SCOOP FROM THE GROUP – January 12 – 18, 2025
Please remember, if you wish to include your events in future releases, to use the revised form and send your requests to SCOOP at scoop@viadvocates.org no later than Wednesday prior to weekend. SCOOP will be published on Sunday. This will ensure that your events will be announced on Sight into Sound radio. Remember to include the name and telephone number of the primary contact for each event or your announcement won’t be included on the broadcast. Any items received in any other form will be returned to you for proper formatting. Please share this information with other relevant individuals in your group.
Everyone is encouraged to access the weekly newsletter, Scoop from the Group, via www.viadvocates.org to remain apprised of all official information from the VIA Board. If you have questions, feel free to contact any of the Board members listed below for clarification and/or updates.
BOARD & COMMITTEE CHAIRS:
President, Hospitality, and Communication Chairs
Talana Townsend talana.townsend@gmail.com
1st Vice President and Public Relations Chair
Gayle Metoyer, metoyer903@comcast.net
2nd Vice President and Fundraising Chair
Paul Williams, Sr., pmwilliamssr@gmail.com
Secretary, Leona Jeffery, bichon989@yahoo.com
Treasurer, Rodney Broussard, rbroussard@bffinances.com
Membership, Kenetia Williams, ladyk61210@gmail.com
Advocacy, Ava Carruth, avacarruth3@outlook.com
Thank you for your patience and cooperation.
EVENTS
SIGN UP: ADOPT A GRANDPARENT Sponsored by Collaboratory for Aging Resources and Education (CARE) and the University of Houston-Downtown Center for Public Service and Community Research
Date: Immediately
Time:
Details: The Next Generation Needs You!!! Help college students see your generation in a whole new light. Adopt a Grandparent will match you with a college student who wants to learn about life as you see it.
Participating Programs: Americorps Seniors – Foster Grandparents & Americorps – Senior Companions;
Houston Council of the Blind (HCB); Lone Star Living; Montrose Center SPRY Program; Visually Impaired Advocates (VIA); YMCA of Greater Houston Senior Program; YWCA Houston Centers for Seniors Life; Meals on Wheels
Call CARE 346-704-4233 to sign up or talk with Gayle Metoyer at 281-794-2012 for more information. Thank you WellMed Foundation and the University of Houston–Downtown for making Adopt-a-Grandparent possible!
Host Organization: Collaboratory for Aging Resources and Education (CARE) and the University of Houston-Downtown Center for Public Service and Community Research
Location:
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Phone Number: 281-794-2012
Contact Email: metoyer903@comcast.net
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: Blind Professionals Network (BPN): Open Registration for JAWS six week training course
Date of Event: SEE DATES BELOW
Time: SEE TIMES BELOW (Central Standard)
Details: HAPPY NEW 2025!!! BPN is thrilled to announce our next 6-week JAWS training courses! These valuable courses are offered completely FREE to all BPN members. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your existing skills, we have a course for you!
We’re offering two 6-week courses:
Beginner JAWS: Starts Thursday, January 9th at 6:00 PM Central Time. This course will cover the fundamentals of Jaws screen reader software, perfect for those new to the program. Classes will be held every Thursday at 6:00 PM CT for 6 weeks.
Intermediate JAWS: Starts Saturday, February 8th at 10:00 AM Central Time. This course is designed for those with some Jaws experience who want to learn more advanced features and techniques. Classes will be held every Saturday at 10:00 AM CT for 6 weeks.
Both courses are offered completely FREE to all BPN members! There is no cost to join BPN or to participate in these valuable training sessions.
Want to join BPN and take advantage of this and other amazing opportunities? Visit our website: BlindProNet.org.
To register for either the beginner or intermediate course, click the link below. If you have previously registered, email Training@BlindProNet.org to secured your spot in your preferred course.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to improve your Jaws skills! Share this post with anyone who might be interested. https://forms.gle/uwCQjbzrtJoFdyDGA
Host Organization: Blind Professionals Network (BPN)
Location: BlindProNet.org
Address: BlindProNet.org
Deadline: Not given
Cost: FREE
Contact Name: Blind Professional Network
Contact Number: (800) 699-8238
Contact Email: info@BlindProNet.org
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: 2025 Alley Audio Description Dates
Date of Event: 2025
Time: See schedule below for time
Details: Alley Audio Description Dates for the 2025 season are as follows:
JANUARY 26 7:00 pm in the Hubbard Theatre performing December
FEBRUARY 16 7:00 pm in the Neuhaus Theatre performing Seared
MARCH 2 7:00 pm in the Hubbard Theatre performing Glass Menagerie
APRIL 13 7:00 pm in the Hubbard Theatre performing Baskerville
MAY 11 7:00 pm in the Neuhaus Theatre performing Primary Trust
JUNE 1 7:00 pm in the Hubbard Theatre performing Private Lives
Please contact the box office for tickets. The phone number is 713-220–5700.
Host Organization: Alley Theater Audio Description
Location: Alley Theater
Address:
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/G
Contact Name: Alley Theater Audio Description
Contact Number: 713-220–5700
Contact Email:
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: iBUG Apple Workshop Accessories Show-N-Tell
Date of Event: Saturday, January 25, 2025
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Central Standard
Details: We will be presenting the following categories of hardware accessories:
Headphones Speakers Smart phones Keyboards
Chargers Cases Cables Microphones
Braille displays Miscellaneous
Note: since we the iBUG Café in January is covering an introduction to the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, these will not be discussed at this Show-N-Tell event.
If you would like to participate, we will need the following information about the product you will be presenting.
1. Category of product
2. Name of product
3. Manufacturer
4. Costs
5. Pros
6. Cons
Each presentation will be no more than three minutes. Please note that this is NOT a demonstration of the product. It is simply a brief overview of key features and physical description of the product.
The written submission containing the above information for the product must be received by Saturday, January 18, 2025, to Sandhya Rao, sraotexas@gmail.com, (713) 208-3278.
Thank you so much and hope to see you at the iBUG Apple Workshop on January 25.
There will be more information coming in the future with other opportunities, so watch your inbox.
Host Organization: The iBug Team
Location: ZOOM Platform
Address: ZOOM Platform
Deadline: Saturday, January 18, 2025, to Sandhya Rao, sraotexas@gmail.com, (713) 208-3278.
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Sandhya Rao
Contact Number: (713) 208-3278
Contact Email: sraotexas@gmail.com
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: 2025 Ski for Light (SFL): Applications Go Live!
Date of Event: Sunday evening, January 26 through Sunday morning, February 2, 2025
Time: See schedule for times
Details: Hello, Ski for Light Community!!! The day we have all been waiting for is finally here! You may now apply to attend the Ski for Light 2025 International Event as a visually- or mobility-impaired participant, guide, worker bee, or guest. This is a truly special event because it will be our 50th Anniversary, and you won’t want to miss it!
The annual event will be held from Sunday, January 26 to Sunday, February 2, 2025. We will be staying at the Marriott Hotel and Conference Center in Provo Utah, and skiing at the fabulous Soldier Hollow Nordic Center, home of the 2002 and 2024 Winter Olympics.
Please take time to read all the details before completing your application. There are some changes to the application acceptance process which include earlier dates for the initial acceptances and payment of fees. Applications will be accepted through Tuesday, October 1, 2024. You can find all the details and applications at www.sfl.org/events/next/.
This year will be specially notable for being the perfect time to visit with old friends, reminisce and celebrate the first 50 years of skiing, and to make new friends as we ski enthusiastically and with confidence into the future. I hope you will join us for this celebratory and dynamic Ski for Light International event.
Host Organization: Ski for Light
Location:
Address:
Deadline: Register closed Tuesday, October 1, 2024. Full payment is due from all accepted applicants by Friday, November 15, 2024.
