[nfb-db] nfb-db Digest, Adjusting and A Few Questions

Catherine Miller guillcat at gmail.com
Thu Oct 31 14:37:33 UTC 2013


  Doctors' staff are busy, and if they don't truly undeerstand what you need, they will brushhhhh you off.  They are accustomed to knowing everything health-wise, but it will be up to you to teachh them about deaf-blindness.  this is a tall order given your weakened emotionaal state brought on by the stresses of accepting the tremendous changes demanded by your senses during this time.   An idea might be to send a letter explaining what your needs will be, making sure your dooctor reads it before your scheduled appointment.

Congratulations on your decision to learn braille.  I'm sure you knoow that it will open many new avenues of communication to you.  It can be an arduous process, but try to read, learn, and practice everry single day to hasten the process.  It will bring many rewards.

I attended a total immersion program to learn ASL.  All my teachers were Deaf..  Based on their prior experience, they urged me to learn the signs first, and to use tactile methods after I learned the signs.  April, this waas a profound waste of time for three months of my life.  I felt so stupiddbecause I could not follow the signs.  They ddid not seem to realize I could see only movement.  Finally I switched to tactile reception, and my learning rate became airborne.  I had been standing on my head to see the signs, when all Ireally needed was a light touch of the fingers to assist my residual vision.  Today I have lost more vision and mut rely totally on tactile; but my message is that no one knows better than you what you can and cannot see or hear.

Finally, I want to address Marsha's disclaimer.   I am a trained counselor, and everything she said is accu		April:  First I want to comment on your need to coommunicate optimally with your doctors.   I urge you to embark on a new paradigm  based in the assurance that you are totally within your rights to demand andd expect that your health care proffessionals are obligated to provide the form of communication that accommodates your individual needs.   Visit your doctors with an advocate until you are strong enough to do it alone.  Your advocate can be a good friend, a family member, or someone who understandds what your needs are, as long as it's someone you believe can stand behind you and not back down

I'm sorry, but my software needs updating.  It has switcheed the position of the first and last part of this email, and if I try to repair it, this email won't get sent.   Know that we care, and that we are very glad you have found us here.  We gain strength from your experience, April..  We hope you will continue to share with us.

Cathy Miller.

Sent from my iPad

> On Oct 30, 2013, at 7:00 AM, nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org wrote:
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> Today's Topics:
> 
>   1. Re: montana convention (Marsha Drenth)
>   2. Re: Adjusting, and a few questions (Marsha Drenth)
>   3. Re: montana convention (maurice mines)
>   4. Re: nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12 (DELCINA M BROWN)
>   5. Re: Adjusting, and a few questions (DELCINA M BROWN)
>   6. Re: nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12 (Sheila Leigland)
>   7. Re: Adjusting, and a few questions (DELCINA M BROWN)
>   8. Re: Adjusting, and a few questions (MemberService)
>   9. un believable (heather albright)
>  10. Re: nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12 (DELCINA M BROWN)
>  11. unbelievable (Janice Toothman)
> 
> 
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> Message: 1
> Date: Tue, 29 Oct 2013 16:22:05 -0400
> From: Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com>
> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] montana convention
> Message-ID: <A10D0778-4FA7-4972-B92E-CF5258689BBE at gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> Sheila,
> Congradulations on the new board position. I am happy to hear that the ICC presentation went well. But sorry to hear that you didn't get to formally gather a commiitee or division. It will all come in due time. Your on the right track though. 
> 
> This brings up another very good point, how many deafblind persons are on state boards? This would be an interesting fact to know. Have deafblind persons been excluded from the boards? I would hope not intentionally. And if we as deafblind persons can get on the state boards of affiliate would this increase our efforts. Of course I am not suggesting this just so we can increase the deafblind issues, but in general. Anyone who is elected to a board, must have the greater state affiliate in mind. 
> 
> Marsha drenth  
> Sent with my IPhone 
> 
>> On Oct 29, 2013, at 2:18 PM, Sheila Leigland <sleigland at bresnan.net> wrote:
>> 
>> Hi a gentleman from I can connect spoke via skype at our state convention and the presentation was excellent. I have also been elected to the board and am second vice president so I'm hoping to influence and encourage positive feedback in our state concerning deaf blind issues.I didn't get to speak about forming a committee about these issues but hope to be able to bring this before the board sometime in the near distant future.
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nfb-db mailing list
>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 2
> Date: Tue, 29 Oct 2013 16:40:20 -0400
> From: Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com>
> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Adjusting, and a few questions
> Message-ID: <C57D6EB0-F39B-4D88-8EA4-A0FBF119E529 at gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
> 
> April,
> I don't have an answer for the doctor forms part of your post. I do want to responde to your post about your denial of your hearing and vision loss. 
> The loss of any sense can be hard, some of us deal with it in different ways. When a person deals with the loss of two senses, it is doubly hard. Its a griving process, and denial is one of those stages. 
> In my experience, taking action, getting involved, meeting others, learning, helps the process along. The reason I say this is, again in my experience, over the last two years I have lost 80percent of my hearing. I was blind all of my life. I swing back and forth from being absolutely frustrated to sad to acceptance. Getting involved, learning new skills, talking to others, asking questions, taking action, all give your mind, body and soul something else to work on. And even if that means one or two days you have to force the issue, of just getting out of bed, or getting out of the house, or making a call, or learning a new skill. Of course a counselor who is trained in mental health and the adjustment of disability, can also help. 
> Your not the only onw in denial, in lossing your vision or your hearing. I know many other deafblind persons who struggle with this on a daily basis, some shut themselves into a house, others do something about, and then a majority of us, are some where in the middle. 
> I wish I had some great words of wisdom, its a one day at time thing. 
> I am sure if you keeping on posting about this, you will find that your not alone. Which can help that denial too. 
> 
> Here is my disclaimer, I am not a counselor, but a social worker. So my advice above is not official. 
> 
> 
> 
> Marsha drenth  
> Sent with my IPhone 
> 
>> On Oct 29, 2013, at 3:23 PM, April Brown <aprilbrownwrite at gmail.com> wrote:
>> 
>> Hello,
>> 
>>    Until a year ago, I mostly ignored my low hearing.  I've worn a hearing aid for years.  A year ago, my vision suddenly failed drastically.  Obviously, it was never good to begin with either, and I never did learn to read lips. I still don't have an official diagnosis or prognosis.
>> 
>>     Both of these issues have caused me issues in the past.  Even as my vision fails, and my eye hurts constantly, I still comprehend better by seeing and reading.  I intend to learn Braille in January.  (Novemeber is a busy month for writers, and December is busy with in laws).
>> 
>>      Many, many years ago, in college, I attempted to take a sign language course.  I didn't learn a thing.  All I ever saw was       motion, and nothing that made sense.  At the time, I blamed it on the stress of my life.  Now, I'm not so sure it was just stress.        Still, I wish I had learned!
>> 
>> In the meantime, and in the future, how do I convince doctors, and other professionals, that an email is better than trying to comprehend a phone conversation?
>> 
>> To go along with another thread or two, a few times I asked for help on a blind list I had the "I can call you and talk you though       it" response.  Which is great, except, I don't really comprehend well on the phone, even from people I know.  Especially if there is any background sound.  I do appreciate the sentiment.  
>> 
>> I'm still very new in this situation, and yes, I'm partially still in denial, I'm sure.
>> 
>> Thanks,
>> 
>> April Brown
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nfb-db mailing list
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> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 3
> Date: Tue, 29 Oct 2013 14:10:24 -0700
> From: maurice mines <kd0iko at icloud.com>
> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] montana convention
> Message-ID: <2194663A-3DCE-4D37-A143-85D514B81EA8 at icloud.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
> 
> Graduations. Hope everything goes well for you in the future.
> 
> 
> Sincerely Maurice Mines. Phone 360-524-0791. Work/school email, maurice.mines at pcc.edu.
>> On Oct 29, 2013, at 11:18 AM, Sheila Leigland <sleigland at bresnan.net> wrote:
>> 
>> Hi a gentleman from I can connect spoke via skype at our state convention and the presentation was excellent. I have also been elected to the board and am second vice president so I'm hoping to influence and encourage positive feedback in our state concerning deaf blind issues.I didn't get to speak about forming a committee about these issues but hope to be able to bring this before the board sometime in the near distant future.
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nfb-db mailing list
>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 4
> Date: Tue, 29 Oct 2013 21:57:04 -0400
> From: "DELCINA M BROWN" <delcenia at prodigy.net>
> To: "Tracie Inman" <tracieinman at yahoo.com>,    "NFB Deaf-Blind Division
>    Mailing List" <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12
> Message-ID: <BF7663D5797C4F738B20EA261C31AE88 at johne38069127c>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"
> 
> First, let me introduce my self. My name is Delcenia Brown and I am a member of the National Federation of the blind of Cleveland, Ohio. I am new to this mailing list. Therefore alot of you I do not know and alot of abbreviation I do not know. It will be nice if sometimes some of you would spell out what you are talking about and it would be nice to know what state you are in. 
> 
> ?
> 
> Tracy, I understand and appreciate what you are saying, your identity does not change because of your situation or how you handle certain settings. Taking advantage of what you have left is understandable. I am greatful for what little hearing and vision I have left. I also take advantage of that by reading with a CCTV when I can and using a fm system or pocket talker at the appropriate time. 
> 
> ?
> 
> At the same time I wish someone had taken the time to teach me braille, sign language when I was younger. Now as I grow older and have other obstacles it is a struggle to learn braille. I still have no one to teach me sign language.  So, yes, reminding Randy, that there are some deafblind that are hard of hearing and do not sign was a gentle response. 
> 
> ?
> 
> Just recently, I have posted a notice asking if anyone in my state share my interests and got no response. However my state president does share my interest and I believe at the state convention which is to be held November 1 thru 3, 2013, the agenda does include information about the I can connect program. 
> 
> ?
> 
> Now, the downside of things. I have completed my application and it was approved. I have had my assessment and I believe all of the equipment has been ordered based on messages that I have received. However, I still have not actually recieve anything as of today. This process started back in March or April. I am grateful for the possibility of obtaining the equipment, it is frustrating that it has taken so long and no one is returning my call.
> 
> 
> 
> I gladly get on board!
> 
> Delcenia
> 
> 
> 
>  ----- Original Message ----- 
>  From: Tracie Inman 
>  To: nfb-db at nfbnet.org 
>  Sent: Tuesday, October 29, 2013 9:06 AM
>  Subject: Re: [nfb-db] nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12
> 
> 
> 
> 
>  Hi Randy:  I hope you're doing well and AADB is growing stronger under your leadership.  I wish you all the best always.  Just a gentle reminder my friend that many many Deaf - Blind are hard of hearing (non sign speaking) blind folks.  Randy, indeed since getting the two C.I.'s I'm guilty of using voice, Assisted listening devices and voice interpreters as opposed to using my signing, using interpreters, etc.  I have switched to English.  My excuses has been that my vision is going "bye bye" and depending on tactile scares me.  In time, that may be my only option but for now I'm surrounded by hearing family and friends so I've gotten into a "comfort zone" with the success of my C.I.'s.  What I'm trying to say here is, remember that, just because you might not observe the folks signing doesn't mean they're not Deaf-blind.  
>    All the folks in the NFB Deaf-Blind division who are promoting ICC are Deaf-Blind.  In fact, every one assigned to Operation Outreach  (our outreach project to raise awareness of the ICC and the Deaf-Blind community requesting ALL 50 affiliates and the D.C. affiliate to form committees for the Deaf-Blind in their individual committee) - including our mutual friend Marsha drenth are Deaf-Blind.  
>    Speaking of,  hey Scott if you want to help please contact me or Joe Naulty.  We could always use more helping hands.  We got two projects going on at the moment and probably will start a third.  You know about Operation Outreach.  We've also started a committee on SSP issues.  If you want to help us, we can always use another helping hand.  I do believe the Deaf-Blind division is working harder than it ever has before.  I dare to say that we've accomplished more in the last few months than we have in many years.  The latest announcement we heard was that Scott Labarre (affiliate President of Colorado and a National NFB Board Member) has agreed to set up a Deaf-Blind Issues committee in the Colorado affiliate.  We also  heard that the President of the Alaska affiliate is Deaf-Blind.  So climb abaord the NFB DB Express and lets get chugging along on this exciting adventure raising awareness of Deaf-Blind issues, ICC, and the need for SSP's.  All are welcome aboard. 
> 
> 
>  Best Wishes, 
>  Tracie Inman
>  NFB Deaf-Blind Division
>  First Vice President
>  tracieinman at yahoo.com
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>  On Tuesday, October 29, 2013 8:08 AM, "nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org" <nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> 
>  Send nfb-db mailing list submissions to
>      nfb-db at nfbnet.org
> 
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>  or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to
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>  When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific
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> 
> 
>  Today's Topics:
> 
>    1. CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind    Persons
>        (Marsha Drenth)
>    2. Re: CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>        Persons (Scott Davert)
> 
> 
>  ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
>  Message: 1
>  Date: Mon, 28 Oct 2013 10:49:53 -0400
>  From: Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com>
>  To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>  Subject: [nfb-db] CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>      Persons
>  Message-ID: <D61AC1DF-7E22-4F4C-969D-18FC3E09FE61 at gmail.com>
>  Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=utf-8
> 
>  Scott, 
>  When will you hear if you are presenting at CSUn? and if you do present, who will you present with from the NFB? 
>  Very curious I know...
> 
>  Marsha drenth  
>  Sent with my IPhone 
> 
>>  On Oct 27, 2013, at 6:32 PM, Scott Davert <scottdavert at gmail.com> wrote:
>> 
>> Hi Randy.
