Ms. Kathy's Kids Blog

Fwd: Video Poster Contest

2012-01-30T22:36:00.000-06:00

Neighbors Federal Credit Union, long time partner to EBRPSS and to the I CARE program has asked that we distribute this information to teachers and students about a video and poster contest for students...concerning a financial smarts program for students. It even comes with teacher lesson plans!

With Mrs. Atkins permission I am forwarding this to all staff for sharing with students.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend in the gorgeous weather!

Becky Young

Prevention Works!

Becky Young, M. Ed.

Licensed Prevention Professional

Director, I CARE Program

Title IV-SDFSC
East Baton Rouge Parish Schools

Ann Marie Erie AErie@neighborsfcu.org 1/27/2012 3:32 PM

	Louisiana

Louisiana - Home

Home » State Activities » State Coalitions » Louisiana » Activities » 2012 Events » 2012 Young Millionaires Poster & Video Contest

2012 Young Millionaires Poster & Video Contest

Since 2008, the Louisiana Jump$tart Coalition, in an effort to inspire Louisiana youth to become more financially savvy, has sponsored a Financial Literacy Poster Contest. We're adding the creative medium of video this year for high school students.

Our poster and video contest is a great way to get young students thinking about how to manage money effectively and offers them a creative outlet to demonstrate their knowledge. It offers the opportunity for local and state recognition for student artwork and rewards winners with a recognition plaque and a cash prize.

USE YOUR CREATIVE TALENTS

TO WIN CASH!

POSTER ENTRY
Click here for Rules and Guidelines and Entry Form
Click here for Fillable Entry Form

VIDEO ENTRY
Click here for Rules and Guidelines
Click here for Entry Form

LESSON PLAN FOR TEACHERS
Share this information with students before they begin design of their poster or video.

Submission Deadline for poster and video entries: Friday, March 16, 2012

Must be a resident of the state of Louisiana to enter a poster or video.

Questions? Email us at: louisianajumpstart@gmail.com

Video Poster Contest

2012-01-30T20:42:00.000-06:00

With Mrs. Atkins permission I am forwarding this to all staff for sharing with students.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend in the gorgeous weather!

Becky Young

Prevention Works!

Becky Young, M. Ed.

Licensed Prevention Professional

Director, I CARE Program

Title IV-SDFSC
East Baton Rouge Parish Schools

4070
Baton Rouge, LA
225-- office
225- - fax
225-- cell
beckyy

	Louisiana

Louisiana - Home

Home » State Activities » State Coalitions » Louisiana » Activities » 2012 Events » 2012 Young Millionaires Poster & Video Contest

2012 Young Millionaires Poster & Video Contest

USE YOUR CREATIVE TALENTS

TO WIN CASH!

POSTER ENTRY
Click here for Rules and Guidelines and Entry Form
Click here for Fillable Entry Form

VIDEO ENTRY
Click here for Rules and Guidelines
Click here for Entry Form

LESSON PLAN FOR TEACHERS
Share this information with students before they begin design of their poster or video.

Submission Deadline for poster and video entries: Friday, March 16, 2012

Must be a resident of the state of Louisiana to enter a poster or video.

Questions? Email us at: louisianajumpstart@gmail.com

2012 Young Millionaires Poster & Video Contest

USE YOUR CREATIVE TALENTS

TO WIN CASH!

POSTER ENTRY
Click here for Rules and Guidelines and Entry Form
Click here for Fillable Entry Form

VIDEO ENTRY
Click here for Rules and Guidelines
Click here for Entry Form

LESSON PLAN FOR TEACHERS
Share this information with students before they begin design of their poster or video.

Submission Deadline for poster and video entries: Friday, March 16, 2012

Must be a resident of the state of Louisiana to enter a poster or video.

Questions? Email us at: louisianajumpstart@gmail.com

Arlington public safety hockey game on Saturday to benefit Batten disease sufferer http://blogs.star-telegram.com/crime_time/2012/01/arlington-public-safety-hockey-game-on-saturday-to-benefit-batten-disease-sufferer--1.html

2012-01-30T10:54:00.000-06:00

http://blogs.star-telegram.com/crime_time/2012/01/arlington-public-safety-hockey-game-on-saturday-to-benefit-batten-disease-sufferer--1.html

Impaired but Empowered: Deaf Blind

2012-01-30T10:51:00.000-06:00

Impaired but Empowered: Deaf blind
She has a case of a deaf blind child who came to her when he was nearly 3 yrs old. The parents were too hassled and running around trying to look for solutions ...
impemp.blogspot.com/2012/01/deaf-blind.html

The Hindu : Cities / Vijayawada : A word of caution on retinopathy of prematurity

2012-01-30T10:35:00.001-06:00

The Hindu : Cities / Vijayawada : A word of caution on retinopathy of prematurity

Microsft Accessibility: Guide for Individuals with Vision Impairments

2012-01-28T08:49:00.000-06:00

I'm asked about the accessibility features at schools all the time. Here's the link that explains the features built in to Windows 7:
http://www.microsoft.com/enable/guides/vision.aspx

Microsoft Narrator is OK for temporary use. I , my students and friends prefer JAWS, but when you are borrowing someones computer MS Narrator is fine.

All y students with stargard's and albinism who need contrast adjustments should know how to change the contrast at school. Their teachers should know that they need to adjust the view and/or contrast for low vision at school.

Braille Production with MacOS

2012-01-28T05:28:00.000-06:00

[Source Link: http://www.tsbvi.edu/blog/otrtech/2012/01/27/braille-production-with-macos/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter]http://www.tsbvi.edu/blog/otrtech/2012/01/27/braille-production-with-macos/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter]

African-Americans with Albinism

2012-01-28T05:25:00.000-06:00

This is an article from NOAH concerning one of the issues in which I have had particular involvement for the past seven years and that is my students with albinism who are of African-American heritage.

Many people ask if the incidence of albinism in non-whites is higher than in whites. The answer is no. The incidence seems higher because people with albinism born into non-white races are more instantly recognizable, and because traditional studies of albinism have been done in smaller closely related tribes where there seem to be more affected individuals.

Physical Differences

Whereas the majority of whites with albinism have pale blond or white hair, pink white skin, and blue eyes, black persons with albinism tend to have hair of a deeper, brighter yellow, cream-colored skin, and green or hazel eyes.

Although the physical problems of low vision and sun sensitivity are the same for both whites and non-whites, the social problems of non-whites are compounded. In the Caucasian races blond hair, blue eyes, and alabaster skin are considered so highly desirable that brunettes often bleach their hair or wear colored contacts. The Victorians wore white wigs and powdered their skin to a chalky white. Fairy tale heroines are said to have skin white as snow.

The same physical attributes in darker races are taboo. Individuals in these races often are ostracized because of erroneous beliefs and unfounded fears. A basic theme in many variations in that God is delivering judgment on a family with albinism and that the individual with albinism is cursed, or is the embodiment of sin. In some religions and societies, this curse may seem true. Anyone taking as a partner a person with albinism must be prepared to suffer ridicule and disapproval from family, friends, or even the church.

Another belief is that the person with albinism is the result of incest or inbreeding. The most common myth of today is that the non-Caucasian person with albinism must be the result of mixed marriage. Those who hold this view are unaware that people with albinism existed in societies of color before those societies had any contact with Caucasians.

Peers sometimes accuse black people with albinism of "trying to pass." Indeed, some have found having albinism so painful that it is simply easier to be "white." Peers may believe that the hard-earned achievements of a black person with albinism resulted from a white teacher or supervisor favoring the him or her.

The Family of Color with Albinism

Misunderstanding of the causes of albinism is sometimes the catalyst for extra family stress. An already distrusting and jealous father may feel that his partner has cheated on him with a white man. He may be unable to accept the child as his. He may treat mother and child harshly, or even leave altogether, goaded by family and friends. Though the mother knows that she has been faithful, only recently has blood testing allowed her to prove it. If the father stays, he may make the child with albinism the target of subtle or outright resentment. Family dysfunction such as alcoholism, drug abuse, or mental illness may compound the problems for the child.

If the mother feels "stuck" with childcare and custody, she may abuse or even abandon the child. She may endure disapproval from both races, because some people still frown upon what they assume to be interracial coupling. Mothers have reported being mistaken for baby-sitters, or in extreme cases, kidnappers.

On the other hand, many parents, after their initial shock, say they feel that their albino child is a special gift to them. They find the "golden" children attractive and welcome additions to the family, and they are quite proud of them.

School age children and teenagers with albinism often find themselves left out of extracurricular activities and social events by other black youth. Children with albinism may learn to avoid rejection by withdrawing. The child's peers then may see him or her as unfriendly or even hostile, and a cycle of isolation is set up.

Children with albinism may learn to compensate for their lack of self-esteem by striving harder in school and other activities. They tend to exceed at whatever they try. Many Black people with albinism have succeeded as technicians, legal assistants, entrepreneurs, computer programmers, preachers, college professors . . . the list goes on and on. Once overcoming the low self-esteem brought on by early social stigma, people with albinism often become high achievers.

Coping

Coping and dealing with albinism has run the gamut from being militant in one's racial conviction to wearing dark make-up and hair color or surgically altering one's appearance to pass for white. Some may argue that these may not be coping at all. From my point of view, coping meant coming to the realization that this is exactly what the creator wanted me to be. My albinism was present with me since my creation, from the earliest stages of development in the uterus. I am a typical person with albinism. My hair, skin, and eye color are in no way different from other non-white people with albinism. To me, albinism is a situation no different than that of a redhead being born into a family of brunettes.

My other coping mechanism is the realization that albinism is an old, old "race." We have been recorded in every part of the world, in every era, in every culture known to humans. It has been said that we may represent in fact the oldest recorded genetic condition.

