Weekly Community Event Schedule

Sunday, September 26, 2021

The Breakfast Bunch: 11am ET, 8am PT, 5am HT

Join Lynn and the gang for an hour of free flowing conversation. You never know where the discussion will lead. It's a great way to kick off the day!

Sunday Edition – What Has ACB Unexpectedly Done for you?: 1pm ET, 10am PT, 7am HT

What has ACB unexpectedly done for you? Did you make new friends? Meet your romantic partner? Embark upon a new education path? Or find a new job opportunity? Come join members of ACB Next Generation to share why you joined ACB; unexpected benefits of joining ACB; and the ways ACB has positively impacted your life.

Sponsored by ACB Next Generation www.acbnextgeneration.org

ACB Crafters – Sewing Bee Circle Mitsy Kit Christmas Table Topper: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

Make your Christmas table topper with your pre-ordered kit.

Reading the 18th Century – September with Sir Walter Scott: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

We’re continuing our journey through Jane Austen’s library by reading Sir Walter Scott’s first novel, Waverley. The political intrigue has intensified, with Waverley surviving his first battle against the English forces and meeting an old family friend on the field. Will Waverley ever return to England? Will he and Rose find happiness? Join us this week as we finish the book. It is available on BARD (DB44321), Audible, Project Gutenberg, and LibriVox. For links and information about our group, visit: https://invisiblebooks.wordpress.com

Saint Lucy's Guide: 4pm ET, 1pm PT, 10am HT

This is an open discussion on Christian theology and how it pertains to disabilities. We will be studying the book, The Disabled God.

Feel free to email: [email protected]

Let’s Encourage Each Other with Scripture: 5pm ET, 2pm PT, 11am HT

We all need a little encouraging word, right? For those who wish, this is the place to encourage each other with the word, scripture, and maybe a prayer.

Braille Room: 6pm ET, 3pm PT, 12pm HT

A place for braille learners and enthusiasts to practice skills together at any level in breakout rooms for 15 minutes at a time.

Sponsored by Braille Together https://brailletogether.wordpress.com

Let’s Just Talk About Jesus: 6pm ET, 3pm PT, 12pm HT

The focus of these calls is to share our walk with God as born again Christians applied to daily life. Linda and Vicki invite others who are comfortable to share the same. Therefore, different denominations or spiritual views will not be discussed. This forum is intended to be a nonjudgmental, warm, welcoming place of encouragement where we can talk about what God has done for us and share prayer requests.

Gospel Sing!: 8pm ET, 5pm PT, 2pm HT

If you enjoy singing or playing Christian music, whether it’s contemporary Christian or traditional Gospel, please join us for a time of praising our Lord and Savior through song.

Holy Rosary: 8pm ET, 5pm PT, 2pm HT

We are expanding our small prayer group and invite you to join us for an hour of Catholic devotion and prayer.

Monday, September 27, 2021

Manic Monday: 11am ET, 8am PT, 5am HT

Let’s get social. Join Judy as together we get ready for the week ahead. Bring your favorite morning beverage and let’s connect.

Playing Music by Ear: 1pm ET, 10am PT, 7am HT

Would you like to learn or share some tips on playing music by ear? If you have an instrument which you can use to play chords, please join us.

JC’s Corner – Backpack Studio: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

Have you ever thought of recording your own podcast? Better yet, how about inviting your guests for a remote interview using an iOS device e.g. iPhone or iPad? Well, you can, thanks to an app called Backpack Studio. Join JC as he demonstrates this app.

For more information on the app, please visit: http://backpackstudioapp.com

Easy Chair Yoga: 4pm ET, 1pm PT, 10am HT

All you need is a chair, some comfortable clothes, and no shoes and together we can enjoy a relaxing and stress-free hour in the comfort of our own homes. Hosted by Leslie Spoone, Certified Aerobic Instructor and Personal Trainer.

Brought to you by ACB’s Get Up and Get Moving www.acb.org/GUGM

The Friendship Circle: 6pm ET, 3pm PT, 12pm HT

Let’s take our connection to the next level! How about smaller gatherings of three to six people in a breakout room and we’ll call them friendship circles. We’ll do them as many times as we can in one hour. And if time permits at the end, we’ll share with the bigger group.

Note: Everyone must identify themselves to participate.

CCLVI Low Vision Discussion – Game Night: 7:30pm ET, 4:30pm PT, 1:30pm HT

Start your week with some friendly fun. You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy playing games. We’ll laugh a little and strain our brains a bit but, most of all, have a great time! We will play Family Feud, where we try to name the most popular answers to survey questions.

Sponsored by Council of Citizens with Low Vision International

Out of Sight Adventures: pm ET, 5pm PT, 2pm HT

Brian will share his Philadelphia experience.

