🚀 go-pugleaf

                            THE BLIND NEWS DIGEST

                                 Issue # 972

                          Wednesday, June 30, 1993

Today's Topics:


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                            Re: GUIDE DOG PROBLEM
                            Re: GUIDE DOG PROBLEM
                            Re: Science Products
                              Artic and windows
                                   Bv 3.08
                           Artic and the transport
                             Blind Psychologists
                                   NLS CD
                            NLS magazine foul-ups
                                Free Vet Care


                                ******


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Subject: Re: GUIDE DOG PROBLEM
From: Brad.Scott@p0.f256.n120.z1.fidonet.org (Brad Scott)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:120/256.0 - The Blind Ambition , Rochester MI


[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

>> Dandruff Problem

You might talk to your vet about putting a teaspoon of corn oil in
his food each day.  Or ask about a product called Alpha Keri.  It's
a water based skin and coat conditioner.  It is usually found in a
condensed form and you mix it in a spray bottle with some tap water.
Once or twice a day you spray it on your dog and gently massage it
in.

In addition, I have heard folks talk about using Avon's Skin So Soft.
I don't have a vet's opinion on it and it may have just been a home
remedy but it might be worth discussing.  For all the claims made
of this product, if it gets on me, I itch like crazy.  I might be
allergic to it.  My kids use it every summer and my wife claims it
works good as a mosquito repellent.

A lot of gentle, with the grain, hand massaging also helps work the
dog's natural oil into dry spots.  Also accounts for some pleasurable
one-on-one time with your pooch.

Try to avoid bathing the dog too frequently, especially with regular
soap or shampoos.  It's a vicious circle - you notice dandruff so
you bath the dog, this removes much of the natural oil from the dog's
coat, the coat dries and the dandruff increases.  So you notice more
dandruff, and you bath the dog again.  Etc. Etc. Etc.

Hand massaging, or medicated (vet recommended) shampoos or treatments
work best.  The corn oil in the food works well but may, if your
dog has a weak constitution, contribute to diahhrea or loose stools.

Brad Scott

--
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Internet: Brad.Scott@p0.f256.n120.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Re: GUIDE DOG PROBLEM
From: Brad.Scott@p0.f256.n120.z1.fidonet.org (Brad Scott)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:120/256.0 - The Blind Ambition , Rochester MI


[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

DL> collar and harness turn her hair gray.

As far as the harness is concerned, if its an old harness it probably
has a layer of oil from the dogs coat (natural oil), on the leather
parts that contact the skin.  This oil gathers dirt and dust from
the environment and places it on the dog's coat.  I'm not aware of
anything that works well to remove this grime from the harness.  A
new harness might solve the problem for a while.  If you're already
using a fairly new harness, then I'm stumped.  Let me know and I'll
see what else I can find out.

As far as the collar is concerned, if you're using a standard slip-

collar (aslo know as a choke chain when you use it improperly or have
it on backwards), the gray is probably accompanied by some hair loss
on the right side of the dogs neck.  The hair loss is generally a
sign (as is the gray tint) that the dog pulls excessively on leash
or corrections are more of a pull than a clean jerk.  Both of these
will cause hair loss.  This loss of hair helps to expose the skin
to the metal of the collar, developing this gray tint.

This can also be the case with black or chocolate labs or with dark
goldens.  But because the coat is dark, the graying affect is a lot
less visible.  There are slip collars made from nylon or other durable
cloth material that work "almost as good" when issuing a leash correction
and also eliminate this gray tint.  If you're a fairly recent graduate,
you might want to check with your school before switching collars.

Brad Scott

P.S. I recently read an article in our local paper that stated rinsing
your hair with a gallon jug of water with a crushed aspirin in it
will remove the red tint some folks experience when washing with hard-

water.  I have no idea if this would apply to dogs, but you might
want to check it with your vet.  It there are no health concerns from
your vet, give it a try and see if it removes the gray tint.  The
article also went on to say that this treatment is also helpful with
"damaged or dry" hair.

Just a thought or two.

--
Uucp: ..!uunet!bunker!hcap!hnews!120!256.0!Brad.Scott
Internet: Brad.Scott@p0.f256.n120.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Re: Science Products
From: Richard.Webb@f8.n290.z1.fidonet.org (Richard Webb)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:290/8 - Iowa MIDI BBS, Des Moines IA


[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

Hi Willie,

A couple of years ago, I read in the Braille monitor that the fellow who
used to operate Science for the blind, AKA science products, was still
in business, and was producing such things as glucometers, blood
pressure measuring devices, can't think of the name at moment, or
spelling, and others.

