SOMA O&M conference -- I should have explained . . .
Hi everyone!? Someone just asked – oops!? I neglected to
explain:
?
’There will be more than 15 hours of O&M sessions at our “LIVE” online
SOMA Conference December 14-15, 2020 – and YES, they are all
ACVREP-approved!?
?
None of it will be recorded – that’s why we call it “LIVE”!? The
presentations will have live captioning upon request.
?
Meanwhile I’m excited because I made arrangements to meet a colleague at
the conference.? I had lost touch with her years ago, and when I saw her
name in the registration, I reached out and we agreed to meet in the
lounge.? I’m really looking forward to sitting down with her and catching
up!
?
DEADLINE reminder – this Friday is the last day for the Early-Bird
registration.? More info at .
?
Enjoy!
--
Dona
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
From: Dona
Sauerburger
Sent: Thursday, July 23, 2020 1:06 PM
Subject: SOMA "LIVE" online conference -- you aint seen ANYTHING
like this!
?
Hi everyone!?
I’ve never been more excited about an O&M
conference than I am about
the “LIVE” online SOMA O&M conference
December 14-15, 2020 (
next Friday is the deadline for the
Early-Bird registration
)!!?
?
PROGRAM:?
First of all, the response to the Call for Papers was awesome -- great ideas
from newbies (they inspire me with their fresh perspectives!) and O&M
veterans, figuring out how to provide O&M during the pandemic, thinking
about standards and where we want to go, and some thoughtful reflections on
topics I hadn’t even considered.? Want to see it for yourself?? .
?
PLATFORM:?
Secondly, we have found a platform that will knock your socks off!? When
you log in, you can go see who is in the “lobby” and chat with them, or just
walk into the “lounge” and find a table with folks you want to sit down and
visit.? Or you can see what’s new at the exhibitors’ “booths” and go inside
to talk with them.? A huge “THANK YOU” to Brad Blair and Jack Mitchell for
testing to make sure the platform is accessible!
INTERACTIVE!?
Third, the presenters are excited (and, let’s be honest, a little nervous!)
about making their sessions interactive.? Some will be asking YOU questions
and bringing you into the discussion, some will break you into groups so you can
discuss the implications of what you learned or figure out how to apply it, and
come back to the main room and share your ideas.
WARNING:?
This is not your typical webinar we all snore through while playing CandyCrush
in our pajamas, as I have done (more than once!).? You’ll want to come
prepared to BE there, just as you would if you were there in person! Get dressed
in something fun, and turn off your phone and distractions because you’ll be
engaged and active the whole time.?
?
But don’t worry about
being overloaded – although the day will be long (10 AM to 7:30 PM Eastern) so
we can include people on both sides of the country (and our NZ presenter!), we
built in lots of breaks so you can catch your breath or get your lunch/dinner
(or go see what mischief you can make in the lounge, and check out what’s new at
the exhibits!).
Speaking of wearing
something fun – we will have a contest next month to design a commemorative
T-shirt and/or bag, so put on your thinking cap and come up with some
ideas!
DEADLINE FOR
REGISTRATION:
Next Friday (July 31) is
the deadline for the Early-Bird registration of $99, which is completely
refundable if you request it by September.?
?
For more information, go to ?
--
Dona
________________________________________
Dona Sauerburger,
COMS
Orientation and Mobility Specialist for the blind
Gambrills, Maryland
dona@... / 301-858-0138
________________________________________
|
Georgia Vision Educators Statewide Training
ALL IN THIS TOGETHER…?Virtually ? Georgia Educators are excited to announce that the show must go on!!!! Our annual GVEST is normally a 3 Day Professional Development Extravaganza, however due to the “New Normal”, we are presenting ongoing professional development throughout the school year! You can participate from the comfort of your home or office by logging onto our virtual platform! ?There will be a series of 7 sessions over the course of the year.? The dates of the sessions are listed in the flyer attached! ?FREE Registration Coming Soon! YES!!!! FREE! ? Although registration is free, GVEST is accepting donations to support hosting quality presentations to meet the needs of our participants. You can support GVEST through several different fundraising opportunities by purchasing GVEST swag! T-Shirts are in progress! Our first fundraiser item is a black face mask featuring the GVEST logo.? ? ? ?Get the most current GVEST info at Remember to see attachment for details on each session. Tara Bowie, M.Ed., TVI, COMS Outreach Education Program Specialist Smokey Powell AT Center Georgia Academy for the Blind Tara.bowie@... -GVEST Committee Member- ? ? ? Sent from for Windows 10 ?
|
Re: ADA Anniversary Message to share
No, Donna,
It’s the one offered through the Great Plains ADA Center tied in with the big or what was the largest ADA Symposium before the pandemic. It’s those ACTCP initials in my sig, which is such a cumbersome title,
I can’t even get it right half the time. If others are interested, check it out at adacoordinater.org.