>> It would seem there is not a lot of outreach going on from what I can
>> tell. I have not done outreach for NFB or ACB, but have gone to a few
>> places to promote it. I, of course, took an interpreter along, because
>> I have the signing vocabulary of a 6 month old. I know that HKNC plans
>> to send someone to the national AFB conference in Feb, and I submitted
>> a proposal to CSUN to discuss deaf-blindness and some of the
>> technology used. If accepted, I will be presenting this with a member
>> of the NFB. It will, of course, make mention of the ICC program.
>> 
>> All the best,
>> Scott
>> 
>>> On 10/27/13, Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com> wrote:
>>> Randy,
>>> Ok, just so the point is clear, anyone from the NFB who is promoting the ICC
>>> program, is Deafblind. Of course there are other organizations promoting the
>>> ICC program. And yes some DB persons are not signing DB folks. Of course
>>> this by no means that they aren't DB.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Marsha drenth
>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>> 
>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 10:06 PM, "Randy Pope" <randy.pope at aadb.org> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> Marsha,
>>>> 
>>>> Sorry for overlooking the last part of your message.  I have received a
>>>> few report that the people who are actually doing the promotion and
>>>> education are not DeafBlind.  But here is the problem in determining if
>>>> these report are true.  These people could be Deafblind but cannot sign.
>>>> In the recent DSA conference, the person sitting in the ICC booth, was
>>>> assuming hearing blind who did not know  how to sign.
>>>> 
>>>> There were a few other situation similar to this situation.  See where I?m
>>>> coming from?
>>>> 
>>>> Randy
>>>> 
>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Marsha
>>>> Drenth
>>>> Sent: Saturday, October 26, 2013 8:30 PM
>>>> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List
>>>> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind Persons
>>>> 
>>>> Mr. Pope,
>>>> I am not a part of the NFB DB board, but the NFB DB division has implement
>>>> an outreach program to educate state affiliates on Deafblindness,
>>>> resources, and the Icanconnect program. I do believe that all of those
>>>> persons who are reaching out to the different states are db themselves. Is
>>>> this what you mean?
>>>> 
>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>> 
>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 8:21 PM, "Randy Pope" <randy.pope at aadb.org> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> Question:  Are there any DeafBlind people assisting in the NDBEDP outreach
>>>> program?
>>>> 
>>>> Randy
>>>> 
>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of David
>>>> Andrews
>>>> Sent: Friday, October 25, 2013 9:16 PM
>>>> To: nfbwatlk at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind Persons
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> I have been asked to distribute the following.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Dear David,
>>>> 
>>>> I have been charged with the outreach program for :I Can Connect" in 5
>>>> states, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA,
>>>> OKLAHOMA, WASHINGTON and WISCONSIN
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Changing what it means to be blind,
>>>> Marcus Simmons, President,
>>>> Wayne County chapter NFBMI
>>>> 28179 Brentwood
>>>> Southfield, MI 48076-3069
>>>> president at map-n.org
>>>> (248) 552-8928
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> NDBEDP.pdf
>>>> Consumer Guide
>>>> 9
>>>> National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program
>>>> Background
>>>> The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of
>>>> 2010 (CVAA) authorizes the
>>>> Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide funding for local
>>>> programs to distribute
>>>> equipment to low-income individuals who are ?deaf-blind? (see definition
>>>> below.) The FCC may use up
>>>> to $10 million annually from the interstate Telecommunications Relay
>>>> Service fund for this purpose.
>>>> Pilot Program
>>>> In 2011, the FCC established the National Deaf-Blind Equipment
>>>> Distribution Program (NDBEDP) as a
>>>> pilot program. The pilot program has been in effect since July 1, 2012,
>>>> and the FCC may extend the
>>>> program another year. The pilot program provides valuable information that
>>>> the FCC will use to help
>>>> develop and implement an effective and efficient permanent deaf-blind
>>>> equipment distribution program.
>>>> How does the pilot program operate?
>>>> The FCC selected and certified one entity in each of the 50 states, plus
>>>> the District of Columbia, Puerto
>>>> Rico, and the Virgin Islands, to receive FCC support to distribute
>>>> equipment to low-income individuals
>>>> who are deaf-blind. The FCC allocated a minimum of $50,000 to each of the
>>>> 53 certified programs,
>>>> plus additional funding based on the size of each state's population. As a
>>>> result, states with large
>>>> populations were allocated larger amounts of funding than states with
>>>> small populations.
>>>> The FCC also set aside $500,000 each year for the Perkins School for the
>>>> Blind to coordinate outreach
>>>> to promote this new equipment distribution program nationwide.
>>>> Who is eligible to receive equipment?
>>>> Under the CVAA, only low-income individuals who are deaf-blind are
>>>> eligible to receive equipment.
>>>> Applicants must provide verification of their status as low-income and
>>>> deaf-blind.
>>>> The CVAA requires that the term "deaf-blind" has the same meaning given in
>>>> the Helen Keller National
>>>> Center Act. In general, the individual must have a certain vision loss and
>>>> a hearing loss that,
>>>> combined, cause extreme difficulty in attaining independence in daily life
>>>> activities, achieving
>>>> psychosocial adjustment, or obtaining a vocation (working).
>>>> The FCC defines "low income" to mean not more than 400% of the Federal
>>>> Poverty Guidelines, as
>>>> indicated in the following chart:
>>>> 
>>>> table with 4 columns and 11 rows
>>>> 2013 Federal Poverty Guidelines
>>>> Number of persons in family/household
>>>> 400% for everywhere, except Alaska and Hawaii
>>>> 400% for Alaska
>>>> 400% for Hawaii
>>>> 1
>>>> $45,960
>>>> $57,400
>>>> $52,920
>>>> 2
>>>> 62,040
>>>> 77,520
>>>> 71,400
>>>> 3
>>>> 78,120
>>>> 97,640
>>>> 89,880
>>>> 4
>>>> 94,200
>>>> 117,760
>>>> 108,360
>>>> 5
>>>> 110,280
>>>> 137,880
>>>> 126,840
>>>> 6
>>>> 126,360
>>>> 158,000
>>>> 145,320
>>>> 7
>>>> 142,440
>>>> 178,120
>>>> 163,800
>>>> 8
>>>> 158,520
>>>> 198,240
>>>> 182,280
>>>> For each additional person, add
>>>> $16,080
>>>> $20,120
>>>> $18,480
>>>> table end
>>>> 
>>>> Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
>>>> (aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/13poverty.cfm)
>>>> What kind of equipment can be distributed?
>>>> The equipment distributed must be designed to make telecommunications
>>>> (such as wireline and
>>>> wireless telephone communication), advanced communications (such as
>>>> Internet-based voice
>>>> communication, e-mail, instant messaging and interoperable video
>>>> conferencing services), and access
>>>> to the Internet (including information services) accessible. The equipment
>>>> distributed may be
>>>> hardware, software or applications, separate or in combination, mainstream
>>>> or specialized. The
>>>> equipment must meet the needs of the deaf-blind individual to achieve
>>>> access. Certified programs may
>>>> also provide equipment warranties, maintenance, and repairs for such
>>>> equipment depending on
>>>> available funding.
>>>> Besides distributing equipment, what will the NDBEDP certified programs
>>>> do?
>>>> Certified programs will inform their communities about this new program to
>>>> distribute equipment to low-
>>>> income residents in their states who are deaf-blind. They will verify that
>>>> applicants are eligible to
>>>> receive equipment. They will assess each applicant's communications
>>>> equipment needs to select
>>>> appropriate equipment to meet those needs. They may also help install and
>>>> provide training for the
>>>> equipment distributed.
>>>> How do I find the certified program that serves my state?
>>>> Information about how to find the NDBEDP certified program in your state
>>>> is available during the on the
>>>> FCC website at
>>>> www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/national-deaf-blind-equipment-distribution-program
>>>> ,
>>>> by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC
>>>> (1-888-835-5322) TTY, or by
>>>> sending an email to
>>>> dro at fcc.gov.
>>>> How can I help the NDBEDP be successful?
>>>> list of 4 items
>>>> Tell people about the program.
>>>> Tell the FCC how the NDBEDP helped you or someone you know.
>>>> Tell the FCC how the program can be improved.
>>>> Tell the FCC about new types of technologies that should be included for
>>>> distribution.
>>>> list end
>>>> You may also file an informal complaint with the FCC if you think someone
>>>> has violated the NDBEDP
>>>> rules. Informal complaints may be filed by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC
>>>> (1-888-225-5322) voice or
>>>> 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) TTY; faxing 1-866-418-0232, or by writing
>>>> to:
>>>> Federal Communications Commission
>>>> Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
>>>> Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
>>>> 445 12th Street, S.W.
>>>> Washington, DC 20554
>>>> For More Information
>>>> For inf
>>>> ormation about other communications issues, visit the FCC?s Consumer
>>>> website at
>>>> www.fcc.gov/consumer-governmental-affairs-bureau,
>>>> or contact the FCC?s Consumer Center by
>>>> calling 1-888-CALL-FCC voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC TTY; faxing 1-866-418-0232;
>>>> or writing to the
>>>> address listed above.
>>>> ###
>>>> For this or any other consumer publication in an accessible format
>>>> (electronic ASCII text, Braille, large print
>>>> or audio), please write or call us at the address or phone number below,
>>>> or send an email to
>>>> FCC504 at fcc.gov.
>>>> This document is for consumer education purposes only and is not intended
>>>> to affect any proceedings or
>>>> cases involving this subject matter or related issues.
>>>> Last Reviewed 5/2/13
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
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>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nfb-db mailing list
>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
> 
> 
> 
>  ------------------------------
> 
>  Message: 2
>  Date: Mon, 28 Oct 2013 12:25:09 -0400
>  From: Scott Davert <scottdavert at gmail.com>
>  To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>  Subject: Re: [nfb-db] CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for
>      Deaf-Blind    Persons
>  Message-ID:
>      <CAOHXxEY2mnUu06jvFueXPKeMvFodJX281Nzo8cNBqZdLV3ZRqg at mail.gmail.com>
>  Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252
> 
>  Hi Marcha.
>  I will know next month whether my proposal has been accepted. I would
>  be presenting with Amy Mason.
> 
>  Scott
> 
>>  On 10/28/13, Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com> wrote:
>> Scott,
>> When will you hear if you are presenting at CSUn? and if you do present, who
>> will you present with from the NFB?
>> Very curious I know...
>> 
>> Marsha drenth
>> Sent with my IPhone
>> 
>>> On Oct 27, 2013, at 6:32 PM, Scott Davert <scottdavert at gmail.com> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Hi Randy.
>>> It would seem there is not a lot of outreach going on from what I can
>>> tell. I have not done outreach for NFB or ACB, but have gone to a few
>>> places to promote it. I, of course, took an interpreter along, because
>>> I have the signing vocabulary of a 6 month old. I know that HKNC plans
>>> to send someone to the national AFB conference in Feb, and I submitted
>>> a proposal to CSUN to discuss deaf-blindness and some of the
>>> technology used. If accepted, I will be presenting this with a member
>>> of the NFB. It will, of course, make mention of the ICC program.
>>> 
>>> All the best,
>>> Scott
>>> 
>>>> On 10/27/13, Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com> wrote:
>>>> Randy,
>>>> Ok, just so the point is clear, anyone from the NFB who is promoting the
>>>> ICC
>>>> program, is Deafblind. Of course there are other organizations promoting
>>>> the
>>>> ICC program. And yes some DB persons are not signing DB folks. Of course
>>>> this by no means that they aren't DB.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>> 
>>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 10:06 PM, "Randy Pope" <randy.pope at aadb.org> wrote:
>>>>> 
>>>>> Marsha,
>>>>> 
>>>>> Sorry for overlooking the last part of your message.  I have received a
>>>>> few report that the people who are actually doing the promotion and
>>>>> education are not DeafBlind.  But here is the problem in determining if
>>>>> these report are true.  These people could be Deafblind but cannot sign.
>>>>> In the recent DSA conference, the person sitting in the ICC booth, was
>>>>> assuming hearing blind who did not know  how to sign.
>>>>> 
>>>>> There were a few other situation similar to this situation.  See where
>>>>> I?m
>>>>> coming from?
>>>>> 
>>>>> Randy
>>>>> 
>>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Marsha
>>>>> Drenth
>>>>> Sent: Saturday, October 26, 2013 8:30 PM
>>>>> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List
>>>>> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>>>>> Persons
>>>>> 
>>>>> Mr. Pope,
>>>>> I am not a part of the NFB DB board, but the NFB DB division has
>>>>> implement
>>>>> an outreach program to educate state affiliates on Deafblindness,
>>>>> resources, and the Icanconnect program. I do believe that all of those
>>>>> persons who are reaching out to the different states are db themselves.
>>>>> Is
>>>>> this what you mean?
>>>>> 
>>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>>> 
>>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 8:21 PM, "Randy Pope" <randy.pope at aadb.org> wrote:
>>>>> 
>>>>> Question:  Are there any DeafBlind people assisting in the NDBEDP
>>>>> outreach
>>>>> program?
>>>>> 
>>>>> Randy
>>>>> 
>>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of David
>>>>> Andrews
>>>>> Sent: Friday, October 25, 2013 9:16 PM
>>>>> To: nfbwatlk at nfbnet.org
>>>>> Subject: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind Persons
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> I have been asked to distribute the following.
