Tomato Plant Care

By Michael Russell

The tomato is one of the most popular plants kept in home gardens. They are easy to grow and provide food for your family. Tomatoes do need to be cared for to grow.

The tomato is actually a fruit even though most people think of it as a vegetable. At one time, people thought it was poisonous to eat and they were only grown for decoration. They were originally referred to as "love apples". There are literally hundreds of varieties to choose from for your home garden and all of them have different size, color, shape, season of maturity, disease resistance and taste.

Tomatoes can be either determinate or indeterminate. Determinate means that they develop a flower cluster at the terminal growing point. The plant will stop growing at this height. Indeterminate plants do not form this flower cluster and will continue to grow taller indefinitely. Indeterminate tomatoes also produce very flavorful fruit, but are usually late to mature. Most of the older varieties of tomatoes are indeterminate. Determinate vines are easier to control but they also have ripe fruit for a shorter time period than indeterminate plants.

Tomatoes do not tolerate freezing temperatures, so it is best to plant them once the weather is warm. For adequate harvest room, you will need to space your plants apart. The spacing for each variety is different, however. For dwarf plants, they will need to be twelve inches apart in the row. Staked plants will need to be 15 to 24 inches apart. Some indeterminate varieties even need four feet of space between them in the rows and five to six feet in between rows.

When you plant your tomato plants, you should fertilize them right away. You can also cultivate shallowly or hoe to keep the weeds down without doing damage to the roots. Mulching is highly recommended, especially if you want to have your plant for the full season harvest. Organic materials or black plastic is okay to use for mulching. However, don't put down organic materials until the soil has warmed up all the way. If you put it down too early, the plant will not grow very well.

You will need to water your tomato plants regularly and thoroughly. If you are keeping your plants in containers they may need to be watered every day or even more. You will also need to feed your plants with a liquid tomato fertilizer once every two to three weeks until the end of August. The fertilizer should be high in potash. Once September arrives, just feed it with a regular fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. Weed around the plants as much as you can to prevent bugs and diseases from getting to your tomatoes. As the plant grows, you will also need to use stakes to support it. Tie the main stem to the stakes.

If you give this plant the care it needs, you will be rewarded with delicious tomatoes. Tomatoes are the best after they have just ripened so for the best taste eat them as soon as they are ripe. This is a great plant to keep at your home!

Visit http://gardening.tips-and-gear.com for more great gardening tips.

Blind Girl Cake

I don't know how this cake got its name, the recipe is rather simple, so I wonder if it was a negative slap at blind people? Never the less, it does sound good and is simple to make so here's the recipe.

Things You'll Need

• 12 ice cream sandwiches
  
• 12 ounces Cool Whip
  
• 1 cup toffee pieces
  
• 1/4 cup caramels (to taste)
  
• 5 minutes prep

1. Cover bottom of 9x13pan (or as big as you want) with ice cream sandwiches. (Yes, you unwrap them!).
   
2. Ice with cool whip.
   
3. Break toffee pieces over top.
   
4. Drizzle caramel topping over the top (make sure you don't use the ketchup squeeze bottle - make sure it is caramel!).
   
5. Serve and make a lot because every one loves this one!

Makes 12 servings.

The National Braille Factory

The National Braille Factory is dedicated to producing high-quality braille documents and products in a timely and professional manner.

The National Braille Factory has been proudly serving the Lower Mainland's Blind and Low Vision community for over four years.

The National Braille Factory also offers a wide range and variety of large print, brailled, and audio books for the visually impaired.

If you need anything brailled, contact the NATIONAL BRAILLE FACTORY at 877-8-BRAILL or locally (in Vancouver) at 604-522-7187 or email them at info@braillefactory.com.

Click this link to visit the National Braille Factory website: http://www.nationalbraillefactory.com.

The Large Print Bookshop: Reading is for Everyone

Owned and operated by Marian Haugh, The Large Print Bookshop is a great resource to find those easier-on-the-eyes books.

The Large Print Bookshop offers over 2,000 titles from all imaginable categories, including Classic Literature, Novels, Humor, Mysteries, Inspirational Books, Westerns, and Non-Fiction. They also offer a separate catalog for Children and Young Adults. In addition to its location in the Denver Book Mall, they also offer their books for sale through mail order. Feel free to look over a sample of the titles available or have a catalog mailed to you.

Books printed in large type can be helpful to many people. People may have difficulty reading normal size print for any of a number of reasons (such as age or vision impairment) or may simply like to read large print.

For more information, please contact:

The Large Print Bookshop
P.O. Box 5375
Englewood, CO 80155
Phone: 303-721-7511
or 1-800-305-2743 Fax: 303-721-7512
Email: LargePrint@aol.com
Web: http://users.aol.com/largeprint

Adaptive Physical Education Equipment at Flaghouse

FlagHouse is a global supplier of physical education equipment and products, equipment and programs to both physical education and recreation professionals, as well as professionals who deal with children and adults with physical and developmental disabilities.

The mission of Flaghouse is to enhance the quality of life for all people, with resources for physical activity, recreation, therapy, and the development and support of life skills.

For more information on their products and services, contact: Flaghouse
601 FlagHouse Drive
Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604-3116
Toll Free: 800-793-7900
Phone: 201-288-7600
Fax: 800-793-7922 or 201-288-7887
Email: sales@flaghouse.com
Web: http://www.flaghouse.com

Enabling Devices

Enabling Devices is a company that develops affordable learning and assistive devices to help people of all ages with disabling conditions. Founded by Steven E. Kanor, Ph.D. and originally known as Toys for Special Children, the company has been creating innovative toys and switches for the physically challenged for more than 25 years. Enabling Devices still manufactures and sells those same products, but now the company also carries a complete line of products for the physically challenged adult under their "Products for Independent Living" sections.

Through their electro-mechanical assistive and adaptive devices, they enable people with physical challenges to communicate, learn, work, play, and function more easily, effectively, and enjoyably in the world. They work to improve the quality of life for those with disabling conditions.

To order a catalog or learn more, contact:

Enabling Devices
385 Warburton Avenue
Hastings-on-Hudson, NY 10706
Toll Free: 800-832-8697
Phone: 914-478-0960
Fax: 914-479-1369
Email: info@enablingdevices.com
Web: http://enablingdevices.com

The William A. Thomas Braille Bookstore

Opened in January, 1992, The William A. Thomas Braille Bookstore was established as an integral part of Braille International, Inc. Currently, there are about 2,000 titles available for purchase. Go to their online catalog to find your next book! You may call, write or e-mail using the phone number or address listed below.

Located in Stuart, Florida, Braille International, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the independence and quality of life for blind persons everywhere. They believe the key to this is education and knowledge-which require available, affordable reading materials. Access to information allows the visually impaired to compete and perform with dignity in a highly competitive world. They accomplish this by printing a broad range of braille and large print material for all ages, from the very young to the older citizen. They strive to utilize cost effective and innovative methods to increase the volume of materials available.

Braille International
3290 S.E. Slater Street
Stuart, FL 34997
Toll Free: 888-336-3142
Phone: 772-286-8366
Fax: 772-286-8909
Email: info@brailleintl.org
Web: http://www.brailleintl.org

Undo Typing Mistakes

Ever make a mistake while typing? Yeah, I know, we never do that! Would you like to be able to go back and undo it so your mistake is long gone? If this sounds good, all you have to do is hit Ctrl + Z on your keyboard.

Using Ctrl and Z at the same time will undo any changes you've made (good or bad). Maybe you've done something and it's not necessarily a mistake, but you would like to redo it. Well, just use Ctrl + Z and it will be taken away! This undo shortcut works in just about any program.

You can also undo by going to Edit, Undo, but the keyboard shortcut is much faster and easier!

Premier Test Builder

Premier Test Builder takes the frustration out of creating tests in Microsoft Word. Test Builder has everything done for you. All you add is your questions. Test Builder combines the power and flexibility of Microsoft Word with pre-built templates of question styles. All you do is select the question style you want by clicking on a button from the Test Builder tool bar and just add your text, audio or pictures. This tool is a must for busy educators. The best part about Premier Test Builder is that when you save the finished test, it is also fully accessible to a wide variety of assistive technologies. Now educators do not need to take a class in accessible design to build an accessible test. Your resulting test can be printed and handed out like a regular test, PLUS they can be provided to the resource teachers in electronic format for use with screen readers and other adaptive technologies.

The exciting part for educators is that you make one test that can be used with ALL students, regardless of their needs. Premier Test Builder will enable you to make a single test that is accessible to all students, including students with learning disabilities, blind users, low vision users, even general education students.

Features of Premier Test Builder

• Build a single test for all students.
  
• 10 different question styles. Just add your own text, pictures and audio.
  
• Uses Microsoft Word - you don't have to learn another program. By using Microsoft word, you get all the power of MS Office, but you can also capitalize on a technology that many educators are already familiar with -Reduce the learning curve.
  
• Finished test are locked automatically to prevent change.
  
• It takes less time to create a test with test builder than without - Being a time saver encourages educators to use it - many other test building programs are complicated and very time consuming.
  
• Test created with Test Builder Are Compatible with Windows or Mac.
  
• Save lots of time and still make good looking accessible test, without being an expert in Universal Design or learning. Single file distribution - it is easy to distribute test created with Test Builder because everything is saved in a single file. Unlike some html test builders that create a lot of supporting files, Test Builder creates one file.
  
• Test Builder test can be viewed on any computer without downloading or installing any software or plug-ins - If you have access to internet explorer you can view the test.
  
• Premier Test Builder is designed to be compatible with our Universal Reader and Talking Pointer. Students who have visual decoding challenges can use the Talking Pointer - just point at the question or answer and it reads just that item to them. No highlighting or copying necessary.. just point and listen. Virtual no training is required for students needing the test to be read to them..

For more information about Premier Test Builder, contact: Premier Literacy
1309 N. Williams St.
Joliet, IL 60435
Phone: 815-927-7390
Fax: 815-722-8805
Web: http://www.readingmadeeasy.com

Computer Help Online: Live Computer Support 24/7

The Fred's Head database features several articles that attempt to assist you with computer problems, but sometimes a computer tech is needed. You can't have someone standing behind you offering suggestions of how to keep your computer safe from viruses and spyware, but this website is the next best thing.

YourTechOnline.com uses cutting edge technology to fix computer problems online. Their highly trained technicians use the power of the Internet and specialized software to securely access your computer. This connection allows them to diagnose computer problems and fix them right before your eyes. Sit back, relax and learn as they immediately repair your system.

If you don't have Internet access, or if your computer crashes, call us and a YourTechOnline.com technician will walk you through the solution to your computer problem. Day or night, 24 hours a day, their knowledgeable technicians are always there for you. Call them toll free at 888-869-3915 or Click this link to visit www.yourtechonline.com.

Tech Support Alert: http://www.techsupportalert.com is another site to check out if you're having computer trouble. It has thousands of subscribers, and programs are being reviewed constantly. The guy running the site is a true computer geek, he reviews hundreds of programs each month and the best finds go in his newsletter. The site also offers hundreds of tutorials on just about any computer topic.

