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August 2010 Great Possibilities
LATAN Monthly E-Newsletter
Greetings!
LATAN assists individuals of all ages with all types disabilities to achieve a higher quality of life and greater independence through increased access to Assistive Technology as part of their daily lives. LATAN is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit statewide entity funded in part by Federal AT Act Grant, State Appropriations, public and private foundation grants, and via generous donations.

In its effort to reach as many individuals across Louisiana as possible, LATAN has implemented this monthly electronic communication newsletter service to keep consumers, caregivers, educators, therapists, supporters and all Louisiana citizens informed of LATAN's programs, activities and services for individuals with disabilities.

Dragon Naturally Speaking
  Dragonpicture
This "speech recognition software" allows the user to speak into a microphone that simultaneously "types" the words. The user is also able to control computer functions, such as opening documents and running programs, by using their voice. This product is available for demonstration and loan at both the Baton Rouge and Shreveport offices. Please contact us for details and to schedule an appointment.


Baton Rouge:
Contact- Josh Miller
Phone: 225-925-9500
E-mail: jmiller@latan.org

Shreveport:
Contact- Susie Stewart
Phone: 318-841-1548
E-mail: sstewart@latan.org

LATAN Open House - Save the Date!
  Wednesday, September 8, 2010: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
LATAN will host an Open House of the South Louisiana Device Demonstration Center on Wednesday, September 8, 2010 from 2:00pm-4:00pm at our Baton Rouge office located at 3042 Old Forge Drive.

During this time, we will demonstrate the various devices and equipment we have available.

To confirm your attendance, please email:
Josh Miller: jmiller@latan.org

Maria Yiannopoulos: mariay@latan.org
Call: (800) 270.6185 (Voice/TT)

Get Prepared for Emergencies!
  Purchase the DVD and Prepare in Your Own Home EPDVDcover
Whether you have a disability or not, LATAN's Emergency Preparedness DVD is a must-have! The DVD is fully accessible with American Sign Language, Open Captioning, and some Audio Description. For more information, call us TODAY at 800.270.6185 (V/TT) or click on link below.

©2009 LATAN DVD. Portions TM & ©2007 by EAD & Associates, LLC. Further reproduction prohibited without prior written permission.

Save $$ - Buy Gently-Used AT!
  LATAN's AT ReUtilization Programs Help You! Modifiedvanforsale
LATAN wants to raise awareness of the importance of re-utilizing Assistive Technology - It saves money, helps people, and keeps our planet greener! Spotlighted below are two gently-used AT devices for lower-cost sale.





Modified Van
2001 Dodge Grand Caravan with IMS Ramp conversion
NEW lower asking price: $12,500 - HUGE savings!
Call Dave at 318-397-2294

Power Chair
Jazzy Pride Electric Wheelchair
Asking price: $1,700 (Original price: $4,000)
Call Seller at 225.252.4775

LATAN is Accepting Nominations for Annual Awards Event
  Nominate Your Champion of Assistive Technology
Nominations are now being accepted for LATAN's 13th Annual Champions of Assistive Technology and Universal Design Awards. These are individuals or entities whose work has helped increase access to assistive technology and/or helped expand the awareness and implementation of universal design principles.

The honorees will be recognized on December 2, 2010, from 11:00 am-1:00pm, at Juban's Restaurant in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Please complete the form below, select the category for your nominee and return to our office. We also ask that you please email a photograph of your nominee to mariay@latan.org

Need to Purchase a Modified Van? See if LATAN can help...
  Business Man Loan
With over $3.5 million in lending experience we can help you bridge the funding gap. Call us today to discuss your needs!

Contact LATAN to receive a loan application and information packet describing our Financial Loan Program and how you can take advantage of our low interest rates! 1.888.811.6672 (Voice/TT)

FREE Demonstration Workshop: Tuesday, August 24th
  Dynamic Communication Creates A Dynamic Thinker
Don't Miss Out! Attend this workshop on Tuesday, August 24, 6:00pm-7:30pm at The Dunham School Library in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to learn how something as basic as changing the way you talk to your child can create neurological differences that lead to more dynamic thinking. Demonstrations will teach strategies that you can take home and use tomorrow. Time will be allotted for video clips and Q/A after the presentation.

Stacy Levy, one of the two RDI Certified Consultants in Louisiana, will facilitate the session. Ms. Levy has specialized in the field of Autism since 2002. She may be reached via email: StacyLevy@connectingforcommunication.com or phone (225) 302-8228.

New Ad Council TV, President Obama Encourage Public to Do More
  Support Americans Living with Disabilities
To coincide with the twentieth anniversary of the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), President Obama is joining the Ad Council and the American Association of People with Disabilities to launch a new series of television and radio public service advertisements (PSAs).

These PSA's celebrate the progress that has been made during the last two decades, and remind the public that there is still a lot of work to do to ensure that all Americans have equal opportunity and full participation in this country. Check them out on your local stations soon!

Outstanding Board Member of the Quarter
  Katie Eckert Recognized for Her Leadership Efforts Katie Photo
At their August 17 meeting, LATAN recognized Board member Katie Eckert as the Outstanding Board Member of the Quarter. Katie, Chair of LATAN's Public Policy Committee, was applauded for her leadership and for her efforts on behalf of LATAN during this year's state legislative session. Katie commended her committee and the volunteers who gave their time and energy to LATAN.

Pictured with Katie are: Ron Blereau, LATAN Board Chair and Jim Parks, LATAN Board Vice-Chair.

AT Accessibility Awareness Week
  LATI Centers for Regions 1,2&3
In celebration of the Governor's proclamation of Accessibility Awareness Week the Regions 1, 2 and 3 Assistive Technology Centers have partnered with Southeastern Louisiana University to host an Assistive and Education Technology Exhibitor Showcase. Company representatives will be available to demonstrate products and answer questions about software and equipment.

Date & Location:
September 10, 2010
Southeastern Louisiana University
Charles E. Cate Conference Room, 2nd Floor
Hammond, Louisiana

Time:
9:00am-1:00pm

LATAN On Facebook - Become a Fan!
  Facebook logo
LATAN has its own Facebook page as a means to keep our consumers, friends and supporters aware of Assistive Technology activities, programs and services.

We invite you to sign up (it's free) and share your information and events that assist all individuals who live with a disability.

 

Louisiana Assistive Technology Access Network

phone: (800) 270.6185 (V/TT)
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