Click here to subscribe to the calendar and newsletter of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind.
Please register for any event you plan to attend at least two days in advance to 859-259-1834 or info@bcbky.org
BCB Inclement Weather Policy: The Bluegrass Council of the Blind follows Fayette County Public Schools (FCPS) lead in canceling activities. If FCPS is closed, on NTI or on a delay due to weather BCB will cancel all activities. The office voicemail will be updated with the current status for the day.
If you plan to attend an event and unsure about the weather, it is always best to call the office and check the voicemail to be sure the event or appointment has not been canceled due to the office closing. Please stay safe.
- Wheels passes will be provided as reimbursement for members who pay for Wheels transportation to and from BCB events.
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NOVEMBER 2024
“Hey Meta – Be My Eyes!”
Be My Eyes and Meta have started rolling out their partnership to bring Be My Eyes to Meta Smart Glasses! More information about setup can be found on the Be My Eyes page under Products, and choosing “Be My Eyes”, or clicking this link. Help is also available through the support section on their app.
Sam at the IKnow Expo
Sam attended the IKnow Expo at the Lexington Senior Center on Saturday, November 9. It was a “one-stop shop” for seniors and their caregivers to get information about insurance, housing, staying active, and, of course, Assistive Technology Training at BCB!
Blue Christmas – A Caring Place
A Caring Place’s Annual Blue Christmas Event on December 7th at Beaumont Presbyterian Church. Blue Christmas offers a gentle, supportive space for those experiencing grief, loss, or hardship during the holiday season. The event is free, and transportation will be provided, but participants must RSVP to attend. We welcome everyone to come and find comfort, community, and peace during this meaningful gathering. You do not need to be a member, volunteer, or participant of either Beaumont Presbyterian Church or A Caring Place. This event is open to the entire community. You can RSVP by calling 859-368-2656 or emailing info@a-caring-place.com.
Olmstead Survey
Kentucky is reviewing its Olmstead Plan to make sure people with disabilities get the support they need to live in the community. The Human Development Institute at the University of Kentucky, on behalf of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, is gathering feedback to see how services are working and where they can improve. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey. It’s open through January 15, 2025. Your input is important and will help shape the future of disability services! You fan reach the survey by clicking the link below: The Olmstead Decision – Why it Matters in Kentucky – Human Development Institute
American Council of the Blind Families Program
The annual ACB Families membership drive is under way. Get in on the fun and have a chance to win prizes, just in time for the holidays. ACB Families is an ACB special-interest affiliate that holds two Zoom calls each month. Their business meeting, typically on the first Sunday of the month, gives members a chance to participate in planning virtual activities and events. The call on the third Sunday of the month includes a discussion topic, a chance to share tips on a broad range of subjects, or an informative speaker. Past calls have included stretching the family dollar, tech tips, holiday gift ideas, fun and educational Amazon Alexa skills, how to get organized and de-clutter your home, and much more. Anyone can participate in ACB Families. Pay your dues for next year by November 30 and have a chance to win a $25 VISA gift card, one of two $50 VISA cards, a $75 VISA card, and (new this year) a grand prize of a $100 VISA card. Winners will be drawn at our Zoom call on Sunday, December 15.
Dues are just $8.00 a year. Pay by credit card by calling 502-897-1472, or make check payable to ACB Families and mail, along with your contact information, to
ACB Families
148 Vernon Avenue
Louisville, KY 40206
November 2024 Calendar
November BCB Community Outing-BOOK SWAP!
Date: Monday, November 18, 2024
Time: 9am-12pm (stop by for an hour or so when it’s convenient!)
Location: Lexington Senior Center
195 Life Lane, Lexington
Program: Join BCB, the International Book Project, and the Lexington Senior Center for a collaborative event offering large print books free or for swap. We have dozens of large print titles to choose from and volunteers will be on hand to assist those who would like some help browsing and selecting books. Bring your standard print books and swap them out for large print books, or pick up a few new-to-you books that you can enjoy for FREE! You will be able to explore technology and services that can help access text or enjoy reading through alternative methods while enjoying some refreshments.
Registration: Call the BCB office at 859-259 1834 or email susana@bcbky.org to register by Thursday, November 14. You are responsible for your own transportation; if riding Wheels to this event, BCB will reimburse you with up to two passes if you are registered for the event.
November BCB Food Distribution / Home Delivery
Date: In-Person with the Mobile Market Wednesday, November 20, 2024, from 12-130pm
Home Delivery on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 3-6 PM
There is no Lunch and Learn in November, but we will provide Little Caesar’s pizza while clients access the mobile market.
Food Distribution: We offer supplemental food distribution once a month to those who are blind or vision impaired. You can shop and pick up your supplemental groceries at our In-Person meeting if you are planning to attend, or we offer delivery on the day following for those who reside in Fayette County. You must register for Food Distribution no later than the Monday preceding, call the BCB office at 859-259-1834 and let us know if you would like to participate.
BCB Mentoring Small Group
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024,
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
BCB Thanksgiving Holiday hours
Wednesday, November 27: Open 9-12
Thursday, November 28: Closed
Friday, November 29: Office is closed on Fridays
December 2024
December BCB Community Outing
Date: Tuesday December 3, 2024
Time: 1 until 2:30 PM
Place: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
What to expect: BCB will be holding another Sing-Along Rehearsal coordinated by Dwayne Stephenson, professional vocalist and BCB member. We will be singing holiday songs as a group or as solo performances and putting together a short program to present at BCB’s holiday party on December 11. Please come if you love to sing and love the Holidays!
Registration: by Monday on December 2 by calling the office 859-259-1834. Wheels passes available for those who attend using Wheels.
December Spouses and Family Members of People with Low to No Vision
Date: Thursday, December 5, 2024
Time: 7:30-8:30 p.m. on Zoom
What To Expect: This group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children, or others who want to support someone with a vision impairment. While the overall topic is Supporting Independence, it’s a great opportunity to come together and ask questions or share your “been there, done that” experiences to your own degree of comfort to help others. Enjoy a cup of coffee and take a break with us!
This group is co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., a recent graduate of the Orientation and Mobility program at UK, who is the spouse of someone with a vision impairment.
BCB Quarterly Membership Meeting and Holiday Celebration!
Date: December 11, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM
Place: UK-County Extension Office, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Room B
Gather together for the holidays with a feast from Critchfield that includes your choice of turkey or ham, sweet potato casserole, green beans and cornbread. A selection of donated decadent desserts will be available to satisfy your sweet tooth. Drinks of iced tea, lemonade and water will be offered. BCB Members are welcome and may bring one guest. There will be door prizes, singing, holiday atmosphere and an optional gift exchange. Please bring a wrapped gift, suggested value of $10 if you wish to participate in the exchange. Santa will make an appearance and even be available for photo ops! Wear your special holiday attire and vie for the prize for Best Holiday Outfit!
Registration: Please register by December 4 and when you register include your choice of Turkey or Ham. You are most welcome to pay your membership dues for 2025 at this event! Thank you for being a BCB member!!
Wheels passes available for those using Wheels to attend.
December BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Office and Zoom
Topic: “Discover the Zoomax Snow Pad”
Explore the new Zoomax Snow Pad, a foldable, portable magnifier designed for those with low vision. This powerful tool transforms an iPad into a reading magnifier, portable desktop CCTV, and versatile vision aid—perfect for studying, working, and daily tasks. Register now and see how the Zoomax Snow Pad can enhance accessibility in your life!