Cost: See fee information at www.sfl.org/events/next/
Contact Name: Sheri Richardson, 2025 SFL Event Chair
Contact Number:
Contact Email:
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: REELABILITIES 2025
Date: SEE EVENT DATE
Time: SEE EVENT TIME (Central Time)
Details: Last month we announced our phenomenal lineup of programs, artists, speakers and schedule of events. Now, you can officially register for individual events, most of which are FREE to attend!
We can’t wait for you to join us next month!
REGISTER FOR ALL EVENTS: CLICK ON THE BOX BELOW
ReelArt Opening Reception
ReelWorkplace
ReelFilm:Opening Night
ReelFilm:Night 2
ReelFilm:Mental Health Night
ReelFilm:Night 4
ReelMusic
ReelArt For All and ReelCommunity
We can’t wait for you to join us next month!
Contact Name: ReelAbilities Houston Film & Arts Festival
Contact Email:
SAVE THE DATE EVENT (¡Reserve la fecha!): 2025 HAVIN Insight Expo Sponsored by the University of Houston College of Optometry (Espanol)
Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025 (sábado 5 de abril de 2025)
Time: TBD
Details: The Houston Area Visually Impaired Network (HAVIN) is proud to once again partner with our official sponsor, the University of Houston College of Optometry to bring you the 2025 HAVIN Insight Expo. Mark your calendars and save this date…it’s going to be a great day! (La Red de personas con discapacidad visual del área de Houston (HAVIN) se enorgullece de asociarse una vez más con nuestro patrocinador oficial, la Facultad de Optometría de la Universidad de Houston, para ofrecerle la Expo HAVIN Insight 2025. Marque su calendario y reserve esta fecha… ¡será un gran día!)
Theme: “Life After Vision Loss: We’re All in this Together” (Tema: “La vida después de la pérdida de la visión: estamos todos juntos en esto”)
Location: University of Houston College of Optometry, Health 1 Building – University of Houston central campus. (Ubicación: Facultad de Optometría de la Universidad de Houston, edificio Health 1, campus central de la Universidad de Houston.)
Stay tuned to your local sources of information about our events as there will be more updates regarding registration and details about the 2025 HAVIN Insight Expo. (Esté atento a sus fuentes locales de información sobre nuestros eventos, ya que habrá más actualizaciones sobre la inscripción y detalles sobre la Expo HAVIN Insight 2025.)
Contact Name: The HAVIN Team
Contact Number: 713-825-9108
Contact Email: havin@havintx.org
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: Bayou City Heat Bowl
Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Details: Bayou City Heat Bowl is holding a bowling event to be held on Saturday, March 1, at Copperfield Bowl. Registration begins at 1 p.m. Bowling is from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $40 entry fee, which included shoes, ball, and 2 hours of bowling. Come join us!!!
Host Organization: Bayou City Heat
Location: Copperfield Bowl, 15615 Glen Chase Drive, Houston 77095
Cost: $40 Entry fee includes shoes, ball, 2 hours of bowling
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number:
Contact Email:
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: 80 YEAR CELEBRATION
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Time: 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Details: Come join us as the Blind Veterans Association (BVA) celebrates 80 years on March 28!!! The celebration event will be held on Thursday, March 27, at the Houston VA Hospital located at 2020 Old Spanish Trail (OST) from 12 noon to 3 p.m. in the 4th floor Conference Room. Blind and visually impaired (BVI) representatives attending with tables will be Peggy Garrett, Houston Council of the Blind (HCB) and Talana Townsend, Visually Impaired Advocates – Houston (VIA-Houston); along with METRO, and others.
Host Organization: Blind Veterans Association (BVA)
Location: Houston VA Hospital, 2020 Old Spanish Trail (OST), Houston, 77030
Cost: No charge
Contact Name: Blind Veterans Association (BVA)
Contact Phone Number:
Contact Email:
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: LIGHTHOUSE OF HOUSTON: Events, Programs and Activities
Date of Event: SEE INDIVIDUAL EVENT, PROGRAM & ACTIVITY
Time:
Details:
1. Are you a Federal employee or retiree? Then GIVE HAPPY to us through the CFC using charity code 17496. One of the great benefits of the CFC is that you can give though payroll deduction or through your retiree annuity, giving a little each pay period and supporting our mission all year long.
2. Be sure to visit the Community Calendar on our website for the most updated information about our programs, events and activities. Click for Community Calendar
3. Online Workshop: Understanding Low Vision
Join us for an informative workshop that sheds light on the topic of low vision, clarifies the differences between being blind and legally blind, and highlights the supportive services provided by The Lighthouse of Houston’s Low Vision Clinic. This session aims to educate and inform about the spectrum of vision impairment and how our clinic can offer meaningful assistance. It’s an opportunity for individuals, caregivers, and community members to learn more about low vision and the resources available to enhance quality of life.
Where: Watch live on Facebook Watch live on YouTube
4. This month, our activities include tandem bike rides, a community art class and much more! To learn more about the fun events we’re hosting this August, contact Youth and Adult Services at 713-284-8424 or click the button below to send an email.
All Ages Art Class:
We are so excited to partner with Creating With Blind Abandon to bring art classes to The Lighthouse of Houston. Unleash your creativity, explore new ways to express yourself, and join us in a fun, supportive environment to bring your ideas to life.
Where: The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Tandem Bike Rides:
Don’t miss out on the fun of our upcoming tandem bike ride days! We are teaming up with Achilles International and hope you can join us for tandem bicycle riding and a breakfast social afterwards.
Where: Stude Park – 1031 Stude Street, Houston, TX 77007
Click to register on our website.
Licensed Adult Day Program
The Lighthouse of Houston’s Licensed Adult Day Program is for people who are blind, low vision, or have multiple conditions. A health assessment and physician orders are required (blind or low vision, health condition, multiple disabilities.) Participants must be Medicaid Eligible. Limited space is available – reserve your spot today! This month’s activities include, a Dance Dance Revolution exercise class, cooking tutorial class, music trivia day, and more.
When: Monday-Friday from 7:30 AM to 4 PM (no holidays).
Cost: There is a program cost of $33/day. Click to Contact Youth and Adult Services
Technology and Employment Training Visit our website to register.
Contact our Education and Training Department
Learn Braille Skills
Schedule an appointment today to learn the fundamentals of basic braille, basic computer operating skills and fundamentals of typing. Services are scheduled by appointment only and are provided by volunteer services.
Where: The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019 When: By Appointment Monday-Thursday. To register, contact Monique Mason at 281-891-3602 or click the button below to send her an email.
Resource Information Sessions at LOH
Join us every 3rd Friday for the News You Can Use! information session featuring guest speakers, focusing on visually impaired blind and low vision community support and resources tailored to your needs. Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to connect and learn! In-person from 12PM to 2PM at The Lighthouse of Houston. Provided By V.I.E.O.L. Visually Impaired Equality Of Life.
Where: The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
When: The next meeting is Friday, August 16th from 12PM to 2PM
Contact Monique Mason for more details, please text: 281-891-3602 or click the button below to send her an email. Click to Contact Monique
Diabetes Support Group – Every Wednesday from 11 AM to 12 PM
Learn about helpful resources while connecting with a community of new friends who understand the unique challenges of managing diabetes. Join us for companionship, understanding, and emotional support in a safe and welcoming environment.
Where: The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
When: Every Wednesday from 11 AM to 12 PM. To register, contact Serena Valentine at 713-204-1106 or click the button below to send her an email. Click to Contact Serena
Friday Support Group – Taking a Short Break – Returning in the Fall Click to Contact Us
Employment Opportunities: The Lighthouse of Houston is an inclusive organization that employs people of all backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, education levels and disabilities. About 58% of our employees are blind or visually impaired, and many have participated in our vocational training programs. Click the button below to view our current job openings. View Job Openings
Honor the Memory of a Loved One by Donating a Brick: Honor the memory of a loved one and make a lasting difference in the lives of people who are blind or low vision. For just $100, you can donate a personalized brick at The Lighthouse of Houston. Contact Daryan Jones for more information.