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Dear David,
>>>>> 
>>>>> I have been charged with the outreach program for :I Can Connect" in 5
>>>>> states, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA,
>>>>> OKLAHOMA, WASHINGTON and WISCONSIN
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Changing what it means to be blind,
>>>>> Marcus Simmons, President,
>>>>> Wayne County chapter NFBMI
>>>>> 28179 Brentwood
>>>>> Southfield, MI 48076-3069
>>>>> president at map-n.org
>>>>> (248) 552-8928
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> NDBEDP.pdf
>>>>> Consumer Guide
>>>>> 9
>>>>> National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program
>>>>> Background
>>>>> The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of
>>>>> 2010 (CVAA) authorizes the
>>>>> Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide funding for local
>>>>> programs to distribute
>>>>> equipment to low-income individuals who are ?deaf-blind? (see definition
>>>>> below.) The FCC may use up
>>>>> to $10 million annually from the interstate Telecommunications Relay
>>>>> Service fund for this purpose.
>>>>> Pilot Program
>>>>> In 2011, the FCC established the National Deaf-Blind Equipment
>>>>> Distribution Program (NDBEDP) as a
>>>>> pilot program. The pilot program has been in effect since July 1, 2012,
>>>>> and the FCC may extend the
>>>>> program another year. The pilot program provides valuable information
>>>>> that
>>>>> the FCC will use to help
>>>>> develop and implement an effective and efficient permanent deaf-blind
>>>>> equipment distribution program.
>>>>> How does the pilot program operate?
>>>>> The FCC selected and certified one entity in each of the 50 states, plus
>>>>> the District of Columbia, Puerto
>>>>> Rico, and the Virgin Islands, to receive FCC support to distribute
>>>>> equipment to low-income individuals
>>>>> who are deaf-blind. The FCC allocated a minimum of $50,000 to each of
>>>>> the
>>>>> 53 certified programs,
>>>>> plus additional funding based on the size of each state's population. As
>>>>> a
>>>>> result, states with large
>>>>> populations were allocated larger amounts of funding than states with
>>>>> small populations.
>>>>> The FCC also set aside $500,000 each year for the Perkins School for the
>>>>> Blind to coordinate outreach
>>>>> to promote this new equipment distribution program nationwide.
>>>>> Who is eligible to receive equipment?
>>>>> Under the CVAA, only low-income individuals who are deaf-blind are
>>>>> eligible to receive equipment.
>>>>> Applicants must provide verification of their status as low-income and
>>>>> deaf-blind.
>>>>> The CVAA requires that the term "deaf-blind" has the same meaning given
>>>>> in
>>>>> the Helen Keller National
>>>>> Center Act. In general, the individual must have a certain vision loss
>>>>> and
>>>>> a hearing loss that,
>>>>> combined, cause extreme difficulty in attaining independence in daily
>>>>> life
>>>>> activities, achieving
>>>>> psychosocial adjustment, or obtaining a vocation (working).
>>>>> The FCC defines "low income" to mean not more than 400% of the Federal
>>>>> Poverty Guidelines, as
>>>>> indicated in the following chart:
>>>>> 
>>>>> table with 4 columns and 11 rows
>>>>> 2013 Federal Poverty Guidelines
>>>>> Number of persons in family/household
>>>>> 400% for everywhere, except Alaska and Hawaii
>>>>> 400% for Alaska
>>>>> 400% for Hawaii
>>>>> 1
>>>>> $45,960
>>>>> $57,400
>>>>> $52,920
>>>>> 2
>>>>> 62,040
>>>>> 77,520
>>>>> 71,400
>>>>> 3
>>>>> 78,120
>>>>> 97,640
>>>>> 89,880
>>>>> 4
>>>>> 94,200
>>>>> 117,760
>>>>> 108,360
>>>>> 5
>>>>> 110,280
>>>>> 137,880
>>>>> 126,840
>>>>> 6
>>>>> 126,360
>>>>> 158,000
>>>>> 145,320
>>>>> 7
>>>>> 142,440
>>>>> 178,120
>>>>> 163,800
>>>>> 8
>>>>> 158,520
>>>>> 198,240
>>>>> 182,280
>>>>> For each additional person, add
>>>>> $16,080
>>>>> $20,120
>>>>> $18,480
>>>>> table end
>>>>> 
>>>>> Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
>>>>> (aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/13poverty.cfm)
>>>>> What kind of equipment can be distributed?
>>>>> The equipment distributed must be designed to make telecommunications
>>>>> (such as wireline and
>>>>> wireless telephone communication), advanced communications (such as
>>>>> Internet-based voice
>>>>> communication, e-mail, instant messaging and interoperable video
>>>>> conferencing services), and access
>>>>> to the Internet (including information services) accessible. The
>>>>> equipment
>>>>> distributed may be
>>>>> hardware, software or applications, separate or in combination,
>>>>> mainstream
>>>>> or specialized. The
>>>>> equipment must meet the needs of the deaf-blind individual to achieve
>>>>> access. Certified programs may
>>>>> also provide equipment warranties, maintenance, and repairs for such
>>>>> equipment depending on
>>>>> available funding.
>>>>> Besides distributing equipment, what will the NDBEDP certified programs
>>>>> do?
>>>>> Certified programs will inform their communities about this new program
>>>>> to
>>>>> distribute equipment to low-
>>>>> income residents in their states who are deaf-blind. They will verify
>>>>> that
>>>>> applicants are eligible to
>>>>> receive equipment. They will assess each applicant's communications
>>>>> equipment needs to select
>>>>> appropriate equipment to meet those needs. They may also help install
>>>>> and
>>>>> provide training for the
>>>>> equipment distributed.
>>>>> How do I find the certified program that serves my state?
>>>>> Information about how to find the NDBEDP certified program in your state
>>>>> is available during the on the
>>>>> FCC website at
>>>>> www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/national-deaf-blind-equipment-distribution-program
>>>>> ,
>>>>> by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC
>>>>> (1-888-835-5322) TTY, or by
>>>>> sending an email to
>>>>> dro at fcc.gov.
>>>>> How can I help the NDBEDP be successful?
>>>>> list of 4 items
>>>>> Tell people about the program.
>>>>> Tell the FCC how the NDBEDP helped you or someone you know.
>>>>> Tell the FCC how the program can be improved.
>>>>> Tell the FCC about new types of technologies that should be included for
>>>>> distribution.
>>>>> list end
>>>>> You may also file an informal complaint with the FCC if you think
>>>>> someone
>>>>> has violated the NDBEDP
>>>>> rules. Informal complaints may be filed by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC
>>>>> (1-888-225-5322) voice or
>>>>> 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) TTY; faxing 1-866-418-0232, or by
>>>>> writing
>>>>> to:
>>>>> Federal Communications Commission
>>>>> Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
>>>>> Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
>>>>> 445 12th Street, S.W.
>>>>> Washington, DC 20554
>>>>> For More Information
>>>>> For inf
>>>>> ormation about other communications issues, visit the FCC?s Consumer
>>>>> website at
>>>>> www.fcc.gov/consumer-governmental-affairs-bureau,
>>>>> or contact the FCC?s Consumer Center by
>>>>> calling 1-888-CALL-FCC voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC TTY; faxing
>>>>> 1-866-418-0232;
>>>>> or writing to the
>>>>> address listed above.
>>>>> ###
>>>>> For this or any other consumer publication in an accessible format
>>>>> (electronic ASCII text, Braille, large print
>>>>> or audio), please write or call us at the address or phone number below,
>>>>> or send an email to
>>>>> FCC504 at fcc.gov.
>>>>> This document is for consumer education purposes only and is not
>>>>> intended
>>>>> to affect any proceedings or
>>>>> cases involving this subject matter or related issues.
>>>>> Last Reviewed 5/2/13
>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nfb-db mailing list
>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
> 
> 
> 
>  ------------------------------
> 
>  Subject: Digest Footer
> 
>  _______________________________________________
>  nfb-db mailing list
>  nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>  http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
> 
> 
>  ------------------------------
> 
>  End of nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12
>  **************************************
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> 
>  _______________________________________________
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> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 5
> Date: Tue, 29 Oct 2013 22:03:59 -0400
> From: "DELCINA M BROWN" <delcenia at prodigy.net>
> To: "NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List" <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Adjusting, and a few questions
> Message-ID: <8D1DB3B4B8074C4EBD75BF235C6B0E72 at johne38069127c>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
> 
> I agree. Take one day at a time, keep God in the center of your life, learn new things, keep busy and reach out to others is the key. And know that you are not alone. Just adding my 2 cents.
> Delcenia
> 
>  ----- Original Message ----- 
>  From: Marsha Drenth 
>  To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List 
>  Sent: Tuesday, October 29, 2013 4:40 PM
>  Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Adjusting, and a few questions
> 
> 
>  April,
>  I don't have an answer for the doctor forms part of your post. I do want to responde to your post about your denial of your hearing and vision loss. 
>  The loss of any sense can be hard, some of us deal with it in different ways. When a person deals with the loss of two senses, it is doubly hard. Its a griving process, and denial is one of those stages. 
>  In my experience, taking action, getting involved, meeting others, learning, helps the process along. The reason I say this is, again in my experience, over the last two years I have lost 80percent of my hearing. I was blind all of my life. I swing back and forth from being absolutely frustrated to sad to acceptance. Getting involved, learning new skills, talking to others, asking questions, taking action, all give your mind, body and soul something else to work on. And even if that means one or two days you have to force the issue, of just getting out of bed, or getting out of the house, or making a call, or learning a new skill. Of course a counselor who is trained in mental health and the adjustment of disability, can also help. 
>  Your not the only onw in denial, in lossing your vision or your hearing. I know many other deafblind persons who struggle with this on a daily basis, some shut themselves into a house, others do something about, and then a majority of us, are some where in the middle. 
>  I wish I had some great words of wisdom, its a one day at time thing. 
>  I am sure if you keeping on posting about this, you will find that your not alone. Which can help that denial too. 
> 
> 
>  Here is my disclaimer, I am not a counselor, but a social worker. So my advice above is not official. 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>  Marsha drenth  
>  Sent with my IPhone 
> 
>  On Oct 29, 2013, at 3:23 PM, April Brown <aprilbrownwrite at gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> 
>    Hello,
> 
>        Until a year ago, I mostly ignored my low hearing.  I've worn a hearing aid for years.  A year ago, my vision suddenly failed drastically.  Obviously, it was never good to begin with either, and I never did learn to read lips. I still don't have an official diagnosis or prognosis.
> 
>         Both of these issues have caused me issues in the past.  Even as my vision fails, and my eye hurts constantly, I still comprehend better by seeing and reading.  I intend to learn Braille in January.  (Novemeber is a busy month for writers, and December is busy with in laws).
> 
>          Many, many years ago, in college, I attempted to take a sign language course.  I didn't learn a thing.  All I ever saw was motion, and nothing that made sense.  At the time, I blamed it on the stress of my life.  Now, I'm not so sure it was just stress.  Still, I wish I had learned!
> 
>    In the meantime, and in the future, how do I convince doctors, and other professionals, that an email is better than trying to comprehend a phone conversation?
> 
>    To go along with another thread or two, a few times I asked for help on a blind list I had the "I can call you and talk you though it" response.  Which is great, except, I don't really comprehend well on the phone, even from people I know.  Especially if there is any background sound.  I do appreciate the sentiment.  
> 
>    I'm still very new in this situation, and yes, I'm partially still in denial, I'm sure.
> 
>    Thanks,
> 
>    April Brown
> 
> 
> 
>    _______________________________________________
>    nfb-db mailing list
>    nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>    http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
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> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 6
> Date: Tue, 29 Oct 2013 20:09:23 -0600
> From: Sheila Leigland <sleigland at bresnan.net>
> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12
> Message-ID: <52706A53.2070101 at bresnan.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed
> 
> hi my name is Seila and I'm from Montana. If you have questions about 
> the I can connect program, and you can't get any response from your 
> state people try calling the manager of the program Marcia brooks.
>> On 10/29/2013 7:57 PM, DELCINA M BROWN wrote:
>> 
>> First, let me introduce my self. My name is Delcenia Brown and I am a 
>> member of the National Federation of the blind of Cleveland, Ohio. I 
>> am new to this mailing list. Therefore alot of you I do not know and 
>> alot of abbreviation I do not know. It will be nice if sometimes some 
>> of you would spell out what you are talking about and it would be nice 
>> to know what state you are in.
>> 
>> ?
>> 
>> Tracy, I understand and appreciate what you are saying, your identity 
>> does not change because of your situation or how you handle certain 
>> settings. Taking advantage of what you have left is understandable. I 
>> am greatful for what little hearing and vision I have left. I also 
>> take advantage of that by reading with a CCTV when I can and using a 
>> fm system or pocket talker at the appropriate time.
>> 
>> ?
>> 
>> At the same time I wish someone had taken the time to teach me 
>> braille, sign language when I was younger. Now as I grow older and 
>> have other obstacles it is a struggle to learn braille. I still have 
>> no one to teach me sign language. So, yes, reminding Randy, that there 
>> are some deafblind that are hard of hearing and do not sign was a 
>> gentle response.
>> 
>> ?
>> 
>> Just recently, I have posted a notice asking if anyone in my state 
>> share my interests and got no response. However my state president 
>> does share my interest and I believe at the state convention which is 
>> to be held November 1 thru 3, 2013, the agenda does include 
>> information about the I can connect program.
>> 
>> ?
>> 
>> Now, the downside of things. I have completed my application and it 
>> was approved. I have had my assessment and I believe all of the 
>> equipment has been ordered based on messages that I have received. 
>> However, I still have not actually recieve anything as of today. This 
>> process started back in March or April. I am grateful for the 
>> possibility of obtaining the equipment, it is frustrating that it has 
>> taken so long and no one is returning my call.
>> 
>> I gladly get on board!