December BCB Food Distribution / Home Delivery
Date: In-Person with the Mobile Market Wednesday, December 18, 2024, from 12-130pm
Home Delivery on Thursday, December 19, 2024, from 3-6 PM
There is no Lunch and Learn in December, but we will provide light snacks while clients access the mobile market. You can also bring a sack lunch to enjoy while socializing!
Food Distribution: We offer supplemental food distribution once a month to those who are blind or vision impaired. You can shop and pick up your supplemental groceries at our In-Person meeting if you are planning to attend, or we offer delivery on the day following for those who reside in Fayette County. You must register for Food Distribution no later than the Monday preceding, call the BCB office at 859-259-1834 and let us know if you would like to participate
BCB Mentoring Small Group
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024,
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
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October 2024
Back in Action
All repairs have been made to the BCB Office, and we are happy to report that everything is business as usual. We appreciate your patience while we worked with the construction team to bring back our safe and accessible environment.
Happy Birthday
Theresa, Richard, and Sam each have an October Birthday…wish them a happy day if you see them around the office this month!
Calendar
BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting:
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, October 17, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
BCB October Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Place: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
Speaker and Topic: Dr. Gary Cusick from the Charles McDowell Center will present on Charles Bonnet Syndrome. This condition is a common occurrence in people with sight loss and involves seeing visual images that are not actually present.
Prior to working with OVR Blind Division for 18 years, Dr Cusick taught live and online university courses, did research in mental health, and worked in nursing home, hospital, and private settings. Currently, he provides information and counseling on Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) and convenes a weekly support group meeting via Zoom. He works collaboratively with a CBS non-profit and a podcaster in the United States and is in regular contact with providers in the UK, Australia, and Canada.
Registration: Please RSVP by October 15 if possible but no later than noon on October 21 to help us plan. Wheels passes are available for riders using Wheels for the event.
October BCB Food Distribution / Home Delivery
Date: In person: Lunch and Learn Meeting Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Delivery: Thursday, October 24, 2024 between 3-6pm
Food Distribution: We offer supplemental food distribution once a month to those who are blind or vision impaired. You can shop and pick up your supplemental groceries at our Lunch & Learn meeting if you are planning to attend, or we offer delivery on the day following Lunch & Learn for those who reside in Fayette County. You must register for Food Distribution no later than the Monday preceding, call the BCB office at 859-259-1834 and let us know if you would like to participate and update your address and phone information.
BCB Focus Groups
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024
Time: Two sessions: 10-11am, and 12-1pm.
Purpose: Led by impartial volunteers from the UK College of Pharmacy, these focus groups will provide important feedback on BCB services so that we may learn more about our clients’ needs, the quality of our programs, and ways that we can expand our services to better serve our clients! We are grateful for the community we’ve built; don’t miss the chance to share your thoughts on your experiences with us! Snacks and drinks will be served.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register.
November 2024
Tuesday, November 5 **ELECTION DAY** Don’t forget to vote!
BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting:
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, November 13, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024,
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
November BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Office and Zoom
Topic: “AI in Assistive Technology!”
Join us for an insightful presentation on the transformative power of AI in assistive technology for the blind and visually impaired. Discover how tools like Copilot and ChatGPT are revolutionizing accessibility, alongside innovative consumer electronics like the Meta-Ray Ban smart glasses. Learn how these advancements are enhancing independence and quality of life. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the future of assistive tech—register now and be part of the change!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
November BCB Community Outing-BOOK SWAP!
Date: Monday, November 18, 2024
Time: 9am-12pm (stop by for an hour or so when it’s convenient!)
Location: Lexington Senior Center
195 Life Lane, Lexington
Program: Join BCB, the International Book Project, and the Lexington Senior Center for a collaborative event offering large print books free or for swap. We have dozens of large print titles to choose from and volunteers will be on hand to assist those who would like some help browsing and selecting books. Bring your standard print books and swap them out for large print ones, or pick up a few new-to-you books that you can enjoy for FREE! You will be able to explore technology and services that can help access text or enjoy reading through alternative methods while enjoying some refreshments.
Registration: Call the BCB office at 859-259 1834 or email susana@bcbky.org to register by Thursday, November 14. You are responsible for your own transportation; if riding Wheels to this event, BCB will reimburse you with up to two passes if you are registered for the event.
November BCB Food Distribution / Home Delivery
Date: In-Person with the Mobile Market Wednesday, November 20, 2024, from 12-130pm
Home Delivery on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 3-6 PM
There is no Lunch and Learn in November, but we will provide Little Caesar’s pizza while clients access the mobile market.
Food Distribution: We offer supplemental food distribution once a month to those who are blind or vision impaired. You can shop and pick up your supplemental groceries at our In-Person meeting if you are planning to attend, or we offer delivery on the day following for those who reside in Fayette County. You must register for Food Distribution no later than the Monday preceding, call the BCB office at 859-259-1834 and let us know if you would like to participate.
December 2024
**SAVE the DATE**
December 11 is BCB’s final quarterly membership meeting of the year and our Holiday Celebration and Luncheon!
Place: UK County Extension Office,
1140 Harry Sykes Way, Room B
Time: Noon until 2 PM
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September 2024
We had a great turnout for this month’s Community Outing to McConnell Springs…and the weather was BEAUTIFUL!
Our guide was a perfect fit for our group. Andi kept us together and did a great job of pointing out the various plants, flowers, and other items of interest around us, clearly describing the details as we walked along. We learned that McConnnell Springs was named after William McConnell, one of the first settlers of Lexington, and is located in the place where Lexington was named in 1775. The Tulip tree is the official state tree of Kentucky, and it’s leaves are shaped like the Kentucky Wildcat! We made it all the way to the turtle pond, where turtles were sunning themselves on the island. This was a great outing that suited everyone, including benches for rest along the way. Thanks to the staff at McConnell Springs for providing us a fantastic guide, and for maintaining the grounds of the park so that it can be enjoyed by all!
Calendar
BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, September 19, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
BCB September Lunch & Learn
Date: September 25, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Place: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
Program: “Medicare updates for 2025”
Justin Aulds from Kentucky Health Solutions will provide updates on expected changes in Medicare for next year. He will also talk about the basics of dual eligible plans for people with both Medicare and Medicaid and discuss the differences between an Advantage Plan and Original Medicare. We will be serving Pot Pies for Lunch. Please RSVP by September 17. Wheels passes provided if traveling to the event via Wheels.
September BCB Food Distribution / Home Delivery
Date: Distribution: Lunch and Learn Meeting Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Delivery: Thursday, September 26, 2024 between 3-6pm
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Please call to register for Food distribution by Monday, September 16, if possible, but no later than Monday, September 23. Call 859-259-1834 and press 0 to speak with a staff member to make arrangements for delivery if you are unable to pick up your food at the Lunch and Learn meeting.
October 2024
October BCB Community Outing
Date: Tuesday October 1, 2024
Time: 1-2:30 PM
Location: UK Fayette County Extension Services, Room A
1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington
Program: Jacqui Denegri will again be our instructor for this cooking class refresher. This time we will be making vegetarian or meat chili. Jacqui will be adapting cooking instruction and technique to make it easier to follow for those of us with blindness or low vison. The class is suitable for newcomers or for those who participated in the classes last year. We will be recruiting sighted volunteers to help out so please register at least a week in advance to help us plan.
Registration: Call the BCB office at 859-259 1834 or email susana@bcbky.org to register by Thursday, September 26. You are responsible for your own transportation; if riding Wheels to this event, BCB will reimburse you with up to two passes.
