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June 27, 2007

Washington, DC, Career Expo: 11/9/07

Date: Friday, November 9, 2007

Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Location:
Marriott Wardman Park Hotel
2660 Woodley Road, NW
Washington, DC 20008

Hosted by: CAREERS & THE disABLED, the nation’s leading career magazine for people with disabilities.

By pre-registering and attaching your resumes, job candidates with disabilities will be able to not only enter the career expo faster, but will have their resume included on a CD disk that will be distributed to all participating recruiters after the career expo.

Pre-register at:www.eop.com/exporegistration.html
For further info, email us at:
info@eop.com

Sponsored By:

A strong diversity of companies and government agencies have signed up to participate. To mention a few: Arlington County Government, EPA, (Bronze Sponsor), Fannie Mae, Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., Lockheed Martin, NASA, NAVAIR, NAVSEA-Naval Sea Systems Command Warfare Centers, Office of Secretary of Defense, Raytheon, (Silver Sponsor), Social Security Administration-HR Division, Social Security Administration-OESP, USDA-Marketing Regulatory Programs (APHIS), US Department of Justice, US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and the US Patent & Trademark Office.

Posted by Nancy at 05:31 PM | Comments (0)

June 26, 2007

CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) Training - A Resource Partnership Workshop: MA

Ernest ( Tony) Winsor, Esq., Attorney at the CORI Project at the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute will discuss CORI law and ways to reduce barriers to employment. The training will cover the following questions:

To reserve space, get details about date and location please contact Kathleen King at 508-647-1722, ext 11 or email her at Kathleen.King@resourcepartnership.org

Posted by Nancy at 09:20 PM | Comments (0)

The Associated Blind, Inc. Encourages eSight Members to Go Direct®

GoDirect logo

Millions of Americans with disabilities receive federal benefits, either directly or through a caregiver such as a parent or other relative. If you are currently receiving these benefits, do you use direct deposit? The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Go Direct campaign wants people to know that receiving a federal benefit by paper check places them at greater risk of fraud and identity theft.

Direct deposit is simply the safest way to receive your benefit payments. In 2006, more than 57,000 Treasury-issued checks - totaling an estimated $54 million - were stolen or forged. By switching to direct deposit you can eliminate the risk of lost or stolen checks and help protect yourself or a loved one against identity theft and fraud. Direct deposit is also convenient, since the money is automatically placed in your account on payment day. This means one less errand to run, one less thing to worry about.

Go Direct, a national campaign sponsored by the Treasury and Federal Reserve Banks, makes it easy for people who get Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to sign up for direct deposit. Simply call the toll-free helpline (800) 333-1795 or sign up on Go Direct's government-secure Web site: www.GoDirect.org (English) or www.DirectoASuCuenta.org (Spanish). Within a few minutes, you can have the peace of mind that comes with direct deposit.

Posted by Nancy at 05:11 PM | Comments (0)

ICD Training Program -- Medical Office Administrative Assistant : NYC

Students Learn Using State-of-the-Art Equipment
Leading To A 71% Placement Rate

Convenient Start Dates Every 3 Months:

This program provides students with the required skills for employment in administrative positions with a variety of healthcare facilities. These positions include Medical Receptionists, Billing Clerks and Medical Records Technicians.

Curriculum Includes:


Following the completion of 3 months of classroom instruction, students are provided with a targeted employment internship for another 3 months. Through the internship, students gain practical experience that enables them to use and improve skills that have been developed through class activities. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate.

Please Contact:

Daria Benson,
Associate Director, Training Services
(212) 585-6033

dbenson@icdnyc.org

Posted by Nancy at 04:56 PM | Comments (0)

More than 16,000 veterans to benefit from $27 million in job training grants

WASHINGTON — Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced 94 grants, totaling nearly $27 million, to provide approximately 17,000 veterans with job training to help them succeed in civilian careers. The grants are being awarded under the U.S. Department of Labor's Veterans' Workforce Investment Program (VWIP) and Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP).

"These $27 million in grants will help more than 16,000 veterans access the resources they need to find good jobs and build a bright future for themselves and their families," said Secretary Chao.

Funds are being awarded on a competitive basis to state and local workforce investment boards, local public agencies and nonprofit organizations, including faith-based and community organizations. These agencies are familiar with the areas and populations to be served and have demonstrated that they can administer effective programs.