Trina's Lounge: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

Come relax with us in Trina's lounge. We will discuss a wide variety of topics. However, we will try to avoid the heavy stuff. Come chill with us!

Tuesday, September 28, 2021

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

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

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

ACB history buffs, we are now on chapter 11 of People of Vision: A History of the American Council of the Blind, by James J. Megivern and Marjorie L. Megivern. We will be reading about the years from 1995 to 2001. There are more and more familiar names of people we know and events we were a part of. Come and share with us. Christy extends an open invitation to all ACB past and current presidents on October 12, to join in after we read chapter 12 for a lively discussion of our history from 2001 to the present and where we are headed in the future of ACB.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brought to you by ACB’s Get Up and Get Moving www.acb.org/GUGM

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

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

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

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

Lively Latin: 4pm ET, 1pm PT, 10am HT

A lively introduction to Latin and its effect on everyday English. Lessons in Mythology will be included.

Class notes can be found at: https://bit.ly/3sX3c2D

Previous class recordings will be available at: http://acb-community.pinecast.co

ACB Crafters – Crochetting: 5pm ET, 2pm PT, 11am HT

The first hour will focus on crochetting for beginners. The second hour will focus on crochetting for those who are advanced. Please arrive on time and be ready to work. Supply list: yarn, corresponding hook, and scissors.

Sponsored by ACB Crafters, making crafting accessible

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

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

Please drop in this evening, if you wonder: What is braille? How will learning a little bit about braille help me do better in my daily life? How can I get braille training? Are there fun ways of learning, such as toys and puzzles? What is Unified English Braille (UEB) anyway?

Contact Braille Together Mingle: [email protected]

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

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

Apple Bites: 8pm ET, 5pm PT, 2pm HT

Learn about what’s new in iOS 15 with VoiceOver; hearing accommodations; live text; focus mode; and more. New features will be demonstrated live, and your questions are welcome.

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

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

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

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

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

Cutting the Cord with Apple TV: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

Accessing over-the-air channels and a streaming live cable TV package via Apple TV will be discussed.

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

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

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

Jobs World: 12pm ET, 9am PT, 6am HT

Worried about cavernous gaps in your employment history? Struggling to make your cover letter stand out from the flood? Hard to get your point across in an interview situation? Join Sandra Gayer, former Resume Writer and Interview Panelist, for bespoke help tailoring your resume and cover letter; honing job interview technique and career questions; career direction; and salary versus self-employment. There will be time for personalized, individual help and group discussion.

Piano and Musical Keyboard Basics: 1pm ET, 10am PT, 7am HT

If you are learning to play the piano or a musical keyboard, please join us.

Health Check Up: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

Join Darrow, Terry, and Jay as they wrap up the month of September.

Sponsored by the ACB Get Up and Get Moving Committee

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

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

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

Everyone has different perspectives, ideas, questions, and experiences. Join Kolby to help create a safe, respectful, and welcoming place where we can all learn from and share with each other.

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

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

Brought to you by ACB’s Get Up and Get Moving www.acb.org/GUGM

It’s Electric: 7pm ET, 4pm PT, 1pm HT

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

Healthy Living Encouragement: 7:30pm ET, 4:30pm PT, 1:30pm HT

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

Disclaimer: The purpose of this group is for peer support only. It is not a therapy group; will not be facilitated by a health care professional; and does not purport to provide mental health services.

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

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

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

Main Menu Live: 8pm ET, 5pm PT, 2pm HT

The Information Access Committee will talk about how the IRS can help you, followed by a presentation about audio games and other content from Wonderword.

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

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

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

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

Thursday, September 30, 2021

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

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

Vispero Presentation – Setting the Settings Center Your Way: 3pm ET, 12pm PT, 9am HT

Learn about customizing the settings center to best meet your individual needs.

Sponsored by Vispero www.freedomscientific.com

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

Brought to you by ACB’s Get Up and Get Moving www.acb.org/GUGM

Is There a Blind Culture?: 4pm ET, 1pm PT, 10am HT

Join us for an open discussion on how, as people with sight loss, do we see blind culture. Is there really such a thing? How do cultures differ for low vision; partially blind; and totally blind people?

Sponsored by the Hull Foundation and Learning Center www.hullparkfortheblind.org

Horsing Around in the Barnyard: 4pm ET, 1pm PT, 10am HT

A socially-educational event. Come and meet the presenter. Get to know him and learn what he has new going on in the barnyard this month. It will be lots of fun. Look forward to seeing you there.

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

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

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

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

Basic iPhone Class: 7:30pm ET, 4:30pm PT, 1:30pm HT

Have you been using an iPhone for a while but don’t feel you’re getting the hang of it? Or did you just get one and feel overwhelmed by the learning curve? Please drop by for this friendly exchange of information, where the only silly question is the one you don’t ask.

