WVATS Quarterly Newsletter
Winter 2003

Articles:   [WVATS]   [Resources]   [Tools]   [State]   [National]   [DBTAC]   [AgrAbility]  

TechLink's Assistive Technology Expo

Parkersburg-based TechLink used grant monies from the Sisters of St. Joseph's Charitable Foundation to sponsor an assistive technology expo to educate and raise awareness about assistive technology in West Virginia. Adapted toys, talking books, modified farming equipment, alternative computer access devices, and assistive devices to aid in household chores were among the assistive technologies on display during the two-day expo at West Virginia University at Parkersburg.

Choices Child Care brought toys, books, and recreation equipment available for loan to those who have children with special needs. Wood County/Parkersburg Library displayed talking books and discussed the services available for individuals with disabilities. West Virginia University at Parkersburg had an exhibit to discuss services for students with disabilities. Multiple exhibits highlighted safety devices such as strobe-light fire alarms for individuals who might not hear an alarm buzzer. Over 250 people came to view the displays and learn about assistive technology options. In addition, the expo offered a swap-shop for individuals who wished to buy or sell used assistive technology.

TechLink will sponsor Expos in Tyler, Roane and Doddridge Counties in Spring 2003. For more information about the expos or TechLink, call Sue Patalano at 304-422-3151.

Fundamentals of Assistive Technology Course

The West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS) and Impact 20/20 of the Center for Excellence in Disabilities at WVU have received a $30,000 State Priorities Fund Incentive Grant from the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission to implement an assistive technology fundamentals training course for individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions, family members, and service care providers at four West Virginia University college campuses. The course was offered at the WVU Eye Institute in Morgantown during February 2003 and will be offered at WVU Parkersburg in March 2003, Potomac State College of WVU and WVU Institute for Technology during April/May 2003. For more information, please call 800-841-8436.

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The Resource Section

RehabTool.com: New Product Search Service for Assistive Technology

If you need help finding assistive technology solutions for yourself or someone you know, RehabTool.com may have the answer. Their assistive technology specialists can recommend appropriate equipment and devices, tell you where to find them, how much they cost, and more.

For more information, visit the web site at www.rehabtool.com or e-mail info@rehabtool.com

Lower Prices

AT vendor, The Attainment Company is offering lower rates on AT to families of children with disabilities than to other customers. For more information visit www.attainmentfamily.com

VISIT Program

The VISIT (Visually Impaired Seniors Independence Training) Program is for seniors 55 and older who have significant visual impairments. Its goal is to assist those who qualify to remain as independent as possible in their homes and communities. VISIT offers low vision aids, skills training, peer support and information to people 55 and older who have a best corrected visual acuity of 20/70 or less. These services are provided to individuals at no cost. Information about the VISIT program nearest to you may be obtained by contacting the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services at 800-642-8207.

VISIT is offered in all 55 counties of West Virginia. The grant is administered through WVDRS and services are provided through West Virginia's four Centers for Independent Living.

Announcing the SibKids and SibNet Listservs

The Sibling Support Project of the Arc of the U.S. is pleased to announce SibNet and SibKids. SibNet and SibKids are the Internet's only listservs for and about brothers and sisters of people with special health, developmental, and emotional needs.

Both SibKids (for younger brothers and sisters) and SibNet (for older siblings) allow brothers and sisters an opportunity to connect with their peers from around the world. Both listservs have members from the U.S., Canada, Australia, England, Japan and elsewhere. SibNet (started in 1996) and SibKids (started in 1997) are remarkably warm, thoughtful, and informative communities where young and adult brothers and sisters share information and discuss issues of common interest.

Anyone who has e-mail can subscribe to SibKids and SibNet. For a no-cost subscription and to learn more about SibKids and SibNet, please visit the Sibling Support Project's Web Page (see address below). Finally, if you have further questions about SibKids, SibNet, our Sibshops or the work of the Sibling Support Project, please contact:
Don Meyer, Director
Sibling Support Project of the ARC of the U.S.
6512 23rd Ave NW #213
Seattle, WA 98117
206-297-6368
donmeyer@siblingsupport.org
 www.thearc.org/siblingsupport/

Olmstead Decision Links

Delivering on the Promise: Preliminary Report of Federal Agencies' Actions to Eliminate Barriers and Promote Community Integration:
www.hhs.gov/newfreedom/presidentrpt.html

