SCOOP FROM THE GROUP – March 30 – April 5, 2025
EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT!
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
Advocacy, Ava Carruth, avacarruth3@outlook.com
Membership, Kenetia Williams, ladyk61210@gmail.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: 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:
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: 2025 METRO MAC MEETINGS
Date: 2025
Time: See time below
Details: 2025 METRO MAC MEETINGS IN-PERSON COMMUNITY MEETINGS RETURN. You’re invited to learn more about METRO / METROLift and share your input about the future of METRO services.
Thursday, June 12, 2025 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 13, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Thursday, December 11, 2025 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
All meetings will be held at City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC), 1475 West Gray, Houston, TX 77019.
Host Organization: METRO
Location: City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC)
Address: 1475 West Gray, Houston, TX 77019
Deadline: N/A
Cost: No charge
Contact Name: Gayle Metoyer
Contact Number:
Contact Email: metoyer903@gmail.com
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: iBUG $500 Tech Shopping Spree
Date of Event: Saturday, March 1 through Saturday, May 24, 2025
Time: 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Details: How would you like to go on a $500 shopping spree to get the new Ray-Ban Meta Glasses, smart speaker, headphones, or other tech device? For a donation of only $10, you will be entered into iBUG Today’s drawing for a $500 Gift Card to your choice of the Apple, Google, or Amazon Store to use any way you like. Increase your chances by purchasing 6 tickets for $50!
iBUG will be holding the drawing at our 14th Anniversary iBUG Apple Workshop on May 24, 2025, 2:00 to 4:00 PM Central Time. Winner need not be present.
Donation: $10 for 1 ticket or $50 for 6 tickets. Deadline to enter the drawing is May 23, 2025.
Purchase tickets via the following methods. Be sure to include your phone number, email, and the words “iBUG Shopping Spree” in the notes section of your payment.
1. Credit card, debit card or PayPal® account
2. Zelle (ibugtoday@gmail.com)
3. Square Cash App on your smartphone ($iBUG Today)
4. Send check or money order to: iBUG Today, 4719 Caroline, Houston, TX, 77004
Meeting ID: 742 848 6329, Password: 369978
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: Visually Impaired Advocates – Houston (VIA): Black History Fashion Extravaganza 2025–TO BE RESCHEDULED
Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025 TO BE RESCHEDULED
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Central time)
Details: Make sure you attend this memorable event!!! Visually Impaired Advocates – Houston (VIA) are hosting a Black History Fashion Extravaganza on Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC), 1475 West Gray (Houston). Tickets are $15 per person and includes a meal; tickets may be purchased from any VIA Board member. All attendees are asked to wear your very best Black History attire. “Be bold & stroll in a Fashion that breaks the mold!” A prize will be given for the Best Dressed Male and the Best Dressed Female in attendance.
The deadline for purchasing tickets is noon on Saturday, February 8, 2025. For more information, contact Paul Williams, Sr. at 832-771-8253.
Thank you in advance for supporting this VIA – Houston fundraiser!
Host Organization: Visually Impaired Advocates – Houston (VIA)
Location: City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC)
Address: 1475 West Gray Street, Houston, TX 77019
Costs: $15.00 per person – includes a meal
Deadline: Noon on Saturday, February 8, 2025
Contact Name: Paul Williams, Sr.
Contact Phone Number: 832-771-8253
Contact Email:
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: Bayou City Heat Beep Ball: T-Shirt Fundraiser
Date: Now
Time: N/A
Details: Bayou City Heat Beep Ball are taking orders for the sale of their t-shirts as a fundraiser.
Spirit Shirt Order Form Link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSde0Yxl0T9MmJc5iA39Gcs6H9oyzjCzlK6slOON2YP2kP87_g/viewform?usp=sharing
Looking forward to receiving your order!!!
Host Organization:
Location:
Cost:
Contact Name: Kim Finley
Contact Phone Number: 281 671 4846
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: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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”)
Keynote Speaker: Tricia Waechter of Blind Girl Designs
Others: We will have presentations from speakers sharing about independent living training available for vocational rehab and the Older Individuals who are Blind program, as well as technology and communication options through I Can Connect and the Special Telecom Assistance Program, and a final presentation featuring the many offerings available through the Texas Talking Book Program. Along with the programming, you will also have the ability to connect and network with others who are living with vision loss daily, as well as the abundant exhibitors who are there for you.
