From jamessofka at att.net  Thu Apr  1 00:22:49 2010
From: jamessofka at att.net (james sofka)
Date: Wed, 31 Mar 2010 19:22:49 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fw: [Blindtlk] BISM Announces Independence 2010
Message-ID: <2FA24005537D44508E1A4BB0A4C970B9@TCPI9FFDAF7536>

Hi, all.
For your information.
Jim Sofka.
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Mike Gilliam" <MikeG at salighthouse.org>
To: "james sofka" <jamessofka at att.net>
Sent: Tuesday, March 30, 2010 9:03 PM
Subject: Re: [Blindtlk] BISM Announces Independence 2010


> Thanks.  Sounds like a really neat approach.  I'll ask the CEO about  it 
> next time I see him.
>
> Sent from Mike's iPhone
>
> On Mar 30, 2010, at 8:38 PM, "james sofka" <jamessofka at att.net> wrote:
>
>> Hi, all.
>> For your information.
>> Jim Sofka.
>> ----- Original Message ----- From: "Amy Phelps (by way of David 
>> Andrews<dandrews at visi.com>)" <aphelps at BISM.org>
>> To: <david.andrews at nfbnet.org>
>> Sent: Monday, March 29, 2010 9:02 PM
>> Subject: [Blindtlk] BISM Announces Independence 2010
>>
>>
>>
>> Blind Industries and Services of Maryland is
>> pleased to announce Independence 2010--a six-week
>> residential summer program for blind and low
>> vision high school teens. The students of
>> Independence 2010 will participate in a fun,
>> action packed comprehensive six-week program that
>> will focus on learning the nonvisual skills which
>> are essential for teens to successfully
>> transition from high school to college or
>> employment. Students of Independence 2010 will
>> live in apartments supervised by adult blind
>> mentors/instructors who will incorporate
>> budgeting, maintaining a home, preparing meals,
>> doing laundry, and shopping for groceries.
>>
>> Independence 2010 will include cane travel,
>> independent living skills, assistive technology,
>> Braille, physical fitness, philosophy class,
>> career exploration, and several confidence
>> building activities including attending the 2010
>> National Convention of the National Federation of
>> the Blind in Dallas, Texas. In addition to
>> learning the skills of blindness, students will
>> have fun learning from successful blind role
>> models and participate in exciting confidence
>> building activities such as playing goalball,
>> attending a summer festival, watching movies
>> under the stars, enjoying the Inner Harbor and
>> Little Italy to name just a few.
>>
>> Who can apply:
>> Legally blind high school students who are
>> entering into 10th, 11th , or 12th grades in the
>> fall of 2010 and have open cases with their
>> state's vocational rehabilitation agency or who
>> have an alternative funding source
>>
>> The dates of the program are June 20 - August 1, 2010
>>
>> For more information, application packet, or if
>> you have any questions, please email me at
>> <mailto:aphelps at bism.org>aphelps at bism.org or call me at 410-737-2642.
>>
>> Warm regards,
>>
>> Amy C. Phelps
>>
>> Amy C. Phelps, CRC, NOMC
>> Director of Rehabilitation Services
>>
>> Blind Industries and Services of Maryland
>> 3345 Washington Blvd
>> Baltimore, MD 21227
>> Phone: 410-737-2642
>> Mobile: 410-274-1647
>> Fax: 410-737-2689
>> Toll Free: 888-322-4567
>> E-mail: <mailto:aphelps at bism.org>aphelps at bism.org
>>
>> Join us for a fun filled evening of Bull, Bull,
>> and more Bull at the
>> <http://bism.org/2010EmailPromo/BullRoast_Final.htm>Blind
>> Industries and Services of Maryland Bull and Oyster Roast
>>
>> Find out more about our summer program for blind
>> and low vision high school students
>> <http://bism.org/r_youth_TEMP_2.cfm>Independence 2010!
>>
>> "A frog in a well, can only see its piece of the sky" ~Unknown
>>
>>
>>
>> Confidentiality Note:  The information contained
>> in this message may be privileged and
>> confidential and protected from disclosure. If
>> the reader of this message is not the intended
>> recipient, or an employee or agent responsible
>> for delivering this message to the intended
>> recipient, you are hereby notified that any
>> dissemination, distribution or copying of this
>> communication is strictly prohibited. If you have
>> received this communication in error, please
>> notify us immediately by replying to the message
>> and deleting it from your computer.
>> _______________________________________________
>> blindtlk mailing list
>> blindtlk at nfbnet.org
>> http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blindtlk_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info  for 
>> blindtlk:
>> http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blindtlk_nfbnet.org/jamessofka%40att.net 




From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Fri Apr  2 17:34:17 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Fri, 2 Apr 2010 12:34:17 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Update on fundraiser
Message-ID: <h2m5e4f6adf1004021034nc0b1a17epd24399a441f9e2f0@mail.gmail.com>

Hello,

I wanted to update you all about the fundraiser that we were to have
on April 8. Our application had to be submitted to the marketing
department and they are the ones that will decide whether or not we
can get a fundraiser event with them. So more than likely April 8 will
no longer be possible. But stay tune, we are hard at work and we will
have something set up soon.

If you have not done it yet, make sure to join the Rio Racers.

http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/TR/Campaign/General?team_id=3331&pg=team&fr_id=1070

Our team  for the race for independence.

A.	Z.



From jamessofka at att.net  Sat Apr  3 17:18:06 2010
From: jamessofka at att.net (james sofka)
Date: Sat, 3 Apr 2010 12:18:06 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Congratulations
Message-ID: <262F222D41B04940BE7B12AA19BDADA0@TCPI9FFDAF7536>

Hi, all.
For your information.
Jim Sofka.
 

Lighthouse gets national kudos

 

Express-News-

 

Web Posted: 04/03/2010 12:00 CDT

 

San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind was recently recognized by National Industries for the Blind as the No. 1 associated agency in the country.

 

The local nonprofit agency had the most jobs growth for blind people last year. The agency was awarded $122,000.

 

San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind provides rehabilitation services as well as employment opportunities to the blind.   
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From jamessofka at att.net  Sun Apr  4 13:09:21 2010
From: jamessofka at att.net (james sofka)
Date: Sun, 4 Apr 2010 08:09:21 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fw: [Access-l] Fwd:  IPad amazing
Message-ID: <1181136E3E9B4A50A2E9AF0D6E75CCB2@TCPI9FFDAF7536>

Hi, all.
For your information.
JimSofka.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Steve Pattison" <srp at internode.on.net>
To: "Access L" <access-l at access-l.com>
Sent: Sunday, April 04, 2010 7:48 AM
Subject: [Access-l] Fwd: IPad amazing


> From: Cheree Heppe cheree at dogsc4me.com
>
> Cheree Heppe here:
>
> I actually did it!!  I took the light rail to the Apple store and saw one
> of those IPads this morning.
>
> That whole local up-scale inner city mall was jumping with people, so it
> was no problem finding directions down a flight to the Apple store.
>
> When I got off the escalator, there was this incredible doubled line
> nearly to the escalator.  There were Apple staff outside the store
> directing traffic.
>
> One of the guys working in the store escorted me in and arranged for me to
> see the demo model that wasn't tethered to the display tables.
>
> It was busier in that apple store than at a Vegas casino!!
>
> Well, I got to the display table because the demo required charging.
>
> There is a physical volume toggle switch near the end of the long end.  No
> fiddling with screen settings for volume, just bump the toggle up for loud
> or down for soft.
>
> The earphone jack is on one short side edge near a corner and seems out of
> the way.  The sound is good.
>
> There is a physical switch to lock the IPad into whichever position you
> have oriented the screen, portrait or landscape.
>
> There is a recessed connector on the opposite short side from the earphone
> jack to charge it or interface it with a computer.
>
> The IPad feels about like a MacBook Air in thickness.  The glass is flat
> with a Home button embedded flush into the face of the glass very near the
> bottom middle of the short side.
>
> The on/off switch is a switch on the edge of the IPad.  I can't recall
> exactly where.
>
> The back and sides are metal and the sides are curved inward from the
> widest point where they interface with the glass to where they taper in a
> rounded way to the back side.  The back side felt flat with no features,
> but I didn't look really carefully.
>
> Even with not being facile with Voiceover or anything, I got the IPad to
> do stuff for me.
>
> To go on to a website
>
> To read a book.
>
> By then, I wanted one real bad.
>
> The IPad is freakin' amazing.
>
> It can interface with a Windows based or Apple based computer.
>
> The cover that it now comes with is just the first cover before everyone
> else makes something.  It looks like the outside of a thin notebook
> without the binder rings.  It opens from the long end.  The flat tucks
> behind the IPad and the bottom edge of the cover tucks into a built-in
> slot in the back of the case to allow the IPad to sit at a comfortable
> slant for poking at.
>
> They plan to have a dock for a keyboard, but the Apple guy suggested just
> getting a wireless keyboard and using Bluetooth to pair it.
>
> The Apple rep explained how the items are arranged on the screen.  This is
> standard and once you get the feel for the gaps and positions, it all
> stays the same.  That's what he told me.
>
> What a gadget!!  Accessible right out of the box.
>
> Regards,
> Cheree Heppe
>
> Regards Steve
> Email:  srp at internode.on.net
> MSN Messenger:  internetuser383 at hotmail.com
> Skype:  steve1963
> Twitter:  steve9782
> _______________________________________________
> This is the Access-l Mailing list
> access-l at access-l.com
> http://access-l.com/mailman/listinfo/access-l 