Click this link to visit the Tech Support Alert website at http://www.techsupportalert.com.

Tech Support Via Email

Wouldn't it be nice if there was some place you could email to get free tech support? Well, now there is! Just go to this site. It's so easy to get started.

Just submit your question, along with the name and model of the component you have a question about, to the email address on the site. I would try to be as descriptive as possible about the problem, but be concise too. If it is a computer problem, it is always helpful to include the operating system you are using. Example questions might be:

"I have a problem with my computer randomly rebooting itself. It is a Dell Dimension 8400, running Windows XP. What is causing this? Or "I have an HP Scanjet 4370 Photo Scanner and it is only scanning in black and white. How do I get it to scan in color?"

Many technical problems can be solved through troubleshooting, so it doesn't hurt to ask a question. Check out the site and see what kind of help you can get!

Click this link to visit the Free Tech Support website: http://techsupport06.blogspot.com.

Mosquito Repeller Necklace

Are you allergic to mosquito bites? Even if you're not, how are blind people supposed to swat these things? It's difficult for sighted folks to hit those little flying targets! Talk about annoying!

With the Mosquito Repeller Necklace you don't have to worry about improving your target practice. No need to wear harmful chemicals and toxic sprays either. The mosquito beater is a battery-operated necklace that transmits a sonic repelling frequency that drives bugs crazy! The plastic case is compact enough (1" x 2") to wear around your neck (cord included) or clip to your collar. Effective up to 10 ft. The unit has an on-off switch, and the batteries are included.

Click this link to purchase the Mosquito Repeller Necklace from the Miles Kimball website.

Which Pasta Is That?

By Lisa Paterson

With so many different pastas available now, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to work out which one is what. Well sit tight and we will take a quick journey into the world of pasta and determine which one is what.

Cannelloni

Cannelloni are large hollow tubes which are stuffed with sauce mixture. My favorite is ricotta and spinach sauce that is then baked in the oven with a tomato sauce over the top.

Conchiglie

Conchigle is the shell shaped pastas. These come in a variety of sizes from tiny shells that are good in soups to very large with can be stuffed. It is a good short pasta that is great with chunky sauces and attractive in pasta salads.

Farfalle

Bow shaped, this pasta is very useful and attractive in pasta salads.

Fusilli

These are thin spiral shapes. Fusilli is good with chunky style sauces because it holds onto the sauce well. It is also good in pasta salads for the same reason.

Lasagna (Lasagne)

Large flat sheets of pasta. Used in dishes of layered fillings such as meat and cheese sauce that are then baked in the oven.

Macaroni

Macaroni is a small hollow tube that is twisted. It is the classic pasta used in Macaroni and Cheese.

Spaghetti

Well we all know this one. Spaghetti is long thin strands of pasta and great used in bolognese and carbonara sauces.

Tagliatelle, Linguine, Fettuccine, Pappardelle

Known as ribbon noodles, these are long and flat in varying widths. Great for use with creamy sauces.

Ravioli

One of the stuffed pastas. It is small, flat squares of pasta stuffed with any variety of fillings such as meat, cheese, mushrooms.

Tortellini

Another stuffed style of pasta. Made from semi circle pieces of pasta folded and rolled into a little round bundle.

Vermicelli

Very fine, thin strings of which the finest variety is called 'angel hair'. It is best used with other fine ingredients such as prawns and crab. Vermicelli is often used to make 'nests' to hold the dish.

Hopefully this will take some of the confusion out of the next pasta recipe you read.

Have fun cooking and until our next cooking tip together. Enjoy!

Lisa "The Crock Cook"

Lisa loves to cook for family and friends. You can find her adding delicious simple Crock Pot Recipes at http://www.a-crock-cook.com or deliberating her fortune at Chinese Fortune Cookies: http://www.chinese-fortune-cookie.com and creating stunning Cupcake Decorations at http://www.cupcake-creations.com.

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Paterson

Plan A Great Kids Treasure Hunt Party

As I read the following article, I was reminded of my days at the Kentucky School for the Blind. We had some great treasure hunts, and they weren't just limited to our school's campus.

I remember groups of students and teachers traveling to the local malls to gather items like a cup from Burger King, a napkin from Arby's or a plastic spoon from an ice cream shop. We had a braille list of items that were to be gathered and braught back to campus. The group that gathered the most items won prizes. It was great fun.

I hope this article gives you some treasure hunt ideas for your next class event or school field day.

Plan A Great Kids Treasure Hunt Party!

By Deborah Bromley

Kids parties have become the latest craze, and coming up with unique and fun themes and activities for children's birthday parties and other events can be daunting. More and more parents are faced with the need to find new and creative ways to entertain classmates, neighborhood friends, and siblings of various ages.

One simple, low-cost, and very popular way to entertain children at any kind of celebration or gathering, indoors or out, is with a good old-fashioned treasure hunt. A treasure hunt is the one party game that truly promotes interaction, naturally evokes squeals of excitement, and leaves your party guests with lasting memories of their adventurous day at your child's party.

What if your child doesn't want a pirate-themed party? No problem! Treasure hunts aren't just for pirates. Tradition has dictated that pirates are the great treasure hunters, but the fact of the matter is treasure hunts are loved by boys, girls, and grown-ups alike, and make a great addition to any party theme. Treasure hunts can be simply adapted with a storyline and a variety of decorations to fit into any party theme. This is the one area of planning where your child might already have a very clear idea of what they would like, and it would be wise to involve them in this decision, as it makes the party their own.

To adapt a treasure hunt for a princess-themed party, for example, you might announce that someone has stolen the princess's jewels, and whoever finds them by following the clues will be rewarded with a share of the loot. You place a jewelry box overflowing with plastic beads, candy necklaces and rings, and other gem-like treats in the center of the party table, and have someone sneak the treasure away during the party before making the announcement. Other themes and decorations might revolve around the latest TV cartoon characters, superheroes, pop idols, a holiday, or your child might want to create their own theme.

That being said, be careful not to fall into the parent trap of spending a small fortune buying themed party goods. Consider purchasing just a few themed bright and colorful decorations and/or centerpieces, and then either complement them with less expensive coordinating party supplies and decorations, or make your own, there are plenty of great fun ways to put you and your child's artistic talent to work to customize your party.

Some crafty ideas kids may love making or having at their party include authentic-looking weathered pirate treasure maps, princess crowns and jewelry, spyglasses made from paper towel rolls, pinatas (handmade or bought), cardboard hooks inserted into the bottom of styrofoam cups to wear on their hands like Captain Hook, paper or felt decorated pirate hats, and bejeweled and personalized loot bags, to name only a few.

Although it requires some time, creativity, and resources, you can make and stage your own treasure hunt game to play as a group or competitively in teams. Design and hide 10 clever clues that lead players step-by-step from one clue to the next, hidden amongst common objects, to ultimately discover the hidden treasure, which might be sacks of "loot" consisting of candy such as chocolate coins wrapped in gold foil, or party favors, toys, and other items valuable to children.

Alternatively, if you're short on time, money, and party ideas like many busy parents and party planners, online sites such as Treasure-Adventure.com offer affordable complete treasure hunts with pre-made custom clues full of rhymes and riddles that kids love to solve, the design of which can be the most time-consuming and difficult part of preparing a treasure hunt.

Use creativity to build your party further around the hunt for a truly fantastic and memorable party that your child and his or her guests will talk about long after the party is over. Although the treasure hunt will likely be the main attraction since it is the most action-packed and engaging, don't necessarily limit other activities that might complement the hunt such as a cannonball toss using bean bags or water balloons, "Walk the Plank" using a shallow pool full of plastic alligators and snakes, pan for gold using gold spray-painted rock nuggets, dress in costumes, hold a peg-leg relay, make a castle or pirate ship out of an appliance box, play "Blackbeard says," etc. -- the sky is the limit!

Treasure hunts are also not just limited to children or birthday parties, but are perfect for family fun night, slumber parties, classroom parties, picnics, and other group events. Treasure hunts bring parties alive with hours of challenging and fun entertainment, with the thrill of the hunt along with the solving of puzzles often being the most enjoyable and memorable part of the day. And don't think you can't top your last party. By using a variety of themes, new treasure hunt clues and decorations, and a little creativity, you can throw many more successful and unique parties for years to come that never go out of style.

"If you're up to the challenge, spyglass and compass in hand, yer prize is in sight, so let the adventure begin!"

To purchase inexpensive ready-to-play treasure hunt games online and find more valuable information on treasure hunt party planning, visit Treasure-Adventure.com online at http://www.treasure-adventure.com. Games come with complete hiding guides to help you coordinate and pull off the perfect hunt and bring your party to life, come in a variety of themes such as for outdoor and classroom events, and the Treasure-Adventure.com web site also offers party supplies, free downloadable kids activities and games, party and craft ideas such as how to make an authentic looking pirate map, treasure hunting tips, and legends of lost treasure.

The Portable Players Portal

The Portable Players Portal is a list of resources where you can read and listen to material relating to using portable media players if you are visually impaired. The site is maintained by Brian Hartgen and includes links to sources of downloadable music, a link to download the Juice podcatching program, and a Juice tutorial by Dean Martineau. The site also gives links to The iTunes JAWS scripts and The iTunes Window-Eyes set files. You'll also find detailed discussions of iRiver players and players made specifically for blind people.

Click this link to visit the Portable Media Player Portal: http://www.hartgen.org/portable.html.

Brian Hartgen has also started a new email list called Blind iPod. The purpose of this list is for the helpful discussion of all aspects of using iPods or similar products by visually impaired people, including the software installed onto a computer in order to transfer music or spoken word material onto the device. Although the original intention (and indeed the emphasis) is to discuss the use of iPod products, it is quite acceptable to write about other (what most of us call) portable media devices, inaccurately dubbed as MP3 players by the mass market. Finally, he will allow the discussion of accessing stores for the legal download of music and spoken word material within the context of hopefully transferring the purchased audio content to a portable media device. The transfer of Podcasts to a portable media device can also fall into the scope of the list, but not material contained therein.

To subscribe to this list, please send a blank message to blindipod-request@freelists.org with the word subscribe in the subject line. I hope everyone benefits from this list.

A blog has been started to supplement the Portable Players Portal. It will include information about changes to the portal, new versions of the iTunes scripts, and more. It sounds like a valuable resource.

Click this link to visit the Portable Players Portal Blog: http://portableplayerportal.wordpress.com.

Radio Remote Controls

By Peter Emerson

Radio remote controls use radio waves to send commands to different devices. These are electromagnetic waves of varying frequencies, emitted through antennas and picked up by radio receivers.

Therefore, when you press a button on your radio remote, it sends radio waves to your music system, which decodes the signal and obeys your command. An amazing aspect of radio remotes is that they can send signals from greater distances, since radio waves travel as long as 100 feet to reach the receiver. They can even penetrate walls, and therefore an increasing number of modern appliances are now being designed with radio remotes.

