January 13, 2003 (Vol 3, Issue, 3)

In This Issue:

UPCOMING EVENTS

1. GSA to Conduct Trainings Nationwide in 2003
2. GSA to Promote AT through monthly presentations by AT Vendors
3. GSA Expo 2003
4. Accessibility Forum 2003
5. ATIA 2003
6. TTY and VoIP: Critical Steps for Implementation
7. FOSE Expo and GCN Management Conference @ FOSE
8. Training: Creating Accessible Websites
9. ITTATC Releases Toolkit
10. ITTATC to invite Trainers to Network
11. ITTATC to present at CSUN
12. ITTATC to present at Telephony Voice Interface Conference in San Diego

PAST EVENTS

1. Web Seminars at Your Desk

ARTICLES

1. World Wide Web Consortium Issues User Agent Accessibility Guidelines 1.0 as a W3C Recommendation
2. NFB Nonvisual Accessibility Web Certification
3. An Introduction to Accessible Web Design
4. Designing Web Pages for Accessibility
5. Voluntary National Standard for Accessible Digital Instructional Materials to be Developed
6. Macromedia Director MX Contains Unprecedented Accessibility Support
7. Voice Mouse Turns Silent Computer Screens into "Talkies"
8. Verizon Grant Aids Literacy for the Blind
9. Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation Announces $600,000 in Grant Awards for Youth with Disabilities
10. Development of Human Language Technologies
11. Berlitz Talks on Mobile Phones

NOTABLE CASES:/ LEGISLATION

1. E-Government Act of 2002

FOR YOUR ACTION

1. FCC
1. Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau Announces an Extension of Time to File Reply Comments on the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) Rules
2. Request for Exemptions from FCC's Closed Captioning Rules
3. FCC Announces Rechartering of Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC)

RESOURCES

1. Section 508 Awareness CD
2. Links to Federal Agency Public URL's on Section 508 Guidance
3. Panasonic Feature Helps People Who Are Blind Or Visually Impaired Enjoy Television Programs
4. Panasonic Introduces more Accessibility Features in its 2003 Cordless Telephone Line
5. Tech Almanac

UPCOMING EVENTS

1.GSA TO CONDUCT TRAININGS NATIONWIDE IN 2003

The General Services Administration (GSA) will conduct training sessions across the U.S. in 2003. The training is for new GSA Associates, and will include, among other things, GSA work on 508. The first four GSA regions that will receive the training are: Atlanta, Denver, San Francisco and Chicago. The trainings will take place in the first quarter of 2003--in February, 2003. Brochures on Section 508 are included in the orientation packets for all new GSA hires across the U.S.

Please check the website to find out dates/times for more information http://www.section508.gov/.

2. GSA to Promote AT through monthly presentations by AT Vendors

GSA will start monthly Vendor presentations, starting with those vendors on the GSA schedule. The first training is scheduled for the week of December 9, 2002. The training will be held in the GSA Accessible Technology Center [AT Center] at GSA main building on F Street in downtown DC. Each month, one vendor will give presentations on how their product(s)helps a particular disability.

The purpose of this training is to give the vendors a chance to showcase their newest, hottest tech products. They will focus on a different disability every month, and explain how the technology of that month's showcased vendor helps or provides accommodation for that disability. These presentations are open to interested parties, including members of the general public.

For more information, please check the website to find out dates/times for more information http://www.section508.gov/ or you may contact Marilyn Estep, GSA Center for IT Accommodation, at 202-501-3322; marilyn.estep@gsa.gov.

3.GSA EXPO 2003
Harry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
San Antonio, TX
May 6-8, 2003
http://www.gsa.gov/Portal/content/event_content.jsp?contentOID=120371&contentType=1001

This is GSA's biggest customer outreach event of the year! Admission is FREE to all federal and military personnel. This is a combined Training Conference and Product Expo. There will be over 100 hours of training courses. Some examples of courses include: GSA Advantage! (Basic and Advanced), Awarding and Administering MAS Orders, e-Buy, Security Solutions, and Transportation Audits. The Expo will include a large exhibit area that will also showcase the products and services of over 700 commercial companies, all with GSA contracts.

FEDERAL CUSTOMERS: The Expo Web site is now open. Access the URL to get all the details on the Expo, including the three-day schedule, and to register. Lodging arrangements, at per diem, and conference rates in San Antonio are also included.

GSA COMMERCIAL PARTNERS: Booth sales are now open. You must have a current GSA contract in order to exhibit. Non-exhibiting vendors may attend, but there is a fee. Details are provided under the exhibitor tab on the Expo site.

To receive a booth application, contact the business development office in the GSA acquisition center where your contract is administered, or you can send an e-mail to jovita.williams@gsa.gov, and include your GSA contract number.

4. ACCESSIBILITY FORUM 2003
Cupertino, CA
February 24-26, 2003
http://www.accessibilityforum.org/meetings/feb2003/announcement.html

Announcing the Accessibility Forum meeting hosted by Apple Corporation in Cupertino, California, February 24 - 26, 2003. As we have for past meetings, we expect to broadcast plenary sessions via Webcast. We will begin first thing Monday morning and conclude at the end of the day Wednesday.
There is no registration fee to attend this conference.

For more information contact Accessibility Forum staff at 843-760-3310 or forumstaff@aticorp.org.

5. ATIA 2003
Radisson Hotel Orlando
Orlando, Florida
January 15-18, 2003
http://www.atia.org

ATIA 2003 serves as a leading forum for the Assistive Technology community to participate in presentations and discussions about new technology, practical applications, and services. Segments of the Assistive Technology industry (Augmentative and Alternative Communication; Blindness; Computer Access; Curriculum Adaptations; Deaf and Hard of Hearing; Electronic Aids to Daily Living; Games and Recreation; Learning Disabilities/Study Aids/Literacy; Low Vision; and Mechanical Accessories and Mounting Devices) will be represented in various presentations, demonstrations and/or exhibits. In addition, a hands-on lab will provide an opportunity to experiment with and evaluate the latest assistive technology devices and software available.

