The Gateway Gazette
Volume 2, No. 5
Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Announcements
Help Us Share the ACB 2026 Experience!
Attending the ACB Conference and Convention? We’d love your help capturing the excitement, whether you’re participating in an ACB tour, attending a special event, or connecting with friends, snap a photo or record a short video.
When posting on social media, use #ACB2026 and #ACB65Years, and be sure to tag @ACBNational so we can follow and share your posts. If it’s easier to have us share them for you, send photos and video shorts to communications@acb.org for possible use in convention coverage, social media, and future ACB publications.
Help us celebrate 65 years of ACB by sharing the moments, memories, and connections that make our convention special!
Visit the MMS Booth!
Stop by the MMS booth in the exhibit hall and speak to Caitlin or one of our committee members. Sign up or increase your donation by the end of convention and be eligible for a prize.
Attending on Zoom? Call 1-888-999-3190 or email askacbmms@gmail.com. Leave us your contact information, whether you’re signing up or increasing your donation, how much you’re giving, and how you want your money to be distributed. We’ll get back to you.
Updates
Today
1 p.m.: The Meta session will be in the ballroom from 1 to 2:15 p.m.
Ray-Ban Meta: Going Further for Blind and Low Vision People: Ray-Ban Meta glasses have been breaking down barriers for the blind and low vision community since coming to market. We listened to users and improved features to make our technology more accessible. Come learn what we’ve built this year and get a sneak peek into the future.
3 p.m.: Connecting Through Accessible Telecommunications: Services, Solutions, and Support for the Blind Community; Hybrid; Regency Ballroom
Join representatives from leading telecommunications companies for a discussion on the products, services, and accessibility features designed to support people who are blind or have low vision. Panelists will share information about accessible mobile devices, customer support options, emergency communications, assistive technologies, and emerging innovations that promote independence and connectivity. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about available resources, ask questions, and provide feedback directly to industry leaders working to improve accessibility in telecommunications.
Panelists
AT&T: Shaunta M. Aviles will discuss AT&T’s commitment to advancing inclusive technology that helps customers who are blind or have low vision stay connected, independent, and informed through accessible services, innovation, and continued partnership.
National Association of Broadcasters: Larry Walke will discuss recent policy changes regarding access to video programming on television, including the expansion of audio description to additional television markets and more live programming, as well as technical developments like AI-powered audio description and ATSC 3.0 NextGen Television that have the potential to enhance access to video programming for persons who are blind or low vision.
T-Mobile: Shellie Blakeney will discuss T-Mobile’s commitment to accessibility and include a discussion about the company’s programs and initiatives to support its customers, including network advancements, customer service/rate plans and strategic partnerships that help advance the company’s objectives in the accessibility space.
Verizon: Zach Bastian will review Verizon’s customer services that notably accommodate persons who are blind or have other disabilities. He will specifically highlight new and exciting customer services that are soon to debut.
Tomorrow
In conjunction with a league-wide policy established by Major League Baseball, the St. Louis Cardinals reserve the right to inspect all items entering Busch Stadium. Guests may bring in items such as: bags, purses and soft-sided coolers not exceeding 10″ x 8″ x 10″; food, non-alcoholic beverages in factory-sealed plastic bottles no larger than 2 liters; empty cups, mugs, tumblers or plastic bottles.
Prohibited items include but are not limited to the following items:
• Alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic beer
• Aluminum containers
• Glass bottles/items
• Metal cans
• Thermoses
• Bags larger than 10″ x 8″ x 10″
Guests are encouraged to limit bags for stadium entry. Exceptions will be made for medical bags and diaper bags with a child. All bags will be inspected upon entry.
Additions
On Wednesday, July 29, Friends of Bill W will meet in Sterling 5.
Cancellations
Today
6 p.m.: Opening the Door to Accessible Appliances has been canceled. It will be held sometime after the convention.