?
?
Sheila Styron, ACTCP
Blindness Low Vision Specialist II
 The
Whole Person
3710 Main Street, Kansas City, MO? 64111
direct 816-627-2217? |? main 816-561-0304? |? mobile 816-896-6552? |? fax
816-931-0534
mailto: sstyron@...?
|?
Follow us on Facebook:
?
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
From: [email protected] [mailto: [email protected]] On Behalf Of
Smith, Donna
Sent: Friday, July 24, 2020 10:34 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [OandM] ADA Anniversary Message to share
?
Thanks, Sheila for the kind words and for working in the trenches with me to improve access to transportation among other things!
?
Did you go through the ADA boot camp taught by Marilyn Golden? It was a very intensive week-long course.
?
Donna
?
?
?
|
CAUTION:?This email originated from a contact outside Sound Transit. Remember, do
not click any links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Report any suspicious email by clicking the “fish” button in Outlook. Thank you! ST Information Security
|
?
Donna,
?
Thank you so very much for creating this 30 year ADA anniversary video. I laughed, felt inspired and related to your timeline references. I am going to share your video far and wide, not to mention brag that
I know you a little. Thanks again, and congratulations!
P.S. Embarrassing Confession: Although I was the first person who is blind to become a certified ADA trainer, in 1990, I was barely aware of its passage.
?
?
Sheila Styron, ACTCP
Blindness Low Vision Specialist II
The
Whole Person
3710 Main Street, Kansas City, MO? 64111
direct 816-627-2217? |? main 816-561-0304? |? mobile 816-896-6552? |? fax
816-931-0534
mailto: sstyron@...?
|?
Follow us on Facebook:
?
?
Hi All. I hope this note finds you all safe and well.
?
I created a short video presentation for the 30th ADA anniversary and just wanted to share it with you. Feel free to share as you think appropriate.
?
?
I did not include my contact information on any of the slides, so feel free to share my contact information in my footer.
?
Happy almost weekend!
?
Donna
?
Donna Smith, ADAC
Manager Accessible Services
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Sound Transit
206-370-5534 (office)
703-505-4642 (mobile)
ADA30-blog-post_0
?
ATTENTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Do not open attachments or click on links unless you have confirmed the identity of the sender.
ATTENTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Do not open attachments or click on links unless you have confirmed the identity of the sender.
|
Re: ADA Anniversary Message to share
Thanks, Sheila for the kind words and for working in the trenches with me to improve access to transportation among other things!
?
Did you go through the ADA boot camp taught by Marilyn Golden? It was a very intensive week-long course.
?
Donna
?
?
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
From: [email protected] < [email protected]> On Behalf Of
Sheila Styron via groups.io
Sent: Friday, July 24, 2020 8:25 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [OandM] ADA Anniversary Message to share
?
|
CAUTION:?This email originated from a contact outside Sound Transit. Remember, do not click any links or open any
attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Report any suspicious email by clicking the “fish” button in Outlook. Thank you! ST Information Security
|
?
Donna,
?
Thank you so very much for creating this 30 year ADA anniversary video. I laughed, felt inspired and related to your timeline references. I am going to share your video far and wide, not to mention brag that
I know you a little. Thanks again, and congratulations!
P.S. Embarrassing Confession: Although I was the first person who is blind to become a certified ADA trainer, in 1990, I was barely aware of its passage.
?
?
Sheila Styron, ACTCP
Blindness Low Vision Specialist II
 The
Whole Person
3710 Main Street, Kansas City, MO? 64111
direct 816-627-2217? |? main 816-561-0304? |? mobile 816-896-6552? |? fax
816-931-0534
mailto: sstyron@...?
|?
Follow us on Facebook:
?
?
Hi All. I hope this note finds you all safe and well.
?
I created a short video presentation for the 30th ADA anniversary and just wanted to share it with you. Feel free to share as you think appropriate.
?
?
I did not include my contact information on any of the slides, so feel free to share my contact information in my footer.
?
Happy almost weekend!
?
Donna
?
Donna Smith, ADAC
Manager Accessible Services
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Sound Transit
206-370-5534 (office)
703-505-4642 (mobile)
ADA30-blog-post_0
?
ATTENTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Do not open attachments or click on links unless you have confirmed the identity of the sender.
|
Re: ADA Anniversary Message to share
Donna,
?
Thank you so very much for creating this 30 year ADA anniversary video. I laughed, felt inspired and related to your timeline references. I am going to share your video far and wide, not to mention brag that
I know you a little. Thanks again, and congratulations!
P.S. Embarrassing Confession: Although I was the first person who is blind to become a certified ADA trainer, in 1990, I was barely aware of its passage.
?
?
Sheila Styron, ACTCP
Blindness Low Vision Specialist II
 The
Whole Person
3710 Main Street, Kansas City, MO? 64111
direct 816-627-2217? |? main 816-561-0304? |? mobile 816-896-6552? |? fax
816-931-0534
mailto: sstyron@...?
|?
