Oklahoma ABLE Tech Quarterly Newsletter
Oklahoma ABLE Tech Assistive Technology Small Changes…Big Differences Newsletter Spring 2009 Volume 9, Issue 2
Oklahoma’s Assistive Technology Act Program - Oklahoma ABLE Tech is a federal grant program located at Oklahoma State University at the Seretean Wellness Center, 1514 W. Hall of Fame Stillwater, OK 74078 Phone: 800-257-1705 VTDD 405-744-9748 VTDD
Did you know that Oklahoma’s state agencies, post secondary institutions and the CareerTech system are required to develop procure and maintain electronic and information technology that is accessible to Oklahoma citizens with disabilities? This legislative mandate occurred in 2004 with the passage of HB 2197, an Electronic and Information Technology Accessibility (EITA) Law that models a federal law, Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.
What is Electronic and Information Technology and why is such a law important? Electronic and Information Technology (EIT) refers to products such as computers, websites, hardware, software, operating systems, distance learning and digital media, telecommunication products, Email, and E-books. EIT may be inaccessible to people with disabilities if it provides only one way for users to gain information. People with visual impairments cannot read instructions presented only in a visual format; people who are deaf cannot understand content that is only presented aurally; people who have limited use of their hands or arms may not use a computer mouse; and people who use wheelchairs may not be able to operate a fax machine if the controls are impossible to reach.
Accessible IT provides information in more than one way, such as, auditory feedback from a computer for a person who is blind or closed captioning on a video for a person who is deaf. Accessible IT works better with assistive technology. Assistive technologies specific to IT help people with disabilities use a computer, email, and the internet such as screen readers for people who are blind, magnification software, and alternative keyboards.
Accessible IT makes good sense, as well as good economic sense. Just as buildings that have ramps and elevators are more accessible to wheelchair users, accessible IT is more usable by people with a wide variety of abilities and disabilities. Accessible IT environments allow all members of the community to participate and share information; it reduces workers compensation costs; in education it lowers the need for special accommodations and it reduces or eliminates the risk of complaints and potentially costly legal actions.
HB 2197 named Oklahoma ABLE Tech, the state’s Assistive Technology Act Program, responsible for the provision of training and technical assistance for all entities which must comply with Oklahoma’s EITA law. The Office of State Finance and the Department of Central Services were charged with the development of accessibility standards and the promulgation of rules in order to assure accessibility implementation. Much progress has occurred regarding compliance efforts since the passage of HB 2197. Significant accomplishments include: adoption of standards, promulgation of rules to implement the provisions of the EITA law, development of a complaint process,development of a procurement access clause, and forms to assist state agencies in the purchase of accessible electronic and information purchases; and training and technical assistance to over 3,000 individuals.
Oklahoma has been recognized as a state to model for a successful electronic and information technology accessibility law due to the thoughtful legislative language and an implementation plan designed for successful integration. For more information please call Oklahoma ABLE Tech or visit the website www.accessibility.ok.gov.
Oklahoma AT Center Locations: Over 1400 devices available!
Search the inventory http://oec.okstate.edu/loan
ABLE Tech Stillwater 405-744-9748 or Toll Free: 1-800-257-1705
AT Center for Blindness and Low Vision Oklahoma City 405-522-3442 or Toll Free: 1-800-845-8476
Oklahoma State Department of Career and Technology Education Stillwater 405-743-5162
Mary K. Chapman Center for Communicative Disorders Tulsa 918-631-2913
Total Health, Stillwater Medical Center 405-624-6592
Hearing Loss Association of OKC 405-717-9820
Oklahoma League for the Blind OKC 405-232-4644
Total Source for Hearing-loss and Access (TSHA) Tulsa 918-832-8742 Sorenson: 918-823-8742
Shelby Sanders, Loan Coordinator for ABLE Tech, recently sent out letters to all of the state licensed hearing aid dealers and audiologists to inform them of the benefits their customers may have when purchasing hearing aids using the Alternative Financing Program (AFP). Any Oklahoman with a disability could apply for a loan from BancFirst of Stillwater to purchase any type of assistive technology at a 5% fixed interest rate for up to 36 months. The most common types of assistive technology purchased through the AFP are: hearing aids, modified vehicles, and specialized computer related products. Oklahomans can access the low interest loan by contacting Debbie Thomas or Casey Brown at BancFirst of Stillwater at 800-446-9401. A BancFirst consumer loan application is provided for individuals to complete. If the loan applicant meets the BancFirst underwriting criteria, the loan can close as soon as BancFirst of Stillwater receives the client’s signed loan documentation and an invoice from the vendor. If the applicant is denied a BancFirst loan or required to have the loan collateralized, with a release of information, the Oklahoma Assistive Technology Foundation (OkAT) determines if the person qualifies for a guaranty loan. OkAT has a fiduciary responsibility to maintain a permanent loan program and an expectation that the borrower will repay his/her loan. Since October 2001 there have been over 487 loans made in the amount of $2,825,198.