ATIA 2003 is for ANYONE in the Assistive Technology Community. At ATIA You Will Learn About Practical applications and uses of the current products, software and technology as they apply to areas such as Section 508, E&IT/Accessibility and Interoperability.

6. TTY AND VOIP: CRITICAL STEPS FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Live Web Conference
January 13, 2002
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM EST
www.atis.org

During this live web conference, Industry experts will focus on the critical technical issues surrounding the migration of Text Telephone (TTY) applications over Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) networks. This program will address industry concerns surrounding the compatibility of the two technologies; the legal requirements for TTY use for Local Exchange Carriers (LECs), Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLECs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs); and the challenges Standards Development Organizations (SDOs) are addressing; the possible scenarios where VoIP may affect a TTY call and the critical next steps for the communications industry.

To register, visit http://www.atis.org or contact Jim Willits at jwillits@atis.org.

7. FOSE EXPO AND GCN MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE @ FOSE
http://www.fose.com/

Date of Event: April 8-10, 2003
Location: New Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC

FOSE is the largest information technology exposition serving the government marketplace. Now in its 27th year, FOSE hosts over 400 exhibitors showcasing the newest and most exciting integrated IT products and services. FOSE draws thousands of high-level attendees from the military, civilian, state and local agencies, along with suppliers to government, corporate, education, and healthcare buyers.

Why you should ATTEND FOSE 2003:

• Interact with 400 top technology vendors such as Adobe, Apple, Dell, CDWG, GTSI, Hewlett-Packard, Microsoft, MicroWarehouse, Research in Motion, Verizon and more!
• Meet technology professionals who can answer all your technology questions
• Experience a hands-on opportunity to evaluate the best new IT products available
• Discover solutions to a specific mission-critical objective
• Learn about E-government, Homeland Security, Enterprise Architecture and more from industry professionals and technology leaders
• Expand your knowledge by attending FREE Educational Seminars given by Adobe and Microsoft
• Find the products and services needed to meet your organizational goals-E-government, Homeland Security, to Infrastructure, Enterprise Architecture, and CRM…
• Network with government peers and leaders from the public sector.

8. TRAINING: CREATING ACCESSIBLE WEBSITES
Education Leadership Team - New Media Center training
http://www.newmedia.gatech.edu/

Access the following URL to learn more about each of the offerings listed below, as well as how to register: http://www.newmedia.gatech.edu/schedule.htm.

1. Web Accessibility: Policy and Practice (1 Day)
   Next Offering: 1/15/03, 3/12/03, 6/4/03
   
   Description:
   Policy and Practice explores the fundamental issues of accessible Web design. We will examine the legal ramifications of non-compliance, Section 508 standards, validation of Web compliance, and much more. We will explore how to succeed (and fail) with Section 508.
   
   Training Objectives:
   Upon completion of this course the student should have a thorough understanding of:
   • Legal Ramifications or non-compliance
   • Disability Statistics
   • Section 508 & W3C Web Standards
   • Types of Assistive Technology
   • Retrofitting an Existing site for 508 Compliance
   • Accessibility Efforts - Content vs. Cost
   • Validating Web Sites
   • Meshing Form & Content for Success



2. Web Accessibility: Basic Techniques (1 Day)
   Next Offering: 1/16/03, 3/13/03, 6/5/03
   
   Description:
   Basic Techniques l applies essential processes for creating new accessible sites and retrofitting old ones. Hands on examples will reinforce learning of the primary techniques for accessible design.
   
   Training Objectives:
   Upon completion of this course the student should have a thorough understanding of:
   • Accessibility considerations
   • Retrofitting for 508 compliance
   • Separating content from structure
   • Dreamweaver’s built-in accessibility tools
   • Alternative content for graphics and media
   • Color & contrast
   • Image maps
   • HTML markup specifics
   • Cascading style sheets
   • Library items in Dreamweaver
   • Testing for accessibility



3. Web Accessibility: Advanced Techniques (1 Day)
   Next Offering: 1/17/03, 3/14/03, 6/6/03
   Description:
   Advanced Techniques teaches a design repertoire using advanced markup, cascading style sheets, audio and multimedia and more.
   
   Training Objectives:
   Upon completion of this course the student should have a thorough understanding of:
   • Advanced html markup for frames, tables & more
   • Keyboard short cuts & hot keys
   • Scripts
   • Advanced design practices & guidelines
   • Cascading Style Sheets - basic, positioning, grouping, custom classes, scripting interactivity
   • Forms
   • Audio, Video & Multimedia (Including: Macromedia Flash, Scripts, Plug-Ins & Applets, Adobe Acrobat 5.0 & more)
   • Browser compliance & cross-compatibility
   • Access board’s 16 standards for web access

9. ITTATC Releases Toolkit

ITTATC released its first version of a Toolkit for presenters to use when making presentations to general audiences about accessibility and E&IT. Sections include Implications of E&IT with disability, Accessible E&IT and the Law, an Overview of Section 508, Overview of Section 255, Disability Awareness and E&IT Barriers, Using Magpie, and Resource references. Additional tools will be added to subsequent releases.

This is a deliverable ITTATC has created for DBTACs, but it is available to other trainers or interested parties. If you would like to order your own copy of the Toolkit, please contact us at 866-948-8282 (v/tty).

10. ITTATC to invite Trainers to Network

ITTATC is inviting trainers across the country to join its new training network to reach audiences across the country r.e. accessible E&IT. ITTATC will reimburse trainers to attend a training orientation and will provide materials to them for their training events.

If you or someone you know would be interested, please contact Liz Marable at ITTATC, Liz.marable@ittatc.org, or call 866-948-8282 (v/tty).

