"The EnableLinker"
The E-zine Linking You to Canada's Disability Community.
December 2006 Volume 5 - Issue 12
=================================================================
Publisher: Canadian Abilities Foundation
Tel.: 416-923-1885
Fax: 416-923-9829
Visit us online at: www.abilities.ca
or e-mail: able@abilities.ca
=================================================================
Welcome to the December issue of The EnableLinker!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE CANADIAN ABILITIES FOUNDATION!
=================================================================
TABLE OF CONTENTS
=================================================================
1. Wit & Wisdom
2. News
3. Events
4. Website of the Month
5. The Abilities Magazine Forum
6. Classified Ads
7. Share this E-zine with Your Associates
8. Copyright Information
9. Subscribe and Unsubscribe Information
=================================================================
1. WIT & WISDOM
=================================================================
WIT:
Q: What do you get if you deep-fry Santa Claus?
A: Crisp Cringle.
WISDOM:
"My goal in life is to be as good of a person my dog already thinks I am."
- Unknown
Send jokes, favourite sayings and humorous, true disability-related
stories to able@abilities.ca
=================================================================
2. NEWS
=================================================================
** PLEASE SUPPORT THE CANADIAN ABILITIES FOUNDATION! **
If you aren't already subscribing to ABILITIES MAGAZINE, you're missing out on
tons of valuable information delivered to your door four times a year - and WE
NEED YOUR SUPPORT! The Winter 2006 issue of ABILITIES is available now. This
issue has exciting articles about wheelchair curling, travel in Greece, and a
guide to assistive technology. Subscribe or purchase a gift subscription for
just $14/1 year (4 issues) or $26/2 years (8 issues) for individuals and
$24/year or $34/two years for organizations and companies. For info, please
visit http://www.abilities.ca/abilities/subscribe.html .
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DISABLED PERSONS THEME IS E-ACCESSIBILITY
In 1992, to mark the end of the United Nations (UN) Decade of Disabled Persons,
the UN General Assembly proclaimed Dec. 3rd the International Day of Disabled
Persons. According to the UN, observance of this day offers the opportunity to
foster changes in attitudes towards persons with disabilities and eliminate
barriers to their full participation in all aspects of their lives. This year's
theme is E-Accessibility, which recognizes the importance of technology in the
lives of persons with disabilities, as well as the need to improve access to
information technology for persons with disabilities. For more info, visit
http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/enable/disiddp.htm .
STEPHEN FLETCHER INDUCTED INTO TERRY FOX HALL OF FAME
On Nov. 13, Conservative Member of Parliament Steven Fletcher was inducted into
the Terry Fox Hall of Fame. Read Senator David Tkachuk's congratulatory speech
to his fellow senators about this honour at
http://www.stevenfletcher.com/EN/3519/47454 .
BROADCASTERS WANT TO CHANGE ATTITUDES
The Canadian Association of Broadcasters has announced three major initiatives
to change social attitudes towards people with disabilities. These initiatives
include the launch of a Public Service Announcement campaign, entitled
"Open your Mind"; Release of Recommended Guidelines on Language and Terminology
- Persons with Disabilities: A Manual for News Professionals and Glossary
developed in consultation with RTNDA Canada; and a brochure on Employment
Opportunities in the Canadian Broadcasting and Affiliated Production Sector.
For more info, please visit
http://www.broadcastermagazine.com/issues/ISArticle.asp?id=62102&issue=11072006&btac=no
NEW PARTNERSHIP IN PEDIATRIC REHABILITATION RESEARCH
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and Bloorview Research
Institute have entered a partnership to advance multidisciplinary pediatric
rehabilitation research. Bloorview Children's Hospital Foundation is investing
a $1.5 million grant to support the research, with matching funds from CIHR.
According to Health Canada, 7.2 per cent of all Canadian children have some form
of disability or health- care need. For info about CIHR, visit
http://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca and for info
about Bloorview, visit http://www.bloorview.ca .
ONE FARE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Canadian Press reports a Canadian Transportation Agency panel was told that
people with disabilities who need to travel with an attendant and obese people
who need extra room aboard an airplane should only be required to pay a single
fare. While the principle of "one person, one fare" is in force on Canadian
buses, trains and ferries, the airline industry remains the only federally
regulated provider that forces people with disabilities to pay two fares, said
David Baker, legal counsel for the Council of Canadians with Disabilities.
Airlines claim they would suffer substantial losses if this were enforced. For
details, visit
http://www.cp.org/premium/ONLINE/member/National/061114/n1114113A.html
HELP FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSE ISSUES
The first and most important step for anyone looking for help with substance
use/misuse is to determine your individual goals and needs. What would you like
to achieve? What will you need in order to reach your goals? It is essential to
find a service provider who can meet your unique needs and goals. Ask questions
about their values and services so you'll know if it's the right approach for
you. The Access to Recovery project aims at increasing the supports and
resources available to people with disabilities who are seeking help with their
substance use. For more information about issues discovered so far, visit the
national projects section of http://www.cailc.ca or email substanceabuse@cailc.ca .