Bluetooth technology also uses the principle of radio frequencies. For example, Bluetooth technology can interconnect your home theater system, mobile phone, music system, computer and television by using radio frequencies to send signals between them. It creates a wireless community of your gadgets that literally speak to each other. Every appliance works on different bands of frequency.

For example, alarm and security systems work at 40 megahertz, mobile phones between 824 to 849 megahertz and an air traffic radar at anywhere between 960 to 1,215 megahertz. Now the question arises that, if there are so many frequencies traveling in the air at the same time, how do gadgets know which ones to receive and which to ignore? When advanced radio remotes send radio waves, their unique digital address is also sent embedded in the waves, which the target receiver recognizes and accepts. This smart technology is already being used in cellular phones, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) environments and cordless phones.

In the future, as our need to remotely control multiple appliances increases, radio remotes will be seen playing greater roles. Tasks in risky environments, such as space and military scenarios, can be performed through remote control. Devices and remotes will become more intelligent as radio remote control technology develops.

http://www.e-RemoteControls.com provides detailed information on Remote Controls, Radio Remote Controls, TV Remote Controls, Universal Remote Controls and more. Remote Controls is affiliated with http://www.i-Speakers.com.

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Emerson

How to Decorate the Apartment on a Budget

By Bill McRea

Deciding to rent an apartment may be a bit challenging especially if the person is on a tight budget. This isn't only about the rent and the other bills that have to be paid monthly but also the maintenance costs should the individual decide to make a few decorative changes.

When anyone rents an apartment, the apartment owner will usually ask for a deposit and a few months rent in advance. The deposit will only be returned when the contract ends and if there is no (or little) repair needed before it can be occupied by another tenant.

Here are some cost-saving tips for decorating an apartment;

1. Should the person have any posters, a good idea is to use straight pins to prevent them from falling from the walls. If they are framed, use the smallest nail possible so that when the contract ends the holes will be easy to patch using a spackling compound.
   
   
2. If the apartment is fully furnished, the furniture should be covered to prevent it from getting dirty or stained. The apartment owner will check before allowing a renter to leave.
   
   
3. Buying a disposable rug or carpet would be better than an expensive one to protect the floor. If the carpet is soiled or stained it can be disposed of because of the small investment.
   
   
4. If the chairs in the house are covered with fabric, consider buying some machine washable cushions to prevent any damage.
   
   
5. When looking at the apartment, there is the possibility that there are cracks or holes in the walls from the previous occupant. A person can repaint or apply wallpaper only with permission from the owner. In most cases it will not be allowed and if this occurs the tenant can disguise the flaws by using posters or paintings.
   
   
6. Most owners who will allow repainting will specify the color which is generally an off white. The person should make sure there is sufficient paint saved for any touch up that needs to be done later.
   
   
7. People who want privacy should use curtains that can be hung using spring tension rods. These are both easier to assemble and disassemble than standard curtain rods.

When starting out on a small budget, cover all the bases and you will save money decorating the apartment. It will also help make the apartment a comfortable place to live until you decide to move elsewhere.

Bill McRea is the publisher of "Interior Design on A Budget - How to Tips and Tricks" 15 separate lessons to help the novice know just how to start their new interior designing efforts. Take a look at what is included.

http://home-makeover.24hour-info.com

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_McRea

Cook Once, Eat For Days

By Kara Kelso

In today's fast paced world, cooking a family meal can be a challenge. Fast food seems to be the normal "quick fix" for supper. Although a good home cooked meal can never beat greasy hamburgers.

Making menus can help with the planning process to ensure you'll always have something home cooked on the table, although time to make meals is still limited. The best way to solve this problem is to cook large amounts of food on your days off of work, and eat leftovers all week.

One of my favorite meals to make on the weekends is pot roast. While it takes awhile to cook, a roast can make several meals all week.

When cooking your roast, you'll need to plan ahead. Make sure you have a good 4-5 hours where you can keep an eye on it and check it occasionally. Another option is cooking it all day in a crockpot, but my personal preference is cooked in the oven. When you use the oven you have room to put in different types of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and more. Don't forget to cook other foods in the oven at the same time. Like types of breads for example.

After the roast is cooked, you and your family can have a wonderful home cooked meal. For the rest of the week, you can have roast sandwiches, baked potatoes as a meal (with the "fixin's"), quick casseroles, mashed potatoes (side dish), and much more.

Using just one day out of your week when you don't have to be in a million places at once can make the rest of your week much easier as far as good healthy meals go.

For easy pot roast recipe ideas, visit: http://www.idea-queen.com/roast-recipes.html.

The Basics of Home Security

By Jack Nelson

Every homeowner needs to be active and aware of their home security concerns. With home invasions and break-ins on the rise, it is time to take some steps towards protecting your family and your valuable belongings. It would surprise most people to realize how simple it is for a burglar to break into their home. By following these simple steps, you can reduce the odds of coming home to discover your home has been broken into and your cherished valuables have been taken.

For a burglar, the three greatest enemies are noise, time, and light. If a burglar must make a lot of noise, take a lot of time, and work in a well-lit area to get into your home, chances are that he will not bother. In most cases, he will move onto an easier "mark". These are things that work in the favor of homeowners. I always tell my clients that, in order to defeat the burglar, one must think like the burglar.

Take some time and "case" the exterior of your home for points of entry. Imagine yourself as a burglar. Where would you try to get in? Where are the security weaknesses? You could even conduct a little experiment, by locking your home and trying to break in. If you, honest citizen, can break into your home with relative ease you can be sure it will be no problem for an experienced thief to gain entry.

Doors and windows are the first places to check when assessing the security of a home or business. Make sure that your home is equipped with a hard wood or metal exterior door, that is at minimum 1 ¾" thick. The doorframe should be equally as strong. A peephole is much better than a simple door chain, as it will allow you to identify the person at your door without having to open it. And if there is one thing you spend a bit of money on, be sure it is a good quality deadbolt!

Windows are also extremely vulnerable, from a security standpoint. If you have an older home with double-hung windows, you can secure them by nailing the upper and lower panes together from the inside. As well, simple key locks can be added to windows for a reasonable price. If you have windows that are located at street level, consider adding an iron grate or grille for added protection. Balconies and fire escapes can also be security weaknesses, so consider purchasing one of those metal "accordion" gates.

There are a few other simple precautions you can take to secure your home. Try to establish a routine to ensure that your doors and windows are locked when you leave the house and when you go to bed each night. If you can afford it, you should also invest in a home security system. There are some incredibly advanced systems available on the market today, and these systems are very difficult to bypass. These simple steps could make the difference between being a victim of crime and being safe from harm. Think about it!

Jack Nelson is a security consultant, and a member of the editorial team at http://www.homesecurityandalarms.com, an informative guide to home security with information about motion sensors, security cameras, emergency monitoring and more.

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Nelson

Text to Speech App for Palm OS

SayIt is a Text To Speech (TTS) application for Palm OS 5.1 and higher devices from Toysoft. SayIt is the first global TTS application for the Palm OS that works with most applications with text editing capabilities.

SayIt will speak selected text in plain English using a synthesized computer voice. The user interface allows you to follow the text as SayIt speaks the words, you can Stop and Start the speech and adjust the volume control. It also has customized features to work with the following applications: MemoPad, TreoMail, VersaMail, SnapperMail, ChatterMail, Messaging and SMS (on the Treo), Docs To Go and the Blazer web browser.

Click this link to learn more about SayIt.

Accessible Health Care Guide to all Diseases and Conditions

Welcome to the diseasesAtoZ.com! Your complete online health guide

diseasesatoz.com has compiled and consolidated the latest information on all diseases and conditions basics, their symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and their treatment. Diseasesatoz also provides health advice on different diseases and conditions with various health articles which will make it easier for you to ask your doctor important questions and to take a more active role in keeping you and your family healthy.

diseasesatoz.com provides you with required health information. Here you can learn about the symptoms, causes, diagnoses and treatments of a broad range of illnesses. Look here for complete information on common diseases and conditions and health resources for yourself or someone you care about. Learn how to manage your health.

Click this link to learn about diseases, from A to Z: http://www.diseasesatoz.com.

Disclaimer: All information on www.diseasesatoz.com is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, please consult your doctor.

Slow Cooker Meals: Convenient and Delicious!

By Toby Ling

In today's fast-paced world, it's ironic that a device called a slow cooker (also known as a crockpot) can actually help you save time! The slow cooker allows you to prepare the components of a meal before work or at some convenient time during the day. The cooking meal can then be left unattended while you get on with other things. The meal is planned so that it is ready at your regular dinner time. So you're not stuck doing labor intensive tasks over a stove, right at the end of the day when you are most tired and hungry!

The slow cooker is a very simple electric appliance: a tightly covered pot that cooks food at a low temperature for a long period of time. Many people think of one-pot recipes as being limited to stews or soups. The fact is just about anything can be cooked in a slow cooker! Meat entrees, soups, vegetarian, and even dessert!

Slow Cooker Tips

Purchase a slow cooker with a removable pot. These can be lifted off the heating base and placed on the stove top. If you choose to, you can brown meats or sauté vegetables and there will be no extra dirty pans. You can also prepare the ingredients the night before, place the pot in the refrigerator and be ready to go the next morning.

Slow cookers and crockpots come in different sizes ranging from 1.5 quarts to 7 quarts (1 quart = 4 cups). Choose one that is compatible with the size of your family.

Select a recipe and do a test run on a weekend when you'll be around the house. This way, you can monitor the progress and note the amount of time your cooker needs. Most cookers have Low, Medium and High settings. Those settings will be at different temperatures, depending on the manufacturer. Even two different cookers from the same manufacturer might NOT require the same time for the same recipe.

Fill the slow cooker to 1/2 or 2/3 full only - If the cooker is too full, the food will not cook evenly.

Keep the lid on! Every time you lift the lid, it can take up about 20 minutes to regain the lost heat, thus extending your cooking time.

Click this link to visit slow-cooker.com for more info about slow cookers, including lots of recipes.

Copyright©2005 Slow-Cooker.com

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Toby_Ling

QuietCare for Your Loved Ones

Home monitoring has come a long way since Life Alert: http://www.lifealert.com, an emergency pendant worn around a senior's neck that was best known for its "Help, I've fallen and I can't get up!" TV commercials. A senior presses a button on the device to contact emergency services. But what if you're too weak to press the button, or you lose consciousness?

QuietCare, from Living Independently, is a service that monitors wireless sensors placed in the most frequently used areas of the home, including the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen and medicine cabinet. QuietCare spends several days creating an "electronic map" of a person's behavior; when they wake up, how frequently they use the bathroom, when they eat, their general activities of daily living. Once the software determines a person's daily routine, it checks for anomalies in behavior, such as if someone fails to get out of bed in the morning. It also detects nonemergencies that may require medical attention. For example, if a client ordinarily uses the bathroom once a night, but suddenly starts using the bathroom five times a night, that could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or an adverse reaction to medication.

The QuietCare station can collect information from the sensors and post its findings daily to a Web site for relatives and the client's doctor to review. The hardware and installation cost around $199, and the monitoring service is $83 to $93 a month.