October BCB Group for Spouses and Family Members of People with Low to No Vision
Date: Thursday, October 3, 2024
Time: 7:30-8:30 p.m. on Zoom
What To Expect: This group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children, or others who want to support someone with a vision impairment. While the overall topic is Supporting Independence, it’s a great opportunity to come together and ask questions or share your “been there, done that” experiences to your own degree of comfort to help others. Enjoy a cup of coffee and take a break with us!
This group is co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., a recent graduate of the Orientation and Mobility program at UK, who is the spouse of someone with a vision impairment.
BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, October 9, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, October 17, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
October BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Office and Zoom
Topic: “Deep Dive into Ambutech Canes
This October, join us for an in-depth discussion about the white cane, focusing on one of the most popular brands in the world, Ambutech. Sam will explore the diverse range of canes and cane tips Ambutech offers, providing insights into their unique features and benefits. Whether you’re considering a new cane or just curious about the options available, this session is a must-watch! Mark your calendars and be sure to join us for this informative and engaging event.
BCB October Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Place: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
Program: To Be Determined
Registration: Please RSVP by October 17. Wheels passes provided if traveling to the event via Wheels.
October BCB Food Distribution / Home Delivery
Date: Distribution: Lunch and Learn Meeting Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Delivery: Thursday, October 24, 2024 between 3-6pm
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Please call to register for Food distribution by Monday, October 14, if possible, but no later than Monday, October 21. Call 859-259-1834 and press 0 to speak with a staff member to make arrangements for delivery if you are unable to pick up your food at the Lunch and Learn meeting.
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August 2024
Highlights
Annual Business Meeting with Elections
Our Annual Membership Business Meeting with Elections will be held on Wednesday, September 4, from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM.
The Nominating Committee is currently preparing a slate of officers to be recommended during the election. If you are interested in being nominated for a position, we strongly encourage you to contact the Nominating Chairperson, Judy Potter, or our Board President, Arthur Abshire. Please call the office for their contact information.
Anyone interested in running for the open positions of Board President, Board Treasurer, or Member-at-Large is invited to attend an informational meeting on Monday, August 19, at 2:30 PM in Suite 103. We kindly request that those considering serving on the board attend this informational session and stay for the Board Meeting, immediately following from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM on the same day.
August
August BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, August 15, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Office and Zoom
Topic: “Steller Trek 3 from HumanWare”
This month, Sam will be demonstrating and answering questions about the new Stellar Trek 3 from HumanWare. This latest version of their popular GPS navigational aid includes several enhanced features. Join Sam as he explores the benefits and functionalities of the Stellar Trek 3, providing insights into how it can enhance navigation for visually impaired users.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
August BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, August 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
BCB Community Outing
Date: August 21, 2024
Time: 11:30 AM until 1 PM
Place: Gardenside Baptist Church, 1667 Alexandria Drive, back entrance.
What to Expect: “Lunch with the Lions”
Lunch will be provided by the Lions for a $5 donation, followed by a regular meeting of the Lexington Lions Club.
During the meeting, Theresa Thomas, BCB’s executive director will give a presentation on BCB’s mission and our two service programs: Assistive Technology and Peer Support. This will be followed by several of our members giving five minute talks on how BCB has made a difference in their lives, enabling them to become more independent and confident in reaching their goals.
The Lexington Lions Club is one of our main grantors, enabling us to utilize our current location where we offer a range of services to Kentuckians who are blind or have low vision along with supportive services to all affected by vision loss including companions and caregivers.
Please RSVP by August 20 if you are able to attend. Wheels passes will be provided for those traveling by Wheels to this event.
BCB August Lunch & Learn
Date Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Place: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
Program: Spouse and Family Encouragement: Tips & Techniques for Companions & Caregivers
We will start by listening to a podcast from Hadley Vision Resources entitled “Vision Loss and Family Dynamics” as the opening to a group discussion about how friends and family can best support those of us who are blind or have low vision. You can share personal experiences to your own level of comfort about the need for independence, asking for help that’s needed, and effective communication strategies that will empower both sides: those who are blind or visually imparied to ask for help when needed, and those who interact with them to offer assistance in a meaningful way.
Please RSVP by August 20. Wheels passes provided if traveling to the event via Wheels.
August BCB Food Distribution / Home Delivery
Date: Distribution: Lunch and Learn Meeting Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Delivery: Thursday, August 29, 2024 between 3-6pm
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Please call to register for Food distribution by Monday, August 19, if possible, but no later than Monday, August 26. Call 859-259-1834 and press 0 to speak with a staff member to make arrangements for delivery if you are unable to pick up your food at the Lunch and Learn meeting.
September 2024
BCB Annual Membership Meeting with Elections
DATE: September 4, 2024
TIME: Noon until 2
PLACE: BCB Community Room (please note: this is an updated location!)
AGENDA: Lunch will be served from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, featuring chicken tenders from Critchfield Meats, coleslaw and blueberry cobbler. The business meeting will follow from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Please register for the luncheon and meeting by noon on September 2 by calling the office at 859-259-1834. You may speak directly with a staff member or leave a message
September BCB Community Outing
Date: Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Time: 11a.m. until 1 p.m.
Location: McConnell Springs Park 416 Rebmann Ln, Lexington, KY
Program: Join BCB for a guided walk in nature, discussing plants, animals, and the history of McConnell Springs! McConnell Springs Park is located at the historic springs where the city of Lexington, Kentucky was named and is a beautiful setting to enjoy the peace of nature. The walk will be a ½ mile paved loop and is accessible with walkers or wheelchair. The main part of the walkway is a hard surface but includes a section of gravel. We will walk at a leisurely pace to accommodate everyone who signs up. Feel free to bring a friend or sighted guide. Let us know of your needs. If you will require a sighted guide, we will do our best to recruit volunteers to help. If you arrive early, there is a covered patio outside the visitor center where you can wait or go inside to find the nature center. Restrooms and water fountains are inside. We will provide a small snack, but feel free to bring your own. Bring a water bottle, and please call with any questions.
Registration: Call the BCB office at 859-259 1834 or email susana@bcbky.org to register by September 3. You are responsible for your own transportation. If riding Wheels to this event, BCB will reimburse you with passes.
BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting:
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, September 11, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, September 19, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
September BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, September 12, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Office and Zoom
Topic: TBD; stay tuned for more details!
BCB September Lunch & Learn
Date: September 25, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Place: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
Program: “Medicare updates for 2025”
Justin Aulds from Kentucky Health Solutions will provide updates on expected changes in Medicare for next year. He will also talk about the basics of dual eligible plans for people with both Medicare and Medicaid and discuss the differences between an Advantage Plan and Original Medicare.
Please RSVP by September 17. Wheels passes provided if traveling to the event via Wheels.
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July 2024
Highlights
Thank you to everyone who came to the Lextran Wheels listening session! There was a lot of important feedback -both positive and negative- shared from our attendees to the Lextran team, who seemed receptive and ready to make changes to better serve our clients that rely on them for transportation. We will be doing our part here at BCB to follow up with their Director to ensure that the “listening” turns into meaningful action. If you have an issue, make sure to contact Lextran within 24 hours to report the problem at 859-253-4636. Please call us here at the office if you would like us to advocate on your behalf.
We will be posting a job on Indeed and Kentucky Non-Profit Network for a part-time Resource Coordinator. Interested applicants should reply to the job posting with a resume and cover letter for consideration.
Sedona Taphouse “Dine out for Charity” – Every Monday in July!