11. ITTATC to present at CSUN

ITTATC will introduce the ITTATC Training Program being developed by ITTATC. The presentation will be held at 8a.m. on March 22nd. Please consult the CSUN conference schedule for location. For more details, call ITTATC at 866-948-8282 (v/tty).

12. ITTATC to present at Telephony Voice User Interface Conference in Scottsdale

“Serving the next 10% of your callers”

Many people with disabilities bump up against barriers of telephony users interfaces (TUIs). Designers, developers, and platform companies have two reasons to improve accessibility. First, the percentage of people with disabilities is increasing as the population ages and accessibility is mostly a subset of good usability. Second, new federal regulations require accessibility. This presentation will introduce you to the knowledge you need to make progress efficiently. You will learn what the disability categories are, how TUIs create unnecessary barriers, how Section 255 and Section 508 regulations affect you, and what your technical options are. For more information, http://www.kprinc.com/2001/pr037.htm.

Back to top

PAST EVENTS

1. WEB SEMINARS AT YOUR DESK
http://www.watchfire.com/news/seminararchives.asp

The following is a list of recordings of previously held seminars. These seminars are best experienced if you have a soundcard on your computer. Some seminars contain actual technology demonstrations, with voice commentary, that have not been captured by the recording technology. At these points simply skip to the next slide. Below is a sample of available seminars. Access the URL to link to any of these seminars and preview the full list.

1. An Introduction to WebQA for Bobby Customers
   
   WebQA is a website quality testing tool designed for small, medium, and departmental websites. WebQA assists with quality assurance by scanning and analyzing web content and producing detailed reports to help developers and quality assurance professionals pinpoint and fix content and interaction defects.
   
   WebQA scans your site and checks for more than 30 website problems and then generates reports on the following topics:
   • Content defects (like broken links)
   • Usability
   • Search engine effectiveness
   • Site inventory
   • Site maintenance
   • Corporate standards
   • Web accessibility!
   
   
2. What's New in WebXM 2.0
   
   WebXM, Watchfire's enterprise Website Management Solution, scans the largest and most complex web environments while analyzing the broadest set of site-related issues. Its content testing, analysis, and reporting capabilities enable organizations to identify quality, privacy, and accessibility issues across all web properties.
   
   WebXM 2.0 introduces a standalone web accessibility module designed to help organizations test their site's level of standards compliance, including the U.S. Government's Section 508 and the World Wide Web Consortium's (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). This release also introduces integration with leading content management systems through a new Web Service interface, and a fully documented Software Development Kit (SDK). Already able to scan and test websites with millions of pages, enhancements made to WebXM 2.0 further improve the product's enterprise performance and scalability.




3. WebQA 2.0 - What's New
   
   WebQA is a website quality testing tool designed for small to medium sized websites or departmental sites that require a content testing solution for individual developers or quality assurance engineers. Integrating the accessibility capabilities of Watchfire’s standalone website accessibility tool, Bobby, WebQA now includes the ability to scan for over 91 comprehensive accessibility checks, and tests for compliance with government standards, including the U.S. Government's Section 508.




4. Website Accessibility - Not Just a Government Issue
   
   This online seminar shows how we can help make your website accessibility-compliant.




5. Watchfire and Ripple Effects Interactive - Accessible Website Design
   
   Watchfire and Ripple Effects show how to make your website accessible without eliminating creativity, diluting your brand identity, or jeopardizing the significant investment you have made in your current web properties.

ARTICLES

1. WORLD WIDE WEB CONSORTIUM ISSUES USER AGENT ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES 1.0 AS A W3C RECOMMENDATION
December 17, 2002
http://www.w3.org/2002/12/uaag10-pressrelease

The User Agent Accessibility Guidelines themselves are at:
http://www.w3.org/TR/2002/REC-UAAG10-20021217/.

The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has issued the User Agent Accessibility Guidelines 1.0 (UAAG 1.0) as a W3C Recommendation, representing consensus among developers and the disability community on accessibility features needed in browsers and multimedia players used to access the Web. A W3C Recommendation indicates that a specification is stable, contributes to Web interoperability, and has been reviewed by the W3C Membership, who favor its widespread adoption.

"Web browsers and media players serve people as the front door to the Web. But when those tools aren't usable by people with disabilities, it's akin to locking the door and leaving no key," noted Tim Berners-Lee, W3C Director. "For the past five years, the technical and disability experts in the Web Accessibility Initiative have provided definitive guidelines for making accessible Web content and designing authoring software that does the same, automatically. With the announcement of the User Agent Accessibility Guidelines, developers have the specific guidance they need to make Web browsers and media players more useful to more people."

The Web has created unprecedented opportunities for people around the world to learn, work, shop, play, and communicate with others; and even more so for people with disabilities, who have frequently been excluded from many of these activities. Access to the Web for people with disabilities, however, presumes that Web developers choose accessible design over inaccessible design; these guidelines explain how to make accessible design choices when developing browsers and media players.

UAAG 1.0 is written for software developers, and addresses requirements such as accessibility of the user interface, rendering of accessibility information, and user choice in configuring browsers and media players. These guidelines also address interoperability of mainstream browsers and multimedia players with assistive technologies used by people with disabilities. UAAG 1.0 is third in a complementary set of Web accessibility guidelines which already include the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 1.0 (WCAG 1.0) and the Authoring Tool Accessibility Guidelines 1.0 (ATAG 1.0).

2. NFB NONVISUAL ACCESSIBILITY WEB CERTIFICATON

The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) has recognized the Maryland Department of General Services (DGS) as the first state agency in the nation to receive NFB's "Nonvisual Accessibility Web Certification"
December 9, 2002
http://www.dgs.state.md.us/press/2002/120902.htm

Dr. Marc Maurer, NFB President, praised DGS and Secretary Peta N. Richkus for "anticipating the accessibility needs of all blind people working in occupations where they will be doing business with the State." Maurer presented Secretary Richkus with the NFB's Accessibility Leadership Award in recognition of what he called "her exemplary commitment to information access for blind Marylanders."

