Lillie=20Pennington=20via=20nabs-l=20,National=20 Association=20of=20Blind=20Students=20mailing=20list=20=20wrote: =20Hi=20all, =20Well,=20I=20have=20a=20library=20card=20and=20may=20soon=20find=20out=20= what=20I=20can=20 use. =20It=20seems=20to=20me=20we=20get=20minimal=20access=20at=20university=20l= ibraries;=20 like=20only=20=20one=20pc=20with=20jaws=20and=20most=20databases=20are=20no= t=20real=20 accessible. =20But,=20at=20public=20libraries,=20we=20cannot=20even=20use=20the=20pcs. =20This=20has=20bothered=20me=20for=20some=20time=20as=20an=20active=20citi= zen. =20Do=20you=20access=20your=20public=20library? =20Now,=20I=20realize=20we=20cannot=20read=20print. =20But,=20with=20jaws,=20we=20can=20use=20the=20e=20audiobooks=20and=20evid= eos. =20So=20questions. =201.=20does=20your=20library=20have=20jaws,=20zoomtext,=20or=20any=20softw= are=20for=20 the=20vi=20population? =202.=20Most=20libraries=20use=20overdrive=20for=20e=20resource=20material.= =20This=20 means=20ebooks,=20e-audiobooks,=20and=20evideos.=20Is=20overdrive=20accessi= ble?=20 If=20you=20used=20it=20for=20an=20e=20audiobook,=20how=20is=20it=20divided= =20up?=20by=20 chapter?=20I=E2=80=99m=20sure=20its=20not=20as=20much=20as=20our=20daisy=20= books. =203.=20If=20you=E2=80=99ve=20gone=20to=20a=20library=20to=20=20get=20books= =20that=20you=20might=20 read=20via=20your=20own=20CCTV,=20magnifier,=20or=20with=20a=20reader,=20we= re=20the=20 staff=20helpful? =20Also,=20anyone=20want=20to=20comment=20on=20what=20electronic=20resource= s=20they=20 found=20accessible=20at=20public=20libraries=20using=20your=20own=20equipme= nt=20 like=20a=20laptop? =20Our=20libraries=20have=20free=20wireless=20access=20so=20I=E2=80=99m=20s= ure=20this=20is=20 pretty=20standard=20elsewhere.=20So,=20you=20could=20bring=20your=20own=20e= quipment=20 in=20=20and=20search=20the=20databases.=20I=E2=80=99m=20wondering=20if=20en= cyclopedias=20 like=20Gale=20Reference=20library=20or=20Grolier=20online=20are=20usable.=20= My=20 hunch=20would=20be=20yes,=20but=20have=20not=20tried.=20I=20plan=20to=20tho= ugh=20as=20I=20 would=20like=20to=20do=20some=20research=20on=20historical=20famous=20compo= sers=20and=20 women=20soon. =20Thanks. =20Ashley =20_______________________________________________ =20nabs-l=20mailing=20list =20nabs-l at nfbnet.org =20http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org =20To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20a= ccount=20 info=20for=20nabs-l: =20 http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepenning ton%40fuse.net _______________________________________________ nabs-l=20mailing=20list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To=20unsubscribe,=20change=20your=20list=20options=20or=20get=20your=20acco= unt=20info=20 for=20nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sweetpeareade r%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 11:51:24 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Joshua Hendrickson via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 06:51:24 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access In-Reply-To: <537b3e31.8514320a.7d27.282f@mx.google.com> References: <537b3e31.8514320a.7d27.282f@mx.google.com> Message-ID: Hello Ashley. I have used NVDA on a USB flash drive at our local public library before, and it does work. At my library, you usually only get 30 minutes of computer access, but this can be extended for at least an hour, and I think to another hour if the librarian helps you get guest access. Now, since window-eyes is free for those who have MS-word 2010 or higher, I'd think libraries could just download the free copy of window-eyes and you could use that. I haven't got my local library to install window-eyes on one of our computers just yet, but I do intend to let them know about this. On 5/20/14, Sophie Trist via nabs-l wrote: > She's right about the CD's. I often go to my public library with > a reader who knows what genres I'm into--sci-fi fantasy--and > helps me look over the CD's. It's a good way to access free > audiobooks. > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Lillie Pennington via nabs-l To: Ashley Bramlett ,National > Association of Blind Students mailing list Date sent: Mon, 19 May 2014 22:41:28 -0400 > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access > > I can't answer most of your questions, but I can answer some. The > databases I used when I was using databases for a research paper > were accessible. The only tricky part is getting the text of the > article since the database generally only provides a citation and > abstract. I just googled the article name and author name. Once I > had the full text I pasted it in a word doc in my drop box in a > folder where I kept stuff relating to my paper. You should be > able to use most databases at home. > In terms of audio books, your library may have a collection of > CDs that are audio books. > Hath > > Sent from my iPhone > > On May 18, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l > wrote: > > Hi all, > > Well, I have a library card and may soon find out what I can > use. > > It seems to me we get minimal access at university libraries; > like only one pc with jaws and most databases are not real > accessible. > But, at public libraries, we cannot even use the pcs. > > This has bothered me for some time as an active citizen. > Do you access your public library? > Now, I realize we cannot read print. > But, with jaws, we can use the e audiobooks and evideos. > > So questions. > > 1. does your library have jaws, zoomtext, or any software for > the vi population? > 2. Most libraries use overdrive for e resource material. This > means ebooks, e-audiobooks, and evideos. Is overdrive accessible? > If you used it for an e audiobook, how is it divided up? by > chapter? I’m sure its not as much as our daisy books. > > 3. If you’ve gone to a library to get books that you might > read via your own CCTV, magnifier, or with a reader, were the > staff helpful? > > Also, anyone want to comment on what electronic resources they > found accessible at public libraries using your own equipment > like a laptop? > Our libraries have free wireless access so I’m sure this is > pretty standard elsewhere. So, you could bring your own equipment > in and search the databases. I’m wondering if encyclopedias > like Gale Reference library or Grolier online are usable. My > hunch would be yes, but have not tried. I plan to though as I > would like to do some research on historical famous composers and > women soon. > > Thanks. > Ashley > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account > info for nabs-l: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepenning > ton%40fuse.net > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info > for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sweetpeareade > r%40gmail.com > > > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 12:01:23 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 05:01:23 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Blindness is scary-how to teach otherwise while still being compassionate In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140520050002.01dbaec0@comcast.net> Good morning, all, Hell, if we had to live as a sighted person, it would be equally disconcerting. Try laying that on your friend.At 09:33 PM 10/13/2013, Kaiti Shelton wrote: >Hi all, > >I am confronted with an interesting situation. A very close friend of >mine may/may not have a neurological proglem which, if left untreated, >could cause damage to the optic nerve and therefore blindness. I'm >trying to be a good friend and be supportive, because what she's going >through is definitely not comfortable or easy by any means, but she >doesn't even have the test results or know of a treatment plan and >she's already thinking about the what ifs associated with going blind. > >It's really difficult, because I realize that it is scary to think >about; I probably would not be a happy camper if my vision drastically >changed, and that's even with the knowledge that it could do so in a >way that would further limit the sight I have/make me totally blind at >any time if the right thing were to go wrong having been drilled into >me since childhood. I would imagine that discomfort/annoyance would >be at least ten-fold for a person who has spent nearly two decades as >a sighted person, with little to no contact with a blind person until >they met me in college. Yet, I feel somewhat awkward because I know >that blindness is not the worst thing that could happen to a person by >far, and that I've shown her by example that one does not need sight >to do well in school, to cook and clean around an apartment, to have a >job, or to be successful in general. I realize that seeing someone >else do things differently and imagining yourself have to do them a >different way is terrifying too, if I had to suddenly switch to using >a foreign language or sign language to speak I'd definitely be >freaking about the ramifications of being out of the loop, and perhaps >that is what this is like a bit. > >I'm just trying to think of ways that I can be supportive while still >showing her that even if the worst does happen, things can be >done---just differently. I feel like that is one of the best ways I >can be supportive, because I have the knowledge about the subject that >others around her do not, and since blindness has such a bad >connotation, it is possible that those who don't know much about it >are not helping the situation by panicking themselves. I'm trying to >be empathetic as well, because although I have lost vision in chunks, >I am probably the only person she knows who has experienced any form >of vision loss, and there was a time in my younger teen years when I >was terrified of losing all of my vision in which I had to put >blindness into perspective and realize that much worse could happen to >a person, too. > >So far I've been telling her to not freak about it is she doesn't even >have test results yet, which I realize is much easier said than done >but I thought it was the best I could do. I've also reminded her that >even if she does have this condition there are treatment plans which >could prevent vision loss, so even if she were to receive the >diagnosis it is not a death sentence for her sight. I do not know >what else I could do at this point but remind her of those things, >since the rationalization seems to help for a while once she thinks >through it. > >I would love to hear from people who have had similar experiences >and/or lost sight later in life. If you are the latter and you knew >there was a possibility of blindness before it happened what specific >aspects about blindness bothered you the most? What, if anything, did >others do that made you feel a little better about the situation? >What do you wish others would have done to help you? What would you >suggest I do to help my friend? Did contact with other blind people >help you durring that time? (The thing I'm worried about is her >saying, "Well you can't empathize because you don't know what it's >like," because in terms of having the sudden shock I do not, but >everything else I do). Any thoughts? >-- >Kaiti > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 14:29:35 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Zach Mason via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 10:29:35 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] University of Vermont Message-ID: <000001cf7437$ee1153d0$ca33fb70$@gmail.com> Hello List, I've been accepted to the University of Vermont's pre-medical post-baccalaureate program for fall 2014. Are there any blind or visually impaired students or alumni on this list who could share words of wisdom about navigating campus, the Student Access Office, places of study, dining and recreation? It would also be great to talk to anyone interested, or presently studying biology from other schools. Hope to hear from people soon. Kindly, Zac Zachary Mason Assistant Shepherd and Young Stock Manager Northwinds Farm (603) 922-8377 Work (603) 991-6747 Cell zmason at northwindsfarm@gmail.com 806 U.S. Route 3 North Stratford, NH 03590 From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 15:31:43 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Bridget Walker via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 11:31:43 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Blindness is scary-how to teach otherwise while still being compassionate In-Reply-To: <7.0.1.0.2.20140520050002.01dbaec0@comcast.net> References: <7.0.1.0.2.20140520050002.01dbaec0@comcast.net> Message-ID: <967A1BDC-4705-451B-B5E7-B725D3B7DD3F@aol.com> Hi Kaiti and all, I have both been through the challenge of deteriorating vision and have friends who have gone through it. From what I remember my vision loss the drastic anyway took a few years. I just got used to it. My brain would not process the messages sent from my eyes after so many years and here I am. I'm not totally blind but, nine times out of ten whatever residual vision I have is not functional. Anyway, what do you do? I got help. I received all the help I could get. I needed to be educated about my neurological condition and how it will effect me each day. When my friend went through it I was like an emotional support. I was the person they called saying you will never guess what I did today and go off on a rant about all the challenges they faced through the day. Sometimes I could offer tips. That was all about reading my friend that point. Is it the right time to give my two sense? As hard as it is to see sometimes you have to watch the person fight through it. That is the only way they will learn. At one point I refused to use my cane during the process. I guess my thought was I have always had vision loss so what is a little more from my acuity. I can't put all of it in one post we would be here all day. If you would like to talk at any time feel free to contact me. Bridget Sent from my iPad > On May 20, 26 Heisei, at 8:01 AM, Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l wrote: > > Good morning, all, > > Hell, if we had to live as a sighted person, it would be equally disconcerting. Try laying that on your friend.At 09:33 PM 10/13/2013, Kaiti Shelton wrote: >> Hi all, >> >> I am confronted with an interesting situation. A very close friend of >> mine may/may not have a neurological proglem which, if left untreated, >> could cause damage to the optic nerve and therefore blindness. I'm >> trying to be a good friend and be supportive, because what she's going >> through is definitely not comfortable or easy by any means, but she >> doesn't even have the test results or know of a treatment plan and >> she's already thinking about the what ifs associated with going blind. >> >> It's really difficult, because I realize that it is scary to think >> about; I probably would not be a happy camper if my vision drastically >> changed, and that's even with the knowledge that it could do so in a >> way that would further limit the sight I have/make me totally blind at >> any time if the right thing were to go wrong having been drilled into >> me since childhood. I would imagine that discomfort/annoyance would >> be at least ten-fold for a person who has spent nearly two decades as >> a sighted person, with little to no contact with a blind person until >> they met me in college. Yet, I feel somewhat awkward because I know >> that blindness is not the worst thing that could happen to a person by >> far, and that I've shown her by example that one does not need sight >> to do well in school, to cook and clean around an apartment, to have a >> job, or to be successful in general. I realize that seeing someone >> else do things differently and imagining yourself have to do them a >> different way is terrifying too, if I had to suddenly switch to using >> a foreign language or sign language to speak I'd definitely be >> freaking about the ramifications of being out of the loop, and perhaps >> that is what this is like a bit. >> >> I'm just trying to think of ways that I can be supportive while still >> showing her that even if the worst does happen, things can be >> done---just differently. I feel like that is one of the best ways I >> can be supportive, because I have the knowledge about the subject that >> others around her do not, and since blindness has such a bad >> connotation, it is possible that those who don't know much about it >> are not helping the situation by panicking themselves. I'm trying to >> be empathetic as well, because although I have lost vision in chunks, >> I am probably the only person she knows who has experienced any form >> of vision loss, and there was a time in my younger teen years when I >> was terrified of losing all of my vision in which I had to put >> blindness into perspective and realize that much worse could happen to >> a person, too. >> >> So far I've been telling her to not freak about it is she doesn't even >> have test results yet, which I realize is much easier said than done >> but I thought it was the best I could do. I've also reminded her that >> even if she does have this condition there are treatment plans which >> could prevent vision loss, so even if she were to receive the >> diagnosis it is not a death sentence for her sight. I do not know >> what else I could do at this point but remind her of those things, >> since the rationalization seems to help for a while once she thinks >> through it. >> >> I would love to hear from people who have had similar experiences >> and/or lost sight later in life. If you are the latter and you knew >> there was a possibility of blindness before it happened what specific >> aspects about blindness bothered you the most? What, if anything, did >> others do that made you feel a little better about the situation? >> What do you wish others would have done to help you? What would you >> suggest I do to help my friend? Did contact with other blind people >> help you durring that time? (The thing I'm worried about is her >> saying, "Well you can't empathize because you don't know what it's >> like," because in terms of having the sudden shock I do not, but >> everything else I do). Any thoughts? >> -- >> Kaiti >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bridgetawalker13%40aol.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 16:21:25 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ali Steenis via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 09:21:25 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Blindness is scary-how to teach otherwise while still being compassionate In-Reply-To: <967A1BDC-4705-451B-B5E7-B725D3B7DD3F@aol.com> References: <7.0.1.0.2.20140520050002.01dbaec0@comcast.net> <967A1BDC-4705-451B-B5E7-B725D3B7DD3F@aol.com> Message-ID: Hi there, I can only imagine how difficult it must be to go through something like this. Because I have been visually impaired since birth I cannot fully understand. But I did lose the majority of my sight in my junior year high school and I admit it was the hardest year in my life. I'm curious if you can pass on some books to read for her. There are lots of good reads out there that I think may help. I encourage you to look up a guy who is a major spokesperson for Guide Dogs for the Blind. Not sure of his exact name but his handle on twitter is @belloism. He is a young journalist who was fully sighted until his twenties when he lost his vision all at once. He has a book that details his story of going from life with sight to life without. He is a highly successful journalist and author and has really embraced his new life. If you think reading his book might be good for her then please shoot me an email. I would love to talk more about stand be sure you can find the book. I also understand how this can be hard for you to watch. All you can do is be supportive. To us, because we are used to life without sight, it doesn't seem to be as big of a deal as it may be for them. All you can really do is be supportive and be a resource if she chooses to reach out to you to learn. Feel free to email me if you'd like to chat more. I will be praying for you and your friend. God Bless, Ali Ali Steenis Seattle Pacific University 2014 - 2015 New Residence Hall/Emerson Hall Senator steenisa at spu.edu Perseverance is a Habit. On May 20, 2014, at 8:31 AM, Bridget Walker via nabs-l wrote: > Hi Kaiti and all, > I have both been through the challenge of deteriorating vision and have friends who have gone through it. From what I remember my vision loss the drastic anyway took a few years. I just got used to it. My brain would not process the messages sent from my eyes after so many years and here I am. I'm not totally blind but, nine times out of ten whatever residual vision I have is not functional. > Anyway, what do you do? I got help. I received all the help I could get. I needed to be educated about my neurological condition and how it will effect me each day. > When my friend went through it I was like an emotional support. I was the person they called saying you will never guess what I did today and go off on a rant about all the challenges they faced through the day. Sometimes I could offer tips. That was all about reading my friend that point. Is it the right time to give my two sense? > As hard as it is to see sometimes you have to watch the person fight through it. That is the only way they will learn. At one point I refused to use my cane during the process. I guess my thought was I have always had vision loss so what is a little more from my acuity. > I can't put all of it in one post we would be here all day. If you would like to talk at any time feel free to contact me. > Bridget > > > > Sent from my iPad > >> On May 20, 26 Heisei, at 8:01 AM, Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l wrote: >> >> Good morning, all, >> >> Hell, if we had to live as a sighted person, it would be equally disconcerting. Try laying that on your friend.At 09:33 PM 10/13/2013, Kaiti Shelton wrote: >>> Hi all, >>> >>> I am confronted with an interesting situation. A very close friend of >>> mine may/may not have a neurological proglem which, if left untreated, >>> could cause damage to the optic nerve and therefore blindness. I'm >>> trying to be a good friend and be supportive, because what she's going >>> through is definitely not comfortable or easy by any means, but she >>> doesn't even have the test results or know of a treatment plan and >>> she's already thinking about the what ifs associated with going blind. >>> >>> It's really difficult, because I realize that it is scary to think >>> about; I probably would not be a happy camper if my vision drastically >>> changed, and that's even with the knowledge that it could do so in a >>> way that would further limit the sight I have/make me totally blind at >>> any time if the right thing were to go wrong having been drilled into >>> me since childhood. I would imagine that discomfort/annoyance would >>> be at least ten-fold for a person who has spent nearly two decades as >>> a sighted person, with little to no contact with a blind person until >>> they met me in college. Yet, I feel somewhat awkward because I know >>> that blindness is not the worst thing that could happen to a person by >>> far, and that I've shown her by example that one does not need sight >>> to do well in school, to cook and clean around an apartment, to have a >>> job, or to be successful in general. I realize that seeing someone >>> else do things differently and imagining yourself have to do them a >>> different way is terrifying too, if I had to suddenly switch to using >>> a foreign language or sign language to speak I'd definitely be >>> freaking about the ramifications of being out of the loop, and perhaps >>> that is what this is like a bit. >>> >>> I'm just trying to think of ways that I can be supportive while still >>> showing her that even if the worst does happen, things can be >>> done---just differently. I feel like that is one of the best ways I >>> can be supportive, because I have the knowledge about the subject that >>> others around her do not, and since blindness has such a bad >>> connotation, it is possible that those who don't know much about it >>> are not helping the situation by panicking themselves. I'm trying to >>> be empathetic as well, because although I have lost vision in chunks, >>> I am probably the only person she knows who has experienced any form >>> of vision loss, and there was a time in my younger teen years when I >>> was terrified of losing all of my vision in which I had to put >>> blindness into perspective and realize that much worse could happen to >>> a person, too. >>> >>> So far I've been telling her to not freak about it is she doesn't even >>> have test results yet, which I realize is much easier said than done >>> but I thought it was the best I could do. I've also reminded her that >>> even if she does have this condition there are treatment plans which >>> could prevent vision loss, so even if she were to receive the >>> diagnosis it is not a death sentence for her sight. I do not know >>> what else I could do at this point but remind her of those things, >>> since the rationalization seems to help for a while once she thinks >>> through it. >>> >>> I would love to hear from people who have had similar experiences >>> and/or lost sight later in life. If you are the latter and you knew >>> there was a possibility of blindness before it happened what specific >>> aspects about blindness bothered you the most? What, if anything, did >>> others do that made you feel a little better about the situation? >>> What do you wish others would have done to help you? What would you >>> suggest I do to help my friend? Did contact with other blind people >>> help you durring that time? (The thing I'm worried about is her >>> saying, "Well you can't empathize because you don't know what it's >>> like," because in terms of having the sudden shock I do not, but >>> everything else I do). Any thoughts? >>> -- >>> Kaiti >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bridgetawalker13%40aol.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bearboy153%40aol.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 18:07:47 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 14:07:47 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Asis research group Message-ID: Hey everyone, Has anyone heard of Asis research group? Has anyone done any of their surveys or gotten a job with them? Amanda From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 18:12:27 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ryan Bishop via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 11:12:27 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] reading underground, wiki, summer 2014 Message-ID: Hello NABS! My name is Ryan Bishop and I am an organizer for the Reading Underground wiki located at: http://readingunderground.wikispaces.com Basically, reading underground is for students of any age, or for anyone of any age, to participate, in discussions, contests, and book suggestion thoughts, for other students all round the world. It is also a place to talk about what you have read, and more. If you are interested in joining the reading underground, you can visit the URL above, or contact me with the information provided below in my email signature,, and I can send you an invite! I hope to see a lot of you reading this summer, and hope you join the Wiki for fun, friendship, and grate conversations with blind and sited peers all around the world! Ryan Ryan Bishop Ryan.bishop96 at gmail.com 480-221-5195 Secretary Arizona Association of blind students http://az.nfb.org/aabs Webmaster National Federation of the Blind of Arizona http://az.nfb.org Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further, and may qualify you for a tax deduction. Donate your unwanted car to the National Federation of the Blind today! For more information, please visit: http://www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 The problem of blindness is not the lack of eyesight. The real problem is the misunderstanding and lack of information that exists. If a blind person has proper training and opportunity, blindness is only a physical nuisance. Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. As such, dispensing of this information should only be to individuals on a need-to-know basis. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. --- This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active. http://www.avast.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 18:41:53 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Alana Leonhardy via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 11:41:53 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Blindness is scary-how to teach otherwise while still being compassionate In-Reply-To: References: <7.0.1.0.2.20140520050002.01dbaec0@comcast.net> <967A1BDC-4705-451B-B5E7-B725D3B7DD3F@aol.com> Message-ID: <4507E062-F6CD-4625-B8FB-269F6CF59579@gmail.com> Hi. Don't let her isolate myself. I lost both eyes three years ago and didn't get the support I needed. For someone who had vision, losing it is frightening. It takes time to accept it and even more time to realize that you aren't less of a person. Get her connected with the blind. Best, Alana Sent from my iPhone > On May 20, 2014, at 9:21, Ali Steenis via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi there, > > I can only imagine how difficult it must be to go through something like this. Because I have been visually impaired since birth I cannot fully understand. But I did lose the majority of my sight in my junior year high school and I admit it was the hardest year in my life. I'm curious if you can pass on some books to read for her. There are lots of good reads out there that I think may help. > > I encourage you to look up a guy who is a major spokesperson for Guide Dogs for the Blind. Not sure of his exact name but his handle on twitter is @belloism. He is a young journalist who was fully sighted until his twenties when he lost his vision all at once. He has a book that details his story of going from life with sight to life without. He is a highly successful journalist and author and has really embraced his new life. > If you think reading his book might be good for her then please shoot me an email. I would love to talk more about stand be sure you can find the book. > I also understand how this can be hard for you to watch. All you can do is be supportive. To us, because we are used to life without sight, it doesn't seem to be as big of a deal as it may be for them. All you can really do is be supportive and be a resource if she chooses to reach out to you to learn. > Feel free to email me if you'd like to chat more. > > I will be praying for you and your friend. > God Bless, > Ali > Ali Steenis > Seattle Pacific University > 2014 - 2015 New Residence Hall/Emerson Hall Senator > steenisa at spu.edu > > Perseverance is a Habit. > >> On May 20, 2014, at 8:31 AM, Bridget Walker via nabs-l wrote: >> >> Hi Kaiti and all, >> I have both been through the challenge of deteriorating vision and have friends who have gone through it. From what I remember my vision loss the drastic anyway took a few years. I just got used to it. My brain would not process the messages sent from my eyes after so many years and here I am. I'm not totally blind but, nine times out of ten whatever residual vision I have is not functional. >> Anyway, what do you do? I got help. I received all the help I could get. I needed to be educated about my neurological condition and how it will effect me each day. >> When my friend went through it I was like an emotional support. I was the person they called saying you will never guess what I did today and go off on a rant about all the challenges they faced through the day. Sometimes I could offer tips. That was all about reading my friend that point. Is it the right time to give my two sense? >> As hard as it is to see sometimes you have to watch the person fight through it. That is the only way they will learn. At one point I refused to use my cane during the process. I guess my thought was I have always had vision loss so what is a little more from my acuity. >> I can't put all of it in one post we would be here all day. If you would like to talk at any time feel free to contact me. >> Bridget >> >> >> >> Sent from my iPad >> >>> On May 20, 26 Heisei, at 8:01 AM, Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l wrote: >>> >>> Good morning, all, >>> >>> Hell, if we had to live as a sighted person, it would be equally disconcerting. Try laying that on your friend.At 09:33 PM 10/13/2013, Kaiti Shelton wrote: >>>> Hi all, >>>> >>>> I am confronted with an interesting situation. A very close friend of >>>> mine may/may not have a neurological proglem which, if left untreated, >>>> could cause damage to the optic nerve and therefore blindness. I'm >>>> trying to be a good friend and be supportive, because what she's going >>>> through is definitely not comfortable or easy by any means, but she >>>> doesn't even have the test results or know of a treatment plan and >>>> she's already thinking about the what ifs associated with going blind. >>>> >>>> It's really difficult, because I realize that it is scary to think >>>> about; I probably would not be a happy camper if my vision drastically >>>> changed, and that's even with the knowledge that it could do so in a >>>> way that would further limit the sight I have/make me totally blind at >>>> any time if the right thing were to go wrong having been drilled into >>>> me since childhood. I would imagine that discomfort/annoyance would >>>> be at least ten-fold for a person who has spent nearly two decades as >>>> a sighted person, with little to no contact with a blind person until >>>> they met me in college. Yet, I feel somewhat awkward because I know >>>> that blindness is not the worst thing that could happen to a person by >>>> far, and that I've shown her by example that one does not need sight >>>> to do well in school, to cook and clean around an apartment, to have a >>>> job, or to be successful in general. I realize that seeing someone >>>> else do things differently and imagining yourself have to do them a >>>> different way is terrifying too, if I had to suddenly switch to using >>>> a foreign language or sign language to speak I'd definitely be >>>> freaking about the ramifications of being out of the loop, and perhaps >>>> that is what this is like a bit. >>>> >>>> I'm just trying to think of ways that I can be supportive while still >>>> showing her that even if the worst does happen, things can be >>>> done---just differently. I feel like that is one of the best ways I >>>> can be supportive, because I have the knowledge about the subject that >>>> others around her do not, and since blindness has such a bad >>>> connotation, it is possible that those who don't know much about it >>>> are not helping the situation by panicking themselves. I'm trying to >>>> be empathetic as well, because although I have lost vision in chunks, >>>> I am probably the only person she knows who has experienced any form >>>> of vision loss, and there was a time in my younger teen years when I >>>> was terrified of losing all of my vision in which I had to put >>>> blindness into perspective and realize that much worse could happen to >>>> a person, too. >>>> >>>> So far I've been telling her to not freak about it is she doesn't even >>>> have test results yet, which I realize is much easier said than done >>>> but I thought it was the best I could do. I've also reminded her that >>>> even if she does have this condition there are treatment plans which >>>> could prevent vision loss, so even if she were to receive the >>>> diagnosis it is not a death sentence for her sight. I do not know >>>> what else I could do at this point but remind her of those things, >>>> since the rationalization seems to help for a while once she thinks >>>> through it. >>>> >>>> I would love to hear from people who have had similar experiences >>>> and/or lost sight later in life. If you are the latter and you knew >>>> there was a possibility of blindness before it happened what specific >>>> aspects about blindness bothered you the most? What, if anything, did >>>> others do that made you feel a little better about the situation? >>>> What do you wish others would have done to help you? What would you >>>> suggest I do to help my friend? Did contact with other blind people >>>> help you durring that time? (The thing I'm worried about is her >>>> saying, "Well you can't empathize because you don't know what it's >>>> like," because in terms of having the sudden shock I do not, but >>>> everything else I do). Any thoughts? >>>> -- >>>> Kaiti >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net >>> >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bridgetawalker13%40aol.