Date: July 15, July 22, July 29
Time: 11am-11PM
Place: 3600 Palomar Center Drive, Lexington
What to Expect: For every HALF PRICE 8 oz. Black Angus Flat Iron Steak, 8 oz. Grilled Chicken, or 7 oz. Grilled Salmon entrée sold; Sedona Taphouse will donate $1 to our organization! Bring your friends together for a great meal at a phenomenal price and support those with visual impairment..there’s no better way to spend a warm Monday night. BCB will have a table set up from 5-7; stop by and say hello!
BCB July Lunch & Learn
Date: July 24, 2024
Time: 12 noon until 2 (1-2 by Zoom)
Place: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
Speaker: Jeremy T. Smith, M.A. Licensed Clinical Counselor will share information on anxiety from the angle of a person with experience, as Jeremy has a vision impairment himself.
Topic: Dealing with Anxiety and Vision Loss
Description: Anxiety is normal. Everybody deals with anxiety. But anxiety for those of us with visual impairments can be a much larger, more frightening issue. Our conversation on the subject of anxiety will focus on our own lived experiences, how our sight loss contributes to that experience, and concrete strategies for coping with anxiety. Our own habits can dramatically improve or worsen our response to anxiety. Honesty about our own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors will help each of us identify useful strategies for improvement. Additional topics related to anxiety such as sleep will also be discussed. Please come prepared to participate in both the discussion and specific coping exercises
July BCB Food Distribution / Home Delivery
Date: Distribution: Lunch and Learn Meeting Wednesday, July 24, 2024
Delivery: Thursday, July 25, 2024 between 3-6pm
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Please call to register for Food distribution by Monday, July 15, if possible, but no later than Monday, July 22. Call 859-259-1834 and press 0 to speak with a staff member to make arrangements for delivery, if you are unable to pick up your food at the Lunch and Learn meeting.
July BCB Mentoring Small Group- Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, July 25, 2024 *please note the date change from July 18th*
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
AUGUST 2024
August BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, August 1, 2024
Time: 7:30-8:30 p.m. on Zoom
What To Expect: Check out our new SAFE Space group format! It is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children, or others who want to support someone with a vision impairment. You can share experiences to your own degree of comfort and learn tips and ideas from those with similar experiences to navigate challenges that come from relationships that are impacted by vision impairment.
The SAFE Space group is co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., a recent graduate of the Orientation and Mobility program at UK, who is the spouse of someone with a vision impairment.
August BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, August 8, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Office and Zoom
Topic: To Be Determined
August BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, August 14, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, August 15, 2024 *please note the date change from July 18th*
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
BCB Community Outing
Date: August 21, 2024
Time: 11:30 AM untl 1 PM
Place: Gardenside Baptist Church, 1667 Alexandria Drive, back entrance.
What to Expect: “Lunch with the Lions”
Lunch will be provided by the Lions for a $5 donation, followed by a regular meeting of the Lexington Lions Club. During the meeting, Theresa Thomas, BCB’s executive director will give a presentation on BCB’s mission and our two service programs: Assistive Technology and Peer Support. This will be followed by several of our members giving five minute talks on how BCB has made a difference in their lives, enabling them to become more independent and confident in reaching their goals.
The Lexington Lions Club is one of our main grantors, enabling us to utilize our current location where we offer a range of services to Kentuckians who are blind or have low vision along with supportive services to all affected by vision loss including companions and caregivers.
Please RSVP by August 20 if you are able to attend. Wheels passes will be provided for those traveling by Wheels to this event.
BCB August Lunch & Learn
Date Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Place: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
Program: Spouse and Family Encouragement: Tips & Techniques for Companions & Caregivers
We will start by listening to a podcast from Hadley Vision Resources entitled “Vision Loss and Family Dynamics” as the opening to a group discussion about how friends and family can best support those of us who are blind or have low vision. You can share personal experiences to your own level of comfort about the need for independence, asking for help that’s needed, and effective communication strategies that will empower both sides: those who are blind or visually imparied to ask for help when needed, and those who interact with them to offer assistance in a meaningful way.
Please RSVP by August 20. Wheels passes provided if traveling to the event via Wheels.
August BCB Food Distribution / Home Delivery
Date: Distribution: Lunch and Learn Meeting Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Delivery: Thursday, August 29, 2024 between 3-6pm
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Please call to register for Food distribution by Monday, August 19, if possible, but no later than Monday, August 26. Call 859-259-1834 and press 0 to speak with a staff member to make arrangements for delivery if you are unable to pick up your food at the Lunch and Learn meeting.
June 2024
BCB June Community Outing
Date: June 4, 2024
Time: 1-2 PM
Location: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
What to expect: “BCB Vocal Rehearsal and Sing Along”.
Are you interested in using your voice to sing along or accompany a vocalist as a performer or simply as an audience member? We will be using this hour to rehearse possible songs for future use at BCB membership meetings or other events. The songs chosen will be popular numbers and no musical training is necessary. In fact if you simply want to clap your hands and just feel the rhythm you are welcome to do just that. We will be choosing a song or two to use at our BCB Membership meeting the next day on June 5. Come, relax and join in the fun! Questions? Call the office at 859-259-1834.
RSVP by June 3, 2024. Wheels passes reimbursed for those using Wheels to attend this event.
BCB Membership Meeting
Date: June 5, 2024
Time: 12 Noon to 2 PM
Location: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
Program: We will serve an “indoor picnic” lunch, followed by a short musical presentation prior to opening up the meeting. We will then open with the pledge, a moment of silence and roll call with all members introducing themselves. Theresa will provide a director’s report with an update on Council progress including a newly created short promotional video. There will also be door prizes and t-shirt giveaways. Membership in BCB is $10 for 2024, and can be paid at the meeting, by calling the office and paying by card, or sending in a check, or by visiting www.bcbky.org/donate and entering “membership 2024” in the notes section. Sponsorships are available for anyone who cannot afford to pay; call the office for more information. RSVP by Thursday, May 30 by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or info@bcbky.org. Wheels passes available for those using wheels to attend this meeting.
June BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, June 6, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group is co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
June BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, June 13, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom and in the BCB Office (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
Topic: Let’s talk about headphones!
As we lose vision, we start to rely on our hearing even more. When it comes to choosing the best headphones for listening to music, audio books, podcasts, etc., how do we know which is the right option for us? This month, Sam will talk about several different headphone options and go over the benefits of each.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
June BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, June 12, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, June 20, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
June BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, June 26, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Location: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
Speaker and Program: Dr Justin Kaiser, clinical associate professor with the Visual Impairment Program at UK, will share information about a new project he is interested in bringing to BCB. He and his team are working to devise some type of core strengthening program to complement orientation and mobility skills. This might be classes in such activities as chair or floor yoga or tai chi tailored to the needs of people with blindness or vision impairment. The project could possibly be ready to start in the fall of this year, and Dr Kaiser would like to receive suggestions or feedback from us on what types of activities would be of most interest and benefit the most people. He is also considering bringing back the O & M clinics and will talk more about these and find out from us what would be most suitable to our community.
Registration: Please register by Tuesday, June 18 if you will be attending, and no later than noon on Monday, June 24, by calling 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Wheels passes are available for those who use Wheels to attend the meeting.
June BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, June 27, 2024
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Please register for Food distribution by Monday, June 17, if possible, but no later than Monday, June 24. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
May 2024
May BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, May 2, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
BCB May Community Outing
Date: Sunday May 5, 2024
Location: Meet at BCB, and travel by van to Southland Farmers’ Market
Time: Schedule rides to arrive at BCB by 12 noon and your return ride from BCB at 2:30 PM. We will be at the Market from about 12:30 until 1:30 PM.
