In this episode of iCantCU, I share my experience traveling to Harrisburg for the Blind Merchants Holiday Party and fundraiser, reflecting on the challenges of navigating public transportation as a person with very limited sight. Timing was a major hurdle, from the unpredictable delays with CCT to coordinating a group of 17 people on an Amtrak train. I discuss how small inefficiencies can snowball, highlighting the importance of time—our most precious resource.

Once in Harrisburg, the event was a success, with 65 tickets sold, great food, a DJ playing festive music, and lively auctions and raffles that raised over $6,000. I was impressed by how smoothly everything ran, despite a few hiccups, like managing auction payments and losing a check. I also recount some funny moments, like my guide dog encounter with a cracker I dropped and the dictation mishaps that never fail to amuse (or frustrate).

I wrap up by reflecting on the importance of accessibility and time management while balancing humor and frustration. The fundraiser was a rewarding reminder of what our community can accomplish, even when obstacles arise.

Show notes at https://www.iCantCU.com/276 

Links Mentioned (product links are affiliate links so that I may earn a commission.)

• GoPro Hero 13 Black: https://amzn.to/48rmvpC 
• Ziggy’s favorite birthday present: https://amzn.to/3ZpuLTO
• Be My Eyes app (free): https://www.bemyeyes.com/ 
• Seeing AI app (free): https://www.seeingai.com/ 
• That Real Blind Tech Show episode 167: https://thatrealblindtechshow.libsyn.com/episode-167-the-human-alexa 
• Index of That Real Blind Tech Show episodes: https://www.icantcu.com/trbts/ 
• Watch episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iCantCU

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White Canes Connect Podcast Episode 117

In episode 117 co-host Lisa Bryant and I speak with Kennedy Zimnik and Karl Belanger from the National Federation of the Blind to discuss the Accessibility Toolkit, a resource designed to empower blind and low-vision individuals to advocate for accessible technology. Kennedy, an Access Tech Specialist, and Karl, a Non-Visual Accessibility Analyst, share the story behind the Toolkit, which evolved from a 2018 Braille Monitor article to a comprehensive, step-by-step guide now available on the NFB’s website.

   Find the podcast on

Apple Podcasts

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709 

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

YouTube

Https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

White Canes Connect On Twitter

Https://www.twitter.com/PABlindPodcast

My Podcast Gear

Here is all my gear and links to it on Amazon. I participate in the Amazon Associates Program and earn a commission on qualifying purchases.

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• Zoom ZDM Mic & Headphone Pack: https://amzn.to/33vLn2s
• Zoom H1n Recorder: https://amzn.to/3zBxJ9O 
• Gator Frameworks Desk Mounted Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/3AjJuBK
• Shure SM58 S Mic: https://amzn.to/3JOzofg 
• Sony ZV-E10 camera : https://amzn.to/4fFBSxM 
• Sennheiser Headset (1st 162 episodes): https://amzn.to/3fM0Hu0 

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Are You or Do You Know A Blind Boss?

If you or someone you know is crushing it in their field and is also blind, I want to hear from you! Call me at (646) 926-6350 and leave a message. Please include your name and town, and tell me who the Blind Boss is and why I need to have them on an upcoming episode. You can also email the show at [email protected].