More than $6.7 million will support 12 VWIP grants to help veterans from targeted groups overcome employment barriers and ease their transition into unsubsidized jobs. Through this program, veterans receive skills assessments, individual job counseling, labor market information, classroom or on-the-job training, skills upgrading and retraining, placement assistance and crucial follow-up services. The Labor Department's Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) expects these grants to provide training for more than 3,800 veterans, who may also be eligible for services through other Workforce Investment Act programs for economically disadvantaged or dislocated workers.

To assist homeless veterans with reintegration into America's workforce, the Labor Department is awarding more than $20 million in 82 HVRP grants. These funds are being distributed nationwide through 35 newly competed grants and 47 current grants receiving second- and third-year funding. Homeless veterans may receive occupational, classroom and on-the-job training, as well as job search and placement assistance, including follow-up services. VETS expects these funds to help more than 12,600 veterans. HVRP is recognized as an extraordinarily efficient and effective program and is the only federal program that focuses exclusively on employment of veterans who are homeless.

The HVRP grants include two cooperative agreements that will assist in developing the HVRP National Technical Assistance Center. The center will provide technical assistance to current grantees, potential applicants and the public; gather grantee best practices, conduct employment-related research on homeless veterans; conduct regional grantee training sessions and self-employment boot camps; and perform outreach to the employer community to increase job opportunities for veterans.

Grantees under both programs network and coordinate their efforts with various local, state and federal social service providers. More information on the Department of Labor's unemployment and re-employment programs for veterans can be found at www.dol.gov/vets.


VETS News Release: [06/25/2007]
Contact Name: Mike Biddle
Phone Number: 202-693-5051
Release Number: 07-0904-NAT

Posted by Nancy at 04:37 PM | Comments (0)

June 21, 2007

San Francisco Reaches Historic Agreement with the Blind Community for Accessible Pedestrian Signals

Installation of Accessible Pedestrian Signals Will Aid Blind, Visually Impaired Community

First Agreement of its Kind in the Nation Enhances Public Safety with State-of-the Art Signaling Devices, Averts Potential Litigation

SAN FRANCISCO (June 20, 2007)San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) Executive Director and CEO Nathaniel P. Ford, Sr. and City Attorney Dennis Herrera today announced a comprehensive agreement with representatives for the blind and visually impaired community, in which the City will commit at least $1.6 million over the next two and a half years to install accessible pedestrian signals. The state-of-the art signaling devices will assist visually impaired pedestrians by emitting a rapid ticking sound in tandem with the familiar WALK symbol displayed for sighted pedestrians. Other accessibility features include locator tones and vibrating pushbuttons to help those with visual impairments locate the devices, and the ability to provide helpful audible information such as street names when pedestrians press the pushbutton for one second or longer.

The agreement which was reached without litigation through a collaborative process known as structured negotiations represents the first of its kind in the nation, according to advocates for the blind and visually impaired community. In addition to the $1.6 million committed to install accessible pedestrian signals at no fewer than 80 intersections over the next two and a half years, the agreement provides that the City will seek additional funding for more installations and develop a policy for San Francisco residents to request accessible pedestrian signals at other intersections.

The agreement to install accessible pedestrian signals puts San Francisco in the national vanguard in working to enhance public safety for blind and visually impaired pedestrians. The SFMTA is committed to do everything it can to expand this program to its fullest potential in the years to come, said SFMTA Executive Director and CEO Nathaniel Ford. I am very grateful to the advocates for San Francisco's blind community in working to advance this comprehensive agreement, especially Anita Aaron of LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and Eugene Lozano, Jr. and many members of the California Council of the Blind.. I also appreciate the hard work of City Attorney Dennis Herrera and his deputies, whose commitment to finding a mutually beneficial solution made this agreement possible.

This agreement reflects far more than our commitment to public safety. it represents San Francisco's commitment to engage the disability community in a manner that is cooperative rather than confrontational on matters involving accessibility and compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, said City Attorney Dennis Herrera. Im very proud to have reached an accord that is the first of its kind in the nation, committing to install state of the art signaling devices while averting the possibility of costly litigation. I'm grateful to Nat Ford for his leadership and vision on this issue, and thankful, too, for the positive approach taken by advocates for the blind and visually impaired community.

