Upcoming Events | American Council of the Blind

For details on how to join our community events, sign up for our email list by filling out the subscription form, or by sending an email to: [email protected]. If your state or special interest affiliate would like your event listed on our Events page, send the information to: [email protected].

Tuesday, August 3, 2021

Date:

August 3

Location:

Teleconference

Details:

Neighborhood Coffee Klatch: 11am ET, 8am PT, 5am HT

Let’s get social. Join Cindy and your fellow community members for good conversation over your favorite morning beverage in small groups. We’re sure to get to know one another a little better.

ACB History Book Discussion Group: 1pm ET, 10am PT, 7am HT

In this week's discussion, we will focus on the whole of chapter three from the book, People of Vision: A History of the American Council of the Blind, by James J. Megivern and Marjorie L. Megivern, copyright 2003 by American Council of the Blind. Whether you have read this book or not, join our discussion.

Games To Play with Lady A: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

If you enjoy playing games as much as Lucy, you will want to join her for a discussion of what games you can play with your Amazon Echo Device. We will discuss new games every time, and feel free to bring games of your own to the discussion.

Introductory Guitar Course: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

This guitar course teaches the basics of acoustic guitar focusing on making chords; playing songs; and various strumming patterns.

Resistance 101: 3:30pm ET, 12:30pm PT, 9:30am HT

It’s time for an upper body workout using resistance bands. Hand weights, Soup cans, or other household items can be substituted. These exercises can be done sitting or standing. Let’s all get moving with Leslie Spoone, Certified Aerobic Instructor and Personal Trainer.

The Ins and Outs of Sight Loss Later in Life: 4pm ET, 1pm PT, 10am HT

If you or someone you care about is losing sight and the days of youth are behind you, come join us as we discuss the unique issues and feelings you may be experiencing. This is your time to talk about your journey and hear from those who have taken it before you who can empathize and show you the way.

Sponsored by Alliance on Aging and Vision Loss www.aavl-blind-seniors.org

Disclaimer: The purpose of this group is for peer support only. It is not a therapy group nor will it be facilitated by a health care professional and does not purport to provide mental health services.

ACB Crafters – Mitsy Kit Cathedral Window Patchwork Fleece Blanket: 5pm ET, 2pm PT, 11am HT

Continue making your blanket.

Braille Together Mingle: 6pm ET, 3pm PT, 12pm HT

Whether you are someone wishing to learn braille; wanting to improve your braille; or would love to share your braille knowledge; this call is for you. We love and know the value of Braille, and we want to share that love with others. If becoming better at using Braille sounds like fun, come join our mingles. There will be games, fun, and lots of sharing. Folks can ask questions or possibly find a personal mentor.

Contact Braille Together Mingle: [email protected]

Herbie’s Cooking Corner – Chocolate Cake: 7:30pm ET, 4:30pm PT, 1:30pm HT

Come Make a Chocolate Chocolate Chip bunt cake. Who says dessert isn't the best part of dinner? Join Herbie or listen as he makes this simple but sweet recipe. If participating, you will need the following: One box cake mix (Betty Crocker Super Moist Milk Chocolate is recommended); Semi-sweet chocolate chips; eggs; oil; water; mixing bowl; a bunt/cake pan; flour for greasing bottom of pan; and a rack for cooling.

Thank you for Being a Friend: 7:30pm ET, 4:30pm PT, 1:30pm HT

We all have those friends. You know, the ones that are always there for us or maybe the ones who aren't. Let's chat about friendship and what it means. Bring your bestie or make a new one. Let's have some fun.

ACB Board Of Publications Meeting: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

The ACB Board of Publications will hold its monthly meeting via Zoom and ACB Media. Meetings are open, and your participation is welcome.

Sponsored by the ACB Board of Publications

Conversational French: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

Whether you already know some French or would like to learn to speak the language, join Kathy for an hour of introduction to conversational French.

The She Shed: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

Come on into the she shed. Lots of fun and lively topics and discussion by women for women.

Event Category:

Community Events

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Date:

August 4

Location:

Teleconference

Details:

Wednesday Wake Up: 11am ET, 8am PT, 5am HT

It’s mid-week, and your wonderful, wacky, wake up crew is waiting for you. Join Eugene and the gang for some morning chatter and a laugh or two. It’s a great way to start your Wednesday!