Click to Contact Daryan
Host Organization: LIGHTHOUSE OF HOUSTON
Location: LIGHTHOUSE OF HOUSTON
Address: 3602 W. Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: LIGHTHOUSE OF HOUSTON
Contact Number: 713-527-9561
Contact Email: socialmedia@houstonlighthouse.org
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: SIGHT INTO SOUND (SIS): JANUARY MOVIES & BOOK READINGS
Date of Event: Month of January
Time: Saturday night at 10 p.m.; Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m.
Details: Wishing you a Happy New Year!!! The movies for January are as follows:
1/12/25 Sunday Afternoon 2pm – Lady & The Tramp (70th Anniversary) 1hr 16mn
1/18/25 Saturday Night 10pm – Bad Boys (30th Anniversary) 1hr 59mn
1/19/25 Sunday Afternoon 2pm – Minions (10th Anniversary) 1hr 31mn
1/25/25 Saturday Night 10pm – Bad Boys: Ride or Die 1hr 55mn
1/26/25 Sunday Afternoon 2pm – Despicable Me 4 1hr 34mn
BOOK READINGS FOR JANUARY
CLASSICS OUT LOUD:
11 a.m. – Pride & Prejudice
BOOK HOUR:
10 p.m. – Stardust by Neil Gaiman
I have lived a thousand years by Livia Jackson
The Boy for the Woods by Harlen Coben
11 p.m. – The Whole Town’s Talking by Fannie Flagg
A Silent Death by Peter May
PROGRAM GUIDE: https://mail.yahoo.com/d/folders/1/messages/107831#:~:text=PROGRAM_GUIDE_2024,951.5kB
For additional information, please contact Kari Musgrove, Executive Director, Sight Into Sound (SIS).
Host Organization: SIGHT INTO SOUND
Location:
Address:
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/G
Contact Name: Kari Musgrove
Contact Number: 713-622-2767
Contact Email: kari.musgrove@sightintosound.org
Website: Sightintosound.org
EVENT: iBUG Café
Date: Sunday, January 12, 2025
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Central Time)
Details: Join us for this free “deep dive” training session covering an introduction to the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses . and its associated Meta View app on the iPhone. The presentation will cover installation of the app, home screen layout, features of using the glasses, setting the glasses to factory reset if needed, and more. The iBUG Café training session is facilitated by advanced iBUG member, Sree Roy.
Contact Name: Sree Roy
Contact Email: sreebroy1@outlook.com
EVENT: iBUG Mini-Buzz
Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Central Time)
Details: This free Q&A help session is for anyone with questions or issues about hardware and accessories that connect to iOS devices such as smart glasses and other wearables, smart things in the home, external chargers, speakers, etc. The iBUG Mini-Buzz is facilitated by Brad Snyder and Michael McCulloch.
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Android Insight
Date: Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (Central Time)
Details: Do you want to know about the accessibility features of Android devices? Do you want to know how Android devices are different from Apple devices? Do you want to become more proficient using an Android device? If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, then come join us for our free iBUG Android Insight training session, facilitated by iBUG advanced members, Ava Carruth and Harshid Trivedi. Android Insight is open to anyone desiring to become more proficient with the accessibility features on various Android devices.
Contact Name: Ava Carruth
Contact Email: avacarruth3@outlook.com
EVENT: VISUALLY IMPAIRED ADVOCATES (VIA): SUPPORT GROUP
Date of Event: Thursday, January 16, 2025–ZOOM MEETING ONLY
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Central Standard
Details: HAPPY NEW 2025!!! THE FIRST IN-PERSON SUPPORT GROUP MEETING OF 2025 WILL BE THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2025.
This year be structured enough for success and achievement. Be flexible enough for creativity and fun. Cheers to a new start and a new year full of exciting possibilities!!!
Protocol for VIA In-Person Support Group meetings is as follows:
1. Must wear mask upon entering meeting room and throughout meeting
2. Will meet in-person on the first through third Thursdays of each month. Fourth Thursday will be an off day. NOTE: If a month has five Thursdays, meeting will be held on the fifth Thursday at West Gray.
Meetings will also be held on ZOOM for those uncomfortable with returning to in-person meetings. Looking forward to seeing you!
Join ZOOM Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4138244331
Host Organization: VISUALLY IMPAIRED ADVOCATES (VIA)
Location: ZOOM Conference Platform
Address: ZOOM Conference Platform
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Number:
Contact Email: metoyer903@gmail.com
EVENT: LIGHTHOUSE OF HOUSTON CHOIR
Date of Event: Thursday, January 16, 2025
Time: 5:30 to 7:00 PM
Details: HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! The Choir will resume meeting on Thursday, January 16, preparing for spring events. We look forward to seeing you in 2025!
Host: Lighthouse of Houston
Location: Activity Center, Building 2
Address: 3602 West Dallas, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Lighthouse of Houston
Contact Number: 713-527-9561
EVENT: iBUG Trekkie Talk: Star Trek – Voyager, S1E3, S1E4
Date: Thursday, January 16, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (Central Time)
Details: Join our discussion group to pre-watch and then meet to discuss the Star Trek episodes. The iBUG Trekkie Talk discussion group is facilitated by iBUG members Kenny Norton and Jody Ianuzzi. Everyone (including non-Trekkies) is welcome to participate. For more info about Trekkie Talk, please visit the iBUG Trekkie Talk website: https://ibugtoday.org/social
Contact Name: Sandhya Rao
Contact Email: sraotexas@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Night at the Virtual Movies
Date of Event: Friday, January 17, 2025
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Details: Join us for Virtual Movie with the iBUG family. Facilitated by Michael McCulloch and Sandhya Rao. You may join in starting at 7:15 PM for the pre-movie social time with song games, jokes, and plenty of argle-bargle. Discussion and trivia will follow immediately after the movie. The iBUG Virtual Movie is the audio track (no video) with audio description. Please share with others that may be interested.
Feature: Wicked (2024)
Rating: PG; 2hr 40min; fantasy, musical, romance
Storyline: Elphaba, a young woman with green skin, as she navigates life at Shiz University and forms an unlikely friendship with the popular Galinda. Their bond deepens as they encounter the Wizard of Oz, leading to a series of events that ultimately shape their destinies and transform them into the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.
Director(s): Jon M. Chu
Writer(s): Winnie Holzman, Dana Fox, Gregory Maguire
Star(s): Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum
Award(s): 45 wins & 190 nominations total
Review: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/wicked-film-review
Join the Zoom meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/7428486329?pwd=M003RmZaa3pTbWRlZ00xbSs4YTlmUT09
One tap mobile from a smartphone: +13462487799,,7428486329#,,,,*369978# US
Dial from a landline: +1 346 248 7799 US
Meeting ID: 742 848 6329, Password: 369978
Contact Name: Sandhya Rao
Contact Email: sraotexas@gmail.com
EVENT: Houston Council of the Blind (HCB): January Monthly Meeting
Date of Event: Saturday, January 18, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Details: Greetings HCB members!!! In addition to our business meeting, details to be announced later.
Host Organization: Houston Council of the Blind (HCB)
Location: City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC)
Address: 1475 West Gray, Houston, TX 77019
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Number:
Contact Email: metoyer903@comcast.net
EVENT: True Vision Baptist Church: Monthly Women’s Bible Study
Date of Event: Saturday, January 18, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Details: The True Vision Women’s Bible Study will be held on Saturday, January 19, 2025. The scripture for study will be posted later.
Conference call number: 425-535-9221, no code is needed
Host Organization: True Vision Baptist Church
Location: True Vision Baptist Church
Address: 5700 Maple Hill Drive, Houston, TX 77088
Deadline: None
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Number: 281-794-2012
Contact Email: metoyer903@comcast.net
EVENT: Memorial Lutheran Church: Blind Bible Study
Date of Event: Saturday, January 18, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Details: Come join us for Blind Bible Study at Memorial Lutheran Church. Lunch is also provided. For more information, please call Arun Gaalla at 832-687-2840.
