Key Technology's Plate Switch

Pasadena Child Development Associates celebrated the launch of their AAC Center tonight with an open house! They showcased a number of AAC options, access, and communicative contexts for interaction.  One highlight was the Plate Switch. It's an ultra-thin membrane switch and is highly sensitive to light touch. It can be slipped under static visual targets, pages of a book, or mounted positions. Take a look at Key Technology's Plate Switch!

Gripcase! iPad protection that works

Villa Esperanza Services' Non-Public School is loving the Gripcase for our iPads (first version and iPad2).  The continuous handle provides both a continuous 'crumple zone' and a hand hold in both portrait and landscape orientations.  The supple yet sturdy molded foam can withstand bumps and drops, but would likely give way to a firm chomp (the texture does seem somewhat appealing for oral input!).  

Take a look at their website for a short demo video, www.gripcase-usa.org

- Gwendolyn Meier, SLP, MT

Dynavox Operational Training - Santa Ana, Feb 16

This just in from Mara Marshall:

Please mark your calendars for the next Orange County DyanVox Operations Skills Training. It will be held on February 16, from 9 am to 2 pm. The training will focus on beginning skill level basics. It is at ATEC, which is located at 1601 East Saint Andrew Place, Santa Ana, Ca. 92705. Hope to see you there!

Boardmaker Share - New Visuals & Overlays

If you haven't been on Boardmaker Share lately, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the volume of excellent visual resources created by your colleagues far and wide...Log In or Sign Up for free and start downloading!

Pittsburgh Language Seminar Series (Feb-May)

Pittsburgh [Sorry SoCal-AACers] Language Seminar Series

Schedule of Events

These seminars provide clinically proven ideas for using Unity^® with children and adults who are both nonspeaking and possibly language impaired. Participants will learn how to enhance language growth leading to successful use of communication devices including the SpringBoard™ Lite, Vantage™ Lite, and ECO™2.  Participants will have the opportunity to learn the Unity^® software through hands-on interactive instruction offered by Dr. Bruce Baker and Russell Cross.  In addition, each seminar will feature a different guest speaker as listed below.

FACULTY

Bruce Baker, A.M., L.H.D., will begin the seminar with an in-depth, research-based discussion on language development and core vocabulary as it pertains to AAC.  He will also discuss various methods of representing vocabulary, a comparison between the referential and descriptive methods of instruction and motor automaticity. 

Katya Hill, Ph.D. will discuss evidence-based assessment for AAC and how to generate successful funding requests for speech generating devices. 

Russell Cross, BSc.(Hons.), DipCST, MRCSLT. will explore the power of multi-meaning icons and core vocabulary, including how assigning multiple meanings to pictures is a natural linguistic occurrence.  He will also provide participants with the opportunity to learn Unity^® software through hands-on demonstration using the PASS software. 

Each seminar will also include a guest speaker, as indicated below:

(PAST - Sorry!!) January 17-19, 2012

Now You’re Talking – Becoming Fluent in Unity^®

Guest Speakers:  Darlette Navrotski, MA, CCC-SLP

& Debbie Witkowski, MA, CCC-SLP

 The goal of this immersion session is to have all participants really talking with the Unity^® Language program.  D & D will facilitate participants’ learning of Unity^® through use of materials from the AAC Language Lab and other teaching and implementation strategies.  Participants will observe their own progress through using the Language Activity Monitor and will experience the power of communication through using single word vocabulary.   Participants will leave with tools for teaching language. 

February 14-16

AAC Assessments:  Will Your Teams SGD Funding Request be Chopped?

Guest Speaker:  Katya Hill, Ph.D.

 Katya Hill, Ph.D., CCC-SLP will provide an in-depth presentation on of the techniques of evaluation and documentation that are instrumental when seeking funding approval for SGDs.  AAC for individuals who have experienced strokes will be highlighted. She will discuss, as well, gathering clinical data on all populations and how a teacher or therapist can explain the role of AAC to family members, teachers, and caregivers. 

March 13-15

Best Practice for Integrating AAC into the Classroom

Guest Speaker: Jane Odom, M. Ed.

This presentation will focus on strategies to teach and promote the use of an augmentative communication system: how to get students to independently initiate spontaneous, novel utterances rather than simply repeating pre-stored sentences when prompted. The strategies presented will cover a range of communication ages and abilities, including those at the level of emerging language and literacy. The teaching strategies presented are appropriate for a wide variety of devices and programs. The workshop is not limited to people using PRC devices. This presentation is appropriate for anyone (teacher, SLP, parent, paraprofessional, etc.) working with a student using a communication device.

