May is American Cheese Month, and today we are celebrating all things cheese. Despite Wisconsin being thought of as a cheese haven, Maryland has a rapidly growing cheese-making community, led by our guest, Dan Porter of FireFly Farms. Learn more about how cheese is made right here in Maryland.

This month, the Technology User Group (TUG) put the spotlight on two breakthrough tools that are changing how people interact with their smartphones: the Hable One and the Hable Easy Smartphone Remote Controllers.

These compact, affordable devices were originally designed for individuals with neuropathy and other physical challenges, but their impact goes far beyond that. They make smartphone use faster, easier, and more intuitive for anyone who prefers tactile control over touchscreens.

In this podcast, you’ll get a clear look at:

• What each device can do
• How they differ in design and function
• Which one might be the best fit for your needs

Expect hands-on insights, lively discussion, and practical takeaways you can use right away.

In honor of Women’s History Month, the LBPD podcast features Sandra Pinnington, Founder and CEO of Exec Insights 360 and an executive coach with more than 30 years of experience helping leaders and organizations strengthen accountability, performance, and trust. In this episode, Sandra shares insights on women in leadership, the importance of self-awareness, and how effective leadership can drive meaningful organizational results.

On Saturday, February 7th, at 10 AM, the Technology User Group

(TUG) welcomed Elizabeth Whitaker of Freedom

Scientific for an in‑depth presentation you will not want to miss.

This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the leading

voices behind the tools so many rely on every day.

Elizabeth walked us through the newest updates to JAWS and

ZoomText, including:

• The redesigned login process that streamlines access and improves security;
• Page Explorer, a powerful feature that enhances navigation and efficiency, and
• Training resources and podcasts that are available to all users,
• offering ongoing learning and support.

This session looked at features that can make a real difference in daily technology use. This is your opportunity to experience cutting-edge tools, ask questions, and connect with others passionate about technology and its impact.

This episode explores the neuroscience of reading, unpacking how the brain learns to transform written symbols into meaningful language. We talk about why reading is a taught skill rather than an automatic one, and what brain research reveals about how children and adults develop reading networks over time.

Dr. Donald (DJ) Bolger is an Associate Professor at the University of Maryland in the Department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology in the College of Education, where he directs the Laboratory for the Neurodevelopment of Reading and Language. He also co-directs the Maryland Initiative for Literacy and Equity, a joint institute with Morgan State University that bridges research and practice in literacy across PK-12 education and communities. For over 20 years, Dr. Bolger has studied reading and language achievement with typically developing children as well as neurodiverse learners and those with learning disabilities including dyslexia and autism spectrum disorder using behavioral and functional neuroimaging methods. His research also extends to the role of executive functioning and working memory in learning and the intersection of language and math development. Dr. Bolger has a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh’s Learning Research and Development Center.

On Saturday, January 10th, at 10 AM, the Technology User Group (TUG)  hosted a tech doubleheader showcase that puts innovation front and center! Discover the groundbreaking BlindShell Classic 3 phone, now powered with built-in AI. See it in action, explore its smart features, and learn both its strengths and limitations so you’ll know exactly how it can fit into your life.

They also spotlight the Image Center, your gateway to specialized services that support independence and accessibility. Find out what’s available, and whether you qualify to benefit from these incredible resources.

On Saturday, December 13th, the Technology User

Group (TUG) delved into the cutting-edge development of

wearable technology in a dynamic Zoom session that promises to

inform, inspire, and spark conversation. From smart glasses to

safety-enhancing wearables, we discussed:

• What’s out there right now — and what’s coming next.
• How these devices support information access, mobility, and personal safety.
• Whether wearable devices are budget-friendly or break the bank.

This episode features Dr. Josh Briley, a licensed clinical psychologist with more than twenty years of experience and a Fellow of the American Institute of Stress. Dr. Briley specializes in trauma-informed care, compassion fatigue, and stress management, and has trained first responders, health care professionals, and community groups across the country. His work with the Bureau of Prisons and the Veterans Health Administration provides deep insight into the mental health needs of men, and he is a strong advocate for men’s mental health. He also brings expertise in cranial electrotherapy stimulation and Integrated Behavioral Health, guiding providers and patients in innovative approaches to managing anxiety, insomnia, and pain.

Stress remains a critical topic during the winter holidays. It is not a personal failure; it is a biological response that every person experiences. The focus lies in how individuals manage it, how they recover, and the support they use along the way.

Anyone in crisis who needs immediate help should call 988.

Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families Deputy Secretary Dana Burl joined the MSLA Guest Hour to discuss the Department's services and resources, partnerships with public libraries and other topics.

The Technology User Group (TUG) welcomes you to our annual holiday gift presentation! It is that time of year when you start asking yourself, “What do I want for the holidays, and what do I want to give to others?” We think we have the answer for you as we present our annual look at Assistive Technology Gifts for the Holidays. Take a look at this year’s featured gadgets and gizmos for everyone from toddlers to seniors. Vendors will also be there to showcase the products they think you will enjoy.

Who should attend?

• Individuals who want to learn what’s new in the assistive technology world.

• People who are shopping for unique and useful holiday gadgets.

• Tech enthusiasts.