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ECO Update

ECO-14 USB Flashdrive Update 1.01 is now available online!
Click here to download it now.

For more information on the ECO-14 or to purchase it online, visit our e-store.

Want to learn more about the ECO-14?
Contact your regional PRC consultant and request a demo of our newest device.

Funding Your ECO-14
The ECO-14 standard dedicated device has new and exciting features while still meeting the medical necessity requirements of most third party payers, including Medicare and Medicaid. The Integrated version of ECO-14 allows you to switch between communication and computer features. Visit the "Funding" area of our website at www.prentrom.com to learn more about funding opportunities for any PRC device, or call 1-800-268-5224 to speak with one of our Funding Specialists.

PRC Funding Department Direct Toll Free Number

The PRC Funding Department now has a direct toll free number. You may call 800-268-5224 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m. EST to speak directly with a Funding Specialist.

Staffing Announcement: Kara Bidstrup

We are pleased to announce that
Kara Bidstrup, M.S., CCC-SLP
is now serving as Regional Consultant in Northern California.

Kara Bidstrup earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Northwestern University, and completed her Master's Degree in Clinical Speech Pathology in August of 2003 at Northern Arizona University. Following her master's, Kara has specialized in the field of assistive technology and augmentative/alternative communication serving a variety of children and adults with disabilities who use speech generating devices and other assistive technology. In her most recent position, she was responsible for developing and teaching a middle school special education classroom for orthopedically impaired students using speech generating devices to communicate and access their education. Kara has experience providing training and technical support to clinicians, teachers, and families of device users.

Kara serves these zip codes: 93600-94199, 94300-95599

To schedule an appointment with Kara, contact her by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or call toll-free at 1-800-848-8008. 

FAAST Atlantic Region Assistive Technology Demonstration Center (ARDC),
Welcomes a New Staff Member

August 2006 - The ARDC extended available services as Faye Warren became an ARDC Program Assistant.

According to an article in the winter 2006 edition of FAAST Access; "Warren brings a unique perspective to her position at the ARDC because she is a consumer advocate. She uses AAC and AT as she goes about her daily business at the center and in her community. Warren's job duties include assisting with AAC demonstrations and assessments, mentoring clients and students, and completing administrative tasks."

Warren replies, "Helping and mentoring others is a great joy in my life. This is what I am meant to do...Assistive technology inspires me to help and encourage those who don't believe in themselves."

Warren was also recognized as a "Success Story" at this year's ATIA conference. Click here to read her story (317 KB .PDF).

PRC congratulates Faye on her assignment to this position.

Anthony Arnold receives the 2007 DO-IT Trailblazer Award

Anthony Arnold receives the 2007 DO-IT (Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking and Technology) Trailblazer Award.

July 24, 2007 - Anthony Arnold became one of three recipients of this year's DO-IT Trailblazer Award. This award recognizes DO-IT community members who have "forged new pathways that will benefit others. Through their ongoing work and accomplishments, award recipients have changed the way the world views people with disabilities and their potential to succeed in challenging careers and activities."

DO-IT serves to increase the participation of individuals with disabilities in challenging academic programs and careers. It promotes the use of computer and networking technologies to increase independence, productivity, and participation in education and employment.

Anthony Arnold, a resident of Grand Forks, North Dakota, works out of his home as a PRC remote troubleshooter for the technical service department. He handles technical questions people may have after regular business hours. He also serves as a board member at Options' Interstate Independent Living Center located in East Grand Forks, Minnesota.

Artist Needed for PRC Holiday Card

This is an invitation to all PRC device users who would enjoy seeing their design ideas brought to life on our 2007 Holiday Card. You may enter the contest by submitting your design and a short paragraph about yourself (which will be included on the back of the card) to Heidi at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it by October 15, 2007.

SHOUT loses a 'Cornerstone': Jim Prentice

Jim Prentice, age 57 passed away August 12, 2007. Jim, an augmentative communicator with cerebral palsy, served on the SHOUT Board and owned Jim's Business Services, a small printing company. He was an advocate for handicapped persons and the development of communication devices. Click here to read his paper from the Pittsburgh Employment Conference 2007 (317 KB .PDF). 

PRC Partner Profile: Mark Hammond

 Mark Hammond Associates, Inc.

Mark Hammond is the owner and director of Mark R. Hammond Associates, Inc. in Portland, Maine. He is a Speech-Language Pathologist and an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist providing services for both children and adults. Mark provides AAC evaluation or consultation services to over 100 individuals annually.

His experience includes over 25 years as a practicing SLP with at least 20 years involved directly with AAC.

Mark R. Hammond Associates, Inc. serves the state of Maine.

Contact Mark R. Hammond Associates, Inc. by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or by phone: (207) 797-8255 

Employment

Seeking Regional Consultants
We are currently seeking Regional Consultants for Colorado (based in Denver), Los Angeles, and Tucson. Please click here to explore all of our options.

NEW! LAMP Seminar Trainer Position
Please click here for details.

AAC Articles of Interest

Read articles of interest to the AAC Community!