April 17-19

Supporting Unity^® Users in the Classroom and

Communication Sampling and Analysis:  Focus on Unity^® Users

Guest Speaker: Marilyn J. Buzolich, Ph.D.

This presentation will discuss how to meet curricular needs of Unity^® users in elementary classrooms; adapting curricular materials, customizing systems, and providing support to classroom staff to effectively assist students during instruction. The presentation will include video clips of classroom instruction, staff training materials, and lesson planning.  In addition, Marilyn will provide in-depth discussion on obtaining and analyzing language samples.

May 22 – 24

Supporting Language Development for Children and Adults Using Unity^®

Guest Speaker:  Gail Van Tatenhove, P.A., M.S., CCC-SLP

This presentation will focus on the use of a multi-modal Unity^® system to build motor automaticity, strengthen semantic networks and stimulate grammatical output.  Gail will review how to teach strategic skills in the classroom as well as how to develop and use visual support materials to teach Unity^® paradigms. 

All of these seminars are provided free of charge, with meals and lodging provided.  If you are interested in attending one of the events listed above, please contact Renee McGough immediately at 412-885-8541 or email her at rmcgough@minspeak.com to register. 

SPEAKER TOPICS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Access (PRC) - Tips and Tools, January

January 2012 PRC HOME PRODUCTS FUNDING TRAINING SUPPORT EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES ABOUT US NEWS AND SUCCESS STORIES If you are unable to view this newsletter, the HTML version is available at http://www.prentrom.com/newsletter/January 2012.  Teach Featured Tip - What's New in the AAC Language Lab? Featured Tip for Professionals and Parents - Language Lab:  Core Words New App for iPad Learn Fundamental Funding Chat a Success Let's Talk Funding:  When My Client Needs a New Device... Connect PRC Fights Hunger with Online Food Drive Have You Joined Their Circle?  PRC Launches Google+ Page Succeed Victoria Advocate Promotes Communication Success Story:  Francis Evanich Success Story:  Jennifer Linder

FREE AAC training, Severe Disab - 2/10/12 (CHLA)

On Friday, February 10, 2012 DynaVox will be hosting a Free Implementation workshop with Free CEUs in Los Angeles, CA!

Location/Host:  Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

Saban Research Center

Saban Auditorium

4661 Sunset Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90027

This building is located across the street from the main Anderson Pavilion.

Topic:   “High-Tech AAC for People with Severe Disabilities”

ASHA CEUs:     .5        

Presenter:        Holly Schneider, MS, CCC-SLP                                                                            

This is a excellent opportunity to further understand the role and purpose of High-Tech AAC for people with severe disabilities.   Our Clinical Applications Specialist, Holly Schneider, will present and demonstrate strategies and techniques for facilitating successful use of AAC with individuals with severe disabilities.  Anyone interested in the topic is encouraged to attend.   

Please CLICK HERE for a PDF with all the details.  For additional information or to register for this Free workshop, please visit http://www.dynavoxtech.com/training/on-location/AAC-implementation-workshops/

If you have any questions or if there is anything I can do to further support you and/or your clients in the meantime, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Kindest regards,

Amy Hlad

Sales Consultant for Children

Los Angeles County

DynaVox and Mayer-Johnson

65 Pine Ave. #185

Long Beach, CA 90802

amy.hlad@dynavoxtech.com

Toll Free 800-344-1778 x 7922

Mobile 562-394-2071

Fax line  866-604-8113

www.dynavoxtech.com; www.mayer-johnson.com

CSHA Convention 2012 (March) - AAC/AT Sessions/Courses/Posters

The California Speech-Language Hearing Association (CSHA) Annual Convention will be held at the Fairmont Hotel in San Jose, CA, March 15-18, 2012. Registration is open, CLICK HERE to download the registration form.  

Join colleagues in Short Courses, Mini-Seminars, and Poster presentations related to AAC and AT.  SCAAC-N suggests the following schedule to allow you to hit all the AAC and Technology-related events at the convention. More complete course descriptions can be read HERE.