Representatives of San Francisco's blind community applauded todays announcement. "We commend San Francisco for being the first public entity in the United States to voluntarily sign a comprehensive agreement regarding accessible pedestrian signal devices that are critical for pedestrian safety," said Anita Aaron, Executive Director of the LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired on Van Ness Avenue.

Linda Porelle, President of the San Francisco Chapter of the California Council of the Blind, praised the City of San Francisco for recognizing, through this historic agreement, the fundamental importance of Accessible Pedestrian Signals to the safety of blind and visually impaired pedestrians. We look forward to working closely with the City to fully implement the terms of the agreement."

In addition to the City, parties to the agreement are the California Council of the Blind, the LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, the Independent Living Resource Center San Francisco, and Damien Pickering, a blind individual. In the negotiations, the blind and visually impaired community was represented by disability rights lawyers Lainey Feingold and Linda M. Dardarian.

CONTACTS:
Kristen Holland for the S.F. Municipal Transportation Agency.. (415) 701-4649

Matt Dorsey for the Office of the City Attorney.. (415) 554-4662

Lainey Feingold for the disability organizations and individual Claimant.. (510) 548-5062

Linda M. Dardarian for the disability organizations and individual Claimant. (510) 763-9800

Representatives of the LightHouse for the Blind and the California Council of the Blind available for interviews and demonstration of APS technology.

Christopher Gray
President Bay Area Digital
Promoting good health with great technology

Bay Area Digital
870 Market Street, #653
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: (415) 217-6667
Fax: (415) 217-6667
Email: chris@bayareadigital.us

Posted by Nancy at 09:53 AM | Comments (0)

June 20, 2007

Business @ 9 AM: The Successful Home-Based Business: San Diego, CA

Next Business Meeting: Monday, July 2, 2007, 9 am to 11:30 am

Location: San Diego State University – Interwork Institute, 3590 Camino del Rio North, Classroom #221, San Diego, CA 92108


The easiest, quickest, safest, least costly way of getting into business today is with a home-based venture.

Companies such as Apple Computer, Federal Express, U-Haul, Microsoft, Google are just a few of the many successful and profitable companies started from the garage or home.

There are more than 30-million work-from-home enterprises in America today. Why not you?

"Guaranteed Employment, for anyone…anywhere."

The Successful Home-Based Business presentation will answer these and many other questions about

Becoming an at-home entrepreneur is already the economic strategy for most.

Anyone thinking about self-employment or seeking employment will need to attend.

Vocational rehabilitation and job development counselors will discover how an at-home business can be a valuable tool and successful, cost-effective work option for consumers.

Seating Is Limited to the first 30. Reserve Your Seat Today!
Email: Urban@DisabledBusiness.com

Posted by Nancy at 05:49 PM | Comments (0)

Assistant Secretary Grizzard Visits Georgia Business Leadership Network

Assistant Secretary W. Roy Grizzard, Jr. shared "A Snapshot of Effective Disability Employment Policies, Practices and Resources" with members of the Georgia Business Leadership Network (GABLN).

He reminded the employers that there are 149 million jobs in the United States, and that in the next six years 35 million workers will be eligible for retirement. He urged GABLN members to reach out to qualified workers with disabilities to fill their workforce needs. He also warned that any business that fails to reach out does so at its own economic peril.

Posted by Nancy at 01:53 PM | Comments (0)

Serotek Makes Web 2.0 Accessible to the Blind

Technology Company Introduces SA To Go

Minneapolis, Minn. - June 13, 2007 - Serotek Corporation, the leading provider of Internet and digital information accessibility software and services, announces the public beta release of a web application called SA To Go (System Access To Go), the first product to make Web 2.0 accessible to the blind and the visually impaired.

SA To Go is a web-resident product stemming from Serotek's award-winning System Access software. More than a screen reader, System Access requires no installation and provides complete control of your e-mail, makes web surfing easy, and offers intuitive access to Microsoft Office productivity tools like Word, PowerPoint and Excel. SA To Go makes System Access available on the Web for instant operation and has no permanence on the using computer. Users can now access System Access software anytime, anywhere that Internet access is available.

"We believe SA To Go will revolutionize the way blind people use the computer," said Mike Calvo, CEO, Serotek Corporation, "That's why we felt it critical to leverage the power of Web 2.0 to continue to fulfill our promise of accessibility anywhere."