2009 Summer Camps for Individuals with Disabilities
Make Promises Happen Camp in Guthrie, Oklahoma. For more information, contact James Wheeler, Director of Programming or visit their website: http://centralchristiancamp.org/. The YMCA - Tinker Area Branch offers summer camps and programs for individuals of all ages with disabilities. Check out more information on the website at http://www.ymcaokc.org/home.html. The Oklahoma Foundation for the Disabled in Oklahoma City offers summer camps and programs for individuals of all ages with disabilities at their Wilderness Challenge Center. For more information, please contact Georgia Devening by phone at 405-842-6636 or go to their website at http://www.okfd.org. For more summer camp options, go to
http://www.okrehab.org/guide/Ch12/12-01A.asp.
Spotlight on Partner Locations: Assistive Technology “Hands-On” Opportunities Benefit Oklahomans with Disabilities
Oklahoma ABLE Tech and partners operate assistive technology (AT) device demonstration and short-term loan programs to increase accessibility to AT. The assistive technology inventory is available and searchable online at http://oec.okstate.edu/loan/. Oklahoma ABLE Tech allows individuals to borrow devices for six weeks at no cost.
Oklahoma ABLE Tech Program, Stillwater
The Lingo is a lightweight, compact, and portable communication aid with digital sound that helps the user to remember important details and is perfect for teachers who want to provide students with quick access to voice-output communication through the day. Records seven single messages (25 seconds each). Records one memo message (60 seconds). AbleNet, $170.
Visual Services of the Department of Rehabilitation Services, Oklahoma City
The Amigo Portable Magnifier is a slim, lightweight and portable digital magnifier. Its magnification ranges from 3.5 to 14x and has a 6.5 inch viewing screen. The Amigo has a freeze frame feature allowing the user to take a temporary picture. It comes with a writing stand and carrying case. NanoPac, $1695.
Hearing Loss Association of Oklahoma City, Integris Third Age Life Center
The Uniden TRU93802 Cordless Phone is a 5.8 ghz digital expandable cordless phone that has an answering system and extra handset. There are 14 minutes of digital recording time, caller ID, call waiting, 70-name phonebook, 30-number caller ID memory, backlit keypad and display, and seven ring tones. Abt Electronics, $79.
Oklahoma League for the Blind, Oklahoma City
The recordable keychain is a portable sticky note that holds one recordable message up to ten seconds. Also includes an LED light for quick illumination. Set of two, LS&S, $9.95.
Mary K. Chapman Center for Communicative Disorders, University of Tulsa
The puzzle communicator is a complete set of five spectacular talking puzzles. Record messages for each puzzle on a separate level of the communicator. Easy to record and easy to change subjects. Either place or take the puzzle piece and your message plays. The communicator puzzles have six levels plus a level announcer for each level. Total record time is 300 seconds. Enabling Devices, $229.95.
Total Source for Hearing Loss and Access, Tulsa
The “HAHA” Personal Communicator Hearing Assistive Aid is a subtle hearing assistive device that is very effective and easy to use. It looks like a phone handset, but in reality is just an inconspicuous little gadget that increases volume as needed up to 45 dB. It is compatible with hearing aids. Soundbytes, $299.95.
Oklahoma State Department of Career and Technology Education, Stillwater
The PenAgain has a comfortable “No Grip” design that reduces stress on the hands and fingers. Enhancements include a pocket clip, retractable cap, easier refilling and more streamlined
ergonomics. OSU Bookstore, $3.
ASK - AMBUCS Share 4 Life Computers, Norman
The ASK program donates computers to people with disabilities. Almost 4,500 computers have been provided to individuals with disabilities since 1994. Individuals may apply by writing to: Sooner AMBUCS, P O Box 118, Norman, OK 73070, calling 405-360-1521, or printing the application from http://www.soonerambucs.org/.