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bearboy153%40aol.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alana.leonhardy%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 20:28:17 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 16:28:17 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Asis research group In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <38B105AF8CFA41019985255C916ADD05@OwnerPC> no, what do they research? -----Original Message----- From: via nabs-l Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 2:07 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: [nabs-l] Asis research group Hey everyone, Has anyone heard of Asis research group? Has anyone done any of their surveys or gotten a job with them? Amanda _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 20 21:03:11 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Amanda Cape via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 17:03:11 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Asis research group In-Reply-To: <38B105AF8CFA41019985255C916ADD05@OwnerPC> References: <38B105AF8CFA41019985255C916ADD05@OwnerPC> Message-ID: I am trying to find out if it is a scam. On 5/20/14, Ashley Bramlett wrote: > no, what do they research? > > -----Original Message----- > From: via nabs-l > Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 2:07 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: [nabs-l] Asis research group > > > > Hey everyone, > Has anyone heard of Asis research group? Has anyone done any of their > surveys or gotten a job with them? > Amanda > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net > > > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 21 02:19:00 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 22:19:00 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Blindness is scary-how to teach otherwise while still being compassionate In-Reply-To: <4507E062-F6CD-4625-B8FB-269F6CF59579@gmail.com> References: <7.0.1.0.2.20140520050002.01dbaec0@comcast.net> <967A1BDC-4705-451B-B5E7-B725D3B7DD3F@aol.com> <4507E062-F6CD-4625-B8FB-269F6CF59579@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi all, Wow, I wasn't expecting this thread to continue after being dormant for so long, but thanks for your messages. I think she's kind of accepted it by now. She can still read print without modification, drive, etc, so the big thing for her is just preventing neurological deterioration so it doesn't get any worse. Our interactions did get better; once she started actually doing things again, and not doing the "woe is me" thing, things got mostly back to normal. It was funny, because my other roommate was the one who really said, "You have two choices; you can waste all your time thinking of the worst possible scenario happening to you, or you can carry on and, if it does happen, at least you would have made the most of what you had while you had it." Like many of you, I have never known a life without visual impairment. I may possibly have one memory of actually being able to see out of both of my eyes, but it's very fuzzy because I was really young when my one retina detached. I grew up knowing that I would probably lose what sight I had at some point, and my parents taught me that was okay. My friend and I are common in that we are treating for prevention of further loss, but the attitudes at least were really different. The good news is that her condition is curable. Most people take meds for a year to a year and a half, go to regular check ups with neurologists and eye doctors, and are otherwise fine. If I recall correctly, somewhere between 20 to 30 percent of people relapse within ten years, but the majority of people have it as a one time thing. I have tried to be careful on getting her into the blindness stuff, because she still doesn't think of herself as even being that way. I think that especially since she can drive still, that she just doesn't think much of it. Granted, I know people with conditions like albinism who have conditional drivers licenses that allow them to drive when they can adequately see to do so, and even completely sighted people who are in the NFB and love it. I did attend our state NFB convention a few weeks after she received her diagnosis, and although I didn't push her to make her think I was evangelical about the organization, I was open about where I was going, and what I would be doing there. It also helped that my college marching band was asked to perform in the welcome portion of the convention, so I could also tell her what people in our marching band of which we are both members were going to do. She also knows that on Friday nights when I'm talking on the phone to a bunch of people that I'm in student division meetings, but I didn't want to push her into it if she wasn't open to the idea. There's a fine line you kind of have to walk, and I've learned that. I think her attitude could benefit from meeting blind people other than me, but taking her to a group function full of blind people, when she's resistant to the idea of identifying herself as visually impaired, won't do any good. I'll do what other federationists have done and invite when it feels right, and let her choose what she wants to do. Thank you all for your advice, comments, and support. I have learned a lot from this experience, and I am grateful to have awesome NABS members who contributed their perspectives and ideas. You all are awesome. On 5/20/14, Alana Leonhardy via nabs-l wrote: > Hi. Don't let her isolate myself. I lost both eyes three years ago and > didn't get the support I needed. For someone who had vision, losing it is > frightening. It takes time to accept it and even more time to realize that > you aren't less of a person. Get her connected with the blind. > Best, Alana > > Sent from my iPhone > >> On May 20, 2014, at 9:21, Ali Steenis via nabs-l >> wrote: >> >> Hi there, >> >> I can only imagine how difficult it must be to go through something like >> this. Because I have been visually impaired since birth I cannot fully >> understand. But I did lose the majority of my sight in my junior year high >> school and I admit it was the hardest year in my life. I'm curious if you >> can pass on some books to read for her. There are lots of good reads out >> there that I think may help. >> >> I encourage you to look up a guy who is a major spokesperson for Guide >> Dogs for the Blind. Not sure of his exact name but his handle on twitter >> is @belloism. He is a young journalist who was fully sighted until his >> twenties when he lost his vision all at once. He has a book that details >> his story of going from life with sight to life without. He is a highly >> successful journalist and author and has really embraced his new life. >> If you think reading his book might be good for her then please shoot me >> an email. I would love to talk more about stand be sure you can find the >> book. >> I also understand how this can be hard for you to watch. All you can do is >> be supportive. To us, because we are used to life without sight, it >> doesn't seem to be as big of a deal as it may be for them. All you can >> really do is be supportive and be a resource if she chooses to reach out >> to you to learn. >> Feel free to email me if you'd like to chat more. >> >> I will be praying for you and your friend. >> God Bless, >> Ali >> Ali Steenis >> Seattle Pacific University >> 2014 - 2015 New Residence Hall/Emerson Hall Senator >> steenisa at spu.edu >> >> Perseverance is a Habit. >> >>> On May 20, 2014, at 8:31 AM, Bridget Walker via nabs-l >>> wrote: >>> >>> Hi Kaiti and all, >>> I have both been through the challenge of deteriorating vision and have >>> friends who have gone through it. From what I remember my vision loss the >>> drastic anyway took a few years. I just got used to it. My brain would >>> not process the messages sent from my eyes after so many years and here >>> I am. I'm not totally blind but, nine times out of ten whatever residual >>> vision I have is not functional. >>> Anyway, what do you do? I got help. I received all the help I could get. >>> I needed to be educated about my neurological condition and how it will >>> effect me each day. >>> When my friend went through it I was like an emotional support. I was the >>> person they called saying you will never guess what I did today and go >>> off on a rant about all the challenges they faced through the day. >>> Sometimes I could offer tips. That was all about reading my friend that >>> point. Is it the right time to give my two sense? >>> As hard as it is to see sometimes you have to watch the person fight >>> through it. That is the only way they will learn. At one point I refused >>> to use my cane during the process. I guess my thought was I have always >>> had vision loss so what is a little more from my acuity. >>> I can't put all of it in one post we would be here all day. If you would >>> like to talk at any time feel free to contact me. >>> Bridget >>> >>> >>> >>> Sent from my iPad >>> >>>> On May 20, 26 Heisei, at 8:01 AM, Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l >>>> wrote: >>>> >>>> Good morning, all, >>>> >>>> Hell, if we had to live as a sighted person, it would be equally >>>> disconcerting. Try laying that on your friend.At 09:33 PM 10/13/2013, >>>> Kaiti Shelton wrote: >>>>> Hi all, >>>>> >>>>> I am confronted with an interesting situation. A very close friend of >>>>> mine may/may not have a neurological proglem which, if left untreated, >>>>> could cause damage to the optic nerve and therefore blindness. I'm >>>>> trying to be a good friend and be supportive, because what she's going >>>>> through is definitely not comfortable or easy by any means, but she >>>>> doesn't even have the test results or know of a treatment plan and >>>>> she's already thinking about the what ifs associated with going blind. >>>>> >>>>> It's really difficult, because I realize that it is scary to think >>>>> about; I probably would not be a happy camper if my vision drastically >>>>> changed, and that's even with the knowledge that it could do so in a >>>>> way that would further limit the sight I have/make me totally blind at >>>>> any time if the right thing were to go wrong having been drilled into >>>>> me since childhood. I would imagine that discomfort/annoyance would >>>>> be at least ten-fold for a person who has spent nearly two decades as >>>>> a sighted person, with little to no contact with a blind person until >>>>> they met me in college. Yet, I feel somewhat awkward because I know >>>>> that blindness is not the worst thing that could happen to a person by >>>>> far, and that I've shown her by example that one does not need sight >>>>> to do well in school, to cook and clean around an apartment, to have a >>>>> job, or to be successful in general. I realize that seeing someone >>>>> else do things differently and imagining yourself have to do them a >>>>> different way is terrifying too, if I had to suddenly switch to using >>>>> a foreign language or sign language to speak I'd definitely be >>>>> freaking about the ramifications of being out of the loop, and perhaps >>>>> that is what this is like a bit. >>>>> >>>>> I'm just trying to think of ways that I can be supportive while still >>>>> showing her that even if the worst does happen, things can be >>>>> done---just differently. I feel like that is one of the best ways I >>>>> can be supportive, because I have the knowledge about the subject that >>>>> others around her do not, and since blindness has such a bad >>>>> connotation, it is possible that those who don't know much about it >>>>> are not helping the situation by panicking themselves. I'm trying to >>>>> be empathetic as well, because although I have lost vision in chunks, >>>>> I am probably the only person she knows who has experienced any form >>>>> of vision loss, and there was a time in my younger teen years when I >>>>> was terrified of losing all of my vision in which I had to put >>>>> blindness into perspective and realize that much worse could happen to >>>>> a person, too. >>>>> >>>>> So far I've been telling her to not freak about it is she doesn't even >>>>> have test results yet, which I realize is much easier said than done >>>>> but I thought it was the best I could do. I've also reminded her that >>>>> even if she does have this condition there are treatment plans which >>>>> could prevent vision loss, so even if she were to receive the >>>>> diagnosis it is not a death sentence for her sight. I do not know >>>>> what else I could do at this point but remind her of those things, >>>>> since the rationalization seems to help for a while once she thinks >>>>> through it. >>>>> >>>>> I would love to hear from people who have had similar experiences >>>>> and/or lost sight later in life. If you are the latter and you knew >>>>> there was a possibility of blindness before it happened what specific >>>>> aspects about blindness bothered you the most? What, if anything, did >>>>> others do that made you feel a little better about the situation? >>>>> What do you wish others would have done to help you? What would you >>>>> suggest I do to help my friend? Did contact with other blind people >>>>> help you durring that time? (The thing I'm worried about is her >>>>> saying, "Well you can't empathize because you don't know what it's >>>>> like," because in terms of having the sudden shock I do not, but >>>>> everything else I do). Any thoughts? >>>>> -- >>>>> Kaiti >>>>> >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>> nabs-l: >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net >>>> >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bridgetawalker13%40aol.com >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bearboy153%40aol.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alana.leonhardy%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 21 02:25:17 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 22:25:17 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access In-Reply-To: References: <537b3e31.8514320a.7d27.282f@mx.google.com> Message-ID: Hi Ashley, I used Overdrive for a time, and only deleted it because I just rely on Bookshare so much that I wasn't going to it on my phone. However, when I did use it, I found it to be pretty accessible. It was working fine with VoiceOver, and the layout was very user-friendly. Second, I have not had much luck with scholarly databases. My university primarily likes students to use either Oxford University or JStor, and JStor was particularly difficult for me. I was collecting articles, coincidentally for my music history class, and I needed the help of someone in the disabilities office to download the articles I wanted as PDFs and send them through Robo Braille so I could read them and write my paper. I was not very happy with those issues, and actually put in a complaint to my university library and JStor. I hope this answers your questions. P.S, like I mentioned, I took 2 music history classes this past year. We learned about a few historical women composers, so if you want any names to look up, or want to know a little about them to give you something to search by, I'd be happy to help off-list. On 5/20/14, Joshua Hendrickson via nabs-l wrote: > Hello Ashley. I have used NVDA on a USB flash drive at our local > public library before, and it does work. At my library, you usually > only get 30 minutes of computer access, but this can be extended for > at least an hour, and I think to another hour if the librarian helps > you get guest access. Now, since window-eyes is free for those who > have MS-word 2010 or higher, I'd think libraries could just download > the free copy of window-eyes and you could use that. I haven't got my > local library to install window-eyes on one of our computers just yet, > but I do intend to let them know about this. > > On 5/20/14, Sophie Trist via nabs-l wrote: >> She's right about the CD's. I often go to my public library with >> a reader who knows what genres I'm into--sci-fi fantasy--and >> helps me look over the CD's. It's a good way to access free >> audiobooks. >> >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: Lillie Pennington via nabs-l > To: Ashley Bramlett ,National >> Association of Blind Students mailing list > Date sent: Mon, 19 May 2014 22:41:28 -0400 >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access >> >> I can't answer most of your questions, but I can answer some. The >> databases I used when I was using databases for a research paper >> were accessible. The only tricky part is getting the text of the >> article since the database generally only provides a citation and >> abstract. I just googled the article name and author name. Once I >> had the full text I pasted it in a word doc in my drop box in a >> folder where I kept stuff relating to my paper. You should be >> able to use most databases at home. >> In terms of audio books, your library may have a collection of >> CDs that are audio books. >> Hath >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> >> On May 18, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l >> wrote: >> >> Hi all, >> >> Well, I have a library card and may soon find out what I can >> use. >> >> It seems to me we get minimal access at university libraries; >> like only one pc with jaws and most databases are not real >> accessible. >> But, at public libraries, we cannot even use the pcs. >> >> This has bothered me for some time as an active citizen. >> Do you access your public library? >> Now, I realize we cannot read print. >> But, with jaws, we can use the e audiobooks and evideos. >> >> So questions. >> >> 1. does your library have jaws, zoomtext, or any software for >> the vi population? >> 2. Most libraries use overdrive for e resource material. This >> means ebooks, e-audiobooks, and evideos. Is overdrive accessible? >> If you used it for an e audiobook, how is it divided up? by >> chapter? I'm sure its not as much as our daisy books. >> >> 3. If you've gone to a library to get books that you might >> read via your own CCTV, magnifier, or with a reader, were the >> staff helpful? >> >> Also, anyone want to comment on what electronic resources they >> found accessible at public libraries using your own equipment >> like a laptop? >> Our libraries have free wireless access so I'm sure this is >> pretty standard elsewhere. So, you could bring your own equipment >> in and search the databases. I'm wondering if encyclopedias >> like Gale Reference library or Grolier online are usable. My >> hunch would be yes, but have not tried. I plan to though as I >> would like to do some research on historical famous composers and >> women soon. >> >> Thanks. >> Ashley >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account >> info for nabs-l: >> >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepenning >> ton%40fuse.net >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >> for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sweetpeareade >> r%40gmail.com >> >> >> > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 21 03:18:53 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Brice Smith via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 23:18:53 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access In-Reply-To: References: <537b3e31.8514320a.7d27.282f@mx.google.com> Message-ID: Hi, Kaiti. What specific problems are you having with JSTOR? I relied on resources like JSTOR and Academic Search Complete extensively when I was a student, and I just taught a high school senior how to use academic databases, including a brief introduction to JSTOR. I just searched JSTOR for music theory and downloaded a PDF, so I'm curious what you're experiencing and if it's potentially college-specific. Brice On 5/20/14, Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l wrote: > Hi Ashley, > > I used Overdrive for a time, and only deleted it because I just rely > on Bookshare so much that I wasn't going to it on my phone. However, > when I did use it, I found it to be pretty accessible. It was working > fine with VoiceOver, and the layout was very user-friendly. > > Second, I have not had much luck with scholarly databases. My > university primarily likes students to use either Oxford University or > JStor, and JStor was particularly difficult for me. I was collecting > articles, coincidentally for my music history class, and I needed the > help of someone in the disabilities office to download the articles I > wanted as PDFs and send them through Robo Braille so I could read them > and write my paper. I was not very happy with those issues, and > actually put in a complaint to my university library and JStor. > > I hope this answers your questions. P.S, like I mentioned, I took 2 > music history classes this past year. We learned about a few > historical women composers, so if you want any names to look up, or > want to know a little about them to give you something to search by, > I'd be happy to help off-list. > > On 5/20/14, Joshua Hendrickson via nabs-l wrote: >> Hello Ashley. I have used NVDA on a USB flash drive at our local >> public library before, and it does work. At my library, you usually >> only get 30 minutes of computer access, but this can be extended for >> at least an hour, and I think to another hour if the librarian helps >> you get guest access. Now, since window-eyes is free for those who >> have MS-word 2010 or higher, I'd think libraries could just download >> the free copy of window-eyes and you could use that. I haven't got my >> local library to install window-eyes on one of our computers just yet, >> but I do intend to let them know about this. >> >> On 5/20/14, Sophie Trist via nabs-l wrote: >>> She's right about the CD's. I often go to my public library with >>> a reader who knows what genres I'm into--sci-fi fantasy--and >>> helps me look over the CD's. It's a good way to access free >>> audiobooks. >>> >>> ----- Original Message ----- >>> From: Lillie Pennington via nabs-l >> To: Ashley Bramlett ,National >>> Association of Blind Students mailing list >> Date sent: Mon, 19 May 2014 22:41:28 -0400 >>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access >>> >>> I can't answer most of your questions, but I can answer some. The >>> databases I used when I was using databases for a research paper >>> were accessible. The only tricky part is getting the text of the >>> article since the database generally only provides a citation and >>> abstract. I just googled the article name and author name. Once I >>> had the full text I pasted it in a word doc in my drop box in a >>> folder where I kept stuff relating to my paper. You should be >>> able to use most databases at home. >>> In terms of audio books, your library may have a collection of >>> CDs that are audio books. >>> Hath >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone >>> >>> On May 18, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l >>> wrote: >>> >>> Hi all, >>> >>> Well, I have a library card and may soon find out what I can >>> use. >>> >>> It seems to me we get minimal access at university libraries; >>> like only one pc with jaws and most databases are not real >>> accessible. >>> But, at public libraries, we cannot even use the pcs. >>> >>> This has bothered me for some time as an active citizen. >>> Do you access your public library? >>> Now, I realize we cannot read print. >>> But, with jaws, we can use the e audiobooks and evideos. >>> >>> So questions. >>> >>> 1. does your library have jaws, zoomtext, or any software for >>> the vi population? >>> 2. Most libraries use overdrive for e resource material. This >>> means ebooks, e-audiobooks, and evideos. Is overdrive accessible? >>> If you used it for an e audiobook, how is it divided up? by >>> chapter? I'm sure its not as much as our daisy books. >>> >>> 3. If you've gone to a library to get books that you might >>> read via your own CCTV, magnifier, or with a reader, were the >>> staff helpful? >>> >>> Also, anyone want to comment on what electronic resources they >>> found accessible at public libraries using your own equipment >>> like a laptop? >>> Our libraries have free wireless access so I'm sure this is >>> pretty standard elsewhere. So, you could bring your own equipment >>> in and search the databases. I'm wondering if encyclopedias >>> like Gale Reference library or Grolier online are usable. My >>> hunch would be yes, but have not tried. I plan to though as I >>> would like to do some research on historical famous composers and >>> women soon. >>> >>> Thanks. >>> Ashley >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account >>> info for nabs-l: >>> >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepenning >>> ton%40fuse.net >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >>> for nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sweetpeareade >>> r%40gmail.com >>> >>> >>> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com >> > > > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/brice.smith319%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 21 03:49:00 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 23:49:00 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access In-Reply-To: References: <537b3e31.8514320a.7d27.282f@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <2B8160721D3842929FC4BF3A49316B5C@OwnerPC> Kaiti, Thanks. I'll use a pc for overdrive and hope it works well. Does that software have books in every genre? Our public libraries do not have accessible computers. So, what I'll do is bring my laptop over to one, and set up an appointment to go over overdrive. They do tutoring for anyone, so its not a special request. I cannot figure out how it works. If anyone uses overdrive on a windows 7 tablet or computer, let me know how it is. Now, regarding the school databases, as I mentioned previously, I've had trouble with our library website since its in tabs. Its hard to open the articles tab where you find the databases link, let alone use them. I had trouble with jstor too. Additionally, I was using business source complete to do research on conflict resolution for a paper. I was not able to click on those boxes to change your word search; by default when you write in two search boxes, it says "and" in the box. but you can change it to "or". The search results were easy to navigate since they were by heading. Be thankful the disability office helped you. I did not get that help at any university. At my first one, GMU, librarians assisted me and sent me pdf files through email. They sat down with me to research, and read off article titles and abstracts so I could pick what I wanted. At marymount university where I transferred to, some staff helped me, but mostly I used readers. Has anyone used encyclopedias? My public library has several electronic ones, and I hope their accessible. They are the grolier online encyclopedia, gale reference, and something americana. You took music history; nice. I'm searching classical and baroque composers now and some of this will go into a presentation for seniors at a senior center. is this a good email to chat off list? Ashley -----Original Message----- From: Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 10:25 PM To: louvins at gmail.com ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access Hi Ashley, I used Overdrive for a time, and only deleted it because I just rely on Bookshare so much that I wasn't going to it on my phone. However, when I did use it, I found it to be pretty accessible. It was working fine with VoiceOver, and the layout was very user-friendly. Second, I have not had much luck with scholarly databases. My university primarily likes students to use either Oxford University or JStor, and JStor was particularly difficult for me. I was collecting articles, coincidentally for my music history class, and I needed the help of someone in the disabilities office to download the articles I wanted as PDFs and send them through Robo Braille so I could read them and write my paper. I was not very happy with those issues, and actually put in a complaint to my university library and JStor. I hope this answers your questions. P.S, like I mentioned, I took 2 music history classes this past year. We learned about a few historical women composers, so if you want any names to look up, or want to know a little about them to give you something to search by, I'd be happy to help off-list. On 5/20/14, Joshua Hendrickson via nabs-l wrote: > Hello Ashley. I have used NVDA on a USB flash drive at our local > public library before, and it does work. At my library, you usually > only get 30 minutes of computer access, but this can be extended for > at least an hour, and I think to another hour if the librarian helps > you get guest access. Now, since window-eyes is free for those who > have MS-word 2010 or higher, I'd think libraries could just download > the free copy of window-eyes and you could use that. I haven't got my > local library to install window-eyes on one of our computers just yet, > but I do intend to let them know about this. > > On 5/20/14, Sophie Trist via nabs-l wrote: >> She's right about the CD's. I often go to my public library with >> a reader who knows what genres I'm into--sci-fi fantasy--and >> helps me look over the CD's. It's a good way to access free >> audiobooks. >> >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: Lillie Pennington via nabs-l > To: Ashley Bramlett ,National >> Association of Blind Students mailing list > Date sent: Mon, 19 May 2014 22:41:28 -0400 >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access >> >> I can't answer most of your questions, but I can answer some. The >> databases I used when I was using databases for a research paper >> were accessible. The only tricky part is getting the text of the >> article since the database generally only provides a citation and >> abstract. I just googled the article name and author name. Once I >> had the full text I pasted it in a word doc in my drop box in a >> folder where I kept stuff relating to my paper. You should be >> able to use most databases at home. >> In terms of audio books, your library may have a collection of >> CDs that are audio books. >> Hath >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> >> On May 18, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l >> wrote: >> >> Hi all, >> >> Well, I have a library card and may soon find out what I can >> use. >> >> It seems to me we get minimal access at university libraries; >> like only one pc with jaws and most databases are not real >> accessible. >> But, at public libraries, we cannot even use the pcs. >> >> This has bothered me for some time as an active citizen. >> Do you access your public library? >> Now, I realize we cannot read print. >> But, with jaws, we can use the e audiobooks and evideos. >> >> So questions. >> >> 1. does your library have jaws, zoomtext, or any software for >> the vi population? >> 2. Most libraries use overdrive for e resource material. This >> means ebooks, e-audiobooks, and evideos. Is overdrive accessible? >> If you used it for an e audiobook, how is it divided up? by >> chapter? I'm sure its not as much as our daisy books. >> >> 3. If you've gone to a library to get books that you might >> read via your own CCTV, magnifier, or with a reader, were the >> staff helpful? >> >> Also, anyone want to comment on what electronic resources they >> found accessible at public libraries using your own equipment >> like a laptop? >> Our libraries have free wireless access so I'm sure this is >> pretty standard elsewhere. So, you could bring your own equipment >> in and search the databases. I'm wondering if encyclopedias >> like Gale Reference library or Grolier online are usable. My >> hunch would be yes, but have not tried. I plan to though as I >> would like to do some research on historical famous composers and >> women soon. >> >> Thanks. >> Ashley >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account >> info for nabs-l: >> >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepenning >> ton%40fuse.net >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >> for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sweetpeareade >> r%40gmail.com >> >> >> > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 21 03:57:36 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 20 May 2014 23:57:36 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access In-Reply-To: <537b3e31.8514320a.7d27.282f@mx.google.com> References: <537b3e31.8514320a.7d27.282f@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <7DCC5FF3687A4CD889DB6BDED3A8088E@OwnerPC> Hi Sophie, My public library does have cds too and dvds. The dvds are educational stuff like documentaries. So, with a reader I can access this. Do you find most commercial book cds are unabridged? Do they divide it up by chapter? I mean like a track per chapter? I used a few cd audio books and they were excellent quality. Yes it’s a good way to have free books in addition to bard, of course. Ashley -----Original Message----- From: Sophie Trist via nabs-l Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 7:35 AM To: Lillie Pennington ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access She's right about the CD's. I often go to my public library with a reader who knows what genres I'm into--sci-fi fantasy--and helps me look over the CD's. It's a good way to access free audiobooks. ----- Original Message ----- From: Lillie Pennington via nabs-l ,National Association of Blind Students mailing list wrote: Hi all, Well, I have a library card and may soon find out what I can use. It seems to me we get minimal access at university libraries; like only one pc with jaws and most databases are not real accessible. But, at public libraries, we cannot even use the pcs. This has bothered me for some time as an active citizen. Do you access your public library? Now, I realize we cannot read print. But, with jaws, we can use the e audiobooks and evideos. So questions. 