If you happen to have some back issues of that magazine, or know someone
who does, they can probably find the info for you.  He's somewhere in
the northeast these days, and as faras I know, still in business.
See yuh.

RICHARD WEBB

... Silver Xpress!...... Don't Read Mail Without it!
___ Via Silver Xpress V3.02

--
Uucp: ..!uunet!bunker!hcap!hnews!290!8!Richard.Webb
Internet: Richard.Webb@f8.n290.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Artic and windows
From: Mark.Schafer@f432.n109.z1.fidonet.org (Mark Schafer)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:109/432 - The Idea Link, Wheaton MD


[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

 THIS IS FROM THE ARTIC NEWS LETTER

Yes, it is now OFFICIAL!   Artic has announced WinVision ... a new
speech access program for Microsoft Windows 3.1. For Microsoft
Windows And Artic Business Vision Speak The popularity of MicroSoft
Windows has caused understandable concern among blind computer
users.  The proliferation of a completely graphics based operating
system has raised the obvious specter of blind computer users being
left out in the cold in terms of computer access.

In response, much has been promised by vendors regarding speech
access to Windows, and some initial products have even been rushed
to market.  Until recently however, Artic chose to refrain from
talking about WinVision, our speech access interface between
Windows and Business Vision which has long been under development.
However, to address the concerns of our customers in particular and
the market in general, we decided to unveil a prototype of
WinVision at the recent California State University - Northridge
(CSUN) conference to show the exciting progress we've made in
speech access to Windows.

The response was exceptionally gratifying.  CSUN attendees were
surprised when they were allowed to try WinVision themselves rather
than being limited to watching a prepared demonstration as they had
in other booths.  This surprise soon turned to delight as they
discovered how automatic and easy to use WinVision is ... and how
solidly it performed in a multitude of Window applications and
situations.  In fact, our prototype already worked better than some
purchased products ... and it's gotten even better since then!

Developing a speech access program for Windows has not been an easy
or quick task.  Windows is a new and complex environment, so
unraveling its intricacies without assistance has been a
challenge.  However, the response from the CSUN conference and the
feedback from our Beta testers have made it abundantly clear that
WinVision is well worth the time and effort that has gone into its
development.

Although it has been a scant two months since the CSUN conference,
we are pleased to announce that the prototype WinVision  has almost
completed its transformation into the production WinVision.  In
fact, we anticipate shipping WinVision in June.  Retail pricing for
the WinVision option will be $495.00.  Registered Artic  customers
who currently own Business Vision 3.0x may purchase WinVision at
the special discount price of $295.00 through September 30, 1993.

For additional details or to place your order for WinVision,
contact either Artic's main office or your local Artic
representative.  Additionally, if you plan to be at either the
American Council of the Blind or the National Federation of the
Blind conventions in July, please stop by the Artic booth for a
demonstration of WinVision and see for yourself what all of the
excitement is about.  You'll be amazed at how accessible Windows
can be.

... ILINK U S A HANDICAPPED CONFERENCE MODERATOR
===
 * Blue Wave/QWK v2.12 *
 * KMail 2.94g - The Idea Link -

--
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Internet: Mark.Schafer@f432.n109.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Bv 3.08
From: Mark.Schafer@f432.n109.z1.fidonet.org (Mark Schafer)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:109/432 - The Idea Link, Wheaton MD


[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

THIS IS FROM THE ARTIC NEWS LETTER

  Business Vision 3.08

An interim release of BV is now available which offers Smart- Loads
(automatic loading of configurations), various additional features
and software corrections (see page 3 for details).  Owners of BV
version 3.0x may upgrade for the cost of shipping & handling or
wait for BV version 3.1 which will be sent free to all registered
owners.  Since BV 3.1 is expected within a matter of weeks, the
release of 3.08 is aimed at those users with an immediate need for
Smart-Loads.

  A New Artic Cursor Method

One of the changes introduced in version 3.08 of Business Vision
deals with the Artic cursor.

Certain application programs choose to deliberately ignore keyboard
input while performing specific tasks.  A typical example of this
would be during a file transfer by a communications program.  In
these situations, Business Vision couldn't respond to cursor
commands because it never got to see any cursor keys that the user
might enter.  The application program swallowed them!

Version 3.08 of Business Vision avoids this situation by taking a
different approach to keyboard input.  This allows movement of the
Artic cursor even in situations where the application is
deliberately ignoring input from the keyboard.

  Smart Loading Configurations
Another exciting new feature in version 3.08 is Smart-Loads.