Click this link to visit the company's Website at: http://www.quietcaresystems.com or call 866-216-4600 for more information.

The Well Adjusted Campaign

What on earth is the Well Adjusted Campaign?

Well, it's all about web accessibility for people with communication disabilities; dyslexia, poor or partial vision, and visual stress. Launched in a partnership between the British Dyslexia Association and the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators that aims to raise awareness of the fact that businesses are currently missing out because nearly 20% of their customers can't use their inaccessible websites. They've also published their Top 10 Reasonable Adjustments to make sites and marking communications accessible.

The Well Adjusted Campaign site has information on how you can join the campaign, plus a special toolbar you can download to make reading on the web much, much easier. Worth checking out.

Article Source:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/ouch/200605/the_well_adjusted_campaign.shtml

Play RealAudio Files with Winamp

Those who know me know that I love to stream audio from the net. I have all types of internet radio stations saved in my Winamp media player.

Winamp is software that turns your computer into an internet radio and television receiver. It plays a variety of filetypes and is the most accessible for people who are blind or visually impaired.

There are other players, each one having its own audio format. The RealPlayer is a popular choice, but screen readers often have difficulty with its menus and setup screens. Microsoft includes a media player with all versions of Windows, but it too is difficult to navigate with a screen reader and some magnification programs.

Recently, I came across some information that solves the problem of accessibility when playing RealAudio files. The solution, which sounds rather strange at first, is to remove the RealPlayer and use Winamp instead.

Click this link to download 8 megs of real media kodeks: http://onj.andrelouis.com/real.exe. Kodeks tell your computer how to decode audio and video filetypes so you can enjoy their content. The kodeks in this download give your computer the power to decode RealPlayer and RealAlternative files, without the need to install either of those products.

After installing the kodeks, you will need a Winamp plugin that tells Winamp that it has the ability to play these files. There are two plugins that work, you'll have to experiment a little to see which one works best for your system, either ireal16 or tara. Click this link to get either of these plugins: http://andrelouis.com/winamp, they are found in the RealMedia directory.

Once you've downloaded the plugins, install one of them. Visit a site that contains RealAudio files and see if your Winamp can play them. If not, uninstall the plugin and try the other one.

I'll admit this sounds complicated, but once it works, you'll be happy you went to all the trouble.

Skype! The Whole World Can Talk for Free

Skype is a program for making free calls over the internet to anyone else who also has Skype. It's free and easy to download and use, and works with most computers.

With SkypeOut, you can use Skype to call ordinary phone numbers all over the world.

SkypeIn is a real phone number your friends can call. You pick up the call in Skype.

Skype Voicemail lets you direct calls when you're busy or offline to your voicemail.

Download, register, install, plug in your headset, speakers or USB phone and start calling your friends. The calls have excellent sound quality and are highly secure with end-to-end encryption. You don't even need to configure your firewall or router or any other networking gear. It just works.

It doesn't just work with Windows. Skype is also for Mac OS X, Linux and PDAs using Pocket PC, with a native look and feel for each platform. Talking, sending instant messages or even file transfers work between different platforms like a charm.

If there weren't enough ways for you to contact your friends, they have a little thing called SkypeOut, which lets you make calls to old-fashioned phone numbers all around the world. Landlines, mobile phones... it works with almost all of them. SkypeOut is now free for users in North America and Canada. You can call any phone number in North America or Canada for free. You can also forward your Skype calls to a traditional phone or mobile number.

Since most things you want your friends to see tend to be rather large, their file transfer function works with all the file sizes your operating system can handle. For most people, that's between 2 or 4 gigabytes. And remember, it works from Windows to Mac to Linux and the other way around. No platform problems here.

When it comes to talking, instant messaging or transferring files, Skype goes to great lengths to make it secure. Skype automatically encrypts everything before sending it through the internet. Likewise, on arrival everything is decrypted on-the-spot and presented as crystal clear speech, text or a file transfer nobody can intercept.

With normal telephones you can only hear sounds from 300 Hz to 3 kHz. Not so with Skype; it's all over the spectrum, from the lowest hum to the highest screetch. In other words: 'F' and 'S' will sound like the two different letters they were meant to, and in the end you will be able to have a much more natural conversation.

That also goes for conferences. It's completely secure for you and up to four others to get together to coordinate tactics in a game, make one of those important business decisions or simply have a chat, even if you're all on different continents.

Searching for those long-lost relatives or just somebody to have a quick chat with is also part of what Skype is all about. They have a Global User Directory. It's a giant phonebook of all the people who use Skype. You can use it to search for people you'd like to talk to, people who have the same birthday or people who just happen to live in the same street as you.

When you find somebody you know or even someone you would like to know, you add them to your list of contacts. You can also write a little note to let them know who you are and why you want to add them to your list. Handy, if your separated-at-birth-twin finds you on Skype. When people are on your list, you can see if they are online, offline, busy... or perhaps out to lunch.

Did I mention that you can also send instant messages with Skype? Well, you can. That's nice for when you're talking about a website and you want to send that really long address or if you're writing a song maybe. Either way, you can send one of those little smiley faces along with your message.

The best part of all this is that it is screen reader friendly and you can start using it immediately. Chris Nestrud has written some scripts for JAWS, and there are also set files for Window Eyes.

Click this link to visit Chris Nestrud's page to download the JAWS script files: http://www.panix.com/~ccn/projects/jfw/skype.php.

Click this link to visit the Skype web site: http://skype.com.

Free Audio Skype Tutorial

Click this link for an audio tutorial on using Skype: http://onj.andrelouis.com/marrie/TheSkypePage.html. Donations are accepted.

"Speaking of Skype" Audio tutorial

Jonathan Mosen has created Speaking of Skype, a four hour audio tutorial that's got blind people talking. It unlocks the secrets of Skype for blind users in an informative and entertaining way.

With over 75 million downloads and more then 5 million users logged into the service at any one time, Skype has become an essential communications tool.

Whether you're a seasoned Skype power user seeking to get every last bit of functionality by manually editing the configuration file to make improvements you can't make through the Skype user interface, right through to those who have given up on Skype because it seemed too complicated, or you've never downloaded Skype before, Speaking of Skype ensures you'll get the most out of the software that has turned telecommunications on its head.

Topics covered include:

• installing the latest beta JAWS scripts for Skype
  
• downloading and installing Skype
  
• obtaining a Skype account
  
• a comprehensive explanation of Skype's many configuration options
  
• manually editing Skype's configuration file to get even better performance
  
• calling regular contacts with a single key press from anywhere in Windows
  
• integrating Skype into your web site and email
  
• audio conferencing
  
• text chat
  
• making regular phone calls
  
• giving your PC a telephone number
  
• voicemail
  
• Skype Groups
  
• much more!

Speaking of Skype refers specifically to Skype for Windows. It is suitable for users of all Windows screen readers, although frequent mention is made of the JAWS scripts for Skype due to their many benefits in making Skype easier to use.

You can purchase and then instantly download your copy of Speaking of Skype for only $14.95. For an additional $5, you can also subscribe to free updates to the tutorial until 30 April 2007.

With Skype rapidly evolving, this means that you'll receive audio demonstrations and tutorials on any major feature Skype adds within the next year for just $5.

For more information, please visit http://www.mosenexplosion.com/sos.

Skype Prompts without A Screen Reader

Sean randall has a free Skype add-on called SKRead. It reads out various events such as call status, contact status information or skype chats, and is screen-reader-independent.

Click this link to get SKRead: http://www.randylaptop.com/projects/skread.

Refrigerator Air Purifier

Hide the smell of those rotting leftovers in your refrigerator with this air purifier.

This compact purifier uses advanced ionic technology to generate billions of negative ions that neutralize odors. Two levels of ozone help eliminate bacteria and leave the air smelling rain-fresh. Your refrigerator remains odor-free and food stays fresher longer. No cords or filters needed.

Click this link to purchase the Refrigerator Air Purifier from Clever Gear.

Are Your Herbs Fresh?

When cooking with herbs, it's hard to tell if what you have in the cupboard is fresh.

Dried herbs actually have a shelf life of about 1 to 1½ years, but if you are like me, most of your herbs have been there for much longer!

Before using the herb in your recipe, pinch a few of the leaves between your fingers and roll a bit. If you can smell the herb it should be good to use.

If you don't smell anything or the smell is very faint toss the herbs and buy some new ones.

The Different Types of Cheesecake

Cheesecake is one of the most common and popular desserts in the world today. It is also one of the oldest items made from dairy products other than milk.

Cheesecakes can be made of ricotta cheese, havarti, quark, twaróg, or more usually, cream cheese. Other ingredients such as sugar, eggs, cream and fruit are often mixed in as well. This is the reason why there are so many types of cheesecakes, the number of recipes are virtually unlimited.

So what types of cheesecakes are there? Below are just a few with a brief description of each.

Let's start with the good old American style cheese cake. These are usually made from cream cheese, invented in 1872. After James Kraft invented this type of cheese, it became the top product for making cheesecake in America.

New York style cheese cake is a little different. It also uses cream cheese but relies on heavy cream, eggs, and egg yolks in addition to the cream cheese to add a richness and smooth consistency. New York style cheesecake is also called Jewish style cheesecake. It's baked in a special 5 to 6 inch springform pan.

Chicago style cheese cake is another cream cheese version that has been made popular by Eli's Cheesecake. This style of cream cheese cake is firm on the outside and creamy inside. People from Chicago claim there is none better. Naturally.

Pennsylvania Dutch style cheesecake gets its taste from a tangy cottage cheese. This cheese has larger curds and less water. The official name is pot or farmer's cheese.

Sour cream cheesecake is said to have come from the United States some time in the mid 20th century. It still used cream cheese but no heavy cream in the recipe. It is mostly used for making cheesecakes that are outside of the New York style. It can actually be frozen for short periods of time without ruening the texture.

Roman style cheesecake uses honey and a ricotta-like cheese along with flour and is traditionally shaped into loaves. Some recipes use bay leaves as a preservative. It is still baked in certain areas of Rome.

French style cheesecakes are very light. They use gelatin as the main binding ingredient and are usually only about 1 to 2 inches in height. This cheesecake gets its light texture from a cheese found in the outdoor markets in the south of France and in fine pastry shops in Paris. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it will give you a good start on your search for that perfect cheesecake.

Accoona Talking Search Bar

Accoona Corp., the artificial intelligence-based on-line search engine and Acapela group, the leading European speech group, launch today the first information-seeking technology using speech. The Accoona Search Bar is the first application of it's kind directly liked to an Internet search engine.

This application allows internet users to:

• Unwind: Let the eyes have a rest for a while
  
• Save time: Be able to do something else while an article is read outloud
  
• Speak another language: Improve language abilities by listening to foreign news, at all ages
  
• Learn: A fun interface that gives children the urge to listen and learn
  
• Have easier access to information: For those who are visually impaired

Accoona Talking Search Bar is installed in no time. In a few clicks, the vocal function appears in Accoona's search engine toolbar. All you need to do then is highlight the text you want to hear and click on the TTS (Text To Speech) icon: a piece of cake!

