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Flying Blind, LLC
2008 News Archive Section
To search for specific keywords within all of the Archived News Items for 2008, you may initiate a Search by holding down the "Ctrl" key while pressing "F" on your keyboard.
RELEASED IN: DECEMBER 2008
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NEWS:
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Optelec Announces Innovated Near and Distance Low Vision Solution with the FarView
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RELEASED: December 15, 2008
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Whether the needs are for on-the-go portability, viewing street signs, storing class notes, reviewing important documents, reading the morning newspaper or sharing information the Optelec FarView puts freedom and independence in the palms of the user.
Vista, CA, November 28, 2008 -- Optelec, the world leader in innovative and assistive technology for visually impaired and blind people, announced the release of FarView, a portable and powerful magnification solution that redefines how low vision users are able to access, store, review and share information.
The unique design of the Optelec FarView and incomparable functionality of near and distance viewing sets a new standard for other portable and desktop devices currently on the market.
Using a centralized, auto focus camera and six different viewing modes the FarView allows the user to view from a distance as well as up close. Viewing notes on the board, reading the menu at coffee shops, and traveling independently has never been easier!
The FarView enables the user to store the data for up close review in more detail at any time. Capture a complete document or multiple pages of a book or magazine. Up to 100 images can be stored on the device and accessed at any given moment. Stored images can be adjusted to the users needs via an integrated menu. Ergonomic scrolling buttons help the user to navigate through any document easily and comfortably, with an auto-scroll function which brings the user back to the beginning of the text line within a snap. Adjust images and text to the needs of the user though rotation, picture alignment, contrast and brightness settings.
Also, FarView offers the user flexibility to connect to an external monitor or PC, encouraging the user to access printed text and photos comfortably and efficiently, and share this information with colleagues, friends and family.
"We are ecstatic to be bringing a product such as FarView to an industry thirsting for innovation," states Michiel van Schaik, CEO of Optelec Holding B.V. "We at Optelec are 100% committed to combining the intelligence within a product with a flexible, powerful design in order for the consumers of our products to exponentially receive more functionality for the money that they spend."
Whether the needs are for on-the-go portability, viewing street signs, storing class notes, reviewing important documents, reading the morning newspaper or sharing information the Optelec FarView puts freedom and independence in the palms of the user.
Optelec expects to be delivering FarView to users in January, 2009. Contact your local Optelec distributor or sales office for more information and pricing details.
About Optelec US:
"Improving the quality of life of visually impaired and dyslexic people, reaching out with simple and effective solutions," Optelec was founded in 1985 and is recognized as the worldwide market leaders in providing innovative solutions for the blind, visually impaired and learning disabled. The company's flagship ClearView+ line has led the industry in high quality, innovative products that effectively improve the daily lives of the visually impaired. In January 2007, Tieman U.S., Holding Company to Optelec U.S. spun off ShopLowVision.com (http://www.ShopLowVision.com) and LowVision.com (http://www.LowVision.com) as a sister companies, providing the one-stop-shop for optical, non-optical and daily living aids products solutions and education for eye care professionals and consumers. Visit us at http://www.optelec.com.
RELEASED IN: OCTOBER 2008
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President's Message
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RELEASED: October 14, 2008
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Greetings!
Welcome to another jam-packed newsletter full of lots of exciting information about Flying Blind, LLC related products and services.
We trust you had a great summer and are enjoying the final three months of 2008. In this edition of the Flying Blind, LLC Newsletter we introduce you to a company who is providing thousands of electronic images of tactile graphics as well as some strategies for producing these graphics as hard copies.
We showcase the new Alva Braille Controller in this installment of our EyePod TechnoCast, and we provide you with some details on Flying Blind, LLC’s first ever webinar designed to guide non-profit organizations through the process of obtaining ear-marked Federal Funding to support the services they offer. We also have some excellent bargains in our E-Blink Showcase.
So make yourself comfortable. We hope that you will enjoy reading and listening to all that we have put together for you in this Volume of the Flying Blind, LLC Newsletter. As always, please feel free to e-mail me directly with comments, questions, or suggestions.
Respectfully,
— Larry L. Lewis, Jr.
Larry.Lewis@Flying-Blind.com
President and Founder
Flying Blind, LLC
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FB-Eye Spotlight:
VIEW International Foundation
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RELEASED: October 14, 2008
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VIEW International Foundation
http://www.viewinternational.org
In this edition of the FB-Eye Spotlight, we introduce you to VIEW International Foundation, Your Source For Tactile Graphics.
VIEW International Foundation is pleased to make available a large number of tactile diagrams developed for use by college students. Initially this collection was only available on CDs. Schools may purchase all or part of the collection depending on their needs.
To utilize the files in this collection, a school must have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader® software and a means for printing on and processing capsule paper. Schools and individuals can download the most current version of the free Adobe Reader® software here: http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html.
There are 11,280 files in the complete collection. The complete collection is on ten CDs and sells for $259.00. Each individual CD will sell for $59.00. These prices include shipping and handling.
The CDs are designed to run as a CD based product, and no installation is needed. To utilize these diagrams, they must be printed on capsule paper which is then processed with a machine like the PIAF ("Pictures in a Flash" from http://www.quantumtechnology.com.au/piaf) that activates the paper producing a raised image. The list below shows the CDs available and the number of images on each CD.