THOUSANDS OF CANADIAN KIDS TO GET FREE MEDICALERT BRACELETS
Children across Canada with serious medical conditions will soon have access to
free MedicAlert bracelets, under a national program launched in November.
MedicAlert bracelets highlight serious allergies and conditions, such as asthma
and diabetes, and medical personnel can contact a central registry for more
information. Normally, it costs at least $50 to sign up for the service, plus a
$39 a year renewal fee. But the Canadian MedicAlert Foundation says it will
waive the fees under its new "No Child Without" program to help kids aged 4 to
14 with asthma, diabetes or severe allergies. http://www.medicalert.ca
COMING UP IN DECEMBER...
December 1: World AIDS Day, http://www.cdnaids.ca
December 3: United Nations International Day of Disabled Persons, http://www.un.org
December 5: International Volunteer Day, http://www.worldvolunteerweb.org
December 10: Human Rights Day, http://www.un.org/events/humanrights/2006/
=================================================================
3. EVENTS
=================================================================
"Just Singin' Round 2006 Fundraising Event"
December 5, Vancouver, BC
The Self-Help Resource Association of B.C. invites you to this fun event.
Tickets: $20. For info, e-mail shra@telus.net .
"Workplace Education and Learning Conference"
December 5 to 6, Toronto, ON
Looking for ways to improve performance and productivity in your workplace? Join
experts from the US, UK, Europe, Australia, Canada and others to learn how you
can meet the global challenge of finding and developing employees. To find out
more, visit
http://www.conferenceboard.ca/education/conference/workplace2006
"Picasso PRO and Equity Showcase Theatre BYOC (cheer!)"
December 10, Toronto, ON
Join the group for an afternoon celebration from 2:30 to 5 p.m. To RSVP, e-mail
rose@picassopro.org .
"Grants 101: Professional Grant Proposal Writing Workshop"
December 13, Toronto, ON
This is an intensive and detailed introduction to the process, structure and
skill of professional proposal writing. $597 USD tuition includes all materials
and certificates. For info, visit http://www.thegrantinstitute.com .
"SATH 11th World Congress"
January 10 to 13, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.
Join the Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality for its annual event!
For details, http://www.sath.org .
"Critical Issues for Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum"
January 17 to 18, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.
This event takes place at Holiday Inn Cleveland West. Special parent price: 2
days for $160, 1 day for $95. For info, visit
http://www.spectrumtrainingsystemsinc.com .
"Women's Health Matters Forum & Expo"
January 19 to 20, Toronto, ON
An interactive, information consumer and health provider event providing fresh
perspectives and new information on hot issues in womenís health. $15 per day.
http://www.womenshealthmatters.ca
"8th Annual ATIA Conference"
January 24 to 27, Orlando, Florida, USA
For info about the Assistive Technology Industry Association's conference,
please visit http://www.atia.org .
"International Smiling Child Festival"
April 20 to 24, Istanbul
Turkiye Spinal Cord Injuries Association has organized this event with the
cooperation Istanbul Metropolis Municipality for children ages 7 to 15 from
around the world. For info, e-mail gamze@ofd.org.tr .
"2nd International Come To Your Senses Conference"
May 23 to 27, Toronto, ON
The focus of this conference is Opening the Sensory World to Children and Adults
with Complex Disabilities. Professionals, parents, caregivers, persons with
disabilities, researchers and consumers are invited to participate in
discussions and share and disseminate knowledge and experience from around the
world. Discounts for early registration. For more details, please visit
http://www.sensoryconference.ca .
"World Physical Therapy 2007"
June 2 to 6, Vancouver, BC
The World Confederation for Physical Therapy invites you to participate in its
15th International Congress, hosted by the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.
For details, please visit http://www.wcpt.org/congress/index.php .
"Festival of International Conferences on Caregiving, Disability, Aging and Technology"
June 16 to 19, Toronto, ON
FICCDAT will include five important conferences running concurrently as well as
many joint events. For more info about the conference or submitting an abstract,
please visit http://www.ficcdat.ca .
"TRANSED 2007 - 11th International Conference on Mobility and Transport for Elderly and Disabled Persons"
June 18 to 21, Montreal, QC
This conference will review advances in research, evoke international
breakthroughs and explore perspectives for technological innovations in order to
respond to the mobility challenges of an aging population and of persons with
disabilities. For info, visit http://www.tc.gc.ca/transed2007 .