>> 
>> Delcenia
>> 
>>    ----- Original Message -----
>>    *From:* Tracie Inman <mailto:tracieinman at yahoo.com>
>>    *To:* nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>    *Sent:* Tuesday, October 29, 2013 9:06 AM
>>    *Subject:* Re: [nfb-db] nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12
>> 
>> 
>>    Hi Randy: I hope you're doing well and AADB is growing stronger
>>    under your leadership. I wish you all the best always. Just a
>>    gentle reminder my friend that many many Deaf - Blind are hard of
>>    hearing (non sign speaking) blind folks. Randy, indeed since
>>    getting the two C.I.'s I'm guilty of using voice, Assisted
>>    listening devices and voice interpreters as opposed to using my
>>    signing, using interpreters, etc. I have switched to English. My
>>    excuses has been that my vision is going "bye bye" and depending
>>    on tactile scares me. In time, that may be my only option but for
>>    now I'm surrounded by hearing family and friends so I've gotten
>>    into a "comfort zone" with the success of my C.I.'s. What I'm
>>    trying to say here is, remember that, just because you might not
>>    observe the folks signing doesn't mean they're not Deaf-blind.
>>    All the folks in the NFB Deaf-Blind division who are promoting ICC
>>    are Deaf-Blind. In fact, every one assigned to Operation Outreach
>>    (our outreach project to raise awareness of the ICC and the
>>    Deaf-Blind community requesting ALL 50 affiliates and the D.C.
>>    affiliate to form committees for the Deaf-Blind in their
>>    individual committee) - including our mutual friend Marsha drenth
>>    are Deaf-Blind.
>>    Speaking of, hey Scott if you want to help please contact me or
>>    Joe Naulty. We could always use more helping hands. We got two
>>    projects going on at the moment and probably will start a third.
>>    You know about Operation Outreach. We've also started a committee
>>    on SSP issues. If you want to help us, we can always use another
>>    helping hand. I do believe the Deaf-Blind division is working
>>    harder than it ever has before. I dare to say that we've
>>    accomplished more in the last few months than we have in many
>>    years. The latest announcement we heard was that Scott Labarre
>>    (affiliate President of Colorado and a National NFB Board Member)
>>    has agreed to set up a Deaf-Blind Issues committee in the Colorado
>>    affiliate. We also heard that the President of the Alaska
>>    affiliate is Deaf-Blind. So climb abaord the NFB DB Express and
>>    lets get chugging along on this exciting adventure raising
>>    awareness of Deaf-Blind issues, ICC, and the need for SSP's. All
>>    are welcome aboard.
>> 
>>    Best Wishes,
>>    Tracie Inman
>>    NFB Deaf-Blind Division
>>    First Vice President
>>    tracieinman at yahoo.com
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>    On Tuesday, October 29, 2013 8:08 AM, "nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org"
>>    <nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>    Send nfb-db mailing list submissions to
>>    nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>> 
>>    To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit
>>    http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>    or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to
>>    nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org>
>> 
>>    You can reach the person managing the list at
>>    nfb-db-owner at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db-owner at nfbnet.org>
>> 
>>    When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific
>>    than "Re: Contents of nfb-db digest..."
>> 
>> 
>>    Today's Topics:
>> 
>>    1. CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind Persons
>>    (Marsha Drenth)
>>    2. Re: CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>>    Persons (Scott Davert)
>> 
>> 
>>    ----------------------------------------------------------------------
>> 
>>    Message: 1
>>    Date: Mon, 28 Oct 2013 10:49:53 -0400
>>    From: Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com
>>    <mailto:marsha.drenth at gmail.com>>
>>    To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>    <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>>
>>    Subject: [nfb-db] CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>>    Persons
>>    Message-ID: <D61AC1DF-7E22-4F4C-969D-18FC3E09FE61 at gmail.com
>>    <mailto:D61AC1DF-7E22-4F4C-969D-18FC3E09FE61 at gmail.com>>
>>    Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
>> 
>>    Scott,
>>    When will you hear if you are presenting at CSUn? and if you do
>>    present, who will you present with from the NFB?
>>    Very curious I know...
>> 
>>    Marsha drenth
>>    Sent with my IPhone
>> 
>>    On Oct 27, 2013, at 6:32 PM, Scott Davert <scottdavert at gmail.com
>>    <mailto:scottdavert at gmail.com>> wrote:
>> 
>>> Hi Randy.
>>> It would seem there is not a lot of outreach going on from what
>>    I can
>>> tell. I have not done outreach for NFB or ACB, but have gone to
>>    a few
>>> places to promote it. I, of course, took an interpreter along,
>>    because
>>> I have the signing vocabulary of a 6 month old. I know that HKNC
>>    plans
>>> to send someone to the national AFB conference in Feb, and I
>>    submitted
>>> a proposal to CSUN to discuss deaf-blindness and some of the
>>> technology used. If accepted, I will be presenting this with a
>>    member
>>> of the NFB. It will, of course, make mention of the ICC program.
>>> 
>>> All the best,
>>> Scott
>>> 
>>> On 10/27/13, Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com
>>    <mailto:marsha.drenth at gmail.com>> wrote:
>>>> Randy,
>>>> Ok, just so the point is clear, anyone from the NFB who is
>>    promoting the ICC
>>>> program, is Deafblind. Of course there are other organizations
>>    promoting the
>>>> ICC program. And yes some DB persons are not signing DB folks.
>>    Of course
>>>> this by no means that they aren't DB.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>> 
>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 10:06 PM, "Randy Pope" <randy.pope at aadb.org
>>    <mailto:randy.pope at aadb.org>> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>>> Marsha,
>>>>> 
>>>>> Sorry for overlooking the last part of your message. I have
>>    received a
>>>>> few report that the people who are actually doing the
>>    promotion and
>>>>> education are not DeafBlind. But here is the problem in
>>    determining if
>>>>> these report are true. These people could be Deafblind but
>>    cannot sign.
>>>>> In the recent DSA conference, the person sitting in the ICC
>>    booth, was
>>>>> assuming hearing blind who did not know how to sign.
>>>>> 
>>>>> There were a few other situation similar to this situation.
>>    See where I?m
>>>>> coming from?
>>>>> 
>>>>> Randy
>>>>> 
>>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org
>>    <mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org>] On Behalf Of Marsha
>>>>> Drenth
>>>>> Sent: Saturday, October 26, 2013 8:30 PM
>>>>> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List
>>>>> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for
>>    Deaf-Blind Persons
>>>>> 
>>>>> Mr. Pope,
>>>>> I am not a part of the NFB DB board, but the NFB DB division
>>    has implement
>>>>> an outreach program to educate state affiliates on Deafblindness,
>>>>> resources, and the Icanconnect program. I do believe that all
>>    of those
>>>>> persons who are reaching out to the different states are db
>>    themselves. Is
>>>>> this what you mean?
>>>>> 
>>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>>> 
>>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 8:21 PM, "Randy Pope" <randy.pope at aadb.org
>>    <mailto:randy.pope at aadb.org>> wrote:
>>>>> 
>>>>> Question: Are there any DeafBlind people assisting in the
>>    NDBEDP outreach
>>>>> program?
>>>>> 
>>>>> Randy
>>>>> 
>>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org
>>    <mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org>] On Behalf Of David
>>>>> Andrews
>>>>> Sent: Friday, October 25, 2013 9:16 PM
>>>>> To: nfbwatlk at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfbwatlk at nfbnet.org>
>>>>> Subject: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>>    Persons
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> I have been asked to distribute the following.
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Dear David,
>>>>> 
>>>>> I have been charged with the outreach program for :I Can
>>    Connect" in 5
>>>>> states, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA,
>>>>> OKLAHOMA, WASHINGTON and WISCONSIN
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Changing what it means to be blind,
>>>>> Marcus Simmons, President,
>>>>> Wayne County chapter NFBMI
>>>>> 28179 Brentwood
>>>>> Southfield, MI 48076-3069
>>>>> president at map-n.org <mailto:president at map-n.org>
>>>>> (248) 552-8928
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> NDBEDP.pdf
>>>>> Consumer Guide
>>>>> 9
>>>>> National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program
>>>>> Background
>>>>> The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video
>>    Accessibility Act of
>>>>> 2010 (CVAA) authorizes the
>>>>> Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide funding for
>>    local
>>>>> programs to distribute
>>>>> equipment to low-income individuals who are ?deaf-blind? (see
>>    definition
>>>>> below.) The FCC may use up
>>>>> to $10 million annually from the interstate Telecommunications
>>    Relay
>>>>> Service fund for this purpose.
>>>>> Pilot Program
>>>>> In 2011, the FCC established the National Deaf-Blind Equipment
>>>>> Distribution Program (NDBEDP) as a
>>>>> pilot program. The pilot program has been in effect since July
>>    1, 2012,
>>>>> and the FCC may extend the
>>>>> program another year. The pilot program provides valuable
>>    information that
>>>>> the FCC will use to help
>>>>> develop and implement an effective and efficient permanent
>>    deaf-blind
>>>>> equipment distribution program.
>>>>> How does the pilot program operate?
>>>>> The FCC selected and certified one entity in each of the 50
>>    states, plus
>>>>> the District of Columbia, Puerto
>>>>> Rico, and the Virgin Islands, to receive FCC support to distribute
>>>>> equipment to low-income individuals
>>>>> who are deaf-blind. The FCC allocated a minimum of $50,000 to
>>    each of the
>>>>> 53 certified programs,
>>>>> plus additional funding based on the size of each state's
>>    population. As a
>>>>> result, states with large
>>>>> populations were allocated larger amounts of funding than
>>    states with
>>>>> small populations.
>>>>> The FCC also set aside $500,000 each year for the Perkins
>>    School for the
>>>>> Blind to coordinate outreach
>>>>> to promote this new equipment distribution program nationwide.
>>>>> Who is eligible to receive equipment?
>>>>> Under the CVAA, only low-income individuals who are deaf-blind are
>>>>> eligible to receive equipment.
>>>>> Applicants must provide verification of their status as
>>    low-income and
>>>>> deaf-blind.
>>>>> The CVAA requires that the term "deaf-blind" has the same
>>    meaning given in
>>>>> the Helen Keller National
>>>>> Center Act. In general, the individual must have a certain
>>    vision loss and
>>>>> a hearing loss that,
>>>>> combined, cause extreme difficulty in attaining independence
>>    in daily life
>>>>> activities, achieving
>>>>> psychosocial adjustment, or obtaining a vocation (working).
>>>>> The FCC defines "low income" to mean not more than 400% of the
>>    Federal
>>>>> Poverty Guidelines, as
>>>>> indicated in the following chart:
>>>>> 
>>>>> table with 4 columns and 11 rows
>>>>> 2013 Federal Poverty Guidelines
>>>>> Number of persons in family/household
>>>>> 400% for everywhere, except Alaska and Hawaii
>>>>> 400% for Alaska
>>>>> 400% for Hawaii
>>>>> 1
>>>>> $45,960
>>>>> $57,400
>>>>> $52,920
>>>>> 2
>>>>> 62,040
>>>>> 77,520
>>>>> 71,400
>>>>> 3
>>>>> 78,120
>>>>> 97,640
>>>>> 89,880
>>>>> 4
>>>>> 94,200
>>>>> 117,760
>>>>> 108,360
>>>>> 5
>>>>> 110,280
>>>>> 137,880
>>>>> 126,840
>>>>> 6
>>>>> 126,360
>>>>> 158,000
>>>>> 145,320
>>>>> 7
>>>>> 142,440
>>>>> 178,120
>>>>> 163,800
>>>>> 8
>>>>> 158,520
>>>>> 198,240
>>>>> 182,280
>>>>> For each additional person, add
>>>>> $16,080
>>>>> $20,120
>>>>> $18,480
>>>>> table end
>>>>> 
>>>>> Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
>>>>> (aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/13poverty.cfm)
>>>>> What kind of equipment can be distributed?
>>>>> The equipment distributed must be designed to make
>>    telecommunications
>>>>> (such as wireline and
>>>>> wireless telephone communication), advanced communications
>>    (such as
>>>>> Internet-based voice
>>>>> communication, e-mail, instant messaging and interoperable video
>>>>> conferencing services), and access
>>>>> to the Internet (including information services) accessible.
>>    The equipment
>>>>> distributed may be
>>>>> hardware, software or applications, separate or in
>>    combination, mainstream
>>>>> or specialized. The
>>>>> equipment must meet the needs of the deaf-blind individual to
>>    achieve
>>>>> access. Certified programs may
>>>>> also provide equipment warranties, maintenance, and repairs
>>    for such
>>>>> equipment depending on
>>>>> available funding.
>>>>> Besides distributing equipment, what will the NDBEDP certified
>>    programs
>>>>> do?
>>>>> Certified programs will inform their communities about this
>>    new program to
>>>>> distribute equipment to low-
>>>>> income residents in their states who are deaf-blind. They will
>>    verify that
>>>>> applicants are eligible to
>>>>> receive equipment. They will assess each applicant's
>>    communications
>>>>> equipment needs to select
>>>>> appropriate equipment to meet those needs. They may also help
>>    install and
>>>>> provide training for the
>>>>> equipment distributed.
>>>>> How do I find the certified program that serves my state?
>>>>> Information about how to find the NDBEDP certified program in
>>    your state
>>>>> is available during the on the
>>>>> FCC website at
>>    www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/national-deaf-blind-equipment-distribution-program
>>>>> ,
>>>>> by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC
>>>>> (1-888-835-5322) TTY, or by
>>>>> sending an email to
>>>>> dro at fcc.gov. <mailto:dro at fcc.gov.>
>>>>> How can I help the NDBEDP be successful?
>>>>> list of 4 items
>>>>> Tell people about the program.
>>>>> Tell the FCC how the NDBEDP helped you or someone you know.
>>>>> Tell the FCC how the program can be improved.
>>>>> Tell the FCC about new types of technologies that should be
>>    included for
>>>>> distribution.