- AERONAUTICS and ASTRONAUTICS — FLUID SCIENCES, 1,056 Files
- AERONAUTICS and ASTRONAUTICS — FLUID & THERMAL SCIENCES, 749 Files
- AERONAUTICS and ASTRONAUTICS, CONTROL SYSTEMS, FLOW CHARTS, GRAPHS, & UNIX SYSTEMS, 1,443 Files
- AERONAUTICS and ASTRONAUTICS — STRUCTURES, 1,308 Files
- BIOCHEMISTRY, CHEMISTRY, COMPUTER SCIENCE, EARTH and ATMOSPHERIC SCIENCE, 977 Files
- GRAPHS and SHAPES — PART ONE, 945 Files
- GRAPHS and SHAPES — PART ONE, 718 Files
- MATHEMATICS and STATISTICS, 1,428 Files
- PHYSICS, 1,222 Files
- ECONOMICS, LANGUAGES, LIFE SCIENCES, PHYSICAL EDUCATION, PSYCHOLOGY, 1,465
For further information and to receive a copy of the license agreement and a set of sample diagrams please contact:
VIEW International Foundation
230 Peach Tree Drive
West Monroe, LA 71291-8653
Phone: (318) 396-1853
Email: ttsinfo@earthlink.net (Start subject line with: "Tactile Diagrams".)
Website: http://www.viewinternational.org/diagrams
Please don’t forget to mention that you read about VIEW in the FB-Eye Spotlight!
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From Government To Growth: Procuring Ear-Marked Federal Funding in a Turbulent Market
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RELEASED: October 14, 2008
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Flying Blind, LLC is excited to offer you our very first Webinar, designed to provide decision-makers of non-profit agencies with invaluable direction for procuring monies to fund the services they offer to their communities.
The Webinar will be held on Monday, November 17th, 2008 at 4:00 PM EST. Flying Blind, LLC’s special guest speaker, who will lead the webinar, is none other than Liz Powell, Esq., MPH – Principal and Founder of G2G consulting, LLC (http://www.G2GConsulting.com).
G2G consulting, LLC provides government affairs, fundraising, public relations, event planning, grant writing, and economic development services for non-profits and businesses - taking all necessary actions to go from Government, to Growth. G2G includes a team of professionals with years of experience in government, politics, and grant writing, and a proven track record in delivering quantifiable results that meet clients' needs. G2G has secured 8 earmarks (federal funding) for 9 clients in the Fiscal Year 2008 appropriations process that totals over $10 million (as of 9/24/07).
Please contact us at: webinar@flying-blind.com to join us on-line for this complimentary workshop. More information about login details will be forthcoming within the next few weeks. And, Flying Blind, LLC plans to make webinars such as this available to you on a regular basis, so please feel free to e-mail us your suggestions regarding future webinar topics.
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E-Blink ShowCase: Fall 2008 Specials
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RELEASED: October 14, 2008
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Flying Blind, LLC is pleased to offer the following items in our E-Blink ShowCase, your source for affordable, refurbished equipment manufactured by this industry’s leaders.
If you have questions about, or are interested in purchasing any of the products listed below, please contact us at E-Blink@Flying-Blind.com or call +1 (216) 381-8107.
Flying Blind, LLC is offering free shipping on all of these E-Blink products within the Continental United States and accepts all major credit cards, PayPal transactions, and Bank Certified Checks.
Please note that all products are available only while supplies last, so hurry!
US$795.00
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One Mountbatten Writer for US$795.00!
Manufactured by Quantum Technology, this is a fantastic Braille writing tool which introduces the blind student to the fundamental necessity for developing braille literacy skills by reinforcing Braille writing with digital audio output. And, it’s priced at a comparable price to its mechanical predecessor, the Perkins Brailler.
Technical Details Here:
http://www.quantumtechnology.com.au/mountbattenwriter
US$1,295.00
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One Alva 380 Refreshable Braille Terminal for US$1,295.00!
This is a fantastic bargain for a tried and true 85 Cell Braille Terminal. This product is in excellent working condition and can be easily set up to run with today’s most popular screenreaders.
Technical Details Here:
http://www.flying-blind.com/pdfs/alva380_manual.pdf
US$1,295.00 Each
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Three BrailleConnect (VarioConnect) 12 Compact Refreshable Braille Terminals for US$1,295.00 Each!
Three BrailleConnect (VarioConnect) 12 Compact Refreshable Braille Terminals manufactured by Baum Retec. All three displays tout ergonomics and portability coupled with a state-of-the-art industrial design. This pocket-sized braille display is great for portable usage with an accessible cellular phone or for spot-reading using a portable laptop.
Technical Details Here:
http://www.baum.de/en/products/brailledisplay/vconnect12.php
US$1,995.00
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One BrailleConnect 24 for US$1,995.00!
This 24 cell option provides the user with portability, yet enough Braille cells to affectively access a PC.
Technical Details Here:
http://www.humanware.com/en-usa/products/braille_and_speech/braille_displays/_details/ id_32/brailliant_24.html
US$2,295.00
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One BrailleConnect 32 for US$2,295.00!