Virginia Small, NOAH Director

Reviewed by the NOAH Albinism Awareness Committee: James Haefemeyer, MD, MS, Chair, NOAH Board of Scientific Advisors; Janice Knuth, MSW, ACSW, LSW, President, NOAH 1982-1993; Charla McMillan, MS, President, NOAH, 1996-2000; Michael McGowan, President, NOAH, 2001-2002.

[Source Link: The NOAH (National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation) web site at http://www.albinism.org/publications/african-americans.html

Hair story

2012-01-28T05:21:00.000-06:00

The Usual Hair Story, starring David and Kathy Click here for the blockbuster.

http://www.kathyskids.org

Ms. Kathy's Kids Blog: http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com/

When minorities go missing, it doesn't make the news. This case is a most horrible tragedy:

2012-01-28T05:11:00.000-06:00

8668381153

http://www.kathyskids.org

Ms. Kathy's Kids Blog: http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com/

Whittier youth given multiview magnifier

2012-01-28T05:09:00.001-06:00

New Twitter

2012-01-26T00:22:00.001-06:00

Some of my former students are on both Twitter and Facebook. So am I! It seems to be a matter of preference as to which they prefer. Twitter seems to be more conducive for the totally blind or braille readers using a screen reader. Facebook is more visual so those with some sight or with low vision prefer it. I don't know. What's your opinion?

I have started new Twitter account for Ms. Kathy's Kids at https://twitter.com/#!/MrsKathysKids. It's separate from my personal Twitter account.

Albinism:8 skin cancer facts to know

2012-01-25T20:10:00.001-06:00

http://www.jacarandafm.com/kagiso/content/en/jacaranda/jacaranda-blogs-j-blog?oid=1516625&sn=Detail&pid=75296&Skin-Cancer--8-Facts-you-must-know

Low Vision Bureau Interview

2012-01-21T08:02:00.000-06:00

Here's the link to the pod cast with the interview I did with Alvaro Gutierrez of the the Low Vision Bureau Project:
http://lowvisionbureau.podomatic.com/entry/2012-01-14T09_38_54-08_00

Jindal's plan: Controversial, unjust and insulting

2012-01-21T07:56:00.000-06:00

Special Edition: Your LFT Connection

Jindal's education agenda: Poorly worded, controversial, unjust and insulting

Dear Colleague,

Just before Christmas, Governor Jindal invited the Federation, legislative leaders and other stakeholders to have a conversation about education. During this meeting, the governor listened politely to all comments and repeated his promise to continue meeting and keep listening as he prepared his "bold plan" for education.

On January 17, the governor unveiled his plan in a speech to the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry. Unfortunately, the governor chose his words very poorly as he framed his controversial agenda.

On one hand, Gov. Jindal acknowledged teachers as the backbone of education and urged that teachers be celebrated and appreciated. However, just moments later he inaccurately and unfairly asserted to these influential business leaders that teachers "are given lifetime job protection…and short of selling drugs in the workplace or beating up" their students, teachers couldn't be fired.

Not only is this statement untrue, its evocation of those specific behaviors in reference to educators is unjust and insulting. It would indeed be unfortunate if the tone set in his speech is an indicator of the attitude he and his allies will assume in the upcoming legislative session.

We had hoped that the governor would identify areas where consensus among stakeholders could emerge in the best interests of children and all citizens. There are more than 30 policy initiatives outlined in the governor's press material, a barrage of ideas that will have to be carefully sorted when lawmakers come into session on March 12.

To read more, please click here.

Is a Value Added teacher evaluation good for Louisiana?

Politicians believe the Value Added Model is right for Louisiana teachers. LFT isn't so sure.

Beginning in 2012-13, Louisiana teachers will be evaluated using a new instrument that incorporates what is known as a Value Added Model. The VAM makes judgments about a teacher's performance based on student growth as measured by standardized tests.

From the beginning, LFT opposed passage of the bill that created the Value Added Model for teacher evaluation. But the bill had strong support from leaders as diverse as President Obama, Governor Jindal, Senators Landrieu and Vitter, the State Superintendent of Education, the BESE Board and the House and Senate Education Committees.

Aware of the strength of VAM's support, LFT worked with lawmakers to improve the bill as much as possible, even as we continued to oppose its passage.

Some leaders in Baton Rouge want you to believe their new evaluation scheme is fail-safe. To find out why we disagree, and to learn much more about the Value Added model, please visit this Web page.

EdLog: News commentary and analysis

Follow LFT on Facebook

Ask a friend to join the LFT Action Center

LFT on the Web

Medical Daily : Social Media Campaign Targets ‘Neglected Tropical Diseases’

2012-01-19T06:39:00.000-06:00

Social Media Campaign Targets 'Neglected Tropical Diseases'

The Sabin Vaccine Institute on Tuesday launched a fund-raising social media campaign to drum up grass roots support to battle seven major "neglected tropical diseases" by 2020.

Kerri on the Prairies- Retinopathy of Prematurity

2012-01-19T06:38:00.000-06:00

Another parent blog with their experiences with their preemie infant. I like when I find these because they allow parents of preemies--especially those with ROP to see that they are not alone.
http://kerriontheprairies.com/words/retinopathy-of-prematurity/

Ms. Kathy,Visual Impairments Specialist SES
http://www.kathyskids.org
http://teacherweb.com/LA/RobertELeeHigh/MrsMichael/t.aspx
http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

Sutureless Intrascleral Posterior Chamber IOL Fixation Offers Long-Term Stability

2012-01-19T06:34:00.000-06:00

I read this article at OSNSuperSite.com and thought you might be interested:
Sutureless intrascleral posterior chamber IOL fixation offers long-term stability, centration
I found this article at OSNSuperSite.com and thought you might be interested.

Colour blindness helps monkeys catch camouflaged prey | Nature | The Earth Times

2012-01-19T06:29:00.001-06:00


Colour blindness helps monkeys catch camouflaged prey \| Nature \| The Earth Times Source: earthtimes.org A recent project has reversed the opinions we tend to hold on colour vision. The study on various types of tamarin monkey suggests colour blindness actually helps monkeys catch camouflaged prey.

Grapes Could Help Prevent Age-Related Blindness

2012-01-19T06:27:00.000-06:00

U.S. study finds grapes could help prevent age-related blindness
To view it click here:
http://www.freshfruitportal.com/2012/01/12/u-s-study-finds-grapes-could-help-prevent-age-related-blindness/

http://www.freshfruitportal.com

Pets needed for emotional support can spark condo disputes

2012-01-19T06:25:00.000-06:00

This column was sent to you by: Kathy
--------------------
Pets needed for emotional support can spark condo disputes
--------------------
Daniel Vasquez
Sun Sentinel Columnist
January 10 2012, 7:32 PM EST
Your condominium or homeowners community may ban pets, but Florida and federal fair housing laws require boards to make exceptions for owners with disabilities.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/fl-pets-rules-condocol-20120110,0,7932296.column
Visit South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com at http://www.sun-sentinel.com

Batten's Disease

2012-01-19T06:23:00.000-06:00

http://tasteofcountry.com/keith-urban-new-song-for-you-act-of-valor/

http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

My girls could be dead before they're 12 - we have to make the most of every day! - mirror.co.uk

2012-01-19T06:21:00.000-06:00

http://www.mirror.co.uk/life-style/real-life/2012/01/13/my-girls-could-be-dead-before-they-re-12-we-have-to-make-the-most-of-every-day-115875-23696670/#.TxCqcodgY3M.email
---

Deafblind Cymru 'In Touch' befriending service

2012-01-19T06:20:00.000-06:00

http://www.wcb-ccd.org.uk/single_post.php?var=560

African-Americans with Albinism Support

2012-01-19T06:18:00.000-06:00

I need--not for me but for my students--some support in the form of mentorship for my students of African-American descent with albinism from adults with the same condition. I'm calling on all of you who know me and for those who don't who would like to mentor these children. Our children of African heritage have special concerns and issues beyond the physical.

Thanks in advance!

Visual Impairments Specialist Scotlandville Elementary http://lee.ebrschools.org/kathynicholslee
http://www.kathyskids.org
http://teacherweb.com/LA/RobertELeeHigh/MrsMichael/t.aspx
http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

Children's Charity_- Retinopathy of Prematurity

2012-01-19T06:17:00.000-06:00

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/north-west-lights-spark-for-childrenrsquos-charity-16102067.html

http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

Medical Daily : Social Media Campaign Targets ‘Neglected Tropical Diseases’

2012-01-19T06:13:00.000-06:00

Social Media Campaign Targets 'Neglected Tropical Diseases'

The Sabin Vaccine Institute on Tuesday launched a fund-raising social media campaign to drum up grass roots support to battle seven major "neglected tropical diseases" by 2020.