"DGS is proud to be the first State agency in the nation to win NFB certification," said Secretary Richkus. "This certification shows DGS stands behind blind Marylanders' - in fact, blind Americans' - right to full and active participation on the Internet. We will continue to use information technology to make government services available to all our citizens 24/7."

The NFB certification program certifies Web sites and applications as accessible to blind people when using talking screen access technology. Certification indicates that the site meets technical specifications of accessibility and allows blind users to perform all functions on the site. More importantly, certifications means usability of the site by the blind is equivalent to usability by the sighted.

For more information about the Certification program http://www.nfb.org/seal/intro.htm.

3. AN INTRODUCTION TO ACCESSIBLE WEB DESIGN
SitePoint Tribune #223 HTML Newsletters
December 2, 2002
By Nigel Peck
http://www.webmasterbase.com/article.php/952

Accessibility in Web design addresses the issue of creating Websites that are accessible to all users, regardless of physical ability or the way in which they use the Internet.

This article discusses the concepts surrounding accessible Web Design, the current initiatives to increase the accessibility of Websites, and the guidelines that you can use to make your site more accessible.

4. DESIGNING WEB PAGES FOR ACCESSIBILITY
December 2, 2002
By William Matthews
http://www.fcw.com/fcw/articles/2002/1202/mgt-access-12-02-02.asp

Jakob Nielsen is trying to get web designers to make web pages accessible by making it easier for people to do the right thing. This is the idea behind new software Nielsen of Nielsen Norman Group has created with accessibility experts at UsableNet.

Nielsen, who urged government Web designers not to build Web sites around a picture of the agency secretary, but instead to concentrate on making agency information and transactions easy for people to find and use, now wants designers to focus on designing pages everyone can use, even people with disabilities.

To make it easier to design accessible web pages, Nielsen and UsableNet have created LIFT-Nielsen Norman Group edition, a new version of UsableNet's Web designing LIFT software. The software is an extension to Macromedia Inc.'s Dreamweaver.

The new software incorporates accessibility into Web page design so that as designers are creating pages, the software reminds them of accessibility rules, alerts them to accessibility mistakes and offers suggestions for making corrections. "There's a large number of things you've got to remember" when creating an accessible Web page, Nielsen said. The new version of LIFT does the remembering for the designer.

Still, this is not a fully automated solution, according to the Nielsen Norman Group. Only humans can judge whether a design has a usability problem, the company says on its Web site. Nielsen's entry into the accessibility arena is encouraging, said Doug Wakefield, access specialist and an Internet expert for the U.S. Access Board, which oversees accessibility.

Although Section 508's accessibility requirements apply only to federal executive branch agencies, Nielsen's usability work has had a much broader impact. Nielsen's involvement could help push accessibility into the mainstream, said Beth Archibald, a Web usability expert.

5. VOLUNTARY NATIONAL STANDARD FOR ACCESSIBLE DIGITAL INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS TO BE DEVELOPED
Source: U.S. Department of Education
November 18, 2002
http://www.distance-educator.com/dnews/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=7970

National File Format Initiative:
http://www.cast.org/ncac/NationalFileFormat3138.cfm

The U.S. Department of Education has awarded $199,911 to the National Center on Accessing the General Curriculum (NCAC) at the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) in Wakefield, Mass., to develop a voluntary national file format for the electronic transmission of instructional materials for students who are blind and students with other disabilities.

The creation of a standard file format is of significant importance to students, educators, publishers, technology specialists and advocacy groups, according to Robert H. Pasternack, assistant secretary for special education and rehabilitative services.

"It is critical for a uniform format to be established in order to coordinate the efforts of various groups interested in providing accessible instructional materials to states, schools, educators, and students," Pasternack said. "Since there is not yet agreement regarding the optimal file format standard for all students, a national voluntary standard would provide a baseline for future development and enhancements."

CAST, in consultation with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) at the Department of Commerce, will convene an advisory panel of publishers, disability advocates, assistive technology developers, producers of curriculum materials for students with disabilities, data transformation experts and state representatives.

The panel will develop recommendations for a set of technical specifications for accessible instructional materials, a timeline for the implementation of the proposed standard, and a process for assessing the success of standards implementation. The secretary will provide an opportunity for public comment on the proposed standard through a notice in the Federal Register.

The project is intended to improve access to the general education curriculum in a timely manner for students with disabilities. It is particularly important to students who are blind or print disabled and in need of textbooks in Braille or other alternative formats.

Funds for the project will come from the Office of Special Education Programs within Pasternack's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services.

6. MACROMEDIA DIRECTOR MX CONTAINS UNPRECEDENTED ACCESSIBILITY SUPPORT
Macromedia Inc. News
November 25, 2002
http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/021125/sfm039_1.html

Macromedia Inc. News announced unprecedented accessibility support in Macromedia Director MX. Director MX contains features that simplify the process of creating new or repurposing existing applications to adhere to government accessibility guidelines and industry standards.

Accessibility leaders and developers praised the accessibility strides made by Macromedia Director MX. Director MX enables developers to create self-voicing applications that don't require assistive technologies such as screen readers. In addition, easy to use drag-and-drop accessibility behaviors can control speech and tab ordering, and enable captioning of spoken words.

"With the availability of Macromedia Director MX, all of the Macromedia MX authoring tools will support accessibility to ensure rich applications and content created with our software are accessible to people with disabilities," said Bob Regan, accessibility product manager, Macromedia. "We are proud of the work we have done with community leaders to ensure the development of accessible content is practical, given that the need for this content is so crucial."

7. VOICE MOUSE TURNS SILENT COMPUTER SCREENS INTO "TALKIES"
News Factor
November 19, 2002
http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/nf/20021119/tc_nf/20022

Seventy-odd years after Mickey -- the world's first mouse with a voice -- made his debut in "Steamboat Willie," an Israeli-American technology firm has introduced the world's first "voice mouse." The new hands-free navigation tool promises to turn the last silent screens on the planet, computer monitors, into "talkies" that respond to the spoken word.