Follow us on Facebook:
?
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
From: [email protected] [mailto: [email protected]] On Behalf Of
Smith, Donna
Sent: Thursday, July 23, 2020 6:39 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: [OandM] ADA Anniversary Message to share
?
Hi All. I hope this note finds you all safe and well.
?
I created a short video presentation for the 30th ADA anniversary and just wanted to share it with you. Feel free to share as you think appropriate.
?
?
I did not include my contact information on any of the slides, so feel free to share my contact information in my footer.
?
Happy almost weekend!
?
Donna
?
Donna Smith, ADAC
Manager Accessible Services
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Sound Transit
206-370-5534 (office)
703-505-4642 (mobile)
ADA30-blog-post_0
?
ATTENTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Do not open attachments or click on links unless you have confirmed the identity of the sender.
|
ADA Anniversary Message to share
Hi All. I hope this note finds you all safe and well.
?
I created a short video presentation for the 30th ADA anniversary and just wanted to share it with you. Feel free to share as you think appropriate.
?
?
I did not include my contact information on any of the slides, so feel free to share my contact information in my footer.
?
Happy almost weekend!
?
Donna
?
Donna Smith, ADAC
Manager Accessible Services
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Sound Transit
206-370-5534 (office)
703-505-4642 (mobile)
ADA30-blog-post_0
?
|
SOMA Exhibitor info (was SOMA "LIVE" online conference -- you aint seen ANYTHING like this!)
Hi there Marty!? What a great list of questions!
?
We’ll know how many people to expect by the first of August, that’s why we
have an Early Bird that is so . . . well, early!? Once we have that
information, we plan to put together a package for the vendors.? So we’ll
know more details then, but in the meantime I can tell you that
- YES, people can go into exhibitor’s “room” and talk with the
exhibitors!? We’re working out the details with the platform designers --
right now they allow only one attendee at a time to go talk with each
exhibitor, we want that changed so it’s more like a real conference, where
multiple people can go into the booth and listen to the conversation.
- YES we plan to have our traditional SOMA “Exhibitor Highlights” session,
with ACVREP credit for attendees.? We were going to have it as a general
session but the program is so PACKED and everything is live (nothing will be
recorded) so, rather than risk having people miss it, we decided to have the
Exhibitors’ session recorded so folks can attend it whenever they want --
perhaps it could be available weeks ahead to get the BUZZ going.
There are no keynotes or general sessions, we plan to keep the audiences
small in every session so they can be interactive.
?
We are discussing other options for the exhibitors, such as ways to
incentivize attendees to go into their booths, and will have more details in a
few weeks.
--
Dona
________________________________________
Dona Sauerburger,
COMS
Orientation and Mobility Specialist for the blind
Gambrills, Maryland
dona@... /
301-858-0138
www.sauerburger.org
________________________________________
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
From: Marty
Schultz
Sent: Thursday, July 23, 2020 1:10 PM
Subject: Re: [OandM] SOMA "LIVE" online conference -- you aint seen
ANYTHING like this!
?
How
is the vendor progress going:
1. What is your expectation of attendees?
2. Will vendors be given contact info for all attendees?
3. Will there be a way to engage in live one-on-one conversations with
attendees (via zoom or chatting) during the event?
4. Is there a way for all vendors to be announced at the “general” session,
like an intro that would happen IRL
5. Is there a “general” session where everyone (via zoom) gets together and
listens to a keynote speaker.?
6. Is there a keynote speaker?
7. Is there an online guide for people to sign up for the classes once the
event has started, and a way to “promote” on that page?
?
On Jul 23, 2020, at 1:06 PM, Dona Sauerburger
<dona@...> wrote:
?
Hi everyone! ?
I’ve never been more excited about an
O&M conference than I am about?
the “LIVE” online SOMA O&M conference
December 14-15, 2020 ( ?
next Friday is the deadline for
the Early-Bird registration ?
)!! ?
PROGRAM:? First of all, the
response to the Call for Papers was awesome -- great ideas from newbies (they
inspire me with their fresh perspectives!) and O&M veterans, figuring out
how to provide O&M during the pandemic, thinking about standards and where
we want to go, and some thoughtful reflections on topics I hadn’t even
considered.? Want to see it for yourself? ?.
?
PLATFORM:? Secondly, we have
found a platform that will knock your socks off!? When you log in, you
can go see who is in the “lobby” and chat with them, or just walk into the
“lounge” and find a table with folks you want to sit down and visit.? Or
you can see what’s new at the exhibitors’ “booths” and go inside to talk with
them.? A huge “THANK YOU” to Brad Blair and Jack Mitchell for testing to
make sure the platform is accessible!