1. does your library have jaws, zoomtext, or any software for the vi population? 2. Most libraries use overdrive for e resource material. This means ebooks, e-audiobooks, and evideos. Is overdrive accessible? If you used it for an e audiobook, how is it divided up? by chapter? I?�m sure its not as much as our daisy books. 3. If you?�ve gone to a library to get books that you might read via your own CCTV, magnifier, or with a reader, were the staff helpful? Also, anyone want to comment on what electronic resources they found accessible at public libraries using your own equipment like a laptop? Our libraries have free wireless access so I?�m sure this is pretty standard elsewhere. So, you could bring your own equipment in and search the databases. I?�m wondering if encyclopedias like Gale Reference library or Grolier online are usable. My hunch would be yes, but have not tried. I plan to though as I would like to do some research on historical famous composers and women soon. Thanks. Ashley _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepenning ton%40fuse.net _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sweetpeareade r%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 21 04:27:37 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 21 May 2014 00:27:37 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access In-Reply-To: References: <537b3e31.8514320a.7d27.282f@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <858E72DF770749C298F14538B28FFB7B@OwnerPC> Brice, I'm a jaws user with windows 7. What about you? I had trouble with many databases. Are you able to use lexis nexis? Thanks. -----Original Message----- From: Brice Smith via nabs-l Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 11:18 PM To: Kaiti Shelton ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access Hi, Kaiti. What specific problems are you having with JSTOR? I relied on resources like JSTOR and Academic Search Complete extensively when I was a student, and I just taught a high school senior how to use academic databases, including a brief introduction to JSTOR. I just searched JSTOR for music theory and downloaded a PDF, so I'm curious what you're experiencing and if it's potentially college-specific. Brice On 5/20/14, Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l wrote: > Hi Ashley, > > I used Overdrive for a time, and only deleted it because I just rely > on Bookshare so much that I wasn't going to it on my phone. However, > when I did use it, I found it to be pretty accessible. It was working > fine with VoiceOver, and the layout was very user-friendly. > > Second, I have not had much luck with scholarly databases. My > university primarily likes students to use either Oxford University or > JStor, and JStor was particularly difficult for me. I was collecting > articles, coincidentally for my music history class, and I needed the > help of someone in the disabilities office to download the articles I > wanted as PDFs and send them through Robo Braille so I could read them > and write my paper. I was not very happy with those issues, and > actually put in a complaint to my university library and JStor. > > I hope this answers your questions. P.S, like I mentioned, I took 2 > music history classes this past year. We learned about a few > historical women composers, so if you want any names to look up, or > want to know a little about them to give you something to search by, > I'd be happy to help off-list. > > On 5/20/14, Joshua Hendrickson via nabs-l wrote: >> Hello Ashley. I have used NVDA on a USB flash drive at our local >> public library before, and it does work. At my library, you usually >> only get 30 minutes of computer access, but this can be extended for >> at least an hour, and I think to another hour if the librarian helps >> you get guest access. Now, since window-eyes is free for those who >> have MS-word 2010 or higher, I'd think libraries could just download >> the free copy of window-eyes and you could use that. I haven't got my >> local library to install window-eyes on one of our computers just yet, >> but I do intend to let them know about this. >> >> On 5/20/14, Sophie Trist via nabs-l wrote: >>> She's right about the CD's. I often go to my public library with >>> a reader who knows what genres I'm into--sci-fi fantasy--and >>> helps me look over the CD's. It's a good way to access free >>> audiobooks. >>> >>> ----- Original Message ----- >>> From: Lillie Pennington via nabs-l >> To: Ashley Bramlett ,National >>> Association of Blind Students mailing list >> Date sent: Mon, 19 May 2014 22:41:28 -0400 >>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] overdrive and public library access >>> >>> I can't answer most of your questions, but I can answer some. The >>> databases I used when I was using databases for a research paper >>> were accessible. The only tricky part is getting the text of the >>> article since the database generally only provides a citation and >>> abstract. I just googled the article name and author name. Once I >>> had the full text I pasted it in a word doc in my drop box in a >>> folder where I kept stuff relating to my paper. You should be >>> able to use most databases at home. >>> In terms of audio books, your library may have a collection of >>> CDs that are audio books. >>> Hath >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone >>> >>> On May 18, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l >>> wrote: >>> >>> Hi all, >>> >>> Well, I have a library card and may soon find out what I can >>> use. >>> >>> It seems to me we get minimal access at university libraries; >>> like only one pc with jaws and most databases are not real >>> accessible. >>> But, at public libraries, we cannot even use the pcs. >>> >>> This has bothered me for some time as an active citizen. >>> Do you access your public library? >>> Now, I realize we cannot read print. >>> But, with jaws, we can use the e audiobooks and evideos. >>> >>> So questions. >>> >>> 1. does your library have jaws, zoomtext, or any software for >>> the vi population? >>> 2. Most libraries use overdrive for e resource material. This >>> means ebooks, e-audiobooks, and evideos. Is overdrive accessible? >>> If you used it for an e audiobook, how is it divided up? by >>> chapter? I'm sure its not as much as our daisy books. >>> >>> 3. If you've gone to a library to get books that you might >>> read via your own CCTV, magnifier, or with a reader, were the >>> staff helpful? >>> >>> Also, anyone want to comment on what electronic resources they >>> found accessible at public libraries using your own equipment >>> like a laptop? >>> Our libraries have free wireless access so I'm sure this is >>> pretty standard elsewhere. So, you could bring your own equipment >>> in and search the databases. I'm wondering if encyclopedias >>> like Gale Reference library or Grolier online are usable. My >>> hunch would be yes, but have not tried. I plan to though as I >>> would like to do some research on historical famous composers and >>> women soon. >>> >>> Thanks. >>> Ashley >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account >>> info for nabs-l: >>> >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepenning >>> ton%40fuse.net >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info >>> for nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/sweetpeareade >>> r%40gmail.com >>> >>> >>> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com >> > > > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/brice.smith319%40gmail.com > _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 21 17:45:03 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian Smith via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 21 May 2014 10:45:03 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] The National Association of Blind Students presents: Joining your local chapter in three easy steps. Message-ID: <25728DFF-F5F8-40F7-A999-213917C87F2B@gmail.com> Hey everyone! On behalf of NABS, I hope the finals season and semester wind-down treats you well. So, you have joined NABS and have gotten to take advantage of the great resources and connections the student division has to offer. Maybe you have heard your friends talk about their involvement in local NFB Chapters, or maybe you’ve caught a list-serve thread or two on the topic. Do you want to know more about NFB Chapters, what makes them important and why they absolutely need you? Then Join The National Association of Blind Students and Darian Smith, President of the National Federation of the Blind of California , San Francisco Chapter this Sunday to learn more about national Federation of the Blind Local chapters, what they are, what they do and how to get connected with one. When: Sunday, May 25, 2014 at 7:00p.m. EST. Where: Confrence Call: ((605)475-6700. Access Code: 7869673 The NABS Membership Committee Darian Smith 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students (415) 215-9809 dsmithnfb at gmail.com. twitter: @goldengateace www.nabslink.org Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. “ A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” - Nelson Mandela. > > Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further > Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! > For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 23 02:16:58 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (David Andrews via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 22 May 2014 21:16:58 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Changes at BLIND Inc. Message-ID: >From: Dick Davis > >Dear Friends, >I realized today that not everyone in the NFB >knew about the recent Executive Director >transition at BLIND, Inc., so this e-mail is my >attempt to bring everyone up to date. As most >of you know, Shawn Mayo’s last day as >Executive Director was December 31, 2013. She >moved to Iowa with Emily Wharton, and after a >period of rest and recuperation, went to work >for the Iowa Department for the Blind, where she >currently runs their orientation center. I >became Executive Director on January 1, 2014 and >spent the next four months training Dan Wenzel, >whom we had hired before Shawn left. My task >was completed on April 30, and Dan became >Executive Director on May 1st. He is proving to >be an excellent hire, and as you might expect, >everyone loves him. After a short rest from my >labors, I was able to return to my former >position as Assistant Director for Employment, a >job that I love. Transitions of this type are >never easy, but this one turned out great. I >can't say enough good about all of you who made >my task easier. And please join with me in >welcoming Dan Wenzel to the position of Executive Director of BLIND, Inc. >All the best, >Dick Davis > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 23 03:20:45 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Shikha via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 22 May 2014 23:20:45 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Hey Message-ID: Hey My name is shikha and i am from georgia i am looking for two more girls to room with me at national convention I have already booked a room Thanks Shikha. From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 23 03:39:08 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (David Dunphy via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 22 May 2014 23:39:08 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Hey In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <537EC2DC.5050304@gmail.com> Well I won't be rooming with you, but welcome. Is this yourfirst convention? I'll be there. Get in touch here or off list with questions. On 5/22/2014 11:20 PM, Shikha via nabs-l wrote: > Hey > My name is shikha and i am from georgia > i am looking for two more girls to room with me at national convention > I have already booked a room > > > > Thanks > > Shikha. > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/internetradioentertainer%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 23 04:18:06 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Alana Leonhardy via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 22 May 2014 21:18:06 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Hey In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <3F93734A-5EF4-44E7-B644-221A80E9B8A5@gmail.com> Hey. Do you have it for the night of June 30th? Alana Sent from my iPhone > On May 22, 2014, at 20:20, Shikha via nabs-l wrote: > > Hey > My name is shikha and i am from georgia > i am looking for two more girls to room with me at national convention > I have already booked a room > > > > Thanks > > Shikha. > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alana.leonhardy%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 24 13:45:52 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 24 May 2014 06:45:52 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] voice lessons In-Reply-To: <535ead0f.146f320a.6a2c.14be@mx.google.com> References: <535ead0f.146f320a.6a2c.14be@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140524064011.01d46a68@comcast.net> Good morning, Kelsey, I don't know if I have responded to this yet, but perhaps, by having a group presentation of voice lessons, the teacher aims to instruct particular postures for maximizing projection of the voice, maybe certain ways of moving your lips for clear e nun cee ation of words? As far as I can see, that's about an only practical way one could hold a"group" choir class. Tell us if I'm wrong. Good luck, Kelsey! for today, CarAt 12:33 PM 4/28/2014, Kelsey Nicolay wrote: > Hello, >I had to stop taking voice lessons with my current teacher due to >personal reasons. I am going to take the summer off, but I am >looking to start back up again once choir starts in September >since I don't want to lose the skills I gained. Therefore, I am >considering a group class. However, there are none in my town. >There is one at a music conservatory that someone in the choir >goes to, but it's a half hour away in another county. The fore, >using transit is not going to work and my family can't always be >there to take me. Therefore, would it be acceptable to ask the >person if I could ride with her and offer to give her some money >for gas? Also, for a blind student, how effective is a group >class going to be? With private lessons, the instructor can spend >one on one time with you to demonstrate physically certain >concepts, but with a group class, that's more difficult. What do >you guys think about a blind person doing a group class? I have >studied before, so would I be able to handle the group >environment? What are some ways I could ensure equal access to >the concepts presented in the class? I have heard that group >classes aren't always the best for blind people, but it might be >my only option. I could easily arrange for music to be brailled >since I have a transcriber and someone who can emboss it, so that >won't be an issue at all. Would I have to spend additional one >on one time with the instructor to solidify my understanding? >Anyone with experience with any kind of group musical class, >please feel free to share your experiences. >Thanks, >Kelsey > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 24 17:32:35 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (minh ha via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 24 May 2014 13:32:35 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Tutoring SAT's Message-ID: Hello all, I am going to be volunteering as a SAT coach for Lets Get Ready, a non profit that provides free SAT prep for low income high school students. I'm really excited to do this as it will give me something to do besides my internship. However, I'm just a little apprehensive about the coaching part because the students are given the Princeton SAT prep books to use with their coaches, and there is not a braille version of the exact book that they are using. I'll be coaching the verbal/writing portion of the SAT, and I was thinking of having the students read me the questions, but listening to exam questions have never been my strong suit, especially multiple choice. The curriculum is pretty structured as well, so I can't change it up that much, but I would appreciate any solutions you think might help me work with the students. Thanks, Minh -- "All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible." T. E. Lawrence From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 24 17:44:47 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Alyssa via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 24 May 2014 12:44:47 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Tutoring SAT's In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <20709BEB-0BC1-4A98-AF61-5A5214A1A701@gmail.com> Hi. Is it possible to scan and emboss the books? Alyssa Sent from my iPhone > On May 24, 2014, at 12:32 PM, minh ha via nabs-l wrote: > > Hello all, > > I am going to be volunteering as a SAT coach for Lets Get Ready, a non > profit that provides free SAT prep for low income high school > students. I'm really excited to do this as it will give me something > to do besides my internship. However, I'm just a little apprehensive > about the coaching part because the students are given the Princeton > SAT prep books to use with their coaches, and there is not a braille > version of the exact book that they are using. I'll be coaching the > verbal/writing portion of the SAT, and I was thinking of having the > students read me the questions, but listening to exam questions have > never been my strong suit, especially multiple choice. The curriculum > is pretty structured as well, so I can't change it up that much, but I > would appreciate any solutions you think might help me work with the > students. > > Thanks, > Minh > > -- > "All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty > recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: > but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on > their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible." T. E. Lawrence > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alyssahenson95%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 25 18:08:46 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 25 May 2014 11:08:46 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] reminder: The National Association of Blind Students presents: Joining your local chapter in three easy steps. In-Reply-To: <25728DFF-F5F8-40F7-A999-213917C87F2B@gmail.com> References: <25728DFF-F5F8-40F7-A999-213917C87F2B@gmail.com> Message-ID: <82DA2174-33D5-4BCA-B1FB-3BD1169DD070@gmail.com> > > Hey everyone! > > On behalf of NABS, I hope the finals season and semester wind-down treats you well. > So, you have joined NABS and have gotten to take advantage of the great resources and connections the student division has to offer. > Maybe you have heard your friends talk about their involvement in local NFB Chapters, or maybe you’ve caught a list-serve thread or two on the topic. > Do you want to know more about NFB Chapters, what makes them important and why they absolutely need you? > Then Join The National Association of Blind Students and Darian Smith, President of the National Federation of the Blind of California , San Francisco Chapter this Sunday to learn more about national Federation of the Blind Local chapters, what they are, what they do and how to get connected with one. > > When: Sunday, May 25, 2014 at 7:00p.m. EST. > Where: Confrence Call: ((605)475-6700. Access Code: 7869673 > > > The NABS Membership Committee > > > > Darian Smith > 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Students > (415) 215-9809 > dsmithnfb at gmail.com. > twitter: @goldengateace > > www.nabslink.org > Follow the National Association of Blind Students on twitter: @nabslink. > “ A good Head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” > - Nelson Mandela. >> >> Vehicle Donations Take the Blind Further >> Donate your car to the National Federation of the Blind today! >> For more information, please visit: www.carshelpingtheblind.org or call 1-855-659-9314 > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sun May 25 21:48:57 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Robin via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 25 May 2014 14:48:57 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Kerri & Encouragement & Your Post In-Reply-To: References: <016E208D0B29451DBB7444C70BF8C428@OwnerPC> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140525144432.0cdea940@comcast.net> Greetings Ms. - Miss - Mrs. Cindy B. GREAT Post!! But, I am CURIOUS about whether or not you are TOTALLY BLIND like Kerri K., who identified herself as TOTALLY BLIND? I am SO SORRY to be REPLYING so LATE to this EMAIL THREAD, but I've been quite BUSY, and haven't had the TIME or OPPORTUNITY to go through My EMAIL until now. Sent From Berkeley,CA At 02:34 PM 11/26/2013, you wrote: >Hi Kerri, > >It is completely normal to be frustrated after training. I don't think >anyone finishes and never has trouble again. I have a lot of issues >with my family understanding my sudden not only independence, but >persistence on being independent. A lot of students face this. > >I cannot relate to your situation as I live in a big city and I do not >have a hearing loss, but rest assured, I do have to ask for help >sometimes, and I sometimes get a friend to show me some things. For >example, I recently had a job interview in a giant store. So I asked a >friend to show me around the store and explain the layout so when I >went in for the interview, I knew where to go. > >The goal of structure discovery training is to choose your travel path >and to give you more freedom, and to travel like a sighted person who >is taught to read maps and not to be intimidated by alternate routes. >However, when I moved to Seattle, I did ask for our rehab agency to >have an O&M instructor show me some things on the campus that I work. >I agree that I could have asked a friend, but at this time, I was very >new to town and did not know anyone. Also, I had the opportunity to >have someone show me around and the agency picked up the bill whereas, >I would have taken the risk of asking a sighted person and not being >sure of their ability to describe things and paid them for their time. >In saying this though, I was assertive to the O&M instructor of what I >wanted to learn. I noticed that she immediately mapped a route for me, >but I kind of detracted during the lesson and asked questions and >walked around several other places so I could learn alternatives. >Similarly, there was one route that was more convenient but through >large open spaces and I had to tell her that I wanted to learn that >route. I may have not even known that was there if I had just gone >with her plan and not asked questions about my surroundings. So I >think that taking advantage of agency-sponsored O&M can really help >one to get some initial orientation, but if you want to use structure >discovery, you might have to be more assertive during the lesson and >tell the instructor how and what you want to learn. > >All that being said, I think that forming routes is pretty typical. I >go to work the same way each day. I think the problem arises when you >are not equipped with the skills to take an alternate route if >necessary or if your skills are such that the only route you know is >out of the way and takes significantly more time. There are definitely >times when I avoid a busy intersection by going to the next block, but >if there was no other option for a few blocks, I would just cross the >street at the busy intersection. So it is all a balance, and >independence is a continuum that is different for each person and even >fluctuates with each person. > >Training gives you a foundation of skills, and I certainly understand >why you are frustrated, but I know that you are not the only one. > >I really appreciate that you have the courage to ask such questions >and to be open to such frustrations. It seems like a healthy way of >dealing with them. > >I hope that you find ways to get more opportunities to travel, because >it seems that it really makes you happy. I am not sure of your >situation and feel that it would be ignorant to say things like, why >don't you move to a big city, or something, but I think that if you >are not satisfied with your current ability to use the skills that you >learned at LCB, brainstorm some possibilities of how you could improve >that situation and what is preventing you from improving the >situation. This might help you figure out if there are things you can >change in your current living situation or what needs to happen for >you to change your living situation, or if that is something you can >do at all. > >Cindy > >On 11/26/13, Ashley Bramlett wrote: > > Kerri, > > > > Calm down. I have fine hearing, but I can identify with the mental mapping > > > > issue. > > I'm hoping to work on skills at some center, but I think I might > be a route > > > > traveler for the most part. What happens with me is that when I > turn around, > > > > for instance 3/4 turn, I have trouble relating where one thing is to > > another. My mental mapping skills are terrible too! > > I also have a tough time reversing directions, and I cannot describe how > > frustrating that can be. > > I got good service from the department for the blind for mobility; my > > teacher as I grew up was so so traditional and just went through routes; no > > > > transferable skills such as intersection analysis or how to read a map were > > > > covered. > > She did not encourage exploration either; just walk the route she told me > > and find a location was all we did. > > As an adult, my O&M teacher was more progressive and she believed in blind > > > > people. She encouraged discovery learning and exploration; she was not > > structured discovery though, just that she used elements of discovery > > learning and guided learning. > > She encouraged me to ask directions from the public and taught me how to > > plan routes; she taught me general skills about using the metro system. > > Well, I got confident from this style of training. Well, here is > my point. I > > > > also got frustrated about not using my new skills outside of training. > > I live and still do live with protective parents. > > Like you, I go travel indoors like the mall, but not outside on city > > blocks. > > > > Do you live with family? if so, its very understandable that you cannot use > > > > your skills enough. > > All I can say is just have people show you routes and then you can go > > through that yourself. > > How is the public transit? Why not take the bus to a strip mall area if > > possible? Then you're working on finding stores from the outside. > > Can you walk to any neighborhoods where friends live? If so, try this. > > > > > > I think if people show you routes you'll be okay as long as they're > > descriptive enough. > > For the parking lot, why not just get help crossing it as you would a > > street? > > I sure hope they taught you how to communicate with the public. One way is > > > > with cards that inform people what you need. > > Just practice with friends and then go on your own; also get a home based > > O&M instructor from your rehab agency. > > > > > > Make the most of what you have. > > > > Ashley > > -----Original Message----- > > From: Kerri Kosten > > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2013 3:26 PM > > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > > Subject: [nabs-l] Need Some Encouragement/Some Travel Questions... > > > > Hi Everyone: > > > > I hope it's okay for me to post this. I have debated for a long time > > whether to post about this but I feel like everyone else is allowed to > > post on topics such as family issues and other things so I figured I'd > > post my frustrations. > > I really just want some encouragement, and to know whether I am the > > only one going through this. > > I am totally blind, and in addition to my blindness I have severe > > hearing loss. I can hear sounds and can communicate with people and > > such, but I can't tell which direction sounds are coming from. > > Basically, my hearing really affects my travel. > > Last year, I graduated from the Louisiana Center for The Blind. I > > really enjoyed it, and I really enjoyed cane travel class. I enjoy > > using my cane and traveling. > > Anyway, because of my hearing loss, and the fact I am not that great > > at mental mapping, I did a lot of routes in training. My instructor > > told me when I returned home if someone (anyone) showed me where to go > > around my area I'd be okay. > > To make a long story short, I returned home and things didn't happen > > as they were supposed to. > > I guess I just feel frustrated because I don't feel like I get to use > > my cane that much. Sure, I can go to the mall, or a game or somewhere > > indoors and to get directions from people but where I am not getting > > much practice is outdoors like walking from city block to block and > > crossing streets. > > Another thing that frustrates me is when I do finally get someone to > > show me something I love it because I get to really use my cane and > > then I have to wait a week or more to be able to go out there again. > > For example, there is a Dollar General store located across the street > > from me. The problem is first though that this particular street is > > extremely busy. I am unable to cross busy streets or lighted > > intersections without assistance because of my hearing loss. I > > arranged for someone to help me cross the street. However, I forgot > > one thing. This dollar general has a huge parking lot that is open and > > has no landmarks and I can't hear the echos from the building. > > I had a friend on Saturday walk with me to the dollar General just to > > try to map it out and see how big the parking lot was. With this > > friend, I was able to use my braille compass, and work on mental > > mapping and such just like I was taught in training. Well, my friend > > can't help me again for another week or so. > > I just wish I got to work on the things such as using my braille > > compass, and mental mapping, and really using my cane like I was in > > training more often. It really brings me down when I get to do this > > type of thing for a day, and then I can't do it for another week or > > more. > > I guess I just wondered am I the only one in this situation? > > I know on this list nobody else likely has hearing loss but is there > > anyone else who doesn't get to go out and travel much? > > Have any of you been to training and then afterwords not really been > > able to do as much afterwords? > > Is anybody else on this list also a route traveler or who has to stick > > primarily to someone showing them where something is first? > > Does anyone on here have to use a local mobility instructor to show > > them where things are? If so, what was your experience? > > As I said, I hope it's okay for me to post this. I usually try not to > > post rants, or negative threads, but I just feel > > frustrated/discouraged sometimes because I feel like I am the only > > one. It seems like everyone else who graduates from NFB centers are > > able to get right out there and travel completely independently > > without having to depend on anyone to show them anything. Everyone > > around here is sighted, and so drives, and I guess sometimes I just > > feel like I am the only one who struggles with travel. I feel like > > with sighted people they don't have to be shown anything, or are > > limited in where they can drive. It seems like everyone else who > > graduates from NFB centers are able to just use their hearing to > > travel everywhere. I guess sometimes I just feel > > frustrated/discouraged because I feel like I am the only one and so > > wondered if others were also in a similar situation where you struggle > > with travel or don't get to get out there and use your cane that much. > > Thanks, and this is the only negative post from me I promise!, > > Kerri > > > > _______________________________________________ > > nabs-l mailing list > > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > > nabs-l: > > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > nabs-l mailing list > > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > > nabs-l: > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/clb5590%40gmail.com > > > > >-- >Cindy Bennett >Secretary: National Association of Blind Students > >B.A. Psychology, UNC Wilmington >clb5590 at gmail.com > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/robin-melvin%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Mon May 26 00:43:43 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Sun, 25 May 2014 17:43:43 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Thank you for joining today's call Joining your local chapter in three easy steps. In-Reply-To: <82DA2174-33D5-4BCA-B1FB-3BD1169DD070@gmail.com> References: <25728DFF-F5F8-40F7-A999-213917C87F2B@gmail.com> <82DA2174-33D5-4BCA-B1FB-3BD1169DD070@gmail.com> Message-ID: <7E90EB3F-022F-4869-9CF8-2313165F29A4@gmail.com> >> All: Thank you for joining us this evening. For those who would like to talk with our guest speaker regarding chapter building, chapter involvement or anything else involving national Federation of the blind local chapters, please find her contact information below: Jessica Beecham jbeecham at cocenter.org 303-778-1130 x 223 615-497-0455 Darian Smith Second vice president, national Association of blind students DSmithnfb at gmail.com (415) 215-9809 www.nabslink.org From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 01:17:56 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 26 May 2014 21:17:56 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Spaghetti dinner fundraiser, thoughts? Message-ID: Hi NABSters, I currently serve as the president of the Ohio Association of Blind Students, and our fundraising committee is working on a project for our affiliate convention to be held in November. We would like to host a buffet-style spaghetti dinner on the first night of the convention, and charge a simple $5 admission fee and donations if anyone is willing to give them. We're still a fledgling group in terms of funding, and we know a lot of the affiliate members would probably gladly support us by eating student-made spaghetti and meatballs, fresh salad, fruit, a dessert of some kind, and a drink of lemonade, iced tea, etc. So far we have the resources to be able to cook the spaghetti and keep it warm using crock pots, likewise with the sauce. Our members who will be traveling from greater distances can easily bring store-bought items such as bread and butter, sliced fruit which can be kept in a cooler, and mixes for the lemonade and tea. Logistically, it looks like we could pull it off without much of a problem so long as we plan accordingly and have it cleared with the hotel. I am fairly