(Course Type Key: SC = Short Course, MS = Mini-Seminar, PS = Poster Session)

DAY/TIME	COURSE #	Speaker/Presenter	Title
Thu 1:00-4:00	SC2	Mary Ann Romski	Toddlers, Parent-Implemented Augmented Language Interventions and Communication Development
Fri 8:30-10:00	MS5	Patti Solomon-Rice	Providing Effective Language Intervention for Toddlers and Preschoolers with Severe Speech Impairments
Fri 12:00-1:30	PS1	Lisa Luna DeCurtis, et al.	Piaget’s iPad: From Theory to Practice
Fri 12:00-1:30	PS2	Elena Dukhovny	A Survey on the Role of an Assistive Technology Demonstration Center in Early Intervention
Fri 6:00-6:45	Awards	District 7 Officers	CSHA District 7 Awards for Outstanding Achievement, Program, Consumer *
Sat 10:30-12:00	MS15	Kyle Epps, et al.	The iPad: Achieving Students’ Goals with the Right App
Sat 1:00-2:30	MS19	Greta T. Tan	Visual Scene Display & Digital Photography-Based Communication Aides
Sat 3:00-4:30	MS21	Lisa Luna DeCurtis, et al.	New iPad Technology Meets Traditional Therapy Techniques
Sat 12:00-1:30	PS15	Celeste Roseberry-McKibbin, et al.	Snaps, Apps, and Raps: iPad Use with Speech/Language Impaired Students
Sun 8:30-11:30	SC20	Lois Brady, et al.	iPad Apps for Autism, Rehabilitation, iTherapy and Classroom across Disciplines

In total, the 2012 CSHA San Jose State Convention offers up to: 24 State license renewal CE hours; 2.4 ASHA CEUs (= 24 hours) 

*On Friday, March 16, 6-6:45 - CSHA District 7 will present an Achievement award to Ann Davis, SLP and Gwendolyn Meier, SLP, MT for their work with our very own SCAAC-N!

See you at the Convention!

 

ATI Pre-Conference (Feb 10): Space is Limited

When: Friday, February 10th, 2012
Instructional Level: Intermediate
 

Description: Whether you are new to the field of AAC or just need a refresher,  please join us for the latest information on assessment, implementation strategies, and  communication devices, including the ever popular iPad.  You will have an opportunity to learn about current technology and how it applies to your clientele to promote optimal language development and independence.
 

Learner Objectives:
• Understand current AAC assessment.
• Apply implementation strategies for teaching vocabulary to AAC users.
• Identify current technology and how this technology addresses various communication needs.
• Identify current communication and educational applications available for the iPad for SLPs, educators, and parents.
 

Fee Schedule:
• Pre-Conference (w/ CEUs): $50
Pre (CEUs) & Full Day Conference Bundle: $60
 

• Pre-Conference (no CEUs): $25
Pre (no CEUs) & Full Day Conference Bundle: $40
 

• Full Day Conference: $25 (Saturday)

The Pre-Conference is limited to 100 attendees. Pre-registration is required. 
To Register: http://2012aticonference.eventbrite.com/ 
For more information: http://ati.atec-oc.org or (714) 361.6200 Vendors will be available for hands-on demonstration during the lunch hour!

Great video on Augmented Input

Thanks, Terry Kappe, for the Facebook post of this great video!

(visit our page and friend us HERE on FB)

From Dynavox, this 20-minute instructional video is an excellent introduction to partner-augmented input that you can share with educators, professionals, paraprofessionals, parents, and caregivers.  Log-in required (registering is free!).

