The AT Messenger ....bringing technology to you Published by the Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative (DATI) Vol. 4, Issue 4 July/August 1996 A Glimpse Of Things to Come Although there is an entire summer between now and the DATI Annual Conference, September 25 will be here before you know it. Make plans to join us at the Sheraton Conference Center in Dover for a dynamite lineup of presentations and exhibits. The registration brochure will be mailed this summer. Here's what you can expect: Keynote Presentation Break Augmentative & Alternative Communication Lifting & Handling Obtaining AT Through the VR System Lunch Assistive Technology and Reading Funding for AT Through Public and Private Insurance "Tales From the Trenches" Break Assistive Listening Devices Daily Living and Home Control Worksite Modifications: Entering and Re-entering the Workplace Exhibits will be open throughout the entire day! Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Word Prediction ...But Were Afraid to Ask By Ed Salisbury, AT Specialist There is a wide variety of software on the market today designed to assist people with disabilities with writing. These programs all seem very similar, but with a large difference in price. It is important to understand what features each program contains and what features best suit the particular needs of the person using the computer. There are four main types of software that will assist a person with writing. Many people use the terms interchangeably, but each type is considerably different. The first type of assistive writing software is abbreviation expansion. This software allows long strings of text to be accessed by typing only a short abbreviation. For example, the words "Occupational Therapist" can be set up as the abbreviation "OT." Whenever OT is typed, the computer will automatically expand it into Occupational Therapist. Abbreviations can be set up for a person's name, address, or even common sayings. Abbreviation expansion programs can significantly decrease the number of keystrokes necessary to type a document and therefore speed up typing and lessen fatigue. The main advantage of abbreviation expansion programs is their low cost. Most of the latest versions of office level word processors include an abbreviation expansion feature. Shareware abbreviation expansion programs can also be downloaded from the Internet, on-line services, or bulletin boards for Macintosh and PC compatible computers. A disadvantage of using this type of software, especially with someone with a learning disability or head injury, is the high memory load on the typist to remember all of the abbreviations. Also, each and every abbreviation with its expansion must be programmed into the computer. This could be very time consuming if a large number of abbreviations is desired. The second type of software designed to assist a person with writing is word completion. Word completion software helps the typist finish words by presenting him or her with a list of possible word choices. For example, if a person types a "T" as the first word of a sentence, he or she would most likely be presented with a list of choices including: 1. The 2. This 3. That 4. These 5. Those. The typist would then choose the number of the correct word choice. The word would be completed followed by a space. If the correct word is not in the list, the second letter of the word would have to be typed. The list would then change to reveal new choices. Most words will appear in the word list upon typing the second or third letter. Better word completion programs remember what words the typist uses often and suggests those words more frequently and higher in the list. Conversely, many word completion programs include a word frequency model that cannot be adapted to a person's typing style. Some word completion programs suggest suffixes like -ing, -ly, and -er after the word is completed. The advantages of good word completion programs include keystroke reduction for people with physical impairments and assistance with spelling for those people with learning disabilities. Many people with learning disabilities have the ability to initiate a word and recognize it when it is presented to them. A disadvantage of word completion programs is that they generally do not save the typist keystrokes on one-, two-, and three-letter words. The third type of program is called word prediction. Some manufacturers refer to their software as word prediction, when it is in fact word completion. Word prediction programs operate in much the same way as word completion with one exception: word prediction programs suggest, or predict, the best next-word choices after the previous word has been completed. For example, after the typist chooses the word "This" from the choice list, he or she is most likely presented with a list of words with "is" as the first choice. Selecting a "1" at this point would cause the computer to type the word "is" followed by a space