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  • Braille Rocks: Danielle Lubiner’s Vision for Literacy and Inclusion
    2025/01/20

    In Episode 122 of White Canes Connect, listeners revisit the 2024 NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Erie, featuring Danielle Lubiner's insightful presentation, "Braille: The Language of the Blind." Danielle, an accomplished educator and advocate, shared her journey from special education teaching to becoming a Braille expert, emphasizing the vital role of early intervention and daily Braille instruction.

    Drawing on her experiences at Louisiana Tech University and the Louisiana Center for the Blind, Danielle highlighted the need for high expectations, collaboration among educators, and a Braille-rich environment at home and school. Her approach includes teaching Braille using natural contractions and integrating literacy skills into students’ daily routines. She stressed that Braille literacy starts at home, supported by tactile learning, family involvement, and evidence-based strategies.

    Danielle also addressed systemic challenges, advocating for inclusive practices, ongoing professional development, and equitable resources for blind students. Her presentation inspired attendees to champion Braille literacy and foster success for blind individuals in education and beyond.

    Mark your calendars for the 2025 NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Harrisburg, November 13–16, and stay connected with White Canes Connect for updates and opportunities.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/122

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    19 分
  • Tech, Accessibility, and the Future of Healthcare with Andy Burstein
    2025/01/15

    In this engaging episode of White Canes Connect, listeners are treated to a dynamic presentation by Andy Burstein, CEO of Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind, during the 2024 NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Erie. Andy offers a captivating overview of his company’s innovative services, which cater specifically to individuals with disabilities.

    Andy shares exciting updates about Accessible Pharmacy’s nationwide expansion and groundbreaking initiatives. From low-tech solutions like talking blood pressure cuffs and medication labels to high-tech innovations such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), the company is redefining accessible healthcare. Andy highlights how CGMs, now widely adopted, revolutionize diabetes management by enabling real-time monitoring and family sharing features.

    The conversation also delves into cutting-edge developments like home diagnostic tools, Be My Eyes integration, and artificial intelligence, underscoring a future where healthcare is more inclusive and personalized. Andy emphasizes the importance of the Medical Device Non-Visual Accessibility Act, championed by the NFB, which mandates accessible apps for medical devices.

    This episode is a testament to the transformative power of technology in healthcare and Accessible Pharmacy’s commitment to enhancing independence and well-being for the blind community. Learn more at https://www.AccessiblePharmacy.com.

    Mark your calendars for the 2025 NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Harrisburg, November 13–16, and stay connected with White Canes Connect for updates and opportunities.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/121

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    11 分
  • Updates & Insights from BBVS Director Dawn Sokol at the 2024 NFB of PA State Convention
    2025/01/09

    In Episode 120 of White Canes Connect, we revisit the 2024 NFB of PA State Convention in Erie, featuring an insightful presentation by Dawn Sokol, Director of the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services (BBVS). Dawn offers a comprehensive update on the agency’s priorities, including hiring, outreach, and fiscal management, alongside an overview of key programs and initiatives.

    Dawn highlights BBVS's adoption of "rapid engagement" to expedite service delivery and address longstanding system delays. She also outlines the challenges posed by flat federal funding, emphasizing its impact on pre-employment transition services, the Older Blind Program, and agency operations. Despite these financial constraints, BBVS remains committed to outreach and staff retention to ensure high-quality service delivery.

    Dawn provides updates on innovative programs such as bioptic driving guidance, revamped low-vision policies, and the successful My Work youth employment initiative. She also underscores BBVS’s dedication to assistive technology enhancements and collaboration with partners.

    A passionate advocate for equitable employment and accessible services, Dawn encourages community action, including outreach to legislators to increase program funding. The episode captures BBVS's resilience and ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for Pennsylvania’s blind and visually impaired residents.

    Mark your calendars for the 2025 NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Harrisburg, November 13–16, and stay connected with White Canes Connect for updates and opportunities.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/120

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    54 分
  • President Lynn Heitz Delivers Presidential Report at Erie 2024
    2025/01/07

    In episode 119 of White Canes Connect, host David Goldstein reflects on the highlights of the 2024 National Federation of the Blind (NFB) of Pennsylvania State Convention in Erie. The episode centers on President Lynn Heitz's powerful presidential report, where she draws inspiration from Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar to parallel the journey of blindness with the caterpillar's transformation into a butterfly. President Heitz poignantly compares the challenges, growth, and triumphs faced by individuals navigating blindness to the stages of the caterpillar’s metamorphosis.