confident that our affiliate president would not have an issue with it, as he is extremely supportive of the student division. I am wondering if any of you have either helped to organize and carry out, or have gone to another division-sponsored meal at conventions. I am just trying to get a sense of whether or not this is as doable as it seems to us, and if hotels have generally been responsive to the requests for convention-goers to bring in their own food. Also, if you have put on or gone to a dinner of some sort, what were some things you liked or disliked about the experience? Knowing this information will be very useful to my division and I as we plan ahead for our fundraiser. Any feedback would be great. -- Kaiti From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 01:36:27 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 26 May 2014 21:36:27 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] voice lessons In-Reply-To: <7.0.1.0.2.20140524064011.01d46a68@comcast.net> References: <535ead0f.146f320a.6a2c.14be@mx.google.com> <7.0.1.0.2.20140524064011.01d46a68@comcast.net> Message-ID: Kelsey, I have to agree with Ryan and Carly. I think that there might be some application to the group class, but that it would be limited. As someone who takes voice lessons as well, I personally don't think I would grow as I want to in a group setting. I think there are tons of benefits to having individual instruction, and that taking a group class might not be best for me since the instructor will not realistically be able to give me the attention that I want to get from them for my learning. I do think that if you're going to stop lessons for the summer going to the group class might be better than not practicing singing at all unless you regularly sing at church or something every weekend, but I don't know what it might do other than just maintain the status quo. I know at my university the music department offers voice class, but it is for very beginner students who just learn about pitch, how to make proper vowel sounds, how to sing scales and match pitch, etc. It is a group class, but all the students in it have little to no experience singing at all. Students in this class who wish to continue to work on singing after they have learned these basic skills are encouraged to study with an instructor privately, in order to get the kind of help they need to make significant progress. This is the only kind of group singing class I've heard of, and I think the only reason it is really effective is that in some ways it works like an elementary or middle school choir, where the teacher spends time teaching students about enunciation, projection, and how to form vowel sounds for students who missed out on that kind of instruction when they were young. I think it's perfectly acceptable to ask your friend from choir if you could hitch a ride, as long as you chip in some money for gas. I also think it is okay to ask questions of the teacher after class if you need to, but that it wouldn't necessarily be right to spend a lot of extra time each week with the teacher while your ride person waits around for you. Especially if you're just doing the class to maintain skill, I don't think asking for a lot of extra help should be necessary so long as you keep doing what you know is right, and don't do what you know are bad habits. Good luck, On 5/24/14, Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l wrote: > Good morning, Kelsey, > > I don't know if I have responded to this yet, but perhaps, > by having a group presentation of voice lessons, the teacher aims to > instruct particular postures for maximizing projection of the voice, > maybe certain ways of moving your lips for clear e nun cee ation of > words? As far as I can see, that's about an only practical way one > could hold a"group" choir class. Tell us if I'm wrong. Good luck, Kelsey! > for today, CarAt 12:33 PM 4/28/2014, Kelsey Nicolay wrote: >> Hello, >>I had to stop taking voice lessons with my current teacher due to >>personal reasons. I am going to take the summer off, but I am >>looking to start back up again once choir starts in September >>since I don't want to lose the skills I gained. Therefore, I am >>considering a group class. However, there are none in my town. >>There is one at a music conservatory that someone in the choir >>goes to, but it's a half hour away in another county. The fore, >>using transit is not going to work and my family can't always be >>there to take me. Therefore, would it be acceptable to ask the >>person if I could ride with her and offer to give her some money >>for gas? Also, for a blind student, how effective is a group >>class going to be? With private lessons, the instructor can spend >>one on one time with you to demonstrate physically certain >>concepts, but with a group class, that's more difficult. What do >>you guys think about a blind person doing a group class? I have >>studied before, so would I be able to handle the group >>environment? What are some ways I could ensure equal access to >>the concepts presented in the class? I have heard that group >>classes aren't always the best for blind people, but it might be >>my only option. I could easily arrange for music to be brailled >>since I have a transcriber and someone who can emboss it, so that >>won't be an issue at all. Would I have to spend additional one >>on one time with the instructor to solidify my understanding? >>Anyone with experience with any kind of group musical class, >>please feel free to share your experiences. >>Thanks, >>Kelsey >> >>_______________________________________________ >>nabs-l mailing list >>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 01:40:51 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Alana Leonhardy via nabs-l) Date: Mon, 26 May 2014 18:40:51 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] In need of a room for 6-30 Message-ID: Greetings. I'm arriving a day before the convention begins and need a place to stay that night. I'm good to go from 7-1 onwards. I'll obviously pay my share of the room. If all beds are taken I'm fine with a cot on the floor. Please only women as I'm not comfortable rooming with men I don't know. Best, Alana Sent from my iPhone From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 15:13:42 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 08:13:42 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Spaghetti dinner fundraiser, thoughts? In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <72A6911A-7137-4A4A-9524-D7FD9C3CA4F9@gmail.com> Kaiti: Your idea sounds like an absolutely fabulous one! The only potential snag (and it's a sizable one so far as I'm aware) is the hotel. Mostly, hotels are not keen on you bringing in your own stuff. Now I obviously know absolutely nothing about your situation, and next to nothing about hotel contracts, but if the affiliate and the hotel can work out such an agreement, this could be a big hit. I believe that the last student luncheon buffet I went to was catered by the hotel. So that probably won't help you so much. But, depending upon the hotel and your relationship with it, who knows. You doing some really good work in Ohio, and I very much hope for the success of this event. There are some great folks that can benefit from what you have to offer, and you likewise from them. So here's to continued success and the Buckeye state. Please keep in touch if I can be of assistance This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > On May 26, 2014, at 6:17 PM, Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi NABSters, > > I currently serve as the president of the Ohio Association of Blind > Students, and our fundraising committee is working on a project for > our affiliate convention to be held in November. We would like to > host a buffet-style spaghetti dinner on the first night of the > convention, and charge a simple $5 admission fee and donations if > anyone is willing to give them. We're still a fledgling group in > terms of funding, and we know a lot of the affiliate members would > probably gladly support us by eating student-made spaghetti and > meatballs, fresh salad, fruit, a dessert of some kind, and a drink of > lemonade, iced tea, etc. > > So far we have the resources to be able to cook the spaghetti and keep > it warm using crock pots, likewise with the sauce. Our members who > will be traveling from greater distances can easily bring store-bought > items such as bread and butter, sliced fruit which can be kept in a > cooler, and mixes for the lemonade and tea. Logistically, it looks > like we could pull it off without much of a problem so long as we plan > accordingly and have it cleared with the hotel. I am fairly confident > that our affiliate president would not have an issue with it, as he is > extremely supportive of the student division. > > I am wondering if any of you have either helped to organize and carry > out, or have gone to another division-sponsored meal at conventions. > I am just trying to get a sense of whether or not this is as doable as > it seems to us, and if hotels have generally been responsive to the > requests for convention-goers to bring in their own food. Also, if > you have put on or gone to a dinner of some sort, what were some > things you liked or disliked about the experience? Knowing this > information will be very useful to my division and I as we plan ahead > for our fundraiser. Any feedback would be great. > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 15:33:16 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Julie McGinnity via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 10:33:16 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Spaghetti dinner fundraiser, thoughts? In-Reply-To: <72A6911A-7137-4A4A-9524-D7FD9C3CA4F9@gmail.com> References: <72A6911A-7137-4A4A-9524-D7FD9C3CA4F9@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi Kaiti, Darian is exactly right. The hotel's strict policy on food is the only thing to consider here that might cause potential issues. Talk to your affiliate president and/or the convention coordinator in your state about your plan, and they may be able to help you make it happen. We always have a night where we have hospitality-where we bring in food and serve it to people. The host chapter does this, and they have always been able to work that into the contract. So this leads me to believe that the idea is not unreasonable. And a speghetti dinner sounds fabulous, especially if you can get some home-made baked goods into the mix! I think that would be leagues better than a meal catered by the hotel... But that's just an opinion... :) On 5/27/14, Darian via nabs-l wrote: > Kaiti: > Your idea sounds like an absolutely fabulous one! > The only potential snag (and it's a sizable one so far as I'm aware) is the > hotel. Mostly, hotels are not keen on you bringing in your own stuff. Now I > obviously know absolutely nothing about your situation, and next to nothing > about hotel contracts, but if the affiliate and the hotel can work out such > an agreement, this could be a big hit. > I believe that the last student luncheon buffet I went to was catered by > the hotel. So that probably won't help you so much. But, depending upon the > hotel and your relationship with it, who knows. > You doing some really good work in Ohio, and I very much hope for the > success of this event. There are some great folks that can benefit from > what you have to offer, and you likewise from them. So here's to continued > success and the Buckeye state. Please keep in touch if I can be of > assistance > > This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > >> On May 26, 2014, at 6:17 PM, Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l >> wrote: >> >> Hi NABSters, >> >> I currently serve as the president of the Ohio Association of Blind >> Students, and our fundraising committee is working on a project for >> our affiliate convention to be held in November. We would like to >> host a buffet-style spaghetti dinner on the first night of the >> convention, and charge a simple $5 admission fee and donations if >> anyone is willing to give them. We're still a fledgling group in >> terms of funding, and we know a lot of the affiliate members would >> probably gladly support us by eating student-made spaghetti and >> meatballs, fresh salad, fruit, a dessert of some kind, and a drink of >> lemonade, iced tea, etc. >> >> So far we have the resources to be able to cook the spaghetti and keep >> it warm using crock pots, likewise with the sauce. Our members who >> will be traveling from greater distances can easily bring store-bought >> items such as bread and butter, sliced fruit which can be kept in a >> cooler, and mixes for the lemonade and tea. Logistically, it looks >> like we could pull it off without much of a problem so long as we plan >> accordingly and have it cleared with the hotel. I am fairly confident >> that our affiliate president would not have an issue with it, as he is >> extremely supportive of the student division. >> >> I am wondering if any of you have either helped to organize and carry >> out, or have gone to another division-sponsored meal at conventions. >> I am just trying to get a sense of whether or not this is as doable as >> it seems to us, and if hotels have generally been responsive to the >> requests for convention-goers to bring in their own food. Also, if >> you have put on or gone to a dinner of some sort, what were some >> things you liked or disliked about the experience? Knowing this >> information will be very useful to my division and I as we plan ahead >> for our fundraiser. Any feedback would be great. >> -- >> Kaiti >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/kaybaycar%40gmail.com > -- Julie McG National Association of Guide dog Users board member, National Federation of the Blind performing arts division secretary, Missouri Association of Guide dog Users President, and Guiding Eyes for the Blind graduate 2008 "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life." John 3:16 From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 15:34:02 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 11:34:02 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? Message-ID: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> Hey all. As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be streamed? Thank you. Matthew Dierckens Macintosh Trainer Blind Access Training www.blindaccesstraining.com 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 15:51:53 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 08:51:53 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> Message-ID: <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> Hi Matthew, Thank you for the question. Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are streamed are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives me the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May 31). On the matter of the registration for the national Association of blind students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up because information about this will come out soon. This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l wrote: > > Hey all. > As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be streamed? > Thank you. > > Matthew Dierckens > Macintosh Trainer > Blind Access Training > www.blindaccesstraining.com > 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 > > > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 16:36:28 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Chris Nusbaum via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 12:36:28 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Spaghetti dinner fundraiser, thoughts? In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <58E6F0AC-6E35-4F96-B5E6-F13A539D53AA@gmail.com> Kaiti, Great idea. Though it wasn't a spaghetti dinner, we did a similar fundraiser here in Maryland at last year's state convention. Our event was a luncheon for which we charged a $5 entry fee. The food was catered by the hotel and we included a short program featuring a guest speaker who discussed managing finances. This event was a success for us and I don't see why we can't have a similar event at national convention so long as the hotel and the national center agree to it. Chris Nusbaum Sent from my iPhone > On May 26, 2014, at 9:17 PM, Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi NABSters, > > I currently serve as the president of the Ohio Association of Blind > Students, and our fundraising committee is working on a project for > our affiliate convention to be held in November. We would like to > host a buffet-style spaghetti dinner on the first night of the > convention, and charge a simple $5 admission fee and donations if > anyone is willing to give them. We're still a fledgling group in > terms of funding, and we know a lot of the affiliate members would > probably gladly support us by eating student-made spaghetti and > meatballs, fresh salad, fruit, a dessert of some kind, and a drink of > lemonade, iced tea, etc. > > So far we have the resources to be able to cook the spaghetti and keep > it warm using crock pots, likewise with the sauce. Our members who > will be traveling from greater distances can easily bring store-bought > items such as bread and butter, sliced fruit which can be kept in a > cooler, and mixes for the lemonade and tea. Logistically, it looks > like we could pull it off without much of a problem so long as we plan > accordingly and have it cleared with the hotel. I am fairly confident > that our affiliate president would not have an issue with it, as he is > extremely supportive of the student division. > > I am wondering if any of you have either helped to organize and carry > out, or have gone to another division-sponsored meal at conventions. > I am just trying to get a sense of whether or not this is as doable as > it seems to us, and if hotels have generally been responsive to the > requests for convention-goers to bring in their own food. Also, if > you have put on or gone to a dinner of some sort, what were some > things you liked or disliked about the experience? Knowing this > information will be very useful to my division and I as we plan ahead > for our fundraiser. Any feedback would be great. > -- > Kaiti > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dotkid.nusbaum%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 22:20:55 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:20:55 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> Message-ID: <1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC> Hi, I wish it were streamed or some way done via phone or recorded for later posting online. Some divisions either record their meetings or I know of at least one where you can call into here it via phone. If its not available to use at home people, I hope you all have a good convention! -----Original Message----- From: Darian via nabs-l Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:51 AM To: Matthew Dierckens ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? Hi Matthew, Thank you for the question. Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are streamed are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives me the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May 31). On the matter of the registration for the national Association of blind students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up because information about this will come out soon. This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l > wrote: > > Hey all. > As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be > streamed? > Thank you. > > Matthew Dierckens > Macintosh Trainer > Blind Access Training > www.blindaccesstraining.com > 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 > > > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 22:35:32 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 15:35:32 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: <1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC> References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> <1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC> Message-ID: I wonder if there are individuals who are willing to provide such a service? > On May 27, 2014, at 3:20 PM, "Ashley Bramlett" wrote: > > Hi, > I wish it were streamed or some way done via phone or recorded for later posting online. > > Some divisions either record their meetings or I know of at least one where you can call into here it via phone. > > If its not available to use at home people, I hope you all have a good convention! > > -----Original Message----- From: Darian via nabs-l > Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:51 AM > To: Matthew Dierckens ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? > > Hi Matthew, > Thank you for the question. > Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are streamed are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives me the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May 31). > On the matter of the registration for the national Association of blind students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up because information about this will come out soon. > > This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. > >> On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l wrote: >> >> Hey all. >> As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be streamed? >> Thank you. >> >> Matthew Dierckens >> Macintosh Trainer >> Blind Access Training >> www.blindaccesstraining.com >> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 22:46:29 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Aleeha Dudley via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:46:29 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> <1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC> Message-ID: I would be willing to contact NAGDU to see what they do. Sent from my iPhone > On May 27, 2014, at 6:35 PM, Darian via nabs-l wrote: > > I wonder if there are individuals who are willing to provide such a service? > >> On May 27, 2014, at 3:20 PM, "Ashley Bramlett" wrote: >> >> Hi, >> I wish it were streamed or some way done via phone or recorded for later posting online. >> >> Some divisions either record their meetings or I know of at least one where you can call into here it via phone. >> >> If its not available to use at home people, I hope you all have a good convention! >> >> -----Original Message----- From: Darian via nabs-l >> Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:51 AM >> To: Matthew Dierckens ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list >> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? >> >> Hi Matthew, >> Thank you for the question. >> Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are streamed are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives me the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May 31). >> On the matter of the registration for the national Association of blind students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up because information about this will come out soon. >> >> This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. >> >>> On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l wrote: >>> >>> Hey all. >>> As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be streamed? >>> Thank you. >>> >>> Matthew Dierckens >>> Macintosh Trainer >>> Blind Access Training >>> www.blindaccesstraining.com >>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/blindcowgirl1993%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 22:50:41 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 15:50:41 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> <1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC> Message-ID: <0A694D9E-B77D-4AAE-AE8D-FF3324B128C4@gmail.com> Thank you! I very much appreciate that. If anyone else has something worth looking into, let's see what we can come up with? > On May 27, 2014, at 3:46 PM, Aleeha Dudley wrote: > > I would be willing to contact NAGDU to see what they do. > > Sent from my iPhone > >> On May 27, 2014, at 6:35 PM, Darian via nabs-l wrote: >> >> I wonder if there are individuals who are willing to provide such a service? >> >>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:20 PM, "Ashley Bramlett" wrote: >>> >>> Hi, >>> I wish it were streamed or some way done via phone or recorded for later posting online. >>> >>> Some divisions either record their meetings or I know of at least one where you can call into here it via phone. >>> >>> If its not available to use at home people, I hope you all have a good convention! >>> >>> -----Original Message----- From: Darian via nabs-l >>> Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:51 AM >>> To: Matthew Dierckens ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list >>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? >>> >>> Hi Matthew, >>> Thank you for the question. >>> Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are streamed are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives me the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May 31). >>> On the matter of the registration for the national Association of blind students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up because information about this will come out soon. >>> >>> This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. >>> >>>> On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l wrote: >>>> >>>> Hey all. >>>> As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be streamed? >>>> Thank you. >>>> >>>> Matthew Dierckens >>>> Macintosh Trainer >>>> Blind Access Training >>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com >>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/blindcowgirl1993%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 22:51:40 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:51:40 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays Message-ID: <75AD47E2-A93C-4379-874D-1859AE0F20B2@icloud.com> Hi, I am going to a play at the New AmsterdamTheater in NYC. Does anyone know if they have descriptive headsets. I called and they transferred me to a lady who did not answer her phone or call me back. Mikayla Sent from my iPad From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 23:25:31 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 19:25:31 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] learning ally and download frustrations In-Reply-To: References: <25652B2B275C428E953A5AFAF7B3718C@OwnerPC><635E39DD-7A54-4E06-B436-0B323F52AC55@gmail.com><9AAAEF6BA2924FE0A305EC127B53E618@OwnerPC> Message-ID: Joshua, wow, interesting information. I wasn't aware you could download a zip file like you do via bard. There site continues to be troublesome, there is no link, for instance, to go to your next page of search results when searching for a book. I gave them feedback and they made no promises but the lady said she passed the info to her supervisor. I hate to give my membership to a organization who pays lip service to our needs. But, on the other hand, I do benefit from human readers. I struggle with learning via electronic texts. I just get lost probably cause jaws is so monotone. so, I got through college with RFB and for the last few years, learning ally. There's no other organization who has such a vast variety of human read books, so I take good with the bad. They did help me with the download manager btw. it was a long process though and I find the manager weird and miss the straightforward one of the old RFB. Ashley -----Original Message----- From: Joshua Hendrickson Sent: Monday, April 14, 2014 11:27 PM To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] learning ally and download frustrations Hi Ashley. I have downloaded books with the download manager before. There is an option to download the books as regular .zip files like you wood from bard, and not even use the download manager at all. I don't know. They make the download process way more complicated than it already is. Why don't they like any other reasonable website once you find your search result after doing a search have one simple download link, to a plain ordinary zip file, you just download the zip file, extract it, and there you have the book you need. I have a membership with learning ally at the moment, because I needed it for one last book for my online science class, but I have gotten my associates now. One very interesting thing about learning ally books that they don't tell you, is, there books aren't in any special format needing a special user key at all. If you take a look at a learning ally book after it has been downloaded, you find a bunch of regular mp3 files which would play on your computer. The trick is getting those files organized in a playable mannor as far as order goes. On 4/14/14, Ashley Bramlett wrote: > Chris, > Couldn't have said it better. I attempted to do the online downloads to no > avail. > I was able to browse the catalog, select the books I wanted, and add to > bookshelf, and that's as far as I got. > I have attempted to download the darn manager twice with the same results. > > I'm serously contemplating bookshare now. > How does bookshare compare with learning ally? Is the site and download > process simple? I know its daisy text. Is the text marked simliar to > learning ally where its by part, chapter, and subsection of the chapter? > Does bookshare have the same textbooks and variety as learning ally? > What are the formats now? I hear they are adding new formats all the time. > Can the daisy software they give you have human like sounding speech? > I heard they were adding mp3 files. > > Bookshare started as a source for more leisure type reading, but I know > now > they have changed and gotten more and more texts from publishers. > > There isn't much choice for accessible texts. Learning ally and bookshare > are the two main sources. > Even if I used bookshare, not all my books would be there, so I'd need > learning ally too. > > So, perhaps, I'm therefore stuck with learning ally even though I feel > they > are leaving the blind segment behind, a segment that they were founded > upon. > Chris, you are more tech savvy than me, so to hear you have trouble too > makes me feel better. > > Ashley > > -----Original Message----- > From: Chris Nusbaum > Sent: Monday, April 14, 2014 10:32 PM > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list > Subject: Re: [nabs-l] learning ally and download frustrations > > I agree and have had many similar frustrations. Since their rebranding as > Learning Ally, I believe, they have shifted their focus from the blind to > those with learning disabilities, leaving us all but forgotten. Sad but > true. > > Chris Nusbaum > > Sent from my iPhone > >> On Apr 14, 2014, at 4:22 PM, "Ashley Bramlett" >> >> >> wrote: >> >> Hi all, >> >> Do you all think learning ally makes changes not in our favor for >> nonvisual access? Well, I do. Since they changed their name, I knew this >> was trouble. >> Well, to start, no longer is the book catalog searching easy. Sure you >> can >> >> do it, but your results do not show you all you need; before it showed it >> all in a good way; like your publisher and copy right year. Now its >> barried among links which is harder as you have to listen to the whole >> line to hear it all, one of which is the year. Oh, and did you notice the >> links to get to the next and previous pages are no longer links? Jaws >> does >> >> not recognize them as links. I clicked on it with enter and it worked, >> but >> >> it should read as a link with screen readers. >> >> Now, if that is not bad enough, I have tried unsuccessfully to use the >> darn download manager. Thankfully, I usually use the old fashion cds, but >> sometimes I’m in a pinch, like now, and need to download asap so I have >> instant access, not wait for the mailed books. >> >> I’ll call them again. I searched for the books and clicked on add to >> bookshelf; they were added. >> Then, I attempted to install their download manager. >> >> The learning ally is no ally to us. >> The old download manager was screen reader friendly and I successfully >> downloaded a lot of books! >> >> The download manager does not give a lot of screen prompts, and there was >> no way to ensure it finished installing. I did click on the next buttons, >> so I thought it was installed. Well, when I called them last week, we >> determined it was not installed since no icon was on desktop, nor did I >> see it in my computer as I searched. >> >> I don’t know how to get from the bookshelf step to dowloading them with >> the download manager, and then using my victor reader stratus. >> >> This is rediculous not to be user friendly. I cannot express my >> disappointment enough that for years I used them with no issues, ever >> since high school, and then in college got my own account. I had issues >> with some readers, but not obtaining books. The readers are not always >> the >> >> greatest quality. But, the book service was fine. I even asked the DC >> recording studio to record a few books, and they were happy to do so! >> They >> >> sent me my books in installments either on cassette, or later via cd. It >> worked well. I also picked up my books after recording them in good >> condition. >> >> But, now, as learning ally, the website is terrible. They have cut >> critically needed staff in my opinion from regional offices. Get this, >> they cut staff, but then increase your membership fee! Where is my >> increased 25 dollars going? Where are the costs there in that nonprofit? >> Oh, maybe to increase outreach to the dislexic population, which does not >> want the name dislexia in the title of the nonprofit. >> >> >> I’ll call again. I need help with this stupid download manager. they said >> there is a specialist who can better help me who knows about screen >> readers. >> >> I’m curious about your experiences with downloads. >> >> Thanks. >> Ashley >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dotkid.nusbaum%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/louvins%40gmail.com > _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Tue May 27 23:48:23 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Vejas via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 16:48:23 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays Message-ID: <5385246f.42b6440a.5361.2a4a@mx.google.com> Hi, Although I have never used descriptive headphones before (because someone has always been there to explain things to me), I do have a suggesttion that you read up on the play ahead of time, on a site such as Wikipedia. Then you will know all about the characters and what is going on. Also, I have heard that the description from the headphones blocks all other sounds, so it would be hard to hear the actual play onstage because you'll be hearing the description from your ears. Vejas ----- Original Message ----- From: Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l References: <5385246f.42b6440a.5361.2a4a@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <781ECCDF-63C4-4123-B408-AADA3CC58BD0@fuse.net> Hi My city has a decent amount of movie and play theaters that provide description. When calling to check about