and a list of new next-word choices. Unlike word completion programs, keystrokes are saved even when typing one-letter words. Many word prediction programs include an abbreviation expansion feature. With this type of software, abbreviations are included with the words in the choice list. When the abbreviation is selected from the list, it is automatically expanded into the full string of text, thus saving more keystrokes. A consideration to be aware of when purchasing a word completion or word prediction program is how the program lets the user customize the way in which the choice list is presented. The typist should be allowed to change the number of words presented to him or her in the list. A person who finds typing slow and tedious may want a longer choice list as a means of further reducing the number of keystrokes he or she must make to complete a word. A person with a learning disability, on the other hand, may want a smaller choice list to avoid lost time searching through the list for the intended word. Another feature that should be customizable is the method for ordering words in the list. The most common method of presenting the words in the choice list is by word frequency. This word frequency can be based on the program's built-in model or on the program actually learning what words the typist uses most often and what words they generally follow. Some typists, though, may want a list that is ordered alphabetically. It has been suggested that the ideal ordering for a list of words is by word length with the shortest word at the top of the list. This arrangement would allow the typist to quickly locate the desired word even if it is contained in a long choice list. There are many assistive writing software programs available with a variety of features and at a wide range of prices. With a basic understanding of how these programs operate, the selection process will not seem so overwhelming. Few programs offer all of the features discussed, and the ones that offer the most are not always the most expensive. For more information on assistive writing programs or assistance sorting through the many features, contact your local ATRC. For Travelers With Disabilities If you have a disability, and enjoy traveling by airplane, you can get a booklet that explains your rights--and responsibilities--as a traveler with disabilities. "New Horizons for the Air Traveler With a Disability" is free from Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81009. Ask for Booklet 573C. The Consumer Information Center also publishes "Access Travel: Airports." This is also free; request publication item 570C. Environmental Control: Technology That Can Do Ordinary Things by Michael Meyreles, Rehab Engineer, New Castle County ATRC Most of us think of technology as performing extraordinary tasks. Environmental controls have the potential to assist in the performance of extraordinary things but, generally, environmental controls assist in accomplishing ordinary tasks like turning a light on, dialing a phone, or opening a door. Environmental controls can be as simple as a switch or as sophisticated as using a voice recognition computer control system. The most common environmental control unit (ECU) is referred to as the "X-10 unit." These units are available at Radio Shack or other electronic stores and cost approximately $10.00 to $15.00. With an X-10 ECU system, a person with a disability can control up to 16 electrical devices at home or work. The X-10 ECU system consists of three parts: a transmitter, a transceiver module, and the X-10 module(s). Each X-10 module is set with an individual unit code and provides the switch activation for the electrical device it is controlling. When a person presses a button on the transmitter, the transmitter broadcasts a radio signal corresponding to the electrical device the user wishes to control. The radio signal is picked up by the transceiver, which is plugged into a wall receptacle. The transceiver then sends a carrier current through the existing house wiring that will be recognized only by the X-10 module. Fans, lights, thermostats, radios, and other electrical devices all can be controlled in this way using X-10 appliance modules. Infrared systems operate in a similar manner. Many people use a remote control that utilizes an infrared signal. Remote controls for TVs and VCRs are the most common type of infrared systems. The remote control (transmitter) sends an infrared signal to the transceiver, which then sends the corresponding signal to the desired X-10 module. Infrared systems are compatible with X-10 systems, but with the added ability to control TVs and VCRs. ECUs can be built in as added features on power wheelchairs and augmentative communication devices. Using the same mechanism that controls the wheelchair--sip and puff, single switch, or joystick--a person can control their environment. With an infrared or radio transmitter connected to the electronics of the wheelchair, and the