SA To Go provides instant accessibility. Once online, users can visit http://www.satogo.com/ and it appears in seconds. When finished, the user simply closes the program and any personal information vanishes leaving the host computer completely unchanged.

"Microsoft applauds Serotek's innovation with respect to access for all," said Daniel Hubbell, Technical Evangelist, Microsoft Corporation, "SA To Go is a revolution for people who need access to computers away from home."

Because of technologies like Fonix's text-to-speech and its small size, SA To Go loads within seconds giving the blind user the same access on the go as his sighted peers. And since SA To Go is a true web application, accessibility is no longer an expensive option; companies that want to provide public accessibility to customers can do so for a fraction of the cost.

"Serotek's new SA To Go application gives blind and visually impaired users quick, convenient access to PC functions," says Tim K. Hong, VP of Sales, Fonix Speech, Inc. "SA To Go incorporates Fonix text-to-speech, which is optimized to provide clear, intelligible TTS voices without using large amounts of processing power or memory. Fonix speech technology is a good fit for Serotek's System Access Mobile applications."

Serotek is putting the system out for public Beta because they are encouraging user input. The company can imagine hundreds of applications but believes users will direct its true potential.

"We think we've only scratched the surface of the potential of SA To Go," says Calvo, "That's why we're inviting users to take it for a spin and let us know how they think it might be applied."

The company will be surveying users on a regular basis and encouraging users to e-mail their ideas and comments to SAToGo@serotek.com

To participate in the public beta, users can go to http://www.satogo.com/ and follow the instructions. Immediate accessibility will lead the user through the registration process. For more information about Serotek and its family of System Access accessibility tools, visit http://www.serotek.com/

Serotek Corporation Serotek Corporation is a leading technology company that develops software and manufactures accessibility solutions. Committed to the mission of providing accessibility anywhere, Serotek launched an online community specifically designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Since then, Serotek has introduced several powerful, affordable solutions that require minimal training, including System Access, for which it was awarded the prestigious da Vinci award for innovation in universal accessibility by the National Multiple Sclerosis Association. For more information, visit http://www.serotek.com/

Fonix Corporation

Fonix Corporation (OTC BB: FNIX), based in Salt Lake City, Utah, is an innovative speech recognition and text-to-speech technology company that provides value-added speech solutions through its wholly owned subsidiary, Fonix Speech, Inc., currently offering voice solutions for mobile/wireless devices; interactive video games, toys and appliances; computer telephony systems; the assistive market and automotive telematics. Fonix provides developers and manufacturers with cost-effective speech solutions to enhance devices and systems. Visit http://www.fonix.com/ for more information, or call (801) 553-6600 and say "Sales."

Microsoft Corporation

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. For more information, visit http://www.microsoft.com/

Contact: Janelle Schulenberg Tacet Consulting 612-720-1068 Janelle@tacetresources.com

Posted by Nancy at 11:00 AM | Comments (0)

"You Can’t Get There From Here: Increasing Access in Pedestrian Circulation to and from Public Transportation."

When: Wednesday, July 11, from 2 to 3:15 pm EDT

Where: via telephone, as an audio conference call

Who: Dennis Cannon, Transportation Accessibility Specialist, Office of Technical and Information Services, US Access Board, Washington, DC.

Register: visit the ESPA Web site and sign up online for this complimentary distance learning opportunity at


Easter Seals Project ACTION is pleased to offer this opportunity as a way of advancing accessible community transportation. We look forward to your participation.

Posted by Nancy at 10:49 AM | Comments (0)

Alert: Toothpaste Recall

Contaminated toothpaste recall expands.
New brands added to list of contaminated toothpaste from China.

Posted by Nancy at 09:46 AM | Comments (0)

June 19, 2007

New Exhibit on Louis Braille: Boston

National Braille Press has just installed a gorgeous new exhibit at the Boston Public Library, called "The Magic of Braille." The exhibit focuses on the life of Louis Braille, the use of the braille code, the work of National Braille Press - and some similarities in the lives of Louis Braille and Harry Potter.

This free exhibit will be up June 5 through July 31, 2007, in The Boston Room at the Boston Public Library's Copley branch. The Boston Room is easily accessed from the Boylston Street entrance: it's just off the small room on the left immediately after you enter from Boylston Street.

For those not planning to be in Boston during that time, we are hoping to make the exhibit available for travel around the country! If you're interested in bringing Louis Braille to your library, business, or community center, please contact Tony Grima at agrima@nbp.org.