Available in English, Accoona plans to extend the vocalisation to multiple languages during the year, in compliance with their development plans. A free 60-day trial of the Accoona Talking Search Bar can be installed by visiting www.accoona.com.

Search with Ctrl+F

Here's the scenario. You're on a Web site looking for a particular word or phrase and you can't, for the life of you, find it. Well, a quick keyboard shortcut can save you from all of that searching.

Just hold down Ctrl+F at the same time. Ctrl+F will bring up a Find box on your screen. You can just type in any word or phrase in the search box and hit Enter. It will then proceed to highlight the word (or words) that you are looking for. Once you find the first one, it might appear again, so just click, or tab to the "Find Next" button and it will find the same thing again. It will do that until the whole Web page or document is scanned.

You can search in either a Up or Down direction and you can even choose the way your matches are found. You can select "Match whole word only" or "Match case." It's all up to you! It's just a fast and easy way to scan through a page and find exactly what you're looking for! The same command also works in MS-Word and most other editors.

Cordless Lighted Toilet Seat

I hope you get the "aim" of this product. Fun novelty or helpful bathroom nightlight for people who are visually impaired? You decide.

just lift the lid and ten blue LED lights send a soft glow around the seat. Powered by 3 AA batteries, not included. Bubble design in the lucite. Click this link to purchase the Cordless Lighted Toilet Seat from the Taylor Gifts website.

How to Purchase A Spice Rack

When purchasing a spice rack, make sure to think of accessability. Can you label the rack with braille? What about the bottles? Do you have a system that will assist you in finding the spices you need? This article by Anne Clarke may help you decide what spice rack works best in your kitchen.

Spice Racks: Add a Little Spice to Kitchen Organization

Spices are the spice of life, so to speak. So, if your spices are disorganized, what does that say about your life? There is not yet a feng shui of spices that I know of, but there certainly ought to be. Do not worry, though, there is hope for those of us who cannot find our cinnamon amongst our fennel and nutmeg!

What is this hope that we can cling to? Spice racks. Yes, it sounds like too simple of a solution, but spice racks really make a big difference for anyone who owns more than three or four spices. There are multiple types of spice racks for you to choose from. Need help deciding which is best for you? Follow this simple guide on spice racks:

Carousel Spice Racks (Revolving Spice Racks)

A carousel spice rack is perfect for holding your favorite and most often used spices. You can just leave your carousel spice rack out by your stove or on your table, or take it down from your cabinet whenever you are cooking.

This type of spice rack can come with space for only a few spices, or you can even find ones that hold up to 16 or even 48 bottles, depending on the style and size. Of course, if you have one of the larger revolving spice racks, you are likely going to want to leave it up in your cabinet. Just spin it and pick out the spices that you need, when you need them. You do not have to worry about any shorter spices hiding behind larger ones!

Magnetic Spice Racks

Magnetic spice racks are a fun and easy way to store 9-12 different spices. Of course, part of the beauty of one of these racks is the beauty! You will definitely want to display such a lovely rack.

Each spice canister has a magnet on the back that attaches to a magnetic board. One possible problem (or godsend, depending on how you look at it) is that you will have to empty your spices into the ready-provided canisters. This actually works out nicely if you happen to buy your spices in bulk.

You can find a magnetic spice rack with a window so that you can see exactly which spice is in each canister. But if you are not too thoroughly acquainted with the looks of your spices, you may find it necessary to label them, as well.

Spice Drawer Organizer

Not everyone has to keep their spices in their cabinet! Indeed, a spice organizer is an excellent choice for anyone who would prefer to reach down, rather than up, for the perfect spice. When you keep your spices in your drawer, it is often much easier to see them and to be able to read the labels than when you keep them in an upper cabinet. A spice drawer rack will generally have different levels that will tilt your spices so that you can read the labels more easily.

Basic Spice Rack

Basic wood or metal spice racks are an excellent way to help you organize your spices as well as to save space. It is best to get a spice rack in which all of your spices must remain single file - so that no spices can get lost behind other ones.

To Alphabetize or Not to Alphabetize Your Spice Rack

You will be amazed how much easier it will be to find the right spice when you need it once you have a spice rack. Of course, even when you have a rack to organize your spices, they can still be hard to find. Sometimes you can be staring directly at the spice that you want, and yet still somehow not see it. The simple solution is to alphabetize your spices.

Of course, such a system is often more of a pain than it is worth. It is hard to keep your spices in alphabetical order, especially when you add new spices into the mix. Instead, I say that the best method is to keep the spices that you use the most within easy reach (at the front of the spice rack, etc.), and just take that extra time to search for those "other" spices when you need them!

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles on spice racks, please visit Designer Spice Racks at http://www.designerspiceracks.com.

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Clarke

How To Use A USB Thumb Drive

A USB thumb drive is, believe it or not, very easy to use. It's not hard for any computer user to figure it out and if you're really interested in purchasing one, you shouldn't put it off any longer, because the setup really isn't that bad. I know it may sound confusing if you're not used to some of this new technology, but if you buy one, you'll be up to par in no time.

If you have Windows XP or 2000, the setup couldn't be easier. All you do is plug the thumb drive that you get into one of your USB ports on your computer. XP automatically recognizes the new hardware and you can start moving files to your new external file saver (the thumb drive). You don't even have to worry about connecting to a drive if you have XP or 2000, because it is driverless, so you can just plug it in and play.

If you have Windows 98 or ME, the setup is a little different, but again, it's not too difficult. Just plug the thumb drive into one of your USB ports and Windows will detect that you have placed new hardware into your system. It will give you a message like "New USB storage device." Once this comes up, just click on the Next button.

Now, Windows will ask you were the driver is for the new hardware, so you just have to click on the Browse button and locate the drive that your computer selected. External drives like these usually choose the E: drive, because it is a removable disk drive. Once you find the driver, click the Next button again. Now you can go back and double click on your My Computer icon and find the E: drive. Double click on that and you can then start to move files onto the thumb drive.

For those who have some vision, the thumb drive will have what is called a LED indication light. When it is lit, it means that your computer is still recognizing the thumb drive. When it is flashing, your computer is reading data or is copying the data you have sent. When it is done, it will stop flashing, so you know when the job has completed.

A thumb drive is a reliable and handy external storage device. Some of you may still use floppy disks or maybe even an external hard drive to save your files, but thumb drives are a lot smaller and they're much easier to transport. If you're still a little weary about buying one, just know that they are perfect for saving everything from documents to music files to photographs and anything else you want to save. Try one out today, you never know, it might be your new best friend!

Skypecasts and the Blind Community, a Revolution!

By Jonathan Mosen

I will never forget the day when Shoutcast was released. On that day, I realised that this was going to be huge for the blind community. Broadcasting over the Internet had been democratised. using Winamp and a few free tools, you could netcast like the big boys.

Skypecasts give me the same feeling. Released in beta, Skypecasts allow up to 100 Skype users to congregate for any imaginable purpose. perhaps there is a common interest that brings together friends and strangers alike. perhaps it's a family planning what's going to happen at Christmas. perhaps a company wants to run a focus group, or perhaps someone wants to provide a lecture or tutorial, where listeners are muted initially, but where questions can be answered at the conclusion of the formal part of the presentation. If you combine Skypecasts with a plug-in that records the event, such as Skylook, you can upload the archive to your web site as a permanent record.

In a blindness context, this has phenomenal implications. Blind people have always keenly used the Internet for voice communication. Sites like Audio-Tips: http://audio-tips.com and For-The-People: http://for-the-people.com have provided a meeting place through which blind people can get together. Particularly where the I-Vocalize chat client is concerned, there are still services Skypecasts can't provide, such as the ability for moderators to take over the browser.

However, Skypecasts lower the barrier to entry for those who want to host large events of any kind. From an accessibility point of view, my initial findings are encouraging. it's not perfect, but it is useable.

When you join or create a Skypecast, a new browser window pops up. The window contains buttons and links pertaining to each participant. The Skypecast host can mute and unute participants one at a time, or mute and unmute everyone. You can send chats to your participants as well, and if necessary, the host can eject people from the Skypecast.

This is all very accessible, however the page does not appear to refresh in a screen reader's virtual buffer when a new participant joins, such as Window-eyes's Browse Mode or JAWS's Virtual Cursor. This means that it's necessary to turn your virtual buffer on and off again to ensure you have the latest view of who is in your Skypecast.

This is the only issue I have discovered so far. other than that, Skypecast works beautifully with screen readers. This, I predict, will be a huge hit in the blind community. Just watch it explode!

Article Source: http://jmosen.livejournal.com/210121.html

Accessible English & German language instruction

By Peter Korn

The good folks at Brailcom: http://www.brailcom.org in the Czech Republic have developed a suite of free, online English & German languages courses specifically geared to folks with visual impairments at http://eurochance.brailcom.org.

They are presently offering intermediate and advanced courses, including courses specifically geared to native speakers of Czech, Slovak, Spanish, Norwegian, German, and English (these last two only for going into the other language).

>From their about page:

"The general aim of the project is to reduce the unemployment rate of the blind and visually impaired. By improving the skills of the visually impaired and raising the level of awareness of the professional community regarding the skills and competences of the blind and visually impaired, it is hoped that this project will make a solid contribution to achieving this goal."

"Specifically our partnership has developed English and German language modules for the blind and visually impaired, which are available using Internet. The project seeks to increase the language and cultural skills of blind employees, whilst raising their awareness of employment possibilities and aiding further personal development."

One particularly neat thing about these on-line courses is that they've been developed and tested specifically to work in Mozilla Firefox and the KDE Konquerer web browsers on UNIX systems, and specifically with the Orca screen reader/magnifier: http://cvs.gnome.org/viewcvs/*checkout*/orca/docs/doc-set/orca.html (in addition to working with the Microsoft Internet Explorer, Opera, w3m, Links, and Lynx web browsers on a variety of platforms). What this means is that, other than the cost of the computer hardware, these sources are entirely free - delivered from a free website to run on free web browsers that work with free assistive technologies on free desktop environments. They've even developed a free Czech voice for the free Festival software text to speech system.

Given the incredibly high unemployment rate for people with visual impairments, it makes complete sense that these courses be offered free - as someone without employment will find it extremely difficult to get the thousands of dollars (or the thousands of Euros, or the tens of thousands of Czech Koruna) one would need to purchase an operating system and screen reader in order to take these courses otherwise.

It's also another example of what we've been saying at Sun for a little while now - that we're moving into the Participation Age, where one of the key values is sharing for the greater economic and social good it brings to all of us.

Click this link to visit Peter Korn's Weblog: http://blogs.sun.com/roller/page/korn.

Lisa Hall's World: Information About Braille

Lisa Hall has created a website called Lisa Hall's Worldand provides links to a variety of blindness-related services in Texas. She has a wonderful page on braille with tons of links to schools and rehabilitation offices for the blind and other resources. If you are interested in braille, check out this site!

Click this link to visit Lisa Hall's Information About Braille page.