    The report celebrates the progress made by NFB members, from those new to vision loss seeking resources and skills to those fully embracing independence, advocating for change, and mentoring others. She emphasizes the importance of outreach, education, and mentorship in breaking societal stigmas about blindness and fostering self-esteem and empowerment.

    The episode also highlights the NFB's ongoing initiatives, including Braille instruction, partnerships with Pennsylvania agencies, and advocacy for blind children and adults. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their personal journeys, participate in outreach, and contribute to building a stronger blind community.

    Mark your calendars for the 2025 NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Harrisburg, November 13–16, and stay connected with White Canes Connect for updates and opportunities.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/119

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    28 分
  • Inside Erie 2024: Triumphs, Travel, and Looking to the Future
    2024/12/31

    In this episode of White Canes Connect, Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein are joined by Lynn Heitz, President of the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, to discuss the highlights, challenges, and successes of the 2024 State Convention in Erie. From the arduous 10-hour journey to the seamless event execution, the conversation provides an in-depth look at what made this year’s convention remarkable.

    Listeners will hear about the excellent hospitality provided by local Lions Clubs, engaging sessions like the Senior Possibilities Fair, and memorable moments such as the Veterans Ceremony and the banquet featuring a heartfelt keynote. Lynn shares insights into leadership changes and plans for next year’s convention in Harrisburg, emphasizing lessons learned—like improving registration processes and maximizing volunteer participation.

    David reflects on his new role as Convention Chair for the 2025 State Convention in Harrisburg, sharing goals to increase sponsorships and ensure a smoother attendee experience. Whether you attended or missed Erie, this episode offers a glimpse into the camaraderie and commitment of Pennsylvania’s blind community while setting the stage for an even brighter future.

    David outlines his plans on releasing recordings of the convention, including many of the General Sessions presentations as podcast episodes over the next few weeks.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/118

    Erie Media Coverage of the Convention

    Unfortunately, it seems that most of the video that aired isn’t available any longer. Here are a couple of links with stories about our presence in Erie:

    • From Erie News Now: https://www.erienewsnow.com/story/51759814/national-federation-of-the-blind-host-state-convention-at-ambassador-conference-center-in-erie
    • WJET/WXFPYour Erie .com: https://www.yourerie.com/news/local-news/national-federation-of-the-blind-hosts-annual-conference-at-the-ambassador-conference-center/

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    51 分
  • Simplifying Accessibility Advocacy with Kennedy & Karl
    2024/12/06

    In White Canes Connect episode 117, co-hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein welcome Kennedy Zimnik and Karl Belanger from the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) to discuss the Accessibility Toolkit, a resource designed to empower blind and low-vision individuals to advocate for accessible technology. Kennedy, an Access Tech Specialist, and Karl, a Non-Visual Accessibility Analyst, share the story behind the Toolkit, which evolved from a 2018 Braille Monitor article to a comprehensive, step-by-step guide now available on the NFB’s website.

    The Toolkit equips users with practical advice on reporting accessibility issues to companies, emphasizing professionalism and collaboration. Karl and Kennedy highlight the importance of clearly describing problems without needing technical jargon. For example, users can report that a screen reader reads "edit, edit, edit" instead of identifying form fields. They stress that most companies are open to accessibility improvements but often lack awareness, making user feedback essential.

    The episode also explores the growing role of AI in accessibility, the persistent challenges with PDFs, and the importance of self-advocacy. Listeners are encouraged to use the Toolkit, share feedback through the NFB’s Inaccessibility Tracker, and engage with Karl and Kennedy for guidance. Whether you're part of the NFB or not, this episode is a valuable resource for making technology more inclusive.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/117

    Learn More About the Accessibility Toolkit

    Find the toolkit at https://nfb.org/programs-services/center-excellence-nonvisual-accessibility/self-advocacy-toolkit-and-tracking-form. Call Kennedy and Karl at (410) 659-9314, option 5. Have a look at the Center of Excellence in Nonvisual Accessibility at https://www.nfb.org/cena. Email them at access@nfb.org or individually, reach Kennedy at kzimnik@nfb.org and Karl at kbelanger@nfb.org.