From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Sun Apr  4 16:08:52 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Sun, 4 Apr 2010 11:08:52 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fw: [Access-l] Fwd: IPad amazing
In-Reply-To: <1181136E3E9B4A50A2E9AF0D6E75CCB2@TCPI9FFDAF7536>
References: <1181136E3E9B4A50A2E9AF0D6E75CCB2@TCPI9FFDAF7536>
Message-ID: <i2n5e4f6adf1004040908zd7a6dc53kf3bfa2a17381d22b@mail.gmail.com>

this is really nice, I am excited about the IPad, but we will see how
accessible it is when all of it's features are tested. Voice over has
had issues working with windows based software such as microsoft
office before, and it is said that the IPad will work with a windows
based computer, and I can't wait to try that to see how it links up.
Happy Easter everyone.

On 4/4/10, james sofka <jamessofka at att.net> wrote:
> Hi, all.
> For your information.
> JimSofka.
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Steve Pattison" <srp at internode.on.net>
> To: "Access L" <access-l at access-l.com>
> Sent: Sunday, April 04, 2010 7:48 AM
> Subject: [Access-l] Fwd: IPad amazing
>
>
>> From: Cheree Heppe cheree at dogsc4me.com
>>
>> Cheree Heppe here:
>>
>> I actually did it!!  I took the light rail to the Apple store and saw one
>> of those IPads this morning.
>>
>> That whole local up-scale inner city mall was jumping with people, so it
>> was no problem finding directions down a flight to the Apple store.
>>
>> When I got off the escalator, there was this incredible doubled line
>> nearly to the escalator.  There were Apple staff outside the store
>> directing traffic.
>>
>> One of the guys working in the store escorted me in and arranged for me to
>> see the demo model that wasn't tethered to the display tables.
>>
>> It was busier in that apple store than at a Vegas casino!!
>>
>> Well, I got to the display table because the demo required charging.
>>
>> There is a physical volume toggle switch near the end of the long end.  No
>> fiddling with screen settings for volume, just bump the toggle up for loud
>> or down for soft.
>>
>> The earphone jack is on one short side edge near a corner and seems out of
>> the way.  The sound is good.
>>
>> There is a physical switch to lock the IPad into whichever position you
>> have oriented the screen, portrait or landscape.
>>
>> There is a recessed connector on the opposite short side from the earphone
>> jack to charge it or interface it with a computer.
>>
>> The IPad feels about like a MacBook Air in thickness.  The glass is flat
>> with a Home button embedded flush into the face of the glass very near the
>> bottom middle of the short side.
>>
>> The on/off switch is a switch on the edge of the IPad.  I can't recall
>> exactly where.
>>
>> The back and sides are metal and the sides are curved inward from the
>> widest point where they interface with the glass to where they taper in a
>> rounded way to the back side.  The back side felt flat with no features,
>> but I didn't look really carefully.
>>
>> Even with not being facile with Voiceover or anything, I got the IPad to
>> do stuff for me.
>>
>> To go on to a website
>>
>> To read a book.
>>
>> By then, I wanted one real bad.
>>
>> The IPad is freakin' amazing.
>>
>> It can interface with a Windows based or Apple based computer.
>>
>> The cover that it now comes with is just the first cover before everyone
>> else makes something.  It looks like the outside of a thin notebook
>> without the binder rings.  It opens from the long end.  The flat tucks
>> behind the IPad and the bottom edge of the cover tucks into a built-in
>> slot in the back of the case to allow the IPad to sit at a comfortable
>> slant for poking at.
>>
>> They plan to have a dock for a keyboard, but the Apple guy suggested just
>> getting a wireless keyboard and using Bluetooth to pair it.
>>
>> The Apple rep explained how the items are arranged on the screen.  This is
>> standard and once you get the feel for the gaps and positions, it all
>> stays the same.  That's what he told me.
>>
>> What a gadget!!  Accessible right out of the box.
>>
>> Regards,
>> Cheree Heppe
>>
>> Regards Steve
>> Email:  srp at internode.on.net
>> MSN Messenger:  internetuser383 at hotmail.com
>> Skype:  steve1963
>> Twitter:  steve9782
>> _______________________________________________
>> This is the Access-l Mailing list
>> access-l at access-l.com
>> http://access-l.com/mailman/listinfo/access-l
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Nfbsatx mailing list
> Nfbsatx at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbsatx_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> Nfbsatx:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbsatx_nfbnet.org/jose.martinez07%40gmail.com
>



From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Tue Apr  6 02:25:24 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Mon, 5 Apr 2010 21:25:24 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Salsa night at convention!
Message-ID: <o2n5e4f6adf1004051925mf6969900v9be9aa12d1c9bf1a@mail.gmail.com>

FW... from the Spanish Translation Committee


Are you a dancer? Are you NOT a dancer? Are you willing to learn
something new and have fun? Then come to Salsa Dance lessons and Latin
Dance Party at our Convention in Dallas!! Come and get into the rhythm of the
convention, learn to dance the Salsa and dance the night away! Bring
your partner or find one here. Group and individual instruction will
be provided at any level of proficiency. Please come and support this
fundraising event for the Spanish Translation Committee. There will be
a $5 charge at the door. We are planning this event for  Saturday
evening from 7:30-11:00 pm.
Check the agenda for the exact time and place. Have
a special song request? Send it to hernandezlegorreta at gmail.com



From CDanielsen at nfb.org  Tue Apr  6 04:42:47 2010
From: CDanielsen at nfb.org (Danielsen, Chris)
Date: Mon, 05 Apr 2010 23:42:47 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Louisiana Wins March Imaginator Drive Challenge!
Message-ID: <auto-000146547816@mailfront2.g2host.com>


Louisiana Wins March Imaginator Drive Challenge!



In the beginning of March, Imagination Fund Chairman Parnell Diggs 
urged affiliates to sign up for the Race for Independence as many of 
their members as possible by March 31.  For every ten members of each 
of the Federation's fifty-two affiliates that signed up to be 
Imaginators and participate in the Race for Independence by the end 
of March, the affiliate was entered in a drawing to receive $250.



Eleven affiliates (Maryland, Illinois, New Jersey, Connecticut, 
Louisiana, Ohio, Missouri, Texas, Florida, South Carolina, and 
Nebraska) were entered into the drawing, and Louisiana was the lucky 
winner! Congratulations, Louisiana, and congratulations to the other 
ten affiliates who signed up ten or more members in March! Their hard 
work led to an increased number of Imaginators participating in this 
important effort.



Though the March challenge is over, it is not too late to sign up for 
the Race for Independence or encourage others to do so! To sign up to 
be an Imaginator and help build the Imagination Fund, please visit 
<http://www.raceforindependence.org/>www.raceforindependence.org or 
call (410) 659-9314, extension 2371.

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From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Tue Apr  6 04:49:42 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Mon, 5 Apr 2010 23:49:42 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fwd: [Chapter-presidents] Louisiana Wins March Imaginator
	Drive Challenge!
In-Reply-To: <auto-000146547816@mailfront2.g2host.com>
References: <auto-000146547816@mailfront2.g2host.com>
Message-ID: <y2l5e4f6adf1004052149g3a68ec52n967103888260fcfb@mail.gmail.com>

we got close guys! Make sure you have joined the Rio Racers!

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Danielsen, Chris" <CDanielsen at nfb.org>
Date: Mon, 05 Apr 2010 23:42:47 -0500
Subject: [Chapter-presidents] Louisiana Wins March Imaginator Drive Challenge!
To: david.andrews at nfbnet.org


Louisiana Wins March Imaginator Drive Challenge!



