edited by Cynthia G. Hawkins
The announcement of products and services in this column does not represent an endorsement by the American Council of the Blind, its officers, or staff. Listings are free of charge for the benefit of our readers. “The ACB E-Forum” cannot be held responsible for the reliability of the products and services mentioned.
To submit items for this column, send a message to [email protected], or phone the national office at 1-800-424-8666, and leave a message in Sharon Lovering’s mailbox. Information must be received at least two months ahead of publication date.
SSA Issues New Fact Sheets
New fact sheets have been issued to accompany the annual Social Security Statement. The sheets are grouped by age and income, and cover retirement planning for four different age groups (ages 18-48, 49-60, 61-69 and 70+); benefit information; and Medicare planning. For more information, go to www.ssa.gov/myaccount/statement.html.
APH Offers New Mapping App
GoodMaps Explore uses audio instructions to communicate routing and critical spatial information as users travel indoors or out, drawing upon GoodMaps’ state-of-the-art digital maps. The app provides accurate positioning and delivers a trusted wayfinding experience. Available in iOS and Android. For more information, go to https://www.goodmaps.com.
Sensible Innovations Announces New Mapping App
AWARE helps the visually impaired explore their surroundings independently. The app offers turn-by-turn descriptive navigation and an audio description of locations. Available in iOS and Android. For more information, visit www.sensible-innovations.com.
New York School Virtual Alumni Reunion
The New York State School for the Blind Alumni will meet this year via Zoom for the annual reunion. The dates of the reunion will be June 11 through 13. Activities will include our opening ceremony, business meeting, auction, game to be determined, a virtual banquet with a talk by our president concerning the State of the Alumni, and a memorial service. Please contact Diane Scalzi, [email protected], or Chester Smalley, [email protected], for more information. We will provide links and phone numbers to register or join the various activities as the reunion draws closer.
Regener-Eyes® Pledges Donation to Prevent Blindness
Regener-Eyes®, a first in class biologic eye drop, will donate $1 for each bottle purchased to Prevent Blindness (preventblindness.org). Regener-Eyes® is a sterile biologic eye drop made of anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors. These types of proteins have been shown to reduce inflammation and help stimulate the ocular surface to heal, repair, and regenerate. For more information, visit www.mydryeyes.org.
RAZ Mobility’s MiniVision2 Cell Phone
The MiniVision2 was designed for the low vision and blind consumer. It is a fully accessible mobile phone with big tactile buttons, a voice guide, and other features. The phone is compatible with several wireless providers. For more information, contact Robert Felgar at [email protected], or phone 1-800-729-0083.
Discontinued
En-Vision America will discontinue the “i.d. mate” Bar Code Scanner. A lack of available parts contributed to the decision. However, database updates will be available long-term. The warranty for the i.d. mate Galaxy remains in full force, and parts are available. If you have questions, or need more information, phone 1-800-890-1180 or visit www.envisionamerica.com.