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Ideal Ratio of Mobility Instructors to Agency Clients
by PRESIDENT＠alumni.ecu.edu 11 May '17

11 May '17

Hi everybody, A colleague asked me if there is an ideal ratio of mobility instructors to agency clients in a state agency serving the blind. I gave an answer about operational needs but did not have numbers to offer. Have any of our people ever come up with an ideal number ratio, such as 150 clients to 1 mobility instructor? It doesn?t necessarily say anything about who is accessing the mobility services but rather the human resource potential that the state agency has to provide these services. Thank you, Justin Justin M. Salisbury, MA, NOMC, NCRTB, NCUEB Orientation and Mobility Therapist Ho`opono Services for the Blind 1901 Bachelot Street Honolulu, HI 96817 Mobile: 808-224-8634 Office: 808-586-5274 Email: jsalisbury at dhs.hawaii.gov<mailto:jsalisbury at dhs.hawaii.gov> ?I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.? Michelangelo NOTICE: This information and attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited and may be punishable under state and federal law. If you have received this communication and/or attachments in error, please notify the sender via email immediately and destroy all electronic and paper copies.

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Register Now: 16th Annual Contemporary Issues in Rehabilitation and Education for the Blind
by ebell＠pdrib.com 03 May '17

03 May '17

REGISTER NOW! Contemporary Issues in Rehabilitation and Education For the Blind 16th ANNUAL REHABILITATION AND ORIENTATION AND MOBILITY CONFERENCE Rosen Shingle Creek Resort 9939 Universal Boulevard Orlando, Florida 32819-9357 (866) 996-6338 Monday, July 10, 2017 8:30 am - 7:30 pm Come and join us! Once again, this year's conference will be action packed with a variety of new speakers, topics, and hands-on events. Schedule: 7:30 - 8:30 am-Registration 8:30 am-Conference Begins 2:00 - 5:00- Interactive Breakout Sessions 5:00 - 7:00 pm-NBPCB Awards Reception Click here to register: https://nbpcb.org/members/er.php?eid=325 Registration Fee includes the NBPCB Awards Reception: Cost: Before June 15 - $85 for professionals; $75 for Students. After June 15 - $100 for both students and professionals Those certified through the NBPCB may register using their username and password. All other participants should register as a guest. For questions or special arrangements, contact Edward Bell at 318-257-4554, or ebell at latech.edu. Sponsors: National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) Professional Development & Research Institute on Blindness (PDRIB) Louisiana Tech University National Association of Professionals in Blindness Education Edward C. Bell, Ph.D., CRC, NOMC Director, Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness Louisiana Tech University 210 Woodard Hall PO Box 3158 Ruston LA 71272 Office: 318.257.4554 Fax: 318.257.2259 (Fax) Skype: edwardbell2010 <mailto:ebell at latech.edu> ebell at latech.edu <http://www.pdrib.com> www.pdrib.com ************************************************************** "I am somehow less interested in the weight and convolutions of Einstein's brain than in the near certainty that people of equal talent have lived and died in cotton fields and sweatshops." -- Stephen Jay Gould

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A volunteer needed in Ecuador
by jaltman＠neb.rr.com 01 May '17

01 May '17

Hello Everyone, If you are looking for an adventure, as well as the opportunity to share your skills in a part of the world where blind folks have few opportunities, please consider contacting this gentleman via Facebook. I don't know what supports may be available to you, but he is attempting to provide skills training and other supports to blind children and young adults in Ecuador, and he asked that I share this message from Facebook with all of you. <https://m.facebook.com/jim.paradiso.98?refid=12> Jim Paradiso What I am looking for somebody who has experience working with adults and children, who is capable of mobility training also is experienced in braille and technology. It would be a great if the had some knowledge of administration and fundraising in Spanish is a big plusI am currently in the city of Loja which is considered the Preforming arts capital of Ecuador. Also I am 45 minutes from vilcabumba which is the valley of longevity were people live well into the 100s. The climate here during the day the high of about 78 at night it gets into the low 50s. Because we are at 6000 feet and on the equator the temperature stays the same pretty much year around Your consideration of his request is appreciated. Sincerely, Jeff Altman