In the beginning of March, Imagination Fund Chairman Parnell Diggs
urged affiliates to sign up for the Race for Independence as many of
their members as possible by March 31.  For every ten members of each
of the Federation's fifty-two affiliates that signed up to be
Imaginators and participate in the Race for Independence by the end
of March, the affiliate was entered in a drawing to receive $250.



Eleven affiliates (Maryland, Illinois, New Jersey, Connecticut,
Louisiana, Ohio, Missouri, Texas, Florida, South Carolina, and
Nebraska) were entered into the drawing, and Louisiana was the lucky
winner! Congratulations, Louisiana, and congratulations to the other
ten affiliates who signed up ten or more members in March! Their hard
work led to an increased number of Imaginators participating in this
important effort.



Though the March challenge is over, it is not too late to sign up for
the Race for Independence or encourage others to do so! To sign up to
be an Imaginator and help build the Imagination Fund, please visit
<http://www.raceforindependence.org/>www.raceforindependence.org or
call (410) 659-9314, extension 2371.



From jamessofka at att.net  Tue Apr  6 22:10:27 2010
From: jamessofka at att.net (james sofka)
Date: Tue, 6 Apr 2010 17:10:27 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fw: News for Fans of Helen Keller
Message-ID: <F3AABEAF288745FC9EDD3C611023809C@TCPI9FFDAF7536>

News for Fans of Helen Keller        Hi, all.
For your information.
Jim Sofka.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: Carl R. Augusto 
To: AFB Subscriber 
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 1:20 PM
Subject: News for Fans of Helen Keller


        
      AFB American Foundation
      for the Blind  TM   
                 
      
      Expanding possibilities for people with vision loss   



Author...Lecturer...Activist...World Traveler...Ambassador...Icon

Helen Keller was all of this and more. The life she led continues to be an inspiration.

That's why the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) recently launched the Helen Keller Facebook Fan Page to honor her many accomplishments, bring new life to her words and deeds, and introduce this amazing woman to a new generation of students, history buffs, blindness professionals, and so many others worldwide.

Please join us as a Fan of this page, www.facebook.com/HelenKellerFans, to enjoy quotes, fun facts, news about the work that continues in her name, exclusive photos and artifacts from our Helen Keller archives, and share content and links with your friends and colleagues.

When you become a Fan you will also receive updates on our Helen Keller Gallery exhibits and learn how to sign up for a personalized tour.

For more information on Helen Keller you can also visit our web site at www.afb.org/helenkeller.



URL www.facebook.com/HelenKellerFans





P.S. If you wish to opt out of receiving emails from AFB respond to this email with "unsubscribe" in the subject line. 
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From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Wed Apr  7 23:09:56 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Wed, 7 Apr 2010 18:09:56 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fwd: [nfb-texas members] Discount for Super Shuttle for
	National Convention
In-Reply-To: <001e01cad683$541ae8f0$6401a8c0@DHJK30D1>
References: <001e01cad683$541ae8f0$6401a8c0@DHJK30D1>
Message-ID: <s2l5e4f6adf1004071609h276fdd61t2603e632c4389676@mail.gmail.com>

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Angela S. Wolf" <angelawolf at austin.rr.com>
Date: Wed, 7 Apr 2010 13:51:26 -0500
Subject: [nfb-texas members] Discount for Super Shuttle for National Convention
To: NFB Affiliate Presidents List <nfbaffiliatepresidents at nfbnet.org>,
members at nfb-texas.org, NFB Chapter Presidents discussion list
<chapter-presidents at nfbnet.org>

Hello All:
The NFB of Texas has made arrangements with Super Shuttle  for a
convention rate from the airport to the hotel for the convention this
summer.   Please see the information below .



https://www.supershuttle.com/GroupRez/TripDetails.aspx?GC=ZHDX7



Attendees will receive the rates of $14 one way or $26 roundtrip when
either booking online or by calling 1-800-258-3826 and referencing
group code:  ZHDX7



We look forward to everyone coming to Texas!



Sincerely,

Angela Wolf, President

National Federation of the Blind of Texas



From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Tue Apr 13 02:41:31 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Mon, 12 Apr 2010 21:41:31 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] NFB Chapter Meeting this saturday
Message-ID: <o2s5e4f6adf1004121941i5b4e3413p8bed957883459e85@mail.gmail.com>

COME JOIN US!

If you?ve never attended a meeting of the National Federation of the
Blind (NFB), there?s no better time! Come join us at our April
meeting.

Date:		Saturday, 17 April 2010
Time:		1:00-2:30PM
Location:	DARS-Division of Services for the Blind				4204 Woodcock
Drive, Suite 274
San Antonio, TX 78228
(2nd Floor, Trinity Building, just inside NW Loop 410 between
Callaghan and Babcock)

This Month?s Agenda:
?	Nationwide update and announcements
?	Report on recent and upcoming events.
?	Refreshments served!

For additional information, call Jose Martinez, SA Chapter President,
on 210-722-3597.



From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Tue Apr 13 03:04:03 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Mon, 12 Apr 2010 22:04:03 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Affiliate buses for national convention
Message-ID: <x2i5e4f6adf1004122004pf2485d12k68f0b4982fd417c9@mail.gmail.com>

National Convention travel information.

The affiliate will be having the buses once again going to Dallas for
this years National Convention. Round trip tickets will be 25 dollars
for members, and 40 dollars for non members.

The bus will be leaving out of San Antonio on the evening of Friday
July 2, and coming back on Friday July 9. So all of you will be able
to enjoy Seminar day at convention.

In order to have all of our seats accounted for, please decide if you
are planning to take the affiliate bus and let me know as soon as
possible. At that moment I will need to have your money as well. If
there are any questions please let me know. Thank you.

Jose A. Z. Martinez



From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Tue Apr 13 23:50:50 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Tue, 13 Apr 2010 18:50:50 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fwd: [TPOBC] TABS Conference Agenda
In-Reply-To: <5A4B59C9BAC6412CA8DD1C46ED27A6D0@lauradesktop>
References: <5A4B59C9BAC6412CA8DD1C46ED27A6D0@lauradesktop>
Message-ID: <j2j5e4f6adf1004131650y401b0bc8z4a50e00d770cc16e@mail.gmail.com>

it is shaping up to be a great TABS Conference

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Laura Weber <weberfam07 at comcast.net>
Date: Tue, 13 Apr 2010 13:33:39 -0500
Subject: [TPOBC] TABS Conference Agenda
To: tpobc at googlegroups.com

Texas Association of Blind Students
 2010 Spring Conference
 The Crowne Plaza Downtown
1700 Smith St. Houston TX. 77002
Friday, April 23- Sunday, April 25, 2010



Friday April 23,2010


7:00 - Registration
          Daniel Martinez - Treasurer, Texas Association of Blind Students
          Kayleigh Joiner - Secretary, Texas Association of Blind Students



8:00-10:00 - TABS Idol



10:00 - Adjourn



Saturday April 23,2010



8:00 - 9:00 - Registration
                     James Watson - Board Member 1, Texas Association of
Blind Students
                     Antoinette Cervantes - Board Member 2, Texas
Association of Blind

 Students

9:00 - Commencement Address
          Juan Del Rosario - President, Texas Association of Blind Students

9:10 - A Word from the State Affiliate
          Angela Wolf - President, NFB of Texas

9: 25 - Welcome to Houston
            Louis Maher - President, NFB of Houston

9:35 - Update from DBS
           Linda Johnson - Division for Blind Services

9:45 - All the Latest from TPOBC
           Emily Gibbs - Vice President, Texas Parents of Blind Children

9:55 - The Strength of NFB Newsline
           Steve Tompkins - NFB Newsline of Texas Coordinator


10:05 - Freedom Scientific
            Bobby Lakey - Regional Sales Rep, Freedom Scientific

10: 15 - The Talking Book Program
              Steven Biles,  Talking Book Program

10:25 - Update from the National Association of Blind Students
             Janice Jeang - Regional Rep.


10:40 - The Mentoring Program
             James Watson - Board Member 1, Texas Association of Blind
Students


10:50 - Why a Guide Dog works for me.
            Melissa Reyna - Graduate, Houston Community College



11:00 - Why We Go On
            Julie Johnston

11:20 - My experience at National Convention

Ashley Alexander, 1st Vice President, Texas Association of Blind Students



11:35 - Whose Right is it Anyway?
            Do's and Don't s in dealing with the misconceptions of Blindness



12:00 - 2:00 - Lunch, Exhibitions

2:00 - Panel on Employment


2:30 - Panel on Success in College



3:00 - Panel on Technology


            3:30 - Panel on Traveling



4:00 - Adjourn

7:00 - TABS Banquet

8:00-10:00 - TABS After-Party



Sunday April 25,2010


10:00 - A Word From Our President

Juan Del Rosario - President, Texas Association of Blind Students


10:10 - Washington Seminar

          Kayleigh Joiner
          Daniel Martinez

          Juan Del Rosario



10:30 - CCB Summer Program
          Kayleigh Joiner - Secretary, Texas Association of Blind Students



10:40 - Networking



11:00 - Adjourn



Juan Del Rosario

President, The Texas Association of Blind Students
7823 Comal St.