wheelchair set to ECU mode, a person can control lights, fans, and other appliances. Augmentative communication devices such as the Liberator, DynaVox and the System 2000 offer options for environmental control. Voice activated environmental control systems may assist an individual with quadriplegia in achieving independence. Using voice recognition software, such as DragonDictate or Kurzweil Voice, and environmental control software, such as Cintex2 or Butler in a Box, a person can talk to his or her computer and control up to 256 X-10 compatible devices. This is accomplished using a software package and either an infrared or radio transmitter connected to the computer and a transceiver with additional X-10s. An environmental control system as sophisticated as this can manage a home security system, control lighting and thermostats, operate an intercom, operate an automatic door opening system, and run a home entertainment system, all with the sound of a person's voice. Most people today use some form of environmental control, whether it is a remote control for the TV or a garage door opener. These remotes can perform some of life's ordinary tasks. The technology can be very important for a person with a disability as it allows the individual to be more independent. Environmental control units are a simple solution to removing some of the barriers at home, school, or at work. For a demonstration of simple X-10 units, environmental control software, and infrared systems, contact your local ATRC. X-10 modules are available through the DATI equipment loan program. Guide to AAC Devices Keeping up with the changes in the field of Augmentative and Alternative Communication is a challenge. The user population has expanded, intervention approaches are continually refined and redefined, and the arsenal of tools is changing constantly. To help clinicians, consumers, and funding agencies manage the massive amount of product information available, the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on AAC at the Applied Science and Engineering Laboratories has produced the Guide to Augmentative and Alternative Communication Devices, an updated and greatly-expanded sequel to its 1991 Wallchart of Portable Communication Devices. Because the 1991 version contained only about half the number of devices as this 1996 edition, the RERC devised a new format that could accommodate considerably more information in a reasonable amount of space. This new design reflects an entirely new framework of feature headings within which devices are described. It also embraces a much more inclusive definition of AAC. This is reflected in the broad spectrum of devices profiled. The Guide includes descriptions of "traditional" AAC systems (from single-message voice output devices to computer-based systems supporting spoken and written communication) as well as descriptions for the "newcomer" categories of speech amplifiers and electronic artificial larynges. Product information is divided into five categories corresponding to five "families" of AAC devices. "Traditional" AAC devices are subdivided according to their primary output types; there are categories for devices with primarily visual output, devices with primarily spoken output, and those with both spoken and visual output. The fourth and fifth categories contain information about speech amplifiers and electronic artificial larynges. Within each category, a unique framework of features anchors the description of the device capabilities. The frameworks address the physical characteristics of the devices, their capabilities in support of spoken and/or written communication, and purchase information including pricing, technical support, warranties, and availability of accessories. Device descriptions are enhanced with a picture of each product. Supplementary materials include a Literature Notebook, a 3-ring binder containing manufacturer information on more than 50 products in the Guide, and a Slide Notebook, a 3-ring binder containing slides of all products profiled in the Guide, numbered and indexed for easy reference. Pricing information is as follows: Guide to Augmentative and Alternative Communication Devices $25.00 Literature Notebook $25.00 Slide Notebook $60.00 Complete Set (Guide, Literature Notebook, & Slide Notebook) $100.00 All prices include shipping within the U.S.; add $2.00 per item for shipping to Canada. For overseas shipping, please contact the Applied Science and Engineering Laboratories. Orders may be placed by sending payment, made payable to University of Delaware, along with your name, organization, address, phone/fax numbers and e-mail address to: Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on AAC Applied Science and Engineering Labs University of Delaware / A.I. duPont Institute P.O. Box 269, 1600 Rockland Road Wilmington, DE 19899-0269 (302) 651-6830 (voice)/(302) 651-6834(TDD) (302) 651-6895 (fax) AT Won't Come To You...Unless You Try by Roger Barry My name is Roger