President George W Bush's Executive Order #13217 on Olmstead: Community Based Alternatives for Individuals with Disabilities:
www.biausa.org/Pages/olmstead.html

The State's' Response to the Olmstead Decision: A Status Report by the National Conference of State Legislatures:
www.ncsl.org/programs/health/forum/olmsreport.htm

The Olmstead Decision and Housing:
www.c-c-d.org/od-dec00.htm
December 2000 article from Opening Doors, a publication of the Technical Assistance Collaborative, Inc. and the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Housing Task Force

ADA & Olmstead Decision Related Links (from the Health Care Financing Administration web site)
www.cms.hhs.gov/olmstead/olmslink.asp

These web resource sites were provided to WVATS by Bob Craig, Vice Chair of the WVATS Advisory Board.

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Recycled Computers - Free or Low Cost

Disable Hotline
Distributes refurbished computers to organizations that serve people with disabilities, specialized schools, resource centers, and youth centers. Contact:
Disable Hotline
718-439-0257 or 718-642-9786
E-mail: disable.hotline@oapwd.state.ny.us

Non-Profit Computing
Donates computers and computer equipment to non-profit organizations, schools and government organizations. Contact:
John L. German
Non-Profit Computing, Inc.
40 Wall Street Suite 2124
New York, New York 10005-1301
212-759-2368
E-mail: npc@igc.org

National Cristina Foundation
Provides computers and related equipment to non-profit organizations that work with people with disabilities, students at risk and the economically disadvantaged. Contact:
Yvette Marin, Ph.D.
National Cristina Foundation
42 Hillcrest Drive, Pelham Manor, New York
or
181 Harbor Drive, Stamford, Conn. 06902
914-738-7494 or 800-274-7846
E-mail: ncf@cristina.org

Computers for Learning
A federally operated program to transfer excess and surplus federal computer equipment, including peripheral equipment, to schools and non-profit educational organizations. Contact:
General Services Administration
Room 1221, 1800 F Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20405
888-362-7870 (1-5 pm EST)
202-501-3846
E-mail: Computers.Learning@gsa.gov

The Beaumont Foundation
The Beaumont Foundation of America (BFA) provides grants to individuals who are in need of a computer with internet capability. Giving people access to technology is important and has the potential to change their lives significantly. Visit www.bmtfoundation.com/grants/ for more information or submit an individual application by phone. Call 866-505-COMP (2667) or 800-459-0311 TTY.

Per Scholas
Non-profit corporation, subsidized by major corporations and foundations, that sells computers and computer equipment to schools and non-profits at relatively low prices. Contact:
Per Scholas
131 Walnut Avenue
Bronx, NY 10454
800-877-4086 or 718-292-2300
E-mail: info@perscholas.org

**Computer companies such as Dell, Compaq, etc. offer refurbished computers for reduced prices.

Special Gloves May Help Deaf

An article from the Associated Press found in the August 23, 2002 issue of Government Technology News reports on Australian scientist, Waleed Kadous, a University of New South Wales re-search fellow, who is developing a set of gloves capable of translating sign language, a move he hopes could ease communication for individuals who are deaf.

The gloves would be connected to a computer that has been programmed to measure the movement of the wearer's hands and distinguish between different signs. It then translates the signs into written English on a monitor. At a recent test, the computer was able to translate Australian sign language with 95 percent accuracy.

Kadous said his aim was to create a device enclosed in the gloves that translates signs as they are made and then "speaks" the words through a transmitter to the person with whom the deaf person is communicating.

To access the full article: www.govtech.net/news/news.php?id=22451

Bookshare.org

Bookshare.org is a new initiative to provide accessible books in digital formats for people with disabilities. Sponsored by Benetech, Book-share.org uses the Internet to bring books and readers together. Volunteers scan print books into a computer and save them in electronic format. Then, volunteers submit them over the Internet to Bookshare.org. Individuals who have print disabilities must register with Bookshare to be able to access copyrighted material from the Bookshare web site.

The registration for Bookshare requires a professional to certify the applicant's disability.

For more information, visit www.bookshare.org, or e-mail inquiries to info@bookshare.org.