>>>>> list end
>>>>> You may also file an informal complaint with the FCC if you
>>    think someone
>>>>> has violated the NDBEDP
>>>>> rules. Informal complaints may be filed by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC
>>>>> (1-888-225-5322) voice or
>>>>> 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) TTY; faxing 1-866-418-0232, or
>>    by writing
>>>>> to:
>>>>> Federal Communications Commission
>>>>> Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
>>>>> Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
>>>>> 445 12th Street, S.W.
>>>>> Washington, DC 20554
>>>>> For More Information
>>>>> For inf
>>>>> ormation about other communications issues, visit the FCC?s
>>    Consumer
>>>>> website at
>>>>> www.fcc.gov/consumer-governmental-affairs-bureau,
>>>>> or contact the FCC?s Consumer Center by
>>>>> calling 1-888-CALL-FCC voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC TTY; faxing
>>    1-866-418-0232;
>>>>> or writing to the
>>>>> address listed above.
>>>>> ###
>>>>> For this or any other consumer publication in an accessible format
>>>>> (electronic ASCII text, Braille, large print
>>>>> or audio), please write or call us at the address or phone
>>    number below,
>>>>> or send an email to
>>>>> FCC504 at fcc.gov. <mailto:FCC504 at fcc.gov.>
>>>>> This document is for consumer education purposes only and is
>>    not intended
>>>>> to affect any proceedings or
>>>>> cases involving this subject matter or related issues.
>>>>> Last Reviewed 5/2/13
>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>    ------------------------------
>> 
>>    Message: 2
>>    Date: Mon, 28 Oct 2013 12:25:09 -0400
>>    From: Scott Davert <scottdavert at gmail.com
>>    <mailto:scottdavert at gmail.com>>
>>    To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>    <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>>
>>    Subject: Re: [nfb-db] CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for
>>    Deaf-Blind Persons
>>    Message-ID:
>>    <CAOHXxEY2mnUu06jvFueXPKeMvFodJX281Nzo8cNBqZdLV3ZRqg at mail.gmail.com <mailto:CAOHXxEY2mnUu06jvFueXPKeMvFodJX281Nzo8cNBqZdLV3ZRqg at mail.gmail.com>>
>>    Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252
>> 
>>    Hi Marcha.
>>    I will know next month whether my proposal has been accepted. I would
>>    be presenting with Amy Mason.
>> 
>>    Scott
>> 
>>    On 10/28/13, Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com
>>    <mailto:marsha.drenth at gmail.com>> wrote:
>>> Scott,
>>> When will you hear if you are presenting at CSUn? and if you do
>>    present, who
>>> will you present with from the NFB?
>>> Very curious I know...
>>> 
>>> Marsha drenth
>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>> 
>>>> On Oct 27, 2013, at 6:32 PM, Scott Davert <scottdavert at gmail.com
>>>    <mailto:scottdavert at gmail.com>> wrote:
>>> 
>>>> Hi Randy.
>>>> It would seem there is not a lot of outreach going on from what
>>    I can
>>>> tell. I have not done outreach for NFB or ACB, but have gone to
>>    a few
>>>> places to promote it. I, of course, took an interpreter along,
>>    because
>>>> I have the signing vocabulary of a 6 month old. I know that
>>    HKNC plans
>>>> to send someone to the national AFB conference in Feb, and I
>>    submitted
>>>> a proposal to CSUN to discuss deaf-blindness and some of the
>>>> technology used. If accepted, I will be presenting this with a
>>    member
>>>> of the NFB. It will, of course, make mention of the ICC program.
>>>> 
>>>> All the best,
>>>> Scott
>>>> 
>>>> On 10/27/13, Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com
>>    <mailto:marsha.drenth at gmail.com>> wrote:
>>>>> Randy,
>>>>> Ok, just so the point is clear, anyone from the NFB who is
>>    promoting the
>>>>> ICC
>>>>> program, is Deafblind. Of course there are other organizations
>>    promoting
>>>>> the
>>>>> ICC program. And yes some DB persons are not signing DB folks.
>>    Of course
>>>>> this by no means that they aren't DB.
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>>> 
>>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 10:06 PM, "Randy Pope"
>>    <randy.pope at aadb.org <mailto:randy.pope at aadb.org>> wrote:
>>>>> 
>>>>>> Marsha,
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Sorry for overlooking the last part of your message. I have
>>    received a
>>>>>> few report that the people who are actually doing the
>>    promotion and
>>>>>> education are not DeafBlind. But here is the problem in
>>    determining if
>>>>>> these report are true. These people could be Deafblind but
>>    cannot sign.
>>>>>> In the recent DSA conference, the person sitting in the ICC
>>    booth, was
>>>>>> assuming hearing blind who did not know how to sign.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> There were a few other situation similar to this situation.
>>    See where
>>>>>> I?m
>>>>>> coming from?
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Randy
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org
>>    <mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org>] On Behalf Of Marsha
>>>>>> Drenth
>>>>>> Sent: Saturday, October 26, 2013 8:30 PM
>>>>>> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List
>>>>>> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>>>>>> Persons
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Mr. Pope,
>>>>>> I am not a part of the NFB DB board, but the NFB DB division has
>>>>>> implement
>>>>>> an outreach program to educate state affiliates on Deafblindness,
>>>>>> resources, and the Icanconnect program. I do believe that all
>>    of those
>>>>>> persons who are reaching out to the different states are db
>>    themselves.
>>>>>> Is
>>>>>> this what you mean?
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 8:21 PM, "Randy Pope"
>>    <randy.pope at aadb.org <mailto:randy.pope at aadb.org>> wrote:
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Question: Are there any DeafBlind people assisting in the NDBEDP
>>>>>> outreach
>>>>>> program?
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Randy
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org
>>    <mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org>] On Behalf Of David
>>>>>> Andrews
>>>>>> Sent: Friday, October 25, 2013 9:16 PM
>>>>>> To: nfbwatlk at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfbwatlk at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>> Subject: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>>    Persons
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> I have been asked to distribute the following.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Dear David,
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> I have been charged with the outreach program for :I Can
>>    Connect" in 5
>>>>>> states, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA,
>>>>>> OKLAHOMA, WASHINGTON and WISCONSIN
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Changing what it means to be blind,
>>>>>> Marcus Simmons, President,
>>>>>> Wayne County chapter NFBMI
>>>>>> 28179 Brentwood
>>>>>> Southfield, MI 48076-3069
>>>>>> president at map-n.org <mailto:president at map-n.org>
>>>>>> (248) 552-8928
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> NDBEDP.pdf
>>>>>> Consumer Guide
>>>>>> 9
>>>>>> National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program
>>>>>> Background
>>>>>> The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video
>>    Accessibility Act of
>>>>>> 2010 (CVAA) authorizes the
>>>>>> Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide funding
>>    for local
>>>>>> programs to distribute
>>>>>> equipment to low-income individuals who are ?deaf-blind? (see
>>    definition
>>>>>> below.) The FCC may use up
>>>>>> to $10 million annually from the interstate
>>    Telecommunications Relay
>>>>>> Service fund for this purpose.
>>>>>> Pilot Program
>>>>>> In 2011, the FCC established the National Deaf-Blind Equipment
>>>>>> Distribution Program (NDBEDP) as a
>>>>>> pilot program. The pilot program has been in effect since
>>    July 1, 2012,
>>>>>> and the FCC may extend the
>>>>>> program another year. The pilot program provides valuable
>>    information
>>>>>> that
>>>>>> the FCC will use to help
>>>>>> develop and implement an effective and efficient permanent
>>    deaf-blind
>>>>>> equipment distribution program.
>>>>>> How does the pilot program operate?
>>>>>> The FCC selected and certified one entity in each of the 50
>>    states, plus
>>>>>> the District of Columbia, Puerto
>>>>>> Rico, and the Virgin Islands, to receive FCC support to
>>    distribute
>>>>>> equipment to low-income individuals
>>>>>> who are deaf-blind. The FCC allocated a minimum of $50,000 to
>>    each of
>>>>>> the
>>>>>> 53 certified programs,
>>>>>> plus additional funding based on the size of each state's
>>    population. As
>>>>>> a
>>>>>> result, states with large
>>>>>> populations were allocated larger amounts of funding than
>>    states with
>>>>>> small populations.
>>>>>> The FCC also set aside $500,000 each year for the Perkins
>>    School for the
>>>>>> Blind to coordinate outreach
>>>>>> to promote this new equipment distribution program nationwide.
>>>>>> Who is eligible to receive equipment?
>>>>>> Under the CVAA, only low-income individuals who are
>>    deaf-blind are
>>>>>> eligible to receive equipment.
>>>>>> Applicants must provide verification of their status as
>>    low-income and
>>>>>> deaf-blind.
>>>>>> The CVAA requires that the term "deaf-blind" has the same
>>    meaning given
>>>>>> in
>>>>>> the Helen Keller National
>>>>>> Center Act. In general, the individual must have a certain
>>    vision loss
>>>>>> and
>>>>>> a hearing loss that,
>>>>>> combined, cause extreme difficulty in attaining independence
>>    in daily
>>>>>> life
>>>>>> activities, achieving
>>>>>> psychosocial adjustment, or obtaining a vocation (working).
>>>>>> The FCC defines "low income" to mean not more than 400% of
>>    the Federal
>>>>>> Poverty Guidelines, as
>>>>>> indicated in the following chart:
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> table with 4 columns and 11 rows
>>>>>> 2013 Federal Poverty Guidelines
>>>>>> Number of persons in family/household
>>>>>> 400% for everywhere, except Alaska and Hawaii
>>>>>> 400% for Alaska
>>>>>> 400% for Hawaii
>>>>>> 1
>>>>>> $45,960
>>>>>> $57,400
>>>>>> $52,920
>>>>>> 2
>>>>>> 62,040
>>>>>> 77,520
>>>>>> 71,400
>>>>>> 3
>>>>>> 78,120
>>>>>> 97,640
>>>>>> 89,880
>>>>>> 4
>>>>>> 94,200
>>>>>> 117,760
>>>>>> 108,360
>>>>>> 5
>>>>>> 110,280
>>>>>> 137,880
>>>>>> 126,840
>>>>>> 6
>>>>>> 126,360
>>>>>> 158,000
>>>>>> 145,320
>>>>>> 7
>>>>>> 142,440
>>>>>> 178,120
>>>>>> 163,800
>>>>>> 8
>>>>>> 158,520
>>>>>> 198,240
>>>>>> 182,280
>>>>>> For each additional person, add
>>>>>> $16,080
>>>>>> $20,120
>>>>>> $18,480
>>>>>> table end
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
>>>>>> (aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/13poverty.cfm)
>>>>>> What kind of equipment can be distributed?
>>>>>> The equipment distributed must be designed to make
>>    telecommunications
>>>>>> (such as wireline and
>>>>>> wireless telephone communication), advanced communications
>>    (such as
>>>>>> Internet-based voice
>>>>>> communication, e-mail, instant messaging and interoperable video
>>>>>> conferencing services), and access
>>>>>> to the Internet (including information services) accessible. The
>>>>>> equipment
>>>>>> distributed may be
>>>>>> hardware, software or applications, separate or in combination,
>>>>>> mainstream
>>>>>> or specialized. The
>>>>>> equipment must meet the needs of the deaf-blind individual to
>>    achieve
>>>>>> access. Certified programs may
>>>>>> also provide equipment warranties, maintenance, and repairs
>>    for such
>>>>>> equipment depending on
>>>>>> available funding.
>>>>>> Besides distributing equipment, what will the NDBEDP
>>    certified programs
>>>>>> do?
>>>>>> Certified programs will inform their communities about this
>>    new program
>>>>>> to
>>>>>> distribute equipment to low-
>>>>>> income residents in their states who are deaf-blind. They
>>    will verify
>>>>>> that
>>>>>> applicants are eligible to
>>>>>> receive equipment. They will assess each applicant's
>>    communications
>>>>>> equipment needs to select
>>>>>> appropriate equipment to meet those needs. They may also help
>>    install
>>>>>> and
>>>>>> provide training for the
>>>>>> equipment distributed.
>>>>>> How do I find the certified program that serves my state?
>>>>>> Information about how to find the NDBEDP certified program in
>>    your state
>>>>>> is available during the on the
>>>>>> FCC website at
>>    www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/national-deaf-blind-equipment-distribution-program
>>>>>> ,
>>>>>> by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) voice or
>>    1-888-TELL-FCC
>>>>>> (1-888-835-5322) TTY, or by
>>>>>> sending an email to
>>>>>> dro at fcc.gov. <mailto:dro at fcc.gov.>
>>>>>> How can I help the NDBEDP be successful?
>>>>>> list of 4 items
>>>>>> Tell people about the program.
>>>>>> Tell the FCC how the NDBEDP helped you or someone you know.
>>>>>> Tell the FCC how the program can be improved.
>>>>>> Tell the FCC about new types of technologies that should be
>>    included for
>>>>>> distribution.
>>>>>> list end
>>>>>> You may also file an informal complaint with the FCC if you think
>>>>>> someone
>>>>>> has violated the NDBEDP
>>>>>> rules. Informal complaints may be filed by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC
>>>>>> (1-888-225-5322) voice or
>>>>>> 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) TTY; faxing 1-866-418-0232, or by
>>>>>> writing
>>>>>> to:
>>>>>> Federal Communications Commission
>>>>>> Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
>>>>>> Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
>>>>>> 445 12th Street, S.W.
>>>>>> Washington, DC 20554
>>>>>> For More Information
>>>>>> For inf
>>>>>> ormation about other communications issues, visit the FCC?s
>>    Consumer
>>>>>> website at
>>>>>> www.fcc.gov/consumer-governmental-affairs-bureau,
>>>>>> or contact the FCC?s Consumer Center by
>>>>>> calling 1-888-CALL-FCC voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC TTY; faxing
>>>>>> 1-866-418-0232;
>>>>>> or writing to the
>>>>>> address listed above.