If you'd like your event to be considered for The EnableLinker,
send an e-mail to:
able@abilities.ca
=================================================================
4. WEBSITE OF THE MONTH
=================================================================
http://www.willard-wigan.com/
Marvel at the micro-art of Willard Wigan, a young artist who has dyslexia.
=================================================================
5. THE ABILITIES MAGAZINE FORUM
=================================================================
In the Winter 2006 issue of ABILITIES, we welcome the following disability organizations and projects to the CAF Forum section.
The Belonging Initiative
Canadian Association of Independent Living Centres and
the Canadian Association for Community Living
Council of Canadians with Disabilities
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada
To read their articles, subscribe to ABILITIES or visit
http://www.abilities.ca/abilities/forum.html?showabilities=1
(look under each organization's name). To contribute to the Forum in the
Spring 2007 issue, please contact Ray Cohen at ray@abilities.ca .
=================================================================
6. CLASSIFIED ADS
=================================================================
** Advertise your product or service to people with an interest
in disability! To place an ad in this section, please e-mail
able@abilities.ca
$25 for 60 words. We accept VISA. **
FOR SALE
Accessibility Wheelchair Van available in Toronto area:
Green/gold, 2000 Chevy Astro Ext Model with 4-wheel drive! Looks
and drives great! Engine in great condition - runs smoothly!
Leather interior and fully loaded! Side entrance with power
hideaway lift. Optional driver controls and driver spinning seat.
200 km - selling certified and e-tested. Sacrifice - asking
$12,000 or best offer. Please call Mike at 416-606-3504.
####////####
KUTAWAYS, Coats designed to maintain the quality of living for
people in motion. Unique in style, comfortable, warm and
accessible! Sized for toddlers to seniors. Please visit
http://www.kutaways.com for more details.
####////####
Looking for an easier way to shop for assistive products? Try
http://www.access-r-ease.com, a new,
user-friendly web store that offers mobility accessories, dressing and grooming
aids, household helpers and more. The owner has multiple disabilities herself,
so she understands the need for affordable products that make everyday life
easier. See how access-r-ease can help!
####////####
Control a computer using only your eyes and communicate with
life-like voices using ERICA, our sleek, portable new system! Visit
http://www.eyeresponse.ca or call 866-490-8852.
####////####
FOR RENT OR SALE
Fully equipped accessible cottage available in Combermere, Ont.,
just 3.5 hours from Toronto. Wheelchair access to the lake, many
amenities, several points of interest nearby. Ideal for couples
or families with children. To discuss timing and availability
Contact Joan at 416-533-9875 or joansinclair@bellnet.ca
####////####
ANNOUNCEMENTS
TAKING THE NEXT STEPS TO BECOMING AN ARTIST
Are you an emerging artist with a disability? Do you want to connect with other
artists with disabilities and learn more about being a professional artist? If
this sounds like you or someone you know, for more information send an e-mail to
christine@abilities.ca . The Canadian Abilities Foundation is proud to be
part of the CulturAll Network, a national multi-sector network working to ensure
that everyone in Canada is able to participate in the Canadian cultural exchange.
To learn more about CulturAll Network projects, please visit
http://culturAll.atrc.utoronto.ca .
####////####
North Toronto Memorial Community Centre is offering a FREE Wheelchair Stretch
& Strength Fitness Class on Mondays from 2 to 3 p.m. until Christmas. Build
strength, increase flexibility and reduce stress! For info, call Mary at
647-895-6844.
####////####
The One Community Project is an Ontario-only, non-government- funded social
initiative that uses venture philanthropy (i.e., revenue-generating services)
to fund its desired social support programs. One of the services created is
FIND A WORKER, a database that connects experienced individuals who have a
desire to work with persons with disabilities with agencies and clients that are
seeking those talented individuals. For more information, please visit
http://onecommunityproject.ca .
####////####
EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT AND VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
Applications for entry to the Fall 2007/08 session of the MA
(Critical Disability Studies) program at York University in
Toronto are now being accepted. The application deadline is March
1st, 2007; however, prospective students are encouraged to apply
as early as possible. Information and admission details are on the
program website at http://www.atkinson.yorku.ca/cdis .
Prospective students are also invited to our Graduate Open House
being held on November 11th from 1 pm to 3 pm. Online registrations
are accepted at the website. For further information, call
416-736-2100 ext. 44494 or e-mail gradcds@yorku.ca .
####////####
Volunteer Ottawa has a new supported volunteer program for people with physical
disabilities in Ottawa! Would you like to explore new volunteer opportunities
in the community? Are you already an experienced volunteer and would you like
to be a peer for a new volunteer with a physical disability? Would your
organization like to promote an inclusive atmosphere for volunteers with
physical disabilities? This program is running thanks to a grant from the
Ontario Trillium Foundation. To find out more, please contact Kim Kilpatrick
at 613-736-5266 Ext. 227 or e-mail kim@volunteerottawa.ca .