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2017 Cane Walk
by jaltman＠neb.rr.com 27 Apr '17

27 Apr '17

Hello Fellow NOMC's, We are again approaching our National Convention, and it is time to begin planning for the 2017 Cane Walk. As each of you knows, this is an opportunity to share our skills, and the spirit of independence with the youngest members of our Federation family, along with their parents. I hope that each of you will set aside the time to volunteer your time and energy to this year's Cane Walk. This is also an opportunity for each of you to receive CEU's toward your recertification, and to gain valuable experience working with children and young adults. This year, the Cane Walks will be held on Tuesday, July 11. The times will be the same as always-the first session from 8:45-10:30 and the second session from 11:00-12:45. I will send along the specific location for the two sessions of the Cane Walk as soon as this information is available. Please let me know if you will be available for one or both sessions. The popularity of the Cane Walk continues to grow, and each of you do so much to make a difference in the lives of these young people. I look forward to seeing each of you again this year. Sincerely, Jeffrey T. Altman MA NOMCT CVRCB

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FW: Job Announcement - USOR #11986
by ebell＠pdrib.com 27 Apr '17

27 Apr '17

*** Cane Travel Instructor Job, good agency, excellent supervisor *** Position: Sensory Impairment Specialist II / Cane Travel Instructor Location: Salt Lake - DSBVI Supervised by: Adam Rushforth Requisition #: 11986 $16.95 - $28.39 Hourly Closes: Wed. 05/10/17 11:59 PM Mountain Time Details: Full time Schedule B Competitive Career Service + Benefits Public Recruitment - USOR You must successfully pass a criminal history check. May be under filled as a Sensory Impairment Specialist I Apply online at: http://statejobs.utah.gov/jobseeker/ -- Lisa Smith Human Resource Analyst Utah State Office of Rehabilitation 140 East 300 South | Salt Lake City, UT 84111 Phone: 801-526-4353 <tel:(801)%20526-4353> | Fax: 801-5 <tel:801-538-7786> 21-4448 lsmith at utah.gov <mailto:lsmith at utah.gov> -- Laura E. Hathaway, Executive Secretary Training and Adjustment Services Division of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired 250 North 1950 West Suite B Salt Lake City, Utah 84116 801-323-4348

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FW: Job Announcement - USOR #11986
by ebell＠pdrib.com 24 Apr '17

24 Apr '17

Subject: Job Announcement - USOR #11986 <http://statejobs.utah.gov/jobseeker/> Position: Sensory Impairment Specialist II / Cane Travel Instructor Location: Salt Lake - DSBVI Supervised by: Adam Rushforth Requisition #: 11986 $16.95 - $28.39 Hourly Closes: Wed. 05/10/17 11:59 PM Mountain Time Details: Full time Schedule B Competitive Career Service + Benefits Public Recruitment - USOR You must successfully pass a criminal history check. May be under filled as a Sensory Impairment Specialist I Apply online at: http://statejobs.utah.gov/jobseeker/ -- Lisa Smith Human Resource Analyst Utah State Office of Rehabilitation 140 East 300 South | Salt Lake City, UT 84111 Phone: 801-526-4353 | Fax: 801-5 <tel:801-538-7786> 21-4448 lsmith at utah.gov <mailto:lsmith at utah.gov>

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Iowa Technology Job Openings
by ebell＠pdrib.com 19 Apr '17