Sponsors
Diamond
Microsoft
Microsoft’s goal is to make accessibility easier for everyone by embedding it throughout our design process. We design with and for people with disabilities to drive responsible innovation, strengthen products, expand reach, and improve access for all. Accessibility is built into how we work, guided by accountability, transparency, and feedback. To create lasting impact at scale, we invest in adoption, training, and collaboration to build skills, influence policy, and ensure accessible, trusted AI benefits everyone.
Waymo
Waymo is a fully autonomous driving technology company with a mission to save lives, improve independence, and create new mobility options.
Accessibility has been fundamental to Waymo’s mission since day one, knowing current transportation options weren’t designed with everyone’s needs in mind. With input and guidance from the American Council of the Blind through the Waymo Accessibility Network, Waymo is dedicated to building a future of safer, more accessible transportation. Learn more at Waymo.com
Why Am I Up?
WhyAmIUp.com is a patient education platform dedicated to raising awareness of Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder (Non-24), a serious circadian rhythm disorder that can affect people living with blindness or low vision. Through trusted educational resources, an online screening tool, and practical information, WhyAmIUp.com helps individuals recognize the signs and symptoms of Non-24, better understand their sleep challenges, and take the next step toward seeking appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Emerald
Meta
Join Meta at the 2026 ACB Convention! Stop by our exhibit booth for hands-on demos and attend our seminar, “Ray-Ban Meta: Going Further for Blind and Low Vision People,” on Tuesday, July 28 at 5 p.m. Discover how AI glasses are built for everyone, creating new ways to help navigate, connect, and explore more independently.
Independence Looks Different
Independence looks different for everyone. Learn why thousands of people have chosen to support their mobility through partnership with a Seeing Eye dog. Stop by our booth in the exhibit hall to speak with our guide dog mobility instructors or visit www.seeingeye.org/admissions to learn more about how a Seeing Eye dog can support you in your journey.
Vispero
Vispero is the global leader in accessibility for people who are blind or have low vision. We equip individuals with trusted assistive technology, including JAWS (R), while bringing deep accessibility expertise to help organizations deliver inclusive experiences at scale. Visit our booth in the exhibit hall to connect with our team and learn more about our solutions and hardware or explore additional information at www.vispero.com.
Coral
Library Users of America
For All Who Love to Read
2026 Coral Convention Sponsor
Share books every other month on Library without Walls calls.
Receive the “LUA Ledger” twice a year in accessible formats.
Discover technologies, authors, and library programs through LUA Link calls.
Annual dues $12; $150 for life.
Call (502) 897-1472; visit www.acblibraryusers.org.
Newspaper Sponsors
Many thanks to the American Printing House for the Blind for its generous donation of braille paper to produce the convention newspaper. And big thanks to HumanWare for its generous donation of the use of three Juliet 120 braille embossers to produce the newspaper. Visit their booths in the exhibit hall and give them a hearty ACB “thank you!”