Host Organization: Memorial Lutheran Church
Location: Memorial Lutheran Church
Address: 5800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77057
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Arun Gaalla
Contact Number: 832-687-2840
Contact Email: arun.gaalla@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Mac Buzz
Date: Thursday, January 21, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Central Time)
Details: Mac Buzz is a free Q&A help session for anyone with MacOS and Mac hardware accessibility questions or issues. Mac Buzz is facilitated by advanced iBUG member, Herbie Allen.
Contact Name: Herbie Allen
Contact Email: herbie.allen@gmail.com
EVENT: It’s iBUG’s Life: TBD
Date of Event: Thursday, January 23, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Central time)
Details: Join iBUG facilitator, George Battiste, as he hosts another conversation on independent living and life skills issues, adaptations, and tips for the blind. This month’s free interactive and engaging discussion will focus on holiday decorating, gift wrapping, holiday music, etc.
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Apple Workshop: Accessories Show-N-Tell
Date of Event: Saturday, January 25, 2025
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Central Standard
Details: We will be presenting the following categories of hardware accessories:
Headphones Speakers Smart phones Keyboards
Chargers Cases Cables Microphones
Braille displays Miscellaneous
Note: since we the iBUG Café in January is covering an introduction to the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, these will not be discussed at this Show-N-Tell event.
If you would like to participate, we will need the following information about the product you will be presenting.
1. Category of product
2. Name of product
3. Manufacturer
4. Costs
5. Pros
6. Cons
Each presentation will be no more than three minutes. Please note that this is NOT a demonstration of the product. It is simply a brief overview of key features and physical description of the product.
The written submission containing the above information for the product must be received by Saturday, January 18, 2025, to Sandhya Rao, sraotexas@gmail.com, (713) 208-3278.
Thank you so much and hope to see you at the iBUG Apple Workshop on January 25.
There will be more information coming in the future with other opportunities, so watch your inbox.
Host Organization: The iBug Team
Location: ZOOM Platform
Address: ZOOM Platform
Deadline: Saturday, January 18, 2025, to Sandhya Rao, sraotexas@gmail.com, (713) 208-3278.
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Sandhya Rao
Contact Number: (713) 208-3278
Contact Email: sraotexas@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Mini-Buzz
Date: Tuesday, January 28, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Central Time)
Details: This free Q&A help session is for anyone with questions or issues about hardware and accessories that connect to iOS devices such as smart glasses and other wearables, smart things in the home, external chargers, speakers, etc. The iBUG Mini-Buzz is facilitated by Brad Snyder and Michael McCulloch.
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Mac-N-Talk
Date of Event: Tuesday, January 28, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Details: Are you thinking about getting a Mac? Are you wondering if you will be able to learn the MacOS on your own? Do you have issues or questions about the accessibility features of your Mac? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, you should join us for the free iBUG Mac-N-Talk training session facilitated by advanced iBUG members, Chanelle and Herbie Allen.
Contact Name: Chanelle Allen
Contact Email: chanellem.allen@gmail.com
EVENT: Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS)–February 2025
Date of Event: Saturday, February 8, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. -11:30 a.m.
Details: TBA
Host Organization: Houston Museum of Natural Science
Location: Houston Museum of Natural Science
Address: 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77004
Deadline: RSVP via email (accessprogramming@hmns.org)
Cost: Admission is included for the tour time frame – no cost for tour. Parking not included.
Contact Name: Matti Hammett Wallin
Contact Number: 713-639-4620
Contact Email: mwallin@hmns.org or accessprogramming@hmns.org
Website: hmns.org/access
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HoustonMuseumOfNaturalScience
EVENT: Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH): Art Beyond Sight–FEBRUARY MEETING
Date of Event: Saturday, February 8, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Details: As always, we will meet in the lobby of the Museum’s Audrey Jones Beck Building, 5601 Main Street. This is the building at the corner of Main and Bissonnet with the large drive-through porte cochere. Metro Lift, Uber, etc. can pull through this driveway and drop you off at the building’s front entrance.
SPECIAL NOTES:
If you need parking: We strongly encourage you to use the Museum garage located at 1144 Binz Street. There is a $6 fee to park in the garage; however, you will have direct access to the Museum and the Beck Building without needing to cross the street.
Museum café: Museum staff/docents will NOT be able to escort groups to the café after the program. Please keep in this mind as you make your plans for the day.
If I can answer any questions or provide any additional information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Host Organization: Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH): Art Beyond Sight
Location: Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH)
Address: Audrey Jones Beck Building, 5601 Main Street, Houston, TX 77004
Deadline: RSVP an email to cstorie@mfah.org listing the names of all the attendees in your group
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: cstorie@mfah.org, Interpretation Specialist
Contact Number:
Contact Email: cstorie@mfah.org
EVENT: iBug VILA Book Club
Date of Event: Thursday, February 13, 2025
Time: 6:30 to 8:00 PM Central Time
Details: Please join us for the next meeting of the VILA Book Club sponsored by iBUG Today. We will be discussing the following book:
February 13
Facilitator: Gail Greenberg
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon, DB117781
Maine, 1789: When the Kennebec River freezes, entombing a man in the ice, Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body and determine cause of death. As a midwife and healer, she is privy to much of what goes on behind closed doors in Hallowell. Her diary is a record of every birth and death, crime and debacle that unfolds in the close-knit community. Months earlier, Martha documented the details of an alleged rape committed by two of the town’s most respected gentlemen-one of whom has now been found dead in the ice. But when a local physician undermines her conclusion, declaring the death to be an accident, Martha is forced to investigate the shocking murder on her own. Over the course of one winter, as the trial nears, and whispers and prejudices mount, Martha doggedly pursues the truth. Her diary soon lands at the center of the scandal, implicating those she loves, and compelling Martha to decide where her own loyalties lie. 15 hours, 8 minutes
March 13
Facilitator: TBD
Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee: An Indian History of the American West by Dee Alexander Brown, DB20462 (Vincent Alorza)
Based upon the records of treaty councils and the actual words of Indian leaders such as Geronimo, Chief Joseph, and Crazy Horse. This history of the Indians from 1860 to 1890 covers the thirty critical years during which the West was won and the civilization of the American Indian was lost. 16 hours, 11 minutes
April 10
Facilitator: TBD
Handle with Care by Jodi Picoult, DB68615 (Pete Lane)
Charlotte’s daughter Willow has osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), which requires constant care from Willow’s parents and sister to avoid broken bones. When Willow is five, an exhausted Charlotte learns she can sue her friend and obstetrician Piper for not spotting Willow’s OI on an early ultrasound. 15 hours 12 minutes
Host: iBUG Today, http://ibugtoday.com
Location: To join a meeting, you may click on the following link:
https://zoom.us/j/7428486329?pwd=M003RmZaa3pTbWRlZ00xbSs4YTlmUT09
One tap mobile from a smartphone: +13462487799,,7428486329#,,,,*369978# US
Dial from a phone: +1 346 248 7799 US
Meeting ID: 742 848 6329, Password: 369978
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
RESOURCES
DIGNITY MEMORIAL
Date of Event: Call for details
Details: For information regarding end of life needs.
Host Organization: Dignity Memorial
Contact Name: Carla Baker
Contact Phone Number: 954-347-0071
Contact Email: carla.baker@dignitymemorial.com
GGC GROUP CORPORATION
Details: Who will take care for us when we can’t care for ourselves. What’s Your Plan????