This 32 cell alternative is a fantastic portable option for PC usage.
Technical Details Here:
http://www.humanware.com/en-usa/products/braille_and_speech/braille_displays/_details/ id_76/brailleconnect_32.html
If you represent a manufacturer, agency, organization, or conscientious user of Adaptive Technology wishing to have your previously operated technologies represented in a future E-Blink ShowCase, please contact us at E-Blink@Flying-Blind.com to discuss placement within future Flying Blind, LLC E-Newsletters.
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Event Announcements
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RELEASED: October 14, 2008
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Flying Blind looks forward to meeting and visiting with any of you who can make the following events:
Flying Blind, LLC at Vision Impaired Solutions for Total Access - VISTA Conference
WHEN: Thursday, October 16th, 2008 from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
WHERE: The Campus of the University of Notre Dame, Lafortune Student Center, Dooley Room and Room 202, South Bend, IN
Larry Lewis will be speaking about the advent of accessible mobile screenreaders and refreshable Braille displays, and will be discussing how they can be customized to meet a vision impaired student’s and/or employee’s needs on campus and within the workplace. Flying Blind, LLC will also be demonstrating many of the technologies that it endorses in the exhibit area of the conference.
Detailed information about the conference, along with contact information and a registration link, may be found at http://www.kanebrolin.com/.
Flying Blind, LLC at the ALA TechSource Gaming, Learning, and Libraries Symposium
WHEN: November 2nd - 4th
WHERE: Chicago-land Area
Larry Lewis is pleased to have been asked to speak at this conference to be held in the Chicago-land area, November 2-4, and will be presenting on Integrating Non-Visual Access Into A Library’s Gaming Experience. For registration details for this event, please visit http://gaming.techsource.ala.org/index.php/Registration.
Finally, with a Presidential Election looming in the weeks ahead, we thought it would be important to provide an objective, non-partisan resource that might direct you to some information regarding both parties' positions on topics relating to persons with disabilities.
The Ohio Legal Rights Service has prepared a side-by-side comparison chart of the presidential candidates' positions on disability-related issues. The chart is based on information from the candidates' Websites, their Senatorial Websites, and supplemented by other sources.
Read the "2008 Presidential Candidate Positions on Disability-Related Issues" chart on the OLRS Website at: http://www.olrs.ohio.gov/prescompare.htm.
Please note that Flying Blind, LLC does not endorse either candidate. This information is being provided solely for educational and informational purposes.
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FB-Eye Spotlight:
Leader Dogs For The Blind
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RELEASED ON:
July 21, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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Leader Dogs For The Blind
http://www.leaderdog.org
In this edition of the FB-Eye Spotlight, we introduce you to Leader Dogs for the Blind. Aside from the fact that Leader Dogs is one of the oldest guide dog training facilities in the United States, with over 13,500 graduates, this organization has developed a number of curricula that provide Extended Services to persons who are vision impaired, beyond the scope of dog guide travel.
Its GPS Training affords participants the opportunity to unleash the power of the Trekker and Breeze GPS systems to orient themselves to their surroundings.
More Here: http://www.leaderdog.org/site/PageServer?pagename=GPS
Its Technology Training Program affords willing and qualified vision impaired people the opportunity to develop real-life skills in the workplace.
More Here: http://www.leaderdog.org/site/PageServer?pagename=CareerDevelopment
Leader Dog’s Orientation and Mobility Program provides a solid foundation for the vision impaired traveler who wishes to one day apply for a guide dog.
More Here: http://www.leaderdog.org/site/PageServer?pagename=OM
And its Universities Program ensures that students studying to train persons who are vision impaired in orientation and mobility skill building receive the hands-on training required to effectively interact with visually impaired students who use guide dogs.
More Here: http://www.leaderdog.org/site/PageServer?pagename=UniversitiesProgram
These services are excellent compliments to Leader Dogs' 70+ years of exemplary dog guide service and commitment. Please feel free to visit the Leader Dogs Website and donate today.
Here: https://secure2.convio.net/ldfb/site/Donation2?1400.donation=form1&df_id=1400
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Flying Blind, LLC at AER 2008 International Conference
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RELEASED ON:
July 21, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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Flying Blind, LLC is pleased to be participating in three different activities at the AER 2008 International Conference, July 22nd - 27th at the magnificent Mile Marriott in Chicago, Illinois.
AER 2008 International Conference:
http://www.aerbvi.org/conference/
Come visit us in the Vision Cue (http://www.visioncue.com) Booth in the Exhibit Hall where we’ll be demonstrating Optelec’s ALVA BC640 and Easy Link Series of Wireless Braille Displays working with Code Factory’s Mobile Speak Symbian, Mobile Speak Smartphone, and Mobile Speak Pocket mobile screenreaders.
We’ll also be showcasing these displays with today’s most popular desktop screenreaders as well as demonstrating Optelec’s Compact+ and Traveller+ low vision options.
Flying Blind, LLC will also be located in the Evas (http://www.evas.com) and ICRC (http://at.icrcsolutions.com) booths where we will be demonstrating EVAS’s product continuum and discussing ICRC’s Consolidated Help Desk Support Services.