Barry. I am 28 years old. I currently live at home with my mother and father. I attend an independent living program daily and am pursuing my G.E.D. I have cerebral palsy. My first use of technology was a touch-tone phone which allowed me to communicate with other people. In 1991, I contacted my lawyer because the New Castle Public Library was inaccessible to people who had disabilities. I wanted a ramp so that a person could get in there to use the library. Within about a year, the ramp was built. I continue to advocate for changes. I was involved in Partners in Policymaking in 1993, and I still keep in contact with them. Through Partners in Policymaking, I found out that there was a lot more out there for people with disabilities, and there are a lot of people that are trying to improve their lives. I learned courage to stand up for myself. I did have a power wheelchair at one time, but it was too big to maneuver throughout my house. I had a seating evaluation in 1994 performed by a physical therapist (PT), occupational therapist (OT), and rehabilitation engineer. I received my new manual wheelchair in 1995. I now sit up straighter and can talk clearer. It is comfortable and easy to move in. This chair is like a Mercedes-Benz! In 1995, I had a computer access assessment, because I wanted to get my own computer to make it easier to write letters, and because my handwriting is not too good, and it takes me so long to write down a complete sentence. The assessment was performed by an OT and Rehabilitation Engineer. I figured a computer would speed up my writing. I also use it for my homework. I have a Macintosh Performa and its printer. I can use the standard mouse and keyboard. I use my index finger to type. I used to be nervous in using the mouse, but now I have no problem. I will be learning how to use Co:Writer to increase my speed. Technology can be frustrating. One of my relatives got on the computer and messed it up, and I didn't know how to fix it. I had to rely on several people to help me. I also think the price of technology should come down so people could afford it. Assistive technology makes me more independent, and I don't have to rely on people. My advice for other people with disabilities is to get off your duffs and see what is out there for you guys! There is a lot out there! If more and more people stay at home and don't try to help themselves, that makes it harder for people that are out there trying to help themselves. People don't just come walking up to your door! I would like to use this article as a teaching tool. Roger Barry's wheelchair and assessment were funded by his insurance. Funding for his computer and printer was provided by the Delaware Paralyzed Veterans Association and the CARE Foundation. FINANCING ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY Good News: Cost & Financing Trends in Worksite Accommodations Ron Sibert, DATI Funding Specialist Even though the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is now several years old, concerns about legal requirements and the cost of accommodating employees with disabilities still causes discomfort in the business community. Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities when: 1) the employee's functional limitations due to disability impede job performance; 2) the person would be able to perform the job with such accommodations; and 3) doing so would not present an undue hardship to the employer. Many such accommodations are, of course, frequently accomplished through the use of assistive technology (AT). Although the question of cost almost always gets mixed responses, there are several indications that there is a steady trend toward improvement, especially in terms of cost and financing options. For instance, we can expect the net cost to employers of providing accommodations to decrease as they gain more experience at accommodating their employees with disabilities and more adept at using various financing options and incentives. Cost reductions will also continue because equipment, devices, and appliances are increasingly being designed with built-in accessibility. In fact, the recently passed Telecommunications Act of 1996 (Public Law 104-104) calls for newly manufactured products such as televisions, telephones, and computer-related services to be designed with the accessibility built right in. A recent issue of Successful Job Accommodation Strategies reports that Peter Blanck, a University of Iowa Law professor, compared the average costs of providing workplace accommodations to Sears Roebuck & Co. employees before and after the 1992 implementation of Title I of the ADA. He found that the average accommodation at Sears between 1993 and 1995 cost $45, which is less than half of the $121 average cost between 1978 and 1992! However, critics of Blanck's study note that there may be "hidden costs" that were not factored in. These costs have been described as mostly indirect, intangible, and pretty much avoidable. Examples