Batten's Disease: Children's Hospital Celebrates First Year of Discoveries

2012-01-19T06:11:00.000-06:00

http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-jan-and-dan-duncan-neurological-research-institute-at-texas-childrens-hospital-celebrates-first-year-of-discoveries-136929078.html

Sunglasses at Night: The Cliches of blindness on TV

2012-01-19T06:09:00.000-06:00

http://poptimal.com/2012/01/sunglasses-at-night-the-cliches-of-blind-tv-characters/

http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

Country singer joins Austin dad's effort in finding cure for disease | kvue.com Austin

2012-01-19T06:07:00.000-06:00

Country singer joins Austin dad's effort in finding cure for disease \| kvue.com Austin*

http://www.kvue.com/entertainment/Country-music-superstar-helps-dad-find-cure-for-deadly-disease-137282158.html

Hageman Receives LightHouse Award

2012-01-19T06:05:00.000-06:00

http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/ModernMedicine+Now/Hageman-receives-Lighthouse-Award/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/755778?contextCategoryId=40207

http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

Blind Zimbabwean Beggars Try Their Luck in South Africa

2012-01-19T06:03:00.000-06:00

Radio Netherlands Worldwide
Ms. Kathy thought you would like to see the Radio Netherlands Worldwide web site. Blind Zimbabwean beggars try their luck in South Africa by RNW Africa Desk Dozens of blind beggars from Zimbabwe have crossed the crocodile infested Limpopo River in search of greener pastures in South Africa. Leaving the economic woes of their country behind them, they stand at street intersections, traffic lights and road pavements begging for money and food. But their only source of income is now threatened as the city authorities intensify efforts to remove them from the streets. By Thuso Khumalo, Johannesburg Click here to read more on our site

First Semester Activities for Severe Profound Students

2012-01-11T16:44:00.001-06:00

I have enjoyed making my rounds to all the classes. however, most of you know I have more schools and over twice the number of students to see as I did last year, so if I did not get to make these items personally for your classes, please understand that there is not enough time in the day, nor can I purchase everything from my own pocket as I would like. These activities are/were especially for our children with multiple disabilities.

CALENDAR POSTERS
We were able to make a few and give directions for making them for the rest. If you did not receive one the directions are simple. You will need:

2 poster boards
paste or white glue used very sparingly
Markers
Post-it notes
Calendar numbers from Dollar Tree
Velcro circles or squares with adhesive backing (you can get strips and cut them into squares)
Braille labeller or stickers if appropriate
Ziplock bag

Directions:

Stick post-its to the bottom of the posters seven across in five rows. Pull up every other post-it once they are straight. That will make a checkerboard-looking section for putting on dates. Now use glue or paste to secure the Post-its you didn't take up.
At the top of the poster you may want to make a nice picture, use class photos or write "Mr./Mrs. __'s Class" or "Class Calendar." I can draw some for you while I'm visiting your class if you let me know.
Write a day of the week at the top of each column of Post-its.
Laminate the poster
On the calendar markers, write the numbers 1-31 in large print.
With the second poster, cut 12 strips for the months. Make them colorful. You may want to draw of glue seasonal symbols. You can also find these pre-made at Dollar Tree.
Laminate the months and symbols. Stick Braille on if appropriate. (Your V.I. specialist can label them for you) If braille is not appropriate for any of your students you can use dry-erase makers to write the numbers on your calendar each day--or allow student who are able to take turns writng the new number each day as in the calendar show in the photo.
If using braille or if you prefer removeable numbers: Stick the velcro circles or squares in the center of the squares made by the Post-its on the laminated poster.
Stick your number on top. Pull them off and store them in the ziplock bag.

PLEASE contact me in the comment section if these directions are not clear because it's the end of a work day and the mind is a terribel thing! LOL!

OLFACTORY KITS
These kits are what we saved the medicine containers for. I thank all the "regular ed" staff who helped me save these. My husband and I have been saving all of our med containers--and boy, do we take enough meds! LOL! So if anyone who has not started one and needs containers, just contact me because we should have plenty to go around. Ask staf at your individual schools, too. Those of you who no longer have children on my caseload can still get some. Your V.I. teacher will know how to get them from me.

You Will Need:

Address labels
scents or objects with scents that will fit into
empty, washed medicine containers
cottonballs

Directions:

Wash the containers and make sure the original labels are removed. You may need to soak them in warm soapy water for about 20 minutes.
Collect scents from potpourri, hard candy, body sprays, cough drops, soap, shampoo, scented oils, spices, etc.
Label each container with the scent it contains.
For liquids, dampen cottonballs with them. This is for safety, incase one of the children can grab the container the liquid will not spill.
Make sure that you change some liquids and food items when not using them for a while or they may spoil or grow mold in the containers. Ew!
Make sure, if you use food items, that they don't have even the slightest essence of peanuts in them because even a whiff of peanuts can be hazzardous to our kids with severe allergies. You know your kids, though.

Calendar Boxes
For most of you that needed them, I purchased the giveaway Glad storage containers and glued them together with hot glue in strips of three to six. On the bottom I glued non-skid shelf-liner so the children cannot slide them around very easily as they work with them.

You were to find things that represented the time of day according to your schedule. I had a few things for you to use but I can't supply everyone and you know what objects will be the best symbols to use for your students.

One thing to note is that if you cannot find actual appropriate objects it is okay to use an abstract shape if you use the same one for the same activity each time. For instance, you may have an actual spoon to represent lunch and breakfast and a spoon will fit into one of the squares perfectly. But, try as you may, you will not fit a swing into one tiny square to represent recess or playground time. In one class, we found a few links of chain to represent a swing. In my preschool V.I. class I used a tiny action figure--a baseball player-- and that worked for that child as a symbol for "playground." Although she functioned as a deaf-blind child, I knew she understood when I saw her replace the symbol for "library" with the baseball figure as she laughed to herself, went to the door with her cane and announced, "Playground time, class!"

Zipper Pulls

These are simply the smaller key rings from the crafts department at WalMart. We use them for helping children with dexterity issues, to grasp zippers on their little pants, coats or bookbags. Put the hook part in the hole that is on the metal part of the zipper and hook the ring, if needed, to the hook.

JingleBell Bracelets
These were not just Christmas toys and I tried to get one to each of you so that you can see how they are made and make them as needed. The purpose for our multi-disabled children is to teach cause and effect. if they have a jinglebell attached to a piece if elastic around their arm and they're capable of moving their arm they may soon associate that when they move, the bell rings. I used rather quite bells on the ones I brought around but you can use velcro straps and larger bells or even clusters of bells--depending on the strength and mobility the child has in an arm or leg and how much jingling your ears can stand. LOL!

I pray these ideas were a help for our multi-disabled visually impaired children this semester and I will have more items that we can work on together for the second semester.

New Education about Eye Care for Children on Sharon Kleyne Hour Power of Water

2012-01-11T15:23:00.000-06:00

New Education about Eye Care for Children on Sharon Kleyne Hour Power of Water

Retinopathy of Prematurity

2012-01-10T21:38:00.000-06:00

http://www.warsawvoice.pl/baza_wydarzen/wydarzenie.php?layout=nwv&lang=en/24055

Glaucoma Proves to be s Stealthy Opponent

2012-01-10T21:35:00.000-06:00

http://www.healthnewsdigest.com/news/Eye_Care_500/Glaucoma_Proves_to_be_a_Stealthy_Opponent.shtml

Boy with Rare Brain Disease Inspires Fundraising Campaign

2012-01-10T21:31:00.001-06:00

Batten's Disease
Hi Ms. Kathy,
Kathy stopped by The Northern Echo website and suggested that you visit the following URL:
http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/9459463.Boy_with_rare_brain_disease_inspires_fundraising_campaign/?ref=erec
They added:

Kind regards
The Northern Echo Team.

Louis Braille

2012-01-08T20:57:00.001-06:00

Source Link: http://www.christianity.com/ChurchHistory/11630360/

January 4, 1809
Blind Louis Braille Gave Reading to the Blind
Dan Graves, MSL

At four o'clock in the morning on this day, January 4, 1809, in Coupvray, France, a local midwife eased tiny Louis Braille into the world. Louis was the fourth child of his mother, Monique, and his father Simon, a leather worker. The pair formed a sturdy middle-class couple, devout and prosperous. But the boy appeared frail, so they arranged to have him baptized right away.

Louis quickly showed himself to be a bright-eyed child, prying into everything. The early death that had been feared for him did not happen. However, another disaster struck. Three-year-old Louis had been warned not to play with his father's tools. But temptation was strong. One day, when no one was looking, he took up a sharp knife and tried to cut a piece of leather. The blade slipped, gouging one of his eyes. The wound became dangerously infected. Then the infection spread to his good eye. Louis was blind.

The town's old priest died. Father Jacques Palluy took his place. He saw the potential of young Louis and began to teach him. Afterward, Palluy arranged for a newly appointed schoolmaster to instruct Louis. The good priest later got Louis admitted to the Royal Institution for Blind Youth.

At the institute, Louis proved to be an apt pupil. In addition to his regular subjects, he learned to play the piano. Playing religious music on the organ would become one of the joys of his later life.

Captain Barbier introduced a system of raised dots to the Royal Institute. It had serious flaws. Young Louis was still just a boy, but he set out to solve the problems of Barbier's system. The captain was reluctant to accept suggestions from a boy, so Louis began to experiment at night. At fifteen, he created the world's first really good system for blind reading. At nineteen years of age, he developed a Braille system of writing music. At twenty, he was a teacher at his own school.

In writing of his own system, Louis never sought glory, happy to remind his readers how much he owed to Captain Barbier. This, despite the fact that Barbier fought Louis' system and tried to get his own method made the official medium of instruction. Louis showed true saintliness. His frustration must have been great, because teachers, afraid of losing their jobs, also resisted the improved system.

Deeply modest, Louis hid his many acts of kindness and charity. These were often sacrificial. For instance, he gave up a position he loved, playing organ for a church, simply because another blind person needed it more than he did.

Louis developed tuberculosis in young manhood. As he lay dying he said, "God was pleased to hold before my eyes the dazzling splendors of eternal hope. After that, doesn't it seem that nothing more could keep me bound to the earth?" He asked for final communion about midday on January 6, 1852. After three and a half hours of agony late that afternoon, he died at seven-thirty in the evening.

Bibliography:

Feldman, Anthony. Scientists & Inventors. New York: Facts on File, 1979; p. 140.
Roblin, Jean. The Reading Fingers. Life of Louis Braille, 1809-1852. American Foundation for the Blind, 1955.
--- Louis Braille. Royal National Institute for the Blind London: England.
Various internet and encyclopedia articles.