>>>>>> ###
>>>>>> For this or any other consumer publication in an accessible
>>    format
>>>>>> (electronic ASCII text, Braille, large print
>>>>>> or audio), please write or call us at the address or phone
>>    number below,
>>>>>> or send an email to
>>>>>> FCC504 at fcc.gov. <mailto:FCC504 at fcc.gov.>
>>>>>> This document is for consumer education purposes only and is not
>>>>>> intended
>>>>>> to affect any proceedings or
>>>>>> cases involving this subject matter or related issues.
>>>>>> Last Reviewed 5/2/13
>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>    ------------------------------
>> 
>>    Subject: Digest Footer
>> 
>>    _______________________________________________
>>    nfb-db mailing list
>>    nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>    http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>> 
>> 
>>    ------------------------------
>> 
>>    End of nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12
>>    **************************************
>> 
>> 
>>    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
>>    _______________________________________________
>>    nfb-db mailing list
>>    nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>    http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nfb-db mailing list
>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 7
> Date: Tue, 29 Oct 2013 22:22:41 -0400
> From: "DELCINA M BROWN" <delcenia at prodigy.net>
> To: "NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List" <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Adjusting, and a few questions
> Message-ID: <F158A2BF3DE24DC48EB3B79FDCD226FC at johne38069127c>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
> 
> April, 
> I share your frustration. I do not believe it is a case of denial.  Just a matter of trying to find a way to communicate and be independent. I do not know what state you are in. However, most medical facility provide my ...(whatever it is called/ profile) online where they could post information that is not confidential. Yes, keep being persistent and ask them to send the information to your email. 
> 
> Keep  shareing your concerns with the deaf/blind community. Maybe one day there is a connection one on one and not the whole group. This might be the one that understand talking on the phone is not the bes answer. 
> 
> take care
> Delcenia
>  ----- Original Message ----- 
>  From: April Brown 
>  To: nfb-db at nfbnet.org 
>  Sent: Tuesday, October 29, 2013 3:23 PM
>  Subject: [nfb-db] Adjusting, and a few questions
> 
> 
>  Hello,
> 
>      Until a year ago, I mostly ignored my low hearing.  I've worn a hearing aid for years.  A year ago, my vision suddenly failed drastically.  Obviously, it was never good to begin with either, and I never did learn to read lips. I still don't have an official diagnosis or prognosis.
> 
>       Both of these issues have caused me issues in the past.  Even as my vision fails, and my eye hurts constantly, I still comprehend better by seeing and reading.  I intend to learn Braille in January.  (Novemeber is a busy month for writers, and December is busy with in laws).
> 
>        Many, many years ago, in college, I attempted to take a sign language course.  I didn't learn a thing.  All I ever saw was motion, and nothing that made sense.  At the time, I blamed it on the stress of my life.  Now, I'm not so sure it was just stress.  Still, I wish I had learned!
> 
>  In the meantime, and in the future, how do I convince doctors, and other professionals, that an email is better than trying to comprehend a phone conversation?
> 
>  To go along with another thread or two, a few times I asked for help on a blind list I had the "I can call you and talk you though it" response.  Which is great, except, I don't really comprehend well on the phone, even from people I know.  Especially if there is any background sound.  I do appreciate the sentiment.  
> 
>  I'm still very new in this situation, and yes, I'm partially still in denial, I'm sure.
> 
>  Thanks,
> 
>  April Brown
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> 
>  _______________________________________________
>  nfb-db mailing list
>  nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>  http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
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> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 8
> Date: Tue, 29 Oct 2013 23:25:14 -0400 (EDT)
> From: MemberService <bdummette at aol.com>
> To: nfb-db at nfbnet.org
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Adjusting, and a few questions
> Message-ID: <8D0A336C81549B1-139C-8E64 at webmail-d276.sysops.aol.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
> 
> 
> Hello,
> My name is Banks, and I share your frustration, I would like to know, where do you live, maybe I can help!!
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: DELCINA M BROWN <delcenia at prodigy.net>
> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Tue, Oct 29, 2013 10:23 pm
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Adjusting, and a few questions
> 
> 
> 
> April, 
> I share your frustration. I do not believe it is a case of denial.  Just a matter of trying to find a way to communicate and be independent. I do not know what state you are in. However, most medical facility provide my ...(whatever it is called/ profile) online where they could post information that is not confidential. Yes, keep being persistent and ask them to send the information to your email. 
> 
> Keep  shareing your concerns with the deaf/blind community. Maybe one day there is a connection one on one and not the whole group. This might be the one that understand talking on the phone is not the bes answer. 
> 
> take care
> Delcenia
> 
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> 
> From:   April Brown 
> 
> To: nfb-db at nfbnet.org 
> 
> Sent: Tuesday, October 29, 2013 3:23   PM
> 
> Subject: [nfb-db] Adjusting, and a few   questions
> 
> 
> 
> Hello,
> 
>    Until a year ago, I mostly ignored my   low hearing.  I've worn a hearing aid for years.  A year ago, my   vision suddenly failed drastically.  Obviously, it was never good to   begin with either, and I never did learn to read lips. I still don't have an   official diagnosis or prognosis.
> 
>     Both of these   issues have caused me issues in the past.  Even as my vision fails, and   my eye hurts constantly, I still comprehend better by seeing and   reading.  I intend to learn Braille in January.  (Novemeber is a   busy month for writers, and December is busy with in   laws).
> 
>      Many, many years ago, in college,   I attempted to take a sign language course.  I didn't learn a   thing.  All I ever saw was motion, and nothing that made sense.  At   the time, I blamed it on the stress of my life.  Now, I'm not so sure it   was just stress.  Still, I wish I had learned!
> 
> In the meantime,   and in the future, how do I convince doctors, and other professionals, that an   email is better than trying to comprehend a phone conversation?
> 
> To go   along with another thread or two, a few times I asked for help on a blind list   I had the "I can call you and talk you though it" response.  Which is   great, except, I don't really comprehend well on the phone, even from people I   know.  Especially if there is any background sound.  I do appreciate   the sentiment.  
> 
> I'm still very new in this situation, and yes,   I'm partially still in denial, I'm sure.
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> April   Brown
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nfb-db mailing   list
> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nfb-db mailing list
> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
> 
> 
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> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 9
> Date: Wed, 30 Oct 2013 02:30:38 -0500
> From: "heather albright" <kd5cbl at gmail.com>
> To: "NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List" <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [nfb-db] un believable
> Message-ID: <D25E458D6AB34992B6EF22A839BB574B at supersystem>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="windows-1252"
> 
> How stupid are people. they put a deaf-blind refugee in a nursing home in 
> the Alzheimer?s unit and they would not let him out!  The NFB needs to take 
> this one for sure!  It was in the dallas morning news!
> http://thescoopblog.dallasnews.com/2013/08/eid-mubarek-deaf-iraqi-refugee-gets-special-help-as-ramadan-ends.html/
> I need to contact these people, when I am not quite so mad!  Heather 
> -------------- next part --------------
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> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 10
> Date: Wed, 30 Oct 2013 06:52:49 -0400
> From: "DELCINA M BROWN" <delcenia at prodigy.net>
> To: "NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List" <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12
> Message-ID: <30FB34E1A2794048AC8D7FF2E6028CA8 at johne38069127c>
> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="UTF-8";
>    reply-type=response
> 
> Thanks, do you have contact information for her?
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "Sheila Leigland" <sleigland at bresnan.net>
> To: "NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List" <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Tuesday, October 29, 2013 10:09 PM
> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12
> 
> 
>> hi my name is Seila and I'm from Montana. If you have questions about the 
>> I can connect program, and you can't get any response from your state 
>> people try calling the manager of the program Marcia brooks.
>>> On 10/29/2013 7:57 PM, DELCINA M BROWN wrote:
>>> 
>>> First, let me introduce my self. My name is Delcenia Brown and I am a 
>>> member of the National Federation of the blind of Cleveland, Ohio. I am 
>>> new to this mailing list. Therefore alot of you I do not know and alot of 
>>> abbreviation I do not know. It will be nice if sometimes some of you 
>>> would spell out what you are talking about and it would be nice to know 
>>> what state you are in.
>>> 
>>> ?
>>> 
>>> Tracy, I understand and appreciate what you are saying, your identity 
>>> does not change because of your situation or how you handle certain 
>>> settings. Taking advantage of what you have left is understandable. I am 
>>> greatful for what little hearing and vision I have left. I also take 
>>> advantage of that by reading with a CCTV when I can and using a fm system 
>>> or pocket talker at the appropriate time.
>>> 
>>> ?
>>> 
>>> At the same time I wish someone had taken the time to teach me braille, 
>>> sign language when I was younger. Now as I grow older and have other 
>>> obstacles it is a struggle to learn braille. I still have no one to teach 
>>> me sign language. So, yes, reminding Randy, that there are some deafblind 
>>> that are hard of hearing and do not sign was a gentle response.
>>> 
>>> ?
>>> 
>>> Just recently, I have posted a notice asking if anyone in my state share 
>>> my interests and got no response. However my state president does share 
>>> my interest and I believe at the state convention which is to be held 
>>> November 1 thru 3, 2013, the agenda does include information about the I 
>>> can connect program.
>>> 
>>> ?
>>> 
>>> Now, the downside of things. I have completed my application and it was 
>>> approved. I have had my assessment and I believe all of the equipment has 
>>> been ordered based on messages that I have received. However, I still 
>>> have not actually recieve anything as of today. This process started back 
>>> in March or April. I am grateful for the possibility of obtaining the 
>>> equipment, it is frustrating that it has taken so long and no one is 
>>> returning my call.
>>> 
>>> I gladly get on board!
>>> 
>>> Delcenia
>>> 
>>>    ----- Original Message -----
>>>    *From:* Tracie Inman <mailto:tracieinman at yahoo.com>
>>>    *To:* nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>    *Sent:* Tuesday, October 29, 2013 9:06 AM
>>>    *Subject:* Re: [nfb-db] nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12
>>> 
>>> 
>>>    Hi Randy: I hope you're doing well and AADB is growing stronger
>>>    under your leadership. I wish you all the best always. Just a
>>>    gentle reminder my friend that many many Deaf - Blind are hard of
>>>    hearing (non sign speaking) blind folks. Randy, indeed since
>>>    getting the two C.I.'s I'm guilty of using voice, Assisted
>>>    listening devices and voice interpreters as opposed to using my
>>>    signing, using interpreters, etc. I have switched to English. My
>>>    excuses has been that my vision is going "bye bye" and depending
>>>    on tactile scares me. In time, that may be my only option but for
>>>    now I'm surrounded by hearing family and friends so I've gotten
>>>    into a "comfort zone" with the success of my C.I.'s. What I'm
>>>    trying to say here is, remember that, just because you might not
>>>    observe the folks signing doesn't mean they're not Deaf-blind.
>>>    All the folks in the NFB Deaf-Blind division who are promoting ICC
>>>    are Deaf-Blind. In fact, every one assigned to Operation Outreach
>>>    (our outreach project to raise awareness of the ICC and the
>>>    Deaf-Blind community requesting ALL 50 affiliates and the D.C.
>>>    affiliate to form committees for the Deaf-Blind in their
>>>    individual committee) - including our mutual friend Marsha drenth
>>>    are Deaf-Blind.
>>>    Speaking of, hey Scott if you want to help please contact me or
>>>    Joe Naulty. We could always use more helping hands. We got two
>>>    projects going on at the moment and probably will start a third.
>>>    You know about Operation Outreach. We've also started a committee
>>>    on SSP issues. If you want to help us, we can always use another
>>>    helping hand. I do believe the Deaf-Blind division is working
>>>    harder than it ever has before. I dare to say that we've
>>>    accomplished more in the last few months than we have in many
>>>    years. The latest announcement we heard was that Scott Labarre
>>>    (affiliate President of Colorado and a National NFB Board Member)
>>>    has agreed to set up a Deaf-Blind Issues committee in the Colorado
>>>    affiliate. We also heard that the President of the Alaska
>>>    affiliate is Deaf-Blind. So climb abaord the NFB DB Express and
>>>    lets get chugging along on this exciting adventure raising
>>>    awareness of Deaf-Blind issues, ICC, and the need for SSP's. All
>>>    are welcome aboard.
>>> 
>>>    Best Wishes,
>>>    Tracie Inman
>>>    NFB Deaf-Blind Division
>>>    First Vice President
>>>    tracieinman at yahoo.com
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>>    On Tuesday, October 29, 2013 8:08 AM, "nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org"
>>>    <nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>    Send nfb-db mailing list submissions to
>>>    nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>> 
>>>    To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit
>>>    http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>    or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to
>>>    nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db-request at nfbnet.org>
>>> 
>>>    You can reach the person managing the list at
>>>    nfb-db-owner at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db-owner at nfbnet.org>
>>> 
>>>    When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific
>>>    than "Re: Contents of nfb-db digest..."
>>> 
>>> 
>>>    Today's Topics:
>>> 
>>>    1. CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind Persons
>>>    (Marsha Drenth)
>>>    2. Re: CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>>>    Persons (Scott Davert)
>>> 
>>> 
>>>    ----------------------------------------------------------------------
>>> 
>>>    Message: 1
>>>    Date: Mon, 28 Oct 2013 10:49:53 -0400
>>>    From: Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com
>>>    <mailto:marsha.drenth at gmail.com>>
>>>    To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>>    <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>>
>>>    Subject: [nfb-db] CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for 
>>> Deaf-Blind
>>>    Persons
>>>    Message-ID: <D61AC1DF-7E22-4F4C-969D-18FC3E09FE61 at gmail.com
>>>    <mailto:D61AC1DF-7E22-4F4C-969D-18FC3E09FE61 at gmail.com>>
>>>    Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
>>> 
>>>    Scott,
>>>    When will you hear if you are presenting at CSUn? and if you do
>>>    present, who will you present with from the NFB?