include disruption of other employees' routines or jobs when a scheduling accommodation is provided. Supporters of Blanck's study agree that there may be indirect costs, but that these are likely to be offset, not only by the savings mentioned earlier, but also by the indirect, but often tangible, benefits of providing reasonable accommodations. Improved productivity and ability to perform job functions, and savings associated with legal compliance, are obvious advantages. Improved general morale and an atmosphere of equity and fairness are less tangible outcomes, but no less significant. As awareness and use of certain cost-reduction strategies by businesses continues to improve, the prevalence of worksite accommodations is also likely to increase. For example, significant tax incentives exist for businesses to provide accommodations. The Disabled Access Tax Credit (Title 26, Internal Revenue Code, Section 44) is available to eligible small businesses. Fifty percent (50%) of any "eligible access expenditure" (cost of an allowable accommodation) between $250 and $10,250 is deductible for a taxable year. The business may take the credit each year that it makes an eligible access expenditure. Eligible small businesses are those businesses with either: · $1 million or less in gross receipts for the preceding tax year; or · 30 or fewer full-time employees during the preceding tax year. Eligible access expenditures are amounts paid or incurred by an eligible small business that will enable that business to comply with the applicable requirements of the ADA. These include amounts paid or incurred to: · remove architectural, communication, physical, or transportation barriers that prevent a business from being accessible to, or usable by, individuals with disabilities; · provide qualified readers, taped texts, and other effective methods of making materials accessible to people with visual impairments; · provide qualified interpreters or other effective methods of making orally delivered materials available to individuals with hearing impairments; · acquire or modify equipment or devices for individuals with disabilities; or · provide other similar services, modifications, materials or equipment. Expenditures that are not necessary to accomplish the above purposes are not eligible. Expenses in connection with new construction are also not eligible. "Disability" has the same meaning in the tax code as it does in the ADA. To be eligible for the tax credit, barrier removal or the provisions of services, modifications, materials or equipment must meet technical standards of the ADA Accessibility Guidelines where applicable. These standards are incorporated in Department of Justice regulations implementing Title III of the ADA (28 CFR Part 36; 56 CFR 35544, July 26, 1991). For any business seeking to provide more expensive accommodations, the Tax Deduction to Remove Architectural and Transportation Barriers to People with Disabilities and Elderly Individuals (Title 26, Internal Revenue Code, section 190) provides a means of significantly reducing costs. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) allows a deduction of up to $15,000 per year for "qualified architectural and transportation barrier removal expenses." Expenditures to make a facility or public transportation vehicle owned or leased in connection with a trade or business "more accessible to, and usable by, individuals who are handicapped or elderly" are eligible for the deduction. The definition of a "handicapped individual" is similar to the ADA definition of an "individual with a disability." To be eligible for this deduction, modifications must meet the requirements of standards established by IRS regulations implementing section 190. IRS Publication No. 907, providing information on these provisions, may be obtained by calling 1-800-829-3676. For further information, call (202) 566-3292 (voice only), or contact: Internal Revenue Service, Office of the Chief Counsel, P.O. Box 7604, Ben Franklin Station; Washington, DC 20044. Another interesting twist is that some worksite accommodations for workers who have suffered work-related injuries may increasingly be covered by employees' workers' compensation plans. There are significant savings incentives for insurers that write long-term disability plans to pay for accommodations instead, so some experts are advising employers to negotiate or file claims with their injured employees' worker's compensation carriers. However, the employer still has the legal obligation under the ADA to provide reasonable accommodations--regardless of the insurer's willingness to pay. Finally, while employees with job-related injuries typically receive vocational rehabilitation services through private insurance and service providers, many qualified persons with disabilities in Delaware receive similar services publicly through the State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). In such cases, it is possible for employers