Kairos Cookie Cartoon

2012-01-07T23:23:00.000-06:00

GoAnimate.com: Kairos Cookie Caper by mskathy0724

Like it? Create your own at GoAnimate.com. It's free and fun!

Olfactory Kits

2012-01-06T02:25:00.000-06:00

I have friends who save medicine containers for me so that I can make these for some of my multidisabled students. Then we collect scented samples to keep in them. You can use kitchen seasonings, cough drops, candy, orange peels, potpourri and as in this case, body sprays from a dollar store.

I like the medicine containers better than 35mm film canisters because, well, first they're easier to find since people are using digital cameras and cell phones. Second: after rinsing the medicine residue from these containers, the childproof caps make these safer incase there is a child who has the dexterity to grab one and try to open it for him/herself.

I also like to soak cottonballs with the liquid scents so that incase a child can grab one, none of the liquid will pour out. Depending on the liquid, you may need to change out the cotton balls every 2 weeks or so in case you've used a liquid that will support mold growth.

CEC SmartBrief: Can Students with Autism Learn Social Skills Through Theater?

2012-01-06T02:02:00.000-06:00

CEC News Brief

Reading this on a mobile device? Try our optimized mobile version here:
http://r.smartbrief.com/resp/drfDCYjHpkeirbvIfCzbesfCjHVV
January 5, 2012

Can students with autism learn social skills through theater?
A researcher at the University of Virginia is studying the use of theater education as an alternative to rote instruction for teaching social skills to students with autism. The approach is based on the assumption that students with autism know how to behave socially but cannot always act upon that knowledge at appropriate times, and allows students to practice their skills as part of role-playing. Harvard Education Letter
(January/February 2012)
Students consider inclusion of those with disabilities at school events
Students at several schools in San Francisco recently participated in activities to commemorate national Inclusive Schools Week. In one school, students had to think about how to better include classmates with physical disabilities on the playground by participating in disability simulations. "They're definitely empathizing with what it could be like to have a challenge," said parent Catherine Dauer, whose son has cerebral palsy. "They're learning to be helpful and respectful, but they're realizing that if they had a challenge, they wouldn't want help all the time." The Examiner (San Francisco)
(1/4)
At MetLife, Protecting Your Family Is Our Business
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  Educational Leadership
Many schools lack full-time school nurses amid budget cuts
At least 50% of U.S. schools do not have a full-time nurse on staff, and that number is expected to grow amid ongoing budget cuts. "Children are coming to school with increasingly complex medical conditions that need to be managed on a daily basis. And when there is no school nurse available, those kids are not going to be well-managed in school, and so it puts them at risk for complications," said Linda Davis-Alldritt, president of the National Association of School Nurses. NPR.org
(1/3)
How should teachers establish goals for the new year?
Teachers should establish goals -- not resolutions -- that they want to achieve in the new year, says Elena Aguilar, a district leadership coach in California. She offers two examples in which teachers establish clear goals, "take small steps" toward achieving them, and "focus on new actions" by devoting several evening hours to personal time and assigning less homework. Edutopia.org/Elena Aguilar's blog
(1/4)

Other News
Experts weigh in on teacher-compensation issues The New York Times (tiered subscription model)
(1/2)

  Technology Trends
What is the relationship between tech and personalized learning?
The success of student-centered personalized learning is largely dependent on technology, according to this article. The model incorporates aspects of both differentiated and individualized instruction, and requires students to have broad access to technology tools that allow them to connect with peers, learning communities, online tutors and many other resources, the writer finds. T.H.E. Journal
(1/4)
Here's what you can expect in 2012 from education technology
The use of mobile phones as well as other mobile devices, including those owned by students, is expected to be an increasing trend in education technology for 2012, says education writer Audrey Watters. Other growing trends include the use of data to improve teaching and learning, and instruction based on the principles of gaming. KQED.org/Mind/Shift blog
(1/3)
  Policy News
Mass. to consider oversight of special-education collaboratives
Lawmakers in Massachusetts are set to begin consideration of a bill that would increase oversight of special-education collaboratives funded by taxpayers. Some of the collaboratives, which allow school districts to share resources for students with disabilities, have been criticized for financial mismanagement as part of an investigation by state auditors. The Boston Globe (tiered subscription model)
(1/4)
Colo. businesses to provide safe haven for students who are bullied
School-board officials in Pueblo, Colo., have adopted a new anti-bullying program in which students who are being bullied can seek refuge at selected local businesses. The participating businesses will display a poster to identify them to students and will be trained in how to provide a safe haven. The Pueblo Chieftain (Colo.)
(1/4)
Where has No Child Left Behind succeeded and failed?
No Child Left Behind went into effect nearly 10 years ago, and among the most recent criticism is in a report released this week that described the federal education law as a "policy failure." Some observers say that the law's focus on accountability is important, even if there is too much reliance on standardized testing to measure achievement. Laura Hamilton, senior behavioral scientist at RAND Corp., says stakeholders should discuss how they might "expand the measures tested." U.S. News & World Report/High School Notes blog
(1/4)
  Eye on Exceptionalities
Respite for caregivers lowers hospitalization rate of those with autism
The provision of respite services for caregivers of children and young adults with autism may reduce hospitalizations among those with the disorder, a study shows. "In many cases, hospitalization may result as much from the stress the child's behavior places on the family as from the behavior," University of Pennsylvania researcher David Mandell and his colleagues wrote. However, the study did not find a link between various therapies and lower incidences of hospitalization. Disability Scoop
(1/5)

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  CEC Spotlight
Make the most of your convention experience with a workshop
It's not too late to register for one of CEC 2012 Convention & Expo's Preconvention Workshops, to be held on April 11. These workshops provide opportunities to explore important topics in depth and interact with experts. Register for any preconvention workshop and earn CEUs. Find out more.
CEC 2012 early-bird deadline fast approaching
The CEC 2012 Convention & Expo -- the largest professional-development event dedicated to special and gifted education -- will be held April 11 to 14 in Denver. Attendees should register by Jan. 17 to take advantage of the early-bird discount and save up to $100 off onsite registration. Find out more and register now.

The vitality of thought is in adventure. Ideas won't keep. Something must be done about them."
--Alfred North Whitehead, British mathematician and philosopher

Mailing Address:
SmartBrief, Inc.® , 555 11th ST NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20004

Blind Access Journal

2012-01-04T22:25:00.000-06:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Blind Access Journal
To: msk
Sent: Wednesday, January 4, 2012 7:42 AM
Subject: Blind Access Journal
[I have had problems with the new download for the Bookshare software lately. If anyone would please contact me here and tell me what's new and why I can't put a book in it any more--please explain like I'm seven years old. LOL! Thanks! ~K.]

Blind Access Journal

Never Leave Home Without Your Books: Bookshare Read2Go for iOS

Posted: 03 Jan 2012 06:24 PM PST

In this approximately 27-minute podcast, Allison Hilliker and Darrell Shandrow demonstrate finding, downloading and reading with Bookshare's Read2Go iOS app for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch.

We demonstrate reading with Read2Go's built-in text-to-speech voices and VoiceOver while explaining the process in our typical step-by-step format.

Please feel free to give us your feedback in the comments. What do you like? How could we make the show better? What topics would you like us to cover on future shows?

Listen or Pause – Read2Go Demonstration

Download – Read2Go Demonstration

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Family ECard!

2011-12-26T12:33:00.004-06:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Genetic disorder CdLS brought into spotlight

2011-12-21T15:28:00.002-06:00

http://www.western-star.com/news/lebanon-oh-news/genetic-disorder-cdls-brought-into-spotlight-1160580.html

Teaching the blind to see through sound

2011-12-21T15:01:00.000-06:00

[This is an old but interesting article. I found it hiding in one of my files. ~K.]

Teaching the blind to see through sound.
Written by Karin Kloosterman. Wednesday, 26 August 2009.

JERUSALEM – Israeli researcher Dr. Amir Amedi has devised a new
technology that uses sound to help the blind to see. A new soundscape language has been created by an Israeli researcher that allows blind people to 'see' objects in much the same way a bat does. Sounds can delight the ears and the soul, but according to Amedi, sounds can also give sight to the blind. After all, if bats can echolocate and 'see' with sound, then why not people, too?

Amedi, of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, has an eye-opening approach. Using sounds that can be associated with the basic shapes of physical objects, Amedi and his Dutch colleague Peter Mejeri have effectively trained a number of congenitally blind people to 'see.' The patients do not 'see' via the optic nerve in the eye, but use their visual cortex directly. The sounds that Dr. Amedi's new software and algorithms teach to the blind are, in effect, a new language called 'soundscapes.' Soundscapes could enable those blind from birth, or newly blind, to 'see' who and what is in a room.

Hopefully, in time, those who have trained their brains will even be able to see objects that they haven't been trained to see, such as paintings. Seeing like a bat.

"Theoretically, it could be possible to create high-tech audio glasses that convert visual information into audio signals that the blind can interpret," says Amedi.
"Instead of being 'blind as a bat,' one would effectively 'see' like a bat – using sound instead of vision to guide you on your way," he explains to ISRAEL21c.

The Soundscape language works with the help of a webcam and a microphone. AmeAdi plays a sound signal for his blind subjects and presents them with an object – something simple like a thick diagonal bar.

The person is asked to feel the object and draw it. The resulting picture represents one letter of the new alphabet. He then introduces various sound-object combinations together, such as two diagonals crossing.

"The most attractive thing we found, and already published in Nature Neuroscience, is that there is a division of labour in the brain," Amedi says.

"There are different parts of the cortex, which are devoted to different functions in the temporal lobe, occipital lobe, etc.," he says, adding that within each lobe there are sub-lobes, devoted to different tasks such as localizing objects and colour vision.

Waking up the brain.