Lastly, Flying Blind, LLC would like to invite you to attend a poster session entitled, "Wired for Business: Refreshable BRAILLE in Educational and Employment Settings" which will be conducted on Saturday, July 26th from 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM.
In this presentation, we’ll discuss the necessity for refreshable Braille within the classroom as well as within competitive employment for those of us who are print impaired, focusing on the latest innovations in wireless Braille access, and how these innovations can be most effectively integrated into today’s classroom and job site.
Until then, safe travels to Chicago, and be on the look-out for some exciting podcasts featuring some new and exciting products later this summer!
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Flying Blind, LLC and Code Factory Solutions at the 2008 NFB Convention!
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RELEASED ON:
June 24, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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You are invited to a Code Factory demonstration of GPS and Reading On-the-Go applications for the blind and visually impaired!
Join Flying Blind, LLC as it represents Code Factory solutions at the National Federation of the Blind 2008 Summer Convention!
http://www.nfb.org/nfb/National_Convention_2008.asp
Flying Blind, LLC is pleased to be demonstrating the latest innovations of Code Factory, the global leader in making mobile phones and PDAs accessible to persons who are blind and visually impaired, by participating in a variety of activities at this Summer’s National Federation of the Blind Convention, which is to be held at the Hilton Anatole Hotel (http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/DFWANHH-Hilton-Anatole-Texas/index.do), June 29th - July 5th, 2008.
We cordially invite you to attend three formal presentations on Monday, June 30th, 2008 which will be conducted in the Travertine Room, Atrium Mezzanine.
These presentations will demonstrate Code Factory’s latest accessible solutions, enabling blind and visually impaired users to explore the world and read on-the-go using their mobile phones. We are very proud to announce the upcoming release of Mobile Geo, the first GPS navigation application for Windows Mobile-based Smartphones and Pocket PCs, which has been developed in partnership with Sendero Group. We are also pleased to announce the upcoming release of Mobile Daisy Player V2.0, Code Factory’s highly-anticipated digital book reader for mobile phones and PDAs.
These presentations will be hosted by Larry Lewis, President of Flying Blind, LLC, a long-time user of, and ambassador for, Code Factory products.
 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: "Debuting Accessible GPS Solutions"
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: "Reading On-the-Go using Accessible Mobile Phones"
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Repeat of "Debuting Accessible GPS solutions"
We are delighted to announce that staff from Sendero Group will co-present the sessions showcasing Mobile Geo, Code Factory’s GPS application powered by GPS and mapping technology from Sendero. The Sendero group is the leading provider of GPS products for the blind.
Also joining us, Jim Fruchterman, President of Benetech, and founder of www.bookshare.org, will be paying us a visit during our "Reading On-the-Go" session. Last, but by no means least, Daniel Hubbell, Technical Evangelist from Microsoft’s Accessibility Group, will be participating in these sessions discussing Code Factory’s and Microsoft’s partnership to bring portable access to hundreds of its hand-held solutions.
In addition, Mr. Larry Lewis, on behalf of Code Factory, will be conducting one drawing per session. Each drawing will give all participants a chance to win Mobile Geo + Mobile Speak Smartphone or Pocket and Mobile Daisy Player + Mobile Speak for Symbian Phones.
We would be delighted if you could join us for one or both of these sessions. Each session has a limited capacity, and will be filled on a "first come, first serve" basis.
For more information about these sessions, please e-mail Larry.Lewis@Flying-Blind.com or phone +1 (216) 381-8107.
These solutions will also be demonstrated in both the Sendero Group and Optelec booths in the Exhibit Hall where Mr. Larry Lewis will be available to answer questions and walk you through a demonstration of one of the Mobilespeak screen reading applications, as well as Mobilespeak’s unparalleled Braille support using a wireless refreshable Braille terminal.
Don’t miss the "Reading On-the-Go" Competition, read more at: http://www.codefactory.es/en/page.asp?id=251
We look forward to visiting with you in Dallas. Until then, safe travels!
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Flying Blind, LLC Goes Hands-Free at NFB!
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RELEASED ON:
June 24, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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Flying Blind, LLC is excited to be conducting the following presentation at the 2008 National Federation of the Blind Summer Convention (http://www.nfb.org/nfb/National_Convention_2008.asp) June 29th - July 5th, 2008 at the Hilton Anatole Hotel (http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/DFWANHH-Hilton-Anatole-Texas/index.do).
This presentation will showcase Guide Hands-Free, the industry’s first integrated speech output / screen magnification solution with built-in hands-free access via its speech recognition utility.
Guide Hands-Free provides the user with a minimum of 21 exciting PC applications that the user may access either through a PC keyboard, or the sound of his / her voice.
Mr. Larry Lewis will be putting these applications to the test, and will illustrate the ease by which this hands-free access provides an added dimension of productivity for the PC user who has challenges using a PC keyboard, or the user wishing to circumvent some of the graphical complexities of the Windows environment.
Location and Time are:
Monday, June 30th, Travertine Room, Atrium Mezzanine
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: "Exploring Guide Hands-Free! Integrated access to a PC using innovative speech recognition solutions!"