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ADAPT WV Award

www.labs.net/adapt

The 2002 Advocacy Group of the Year Award went to the West Virginia Mental Health Planning Council and ADAPT WV

At the 2002 Disability Caucus, the Statewide Independent Living Council recognized for the first time individuals, organizations and businesses in West Virginia who have supported the independent living philosophy of consumer control, empowerment, access and the value of the cross disability approach. This year, the recognition was continued with the 2002 Disability Caucus Awards. One of the awards, the Advocacy Group of the Year, goes to an advocacy group that is recognized as a contributor to the disability rights movement through grassroots advocacy, is a strong proponent of civil rights, and supports the independent living philosophy. This year, the West Virginia Mental Health Planning Council was one of the two award recipients.

The other 2002 Advocacy Group of the Year Award went to ADAPT WV. ADAPT WV is an advocacy group that contributes to the disability rights movement and spearheads our state's grassroots movement by forcing policy makers to take note of the barriers restricting quality of life for people with disabilities. ADAPT WV has consistently brought problems with the Medicaid Waiver programs to the attention of public officials and has actively worked to get people out of nursing homes, as well as worked to keep people from going into nursing homes. ADAPT WV has worked to make systems change happen in community attendant services so people can have more choice and control of services provided.

ADAPT WV uses technology in the form of its web site to keep the disability community informed about harmful and beneficial policy changes. It has worked on a wide variety of issues to improve the lives of people with disabilities in local communities. For example, ADAPT members have protested against a bank, bar, restaurant and cab company, all of whom denied people with disabilities the right to service. ADAPT WV has worked to keep people informed of what's happening with the state's Olmstead Plan, Medicaid Waiver changes and mental health parity.

ADAPT WV is the squeaking wheel that demands greasing, the pain in the neck that just will not go away. ADAPT WV members are rabble rousers and agitators, a disruptive element that never lets the issues die down when others get distracted. While ADAPT WV tactics may sometimes antagonize, the role of the revolutionary has been highly valued in our country's past, and that is the role this organization is filling in our state.

Augmentative Communication Devices: What Will Work for You

The WVATS Northern Resource Center receives numerous calls monthly relating to augmentative communication devices. One of the least talked about but most interesting and growing areas in the field of assistive technology is the use of communication devices that promote speech enhancement. The following technologies are augmentative communication devices that offer both speech enhancement and/or amplification to allow someone to use their own voice instead of an augmentative form of communication.

The Speech Enhancer Spectrum Voice Processor is potentially beneficial to users who need amplification to have functional voice volume in noisy places. According to the manufacturer, individuals of all ages with most speech disabilities can benefit from the Speech Enhancer. The Speech Enhancer comes with the Spectrum Voice Processor, a unit that processes voice amplification, a microphone that gives enhanced auditory feedback, and a speaker. The system is available by calling 800-600-9819 or www.speechenhancer.com for approximately $6,000-$9,000.

The ChatterVox is a Personal Voice Amplification System designed for easy portability. For individuals who have soft wispy voices, the ChatterVox offers the ability to have conversations without the frustration of others being unable to hear. The ChatterVox comes with a fanny pack, a unit that processes voice amplification, and a microphone. The ChatterVox is available by calling 847-816-8580 or at www.abattery.com/chattervox.htm for approximately $200.

The Pocketalker Pro is an easy-to-use, portable amplifier that can improve your ability to communicate in difficult listening situations. The Pocketalker Pro helps an individual to listen and communicate more effectively. The Pocketalker Pro comes with a pocket size amplifier and headphones, and is available at www.marilynelectronics.net/products/personal-communication/pocketalker-pro.htm or www.hearingplanet.com/pockettalker.html for approximately $140.

If you are interested in more information about any of the above products, or any assistive technology devices, call Kara toll free at 800-841-8436.

Tech Team News

Activities in Elkins

The Elkins and Eastern Panhandle Tech Teams have ordered an array of new equipment that is now available for loan. Equipment has been dispersed statewide through the loan library. As an example, adaptive fishing poles were used in a demonstration at the "Tyler County Hooked on Fishing - Not Drugs" fishing derby. Children up to the age of 14 participated in the fishing derby, where free food and recreation were provided. Areas of Conaway Run Lake were netted off and 2,600 pounds of trout were stocked for the children to catch. Everyone received door prizes and took advantage of the mini-workshops that were offered. Forty-six children used the adaptive fishing poles and reels during the course of the day.