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.)
The deadline to pre-register is Friday, March 21, 2025, by 5 PM. This will be a hybrid event, with no cost to attend via ZOOM. The cost is $11 per person.
Register here: https://bit.ly/3SdFMlY
Attendees who pre-register are guaranteed a lite breakfast, box lunch, and will be entered into a drawing for door prizes.
Onsite registration will also be available on the day of the event. NOTE: Those who register on the day of the event are not eligible for door prizes. Also, breakfast and box lunches will be available to these attendees only while supplies last.
Host: UH College of Optometry
Address: 4401 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204
Deadline: Deadline to pre-register is Friday, March 21, 2025, by 5 p.m.
Cost: $11 per person (Free on ZOOM)
Contact Name: The HAVIN Team
Contact Number: 713-825-9108
Contact Email: havin@havintx.org
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: Visually Impaired Advocates – Houston (VIA) & New Faith Work the Works Disabilities Ministry: Unity in Love Gospel Celebration 2025
Date of Event: Saturday, April 5, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Details: Come one and all and join us for the 2025 Unity in Love Gospel Celebration!
Sponsored by VIA and the New Faith Work the Works Disabilities Ministry. It will again take place at the New Faith Church 4315 W. Fuqua, Houston 77045, on Saturday, April 5 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
FEATURING: Praise and Worship Leader, Jason Jones
Rev. James Andrews and Rev. Michael Garrett
THEME: This year’s theme is “I Know a Place.” There will be something in it just for you! You will want to hear this one!
A light lunch will be served, so please RSVP by Tuesday, April 1 to Rev. Michael Garrett at 281-438-9665, email, megarrett4443@sbcglobal.net ; or Talana Townsend at 832-867-0140, email, tct1204@yahoo.com.
Host Organization: Visually Impaired Advocates – Houston (VIA) & New Faith Work the Works Disabilities Ministry
Location: New Faith Church
Address: 4315 W. Fuqua, Houston, TX 77045
Deadline: RSVP by Tuesday, April 1
Cost: N/A
Contact Info: Rev. Michael Garrett at 281-438-9665, email, megarrett4443@sbcglobal.net or
Talana Townsend at 832-867-0140, email, tct1204@yahoo.com
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: Houston Council of the Blind (HCB): HCB List Hippity Hoppity It’s Blingo Time
Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Details: Come join HCB for a fun evening of Bunny Hopping BLINGO! For those of you who missed it, BLINGO is a tactile form of BINGO designed especially for people who are blind or visually impaired. All of the items on the board are tactile. Bring your family and friends to share in the fun!!!
We will have wonderful prizes and light refreshments will be served. Come have some fun and support HCB to raise some funds!
We will have wonderful prizes and light refreshments will be served. Come have some fun and support HCB to raise some funds!
Host Organization: Houston Council of the Blind (HCB)
Location: City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center
Address: 1475 West Gray, Houston, 77019
Cost: $10 per person
Ways to Pay: Cash APP – $hcbtexas
Zelle – houstoncounciloftheblind@outlook.com
Deadline: Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Contact Name: Ava Carruth
Contact Number: 404 663-8004
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
EVENT: SIGHT INTO SOUND (SIS): APRIL MOVIES & BOOK READINGS
Date of Event: Month of April
Time: Movies are Saturday night at 10 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m.