What to expect: We will meet at the BCB Community Room and board a van that will take us to the Farmers’ Market on Southland Drive. The van is courtesy of the Fayette County UK Extension Office. We are in the process of recruiting volunteers that will help groups of two or three at a time browse the market and select fruits, vegetables or other items such as breads, honey, etc. (If you receive SNAP benefits, be sure to bring your EBT card, and if you are a WIC or SFNMP participant, be sure to bring your vouchers. SNAP beneficiaries receive double the buying power at the market. There is a booth about halfway up the vendor line with a red tablecloth where you can get your tokens.) After an hour at the market, we will board the van and return to BCB. Wheels passes will be provided for those using Wheels for this event and the only expense to individuals will be for items you purchase at the market. Plan now and mark your calendars for this unique opportunity that we expect will be an enjoyable and “fruitful” outing!
Registration: We will be recruiting sighted volunteers to help out so please RSVP by Wednesday, May 1, to help us plan and let us know if you are bringing your own sighted companion. You can register by calling 859-259-1834 or emailing susana@bcbky.org. And let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes; we can reimburse for up to two passes.
May BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, May 16, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
May BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Location: BCB Community Room, Suite 103
Speaker and Program: We will have Sarah Richardson in person as our guest speaker. Sarah is an Administrator with the Vocational Rehabilitation office and will talk to us about the STABLE program, which has launched in Kentucky to make savings more accessible for everyone! This program allows qualified individuals with disabilities to save up to $18,000 a year in an ABLE account without jeopardizing their eligibility for federally funded means-tested benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. The funds in the account can be used for disability-related expenses that assist in increasing and/or maintaining health, independence or quality of life. These accounts are exciting for families and individuals who want to work and earn money to improve their lives but who also rely on government programs for health insurance or supplemental income. This important development is key in constructing a new framework of financial independence for people with disabilities. Kentucky Revised Statutes § 205.200 establishes the rules for STABLE Kentucky, and the Office of Kentucky State Treasurer manages this program.
Registration: Please register by Tuesday, May 14, if possible, and no later than noon on Monday, May 20, by calling 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. And let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes; we can reimburse for up to two passes.
May BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, May 23, 2024
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Please register for Food distribution by Monday, May 13, if possible, but no later than Monday, May 20. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
April 2024
April BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, April 4, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
April BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, April 11, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom and in the BCB Office (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
Topic: Demonstration of the CloverBook Pro XL Video Magnifier
One of my favorite portable magnifiers has recently gotten a big update! In 2022, I posted my review of the original CloverBook Pro and declared it my favorite portable video magnifier of all time. With over 22,000 views on that video, it seems that a lot of people agree! With the announcement of the new CloverBook Pro XL, the already fabulous video magnifier is now bigger and better! Join me this month for a demonstration of the new CloverBook Pro XL and see if it might be the right device for you!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
BCB Dining in the Dark
Date: Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Time 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Hyatt Regency Lexington (401 West High Street Lexington, KY 40507)
BCB’s Dining in the Dark is a new fundraising event that will be an experience like no other! Guests will have the option to enjoy a delicious dinner under blindfold or vision impairment simulation glasses, while helping to raise money that goes to change the lives of people who are blind or visually impaired in Kentucky. Ticket sales for the event are now closed and there are no tickets available at the door. Thank you to all those who bought tickets!
April BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, April 18, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
April BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, April 24, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Speaker and Program: Steve Hoyt, COMS will be our speaker and will be talking about the Orientation and Mobility program provided by Pilot Dogs in Columbus, Ohio. Steve has been a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist for 9 years and received his Master’s degree in Orientation & Mobility from Western Michigan University. Their program is 2 weeks long in-residence at Pilot Dogs. Lessons include: human guide technique, upper/lower body protective techniques, white cane techniques, analyzing intersections, riding public transportation, cardinal directions, APS, no sidewalk training, grocery store training, independent route travel, traffic lights and more. Services are free, and food & transportation is provided at no cost for those who qualify.
Registration: Please register by Tuesday, April 16, if possible, and no later than noon on Monday, April 22, by calling 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. And let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes; we can reimburse for up to two passes.
April BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, April 25, 2024
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Please register for Food distribution by Monday, April 15, if possible, but no later than Monday, April 22. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
March 2024
March BCB Membership Meeting
Date: Wednesday, March 6, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM
Location: New BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
Agenda: We will be celebrating March Madness so wear your blue and white and come prepared to compete at basketball trivia!
Up to two Wheels passes will be reimbursed for those using Wheels to attend.
On the menu: Chicken tenders, mac ‘n’ cheese and cole slaw with corn bread.
Registration: Please register at least one week prior but no later than noon Monday, March 4. It’s not too late to join BCB’s 2024 membership! Membership in BCB is only $10 a year and there are sponsorships available to cover the cost if needed.
March BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, March 7, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
BCB March Community Outing
Date: March 11, 2024
Time: 6:30 – 8:15 PM
Place: Lyric Theatre, 300 E Third St, Lexington (corner of Third & Elm)
Event: Michael Johnathon’s Woodsongs Old Time Radio Hour. This will be a live performance featuring The Price Sisters and Randy Steele. The Price Sisters are twin sisters Lauren and Leanna from Kentucky. Both have become versatile instrumentalists, Lauren on mandolin and Leanna on fiddle, and their sibling harmony has carried them to great success in bluegrass music. Randy Steele is an award-winning banjo master – and career firefighter – from Chattanooga, TN. More information is available at www.woodsongs.com. Tickets are $10. Call 859-280-2201 after 1 PM M-F, go online, or purchase your ticket at the door. Doors open at 6 PM, please be seated by 6:45. The show starts at 7 and ends about 8 PM. If scheduling transportation, we recommend you schedule your return ride to pick you up at 8:15 PM. There is parking across the street from the Lyric. BCB will have a row reserved for us and Susan will be there to reimburse you for Wheels passes if using Wheels.
Registration: Please RSVP to BCB by Thursday, March 7, by emailing susana@bcbky.org or calling 859-259-1834. If you are riding Wheels, BCB will reimburse you for up to two Wheels passes.
March BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, March 14, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom and in the BCB Office (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
Topic: Let’s talk about headphones!
As we lose vision, we start to rely on our hearing even more. When it comes to choosing the best headphones for listening to music, audio books, podcasts, etc. How do we know which is the right option for us? This month, Sam will talk about several different headphone options and go over the benefits of each.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
March BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, March 13, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
Program: This group meeting will be a little different from our usual format. The meeting will be led by August Tuggle, MT-BC. August will facilitate music therapy activities with goals of encouraging self-expression and group discussions about our relationship to disability and adapting to change.
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, March 21, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
March BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Topic: Two Transportation Services
GoGo Grandparent is a membership-driven service that allows you to request a ride with a phone call, order takeout, and have groceries or medications delivered. No smartphones or apps are required. Come learn more about this service that may help you or a loved one. Secondly, Mike Ginter from Bluegrass Independent Transportation Network (ITN) will join us in person to answer questions about this service for seniors and people with vision impairments. Friendly drivers will meet you at your door and get you to where you need to go. Rides are less than the cost of a cab and there may be some scholarship money available for lower income riders. Enjoy lunch and meet others who are challenged with limited vision.