Schedule a meeting
Host Organization: GGC Group Corporation
Contact Name: Deborah Crumbley
Contact Phone Number: Office 832-263-8314; cell 832-419-1416
Contact Email: deborah@ggcgroupcorp.com
MAYOR’S OFFICE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Date of Event: Call for details
Details: For housing or food needs
Host Organization: Mayor’s Office for People With Disabilities (MOPD)
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 832-394-0814
Contact Email: mopdmail@houstontx.gov
Website: https://www.houstontx.gov/disabilities/
SPECIALIZED TELECOMMUNICATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (STAP)
Date of Event: Call for details
Details: Helps people who have a disability that interferes with their access to telephone networks purchase basic specialized assistive equipment or services. STAP typically covers the cost of most phones included in our voucher categories.
Host Organization:
Contact Name: Henry Brennan
Contact Phone Number: 409-904-2368
Contact Email:
HOUSTON CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING (HCIL)
Host Organization: Houston Council Independent Living (HCIL)
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 713-974-4621 or 1-877-877-7082
Contact Email:
Website: hcil.cc
BAKER-RIPLEY UTILITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Date of Event:
Details: Our Baker-Ripley Utility Assistance Program has funding available to assist eligible Harris County residents with the following:
—Up to $1,600 of assistance for electricity or gas bill paid directly to the utility provider
—Up to $1,600 of assistance with disconnection notices
—Up to $5,000 of assistance for service and repair of heating and cooling systems.
Applicants must meet the following Program Eligibility criteria:
—Reside in Harris County
—Meet Income Guidelines at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
Applications may also be requested by contacting our Utility Assistance Hotline at 713-590-2327, through United Way Helpline 2-1-1, and by going to our website https://www.bakerripley.org/services/utility-assistance-program
Host Organization: Baker-Ripley Utility Assistance Program
Contact Name: Kamila Javanshir, 281-771-9366
Contact Phone Number: 713-590-2327 or United Way Helpline 2-1-1
Contact Email: kjavanshir@bakerripley.org
Website: https://www.bakerripley.org/services/utility-assistance-program
EVENT: ANGEL EYES VIRTUAL FITNESS PROGRAM
Date of Event: Contact for day and date
Time: Contact for time
Details: Angel Eyes Fitness and Nutrition, Inc. located in Covington, GA is a 501(c)(3) established to empower and equip the Blind and Visually Impaired with specially targeted and tailored fitness and nutrition counselling programs. Several types of classes are offered to meet your needs three days out of the week. Tai chi has been added on first and third Tuesdays of every month.
Each month classes will rotate on Thursday at 11 a.m. and Saturday, 11 a.m. The Monday night class is the only class remaining the same at 5:30 p.m. (CT). Classes included are Gutt and Butt Boost, Kickboxing with Toning, Boxing (Boxlates Barre–Boxing, Ballet style, Standing Pilates), Pilates with Chair Option, Werk It! Walking Fitness, Dance Fitness, Flex and Stretch, as well as Chair Fitness with Fitness Tools.
For more information, click on angeleyesfitnessandnutrition.com and register as classes are on ZOOM. If you need help registering or additional assistance, email Dawn Wells, program founder, at angeleyesfitnessandnutrition@gmail.com .
Host Organization: Angel Eyes Fitness Program
Location: VIRTUAL–ZOOM platform
Address: VIRTUAL–ZOOM platform
Deadline: Not given
Cost: Not given
Contact Name: Dawn Wells, Program Founder
Contact Number:
Contact Email: angeleyesfitnessandnutrition@gmail.com
EVENT: Visually Impaired But Empowered (VIBE)–Social Support Group
Date of Event: Wednesday, September 4 & 18, 2024
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Central Time
Details: Join VIBE, a dynamic, new support group hosted by Houston Council for Independent Living (HCIL). We are not just about coping, but thriving!!!
Click link below for more information: https://mail.yahoo.com/d/folders/1/messages/107792#:~:text=%3CVIBE%20General%20Flyer%20(2).mp4%3E
Host Organization: VISUALLY IMPAIRED BUT EMPOWERED (VIBE)
Contact Name: Jason Jones
Contact Number: 713-974-4621
Contact Email: jjones@hcil.cc
FOR EDUCATION
National Homework Hotline for Blind and/or Visually Impaired Students
Date of Event:
Details: This ’Hotline’ is actually a ’Google Form’ but other than that the NHH-BVI reports that it is a free service for K-12 and college students in the United States. NHH-BVI responders are experienced TVIs, tutors, mentors, STEM professionals, and college students who are eager to assist blind/visually impaired. Areas of support include: JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver for MacOS and iOS devices, Nemeth and literary braille, Cranmer abacus, Refreshable braille displays, Braille notetakers, Core subject, tutoring (Math, ELA, Science, Social Studies), and Talking Scientific Calculators.
To request assistance, complete this Help Request Form, and a Hotline Responder will contact you:
National Homework Hotline-BVI Help Request Form (google.com)
Host Organization:
Contact Name: Ron Graham, President, Visually Impaired People of South East Texas (VIPSET)
Contact Phone Number:
Contact Email: rgraham@cebridge.net
Website: http://www.havintx.org/our-groups/vipset/
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Details: The Social Security Administration (SSA) wants to let you know that during the current coronavirus pandemic it continues to provide help to you and others in your community.
While offices are not providing service to walk-in visitors due to COVID-19, SSA remains committed to providing ongoing benefits and vital services. SSA remains ready and able to help you by phone with most Social Security matters and must make appointments. You can speak with a representative by calling your local Social Security office or their National 800 Number. They provide local office phone numbers conveniently online with their Social Security Office Locator.
Lastly, SSA also understands that getting medical and other documentation can be difficult due to the pandemic. So, SSA is continuing to extend certain deadlines wherever possible. Reach out now and get the help you need!
Website: https://www.ssa.gov/
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
Contact Email:
Helpline for Blind, Older Individuals
Details: We have an exciting announcement with a new Helpline for our Older Individuals who are Blind program–anyone 55 and older and may need assistance with services due to vision loss. We are in the process of getting flyers, posters, and new brochures printed with our new information.
Host Organization: Texas Workforce Commission
Contact Name: Juanita Barker, Director, Office of Blind Services Support
Contact Phone Number: 512-936-3388
Contact Email: juanita.barker@twc.state.tx.us
Website: oibinfo@twc.texas.gov.
The Lighthouse of Houston: Diabetes Education and Support Group
Date: Every Wednesday
Time: 11 AM to 12 PM
Details: Are you looking to connect with others who are blind or low vision and living with diabetes? Join our diabetes support group and make those meaningful connections. Learn about educational resources and meet new friends who will understand the challenges of managing diabetes, and will provide companionship and emotional support in a caring environment.
Sign up today! Click to Contact Serena
For more information and to register, contact Serena Valentine at 713-204-1106 or email COREIitiative@peoplenomix.org.
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Contact Name: Serena Valentine
Contact Phone Number: 713-204-1106
Contact Email: Click to Contact Serena
EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston: Learn Braille Skills
Date: By Appointment–Monday through Thursday
Time: By Appointment
Details: Schedule an appointment today to learn the fundamentals of basic braille, basic computer operating skills and fundamentals of typing. Services are scheduled by appointment only and are provided by volunteer services. To register, contact Monique Mason at 281-891-3602 or click the button below to send her an email.
Click to Contact Monique
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Monique Mason
Contact Phone Number: 281-891-3602
Contact Email:
EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston–All Ages Art Class
Date: SEE BELOW
Time: 1 PM to 3 PM.
Details: All Ages Art Class: We are so excited to partner with Creating With Blind Abandon to bring art classes to The Lighthouse of Houston. Unleash your creativity, explore new ways to express yourself, and join us in a fun, supportive environment to bring your ideas to life. Where: The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019 When: The next art class is Saturday, August 17th from 1 PM to 3 PM.
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Monique Mason
Contact Phone Number: 281-891-3602
Contact Email:
EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston–Tandem Bike Rides
Date: Call to confirm which Saturday monthly
Time: By Appointment
Details: Don’t miss out on the fun of our upcoming tandem bike ride days! We are teaming up with Achilles International and hope you can join us for tandem bicycle riding and a breakfast social afterwards.