Houston TX. 77051

www.nfb-texas.org/tabs.html

Telephone: 713-320-5519





-- 
To unsubscribe, reply using "remove me" as the subject.



From PDiggs at nfb.org  Wed Apr 14 09:02:15 2010
From: PDiggs at nfb.org (Diggs,
	Parnell)
Date: Wed, 14 Apr 2010 04:02:15 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Imagination Fund Conference Call April 20,
	2010 at 8:00 PM EST
Message-ID: <auto-000147718403@mailfront2.g2host.com>


Subject:  Imagination Fund Conference Call Tuesday, April 20, at 8:00 
p.m. (eastern)

Dear Colleagues:

Some of my fellow Federationists have asked me to conduct a 
fundraising seminar for those participating in the 2010 Race for Independence.

The Dallas Convention is approaching fast, and we need to kick it 
into high gear for the final push to generate proceeds for NFB 
programs at the national, state, and local levels.

If you have signed-up for the Race for Independence, or if you plan 
to do so, please call into (800) 910-2399 and use code 573791 next 
Tuesday, April 20, at 8:00 p.m. (eastern).

The call will last no longer than thirty minutes.  During this brief 
call, you will be able to hear from some of those who have already 
met their fundraising goals for 2010.

Find out how they did it.  There is ample time to raise $250 by July 
31, but we need to start now.  I look forward to your participation 
in this important call, and I thank you for the work you are doing.

Sincerely,

Parnell Diggs, Chairman
National Federation of the Blind Imagination Fund

***********************************
Parnell and Kim Diggs
8845-B Chandler Dr.
Myrtle Beach, SC 29575
Home:  843-215-9056
Parnell office:  843-492-7411
Fax:  843-215-4928




From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Wed Apr 14 22:24:03 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Wed, 14 Apr 2010 17:24:03 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fwd: [TABS] 2010 TABS Spring Conference - Banquet and
	After Party
In-Reply-To: <i2lb13288251004141439ld9d24f2br7c24aa39d6c11251@mail.gmail.com>
References: <i2lb13288251004141439ld9d24f2br7c24aa39d6c11251@mail.gmail.com>
Message-ID: <s2x5e4f6adf1004141524g6f9666b4z9c67567be8f96d8a@mail.gmail.com>

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Juan Del Rosario-Martinez <delrosariomartinez.juan at gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 14 Apr 2010 16:39:29 -0500
Subject: [TABS] 2010 TABS Spring Conference - Banquet and After Party
To: tabs_students at googlegroups.com

Hello TABStersl

TABS is pleased to announce that we will be having a Banquet on Saturday
April 24,2010
at 7pm.
The Banquet will be free of charge to those who register with TABS for the
conference.
Registration is $10 on the weekend of the event.
If you would like a discount, you can register online and save $5
Click here to register<http://www.nfb-texas.org/tabs_2010%20Spring%20Conference%20Registration.html>
you may register online until Thursday April 22,2010 at 11:59PM

we have a very compelling reason for you to stay after the meal is done.

The TABS-After Party will happen directly after the banquet from 8-10pm on
April 24,2010.
The After Party will feature a live concert by Your
Amsterdam<http://www.myspace.com/youramsterdam>,
a  local Houston rock cover band.
Your Amsterdam appeared at last year's BrailleFest 2009 and are eager to
rock all of the TABSters that will be
attending the conference.

We thank and appreciate all your support and hope to see you all in less
than two weeks.
stay up to date by visiting our main site at
www.nfb-texas.org/tabs.html
-- 
-Juan Del Rosario
President
Texas Association of Blind Students
www.nfb-texas.org/tabs.html

-- 
The Texas Association of Blind Students
Web Site:
www.nfb-texas.org/tabs.html
Toll Free: 877-887-5902

You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
Groups "The Texas Association of Blind Students" group.
To post to this group, send email to tabs_students at googlegroups.com
To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
tabs_students-unsubscribe at googlegroups.com
For more options, visit this group at
http://groups.google.com/group/tabs_students

To unsubscribe, reply using "remove me" as the subject.



From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Fri Apr 16 02:01:09 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Thu, 15 Apr 2010 21:01:09 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Meeting reminder and announcements
Message-ID: <w2w5e4f6adf1004151901x9801b9f5tc131b614012c3152@mail.gmail.com>

Hello Members:

A couple of announcements before our chapter meeting this Saturday. I
hope all of you have signed up for the rio racers, remember you have
to sign up, unfortunately we can?t sign you all up. So please go over
to:

http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/TR/Campaign/General?team_id=3331&pg=team&fr_id=1070


And sign up.

we had also talked about possiblely getting T-shirts for us to use at
the walk for independence, and thanks to all our hard work this will
be able to happen. The shirts will be 10 dollars, and we will start
collecting the money this Saturday at our chapter meeting. So if you
are interested in getting a shirt bring your 10 dollars and what size
you are going to want so that we can take down this information and
send them over to be printed up.

That is all for now, We have been very busy, lots and lots of good
information and new events coming up for the chapter. Join us to get
all of the updates. So if you have not made plans to join us, make
sure you do.




COME JOIN US!

If you?ve never attended a meeting of the National Federation of the
Blind (NFB), there?s no better time! Come join us at our April
meeting.

Date:		Saturday, 17 April 2010
Time:		1:00-2:30PM
Location:	DARS-Division of Services for the Blind				4204 Woodcock
Drive, Suite 274
San Antonio, TX 78228
(2nd Floor, Trinity Building, just inside NW Loop 410 between
Callaghan and Babcock)

This Month?s Agenda:
?	Nationwide update and announcements
?	Report on recent and upcoming events.
?	Refreshments served!

For additional information, call Jose Martinez, SA Chapter President,
on 210-722-3597.



From braille at sbcglobal.net  Sat Apr 17 02:36:21 2010
From: braille at sbcglobal.net (Mary Donahue)
Date: Fri, 16 Apr 2010 21:36:21 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] March Meeting Minutes
Message-ID: <A9FE7B28BE534784860DBA302C5A8D47@valued3a11ee5d>

Good evening everyone,

    I am attaching the text of the minutes to this email this time due to 
technology issues that have been going on. However, both the March and April 
minutes will be on the Web site later this weekend or early next week.

    See you all tomorrow.

Mary Donahue

SECRETARY'S REPORT

San Antonio Chapter

NFB of Texas

March 20, 2010



President Jose Martinez called the meeting to order at 1:05 P.M. It was 
announced that refreshments would be served after the meeting courtesy of 
Cindy Garcia, Sarah Litzler, and Denise Rodriguez. Denise, Sarah, and Cindy 
were delegated as the refreshment committee.



            First, the Chapter listened to Presidential Release #382, which 
mainly touched on the settlement of Google Books and and the Pedestrian 
Safety Act. State presidents were invited into the Jernigan Institute. There 
was a reminder for members to register for the cnventionand for hotel rooms. 
Announcements included one about science, one about the seniors' division 
seminar, one about the Race for Independence, one about the Pedestrian 
Safety Enhancement Act with urgent action to contact Chairperson Waxman, and 
one about the summary of the Google settlement and digital books within two 
years.



            There is no word yet whether the state affiliate will have buses 
or not, as in 2006 and in 2008. Discussion followed about the last day of 
the convention and date of the banquet. Barbecue tickets are $45, and will 
no doubt take place on the first day of

General sessions.



            Discussion followed about NFB Net and the Chapter discussion 
list. Pete Donahue offered to set up a second host site mirror in case NFB 
Net goes down.



            Mary Donahue offered to replace Carla Valpeoz as list moderator. 
The motion was unanimous.



            President Martinez introduced the concept of door prizes at the 
meeting. The question was about which year Dr. Maurer became president. Pete 
Donahue was the winner of a bottle opener/key chain as the first official 
door prize.



            President Martinez summarized the low vision expo on March 6. 
Jim Sofka received the iPod Shuffle in the Chapter raffle. The proceeds went 
to Foundation Fighting Blindness Vision Walk on March 13. Chapter members 
were at the vision walk to create awareness. Discussion followed about 
contributing to Foundation Fighting Blindness. In addition, discussion 
followed about demonstrating blindness skills and inviting staff from the 
NFB training centers. Sarah Litzler pointed out that there were 
approximately 30 blind people present and using canes.