For more information about this life changing alternative to PC access, please e-mail Larry.Lewis@Flying-Blind.com or call +1 (216) 381-8107.
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Hadley School for the Blind Mobile Options Seminar Archive
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RELEASED ON:
June 24, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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On Saturday, June 20th, Mr. Larry Lewis conducted a seminar on the various mobile options available for new and current users of accessible cellular phone technologies.
He also demonstrated a variety of solutions which were of interest to the audience. To listen to an archive of this seminar, please visit: http://www.hadley.edu/SeminarDownload/mobile.mp3
To learn more about the many great courses offered by Hadley School for the Blind, please visit http://www.hadley.edu.
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Taking It To The Mat! News About A Flying Blind, LLC Endorsed Organization
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RELEASED ON:
June 24, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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While this news article does not have anything to do with Flying Blind, LLC’s involvement in Adaptive Technology, it does concern an organization that Flying Blind, LLC wholeheartedly endorses and supports.
For those of you who do not know the personal side of Larry Lewis, I am a huge fan of, and practitioner in the Martial Arts, which are a fantastic way for those of us who are blind to build confidence, stay physically fit, and maintain a balance in our lives.
The Blind Judo Foundation at http://www.blindjudofoundation.org is a wonderful vehicle for bringing the Martial Art of Judo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judo) to persons who are blind.
I received this news about one of its sponsored athletes and felt compelled to share it with you:
Jordan Mouton, a BJF Judo athlete, has won the opportunity to represent America at the upcoming Paralympic Judo Games in Beijing. This young, 18 year old female came to the Blind Judo Foundation approximately two years ago expressing interest in the sport of Judo.
Through dedication, desire, and unrelenting commitment, she will be representing America this coming September in Beijing. As a visually impaired athlete, she will be only the second female to represent America in Paralympic Judo since the Paralympic Games were initiated in 1988.
While home in Houston for a few days and before returning to her Dojo in CA, Fox News caught up with her. The following is the trailer of that interview:
http://www.myfoxhouston.com/myfox/pages/Sports/Detail?contentId=6688082&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=6.1.1
Also, if you are interested in following the Paralympic Games starting September 6th through the 17th, check out the official website at http://en.paralympic.beijing2008.cn/.
If you are interested in donating to the Blind Judo Foundation, please visit http://www.supportblindjudo.com.
Respectfully,
— Larry L. Lewis, Jr.
Larry.Lewis@Flying-Blind.com
President and Founder
Flying Blind, LLC
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Would You Like to Receive Text-Only Versions of the Flying Blind, LLC and Top Tech Tidbits E-Newsletters?
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RELEASED ON:
June 2, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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If you would like to receive the Text-Only versions of the Flying Blind, LLC and Top Tech Tidbits E-Newsletters, as opposed to the HTML Versions which are also sent out, please locate and click on the link titled Update Profile / E-Mail Address located at the bottom of every Flying Blind, LLC and Top Tech Tidbits E-Newsletter Volume.
On your Profile Page, which will be opened on click, check the box titled, "I would like to receive text-only emails.", and click Submit.
Voila! From now on you will receive only the Text-Only versions of the Flying Blind, LLC and Top Tech Tidbits E-Newsletters!
Enjoy!
NEWS:
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President's Message
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RELEASED ON:
June 2, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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Greetings!
And welcome to another edition of the Flying Blind, LLC E-Newsletter. I can’t believe that June is upon us, and that we’re gearing up for yet another summer.
To heat things up for you, we have some exciting information in this newsletter.
In this issue, we introduce you to Guide Hands-Free, the world’s first speech output/input and screen magnification productivity tool for the PC user who just wants to efficiently complete many of today’s popular tasks.
In Volume 5 of our EyePod Technocast, we explore how the latest versions of Serotek’s System Access Mobile Network and HumanWare’s Victor Stream softwares work together to provide some innovative options for users of both products.
As usual, we have some incredible deals on some refurbished Adaptive Technologies in our E-Blink Showcase. And we feature an incredibly rich online resource for today’s mobile phone user in our installment of FB-Eye Spotlight.
So pour yourself a cold drink, turn on a fan or two, and enjoy this edition of the Flying Blind, LLC E-Newsletter.
Respectfully,
— Larry L. Lewis, Jr.
Larry.Lewis@Flying-Blind.com
President and Founder
Flying Blind, LLC
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Introducing You To Guide Hands-Free
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RELEASED ON:
June 2, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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Welcome to Guide Hands-Free, the world’s first speech output/input screen magnification productivity tool.
Looking for an application that enables you to complete today’s most popular computer tasks? Look no further!
Guide Hands-Free gives you the option of using a menu driven keyboard command structure to read and write e-mails, surf the web, manage one’s finances, scan and read hard copy print, record memos, organize appointments and contacts, and so much more!
Or, easily train Guide’s speech recognition software so that you can speak commands to your Guide-equipped PC as well as dictate text that Guide transcribes into your application of choice!
Guide is for the PC user wishing to avoid the complexities of Windows, but still leverage the applications borne out of the Windows environment to perform relevant day-to-day tasks.
It is also designed to provide hands-free, speech input capabilities to persons whose multiple impairments hinder them from using a PC keyboard.