Individual Sponsors
Silver
Dave Adams
Anthony Akamine
Sara Alkmin
Michael Alvarez
Edward Andrews
Abigail Avila
Katelyn Avila
Michael Babcock
Andrew Baracco
Mary Baracco
Steve Bauer
Regina Brink
Christina Brino
Lisa Brooks
Carolyn Burley
Kimberly Carmichael
Loralee Castner
Jason Castonguay
Ann Chiappetta
Cheryl Cumings
Thomas Cumings
Elizabeth Davidson
Christopher Devin
Kathleen Duke
Mike Duke
Casey Dutmer
Erric Edwards
Paul Edwards
Alicia Eidson
Nelly Emerson
Marsha Farrow
Hazel Fields
Michael Garrett
Peggy Garrett
Deborah Grubb
Tracy Hammond
Rochelle Hart
Debbie Hazelton
Melody Holloway
Charles Jones
Eldon Kaiser
Jean Kalscheur
Paul Kelly
Jim Kennedy
Victoria Kennedy
Don Koors
Gerry Koors
Jeanette Kutash
Mark Lear
Rick Lewis
Sugar Lopez
Gabriel Lopez Kafati
Eugene Lozano
Eric Malcolm
Dora Martinez
Peggy Martinez
Julie McCullough
Janae Miller
Erin Moore
Kate Morse
Lerae Olesen
Troy Otillio
Betty Passanante-Rodriguez
Jack Pinnock
Carl Richardson
Richard Rueda
Charlie Runyon
Krystle Runyon
Nichoel Schlender
Catherine Schmitt-Whitaker
Christine Schumacher
Pam Shaw
Patty Slaby
Jo Ann Slayton
Kevin Slayton
Darian Slayton Fleming
Courtney Smith
John Smith
Naomi Soule
Leslie Spoone
Jane Stearn
Sharon Strzalkowski
Jeff Thom
Karen Thomas
Lindsey Tilden
David Trott
Rhonda Trott
Deborah Ver Steeg
Sharlene Wills
Donald Wirth
Michael Wiseman
Debbie Young
Sheila Young
Advertisements
Because Convention Memories
Deserve Souvenirs!
The convention may be wrapping up, but your shopping adventure isn’t over yet — there’s still one last chance to do some “I regret nothing” shopping! Swing by the Mini Mall to snag treasures from the Vision Beyond Sight collection and those classic favorites you’ve been tempted by. Don’t leave St. Louis empty-handed — or worse, full of regret. Grab that perfect keepsake while supporting the work of ACB.
BITS Magic Comes to Life through Innovation!
Join us Tuesday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. in Mills 9 for the unveiling of GLOW, BITS Whisperer and QUILL. These are tools to bring efficiency and productivity to leaders and users to improve document accessibility. Turn meeting recordings into text, create AI-powered minutes, and discover accessible tools. Enjoy surprises, gifts for every attendee, and plenty of innovation, fun, and possibility. Come celebrate what’s next with BITS!
ACB Membership Committee Seminar
Come to the ACB Membership Committee’s seminar on Wednesday, July 29, 3 p.m. in Regency B. Learn about what outreach mechanisms work for growth, what activities may encourage participation, and much more.
3 p.m.: Welcome: Theme: “What outreach mechanisms work for growth”
3:10 p.m.: Panel 1: “What interactive activities and awards might encourage more participation.” Panelists: Becky Dunkerson; Sheila Young; David Kingsbury; Ardis Bazyn
3:30 p.m. Questions.
3:40 p.m.: Panel 2: “What website links or call to action items would draw people to respond.” Panelists: Steve Longmire; Sheila Young; Jeremy Johansen
4 p.m.: Questions
4:10 p.m.: Wrap-up
Drop By and Check Out New EZ2See Products
Stop by EZ2See (R) Products in the Exhibit Hall. Edward brought his well-known products and some new ones.
Drop by while our product supply is good, take advantage of discounted convention pricing and pick up a discount flyer to use when you get home. Give us your opinion on some possible new products we-re considering.
Did you know we are on Amazon and Independent Living Aids?
For full product details, call (800) 234-8291 or visit EZ2SeeProducts.com.
See More with Case for Vision
Turn your iPhone or iPad into a powerful local and distance magnification system. Read menus, mail, labels, and documents up close — or magnify presentations, signs, faces, and TV screens across the room.
Come try out Case for Vision in the ACB Convention Marketplace Wednesday and Thursday from 7 to 10 a.m. and receive a special 10% conference discount for any purchase.
Learn more at https://caseforvision.com.
Ready to take the next step in your career? In school? Finding your first job? Recently experienced vision loss?
Envision Workforce Pathways offers individual and group virtual career coaching and mentoring to the blind low vision community nationwide. We also offer in-person 5-day workforce readiness bootcamp training programs in Dallas, TX and Wichita, KS, helping participants build confidence, connections, and successful careers across the country.
