BALANCE for Blind Adults
Your Weekly "FYI" of events and happenings in our community.
Sent February 14, 2020
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Anxiety and Stress Management Group starting March 6
Do you feel overwhelmed and worried about life’s challenges? Need some practical strategies to deal with anxiety, worry, and stress? BALANCE for Blind Adults presents the Anxiety and Stress Management Group, a 6-week program facilitated by Naomi Hazlett, registered Occupational Therapist and Brandon Goldberg Psychology/Rehabilitation Services student with BALANCE.
The group will meet once a week, for 6 weeks, for two hours. Group members will learn about a variety of topics on the subject of anxiety and relaxation, including:
• What are the connections between my mind, body, and actions?
• How can I cope when things go wrong or when I feel bad?
• Mindfulness: what is it all about?
• How do I deal with loss, pain, and other challenges?
• How do I reframe and move forward?
Group members are to work together to learn how to lead a more balanced, centered life.
The group will run Fridays at 10 am starting March 6 and ending on April 17, 2020 at the BALANCE office.
Registrar: Radka Gajdosova, 416-236-1796 ext. 0, or email: b.goldberg@balancefba.org
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Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates and Useful Information
About 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a virus (more specifically, a coronavirus) identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China. The latest situation summary updates are available on the Ministry of Health website at the following link: https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus
How to protect yourself
To reduce exposure to and transmission of a range of illnesses, including coronaviruses, you should follow usual health precautions such as:
- washing your hands often
- avoiding contact with people who are sick
- practicing proper cough and sneeze etiquette
If you are travelling to an area known to have cases of coronavirus, be sure to avoid:
- high-risk areas such as farms, live animal markets and areas where animals may be slaughtered
- contact with animals (alive or dead), including pigs, chickens, ducks and wild birds
- surfaces with animal droppings or secretions on them
In terms of your service with BALANCE, and effective immediately, when one of our providers calls you to book an appointment, they will ask you a question about whether you have experienced certain symptoms in the past 5 days. In addition, they will remind you that if you are coughing, sneezing, experiencing a fever or having other symptoms of illness on the day before or the day of your appointment, you are asked to call them and cancel or postpone the visit. Our providers have also been asked to cancel the appointments they have with clients if they are symptomatic.
Thank-you for understanding. If you should have any questions about this policy and procedure, please call the BALANCE office.
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Soundscape Workshop is back in March/April - Unlock the Power of Apple Maps with Microsoft Soundscape at BALANCE - Spaces are limited!
BALANCE for Blind Adults presents unlocking the power of Apple Maps together with Microsoft Soundscape, the new navigation system from Microsoft. Designed specifically for persons who are vision impaired Soundscape uses true 3d sound providing the means to easily realize the whereabouts of both residential and business locations.
When used with a 3rd party turn-by-turn navigation app such as Apple maps, the end-user is provided with a complete GPS navigation system that is both accurate and easy to use.
Those wishing to participate may be asked to take part in a short assessment to determine appropriate skill level and must:
- Be an efficient user of iPhone, iOS and the VoiceOver screen reader
- Have installed on their device the latest version of Microsoft Soundscape and Apple Maps available for download from the Apple App Store.
The purpose for this class is to enhance the ability of independent travel for persons who are blind or have low vision and will take place at the BALANCE Office, 2340 Dundas St. W, Unit G-06.
It consists of two sessions beginning March 27 from 1:30 - 4:00 and concludes April 3 from either 9:30 - 12:00 or 1:30 - 4:00.
Session 1 is a comprehensive discussion and demonstration of how to use both Soundscape and Apple Maps. All those participating are expected to take part in this session.
Session 2 includes a one-on-one walk-about and orientation to outdoor GPS navigation with one of our certified Orientation and Mobility instructors and while available, participants have their choice whether to take part in the morning or afternoon class.
After completing both sessions, participants will have gained the following skills and knowledge:
- Understand the strengths and weaknesses of both GPS technology and Soundscape itself
- Understand the difference between tracking and turn-by-turn navigation
- Understand how to use the items found on the Soundscape main screen
- Understand how to use the items located in the Soundscape menu system
- Know how to search for and make use of specific Marker and call-out information (points of interest)
- Know how to add and remove markers
- Be able to create a complete route that makes use of Apple Maps as a third party turn-by-turn navigation app
- Understand how to use Apple Maps for both step-by-step directions and live spoken directions
- Be able to use Soundscape together with bone conducting headphones to take advantage of true 3D sound for hands-free operation when navigating on the street
In all, participants take part in five hours of total instruction.
If you are interested in attending, please contact Bill Phung b.phung@balancefba.org (647-407-1796), or Doug Poirier d.poirier@balancefba.org 416-576-6509.
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Register for BALANCE Transit Apps Teleconference - March 11 at 6:30 - 8:00 PM
Do you already make use of GPS to guide you on your journey throughout the city?