The Elkins Tech Team also participated in the "Wheelin' Sportsman Shooting Match and Fishing Derby" at Mount Wood Park in Wood County. The contestants used an adaptive gun mount, and several individuals used the adaptive fishing poles and reels.

News from Wheeling

The REACH (Real Experience with Augmentative Communication Hardware) lab at the Northern Network for Accessing Technology/Easter Seals Rehabilitation Center in Wheeling offers tools to unlock the doors of communication for individuals with speech difficulties.

Johnson & Johnson awarded $30,000 in grant monies to the Easter Seals Rehabilitation Center to start the REACH lab to serve individuals with special needs of all ages. There are no geographic boundaries for participation in the program and the REACH lab gives individuals the opportunity to try a wide variety of communication assistive technology devices before selecting one specific device.

The assistive devices in the REACH program are both low- and high-tech tools - from picture boards to specialized computers - that help individuals learn and communicate more effectively. The tools are housed in a small lab at Easter Seals, where speech and language pathologist Sheila Archer uses them to assess clients' communication abilities and needs. The assistive devices also are available to be used at schools, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes or other health care agencies, as well as in clients' homes.

Through the REACH lab program, family members and health care providers can be trained in how to use the tools with the individual who needs them. Community workshops and in-services are being provided to school districts, colleges, nursing homes and businesses.

As many of these devices are very expensive, the lending system allows families to determine if the devices are right for their family member with special needs before they spend the money to purchase their own.

For more information about the REACH program, call Easter Seals, 304-242-1390 or 800-677-1390.

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Powerful Tools

Logitech io Personal Digital Pen

The Logitech digitally captures everything you write or draw: notes, ideas, sketches, drawings, e-mail, calendar, To Do list, and anything else. The Logitech works with a range of preprinted paper, from Mead Cambridge Limited notebooks to Post-it Notes from 3M, which are included with the pen. What's unique about the paper is the Anoto pattern of tiny preprinted dots that allows your pen to make an exact copy of your handwriting while you write, and then imports it to your computer. Preprinted paper also includes check-boxes to let you specify the type of document-notes, e-mail, appointments, or To Do lists. It also provides fields to let you "name" your documents for archiving, sending and retrieval. You may also edit and digitally update changes you've already written by writing on the original document and docking the pen.

- Place the Logitech in the USB cradle to download your notes in their original, handwritten form to your PC.

- The Logitech and its software automatically sort your handwritten notes by the boxes you checked on each page. Meeting notes and drawings go into file folders for retrieval. E-mail is sent. Calendar and To Do entries are automatically added to your electronic organizer. With the Logitech, you can use your computer's search function to access notes and drawings you want to review, copy, share, or send.

Includes Personal Digital Pen, Rapid recharging USB cradle, AC adaptor, 5 ink refills, 1 Mead Cambridge Limited Digital Notebook, 1 3M Post-It Notes Pad and software.

For more information visit: www.logitech.com or call 800-231-7717

The Note Teller 2

Note Teller 2

For individuals with cognitive or visual disabilities, handling money can sometimes pose problems. Here's a device that "reads" paper currency.

The Note Teller 2 is a portable voice output paper money identifier designed for individuals who are blind or have low vision. The device can also be used by individuals who do not read. The Note Teller 2 reads U.S. paper currency from $1 to $100 in both the new and old bill formats in either English or Spanish. Note Teller 2 uses state-of-the-art optical sensing and imaging technology to scan and read in any direction, turning itself on and off automatically as notes are read. It features adjustable volume and headphone jacks for privacy (headphone not included). The Note Teller 2 comes with complete operating instructions in print, Braille, and on tape. Note Teller 2 has non-skid backing for tabletop use. The cost is $295.

For more information, please visit www.brytech.com/noteteller/index.htm or call 613-731-5800

VisAble Video Telescope

The VisAble Video Telescope

The telescope enhances vision for individuals with low-vision needs. It is small enough to keep it in your purse or wear it around your neck. You can quickly and easily locate objects in an unfamiliar area with minimal scanning effort. High magnification, wide field of view and contrast enhancement capabilities are available in this single, portable device.

For more information call 800-353-1107.