CCLVI Special Event: 7:30pm ET, 4:30pm PT, 1:30pm HT

Our evening will start with some helpful information about how to access podcasts. The spotlight will then be on the Finance and Budget, Publications, and Advocacy and Legislative Committees.

Sponsored by Council of Citizens with Low Vision International

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

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

Thursday Nightcap: 9pm ET, 6pm PT, 3pm HT

After going through the grind of a long hard day, why not relax with some stimulating conversation and fun along with your favorite virtual nightcap or whatever helps you sleep? We will keep things safe, friendly, and lively.

Friday, October 1, 2021

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

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

CCLVI Low Vision Coffee Hour: 11am ET, 8am PT, 5am HT

Start your day with us. We will be talking about the many podcasts available these days whether they are informational, educational, or entertaining. Which ones do you listen to? Come and share your favorites and hear about the podcasts others enjoy as well.

Sponsored by Council of Citizens with Low Vision International

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

Grab a seat; prop your feet; and make new friends. A place where we share our thoughts, ideas, viewpoints, and crafty adventures.

Sponsored by ACB Crafters, making crafting accessible

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

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

Jim Azevedo represents Smashwords, the world's largest distributor of independent ebooks. Q&A on how Readers and Writers can maximize the platform. SmashWords “makes it fast, free and easy for any author or publisher, anywhere in the world, to publish and distribute ebooks to major retailers and thousands of libraries.” The prompt is the fall season. 100 words max.

Sponsored by Writing Works Wonders www.writingworkswonders.com

Apple Presentation – Focus Mode and Notifications: 2pm ET, 11am PT, 8am HT

Messages, News, Calendar, Reminders, Weather, the baseball game, and so much more, we’re often receiving numerous notifications every day. How do we stay on top of them? Join certified Apple Teacher Matt Vollbrecht and the TTJ Instructor Team as they teach you about this powerful and sometimes complex topic. Learn about various ways to manage and customize notifications so you’ll receive only the ones you want. Find out how to take immediate action on important notifications. Learn how silence some or all notifications. Find out how to still get the important notifications you just don’t want to miss. Plus, learn about all new iOS 15 Focus and Notification options to help you keep track of everything in your life.

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

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

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

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

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

Brought to you by ACB’s Get Up and Get Moving www.acb.org/GUGM

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

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

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

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

Steve Roberts will talk about climate change and extreme weather. Listener participation and questions are welcome.

VISAbilities – Baby Boomer Trivia: 7pm ET, 4pm PT, 1pm HT

Back by popular demand! Get your Fab Four team together, or come join a team Terry will organize. Test your long-term memory and have lots of fun as we re-visit "Those good old days." We may even add in some ACB trivia. Please arrive a few minutes early to set up the teams. All are welcome.

Sponsored by VISAbilities www.VISAbilities.net

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

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

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

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

Saturday, October 2, 2021

Celebrate You: 10am ET, 7am PT, 4am HT

Celebrate you and what you are all about! All the birthdays for the month will be celebrated.

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

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

ACB Crafters – Fall Greeting Card: 12pm ET, 9am PT, 6am HT

Make fall greeting cards with matching tags.

Sponsored by ACB Crafters, making crafting accessible

Angel EyesCircuit Camp Fitness: 12pm ET, 9am PT, 6am HT

This challenging circuit/interval training workout says goodbye to run-of-the-mill workout routines and hello to exciting movement to achieve real fitness and nutritional goals. Optional Tools: 1-2 LBs and 2-3 LBs set of small hand weights; medium and light resistance bands; and a chair. Water bottles can also be used.

Sponsored by Angel Eyes Fitness and Nutrition

https://angeleyesfitnessandnutrition.org

Guide Dog Users, Inc. Town Hall: 3pm ET, 12pm PT, 9am HT

Guide Dog Users, Inc, invites you to learn about all that has been going on this past year and to listen to and address any concerns.

Sponsored by Guide Dog Users, Inc. www.guidedogusersinc.org

Storytime: 3pm ET, 12pm PT, 9am HT

Join Duke and Terry Suarez as a friend stops in to read them a book live. We will start reading the book, “Oliver, the True Story of a Stolen Dog and the Humans He Brought Together.”

Bible Trivia: 4pm ET, pm PT, 10am HT

Come test your Bible knowledge.

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

This is a nonjudgmental space where people at any level of experience can learn about all things psychic. Julia can be reached at: [email protected]

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

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

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

Tar Heel Tailgate: 5pm ET, 2pm PT, 11am HT

Saturdays aren't just for football, and tailgates aren't just for talking sports, although that is certainly welcome in this space. Join Belinda and enjoy some free-flowing conversations, lots of laughter, and most importantly, a good time. There even may be a few surprises from time to time.

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

Contact Braille Together Mingle: [email protected]

Moving On After Divorce: 7pm ET, 4pm PT, 1pm HT

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

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

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

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

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

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