19 Apr '17

The Iowa Department for the blind currently has two technology related job openings. Both close May 1 and have the same benefits. One covers teaching technology in the adult orientation center, for which applications should be submitted to Alan Bickell. The Other, with info below, is for providing more individualized training to clients in the field, and requires applications to be submitted to myself. Please help spread the word, and let me know if you have any questions. Applicants are welcome to apply for both positions if interested. Thanks, Helen Iowa Department for the Blind JOB ANNOUNCEMENT Rehabilitation Technology Specialist Location: Des Moines, Iowa Salary Minimum):$51,438.40 Salary Maximum $ 79,768.00 Post Close Date: May 1, 2017. Job Description: This is a courtesy posting for a non-merit position. Please follow instructions in the "To Apply" section for directions on how to apply for this position. The Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) is seeking applicants for a position that will promote IDB's mission, vision and values through providing assistive technology training, worksite assessments, skills assessments, and technology recommendations for vocational rehabilitation clients. Duties and responsibilities to include the following: Provide individualized and/or group training to clients in the use of access technology. Monitor client progress during such training, produce written reports and case notes for client files, and provide prompt notification to counselors concerning client progress and impediments to client success. Design, validate, and implement skills assessments to determine a client's ability to use technology. Based on these assessments, produce written and verbal reports concerning a client's ability to use technology (with or without non visual access software/hardware), the client's need for specialized training, and the configuration of any equipment that the client might require. As necessary, develop and/or modify technology skills assessments to ensure the most accurate results. Based on technology skills assessments, develop, teach, and/or recommend courses of intensive and specialized training. Obtain and review quotes for access technology. Provide on-site training and telephone assistance to employers and clients regarding access technology. Troubleshoot technical problems at client work-sites involving the integration of non-visual access technology with other programs, determine what configuration changes, repairs, and/or upgrades may be necessary, and facilitate efforts to implement needed hardware/software acquisitions or configuration changes. Produce written reports and case notes to document the work performed. Provide technical assistance and product support to blind or low vision persons using mainstream software with access technology. Maintain records and generate reports related to problems encountered or solved and inquiries received. To the maximum extent possible, direct blind or low vision persons to appropriate sources of technical assistance to foster long term independence of these individuals in the area of technology. Plan and participate in awareness activities to promote the use of non-visual access technology. Arrange for vendor displays/demonstrations in the IDB Technology Resource Center and in various locations around the state. Demonstrate non visual access technology and its use with mainstream computer programs to clients, counselors, teachers, family members, and other individuals/organizations. Maintain lists of access technology products for the blind and their vendors. Upon request, provide product information to consumers, family members, employers, IDB staff, and other individuals/organizations. Monitor trends and developments with regard to screen access software/hardware, refreshable Braille displays, screen enlargement software and hardware, and optical character recognition systems. Monitor trends and developments in mainstream technology. Make recommendations concerning the use of these technologies to counselors, teachers, clients, other IDB staff, and other individuals/organizations. Essential functions of this position: Communicate effectively, verbally or in writing, in the English language. Evaluate strengths and weaknesses of non-visual access technologies-including screen access software, screen enlargement technology, refreshable braille displays, braille embossers, tablets, smart phones, and video magnifiers-and make sound recommendations about which technologies should be used for specific situations and under what circumstances. Explain complicated concepts and ideas in a simplified manner for group or individual presentation. Competently operate the Windows and Mac OSX operating systems and various applications-including Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Power Point, Pages, Numbers, Keynote, web browsers, and other applications. Competently operate mobile operating systems such as iOS and Android with non-visual access technology. Teach individuals and/or groups how to use specific technologies, and vary the teaching method depending on the learning style that works best for each student. It is the policy of the Department for the Blind to conduct background checks on all finalist candidates prior to any offer of employment. For further information, contact Helen Stevens, 515-829-7411 or <mailto:helen.stevens at blind.state.ia.us> helen.stevens at blind.state.ia.us To Apply: Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise. Persons who wish to be considered for this position must submit a resume and letter of application to: Helen Stevens Education and Training Director Iowa Department for the Blind 524 4th Street Des Moines, IA 50309-2364 <mailto:helen.stevens at blind.state.ia.us> helen.stevens at blind.state.ia.us Helen Stevens MSE Education and Training Director Iowa Department for the Blind 515.829.7411 <https://blind.iowa.gov/> https://blind.iowa.gov "A proud partner in the American Job Center network"

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Training Center Denied Access to Public Accommodation
by PRESIDENT＠alumni.ecu.edu 11 Apr '17