INTERACTIVE!? Third, the
presenters are excited (and, let’s be honest, a little nervous!) about making
their sessions interactive.? Some will be asking YOU questions and
bringing you into the discussion, some will break you into groups so you can
discuss the implications of what you learned or figure out how to apply it,
and come back to the main room and share your
ideas.
WARNING:? This is not your
typical webinar we all snore through while playing CandyCrush in our pajamas,
as I have done (more than once!).? You’ll want to come prepared to BE
there, just as you would if you were there in person! Get dressed in something
fun, and turn off your phone and distractions because you’ll be engaged and
active the whole time. ?
?
But don’t worry about being
overloaded – although the day will be long (10 AM to 7:30 PM Eastern) so we
can include people on both sides of the country (and our NZ presenter!), we
built in lots of breaks so you can catch your breath or get your lunch/dinner
(or go see what mischief you can make in the lounge, and check out what’s new
at the exhibits!).
Speaking of wearing something fun –
we will have a contest next month to design a commemorative T-shirt and/or
bag, so put on your thinking cap and come up with some
ideas!
DEADLINE FOR
REGISTRATION:
Next Friday (July 31) is the deadline
for the Early-Bird registration of $99, which is completely refundable if you
request it by September. ?
?
For more information, go to??
--
Dona
________________________________________
Dona Sauerburger,
COMS
Orientation and Mobility Specialist for the blind
Gambrills,
Maryland?
dona@...?/ 301-858-0138
________________________________________
?
|
Re: SOMA "LIVE" online conference -- you aint seen ANYTHING like this!
How is the vendor progress going: 1. What is your expectation of attendees? 2. Will vendors be given contact info for all attendees? 3. Will there be a way to engage in live one-on-one conversations with attendees (via zoom or chatting) during the event? 4. Is there a way for all vendors to be announced at the “general” session, like an intro that would happen IRL 5. Is there a “general” session where everyone (via zoom) gets together and listens to a keynote speaker. ? 6. Is there a keynote speaker? 7. Is there an online guide for people to sign up for the classes once the event has started, and a way to “promote” on that page?
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
On Jul 23, 2020, at 1:06 PM, Dona Sauerburger < dona@...> wrote:
Hi everyone!?? I’ve never been more excited about an O&M conference than I am about? the “LIVE” online SOMA O&M conference December 14-15, 2020 ( ?next Friday is the deadline for the Early-Bird registration )!!?? PROGRAM:? First of all, the response to the Call for Papers was awesome -- great ideas from newbies (they inspire me with their fresh perspectives!) and O&M veterans, figuring out how to provide O&M during the pandemic, thinking about standards and where we want to go, and some thoughtful reflections on topics I hadn’t even considered.? Want to see it for yourself???. ? PLATFORM:? Secondly, we have found a platform that will knock your socks off!? When you log in, you can go see who is in the “lobby” and chat with them, or just walk into the “lounge” and find a table with folks you want to sit down and visit.? Or you can see what’s new at the exhibitors’ “booths” and go inside to talk with them.? A huge “THANK YOU” to Brad Blair and Jack Mitchell for testing to make sure the platform is accessible! INTERACTIVE!? Third, the presenters are excited (and, let’s be honest, a little nervous!) about making their sessions interactive.? Some will be asking YOU questions and bringing you into the discussion, some will break you into groups so you can discuss the implications of what you learned or figure out how to apply it, and come back to the main room and share your ideas. WARNING:? This is not your typical webinar we all snore through while playing CandyCrush in our pajamas, as I have done (more than once!).? You’ll want to come prepared to BE there, just as you would if you were there in person! Get dressed in something fun, and turn off your phone and distractions because you’ll be engaged and active the whole time.?? ? But don’t worry about being overloaded – although the day will be long (10 AM to 7:30 PM Eastern) so we can include people on both sides of the country (and our NZ presenter!), we built in lots of breaks so you can catch your breath or get your lunch/dinner (or go see what mischief you can make in the lounge, and check out what’s new at the exhibits!). Speaking of wearing something fun – we will have a contest next month to design a commemorative T-shirt and/or bag, so put on your thinking cap and come up with some ideas! DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION: Next Friday (July 31) is the deadline for the Early-Bird registration of $99, which is completely refundable if you request it by September.?? ? For more information, go to??
-- Dona
________________________________________
Dona Sauerburger, COMS
Orientation and Mobility Specialist for the blind
Gambrills, Maryland?
dona@...?/ 301-858-0138
________________________________________
|
SOMA "LIVE" online conference -- you aint seen ANYTHING like this!
Hi everyone!?
I’ve never been more excited about an O&M
conference than I am about
the “LIVE” online SOMA O&M conference
December 14-15, 2020 (
next Friday is the deadline for the
Early-Bird registration
)!!?
