The Gateway Gazette
Volume 2, No. 3
Sunday, July 26, 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!
Where Are the Dog Relief Areas?
Relief Area 1:
Outside the 4th Street exit from the elevator banks, turn left. It’s about 30 steps, just past the smoking area. There are soft and hard surfaces for relieving.
Relief Area 2:
Outside the lobby entrance to the right of the valet driveway. Hard and soft surfaces are available for dog relief.
Neighborhood Park:
If you go down the driveway to the right and cross the street, there’s an incline that goes to the park. If you go down the driveway and turn left, you can get to the park, but there are steps there.
If your dog has an accident, please stay by the accident and call Tim Stone at (661) 714-0749. Do not leave the scene until he arrives.
Want to Listen to the Daily Newspaper?
The audio version of the daily newspaper runs on ACB Media 10 every hour on the hour.
The audio version of the daily newspaper is also available as a podcast on the ACB Conference and Convention podcast feed.
You may access the newspaper podcast by going to the ACB Conference and Convention webpage.
Thank You from the Auction Committee
The Auction Committee would like to say, “Thank You!” We appreciate all of the wonderful donations from affiliates, vendors, members, and friends of ACB. There were 225 items, featuring homemade goodies, jewelry, technology, and crafts.
Every donation helps ACB continue its work of bringing people together, advocating, and creating opportunities for people who are blind or have low vision. Your support strengthens our community and helps make a lasting impact on our everyday lives.
Once again, thank you for supporting ACB’s 20th Anniversary Auction with your generous contributions.
Room Changes
Anything that was listed in the program as being in Sterling 3 has moved to Regency A.
Anything listed as being in Mills 3 has moved to Regency B.
Updates
Today
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Vispero Training
ACB Lions:
The ACB Lions will now gather at the Brew House Bar on the first floor at 5:30 (not 4:30) on Sunday afternoon. We’ll have some volunteers to help us meet up at the elevator bay and find seats in the bar. Everyone is responsible for our own checks. Let us know you’re stopping by. Call us at (502) 303-7042.
Monday
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Vispero Training
Tuesday
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
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.
Wednesday
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
Monday, July 27
3 p.m.: Audio Description and Gaming Accessibility featuring Microsoft and Xbox has been canceled.
6 p.m.: The BITS session has been canceled.
Tuesday, July 28
6 p.m.: Opening the Door to Accessible Appliances has been canceled. It will be held at a later date after the convention.
Sponsors
Diamond
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.
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.
Emerald
Bounce into BITS
Bounce into BITS at the exhibit hall! Stop by our booth, say hello, and grab your free BITSLinky — the BITS-branded slinky that brings smiles, motion, and fun for absolutely everyone everywhere. There is still time to join our Microsoft and Google courses throughout the week. Discover software, services, and opportunities for you, your affiliate, and ACB. Then try the Audio Description Project Assistant in BITS Connect, ACB Link, or at http://adp.csedesigns.com — the next leap in interactive technology!
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®, 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.
Don’t Miss Today’s Seeing Eye Session!
Don’t miss today’s session with The Seeing Eye’s Director of Instruction & Training Jim Kessler. Whether you’re curious about guide dogs or ready to take the next step, this interactive session covers how Seeing Eye dogs and adaptive technology can complement each other, and how to assess if a guide dog partnership is right for you.
Ruby
CVS Health
CVS Health is a proud sponsor of the American Council of the Blind Convention. Our aim is that CVS Health (R) customers, members and colleagues with disabilities can access the health and wellness services we provide.
We are committed to:
• Educating colleagues and partners on accessibility standards and best practices.
• Enabling the creation of accessible products and services that meet diverse needs.
• Empowering individuals with disabilities and their allies to thrive.
Visit www.cvshealth.com/accessibility to learn more.
Google Disability Support
Our dedicated team is here to assist you. Connect directly with a specialist to get the most out of your Google devices and tools.
Connect with us: g.co/disabilitysupport
Onyx
Shape the Future of Accessibility with ACB and Aira!
Discover the Build AI Program, a groundbreaking initiative from the American Council of the Blind and Aira. Want to help train the next generation of AI visual description? You can apply directly within the Aira Explorer app today!
Want to learn more? Drop by the Aira booth in the exhibit hall to meet the team, ask questions, and see how you can get involved.