Designed to enhance the accessibility of the most important communications tool in a generation, the personal computer, the Commodio QPointer HandsFree enables users to voice-navigate the Internet, write and send e-mail, create and edit documents, and navigate the entire Windows environment. Users "touch any object on a computer screen by voice, similarly to the way a person uses a mouse," said Commodio president Ramy Metzger.

Powered by a Microsoft speech recognition engine and Commodio's proprietary technology, the QPointer allows users to point at screen objects by saying the names of words or toolbar buttons.

With the cursor in position, users voice mouse commands, such as "double-click," or "right-click." Individuals with limited use of arms or hands can operate a computer using the QPointer -- and they represent a growing market Commodio wants to accommodate, chief technology officer Leonid Brailovsky told NewsFactor.

"We found that there exists an accessibility gap. New populations, such as disabled and senior people, are entering the circle of computer users, and there are no adequate means for them to access the computer," Brailovsky explained.

8. VERIZON GRANT AIDS LITERACY FOR THE BLIND
http://www.verizonreads.net/partners/afb.asp

In the fall of 2002, with the support of Verizon, the American Foundation for the Blind kicked off the National Campaign for Literacy, Textbooks, Transcribers and Technology to promote the new career of Braille Textbook Transcriber. The career is a community college-certified profession that can be performed from virtually anywhere computer access is available.

Verizon is providing major funding for the three-year campaign with a grant from the Verizon Foundation. The campaign will help ensure that blind or visually impaired schoolchildren receive their textbooks at the same time as their sighted peers. Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind person to summit the world's seven tallest peaks, including Mt. Everest, has joined Verizon as the Literacy Champion for this campaign.

9. MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC AMERICA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES $600,000 IN GRANT AWARDS FOR YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES
November 20, 2002
http://www.meaf.org/pressrel.html

The Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation announced $496,000 in national "Starfish" grants to nine projects across the United States serving young people with disabilities. An additional $100,000 will be given in matching grants and matching gifts to organizations selected by Mitsubishi Electric US employees in the communities where they live and work. The Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation is dedicated to helping young people with disabilities, through technology, to maximize their potential and fully participate in society.

In carrying out this mission, the Foundation provides three types of grants: Starfish Grants for programs of national scope and impact, or for model projects that can be replicated at multiple sites; Matching Grants that supplement cash, products and employee volunteer time donated by Mitsubishi Electric US employees in their communities; and Starfish Matches that match individual employee donations to charitable organizations.

The new grants focus on using technology for employment training and placement. One new grant supports Project Search, which incorporates personal digital assistants in training young people with cognitive disabilities for competitive employment. Another new grant, Tech Mentoring Coast to Coast, funds a joint electronic mentoring project between two nonprofits that will prepare young people with disabilities for careers in the information technology field.

A number of the grants continue support for ongoing projects that apply emerging technologies to the needs of young people with disabilities. One grant will support the expansion of a project at Gallaudet University that is piloting the extensive use of visual technologies in teaching deaf students. Another provides a third year of funding for the Pitt Crew Robot Project conducted by the Tech-Link Program in Pittsburgh, which helps high school students with disabilities to develop high-level design and engineering skills. Several grants - including the Starfish Troops project of the Girl Scout Council of the Nation's Capital and the Congressional Internship Program of the American Association of People with Disabilities - promote individual achievement and leadership development among youth with disabilities.

"Technology is an important tool for everyone," says Rayna Aylward, executive director of the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation. "But for young people with disabilities, it can be a lifeline. We are proud to support these outstanding organizations in their efforts to extend that lifeline to youth across the country."

The Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation, based in the Washington, DC area, was established in February 1991 by Mitsubishi Electric Corporation of Japan and the Mitsubishi Electric US Group Holdings, which produce, sell and distribute a wide range of consumer, industrial, commercial and professional electronics products. With a current endowment of $18 million, the Foundation has contributed nearly $5 million to organizations assisting young Americans with disabilities to lead fuller and more productive lives.

For a detailed list of recipients, access: http://www.meaf.org/pressrel.html#new.

10. DEVOLOPMENT OF HUMAN LANGUAGE TECHNOLOGIES
http://www.fasil.co.uk/fasil.htm

The European Commission has awarded a multi-million Euro research grant - one of its largest ever - to a group of academics, technology companies and sensory impairment charities to design a 'virtual personal assistant' accessible to everyone with a mobile phone. The 'FASiL' project ('Flexible and adaptive spoken language and multi-modal interface' is to receive 3.5 million Euros from the commission over two years, with a further 2.9 million Euros to be provided by the research group members. The consortium is led by UK language technology company Vox Generation along with fellow language specialist SpeechWorks; Portugal Telecom; consultancy Cap Gemini Ernst & Young; the MIT Media Lab research organisation; and charities RNIB and RNID.

At the end of two years the group hopes to have developed a prototype system allowing people to access email, voicemail, calendar and address book functions over a mobile phone using either natural everyday speech or visual cues alone. According to Keith Gladstone, head of technology research at the RNIB, his charity's 200,000 pound contribution and that of the RNID will enable the organisations to influence the development of the new technology. As well as potentially benefiting those with sensory impairments FASiL is aimed at a number of industries including the automotive industry for in-car use; call centres; and banks.

Though the project is not intended to produce a product ready for commercial release, the commercial partners are hoping to market the technology at some stage. Gladstone said the RNIB would aim to ensure any commercial outcome also caters for the needs of visually impaired people.