PROGRAM:? First of
all, the response to the Call for Papers was awesome -- great ideas from newbies
(they inspire me with their fresh perspectives!) and O&M veterans, figuring
out how to provide O&M during the pandemic, thinking about standards and
where we want to go, and some thoughtful reflections on topics I hadn’t even
considered.? Want to see it for yourself?? .
?
PLATFORM:?
Secondly, we have found a platform that will knock your socks off!? When
you log in, you can go see who is in the “lobby” and chat with them, or just
walk into the “lounge” and find a table with folks you want to sit down and
visit.? Or you can see what’s new at the exhibitors’ “booths” and go inside
to talk with them.? A huge “THANK YOU” to Brad Blair and Jack Mitchell for
testing to make sure the platform is accessible!
INTERACTIVE!?
Third, the presenters are excited (and, let’s be honest, a little nervous!)
about making their sessions interactive.? Some will be asking YOU questions
and bringing you into the discussion, some will break you into groups so you can
discuss the implications of what you learned or figure out how to apply it, and
come back to the main room and share your ideas.
WARNING:? This is
not your typical webinar we all snore through while playing CandyCrush in our
pajamas, as I have done (more than once!).? You’ll want to come prepared to
BE there, just as you would if you were there in person! Get dressed in
something fun, and turn off your phone and distractions because you’ll be
engaged and active the whole time.?
?
But don’t worry about
being overloaded – although the day will be long (10 AM to 7:30 PM Eastern) so
we can include people on both sides of the country (and our NZ presenter!), we
built in lots of breaks so you can catch your breath or get your lunch/dinner
(or go see what mischief you can make in the lounge, and check out what’s new at
the exhibits!).
Speaking of wearing
something fun – we will have a contest next month to design a commemorative
T-shirt and/or bag, so put on your thinking cap and come up with some
ideas!
DEADLINE FOR
REGISTRATION:
Next Friday (July 31) is
the deadline for the Early-Bird registration of $99, which is completely
refundable if you request it by September.?
?
For more information, go to ?
--
Dona
________________________________________
Dona Sauerburger,
COMS
Orientation and Mobility Specialist for the blind
Gambrills, Maryland
dona@... / 301-858-0138
________________________________________
|
Re: Stop saying the toddler is "unwilling" to use a cane-
Hi Grace Here is the link to the video
And here is the article I wrote it’s on page three
I was wondering if you could associate the white cane with independence for your toddlers. The video has several interviews with adult came travelers and they really emphasized how the cane granted them independence and freedom of movement. I would also appreciate your assistance in trying to get these items out to the larger group if that’s possible. Thank you for your interest. I was wondering if you could associate the white cane with independence for your toddlers. The video has several interviews with adult cane travelers and they really emphasized how they came granted them independence and freedom of movement. I would also appreciate your assistance in trying to get these items out to the larger group if that’s possible. Thank you for your interest.
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
On Jul 23, 2020, at 8:36 AM, Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS <gambrose@...> wrote:
?
Hi David:
Who are you asking this question to? I'm happy to receive this information- you can send to me directly - if you are unable to share on this list - info@...?
Thanks!
Grace
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Certified O&M Specialist
Project Coordinator RT and O&M Programs
Hunter College CUNY
695 Park Ave 1140W
New York, NY 10065
212-772-4741
I would like to share a video form a YouTube channel I’ve subscribed to. ?The video has a brief history oh the white cane and several interviews with cane travelers. ?Any objections?
Doug Gilbert?
PS. I also have an article that’s been published in a newsletter put out by a CaiL in northern NJ, mind if I share?
On Jul 22, 2020, at 3:51 PM, Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS <gambrose@...> wrote:
?
The cane is a safety device. Like a seat belt - it must be employed when the child is blind. A two-year-old can no more be unwilling to use a cane, than be unwilling to use a seat belt. If a child said "no" I don't want to wear my seat belt- would you
drive with them in the car? Risk getting a ticket- or worse, risk an accident with an unbuckled child?????
If you know that the child is blind - is unable to visually avoid collisions - if you do not provide that child with the safety device she needs- you are negligent.
A child who is blind and walking and crashing into things or not walking and not talking - is not learning.
Blind babies are not experiencing safe mobility simply "holding a cane for five seconds- 30 seconds, 2 minutes in diagonal technique with constant prompting." It matters if the cane is forming an arc or off the ground or behind them. It matters that the
cane is in the right place, at the right time, all the time. There is no other reason to hold a cane except to achieve safe mobility.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of blind babies - start understanding the purpose of the cane.
Canes are equal to wheelchairs - life is better when you get full benefit from them.
Blind babies can't wait to be safe. They need SAFE MOBILITY IMMEDIATELY - if not sooner.
For children five and younger- they need pediatric belt canes or (age three to five) rectangular canes- they don't need to be punished for being "unwilling to protect themselves" that is not healthy way to be a early education COMS.