Details: The movies for April are as follows:
4/5/25 (Saturday Night) 10pm James Bond: Thunderball (2hr 10mn)
4/6/25 (Sunday Afternoon) 2pm Mufasa (1hr 58mn)
4/12/25 (Saturday Night) 10pm Witness (40th Anniversary — 1hr 52mn)
4/13/25 (Sunday Afternoon) 2pm Moana 2 (1hr 40mn)
4/19/25 (Saturday Night) 10pm Exodus: Gods & Kings (2hr 30mn)
4/20/25 (Sunday Afternoon) 2pm Easter Parade (1hr 43mn)
4/26/25 (Saturday Night) 10pm Draft Day (1hr 50mn)
4/27/25 (Sunday Afternoon) 2pm To Catch A Thief (70th Anniversary — 1hr 46mn)
BOOK READINGS FOR APRIL
11 a.m. – CLASSICS OUT LOUD:
Heidi by Joanna Spryi
The Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnin
10 p.m. – Nighttime Book Hour
In The Lake of the Woods by Tim O’Brien
Deadly Stakes by J.A. Jance
11 p.m. – Nighttime Book Hour
The English Girl by Daniel Silva
The Second Chair by John Lescrourt
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, Executive Director
Contact Number: 713-622-2767
Contact Email: kari.musgrove@sightintosound.org
Website: Sightintosound.org
EVENT: iBUG Mac Buzz
Date of Event: Tuesday, April 1, 2025
Time: 5:00 to 6:00 PM
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: VISUALLY IMPAIRED ADVOCATES (VIA): SUPPORT GROUP MEETING
Date of Event: Thursday, April 3, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Central Standard
Details: Ladies and Gentlemen!!! Fashion and Jewelry is always fabulous and jazzy!!! Come and check out the fabulous jewelry pieces that have been handcrafted and created with excellence, which make great gifts and stylish wear.
Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025 Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Speaker TBD
Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025 Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Speaker TBD
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) – Houston
Location: City of Houston Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (MMSC)
Address: 1475 West Gray, Houston, TX 77019 and 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, April 3, 2025
Time: 5:30 to 7:00 PM
Details: The Choir has resumed meeting on Thursdays preparing for spring events. We look forward to seeing you in 2025! The Lighthouse Choir will be performing the National Anthem at the Astros game on Thursday, June 12, at 7:10 PM!
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, S1E13, S1E14
Date of Event: Thursday, April 3, 2025
Time: 7:00 to 8:30 PM
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, April 4, 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: Blackboard Jungle (1955)
Rating: Approved; 1hr 41min; crime, drama
Storyline: War veteran Rick Dadier is one of three new teachers hired at North Manual High School, an inner city boys school. This is his first teaching assignment, which he needs to support himself and his insecure pregnant wife, Anne. Despite Principle Warnecke’s assertions to the contrary, Dadier quickly learns that the rumors of student discipline problems at the school are indeed true. The established teachers at the school try to counsel the newcomers, all inexperienced in such situations, as how best to handle the rowdy students. Regardless, Dadier tries to exert discipline in his class, which provokes a violent response. Dadier believes the student leaders against him are Artie West, but more specifically Gregory Miller, who he thinks uses the fact of being black as a means of racial provocation. Dadier has to decide either to leave and teach at a “real” school, or stay and figure out how to get through to his students. If he decides to stay, he has to figure out who the real disruptive influences are, especially as they have resorted to attacks of a personal nature that affect especially Anne.
Director(s): Richard Brooks
Writer(s): Richard Brooks, Evan Hunter
Star(s): Glenn Ford, Anne Francis, Louis Calhern, Sidney Poitier
Award(s): Nominated for 4 Oscars, 1 win & 6 nominations total
Review: https://www.hackwriters.com/blackboard.htm
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 Museum of Natural Science (HMNS)–APRIL 2025 Meeting CANCELLED
Date of Event: Saturday, April 5, 2025–CANCELLED
Time: 10:00 a.m. -11:30 a.m.
Details: The Houston Museum of Natural Science’s next Touch Tour was originally scheduled for April 5th, but we were made aware that this conflicts with HAVIN’s Insight Expo and many people cannot attend. Therefore, I wanted to let you know that HMNS has decided to cancel our April 5th Touch Tour. I will reach out about the next Touch Tour when the date is confirmed!
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: iBUG Unplugged: Melodies and Memories – One Hit Wonders
Date of Event: Saturday, April 5, 2025
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 PM
Details: This month, we will drill a little deeper into our favorite music of the 60s, 70s and 80s as we focus on those lasting hits we now refer to as “one hit wonders.” Those familiar “ear worms” that are so recognizable as part of the musical fabric of our lives. We will test your knowledge and your “incidental intelligence” as we explore some trivia around these memorable songs and artists.