Pantry Makeover: Three Easy Steps to Organizing Success

By Nancy Peham

Are there items in your pantry that are no longer recognizable as food? Do the expiration dates on your canned goods take you back to the 20th Century? What surprises lie dormant in the deep dark recesses of the back shelves?

Consider the last time your pantry had a makeover. Makeover you say? Perhaps the term is a bit strong, but if you haven't cleaned your pantry recently and gotten rid of stale, partially used, or unpopular purchases, now is a great time.

Step 1

Start by removing everything. As you do, throw away items that have reached or exceeded their expiration dates. If you're concerned about the environment, your city's recycling program accepts them. Don't forget to recycle plastic, glass, and certain metals.

Next, get rid of anything you'll never eat. It's good to experiment with new foods, but some just fail the taste test.

If you've left cracker boxes, chip bags, or sacks of flour open, the contents are probably stale. Throw them out.

Dieting? Here's your opportunity to start fresh by getting rid of high-calorie, over-processed, and unhealthy foods. Who needs the temptation?

Step 2

Before you start putting things back, clean the shelves or line them with one of the great products you can find in the house wares department of your grocery, home improvement, or local superstore. That sticky-backed, hard to position product that dominated the market for a generation has seen a lot of competition in the past few years, so consider the options before you buy.

Next, begin sorting. I like to group my pantry items into the following general categories, which are similar to those in your local market or grocery store:

• Canned goods
  
• Dry goods
  
• Baking Supplies
  
• Boxed Foods
  
• Beverages
  
• Condiments
  
• Snacks

Other items that may find a place in your pantry include pet food, paper plates, napkins, plastic cutlery, paper towels, lunch bags, aluminum foil, clear plastic wrap, and storage bags.

If you are fortunate enough to have a very large pantry you may even store your seldom used electrical appliances, serving pieces, cook books, or picnic supplies there.

Step 3

Now that you've sorted the contents of your pantry and eliminated the excess, it's time to consider where you'll put everything.

If you buy in bulk, take into account the amount of space you'll need when you bring home the next big load, or decide on an alternate location for the overflow. Perhaps a nearby closet or laundry room cupboard will work for you.

Consider putting grains, flour, sugar, and other items which are not individually wrapped into clear airtight containers. In addition to immediately seeing what's inside, food will stay fresher and maintain a longer shelf life. Before purchasing containers measure the depth and height of shelves to be sure they'll fit.

If you have movable shelves, don't be afraid to rearrange them to meet your needs. If you lack sufficient shelving there are many options to choose from. Consider wire mesh drawer units which are available at specialty retail and home improvement stores. These units can be rearranged as often as necessary using drawers of varying depths to store almost anything.

To maximize space add door mounted racks. If you have deep shelves and can't see what's in the back, purchase expandable tiered plastic shelves which sit on top of your permanent shelves. They're especially popular for holding spice jars and canned goods.

Because of their considerable combined weight, store canned goods on sturdy shelves. The same holds true for glass jars. I recently dropped a bottle of olive oil on my tile floor and spent the next several minutes cleaning the mess. If you want to add a touch of hominess and minimize the risk of breakage you may even decide to place a small rug or mat on the floor near a particularly vulnerable area.

As you refill your pantry, remember these tips:

If you have young children in the house, you can influence smart snacking choices and promote independence by keeping foods they're allowed to eat on lower shelves in containers they can easily navigate.

Allocate "prime real estate" to those items you use regularly. These are the areas that are at or near eye level, and easy to reach.

If you decide to use mesh drawer units, consider putting them on wheels so that you can clean easily behind and underneath them. You may also keep similar items together like breakfast foods, snacks, or baking ingredients so when you need several items at once they can be wheeled to another area together, allowing you to make less frequent trips to retrieve what you need.

To keep packets and individually wrapped items from slipping, sliding and falling off shelves, use small wicker baskets, clear plastic drawers, or even decorative canisters, boxes or bins to keep them organized and in place.

When you're all done, stand back, look around and take pride in your beautiful and functional pantry!

Copyright 2006. Nancy E. Peham All rights reserved.

Nancy Peham, professional organizer and owner of Helping Hands Personal Services, a Dallas based company, works with her clients to create order, relieve stress and improve their lives. In addition to residential organizing Nancy stages homes for sale, is a speaker, writer, and frequent contributor to the media. Visit her website http://www.HelpingHandsPS.com and sign up for her free monthly newsletter.

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Peham

Marking Keys For Easy Identification

How many times have you went to unlock your home and found that you grabbed the wrong key on the ring? You stand there trying to figure out why the key won't fit in the lock and suddenly, you realize that you're holding the wrong key. Wouldn't it be great to have something that could help you distinguish one key from another? You're ready for some Key-Shirts my friend!

Don't read it again, I didn't miss spelt T-shirts as Key-shirts, it's actually a shirt for your keys.

All you have to do is to place these different colored "T-Shirts" over each key and you'll never get confused again. These shirts fit almost any key, which means that size doesn't matter. You can't see colors? How about scratching different marks into each cover to differentiate one key from another?

Click this link to purchase some fashion for your keys with Key-Shirts from ShopIntuition.

There are a number of ways to mark keys for identification. You can use a rubber band or a piece of tape for marking your keys--or you can use a ring that fits over the head of the key that is sold by some key companies.

Another approach is to ask a key maker to use his/her key duplication machine to put notches on the key head for identification purposes. Notches can be cut in the top or bottom of the key head so you are able to quickly identify which way to hold the key to place it correctly into the lock. More than one notch can be made to fit the system you decide to use.

The JAWS for Windows and PAC Mate Blog

Brian Hartgen has started the JAWS and Pac Mate blog to provide news items and web links regarding these two products.

"Hello and welcome to my Blog containing information about the JAWS for Windows screen-reader from Freedom Scientific. This Blog also includes information relating to the PAC Mate, also manufactured by Freedom Scientific, as this contains Pocket JAWS. I hope you are going to find the Blog informative and useful."

"I hope to be able to point people in the direction of useful resources they can find on the web or elsewhere for improving the accessibility of applications through JAWS, or audio presentations such as those contained on Main Menu where JAWS is the primary subject."

Click this link to visit The JAWS for Windows and PAC Mate Blog: http://bhjaws.livejournal.com.

How do you pick a good contractor?

By Jan Smith

This has been the too-often asked question for decades. What are 10 tell-tale signs to look for when you need a maintenance contractor to come into your home?

This is not easy to answer as personalities vary so much. So, you have to rely on 'gut instinct' and certain outward indicators.

Here is a list of 10 tell-tale signs to look for:

1. The Contractor or staff member who answers the phone / Email is courteous, friendly and helpful.
   
   
2. The contractor arrives on time for the appointment or phones if s/he is unavoidably delayed.
   
   
3. The person is neatly attired and preferably has the logo of the Business on their shirt.
   
   
4. They stand back from the door so as not to invade your space.
   
   
5. They immediately offer a business card that is professionally printed.
   
   
6. They don't enter your home until invited to do so. They remove shoes before entering your home or they have shoe protectors over their shoes/boots.
   
   
7. They do not have dirty clothes, hands, grubby diaries or smell as if they have just crawled out from under a 100 year old house. They also do not have halitosis (bad breathe) or smell of stale/fresh alcohol.
   
   
8. The first impression you have of them is one of quiet confidence. When you explain your requirements to them, they listen carefully, and if it is not feasible (such as a load bearing wall if you want a wall knocked out) they offer a suggestion or offer to come back to you by a certain time with an option.
   
   
9. They actually use a REAL tape measure for measuring instead of "doing-it-by-eye" if any measurements need to be taken.
   
   
10. They do what they say they will do, in the time they have said they will do it.

Copyright © 2006 J. Smith Constructing Profits. http://www.constructingprofits.com Showing contractors how to make more money ~ working less hours!

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jan_Smith

Cleaning Combs & Brushes

You're getting ready for work and notice that your combs and brushes are not clean. What in the world is all over them? It looks like lint and who knows what that is on the handle.

An easy way to clean these off is to place all of your combs and brushes in the bathroom sink and fill with water.

Now add about a cup of ammonia and let sit all day while you are at work.

When you get home, drain the sink and rinse your combs and brushes. Place them on a towel to dry.

Your combs and brushes will be sparkling clean.

Six Carpet Care Tips

Want carpet clean enough for the kids to play on? Do you want it to last for years longer than normal? Just use these basic carpet care tips.

1. Keep your carpet clean. Sand and dirt act like thousands of little razor blades that cut carpet fibers. Damaged carpet stains more easily, and it's harder to remove the stains from it as well. Vacuum often to remove dirt, and your carpet will last longer.
   
   
2. Use rugs. Put rugs outside and inside the front door, and any other entrances. They can catch much of the dirt that people bring in on their feet. That means less vacuuming and longer carpet life.
   
   
3. Remove shoes. This is a sure way to make carpet last longer. If you have a nice home with nice carpet, people usually aren't offended by this policy.
   
   
4. Clean stains quickly and properly. If using a cleaning solvent other than water, apply it to a cloth first, and work it in from the outside of the stain to the center, so you don't spread the spot. Apply the cleaner, extract (blot), rinse, extract, and repeat until you can't get more of the stain out. Extract solvents completely, and dry the carpet quickly when you're done. If there is any stain remaining deeper down in the carpet, quick drying prevents it from wicking up to the surface.
   
   
5. Use a shop-vac. It's a great help when cleaning stains. You can't just suck out the stain, but you can repeatedly wash and rinse the area, and suck the solution out each time. It's more effective than blotting up the water with cloth, mostly because you won't have the patience to wash, rinse and extract enough times if you're using paper towels or cloth.
   
   
6. Vacuum before cleaning. If you use a portable machine, at least get the water as hot as you can, and dry the carpet quickly, using fans to move the air around. You won't match the results of a good truck-mount hot water extraction unit. However, if you want to save money, doing your own cleaning can lengthen the time between expensive professional cleanings.

For more on carpet-care, carpet stains, and specific stain-by-stain removal instructions, visit http://www.HowToRemoveCarpetStains.com.

Preventing Soggy Salt

You grab the salt shaker to spice up your dinner and nothing comes out.

You pop off the top and notice that once again it is all caked at the bottom of the shaker.

An easy way to help stop soggy salt is to pick up a package of oyster crackers.

Drop a couple in your shaker then add salt. The crackers will absorb extra humidity and help prevent your salt from caking.

When your shaker is empty, discard the crackers and add a couple of new ones before refilling.

AdvantEdge Reader for the Blind

The Assistive Technology Center in Sacramento has announced the release of a complete portable scan-and-read system for the blind and print challenged.

The system, named the "AdvantEdge Reader", combines several mainstream and adaptive technologies in order to achieve the goal of a pocket scan and read solution.

The AdvantEdge Reader is the essence of simplicity. The user merely inserts the material to be read into the scanner. The material is scanned, recognized, converted into readable format, and read automatically. There are no other steps.

ATC has, for several years, been adapting scanners for use by the blind. Most recently, ATC has adapted the Visioneer strobe scanner. This is a tiny, portable scanner. The problem has been finding a small enough device to host the conversion and speech programs.