SICARE pilot

SICARE pilot

The SICARE pilot Model #8400 is designed to open power doors, open auto-mated windows, or blinds, turn lights on and off, make and answer telephone calls, control and program by voice alone your TV, VCR, or stereo.

Features:

For more information contact Tash Inc. at 800-463-5685 or visit their web site at www.tashinc.com

Self-voicing Scientific Calculator for Windows

This calculator:

A free 30-day trial is available for Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP. Download your free 30-day trial at www.viewplustech.com or call 541-754-4002.

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State News

Access Success

Summers County, West Virginia, is involved in a long-range plan to improve access to its programs and facilities. The county seat of Hinton is home to a downtown district and county courthouse that are listed in the National Registry of Historic Places. Increasing access, while working with limited resources presented a challenge to the community, but they got creative and they got busy.

The courthouse already boasts new accessible parking, curb cuts, a ramped entrance, and accessible restrooms. Future plans include assistive listening devices, raised and Braille signage, audible and visual emergency alarm signals and accessible seating for spectators, witnesses, and members of the jury.

County plans also include an innovative design for an elevator, which will be installed between the courthouse and the nearby Memorial Building and provide access to all the floors of both buildings.

This story was printed in ADA In Focus, Fall 2002. Visit the Department of Justice's "ADA Stories" page at www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adastory.htm

Legal Service

The West Virginia Bar Association offers a service that is available to West Virginia residents all year. Every Tuesday evening from 6-8 p.m. attorneys are available to answer general legal questions - call 800-642-3617. A second service is a pro bono service to those who are low income as defined by the federal guidelines. If you wish to have a referral, call 800-642-8279.

New Web Sites Share Information on Early Childhood Education Issues

A new West Virginia advisory council, PIECES, has developed two important web sites for sharing information about early care and education programs for children birth through age five. PIECES, an acronym for Partners Implementing an Early Care and Education System, will help develop a comprehensive plan for education that coordinates programs such as child care, Head Start and public early childhood education. The new web sites offer news articles, discussion forums and links to child care and education services. The web sites are: PIECES Advisory Council - www.wvdhhr.org/bcf/ece/pieces/ and PIECES Community Portal - www.wvdhhr.org/oss/pieces/portal/

For further information, call Cathy Jones at the West Virginia Department of Education, at 304-558-2691.

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National News

Sprint Launches Nationwide Campaign to Benefit Individuals with Disabilities

Sprint PCS in conjunction with the Wireless Foundation, has launched a nationwide campaign called Sprint Project Connect that will transform wireless phones into funds for individuals with disabilities. Sprint Project Connect, is a "call to action" for wireless users to drop off their used wireless phones in special collection boxes at all Sprint PCS stores or at any Easter Seals facility.

The donated wireless phones will either be recycled or resold with a portion of the proceeds benefitting Easter Seals and the National Organization on Disability. For more information, call the Easter Seal Rehabilitation Center: 800-677-1390.

Keep Track of Your Social Security Paydays!

If you're getting Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits, you probably know when to expect your next payment. But, what if the date falls on a holiday or weekend? You'll never have to guess again, and you won't have to call to find out if you use the handy payment calendar.

The calendar shows all payment dates for 2003, and it's color-coded to make it easy for you to find your payday at a glance. It's a perfect reference to print out and keep on hand. Why not take a look now?
www.ssa.gov/pubs/calendar.htm

Advice for Victims of Identity Theft

If you become a victim of identity theft, there are ways to recover your good credit rating. First, report the identity theft to Social Security's Fraud Hotline at 800-269-0271. Then, report it to the Federal Trade Commission's ID Theft Hotline, 877-IDTHEFT.

You also should contact the three major credit bureaus, tell them you're an identity theft victim and ask them to place a fraud alert on your records. The credit bureaus are: Equifax: 800-525-6285 or www.equifax.com, Trans Union: 800-680-7289 or www.tuc.com, Experian: 888-397-3742 or www.experian.com

Also, write your creditors and ask them to contact you before opening any new accounts in your name or changing existing accounts or credit limits.

For more information on identity theft, visit the identity theft page at www.ssa.gov/pubs/idtheft.htm

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WV DBTAC News

Real Connections: Making Distance Learning Accessible to Everyone (Part 2)

"Making Distance Learning Accessible to Everyone Part 1," WVATS News (Vol. X No. 3) addressed access issues surrounding distance learning courses and presented design considerations for assuring that a course is accessible to potential instructors and students with a wide range of abilities and disabilities. Part 1 also introduced the concept of universal design, which is designing products and environments usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.