PRC Consultant's Corner: News and Trainings

Kara Bidstrup, M.S., CCC-SLP Email:  keb.cons@prentrom.com Phone:  (800) 262-1984 ext. 472 Proper Steps for Getting Your PRC Communication Device Repaired While PRC devices are designed to be durable, at some point, you may need to send it in for repair.  There are a few easy steps that you can follow to make the process simpler and ensure that PRC receives the device without further damage that may occur during the shipping process. First, if you are experiencing any trouble with the software in your PRC Communication Device or something has occurred to the hardware, contact Technical Support. PRC Technical Support can be reached at (800) 262-1990 or by email at service@prentrom.com Hours of Operation are:  Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST; Saturday and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. If your device needs to be sent to PRC for repair, the Technical Support Staff will set up a repair number and give you instructions for returning the device to PRC Second, locate the original packaging to prepare your device for shipment.  Always use the original packaging when possible for your PRC Communication Device.  Keeping and storing the original packaging will always ensure that you have a safe way to ship your device, even if you don’t use the original packaging frequently. To ensure that you have properly packaged your device for shipment to PRC, please see the instructions below. Place the first piece of cardboard/plastic sheeting in the box as shown below. Set the device on the plastic sheeting so it is suspended in the box by the first cardboard/plastic insert. Place the second piece of cardboard/plastic UPSIDE DOWN in the box to keep the device suspended. Your device is secure and ready to ship. Do NOT ship accessories, including the charger, keyguards unless directed to do so by Technical Support. For more information, please visit:  prentrom.com/support/article/1518. As always, if you have questions regarding this process, please feel free to contact Technical Support listed above or your Regional Consultant for assistance.  If you do not know who your Regional Consultant is, you can locate him/her at:  prentrom.com and enter your zip code on the left side of our website. FREE product training seminars will help you get the most from your PRC communication device.  Attend the Training that Meets Your Needs.  It's Easy! Create a personal PRC Account Enter your information  once At a glance, view your upcoming trainings and much more. If you have already created your personal PRC account, simply click here to login. ASHA CEUs Available Please visit the "Training" section of PRC's website.  New trainings are always being added.

JOBS - Urgent/Jan 31 - Marketing and Development Consultant (Assistive Tech related)

January 17, 2011

Dear Interested Parties:

The California Foundation for Independent Living Centers, Inc. (CFILC) seeks a qualified Marketing and Development Consultant to assist in identifying and acquiring revenue to support the California Assistive Technology Re-use Coalition (CATRC).

 ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW:

The California Foundation for Independent Living Centers, Inc. (CFILC) is a non-profit membership organization representing 25 of California’s community-based, peer-operated Independent Living Centers. CFILC and its members advocate and act to remove barriers to independence for Californians with disabilities.

CFILC operates the AT Network program under contract with the California Department of Rehabilitation. The AT Network exists to connect Californians with disabilities to the assistive technology (AT) they need. AT Network programs and services include:

•  Statewide information and referral on assistive technology issues;

•  AT training for AT Network members and for all Californians;

•  AT Re-use Initiative; and

• 13 AT device loan centers located throughout California.

ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA AT RE-USE COALITION (CATRC):

 The CATRC represents several diverse organizations that collectively focus on promoting the re-use of assistive technology (AT) and durable medical equipment (DME) within California. AT / DME are devices, technologies, and products which assist people with disabilities – either permanent or temporary – to lead more engaged, active, and healthy lives. The Coalition has a broad charter to educate and engage various constituents in the numerous benefits of AT / DME re-use. Some of the numerous benefits of AT/DME re-use include financial benefits for individuals, significant positive impact to healthcare costs, and the availability of much needed AT / DME to a broader range of consumers, and significant positive impact to the environment.

SCOPE OF WORK:

The Marketing and Development Consultant will work closely with the leadership of CATRC to research and identify funding sources supporting the agenda of CATRC. Sources of funding may include grants, sponsorships, fee for service, donations, contracts, in-kind gifts, et al.

The Consultant will work with the Re-use Coalition to initiate contacts with potential funding sources and support the efforts of the Coalition by providing feedback and leads for potential funders. The Marketing and Development Consultant will work in collaboration with the Capacity Development Committee, and will provide monthly reports regarding contract deliverables and invoices to CFILC.  

Within one month of contracting for services, the selected Consultant will present:

• A plan that describes how additional resources can be raised. The plan will include a timeline to conclude June 30, 2012; and

• List potential funding sources likely to support efforts of the coalition including foundations, corporations, individuals and others that are a good match for the mission of the coalition.

From month two through the end of the contract period, consultant will research and write proposals. All potential proposal ideas will be pre-approved by the Capacity Development Committee before proposal work begins. All completed proposals will be approved by the Committee at least one week before the submission deadline.

PROPOSAL CONTENT:

In three pages, briefly provide:

• A history of your company, including number of years in business, and credentials of principle staff;

• A summary of your experience developing similar plans for non-profit organizations with emphasis on proposals in the disability community; including three references and contact information;

• A summary of your knowledge and understanding of producing proposals for funding of projects/programs;

• Writing sample not to exceed three pages that may or may not include grant proposals, donation appeals or corporate solicitations (not included in proposal three page limit);

• Budget and budget narrative proposal with all items including a narrative statement and rationale.