            There will be a fund-raiser on April 8 with Red Robin. Members 
will pass out fliers any time between 11:00 and 9:00 P.M. or after 5:00 P.M. 
until 9:00 P.M. Ten percent of the proceeds will go to the Chapter. (As of 
this writing, the Red Robin fund-raiser did not take place on April 8, but 
will take place some time in the very near future.



            President Martinez suggested that the Chapter donate to the Race 
for Independence between April and June. Pete Donahue moved, and Scott 
Edwards seconded. The motion passed unanimously. The Chapter will 
participate in the Race for Independence as a team. Discussion followed 
about race team names. The Chapter unanimously agreed on the team name "The 
S.A. Rio Racers."



Discussion followed about setting up a PayPal account. Cindy Garcia 
explained about paying by PayPal for those not familiar. Members presented 
pros and cons about PayPal. Pete Donahue moved to add a PayPal payment 
gatewayfor processing of on-line transactions, and Mary Donahue seconded. 
The discussion was tabled until a later date. Cindy suggested that members 
take a look at the PayPal Web site.



            Pete Donahue suggested that a laptop be available at Chapter 
events so potential members can register for Newsline or join the Chapter 
when there is a PayPal account.



            The meeting adjourned at 2:28 P.M.



Respectfully submitted,



Mary Donahue, Secretary










From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Sat Apr 17 23:08:45 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Sat, 17 Apr 2010 18:08:45 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Support: NFB Fundraiser with Chili's
Message-ID: <w2v5e4f6adf1004171608s861ac2c8u1b3e34a17012126@mail.gmail.com>

Hello Members and close Friends of the Federation:

This letter is intended to let you know that we are teaming up with
Chili?s South Park for a fundraiser set to happen on Monday May 3,
from 4 pm, till 11 pm. Attached you will find the flier that you will
have to present in order for the NFB to get a percentage of the cost
of your meal. So come on out and enjoy a great dinner and at the same
time help the local NFB Chapter fundraise for the Race for
Independence set to happen in July at the NFB National Convention.
Spread the word and pass out this flier to whoever is interested. For
further information please go to:

WWW.NFBSATX.ORG

Thanks in advance.

Jose A. Z. Martinez
President
NFB San Antonio Chapter
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From jamessofka at att.net  Sun Apr 18 15:45:16 2010
From: jamessofka at att.net (james sofka)
Date: Sun, 18 Apr 2010 10:45:16 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fw: [Access-l] Fwd: Article: Apple i pad brings easy
	reading to theblind
Message-ID: <CB8610B3441640089E2E1F48586A8A8B@TCPI9FFDAF7536>

Hi, all.
For your information.
Jim Sofka.
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Steve Pattison" <srp at internode.on.net>
To: "Access L" <access-l at access-l.com>; "CUG Members" <Members at bcacug.org>
Sent: Thursday, April 15, 2010 1:48 AM
Subject: [Access-l] Fwd: Article: Apple i pad brings easy reading to 
theblind


From:    steven taylor steven_taylor10 at bigpond.com
 To:      bactttoma at freelists.org

Taken from.
http://blogs.forbes.com/booked/2010/04/12/apples-ipad-brings-easy-reading-to-the-blind/

Apple's iPad Brings Easy Reading to the Blind
April 12, 2010 - 3:14 pm

By Benjamin Clymer
Benjamin Clymer is a freelance writer and founder of HODINKEE.com.

Ask any PC-loving computer nerd why Apple products have become the de
facto choice of the masses, and you?ll likely hear something like,
?People buy Apple products because they?re pretty.? That may be true
for many, but one group of consumers who care little for Apple?s
prodigious aesthetics are the blind.

They care more about how Apple products actually work. And while
theiPad may be Apple's most controversial launch in recent memory, the
blind community is unanimous in its support. The National Federation
of the Blind (NFB) even released a statement last January praising the
device.

What are they so excited about?

First, consider what an e-reader represents to the blind community. The
concept of an affordable, portable device that allows the visually
impaired to consume media easily and without special consideration is
an exciting proposition, but one never fully realized. In fact,
Amazon?s Kindle, which until the iPad?s release was the most acclaimed
and full-featured e-reader, had high potential for capturing the
hearts of the 314 million visually impaired persons around the world.
Instead, Amazon failed to fully consider what would be required for a
blind person to successfully navigate the Kindle?s menus without
assistance. While magazines, books and newspapers had full voice
integration, allowing easy listening of all text, Amazon provided no
way to enter a publication from the Kindle?s home screen. What good is
a reader to someone who is blind if it requires a seeing person to get
to the first page, let alone turn that page?

Both the NFB and the American Council of the Blind have lambasted the
Kindle, filing a lawsuit against Arizona State University, which had
been part of Kindle?s pilot program to replace textbooks with the e-
reader, and sending a formal complaint to the Justice Department
insisting all Kindles be removed from five other universities testing
the Kindle with their student body. Two other universities, Syracuse
University and the University of Wisconsin at Madison, had previously
told Amazon they would not order any Kindles until the text menus were
fully accessible to the blind. Amazon has since released a statement
saying the Kindle will be blind-friendly by this summer. It's too
little, too late.

In stark contrast, all iPads have a standard application called
VoiceOver, which allows for audible control of every single menu, even
those included in third party applications. NFB has commended Apple
for producing a device that is usable right out of the box for both
seeing and the visually impaired alike. The NFB statement even
mentions that the touch-screen ?need not be a barrier? to the blind.

Computer nerds, tech columnists and the general public may not know
where the iPad fits into the existing media consumption landscape--but
the blind and visually impaired see it as the only e-reader worth
owning. Call it further proof that Apple is more than just a pretty
face.

Regards Steve
Email:  srp at internode.on.net
MSN Messenger:  internetuser383 at hotmail.com
Skype:  steve1963
Twitter:  steve9782

_______________________________________________
This is the Access-l Mailing list
access-l at access-l.com
http://access-l.com/mailman/listinfo/access-l 




From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Sun Apr 18 18:07:38 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Sun, 18 Apr 2010 13:07:38 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fwd: [TABS] 2010 TABS Spring Conference Agenda and Rundown
In-Reply-To: <k2tb13288251004181030i56221bect834e1dc076ad4d@mail.gmail.com>
References: <k2tb13288251004181030i56221bect834e1dc076ad4d@mail.gmail.com>
Message-ID: <n2w5e4f6adf1004181107weaebbaf4kf185ed0dbca9b0bf@mail.gmail.com>

It is looking like it is going to be a great conference for the
students this year.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Juan Del Rosario-Martinez <delrosariomartinez.juan at gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 18 Apr 2010 12:30:48 -0500
Subject: [TABS] 2010 TABS Spring Conference Agenda and Rundown
To: tabs_students at googlegroups.com

Hello TABSters!
The Great weekend is just 5 days away.
I wanted to make sure that all of you have the Agenda available ahead of
time.
We will have large print as well as Braille Agendas at the Conference.

We've got great news If you are joining us for just one day of
the conference, or can't make it at all
We will be recording the conference all weekend long, and making it
available on our site, podcasts and other
media outlets.

TABS Idol will be held on Friday April 23,2010 from 8-10pm.
You may perform 1 song either with a song, an instrument, or a on your own..
the Winner will perform their song the next day during the TABS Conference.
You may contact Juan Carlos Munoz at
jcmunoz1989 at gmail.com to sign up for TABS IDOL.

The speeches, panels and exhibits will be held from 9am-12pm then from
2pm-4pm.
We will provide lunch at no cost to you TABSters.
The TABS Banquet and and after party will also be free of charge
The Banquet will be from 7pm-8pm and the concert will be from 8pm-10pm.

We are looking forward to seeing you all at our Conference and welcome any
questions, comments or suggestions.