"What we found in congenitally blind people who never saw, when we started to work on this, is that new languages, these auditory soundscapes, are being activated in the auditory cortex. After they start learning, they start to recruit their visual cortex. In someone who hasn't seen in two decades, the visual cortex starts to recover.

"It's like waking them up after all these years. They can retrain their visual cortex," Amedi says.

"The blind use a webcam to transform what we see into sound. Learning an algorithm that converts the pictures to sounds is the trick," reveals Amedi, whose lab is in the Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, at the Hebrew University.

In effect, the tool functions as 'artificial vision.' Once they master it, blind people should eventually be able to read and write and locate objects in their immediate environment. It wouldn't be unreasonable to imagine a day when they could walk into a room and 'see' how many people are in it. So far, the researchers have taught blind subjects to recognize objects in room such as shoes and to read short words like 'dad.' In theory, they could trickier," says Amedi.
The new universal language?
Depending on a person's motivation and ability, the basis for the new 'seeing through sound' language could be learned in as few as 10 to 20 hours. Amedi is already working with about 10 people in Israel and is awaiting permission to work with children who are blind. Those under six especially, have the ability to quickly learn and retain new languages.
Amedi is constantly working to improve the algorithms and streamline the tool. But he confesses that it is sometimes an uphill process and not just
from
> a
> technical point of view: "It's challenging in itself to have a
dialogue
> with the
> blind, to get them involved and to convince them to invest their time,"
he
> tells
> ISRAEL21c.
>
> "It's not like a flick of a button and that's it. They need to learn
> another
> language. It's challenging in the beginning, but when you get it, it
can
> be very
> useful and has a lot of potential."
>
> If the tool becomes commercialized, along with the business plan Amedi
> intends
> to include an outline for a training camp so that people can learn the
new
> soundscape language together, in groups.
>
> Amedi maintains that unlike sign language or Braille, the soundscape
> language
> could be a universal language. He says that it can be taught to people
> from any
> culture, race or religion. Who knows? We may find that it's the only
> language
> that blind people – and maybe all of us – have in common.
>
> Reprinted with permission from ISRAEL21c. For more than 3,000 stories
of
> how
> Israel adds value to life in Canada and around the world, visit
> http://www.israel21c.org/ <http://www.israel21c.org/>
> Last Updated ( Wednesday, 26 August 2009 )
>
> Source URL:
>
http://www.jewishtribune.ca/TribuneV2/index.php/200908261988/Teaching-the-blind-to-see-through-sound.html
>
>
>
>

Mrs. Kathy Michael
Visual Impairments Specialist
Westminster Elementary School
http://lee.ebrschools.org/kathynicholslee
http://www.kathyskids.org/
http://mskathy.proboards30.com/
http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com/

AFB Press Offers Free Shipping for the Holidays!

2011-12-21T14:40:00.000-06:00

AFB

American Foundation
for the Blind

Expanding possibilities for people with vision loss

Books Make Great Gifts!Enjoy FREE Shipping for the Holidays!

To extend a special year-end gift for our valued customers, AFB Press is offering FREE SHIPPING for products purchased in our online bookstore through Friday, December 30, 2011. Use coupon code HOLIDAY11 and start shopping now at www.afb.org/store!

Here are some of our most popular gift ideas:

Learning to Listen/Listening to Learn: Teaching Social Skills to Students with Visual Impairments is new from AFB Press and an essential resource for teachers and everyone who works with or cares about children who are visually impaired. It is the first book to address the development of skills used to interpret auditory information. The regular price is $59.95, but it can be purchased for $49.95 until December 31, 2011. http://www.afb.org/store/product.asp?sku=978%2D0%2D89128%2D491%2D8&mscssid

Out of Sight, Not Out of Mind: Personal and Professional Perspectives on Age-Related Macular Degeneration is also new from AFB Press, and a great gift for professionals and family members alike. 93-year-old Lindy Bergman and the experts from The Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired present cutting-edge information about the psychological, physical and medical aspects of AMD and how they impact treatment. $29.95 http://www.afb.org/store/product.asp?sku=978%2D0%2D89128%2D485%2D7&mscssid

To Love This Life: Quotations by Helen Keller is a beautiful, hardcover book suitable for gifting. This memorable collection of quotations from Helen Keller brings words of wisdom, courage, and inspiration from a remarkable individual. The book is also available as an audio CD, narrated by Patty Duke. $21.95. http://www.afb.org/store/product.asp?sku=978%2D0%2D89128%2D347%2D8&mscssid

The Braille Trail Activity Book with Slate and Stylus provides fun activities and tools to help sighted children interested in braille learn to read and write their own "secret messages." $24.95 http://www.afb.org/store/product.asp?sku=978%2D0%2D89128%2D888%2D6&mscssid

For FREE shipping, use coupon code HOLIDAY11 during the check-out process. Happy Holidays from AFB Press!

Order now from the AFB Press Bookstore!

Albinism

2011-12-21T14:39:00.000-06:00

http://www.foroyaa.gm/modules/news/article.php?storyid=8484

Optician Online - educating and informing eye care professionals site

2011-12-21T14:38:00.001-06:00

RNIB targets Christmas charts

on Optician Online - educating and informing eye care professionals with the following message:

I saw this on the OpticianOnline.net website and thought you might be interested.

To view the item, visit:

http://www.opticianonline.net/Articles/2011/12/16/28716/RNIB+targets+Christmas+charts.htm

Retinopathy of prematurity

2011-12-21T14:38:00.000-06:00

Plus disease is an important prognostic indicator in advanced retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).1 However, recognition of the pathology is highly subjective,2– 5 ...
bjo.bmj.com/content/.../bjophthalmol-2011-300573.full?...

Neighbors Come Together to Light Up Randall Park Neighborhood, Raise Funds — Downers Grove news, photos and events — TribLocal.com

2011-12-21T14:36:00.000-06:00

http://triblocal.com/downers-grove/community/stories/2011/12/neighbors-come-together-to-light-up-randall-park-neighborhood-raise-funds/#.TvIwApmqbJk.email

Sale at Bob's Store

2011-12-14T07:07:00.000-06:00

Bob has a 20% off sale. The profits go to help keep up my main web site dedicated to blind children. Use this code: THREESK1203

My Grandniece and Her First Santa Visit

2011-12-13T23:41:00.000-06:00

A dailymail.co.uk article from Kathy Batten's Disease

2011-12-12T23:32:00.000-06:00

Batten's disease; 'Our son won't live past ten': Four-year-old is being poisoned to death by his own brain Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2059387/emailArticle.html#ixzz1dKYfmVPa

'Our son won't live past ten': Four-year-old is being poisoned to death by his own brain

Blighted by a fatal neurological disorder, four-year-old Morgan Mawson is unlikely to make it to his tenth birthday and is unable to walk or talk.

Full Story:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2059387/Batten-disease-Four-year-old-poisoned-death-brain.html

10 November 2011

www.dailymail.co.uk

Bob on Royal Blue and Red

2011-12-12T23:30:00.000-06:00

http://twitpic.com/7owtp4

http://www.kathyskids.org

Ms. Kathy's Kids Blog: http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com/

Batten's Disease

2011-12-12T23:26:00.000-06:00

News

1 new result for Batten's Disease

Special award for fundraiser Matt
Tavistock People
Money raised goes to the Huntington's Disease Association, Parkinson's UK and the Batten Disease Family Association which all work with conditions which ...