SELECTION PROCESS:

This RFP is not a commitment to contract for services. CFILC reserves the right to reject any and all responses without cause. A contractor will be considered based on review of the information within proposals, quality of samples provided, contacts with references, costs, and other budgetary and time considerations.

           

PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL AND TIMELINE:

CFILC will accept emailed responses to the Request for Proposal until January 31st, 2012. Responses received after that time and date will not be considered. The expected contract award date is February 15, 2012. Final award of the contract is based on the availability of funds.

Please email proposals to: rfp@cfilc.org with the subject line: AT Network RFP Response Marketing and Development Consultant. Questions about this RFP are encouraged and should be addressed to Shannon Coe, CFILC at 916-325-190 ext. 353 or shannoncoe@cfilc.org. All inquiries will be answered within three business days and should be submitted no later than January 25th, 2012.

JOBS! Assistive Technology Services Coordinator (SoCal)

EBS Healthcare is looking to hire an Assistive Technology Services Coordinator to be placed in a partnered pediatric program in Southern California. Great opportunity in a beautiful area. Relocation assistance available. 

Contact Jim Pace at jim.pace@ebshealthcare.com or 1-800-578-7906 X 268 if you would like more information.

Powerful Intel Processor - More Natural Communication

PRESS RELEASE (originally posted on Market Watch from the Wall Street Journal)

Jan. 10, 2012, 1:11 p.m. EST

Powerful AAC Device With Intel® i7 Processor Enables Natural Communication for Stroke, ALS and Autism Patients

ComLink LT(3G) Provides the Highest Performance and Longest Battery Life for AAC Devices

MANSFIELD, Ohio, Jan. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- FRS Custom Solutions announced a processor modification in the popular ComLink LT(3G) and the ComLink LT(3G) with Enable Eyes to make it the most powerful augmentative, alternative communication (AAC) device available on the market. Extended tests show that the new i7 processor is up to seven times faster than most other AAC devices, providing faster processing, longer battery life and more memory storage.

"The speed of the new processor allows me to have a more natural conversation with people," said Sean Carter, motivational speaker and advocate against drunk driving. "I am able to sit and participate in life, thanks to the ease and speed of the ComLink's processor."

The speed of the new 2.13 GHzI Intel® Core(TM) i7 series processor in the ComLink speech generating device allows for faster, more responsive communication. The longer battery life enables the user to go for longer periods of time between charges. 

Sean Carter, spokesperson of When Sean Speaks, is unable to talk without an AAC device. The versatility of the ComLink LT(3G) enables Sean, and others with similar disabilities, to utilize the full Windows platform to support other software applications in addition to speech.

"Sean uses all the capabilities of the ComLink LT(3G)," said Jenny Carter, Sean's mother. "His brother recorded numerous phrases and programmed them into Sean's ComLink."

The ComLink LT(3G) augmented communication device is also available with the Enable Eyes capability. All ComLink AAC devices come standard with the patented FRS FlexABLE(TM) Stand and FRS FlexABLE(TM) Handle for easy gripping, maneuverability and the most optimal screen visibility.

For more information about the ComLink LT(3G) featuring the most powerful Intel processor on the market, visit www.FRS-solutions.com or call 1-888-884-2190.

ABOUT FRS CUSTOM SOLUTIONS

FRS Custom Solutions is a division of Forbes Rehab Services, Inc. that has provided innovative assistive communication technology solutions to individuals with all levels of disabilities since 1987. Forbes Rehab Services, Inc. offers a comprehensive selection of AAC devices for those with ALS, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, stroke and veterans with disabilities. For more information on all AAC devices including the SoundPOD Wearable AAC System visit www.frs-solutions.com

SOURCE FRS Custom Solutions

Copyright (C) 2012 PR Newswire. All rights reserved

8th Annual ATI - Feb 10 (Costa Mesa, CA)

Registration now open for the 8th Annual ATI @ Orange County Dept. of Ed. (Costa Mesa).

Pre-conference on Feb. 10th, 2012 - $50 with CEUs for SLPs through CSHA; $25 no CEUs.

"Update your AAC Toolbox:  Assessment, Current Devices, iPad Apps and More!"

Full Day Conference on Feb. 11th - $25

Keynote speaker Rick Hohn.

Pre-Registration Required! 

$pecial prices for bundling Fri/$at. 