>>>    Very curious I know...
>>> 
>>>    Marsha drenth
>>>    Sent with my IPhone
>>> 
>>>    On Oct 27, 2013, at 6:32 PM, Scott Davert <scottdavert at gmail.com
>>>    <mailto:scottdavert at gmail.com>> wrote:
>>> 
>>>> Hi Randy.
>>>> It would seem there is not a lot of outreach going on from what
>>>    I can
>>>> tell. I have not done outreach for NFB or ACB, but have gone to
>>>    a few
>>>> places to promote it. I, of course, took an interpreter along,
>>>    because
>>>> I have the signing vocabulary of a 6 month old. I know that HKNC
>>>    plans
>>>> to send someone to the national AFB conference in Feb, and I
>>>    submitted
>>>> a proposal to CSUN to discuss deaf-blindness and some of the
>>>> technology used. If accepted, I will be presenting this with a
>>>    member
>>>> of the NFB. It will, of course, make mention of the ICC program.
>>>> 
>>>> All the best,
>>>> Scott
>>>> 
>>>> On 10/27/13, Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com
>>>    <mailto:marsha.drenth at gmail.com>> wrote:
>>>>> Randy,
>>>>> Ok, just so the point is clear, anyone from the NFB who is
>>>    promoting the ICC
>>>>> program, is Deafblind. Of course there are other organizations
>>>    promoting the
>>>>> ICC program. And yes some DB persons are not signing DB folks.
>>>    Of course
>>>>> this by no means that they aren't DB.
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>>> 
>>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 10:06 PM, "Randy Pope" <randy.pope at aadb.org
>>>    <mailto:randy.pope at aadb.org>> wrote:
>>>>> 
>>>>>> Marsha,
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Sorry for overlooking the last part of your message. I have
>>>    received a
>>>>>> few report that the people who are actually doing the
>>>    promotion and
>>>>>> education are not DeafBlind. But here is the problem in
>>>    determining if
>>>>>> these report are true. These people could be Deafblind but
>>>    cannot sign.
>>>>>> In the recent DSA conference, the person sitting in the ICC
>>>    booth, was
>>>>>> assuming hearing blind who did not know how to sign.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> There were a few other situation similar to this situation.
>>>    See where I?m
>>>>>> coming from?
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Randy
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org
>>>    <mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org>] On Behalf Of Marsha
>>>>>> Drenth
>>>>>> Sent: Saturday, October 26, 2013 8:30 PM
>>>>>> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List
>>>>>> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for
>>>    Deaf-Blind Persons
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Mr. Pope,
>>>>>> I am not a part of the NFB DB board, but the NFB DB division
>>>    has implement
>>>>>> an outreach program to educate state affiliates on Deafblindness,
>>>>>> resources, and the Icanconnect program. I do believe that all
>>>    of those
>>>>>> persons who are reaching out to the different states are db
>>>    themselves. Is
>>>>>> this what you mean?
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 8:21 PM, "Randy Pope" <randy.pope at aadb.org
>>>    <mailto:randy.pope at aadb.org>> wrote:
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Question: Are there any DeafBlind people assisting in the
>>>    NDBEDP outreach
>>>>>> program?
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Randy
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org
>>>    <mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org>] On Behalf Of David
>>>>>> Andrews
>>>>>> Sent: Friday, October 25, 2013 9:16 PM
>>>>>> To: nfbwatlk at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfbwatlk at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>> Subject: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>>>    Persons
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> I have been asked to distribute the following.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Dear David,
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> I have been charged with the outreach program for :I Can
>>>    Connect" in 5
>>>>>> states, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA,
>>>>>> OKLAHOMA, WASHINGTON and WISCONSIN
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Changing what it means to be blind,
>>>>>> Marcus Simmons, President,
>>>>>> Wayne County chapter NFBMI
>>>>>> 28179 Brentwood
>>>>>> Southfield, MI 48076-3069
>>>>>> president at map-n.org <mailto:president at map-n.org>
>>>>>> (248) 552-8928
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> NDBEDP.pdf
>>>>>> Consumer Guide
>>>>>> 9
>>>>>> National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program
>>>>>> Background
>>>>>> The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video
>>>    Accessibility Act of
>>>>>> 2010 (CVAA) authorizes the
>>>>>> Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide funding for
>>>    local
>>>>>> programs to distribute
>>>>>> equipment to low-income individuals who are ?deaf-blind? (see
>>>    definition
>>>>>> below.) The FCC may use up
>>>>>> to $10 million annually from the interstate Telecommunications
>>>    Relay
>>>>>> Service fund for this purpose.
>>>>>> Pilot Program
>>>>>> In 2011, the FCC established the National Deaf-Blind Equipment
>>>>>> Distribution Program (NDBEDP) as a
>>>>>> pilot program. The pilot program has been in effect since July
>>>    1, 2012,
>>>>>> and the FCC may extend the
>>>>>> program another year. The pilot program provides valuable
>>>    information that
>>>>>> the FCC will use to help
>>>>>> develop and implement an effective and efficient permanent
>>>    deaf-blind
>>>>>> equipment distribution program.
>>>>>> How does the pilot program operate?
>>>>>> The FCC selected and certified one entity in each of the 50
>>>    states, plus
>>>>>> the District of Columbia, Puerto
>>>>>> Rico, and the Virgin Islands, to receive FCC support to 
>>> distribute
>>>>>> equipment to low-income individuals
>>>>>> who are deaf-blind. The FCC allocated a minimum of $50,000 to
>>>    each of the
>>>>>> 53 certified programs,
>>>>>> plus additional funding based on the size of each state's
>>>    population. As a
>>>>>> result, states with large
>>>>>> populations were allocated larger amounts of funding than
>>>    states with
>>>>>> small populations.
>>>>>> The FCC also set aside $500,000 each year for the Perkins
>>>    School for the
>>>>>> Blind to coordinate outreach
>>>>>> to promote this new equipment distribution program nationwide.
>>>>>> Who is eligible to receive equipment?
>>>>>> Under the CVAA, only low-income individuals who are deaf-blind 
>>> are
>>>>>> eligible to receive equipment.
>>>>>> Applicants must provide verification of their status as
>>>    low-income and
>>>>>> deaf-blind.
>>>>>> The CVAA requires that the term "deaf-blind" has the same
>>>    meaning given in
>>>>>> the Helen Keller National
>>>>>> Center Act. In general, the individual must have a certain
>>>    vision loss and
>>>>>> a hearing loss that,
>>>>>> combined, cause extreme difficulty in attaining independence
>>>    in daily life
>>>>>> activities, achieving
>>>>>> psychosocial adjustment, or obtaining a vocation (working).
>>>>>> The FCC defines "low income" to mean not more than 400% of the
>>>    Federal
>>>>>> Poverty Guidelines, as
>>>>>> indicated in the following chart:
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> table with 4 columns and 11 rows
>>>>>> 2013 Federal Poverty Guidelines
>>>>>> Number of persons in family/household
>>>>>> 400% for everywhere, except Alaska and Hawaii
>>>>>> 400% for Alaska
>>>>>> 400% for Hawaii
>>>>>> 1
>>>>>> $45,960
>>>>>> $57,400
>>>>>> $52,920
>>>>>> 2
>>>>>> 62,040
>>>>>> 77,520
>>>>>> 71,400
>>>>>> 3
>>>>>> 78,120
>>>>>> 97,640
>>>>>> 89,880
>>>>>> 4
>>>>>> 94,200
>>>>>> 117,760
>>>>>> 108,360
>>>>>> 5
>>>>>> 110,280
>>>>>> 137,880
>>>>>> 126,840
>>>>>> 6
>>>>>> 126,360
>>>>>> 158,000
>>>>>> 145,320
>>>>>> 7
>>>>>> 142,440
>>>>>> 178,120
>>>>>> 163,800
>>>>>> 8
>>>>>> 158,520
>>>>>> 198,240
>>>>>> 182,280
>>>>>> For each additional person, add
>>>>>> $16,080
>>>>>> $20,120
>>>>>> $18,480
>>>>>> table end
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
>>>>>> (aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/13poverty.cfm)
>>>>>> What kind of equipment can be distributed?
>>>>>> The equipment distributed must be designed to make
>>>    telecommunications
>>>>>> (such as wireline and
>>>>>> wireless telephone communication), advanced communications
>>>    (such as
>>>>>> Internet-based voice
>>>>>> communication, e-mail, instant messaging and interoperable video
>>>>>> conferencing services), and access
>>>>>> to the Internet (including information services) accessible.
>>>    The equipment
>>>>>> distributed may be
>>>>>> hardware, software or applications, separate or in
>>>    combination, mainstream
>>>>>> or specialized. The
>>>>>> equipment must meet the needs of the deaf-blind individual to
>>>    achieve
>>>>>> access. Certified programs may
>>>>>> also provide equipment warranties, maintenance, and repairs
>>>    for such
>>>>>> equipment depending on
>>>>>> available funding.
>>>>>> Besides distributing equipment, what will the NDBEDP certified
>>>    programs
>>>>>> do?
>>>>>> Certified programs will inform their communities about this
>>>    new program to
>>>>>> distribute equipment to low-
>>>>>> income residents in their states who are deaf-blind. They will
>>>    verify that
>>>>>> applicants are eligible to
>>>>>> receive equipment. They will assess each applicant's
>>>    communications
>>>>>> equipment needs to select
>>>>>> appropriate equipment to meet those needs. They may also help
>>>    install and
>>>>>> provide training for the
>>>>>> equipment distributed.
>>>>>> How do I find the certified program that serves my state?
>>>>>> Information about how to find the NDBEDP certified program in
>>>    your state
>>>>>> is available during the on the
>>>>>> FCC website at
>>>>>> 
>>> 
>>> www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/national-deaf-blind-equipment-distribution-program
>>>>>> ,
>>>>>> by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) voice or 
>>> 1-888-TELL-FCC
>>>>>> (1-888-835-5322) TTY, or by
>>>>>> sending an email to
>>>>>> dro at fcc.gov. <mailto:dro at fcc.gov.>
>>>>>> How can I help the NDBEDP be successful?
>>>>>> list of 4 items
>>>>>> Tell people about the program.
>>>>>> Tell the FCC how the NDBEDP helped you or someone you know.
>>>>>> Tell the FCC how the program can be improved.
>>>>>> Tell the FCC about new types of technologies that should be
>>>    included for
>>>>>> distribution.
>>>>>> list end
>>>>>> You may also file an informal complaint with the FCC if you
>>>    think someone
>>>>>> has violated the NDBEDP
>>>>>> rules. Informal complaints may be filed by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC
>>>>>> (1-888-225-5322) voice or
>>>>>> 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) TTY; faxing 1-866-418-0232, or
>>>    by writing
>>>>>> to:
>>>>>> Federal Communications Commission
>>>>>> Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
>>>>>> Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
>>>>>> 445 12th Street, S.W.
>>>>>> Washington, DC 20554
>>>>>> For More Information
>>>>>> For inf
>>>>>> ormation about other communications issues, visit the FCC?s
>>>    Consumer
>>>>>> website at
>>>>>> www.fcc.gov/consumer-governmental-affairs-bureau,
>>>>>> or contact the FCC?s Consumer Center by
>>>>>> calling 1-888-CALL-FCC voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC TTY; faxing
>>>    1-866-418-0232;
>>>>>> or writing to the
>>>>>> address listed above.
>>>>>> ###
>>>>>> For this or any other consumer publication in an accessible 
>>> format
>>>>>> (electronic ASCII text, Braille, large print
>>>>>> or audio), please write or call us at the address or phone
>>>    number below,
>>>>>> or send an email to
>>>>>> FCC504 at fcc.gov. <mailto:FCC504 at fcc.gov.>
>>>>>> This document is for consumer education purposes only and is
>>>    not intended
>>>>>> to affect any proceedings or
>>>>>> cases involving this subject matter or related issues.
>>>>>> Last Reviewed 5/2/13
>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>>    ------------------------------
>>> 
>>>    Message: 2
>>>    Date: Mon, 28 Oct 2013 12:25:09 -0400
>>>    From: Scott Davert <scottdavert at gmail.com
>>>    <mailto:scottdavert at gmail.com>>
>>>    To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>>    <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>>
>>>    Subject: Re: [nfb-db] CSUN Re: Telecommunications Equipment for
>>>    Deaf-Blind Persons
>>>    Message-ID:
>>>    <CAOHXxEY2mnUu06jvFueXPKeMvFodJX281Nzo8cNBqZdLV3ZRqg at mail.gmail.com 
>>> <mailto:CAOHXxEY2mnUu06jvFueXPKeMvFodJX281Nzo8cNBqZdLV3ZRqg at mail.gmail.com>>
>>>    Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252
>>> 
>>>    Hi Marcha.
>>>    I will know next month whether my proposal has been accepted. I would
>>>    be presenting with Amy Mason.
>>> 
>>>    Scott
>>> 
>>>    On 10/28/13, Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com
>>>    <mailto:marsha.drenth at gmail.com>> wrote:
>>>> Scott,
>>>> When will you hear if you are presenting at CSUn? and if you do
>>>    present, who
>>>> will you present with from the NFB?
>>>> Very curious I know...
>>>> 
>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>> 
>>>> On Oct 27, 2013, at 6:32 PM, Scott Davert <scottdavert at gmail.com
>>>    <mailto:scottdavert at gmail.com>> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>>> Hi Randy.