11. BERLITZ TALKS ON MOBILE PHONES
Bloomberg News
December 3, 2002
http://www.broward.com/mld/browardherald/business/national/4651707.htm

PRINCETON, NJ - Berlitz International and closely held Airborne Entertainment agreed to offer language and culture lessons over mobile telephones. Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed. Mobile-phone users will be able to receive alerts for words and phrases, cultural tips and travel information adapted from Berlitz's pocket guides, the Princeton-based company said.

Lessons in French, Italian, German and Spanish will be available immediately to wireless-phone customers of Verizon Communications, Berlitz spokeswoman Tammy Palazzo said. The company is using the lessons primarily to build awareness of its brand, she said.

Verizon customers will pay 2 cents per message received or sent, $2.99 for 100 messages or $7.99 for 600, said Verizon spokesman Jeffrey Nelson. Airborne, which distributes games and entertainment over wireless phones, provides Verizon with sports scores from The Associated Press' AP Digital news service and 20 types of alerts from Airborne's Pocket Box Office.

Airborne expects to add other carriers for the Berlitz lessons in coming months, President Andy Nulman said, adding that AT&T, Cingular Wireless and Sprint have the telephone-alert systems used for the lessons. Berlitz is owned by Benesse Corp., a Japanese educational-services company.

Back to top

NOTABLE CASES:/ LEGISLATION

1. E-GOVERNMENT ACT OF 2002

President Signs E-Government Act
White House Press Release
December 17, 2002
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2002/12/20021217-5.html

On December 17, 2002, the President signed into law H.R. 2458, the "E-Government Act of 2002." This legislation builds upon the Administration's expanding E-Government initiative by ensuring strong leadership of the information technology activities of Federal agencies, a comprehensive framework for information security standards and programs, and uniform safeguards to protect the confidentiality of information provided by the public for statistical purposes. The Act will also assist in expanding the use of the Internet and computer resources in order to deliver Government services, consistent with the reform principles I outlined on July 10, 2002, for a citizen-centered, results-oriented, and market-based Government.


CNET Article
December 17, 2002
http://news.com.com/2100-1023-978297.html

The E-Government Act of 2002 is intended to foster more effective and efficient electronic communication among government agencies and with government employees and the public. The bill creates an Office of Information, within the Office of Management and Budget, which is directed by a federal chief information officer. Groups such as the Information Technology Association of America supported the bill and said its passage relatively soon after the September 11 attacks--which highlighted breakdowns in government systems--was coincidental. The bill also won support from privacy groups, which typically are opposed to measures that facilitate greater and easier gathering and sharing of personal information among government agencies.


From ITTATC:

Important provisions of the Act--
(e) The Administrator shall work with the Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs and with other offices within the Office of Management and Budget to oversee implementation of electronic Government under this chapter, chapter 35, the E-Government Act of 2002, and other relevant statutes, in a manner consistent with law, relating to--
     (6) accessibility of information technology for persons with disabilities; and
     (13) Assist Federal agencies, including the General Services Administration, the Department of Justice, and the United States Access Board in--
          (A) implementing accessibility standards under section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794d)

Back to top

FOR YOUR ACTION

1. FCC

1. CONSUMER & GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS BUREAU ANNOUNCES AN EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILE REPLY COMMENTS ON THE TELEPHONE CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT (TCPA) RULES
   December 20, 2002
   http://www.fcc.gov/
   
   Reply Comments Date: January 31, 2003
   
   On September 18, 2002, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) and Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O) seeking comment on whether it should revise any of its rules that restrict telemarketing calls and unsolicited faxes and, if so, how. When the NPRM was released, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) had proposed a number of amendments to its Telemarketing Sales Rule, but had not yet adopted rules based on its proposal. The NPRM noted that the FCC has the option to seek further comment to fully address the interplay between final FTC action and possible Commission action. On December 18, 2002, the FTC released an order establishing a national do-not-call registry and making other changes to its Telemarketing Sales Rule.
   
   To ensure that all interested parties have ample opportunity to comment on possible FCC action in light of the FTC’s recent order, the Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau (CGB) issues this Public Notice to extend the reply comment period until January 31, 2003. Comments should be filed consistent with the instructions provided in the NPRM, although commenters need only file comments in CG Docket 02-278.
   
   TO SUBMIT COMMENTS:
   ADDRESSES: Parties who choose to file comment by paper must file an original and four copies to the Commission's Secretary, Marlene H. Dortch, Office of the Secretary, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Room TW-A325, Washington, DC 20554. Comments may also be filed using the Commission's Electronic Filing System, which can be accessed via the Internet at www.fcc.gov/e-file/ecfs.html. In addition to filing comments with the Secretary, a copy of any comments on the information collections contained herein should be submitted to Les Smith, Federal Communications Commission, Room 1-A804, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554, or via the Internet to lesmith@fcc.gov and to Kim A. Johnson, OMB Desk Officer, Room 10236 NEOB, 725 17th Street, NW., Washington, DC, 20503 or via the Internet to Kim--A.-- Johnson@omb.eop.gov.
   
   For further information, contact Erica H. McMahon or Richard D. Smith, Policy Division, Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau, at (202) 418-2512.




2. REQUEST FOR EXEMPTION FROM FCC’S CLOSED CAPTIONING RULES
   December 24, 2002
   http://www.fcc.gov/
   
   Coastal Sportsman filed a petition for exemption from the closed captioning requirements, pursuant to Section 79.1 of the Commission’s rules, 47 C.F.R. § 79.1. The television program Coastal Sportsman is aired on The Outdoor Channel. Petitioner claims that compliance would impose an undue burden, as defined in Section 79.1(f) of the Commission’s rules, 47 C.F.R. § 79.1(f).
   
   Comments and oppositions are due within 30 days from the date of this public notice. Petitioner’s reply is due 20 days thereafter. Please place the case identifier, CSR 6052, on all filings.
   