to share costs with DVR when the accommodation is a legitimate part of the employee's Individualized Written Rehabilitation Plan (IWRP). Science Sizzles This Summer Have you heard about Summer Science Fest, a science-based program for high school students with disabilities? This week-long day program will be held at the University of Delaware from August 19 to the 24, and is sponsored by the Science, Engineering, and Math (SEM) program. The Summer Science Fest will include computer training, Internet exploration, Aerospace activities, and an introduction to college life. For more information or an application, contact: Judy Trefsger at (302) 651-6830 E-mail: sem-info@asel.udel.edu or URL: http://www.asel.udel.edu/sem/. The SEM program is funded by the National Science Foundation and develops programs designed to encourage students with disabilities to pursue scientific academic programs and careers. Children's Computer Software Resource Patty Hove, OTR/L Join Reader Rabbit and his friends in another Learning Company adventure! Designed for children from ages 6 to 8, Reader Rabbit 2 provides the child with fun ways to learn compound words and consonant blends, long and short vowels, rhymes, homonyms, opposites, and alphabetization. Take a journey through Wordville's Crystal Cave, Fish Pond, Carrot Patch, and Barnyard Dance. With colorful graphics and entertaining sounds, Reader Rabbit 2 really holds a child's interest. Use of a mouse or mouse alternative is required to click and drag. A Touch window is not recommended because of the necessity to click, sustain click, and then drag in a diagonal fashion. CALL for PROJECTS!!! Have a great idea for assistive technology that you'd like to see become a reality? If so, there's a group at the University of Delaware who wants to hear from you. A course in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the University pairs design challenges with students looking for a senior project. Teams of students design solutions and create a working prototype of the customer's development need. The course is led by two of the design faculty and is supported by consultants from industry, a master instrument maker, and a laboratory supervisor. Problem statements will be presented to the students and there will be an evening meeting where customers and students can discuss projects at length. Once projects are selected, student teams will work on them for the academic year to generate a design solution, a working prototype, and a final report. They need to hear from you as soon as possible. To submit one or more projects, please return the form below, which may be copied for multiple submissions. ************************************************** I am interested in submitting a project to NCDA for academic year 1996-1997. Here is my tentative project need: Name: Phone: Fax: _____________ Internet: Please return to: Dick Wilkins Dept. of Mechanical Engineering University of Delaware Newark, DE 19710-3140 Phone: (302) 831-2006; Fax: (302) 831-3619 Internet: wilkins@udel.edu Delaware Recycles AT If you'd like more information, or have equipment or an equipment need, call the DATI office at (800) 870-DATI or (302) 651-6790 or 651-6794 TDD. All items are in good condition and prices are negotiable unless otherwise stated. Devices Available: Ambulation/Mobility Canes, variety, Free Lawall Prosthetic Leg Brace for the left leg, Free! Upper Body Brace, Free! Walkers, Free! Walker-Works Fine, $20 Walkers, Rollator-Swedish, attached seat, New, $300 Augmentative Communication Apple IIGs System & Monitor & PRC Light Talker w/peripherals to connect to Apple IIGs, inc. many extras, $1,000 IntroTalker, $500 MultiVoice speech synthesizer, $550 Scanning Lightwriter (SL8), $1,025 Computers/Electronic Equipment B.O.S.S. 8000-Casio Organizer, $100 HandiKEY Deluxe, adapted access, speech output, $100 HandiCODE, adapted access, speech output, $100 Scan Man w/catchword PRO OCR for Windows, $210 Unmouse, $60 Hearing Sonic Alert Baby Cry Signaler, $20 Telecaption Caption Decode, $85 Telecaption II Decoder, $35 Personal Care/Home Management Bath Bench, Free Bath Support Seat, Child (2), $140 Bathtub Bench, $100 Bathtub Transfer Bench, $90 Bean Pillow with liner & cover, $55 Commode Chairs, Free! Commode (2), $40 each Compression Pump for leg or arm, paid $5,000 new EPS SXL Tens Unit reduces pain through shock, $300 Feeding Machine, Windsor, $700 Geriatric Chair-Brand New, $600 Geriatric Chair, mobile, $150 Grab Bar, Metal w/diamond cut, $100 new, Free High Back Toilet Support/Child, $170 Hospital Bed, Electric-Excellent Condition, $700 Hospital Bed with Trapeze, Electric, $650 Hospital Bed Frames, Free Hospital Tables, Portable, $10 each, or take all 9 at $5 each Hoyer Lift, Free Hydraulic Lift, Patient, Invacare, $300 Lift, Recliner Chair, Electric, Burgundy color, $250 Firm Lift, Recliner Chair, Mauve, 6 weeks old, Best Offer Lift Chair, Electric, 2 years old, $600 Raised Toilet Seat w/rails, $45 Raised Toilet