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

    Contact White Canes Connect

    Have you benefited from a mentorship experience that’s helped you grow to the person you are today?? We’d love to hear from you! Send us an email at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com or give us a call at: 267-338-4495

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    45 分
  • Introducing AmeriCorps Next Step Skills Program, Presented by the Overbrook School for the Blind.
    2024/11/18
    As all blind and visually impaired people know, some of our most enriching experiences come from interactions with like-minded peers. Overbrook School for the Blind, a renowned school for the blind and visually impaired in the Philadelphia region, recognize just how important these opportunities are for blind and visually impaired youth. To fulfill this need, they created the AmeriCorps mentorship program, which connects youth mentors in higher education, or those succeeding in the workplace, to students exploring their path of possibilities ahead of them. Join White Canes Connect contributor Simon Bonenfant, as he sits down with Bethany Johnson, Program Director, as well as Dauad Yasar, student mentor, as they discuss how the program was formed, benefits to both mentors and mentees, and more. From the AmeriCorps Website: “The OSB AmeriCorps Program improves the work-readiness of visually impaired Pennsylvanians ages 16-28. OSB AmeriCorps will enroll 16 visually impaired Pennsylvanians as AmeriCorps members who will deliver a work readiness curriculum and serve as mentors to 60 visually impaired Pennsylvanians per year. This AmeriCorps program is unique in its design. AmeriCorps members and the students they serve are close in age and share the experience of living with visual impairments. This creates especially powerful near-peer mentoring relationships and develops work-readiness of 60 young Pennsylvanians and the AmeriCorps members. In each session, lessons and virtual mentoring will be delivered during afterschool and evening hours to be most accessible to students. Lessons will be conducted in group settings, maintaining the small student to instructor ratio. To meet student needs, AmeriCorps members may offer lessons multiple times per week to allow students to attend the lessons that fit their schedule. Lessons will be 60- to 90- minutes each, and be a combination of presentation, discussion and reflection activities.” Interested in applying for the AmeriCorps next step skills program? Applications for the winter session close on Friday November 22nd. Students can apply using this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1fiw1Za7wVPt4dzulL_Ee6G1hiaAOwzOx5BVRzG4nVRY/viewform?pli=1&pli=1&edit_requested=true Listening after November 22nd? Check back on the AmeriCorps webpage, as they have several application enrollment periods: https://www.obs.org/what-we-do/osb-americorps.cfm . You can contact the program by emailing osbamericorps@obs.org Find them on Facebook and Instagram, or give Bethany a call at: +1(802)363-0296. Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/116 An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect. Donate to the NFB of PA If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/. Contact White Canes Connect Have you benefited from a mentorship experience that’s helped you grow to the person you are today?? We’d love to hear from you! Send us an email at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com or give us a call at: 267-338-4495 Follow White Canes Connect Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast
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    24 分
  • Accessible Dosing with See-Rynge
    2024/11/06

    In episode 115 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein are joined by bioengineers Chiadika Eleh and Joey Wei, who share the journey of creating See-Rynge, a groundbreaking liquid measuring device designed specifically for the blind and low-vision community. Originally developed as a senior design project at the University of Pennsylvania, See-Rynge was inspired by the need for blind parents to independently administer liquid medications accurately, a need brought to light during a meeting with Lynn Heitz, President of the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania.

    Chiadika and Joey describe how See-Rynge works: utilizing audio and tactile feedback, the device ensures precise liquid measurement without the need for sight. It’s paired with a companion app that tracks usage and provides dosage reminders, potentially aiding users beyond the blind community, including those with limited motor skills.

    Despite balancing full-time jobs, Chiadika and Joey remain committed to perfecting See-Rynge, sharing their hope to make it widely accessible and affordable. Listeners are encouraged to reach out with feedback or support, and to test See-Rynge at the upcoming state convention.

    Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/115

    Contact Chiadika and Joey About See-Rynge

    Reach out and give feedback to the See-Rynge team via email at SeeRynge@gmail.com. Learn more at https://www.seerynge.com. If you are interested in See-Rynge, let them know at https://forms.gle/p8JSUxHzvm7wjsjm8 .

    An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

    Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

    Donate to the NFB of PA

    If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

    We Want to Hear Your Story

    Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

    Follow White Canes Connect

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

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    29 分