CLICK HERE to register.

For more info visit: http://ati.atec-oc.org

LinkedIn - AACP, New AAC Network for Professionals

Thanks to Maggie Mahoney, Los Angeles Area Representative- Adults & Healthcare Market DynaVox Mayer-Johnson, for this tip!
      

"There is an active Augmentative and Alternative Communication Professionals group at LinkedIn! Now therapists, ATs, teachers, behaviorists, and the professionals that surround them can find each other, network, and share the services they provide with those we serve.

It is up to us to ensure the network within the field of AAC continues to evolve, and this is just the first step. Like any network or community it’s strength and value hinges on its members! That being said… JOIN TODAY and please forward this email along to anyone in your network that would benefit!"

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=4233487&trk=myg_ugrp_ovr

Signs of the Week - Asking Questions

Save the Date: ISAAC Biennial (Pittsburgh)

The 15th Biennial Conference of ISAAC will be held from July 28 to August 4, 2012, in Pittsburgh, PA, USA, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

July 28-29, 2012

Pre-conference Workshops

Concurrent full-day workshops will be held at the Westin Hotel over the two days preceding the Main Conference.

AAC Camp

To be held at the Omni Hotel.

Executive & Council Meetings

These ISAAC governance meetings are scheduled during the two days prior to the Main Conference.

July 30-August 2

Main Conference

The Main Conference program will offer something for everyone with an interest in AAC. Concurrent oral presentations will feature papers related to different clinical populations and ages, with reports on leading edge research, and clinical and educational interventions. People who use AAC will have the opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives. Posters will focus on a wide range of interesting topics, and the Exhibition will showcase new technologies or applications of technology.

Exhibition

The ISAAC community is growing! Conference attendance reached nearly 1,400 for the 2010 ISAAC Biennial Conference in Barcelona and the numbers are expected to increase in Pittsburgh. The Exhibition is an ideal opportunity to showcase your products and services. The move-in date for exhibitors is Sunday, July 29, and the closing date is Thursday, August 2.

Town Hall Meeting

A lively, open dialogue among people who use AAC is a vital component of each Biennial Conference. The Town Hall is both a celebration of leadership of individuals who use AAC and a discussion on how the global community can support people who use AAC in achieving shared goals.

Presentation of Sponsored Awards

Awards and scholarships are presented during the conference. ISAAC is proud to be working with a number of organizations to help foster experience and opportunity for individuals around the world who use AAC.

AAC Open House - Jan 31, PCDA

Pasadena Child Development Associates will showcase their new Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Center with a FREE open house event.

 

Tuesday January 31st

5:30-8:00pm

620 N. Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101

 

PCDA utilizes technological advances in communication devices in our assessments and intervention for non-speaking individuals.

There will be a tour of our equipment and facilities for AAC, as well as an opportunity to learn how it can help your child. Refreshments will be served.

FREE but please RSVP to Buff at (626) 793-7350 x282

Save the Date - SCAAC-N Winter Quarterly Meeting, 2/21/12

Happy New Year from SCAAC-N!

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, February 21, 2012, and join us in welcoming Cindy Cottier, M.A., M.Ed., C.C.C., at our quarterly Southern California AAC Network Meeting (FREE as always).  If you missed Cindy's presentation at the 2011 American Speech-Language Hearing Association conference in San Diego - you're in luck! We'll meet from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Villa Esperanza Services in Pasadena, CA, and hear about Cindy's experiences using iPad applications with multiply handicapped individuals. 

Cynthia, A. Cottier, M.A., M.Ed., CCC, is a Speech-Language Pathologist who has been working in the field of AAC since 1980. She has extensive experience working directly with individuals ranging in age from 2 to 75+ years and of all disabilities. In addition, Ms. Cottier has vast knowledge of a wide variety of state-of-the-art augmentative and assistive systems, techniques and strategies.

Initially, Ms. Cottier coordinated and developed the Los Angeles Unified School District's Augmentative Communication Program for 7 years; then in 1992 she began her own private practice in Pasadena, CA, that is dedicated to servicing all individuals who use augmentative communication devices and assistive technology systems. She has participated in numerous projects, studies and grants to further professional knowledge and clinical guidelines for augmentative communication service delivery.  Ms. Cotter has given numerous presentations at state and national conferences, as well as conducted various workshops and seminars for training institutes and state universities. 

Hope to see you then!