Widows and Widowers: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

Join Roger Dennis for a time of sharing and connection. Together we will remember our partners and gain ideas on how to make living alone easier. Please remember, this call is only for those who have experienced such a life-altering loss of a spouse or significant-other.

Community Connect: 3pm ET, 12pm PT, 9am HT

Everyone has different perspectives, ideas, questions, and experiences. Join Kolby to help create the place where we can all learn and share together in a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment.

Full Flexibility Yoga with Resistance Ball: 4pm ET, 1pm PT, 10am HT

All you need is some comfortable clothes, no shoes, and a mat as we dive headfirst into full flexibility yoga. No chair, no worries! This class will focus on a full range of body poses as we move from the chair to the floor. Come join us for an hour of relaxation and yoga in the comfort of our own homes. Hosted by Leslie Spoone, Certified Aerobics Instructor and Personal Trainer.

The Friendship Circle: 7pm ET, 4pm PT, 1pm HT

Let’s take our connection to the next level! How about smaller gatherings, four to six people in a breakout room and we’ll call them friendship circles. We’ll do them twice in one hour, coming together each time afterward to share with the bigger group. Please be on time to ensure participation in one of our friendship circles.

Note: Everyone must identify themselves to participate.

It’s Electric: 7pm ET, 4pm PT, 1pm HT

Connect with us for current info about those small kitchen appliances we love so much: Instant Pots, air fryers, slow cookers, and more! Let's share our favorite appliances, tips, resources, and recipes!

Resolution Discussion – Involve Yourself in the Process: 7:30pm ET, 4:30pm PT, 1:30pm HT

The Resolutions Committee invites you to take part in the discussion over submitted resolutions. We may not be voting on them during the convention as done in person, but everyone can have input in the process and take part in the committee’s work.

Sponsored by the ACB Resolutions Committee

Hospitality – Bytes with BITS: 8pm ET, 5pm PT, 2pm HT

BITS members and friends will have a lively discussion covering all kinds of topics. If you have a technology question, you may find the answer you are looking for. Join us for some hospitality and some Bytes with BITS!

Sponsored by Blind Information Technology Specialists www.bits-acb.org

Meditation Celebration: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

Join In for a special half-hour together including a 20-minute meditation. We look forward to you coming. Your presence is our gift, our present. Your participation is our anticipation.

Midlife Mingle: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

If you would like to connect with others, share hobbies, address any issues or concerns that effect those of us whom are middle aged while having a relaxing and lively discussion, then join Karen Hughes and others. Topics are flexible and all are welcome.

Event Category:

Community Events

Thursday, August 5, 2021

Date:

August 5

Location:

Teleconference

Details:

Throwback Thursday: 11am ET, 8am PT, 5am HT

Let’s get social. Join Cindy and the gang for this “Throwback Thursday” as together we step back in time and remember and each share a special memory from our virtual photo albums.

West Coast Cafe: 1pm ET, 10am PT, 7am HT

Take a break and come into our virtual Cafe and bring your favorite beverage, West coast Style. Join Joe Green, Regina Marie, and the Capital Chapter of CCB. Drop in for 5 minutes or stay the whole time for some free-flowing conversation. Find out the “Question of the day.”
Connect with good friends and make some new ones.

Sponsored by the Capital chapter of CCB.

Secrets to living Well – Digestive Health: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

Come talk about the importance of digestive health along with a fun recipe and exercise tips.

Vispero Presentation: 3pm ET, 12pm PT, 9am HT

Join Vispero representatives for an enlightening hour-long presentation to increase your productivity using your assistive technology.

Sponsored by Vispero www.freedomscientific.com

Resistance 101: 3:30pm ET, 12:30pm PT, 9:30am HT

ACB Crafters – Needle Knitting: 6pm ET, 3pm PT, 12pm HT

Join us in the first hour for beginning needle knitting instruction. Join us in the second hour for advanced needle knitting instruction.

Sponsored by ACB Crafters Making crafting accessible

Join us on Facebook to receive updates and supply lists at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/acbcrafters. Subscribe to our email list by sending a blank email to: [email protected]. Feel free to contact us at: [email protected].

What are You Afraid of Book Discussion: 6pm ET, 3pm PT, 12pm HT

We will meet every week for 14 times and will be discussing the book, What are you afraid of? Facing down your fears with faith by David Jeremiah. The BARD number is DB77943. We will discuss chapter 4.