Grace
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Certified O&M Specialist
Project Coordinator RT and O&M Programs
Hunter College CUNY
695 Park Ave 1140W
New York, NY 10065
212-772-4741
Top 5 Reasons to Choose Hunter Programs in Blindness and Visual Impairments:
?
Hunter College ITI Programs: Advanced Certificate in TVI
and O&M?
|
Re: Stop saying the toddler is "unwilling" to use a cane-
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS
Hi David:
Who are you asking this question to? I'm happy to receive this information- you can send to me directly - if you are unable to share on this list - info@...?
Thanks!
Grace
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Certified O&M Specialist
Project Coordinator RT and O&M Programs
Hunter College CUNY
695 Park Ave 1140W
New York, NY 10065
212-772-4741
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
I would like to share a video form a YouTube channel I’ve subscribed to. ?The video has a brief history oh the white cane and several interviews with cane travelers. ?Any objections?
Doug Gilbert?
PS. I also have an article that’s been published in a newsletter put out by a CaiL in northern NJ, mind if I share?
On Jul 22, 2020, at 3:51 PM, Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS <gambrose@...> wrote:
?
The cane is a safety device. Like a seat belt - it must be employed when the child is blind. A two-year-old can no more be unwilling to use a cane, than be unwilling to use a seat belt. If a child said "no" I don't want to wear my seat belt- would you
drive with them in the car? Risk getting a ticket- or worse, risk an accident with an unbuckled child?????
If you know that the child is blind - is unable to visually avoid collisions - if you do not provide that child with the safety device she needs- you are negligent.
A child who is blind and walking and crashing into things or not walking and not talking - is not learning.
Blind babies are not experiencing safe mobility simply "holding a cane for five seconds- 30 seconds, 2 minutes in diagonal technique with constant prompting." It matters if the cane is forming an arc or off the ground or behind them. It matters that the
cane is in the right place, at the right time, all the time. There is no other reason to hold a cane except to achieve safe mobility.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of blind babies - start understanding the purpose of the cane.
Canes are equal to wheelchairs - life is better when you get full benefit from them.
Blind babies can't wait to be safe. They need SAFE MOBILITY IMMEDIATELY - if not sooner.
For children five and younger- they need pediatric belt canes or (age three to five) rectangular canes- they don't need to be punished for being "unwilling to protect themselves" that is not healthy way to be a early education COMS.
Grace
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Certified O&M Specialist
Project Coordinator RT and O&M Programs
Hunter College CUNY
695 Park Ave 1140W
New York, NY 10065
212-772-4741
Top 5 Reasons to Choose Hunter Programs in Blindness and Visual Impairments:
?
Hunter College ITI Programs: Advanced Certificate in TVI
and O&M?
|
Re: Stop saying the toddler is "unwilling" to use a cane-
I would like to share a video form a YouTube channel I’ve subscribed to. ?The video has a brief history oh the white cane and several interviews with cane travelers. ?Any objections?
Doug Gilbert?
PS. I also have an article that’s been published in a newsletter put out by a CaiL in northern NJ, mind if I share?
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
On Jul 22, 2020, at 3:51 PM, Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS <gambrose@...> wrote:
?
The cane is a safety device. Like a seat belt - it must be employed when the child is blind. A two-year-old can no more be unwilling to use a cane, than be unwilling to use a seat belt. If a child said "no" I don't want to wear my seat belt- would you
drive with them in the car? Risk getting a ticket- or worse, risk an accident with an unbuckled child?????
If you know that the child is blind - is unable to visually avoid collisions - if you do not provide that child with the safety device she needs- you are negligent.
A child who is blind and walking and crashing into things or not walking and not talking - is not learning.
Blind babies are not experiencing safe mobility simply "holding a cane for five seconds- 30 seconds, 2 minutes in diagonal technique with constant prompting." It matters if the cane is forming an arc or off the ground or behind them. It matters that the
cane is in the right place, at the right time, all the time. There is no other reason to hold a cane except to achieve safe mobility.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of blind babies - start understanding the purpose of the cane.
Canes are equal to wheelchairs - life is better when you get full benefit from them.
Blind babies can't wait to be safe. They need SAFE MOBILITY IMMEDIATELY - if not sooner.
For children five and younger- they need pediatric belt canes or (age three to five) rectangular canes- they don't need to be punished for being "unwilling to protect themselves" that is not healthy way to be a early education COMS.
Grace
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Certified O&M Specialist
Project Coordinator RT and O&M Programs
Hunter College CUNY
695 Park Ave 1140W
New York, NY 10065
212-772-4741
Top 5 Reasons to Choose Hunter Programs in Blindness and Visual Impairments:
?
Hunter College ITI Programs: Advanced Certificate in TVI
and O&M?
|
Stop saying the toddler is "unwilling" to use a cane-
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS
The cane is a safety device. Like a seat belt - it must be employed when the child is blind. A two-year-old can no more be unwilling to use a cane, than be unwilling to use a seat belt. If a child said "no" I don't want to wear my seat belt- would you
drive with them in the car? Risk getting a ticket- or worse, risk an accident with an unbuckled child?????