   The petition is available for public inspection in the Commission’s Reference Information Center:
   445 12th Street, S.W.
   Washington, D.C. 20554
   202-418-7092
   
   The petition is also available to individuals with disabilities requiring accessible formats (electronic ASCII text, Braille, large print, and audiocassette) by contacting Brian Millin at (202) 418-7426 (Voice), (202) 418- 7365 (TTY), or by sending an email to bmillin@fcc.gov.




3. FCC ANNOUNCES RECHARTERING OF CONSUMER ADVISORY COMMITTEE (CAC)
   December 31, 2002
   http://www.fcc.gov/
   
   In this Public Notice, the Federal Communications Commission (“Commission”) seeks nominations for membership on its Consumer Advisory Committee (“Committee”), a federal advisory committee that addresses consumer issues within the jurisdiction of the Commission (formerly known as the Consumer/Disability Telecommunications Advisory Committee). Applications should be submitted in accordance with the procedures outlined below.
   
   The Commission established the Committee in November 2000 for the purpose of making recommendations regarding consumer issues within the jurisdiction of the Commission and to facilitate the participation of consumers (including people with disabilities and underserved populations, such as American Indians and persons living in rural areas) in proceedings before the Commission. See Public Notice (rel. Nov. 30, 2000), 15 FCC Rcd 23798, as published in the Federal Register (65 FR 76265, Dec. 6, 2000). On November 20, 2002, the initial Charter of the Committee terminated. The Charter was renewed for another two (2) year term, and the name of the Committee was changed to the Consumer Advisory Committee to better reflect its mandate and activities. The Committee is organized under, and will operate in accordance with, the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App. 2 (1988).
   
   
   MEMBERSHIP
   The Commission seeks applications from interested organizations, from both the public and private sectors, that wish to be considered for membership on the Committee. Selections will be made on the basis of factors such as expertise and diversity of viewpoints that are necessary to address effectively the questions before the Committee.
   
   Applicants should be recognized experts in their fields, including, but not limited to, consumer advocacy, disabilities, underserved populations (e.g., persons living in rural areas and tribal communities), telecommunications infrastructure and equipment, telecommunications services (including wireless), and broadcast/cable services.
   
   The number of Committee members will be established to effectively accomplish the Committee’s work. Organizations with similar interests are encouraged to nominate one person to represent their interests.
   
   Members must be willing to commit to a two-year term of service, should be willing and able to attend three (3) one-day meetings per year in Washington, D.C., and are also expected to participate in deliberations of at least one working group. The Commission is unable to pay per diem or travel costs.
   
   
   APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP/DEADLINE
   Applications should be received by the Commission no later than January 31, 2003, and should be sent to the Federal Communications Commission, Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau, Attn.: Scott Marshall, via e-mail at cac@fcc.gov, via facsimile at 202-418-6509, or via U.S. mail at 445 12th Street, S.W., Room 5A824, Washington, D.C. 20554.
   
   A specified application form is not required. However, applications should include the name of the organization, the representative’s name, the name of an alternate representative, title, address and telephone number, a statement of the interests represented and the issues of interest to the applicant, and a detailed description of the applicant's knowledge and qualifications to serve on the Committee. The application should further be supported by a statement indicating a willingness to serve on the Committee for a two year period of time; a commitment to attend three (3) one-day meetings per year in Washington, D.C. at the applicant’s own expense; and a commitment to work on at least one working group. Members will have an initial and continuing obligation to disclose any interests in, or connections to, persons or entities that are, or will be, regulated by or have interests before the Commission.
   
   
   FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
   CONTACT: Scott Marshall, Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 202-418-2809 (voice) or 202-418-0179 (TTY), smarshal@fcc.gov (e-mail).

RESOURCES

1. SECTION 508 AWARENESS CD
http://www.section508.gov/508awareness/

The Section 508 Awareness CD is now available online. This CD contains general Section 508 information for all employees, as well as a self-test and copies of the statute, accessibility standards, and relevant sections of the FAR.

This program was designed to provide you an overview of section 508 and how it affects you. It consists of three lessons, an Awareness Self-Assessment to check your understanding, and References. We recommend that you go through the lessons in order, then take the self-assessment.

Access the URL to learn more, as well as to download the CD.

2. LINKS TO FEDERAL AGENCY PUBLIC URL'S ON SECTION 508 GUIDANCE
http://www.section508.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=Content&ID=131

Links to Federal Agency Public URL's on Section 508 Guidance is available online.

3. FEATURE HELPS PEOPLE WHO ARE BLIND OR VISUALLY IMPAIRED ENJOY TELEVISION PROGRAMS

Panasonic Continues Expansion of Easy SAP Access on Remote Controls for Television and Video Products
www.panasonic.com/accessibility

Panasonic is continuing expansion of its single-button SAP (Second Audio Program) access feature, conveniently located on the remote controls of the majority of the company's television and video products. The SAP broadcast helps people who are blind or visually impaired enjoy television programs. The SAP function button is consistently located in the upper right hand corner of most Panasonic TV remote controls and is tactilely distinguished by three raised dots on the button surface. In 2002, Panasonic featured the easy-access SAP button on the remote controls of 46 different products, and will continue to incorporate this helpful feature in the remote controls of most 2003 stereo televisions, VCRs, combo products, (televisions with built-in VCRs, DVD players, or both) and DVD/VCR combos.

Television broadcasters use the SAP channel to simultaneously broadcast a second audio program * either a second language or video description service * which can be accessed from a television tuner. The video description service uses a narrator to describe a program's action and key visual elements, such as a character's movements, clothes, or body language, allowing people who are blind or visually impaired to enjoy more of the presentation's content. The descriptive voice-over is inserted in natural pauses in the program so as not to interfere with dialogue, music and sound effects. Many movies and TV programs are described, primarily as a result of the efforts of WGBH's National Center for Accessible Media, which developed Descriptive Video Service*.