For more information about this innovative approach to PC access, please visit the following link to view a comprehensive presentation on Guide Hands-Free:
http://www.lowvisioncomputers.com/media/presentations/ GuideHandsFree-DEMO-HQ.wmv
Also, feel free to contact Electronic Vision Access Solutions (http://www.evas.com/), the US Distributor of Guide Software by e-mail at inforequest@evas.com.
Or by phone at +1 (800) 872-3827 and someone will be happy to follow up with you with more information; and don’t forget to mention that you read about Guide in the Flying Blind, LLC E-Newsletter!
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E-Blink ShowCase: Summer 2008 Specials
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RELEASED ON:
June 2, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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Flying Blind, LLC is pleased to offer the following items in our E-Blink ShowCase, your source for affordable, refurbished equipment manufactured by this industry’s leaders.
If you have questions about, or are interested in purchasing any of the products listed below, please contact us at E-Blink@Flying-Blind.com or call +1 (216) 381-8107.
Flying Blind, LLC is offering free shipping on all of these E-Blink products within the Continental United States and accepts all major credit cards, PayPal transactions, and Bank Certified Checks.
Please note that all products are available only while supplies last, so hurry!
US$3,000.00
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One BrailleNote PK for US$3,000.00!
We are selling the world’s smallest Braille Notetaker at approximately 40% off its suggested list price!
Technical Details Here:
http://www.humanware.com/en-usa/products/braille_and_speech/ braillenotes/_details/id_26/braillenote_pk.html
US$3,000.00
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One PAC Mate Omni 420 for US$3,000.00!
We are selling the world’s first self-contained Pocket PC with a Braille display for 30% off its suggested list price!
Technical Details Here:
http://www.freedomscientific.com/ products/fs/pacmate-product-page.asp
US$1,000.00
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One Juliet Classic Braille Embosser for US$1,000.00!
Tried and true, the Juliet Classic makes a perfect embossing companion at a price you can afford!
Technical Details Here:
http://www.brailler.com/juli1.htm
US$4,495.00
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One Alva 570 Refreshable Braille Terminal for US$4,495.00!
We are selling the globally acclaimed Alva Satellite approximately 50% off its suggested list price!
Technical Details Here:
http://www.visioncue.com/ products_01_01_03.html
US$1,295.00
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One PowerBraille 65 for US$1,295.00!
We are selling this longstanding Braille Terminal for a fraction of its original list price!
Technical Details Here:
http://www.flying-blind.com/printnews_2008/print_news10b.html
US$2,000.00
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One Braille Voyager for US$2,000.00!
We are selling a Braille Voyager Braille Terminal for over 50% off its suggested list price!
Technical Details Here:
http://www.visioncue.com/Voyager.html
If you represent a manufacturer, agency, organization, or conscientious user of Adaptive Technology wishing to have your previously operated technologies represented in a future E-Blink ShowCase, please contact us at E-Blink@Flying-Blind.com to discuss placement within the E-Blink ShowCase for future Flying Blind, LLC E-Newsletters.
NEWS:
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Doing The Texas "Three-Step"
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RELEASED ON:
June 2, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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To our AMIGOS in the Lone Star State!
Flying Blind, LLC will be spending a fair amount of time in the State of Texas during the month of June and I am looking forward to visiting with those of you who will be at the following conferences and events:
*Texas Focus 2008 Main Conference Event
http://www.tsbvi.edu/Outreach/focus-reg.doc
June 17th and 18th
We begin our Texas Three-Step in one of our all-time favorite cities, Austin. On June 17th, Larry Lewis will be presenting a general session on "How To Create Successful Outcomes Using Adaptive Technologies for Students in the Classroom". He’ll also be exhibiting with one of Flying Blind, LLC’s partners, Integrated Concepts Research Corporation (ICRC) ICRC Assistive Technology:
(http://www.icrcsolutions.com/Default.aspx?tabid=162).
*Region 4 Adaptive Technology Conference Texas AT Regional Conference
http://www.texasatconference.net/
June 23rd through 25th
We make our second stop in Texas at the Region 4 Adaptive Technology Conference in Houston, June 23rd through 25th. Larry Lewis will be conducting a day-long workshop on June 23rd entitled, "Creating Successful Outcomes for Students with Visual Impairments". We’ll be exploring lots of different Assistive Technologies for your student’s "Technology Toolkits", so for those of you attending this conference, come ready for a jam packed day!
*National Federation of the Blind 2008 Convention
http://www.nfb.org/nfb/National_Convention_2008.asp
June 29th through July 5th
We conclude the month in Dallas at the National Federation of the Blind 2008 Convention. We’ll be involved in lots of different activities at this convention, so stay tuned for more details forthcoming later this month!
NEWS:
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FB-Eye Spotlight:
The Mark Taylor CandleShore Blog
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RELEASED ON:
June 2, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
October 13, 2008
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The Mark Taylor CandleShore Blog
http://mark.candleshoreblog.com/
In this issue of FB-Eye Spotlight, rather than promote a company, agency, or organization who provides products and services for the visually impaired, we thought it would be a nice change to promote an individual who makes immeasurable contributions with his product knowledge of mobile technologies which are invaluable to those of us who use accessible screenreaders for PDAs and cellular phones, particularly, the Mobilespeak suite of mobile screenreaders.