Are you a frequent user of public transit in Toronto?
What if you could make travelling on the system timely and more efficient?
Why not learn how to enhance your independence even more with the use of GPS enabled transit applications providing easy to use and up-to-date transit information all in the palm of your hand via your smart phone.
Furthermore, most of these apps are free of charge and are yours to use by simply downloading them via the app store.
On March 11 from 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM BALANCE is hosting a teleconference that discusses many of these apps.
We will attempt to answer your questions regarding the usefulness of such apps, highlighting some of the pros and cons of each and providing recommendations of some of the better ones.
facilitating this event are from BALANCE for Blind Adults Doug Poirier Assistive Technology Instructor and Bill Phung certified Orientation and Mobility instructor.
If you are interested in calling in and joining the discussion, please contact Doug Poirier d.poirier@balancefba.org 416-576-6509 or Bill Phung b.phung@bbalancefba.org 647-407-1796.
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Yoga is Back at BALANCE – in the East End! (Starts March 6)
Are you interested in learning more about the practice of Yoga but have difficulty following the directions of an instructor? Well, BALANCE has just the course for you.
When: Starting March 6 from 12:30 until 2:00 PM. The course runs for 12 weeks and ends on Friday, May 29, long weekends not included.
Where: The Healing Collective (2005 Danforth Avenue) - near Woodbine Subway Station
Participants will relax and de-stress with mild stretches thereby gaining relief from aches and pains associated with muscular tension. You will reinforce their independence and mobility through balance practices and increase energy and confidence through body resistance strength training. You are encouraged to wear comfortable, stretchy clothing and running shoes for ease of movement. Taught by Fazia Ackbarali, a professional therapeutic yoga and certified fitness instructor who has been teaching for BALANCE for almost 3 years.
IMPORTANT: there will be no class on Friday, April 10 due to Good Friday Holiday. If you have any questions about the location, or may need assistance with orientation and mobility routes, please contact our front desk.
Please note, we are asking all participants to pay a $25 deposit fee to secure their spot. If you attend 10 or more classes, your $25 deposit will be returned to you.
To register: contact Radka at info@balancefba.org or (416) 236-1796 X 0 (limited spaces, contact us now to secure your spot).
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Register for Sharing Space Support Groups - to start in MARCH 2020 - Two locations confirmed! Registrations till February 20
For the past few years, BALANCE has contracted with counselor Lisa Derencinovic to provide a psycho-social support group for people trying to deal with the emotional and social challenges that often come with sight loss. Our participants in this program have told us they find it invaluable to be able to speak to their peers about a negative incident on the subway, or a challenge with a family member, as just two common experiences. Indeed, the challenges often have less to do with being somebody with a visual disability, and more often are related to negative attitudes, and ignorance of sighted society. Being able to share with others going through similar experiences, and having that discussion facilitated by a professional social worker with strong group facilitation background and her own lived experience, we are told makes a world of difference.
If you have never tried a BALANCE Sharing Space Support Group, we urge you to call the office and register by February 20, because after that date we are going open these groups up to folks who have participated before. This is a 12 week program that you will not regret.
Please note: you must be a BALANCE client to participate; if you are not a BALANCE client, you can call the office to register as a client.
Note: this program is funded through the generous donations and sponsorships raised during our Because of BALANCE fundraising campaign.
West-End Group:
- When: Wednesday Afternoons from 1:00-3:00 PM starting March 4, 2020 and ending on May 20, 2020.
- Where: West Toronto Support Services, located at 1709 Bloor Street West, side entrance off Indian Grove (please tell WheelTrans the side entrance off Indian Grove). Nearest Subway station: Keele Station
East-End Group:
- When: Tuesday Afternoons from 1:30-3:30 PM March 3, 2020 and ending on May 19, 2020.
- Where: at The Healing Collective at 2005 Danforth Avenue, on the south side of the street, less than a block from Woodbine Subway Station.
Registration and more information: contact Radka at info@balancefba.org or (416) 236-1796 X 0.
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Message from Kikkawa College: Massage Therapy Student Neuro Clinic
Massage Therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissue of the body including muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments and connective tissues. Massage Therapy can reduce pain, improve flexibility, enhance local circulation, reduce stress and tension and help improve overall health and wellness.
You must be have central nervous system condition in order to be eligible for this particular clinic.
Massage Therapy can be effective in addressing the symptoms of:
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Message from CARD: 2020 Summer Riding Program
Our Mission: To improve the lives of children and adults with disabilities through quality therapeutic riding programs.