Topaz
American Printing House for the Blind
Since 1858, the American Printing House for the Blind has advanced accessible learning experiences for people who are blind or low vision. We provide innovative braille solutions, from refreshable displays and tactile technology to teaching aids and literacy tools that support education, employment, and independent living for all ages.
Pearl
The Inspiration Foundation
The Inspiration Foundation partners to advance a 10% increase in disability employment through technology training grants, corporate Seal Certification, and immersive, action-driving experiences that change perceptions, the narrative, and the expectations of our capabilities, including Executive Roundtables & process-driven Dining in the Dark events.
WWW.InspirationFoundation.org
Let’s Connect.
Newspaper Sponsors
Many thanks to HumanWare for its generous donation of the use of three Juliet 120 braille embossers to produce the newspaper. Big thanks to the American Printing House for the Blind for its generous donation of braille paper to produce the convention newspaper. Visit their booths in the exhibit hall when it opens today to express your appreciation.
Individual Sponsors
Platinum
Margarine Beaman
Betsey Doane
Ricky Eidson
Tyson Ernst
Tom Frank
Lawrence Gambino
Larry Gassman
Mary Haroyan
Linda Hunt
Roberta McCall
John McCann
MariLyn Piepho
Maria Stone
Tim Stone
James Swartz
Scott Thornhill
Vita Zavoli
Advertisements
Come for One Thing. Leave With Ten!
Treat yourself at the ACB Mini Mall! We’ve got all your convention must-haves and classic favorites: stylish ACB gear to make you the envy of the convention, handy household goodies, and even some throwback merch that whispers, “Remember how fun last year was?” But fair warning: the best stuff disappears faster than free snacks! Shop ’til you grin and experience the pure joy of the ACB Mini Mall!
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.
Low Vision Alliance
(formerly Council of Citizens with Low Vision International)
Connect with LVA for advocacy, education, peer support, resources, and more. Visit our Marketplace table Monday and Tuesday.
Convention Special: Join or renew during convention for a chance to win a new LVA T-shirt!
Monday Programming
1 p.m.: How Do You Do That? Hobbies with Low Vision
7 p.m.: LVA Big Bash (Outburst followed by our annual dance)
Learn more at LowVisionAlliance.org
Come Visit GDUI in The Bark-a-Lounge!
GDUI welcomes you to our Bark-a-Lounge, located in Mills 7. Generously sponsored by Nestle Purina, the lounge will be available between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day, beginning on Saturday, July 25, through Tuesday, July 28. The Lounge is a safe and happy space for taking a convention break, catching up with friends, meeting our five plush dogs in harness and purchasing drawing tickets, and exploring doggie treats, toys, and supplies chosen by GDUI and offered for purchase.
Join Independent Visually Impaired Entrepreneurs
Wednesday, July 29, 12:15-2:30 PM, Mills 7
IVIE Business Expo – Visit with IVIE Members sharing products and services: EZ2See large print calendars, ILA products like recorders, braille/print greeting cards and playing cards, gifts (such as mugs), gift bags, and more. There is no cost to check out the expo, but if you’d like to have a booth, call (818) 209-8684.
RSVA Events
Sunday, July 26
1 p.m.: Nuts and Bolts of Starting a Business; Mills 1
7:30 p.m.: Laugh with RSVA – comedian; Parkview; $20
9 p.m. – 12 a.m.: Share your talent at RSVA Karaoke; Parkview; $20
If members wish to get together, call (818) 209-8684.
Designated Driver Shirts Are Back!
Guess what? The Designated Driver T-shirts are back after more than 20 years. The shirts come in several colors, and a number of different items are available. Visit
https://blind-girl-designs.myshopify.com/collections/designated-driver
to view the item and color choices. For more information, call (210) 884-7778.
Heading to 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.
UZURV
UZURV is a rideshare, providing door-to-door paratransit in more than 30 cities around the country. We’re at ACB to meet, thank, and hear from our riders. If you ride with UZURV or if you’re in a community that we serve, sign up for our 3 p.m. session on Wednesday at uzurv.com/rider-conference-event. Learn where UZURV operates at www.uzurv.com/ride.
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.
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.
Wants to Hear from Members of the LDS Church
Frank Welte wants to contact members of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. If interested, write to Frank.A.Welte@gmail.com, or call (510) 541-1442.
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