We’re pleased to introduce you to: The Mark Taylor CandleShore Blog.
I’ve been using Mobile Technologies for over four years, and I am both amazed and eternally grateful for the time and effort this gentleman puts into updating this Blog on a regular basis with incredibly useful information:
Learn about a utility that converts standard web-pages into a navigable Mobile web surfing experience.
Count the calories of your favorite fast food items using your Mobile phone.
Search for an assortment of prescription and non-prescription medicines over your Mobile phone.
Access a free spellchecker on your Mobile phone.
Perform book-keeping applications using your Mobile phone.
And so much more.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Taylor for all of his hard work, and his passion for sharing his wealth of knowledge with the rest of us. I would encourage all of you to check out this fantastic Blog.
We hope you have enjoyed this edition of the Flying Blind, LLC E-Newsletter. For comments, suggestions, or questions about any of the content contained herein, please e-mail me directly at larry.lewis@flying-blind.com. Look for product and conference announcements from Flying Blind, LLC in the coming weeks. Until then, we wish you a safe and enjoyable summer!
NEWS:
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President's Message
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RELEASED ON:
March 10, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
May 30, 2008
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Greetings!
And welcome to another edition of Flying Blind, LLC’s E-Newsletter. I trust that those of you in the United States remembered to set your clocks forward one hour and are off to a terrific week!
From my perspective, Spring can’t come soon enough for those of us who live in Northeast Ohio, USA!
In this edition of the Flying Blind, LLC E-News, the FB-Eye Spotlight showcases a company within this industry who is the only organization to solely offer comprehensive, consolidated, Help Desk Service for both adaptive and mainstream technologies to persons who are disabled.
We also introduce you to a vision impaired business owner who celebrates over ten years of success serving persons who are vision impaired throughout Connecticut and surrounding States.
This month’s E-Blink Showcase will feature some exceptional bargains for the avid Braille reader, and we’ll conclude with news about some Flying Blind, LLC Presentations that occur this month.
I hope that you find this edition of the Flying Blind, LLC E-News both informative and enjoyable.
For questions about any of the information covered in this newsletter, please feel free to e-mail me at Larry.Lewis@Flying-Blind.com.
Also, your feedback regarding possible future material covered in these newsletters is always welcome.
Respectfully,
— Larry L. Lewis, Jr.
Larry.Lewis@Flying-Blind.com
President and Founder
Flying Blind, LLC
NEWS:
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FB-Eye Spotlight:
Integrated Concepts Research Corporation (ICRC)
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RELEASED ON:
March 10, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
May 30, 2008
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Integrated Concepts Research Corporation (ICRC)
http://at.icrcsolutions.com
This installment of FB-Eye Spotlight showcases Integrated Concepts Research Corporation (ICRC).
The Assistive Technology Support Center, managed by Integrated Concepts and Research Corporation (ICRC), is this industry’s only full service, comprehensive Help Desk, supporting all assistive technology products.
The Help Desk provides toll free support for assistive technology on weekdays from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM EST.
ICRC has a proven track record supporting thousands of people with disabilities, and provides incomparable nationwide assistive technology Help Desk and user support services throughout numerous Federal, State, and private sectors.
For more information concerning ICRC’s Adaptive Technology Support Center, please contact Matt Ater at (703) 488-3485, or at mater@icrcsolutions.com, and don’t forget to mention that you read about ICRC in the Flying Blind, LLC E-Newsletter!
NEWS:
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E-Blink ShowCase: Spring 2008 Specials
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RELEASED ON:
March 10, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
May 30, 2008
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Flying Blind, LLC is pleased to showcase the following three items in E-Blink, your source for affordable, refurbished equipment manufactured by this industry’s leaders.
Flying Blind, LLC is offering free shipping for all of these E-Blink products within the Continental United States and accepts all major credit cards and PayPal transactions.
Please feel free to E-Mail E-Blink@Flying-Blind.com or call +1 (216) 381-8107 if you have any questions, or simply wish to purchase any of the refurbished products listed in this E-Blink Showcase.
Please note that all products are available only while supplies last, so hurry!
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US$4,495.00
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One BrailleNote mPowerBT 32 with Concise Oxford Dictionary, Nemeth Tutorial, and BrailleNote GPS applications for US$4,495.00!
Flying Blind, LLC is excited to be offering the globally acclaimed BrailleNote mPower with 32 cell refreshable Braille display, GPS software and hardware, Oxford Dictionary, and Nemeth Tutorial, for the mind-blowing price of US$4,495.00.
This complete solution for the student-on-the-go, including all accessories, retails for more than US$8,500.00 and is a phenomenal bargain for a Braille user looking for a fully loaded Braille notetaking solution.
Please visit the following links for more information about:
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US$4,995.00
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One Alva 570 Satellite Pro for US$4,995.00!
This 70 cell Braille terminal is undoubtedly the most feature-rich refreshable Braille display in its class.
This solution offers the Braille reader unparalleled access to information on his/her PC and provides an effortless means of navigation through the Windows and Macintosh environments.
More importantly, this barely used Braille display is being offered at a price point less than most 40 cell Braille terminals on the market today!