Technology Learning Lab: 7pm ET, 4pm PT, 1pm HT

Description: Join us for a different topic each week, complete with clear audio demonstrations as appropriate. Topics may include iOS apps and features, aspects of Windows with screen readers, Victor Reader Stream features, Etc. After the presentation portion, we take questions for the remainder of the hour, whether or not they relate to the week’s discussion.

Email [email protected] with topic suggestions or other feedback.

Disclaimer: answers to questions are intended to set you on the path to researching a problem but are not meant to replace the need for qualified technical support or one-on-one training when appropriate.

Thursday Night Chat: 7pm ET, 4pm PT, 1pm HT

Come discuss what is on your mind.

Sponsored by Council of Citizens with Low Vision International www.cclvi.org

Constitution and Bylaws Committee: 8pm ET, 5pm PT, 2pm HT

The Constitution and Bylaws committee invites the ACB membership to join in as they meet to prepare amendments to align ACB’s meeting and voting practices with pertinent provisions of the DC Nonprofit Corporations Act of 2010 as authorized by motion adopted at the national convention on July 23rd.

Sponsored by the ACB Constitution and Bylaws Committee

Sobriety First: 8pm ET, 5pm PT, 2pm HT

This call is for you if you are needing the support of a 12 step meeting and are unable to attend one near you.

Come Roar with ACB Lions: 8:30pm ET, 5:30pm PT, 2:30pm HT

Join ACB Lions for our regular monthly conference call. This provides all Lions and those interested in Lionism an opportunity to learn about what ACB Lions is working on, and share what our local clubs are doing.

Chewing the Fat – Summer Foods and Recipes: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

It’s the Fab 5! Jason Castonguay, Janine Stanley, Penny Reeder, Rick Morin, and Debbie Hazelton. We will talk about our favorite summer foods and recipes. We exchange tips and have a great time!

iBUG Trekkie Talk: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

This is a discussion group to pre-watch audio described episodes of Star Trek and then meet to review the episodes. Two episodes are reviewed each week on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month. Everyone, even non-Trekkies, is welcome to participate. They are currently watching Star Trek Discovery, Season 2 Episodes 5 and 6 for this week's discussion. The episodes (with audio description, no video) may be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1HK74Zgi9xy-sGMRl6aoKszyQUigCpG0c?usp=sharing

Sponsored by iBUG Today http://ibugtoday.org

Event Category:

Community Events

Friday, August 6, 2021

Date:

August 6

Location:

Teleconference

Details:

Desi’s Friday Morning Diner: 11am ET, 8am PT, 5am HT

It's Friday. That means the weekend is near. Celebrate the end of the week with Desi and your fellow community members with some lively chatter and fun. Meet new people; re-acquaint with old friends; and give yourself 60 minutes of smiles and good conversation.

CCLVI Coffee Break: 11am ET, 8am PT, 5am HT

Join Kathy Farina and Tom Lealos for a morning of fun-filled conversation to prepare for the weekend.

Sponsored by Council of Citizens with Low Vision International www.cclvi.org

Friday Crafty Gab: 1pm ET, 10am PT, 7am HT

Grab a seat; prop your feet; and gab with your fellow ACB crafters.

Sponsored by ACB Crafters making crafting accessible

Writing Works Wonders – Workout: 1pm ET, 10am PT, 7am HT

Exercise warm-up for short-story contest. August 6 is National Fresh Breath Day as well as International Beer Day. Write a short story of no more than fifty words. Do these go together? Compare? Conflict? Have fun!

Sponsored by Writing Works Wonders www.writingworkswonders.com

Free to Be Me: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

If you enjoy free-flow conversation about books and anything else that might come to mind, this is the call for you. Come as yourself. All are welcome and wanted.

Apple Presentation: 3pm ET, 12pm PT, 9am HT

Join certified Apple teacher, Matt Vollbrecht, for an informative presentation guaranteed to increase your productivity using your Apple devices.

Sponsored by The Tech Juggernaut https://ttjtech.net/

Happy Hour Cardio: 3:30pm ET, 12:30pm PT, 9:30am HT

Come and have fun with Leslie for an enthusiastic ride or walk on your cardio machine of choice. Whether using the stationary bike, treadmill, or elliptical, you don’t need to be advanced to join this class.

Blindness and More: 4pm ET, 1pm PT, 10am HT

This is a call for those who are blind with another disability. We will share with and encourage one another in a supportive and respectful environment.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this group is for peer support only. It is not a therapy group nor will it be facilitated by a health care professional serving in a professional capacity and does not purport to provide mental health services.