Registration: Please register by Wednesday, March 20, if possible, and no later than noon on Monday, March 25, by calling 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. And let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes; we can reimburse for up to two passes.
March BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, March 28, 2024
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you can’t pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Please register for Food distribution by Monday, March 18, if possible, but no later than Monday, March 25. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
February 2024
February BCB Woodturning
Date: Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
BCB offers wood turning for people who are blind or visually impaired on the first Thursday of every other month. Class size is limited to two. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a handcrafted gift. The first two to sign up will work directly with Richard, our trainer, on creating a keychain. Others who call will be put on a waitlist. If you’re interested in learning how to do wood turning, please reach out to Richard at richard@bcbky.org. This activity requires registration and that a liability waiver be signed.
Registration: To register, call 859-259-1834; if you have questions, contact Richard at extension 4 or email at richard@bcbky.org.
February BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
BCB February Community Outing
Date: Tuesday, February 6, 2024
Time: 10 AM until 11:30 AM
Place: McLeod’s Coffee House (376 Southland Dr., Lexington)
The menu includes ham and cheese croissants, donuts, muffins, sandwiches and paninis. They have a full espresso bar with lattes, cappuccinos, Americanos and regular coffee. They also have tea and hot chocolate. So come on out, enjoy time with your friends from BCB and make new ones in a relaxed social atmosphere. Each person is responsible for their own purchases. We will have volunteers to assist where needed.
Registration: Please register at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 if you will attend so we know to expect you and can reserve tables. Susan will be there with Wheels reimbursement passes for those using Wheels transportation.
February BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom and in the BCB Office (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
Topic: All about lighting for low vision!
Did you know that one of the easiest ways to help improve low vision is by adding high quality light. If you’re struggling to see something, adding in more light could help! This month, Sam will be talking about all types of lighting solutions. From lighting around your house, to lights you can carry with you. With all the different lighting options available, it’s truly a bright new world!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
February BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
BCB February Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Speaker: Nora Veblen from Wildwood Music Therapy
Nora will teach us about the benefits of music in our lives and introduce us to her role as a music therapist.
She will bring along some of the musical instruments she uses and demonstrate some of the methods she uses to help people with emotional healing and better overall health. This promises to be both fun and educational so you don’t want to miss this program!
On the menu: Pot roast, mashed potatoes and carrots with a roll and butter.
Registration: Please register by Wednesday, February 21, but no later than noon on Monday, February 26, by calling 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Let us know if you will be riding Wheels; we can reimburse for up to two passes.
February BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024 (Leap Day!)
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Please register for Food distribution by Monday, Feb. 19, if possible, but no later than Monday, Feb 26. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
January 2024
Date: Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
January BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
January BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom and in the BCB Office (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
Topic: Overview of the Seeing AI app for Android and iPhone
This month, Sam will be talking about one of the most popular apps for the blind and visually impaired community! Seeing AI, which offers Amazing features like text reading, facial recognition, and color identification, has been available on iphones for six years now and was just released on Android as well! Join the seminar this month to learn more about this amazing app and how to get it!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
CANCELLED BCB January Community Outing
Date: Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024
Time: Noon to 1:30 PM
Place: Oak Street Health, 208 Legends Ln, Suite 160 (Off N Broadway, next to Dollar General)
Program: We will enjoy a light lunch provided by Oak Street along with an informative talk on staying healthy during the winter months. There will be time for a tour of the facility and a chance to ask questions about what Oak Street Health has to offer in the way of services.
Registration: Please RSVP to BCB by Thursday, Jan. 11, by emailing info@bcbky.org or calling 859-259-1834, and hope for good weather! If you are riding Wheels, BCB will reimburse you for up to two Wheels passes.
January BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
Speaker: Sgt Benjamin Baker, Lexington Police Department
Topic: Internet and Telephone Scams. Sgt Baker will bring us up to date on the latest scams out there including internet and telephone scams! He will tell us what we need to be watchful for and what we can do to better protect ourselves from potential scammers. If you’ve registered for food distribution and you attend the meeting you can pick up your groceries after the meeting.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, Jan. 22, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. Let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes for attending in person; we can reimburse you for up to two passes.
January BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Registration for food delivery must be received by Monday, Jan. 22. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
December 2023
BCB’s Holiday Luncheon Quarterly Membership Meeting
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023
Time: Noon until 2 PM
Location: UK Fayette County Extension, Room B (1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington)
BCB Members are invited to our annual membership Holiday Party and Luncheon!
We have some important business to conduct involving BCB’s current bylaws and two additional proposed bylaw changes, along with holiday festivities. Feel free to wear holiday attire. We will have an Ugly Sweater Contest, an optional Gift Exchange, Goodie Bags and possibly a visit from Santa himself! If you wish to participate in the Gift Exchange, please bring a wrapped gift with a suggested value of $10 and you will receive a gift in return.
BCB Membership is $10 and is required to attend. You can pay your membership fees ahead of time at www.bcbky.org/donate or at the door. Dues paid now will pay your membership through 2024.
Registration: Registration closed at noon Wednesday, Nov. 29.
December BCB Woodturning
Date: Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters, 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington
BCB is now offering wood turning for people who are blind or visually impaired on the first Thursday of every other month; class size is limited to two. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a handcrafted gift for the holidays. The first two to sign up will work directly with Richard, our trainer, on creating a keychain. Others who call will be put on a waitlist. If you’re interested in learning how to do wood turning, please reach out to Richard at richard@bcbky.org. This activity requires registration and that a liability waiver be signed.
Registration: To register, call 859-259-1834; if you have questions, contact Richard at extension 4 or email at richard@bcbky.org.
December BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
December BCB Mentoring Small Group
We will only have one small group mentoring session this month due to the holidays. The discussion topic will be “Surviving the Holidays”. Food distribution will take place after the in-person mentoring support group for those who sign up for supplemental food. If you are unable to attend, we are working on scheduling delivery for December 14.
Afternoon In-Person Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
December BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Virtual and in BCB Office, 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington
Topic: “Best Magnifying Apps For Android And iPhone ”
This month, Sam will be talking about his favorite magnifying apps for both Android and iOS. Not only are these apps incredibly helpful for low vision in a variety of situations, they’re also free!! Join the event to find out more and to learn how you can get these apps for yourself!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
December BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the In-Person Mentoring Group and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Registration for food delivery must be received by Monday, Dec. 11. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
November 2023
with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be hosted by Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
November BCB Mentoring Small Groups
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
November BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Virtual and in BCB Office, 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington
Topic: “Flexable, Portable Display ”
For many of us with low vision, a large display is an essential tool that allows us to access the computer, however, they aren’t the most portable! Have you ever wished you could take your large screen with you anywhere? From home to the office, on vacation, even just down to the local coffee shop to get some work done? Well now you can! This month, Sam will be demonstrating a new 24 inch portable display that can connect to all types of devices. This is one AT Seminar you won’t want to miss!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
November BCB Community Outing
Date: Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023
Time: 1PM to 3 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
Speaker: Larry McNabb, MRC, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Trainer
Larry has a Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Kentucky and he is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor through the CRCC. He has been a Certified QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Trainer since 2010 and he became a Master Trainer with the QPR Institute in Spokane, Wash., in December 2020. Larry’s presentation to us at our May Lunch & Learn generated a lot of questions and desire to learn more. At our invitation, Larry graciously agreed to come back to Lexington for a more in depth presentation on this important topic of suicide prevention. We hope you can join us to learn more about how you might help someone in crisis.