11 Apr '17

Aloha, fellow cane travel instructors! I write because the training center where I work is about to take our students parasailing at a tourist parasailing place that has denied us repeatedly in the past. I want to ask for people to offer their wisdom on how we can most effectively address whatever they try to pull on us. We made a reservation, but they don't know that the group is blind, again. Before I started working here last summer, the agency had already tried twice to go parasailing with this company. We have done it successfully with others, but this one is a lot closer to us geographically, and we want to develop a productive relationship with them. In years past, we have debunked all of their arguments about how it isn't safe for a blind person, and we have refused to set up special training programs for the blind as a prerequisite for parasailing. In response to our past attempts to parasail with them, they have published on their website<https://www.hawaiiactivities.com/en/hawaii/oahu/a/111466/?cid=oahu_hawaiian…> the following statement: *Children 5 years old and above can participate in this activity. *Persons with visual impairment are not allowed to participate in this activity. I have done some research on the issue, and I found the following: Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. ? 12182. Title III prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities by those who offer public accommodations, i.e., a facility, operated by a private entity that provides services to the public. (Similarly, Title II of the ADA prohibits such discrimination by public entities.) They have even gone so far as to shut down their business for the day to avoid serving our blind customers in the past. We have written letters, invited them to our training center for a tour (which they have avoided), and offered to educate them about the capacity of blind people. Our program director has had conversations with the company's owner. The progress just has not happened yet. We are going to go try to transact business with this company, and we want our students to know that the blind have the right to live in the world. Since we have run out of ideas, we would probably next invite some TV news reporters if they try to deny us again to see if we can get them some publicity. Certainly, this is one of those situations where the Federation can help the state agency, too. So, what ideas can people offer to our training center in Hawaii? Mahalo! Justin Justin M. Salisbury, MA, NOMC, NCRTB, NCUEB Legislative Committee Chair Honolulu Chapter National Federation of the Blind of Hawaii Email: President at Alumni.ECU.edu<mailto:President at Alumni.ECU.edu> LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-salisbury "Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." William Butler Yeats

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FW: Iowa Department for the Blind Orientation Center Rehab Tech Specialist Job Posting
by ebell＠pdrib.com 03 Apr '17