As users of version 3.0x know, Smart-Zones give the ability to
define specific areas of the screen and have Business Vision
monitor them for changes.  BV will monitor these areas for specific
changes in text or color or simply for any change at all.  When
such a change occurs, the user may specify a number of responses
that they want BV to take, such as reading the Smart-Zone, chaining
to another Smart- Zone, reading a separate Speech Window, etc..

Smart-Loads add an entirely new dimension to Smart-Zones. Now, when
a Smart-Zone is triggered, you may specify that a new configuration
file be automatically loaded.  In this manner, you can instantly
change the entire definition of your screen access to meet the
changes of the application program.

  GIZMO2: It Just Gets Better

Its functionality and access in any situation have made our
original Gizmo pad a great success.  Now we've taken this popular
accessory even farther with Gizmo2.

The basic Gizmo2 model ($99.95) employs high-quality computer keys
to create a sculpted, 4" x 4" keypad with excellent tactile
feedback.  Gizmo2 has a molded cable to connect to the Turbo port
on any SynPhonix or TransPort synthesizer.  Using the Turbo port
ensures you have access to the system, regardless of what the
application does to the keyboard.

The advanced Gizmo2 model  ($149.95) provides the above features,
plus a built-in speaker, headphone jack, volume control, six jacks
for foot pedals, and one foot pedal.  The foot pedal jacks control
a number of familiar options such as forward and reverse Turbo
functions, plus some new and exciting features like triggering
macro functions.  For additional information on Gizmo2, contact
Artic or your local Artic representative.

... ILINK U S A HANDICAPPED CONFERENCE MODERATOR
===
 * Blue Wave/QWK v2.12 *
 * KMail 2.94g - The Idea Link -

--
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Internet: Mark.Schafer@f432.n109.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Artic and the transport
From: Mark.Schafer@f432.n109.z1.fidonet.org (Mark Schafer)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:109/432 - The Idea Link, Wheaton MD


[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

THIS IS FROM THE ARTIC NEWS LETTER

  TransPort is Hot! Hot! Hot!

After shipping TransPort for more than 10 months, we are still
amazed by the flood of compliments coming from our customers. We
are told that TransPort is our best product to

  The TransPort Report

What's the hottest product in speech access these days? Based on
the response we've been getting from virtually everyone who has
seen one ... the unanimous answer is TransPort!

Some are captivated by the fact that TransPort is exceptionally
compact  (7.125" x 4.125" x 0.75") and lightweight (under 1
pound).  Others love the fact that TransPort  is truly "completely
portable" because of its rechargeable NiCad batteries and the fact
that it will work with any IBM or compatible system.  Still others
point to the fact that Business Vision is stored in ROM and can be
uploaded to whatever computer is at hand to make it immediately
accessible.

All of TransPort's other features have also been cited. TransPort's
RAM disk, for example.  Whether purchased with Business Vision
(TransPort-615 model) or simply as a synthesizer (TransPort-611
model), the system offers battery operated memory that can be used
as a RAM disk to store configuration, program, or data files.

Of course, all TransPorts have the advantage of VEST (Visions
Enhanced Speech Translator) ... Artic's premier text-to-speech
algorithm.   Not only does VEST provide exceptional speech quality
and pronunciation accuracy, it is one of the reasons that TransPort
is just as lightning fast and responsive as you've come to expect
from Artic's speech products.

USERS SAY...

"My job requires that I use a number of different computers within
our building.  Purchasing speech systems for each computer was far
too costly.  TransPort is the ideal solution, both in terms of
getting the job done and cost."

"I'm sure you hear about it when people feel that you've made a
mistake.  I just thought I would write to pay you a compliment.
TransPort is one of the best adaptive computer products that I have
seen in years.  My compliments to your engineering staff."

"I have been looking at purchasing a laptop computer and was
limited to the relatively few for which speech synthesizers were
available.  With TransPort, I now have my choice of any laptop
computer I want.  You've made my purchasing decision a lot more
difficult ... but I love it!"

"I started with a desk-top computer with an internal synthesizer.
I then purchased a laptop computer, which required a different
synthesizer.  My employer then put me to work on an IBM PS2 which
required a third synthesizer because of Microchannel.  I now have a
TransPort, and figure this is the last synthesizer I'll ever have
to buy."

"Just knowing that I can walk up to any computer, plug in my
TransPort, and be able to access the system is a great feeling."

For further information on TransPort, contact Artic or your local
Artic representative.