Total Health, Stillwater
Total Health and ABLE Tech partner to provide Am Trykes, which are therapeutic tricycles suitable for children approximately 3 to 9 years of age. Three trykes are available with either a bucket or a saddle seat and come with an appropriate helmet.
Oklahoma AgrAbility New Employees
Amanda Erichsen is the new Extension assistant for the AgrAbility Project. She recently completed her master’s degree in agricultural communications at OSU. Erichsen’s thesis research was focused on the perceived needs of Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service educators regarding their communications and marketing resources and training. In 2004, she earned her bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications and journalism at KSU with minors in agronomy and animal sciences and industry. Erichsen worked for Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity in Kansas City, Mo. from 2004 to 2006 as communications coordinator. She also worked with the AgrAbility program as a student at Kansas State University. She grew up on a small farm near Junction City, Kansas, and was actively involved in 4-H and FFA. Erichsen is excited to continue her involvement with Extension by working with AgrAbility and OSU. She replaces Blayr Beougher and Traci Naile.
Sandra Stevenson has accepted the position of Program Manager for the Oklahoma AgrAbility Project. Ms. Stevenson is transferring from Oklahoma ABLE Tech/Assistive Technology Act Program where she served as an Assistive Technology Specialist. Sandra received her B.S. in Special Education from Oklahoma State University. She has extensive experience working with families and teams, both as a DDSD Case Manager with the State of Oklahoma and Director of a non-profit provider agency, with a primary focus in residential and vocational services. Ms. Stevenson assumed her duties with the Oklahoma AgrAbility Project March 1, 2009. For more information about Oklahoma AgrAbility, visit http://agrability.okstate.edu.
Oklahoma Special Education Resolution Center
Linda Jaco, Associate Director of Sponsored Programs,announced in February 2009 that the Special Education Resolution Center (SERC), a sponsored program of the Seretean Wellness Center at Oklahoma State University, has received national recognition for its work in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). SERC manages the special education mediation and due process hearing system through a contract with the Oklahoma State Department of Education. The Consortium of Appropriate Dispute Resolution (CADRE) and the federal Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) worked together to determine the top four states with strong and progressive alternative dispute resolution programs. These four states will work collaboratively to develop a national model for special education programs in ADR. CADRE and OSEP anticipate that the national model will be unveiled in 2010. Jo Anne Pool- Blades, Program Manager of SERC, has been selected to represent Oklahoma’s program and will serve on a national panel of experts to assist with ADR development throughout the United States. SERC activities are funded by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
Oklahoma Equipment Exchange
The Oklahoma Equipment Exchange is a free program to help Oklahomans with disabilities acquire affordable, used equipment. Log on to the Equipment Exchange website or call ABLE Tech to list your devices or inquire about a product at 1-888-885-5588. Below is a list of items currently for sale or FREE on http://oec.okstate.edu.
Daily Living
Adult Briefs - Side Tabs, Free
All-In-One Commode
Bath Chair and Shower Stand
Bathtub Grab Bar
Bone Simulator
CPAP, Price Reduced
Deluxe Hand Held Shower
Electric Bed - Sealy Posturepedic
Emergency Lifter Cushion
Feeder Tray Electric Self Feeder
Full Body Large Mesh Sling #1
Hospital Bed
Hospital Bed - Electric, Price Reduced
Hospital Bed - Electric, FREE
Hospital Bed - Invacare
Hoyer Patient Lift
Hoyer Patient Lift - Manual
Hydraulic Lift In-home Lifting System - Price Reduced
Ice Chest - With Electric Pump for Pain Control
Lifter
Mattress - Demafloat Bed Cushion, Price Reduced
Offset Trapeze Bar - Octagon Tube
Oximeter - NPB290, 24-hour
Padded Bed Boards
Patient Lift, Electric, New
Shower Chair
Shower Set-Up - Portable
Simulator for Pain Control
Turnsoft Mattress
Toilet Safety Rail
Environmental Adaptations