For more information:
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US$2,995.00
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One Braille Voyager 44 Cell Braille Terminal for US$2,995.00!
The Braille Voyager 44 is a great solution for the laptop user on the go.
Making its debut in 2000, this solution set the standard for USB Braille display usage with a laptop PC.
The Braille Voyager 44 offers tremendous functionality at a tremendous price.
This product has been rarely used and is priced over US$1,500 off its current suggested list price!
For more information:
If you represent an agency, organization, or manufacturer who wishes to have your previously operated equipment represented in a future E-Blink ShowCase, please contact us at E-Blink@Flying-Blind.com to discuss placement within this section for future Flying Blind, LLC E-Newsletters.
NEWS:
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Lewis Presents "Wired For Business" at
2008 CSUN Conference
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RELEASED ON:
March 10, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
May 30, 2008
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Larry L. Lewis, Jr., founder of Flying Blind, LLC, is both humbled and honored to be conducting a formal presentation at this years 2008 CSUN Conference.
On Wednesday, March 12th at 4:20 PM, Lewis will be presenting "Wired for Business: Refreshable Braille in an Employment Setting".
Lewis is excited to be discussing and demonstrating refreshable Braille strategies for successful outcomes, a topic about which he is most passionate, and invites you to join him for this informative presentation.
Please visit the following link for session details:
http://letsgoexpo.com/expo/index.cfm?EID=80000093
NEWS:
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The Corner Shop: Vision Dynamics
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RELEASED ON:
March 10, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
May 30, 2008
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It is with great pleasure that we share with you the following article about Charlie Collins, a vision-impaired business owner who owns and manages Vision Dynamics, a Connecticut-based facility that showcases a wide variety of today’s most prominent adaptive technologies.
To read this inspirational story, please visit Hartford Courant Online at:
http://www.courant.com/business/hc-cornershop0130.artjan30,0,16284.story?page=1
To visit Vision Dynamics online, go to www.visiondynamics.com
Collins’ story and his longevity in this industry serves as a great example of what one can accomplish regardless of his circumstances or disability.
NEWS:
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FB Tech Notes
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RELEASED ON:
March 10, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
May 30, 2008
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In keeping with the theme of the CSUN Conference, on Monday, March 3rd, Mr. Lewis conducted an online presentation on Baum’s Wireless Refreshable Braille Displays.
Many thanks to the Tek Talk Team at the Accessible World Symposium for allowing Mr. Lewis the opportunity to discuss and demonstrate the power of these life-changing solutions.
To listen to the presentation, please visit Wired For Business! Strategies for incorporating Wireless Braille into your Technological Journey by Larry L. Lewis, Jr.
Flying Blind, LLC is available to provide the most comprehensive online, distance, or on-site training for the products that it both endorses and represents to individuals requiring assistance in educational, vocational, or residential settings. For more information about scheduling and pricing, please send inquiries to training@flying-blind.com.
We thank you for reading this edition of the Flying Blind, LLC E-News. For comments or suggestions, please feel free to e-mail us at e-news@flying-blind.com.
RELEASED IN: JANUARY 2008
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NEWS:
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Come Join Baum at ATIA 2008!
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RELEASED ON:
January 28, 2008
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ARCHIVED ON:
March 8, 2008
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It is my privilege to announce that I will be assisting Baum Retec with a number of efforts at this year’s ATIA Conference, to be held Wednesday, January 30th through Saturday, February 2nd, 2008.
BAUM Retec is a German company and industry leader specializing in the development, manufacturing, and sales of products and services for persons who are blind and visually impaired. Since 1980, this company has set standards in product innovation and will be showcasing its entire range of Braille Displays, Braille Organizers / Notetakers, Desktop Video Magnifiers (CCTV’s), and Screen Reader / Magnification Solutions.
Visit us in Booth NR. 121 where Baum will be collecting your names and e-mail addresses and conducting a drawing for its 12 Cell VarioConnect (BrailleConnect), the industry’s smallest Wireless Braille Display that interfaces with a number of accessible, mobile solutions.
I will be assisting Baum in its booth throughout the conference, and would be most pleased to spend some time with you demonstrating Baum’s line of Wireless Braille Products. I’ll also be formally presenting Baum’s Wireless Braille product line in my presentation:
TITLED: "A Step Beyond Notetakers: Wireless Braille Solutions in Action!"
WHEN: Thursday, January 31st from 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
WHERE: Room: Curacao 4
KEY POINTS:
- See a wireless Braille display controlling a Mobile PDA/phone as well as a laptop PC.
- Discuss alternative strategies for independent task completion beyond the scope of a traditional notetaker.
- Gain an understanding of how refreshable Braille increases a user’s efficiency when completing a specific task.
I’m looking forward to conducting this presentation, for it is Baum’s Wireless Braille Solutions that make it possible for me to successfully conduct business within my own company as well as outside the Adaptive Technology Industry.
The staff from Baum, and Yours Truly are really looking forward to seeing you in Orlando, and wish you a great start to your week and safe travels to ATIA!
Respectfully,
— Larry L. Lewis, Jr.
Larry.Lewis@Flying-Blind.com
President and Founder
Flying Blind, LLC
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