This is where the SmallTalk computer comes in. SmallTalk is a hand held uPC enhanced with the screen reading software "Window Eyes", by GW Micro, an Indiana corporation of some stature in the blindness field.

Assistive Technology Center took the modified Strobe Scanner, figured out how to install it onto the SmallTalk, and then added the proper recognition program and hardware driver to create the AdvantEdge Reader.

The best part is that, in addition to being the first portable scan and read system, the AdvantEdge Reader is also a full Windows XP computer. The Reader has a docking cable that allows it to be used as a desktop computer replacement. The docking cable connects to an external monitor, printer, network, keyboard, firewire devices, and more. Additionally, the Reader features internal Bluetooth and Wireless LAN technology.

To order, or for more information, please contact the Assistive Technology Center via phone at 916-381-5011, or e-mail sales@atechcenter.net.

APH News: May 2006

APH News

Your monthly link to the latest information on the products, services, and training opportunities of the American Printing House for the Blind.

May 2006

Exciting New APH Products Announced!

Read on to learn about these new products - now available!

• Living with CHARGE: How to Deal with Challenging Behaviors and Enhance Communication: A Follow-up Study of Individuals with CHARGE Syndrome
• APH Braille Book Corner

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For timely delivery, order Fall 2006 textbooks now!

For details, visit: www.aph.org/atic/fall2006.html

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Tom Sullivan to Keynote APH's 138th Annual Meeting, "Adjusting the Sails"

APH proudly announces that actor, singer, entertainer, author, and producer Tom Sullivan will be the featured keynote speaker at the 138th Annual Meeting of Ex Officio Trustees and Special Guests, October 12 - 14, at the Marriott Hotel in Louisville, KY.

Sullivan gained national prominence with 35 appearances on The Tonight Show, a major recording contract, his autobiography, If You Could See What I Hear (also a major motion picture), his numerous children's books, his years as special correspondent on ABC's Good Morning America, his numerous movie and television appearances, and as the spokesperson for countless organizations. Tom's Adventures In Darkness, to be published by Thomas Nelson in September, is slated as a motion picture for 2007. The Emmy Award winner was also the co-writer and co-producer of Blind Witness, an ABC movie of the week. He is the second recipient of the American Foundation for the Blind's Lifetime Achievement Award.

APH extends our gratitude to the Allergan Pharmaceutical Corporation for generously providing this opportunity.

For further information on APH's 138th Annual Meeting, visit www.aph.org/anmtg/2006/

Visit Tom Sullivan's web site at www.sullivanspeaks.com

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Tactile Graphics Training Offered Through Webcast

APH Presents: Pitfalls! Tips and Techniques for Creating Quality Tactile Graphics
Hosted by: Betsy Burnham and Yan Zhang
Webcast Date/Time: June 13, 2006, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (ET)
Registration Fee: FREE!

Please register for this webcast presentation by June 1, 2006. You will be contacted by APH webcast specialist, Maria Delgado, to help you set up your system so you can easily view and participate in the webcast.

This workshop will provide:

• An overview of current production methods used to create tactile graphics.
• Materials used in each method.
• How to decide if a tactile graphic is necessary.
• Questions to ask yourself before designing the graphic.
• Tips on designing a graphic.

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August Workshop on Making Test Items Accessible

Mark your calendars for August 8-9, 2006! Test publishers, item developers, state assessment personnel, test administrators, school psychologists and administrators, and others are invited. The purpose is to address critical issues with regard to making test items accessible to students who are blind and visually impaired and use braille, print, large print, tactile graphics, or audio formats, or a combination of these media. Some topics to be addressed include: universal design, federal and state laws, low vision, large print, braille, designing readable tactile graphics, audio guidelines, production issues, test-related tools and materials, and more. Dr. Carol Allman from Florida will facilitate the workshop. She will be joined by Accessible Tests and Research staff to provide a number of presentations and hands-on activities.

Registration, instructors, workshop materials, planned meals and local transportation will be provided. For more information, to register, or to suggest individuals to invite to this workshop, please contact Nancy Bayens at 1-800-223-1839 (ext. 470) or email nbayens@aph.org

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Making Louis Better!

When visiting the APH Louis Database, you may notice some slight changes to several screens. We have implemented some modest changes to make the screens easier to read, more streamlined, and more logically organized. All of the options and links available in the past are still there--but in what we hope is a more user-friendly format. Take a look for yourself!

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APH Thanks Congressional Supporters

In spite of constant and growing demands on the Federal budget, the annual appropriation that funds "The Act to Promote the Education of the Blind" continues to increase. This is due in great part to our "champions" in Congress. Several key Senators and Representatives have taken the time to learn about the unique educational needs of blind and visually impaired students, and then follow through with a commitment to support our annual requests for funding.

The APH Public Affairs Department is thanking these champions by presenting each with a print/braille book entitled Capital! Washington DC from A to Z in a hand-made, wooden bookstand with a personalized brass plate designed by Nancy Lacewell, Director of Government and Community Affairs. In these photos, Gary Mudd, Vice President of Public Affairs, thanks Kentucky Congresswoman Anne Northup and Rhode Island Congressman Patrick Kennedy for sharing in our belief that blind and visually impaired students deserve the same educational opportunities as their sighted peers. APH, our field, and our students are extremely fortunate to have such strong support at the Federal government level.

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Bluegrass Star Entertains at APH Museum

Champion fiddler Michael Cleveland appeared at the Callahan Museum on April 8. The Bards and Storyteller Series at the Callahan, sponsored by the Printing House and the Kentucky Humanities Council, features modern day entertainers with visual impairments. Cleveland, who graduated from the Kentucky School for the Blind in 1999, played a series of rousing bluegrass tunes accompanied by Jeff Guernsey on guitar. Folklorist Doug Boyd guided a discussion between Cleveland, Guernsey, and the capacity crowd of 65 that explored the performer's early musical training, his blindness, his inspirations, and his life as a bluegrass musician.

"We were thrilled to have a musician of Mike's caliber open up our Bards and Storytellers series here at the Callahan Museum," said museum director Mike Hudson. "Incredible, unbelievable, impossible-you pick the adjective-and that is Michael Cleveland."

The series will feature Albuquerque storyteller Cathy Klaus on May 8, and Louisville pop singer Turley Richards on June 17th. Call the museum at 800/223-1839, ext. 365 for additional information or check the museum website at www.aph.org/museum

Photo: Michael Cleveland, center, shares a laugh with guitarist Jeff Guernsey, left, and moderator Doug Boyd, right.

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Jack and Jill went up a hill...and all the way to Mississippi!

Jack Fox and Jill Fox, APH Talking Book narrators, were recently awarded plaques by the Mississippi Library Commission for their part in the 75th anniversary celebration of the Pratt-Smoot Act of 1931. The Pratt-Smoot act formed the basis of the National Library Service Talking Book Program. Jack and Jill are the only father and daughter team approved to read for the program.

Jack is a longtime APH narrator and is well-known in the radio and voice-over market. You may know Jack's voice from announcements such as, "today's security level is high" or "the moving sidewalk is coming to an end" that you hear in airports from St. Paul to Maui.

Jill has done many commercial voice-overs and is also on local radio. She has become so successful that Jack says he is now known as "Jill's father."

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New Podcast: Blind Cool Tech

Are you familiar with podcasting? In its simplest form, podcasting is the distribution of audio or video over the Internet. Most people run podcatching software that lets you "subscribe" to shows that then get automatically delivered to your PC as new editions of the show are released, but you can still listen the old fashioned way by navigating to the podcast's web site and downloading individual shows manually.

Larry Skutchan, of the APH Research Department, recently created Blind Cool Tech, a podcast mainly to create content for distribution to Book Port users. Blind Cool Tech has since grown to include contributions from blind people around the globe regarding techniques, tips, tricks, and entertainment. Go to www.blindcooltech.com for a peek or a listen. Please note that the ideas discussed on the web site are those of the individual contributors and do not reflect the position of APH.

NOTE: You do not need an iPod® to listen to podcasts. Windows® Media Player or WinAmp® on your PC works just fine. Even better, send those podcasts to your Book Port for some fun, education, and entertainment.

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Book Port 2.2 Just Released:
FREE FIRMWARE UPDATE!

A FREE update to the Book Port firmware may be obtained by connecting Book Port to your PC while connected to the Internet. If you do not get automatically notified of the update, open the Options dialog in the Book Port Transfer software and tab to the Advanced section. Press the "Check for Firmware Updates" button to download and install the update. You will also want to press the "Check for Software Updates" button.

Caution: before you update the firmware on your Book Port, please insert a fresh set of batteries.

Your update contains the following enhancements:

• Adds additional levels of navigation for Digital talking Books. Earlier versions supported level 1 and any other level. Now, the navigation commands move to levels 1-5 then to any level.
• Eliminates the restrictions on the size of audio files you may send to the device. Earlier versions of the firmware supported a maximum file size of 256 MB. There are several Digital Talking Books that exceed this size, however, and this version removes this restriction.
• Raises the maximum flash card size from 2 GB to 4 GB.
• Increases the maximum text file size from 4 MB to 16 MB.
• Adds alarm capabilities.
• Adds the Next Alarm and Back Alarm commands to move from alarm to alarm.
• Adds the Enable Alarms option to the Settings menu.
• Adds the Disable Alarm command.
• Adds the Delete Alarm command.
• Adds the Swap File command.
• Adds the Move File command to move a file from one folder to another.
• Returns the name of the file to the information you get with the Statistics command.
• Enhances the feedback for the Spell Word command. Now, the unit announces punctuation and capitalization as it spells the word.
• Changes the behavior of the Send Text as Line Oriented control, so when this box is checked, Book Port Transfer no longer places sentence marks at sentence breaks.
• No longer uses mp3 id3 tags as the title of the file.
• Changes the behavior of the Read key. Now, reading resumes at the word on which you stopped. Previous versions always started back at the beginning of the sentence.
• Adds support for high-bit fraction symbols.
• Corrects the problem of the reading pointer falling behind when you stop. This is a function within the software, so you will need to resend any file that exhibits this behavior.
• Corrects the problem where the manual did not get updated on the unit if the user required a full install.
• Corrects the problem where new beta testers could not participate in the beta test process.
• Adds support for Daisy books with multiple skipped pages.
• Corrects some problems with the "Go To Page" command on some Daisy books.
• Removes the Fix File System errors button from the software and stops checking on firmware updates. (This function does not work with fat32 file systems.)
• Adds the Program Temporary Folder control that lets you specify where temporary files get stored.
• Increases the speed at which mp3 files get encoded.
• Corrects the problem of having a note with a blank line as the first line of the file.
• Added the ability to set bookmarks in unindexed audio files. The resolution is one second, so if you try to set a bookmark within one second of an existing bookmark, the command will actually clear the existing bookmark.
• Alters the way the folder name is announced when attempting to read files in an empty folder. Before, the unit provided the short name and the entire path, now, the firmware announces only the name of the empty folder.
• Provides extended statistics on a file when the user presses the 8 key regardless of whether the file had been played or not. This corrects a longstanding issue that required you to have pressed the play key at least once before you could obtain statistics.
• Changes the beeps to spoken announcements when the user sets or clears a bookmark.
• Adds the command "Announce Elapsed Time." This is accessed with the 5 key in both idle and reading mode for audio files.
• Changes the behavior of the To and From Notes Command. Now, you do not need to close the note before issuing the command.
• Adds the Lock and Unlock command while in the notetaker.
• Announces the folder's name when the folder is empty.
• Adds the Power move commands to unindexed mp3 files.
• Adds the announcement of elapsed time in status for unindexed mp3 files.
• Bug fix: If the user tries to lock a file in an empty folder, the unit doesn't say that there are no files to lock.
• Bug fix: Unindexed mp3 files were improperly locked.