Automatic Door Opener #3
Trapeze Bar
Recreation, Sports, and Leisure
Braille Playing Cards (FREE)
Vision
CCTV SmartView 3000, SmartView
Vehicle Modification and Transportation
Wheelchair Lift for Van
Car-Top Wheelchair Carrer - FREE
Hand and Foot Controls For Vehicle
Van – 1998 Ford E-150 With Lift
Van – 2003 Chevy Explorer Conversion With Lift
Van – 1995 Chevy G-20 With Lift
Mobility, Seating & PositioningBath Stool – Like New, Excellent Condition
Cane - 4-Prong, Quad
Geri Chair
Pediatric Manual Wheelchair - #1, FREE
Pediatric Manual Wheelchair - #2, FREE
Pediatric Power Wheelchair – Quickie, FREE
Power Chair - Price Reduced
Power Chair – Invacare
Power Chair – 500 Pound Capacity
Power Chair – Rascal 301
Scooter – 4-Wheeled With Joystick, New
Shower Commode Transfer Chair
Trapeze
Trixie Lift
Trixie Lift - With extra large sling
Vertical Wheelchair Lift – Elevator
Walker – Standard, New
Walker – Child, Free
Wheelchair – Electric, Permobile C300, New
Wheelchair – Electric, Pronto SureStep
Wheelchair – Electric, Invacare Pronto
Wheelchair – Electric Jazzy, Price Reduced
Wheelchair - Electric Jet III Ultra
Wheelchair – Manual, Price Reduced
Wheelchair – Power
Wheelchair – Power Jazzy Select, Price Reduced
Wheelchair – Power Tiger Pediatric, FREE
Wheelchair – Ultralight Titanium
Wheelchair – Recliner-Tracer, Price Reduced
Wheelchair – Manual Tilt, Recline
Wheelchair – Tilt, Recline
Items Needed:
EZ-Bathe System
Upright Stander
Cough Assist Machine
Large Lift Chair
AlphaSmart, to help a student with severe writing deficits
Color cards of nouns and/or verbs for therapy use
Adult or Child Stroller
Kidwalk
• Oklahoma ABLE Tech AT Demo and Loan Program; http://okabletech.okstate.edu
• AT Equipment Exchange Program; http://oec.okstate.edu
May 6 – 8: 2009 Annual Children’s Conference, Norman
“The Art of Creating Resilience” is the 2009 theme for the Annual Children’s Conference. The event will be held at the Embassy Suites, 2501 Conference Drive, Norman, OK. The Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services is hosting the event.
May 20 - 22: Workforce Oklahoma Partners Conference
This is an educational training event for employees working in the employment and training sector. It will be held at the Clarion Meridian Conference Center in Oklahoma City. ABLE Tech will present two sessions regarding the importance of accessible workforce centers. For more information, contact Oklahoma ABLE Tech at 1-800-257-1705.
May 27-28: IT Accessibility Training at MetroTech
For more information about this event, contact Oklahoma ABLE Tech at 1-800-257-1705.
June 11-14: 10th Annual UCO Endeavor Games, Edmond
This event is for athletes with physical disabilities and hosted by the University of Central Oklahoma. It is a nationally recognized competition event similar to the Paralympics. Contact Leigha Joiner at 405-974-3160. More information is also available at: http://www.ucok.edu/endeavorgames.
June 13-14: Autism Conference, OKC
The Autism Research Institute announces a conference on autism to be held in Oklahoma City at the Skirvin Hotel June 13-14, 2009. A special session on June 14 is open only to physicians. For more information including costs, contact Tanya at defeatautismnow.com.
Oklahoma ABLE Tech Staff
Robin Purdie, Director OSU Seretean Wellness Center
Linda Jaco, Program Director and Assistant Director of Sponsored Programs, OSU Seretean Wellness Center
Milissa Gofourth, Program Manager
Brenda Dawes, AT Program Specialist and Web Coordinator
Shelby Sanders, AFP Loan Coordinator & AT Specialist
Diana Sargent, Senior Administration Support Specialist
Melinda Tebow, Graduate Assistant
Sandra Stevenson, AgrAbility Program Manager
Jo Anne Pool, SERC Program Manager
Shannon Esmeyer, SERC Administrative Assistant
Seretean Wellness Center Oklahoma State University 1514 W. Hall of Fame Stillwater, OK 74078 Phone: 800-257-1705 VTDD 405-744-9748 VTDD Fax: 405-744-2487
We’re On the Web! http://okabletech.okstate.edu
This publication is available in alternative formats; please call 1-800-257-1705 V/TTY for more information.
The Oklahoma State University Seretean Wellness Center i the lead agency for Oklahoma ABLE Tech. The program is funded by the Rehabilitation Service Administration (RSA) of the U.S. Department of Education. Grant #H224A050036. This publication does not necessarily reflect the position of the policy of RSA/ED, and no official endorsement of the material should be inferred.