Part 2 of "Making Distance Learning Accessible to Everyone" will discuss issues concerning Internet-based communication, web pages, and benefits of accessible design for people with and without disabilities.

Internet-based Communication

Some distance learning programs employ real-time chat communication in their courses. Students communicate synchronously (at the same time), as compared to asynchronously (not necessarily at the same time). Besides providing scheduling challenges, synchronous communication is difficult or impossible for someone who cannot communicate quickly. For example, individuals with a learning disability who takes a long time to compose their thoughts or someone with Cerebral Palsy whose input method is slow may not be fully included in the discussion. Instructors who choose to use this type of tool should provide an alternate, equivalent method of communication (e.g., e-mail) for those who cannot fully participate using synchronous communication methods.

Text-based, asynchronous resources such as electronic mail, bulletin boards, and list serv distribution lists generally erect no special barriers for students with disabilities. If a prerequisite to a course is for students to have access to electronic mail, individuals with disabilities can choose an accessible e-mail program to use. Students who require assistive technology to access e-mail may resolve basic system access issues with assistance from the Disability Services Office on campus before enrolling in the course. Their own computer system may provide some of the accommodations, such as an enlarged font.

Accessible Web Pages

Applying universal design principles to the design of web pages makes them accessible to individuals with a wide range of disabilities. In 1999, guidelines for making web pages accessible were developed by the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). More recently, the United States Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board) developed standards for web pages of federal agencies as mandated by Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1986. The standards provide a model for other organizations working to make their web pages accessible to the broadest audience.

There are basically two approaches for making web page content and navigation accessible. Certain types of inaccessible data and features need to be avoided or alternative methods need to be provided for carrying out the function or accessing the content provided through an inaccessible feature or format. For example, a distance learning designer can avoid using a graphic that is inaccessible to individuals who are blind, or he can create a text alternative for the graphics content that is accessible to screen readers used by those who are blind. Web pages for distance learning classes should be tested with a variety of monitors and computer platforms. They should also be tested using a variety of web browsers, including a text-only browser, such as Lynx, or a standard browser with the graphics and sound-loading features turned off to simulate the experiences of people with sensory impairments. Testing to see if all functions at a web site can be accessed using a keyboard alone is also a good accessibility test. Special validation programs (e.g., A-prompt, Bobby, WAVE) are available to test web pages for accessibility.

Benefits of Accessible Design for All People

People without disabilities may have temporary and/or situational limitations that are similar to the limitations imposed by disabilities. For example, people who cannot access graphics due to computer system limitations are in a similar situation as students who are blind. A noisy environment that prohibits the use of audio features imposes constraints similar to those faced by students with hearing impairments. Those for whom English is a second language experience reading difficulties similar to those experienced by people with some types of learning disabilities. Individuals using monochrome monitors face limitations similar to those who are color-blind. People who need to operate a computer but whose hands are occupied with other activities face challenges similar to those who use a hands-free input method because of a disability.

Applying universal design principles assists all people. For example, using clear and simple language and navigational mechanisms on web pages facilitates use by those whose native language is not the one in which the course is taught as well as people with visual and learning disabilities. People who turn off support for images on their browsers to maximize access speed benefit when multimedia features provide text alternatives for the content, as do people who are blind. Captions pro-vided on videotapes and video clips assist people who work in noisy or noiseless surroundings and people for whom English is a second language and people who have hearing impairments. Providing multiple formats of information also addresses differences in learning styles.

Getting Started

Be proactive in making distance learning courses accessible. Don't wait until someone with a disability enrolls to address accessibility issues; consider them from the start!

For more information on DBTAC call Nancy Reese at 800-841-8436.

CAATI a success.

The first Computer Access Assessment Training Institute (CAATI) was held August 5-9 in Morgantown, to train professionals how to provide computer access assessments to individuals with disabilities.

WVATS consultant, Keith Hustosky, Ph.D., and assistant professor of special education at California University of Pennsylvania, Erin Hider, Ed.D., led the training institute. They provided in-depth information, demonstrations, and hands-on training to assess the computer access needs of individuals with disabilities and on how to recommend appropriate hardware and software to meet the individual's needs. In addition, WVATS consultant, Regina Mayolo, provided information about various funding sources available to individuals with disabilities and information on how to write assessment reports that can lead to funding.

