Wilkinson on sat 19 apr 97
>From all that I have read regarding NCECA 97 I want to put this question to
those that went or are in the know for the conference in 98: Would a
handicapped person such as one in a wheel chair or that had problems
walking or standing be able to benefit from going to NCECA for the purpose
of learning more about the art or craft of working with clay? TIA
Lori Wilkinson in sunny Roswell New Mexico
LorWilk@dfn.com
Linda McNary on sun 20 apr 97
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>>From all that I have read regarding NCECA 97 I want to put this question to
>those that went or are in the know for the conference in 98: Would a
>handicapped person such as one in a wheel chair or that had problems
>walking or standing be able to benefit from going to NCECA for the purpose
>of learning more about the art or craft of working with clay? TIA
>
>Lori Wilkinson in sunny Roswell New Mexico
>LorWilk@dfn.com
----------------------------Reply----------------------------
As someone who was the traveling companion of a person who used a
wheelcahir at NCECA '97, I can say, without reservation, absolutely yes
there is a benefit to going to NCECA!!!
But I'm not sure I understand the point of your question, why wouldn't
someone with a handicap learn "more about the art or craft of working with
clay" at an NCECA? NCECA is a conference and clay is an art/craft form for
anybody with the desire to use clay as a vehicle of self expression. It has
something for everyone, it's a smorgasbord, a feast!!
Are you an individual with a handicap looking for encouragement to attend
'98 in Fort Worth? If so, again a resounding yes, go! That is not to say
that we didn't encounter an obstacle or two in Las Vegas. For example, the
buses to the exhibitions were probably really accessible. But I must admit
we really didn't even try to get on a bus. We were among the lucky ones
who landed a stretch limo and traveled to UNLV in glorious comfort for $2 @
and that included an ice cold beer en route!! If that hadn't happened we
most likely would have ended up taking cab. They were always accommodating
and not so very expensive. Generally accessibility everywhere was
acceptable and people were (with only one exception) extraordinarily nice,
thoughtful and helpful. The conference program stated clearly that anyone
with special needs should notify the conference organizers at registration
and they would be accommodated. That will be the case in Forth Worth also,
I'm sure.
If you would like more specific information, I be happy to help further or
put you in contact with my friend who travels a fair amount inspite of a
very painful disability.
But the bottom line is that one would have to be comatose not to learn and
benefit from an NCECA!
David Woodin Set Clayart digest on sun 20 apr 97
Definitely yes. I made it to Las Vegas and was on crutches, exhausted but
got a lot out of the programs and commercial exhibits.
Linda Arbuckle on sun 20 apr 97
Hi Lori,
There were at least 2 people in wheel chairs at the Las Vegas Conference.
The situation varies each year, but Richard Notkin has brought up special
needs before the board in the past. and I mentioned it again at the open
board meeting Sat. of the conference. While I was on the board, they agreed
to have some reserve seating up front for people with special needs... e.g.
someone who lip reads and needs to be close enough to see people talking to
be able to keep in touch with what's going on, etc. So, it's been brought
up. I'd suggest you make sure you remind them if you have special needs when
you register for the conference, and I think anyone concerned with this
might drop a note to the board before the May board meeting, so they
remember to plan adequately. They are sympathetic, but there are a lot of
details to keep in mind, so a nudge with an explanation wouldn't hurt, and
might give them an idea of how many people they should accomodate.
I'll ask to whom you should direct your note of concern.
Linda
Linda Arbuckle
Associate Professor, Graduate Coordinator
University of Florida, Box 115801, Gainesville, FL 32611-5801
e-mail: Linda Arbuckle@ufl.edu (Note: this is a new e-mail address)
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