... MARK SCHAFER K D 6 G K B ILINK HANDICAP HOST
===
 * Blue Wave/QWK v2.12 *
 * KMail 2.94g - The Idea Link -

--
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Internet: Mark.Schafer@f432.n109.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: Blind Psychologists
From: Nancy.Feldman@p0.f5.n3406.z1.fidonet.org (Nancy Feldman)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:3406/5.0 - Purgatory BBS, Salem OR


[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

On 06-11-93  10:41 in the presence of the gods Lovette Christiansen bespoke Nanc
y Feldman:
 LC> Hi there.  I wanted to jump in and say that I am also a psych major.
 LC> I am going into my last year towards the BA.  It's funny how many
 LC> sighted people think a blind person should be serving the blind only.
 LC> Sometimes that's frustrating.  It's good to hear from others in the
 LC> same field. Lovette

Hi Lovette,

When I first decided to enter the field of psychology, my friends (most
of whom are psyche majors, too) said things to the effect of:  "Wow,
that's great.  You'll make a wonderful psychologist.  It's nice that a
blind person will be helping the blind."

I growled and explained to them that it was not my intent to serve the
blind exclusively, or even to have them as the majority of my cases.
Now I think my friends think I'm crazy.

Actually, to be fair, only one of them made a comment like that; the
rest know better.  <G>

... Eye of newt, toe of frog, and a side of fries, please.

--
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Internet: Nancy.Feldman@p0.f5.n3406.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: NLS CD
From: Bill.Holton@p0.f165.n264.z1.fidonet.org (Bill Holton)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:264/165.0 - The Back Door, Richmond VA


[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

  I was talking to someone at NLS yesterday, reporting a few bugs I
have discovered in the NLS CD.  He was telling me that he would much
rather have my complaints and suggestions in writing, and he gave a
ver y good reason I thought I should share here for others testing
the disk.  Apparently, the interface was not their choice.  The
G.A.O.  sort of forced it on them--"we own it, we want you to use
it"--which goes a long way toward explaing why the interface is so
poor.  For example, NLS wants to be able to run searches via
command lin, and to search with ranges, but the interface they have
been saddled with will do neither.  Which is why they want lots of
reaction in writing--it will make it easier, helping them get what
we really need.

  Just thought I'd pass that along.  So, kiddies, don't forget to
get them cards and letters in soon...

... Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional.

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Internet: Bill.Holton@p0.f165.n264.z1.fidonet.org




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Subject: NLS magazine foul-ups
From: Will.Smith@f120.n2320.z1.fidonet.org (Will Smith)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:2320/120 - MicroTalk, Louisville KY


[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

I recently read the exchange between Tandy and Walter regarding NLS
magazine foul-ups, particularly regarding the braille computer
magazines. I've had a much larger problem involving my magazine
subscriptions. I've always read a great deal of these, even when I was
sighted. I have made repeated attempts to straighten out this mess, with
little or no results. I haven't received a copy of Stereo Review since
August 1992--although I have made repeated attempts to demand this
title. Numerous other magazines have come and gone, and I've made little
progress. Here's my primary beef: When I was sighted and paid regular
subscription rates I could successfully demand and receive my copies of
the many magazines I wanted. Now I am spinning my wheels trying to read
what I want; I suppose the NLS folks think that since my subscriptions
are "free" then I sould be quiet and satisfied with what I am getting.
Any suggestions about where to appeal for better service? I've already
tried the Louisville sub-regional and Kentucky state Talking Book
libraries? Where should I try next?
 * JABBER v1.1 * JABBER the no meat, no oil QWK reader

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Subject: Free Vet Care
From: Tracy.Carcione@p0.f256.n120.z1.fidonet.org (Tracy Carcione)
Organization: FidoNet node 1:120/256.0 - The Blind Ambition , Rochester MI


[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

Hi Bradad,
I saw a while back you posted a message about Animal Medical Center
in New York City.  It is true that AMC will give free vet care to
any guide dog.  I think the free care ends when the dog retires.
I am not sure if you need to be a City resident, but I used it when
I lived on Long Island, not technically part of the City.  It is a
good thing, but I feel that I must add a couple caveats.  AMC is a
large clinic, so though I went there several times, I got the same
doctor only twice.  Some vets are better than others, and I would
have liked to stick with just one, but that's not how it works there.
 Also, many people feel that you get what you pay for, and further

feel that the care their dogs got was less than it would have been
for a paying customer.  It is also a large teaching hospital, so they
like to run a lot of tests, some of which I'm not sure do any good.
 But then sometimes I think the same of my own vet.  Anyway, as soon

as I could afford it, I got a vet in a private practice.  My vet charges
me, but gives me a discount because Amba is a guide dog.  All in all,
I am happier with him than I was at AMC, but then AMC is certainly
better than nothing.
Tracy
.S.  Looking forward to seeing you at convention.

--
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                 End of Issue # 972 of the Blind News Digest

                                ******