Posted by Nancy at 03:50 PM | Comments (0)

June 13, 2007

Apply now and you could be -- An ICT trainer of the Blind for United Disability Empowerment (UDEK) in Kenya

People with disabilities have special communication needs e.g. Braille for the blind, computer speech software (JAWS), and sign language for the deaf. National flag of Kenya These needs are often not catered for in computer training institutes in Kenya. UDEK is a cross disability organization that seeks to unite groups/associations of persons with disabilities and provide them with opportunities.

Purpose of the role

UDEK has limited capacity to afford to pay qualified ICT instructors. By volunteering you'll help to build the capacity of UDEK by providing comprehensive courses, relevant to the needs of the local market, for people with disabilities.

Job summary

Professional requirements

You'll need a bachelor's degree in IT and at least 2 years experience in the ICT sector. You'll be confident with communication aid programmes such as JAWS, and have experience of working with people with disabilities. Any experience in teaching IT would be welcome, as would the ability to read Braille.

Personal requirements

You'll need to be adaptable; the centre will not have the same abundance of resource you may be used to working with. You'll need to pair this with being self-sufficient, as well as sociable and outgoing to ensure you engage with your students and colleagues. Maturity, willingness to integrate are also very useful skills to enable you to integrate into your new society and achieve professional and personal satisfaction. You'll be able to exercise patience when training students who may be slow learners.

Duration: 24 months

VSO volunteers receive a modest living allowance, return flights, accommodation provided by the local employer, medical and travel insurance cover, visas and work permits, grants before, during and after the placement and a guaranteed minimum of three weeks holiday per year.

Please specify your interest in this particular position when you apply to VSO Canada. For more information call us toll-free at 1-888-876-2911.

To apply go to http://www.vsocan.org/display.aspx?pid=519&cid=143 and complete our online form.

Posted by Nancy at 07:21 PM | Comments (0)

Contact Lens Solution Recall Brings Rare Eye Infection Into Focus

CHICAGO (May 30, 2007) – Based on data reporting a recent outbreak of the serious eye infection Acanthamoeba keratitis, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently issued an official health advisory urging users of Advanced Medical Optics (AMO) Complete® MoisturePlus™ Multi-Purpose Solution to stop using the product immediately. AMO has voluntarily issued a global product recall as the investigation continues to determine the exact cause of the outbreak.

According to the CDC, the infection is caused when a microscopic organism called Acanthamoeba invades the cornea, the transparent outer covering of the eye. Without treatment, the infection can lead to scarring of the cornea and eventually, blindness.

At the age of 14, Jackie Stillmaker contracted Acanthamoeba keratitis after swimming with her contacts on, and she continues to suffer from the painful symptoms. She compares the pain to feeling as though she was being stabbed in the eye every few seconds. She has now undergone three corneal transplants before her 18th birthday and continues to have visual impairments.

In an effort to educate the public and to offer a support group to those who have suffered from Acanthamoeba keratitis, Mary Beth Stillmaker, Jackie’s mother, has joined with Prevent Blindness America to create a free, online discussion forum. “The Acanthamoeba and Fusarium Fungal Infections and Contact Lens Use Forum” allows patients and/or parents the opportunity to discuss all subjects related to the infections, and participants are encouraged to share their own experiences.

In response to a recent increase of Acanthamoeba keratitis cases in the Chicago area, Prevent Blindness America is also funding a study through the University of Illinois at Chicago which aims to determine the source of the organisms through patient study and water analysis. The research grant is one of Prevent Blindness America's Investigator Awards, which are presented to research projects that attempt to save sight.

"The good news is that, if diagnosed and treated early, the effects of acanthamoeba keratitis can be minimal. However, only an eye doctor can tell you if you have the infection," said Daniel D. Garrett, senior vice president of Prevent Blindness America. "We urge everyone who uses contact lenses to practice the highest level of lens care and to report any changes in vision to their eye doctor immediately."

According to the CDC, symptoms of Acanthamoeba keratitis may include:

Prevent Blindness America offers the following tips on proper contact lens care:

For more information on the safe use of contact lenses, join the online discussion forum or call 1-800-331-2020. For additional information on the contact lens solution product recall, please go to cdc.gov.