[The vOICe] Implant gives new hope to the blind

2011-12-04T01:56:00.000-06:00

Implant gives new hope to the blind.
By Tom Avril, Inquirer Staff Writer.
At first, sitting in church one Sunday, Michael Adler couldn't tell what the
whitish glow in front of him was.
Adler, 49, had been legally blind since childhood, and his vision eventually
deteriorated to pretty much zero.
But now, on the back of the pew in front of him, he saw something. And then he
realized: It was the pages of a hymnal. His new "eye" was starting to work.
Two months earlier at Wills Eye Institute, surgeons had implanted a small array
of electrodes in the back of Adler's left eye - a speck of metal no bigger than
the word eye on this page. In the last few weeks - with the aid of a small video
camera in his sunglasses that transmits images to his retinal implant - he has
begun to gain some limited vision.
"Every day, I can make out more than I could the day before," he said after a
round of follow-up tests at the University of Pennsylvania. "It's very weird
trying to get used to it."
Surgeons have implanted the devices in the retinas of 32 people around the
world. All have a severe form of retinitis pigmentosa, an inherited disease that
causes retinal degeneration.
Much like a cochlear implant enables a deaf person to perceive sound, the
retinal implant bypasses damaged cells in the eye, transmitting signals to the
same part of the brain that registers images in people with normal vision.
"It's sort of like, all the phone lines are in place and you didn't have the
phone," said Julia Haller, ophthalmologist-in-chief at Wills. "This replaces the
phone."
The resulting black-and-white images are very low-resolution, consisting of just
60 pixels - far too fuzzy for users to pick out letters on an eye chart. To
Adler, a massage therapist who lives in Mantua, Gloucester County, the face of
his 9-year-old daughter looks like a bright, featureless oval.
But he can see the outlines of doors and sidewalks, and he can pick out plates
on the dinner table.
This type of surgery is just one of several futuristic techniques that
scientists are exploring to help the blind, advances that until recently were
only a dream.
In younger patients with another type of blindness, researchers have had some
success with gene therapy, restoring a modest amount of vision by injecting
corrective genes. Two such efforts are under way at Penn: one in collaboration
with Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, the other with the University of
Florida at Gainesville.
Elephant on a typewriter.
Other methods under scrutiny include stem cells, which would regenerate the
eye's rods and cones, and cortical implants, which are a bit like what Adler has
in his eye, but which are placed directly in the brain, bypassing the eye.
"The progress is remarkable compared to what it was five years ago," said Andrew
Mariani, a program director in the National Eye Institute's division of
extramural research. "What it will be in another five or 10 years, we can just
guess."
Along the way, scientists are starting to learn new things about the brain's
plasticity - its ability to adapt.
In blind people, especially those who lose their sight at an early age, parts
of the visual cortex are commonly borrowed to enhance other senses, said the
University of Southern California's Mark S. Humayun, a leader of the
retinal-implant project.
So a big question is, when some sight is restored, are those parts of the brain
borrowed back? Humayun, a biomedical engineer and an ophthalmologist at the
Doheny Eye Institute at USC, plans to use brain scans to answer that question.
Another puzzle is why people with the implants are able to see much of anything,
because the implanted electrodes, though gossamer-thin, are still much thicker
than the natural machinery they replace.
In the center of a healthy retina, the signal from each light-sensitive cone
cell is transmitted to one ganglion cell, and ultimately through the optic nerve
to the brain.
In blind people with the implants, on the other hand, each electrode stimulates
10 to 20 ganglion cells at once, Humayun said.
"It's sort of like an elephant typing on a typewriter," said Tim Schoen,
director of preclinical research at the Foundation Fighting Blindness, which has
funded Humayun's work in the past.
But it seems to work.
Yet in a limited way, it seems to work. Some patients do better than others, but
so far all 32 have been able to see something, according to Second Sight Medical
Products, the California maker of the device.
It is called the Argus II, after the 100-eyed guardian of Greek myth.
It was designed with the help of the U.S. Department of Energy, which has
contributed $51 million and technical expertise from its national labs. DOE
scientists are now working with the company to make a higher-resolution device
with more than 200 electrodes.
The goal is to build an implant with 1,000 electrodes, though the department has
not committed funding beyond next year.
Even the current 60-electrode device is a feat of engineering, not the least
because of where it has to perform: the warm, salty surroundings of the human eye.
Adler learned of the trial from the physicians at Penn's Scheie Eye Institute,
where he had been going for years.
They felt that Adler had the motivation to cope with what would likely be a
bewildering new stimulus, and the energy to return for years of testing.
But they warned him not to hope much.
"Repeat after me: I don't have any expectations," ophthalmologist Samuel G.
Jacobson told him.
The three-hour surgery was performed June 29 by Allen Ho and Carl Regillo,
surgeons at Wills Eye and professors of ophthalmology at Thomas Jefferson
University.
Once Adler was under anesthesia, they opened his eyelids wide and deftly cut
through the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the white of the eye. They did
that so they could place a thin belt, called a scleral buckle, entirely around
the eyeball.
The buckle is used to hold a disk-shape receiver on one side of the eye.
Eventually, the receiver would accept signals from the camera and electronic
circuitry outside Adler's body.
Then the surgeons performed a vitrectomy, making a tiny incision in the white
of the eye, suctioning out the jelly inside and replacing it with a saline solution.
Finally, they made another small incision in the eye and inserted the electrode
implant, which was connected to the receiver by a thin cable.
The implant was then fastened to the center of Adler's retina with a microtack.
It took several weeks for his eye to heal.
On Aug. 12, he returned to Penn to try on his custom sunglasses, equipped with a
camera the size of a pencil eraser.
The switch was turned on, and at first, the sudden new stimulus was a bit much.
"It looked like I was staring into a flashlight," he said.
The device was fine-tuned, and he returned the next week, Aug. 19, to take home
the glasses for good.
By Aug. 22, he had started to get the hang of it, picking out blurry objects on
the dinner table, though he couldn't tell exactly what they were. The next day
he saw the hymnal at church.
At Penn's Scheie building, where the circular concrete walls evoke the form of
a giant eye, he has been returning each Wednesday for tests with Jacobson and
Artur V. Cideciyan, a research associate professor of ophthalmology.
In one test, he must find a white square measuring three inches across that pops
up in various spots on a computer screen.
Most of the time he gets it right, successfully touching the square with his
finger, though his hand-eye coordination is a bit rusty from years of disuse.
The implant device is small, providing only a 20-degree field of view, and so
he must swivel his head to see things. He is fully aware that the implant is
experimental, and that it may not ever make much difference in his day-to-day life.
Still, he is delighted. And Cideciyan said his performance may improve as his
brain trains itself to make sense of the newfound information.
Last week, vacationing in Ocean City, N.J., with his wife and daughter, Adler
could see the lights on the boardwalk at night.
As he walked to dinner one evening at Clancy's by the Sea, he saw what he
thought was the restaurant's dark doorway, though he had to ask someone to make
sure.
"This is all new to me," he marveled.
Source URL:
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/education/20090908_Implant_gives_new_hope_to_the_blind.html

Writers and their Illnesses: Milton | Varsity Online

2011-12-01T15:57:00.001-06:00

http://www.varsity.co.uk/culture/4052#.TsGagYGYZ-g.email
---

Club shares its fundraising fruits

2011-12-01T15:57:00.000-06:00






Club shares its fundraising fruits
Several groups and individuals have shared $30,000 in donations from the Rotary Club of Timaru South. ... Read More

Alumna offers tool for understanding albinism

2011-12-01T15:09:00.000-06:00

MsK
sent this using ShareThis.


Alumna offers tool for understanding albinism Source: niutoday.info Albinism. Some have heard the word before, but few people fully understand the difficulties a person with albinism faces. Individuals with albini...

The resume of Christ Jesus

2011-12-01T15:08:00.000-06:00

The Resume of Jesus Christ Address: Ephesians 1:20
Phone: Romans 10:13
Website: The Bible . Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus

_____________________________________________________

Objective

My name is Jesus -The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart. Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.

_____________________________________________________________________

Qualifications

· I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19) · I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7) · I breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7) · I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13) · The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)

Occupational Background

· I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49). · I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful. · My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15 -17)

Skills Work Experiences
· Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18). · I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33). · Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)

Educational Background

· I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6). · In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3). · My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105). · I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).

·Major Accomplishments

I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26). · I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15). · I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15). · I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead! · There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is located at: www dot - the BIBLE. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.

References

· Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healing, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance

In Summation

Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15).

Send this resume to everyone you know, you never know who may have an opening! Thanks for your help.

Enter Our Essay Contest

2011-12-01T14:35:00.000-06:00

Having trouble viewing this email? CLICK HERE to view in your browser

Win a TRIP TO NEW YORK when your students tell us
what they think about
POLITICIANS' PROMISES GONE WRONG

225 CASH PRIZES for students in the 2011-2012
STOSSEL IN THE CLASSROOM
ESSAY CONTEST

Help your students earn LOTS of great prizes by entering them in Stossel in the Classroom's essay contest, for students aged 13-18! And we have super prizes for teachers, too!

ESSAY TOPIC: Why do you think politicians make promises? When they try to keep them, why are there often unintended consequences? Describe a promise made by a current politician or political candidate from any party, and discuss whether or not they will be able to keep that promise and what, if any, are some potential unintended consequences from that promise. Please use at least one example from the Stossel special or other Stossel report to support your response.

• 225 students will receive CASH PRIZES totaling $23,000.

• 1st and 2nd place students will also win an all-expense-paid trip to New York City for themselves, a chaperone, and the teachers who submitted their essays to see a live taping of STOSSEL.

• Teachers whose students receive at least an honorable mention will receive an autographed copy of one of John Stossel's best-selling books.

• Each teacher may submit an unlimited number of student essays (500-1000 words) on our web site between now and the Feb. 6th deadline.

FOR COMPLETE CONTEST RULES, PRIZE DETAILS, AND SUBMISSION INFO, VISIT:
http://stosselintheclassroom.org/essaycontest.php

Stossel in the Classroom
is a project of The Center for Independent Thought
1112 River Oaks, Benton, AR 72019
Visit us online at http://stosselintheclassroom.org/

Half of Vets Returning From Iraq and Afghanistan Need Medical Attention

2011-12-01T14:33:00.000-06:00

Message from sender:

Article entitled: Half of Vets Returning From Iraq and Afghanistan Need Medical Attention. Thought youi'd be intersted in reading this.

Published on Truthout (http://www.truth-out.org/)

Half of Vets Returning From Iraq and Afghanistan Need Medical Attention

By alexa

Created 2011-11-16 07:15

Eric Newhouse [1]

Source:

Truthout

Display date:

Wednesday 16 November 2011

Published Date:

Wed, 2011-11-16 (All day)

Label:

Report

More than half of America's former warriors are returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan with medical and mental problems that need treatment, according to new statistics from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Image:

111611-1.jpg [2]

Image slice:

111611-1_ag.jpg [3]

Caption:

(Photo: RunItsTheFuz / Flickr [4])

Lastest Stories:

Homepage:

License Type:

Creative Commons

Feature Slot:

Computed author:

Eric Newhouse

Computed author bio:

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Eric Newhouse is the author of "Faces of Combat." He also writes a blog, "Invisible Wounds," on vets' mental health issues here [5].

News

Source URL: http://www.truth-out.org/half-vets-returning-iraq-and-afghanistan-need-medical-attention/1321369149

Links:
[1] http://www.truth-out.org/eric-newhouse/1321369063
[2] http://www.truth-out.org/sites/default/files/111611-1.jpg
[3] http://www.truth-out.org/sites/default/files/111611-1_ag.jpg
[4] http://www.flickr.com/photos/runitsthefuz/2713824787/
[5] http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/invisible-wounds/

amblyopia:Another Look at Full Occlusion and Why We Patch with Tape Instead

2011-11-14T16:56:00.000-06:00

http://littlefoureyes.com/2010/11/05//

Bob Luvs Chin Wubs

2011-11-14T16:54:00.000-06:00

Doctors Vision Centers across state raise money and awareness for Prevent Blindness North Carolina | Mountain Xpress | Asheville, NC

2011-11-14T16:52:00.000-06:00

Doctors Vision Centers across state raise money and awareness for Prevent Blindness North Carolina Mountain Xpress Asheville, NC

Mrs. America Fights for Blindness Research

2011-11-14T16:51:00.002-06:00

http://youtu.be/_MVrN7Gqw_w

Latisse for your dome? Eyelash enhancer also thickens thin hair

2011-11-14T16:48:00.000-06:00

Latisse for your dome? Eyelash enhancer also thickens thin hair

Yeesh! Monocular Trial For Glaucoma Drops Useful After All?