Seat, adjustable, $25 Shampoo Rinse Tray, $20 Shampoo Tray, Portable, $20 Shower/Commode Chair, Quad, Activeaid $790 Stair Glide, 14 step, $2,000 Stair Glide, Stair Lift Model 25, $2,000 Toilet Seat Extender, extra wide, w/bars, adj. height, $50 Tubby II Chair, Activeaid, $140 Three-Wheeled Power Mobility Electric Rascal Mobility Cart with Electric Hoist, $2,000 Three-wheeled Scooter, Amigo, Adult, $300 Vehicles/Accessories Driving Controls, Hand-Operated, $125 Maxi Van, `88 Dodge, 50,000 miles, includes lift, water, toilet storage, electric, cap tie downs, full-size bed, $20,000 or $10,000 to qualified person Van, `84 Chevy, w/Braun Lift, 70,000 miles, inspected, new A/C, raised roof, bench across the back, $12,000 Van, `92 Chrysler, w/Braun Entervan II (electric. ramp), 31,000 miles, remote control, power slide door, hand controls, bumper to bumper service contract, $24,000 Van, `89 Ford, w/lift, 66,000 miles, $7,500 Wheelchair Lift, Pal Swing-Away, $1,200 Wheelchairs Electric, Child's (1), Free! Electric, Child's, Barbie E & J, $5,000 Electric, Adult, Standard size, footrests, reclines, 4-wheel drive, Brand New, never used, $23,000 Electric, Highback, needs minor repair, $200 Electric, Tempest, Adult, price negotiable, please ask Manual, Adult, Small, E& J, headrest, tray, $150 Manual, Teladyne, Lightweight, 3-wheeled, $50 Devices Needed: Accessible home w/wheelchair ramps & lowered cabinets Bath Seat for 3 year old with severe CP Flotation Mattress or Pillow/Jelly Pad Footrest, right, from a Fortress Commuter Wheelchair Ke:nx, a full access system for the Mac Leg Braces Lift for Rascal Scooter Lift for Van Lift Chairs Lightwriter (SL35) Mac 500 Series Laptop Personal Computers Print Enlarger Reclining Geriatric Chair Rolling Shower Chair, Adult, to fit through 20" opening Shower Chair with Back Stair Glides Talk:About, conversation software for the Mac Three-wheeled Powered Scooters Walker, Child's, Posterior Wheelchairs-Electric, Manual, Travel Wheelchair Ramp (portable) Linking Consumers with AT A grant to the New Mexico Technology Assistance Program has resulted in the formation of the Consumer Assistive Technology Transfer Network. The network facilitates connections between consumers with AT needs and the technologies or services that might address those needs. For example, let's say you are looking for a device that would allow you to control a vacuum cleaner remotely. After you have shared your needs with CATN, your request will be broadcast widely: to the DATI's counterpart projects in the other states and territories, to the federal Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers, to product manufacturers and vendors, and to the federal labs operated by NASA, the Veterans Administration, and many other federal agencies. When potential solutions have been located, these will be communicated back to you. Obviously, this is a tremendously powerful approach to the location of needed technologies. It has another benefit as well: if there are repeated requests for AT that simply does not yet exist, the market interest may entice product developers to respond to the demand. The use of the Internet is central to the CATN particularly because of Internet's accessibility capabilities for persons with disabilities. The coordination of communication through CATN's Internet activities is expected to facilitate the effective and efficient turn-around of information. For more information, contact: Bill Newroe Consumer Assistive Technology Transfer Network E-mail: CATN@rt66.com URL: http://www.rt66.com/catn.org Mail: 211 W. Water St. #209; Sante Fe, NM 87505 Phone: New Mexico Technology Assistance Program 800-866-2253 (v/tdd) or 505-989-9408 (v); 989-9409 (fax) 1996 Accessible Building Awards--Call for Nominations The Architectural Accessibility Board, the DE-MD Paralyzed Veterans Association, and HANDi are pleased to announce the 16th Annual Accessible Building Awards Program. They are requesting nominations from you or your colleagues for awards in each of four categories. They are seeking nominations of an individual, business, agency or organization in each Delaware county who has recently made noteworthy efforts to accommodate people with disabilities by removing architectural barriers. The fourth category is for those whose barrier removal activities have benefited people throughout the State. Letters of nomination should be sent to: Gerard I. Landreth Chief Administrator DE Department of Administrative Services Division of Facilities Management Architectural Accessibility Board O'Neill Building P. O. Box 1401 Dover, DE 19903 To contact DATI's Central Site office or the ATRC closest to you... Call 1-800-870-DATI Press #1 for English or Press #2 for Spanish then press... #3 for the Central Site office or #4 for the New Castle County ATRC or #5 for the Kent County ATRC or #6 for the Sussex County ATRC TDD callers-If you do not press #1 or 2 your call will be answered on a TDD line by someone at the Central Site office.