Posted by Nancy at 05:43 PM | Comments (0)

RadioShack Announces Point of Sale, Web Site Initiative for Customers with Visual Impairments

Blind Community Leaders Applaud RadioShack's Commitment

Washington, DC (June 13, 2007) -- In a move praised by state and national blindness organizations, RadioShack (NYSE:RSH) today announced it has undertaken a nationwide initiative to improve services for RadioShack's customers with visual impairments. As part of the program, RadioShack will install new point of sale equipment with tactile keypads to protect the privacy and security of visually impaired shoppers and will make improvements to its Web site that will benefit visually impaired shoppers and other customers with disabilities.

Today's announcement is the result of collaboration between RadioShack and major blindness organizations including the American Foundation for the Blind, American Council of the Blind, and California Council of the Blind.

Point of Sale Improvements

It is anticipated that by the end of September of this year, every RadioShack store will have the new device, which is designed to protect the financial privacy of blind and visually impaired shoppers. The devices, manufactured by Ingenico, have tactile keys arranged like a standard telephone keypad and plug easily into existing point of sale payment terminals. The new units will allow RadioShack shoppers who have difficulty reading information on a touch screen to privately and independently enter their PIN, telephone number, and other confidential information.

Blind community representatives praised RadioShack's plan to upgrade its point of sale devices. "Point of sale devices must have tactile keys so blind people do not have to share their PIN with strangers," explained Melanie Brunson, executive director of the American Council of the Blind. "Today's announcement, and the collaboration that led to it, demonstrates RadioShack's understanding of this fact and its strong commitment to blind and visually impaired customers."

Web Site Access

Today's initiative includes RadioShack's commitment to design in accordance with guidelines issued by the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) of the World Wide Web Consortium (w3c) http://www.w3.org/wai. The guidelines, which do not affect the content or look and feel of a Web site, ensure that Web sites are accessible to persons with a wide range of disabilities. The guidelines are of particular benefit to blind computer users who use screen reader or magnification technology on their computers and who rely on a keyboard instead of a mouse.

"Web site accessibility is of critical importance to both the blind community and to people with disabilities generally," said Paul Schroeder, vice president, programs and policy group of the American Foundation for the Blind. "We applaud RadioShack's leadership role in committing to address the accessibility of its Web site, thereby improving the browsing and shopping experience for a broad range of on-line shoppers."

"The program announced today is one way we can help customers who are blind or visually impaired enjoy a better shopping experience in their neighborhood RadioShack stores as well as on www.RadioShack.com and complements our on-going efforts to improve the shopping experience of all our customers with disabilities," said Frank Espinoza, vice president-store operations of RadioShack Corporation. "RadioShack would like to thank the American Council of the Blind, the California Council of the Blind, and the American Foundation for the Blind, for their cooperation and expertise in making RadioShack a better place to shop for our customers with disabilities."

About RadioShack Corporation

RadioShack Corporation (NYSE: RSH) is one of the nation's most experienced and trusted consumer electronics specialty retailers. The company has a presence through more than 6,000 company-operated stores and dealer outlets in the United States, over 100 RadioShack locations in Mexico and nearly 800 wireless phone kiosks. RadioShack's dedicated force of knowledgeable and helpful sales associates has been consistently recognized by several independent groups as providing the best customer service in the consumer electronics and wireless industries. Operating from convenient and comfortable neighborhood and mall locations, RadioShack stores deliver personalized product and service solutions within a few short minutes of where most Americans either live or work. For more information on RadioShack Corporation, or to purchase items online, visit www.radioshack.com.

About American Council of the Blind (ACB) and California Council of the Blind (CCB)

American Council of the Blind is a national consumer-based advocacy organization working on behalf of blind and visually impaired Americans throughout the country, with members organized through seventy state and special interest affiliates. California Council of the Blind is the California affiliate of the ACB, and is a statewide membership organization, with 40 local chapters and statewide special interest associations. ACB and CCB are dedicated to improving the quality of life, equality of opportunity and independence of all people who have visual impairments. Their members and affiliated organizations have a long history of commitment to the advancement of policies and programs which will enhance independence for people who are blind and visually impaired. More information about ACB and CCB can be found by visiting www.acb.org and http://www.ccbnet.org/.