And be sure to bring your voice and your indomitable musical spirit as we may just find ourselves singing along with these popular favorites. You know how the saying goes, “Dance like nobody’s watching, love like you’ve never been hurt, sing like nobody’s listening, and live like it’s heaven on earth.”
So set aside a couple of hours of your valuable time to join your iBUG friends and family as host, Pete Lane, leads us through more melodies and memories.
Facilitator: Intesar Duncan
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT: iBUG Mini-Buzz
Date of Event: Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Time: 5:00 to 6:00 PM
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 VILA Book Club
Date of Event: Thursday, April 10, 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:
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
Facilitator: TBD
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
EVENT: Houston Council of the Blind (HCB): April Monthly Meeting
Date of Event: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Details: Greetings HCB members!!!
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, April 12, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Details: The True Vision Women’s Bible Study TBD.
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, April 12, 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: Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH): Art Beyond Sight–MARCH MEETING
Date of Event: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Details: The docents and I are very happy to announce that April’s Art Beyond Sight program will take place in the Kinder Building at the MFA Houston. This is the “new” building that houses our modern and contemporary art. We hope to see you on Saturday, April 12 at 11 am!
SPECIAL NOTES:
Since we are meeting in the Kinder Building, we have a different drop off and pick up spot for you: 5500 Main Street. There is a driveway much like at the Beck Building. See this link for a photo:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/iURVnZok6fYxXztD7 and here is a similar photo of the façade.
Karen Minich and Cathy Loveys are going to co-facilitate on April 12 focusing on the artwork on the first floor and a special exhibition featuring the works of Harry Bertoia. I will give a very brief introduction to the Kinder Building itself.
Café Leonelli is located in the Kinder Building. Their menu is here: https://www.cafeleonelli.com/ if you would like to make a day of it! We hope to see 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: Please RSVP to me sniemeyer@mfah.org if you would like to attend!
Cost: N/A
Contact Name: Stephanie Piefer Niemeyer, Learning and Interpretation Department, Senior Specialist for Docent Programs
Contact Number: 713-830-5237
Contact Email: sniemeyer@mfah.org
EVENT: iBUG Café
Date of Event: Sunday, April 13, 2025
Time: 4:00 to 5:30 PM
Details: Join us for this free “deep dive” training session covering the following updates to the Be My Eyes app.
- Home screen layout
- Get Support tab, including contacting a sighted volunteer, using groups, and reaching out to a sighted volunteer with the Ray-Ban Meta frames.
- Be My AI tab, including taking a picture and having the AI describe it and importing a picture from the Photos and having AI describe it.
- Community and Settings tabs.
The iBUG Café training session is facilitated by advanced iBUG member, Sree Roy.
Contact Name: Sree Roy
Contact Email: sreebroy1@outlook.com
EVENT: iBUG Mac Buzz
Date of Event: Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Time: 5:00 to 6:00 PM
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: iBUG Android Insight
Date of Event: Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Time: 7:00 to 8:30 PM
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: iBUG Trekkie Talk: Star Trek – Voyager, S1E15, S1E16
Date of Event: Thursday, April 17, 2025
Time: 7:00 to 8:30 PM
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 Mini-Buzz
Date of Event: Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Time: 5:00 to 6:00 PM
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, April 22, 2025
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 PM
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: It’s iBUG’s Life:
Date of Event: No meeting this month
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 PM
Details: Join iBUG facilitator, George Battiste, as he hosts another conversation on independent living and life skills issues, adaptations, and tips for the blind.
Contact Name: Michael McCulloch
Contact Email: mdmcculloch1@gmail.com
EVENT:
Date of Event: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 2:00 to 4:00 PM
Details: You are invited to the upcoming iBUG Apple Workshop which explores all things from the Apple-verse. Join us for this free training session for the latest news/rumors, app demos, and learn more about the accessibility features of Apple products. The iBUG Apple Workshop is facilitated by Michael McCulloch and Sandhya Rao.
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