Margo Neal, a WVATS/DBTAC consultant and graduate student in West Virginia University's technology education program, wrote the curriculum for the five day course.

West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS), West Virginia Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center (WVDBTAC), and Building Inclusive One-Stop Systems (BIOSS) were sponsors of the five day training institute. These program sponsors are headquartered at the Center for Excellence in Disabilities at West Virginia University, a part of Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center. An additional sponsor was Augusta Computer Services, LLC.

The CAATI module on computer access assessments for individuals with cognitive needs will be held as a one day pre-conference workshop at the PATHS Eighth Annual Conference on September 17, 2003. For more information, please call 800-841-8436.

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West Virginia Agrability

Do you belong to an organization whose members might want to know more about West Virginia AgrAbility? Please call to arrange an AgrAbility presentation. We would like to share information with your organization about the AgrAbility Project and how it helps farmers and their families.

1-800-841-8436 or assist@sunnyelkins.com

Serving West Virginia Farmers and Farm Families

Grant Writing Session Held at PATHS 2002 Conference

The West Virginia AgrAbility Project was invited to exhibit and present an interactive demonstration session at the Seventh Annual Partnerships in Assistive TecHnologieS (PATHS) Conference. In addition, West Virginia AgrAbility and PATHS sponsors invited Margaret Krome, agriculture policy coordinator for the Michael Fields Agriculture Institute in Madison, Wisconsin, to present a grant writing basics workshop for farmers interested in learning grant writing skills. Ms. Krome is the editor of Building Better Rural Places published by the USDA in 2001 with support from the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program, the Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service and the Forest Service. Ms. Krome conducts grant writing training workshops all over the country, and was a speaker at the 2001 West Virginia Sustainable Agriculture Fair held in Buckhannon, West Virginia.

Ms. Krome's Grant-writing Basics seminar presented the fundamentals of writing a grant and allowed time for farmers to discuss individual projects and needs. Each participant received a copy of Building Better Rural Places and tip sheets for successful grant writing. The session was a wonderful opportunity for everyone who attended.

The PATHS Annual Conference is an interdisciplinary assistive technology conference that focuses on using assistive technology in all activities of daily living to achieve independence and self-empowerment. The Eighth Annual PATHS Conference is scheduled for September 17-19, 2003 at the Charleston Civic Center.

Ironclad GripTec Advantage Gloves:

The innovators at 3M (tm) and Ironclad (r) have applied science and technology to grip. The result is a new line of GripTec (tm) gloves. The scientists recognized that improving grip is a key to reducing fatigue and nonproductive effort for the professional tradesman. This resulted in a new glove that takes advantage of a technological breakthrough: 3M (tm) Gentile (tm) Gripping Material, using a two-part system. Included with each pair of GripTec gloves is a 4" x 6" piece of adhesive-backed Gentile material that can be applied to hammers, pistol grips and handles of other power tools. When the thousands of tiny microscopic gripping fingers of Gentile material on the gloves and on the tool handles are matchoked up, the result is an increase in gripping strength up to 300%. Other features include reinforced fingertips, full-finger knuckle padding, a hook and loop closure system for a snug fit, and a terry cloth thumb for wiping sweat from your brow.

Available in M, L, XL and XXL. You can find these gloves and tons of other helpful tools at www.duluthtrading.com

What is "Tree Farming?"

"Wood is a crop. Forestry is Tree Farming." Gifford Pinchot, First chief of the USDA Forest Service

The term "tree farming" was first used in the 1940's to introduce the public to sustainable forestry. Farming implies continual care and production of goods year after year. By linking the term "farming" with trees, foresters could communicate the concept of sustainable production of forest products over time. Tree farming implies a commitment to the land.

Tree farms are more than pine plantations or Christmas tree farms. Tree farms are varied in nature and contain many different habitats and stages of forest regeneration, from seedlings to mature timber. Biodiversity is a critical component of a certified tree farm. Tree farmers must maintain natural forest buffers and other aspects of conservation techniques.

Getting Started in Sustainable Forestry
Sound, sustainable forests begin with determining objectives, deciding what resources are available on your land, and developing a written forest management plan that meets American Tree Farm System standards and guidelines as well as meeting your forest needs for generations to come. A professional forester can answer your questions and help you develop your management plan.

