The new look for 2026
Welcome to our new look monthly tips where we are pleased to share a plethora of tricks and tips that are relevant to such things as technology, travel, managing your daily life, and much more.
So just come aboard, sit back, take a deep breath, and enjoy!
If you wish to contact us then please do not hesitate to write to us at info@sterlingcreations.ca and we promise to respond within 2 business days as long as technology allows us to do so.
Give us your feedback, comments, suggestions, and thoughts!
For it is only through you and with you that we are able to do this!
Table of contents –
1. From our 10 tips on technology series
2. From the pages of Donna’s travel diary
3. A bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s did you know diary
4. From the scam watchers
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From our 10 tips on technology series
Hello everyone:
Welcome to my 10 tip series where each month I’ll be sharing 10 tips on various pieces of technology.
This would include tips on popular screen readers, office software, and browsers.
If you have any suggestions on what you would like me to share then by all means! Write to me at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca.
For this month:
10 tips on what is the Victor Reader Stream
The Victor Reader Stream is a portable digital talking book player designed specifically for people who are blind or have low vision. It is made by HumanWare and allows users to listen to audiobooks, music, podcasts, newspapers, and other audio or text content using voice prompts and tactile buttons instead of a screen.
The DAISY Consortium+1
It is widely used in education, libraries for the blind, and by individuals who want independent access to reading and information.
Below are 10 useful tips and points about the Victor Reader Stream and its usefulness for persons with vision loss:
1. Easy-to-use tactile buttons
The device has raised, tactile buttons that can be recognized by touch, making it easy for people with vision loss to navigate menus and control playback without needing to see a screen.
The DAISY Consortium
2. Voice-guided menus
It provides spoken instructions and feedback, so users always know where they are in the menu or book. This makes it accessible even for people with little technology experience.
3. Access to audiobooks
The Victor Reader Stream allows users to listen to audiobooks from services like Bookshare or library systems designed for people with visual impairments.
HumanWare+1
4. Reads multiple file formats
It can play DAISY books, MP3, and other digital formats, allowing users to access textbooks, documents, or leisure reading materials in audio form.
Amazon UK
5. Portable and lightweight
The device is small enough to carry in a pocket or bag, making it convenient for listening to books or learning materials anywhere.
6. Wi-Fi access to online content
With internet connectivity, users can download books, listen to internet radio, podcasts, and news services directly on the device without needing a computer.
HumanWare+1
7. Bookmark and navigation features
Users can set bookmarks and navigate by chapter, page, or section, which is especially useful for students reading textbooks or professionals reviewing documents.
8. Long battery life
The device can run around 12–15 hours on a single charge, making it reliable for daily use without frequent charging.
CNIB SMARTLIFE+1
9. Promotes independence
Because the device allows users to access books, news, and information independently, it reduces reliance on others for reading assistance.
10. Supports learning and employment
Students and professionals with vision loss can use the Victor Reader Stream to listen to textbooks, research materials, and recorded notes, helping them participate fully in education and work.
In simple terms:
The Victor Reader Stream is a specialized audio reading device that gives people with vision loss independent access to books, information, and media.
To contact me please send an email to donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca
I’m Donna J. Jodhan (sight loss coach and accessibility advisor)
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Important tips from the travel table
From the pages of Donna’s diary
An accessible home office
This may not directly relate to travel but believe it or not, my accessible home office is where I prepare in part for any journey.
Here are some tips that I continue to depend upon.
* All of my equipment and devices are easy for me to put my hands on in preparation for travel.
* My travel computer is ready for the journey.
* My Victor stream reader is ready to go.
* my iPhone and bluetooth keyboard are standing by.
* all of my plugs and connectors are close to each of their devices.
* My kit is equipped with extra connectors, usb drives, sd cards, and card reader.
* Finally all necessary software has been installed on my travel computer.
I’m Donna J. Jodhan enjoying my travels.
On your next trip you could enrich your down time with some of my audio mysteries. Take them with you wherever you go!
In the car, on the plane, on the bus or train, at the beach, anywhere!
And now you can listen to Donna’s weekly podcasts!
Ask donna – a plethora of tips from a sight loss coach along with book and product reviews!
Dining with donna – recipes and time saving tips for the kitchen!
Your mental stretch with Donna – how to recharge, renew, and get going! Save yourself from those dramas, traumas, and stress!
Visit http://www.donnajodhan.com/youtube
and subscribe for free
Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
http://www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at http://www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan
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A bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s did you know diary
A bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s did you know diary
Award winning sight loss coach, author and advocate
You can contact me via email at donnajodhan@gmail.com
Practical and natural!