If you know that the child is blind - is unable to visually avoid collisions - if you do not provide that child with the safety device she needs- you are negligent.
A child who is blind and walking and crashing into things or not walking and not talking - is not learning.
Blind babies are not experiencing safe mobility simply "holding a cane for five seconds- 30 seconds, 2 minutes in diagonal technique with constant prompting." It matters if the cane is forming an arc or off the ground or behind them. It matters that the
cane is in the right place, at the right time, all the time. There is no other reason to hold a cane except to achieve safe mobility.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of blind babies - start understanding the purpose of the cane.
Canes are equal to wheelchairs - life is better when you get full benefit from them.
Blind babies can't wait to be safe. They need SAFE MOBILITY IMMEDIATELY - if not sooner.
For children five and younger- they need pediatric belt canes or (age three to five) rectangular canes- they don't need to be punished for being "unwilling to protect themselves" that is not healthy way to be a early education COMS.
Grace
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Certified O&M Specialist
Project Coordinator RT and O&M Programs
Hunter College CUNY
695 Park Ave 1140W
New York, NY 10065
212-772-4741
Top 5 Reasons to Choose Hunter Programs in Blindness and Visual Impairments:
?
Hunter College ITI Programs: Advanced Certificate in TVI
and O&M?
|
Looking for OM resources/contacts in Las Vegas area for College student.
Good day,? I have a College student transferring to the? University of Nevada, Las Vegas . 1515 E Tropicana Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89119 arriving? around??August 18th in the state.? She is a long cane user needing?O&M around the
campus and community.
Any suggestions for OM contacts private or state?
Meg Robertson COMS
Director Orientation & Mobility Department
Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
600 Washington St.
Boston MA 02111
Meg.Robertson@...?
617-626-7581
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Arkansas AER Virtual Conference: Building a Stronger Vision in 20/20
T he Arkansas chapter of AER will be hosting their annual conference on September 17-18, 2020.
?
Please join us for our virtual conference as we are “Building a Stronger Vision in 20/20". We are excited to be joined by presenters:? Barry Kran, Kevin McCormack, Yue-Ting Siu, and Darick Wright.? We look forward to the opportunity to learn, network, and grow together!
?
Conference registration and our “Conference-at-a-Glace” can be found on our website?.???Be sure and check for updates on our Facebook page?!
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Re: Should we change the definition of independent walking?
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS
Hi Chris:
I posted your words of support, because men like you with credibility, status and influence in O&M can substantially improve the quality of life for children born blind and mobility visually impaired - by letting others read them.
I apologize I should have asked your permission first.
Thanks again,
Grace
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Certified O&M Specialist
Project Coordinator RT and O&M Programs
Hunter College CUNY
695 Park Ave 1140W
New York, NY 10065
914-204-9292
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
From: [email protected] [[email protected]] on behalf of Chris Tabb via groups.io [chris@...]
Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2020 1:10 PM
To: Open International O&M listserv
Subject: Re: [OandM] Should we change the definition of independent walking?
Grace,
Though the last message was sent to you privately as a personal encouragement; very grateful that you continue to bring new ideas and concepts to the field to consider as options for those we serve.?
—
Christopher J. Tabb, M.A., COMS
chris@...
Mobile: ?512.660.2750
On Jul 15, 2020, at 12:50 PM, Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS < gambrose@...> wrote:
From:?Chris Tabb [chris@...]
Sent:?Wednesday, July 15, 2020 11:56 AM
To:?Grace Ambrose
Subject:?Re: [OandM] Should we change the definition of independent walking?
Continuing to enjoy your evolution in concept, terminology (helping us expand our concepts of what a cane is and that we have different kinds of canes for different needs, i.e. belt cane and rod cane). Thank you for hanging in their while we catch
up.?
; )
On Jul 15, 2020, at 9:32 AM, Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS < gambrose@...> wrote:
I have so many families request belt canes explain they would like a belt cane, because although their children are "walking" ?"able to walk"
meant "he will fall or hit is head if something is in front of him He easily runs into doors and walls. Trips over planters and steps on his younger sibling."? (this was from a family of 38 month old boy with CVI)
For far too long, O&M specialists have allowed this hurtful definition of walking to be part of our discussion with parents of young children. But please remember we have a unique profession.
Unlike the others.
TVIs, PTs - they don't know what we know about the importance of safe mobility to walking. In fact, that's the only reason why we teach cane skills - cane arc safe mobility is a game
changer for all who can employ rod canes this way.
A child at 24 months, 35 months- 15 months- wearing belt canes now has info to stop these body blows, and begin self-confident exploration and real independent walking - not painful excursions
into the unknown.
Belt canes are canes for children who are blind and mobility visually impaired.