About American Foundation for the Blind

The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is a national nonprofit that expands possibilities for people with vision loss. AFB's priorities include broadening access to technology; elevating the quality of information and tools for the professionals who serve people with vision loss; and promoting independent and healthy living for people with vision loss by providing them and their families with relevant and timely resources. AFB is also proud to house the Helen Keller Archives and honor the over forty years that Helen Keller worked tirelessly with AFB. For more information visit us online at www.afb.org.

Posted by Nancy at 11:46 AM | Comments (0)

June 11, 2007

ODEP Releases Three New Fact Sheets on Disclosure

The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) has developed three new fact sheets on disclosure to assist service providers and youth with disabilities transitioning from high school to a postsecondary setting or the workplace. After high school it becomes the youth’s responsibility to disclose a disability in order to receive accommodations. The following fact sheets provide valuable information and resources to help youth to make an informed personal decision regarding disclosure:

  1. Youth, Disclosure, and the Workplace: Why, When, What, and How

  2. Advising Youth with Disabilities on Disclosure: Tips for Service Providers

  3. Entering the World of Work: What Youth with Mental Health Needs Should Know about Accommodations

Posted by Nancy at 05:02 PM | Comments (0)

AbilityOne Adopts New Brand Identity formerly known as the JWOD Program

For immediate release

Washington, DC, April 30, 2007- The independent federal agency that administers the AbilityOne (formerly Javits-Wagner-O'Day) Program has approved a new logo for the recently adopted AbilityOne Program name. It will be available for use by nonprofit and government agencies participating in this governmentwide initiative.

The logo creates a unique brand identity for the AbilityOne Program -- to help communicate what makes the program special, to distinguish it from other programs and to leave a lasting impression with our various audiences.

"Branding is essential in today's marketing world. This brand will establish an identity for current and future participants to think of AbilityOne first," said Mr. Andrew D. Houghton, Chairperson for the Committee. "Our conception was for people to recognize our brand and immediately know who we are, "AbilityOne" the program that provides thousands of jobs for people who are blind or severely disabled and quality products and services to our federal government customers."

After the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled approved the name change, a staff working group, including representatives from the Program's two Central Nonprofit Agencies, National Industries for the Blind and NISH (creating jobs for people with severe disabilities), began working on the logo or graphic brand identity that will accompany the AbilityOne name in future communications.

The design represents different parts of the program coming together and becoming a unit. The three boxes represent people working together for one cause. The red box stands strong at the top, holding the name AbilityOne. The navy blue box holds a star, representing quality - "a job well done." The light blue box represents the people and entities that make AbilityOne possible. The light blue is a field of color that stands alone or can hold different entity names such as "program," "network" or "team member." The logo also works as a seal of quality, a stamp of approval.

NISH will launch the unveiling of the AbilityOne Program brand officially at its National Training and Achievement Conference in Grapevine, Texas, on April 29, 2007. Following the launch the new logo and guidelines for its use will be posted on the Committee's Web site at www.JWOD.gov or www.AbilitOne.

Although the name has changed the AbilityOne Program's mission remains the same, to provide employment opportunities for people who are blind or have severe disabilities in the manufacture and delivery of products and services to the federal government. As the largest source of employment of people who are blind or have severe disabilities in the United States, the AbilityOne Program taps into the abilities of nearly 47,000 individuals nationwide in coordination with over 600 nonprofit agencies.

The Javits-Wagner-O'Day Program name and JWOD acronym will continue to be used for the next 12 months alongside the AbilityOne brand. This transition period will enable customers and supporters to recognize that the JWOD Program is now the AbilityOne Program.

Posted by Nancy at 12:09 PM | Comments (0)

June 08, 2007

Sign Up for Priority List to Be Notified for Future Study Groups

Thank you for your interest in participating in the research study. The response exceeded our expectations and the group filled very quickly.

Because the response has been so tremendous I have created a priority list that we will use to contact people for future studies.

If you would like to be notified of future research studies please fill out this brief form at http://www.esight.org/forward.cfm?pid=288

People who are on this list will be contacted prior to any invitations being posted on eSight or distributed on any lists.

Thank you, again for your interest in participating in this study.

Posted by Nancy at 03:15 PM | Comments (0)

June 05, 2007

Disability Access Requirements Extended to Voip Services

For Immediate Release:

VoIP Providers Also Required to Contribute to the Interstate TRS Fund and Offer 711 Access

Washington, DC -- The Commission has extended the disability access requirements of Sections 225 and 255 of the Communications Act, which currently apply to traditional phone services, to providers of interconnected Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services and to manufacturers of specially designed equipment used to provide those services.