Full Day Camp: Running from 9am-4pm, campers will enjoy a Riding Session, Hands-On Barn Duties, and two different
Horsemanship lessons each day. Must be 6-16 yrs. of age and enjoy mounted and off-horse activities
$ 650/week (*$600 early bird deadline March 15) Runs July 27-31 and August 24-28
Half Day Camp: Running 9-12 or 1-4, campers enjoy a Riding Session and
Horsemanship lesson each day.Must be 6-16 yrs. of age and enjoy mounted and offhorse activities $ 450/week (*$425 early bird deadline March 15) Mornings: July 13-17, August 10-14, August 17-21 Afternoons: July 6-10, July 20-24
1 Hour Camp Classes: Running Mornings (9:15 or 10:30) and Afternoons (1:30pm or 2:45pm), these classes work best for riders interested/ capable of riding activities only. Suitable for ages 4yrs-mature adult. $275/week Mornings: July 6-10, July 20-24 Afternoons: July 13-17, August 10-14, August 17-21
Registration opens in February.
*Early bird rates applicable to individuals registered and paid in full by March 15th
Refund deadline for withdrawal is June 1, 2020
**All riding takes place in our indoor arena
To register, contact us directly at 416-667-8600 OR visit our website at http://www.card.ca/
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Message from Activate: You’re invited to join Heart & Stroke’s free wellness program!
Activate is a free 6-month wellness program that helps you manage your blood pressure for a healthier life.
Benefits include:
• Online health platform with curated content and trackers
• Support from a personal health coach and a Loblaw
in-store Dietitian (at participating stores)*
• 2-month free membership to YMCA or YWCA
(for non-Y members) and a free personal training session
• PC Optimum points to reward healthy behaviours
Date & time: Tuesday, March 3, 12 noon to 6 pm
Location: Ralph Thornton Community Centre, 765 Queen Street East, 3rd floor
Trained volunteers will measure your blood pressure, enroll those who qualify, and provide important information for everyone.
Can’t make it? Visit our website for other dates and locations: heartandstroke.ca/activate.
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Message from Audio Decsriber Kat Germain: Live Audio Described Tour at Power Plant Art Gallery (Harbourfront) Feb 22, 2pm
The folks at the Power Plant Art Gallery at Harbourfront have started their foray into increased accessibility initiatives. You are enthusiastically invited to a *free* Audio Described Tour on Saturday February 22, 2020 at 2pm. The tour will last about an hour. I would like to give credit to my community consultant Myra Rodrigues who is working with me on the project.
The tour will include an overview of "Anxious Audience" by Rashid Johnson, three "stops" each in Dawit L. Petros' "Spazio Disponibile" and Naufus Ramírez-Figueroa's "Asymmetries". After the tour, everyone is encouraged to stay and explore, ask questions and give feedback. There will be several staff available to offer additional information and assistance if desired.
The basic information:
Event: Winter 2020 exhibitions
Place: The Power Plant Gallery at 231 Queens Quay W, Toronto
Date: Saturday February 22, 2020
Live Gallery Tour Begins at 2pm
Cost: Free
Power Plant folks will be checking in with Wheel Trans to find out where the drop off point is, and a Power Plant staff member will be on the lookout to ensure people have an escort to the gallery if/ when needed.
Please feel welcomed to contact me (kat@katgermain.com) or them (info below) if you want specific information about this or anything else regarding the exhibits).
From their site: quote “Meet in The Power Plant’s lobby. A limited number of light-weight folding stools are available for when the tour stops in each gallery” end quote.
They have not requested it, but may I suggest you contact me/ them to let them know you’re coming so they can be sure they have enough staff on site? Here is their info: Telephone the Power Plant at 416.973.4949 or email info@thepowerplant.org.
Here is additional info about the three exhibits:
Rashid Johnson’s "Anxious Audience” http://www.thepowerplant.org/Exhibitions/2019/Fall-2019/Solo-Exhibition-(2).aspx
Dawit L. Petros' "Spazio Disponibile" http://www.thepowerplant.org/Exhibitions/2020/Solo-Exhibition-(1).aspx
Naufus Ramírez-Figueroa's "Asymmetries".http://www.thepowerplant.org/Exhibitions/2020/Solo-Exhibition.aspx
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Line 1: Finch to St Clair nightly early closures February 18 to 20 - REVISED
Subway service on Line 1 between Finch and St Clair stations will end at 11 p.m. nightly from Tuesday, February 18 to Thursday, February 20, 2020 for maintenance. Subway service will resume at approximately 6 a.m. each following morning.
Shuttle buses will operate. Customers requiring Wheel-Trans should see any TTC employee to request the service.
All stations will remain open for access to surface routes and Line 4. Please note that the ticket collector booth at North York Centre Station will be closed.
At York Mills Station, the Old York Mills Road automatic entrance will be closed. Customers are advised to use the other station entrances located in the York Mills Centre, Yonge Corporate Centre, and at the corner of Yonge Street and Wilson Avenue. At Lawrence Station, the automatic entrances at Ranleigh Avenue and Bedford Park Avenue will also be closed. Customers are advised to use the entrances at Yonge Street and Lawrence Avenue.
Full details: https://www.ttc.ca/Service_Advisories/index.jsp
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