Although most stereo TV tuners are capable of decoding SAP (mono tuners are not capable of decoding SAP), many require users to access the TV's different audio settings via an on-screen menu display, something that is difficult if not impossible for people who are blind or visually impaired. Panasonic's single-button SAP access design allows users to easily toggle back and forth between a broadcast's regular audio channel and the SAP audio channel, without having to navigate a visual, on-screen menu.

Panasonic's commitment to accessibility for consumers with disabilities is a natural extension of the business philosophy created by Konosuke Matsushita, founder of parent company Matsushita Electric Industrial Company, Ltd. He believed that a company is indebted to the society in which it operates, and is therefore responsible for giving back to the community. The benefits of technology should be readily available and abundant for all to enjoy. "We have been actively working on accessibility issues since 1990, and although there is still plenty of room for improvement, we are pleased with our progress so far," said Eugene Seagriff, Product Accessibility Manager for Panasonic.

Seagriff noted that amendments to Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, put into effect June 25, 2001, encouraged Panasonic and other manufacturers and marketers of computers, audio, video, and document imaging products, and telecommunications equipment to increase their focus on accessible products. Section 508 is a federal procurement regulation requiring U.S. government agencies to buy electronic and information technology products that are accessible to persons with disabilities. "Panasonic is very committed to helping the federal government comply with Section 508," commented Seagriff. "Features like Panasonic's SAP access button make our products the obvious choice in federal procurement."

Panasonic was the first to incorporate many accessibility features in its products. A few examples of products that have been enthusiastically received by people with disabilities are Panasonic cordless phones with Talking Caller ID, the Workio* line of multi-function, network-ready digital imaging products * which are wheelchair-accessible even with the finishing units installed, and the Allure* Wireless phone * the first TTY-compatible* wireless phone. Matsushita's Universal Design program helps ensure that accessibility and compatibility issues are kept in mind at every opportunity during the design process, promoting the development of new accessibility features and products each year.

Information about Panasonic accessibility programs and products is available at www.panasonic.com/accessibility. Consumers may contact Panasonic by e-mail at consumerproducts@panasonic.com, by phone at 800-211-7262 or by TTY* at 877-833-8855.

4. PANASONIC INTRODUCES MORE ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES IN ITS 2003 CORDLESS TELEPHONE LINE
www.panasonic.com/accessibility

Panasonic announces the expansion of accessibility features throughout its 2003 cordless telephone line. The company was recently honored by the Consumer Electronics Association's Innovations Award program for its model KX-TG2258S digital cordless telephone in the new Accessibility category. The phone includes several innovative features that assist people who are hearing impaired, visually impaired or blind.

The Innovations Award winning model KX-TG2258S and other Panasonic 2003 digital cordless phone models feature Talking Caller ID. Used in conjunction with the Caller ID* service that may be available through the local telephone company, this feature enables users to hear who is calling before they even pick up the phone. True text-to-speech software converts the incoming Caller ID data into sound, enabling the phone to actually speak the name of the party calling. The audible announcement is heard through a speakerphone on the handset as well as on the base unit, so users can hear who is calling anywhere they take the phone. There's no need for consumers to refer to the LCD, which also displays the caller's name and number, if they have difficulty reading the screen or if they have their hands full.

"Previously, this feature was available only on top-of-the-line cordless phones, " said Frank Lasorsa, Group Merchandising Manager for Panasonic's Communications/Home Office Products Division. "This year, it is featured in products starting at a suggested retail price of $79.95**."

To make telephone conversations easier to hear and understand, Panasonic's exclusive Voice Enhancer Technology analyzes the incoming speech signal and recreates most of the upper and lower frequency bands that are typically lost over normal telephone transmission. The recreation of more of the whole spectrum of the human voice improves audibility and voice quality. This feature is found in many Panasonic cordless phone models in the new 2003 line.

"In addition to the long range and excellent clarity offered by our cordless phones, we are very happy to announce that our 2003 line includes more innovative accessibility features in more models," said Lasorsa.

Other innovative features that are found throughout Panasonic's line are:

• Slow Talk (in models that include digital answering systems): Allows playback of messages left on an answering machine at 30% slower than normal speed, without changing the pitch of the voice.
• Handset locator: To help one find a misplaced handset, just push a button on the base unit and the handset will beep.
• Beep alert: The handset beeps when properly placed in its cradle for recharging.
• Buttons that are differentiated by size, shape and tactile marks, to make it easier to recognize and use features such as speed dial and redial.
• Visual ring indicator: An indicator lights up when the phone rings.
• Handset speakerphone: A speakerphone conveniently located on the handset enables users to conduct multiple-party conversations anywhere they take the handset.
• Lighted keypad: Provides enhanced visibility of the phone's buttons.
• Headset jack: Can be used to connect assistive listening devices.
TTY compatibility: TTYs, or tele-typewriters, are used by people who are deaf or hearing impaired to make and receive calls on their home phones. Users type their messages on a device which turns the letters into electrical signals for transmission over phone wires. When the signals reach their destination, they are converted back into letters, which appear on a display screen. This feature is also found in Panasonic's Allure* phone, the first TTY-compatible wireless telephone.
• Any Button Answer: To answer the phone, the user can push any keypad button on the handset without having to search for the "Talk" button.
• Large buttons: Model KX-TG2208B features large buttons on the handset that are twice the size of conventional keypad buttons found on cordless phones.

5. TECH ALMANAC
www.tech-amanac.com

Tech Almanac is what government and systems integrator buyers use to keep up-to-date on the latest technology tools and where to get them. Tech Almanac is packed with information on everything from enterprise software development to systems integration, plus the professional services that support government. Published in May, your message in Tech Almanac will reach 30,000 government IT buyers and solutions buyers in time to impact their decisions throughout the year. This targeted circulation is comprised of a select list from Government Computer News and Washington Technology magazines' BPA-audited subscribers.

For more information, please contact Sharon Somers at 202.772.5701 or ssomers@postnewsweektech.com or visit the TechAlmanac website: www.tech-amanac.com

Back to top