Section 255 of the Communications Act requires manufacturers of "telecommunications equipment or customer premises equipment" and providers of "telecommunications service" to ensure that such equipment or service is accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, if readily achievable. In adopting Section 255, Congress sought to ensure that all Americans, including people with disabilities, could benefit from advances in telecommunications services and equipment.

The Commission's existing Section 255 rules, adopted in 1999, among other things, (1) require manufacturers of telecommunications equipment or Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) to ensure that their equipment is designed, developed and fabricated to be accessible to individuals with disabilities, if readily achievable; (2) require telecommunications service providers to ensure that their service is accessible to individuals with disabilities, if readily achievable; (3) require manufacturers and service providers to evaluate the accessibility, usability, and compatibility of covered services and equipment; and (4) require manufacturers and service providers to ensure that information and documentation provided in connection with equipment or services be accessible to people with disabilities, where readily achievable, and that employee training, where provided at all, account for accessibility requirements.

In addition, the Commission said that interconnected VoIP providers were subject to the requirements of Section 225, including contributing to the Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) Fund and offering 711 abbreviated dialing for access to relay services. Requiring the TRS Fund contributions will protect the stability and sustainability of the Interstate TRS Fund. (TRS is a service that allows persons with hearing or speech impairments to use the telephone. The TRS Fund is used to pay for the provision of TRS services and is funded by contributions from all carriers that provide interstate service.) Requiring 711 abbreviated dialing will ensure that anyone wishing immediate access to the local TRS provider need only dial 711.

On March 10, 2004, the Commission initiated a rulemaking proceeding that sought comment on whether and, if so, how, it should apply the accessibility requirements of Section 255 to providers of interconnected VoIP or other IP-enabled services. It also asked how any actions it might take could affect the Interstate TRS Fund and whether it should amend the TRS rules in light of the increasing use of IP-enabled services. Today's action is a result of that rulemaking proceeding.

Action by the Commission May 31, 2007, by Report and Order (FCC 07-110). Chairman Martin, Commissioners Copps, Adelstein, Tate, and McDowell. Separate statements issued by Chairman Martin, Commissioners Copps, Adelstein, Tate and McDowell.

- FCC -

WC Docket No. 04-36
WT Docket No. 96-198
CG Docket No. 03-123
CC Docket No. 92-105


CGB contact: Lisa Boehley at (202) 418-7395

News Media Contact:
May 31, 2007 Rosemary Kimball at (202) 418-0511
e-mail: rosemary.kimball@fcc.gov

Posted by Nancy at 02:15 PM | Comments (0)

June 04, 2007

‘Workers with Disabilities: Talent for a Winning Team!’ is 2007 National Disability Employment Awareness Month theme

WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced that "Workers with Disabilities: Talent for a Winning Team!" will be the official 2007 theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, which is observed in October nationwide.

"The 2007 'Talent for a Winning Team' theme captures the heart of the president's New Freedom Initiative, which is that Americans with disabilities are an underutilized reservoir of ambition, talent and skill ready to make great contributions in the workplace," said Secretary Chao.

Each October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month by congressional designation. The Labor Department's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) leads the nation's activities and produces materials to increase the public's awareness of the contributions and skills of American workers with disabilities. Typically, private sector; federal, state and local government; and advocacy organizations piggyback on the same theme to plan events and programs that showcase the abilities of employees and job candidates with disabilities.

"America's employers benefit when they provide opportunities for Americans with disabilities to work," said Roy Grizzard, assistant secretary of labor for ODEP. "A winning team will include people with disabilities."

ODEP is the nation's first assistant secretary-led office that specifically addresses policies that impact the employment of people with disabilities. For example, ODEP has developed methods for the 3,500 One-Stop Career Centers nationwide to serve people with barriers to employment, including individuals with disabilities. Also, collaborating with sister Labor Department agencies — the Employment and Training Administration and the Civil Rights Center — ODEP developed a disability checklist to assist with implementation of Section 188 of the Workforce Investment Act at the local level.

ODEP News Release: [05/29/2007]
Contact Name: Richard Manning or Jennifer Kaplan
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676
Release Number: 07-0555-NAT

Posted by Nancy at 07:00 PM | Comments (0)