Where: Stude Park – 1031 Stude Street, Houston, TX 77007
Schedule: September 7th from 8AM to 9:30AM
October 5th from 8AM to 9:30AM
November 2nd from 8AM to 9:30AM
December 14th from 8AM to 9:30AM
Click to register on our website.
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 713-284-8424
Contact Email: https://houstonlighthouse.org/event/tandem-bike-riding-with-achilles-international-2/2024-08-10/#:~:text=youthadultservices%40houstonlighthouse.org.
EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston: Education, Technology, and Vocational Training
Date: By Appointment
Time: By Appointment
Details: Employment Opportunities: The Lighthouse of Houston is an inclusive organization that employs people of all backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, education levels and disabilities. About 58% of our employees are blind or visually impaired, and many have participated in our vocational training programs. Click the button below to view our current job openings. View Job Openings
Resource Information Sessions at LOH
Join us every 3rd Friday for the News You Can Use! information session featuring guest speakers, focusing on visually impaired blind and low vision community support and resources tailored to your needs. Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to connect and learn! In-person from 12PM to 2PM at The Lighthouse of Houston. Provided By V.I.E.O.L. Visually Impaired Equality Of Life.
Where: The Lighthouse of Houston – 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
When: The next meeting is Friday, August 16th from 12PM to 2PM
Contact Monique Mason for more details, please text: 281-891-3602 or click the button below to send her an email. Click to Contact Monique
Click to Contact our Education and Training Department
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: 3602 West Dallas Street, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Monique Mason
Contact Phone Number: 281-891-3602
Contact Email:
FOR JOB OPPORTUNITIES
EVENT: Blind Professional Network
Date of Event: Call for details
Details: There are job opportunities available during the COVID-19 pandemic. If interested, please contact Victoria Hillard, info@blindpro.net.
Host Organization:
Contact Name: Victoria Hillard
Contact Phone Number: 281-794-2012
Contact Email: Victoria Hillard at info@blindpro.net
TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION (TWC)
Website: www.twc.texas.gov
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 713-692-7755
Contact Email: customers@twc.state.tx.us
The Lighthouse of Houston
Details: Greetings! The Lighthouse of Houston has several positions open. I’d love your help in passing this information along to qualified candidates. The link to apply is below:
Job Opportunities (paycomonline.net) We look forward to seeing!
Website:www.houstonlighthouse.org
Location: 3602 W. Dallas, Houston, TX 77019
Contact Name: Jenna Dhayer | President
Contact Phone Number: 713-284-8490 W; 281-226-3681 C
Contact Email: www.lighthouseofhouston.org
FOR ORGANIZATIONS
Visually Impaired Advocates (VIA)
Website: www.viadvocates.org
Contact Name: Talana Townsend, President
Contact Number: 832-867-0140
Contact Email: info@viadvocates.org
Houston Council of the Blind (HCB)
Website: www.acbt-houston.org
Contact Name: Peggy Garrett, President
Contact Number: 281-438-9665
Contact Email: info@acbt-houston.org
Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC) Adaptive Sports & Recreation
Website:
Contact Name: Charles French
Contact Number: 832-395-7333
Contact Email: Charles.French@houstontx.org
National Federation of the Blind of Texas – Houston (NFBT-Hou)
Website:
Contact Name: Stacy Gallegos, President
Contact Number: 346-704-0190
Contact Email: shardy@nfbtx.org
iBug Today Team
Website: www.ibugtoday.com
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Number: 832-453-7139
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
Blind Professional Network
Facebook: www.facebook.com/blindpronet
Contact Name: Victoria Hilliard
Contact Number: 1-800-699-8238
Contact Email: info@BlindProNet.org
Visually Impaired People of South East Texas (VIPSET)
Request a digital copy of HAVIN trifold.
Website: http://www.havintx.org
Contact Name: Ron Graham, President
Contact Number: 713-825-9108
Contact Email: rgraham@cebridge.net
Foundation Fighting Blindness–Houston Chapter
Website: http://www.blindness.org/local-chapters/houston-tx
Contact Name, Number, & Email: Ashley Manolakis; Manager, Events; 985-246-9434; AManolakis@FightingBlindness.org
Kimi Huang; Sr. Events Assistant; 424-343-2539; KHuang@FightingBlindness.org
Houston Area Visually Impaired Network (HAVIN)
Details: If you haven’t already heard, there is breaking news from the Houston Area Visually Impaired Network (HAVIN)! We are now listed as one of the blindness organizations on the Be My Eyes app! If you want to know more about what we do, or wish to contact one of our agents, just look us up in the app you already know. Under Specialized Help, go to Blindness Organizations and there we are! We are available to Be My Eyes users in the US and Canada and open Monday through Friday, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m Central Time. We can share information about Houston, our organizations, and many of the general resources available for the blind.
Website: http://www.havintx.org
Contact Name: Ron Graham, President
Contact Phone Number: 713-825-9108
Contact Email: rgraham@cebridge.net
Lighthouse Of Houston
Website: www.houstonlighthouse.org
Contact Name: Jenna Dhayer, President
Contact Phone Number: 713-284-8451
Contact Email:
To sign up for “Illuminations,” The Lighthouse of Houston’s quarterly newsletter, please send an email to socialmedia@houstonlighthouse.org with the subject line – Newsletter.
Sight Into Sound
Website: sightintosound.org
Contact Name: Kari Musgrove, Executive Director
Contact Phone Number: 713-622-2767
Contact Email: info@sightintosound.org
FOR TRANSPORTATION
EVENT: Introducing 1-833-USE-UBER
Date of Event: IMMEDIATELY
Time: 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
Details: Introducing a new way to ride with Uber: 1-833-USE-UBER. We understand that some people would prefer to talk to someone on the phone, so we created the option to call us to request your ride.
1-833-USE-UBER is currently only available in Florida, California, Arizona, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas where Uber is available; but we’re hoping to expand the service nationwide soon. You can request your ride 7 days a week, from 4am – 10pm EST by phone. You can request a ride anytime via the mobile app or online at m.uber.com, available in over 50 cities. Do not use any phone number other than 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237) to request a ride. 1-833-USE-UBER is not a customer service line. If you need assistance, visit us at help.uber.com.
HOW IT WORKS:
Call us, toll-free. Dial 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237) from your cell phone to talk to an Uber team member who will help you create an Uber account and request a ride. You can choose between English and Spanish when requesting a trip.
You will need to call from a cell phone that can receive text messages. Don’t worry, you won’t be charged just for calling us—we’ll charge your credit card on file after a successful trip is completed. To help keep your personal information safe and secure, make sure to only use this phone number when calling to request a ride.
Get trip details. After your phone call, we’ll send you the information on your ride via a text message, including your driver’s name and picture, car type, license plate number, and their estimated time of arrival.
Ride. We’ll send you a text message when your driver arrives. All drivers receive an annual background check.