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Certified O&M Specialist
Project Coordinator RT and O&M Programs
Hunter College CUNY
695 Park Ave 1140W
New York, NY 10065
212-772-4741
Top 5 Reasons to Choose Hunter Programs in Blindness
and Visual Impairments:??
Hunter College
ITI Programs: Advanced Certificate in TVI and O&M?
|
Re: Should we change the definition of independent walking?
Grace,
Though the last message was sent to you privately as a personal encouragement; very grateful that you continue to bring new ideas and concepts to the field to consider as options for those we serve.?
— Christopher J. Tabb, M.A., COMS chris@...Mobile: ?512.660.2750
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
On Jul 15, 2020, at 12:50 PM, Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS < gambrose@...> wrote:
From:?Chris Tabb [chris@...]
Sent:?Wednesday, July 15, 2020 11:56 AM
To:?Grace Ambrose
Subject:?Re: [OandM] Should we change the definition of independent walking?
Continuing to enjoy your evolution in concept, terminology (helping us expand our concepts of what a cane is and that we have different kinds of canes for different needs, i.e. belt cane and rod cane). Thank you for hanging in their while we catch up.?
; ) On Jul 15, 2020, at 9:32 AM, Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS < gambrose@...> wrote:
I have so many families request belt canes explain they would like a belt cane, because although their children are "walking" ?"able to walk" meant "he will fall or hit is head if something is in front of him He easily runs into doors and walls. Trips over planters and steps on his younger sibling."? (this was from a family of 38 month old boy with CVI)
For far too long, O&M specialists have allowed this hurtful definition of walking to be part of our discussion with parents of young children. But please remember we have a unique profession. Unlike the others.
TVIs, PTs - they don't know what we know about the importance of safe mobility to walking. In fact, that's the only reason why we teach cane skills - cane arc safe mobility is a game changer for all who can employ rod canes this way.
A child at 24 months, 35 months- 15 months- wearing belt canes now has info to stop these body blows, and begin self-confident exploration and real independent walking - not painful excursions into the unknown.
Belt canes are canes for children who are blind and mobility visually impaired.
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Certified O&M Specialist Project Coordinator RT and O&M Programs Hunter College CUNY 695 Park Ave 1140W New York, NY 10065 212-772-4741 Top 5 Reasons to Choose Hunter Programs in Blindness and Visual Impairments:?? Hunter College ITI Programs: Advanced Certificate in TVI and O&M?
|
Should we change the definition of independent walking?
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS
From: Chris Tabb [chris@...]
Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2020 11:56 AM
To: Grace Ambrose
Subject: Re: [OandM] Should we change the definition of independent walking?
Continuing to enjoy your evolution in concept, terminology (helping us expand our concepts of what a cane is and that we have different kinds of canes for different needs, i.e. belt cane and rod cane). Thank you for hanging in their while we catch up.?
; )
On Jul 15, 2020, at 9:32 AM, Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, COMS < gambrose@...> wrote:
I have so many families request belt canes explain they would like a belt cane, because although their children are "walking" ?"able to walk"
meant "he will fall or hit is head if something is in front of him He easily runs into doors and walls. Trips over planters and steps on his younger sibling."? (this was from a family of 38 month old boy with CVI)
For far too long, O&M specialists have allowed this hurtful definition of walking to be part of our discussion with parents of young children. But please remember we have a unique profession.
Unlike the others.
TVIs, PTs - they don't know what we know about the importance of safe mobility to walking. In fact, that's the only reason why we teach cane skills - cane arc safe mobility is a game
changer for all who can employ rod canes this way.
A child at 24 months, 35 months- 15 months- wearing belt canes now has info to stop these body blows, and begin self-confident exploration and real independent walking - not painful excursions
into the unknown.
Belt canes are canes for children who are blind and mobility visually impaired.
Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Certified O&M Specialist
Project Coordinator RT and O&M Programs
Hunter College CUNY
695 Park Ave 1140W
New York, NY 10065
212-772-4741
Top 5 Reasons to Choose Hunter Programs in Blindness
and Visual Impairments:??
Hunter College
ITI Programs: Advanced Certificate in TVI and O&M?
|
New resource for remote instruction (tactile intersections)
Terrific idea for product that works for remote instruction from LightHouse for the Blind - San Francisco Bay Area Would be great if these could also be available in downloadable format so that folks with access to a PIAF or Tactile Image Enhancer (or any fuser) could print and send to each learner developing these concepts.
— Christopher J. Tabb, M.A., COMS chris@...Mobile: ?512.660.2750
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Distance Learning for Assistive Technology Skills: 2 minute video
Learn how BVI students can learn assistive technology gestures using? fun & engaging games, at home or at school. You can customize remotely, and monitor their progress remotely. WATCH NOW AT: --Marty Schultz President, Objective Ed
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Tara Nelson Bowie
Chris Tabb