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APH Joins Nebraska's Fling in the Spring

Nebraska's Spring Fling, a three-day conference hosted in Nebraska City, was held in March. Nebraska Outreach Coordinator Jim Adams planned the conference and asked APH's Low Vision Project Leader Elaine Kitchel to present on Lighting for Low Vision.

Attendees were taught how fluorescent, incandescent, and natural light affect persons with low vision in different ways. Elaine shared suggestions for conducting environmental assessments, guidelines for recommending lighting for optimal comfort and performance, and information about the physics of light. Each attendee received a CD with accessible information on lighting tips, a Quickstart Guide to Lighting, and the hazards of blue light.

Attendees were also treated to excellent presentations by Dr. Phil Hatlen, Don Golembiewski, Teresa Coonts, and some well-informed local practitioners.

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North Carolina COMS and TVIs Learn ENVISION with Invision

Invision Services, Inc. hosted a training on the use of APH's ENVISION, the curriculum for teaching students to use optical devices, on Friday, March 31, in Durham, North Carolina. More than 40 certified orientation and mobility specialists (COMS) and teachers of the visually impaired (TVIs) participated in the training conducted by Field Services Representative Sandi Baker. The day began with Dr. Elana Scheiner of Family Eye Care speaking on low vision examinations and prescribing optical devices. Participants then learned about ENVISION by using the monoculars, magnifiers, and materials in a variety of activities found in the ENVISION Manuals and led by Sandi. Thanks to COMS' Diane Brauner and John Higgins for making APH a part of this important training.

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APH Displays at CEC

The 2006 Convention and Expo of the Council for Exceptional Children was held April 5 - 8, in Salt Lake City, Utah. APH staff members Sandi Baker, Bettye Barnes, Bob Brasher, and Janie Blome were on hand to showcase new APH products for the many vision professionals in attendance, as well as resource room teachers, special education administrators, adaptive physical education teachers, university faculty and students, and others. Popular products included Web Chase, the Sensory Learning Kit, and Rib-It-Balls.

Special congratulations to APH Ex Officio Trustee Stuart Wittenstein, California School for the Blind, winner of the Division on Visual Impairment (DVI) Distinguished Service Award. Congratulations, Stuart, we're proud of you!

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PCO Job Announcement

WANTED: Full-time Assistant or Associate Professor and Co-Director of Professional Preparation Program for Teachers of Children with Visual and Multiple Impairments

DEPARTMENT: Graduate Studies in Vision Impairment

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS: Teach and advise students and Co-Direct the TVI Program. Will participate fully as a faculty member in the Department of Graduate Studies in Vision Impairment.

CONTACT: Dr. Kathleen Mary Huebner, Professor, Associate Dean, and Chair of Search Committee, Graduate Studies in Vision Impairment, Pennsylvania College of Optometry, 8360 Old York Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027; kathyh@pco.edu; Fax: 215-780-1361.

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APH Welcomes a New Ex Officio Trustee

Paula Mauro, the Ohio State Department of Education, replacing Mary Binion.

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APH Travel Calendar

May

May 2, 2006
South Dakota Webcast/Product Training;
Louisville, KY

May 3-5, 2006
Training for Indiana State Dept. of Vocational Rehabilitation, Blind, and Visually Impaired Services;
Turkey Run State Park, IN

May 7, 2006
AR AER;
Arkansas

May 10, 2006
Points of Light Volunteer Management Seminar;
Louisville, KY

May 10-13, 2006
International Preschool Seminar Group Meeting;
Austin, TX

May 13-15, 2006
New Jersey AER, Beyond the Three R's: Reading, Roaming and the Road to the Future;
Princeton, NJ

May 20, 2006
Disability Awareness Workshop;
Louisville, KY

May 24, 2006
International Digital Publishing Forum;
New York, NY

May 26,2006
Product Training;
Las Vegas, NV

May 31-June 2, 2006
National Center for Educational Outcomes (NCEO), Universal Design;
Minneapolis, MN

June

June 2-3, 2006
ABC Braille Study;
Austin, TX

June 7-9, 2006
Kentucky Association of Museums Annual Meeting;
Louisville, KY

June 8-9, 2006
ISAVE Training for VI Teachers;
Burlington, VT

June 12-14, 2006
Tactile Graphics Workshop;
APH in Louisville, KY

June 13, 2006
ATIC Webcast;
APH in Louisville, KY

June 13, 2006
AAP NIMAS/NIMAC Training;
Washington, DC

June 13-15, 2006
University of Arizona Teacher Training Workshop;
Navaho Reservation, AZ

June 18-21, 2006
Building Visual Behavior for CVI Students;
Birmingham, AL

June 22-25, 2006
National Braille Challenge Invitational;
Los Angeles, CA

June 25-July 1, 2006
Camp Abilities;
Brockport, NY

June 29-30, 2006
Workshop with the Experts;
Las Cruces, NM

July

July 1-7, 2006
National Federation of the Blind (NFB);
Dallas, TX

July 8-15, 2006
ACB 2006 (American Council of the Blind-45th Annual Convention);
Jacksonville, FL

July 15-17, 2006
American Association of Home Based Early Intervention;
Norcross, GA

July 14-19, 2006
International AER;
Snowbird, UT

July 26-July 28, 2006
AR Special Show;
Hot Springs, AR

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PBS Show Has APH Connection

Rob Keefe, son of APH Vice President of Development Don Keefe, co-hosts a popular PBS series called "Real Simple." The weekly half-hour show, which takes its name from the award-winning magazine of the same name, offers strategies to help make your busy life easier and better.

Rob, who also writes for the magazine version of "Real Simple," is a New York based actor who appears in national commercials, as well as providing radio and TV voice-overs.

Rob is shown here with co-hosts Cydnee Welburn and Brooke Alexander.

For more information, visit www.pbs.org/realsimple/about.html

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Introducing "Your Way" -- Let Us Know How You Use APH Products

Share your knowledge and expertise about APH products with "Your Way: Sharing How You Use APH Products." Your Way is a new feature of the APH website that lets you make comments about a highlighted product of the month.

Easy instructions show you how to leave comments containing your tips, tricks, techniques, alternate uses, or other helpful information about using APH products in your particular situation. Your comments will be archived in the Fred's Head Companion and Fred's Head Database for others to access in the future.

This month we are featuring the APH Light Box. Do you have a unique use for this classic APH low vision training product? Let others know by using "Your Way."

Note that you can leave comments about any APH product by using the APH Products Forum.

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Living with CHARGE: How to Deal with Challenging Behaviors and Enhance Communication: A Follow-up Study of Individuals with CHARGE Syndrome

1-31003-00 -- $40.00
Not available with Federal Quota funds.

By Dr. Jan van Dijk and Dr. Cathy Nelson

Children with CHARGE Syndrome often have a multitude of physical, sensory, endocrinological, and developmental problems. This CD-ROM presents a video on the medical aspects of CHARGE Syndrome, and teaches the viewer to observe and analyze the behavior of five children with CHARGE through the use of video clips and a question/answer section. Numerous overviews of articles by Dr. van Dijk and others are included.

Requirements to Run CD

• Windows® 95, 98, 2000, ME, or Windows NT 4 or later
• Pentium® processor
• 16 MB RAM
• CD-ROM drive
• 640 x 480, 256-color display (higher resolution and color depth recommended)
• Sound Blaster®-compatible sound card

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APH Braille Book Corner

Summer of the Sea Serpent: Magic Tree House Book 31
by Mary Pope Osborne: T-N1539-70 -- $17.50
The magician Merlin sends Jack and Annie back in time where they are reunited with boy sorcerer Teddy, transformed into seal people, and discover an old sword. (*AR#76983, RL3.8, Points 1.0)

Wild Turkeys: Returning Wildlife
by John E. Becker: T-N1563-60 -- $12.50
Describes the wild turkey of North America, its near extinction and successful comeback, as well as the ongoing efforts to preserve this species. (AR#64864, RL8.2, Points 1.0)

Lucas
by Kevin Brooks: T-N1540-30 -- $90.00
Local bullies accuse sixteen-year-old drifter Lucas of rape, setting off a tragic turn of events. For senior high readers due to some violence and strong language. (*AR#71259, RL 4.7, Points: 14.0)

Love's Proof
by Catherine Palmer: T-N1536-10 -- $71.50
Jane Fellowes, descendant of Sir Isaac Newton, discovers a mysterious box of papers that may establish scientific proof of the existence of God. (Adult Fiction)

Francisco Goya
by Evan S. Connell: T-N1540-50 -- $74.50
Traces the life and career of Spanish painter Francisco Goya during the last days of the House of Bourbon, the turmoil of the Inquisition, and Napoleon's invasion. (Adult Non-fiction)

*Accelerated Reader number, reading level, and point value. For more information on the Accelerated Reader program, see the January APH News or www.renlearn.com/ar/

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Correction

In the new Products Catalog 2006-2007 the following note should have appeared on page 165:
Please Note: the duPont books are not available using Federal Quota dollars.

APH News Credits

President:
Dr. Tuck Tinsley
ttinsley@aph.org

Designer:
Malcolm Turner, APH Web Site Coordinator
webmaster@aph.org

Thanks to the following APH staff:

• Cindy Amback, Support Specialist, Field Services
• Sandi Baker, Field Services Representative
• Janie Blome, Director, Field Services
• Scott Blome, Director, Communications
• Maria Delgado, Field Services Representative
• Mike Hudson, Museum Director
• Don Keefe, Vice President, Development
• Elaine Kitchel, Low Vision Project Leader, Research
• Nancy Lacewell, Director, Government and Community Affairs
• Steve Mullins, Braille Proofreading and Studio Supervisor
• Becki Moody, Support Specialist, Communications
• Julia Myers, Director, Resource Services
• Artina Paris-Jones, Assistant, Field services
• Larry Skutchan, Technology Project Leader, Research
• Debbie Willis, Director, Accessible Tests

Editor:
Bob Brasher, Vice President, Advisory Services and Research
bbrasher@aph.org

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For additional recent APH News, click the following:
April Issue - www.aph.org/advisory/2006adv04.html
March Issue - www.aph.org/advisory/2006adv03.html
February Issue - www.aph.org/advisory/2006adv02.html

Archive of all previous issues - www.aph.org/advisory/advarch.html

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Thank you.

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