In Perspective Podcast: 5pm ET, 2pm PT, 11am HT

Join us as we record the In Perspective podcast where we build bridges and empower through interviews and conversation. This week’s guest is Donna Halper, Associate Professor of Communication and Media Studies at Lesley University.

VISAbilities – Next Stop Omaha: 7pm ET, 4pm PT, 1pm HT

Join Terry as she welcomes life-long Omaha resident and Host Committee Chair of the ACB 2022 National Conference & Convention, Jim Jirak, to VISAbilities. Jim will talk about all his hometown has to offer. Learn about places of interest throughout the city; restaurants, transportation, pedestrian access, entertainment, etc. Get all the inside info from a real insider.

Sponsored by VISAbilities www.VISAbilities.net

Hospitality – Bytes with BITS: 8pm ET, 5pm PT, 2pm HT

Sponsored by Blind Information Technology Specialists www.bits-acb.org

It’s Play Time: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

Meka and Cindy welcome you to join in for another fun Friday night filled with games and laughter.

The 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s – Do You Remember Life Before the internet?: 10pm ET, 7pm PT, 4pm HT

Join us for an hour of discussion and reminiscing of daily life and the days before the internet changed our world.

Event Category:

Community Events

Saturday, August 7, 2021

Date:

August 7

Location:

Teleconference

Details:

Saturday Morning Trivia: 11am ET, 8am PT, 5am HT

Join Danette as we play Saturday Morning Trivia. Some of these are pretty easy; some will break your brain. Join in on the laughter and fun.

ACB Crafters – Making Paper Snowflakes: 12pm ET, 9am PT, 6am HT

Create beautiful 3D paper snowflakes to give to loved ones; decorate

your home; or hang on a tree!

Materials: scissors; tape mMultiple Sheets of Paper (2-6 recommended)

Sponsored by Future In Sight Providing services for people with vision loss www.futureinsight.org

Angel Eyes Fitness Class: 12pm ET, 9am PT, 6am HT

Let's walk and work off those lbs and fat in this powerful all in one walking fitness class. This cardio, fat-burning, muscle-conditioning and stretching workout will help strengthen and sculpt your body. So let's walk and work while boosting energy levels and super-charging your upper and lower body.

Sponsored by Angel Eyes Fitness and Nutrition https://angeleyesfitnessandnutrition.org

Healthy Living Encouragement: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

If you're pursuing health and well-being and you'd like to share support with like-minded friends, we'd love to have you join us for encouragement, resources, ideas, and fun. There is no one right way to well-being. All are welcome, no matter your path.

ACB Media Roundtable: 4pm ET, 1pm PT, 10am HT

All things relating to ACB Media will be discussed.

Psychic Development: 4pm ET, 1pm PT, 10am HT

This is a nonjudgmental space where people at any level of experience can learn about all things psychic.

Julia can be reached at: [email protected]

Feel free to join the email list created for this group at: [email protected]

Caregiver Support Group: 5pm ET, 2pm PT, 11am HT

If you are a caregiver or have a friend or loved one in long-term care or assisted living, this group is for you. For all of us, this has been a very difficult time and we need one another. Let’s get together and give each other virtual hugs.

Weekend Braille Together Mingle: 6pm ET, 3pm PT, 12pm HT

You love the idea of knowing Braille. You suspect learning it may be easier with a bit of support. Here is a place to ask questions; find a mentor; and find resources, games, and tools to make learning Braille fun. We welcome Braille learners and those of you who want to mentor Braille learners.

Contact Braille Together Mingle: [email protected]

Divorce Chat: 7pm ET, 4pm PT, 1pm HT

Whether after one or thirty years together, divorce changes the fabric of your life. You aren’t alone in this journey. Please join us to share how you are feeling and know you have friends who are going through the same struggles.

Note: The room will be locked five minutes after the scheduled start time allowing attendees to feel free to share without interruptions.

Hospitality – Bytes with BITS: 8pm ET, 5pm PT, 2pm HT

Sponsored by Blind Information Technology Specialists www.bits-acb.org

Karaoke: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

Meka and Cindy are besties who love to go to Karaoke together, but now they live 2300 miles apart and there’s a pandemic. So they’re opening their Zoom Room for some crazy singing fun and hope you’ll decide to join in. Get your karaoke song queued up on your computer; grab your favorite beverage of choice and, whether you come to sing or not, take part in some community time

Event Category:

Community Events