descriptions, be sure to stress for the blind and not the deaf. Also, a lot of people do not know what they are.talking about, so try to speak with a manager or something. I would also recomend reading up on the play. Also for me at least the headsets have different modes, one for just descriptions, one with just the show, and one with a mix of show and audio controls. Hth Sent from my iPhone > On May 27, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Vejas via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi, > Although I have never used descriptive headphones before (because someone has always been there to explain things to me), I do have a suggesttion that you read up on the play ahead of time, on a site such as Wikipedia. Then you will know all about the characters and what is going on. > Also, I have heard that the description from the headphones blocks all other sounds, so it would be hard to hear the actual play onstage because you'll be hearing the description from your ears. > Vejas > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Date sent: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:51:40 -0400 > Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays > > > > Hi, > I am going to a play at the New AmsterdamTheater in NYC. Does anyone know if they have descriptive headsets. I called and they transferred me to a lady who did not answer her phone or call me back. > Mikayla > > Sent from my iPad > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina > tion%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 00:22:43 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 20:22:43 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays In-Reply-To: <5385246f.42b6440a.5361.2a4a@mx.google.com> References: <5385246f.42b6440a.5361.2a4a@mx.google.com> Message-ID: I like the headphones because my aide and mom have told me that sometimes, it is hard to describe certain plays and movies. Sent from my iPad > On May 27, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Vejas wrote: > > Hi, > Although I have never used descriptive headphones before (because someone has always been there to explain things to me), I do have a suggesttion that you read up on the play ahead of time, on a site such as Wikipedia. Then you will know all about the characters and what is going on. > Also, I have heard that the description from the headphones blocks all other sounds, so it would be hard to hear the actual play onstage because you'll be hearing the description from your ears. > Vejas > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Date sent: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:51:40 -0400 > Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays > > > > Hi, > I am going to a play at the New AmsterdamTheater in NYC. Does anyone know if they have descriptive headsets. I called and they transferred me to a lady who did not answer her phone or call me back. > Mikayla > > Sent from my iPad > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina > tion%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 00:36:57 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Arielle Silverman via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 17:36:57 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: <0A694D9E-B77D-4AAE-AE8D-FF3324B128C4@gmail.com> References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> <1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC> <0A694D9E-B77D-4AAE-AE8D-FF3324B128C4@gmail.com> Message-ID: It would cost a lot for NABS to get Internet access from the hotel for a live stream, probably outside the division's budget. If anyone is willing to provide recording and post it in a timely manner during or soon after convention, I'm sure the NABS president or board members would appreciate the offer. Arielle On 5/27/14, Darian via nabs-l wrote: > Thank you! I very much appreciate that. > If anyone else has something worth looking into, let's see what we can come > up with? > >> On May 27, 2014, at 3:46 PM, Aleeha Dudley >> wrote: >> >> I would be willing to contact NAGDU to see what they do. >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> >>> On May 27, 2014, at 6:35 PM, Darian via nabs-l >>> wrote: >>> >>> I wonder if there are individuals who are willing to provide such a >>> service? >>> >>>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:20 PM, "Ashley Bramlett" >>>> wrote: >>>> >>>> Hi, >>>> I wish it were streamed or some way done via phone or recorded for later >>>> posting online. >>>> >>>> Some divisions either record their meetings or I know of at least one >>>> where you can call into here it via phone. >>>> >>>> If its not available to use at home people, I hope you all have a good >>>> convention! >>>> >>>> -----Original Message----- From: Darian via nabs-l >>>> Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:51 AM >>>> To: Matthew Dierckens ; National Association of Blind Students mailing >>>> list >>>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? >>>> >>>> Hi Matthew, >>>> Thank you for the question. >>>> Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students >>>> meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are streamed >>>> are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives me >>>> the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May >>>> 31). >>>> On the matter of the registration for the national Association of blind >>>> students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say >>>> to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up >>>> because information about this will come out soon. >>>> >>>> This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. >>>> >>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l >>>>> wrote: >>>>> >>>>> Hey all. >>>>> As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be >>>>> streamed? >>>>> Thank you. >>>>> >>>>> Matthew Dierckens >>>>> Macintosh Trainer >>>>> Blind Access Training >>>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com >>>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>> nabs-l: >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/blindcowgirl1993%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 00:58:44 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Lillie Pennington via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 20:58:44 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> <1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC> <0A694D9E-B77D-4AAE-AE8D-FF3324B128C4@gmail.com> Message-ID: <8F8BC248-A031-4C9A-8A29-41CADD5030B0@fuse.net> What sort of device is needed for this? This probably won't work, but I have a book sense and Olympus that could possibly work. Sent from my iPhone > On May 27, 2014, at 8:36 PM, Arielle Silverman via nabs-l wrote: > > It would cost a lot for NABS to get Internet access from the hotel for > a live stream, probably outside the division's budget. If anyone is > willing to provide recording and post it in a timely manner during or > soon after convention, I'm sure the NABS president or board members > would appreciate the offer. > > Arielle > >> On 5/27/14, Darian via nabs-l wrote: >> Thank you! I very much appreciate that. >> If anyone else has something worth looking into, let's see what we can come >> up with? >> >>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:46 PM, Aleeha Dudley >>> wrote: >>> >>> I would be willing to contact NAGDU to see what they do. >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone >>> >>>> On May 27, 2014, at 6:35 PM, Darian via nabs-l >>>> wrote: >>>> >>>> I wonder if there are individuals who are willing to provide such a >>>> service? >>>> >>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:20 PM, "Ashley Bramlett" >>>>> wrote: >>>>> >>>>> Hi, >>>>> I wish it were streamed or some way done via phone or recorded for later >>>>> posting online. >>>>> >>>>> Some divisions either record their meetings or I know of at least one >>>>> where you can call into here it via phone. >>>>> >>>>> If its not available to use at home people, I hope you all have a good >>>>> convention! >>>>> >>>>> -----Original Message----- From: Darian via nabs-l >>>>> Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:51 AM >>>>> To: Matthew Dierckens ; National Association of Blind Students mailing >>>>> list >>>>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? >>>>> >>>>> Hi Matthew, >>>>> Thank you for the question. >>>>> Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students >>>>> meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are streamed >>>>> are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives me >>>>> the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May >>>>> 31). >>>>> On the matter of the registration for the national Association of blind >>>>> students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say >>>>> to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up >>>>> because information about this will come out soon. >>>>> >>>>> This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. >>>>> >>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l >>>>>> wrote: >>>>>> >>>>>> Hey all. >>>>>> As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be >>>>>> streamed? >>>>>> Thank you. >>>>>> >>>>>> Matthew Dierckens >>>>>> Macintosh Trainer >>>>>> Blind Access Training >>>>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com >>>>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >>>>> >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>> nabs-l: >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/blindcowgirl1993%40gmail.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >> > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 01:00:44 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 21:00:44 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: <8F8BC248-A031-4C9A-8A29-41CADD5030B0@fuse.net> References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> <1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC> <0A694D9E-B77D-4AAE-AE8D-FF3324B128C4@gmail.com> <8F8BC248-A031-4C9A-8A29-41CADD5030B0@fuse.net> Message-ID: <63FDAB75-775D-4DE6-B943-E072F06BC105@me.com> Both will work. Sent from my iPhone > On May 27, 2014, at 20:58, Lillie Pennington via nabs-l wrote: > > What sort of device is needed for this? This probably won't work, but I have a book sense and Olympus that could possibly work. > > Sent from my iPhone > >> On May 27, 2014, at 8:36 PM, Arielle Silverman via nabs-l wrote: >> >> It would cost a lot for NABS to get Internet access from the hotel for >> a live stream, probably outside the division's budget. If anyone is >> willing to provide recording and post it in a timely manner during or >> soon after convention, I'm sure the NABS president or board members >> would appreciate the offer. >> >> Arielle >> >>> On 5/27/14, Darian via nabs-l wrote: >>> Thank you! I very much appreciate that. >>> If anyone else has something worth looking into, let's see what we can come >>> up with? >>> >>>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:46 PM, Aleeha Dudley >>>> wrote: >>>> >>>> I would be willing to contact NAGDU to see what they do. >>>> >>>> Sent from my iPhone >>>> >>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 6:35 PM, Darian via nabs-l >>>>> wrote: >>>>> >>>>> I wonder if there are individuals who are willing to provide such a >>>>> service? >>>>> >>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:20 PM, "Ashley Bramlett" >>>>>> wrote: >>>>>> >>>>>> Hi, >>>>>> I wish it were streamed or some way done via phone or recorded for later >>>>>> posting online. >>>>>> >>>>>> Some divisions either record their meetings or I know of at least one >>>>>> where you can call into here it via phone. >>>>>> >>>>>> If its not available to use at home people, I hope you all have a good >>>>>> convention! >>>>>> >>>>>> -----Original Message----- From: Darian via nabs-l >>>>>> Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:51 AM >>>>>> To: Matthew Dierckens ; National Association of Blind Students mailing >>>>>> list >>>>>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? >>>>>> >>>>>> Hi Matthew, >>>>>> Thank you for the question. >>>>>> Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students >>>>>> meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are streamed >>>>>> are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives me >>>>>> the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May >>>>>> 31). >>>>>> On the matter of the registration for the national Association of blind >>>>>> students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say >>>>>> to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up >>>>>> because information about this will come out soon. >>>>>> >>>>>> This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. >>>>>> >>>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l >>>>>>> wrote: >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Hey all. >>>>>>> As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be >>>>>>> streamed? >>>>>>> Thank you. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Matthew Dierckens >>>>>>> Macintosh Trainer >>>>>>> Blind Access Training >>>>>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com >>>>>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >>>>>> >>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net >>>>> >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>> nabs-l: >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/blindcowgirl1993%40gmail.com >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 01:04:36 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (David Dunphy via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 21:04:36 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: <63FDAB75-775D-4DE6-B943-E072F06BC105@me.com> References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> <1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC> <0A694D9E-B77D-4AAE-AE8D-FF3324B128C4@gmail.com> <8F8BC248-A031-4C9A-8A29-41CADD5030B0@fuse.net> <63FDAB75-775D-4DE6-B943-E072F06BC105@me.com> Message-ID: <53853624.3020907@gmail.com> You just might have the guy for the streaming/recording job. I will be at convention this year, and as a result of some questions asked of me by another division, I'm working on a way that will enable me to at the very least reecord, but probably stream the nabs meeting too. So something special may happen at this nabs meeting. Details to come. On 5/27/2014 9:00 PM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l wrote: > Both will work. > > Sent from my iPhone > >> On May 27, 2014, at 20:58, Lillie Pennington via nabs-l wrote: >> >> What sort of device is needed for this? This probably won't work, but I have a book sense and Olympus that could possibly work. >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> >>> On May 27, 2014, at 8:36 PM, Arielle Silverman via nabs-l wrote: >>> >>> It would cost a lot for NABS to get Internet access from the hotel for >>> a live stream, probably outside the division's budget. If anyone is >>> willing to provide recording and post it in a timely manner during or >>> soon after convention, I'm sure the NABS president or board members >>> would appreciate the offer. >>> >>> Arielle >>> >>>> On 5/27/14, Darian via nabs-l wrote: >>>> Thank you! I very much appreciate that. >>>> If anyone else has something worth looking into, let's see what we can come >>>> up with? >>>> >>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:46 PM, Aleeha Dudley >>>>> wrote: >>>>> >>>>> I would be willing to contact NAGDU to see what they do. >>>>> >>>>> Sent from my iPhone >>>>> >>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 6:35 PM, Darian via nabs-l >>>>>> wrote: >>>>>> >>>>>> I wonder if there are individuals who are willing to provide such a >>>>>> service? >>>>>> >>>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:20 PM, "Ashley Bramlett" >>>>>>> wrote: >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Hi, >>>>>>> I wish it were streamed or some way done via phone or recorded for later >>>>>>> posting online. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Some divisions either record their meetings or I know of at least one >>>>>>> where you can call into here it via phone. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> If its not available to use at home people, I hope you all have a good >>>>>>> convention! >>>>>>> >>>>>>> -----Original Message----- From: Darian via nabs-l >>>>>>> Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:51 AM >>>>>>> To: Matthew Dierckens ; National Association of Blind Students mailing >>>>>>> list >>>>>>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Hi Matthew, >>>>>>> Thank you for the question. >>>>>>> Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students >>>>>>> meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are streamed >>>>>>> are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives me >>>>>>> the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May >>>>>>> 31). >>>>>>> On the matter of the registration for the national Association of blind >>>>>>> students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say >>>>>>> to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up >>>>>>> because information about this will come out soon. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. >>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l >>>>>>>> wrote: >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Hey all. >>>>>>>> As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be >>>>>>>> streamed? >>>>>>>> Thank you. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Matthew Dierckens >>>>>>>> Macintosh Trainer >>>>>>>> Blind Access Training >>>>>>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com >>>>>>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >>>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net >>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/blindcowgirl1993%40gmail.com >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me.com > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/internetradioentertainer%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 01:24:53 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:24:53 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: <53853624.3020907@gmail.com> References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com> <112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com> <1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC> <0A694D9E-B77D-4AAE-AE8D-FF3324B128C4@gmail.com> <8F8BC248-A031-4C9A-8A29-41CADD5030B0@fuse.net> <63FDAB75-775D-4DE6-B943-E072F06BC105@me.com> <53853624.3020907@gmail.com> Message-ID: <0519E344-703B-430F-A1FA-DD0DC75F343A@gmail.com> If anyone is interested in taking on this task. And believes that they can follow through with it, I would suggest they contact the president of the student division Nabs.president at gmail.zom > On May 27, 2014, at 6:04 PM, David Dunphy via nabs-l wrote: > > You just might have the guy for the streaming/recording job. I will be at convention this year, and as a result of some questions asked of me by another division, I'm working on a way that will enable me to at the very least reecord, but probably stream the nabs meeting too. So something special may happen at this nabs meeting. Details to come. >> On 5/27/2014 9:00 PM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l wrote: >> Both will work. >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> >>> On May 27, 2014, at 20:58, Lillie Pennington via nabs-l wrote: >>> >>> What sort of device is needed for this? This probably won't work, but I have a book sense and Olympus that could possibly work. >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone >>> >>>> On May 27, 2014, at 8:36 PM, Arielle Silverman via nabs-l wrote: >>>> >>>> It would cost a lot for NABS to get Internet access from the hotel for >>>> a live stream, probably outside the division's budget. If anyone is >>>> willing to provide recording and post it in a timely manner during or >>>> soon after convention, I'm sure the NABS president or board members >>>> would appreciate the offer. >>>> >>>> Arielle >>>> >>>>> On 5/27/14, Darian via nabs-l wrote: >>>>> Thank you! I very much appreciate that. >>>>> If anyone else has something worth looking into, let's see what we can come >>>>> up with? >>>>> >>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:46 PM, Aleeha Dudley >>>>>> wrote: >>>>>> >>>>>> I would be willing to contact NAGDU to see what they do. >>>>>> >>>>>> Sent from my iPhone >>>>>> >>>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 6:35 PM, Darian via nabs-l >>>>>>> wrote: >>>>>>> >>>>>>> I wonder if there are individuals who are willing to provide such a >>>>>>> service? >>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:20 PM, "Ashley Bramlett" >>>>>>>> wrote: >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Hi, >>>>>>>> I wish it were streamed or some way done via phone or recorded for later >>>>>>>> posting online. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Some divisions either record their meetings or I know of at least one >>>>>>>> where you can call into here it via phone. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> If its not available to use at home people, I hope you all have a good >>>>>>>> convention! >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> -----Original Message----- From: Darian via nabs-l >>>>>>>> Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:51 AM >>>>>>>> To: Matthew Dierckens ; National Association of Blind Students mailing >>>>>>>> list >>>>>>>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Hi Matthew, >>>>>>>> Thank you for the question. >>>>>>>> Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students >>>>>>>> meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are streamed >>>>>>>> are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives me >>>>>>>> the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May >>>>>>>> 31). >>>>>>>> On the matter of the registration for the national Association of blind >>>>>>>> students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say >>>>>>>> to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up >>>>>>>> because information about this will come out soon. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l >>>>>>>>> wrote: >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> Hey all. >>>>>>>>> As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be >>>>>>>>> streamed? >>>>>>>>> Thank you. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> Matthew Dierckens >>>>>>>>> Macintosh Trainer >>>>>>>>> Blind Access Training >>>>>>>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com >>>>>>>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >>>>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net >>>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/blindcowgirl1993%40gmail.com >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>> nabs-l: >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/matt.dierckens%40me.com >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/internetradioentertainer%40gmail.com > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 01:25:15 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 21:25:15 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? In-Reply-To: <8F8BC248-A031-4C9A-8A29-41CADD5030B0@fuse.net> References: <04759146-CFAB-4968-A7AB-AFCC37CC6525@me.com><112B7FDE-BC29-436D-A572-E6A3D5039468@gmail.com><1E913DCE2BDA42B0A5E2D7FE37DDC177@OwnerPC><0A694D9E-B77D-4AAE-AE8D-FF3324B128C4@gmail.com> <8F8BC248-A031-4C9A-8A29-41CADD5030B0@fuse.net> Message-ID: <9ACF039207D2440283DA34876255EB69@OwnerPC> you need a good quality stereo recorder; probably olympus will work; not sure the book sense is high quality enough. Ashley -----Original Message----- From: Lillie Pennington via nabs-l Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 8:58 PM To: Arielle Silverman ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? What sort of device is needed for this? This probably won't work, but I have a book sense and Olympus that could possibly work. Sent from my iPhone > On May 27, 2014, at 8:36 PM, Arielle Silverman via nabs-l > wrote: > > It would cost a lot for NABS to get Internet access from the hotel for > a live stream, probably outside the division's budget. If anyone is > willing to provide recording and post it in a timely manner during or > soon after convention, I'm sure the NABS president or board members > would appreciate the offer. > > Arielle > >> On 5/27/14, Darian via nabs-l wrote: >> Thank you! I very much appreciate that. >> If anyone else has something worth looking into, let's see what we can >> come >> up with? >> >>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:46 PM, Aleeha Dudley >>> wrote: >>> >>> I would be willing to contact NAGDU to see what they do. >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone >>> >>>> On May 27, 2014, at 6:35 PM, Darian via nabs-l >>>> wrote: >>>> >>>> I wonder if there are individuals who are willing to provide such a >>>> service? >>>> >>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 3:20 PM, "Ashley Bramlett" >>>>> wrote: >>>>> >>>>> Hi, >>>>> I wish it were streamed or some way done via phone or recorded for >>>>> later >>>>> posting online. >>>>> >>>>> Some divisions either record their meetings or I know of at least one >>>>> where you can call into here it via phone. >>>>> >>>>> If its not available to use at home people, I hope you all have a >>>>> good >>>>> convention! >>>>> >>>>> -----Original Message----- From: Darian via nabs-l >>>>> Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:51 AM >>>>> To: Matthew Dierckens ; National Association of Blind Students mailing >>>>> list >>>>> Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Nabs meeting at convention? >>>>> >>>>> Hi Matthew, >>>>> Thank you for the question. >>>>> Typically, we don't have the national Association of blind students >>>>> meeting streamed. The only meetings of the convention which are >>>>> streamed >>>>> are the board meeting, general session, and the banquet. (Which gives >>>>> me >>>>> the opportunity to remind you folks once again to pre-register by May >>>>> 31). >>>>> On the matter of the registration for the national Association of >>>>> blind >>>>> students meeting on Wednesday, July 2 from 6:1510 PM, I would only say >>>>> to keep your eyes peeled, your ear to the street and your antennas up >>>>> because information about this will come out soon. >>>>> >>>>> This electronic message has been brought to you by my mobile device. >>>>> >>>>>> On May 27, 2014, at 8:34 AM, Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l >>>>>> wrote: >>>>>> >>>>>> Hey all. >>>>>> As I won't be able to attend convention, will the NABS meeting be >>>>>> streamed? >>>>>> Thank you. >>>>>> >>>>>> Matthew Dierckens >>>>>> Macintosh Trainer >>>>>> Blind Access Training >>>>>> www.blindaccesstraining.com >>>>>> 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>>> nabs-l: >>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >>>>> >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>> nabs-l: >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/blindcowgirl1993%40gmail.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >> > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 02:32:25 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 22:32:25 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays In-Reply-To: References: <5385246f.42b6440a.5361.2a4a@mx.google.com> Message-ID: Hi Michaela, I have not been to the New Amsterdam Theatre, but I did see a Broadway musical at the Wintergarden Theatre, which if I remember correctly is in the same strip of theatres. I was able to get audio description for the musical. As I remember, it took a bit of digging, but I think you'll be able to get it if you make sure to get someone who can set it up for you. As was already said, be very clear that you need descriptive services for the blind, not closed captioning or other accomodations for the deaf. A manager would probably be the best person to speak to. Just go straight to the top and work your way down from there. However, I would give the woman you already called a shot. See if she gets back to you, and if you don't hear from her in a reasonable time try calling back. Also, I'd recommend asking yourself how well you know the play, and how visual it might be. I say this because it really does depend. Using the description for Mama Mia was really useful because I was only vaguely familiar with the plot, and there actually was a lot of visual stuff that went on during musical numbers that I would have never heard about had I not had the descriptive device. I think that since it was a commedy, a lot of the funny moments were in the acting. On the other hand, I saw Wicked a few months ago and didn't need any assistance. My boyfriend (who is also blind) and I went together. In Wicked the funnier parts are all in the dialog, and the music tells most of the story. I knew the plot pretty well, but I didn't really have to even explain things much to him because all the information was really spoken or sung. I think I mentioned little things, like that Galinda appeared in a bubble and such because they weren't explained in the words, but a lot of the information was given through the actors themselves. We both left the musical with an understanding of what happened, and I was surprised at how little I needed to lean over to fill him in. I hope you're able to get it. NYC has a pretty cool system from what I understand. When I saw Mama Mia, the descriptions were pre-recorded, and were linked to the light changes in the computer. I was still able to hear everything that was said and sung in addition to the descriptions. The device itself was a bit odd, and was very different from the headsets you might get at a movie theatre. It was this little transmitter box, which had what looked like old-fashioned ear buds coming out of it. The ear buds were kind of bulky and were really padded with the foamy stuff, but they did the job. The other odd thing I remember was that, since I either didn't have a state ID at the time or was still a minor, one of the chaperones on the trip needed to come with me to pick up the headset, and leave her ID with the guy in charge until we brought the headset back. You may have to do this with an ID yourself, or may have to ask an adult with you to do it per their guidelines if it was an issue of minorstatus rather than identification in general. It's just a measure to make sure they get their equipment back before you leave the theatre. HTH On 5/27/14, Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l wrote: > I like the headphones because my aide and mom have told me that sometimes, > it is hard to describe certain plays and movies. > > Sent from my iPad > >> On May 27, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Vejas wrote: >> >> Hi, >> Although I have never used descriptive headphones before (because someone >> has always been there to explain things to me), I do have a suggesttion >> that you read up on the play ahead of time, on a site such as Wikipedia. >> Then you will know all about the characters and what is going on. >> Also, I have heard that the description from the headphones blocks all >> other sounds, so it would be hard to hear the actual play onstage because >> you'll be hearing the description from your ears. >> Vejas >> >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >> > Date sent: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:51:40 -0400 >> Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays >> >> >> >> Hi, >> I am going to a play at the New AmsterdamTheater in NYC. Does anyone know >> if they have descriptive headsets. I called and they transferred me to a >> lady who did not answer her phone or call me back. >> Mikayla >> >> Sent from my iPad >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina >> tion%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 03:05:45 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 23:05:45 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays In-Reply-To: References: <5385246f.42b6440a.5361.2a4a@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <7F25000E007D464899E75C4DD1A10BDB@Helga> Hi Kaiti and all, this is Helga. Since you are talking about Descriptive Headsets for plays, I just wanted to ask you, is the descriptive headsets for every play I want to see, or is just for an specific play in particular? And how long in advance, do I need to let the Theater know in order to get the descriptive headsets, and who do I talk to about it? I'm just wondering since I never did that before, and I didn't know they existed! Also, the same questions is for movie theaters, is the descriptive headset for every movie I want to see, or is just for a movie in particular? And how long in advance, do I have to let the movie theater know in order to get the descriptive headsets, and who do I talk to about it? I'm just wondring as well! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks and God bless!! :) -----Original Message----- From: Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 10:32 PM To: Mikayla Gephart ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays Hi Michaela, I have not been to the New Amsterdam Theatre, but I did see a Broadway musical at the Wintergarden Theatre, which if I remember correctly is in the same strip of theatres. I was able to get audio description for the musical. As I remember, it took a bit of digging, but I think you'll be able to get it if you make sure to get someone who can set it up for you. As was already said, be very clear that you need descriptive services for the blind, not closed captioning or other accomodations for the deaf. A manager would probably be the best person to speak to. Just go straight to the top and work your way down from there. However, I would give the woman you already called a shot. See if she gets back to you, and if you don't hear from her in a reasonable time try calling back. Also, I'd recommend asking yourself how well you know the play, and how visual it might be. I say this because it really does depend. Using the description for Mama Mia was really useful because I was only vaguely familiar with the plot, and there actually was a lot of visual stuff that went on during musical numbers that I would have never heard about had I not had the descriptive device. I think that since it was a commedy, a lot of the funny moments were in the acting. On the other hand, I saw Wicked a few months ago and didn't need any assistance. My boyfriend (who is also blind) and I went together. In Wicked the funnier parts are all in the dialog, and the music tells most of the story. I knew the plot pretty well, but I didn't really have to even explain things much to him because all the information was really spoken or sung. I think I mentioned little things, like that Galinda appeared in a bubble and such because they weren't explained in the words, but a lot of the information was given through the actors themselves. We both left the musical with an understanding of what happened, and I was surprised at how little I needed to lean over to fill him in. I hope you're able to get it. NYC has a pretty cool system from what I understand. When I saw Mama Mia, the descriptions were pre-recorded, and were linked to the light changes in the computer. I was still able to hear everything that was said and sung in addition to the descriptions. The device itself was a bit odd, and was very different from the headsets you might get at a movie theatre. It was this little transmitter box, which had what looked like old-fashioned ear buds coming out of it. The ear buds were kind of bulky and were really padded with the foamy stuff, but they did the job. The other odd thing I remember was that, since I either didn't have a state ID at the time or was still a minor, one of the chaperones on the trip needed to come with me to pick up the headset, and leave her ID with the guy in charge until we brought the headset back. You may have to do this with an ID yourself, or may have to ask an adult with you to do it per their guidelines if it was an issue of minorstatus rather than identification in general. It's just a measure to make sure they get their equipment back before you leave the theatre. HTH On 5/27/14, Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l wrote: > I like the headphones because my aide and mom have told me that sometimes, > it is hard to describe certain plays and movies. > > Sent from my iPad > >> On May 27, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Vejas wrote: >> >> Hi, >> Although I have never used descriptive headphones before (because someone >> has always been there to explain things to me), I do have a suggesttion >> that you read up on the play ahead of time, on a site such as Wikipedia. >> Then you will know all about the characters and what is going on. >> Also, I have heard that the description from the headphones blocks all >> other sounds, so it would be hard to hear the actual play onstage because >> you'll be hearing the description from your ears. >> Vejas >> >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >> > Date sent: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:51:40 -0400 >> Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays >> >> >> >> Hi, >> I am going to a play at the New AmsterdamTheater in NYC. Does anyone >> know >> if they have descriptive headsets. I called and they transferred me to a >> lady who did not answer her phone or call me back. >> Mikayla >> >> Sent from my iPad >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina >> tion%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 03:35:48 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 23:35:48 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays In-Reply-To: <7F25000E007D464899E75C4DD1A10BDB@Helga> References: <5385246f.42b6440a.5361.2a4a@mx.google.com> <7F25000E007D464899E75C4DD1A10BDB@Helga> Message-ID: no. the descriptive narration is not for all movies and theatres; you will use the same type of headset for all them at the same theatre though. But just because one play is described, do not assume all are. Speak to the info desk person and if they do not know, ask the manager. -----Original Message----- From: via nabs-l Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 11:05 PM To: Kaiti Shelton ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays Hi Kaiti and all, this is Helga. Since you are talking about Descriptive Headsets for plays, I just wanted to ask you, is the descriptive headsets for every play I want to see, or is just for an specific play in particular? And how long in advance, do I need to let the Theater know in order to get the descriptive headsets, and who do I talk to about it? I'm just wondering since I never did that before, and I didn't know they existed! Also, the same questions is for movie theaters, is the descriptive headset for every movie I want to see, or is just for a movie in particular? And how long in advance, do I have to let the movie theater know in order to get the descriptive headsets, and who do I talk to about it? I'm just wondring as well! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks and God bless!! :) -----Original Message----- From: Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2014 10:32 PM To: Mikayla Gephart ; National Association of Blind Students mailing list Subject: Re: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays Hi Michaela, I have not been to the New Amsterdam Theatre, but I did see a Broadway musical at the Wintergarden Theatre, which if I remember correctly is in the same strip of theatres. I was able to get audio description for the musical. As I remember, it took a bit of digging, but I think you'll be able to get it if you make sure to get someone who can set it up for you. As was already said, be very clear that you need descriptive services for the blind, not closed captioning or other accomodations for the deaf. A manager would probably be the best person to speak to. Just go straight to the top and work your way down from there. However, I would give the woman you already called a shot. See if she gets back to you, and if you don't hear from her in a reasonable time try calling back. Also, I'd recommend asking yourself how well you know the play, and how visual it might be. I say this because it really does depend. Using the description for Mama Mia was really useful because I was only vaguely familiar with the plot, and there actually was a lot of visual stuff that went on during musical numbers that I would have never heard about had I not had the descriptive device. I think that since it was a commedy, a lot of the funny moments were in the acting. On the other hand, I saw Wicked a few months ago and didn't need any assistance. My boyfriend (who is also blind) and I went together. In Wicked the funnier parts are all in the dialog, and the music tells most of the story. I knew the plot pretty well, but I didn't really have to even explain things much to him because all the information was really spoken or sung. I think I mentioned little things, like that Galinda appeared in a bubble and such because they weren't explained in the words, but a lot of the information was given through the actors themselves. We both left the musical with an understanding of what happened, and I was surprised at how little I needed to lean over to fill him in. I hope you're able to get it. NYC has a pretty cool system from what I understand. When I saw Mama Mia, the descriptions were pre-recorded, and were linked to the light changes in the computer. I was still able to hear everything that was said and sung in addition to the descriptions. The device itself was a bit odd, and was very different from the headsets you might get at a movie theatre. It was this little transmitter box, which had what looked like old-fashioned ear buds coming out of it. The ear buds were kind of bulky and were really padded with the foamy stuff, but they did the job. The other odd thing I remember was that, since I either didn't have a state ID at the time or was still a minor, one of the chaperones on the trip needed to come with me to pick up the headset, and leave her ID with the guy in charge until we brought the headset back. You may have to do this with an ID yourself, or may have to ask an adult with you to do it per their guidelines if it was an issue of minorstatus rather than identification in general. It's just a measure to make sure they get their equipment back before you leave the theatre. HTH On 5/27/14, Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l wrote: > I like the headphones because my aide and mom have told me that sometimes, > it is hard to describe certain plays and movies. > > Sent from my iPad > >> On May 27, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Vejas wrote: >> >> Hi, >> Although I have never used descriptive headphones before (because someone >> has always been there to explain things to me), I do have a suggesttion >> that you read up on the play ahead of time, on a site such as Wikipedia. >> Then you will know all about the characters and what is going on. >> Also, I have heard that the description from the headphones blocks all >> other sounds, so it would be hard to hear the actual play onstage because >> you'll be hearing the description from your ears. >> Vejas >> >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l > To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >> > Date sent: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:51:40 -0400 >> Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays >> >> >> >> Hi, >> I am going to a play at the New AmsterdamTheater in NYC. Does anyone >> know >> if they have descriptive headsets. I called and they transferred me to a >> lady who did not answer her phone or call me back. >> Mikayla >> >> Sent from my iPad >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina >> tion%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 03:47:48 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Ashley Bramlett via nabs-l) Date: Tue, 27 May 2014 23:47:48 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] voice lessons In-Reply-To: <535ead0f.146f320a.6a2c.14be@mx.google.com> References: <535ead0f.146f320a.6a2c.14be@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <4B7520ED90C64C34801F8C1624EBE5DB@OwnerPC> Kelsey, I agree with others; don't do the group. wait til september to resume individual lessons when you have time. I doubt a few months will make you lose the skills. you cannot get the attention you need in a group. so, private is best for something like this. Ashley -----Original Message----- From: Kelsey Nicolay Sent: Monday, April 28, 2014 3:33 PM To: nabs-l at nfbnet.org Subject: [nabs-l] voice lessons Hello, I had to stop taking voice lessons with my current teacher due to personal reasons. I am going to take the summer off, but I am looking to start back up again once choir starts in September since I don't want to lose the skills I gained. Therefore, I am considering a group class. However, there are none in my town. There is one at a music conservatory that someone in the choir goes to, but it's a half hour away in another county. The fore, using transit is not going to work and my family can't always be there to take me. Therefore, would it be acceptable to ask the person if I could ride with her and offer to give her some money for gas? Also, for a blind student, how effective is a group class going to be? With private lessons, the instructor can spend one on one time with you to demonstrate physically certain concepts, but with a group class, that's more difficult. What do you guys think about a blind person doing a group class? I have studied before, so would I be able to handle the group environment? What are some ways I could ensure equal access to the concepts presented in the class? I have heard that group classes aren't always the best for blind people, but it might be my only option. I could easily arrange for music to be brailled since I have a transcriber and someone who can emboss it, so that won't be an issue at all. Would I have to spend additional one on one time with the instructor to solidify my understanding? Anyone with experience with any kind of group musical class, please feel free to share your experiences. Thanks, Kelsey _______________________________________________ nabs-l mailing list nabs-l at nfbnet.org http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/bookwormahb%40earthlink.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 12:57:14 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 28 May 2014 08:57:14 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays In-Reply-To: References: <5385246f.42b6440a.5361.2a4a@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <9F25A138-BFD2-4D46-853D-B1BFB0B5ADFC@icloud.com> She is the head of the Box Office. Sent from my iPad > On May 27, 2014, at 10:32 PM, Kaiti Shelton wrote: > > Hi Michaela, > > I have not been to the New Amsterdam Theatre, but I did see a Broadway > musical at the Wintergarden Theatre, which if I remember correctly is > in the same strip of theatres. I was able to get audio description > for the musical. As I remember, it took a bit of digging, but I think > you'll be able to get it if you make sure to get someone who can set > it up for you. As was already said, be very clear that you need > descriptive services for the blind, not closed captioning or other > accomodations for the deaf. A manager would probably be the best > person to speak to. Just go straight to the top and work your way > down from there. However, I would give the woman you already called a > shot. See if she gets back to you, and if you don't hear from her in > a reasonable time try calling back. > > Also, I'd recommend asking yourself how well you know the play, and > how visual it might be. I say this because it really does depend. > Using the description for Mama Mia was really useful because I was > only vaguely familiar with the plot, and there actually was a lot of > visual stuff that went on during musical numbers that I would have > never heard about had I not had the descriptive device. I think that > since it was a commedy, a lot of the funny moments were in the acting. > On the other hand, I saw Wicked a few months ago and didn't need any > assistance. My boyfriend (who is also blind) and I went together. In > Wicked the funnier parts are all in the dialog, and the music tells > most of the story. I knew the plot pretty well, but I didn't really > have to even explain things much to him because all the information > was really spoken or sung. I think I mentioned little things, like > that Galinda appeared in a bubble and such because they weren't > explained in the words, but a lot of the information was given through > the actors themselves. We both left the musical with an understanding > of what happened, and I was surprised at how little I needed to lean > over to fill him in. > > I hope you're able to get it. NYC has a pretty cool system from what > I understand. When I saw Mama Mia, the descriptions were > pre-recorded, and were linked to the light changes in the computer. I > was still able to hear everything that was said and sung in addition > to the descriptions. The device itself was a bit odd, and was very > different from the headsets you might get at a movie theatre. It was > this little transmitter box, which had what looked like old-fashioned > ear buds coming out of it. The ear buds were kind of bulky and were > really padded with the foamy stuff, but they did the job. The other > odd thing I remember was that, since I either didn't have a state ID > at the time or was still a minor, one of the chaperones on the trip > needed to come with me to pick up the headset, and leave her ID with > the guy in charge until we brought the headset back. You may have to > do this with an ID yourself, or may have to ask an adult with you to > do it per their guidelines if it was an issue of minorstatus rather > than identification in general. It's just a measure to make sure they > get their equipment back before you leave the theatre. > > HTH > >> On 5/27/14, Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l wrote: >> I like the headphones because my aide and mom have told me that sometimes, >> it is hard to describe certain plays and movies. >> >> Sent from my iPad >> >>> On May 27, 2014, at 7:48 PM, Vejas wrote: >>> >>> Hi, >>> Although I have never used descriptive headphones before (because someone >>> has always been there to explain things to me), I do have a suggesttion >>> that you read up on the play ahead of time, on a site such as Wikipedia. >>> Then you will know all about the characters and what is going on. >>> Also, I have heard that the description from the headphones blocks all >>> other sounds, so it would be hard to hear the actual play onstage because >>> you'll be hearing the description from your ears. >>> Vejas >>> >>> ----- Original Message ----- >>> From: Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l >> To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list >>> >> Date sent: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:51:40 -0400 >>> Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays >>> >>> >>> >>> Hi, >>> I am going to a play at the New AmsterdamTheater in NYC. Does anyone know >>> if they have descriptive headsets. I called and they transferred me to a >>> lady who did not answer her phone or call me back. >>> Mikayla >>> >>> Sent from my iPad >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina >>> tion%40gmail.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > > > -- > Kaiti From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 14:14:09 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Roanna Bacchus via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 28 May 2014 10:14:09 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Re- Descriptive Headsets = PLAYS Message-ID: <5385ef5c.856eec0a.6a73.61e6@mx.google.com> Hi all just wanted to share my thoughts on descriptive headsets. I think having descriptions during a play is a good idea whether it is audior or some other format. When I went to plays during my high school career, my mom went with me and was able to describe what was going on. Maikayla, I hope you get your descriptive headset when you go to the play. From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Wed May 28 21:34:08 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 28 May 2014 17:34:08 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] New or potential mac users Message-ID: <6B6B885B-17D8-4CEC-A7EC-AABE31647E25@me.com> Hey all. If you are a new mac user, or are looking at possibly getting a mac, I'd like to hear from you. I am trying to gather a list of programs to put into a course like training session for the new macintosh user. Please write me off list. Thank you. Matthew Dierckens Macintosh Trainer Blind Access Training www.blindaccesstraining.com 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Thu May 29 01:24:59 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Winona Brackett via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 28 May 2014 21:24:59 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Backing up my BrailleNote hard drive Message-ID: Hi all, Is there a way to backup my braille notes hard drive using my computer? I would like to use my computer because it is faster and more efficient. Thank you for all the help in advance. Winona trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it." -Lou Holtz Sent from my iPhone using VoiceOver From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Thu May 29 01:29:41 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Aleeha Dudley via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 28 May 2014 21:29:41 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Backing up my BrailleNote hard drive In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hi, I don't believe you can back up all your data with your computer, unfortunately. Your best bet would be to connect your BrailleNote to an AC adaptor, put a flash drive or SD card in it that you're sure is big enough, and leave the thing backing up over night. If you have a lot of data on your device, as I do, it will take forever. Aleeha Dudley blindcowgirl1993 at gmail.com On 5/28/14, Winona Brackett via nabs-l wrote: > Hi all, > > Is there a way to backup my braille notes hard drive using my computer? > I would like to use my computer because it is faster and more efficient. > > > Thank you for all the help in advance. > > Winona > > trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com > > "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. > Attitude determines how well you do it." -Lou Holtz > > Sent from my iPhone using VoiceOver > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/blindcowgirl1993%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Thu May 29 01:54:12 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Winona Brackett via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 28 May 2014 21:54:12 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Another BrailleNote question Message-ID: <86AA1BE1-EA12-4428-8155-2966CA9C0E2F@gmail.com> Hi all, Is there a way to put the Braille note back to its original factory settings? I would like to have all the general basic folders empty but was wondering if there is a way to do that. … Thank you, Winona trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it." -Lou Holtz Sent from my iPhone using VoiceOver From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Thu May 29 02:00:08 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 28 May 2014 19:00:08 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays In-Reply-To: <5385246f.42b6440a.5361.2a4a@mx.google.com> References: <5385246f.42b6440a.5361.2a4a@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140528185734.01d5f5b8@comcast.net> Hi, everyone, In fact, my experience listening to plays and operas using a headset is that, the descriptions are quite artfully folded into the sound track of the play kind of like descriptive movies. I say this because, in my experience the descriptions don't interfere with the play/movie. for today, Car At 04:48 PM 5/27/2014, you wrote: >Hi, >Although I have never used descriptive headphones before (because >someone has always been there to explain things to me), I do have a >suggesttion that you read up on the play ahead of time, on a site >such as Wikipedia. Then you will know all about the characters and >what is going on. >Also, I have heard that the description from the headphones blocks >all other sounds, so it would be hard to hear the actual play >onstage because you'll be hearing the description from your ears. >Vejas > >----- Original Message ----- >From: Mikayla Gephart via nabs-l To: National Association of Blind Students mailing list Date sent: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:51:40 -0400 >Subject: [nabs-l] Descriptive headsets for plays > > > >Hi, >I am going to a play at the New AmsterdamTheater in NYC. Does >anyone know if they have descriptive headsets. I called and they >transferred me to a lady who did not answer her phone or call me back. >Mikayla > >Sent from my iPad > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/alpineimagina >tion%40gmail.com > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Thu May 29 02:03:54 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Marissa via nabs-l) Date: Wed, 28 May 2014 19:03:54 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Another BrailleNote question Message-ID: <538695a6.83e0440a.6f9f.136b@mx.google.com> Yes, there is. What you do is you go into the options menu, then support information mode. After that, you go and press backspace with the er sign (12456). After that, you will be asked if you want to continue, press y. This is to put everything to it's factory default and everything will be erased. ----- Original Message ----- From: Winona Brackett via nabs-l References: Message-ID: <101B7819-5631-4790-98F3-5995FA333BE2@fuse.net> You may be able to use active sink from the utilities menu. I used it with my Braille sense a long time ago when i had one. I was able to get stuff on and off of it and reorganize my folders. Someone clarify that because it is just a theory and I do not know for sure. Sent from my iPhone > On May 28, 2014, at 9:29 PM, Aleeha Dudley via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi, > I don't believe you can back up all your data with your computer, > unfortunately. Your best bet would be to connect your BrailleNote to > an AC adaptor, put a flash drive or SD card in it that you're sure is > big enough, and leave the thing backing up over night. If you have a > lot of data on your device, as I do, it will take forever. > Aleeha Dudley > blindcowgirl1993 at gmail.com > >> On 5/28/14, Winona Brackett via nabs-l wrote: >> Hi all, >> >> Is there a way to backup my braille notes hard drive using my computer? >> I would like to use my computer because it is faster and more efficient. >> >> >> Thank you for all the help in advance. >> >> Winona >> >> trumpetqueenwb at gmail.com >> >> "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. >> Attitude determines how well you do it." -Lou Holtz >> >> Sent from my iPhone using VoiceOver >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/blindcowgirl1993%40gmail.com >> > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/lilliepennington%40fuse.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Thu May 29 16:03:30 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 29 May 2014 12:03:30 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Macintosh Training Message-ID: <2E8CBE2D-C3C5-4D93-8235-C63A27C7A774@me.com> Are you a new mac user? Are you looking for a basic package to learn how to use VoiceOver, read emails, browse the web, and more? If so, Blind Access Training offers a few options that can help you out. First, the hourly option. We offer one on one training for $40/hour. We also offer training packages of 5, 10, or 15 hours. $100 for 5 hours $150 for 10 $200 for 15. Coming soon, courses Blind access training will be offering macintosh courses. Staye tuned to this list for future updates. Prices and content to be determined. If you're interested, please call 1-877-774-7670 and press 4 to speak to the macintosh trainer. You can also email info at blindaccesstraining.com to speak to any of our departments, or matthew at blindaccesstraining.com to speak directly to me. Thank you. Matthew Dierckens Macintosh Trainer Blind Access Training www.blindaccesstraining.com 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 00:10:37 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Alyssa via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 29 May 2014 19:10:37 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] NFB Membership Question Message-ID: Hi all, I'm fairly new to this list but not the NFB itself. I was a member before and want to rejoin. The only problem is I live in Missouri but attend college in Illinois. It may be a silly question, but which state would it be appropriate to establish membership in? Best, Alyssa Sent from my iPhone From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 00:19:32 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Darian via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 29 May 2014 17:19:32 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] NFB Membership Question In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <893ED6CA-42CD-41E5-8235-86F67D9426AB@gmail.com> Hi Alyssa. Great question! The short answer is: which ever place you want to establish membership. Membership and any chapter, affiliate or division automatically establishes membership in the Federation And if you want to be a member of multiple affiliates or chapters or divisions, you are welcome to do that. Generally speaking, the rules surrounding membership are not terribly complicated. Hope that helps, Darian > On May 29, 2014, at 5:10 PM, Alyssa via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi all, > I'm fairly new to this list but not the NFB itself. I was a member before and want to rejoin. The only problem is I live in Missouri but attend college in Illinois. It may be a silly question, but which state would it be appropriate to establish membership in? > Best, > Alyssa > > Sent from my iPhone > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 00:43:58 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Helga Schreiber via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 29 May 2014 20:43:58 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] NFB Membership Question In-Reply-To: <893ED6CA-42CD-41E5-8235-86F67D9426AB@gmail.com> References: <893ED6CA-42CD-41E5-8235-86F67D9426AB@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi Alyssa! First of all, welcome to the list!! Hope you like the list! And regarding the question of which state you want to pick in order to rejoin to the NFB, I think the same way as Mr. Darian since it doesn't matter, which State you choose due to the fact that it makes you automatically a member of the NFB. In fact, probalbly the only time it will matter is if you want to apply to the NFB scholarship program since you have to give your information of where you live and where are you planning to go to school. However, I'm not so sure about that! Hope this helps. God bless! :) Helga Schreiber Fundraiser Coordinator for Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Delta Iota chapter Member of National Federation of the Blind and Florida Association of Blind Students Phone: (561) 706-5950 Email: helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16 Sent from my iPhone > On May 29, 2014, at 8:19 PM, Darian via nabs-l wrote: > > Hi Alyssa. > Great question! > > The short answer is: which ever place you want to establish membership. > Membership and any chapter, affiliate or division automatically establishes membership in the Federation > And if you want to be a member of multiple affiliates or chapters or divisions, you are welcome to do that. > Generally speaking, the rules surrounding membership are not terribly complicated. > > Hope that helps, > Darian > >> On May 29, 2014, at 5:10 PM, Alyssa via nabs-l wrote: >> >> Hi all, >> I'm fairly new to this list but not the NFB itself. I was a member before and want to rejoin. The only problem is I live in Missouri but attend college in Illinois. It may be a silly question, but which state would it be appropriate to establish membership in? >> Best, >> Alyssa >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 01:24:00 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Helga Schreiber via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 29 May 2014 21:24:00 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] How to Use the What's App ap on my iPhone Message-ID: Hi everyone! How are you all? I just wanted to ask you, do any of you use the What's App ap on your iPhone? I actually downloaded it into my iPhone, but I really don't know how to use it. In fact, I was exploring it, and I figure out how to text, but I don't know how to listen to a voice message that someone leaves me, or how to leave a voice message to someone. If you use it, could you send me some steps in order to know how to use it? I will really appreciate it, if you could help me with this. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks so much and God bless!! :) Helga Schreiber Fundraiser Coordinator for Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Delta Iota chapter Member of National Federation of the Blind and Florida Association of Blind Students Phone: (561) 706-5950 Email: helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16 Sent from my iPhone From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 02:28:25 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l) Date: Thu, 29 May 2014 22:28:25 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] NFB Membership Question In-Reply-To: References: <893ED6CA-42CD-41E5-8235-86F67D9426AB@gmail.com> Message-ID: Hi all, Just to clarify, membership in a home state or a state in which you go to school does not effect the scholarship program at all. The only reason they ask for that information is to get some biographical information about where you're from and where you're studying. Affiliates get pretty excited regardless of whether or not someone from their state has won a scholarship, or someone who is attending school in their state wins. You can also win a scholarship if you're not a member, so they really are separate aspects of the NFB. I hope this helped. Also, welcome back to the list! On 5/29/14, Helga Schreiber via nabs-l wrote: > Hi Alyssa! First of all, welcome to the list!! Hope you like the list! And > regarding the question of which state you want to pick in order to rejoin to > the NFB, I think the same way as Mr. Darian since it doesn't matter, which > State you choose due to the fact that it makes you automatically a member of > the NFB. In fact, probalbly the only time it will matter is if you want to > apply to the NFB scholarship program since you have to give your > information of where you live and where are you planning to go to school. > However, I'm not so sure about that! Hope this helps. God bless! :) > > Helga Schreiber > > Fundraiser Coordinator for Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Delta Iota chapter > > Member of National Federation of the Blind and Florida Association of Blind > Students > > Phone: (561) 706-5950 Email: helga.schreiber26 at gmail.com > > "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever > believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16 > Sent from my iPhone > >> On May 29, 2014, at 8:19 PM, Darian via nabs-l wrote: >> >> Hi Alyssa. >> Great question! >> >> The short answer is: which ever place you want to establish membership. >> Membership and any chapter, affiliate or division automatically >> establishes membership in the Federation >> And if you want to be a member of multiple affiliates or chapters or >> divisions, you are welcome to do that. >> Generally speaking, the rules surrounding membership are not terribly >> complicated. >> >> Hope that helps, >> Darian >> >>> On May 29, 2014, at 5:10 PM, Alyssa via nabs-l >>> wrote: >>> >>> Hi all, >>> I'm fairly new to this list but not the NFB itself. I was a member before >>> and want to rejoin. The only problem is I live in Missouri but attend >>> college in Illinois. It may be a silly question, but which state would it >>> be appropriate to establish membership in? >>> Best, >>> Alyssa >>> >>> Sent from my iPhone >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/dsmithnfb%40gmail.com >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/helga.schreiber26%40gmail.com > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 18:30:28 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 30 May 2014 14:30:28 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] guardianship question Message-ID: <5C78611FF54742249B2E0DA522A6A9F2@JohnSandersPC> Hi, I have a question: My parents are threatening me about my finances and they are going to take me to court for Guardianship over them. I am having a problem with managing them and saving money. Am I allowed to have a advocate? I hope to hear from you soon. Sincerely, John Sanders From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 18:58:06 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Arielle Silverman via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 30 May 2014 12:58:06 -0600 Subject: [nabs-l] guardianship question In-Reply-To: <5C78611FF54742249B2E0DA522A6A9F2@JohnSandersPC> References: <5C78611FF54742249B2E0DA522A6A9F2@JohnSandersPC> Message-ID: Hi John, Just to clarify: Are you saying that your parents are trying to take financial guardianship over you? It's hard to give advice without knowing more details about your situation. The short answer is that if you are 18 years old or older and do not have any mental illnesses or disabilities, they do not have any legal reason to do this. If you do have a mental illness or disability, it becomes tougher, but often you can still maintain financial independence with the help of an advocate. I am not sure if the bulk of your finances come from social security? If so, then it would be good to talk with someone who is familiar with social security law. Lots of people, including many people without disabilities, have problems managing and saving money. This means you could benefit from some financial counseling. It does not mean that you are unable to handle your own finances. The trick is keeping careful track of what you regularly spend money on, how much you spend and then cutting your spending so it doesn't exceed your income. Best, Arielle On 5/30/14, via nabs-l wrote: > Hi, > I have a question: My parents are threatening me about my finances and they > are going to take me to court for Guardianship over them. > I am having a problem with managing them and saving money. > Am I allowed to have a advocate? > I hope to hear from you soon. > Sincerely, > John Sanders > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 19:26:19 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Matthew Dierckens via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 30 May 2014 15:26:19 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Introducing a new Intro to the Mac course from Blind Access Training Message-ID: <79293CAF-5ADB-48B9-907A-D1F2E6A14867@me.com> For the month of June, Blind Access Training is offering a 10% discount for our introduction into Macintosh training course. The cost for the training course is $180.00; however, with our 10% discount students will pay $162.00. The training course will begin July 11th, 2014, and will take place in our talking-communities classroom 7:00 eastern standard time. Each class will be an hour long, and the trainer will meet with the class once a week, until each topic is covered. Students looking to sign up, may make their payment after viewing the description of the course at this link: http://blindaccesstraining.com/training-courses/introduction-to-macintosh-an d-voiceover/ To take advantage of the 10% discount, please use the code pp10 during check out. Spots will be limited so we ask that you make the purchase as soon as possible as we will have limited slots available and we do not reserve space. If you have any general questions concerning the course, or you would like to sign up we invite you to fill out our contact us form at http://blindaccesstraining.com/contact-us/, select the mac training questions, and in the subject line input introduction to macintosh training course. In your message please specify an email address you will be using for the course for communication between you and the macintosh trainer. After making your payment and signing up, you will be emailed a user name and password to log into the classroom a week before class begins. It is also important to note that the tc plugin will be required to be installed, so if you need assistance with that, please call the mac department at 1-877-774-7670 and press 4. We encourage readers to spread the word and let everyone know about our introduction into the mac training course to take advantage of the 10% discount. The discount will be valid until June 30th, at 6 pm pacific. If we run out of slots, those who register after it's full, we will conduct a second course; however, those students will be notified if this occurs. Matthew Dierckens Macintosh Trainer Blind Access Training www.blindaccesstraining.com 1-877-774-7670 ext. 4 From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 20:06:40 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Steve Jacobson via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 30 May 2014 15:06:40 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] [Private] guardianship question In-Reply-To: Message-ID: This was a very sensitive but careful response that many on the list would not have given. Thanks for taking the time. Best regards, Steve Jacobson On Fri, 30 May 2014 12:58:06 -0600, Arielle Silverman via nabs-l wrote: >Hi John, >Just to clarify: Are you saying that your parents are trying to take >financial guardianship over you? >It's hard to give advice without knowing more details about your >situation. The short answer is that if you are 18 years old or older >and do not have any mental illnesses or disabilities, they do not have >any legal reason to do this. If you do have a mental illness or >disability, it becomes tougher, but often you can still maintain >financial independence with the help of an advocate. >I am not sure if the bulk of your finances come from social security? >If so, then it would be good to talk with someone who is familiar with >social security law. >Lots of people, including many people without disabilities, have >problems managing and saving money. This means you could benefit from >some financial counseling. It does not mean that you are unable to >handle your own finances. The trick is keeping careful track of what >you regularly spend money on, how much you spend and then cutting your >spending so it doesn't exceed your income. >Best, >Arielle >On 5/30/14, via nabs-l wrote: >> Hi, >> I have a question: My parents are threatening me about my finances and they >> are going to take me to court for Guardianship over them. >> I am having a problem with managing them and saving money. >> Am I allowed to have a advocate? >> I hope to hear from you soon. >> Sincerely, >> John Sanders >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >> >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/steve.jacobson%40visi.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 20:38:50 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Steve Jacobson via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 30 May 2014 15:38:50 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] [Private] guardianship question In-Reply-To: Message-ID: This wasn't meant to go to the whole list, sorry, but my compliment stands. I guess we all need to be careful of the new email addressing. Best regards, Steve Jacobson On Fri, 30 May 2014 15:06:40 -0500, Steve Jacobson via nabs-l wrote: >This was a very sensitive but careful response that many on the list would not have given. Thanks for taking the >time. >Best regards, >Steve Jacobson >On Fri, 30 May 2014 12:58:06 -0600, Arielle Silverman via nabs-l wrote: >>Hi John, >>Just to clarify: Are you saying that your parents are trying to take >>financial guardianship over you? >>It's hard to give advice without knowing more details about your >>situation. The short answer is that if you are 18 years old or older >>and do not have any mental illnesses or disabilities, they do not have >>any legal reason to do this. If you do have a mental illness or >>disability, it becomes tougher, but often you can still maintain >>financial independence with the help of an advocate. >>I am not sure if the bulk of your finances come from social security? >>If so, then it would be good to talk with someone who is familiar with >>social security law. >>Lots of people, including many people without disabilities, have >>problems managing and saving money. This means you could benefit from >>some financial counseling. It does not mean that you are unable to >>handle your own finances. The trick is keeping careful track of what >>you regularly spend money on, how much you spend and then cutting your >>spending so it doesn't exceed your income. >>Best, >>Arielle >>On 5/30/14, via nabs-l wrote: >>> Hi, >>> I have a question: My parents are threatening me about my finances and they >>> are going to take me to court for Guardianship over them. >>> I am having a problem with managing them and saving money. >>> Am I allowed to have a advocate? >>> I hope to hear from you soon. >>> Sincerely, >>> John Sanders >>> _______________________________________________ >>> nabs-l mailing list >>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >>> >>_______________________________________________ >>nabs-l mailing list >>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/steve.jacobson%40visi.com >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/steve.jacobson%40visi.com From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 20:23:26 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 30 May 2014 13:23:26 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] Accommodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: References: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140530131621.01dea9e0@comcast.net> Good afternoon, Kaiti, In your message you state, I should be held to the same expectations as everyone else, but not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot do." My thoughts are, given some people's celebration of blindness, can't the blind man be celebrated for being a blind man, not feeling pressures to be "like" sighted people? Fact is, blind people are not sighted people and blindness is not merely a "nuisance" we do things differently, see things differently and there's nothing wrong with that! And, use DO, for God's sake. That's why they're there, to help you get training. After all, school is training. Good luck and if you want to call, do that. for today, Car 408-209-32395/2014, Kaiti Shelton wrote: >Thanks all for your suggestions. Here is a little more information >about the situation. > >An in-person meeting really is probably not possible for me, the >music therapist >I know, and the faculty simply because she is based in my hometown, >and I go to school in a city that is about an hour away. Getting >transportation for her certainly would not be impossible, but it would >be really expensive for an hour or so of time to meet. That is why I >suggested phone conversations, because then geography would not be an >issue, and they could have more frequent consultations with her. The >professors mentioned in our meeting that they are thinking of driving >to her to see her clinical work, but the questions I have are that if >they were going to do this, why did they wait so long to do it, and >when are they planning to do this? > >I had a very lengthy conversation with my disabilities services >counselor before leaving campus, and I went to her immediately after >the meeting for an additional conversation as well. She has agreed to >step in, and has the idea that if the groups can not be made >accessible to me, then perhaps the best answer would be to adjust the >practicum so that I have a smaller number of clients, or are in a >different setting with different documentation requirements. I told >her what the music therapist told me about documentation. She said >that she has never had to document things as specifically as I am >having to do, and she just keeps track of the goals and objectives, >the session plans, and the progress her clients make towards reaching >their goals and objectives in documents on her notetaker. So, it is >very clear that the definition of acceptable documentation, and what >information is truly salient for the MT to know, is not concrete. > >The problemwith not knowing who comes and leaves is a difficult one. >First, the room we were in was more like a day room that was just set >off of a hallway. There were no doors to open or shut. If a resident >wanted to go back to their room, so long as they were ambulatory, they >could just get up, leave the semicircle, and go down the hall. Also, >it is difficult to pay attention to any noises people like that might >make when you're facilitating a song. One of my problems I had to >work on this semester was learning to project with my voice since I am >not a vocalist by trade, so for a while and to this day it has felt >like I'm shouting when really I'm just singing at a reasonable volume >for the residents, many of whom have hearing impairments, to hear. >Also, when we'd come into the room we'd have to push this big set of >tables back towards the opposite wall to make room for the semicircle, >and sometimes residents would come in late and sit themselves behind >the table where some of the staff waits on-hand than insert themselves >into the group. We had one resident who tended to do this a lot, and >I would always feel really bad if I was passing out instruments or >scarves and failed to give her one. > >I was given feedback on evaluations, and was consistently told to be >more specific, but the problem was that I simply did not know how to. >I was providing information on what I knew and heard about in the >discussions after sessions, but it's difficult to provide information >and document something you didn't know happened. I also understand >that I should be held to the same expectations as everyone else, but >not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot >do. There has to be a compromise. > >I am planning to seek information from the folks on the Human Services >list. That was a great suggestion that I really want to take, but I >thought I'd try to see if students had a perspective first, since I >know the human services division actually doesn't have a lot, if any, >music therapists. I have been on the list a few times, and am still >hoping a professional will pop up on there for me to network with. > >Greg brought up an interesting point, and one I really agree with. It >is clear from what my music therapist contact told me that I'm >probably not going to need to be as specific when I document in the >job sector as I am going to need to be in practicum. I understand >that by teaching us to do more work that it will be easier when we >don't have to do as much after graduating, but it makes it difficult >to get to that point if the expectations don't have a modification >that would allow me to be successful. Unfortunately, I have to do >what my supervising professors want me to do in order to earn the >freedom to document in a way that is more suitable for me. > >I'm very frustrated; I have never had any academic issues till this >year, and so far the 2 problems I've encountered are in classes I need >for my major. All my gen ed professors and I form working >relationships so easily, and while it is obvious where I struggle and >where I don't (math and science courses verses English and History, >psychology, and philosophy respectively), I >do my best, and the professors adjust their requirements when >necessary. E.G, in biology we had journal assignments, where we had >to find a journal article, review it, and write a summary. The >original requirements stated that we had to underline the parts of the >journal article we used. Since I could not underline something that >was already published on the web, I underlined the parts of my written >document which I paraphrased from the article. When my teacher saw >this on the second of these assignments, she asked me why I didn't >follow directions and I told her why. Even though she missed the >reasoning behind it, and forgot to even take the fact that I couldn't >physically underline something into account, she took note of it. I >actually got a few points added on to my first assignment as well, >which she had taken off for the underlining issue. If a biology >professor who I had for one semester can do this, it makes me nervous >that the professors I will need to work with in my major to get my >degree cannot. The worst part is that it is effecting me much more >than academically too; I am now not as confident as I was, since I am >so used to being an A B student, and this is really the first time I >feel like my blindness is an issue. To tell the truth, it's the first >time I've really felt self-conscious about it, and it's not a good >feeling at all. The profs say my disability has nothing to do with it >other than the fact that I didn't communicate my needs well enough, >but I honestly don't believe that is the case. It really does feel >like my blineness, and the disagreements over how to teach me and >accommodate it, are what has caused me to require an extra year of >college. I just heard for sure that this has put me an entire year >behind in the practicum sequence this afternoon, and it is difficult >to fathom what to do next, how to handle myself when I go back for my >second try, and how I'll even pay for the fifth year I was not at all >expecting to take. I guess on the bright side, I can get my second >minor that those same advisors were advising me to drop, since I'll >need to take some courses in order to remain a full time student for >financial aid purposes if I'm going to afford it at all. And, I'll be >able to file the fafsa as an independent student since I won't be >younger than 21 or have a job at the time, but this is just very hard >for me to accept having grown up with excellent grades and no major >problems related to my education. >On 5/4/14, Greg Aikens wrote: > > Hi Kaiti, > > I'm so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. It sounds as though > > you did all the right things. You provided your professors with a resource > > they could consult to determine what is reasonable. You made them aware of > > your difficulties throughout the semester and sought their input on > > solutions. Did they give you any warning before the end of the > semester that > > you might not pass the course? In my opinion, it is unacceptable > for them to > > fail you for this when you clearly did your best to come up with strategies > > and solutions to compensate. It sounds as though their rationale is that > > they can't give you a passing grade because if you can't make > accommodations > > in their class, you won't be able to be a competent professional in the > > field, all this without really having a good grasp on what appropriate > > accommodations might be. > > > > That might sound logical, but the reality is that as a professional, you > > will have more control over your environment, caseload, etc. than in a > > practicum setting. This was true for me and student teaching. There were > > things I definitely failed at during my practicum hours and > student teaching > > semester, but as long as I reflected on why what I had tried > didn't work and > > came up with new strategies to try next time, my supervising professor was > > satisfied that I would come up with the best method in time. As a > teacher, I > > structure my lessons, classroom, and schedule to avoid situations > in which I > > will be less successful. Making non visual accommodations will be different > > for each setting and each client you interact with, and it's something you > > will improve at over time. > > > > The having to take an extra semester or year to complete your degree is the > > part that really makes it worth fighting. I would get the Learning Center > > involved. Even if they don't really know what accommodations should be > > appropriate, their job is to work with professors to figure that out. I > > would try to set up a meeting with your professors, the Learning > Center, and > > hopefully the music therapist where you can present your case. > Show them how > > you grew and learned as a professional throughout your experiences. Reflect > > on the strategies and accommodations you made, whether or not they were > > successful, and accommodations you plan to try next. Make the case that > > gaining information about non verbal behavior is not a trivial task for a > > blind music therapist, but it can be done through creative problem solving > > and constant adaptation on your part. Show that you have done these things > > so far in your practice and that it is something you will continue to work > > on because you know it is core to being a competent professional in your > > field. If they are still not satisfied because you did not have > success with > > these tasks during the semester, see if they will let you complete some > > extra practicum hours, probably no more than 20% of the total > number you had > > to complete already (but I just made that number up). Extra hours is not > > ideal, but it sounds better than having to retake the entire course and > > perhaps pay for another semester or two of school. > > > > Best of luck as you decide what to do. Feel free to contact me on or off > > list if I can be of any assistance. > > > > Best, > > Greg > > > > > > On May 4, 2014, at 1:49 AM, Kaiti Shelton > > wrote: > > > >> Hello all, > >> > >> I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback > >> that can be provided. > >> > >> I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum > >> coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve > >> interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical > >> skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in > >> psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I > >> had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local > >> assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and > >> developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting > >> residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage > >> them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a > >> long way since I started practicum in mid February. > >> > >> However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. > >> The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically > >> had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular > >> participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. > >> Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. > >> It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they > >> were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even > >> know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a > >> hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more > >> so they can hear me." > >> > >> Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were > >> doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead > >> was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the > >> residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a > >> manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would > >> sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the > >> semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. > >> However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were > >> doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing > >> exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing > >> something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of > >> motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these > >> questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation > >> with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any > >> information about it. > >> > >> Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not > >> able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, > >> and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I > >> picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along > >> with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments > >> with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the > >> problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my > >> wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could > >> lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to > >> the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned > >> that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while > >> observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and > >> they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is > >> clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and > >> something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work > >> in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, > >> but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't > >> remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of > >> some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. > >> > >> What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I > >> have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year > >> behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I > >> even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a > >> music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy > >> to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. > >> I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and > >> having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very > >> qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how > >> she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. > >> About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her > >> phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so > >> later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed > >> to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. > >> She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman > >> based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak > >> to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, > >> and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the > >> term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn > >> it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken > >> care of when I signed the other form so that communication could > >> easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to > >> speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to > >> speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, > >> and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my > >> accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even > >> though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked > >> repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have > >> instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course > >> work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My > >> professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling > >> with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing > >> musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally > >> making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is > >> obviously a factor. > >> > >> It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know > >> of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional > >> standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, > >> that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a > >> hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this > >> semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, > >> and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making > >> contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though > >> every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going > >> to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' > >> want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help > >> me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me > >> to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new > >> experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which > >> could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an > >> English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, > >> and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in > >> some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what > >> exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that > >> goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is > >> to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there > >> was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that > >> this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like > >> more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, > >> and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as > >> justification. > >> > >> What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with > >> professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working > >> relationships with professors around the university. Even when I > >> struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent > >> about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and > >> trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm > >> getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes > >> that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all > >> the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to > >> say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will > >> likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school > >> since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or > >> in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is > >> difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to > >> admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, > >> and the music department has assumed responsibility for my > >> accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend > >> an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over > >> again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing > >> anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. > >> > >> If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, > >> please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, > >> if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate > >> hearing about them as well. > >> > >> -- > >> Kaiti > >> > >> _______________________________________________ > >> nabs-l mailing list > >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org > >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > >> nabs-l: > >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > nabs-l mailing list > > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > > nabs-l: > > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > > > > >-- >Kaiti > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Fri May 30 21:03:49 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Joshua Hendrickson via nabs-l) Date: Fri, 30 May 2014 16:03:49 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] [Private] guardianship question In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hi to all. As far as financial stuardship goes, I'd suggest setting up online banking. I get SSI, and each month, my money is directly deposited in my checking account. I can log in to my banks website with an id and password, and immediately see my balance after every transaction. I can also look at transactions to see what money was spent where. I haven't done this yet, but I think I will start also writing down every time I make a purchase besides having the info on the banks site just as a backup. I enjoy having access to my financial information, because, I now know exactly what is spent on which purchases, so if I put money or withdraw money, I can very quickly check it. I also have my debbit card set up to if there isn't enough money in my account to make a purchase, my card is declined and my purchase doesn't go through. If I have a question about a transaction, calling my bank will help resolve the question. Good luck. Also, there are college courses in statistics which will teach you about using credit cards, stocks bonds and things like that. These and other financial topics were part of my college level math class. To me, the most important thing to learn when you manage your own money, is first, at the beginning of the month, figure out how much money you have in your account, then when you want to make a purchase decide if you can aford it or not, and if you do make a purchase subtract what you spent from your beginning balance. Repeat this process with each purchase, so at the end of the month you can figure out for yourself if you are spending to much or not. Have a great afternoon all. On 5/30/14, Steve Jacobson via nabs-l wrote: > This wasn't meant to go to the whole list, sorry, but my compliment stands. > I guess we all need to be careful of > the new email addressing. > > Best regards, > > Steve Jacobson > > > On Fri, 30 May 2014 15:06:40 -0500, Steve Jacobson via nabs-l wrote: > >>This was a very sensitive but careful response that many on the list would >> not have given. Thanks for taking the >>time. > >>Best regards, > >>Steve Jacobson > >>On Fri, 30 May 2014 12:58:06 -0600, Arielle Silverman via nabs-l wrote: > >>>Hi John, > >>>Just to clarify: Are you saying that your parents are trying to take >>>financial guardianship over you? >>>It's hard to give advice without knowing more details about your >>>situation. The short answer is that if you are 18 years old or older >>>and do not have any mental illnesses or disabilities, they do not have >>>any legal reason to do this. If you do have a mental illness or >>>disability, it becomes tougher, but often you can still maintain >>>financial independence with the help of an advocate. >>>I am not sure if the bulk of your finances come from social security? >>>If so, then it would be good to talk with someone who is familiar with >>>social security law. > >>>Lots of people, including many people without disabilities, have >>>problems managing and saving money. This means you could benefit from >>>some financial counseling. It does not mean that you are unable to >>>handle your own finances. The trick is keeping careful track of what >>>you regularly spend money on, how much you spend and then cutting your >>>spending so it doesn't exceed your income. > >>>Best, >>>Arielle > >>>On 5/30/14, via nabs-l wrote: >>>> Hi, >>>> I have a question: My parents are threatening me about my finances and >>>> they >>>> are going to take me to court for Guardianship over them. >>>> I am having a problem with managing them and saving money. >>>> Am I allowed to have a advocate? >>>> I hope to hear from you soon. >>>> Sincerely, >>>> John Sanders >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >>>> > >>>_______________________________________________ >>>nabs-l mailing list >>>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/steve.jacobson%40visi.com > > > > > >>_______________________________________________ >>nabs-l mailing list >>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/steve.jacobson%40visi.com > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/louvins%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 31 04:37:19 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Kaiti Shelton via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 31 May 2014 00:37:19 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] Accommodating in experiential learning courses In-Reply-To: <7.0.1.0.2.20140530131621.01dea9e0@comcast.net> References: <87679004-BE12-4635-9A85-D7C7F59D1940@gmail.com> <7.0.1.0.2.20140530131621.01dea9e0@comcast.net> Message-ID: Hi all, I can see how I could have been a little unclear with what I said. I want to be held to the same professional expectations as my classmates. I want to leave the program with the same skill, knowledge, and instinct in the field as they do. The issue with that is that the faculty holding me to expectations which I cannot physically meet is hindering my professional growth. I am very confused as to what their expectations are, because I feel like they're expecting less of me in some areas and are shocked when I do well, and they hold unrealistic standards for things such as documenting movement which I cannot physically see. On 5/30/14, Carly Mihalakis via nabs-l wrote: > Good afternoon, Kaiti, > > In your message you state, I should be held to the same expectations > as everyone else, but > not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot > do." > > My thoughts are, given some people's celebration of