03 Apr '17

Job Title: REHABILITATION TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST Job Code: 41006 REHABILITATION TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST Auto req ID: 18775BR Location: Polk County Location Zip Code: 50309 Location City: Des Moines Full/Part Time: Full-Time Department: 131-Department for the Blind Salary Minimum: $51,438 Salary Maximum: $79,768 Job Description: Provide assistive technology training to students in the adult comprehensive adjustment to blindness training center. Instruct students on the use of computers with screen readers and refreshable braille. Teach the use of mobile devices, OCR software, braille embossers, and other non-visual technology. Participate fully in center activities and challenge students to grow and reach their fullest potential. The Work Examples and Competencies listed are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be the primary basis for position decisions. Work Examples Teach the use of Windows, Mac OSX, Microsoft Office, Voiceover, JAWS, Window-Eyes, and other screen readers, printers, scanners, braille displays, OCR software and other common office applications and peripherals. Teach the non-visual use of smart phones, tablets, and other mobile technologies. Demonstrate and promote a positive attitude toward blindness amongst center students. Perform routine computer maintenance and troubleshoot common technical problems in the computer lab. Evaluate student progress and write progress reports. Participate fully in all center activities. Competencies Required Knowledge of Microsoft Office 2010 and 2013, Windows 7, JAWS, Voiceover on the iPhone and iPad. Knowledge of or ability to learn Window-Eyes, Voiceover for the Mac, Talk Back for Android, Dolphin Guide and other screen reading software. Ability to create assignments and develop assistive technology curriculum. Ability to teach oneself new technologies and learn new skills. Interest in seeking out and participating in continuing education opportunities. Thorough knowledge of and ability to develop alternative techniques of blindness, particularly in the areas of non-visual assistive technology and to maintain knowledge of past and current related practices and techniques. Ability to read contracted Braille. Ability to write braille with a Braille writer and slate and stylus. Excellent judgment, particularly in dealing with difficult and complex situations. Ability to handle stress. Ability to handle multiple tasks at once. Ability to explain complex technical information in a clear and concise manner to students with varying levels of technical knowledge and a wide range of educational and cultural backgrounds. Ability to identify and solve problems both independently and in a group. Ability to work in a team. Ability to evaluate student progress and work with students to develop goals and objectives. Ability to diagnose and solve common technical problems. Good oral and written communication skills. Ability to engage in limited travel. Ability to demonstrate a positive attitude toward blindness. Ability to role model appropriate workplace behaviors and us of the alternative techniques of blindness. Thorough knowledge and understanding of the agency's philosophy of blindness and the ability to implement this philosophy in work duties. Thorough knowledge of ability to develop and implement alternative techniques of blindness in job duties. It is the policy of the Department for the Blind to conduct background checks on all finalist candidates prior to any offer of employment. Minimum Qualification Requirements Graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in civil, industrial, mechanical, architectural, electrical or rehabilitation engineering and experience equal to one year of full-time work in the design, development and fabrication of mechanical or electrical components or assemblies for products such as industrial equipment, machinery, power equipment, service systems, machine tools and measuring instruments. Post Close Date: 10-Apr-2017 To Apply: DO Not apply on BrassRing Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise. Apply directly to the employing agency: For consideration, please forward cover letter, resume to: Iowa Department for the Blind, Alan Bickell 524 4th Street, Des Moines IA 50309-2364. Point of contact for Applicant questions: Alan Bickell at alan.bickell at blind.state.ia.us Edward C. Bell, Ph.D., CRC, NOMC Director, Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness Louisiana Tech University 210 Woodard Hall PO Box 3158 Ruston LA 71272 Office: 318.257.4554 Fax: 318.257.2259 (Fax) Skype: edwardbell2010 ebell at latech.edu <mailto:ebell at latech.edu> <http://www.pdrib.com> www.pdrib.com ************************************************************** "I am somehow less interested in the weight and convolutions of Einstein's brain than in the near certainty that people of equal talent have lived and died in cotton fields and sweatshops." -- Stephen Jay Gould From: Bickell, Tiffany [mailto:tiffany.bickell at blind.state.ia.us] Sent: Monday, April 3, 2017 2:00 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Iowa Department for the Blind Orientation Center Rehab Tech Specialist Job Posting Hello, Please see the attached posting for a center technology position at the Iowa Department for the Blind. Thank you -- Tiffany Bickell Executive Assistant to the Director, Commission Board Secretary Iowa Department for the Blind 515.281.1336 tiffany.bickell at blind.state.ia.us <mailto:tiffany.bickell at blind.state.ia.us> https://blind.iowa.gov "A proud partner in the American Job Center network"

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FW: VDBVI Career Opportunities - 3/27/17
by ebell＠pdrib.com 31 Mar '17

31 Mar '17

*** Contact Melody Rone for more details *** The Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired has an opening for an O and M specialist. Please share this information with anyone who may be interested. For further information, interested individuals can call me at 804-371-3323. There is also an O and M position in the Fairfax Regional Office. Thanks. Have a great day! Melody Roane, director Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired Listed below are the VDBVI career opportunities currently posted. Each position may be accessed directly in the state Recruitment Management System (RMS) by clicking on the applicable Quicklink. Here are some helpful tips to remember when applying: * Review the position's EWP. * Fully complete your RMS application to accurately reflect your current job duties and past experiences. Only fully completed applications are accepted. * Contact HR, prior to the position closing, if you have any issues accessing RMS or submitting an application. * RMS closes all positions at 11:59 pm on the Closing Date. * Screening is based solely on your RMS application. HR determines interview candidates by comparing the information disclosed and detailed on applications to the screening criteria for the particular position. Be sure to like DARS on Facebook at <https://www.facebook.com/VDBVI> https://www.facebook.com/VDBVI and visit us on the web at <https://www.vdbvi.org> https://www.vdbvi.org Job Title: Orientation and Mobility Specialist Location: Fairfax County - 059 Position #: 00120 Closing Date: Open Until Filled Quicklink: <https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/64080> https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/64080 Job Title: Orientation and Mobility Specialist Location: Henrico - 087 Position #: 00021 Closing Date: Open Until Filled Quicklink: <https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/71255> https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/71255

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