-- 
-Juan Del Rosario
President
Texas Association of Blind Students
www.nfb-texas.org/tabs.html

-- 
The Texas Association of Blind Students
Web Site:
www.nfb-texas.org/tabs.html
Toll Free: 877-887-5902

You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
Groups "The Texas Association of Blind Students" group.
To post to this group, send email to tabs_students at googlegroups.com
To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
tabs_students-unsubscribe at googlegroups.com
For more options, visit this group at
http://groups.google.com/group/tabs_students
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From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Tue Apr 20 00:03:14 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Mon, 19 Apr 2010 19:03:14 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fwd: [nfb-texas members] 2010 Scholarship Program
In-Reply-To: <5C7A0D46C5C34EF9BD22148362390AFF@jjsPC>
References: <5C7A0D46C5C34EF9BD22148362390AFF@jjsPC>
Message-ID: <g2u5e4f6adf1004191703v378537e9u7e3170b248253b60@mail.gmail.com>

For all our students.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Jim Shaffer <jjs78660 at gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 19 Apr 2010 13:48:41 -0500
Subject: [nfb-texas members] 2010 Scholarship Program
To: members nfb-texas <members at nfb-texas.org>

The application form for the 2010 scholarship program is now online.
The deadline for scholarship applications is June 30.
See www.nfb-texas.org/scholarship_2010/.
--
Jim Shaffer
Pflugerville, TX
email:  jjs at jjshaffer.net
cell:  512-699-9251
web page:  www.jjshaffer.net
band page:  www.myspace.com/brianbyrneandborrowedtime



__________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus
signature database 5041 (20100419) __________

The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.

http://www.eset.com



From jamessofka at att.net  Tue Apr 20 01:10:46 2010
From: jamessofka at att.net (james sofka)
Date: Mon, 19 Apr 2010 20:10:46 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Fw: ALERT!--Justice Department, Congress,
	Advance ADA and Web Accessibility
Message-ID: <140F425091954D8289EE3E36352CEE21@TCPI9FFDAF7536>

ALERT!--Justice Department, Congress, Advance ADA and Web Accessibility    Hi, all.
For your  information.
Jim Sofka.
----- Original Message ----- 
From: AFB DirectConnect 
To: AFB Subscriber 
Sent: Monday, April 19, 2010 12:32 PM
Subject: ALERT!--Justice Department, Congress, Advance ADA and Web Accessibility


        

          
      


ALERT!--With Milestone Justice Department and Congressional Action,
ADA and Web Accessibility to Proudly Take Center Stage



For further information, contact:

Mark Richert, Esq.
Director, Public Policy, AFB
(202) 822-0833
mrichert at afb.net

Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, Tom Parez, confirmed late last week that the long-awaited refresh of the Justice Department's Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations pertaining to state and local government and public accommodations will, when published soon, include provisions bringing greater clarity to the ADA's applicability to e-commerce. The new rules are expected to favorably resolve, among other things, the question of whether retailers and other public accommodations doing business exclusively online must ensure the accessibility of their online premises to people with disabilities. 

Advocates will recall that AFB coordinated the vision loss and disability community's response to the Justice Department's proposed ADA rules to call on the Department to address this critical issue and to promulgate rules with more meaningful impact on the wider availability of accessible electronic and information technologies used and offered by government and public accommodations. The call for such modernization of federal rules was most recently joined by the Federal Communications Commission's own National Broadband Plan which specifically urges the Justice Department and other federal agencies to undertake these significant improvements.

The Assistant Attorney General's announced commitment came simultaneously with an announcement by the House Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on the Constitution, to hold a hearing this Thursday, April 22 entitled Achieving the Promise of the Americans with Disabilities Act in the Digital Age: Current Issues, Challenges, and Opportunities. The hearing is intended to highlight the relevance of the ADA to technology and Internet accessibility generally and to further build the record for the expected Justice Department rulemaking. 

Confirmed witnesses to testify at the hearing include Mark Richert, AFB Policy Director, Judy Brewer, Web Accessibility Initiative, and Dan Goldstein, Brown, Goldstein and Levy, counsel representing the National Federation of the Blind in its litigation against Target for failure to make Target.com accessible to people who are blind.

Advocates willing to share personal stories about the impact of Internet accessibility or inaccessibility in daily life and who are willing to have such short personal stories considered for inclusion in the official hearing record of AFB's testimony are encouraged to email such content, no more than the equivalent of one-half printed page, to afbgov at afb.net.

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From David.B.Andrews at state.mn.us  Sat Apr 24 02:01:37 2010
From: David.B.Andrews at state.mn.us (Andrews,
	David B B (DEED))
Date: Fri, 23 Apr 2010 21:01:37 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] New Accessible Diabetic Devices Available
Message-ID: <auto-000150491298@mailfront1.g2host.com>



From: Wilson, Joanne [mailto:JWilson at nfb.org]
Sent: Friday, April 23, 2010 1:43 PM
To: Andrews, David B B (DEED)
Subject: New Accessible Diabetic Devices Available

Dear Colleagues,

Five years ago, the NFB asked all the blood 
glucose meter companies to make a talking meter 
for our members.  Prodigy was the only company to 
step up and make a talking meter. At our request, 
they made the first talking Prodigy AutoCode? 
meter.  They also worked with many NFB Team 
members for over a year and made the first fully 
audible Prodigy Voice? meter allowing NFB Members 
with diabetes total independence. In 2008, we 
presented the NFB Access + Award to Prodigy for their Prodigy Voice? meter.

The Count-A-Dose has been used for many years by 
blind diabetics, so they can independently fill 
their insulin syringes. We were told it would no 
longer be available and we asked Prodigy again to 
help us out.  Prodigy bought the patent rights to 
make the Count-A-Dose, and after some slight 
improvements, they released the new Prodigy 
Count-A-Dose? on April 1st, 2010.  The NFB 
Independence Market in Baltimore will be selling the Prodigy Count-A-Dose?

Later this year, Prodigy will also be releasing 
the first fully audible insulin pump, as well as 
a talking pill bottle, a laser lancing device, 
and other new accessible products. Please pass on 
this information on to blind diabetics.

Sincerely,

Joanne Wilson
Executive Director of Affiliate Action
National Federation of the Blind
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From fowlers at syix.com  Sun Apr 25 22:16:16 2010
From: fowlers at syix.com (Angela Fowler)
Date: Sun, 25 Apr 2010 17:16:16 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Attend A NFB Center
Message-ID: <auto-000149630914@mailfront2.g2host.com>


Hello everyone,
Interested in or just curious about the three NFB training centers? 
Want to attend one of these excellent centers, but not sure how to 
secure funding? Then come join us tomorrow, April 25 at 8:00 p.m. 
eastern time, 5 PM Pacific time for the California Association of 
Blind Students April membership teleconference.

To join the conference, dial 218-339-2500. When prompted, enter pass 
code 958093, followed by the pound sign. Confirm that you have 
entered the correct pass code and you will automatically be placed in 
the conference.

This will be an informative and interactive conference. The 
participation of all who attend is welcome and encouraged. Do come 
with any questions you may have.
sincerely,
Angela Fowler (president)
California Association of Blind Students

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From pdonahue1 at sbcglobal.net  Mon Apr 26 17:28:34 2010
From: pdonahue1 at sbcglobal.net (Peter Donahue)
Date: Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:28:34 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Southwest Airlines and Customers of Size
Message-ID: <001a01cae565$e74b9bb0$4001a8c0@yourfsyly0jtwn>

Hello everyone,

    Convention is rapidly approaching and many of us are making airline 
reservations. For many of us this isn't any real concern. However large 
customers, or what airlines like South call "Customers of Size" have been 
subject to policies that can limit their airline choice and can add 
additional expense and frustration to their flying experience. I know about 
this first-hand as it happened to me last year when we flew to Detroit. I 
know that many of you heard bits and pieces of that story. Southwest's 
Customers of Size appears below along with their policy concerning the 
carriage of service animals.

    While the concerns of large passengers aren't a major issue of the NFB 
when two policies conflict I believe there is cause for alarm and a need to 
investigate. I travel with a guide dog. Southwest's policy says that guide 
dogs may occupy the space at the passenger's seat and that of the seat next 
to the passenger. This language leads a service animal user of any size to 
believe that every effort will be made to block off the seat next to the 
passenger giving the service animal more room so why charge them for that 
seat. We may be looking at a possible ACAA violation if the airline chooses 
to do this as a courtesy to guide dog and other service animal users.

    Note also that the language in the Customer of Size Policy is the same 
old dribble we've heard from airlines before about safety and such. 
Southwest gives large customers a refund of the unused seat but chasing down 
that refund is a royal pain. Ask someone who went through that experience. I 
don't care what they say. If other entities see it fit to have seating 
available for large persons airlines should be expected to do the same. This 
would also benefit guide dog users giving them extra room for their dog 
without compromising the floorspace of an adjacent passenger.