blindness, can't > the blind man be celebrated for being a blind man, not feeling > pressures to be "like" sighted people? Fact is, blind people are not > sighted people and blindness is not merely a "nuisance" we do things > differently, see things differently and there's nothing wrong with that! > And, use DO, for God's sake. That's why they're there, to help you > get training. After all, school is training. > Good luck and if you want to call, do that. > for today, Car > 408-209-32395/2014, Kaiti Shelton wrote: >>Thanks all for your suggestions. Here is a little more information >>about the situation. >> >>An in-person meeting really is probably not possible for me, the >>music therapist >>I know, and the faculty simply because she is based in my hometown, >>and I go to school in a city that is about an hour away. Getting >>transportation for her certainly would not be impossible, but it would >>be really expensive for an hour or so of time to meet. That is why I >>suggested phone conversations, because then geography would not be an >>issue, and they could have more frequent consultations with her. The >>professors mentioned in our meeting that they are thinking of driving >>to her to see her clinical work, but the questions I have are that if >>they were going to do this, why did they wait so long to do it, and >>when are they planning to do this? >> >>I had a very lengthy conversation with my disabilities services >>counselor before leaving campus, and I went to her immediately after >>the meeting for an additional conversation as well. She has agreed to >>step in, and has the idea that if the groups can not be made >>accessible to me, then perhaps the best answer would be to adjust the >>practicum so that I have a smaller number of clients, or are in a >>different setting with different documentation requirements. I told >>her what the music therapist told me about documentation. She said >>that she has never had to document things as specifically as I am >>having to do, and she just keeps track of the goals and objectives, >>the session plans, and the progress her clients make towards reaching >>their goals and objectives in documents on her notetaker. So, it is >>very clear that the definition of acceptable documentation, and what >>information is truly salient for the MT to know, is not concrete. >> >>The problemwith not knowing who comes and leaves is a difficult one. >>First, the room we were in was more like a day room that was just set >>off of a hallway. There were no doors to open or shut. If a resident >>wanted to go back to their room, so long as they were ambulatory, they >>could just get up, leave the semicircle, and go down the hall. Also, >>it is difficult to pay attention to any noises people like that might >>make when you're facilitating a song. One of my problems I had to >>work on this semester was learning to project with my voice since I am >>not a vocalist by trade, so for a while and to this day it has felt >>like I'm shouting when really I'm just singing at a reasonable volume >>for the residents, many of whom have hearing impairments, to hear. >>Also, when we'd come into the room we'd have to push this big set of >>tables back towards the opposite wall to make room for the semicircle, >>and sometimes residents would come in late and sit themselves behind >>the table where some of the staff waits on-hand than insert themselves >>into the group. We had one resident who tended to do this a lot, and >>I would always feel really bad if I was passing out instruments or >>scarves and failed to give her one. >> >>I was given feedback on evaluations, and was consistently told to be >>more specific, but the problem was that I simply did not know how to. >>I was providing information on what I knew and heard about in the >>discussions after sessions, but it's difficult to provide information >>and document something you didn't know happened. I also understand >>that I should be held to the same expectations as everyone else, but >>not when those expectations ask me to do things I physically cannot >>do. There has to be a compromise. >> >>I am planning to seek information from the folks on the Human Services >>list. That was a great suggestion that I really want to take, but I >>thought I'd try to see if students had a perspective first, since I >>know the human services division actually doesn't have a lot, if any, >>music therapists. I have been on the list a few times, and am still >>hoping a professional will pop up on there for me to network with. >> >>Greg brought up an interesting point, and one I really agree with. It >>is clear from what my music therapist contact told me that I'm >>probably not going to need to be as specific when I document in the >>job sector as I am going to need to be in practicum. I understand >>that by teaching us to do more work that it will be easier when we >>don't have to do as much after graduating, but it makes it difficult >>to get to that point if the expectations don't have a modification >>that would allow me to be successful. Unfortunately, I have to do >>what my supervising professors want me to do in order to earn the >>freedom to document in a way that is more suitable for me. >> >>I'm very frustrated; I have never had any academic issues till this >>year, and so far the 2 problems I've encountered are in classes I need >>for my major. All my gen ed professors and I form working >>relationships so easily, and while it is obvious where I struggle and >>where I don't (math and science courses verses English and History, >>psychology, and philosophy respectively), I >>do my best, and the professors adjust their requirements when >>necessary. E.G, in biology we had journal assignments, where we had >>to find a journal article, review it, and write a summary. The >>original requirements stated that we had to underline the parts of the >>journal article we used. Since I could not underline something that >>was already published on the web, I underlined the parts of my written >>document which I paraphrased from the article. When my teacher saw >>this on the second of these assignments, she asked me why I didn't >>follow directions and I told her why. Even though she missed the >>reasoning behind it, and forgot to even take the fact that I couldn't >>physically underline something into account, she took note of it. I >>actually got a few points added on to my first assignment as well, >>which she had taken off for the underlining issue. If a biology >>professor who I had for one semester can do this, it makes me nervous >>that the professors I will need to work with in my major to get my >>degree cannot. The worst part is that it is effecting me much more >>than academically too; I am now not as confident as I was, since I am >>so used to being an A B student, and this is really the first time I >>feel like my blindness is an issue. To tell the truth, it's the first >>time I've really felt self-conscious about it, and it's not a good >>feeling at all. The profs say my disability has nothing to do with it >>other than the fact that I didn't communicate my needs well enough, >>but I honestly don't believe that is the case. It really does feel >>like my blineness, and the disagreements over how to teach me and >>accommodate it, are what has caused me to require an extra year of >>college. I just heard for sure that this has put me an entire year >>behind in the practicum sequence this afternoon, and it is difficult >>to fathom what to do next, how to handle myself when I go back for my >>second try, and how I'll even pay for the fifth year I was not at all >>expecting to take. I guess on the bright side, I can get my second >>minor that those same advisors were advising me to drop, since I'll >>need to take some courses in order to remain a full time student for >>financial aid purposes if I'm going to afford it at all. And, I'll be >>able to file the fafsa as an independent student since I won't be >>younger than 21 or have a job at the time, but this is just very hard >>for me to accept having grown up with excellent grades and no major >>problems related to my education. >>On 5/4/14, Greg Aikens wrote: >> > Hi Kaiti, >> > I'm so sorry to hear you are having to go through this. It sounds as >> > though >> > you did all the right things. You provided your professors with a >> > resource >> > they could consult to determine what is reasonable. You made them aware >> > of >> > your difficulties throughout the semester and sought their input on >> > solutions. Did they give you any warning before the end of the >> semester that >> > you might not pass the course? In my opinion, it is unacceptable >> for them to >> > fail you for this when you clearly did your best to come up with >> > strategies >> > and solutions to compensate. It sounds as though their rationale is >> > that >> > they can't give you a passing grade because if you can't make >> accommodations >> > in their class, you won't be able to be a competent professional in the >> > field, all this without really having a good grasp on what appropriate >> > accommodations might be. >> > >> > That might sound logical, but the reality is that as a professional, >> > you >> > will have more control over your environment, caseload, etc. than in a >> > practicum setting. This was true for me and student teaching. There >> > were >> > things I definitely failed at during my practicum hours and >> student teaching >> > semester, but as long as I reflected on why what I had tried >> didn't work and >> > came up with new strategies to try next time, my supervising professor >> > was >> > satisfied that I would come up with the best method in time. As a >> teacher, I >> > structure my lessons, classroom, and schedule to avoid situations >> in which I >> > will be less successful. Making non visual accommodations will be >> > different >> > for each setting and each client you interact with, and it's something >> > you >> > will improve at over time. >> > >> > The having to take an extra semester or year to complete your degree is >> > the >> > part that really makes it worth fighting. I would get the Learning >> > Center >> > involved. Even if they don't really know what accommodations should be >> > appropriate, their job is to work with professors to figure that out. I >> > would try to set up a meeting with your professors, the Learning >> Center, and >> > hopefully the music therapist where you can present your case. >> Show them how >> > you grew and learned as a professional throughout your experiences. >> > Reflect >> > on the strategies and accommodations you made, whether or not they were >> > successful, and accommodations you plan to try next. Make the case that >> > gaining information about non verbal behavior is not a trivial task for >> > a >> > blind music therapist, but it can be done through creative problem >> > solving >> > and constant adaptation on your part. Show that you have done these >> > things >> > so far in your practice and that it is something you will continue to >> > work >> > on because you know it is core to being a competent professional in >> > your >> > field. If they are still not satisfied because you did not have >> success with >> > these tasks during the semester, see if they will let you complete some >> > extra practicum hours, probably no more than 20% of the total >> number you had >> > to complete already (but I just made that number up). Extra hours is >> > not >> > ideal, but it sounds better than having to retake the entire course and >> > perhaps pay for another semester or two of school. >> > >> > Best of luck as you decide what to do. Feel free to contact me on or >> > off >> > list if I can be of any assistance. >> > >> > Best, >> > Greg >> > >> > >> > On May 4, 2014, at 1:49 AM, Kaiti Shelton >> > wrote: >> > >> >> Hello all, >> >> >> >> I'm in a pretty sticky situation, so I would appreciate any feedback >> >> that can be provided. >> >> >> >> I am a music therapy student who this semester started practicum >> >> coursework. For those who don't know, practicum courses involve >> >> interacting with potential clients, and are used to develop clinical >> >> skills in young human services professionals. They're very common in >> >> psychology coursework, and in other therapeutic diciplins. Anyway, I >> >> had a practicum working with some geriatric residents at a local >> >> assisted living/nursing facility. I truly loved the experience, and >> >> developed my skills in terms of interpersonal interaction, meeting >> >> residents where they are in the moment, and using music to engage >> >> them. In these respects, I've managed to learn a lot, and have come a >> >> long way since I started practicum in mid February. >> >> >> >> However, there were a few problems I encountered related to my vision. >> >> The first problem was just knowing who was in the room. We typically >> >> had 15 to 20 residents at a time, and while some were regular >> >> participants we had others who would come and go between sessions. >> >> Sometimes, residents would even leave in the middle of the session. >> >> It was difficult for me to know who was in the room and where they >> >> were sitting so I could know where to go to address them, and even >> >> know who was present so I could say, "Okay, I know so and so has a >> >> hard time staying engaged. I need to stay on X side of the room more >> >> so they can hear me." >> >> >> >> Another problem I encountered was knowing what the residents were >> >> doing. One of the types of experiences I had opportunities to olead >> >> was movement to music. This typically involved instructing the >> >> residents in moving to pre-recorded music, often using scarves as a >> >> manipulative. Usually, the leader of the movement experience would >> >> sit in a chair at the front of the room, so all residents in the >> >> semi-circle around the area would be able to see the movement. >> >> However, this made it really difficult for me to know what they were >> >> doing. Where they following my directions? Where they not doing >> >> exactly what I wanted them to, but were still on the beat or doing >> >> something which demonstrated musical awareness? Was their range of >> >> motion improving? I really was not able to get the answers to these >> >> questions from where I was sitting, and totally relied on conversation >> >> with my partners and the debriefings after the sessions to get any >> >> information about it. >> >> >> >> Unfortunately, these issues showed in my documentation. I was not >> >> able to be as specific as my instructors would have liked me to be, >> >> and did not know how to be so. I did start documenting things I >> >> picked up auditorally, such as, "Client C vigorously clapped along >> >> with the rhythm of the melody," or "Client M made several comments >> >> with positive vocal infletion." However, these did nothing for the >> >> problem regarding my ability to not see their movement. I got to my >> >> wits end later in the semester, and asked my instructor if I could >> >> lead the movement while moving around the room so I would be closer to >> >> the residents. She said this was okay to do, however I was concerned >> >> that I might inadvertently turn my back on some residents while >> >> observing another, particularly on the edges of the semicircle, and >> >> they would not be able to see me. It worked then and there, but it is >> >> clear to me now that that method was only a temporary fix, and >> >> something which would not be effective in the settings I want to work >> >> in. I grew more comfortable asking residents what their names were, >> >> but I think a few thought it was odd that I seemingly couldn't >> >> remember their names from Tuesday to Thursday. I learned voices of >> >> some of the regulars too, which helped a lot. >> >> >> >> What frustrates me is that because I failed to document properly, I >> >> have to retake the course next year and could be as much as a year >> >> behind in my studies. It frustrates me because from day one, before I >> >> even went out into the field, I told my instructors that I know a >> >> music therapist who is totally blind, and she would be more than happy >> >> to offer suggestions and consult on best practices for accommodation. >> >> I truly thought that this MT-BC could be a great resource for us, and >> >> having seen her work on numerous occasions, I knew she would be very >> >> qualified to offer suggestions. I found myself even thinking of how >> >> she does her work to try to accommodate myself throughout the course. >> >> About 2 weeks in to the course one of my instructors asked for her >> >> phone number, and I thought we were moving along. Then a week or so >> >> later I asked the instructor in charge of my class if she had managed >> >> to have a conversation with the music therapist I referred to her. >> >> She said I needed to sign confidentiality forms so that the woman >> >> based out of an agency of which I was a client as a child could speak >> >> to the professors in regards to my accomodations. I complied quickly, >> >> and thought everything was ready to go. Then, on the last day of the >> >> term I was sent the ferpa form in my email, and was instructed to turn >> >> it in during finals week. I was floored that this had not been taken >> >> care of when I signed the other form so that communication could >> >> easily go both ways. All along the music therapist had been able to >> >> speak to my professors about me, but they were not allowed by law to >> >> speak to her. A meeting was called to discuss my lack of progress, >> >> and I was told that there was difficulty in reconciling my >> >> accomodations with the professional competencies of my field, and even >> >> though I had provided my professors with a great resource and asked >> >> repeatedly if they had contacted the one person who could have >> >> instrumental in helping all of us at my university through this course >> >> work, they said I failed to adequately make my needs known. My >> >> professor in charge of the course knew the issues I was struggling >> >> with, and also knew that in spite of these issues I was developing >> >> musically and establishing rappore with residents. I was not totally >> >> making progress, but I was struggling in the areas where vision is >> >> obviously a factor. >> >> >> >> It isn't a question of whether or not I can perform this job. I know >> >> of several music therapists who successfully meet the professional >> >> standards while compensating for their lack of sight. I feel though, >> >> that in terms of advocating myself I am stuck between a rock and a >> >> hard place. I feel that if I were uch more relentless than I was this >> >> semester that I would just annoy the professors who I need to help me, >> >> and I frankly expected them to do as they said they would by making >> >> contact where it needed to be made. On the other hand, even though >> >> every time I did say something this semester and was told, "I'm going >> >> to talk to her," I obviously was not advocating hard enough. I don' >> >> want to be a thorn in their sides since I need these people to help >> >> me, but I need certain things to happen on their parts in order for me >> >> to be successful. And part of the issue is also that this is a new >> >> experience for me. I told the professors the information I had which >> >> could be helpful for all involved to know, but this is not like an >> >> English or Math class where I know the specific accomodations I need, >> >> and the ways that work best from years of experience. I feel like in >> >> some circumstances, because this is new to me, that I don't know what >> >> exactly to ask, or I don't know what I don't know, and I think that >> >> goes for every student in my major because the point of practicums is >> >> to learn from the supervising professor. In my case, however, there >> >> was a disconnect with some harsh consequences. I also understand that >> >> this is a new experience for the professors as well, but I feel like >> >> more could have been done on their part by making a simple phone call, >> >> and that they are using my blindness (not advocating well enough) as >> >> justification. >> >> >> >> What strikes me as odd is that I don't have any of these problems with >> >> professors I see for one semester. I have developed good, working >> >> relationships with professors around the university. Even when I >> >> struggled in a math course, the professor and I were both diligent >> >> about meeting in office hours, talking to learning services, and >> >> trying to find our own ways to problem-solve. I don't think I'm >> >> getting the same sort of team effort here, and it is in the classes >> >> that are part of my major. And I feel stuck because I've provided all >> >> the resources I can to the professors, and said everything I know to >> >> say, but the result is that I have to take this course again and will >> >> likely have to tack on at least an extra semester to my time in school >> >> since the courses can not be doubled up, or taken out of sequence, or >> >> in different semesters from which they are offered. And it is >> >> difficult to involve learning services, because they are the first to >> >> admit they know very little about music therapy or music in general, >> >> and the music department has assumed responsibility for my >> >> accomodations in those classes. I can't financially afford to spend >> >> an extra year at school, nor do I want to keep taking classes over >> >> again. And I feel like this should be a team effort, but not knowing >> >> anything else to suggest I'm not sure of how to make it more that way. >> >> >> >> If anyone has done a practicum experience and had success with it, >> >> please let me know some strategies which were helpful for you. Also, >> >> if there are any advocacy strategies I can try I would appreciate >> >> hearing about them as well. >> >> >> >> -- >> >> Kaiti >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> >> nabs-l mailing list >> >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> >> nabs-l: >> >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/gpaikens%40gmail.com >> > >> > >> > _______________________________________________ >> > nabs-l mailing list >> > nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> > nabs-l: >> > >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com >> > >> >> >>-- >>Kaiti >> >>_______________________________________________ >>nabs-l mailing list >>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/carlymih%40comcast.net > > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/crazy4clarinet104%40gmail.com > -- Kaiti From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 31 13:01:30 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Beth Taurasi via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 31 May 2014 07:01:30 -0600 Subject: [nabs-l] calling all android users, please! Message-ID: <5389d2f4.61dd320a.1863.16fe@mx.google.com> Dear Nabs-Sters, I just got a smartphone. Yes, I swear I got a smartphone. But there are a few quesftions I have about it: 1. How do you answer a call with an android ZTE Prelude? That's the one I got. 2. How do you scroll down? 3. How do you press numbers while the call is on and how do you know they're pressed? I don't have a voicemail set up. Thank you all, and email me off list if you'd like. Beth Taurasi From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 31 17:45:53 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Robin via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 31 May 2014 10:45:53 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] calling all android users, please! In-Reply-To: <5389d2f4.61dd320a.1863.16fe@mx.google.com> References: <5389d2f4.61dd320a.1863.16fe@mx.google.com> Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20140531103108.05348718@comcast.net> To ANSWER Call (on Android) Place a Finger on the TouchScreen until you HEAR TalkBack (TB) ANNOUCE "SLIDE Right To ANSWER" & simply Slide to the Right without lifting your Finger off the TouchScreen, and that should allow you to ANSWER providing you are using an Android running at Least Android KitKat (4.4 or Higher). To ENTER DIGITS while on a CALL, you must be on SpeakerPhone, and make sure the DialPad IS Checked to allow you to ENTER DIGITS, which you should HEAR a sound similar to the sound you HEAR when you ENTER DIGITS on a LandLine TelePhone. (simply LIFT your Finger when you HEAR the DIGIT you want to ENTER) As for scrolling, you simply move your Finger down to HEAR Items within the List, and use 2 Fingers...from the bottom of the TouchScreen and slowly Slide them upward to HEAR more items (if available within the List) This is quite difficult for me to do, but I haven't practiced it very much either. To LEARN TalkBack (TB) gestures Go into Recent Apps, Select Settings, then Select Accessibility, then Select TalkBack, then Scroll to the Bottom to Practice the various TalkBack Gestures IN the Android TalkBack Tutorial I HOPE this Helps If NOT, I suggest you GO to your Mobile Provider, and Work alongside a Tech/SalesPerson Sent From DROID MAX User At 06:01 AM 5/31/2014, you wrote: >Dear Nabs-Sters, >I just got a smartphone. Yes, I swear I got a smartphone. But >there are a few quesftions I have about it: >1. How do you answer a call with an android ZTE Prelude? That's the >one I got. >2. How do you scroll down? >3. How do you press numbers while the call is on and how do you know >they're pressed? I don't have a voicemail set up. >Thank you all, and email me off list if you'd like. >Beth Taurasi > >_______________________________________________ >nabs-l mailing list >nabs-l at nfbnet.org >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nabs-l: >http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/robin-melvin%40comcast.net From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 31 18:01:47 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (David Andrews via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 31 May 2014 13:01:47 -0500 Subject: [nabs-l] Fwd: Student CHapter Event - Day at the Dunes Message-ID: > >MIDWEST MEETUP: > >DAY AT THE DUNES > >Swim, hike, play Discs on the Dunes (accessible >disc golf), Sculptionaries, Castle >Contests, music, chill with cool people, food, fun, and memories > >Hey all you blind high school & college >students; Are you ready for a break after a >long semester, a way to meet & bond with friends >and build real memories? Come for some fun in >the sun with the IL & IN Associations of Blind Students’ Day at the Dunes. > >Saturday, June 21, 2014 > >Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore – Michigan City, IN > >Departure: 10:00 AM from Indianapolis and >locations along the way; Return: 10:00 PM > >Just $15 (includes transportation & food) > >To register, go to: >http://nfbofillinois.org/?page_id=651 > >For more information or to learn about >transportation options, please contact >Christopher Meyer at (765)480-2978 or >chsmeyer at umail.iu.edu. > >Don’t forget your swimsuits and towels! > >The National Federation of the blind knows that >blindness is not the characteristic that defines >you or your future. Every day we raise the >expectations of blind people, because low >expectations create obstacles between blind >people and their dreams. You can live the life >you want; blindness is not what holds you back. >Patti Gregory Chang >NFBI President >NFB Scholarship Committee Chair > David Andrews and long white cane Harry. E-Mail: dandrews at visi.com or david.andrews at nfbnet.org From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 31 18:14:15 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (James Hulme via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 31 May 2014 14:14:15 -0400 Subject: [nabs-l] calling all android users, please! In-Reply-To: <5389d2f4.61dd320a.1863.16fe@mx.google.com> References: <5389d2f4.61dd320a.1863.16fe@mx.google.com> Message-ID: Hello Beth Taurasi, It is so nice to hear from you today. Could you please try the following for info. regarding FAQ and troubleshooting for your ZTE Prelude phone. There is even a manual and user guide that you can download from Google. User Manual Guide Hope this helps. Jimmy Hulme jim.hulme at gmail.com On Sat, May 31, 2014 at 9:01 AM, Beth Taurasi via nabs-l wrote: > Dear Nabs-Sters, > I just got a smartphone. Yes, I swear I got a smartphone. But there are > a few quesftions I have about it: > 1. How do you answer a call with an android ZTE Prelude? That's the one I > got. > 2. How do you scroll down? > 3. How do you press numbers while the call is on and how do you know > they're pressed? I don't have a voicemail set up. > Thank you all, and email me off list if you'd like. > Beth Taurasi > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/jim.hulme%40gmail.com > From nabs-l at nfbnet.org Sat May 31 20:13:38 2014 From: nabs-l at nfbnet.org (Arielle Silverman via nabs-l) Date: Sat, 31 May 2014 13:13:38 -0700 Subject: [nabs-l] [Private] guardianship question In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Yes. Online banking access is a must. I always keep track of how much money I get each month and then subtract out what I know I will need to spend on things like rent, utilities, groceries, Internet and cell phone charges. Then the rest is an allowance I give myself to spend on other things. I divide the allowance into four weekly portions and every time I make a purchase, subtract the amount from what I have to spend for the week. At the end of the month, any funds I have left over get rolled into a savings account, and then if I need or want to make a big purchase like a trip or buying a new piece of technology, it gets funded out of the savings account. This system may seem a little overly detailed, and it's less crucial for me now that I make enough to not have to live month-to-month, but when I was on a lower income this system was essential. If you use a credit card, it is even more important to track your spending so that, ideally, your credit card spending each month never exceeds your income plus savings. Best, Arielle On 5/30/14, Joshua Hendrickson via nabs-l wrote: > Hi to all. As far as financial stuardship goes, I'd suggest setting > up online banking. I get SSI, and each month, my money is directly > deposited in my checking account. I can log in to my banks website > with an id and password, and immediately see my balance after every > transaction. I can also look at transactions to see what money was > spent where. I haven't done this yet, but I think I will start also > writing down every time I make a purchase besides having the info on > the banks site just as a backup. I enjoy having access to my > financial information, because, I now know exactly what is spent on > which purchases, so if I put money or withdraw money, I can very > quickly check it. I also have my debbit card set up to if there isn't > enough money in my account to make a purchase, my card is declined and > my purchase doesn't go through. If I have a question about a > transaction, calling my bank will help resolve the question. Good > luck. Also, there are college courses in statistics which will teach > you about using credit cards, stocks bonds and things like that. > These and other financial topics were part of my college level math > class. To me, the most important thing to learn when you manage your > own money, is first, at the beginning of the month, figure out how > much money you have in your account, then when you want to make a > purchase decide if you can aford it or not, and if you do make a > purchase subtract what you spent from your beginning balance. Repeat > this process with each purchase, so at the end of the month you can > figure out for yourself if you are spending to much or not. Have a > great afternoon all. > > On 5/30/14, Steve Jacobson via nabs-l wrote: >> This wasn't meant to go to the whole list, sorry, but my compliment >> stands. >> I guess we all need to be careful of >> the new email addressing. >> >> Best regards, >> >> Steve Jacobson >> >> >> On Fri, 30 May 2014 15:06:40 -0500, Steve Jacobson via nabs-l wrote: >> >>>This was a very sensitive but careful response that many on the list >>> would >>> not have given. Thanks for taking the >>>time. >> >>>Best regards, >> >>>Steve Jacobson >> >>>On Fri, 30 May 2014 12:58:06 -0600, Arielle Silverman via nabs-l wrote: >> >>>>Hi John, >> >>>>Just to clarify: Are you saying that your parents are trying to take >>>>financial guardianship over you? >>>>It's hard to give advice without knowing more details about your >>>>situation. The short answer is that if you are 18 years old or older >>>>and do not have any mental illnesses or disabilities, they do not have >>>>any legal reason to do this. If you do have a mental illness or >>>>disability, it becomes tougher, but often you can still maintain >>>>financial independence with the help of an advocate. >>>>I am not sure if the bulk of your finances come from social security? >>>>If so, then it would be good to talk with someone who is familiar with >>>>social security law. >> >>>>Lots of people, including many people without disabilities, have >>>>problems managing and saving money. This means you could benefit from >>>>some financial counseling. It does not mean that you are unable to >>>>handle your own finances. The trick is keeping careful track of what >>>>you regularly spend money on, how much you spend and then cutting your >>>>spending so it doesn't exceed your income. >> >>>>Best, >>>>Arielle >> >>>>On 5/30/14, via nabs-l wrote: >>>>> Hi, >>>>> I have a question: My parents are threatening me about my finances >>>>> and >>>>> they >>>>> are going to take me to court for Guardianship over them. >>>>> I am having a problem with managing them and saving money. >>>>> Am I allowed to have a advocate? >>>>> I hope to hear from you soon. >>>>> Sincerely, >>>>> John Sanders >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> nabs-l mailing list >>>>> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>>> nabs-l: >>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >>>>> >> >>>>_______________________________________________ >>>>nabs-l mailing list >>>>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>>> nabs-l: >>>>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/steve.jacobson%40visi.com >> >> >> >> >> >>>_______________________________________________ >>>nabs-l mailing list >>>nabs-l at nfbnet.org >>>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >>>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >>> nabs-l: >>>http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/steve.jacobson%40visi.com >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> nabs-l mailing list >> nabs-l at nfbnet.org >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org >> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for >> nabs-l: >> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/louvins%40gmail.com >> > > _______________________________________________ > nabs-l mailing list > nabs-l at nfbnet.org > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-l_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > nabs-l: > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nabs-l_nfbnet.org/arielle71%40gmail.com >