Host Organization: UBER
Location: N/A
Address: N/A
Deadline: N/A
Cost: N/A
Contact Name:
Contact Phone Number: 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237)
Contact Email: m.uber.com
Company: Same Day Services (formerly MSP)
Contact Phone Number: 713-223-0303
Contact Email:
Company: Go Go Grandparents Concierge Service
Website: https://gogograndparent.com/
Contact Phone Number: 1-855-464-6872
Contact Email: support@gogograndparent.com
Company: R.I.D.E.S. Harris County Transit
Website:
Contact Phone Number: 713-368-7433
Contact Email:
Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO)
Department: METRO Customer Service–Rail, Fixed Routes, Complaints, & Accommodations
Website: www.ridemetro.org/
Contact Phone Number: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.–713-635-4000
Contact Email:
Department: METROLift Customer Service
Website: www.ridemetro.org/
Contact Phone Number: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.–713-225-0119
Contact Email:
Department: Reservations
Website: www.ridemetro.org/
Contact Phone Number: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.–713-225-6716
Contact Email:
Department: Dispatch
Website: www.ridemetro.org/
Contact Phone Number: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.–713-225-0410 or 1-877-214-RIDE (7433) from a pay phone
Contact Email:
ACCESSIBILITY SUPPORT PHONE LINES
Company: Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSM) Launches Accessible Alert System
Details: This new alert system is providing access to alerts, warnings, and preparedness information to persons who are Deaf, Blind, Hard-of-Hearing, Deaf-Blind, or have low-vision through a new one-stop-website. To sign up, visit our site at https://hct.ahasalerts.com/. Community members can also text AHAS to (281) 609-9093 to sign up. There are instructions in ASL on the site that can guide community members on the sign up process.
The system will send our Ready Harris Alerts with sign language interpreting along with voice and closed captioning in English and Spanish before, during and after an emergency. The alerts are compatible with video capable devices such as computers, tablets, cell phones and wireless Braille readers. With this new resource, HCOHSEM will also be able to reach individuals with low literacy in English and Spanish. This is HCOHSEM’s latest effort to reach the whole community.
If you would like this information in another format, please reach out to us at oemjic@oem.hctx.net. To sign up for ReadyHarris Alerts visit ReadyHarris.org .
Contact Number: (281) 609-9093
Company: Amazon’s Accessibility Customer Service
Details: Call to speak with an accessibility specialist who can help you buy books and other products, or get you directly to tech support for Amazon devices and services including Alexa, Kindle & Fire Tablet. Hands raised triumphantly for accessible and inclusive smartphones. Audible Support: 888-283-5051.
Contact Number: 888-283-1678
Company: American Airlines Special Assistance
Details: Arrange the assistance you need for navigating the airport, security screening, location of gate, seat number, connecting flights, baggage claim and ground transportation.
Contact Number: 800-237-7976
Company: Apple Accessibility Support Line
Details: For users of Apple’s iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch, or Mac – this is a gift. It is a special support line reserved for customers with vision, hearing, motor, and learning impairments. Senior AppleCare specialists are available 24/7 to help you get your Accessibility Settings right, answer your questions, and resolve your technical issues. They’ll even teach you a thing or two.
Contact Number: 877-204-3930
Company: ATT National Center for Citizens with Disabilities (NCCD)
Details: This is where wireless customers with vision loss get answers to questions about accessibility features and services available from AT&T.
Contact Number: 866-241-6568
Company: Comcast Accessibility
Details: Direct line to a dedicated team, specially trained to support customers who rely on accessibility services including voice guidance and video description.
Contact Number: 866-668-6703
Company: Google
Details: To request a call back, from a Google Disability support specialist, complete this online form.
Call an accessibility specialist at Google through the BeMyEyes app on a smartphone or tablet. Click the ‘Service Directory tab on the app’s home page, select Google in the Technical tab.
Google Technical Support: 855-971-9121 may (or may not) be able to help with accessibility questions, depends on the specialist you connect with.
Contact Number: 855-971-9121
Company: HP Accessibility Support
Details: Technical support for customers with accessibility needs, pertaining to HP (Hewlett Packard) products, available from 6am to 9pm Mountain Time.
Contact Number: 888-259-5707
Company: LinkedIn Disability Answer Desk
Details: Contact an accessibility specialist at the LinkedIn Disability Answer Desk through the Be My Eyes app, on a smartphone or tablet; click the Specialized Help button on the apps home page, then select Technical to get to LinkedIn.
Contact Number: Call on Be My Eyes app
Company: Microsoft Disability Answer Desk
Details: The features you need to make your PC ‘vision friendly’ are built right into Windows – unfortunately, many people don’t know that. Microsoft recognized this as a significant problem and put in place a support team specialized in accessibility. So dial them up and get your computer set up to work for you (not against you). And, to make it even easier on yourself — allow them remote access to your PC and they can make the adjustments.
Contact Number: 800-936-5900 or the Be My Eyes app
Company: Peloton
Details: The Accessibility Team at Peloton will answer your questions and give you a call, if you request it by email to: accessibility@onepeloton.com.
Contact Email: accessibility@onepeloton.com
Company: Samsung Accessibility
Details: Contact the Accessibility Team at Samsung for answers to questions, large and small, about all Samsung products. Reach out by phone or email: [email protected] to request a call back.
For general support in the U.S. contact Samsung at: 800-726-7864 by text or voice.
Contact Number: 800-726-7864 by text or voice
Company: Spectrum Accessibility Support
Details: Call this support line to learn about and take advantage of Spectrum cable accessibility accommodations.
Contact Number: 844-762-1301
Contact Email: https://www.spectrum.net/disability
Company: Spotify
Details: Get help from your smartphone or tablet with any questions you may have about Spotify, the world’s largest music streaming service. Speak to a trained customer service specialist on BME; go to Specialized Help, Technical, then Spotify.
Contact Number: Call on Be My Eyes app
Company: T-Mobile Accessibility
Details: T-Mobile has an Accessibility Support web page. It says, “T-Mobile will provide accessible support for wireless network service and billing inquiries. Please contact our Accessibility Customer Care at 1-833-428-1785 if you have any questions or need special assistance. For additional support, please contact Customer Care.”
Contact Number: 1-833-428-1785
Company: United Airlines Accessibility Desk
Details: Arrange the assistance you need for navigating the airport, security screening, location of gate, seat number, connecting flights, baggage claim and ground transportation.
Contact Number: 800-228-2744
Company: Verizon Center for Customers with Disabilities
Details: Free 411 for your home phone and for your mobile phone. Get your bills in the format of your choice…large print or digital. They can help you with anything else pertaining to your home phone service.
Contact Number: 800-974-6006
Contact Email: verizon.com/disabilities
Company: Verizon Wireless National Accessibility Center
Details: It can sometimes be challenging to get information about accessibility features that make your mobile phone, or tablet, work for you. Questions about enlarging text, using voice commands effectively, or using the screen reader, often remain unanswered when posed to your store representative. That should be the case no more – now there is a customer service and technical support center dedicated to helping people maximize the accessibility features built into all of Verizon’s mobile devices. Let them help you get your device set just right for you, from 8am – 9pm EST, Monday – Friday.
Contact Number: 888-262-1999
Company: vote.org
Details: Get help, on a smartphone or tablet, registering to vote, checking your registration status, and requesting a mail-in ballot. On BME, go to Specialized Help on the home page, then Civic Engagement, then select vote.org.
Contact Number: Call on Be My Eyes app
FOR CHATLINES & WEBINARS
EVENT: iBUG Buzz Conference Call
Date of Event: Weekly – Mondays
Time: 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (NOTE: It is recommend that you connect to the meeting at least 5 minutes prior to the start time to ensure admission.)
Details: Football season is well underway and iBUG Today has kicked off a new non-technology forum called iBUG After Buzz. This forum is intended to be a relaxed, casual and safe place to share events in our daily lives. Topics may range from simple ways to accomplish daily tasks to taking exotic or adventurous trips and vacations. Topics that are off limits include, but are not limited to those related to politics, religion and technology involving iBUG training. The meeting is open to everyone, however only those who are logged in prior to the start time will be admitted. We look forward to having you join us this Monday evening.
Host: iBUG Today, http://ibugtoday.com
Location: Virtual– Zoom Conference: To join a meeting, you may click on the following link:
https://zoom.us/j/7428486329?pwd=M003RmZaa3pTbWRlZ00xbSs4YTlmUT09
One tap mobile from a smartphone: +13462487799,,7428486329#,,,,*369978# US
Dial from a phone: +1 346 248 7799 US
Meeting ID: 742 848 6329, Password: 369978
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Phone Number: (832) 453-7139
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Mini-Buzz on Clubhouse
Date of Event: Weekly – Second and fourth Tuesdays
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Details: This free weekly Q&A help session is for anyone with iOS and iDevice (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch, Apple TV) accessibility questions or issues. If you are not signed up on Clubhouse, you may join using the following invitation link: iBUG Today, Inc.