>>>>> It would seem there is not a lot of outreach going on from what
>>>    I can
>>>>> tell. I have not done outreach for NFB or ACB, but have gone to
>>>    a few
>>>>> places to promote it. I, of course, took an interpreter along,
>>>    because
>>>>> I have the signing vocabulary of a 6 month old. I know that
>>>    HKNC plans
>>>>> to send someone to the national AFB conference in Feb, and I
>>>    submitted
>>>>> a proposal to CSUN to discuss deaf-blindness and some of the
>>>>> technology used. If accepted, I will be presenting this with a
>>>    member
>>>>> of the NFB. It will, of course, make mention of the ICC program.
>>>>> 
>>>>> All the best,
>>>>> Scott
>>>>> 
>>>>> On 10/27/13, Marsha Drenth <marsha.drenth at gmail.com
>>>    <mailto:marsha.drenth at gmail.com>> wrote:
>>>>>> Randy,
>>>>>> Ok, just so the point is clear, anyone from the NFB who is
>>>    promoting the
>>>>>> ICC
>>>>>> program, is Deafblind. Of course there are other organizations
>>>    promoting
>>>>>> the
>>>>>> ICC program. And yes some DB persons are not signing DB folks.
>>>    Of course
>>>>>> this by no means that they aren't DB.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 10:06 PM, "Randy Pope"
>>>    <randy.pope at aadb.org <mailto:randy.pope at aadb.org>> wrote:
>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Marsha,
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Sorry for overlooking the last part of your message. I have
>>>    received a
>>>>>>> few report that the people who are actually doing the
>>>    promotion and
>>>>>>> education are not DeafBlind. But here is the problem in
>>>    determining if
>>>>>>> these report are true. These people could be Deafblind but
>>>    cannot sign.
>>>>>>> In the recent DSA conference, the person sitting in the ICC
>>>    booth, was
>>>>>>> assuming hearing blind who did not know how to sign.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> There were a few other situation similar to this situation.
>>>    See where
>>>>>>> I?m
>>>>>>> coming from?
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Randy
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org
>>>    <mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org>] On Behalf Of Marsha
>>>>>>> Drenth
>>>>>>> Sent: Saturday, October 26, 2013 8:30 PM
>>>>>>> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List
>>>>>>> Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for 
>>> Deaf-Blind
>>>>>>> Persons
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Mr. Pope,
>>>>>>> I am not a part of the NFB DB board, but the NFB DB division has
>>>>>>> implement
>>>>>>> an outreach program to educate state affiliates on 
>>> Deafblindness,
>>>>>>> resources, and the Icanconnect program. I do believe that all
>>>    of those
>>>>>>> persons who are reaching out to the different states are db
>>>    themselves.
>>>>>>> Is
>>>>>>> this what you mean?
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Marsha drenth
>>>>>>> Sent with my IPhone
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> On Oct 26, 2013, at 8:21 PM, "Randy Pope"
>>>    <randy.pope at aadb.org <mailto:randy.pope at aadb.org>> wrote:
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Question: Are there any DeafBlind people assisting in the NDBEDP
>>>>>>> outreach
>>>>>>> program?
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Randy
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> From: nfb-db [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org
>>>    <mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org>] On Behalf Of David
>>>>>>> Andrews
>>>>>>> Sent: Friday, October 25, 2013 9:16 PM
>>>>>>> To: nfbwatlk at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfbwatlk at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>>> Subject: [nfb-db] Telecommunications Equipment for Deaf-Blind
>>>    Persons
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> I have been asked to distribute the following.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Dear David,
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> I have been charged with the outreach program for :I Can
>>>    Connect" in 5
>>>>>>> states, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA,
>>>>>>> OKLAHOMA, WASHINGTON and WISCONSIN
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Changing what it means to be blind,
>>>>>>> Marcus Simmons, President,
>>>>>>> Wayne County chapter NFBMI
>>>>>>> 28179 Brentwood
>>>>>>> Southfield, MI 48076-3069
>>>>>>> president at map-n.org <mailto:president at map-n.org>
>>>>>>> (248) 552-8928
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> NDBEDP.pdf
>>>>>>> Consumer Guide
>>>>>>> 9
>>>>>>> National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program
>>>>>>> Background
>>>>>>> The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video
>>>    Accessibility Act of
>>>>>>> 2010 (CVAA) authorizes the
>>>>>>> Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide funding
>>>    for local
>>>>>>> programs to distribute
>>>>>>> equipment to low-income individuals who are ?deaf-blind? (see
>>>    definition
>>>>>>> below.) The FCC may use up
>>>>>>> to $10 million annually from the interstate
>>>    Telecommunications Relay
>>>>>>> Service fund for this purpose.
>>>>>>> Pilot Program
>>>>>>> In 2011, the FCC established the National Deaf-Blind Equipment
>>>>>>> Distribution Program (NDBEDP) as a
>>>>>>> pilot program. The pilot program has been in effect since
>>>    July 1, 2012,
>>>>>>> and the FCC may extend the
>>>>>>> program another year. The pilot program provides valuable
>>>    information
>>>>>>> that
>>>>>>> the FCC will use to help
>>>>>>> develop and implement an effective and efficient permanent
>>>    deaf-blind
>>>>>>> equipment distribution program.
>>>>>>> How does the pilot program operate?
>>>>>>> The FCC selected and certified one entity in each of the 50
>>>    states, plus
>>>>>>> the District of Columbia, Puerto
>>>>>>> Rico, and the Virgin Islands, to receive FCC support to
>>>    distribute
>>>>>>> equipment to low-income individuals
>>>>>>> who are deaf-blind. The FCC allocated a minimum of $50,000 to
>>>    each of
>>>>>>> the
>>>>>>> 53 certified programs,
>>>>>>> plus additional funding based on the size of each state's
>>>    population. As
>>>>>>> a
>>>>>>> result, states with large
>>>>>>> populations were allocated larger amounts of funding than
>>>    states with
>>>>>>> small populations.
>>>>>>> The FCC also set aside $500,000 each year for the Perkins
>>>    School for the
>>>>>>> Blind to coordinate outreach
>>>>>>> to promote this new equipment distribution program nationwide.
>>>>>>> Who is eligible to receive equipment?
>>>>>>> Under the CVAA, only low-income individuals who are
>>>    deaf-blind are
>>>>>>> eligible to receive equipment.
>>>>>>> Applicants must provide verification of their status as
>>>    low-income and
>>>>>>> deaf-blind.
>>>>>>> The CVAA requires that the term "deaf-blind" has the same
>>>    meaning given
>>>>>>> in
>>>>>>> the Helen Keller National
>>>>>>> Center Act. In general, the individual must have a certain
>>>    vision loss
>>>>>>> and
>>>>>>> a hearing loss that,
>>>>>>> combined, cause extreme difficulty in attaining independence
>>>    in daily
>>>>>>> life
>>>>>>> activities, achieving
>>>>>>> psychosocial adjustment, or obtaining a vocation (working).
>>>>>>> The FCC defines "low income" to mean not more than 400% of
>>>    the Federal
>>>>>>> Poverty Guidelines, as
>>>>>>> indicated in the following chart:
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> table with 4 columns and 11 rows
>>>>>>> 2013 Federal Poverty Guidelines
>>>>>>> Number of persons in family/household
>>>>>>> 400% for everywhere, except Alaska and Hawaii
>>>>>>> 400% for Alaska
>>>>>>> 400% for Hawaii
>>>>>>> 1
>>>>>>> $45,960
>>>>>>> $57,400
>>>>>>> $52,920
>>>>>>> 2
>>>>>>> 62,040
>>>>>>> 77,520
>>>>>>> 71,400
>>>>>>> 3
>>>>>>> 78,120
>>>>>>> 97,640
>>>>>>> 89,880
>>>>>>> 4
>>>>>>> 94,200
>>>>>>> 117,760
>>>>>>> 108,360
>>>>>>> 5
>>>>>>> 110,280
>>>>>>> 137,880
>>>>>>> 126,840
>>>>>>> 6
>>>>>>> 126,360
>>>>>>> 158,000
>>>>>>> 145,320
>>>>>>> 7
>>>>>>> 142,440
>>>>>>> 178,120
>>>>>>> 163,800
>>>>>>> 8
>>>>>>> 158,520
>>>>>>> 198,240
>>>>>>> 182,280
>>>>>>> For each additional person, add
>>>>>>> $16,080
>>>>>>> $20,120
>>>>>>> $18,480
>>>>>>> table end
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
>>>>>>> (aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/13poverty.cfm)
>>>>>>> What kind of equipment can be distributed?
>>>>>>> The equipment distributed must be designed to make
>>>    telecommunications
>>>>>>> (such as wireline and
>>>>>>> wireless telephone communication), advanced communications
>>>    (such as
>>>>>>> Internet-based voice
>>>>>>> communication, e-mail, instant messaging and interoperable video
>>>>>>> conferencing services), and access
>>>>>>> to the Internet (including information services) accessible. The
>>>>>>> equipment
>>>>>>> distributed may be
>>>>>>> hardware, software or applications, separate or in combination,
>>>>>>> mainstream
>>>>>>> or specialized. The
>>>>>>> equipment must meet the needs of the deaf-blind individual to
>>>    achieve
>>>>>>> access. Certified programs may
>>>>>>> also provide equipment warranties, maintenance, and repairs
>>>    for such
>>>>>>> equipment depending on
>>>>>>> available funding.
>>>>>>> Besides distributing equipment, what will the NDBEDP
>>>    certified programs
>>>>>>> do?
>>>>>>> Certified programs will inform their communities about this
>>>    new program
>>>>>>> to
>>>>>>> distribute equipment to low-
>>>>>>> income residents in their states who are deaf-blind. They
>>>    will verify
>>>>>>> that
>>>>>>> applicants are eligible to
>>>>>>> receive equipment. They will assess each applicant's
>>>    communications
>>>>>>> equipment needs to select
>>>>>>> appropriate equipment to meet those needs. They may also help
>>>    install
>>>>>>> and
>>>>>>> provide training for the
>>>>>>> equipment distributed.
>>>>>>> How do I find the certified program that serves my state?
>>>>>>> Information about how to find the NDBEDP certified program in
>>>    your state
>>>>>>> is available during the on the
>>>>>>> FCC website at
>>>>>>> 
>>> 
>>> www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/national-deaf-blind-equipment-distribution-program
>>>>>>> ,
>>>>>>> by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) voice or
>>>    1-888-TELL-FCC
>>>>>>> (1-888-835-5322) TTY, or by
>>>>>>> sending an email to
>>>>>>> dro at fcc.gov. <mailto:dro at fcc.gov.>
>>>>>>> How can I help the NDBEDP be successful?
>>>>>>> list of 4 items
>>>>>>> Tell people about the program.
>>>>>>> Tell the FCC how the NDBEDP helped you or someone you know.
>>>>>>> Tell the FCC how the program can be improved.
>>>>>>> Tell the FCC about new types of technologies that should be
>>>    included for
>>>>>>> distribution.
>>>>>>> list end
>>>>>>> You may also file an informal complaint with the FCC if you 
>>> think
>>>>>>> someone
>>>>>>> has violated the NDBEDP
>>>>>>> rules. Informal complaints may be filed by calling 
>>> 1-888-CALL-FCC
>>>>>>> (1-888-225-5322) voice or
>>>>>>> 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) TTY; faxing 1-866-418-0232, or 
>>> by
>>>>>>> writing
>>>>>>> to:
>>>>>>> Federal Communications Commission
>>>>>>> Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
>>>>>>> Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
>>>>>>> 445 12th Street, S.W.
>>>>>>> Washington, DC 20554
>>>>>>> For More Information
>>>>>>> For inf
>>>>>>> ormation about other communications issues, visit the FCC?s
>>>    Consumer
>>>>>>> website at
>>>>>>> www.fcc.gov/consumer-governmental-affairs-bureau,
>>>>>>> or contact the FCC?s Consumer Center by
>>>>>>> calling 1-888-CALL-FCC voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC TTY; faxing
>>>>>>> 1-866-418-0232;
>>>>>>> or writing to the
>>>>>>> address listed above.
>>>>>>> ###
>>>>>>> For this or any other consumer publication in an accessible
>>>    format
>>>>>>> (electronic ASCII text, Braille, large print
>>>>>>> or audio), please write or call us at the address or phone
>>>    number below,
>>>>>>> or send an email to
>>>>>>> FCC504 at fcc.gov. <mailto:FCC504 at fcc.gov.>
>>>>>>> This document is for consumer education purposes only and is not
>>>>>>> intended
>>>>>>> to affect any proceedings or
>>>>>>> cases involving this subject matter or related issues.
>>>>>>> Last Reviewed 5/2/13
>>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>>    ------------------------------
>>> 
>>>    Subject: Digest Footer
>>> 
>>>    _______________________________________________
>>>    nfb-db mailing list
>>>    nfb-db at nfbnet.org <mailto:nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
>>>    http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>> 
>>> 
>>>    ------------------------------
>>> 
>>>    End of nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 12
>>>    **************************************
>>> 
>>> 
>>>    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
>>>    _______________________________________________
>>>    nfb-db mailing list
>>>    nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>>    http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> nfb-db mailing list
>>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> nfb-db mailing list
>> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
>> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 11
> Date: Wed, 30 Oct 2013 07:05:15 -0400
> From: Janice Toothman <janice.toothman at verizon.net>
> To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List <nfb-db at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [nfb-db] unbelievable
> Message-ID: <5270E7EB.9000100 at verizon.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed
> 
> Heather,
> That is really unfortunate.  I hope that the staff in the nursing home 
> recognize the error in placement and seek to find a mor appropriate 
> placement for the individual.  Thank you for informing us of the 
> situation in Texas with the refugees.
> Janice
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Subject: Digest Footer
> 
> _______________________________________________
> nfb-db mailing list
> nfb-db at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfb-db_nfbnet.org
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> End of nfb-db Digest, Vol 57, Issue 15
> **************************************




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