For more details, contact:
Mika Pyyhkala
mika.pyyhkala@envisionus.com
(617) 202-3497
programs@envisionus.com
ACB Diabetics in Action
ACB Diabetics in Action (ACBDA) is a special-interest affiliate of ACB. ACBDA’s mission is to provide education and support to individuals living with diabetes and vision loss, parents, and caregivers. ACBDA offers programs including workshops, support calls, diabetes education calls, newsletters, and convention sessions. Another perk is the Patricia LaFrance-Wolf Memorial Fund, which provides assistance to members facing unexpected financial needs. Everyone is welcome to join ACBDA. Please visit www.acbda.org to learn more.
Sharon’s Tie-Dye Designs
Come visit Sharon’s Tie-Dye Designs in the Marketplace on Thursday, July 30th! Designs come in all shades and colors, with sizes from 2T to adult 3X. There are some Americana red, white and blue shirts, along with some spring and summertime designs. Some shirts were patterned after brightly decorated Easter eggs. There’s a design for everybody! Won’t be here Thursday? Contact Sharon at (571) 225-3925 to set up a time to pick out a shirt.
ACB Families All Year Round
ACB Families hopes you are enjoying our 2026 convention events, including our virtual campfire, breakfast and Bingo.
We host Zoom calls on the first and third Sundays of each month at 9 p.m. Eastern; enjoy peer support, interesting speakers, and sharing tips and resources.
Join our email list; send a blank message to families+subscribe@acblists.org.
Join ACB Families. $10 a year or $100 for a life membership.
Connect with us; call (502) 897-1472 for more info.
Lions International Week of Vision Service
Lions International President Mark Lyon declares his first
International Service Project, October 8 – 18, 2026, Lions International Week of Vision Service.
Call your local Lions Club and offer to join them in service to fulfill the call of their International President.
To find a club near you, or for more information, contact WCB & ACB Lions member Colette.Arvidson@gmail.com Wednesday morning at Marketplace, Knights of the Blind Display, or (360) 391-5880.
Attending the ACB Convention?
ACB convention friends, I’m Jeremy Levy, host of Jeremy’s Journey! I’m totally blind, born with SOX2 anophthalmia, and I share adventures like surfing in Hawaii, skiing at Winter Park, and meeting incredible blind musicians. I’ll be interviewing vendors and capturing the excitement of ACB all week. Listen free at JeremysJourneyLLC.com, or search JeremysJourneyLLC on Apple, Spotify, or iHeart. Join me and experience the convention in a whole new way.
Eltrinex, Vine 3 Recorders & More
For Sale: Totally accessible AM/FM clock radios with sleep timer, digital Eltrinex and Vine 3 talking recorders, turtleback cases, audio Bibles, accessible Bingo games, BlindShell phones, OTR shows, “Dynamic Communications” courses, Job Readiness Tests for Blind Job Seekers, Mystic Access tutorials, ILA and Blind Mice Mart products, and more. For more information, contact Carla Hayes at the IVIE Business Expo Wednesday from 12:15 to 2:15 in Mills 7, or call (724) 466-8184.
Mama Otter’s Tidbits
Charlotte Lang of Mama Otter’s Tidbits offers a wide variety of meat sticks, jerky, game and flavored summer sausages, and shelf stable flavored cheese spreads and bars. Also available are chocolate candy animal poops and all-natural meat stick dog treats. Prices do not include shipping but are very reasonable, ranging from $3 to $12. Please contact mamaotter1@gmail.com for a complete product listing.
Perkins School for the Blind
At Perkins School for the Blind, we help children with disabilities find their place in the world. On our historic campus located just outside of Boston, we have been developing and delivering best practices in education for nearly 200 years. We serve students with visual impairments, deafblindness and multiple disabilities from birth through age 22, and our continuum of services addresses every need, ability and age — from infancy through college prep. Learn more at perkins.org.
Find out more at https://acb-convention.pinecast.co