Host: iBUG Today, http://ibugtoday.com
Location: Virtual– Zoom Conference: To join a meeting, you may click on the following link: https://zoom.us/j/7428486329 . Dial by city closest to your location: +1 720 707 2699 US (Denver)
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 742 848 6329
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Phone Number: (832) 453-7139
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Night at the Virtual Movies
Date of Event: Weekly – Fridays
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Details: We encourage everyone to stay connected while staying home and practicing social distancing. To help bring old friends together and to meet new ones, we have created iBUG Night at the Virtual Movies on Friday evenings. The movies are the audio track (no video) with audio description. You may join in starting at 7:30 PM for the pre-movie social time. Discussion will follow immediately after the movie. . .
Host Organization: iBUG Today, http://ibugtoday.com
Location: Virtual Zoom conference call platform. To join a meeting, you may click on the following link:
https://zoom.us/j/7428486329?pwd=M003RmZaa3pTbWRlZ00xbSs4YTlmUT09
Meeting ID: 742 848 6329 Password: 369978
You may also dial in using the following methods (long distance charges may apply):
One tap mobile from a smartphone: +1 346 248 7799,,7428486329# US
Dial from a landline: +1 346 248 7799 US
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Phone Number: 832-453-7139
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Buzz Radio Program
Date of Event: Weekly
Time: Wednesday, 1:30 p.m., rebroadcast the following Tuesday, 5:30 p.m. and Wednesday, 5:30 a.m. or On Demand
Details: A weekly half-hour condensed version of the Monday night iBUG Buzz Q&A help session covering common accessibility questions and issues with iOS and iDevices (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch and Apple TV). Also, apps useful to the blind and visually impaired are demonstrated. Listen via Sight into Sound Radio, using the special digital receivers from Sight into Sound, Sero app on your smart phone or via the internet by going to the Sight into Sound website at the following link and select the “Tune in Now” button at the times indicated above or on demand by selecting the “Podcast” button: http://www.sightintosound.org
Host Organization: Sight into Sound, http://sightintosound.org and iBUG Today (iBlind Users Group), http://ibugtoday.com
Location: Listen via Sight into Sound Radio, using the special digital receivers from Sight into Sound, Sero app on your iDevice or via the internet by going to the Sight into Sound website at the following link and select the “Tune in Now” button: http://www.sightintosound.org at the times indicated above or on demand by selecting the Archives tab.
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Phone Number: 832-453-7139
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Buzz Podcast
Date of Event: Weekly
Time: On Demand
Details: Podcast of the weekly Monday night iBUG Buzz Q&A help session with iOS and iDevice (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch, Apple TV) accessibility questions or issues. Available on Apple, Spotify, and Alexa by asking your voice assistant to play the latest iBUG Buzz podcast. Also available on your favorite podcast app by subscribing to the iBUG Buzz podcast.
Host Organization: Sight into Sound, http://sightintosound.org and iBUG Today (iBlind Users Group), http://ibugtoday.com
Location: Virtual – Subscribe from your favorite podcast app or listen on any HomePod or Alexa device by searching for iBUG Buzz podcast.
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Phone Number: 832-453-7139
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Training Sessions Now on YouTube
Date of Event: NOW
Time:
Details: Did you miss the latest iBUG training session? Do you want to go back and listen again to how to set up that new email account? Are you looking for an alternative way to listen to the iBUG training sessions other than the iBUG Today website archives?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then you are in luck. iBUG Today’s training sessions are now also available on YouTube. There are separate playlists within the iBUG Today YouTube channel for the following training sessions:
1. iBUG Buzz
2. iBUG Apple Workshop
3. iBUG Café
4. iBUG Mac-N-Talk
5. iBUG Android Insight
You may use the following link to access the iBUG Today YouTube channel. Please select the subscribe button and then select the notification bell to receive notifications when the latest training session has been uploaded.
Hope you enjoy and find the iBUG Today YouTube channel a useful accessibility training tool.
Host Organization: The iBUG Today Team, http://ibugtoday.org
Location: ZOOM Conference Platform
Address: ZOOM Conference Platform
Deadline: N/A
Cost: FREE
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Phone Number: 832-453-7139
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
Website: ibugtoday.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/ibugtoday/
Twitter: @ibugtoday
EVENT: iBUG Buzz, iBUG Apple Workshop, iBUG Café, iBUG Mac-N-Talk and iBUG Android Insight on YouTube
Date of Event: Weekly
Time: On Demand
Details: Did you miss the latest iBUG training session? Do you want to review a past training session? Are you looking for an alternative way to listen to the iBUG training sessions other than the iBUG Today website archives?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then you are in luck. iBUG Today’s training sessions are also available on YouTube. There are separate playlists within the iBUG Today YouTube channel for the iBUG Buzz, iBUG Apple Workshop, iBUG Café, iBUG Mac-N-Talk and iBUG Android Insight training sessions. You may use the following link to access the iBUG Today YouTube channel. Please select the subscribe button and then select the notification bell to receive notifications when the latest training session has been uploaded.
Host Organization: The iBUG Today Team, http://ibugtoday.org
Location: On Demand
Address: N/A
Costs: FREE
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Phone Number:
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: How to Become an Accessible Pharmacy Patient
Date of Event:
Time:
Details: We are often asked how someone becomes a patient of Accessible Pharmacy Services: The best way to become a patient is by giving us a call at 1-888-633-7007. After your conversation with our Care Coordinator, they will reach out to your insurance to confirm eligibility. They will also contact your current pharmacy and prescribing physicians to transfer your information. You can also connect with us through the Be My Eyes Specialized Help section or email us to initiate this process: info@AccessiblePharmacy.com
For answers to more frequently asked questions, please click the link below:
| CLICK HERE FOR MORE FAQ’S |
Please have the patient give us a call at 1-888-633-7007. You can also call us with the patient.
Host Organization: Accessible Pharmacy Services, LLC
Location:
Address:
Costs: FREE
Deadline:
Contact Name: Accessible Pharmacy Services, LLC
Contact Phone Number: 1-888-633-7007
Contact Email:
EVENT: The Lighthouse of Houston: Friday Support Group
Date of Event: Every Friday
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. online
Details: Losing one’s vision often makes a person more vulnerable to mental health issues like depression and anxiety, relationship changes with friends and family, and fear and isolation. The Behavioral Health Services at The Lighthouse of Houston offers help and support to people who have lost their vision develop strategies to adjust to this life-altering event. To register, contact Melinda Benjumea at 713-284-8440 or click the button below to send her an email.
Click to Contact Melinda
Host Organization: The Lighthouse of Houston
Location: Virtual
Address: N/G
Costs: N/G
Deadline: N/G
Contact Name: Melinda Benjumea
Contact Phone Number: 713-284-8440
Contact Email:
FOR GENERAL INFORMATION
EVENT: WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY–CONFERENCE CALL ONLY
Date of Event: Third Saturday of each month
Time: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Details: This Bible Study is dedicated to women discussing scriptures. Hosted by True Vision Baptist Church. Access via Free Conference Call line.
Dial-in Number: 609-746-1082 Access Code: 372977
Host Organization: True Vision Baptist Church
Location: Conference call
Host Organization: True Vision Church
Location:
Address:
Cost: N/A
Deadline: N/A
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Phone Number: 281-794-2012
Contact Email: metoyer903@comcast.net
EVENT: Scripture and Bible Study
Date of Event: Weekly every Monday
Time: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Details: This Bible Study is dedicated to discussing scriptures.
Contact Name: Gloria Hill
Contact Phone Number: 832-656-5609