2011-11-14T16:46:00.000-06:00

Yeesh! Monocular Trial For Glaucoma Drops Useful After All?

Glaucoma linked to close kin marriages | Deccan Chronicle

2011-11-14T16:45:00.000-06:00

Glaucoma linked to close kin marriages Deccan Chronicle

Leon named ‘Bucks’ Beefiest’ charity calendar hunk - Community - Bucks Herald

2011-11-10T13:03:00.000-06:00

(Helping to raise funds for Batten's disease)
Leon named ‘Bucks’ Beefiest’ charity calendar hunk - Community - Bucks Herald

Running for a cause | Star Williamstown, Altona, Laverton | Star News Group

2011-11-10T13:01:00.000-06:00

Running for a cause Star Williamstown, Altona, Laverton Star News Group

Parent Talk: Children's Eye Health

2011-11-10T05:54:00.000-06:00

Ms. Kathy has shared the following article from St. Michael Patch:
	Parent Talk: Children's Eye Health With hearing and vision screenings happening at St. Michael-Albertville schools this time of year, it's time... By Samara Postuma I thought you might be interested in this article from the St. Michael Patch. Read more »

Amblyopia

2011-11-10T05:52:00.000-06:00

http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/diopsys-receives-ce-mark-for-its-vep-vision-testing-systems-133069413.html

Orchestra teacher's vision prevails despite blindness

2011-11-10T05:48:00.000-06:00

Article Title:
Orchestra teacher's vision prevails despite blindness
To view the contents on www.wisconsinrapidstribune.com, go to:
http://www.wisconsinrapidstribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/201111070357/WRT0101/111070514

now i love my hair

2011-11-10T05:47:00.000-06:00

now i love my hair
mama used to fry it
said it needed "fixin'"
'cause the summer humidity
made my thick fine stuff "go back" easily
my sister's coil pattern was tighter
but it held a pressin' better
mine was a fight to stay "fixed"
like it was an entity itself
and that entity fought back

i thought,
something's just not right
i was about ten or eleven
saw a picture of cicely tyson
wearing her nappy hair proudly
how could she do that

at the ebony fashion fair
a beautiful black model
strutting the runway
with her natural look
something called out to me
the way GOD made you, too
is good
and beautiful

in junior high
late sixties
i went natural
as it was back then
with my "'fro"
my school was all black
and a few girls stared
like i was out of my mind

later
getting a job
i blended in
and burned my scalp
and cut my hair
yet in dreams
when i looked in the dream mirrors
my hair was coiled
and fell in lioness locks
about my shoulders
was GOD talking
saying
"ALL that I made
IS good"

later
i looked in the real mirror
as in my dreams it fell to my shoulders
in lioness locks
it flourished in humid weather
i no longer feared fog and misty days
fearing it "going back"
and needing "fixin'"
B'cause being "back"
is where it's s'posed to be
no fixin' what ain't broken
just embracing
and loving
and lavishing in
what is

draping over my shoulders
coiling down my back
reaching toward my hips
a place it would never have been free to travel
if it had been enslaved by
fake taming
harsh straightening

now i love my hair

http://www.kathyskids.org

Ms. Kathy's Kids Blog: http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com/

Video links for Students with Visual Impairments

2011-11-02T16:09:00.000-05:00

Equal Access: Science and Students with Sensory Impairments : http://youtu.be/3-PoIJ6VjWA

Adaptive P.E. Games for Blind and Visually Impaired Students by Elina Mullen, Ed.D., of TSBVI http://youtu.be/PB9eCkh4Ryk

Field Trip for Blind & Visually Impaired Students : http://youtu.be/pGYBamx_8D0

Watch me go! Blind Preschooler Uses cane : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIGN44XJ7bY&feature=colike

What type of school should a visually impaired student attend? : http://youtu.be/YBiaCFwEv6U

Firefighters train with visually impaired students: http://youtu.be/EdiJXyxBjs4

Understanding the Visually Impaired (Helping #3); http://youtu.be/p0BBRbvde2U

http://www.kathyskids.org

Ms. Kathy's Kids Blog: http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com/

Leber congenital amaurosis

2011-11-02T16:07:00.000-05:00

News : Leber congenital amaurosis | Cision Wire
Columbia, MD (Oct. 28, 2011)—The Foundation Fighting Blindness, a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing sight-saving research, announces an $8.25 ...
http://www.google.com/url?sa=X&q=http://www.cisionwire.com/news-by-tag/leber-congenital-amaurosis/&ct=ga&cad=CAcQAhgAIAEoBDAAOABAm8S_9QRIAVgAYgJlbg&cd=tV95avjsNOU&usg=AFQjCNHQC8B0iHqrECXXDgRIX4kxr7JB1w

Retinopathy of Prematurity: Helen Mintz-Hittner Has Recently Been Recognized by Strathmore’s Who’s Who Publication

2011-11-02T16:06:00.000-05:00

Helen Mintz-Hittner Has Recently Been Recognized by Strathmore's Who's Who Publication

http://www.jagsreport.com/2011/11/helen-mintz-hittner-has-recently-been-recognized-by-strathmore%e2%80%99s-who%e2%80%99s-who-publication/

Food for Your Macula

2011-11-01T12:55:00.002-05:00

http://thestar.com.my/health/story.asp?file=/2011/10/30/health/9780377&sec=health

Colour Coded - Indian Express

2011-11-01T12:52:00.000-05:00

Colour Coded - Indian Express

Austin mom's foundation helps parents with sick kids | kvue.com Austin

2011-10-28T14:01:00.000-05:00

* Please note, the sender's email address has not been verified.

You have received the following link from mskathy

Click the following to access the sent link:

Austin mom's foundation helps parents with sick kids \| kvue.com Austin*


Get your EMAIL THIS Browser Button and use it to email content from any Web site. Click here for more information.

*This article can also be accessed if you copy and paste the entire address below into your web browser.
http://www.kvue.com/news/Austin-mom-spreading-message-to--132708943.html

From Naples Daily News: A Day in the Life: Best friends create a buzz fighting blindness together

2011-10-28T13:45:00.000-05:00

Ms. Kathy sent you this:
A Day in the Life: Best friends create a buzz fighting blindness together
http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2011/oct/28/a-day-in-the-life-best-friends-create-a-buzz/

Naples Daily News

Pizza 2012

2011-10-28T13:43:00.000-05:00

Want to know how to order a pizza in
2012? Click the link and see.

    Turn up the volume, listen closely and watch the pointer!


www.aclu.org/pizza/images/screen.swf

New groups for Deafblind UK charity

2011-10-28T13:41:00.000-05:00

Article on Deafblind
This article may be of interest to you.
http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/community/community-news/new_groups_for_deafblind_uk_charity_1_3190539

Stealth Blindness: glaucoma

2011-10-28T13:40:00.000-05:00

http://www.frostillustrated.com/full.php?sid=9422&current_edition=2011-10-26

Ms. Kathy
Visual Impairments Specialist
http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

Early but not late blindness leads to enhanced auditory perception

2011-10-26T16:16:00.000-05:00

Early but not late blindness leads to enhanced auditory perception.
The notion that blindness leads to superior non-visual abilities has been
postulated for centuries. Compared to sighted individuals, blind individuals
show different patterns of brain activation when performing auditory tasks.
To date, no study has controlled for musical experience, which is known to
influence auditory skills. The present study tested 33 blind (11 congenital,
11 early-blind, 11 late-blind) participants and 33 matched sighted controls.
We showed that the performance of blind participants was better than that of
sighted participants on a range of auditory perception tasks, even when musical
experience was controlled for. This advantage was observed only for individuals
who became blind early in life, and was even more pronounced for individuals
who were blind from birth. Years of blindness did not predict task performance.
Here, we provide compelling evidence that superior auditory abilities in blind
individuals are not explained by musical experience alone. These results have
implications for the development of sensory substitution devices, particularly
for late-blind individuals.
By Wan CY, Wood AG, Reutens DC, Wilson SJ.
Source URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2009.08.016
Ms. Kathy

The Independent: Hitler's war boast exposed as a myth

2011-10-26T16:12:00.000-05:00

Hitler's war boast exposed as a myth
Friday, 21 October 2011
http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/history/hitlers-war-boast-exposed-as-a-myth-2373590.html
A notorious propaganda story told by Adolf Hitler about himself can now be exposed as a lie. The Führer claimed that the First World War ended for him when he was blinded in a British mustard gas attack, but previously unpublished letters reveal that his blindness was in fact caused by a mental illness ? undermining the "war hero" image used to such political effect by the dictator.

Hmmm. Adolph had all sorts of issues. Eh? ~K

Video Game May Fix Lazy Eye in Older Children

2011-10-26T16:06:00.000-05:00

Video Game May Fix Lazy Eye in Older Children
http://www.cbs42.com/s/80CSj_rEWkO74FEI--pNsQ.cspx#.Tqh2LP4Swbc.blogger

Ridgewood High School students get some 'Positive Exposure'

2011-10-26T16:02:00.000-05:00

* Please note, the sender's email address has not been verified.

You have received the following link from knl@ebrschools.org:

Click the following to access the sent link:

Ridgewood High School students get some 'Positive Exposure'*


Get your EMAIL THIS Browser Button and use it to email content from any Web site. Click here for more information.