    Anyone coming to Dallas for the convention and who is large is advised 
to choose Delta or another airline with friendlier large customer policies. 
We flew on Delta last fall and didn't have any problems due to my large 
size. Because $1000.00 of professional recording equipment was damaged by 
Southwest last year "What a reward for sitting down and shutting up" to 
quote Dr. Maurer we're having to take extraordinary measures. In addition to 
purchasing travel insurance we'll be chartering a plane to Dallas and back 
to avoid mishandling of the recording equipment by baggage personnel, issues 
related to size, and the many other benefits private air charter has over 
scheduled flights. Here are the two policies:


Southwest Airlines Customers of Size Policy

>From the Web Site:
http://www.southwest.com/travel_center/cos_guidelines.html

Guidelines for Customers of 
Size--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Customers who are unable to lower both armrests (the definitive boundary 
between seats) and/or who compromise any portion of adjacent seating should 
proactively
book the number of seats needed prior to travel. This purchase serves as a 
notification of a special seating need and allows us to process a refund of
the additional seating cost after travel (provided the flight doesn't 
oversell). Most importantly, it ensures that all onboard have access to safe 
and
comfortable seating.

For more information, please refer to our
Customer of size QA

Booking Instructions via southwest.com

list of 6 items
1. Click "Reservations."
2. Select your city pair(s) and travel date(s).
3. Select the number of seats needed ("two" is the typical choice for most 
Customers of size).
4. Proceed through the "Select Flight" and "Itinerary and Pricing" pages.
5. Complete the "Passenger Information" name fields: For
example
, a Passenger named Tom Smith would designate Passenger One as "Tom Smith," 
and Passenger Two as "Tom XS Smith" (first name XS and last name).
6. If a Customer purchases a Business Select or an Anytime fare, the second 
seat can be sold at the discounted Child's Fare. It is important to note 
that
the Child's fare is available via our Reservations Sales Center only. You 
will need to call 800 I-FLY-SWA to book/purchase the extra seat at the Child
Fare.
list end

Booking Instructions via our Reservations Center at 800 I-FLY-SWA 
(800-435-9792)

list of 3 items
1. Inform the Agent you are familiar with our Customer of size policy and 
wish to book two seats.
2. We will offer the lowest fare available and if an advance purchase, 
discounted fare is booked, the second seat will be sold at the same 
discounted fare.
3. If a Customer purchases one of our unrestricted full fares, the second 
seat will be sold at the Child's Fare.
list end

Checkin Instructions

list of 3 items
1. Customers can retrieve a
Security Document
1 online to pass through a security checkpoint if not checking baggage.
2. If baggage or wheelchair assistance is needed curbside, a skycap will 
escort the Customer to the ticket counter. The Customer of size checkin is 
handled
at the ticket counter or at the gate (and cannot be processed online or via 
E-Ticket Check-In kiosk).
3. At checkin, the Customer will receive a boarding pass,
Reserved Seat Document,
Refund Advice Slip
, and preboard directions.
list end

1On occasion, federally mandated procedures may prevent our ability to issue 
a Security Document online. Under these circumstances, please see a 
Southwest
Customer Service Agent at the airport for assistance.



Customer of Size 
QA--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>From the Web Site:
http://www.southwest.com/travel_center/cos_qa.html
list of 23 items
. Is the policy unique or new to Southwest Airlines?
No, other carriers have similar policies, but to the best of our knowledge, 
no other carrier offers a refund after travel. We've followed this policy 
for
28 of our 37 years of operation, but only became more vigilant regarding the 
additional purchase when we began seeing an increase in the number of valid
complaints from passengers who traveled without full access to the seat 
purchased because a large Customer infringed upon the adjacent seating 
space.
. Why ask large Customers to purchase additional seating?
We could no longer ignore complaints from Customers who traveled without 
full access to the seat purchased due to encroachment by a large seatmate 
whose
body extended into the neighboring seat. These Customers had uncomfortable 
(and sometimes painful) travel experiences, and it is our responsibility to
seek resolution to prevent this problem.
. What is the cost of the additional seating?
If the Customer is holding an advance purchase, discounted fare, the second 
seat will be sold at the same discounted fare. If the Customer has purchased
one of our low, unrestricted full fares, the second seat will be sold at the 
Child's Fare.
. What is the definitive gauge for a Customer of size?
The armrest is the definitive gauge, as it serves as the boundary between 
seats. Customers who are unable to lower the armrests (the definitive 
boundary
between seats) and/or who compromise any portion of adjacent seating should 
proactively book the number of seats needed during initial reservations.
. How do I qualify for and request a refund of the additional seat purchase?
As long as the flight does not oversell (having more confirmed Customers 
waiting to board an aircraft than seats on the aircraft), we will refund the 
additional
seat purchase after travel. A
Refund Advice Slip
, a guide for conveniently requesting refunds (via telephone or letter), is 
provided to the Customer of size at checkin. And, if it appears a flight 
will
oversell, the option to purchase a second seat and travel on a less full 
flight is available.
. Are there other reasons to purchase additional seating?
Yes, Customers wishing to secure in an aircraft seat a musical item, a child 
restraint device for an infant, etc. must purchase an additional ticket. 
However,
these Customers have other "options" such as holding an infant under the age 
of two as a lap child or placing the instrument in an onboard stowage space
or in the cargo hold, and we are sensitive to fact that a large Customer has 
no option regarding seating space. For that reason, we offer a refund of the
additional seat purchased (by a Customer of size) as long as the flight does 
not oversell.
. Won't this be embarrassing to the large Customer and the Employee?
It's tough to speak privately in an airport setting, and because a 
discussion about size is sensitive, we've cautioned our Employees to use 
discretion.
Yes, it's difficult to deliver or receive a sensitive message, and to 
alleviate confusion, we encourage Customers with unique seating needs to 
proactively
purchase additional seating (again, this is to notify us of the unique 
need). We ask this to accommodate our Customers in comfort and avoid 
embarrassing
conversation. Ultimately, it is the Customer's responsibility to communicate 
with us upfront (at the time of booking) about his/her seating needs so that
we may best serve him/her and all others onboard.
. I am a large person and use a seatbelt extension, but I fit in one 
aircraft seat. Do I have to purchase two seats?
Our policy does not focus on weight, and the seatbelt extension is not the 
determining factor. We use the ability to lower the armrests as the gauge, 
as
the armrests are truly the definitive boundary between each seat.
. Are all overweight people subject to the policy?
Many Americans are "overweight" or "clinically obese." A number of 
overweight or obese people occupy only one seat. In fact, many Customers may 
use a seatbelt
extension but occupy only one seat, and these Customers would not be asked 
to reserve a second seat. If a Customer cannot lower the armrest (and is 
unable
to comfortably travel with it in the down position), he/she is required to 
pay for the additional seat occupied. Again, we will offer a refund if the 
flight
does not oversell.
. I'm large but can be seated with the armrests down. Aren't your Employees 
wrong to question me?
If a concern exists, we shouldn't ignore it even if it's difficult for both 
parties to discuss. Condoning an unsafe, cramped seating arrangement onboard
our aircraft is far more inappropriate than simply questioning a Customer's 
fit in our seats.
. Why not make your seats wider or add a few wide seats on your aircraft?
Our ongoing goal is to operate a low-fare, low cost airline, and the costs 
of reconfiguring our fleet would be staggering and would ultimately reflect
in the form of higher fares for our Customers. Purchasing two seats on 
Southwest Airlines is significantly less expensive than purchasing one first 
class
seat on another airline.
. If a flight is "open," why are you charging for an additional seat?
A Customer of size has no way of knowing at the time of booking if his/her 
flights will be full. The inconsistency of charging for the extra seat on 
one
occasion and not others leaves the Customer not knowing what to expect and 
not having a full understanding of our policy. Thus, we require the 
additional
purchase despite booking levels.
. Why can't two large Customers share their second seat?
Open seating cannot guarantee that there will be an entire row open for two 
Customers to sit together and share the middle seat on each leg of the trip.
. Why can't a large Customer sit with a family member who doesn't mind being 
encroached upon or a small child/person who doesn't take a full seat?
Open seating cannot guarantee that two people will be able to sit together. 
In addition, we must treat the smaller person (despite willingness or 
personal
relationship) as a valued Customer who deserves the use of a full seat. Most 
importantly, we have to consider the safety aspect of the family member 
whose
movement (especially in the event of an emergency) could be compromised if 
encroached on by a large seatmate.
. Isn't this policy just another way to increase your revenue?
No, we are not "making money" from this policy. In addition to giving the 
Customer a refund for the second seat, we are absorbing the administrative 
costs
(staffing and processing) of issuing the refund. 98 percent of extra seat 
purchases qualify for a refund, as a refund request is declined only in the 
event
of an oversale that causes us to deny transportation to a confirmed Customer 
(to whom we must issue denied boarding compensation).
. If a Customer has broad shoulders, will he/she have to buy a second seat?
Again, if a Customer cannot lower the armrests, the additional purchase is 
necessary. Simply having broad shoulders would not necessarily prevent 
another
Customer from occupying adjoining seat. The upper body can be adjusted, but 
the portion of the body in the actual seating and armrest area doesn't have
this flexibility.
. Why isn't this information on your tickets, referenced on the 
booking/reservations pages of your web site, or questioned by your 
Reservations Employees?
We estimate that the Customer of size policy affects far less than half a 
percent of our Customers, and ultimately, it is the responsibility of a 
Customer
with a unique and unusual need to communicate with us upfront so that we may 
best serve him/her and all others onboard. We won't know of an unusual need
unless the Customer tells us.
. Doesn't your policy violate the Americans with Disabilities Act or the Air 
Carrier Access Act?
Interstate airline travel is specifically excluded from Title II of the 
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by Section 12141(2). Airline travel is 
instead
covered by the Air Carrier Access Act, 49 U.S.C. 1374(c) and the regulations 
implementing the Act issued by the Department of Transportation as 14 CFR
Part 382, et seq. The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) preceded the ADA, and 
Congress excluded air carriers and other air transportation services from 
the
scope of ADA. As regulated under 14 CFR ?382.38 Seating accommodations (i) 
"Carriers are not required to furnish more than one seat per ticket or to 
provide
a seat in a class of service other than the one the passenger has 
purchased."
. Can I be preapproved as needing only one seat?
Because size can fluctuate, we are unable to give blanket authorization.
. How will you ensure no one takes the seat beside me if I've purchased a 
second seat?
The Customer who has purchased two seats must be an active participant in 
preserving his/her additional seat. We encourage Customers of size to 
preboard
to locate adequate seating, placing the
Reserved Seat Document
 in the adjacent seat. Our Ground Operations and Inflight Employees 
communicate about special needs Customers, and if a Customer of size needs 
seating assistance,
he/she should ask an Employee for help.
. I'm pregnant, will I have to purchase two seats?
A woman who is pregnant does not occupy two seats if she can lower the 
armrests.
. Can I check in using an E-Ticket Check-In kiosk or online checkin?
Because a Customer of size has special seating needs; is encouraged to 
preboard; and needs specific boarding/seating documents, these Customers are 
required
to check in with a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or at the 
gate. A Skycap can assist a Customer of size with baggage and provide an 
escort
to the ticket counter, and a Customer of size wishing to bypass the ticket 
counter may simply print a Security Document online for access through the 
security
checkpoint. At checkin, a Customer of size will receive a boarding pass, 
Reserved Seat Document, Refund Advice Slip, and preboarding direction.
. Isn't this policy discriminatory toward large Customers?
Southwest Airlines does not condone discrimination in any form. We have 
Employees and Customers of all races, ethnicity, religions, shapes, and 
sizes.
Our Mission and our responsibility per our Contract of Carriage is to 
provide safe and comfortable air transportation for each and every Customer. 
This
policy has been upheld in court and is supported by the Department of 
Transportation's stance that the purchase of a single ticket offers the use 
of a
single seat.
list end