Sustainable Forestry Defined
Sustainable forestry means managing our forests to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs by practicing a land stewardship ethic which integrates the reforestation, managing, growing, nurturing and harvesting of trees for useful products with the conservation of soil, air and water quality, wildlife and fish habitat and aesthetics.

U.S. Forests Facts & Figures 2001, Clemson University and AF&PA

This information adapted from: www.treefarmsystem.org/aboutfarming/whatis.cfm

For more information about tree farming in West Virginia, contact either of the American Tree Farm System West Virginia committee members:

Chair: Lucien Bennett
Mead Paper
PO Box 367
Mineral Wells, WV 26150
Phone: 304-489-2863
E-mail: 11bwv@wirefire.com

Co-Sponsor: Richard Waybright
West Virginia Forestry Association
PO Box 718
Ripley, WV 25271
Phone: 304-372-1955
Fax: 304-372-1957
E-mail: wvfa@wvadventures.net

Agriculture and Equestrian Division on Its Way

On Friday, July 5, 2002, interested National Federation of the Blind of WV members wrote and adopted a constitution for a new division. Offices were discussed, elections held, and one of the NFB's newest divisions was established. The board, like the membership of the group, has a wide array of interests and a wide geographic distribution. "Agroforestry, apiculture and aquaculture; composting; gardening and landscaping; firearms and hunting; dairies and milk products; ranching and riding; tack and tractors; vermiculture and zymurgy: we cover the map. Blind people are working, studying, and hobbying in every field, while feeding and clothing the world. Put your boots on, roll up your sleeves, and join us!"

Other topics included naming a newsletter, choosing an editor, planning for next year's tours, and thinking about upcoming state affiliate conventions. "The Field Post" is the group's and newsletter. Stories, suggestions, and questions can be submitted by e-mail to the editor, Fred Chambers, regenerative@earthlink.net

National Federation of the Blind Braille Monitor, August/September 2002, Volume 45, Number 7, Page 630-631.

West Virginia AgrAbility Farmer Networks

West Virginia AgrAbility is in search of West Virginia farmers who are interested in sharing their creative and innovative ideas with other farmers around the state. We would like to build an Ingenuity Network of farmers who have modified equipment and/or their home or farm, to make life a little easier. For more information about the WV AgrAbility Project Ingenuity Network, please contact Janet Della-Giustina or Tom Stockdale at 800-626-4748 or e-mail Jan.Della-Giustina@mail.wvu.edu

WV AgrAbility is also seeking farmers interested in serving as participants in our Peer Network. Peers can share similar experiences with other West Virginia farmers and discuss solutions to farming dilemmas. For more information about the WV AgrAbility Project Peer Network, please contact Inetta Fluharty at assist@sunnyelkins.com or call 800-841-8436.

New USDA Office to Aid Minority and Socially Disadvantaged Farmers

In September 2002, the USDA announced the establishment of the Office of Minority and Socially Disadvantaged Farmer Assistance (MSDA). This new office, operated under the USDA's Farm Service Agency, will provide minority and socially disadvantaged farmers with another avenue to seek technical assistance and information, especially as it relates to USDA loan applications. The MSDA operates a toll-free telephone help-line to answer questions about loan applications filed in local offices and other technical issues. To contact the MSDA: Phone: 1-866-538-2610, Fax: 1-888-211-7286
E-mail: MSDA@wdc.usda.gov

To learn more about the MSDA, visit: www.fsa.usda.gov/pas/msda.htm

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WVATS Newsletter

Editors: Marie Leichliter and Jamie Hayhurst jhayhurst@hsc.wvu.edu

Center for Excellence in Disabilities at West Virginia University Publications

Editorial Committee: Robert Chico, Beverly Sheets, Jeanne Grimm, Monica Andis, Lori Caterina Risk and Diane Williams

Design and Layout: Kim Palumbo

All printed materials produced by WVATS are available in Braille, electronic format, cassette tape and large print.

This publication was supported by funds from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), U.S. Department of Education, grant number H224a20011. The lead agency is the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services. Contents of the newsletter are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official view of the U.S. Department of Education or the Center for Excellence in Disabilities.

Web site address: www.cedwvu.org/programs/wvats/

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