*This article can also be accessed if you copy and paste the entire address below into your web browser.
http://www.northjersey.com/news/health/132250508_Ridgewood_High_School_students_get_some__Positive_Exposure_.html

Kicking Blindness in the Shins, Team RC Will Take on RP at VisionWalk

2011-10-26T16:01:00.000-05:00

Ms. kathy has shared the following article from La Mesa Patch:
	Kicking Blindness in the Shins, Team RC Will Take on RP at VisionWalk R.C. Mora of La Mesa talks about scarred life with deteriorating vision but how he manages.... By Annie Lane I thought you might be interested in this article from the La Mesa Patch. Read more »

Friends raise funds for little boy from Holyhead

2011-10-26T16:00:00.000-05:00

http://www.theonlinemail.co.uk/bangor-and-anglesey-news/local-bangor-and-anglesey-news/2011/10/26/friends-raise-funds-for-little-boy-from-holyhead-66580-29664202/#.TqhzexV8pFQ.email
---
Ms. Kathy
Vision Specialist

Blind Teen and CEOs Don't Let Blindness Stand in Their Way

2011-10-26T15:59:00.000-05:00

http://www.phillyburbs.com/blogs/reality/local-teen-two-ceos-prove-blindness-doesn-t-stand-in/article_892bcc97-fd75-5984-bbc2-6a750e40b345.html

Ms. Kathy
Visual Impairments Specialist

The History and Promise of Gene Therapy: Leber congenital amaurosis

2011-10-26T15:57:00.000-05:00

http://www.genengnews.com/gen-articles/the-history-and-promise-of-gene-therapy/3836/

Ms. Kathy
Visual Impairments Specialist

Health News - Lab-Made Skin Cells Will Aid Transplantation, Cancer, Drug Discovery Research, Say Penn Scientists

2011-10-26T15:56:00.000-05:00

Health News - Lab-Made Skin Cells Will Aid Transplantation, Cancer, Drug Discovery Research, Say Penn Scientists

Albinism’s fundraiser set for Strathmore - Strathmore Standard - Alberta, CA

2011-10-21T14:40:00.000-05:00

Albinism’s fundraiser set for Strathmore - Strathmore Standard - Alberta, CA

New machine could help detect lazy eye earlier

2011-10-21T14:35:00.000-05:00

New machine could help detect lazy eye earlier

The President - Blind Americans Equality Day, 2011 - By the President of the United States of America

2011-10-21T14:30:00.000-05:00

This message has been sent to you by: Kathy Michael ( knl@ebrschools.org) (through http://www.menafn.com).

Message:

The article below can be accessed online on:
Title 3--The President - Blind Americans Equality Day, 2011 - By the President of the United States of America

Title 3--The President - Blind Americans Equality Day, 2011 - By the President of the United States of America

FIND Government Press Releases - Thursday, October 20, 2011

Title 3--The President - Blind Americans Equality Day, 2011 - By the President of the United States of America

Oct 20, 2011 (Federal Government Documents and Publications/ContentWorks via COMTEX) -- Generations of blind and visually impaired Americans have dedicated their passion and skills to enhancing our national life--leading as public servants, penning works of literature, lending their voice to music, and inspiring as champions of sport. On Blind Americans Equality Day, we celebrate the achievements of blind and visually impaired Americans and reaffirm our commitment to advancing their complete social and economic integration.

My Administration is dedicated to ensuring Americans with disabilities have every opportunity to reach their full potential. Last year, I signed the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act to set new standards that enable people living with disabilities to access broadband, digital, and mobile innovations. To help level the playing field for employment, we are working to improve the Federal Government's compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Making electronic and information technology 508 compliant will give applicants with disabilities a fair chance and allow employees with disabilities to use necessary tools while on the job. By taking these steps, my Administration reaffirms its pledge to openness by making sure that people with disabilities can better access all the information the Federal Government has placed online.

This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the passage of the Randolph-Sheppard Act. For decades, the legislation has provided openings for blind Americans to work as vendors on Federal property, creating meaningful entrepreneurial opportunities and enabling them to contribute to our economy. These jobs have enriched the lives of those participating in the Randolph-Sheppard program and enhanced public understanding of blindness for those who have interacted with the program's vendors.

Though we have made progress in the march to equality for the blind and those with low vision, there is still more work to be done. In addition to improving access to technology and employment opportunities, this January, I signed the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act. This landmark legislation requires electric and hybrid car manufacturers to add sounds to alert all pedestrians to the presence of these unusually quiet vehicles. These provisions will help increase the safety and independence of blind and visually impaired Americans.

By joint resolution approved on October 6, 1964 (Public Law 88-628, as amended), the Congress designated October 15 of each year as "White Cane Safety Day" to recognize the contributions of Americans who are blind or have low vision. Today, let us recommit to forging ahead with the work of perfecting our Union and ensuring we remain a Nation where all our people, including those living with disabilities, have every opportunity to achieve their dreams.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2011, as Blind Americans Equality Day. I call upon public officials, business and community leaders, educators, librarians, and Americans across the country to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.

/S/ Barack Obama

A Proclamation

Citation: "76 FR 65099"

Document Number: "Proclamation 8739 of October 14, 2011"

Federal Register Page Number: "65099"

"Presidential Documents"

Seeing through the eyes of the blind - The Northern Iowan - University of Northern Iowa

2011-10-21T14:29:00.000-05:00

Seeing through the eyes of the blind - The Northern Iowan - University of Northern Iowa

Ensuring blindness-free world: The role of business

2011-10-20T14:32:00.000-05:00

This is an e-mail from (latest news, breaking news, business, finance analysis, comments and views from Nigeria :: BusinessDay) sent by Ms. Kathy. You may also find the following link interesting: http://www.businessdayonline.com/NG/index.php/analysis/commentary/28694-ensuring-blindness-free-world-the-role-of-business

World Sight Day: Nigerian Mothers Admonished on Prevention of Blindness

2011-10-20T14:31:00.000-05:00

This is an e-mail from (Nigerian Tribune) sent by Ms. Kathy. You may also find the following link interesting: http://tribune.com.ng/index.php/community-news/29849-world-sight-day-mothers-admonished-on-prevention-of-blindness

Ms. Kathy's Kids Blog

Fwd: Video Poster Contest

2012 Young Millionaires Poster & Video Contest

Video Poster Contest

2012 Young Millionaires Poster & Video Contest

2012 Young Millionaires Poster & Video Contest

Arlington public safety hockey game on Saturday to benefit Batten disease sufferer http://blogs.star-telegram.com/crime_time/2012/01/arlington-public-safety-hockey-game-on-saturday-to-benefit-batten-disease-sufferer--1.html

Impaired but Empowered: Deaf Blind

The Hindu : Cities / Vijayawada : A word of caution on retinopathy of prematurity

Microsft Accessibility: Guide for Individuals with Vision Impairments

Braille Production with MacOS

African-Americans with Albinism

Physical Differences

The Family of Color with Albinism

Coping

Hair story

When minorities go missing, it doesn't make the news. This case is a most horrible tragedy:

Whittier youth given multiview magnifier

New Twitter

Albinism:8 skin cancer facts to know

Low Vision Bureau Interview

Jindal's plan: Controversial, unjust and insulting

Special Edition: Your LFT Connection

Jindal's education agenda: Poorly worded, controversial, unjust and insulting

Is a Value Added teacher evaluation good for Louisiana?

Medical Daily : Social Media Campaign Targets ‘Neglected Tropical Diseases’

Social Media Campaign Targets 'Neglected Tropical Diseases'

Kerri on the Prairies- Retinopathy of Prematurity

Sutureless Intrascleral Posterior Chamber IOL Fixation Offers Long-Term Stability

Colour blindness helps monkeys catch camouflaged prey | Nature | The Earth Times

Grapes Could Help Prevent Age-Related Blindness

Pets needed for emotional support can spark condo disputes

Batten's Disease

My girls could be dead before they're 12 - we have to make the most of every day! - mirror.co.uk

Deafblind Cymru 'In Touch' befriending service

African-Americans with Albinism Support

Children's Charity_- Retinopathy of Prematurity

Medical Daily : Social Media Campaign Targets ‘Neglected Tropical Diseases’

Social Media Campaign Targets 'Neglected Tropical Diseases'

Batten's Disease: Children's Hospital Celebrates First Year of Discoveries

Sunglasses at Night: The Cliches of blindness on TV

Country singer joins Austin dad's effort in finding cure for disease | kvue.com Austin

Hageman Receives LightHouse Award

Blind Zimbabwean Beggars Try Their Luck in South Africa

Radio Netherlands Worldwide

Blind Zimbabwean beggars try their luck in South Africa

First Semester Activities for Severe Profound Students

New Education about Eye Care for Children on Sharon Kleyne Hour Power of Water

Retinopathy of Prematurity

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Louis Braille

Kairos Cookie Cartoon

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Blind Access Journal

Blind Access Journal

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AFB Press Offers Free Shipping for the Holidays!

Books Make Great Gifts!Enjoy FREE Shipping for the Holidays!

Albinism

Optician Online - educating and informing eye care professionals site

Retinopathy of prematurity

Neighbors Come Together to Light Up Randall Park Neighborhood, Raise Funds — Downers Grove news, photos and events — TribLocal.com

Sale at Bob's Store

My Grandniece and Her First Santa Visit

A dailymail.co.uk article from Kathy Batten's Disease

Bob on Royal Blue and Red

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The resume of Christ Jesus

Enter Our Essay Contest

Half of Vets Returning From Iraq and Afghanistan Need Medical Attention

Half of Vets Returning From Iraq and Afghanistan Need Medical Attention

amblyopia:Another Look at Full Occlusion and Why We Patch with Tape Instead