####////####
PUBLICATIONS, WEBSITES AND PODCASTS
Anna Quon, a regular contributor to Abilities Magazine, has a new pack of 12
poems entitled "A Year in Haiku." Each original poem is illustrated, printed
on hand-cut cards and packaged in a business card-sized envelope, perfect for
stuffing stockings and mailing! $4 for 1 pack; $7 for 2 packs; $10 for 3 packs.
"A Year in Haiku" is also for sale in Dartmouth, N.S., at the Attic Owl and from
Kristine Erglis at the Dartmouth Farmer's Market; in Halifax at Silver Silk
(at the bus terminal near the Halifax ferry terminal), at the Halifax Farmer's
Market from Kathi Giberman, and directly from Anna. E-mail her at
anna.quon@gmail.com .
####////####
"The Personal Care Attendant Guide: The Art of Finding, Keeping, or Being One"
is by Katie Rodriguez Banister, who has a disability.
http://demosmedpub.com/prod.aspx?prod_id=9781932603286
####////####
There is a new magazine for Canadians with chronic illnesses. Visit
http://www.chronicallycanadian.ca .
####////####
http://www.communityforhealth.com
is a self-help forum for persons with mental health and physical disabilities.
It is a non-profit site to help promote wellness in the areas of depression,
anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, and various other mental health issues.
Log-in and register for free and help yourself and others on the road to wellness!
####////####
http://www.emotionalMind.ca is a
counselling and support site with interactive chats and recorded MP3 audio clips
of various mental health strategies. Founded by Terry Doherty, who has studied
psychology at University and has overcome many difficulties and shares his
enthusiasm and success to help you achieve wellness.
####////####
Comedian Keith Wann has a new podcast with material from his performances! Check
it out at http://keithwann.podOmatic.com/entry/eg/2006-11-28T16_04_45-08_00
####////####
Quality Mall is a site where you can find lots of info about person-centred
supports for people with developmental disabilities. There are currently 1,198
products listed in Quality Mall - come in and browse! Visit
http://www.qualitymall.org .
####////####
A new issue of Breath & Shadow, ROSC's Journal of Literature and Disability
Culture, is online. This month's theme is "Home, Part I." Read it at
http://www.abilitymaine.org/breath .
####////####
SURVEYS, AWARDS AND CALLS FOR SUBMISSIONS AND ARTISTS
The Canadian Mental Health Association is looking for people to take part in its
Holiday Mental Fitness survey, which will measure seasonally triggered stress,
anxiety and depression. The results will be used to update CMHA's tips for a
healthy holiday season. The organization conducting the survey, MD Analytics,
is offering participants the chance to win prizes. Please visit
http://www.mdanalytics.ca/business/CMHA_MentalFitness_Survey.html
####////####
Book author is looking for parents of children (or adult
children) with disabilities to answer questions about their experiences for an
upcoming Canadian guidebook. Parents outside of Ontario especially needed.
Please get in touch by e-mail at lbendall@sympatico.ca. You will be sent
a reply message with more information. Thank you!
####////####
The Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus Association of Ontario (SB&H) is
looking for talented individuals to be featured in its 2008 Thank Goodness
It's Friday Lottery Calendar. Over the past 13 years, all of their gifted
artists have been members of SB&H or friends and family of individuals with
spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. Please help SB&H keep this tradition alive.
If you know someone who has spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus or a relative of
someone with either or both of these conditions and is talented or would like
to put your own artistic talents forward, please contact Steve Kean at the
Association as soon as possible. This is your opportunity to have your work
seen by thousands across Ontario. Submissions can be in the form of photographs,
acrylics, water-colours, oils or sketches in landscape format (wider than tall).
Call 416-214-1056 or 1-800-387-1575 ext. 26 or e-mail steve@sbhao.on.ca .
=================================================================
7. SHARE THIS E-ZINE
=================================================================
Share this e-zine by e-mail. Forward it to your friends and
associates. If you are interested in reprinting any of the
content, please e-mail:
able@abilities.ca
The Canadian Abilities Foundation does not test, research,
endorse or guarantee products, services or events listed in the
EnableLinker. Please verify information of interest with the
organizations specified within each listing.
=================================================================
8. COPYRIGHT INFORMATION
=================================================================
"The EnableLinker", Copyright © 2006
Canadian Abilities Foundation, http://www.abilities.ca
=================================================================
9. SUBSCRIBE AND UNSUBSCRIBE INFORMATION
=================================================================
PRIVACY STATEMENT: Our subscriber list is a private mailing list
and will not be made available to other companies or individuals.
We value every subscriber and respect your privacy.
To subscribe to the EnableLinker, please visit
http://www.abilities.ca/Ezine/Main.html
To unsubscribe, send an email to: able@abilities.ca