Welcome to my Donna’s did you know diary for this month and pleased to share the following with you.
Here’s what I learned for this month.
1) Hard to believe but here is a tip on how to stay safe from an approaching bear:
Do not run away.
Stand your ground and do not make any attempt to make noise or attack the approaching bear.
2) The difference between food poisoning and a stomach flu?
Food poisoning takes longer to identify itself.
Here is an example.
If you have just eaten something and within minutes you have to make a trip to the washroom then it is possible that a stomach germ has been in your system and has just awakened because of something that you have just eaten.
In the case of food poisoning it takes a bit longer for things to happen.
3) An important traveling tip for you.
Make very sure that the name on your boarding pass is the same as that on your passport.
If they do not match, that is the one on your boarding pass is not the same as the one on your passport You may be in for a very rough time
4) A handy dandy tip when opening and eating chips:
Open the bag from the bottom and in this way you will be able to taste more of the flavour of the chips.
5) Types of memory for us to take note of:
Short term memory, long term memory, and working memory.
6) a possible allergic reaction to an antibiotic?
A blood shot eye.
7) About the severity of hurricanes?
5 is the most serious severity.
3 is the middle of the road severity.
8) The best way to convert to the appropriate currency when traveling?
Do not think of doing this at a hotel.
Go to the closest bank.
9) When using your credit card to pay a bill in a foreign country!
Pay the bill in the currency of that country.
For if you don’t, you’ll be charged for the conversion rate.
10) and an important tip about water melons
Do not buy them if they have bumps and dents
Water melons can explode in very hot and humid weather.
This is because the gas inside them can build up.
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From the scam watchers
Donna J. Jodhan is a world renowned advocate, author, blogger, sight loss coach, dinner mystery writer and producer, entrepreneur, law graduate, and podcast commentator.
Donna has been in the business since 2000 and her many roles have allowed her to recognize that there is a growing need for consumers and clients to be made aware of some of the most dangerous and popular scams.
Donna herself has been unwittingly scammed over the years a few times and now she is using her skills, experience, knowledge, and expertise to help others avoid pitfalls and heartache.
And as a vision impaired professional and person she is ready to help you stay ahead!
Donna knows only too well how much we all need to work overtime to protect the most vulnerable from those unscrupulous scammers!
Please read her latest suite of scams and she would love to hear from you with your own feedback.
Travel scams spike in August because it’s peak vacation season—crowded airports, busy tourist spots, and lots of people booking last-minute trips. Scammers know travelers are distracted and unfamiliar with local norms. Here are three common scams to watch out for. ✈️
1. Fake “Vacation Rental” Listings 🏠
How it works:
Scammers post fake listings for vacation homes or apartments on legitimate-looking sites or social media. The price is usually much cheaper than similar places, and they pressure you to send a deposit quickly.
Warning signs
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The host asks for payment outside the booking platform (wire transfer, gift cards, crypto).
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Photos look like stock images or appear in multiple listings online.
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The host refuses to show reviews or claims the listing was “just posted.”
How to avoid it
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Book through trusted platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com.
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Reverse-image search the property photos.
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Never pay outside the official site.
2. “Friendly Stranger” Distraction Theft 🎭
How it works:
In busy tourist areas, someone approaches you pretending to help—asking for directions, offering to take a photo, or pointing out something on your clothes. While you’re distracted, a partner steals your wallet or phone.
Common places
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Crowded landmarks
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Train stations
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Outdoor festivals and summer markets
How to avoid it
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Keep valuables in a zippered or anti-theft bag.
•
Use a money belt or inside pocket.
•
Stay alert when someone gets unusually close.
3. Taxi or Ride Overcharging 🚕
How it works:
A driver claims the meter is broken or takes a long route to inflate the fare. In some cities, fake taxis wait outside airports and charge tourists huge prices.
Warning signs
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Driver refuses to use the meter.
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No official taxi markings or ID.
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Price quoted far higher than normal.
How to avoid it
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Use trusted ride apps like Uber or Lyft.
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Check the expected fare on a map before getting in.
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Use official airport taxi stands.
✅ Quick traveler tip:
August is also when “closed attraction” scams appear—someone near a tourist site says it’s closed and tries to redirect you to an overpriced shop or tour. Always check official websites or signs first.
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Contact info:
Visit our websites at http://www.sterlingcreations.ca
http://www.donnajodhan.com
http://www.sterlingcreations.com
Email us at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca
Or call us at 416 491-7711
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Contact info:
Visit our websites at http://www.sterlingcreations.ca
http://www.donnajodhan.com
http://www.sterlingcreations.com
Email us at info@sterlingcreations.ca
Or call us at 416 491-7711