Southwest Airlines Policy on Carriage of Assistance Animals
Assistance Animals
Trained Assistance Animals

Southwest Airlines welcomes trained assistance animals on all of our 
flights. In accordance with federal Safety regulations, the animal must be 
positioned so as not to obstruct Customers' expeditious evacuation in the 
unlikely event of an emergency. Except when too large to be safely 
accommodated, a trained assistance animal traveling with and providing 
assistance to a Customer with a disability will be accommodated in the 
aircraft cabin on the floor in front of or next to the Customer with a 
disability.

 There you have it. During my flight I was told that Southwest's Customer of 
Size Policy was an FAA regulation. I checked the FAA's Web Site after 
reading this document and found no FAA regulations that set arm rests as the 
definitive boundary between seats. And no where are any so-called FAA 
policies referenced that readers of this information can examine for 
themselves. While this issue isn't a blindness matter it's one to monitor 
should airlines use these policies to indirectly discriminate against guide 
dog users. I hope that this information will help insure that everyone can 
fly to Dallas and home without encountering this kind of nonsence. Large 
convention attendees be sure to choose your airline wisely to avoid paying 
for two seats and to avoid the other problems I and perhaps some others 
encountered when flying on the likes of Southwest Airlines.

Peter Donahue

"Will you come and awake our lost land from its slumber
      And her fetters we'll break, links that long are encumbered.
      And the air will resound with hosannas to greet you
      On the shore will be found gallant Irishmen to greet you."
Will You Come to the Bower
Traditional Irish Folk Song




From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Mon Apr 26 22:53:26 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:53:26 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] =?windows-1252?q?Morgan=92s_Wonderland?=
Message-ID: <j2p5e4f6adf1004261553v85c10d54mcdcdf471671fd977@mail.gmail.com>

Morgan?s Wonderland is now open.  This 25 acre park is specifically
designed for children and adults with special needs including people
who are blind or vision impaired.  Admission is free for the person
with the disability.  Others will pay a small fee.  Registration is
required each time you?d like to visit the park and you can do so
online or by calling.
Visit them online at

http://www.morganswonderland.com/



From parnell at sccoast.net  Wed Apr 28 00:51:56 2010
From: parnell at sccoast.net (Parnell and Kim Diggs)
Date: Tue, 27 Apr 2010 19:51:56 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] NFB Blind Driver Challenge Launches Facebook Page!
Message-ID: <auto-000151015062@mailfront1.g2host.com>

NFB Blind Driver Challenge Launches Facebook Page!

Today marks the launch of the official NFB Blind Driver Challenge 
Facebook page! Stay up-to-date on all the latest news, videos, and 
photos relating to the Blind Driver Challenge and the Race for 
Independence by becoming a fan of the page on Facebook.  As a fan, 
you will receive live updates from the Blind Driver Challenge in your 
newsfeed.  We will be updating the page continuously; when there is 
breaking news or exciting new content, you will be among the first to 
know!  Become a fan of the Blind Driver Challenge by visiting the 
<http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Blind-Driver-Challenge/108549352515974>Blind 
Driver Challenge Facebook page now!

The Facebook page can also be used as a fundraising tool for the Race 
for Independence! Send the page to your friends and family to 
encourage them to learn more about the Race and the Blind Driver Challenge.

In addition to the Facebook page, you can get updates on the Blind 
Driver Challenge and the Race for Independence by following us on 
Twitter (www.twitter.com/nfb_voice) or visiting our YouTube page 
(<http://www.youtube.com/nations_blind>www.youtube.com/nations_blind).

And it is not too late to join the Race for Independence!  To sign up 
to be an Imaginator and help build the Imagination Fund, please visit 
<http://www.raceforindependence.org/>www.raceforindependence.org or 
call (410) 659-9314, extension 2371.

Parnell Diggs, Chairman
National Federation of the Blind Imagination Fund
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From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Fri Apr 30 00:38:39 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Thu, 29 Apr 2010 19:38:39 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] NFB Chapter fundraiser reminder!
Message-ID: <i2l5e4f6adf1004291738oc83fcfa0oa9bc65b805dd880a@mail.gmail.com>

Just a friendly reminder that this Monday, May 3, the NFB San Antonio
Chapter will be hosting a fundraiser with Chili?s South Park from 4 pm
to 11 pm. If you have not made plans or if you have not received the
flier it is attached.

Hope to see you all out there on Monday.


Hello Members and close Friends of the Federation:

This letter is intended to let you know that we are teaming up with
Chili?s South Park for a fundraiser set to happen on Monday May 3,
from 4 pm, till 11 pm. Attached you will find the flier that you will
have to present in order for the NFB to get a percentage of the cost
of your meal. So come on out and enjoy a great dinner and at the same
time help the local NFB Chapter fundraise for the Race for
Independence set to happen in July at the NFB National Convention.
Spread the word and pass out this flier to whoever is interested. For
further information please go to:

WWW.NFBSATX.ORG

Thanks in advance.

Jose A. Z. Martinez
President
NFB San Antonio Chapter
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From jose.martinez07 at gmail.com  Fri Apr 30 01:06:51 2010
From: jose.martinez07 at gmail.com (Jose Martinez)
Date: Thu, 29 Apr 2010 20:06:51 -0500
Subject: [Nfbsatx] Chapter T-shirts
Message-ID: <k2h5e4f6adf1004291806v9b318c87u37e4a0819d74491d@mail.gmail.com>

Hello all:

If you plan to buy a NFB San Antonio Chapter T-shirt, we will be
taking sizes and money on Monday at Chili?s.

The price of these shirts will be 10 dollars. They will be blue
T-shirts. We are getting a great deal! This would be great to have
when we do fundraising events or anywhere we are out in public
representing the chapter. The shirts will be ordered on the 5th of
May. Please let me know if you have any questions.

A. Z.