Registration: If you plan to come, please let us know by emailing info@bcbky.org or calling 859-259-1834. Please let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes. Because there is no Lunch & Learn in November, if you’ve registered for food distribution and you attend the Community Outing you can pick up your groceries after the meeting. Those not attending can request to be added to the delivery on Thursday, Nov. 16, between 3 and 6 PM.
November BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the Community Outing and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Registration for food delivery must be received by Monday, Nov. 13. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
October 2023
October BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members
of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
October BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
October BCB Community Outing
Date: Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023 (World Sight Day!)
Time: 12 Noon to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
October 12 is World Sight Day and a great opportunity to show our gratitude to the United Way of the Bluegrass (UWBG) for their continued support of services for adults with vision impairment in Central Kentucky. BCB staff, board and members are encouraged to bring in baked goods and snacks to sell to our visitors, neighbors and friends who stop in to support this UWBG/BCB fundraiser.
How you can help:
- Drop off home-made or purchased baked goods or snacks by 4 PM on Oct. 11th.
- If bringing baked items to sell the day of the event, please be sure to call and let us know what you plan to bring by the end of the day on Monday, Oct. 9.
- Stop in between Noon and 2 PM on Oct. 12 to purchase snacks, desserts or just to drop off a donation and say “hello.”
- Can’t join us? Donations are welcome and can be made online at bcbky.org/donateor mailed to BCB at 2265 Harrodsburg Road, Ste. 102, Lexington, KY 40504. Please type “bake sale” into the notes section.
Half of the funds raised will go to the UWBG and half directly to BCB to support our programs and services. BCB is proud to be a UWBG partner agency and we are so grateful for the funding they provide to our agency and many others across the Bluegrass to improve the quality of life for our neighbors. Lunch is not included at this Community Outing, but you’re welcome to bring a lunch and eat it here.
Registration: If you plan to come, please let us know by emailing info@bcbky.org or calling 859-259-1834. Please let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes.
October BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Virtual and in office
Topic: New and existing accessible cell phone options
This month, Sam will be demonstrating new and existing accessible cell phones currently on the market. This will include devices such as the BlindShell Classic 2, Smart Vision 3, The RealSAM Pocket, and the Memory phone. Sam will demonstrate how to use these phones, talk about the differences, and be available to answer questions.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
October BCB Woodturning
Date: Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters, 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington
BCB is now offering wood turning for people who are blind or visually impaired on the third Thursday of every other month, beginning this month. Class size is limited to two. The first two to sign up will work directly with Richard, our trainer, on creating a keychain. Others who call will be put on a waitlist. If you’re interested in learning how to do wood turning, please reach out to Richard at richard@bcbky.org. This activity requires registration and that a liability waiver be signed.
Registration: To register, call 859-259-1834; if you have questions, contact Richard at extension 4 or email at richard@bcbky.org.
October BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Location: BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
Topic and Speakers: Accessible Pharmacy with Andy Burstein, CEO and co-founder and Ed Henkler, the Blind Guide will join us via Zoom.
Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind is a home delivery pharmacy service and healthcare company specializing in patients who are blind and have low vision. They are the only provider of its kind in the world and the largest blind-owned healthcare company in America. Their model merges healthcare and accessibility and empowers patients to live healthier lives while managing their medication and diabetes independently. Be sure to dress up in your Halloween costumes for photos and fun!
If you’ve registered for food distribution and you attend the meeting you can pick up your groceries after the meeting.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, Oct. 23, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. Let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes for attending in person.
October BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Registration for food delivery must be received by Monday, Oct. 23. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
September 2023
September BCB Community Outing
Date: Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: Fayette County Extension Office, Room A, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington
Please join us for this last session in our monthly series of free classes on healthy cooking and food preparation that will be accessible for people with low to no vision. We will prepare the food in class and there will be small portions to sample. Participants will also receive small giveaways after each class. Participants will need to provide their own transportation to and from the extension office; if using Wheels, BCB will reimburse your passes.
Registration: Call BCB to register at 859-259-1834 and if you have questions you can contact Susan at extension 6 or email at susana@bcbky.org.
September BCB Annual Business Meeting with Elections
All BCB Members Invited
Date: Sept. 6, 2023
Time: Noon until 2 PM
Location: 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103
On the Menu: Fried Chicken, green beans & cobbler from Critchfields
Agenda: After lunch, we begin the meeting with a Welcome, Pledge, Moment of Silence and Roll Call. Officers and Executive Director will give reports and we will proceed with Elections of new officers and directors. All registrants will be eligible for door prizes. Hope you can join this once a year meeting and participate in the life of our organization. If you are not yet a member, you can still join for 2023 by paying your $10 dues at the meeting. Registration is needed by Friday, September 1, or earlier. To register, call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org. Wheels reimbursement passes will be available for those using Wheels to attend.
September BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
Empowered Aging Expo in Danville
Date: Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023
Location: The Showroom, 2405 Lebanon Road, Danville, KY 40422.
Time: 1 PM to 4 PM
This free resource event is geared to connecting attendees with services to support successful aging. Click here to find out more on their facebook page.
September BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: New BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meetingTo participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
September BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB and Virtual
Topic: The OrCam READ’s Latest Update
The OrCam READ is a handheld assistive device that allows the user to access printed text. You can use it to scan the text on various items, and it will quickly and accurately read them out loud. The READ has recently gotten an update which also includes new features. In this month’s AT group seminar, Sam will discuss and demonstrate the latest version of the OrCam READ!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
Woodturning Informational Meeting
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103
We are offering woodturning lessons! If you’d like a demonstration and more information, please join us in BCB’s Community Room for this informational meeting.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, Sept. 18, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Please let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes.
iKnow Expo at Lexington Senior Center
Date: Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023
Time: 10 AM to 2 PM
Location: Lexington Senior Center, 195 Life Lane, Lexington, KY 40502
The iKnow Expo is a FREE event for people of all ages and life stages: living out their golden years; taking care of someone they love; coping with difficult health situations or simply smart enough to know it’s never too early to start planning for the future. The i know expo empowers with information about the services, resources and support available to make the rest of life the best of life.
You will learn:
•how to find services in your community to help care for a loved one.
• how to plan for future physical, emotional and financial well-being.
• how to choose the best option for housing.
• how to stay mobile, sharp and engaged.
• how to take care of yourself if you are a caregiver.
• how to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.
And much more. Click here for more information.
September BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Location: 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103
Speaker: We welcome back Pete Alberti of Kentucky Health Solutions who will discuss with us upcoming changes in Medicare for 2024. He will give us a general overview and points to consider for the open enrollment time period that begins October 15 and extends through December 7 of this year. Pete and members of his staff will be available to discuss specific plans after October 1 when the details of various plans become available.
If you’ve registered for food distribution and you attend the meeting you can pick up your groceries after the meeting.
On the Menu: KFC pot pies, thanks to Kentucky Health Solutions.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, Sept. 25, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. Let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes for attending in person.
September BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Registration for food delivery must be received by Monday, Sept. 25. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
August 2023
August BCB Community Outing – CANCELLED / RESCHEDULED TO SEPTEMBER 5
August BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
August BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: New BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact BCB at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
August BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: POSTPONED TO SEPT. 14
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB and Virtual
Topic: The OrCam READ’s Latest Update
The OrCam READ is a handheld assistive device that allows the user to access printed text. You can use it to scan the text on various items, and it will quickly and accurately read them out loud. The READ has recently gotten an update which also includes new features. In this month’s AT group seminar, Sam will discuss and demonstrate the latest version of the OrCam READ!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
August BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, August 23, 2023
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Location: 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington
Speaker: Heidi Kesterson, Facility Administrator, McDowell Center
Topic: Heidi will present on the services of the McDowell Center in Louisville for those who are blind or low vision. She will give an update on the renovation of this facility which offers a residential and also a day program teaching skills that allow for greater independence in living and working. Although many of us already know about the McDowell Center, it is helpful to get an update on the current status and changes which have taken place especially since the pandemic. Heidi will also talk about the various services offered through the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Division of Blind Services with a focus on the track for Independent Living. If you’ve registered for food distribution and you attend the meeting you can pick up your groceries after the meeting.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, Aug. 21, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. Let us know if you will need Wheels reimbursement passes for attending in person.
August BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, August 24, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: Registration for food delivery must be received by Monday, Aug. 21. To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
July 2023
July BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, July 6, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
July BCB Community Outing – Cooking It up with Low to no Vision
Date: Tuesday, July 11, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: Fayette County Extension Office, Room A, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington
Please join us for this monthly series of free classes on healthy cooking and food preparation that will be accessible for people with low to no vision. Participants are encouraged to attend all seven sessions or as many as possible. We will prepare the food in class and there will be small portions to sample. Participants will also receive small giveaways after each class. Participants will need to provide their own transportation to and from the extension office; if using Wheels, BCB will reimburse your passes.
Registration: Call BCB to register at 859-259-1834 and if you have questions you can contact Susan at extension 6 or email at susana@bcbky.org.
July BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, July 13, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: TBA
Topic: Highlights from the ACB Conference!
This month, Sam will be attending the ACB Conference and for this AT seminar he will be reporting back on all the new technology and other cool things he discovered there!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
July BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, July 12, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: New BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, July 20, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
July BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: July 26, 2023
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Location: 2265 Harrodsburg Rd. Suite 103, Lexington
Speaker: Leader Dogs for the Blind’s Leslie Hoskins, COMS, Outreach Services and Community Engagement Manager and Alyssa Otis, GDMI, Outreach Specialist and BCB’s Executive Director Theresa Thomas
Leslie and Alyssa will talk to us virtually about their various programs with a focus on the expansion of their free Orientation and Mobility training. This O&M training can even be scheduled to take place in your hometown and help you navigate streets and sidewalks so you can more easily get to where you want to go. Theresa will then speak on her experience of being matched with and receiving a leader dog from this school, and she will demonstrate some of the training techniques and commands with the help of Risa, her beautiful golden retriever leader dog. If you’ve registered for food distribution and you attend the meeting you can pick up your groceries after the meeting.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, July 24, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. Let us know if you will need Wheels passes for attending in person.
July BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, July 27, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
BCB New Headquarters Open House
Date: Monday, July 31, 2023
Time: Between 2 PM and 6 PM
Location: 2265 Harrodsburg Road, Ste. 102, Lexington, KY 40504
BCB is inviting our friends, neighbors and partner agencies that have not visited our new facility yet to an open house for a quick tour, refreshments and an opportunity to say hello to our staff! You can stop in any time between 2 PM and 6 PM, Monday, July 31, 2023, at 2265 Harrodsburg Road, Ste. 102. If you will be using Wheels, a good time to schedule might be a 1:30 to 2 PM pickup and a 3 to 3:30 PM return. Unfortunately, Wheels passes cannot be reimbursed, as this does not fall under client services. RSVPs are not required, but if you know you’re going to attend, please call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to let us know, so we can plan accordingly. We can’t wait to show off the place!
June 2023
Date: Thursday, June 1, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
June BCB Community Outing – Cooking It up with Low to no Vision
Date: Tuesday, June 6, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: Fayette County Extension Office, Room A, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington
Please join us for this monthly series of free classes on healthy cooking and food preparation that will be accessible for people with low to no vision. Participants are encouraged to attend all seven sessions or as many as possible. We will prepare the food in class and there will be small portions to sample. Participants will also receive small giveaways after each class. Participants will need to provide their own transportation to and from the extension office; if using Wheels, BCB will reimburse your passes.
Registration: Call BCB to register at 859-259-1834 and if you have questions you can contact Susan at extension 6 or email at susana@bcbky.org.
June BCB Membership Meeting
Date: Wednesday, June 7, 2023
Time: Noon until 2 PM
Location: New BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103, Lexington)
Agenda: We will open with the pledge of allegiance and moment of silence. Following will be a roll call with each person introducing themselves. Information will be provided on the upcoming ACB annual convention in Schaumburg, Illinois. We will also tell how you can listen to many parts of the convention virtually. There will be time for fellowship, ideas for organizing socials, and door prizes. Wheels passes provided for those using Wheels to attend.
On the menu: Fried chicken, loaded mashed potatoes, and cherry cobbler from Critchfield Meats.
Registration: Please register at least one week prior but no later than noon Monday, June 5.
It’s not too late to join BCB’s 2023 membership! Membership in BCB is only $10 a year and there are sponsorships available to cover the cost if needed.
Lexington Lions Club Bluegrass Fair
Date: June 8-18, 2023
Location: Masterson Station Park
June BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date/Times: Thursday, June 8, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Virtual Only
Topic: Windows 11 Accessibility Features
Have you considered upgrading to Windows 11 and wondered about the new accessibility features? In this month’s Assistive Technology Group Seminar, Sam will demonstrate the helpful accessibility features for the blind and visually impaired. Be sure to join the Zoom call and ask lots of questions!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
June BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: New BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, June 15, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
BCB’s Last SEE Cruise Voyage!
Date: Sunday, June 25, 2023
Time: 4 PM until 8 PM
Location: O’Neill’s, 2051 Richmond Road in Lexington
A wonderful evening of competitive silent auction bidding, music, dancing, food and fundraising! Tickets on sale NOW at https://BCBSEECruise2023.eventbrite.com.
June BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: June 28, 2023
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Location: 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103
Speaker: Emily Elliott, Community Relations Manager of Lextran
Emily will talk about accessing the public bus and assistance available for finding your route, including using the bus stop at our new location. She will also update us on the latest concerning the operation of Wheels paratransit. Additionally, she will provide a recap of the Transit Planning 4 All Virtual Town Hall that was held May 9 to identify unmet needs and barriers to transportation for people with disabilities and older adults. We welcome Emily back to our group on topics concerning so many of us in our community. If you’ve registered for food distribution and you attend the meeting you can pick up your groceries after the meeting.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, June 26, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. Let us know if you will need Wheels passes for attending in person.
June BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, June 29, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
May 2023
May BCB Community Outing – Cooking It up with Low to no Vision
Date: Tuesday, May 2, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: Fayette County Extension Office, Room A, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington
Please join us for this monthly series of free classes on healthy cooking and food preparation that will be accessible for people with low to no vision. Participants are encouraged to attend all seven sessions or as many as possible. We will prepare the food in class and there will be small portions to sample. Participants will also receive small giveaways after each class. Participants will need to provide their own transportation to and from the extension office; if using Wheels, BCB will reimburse your passes.
Registration: Call BCB to register at 859-259-1834 and if you have questions you can contact Susan at extension 6 or email at susana@bcbky.org.
May BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people
with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
May BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, May 10, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: New BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, May 18, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
May BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date/Times: Thursday, May 11, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: New BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 102, Lexington) and via Zoom
Topic: Interview with Liliana Teixeira, an Independent Living Skills Trainer
This month, Sam will be joined by Liliana Teixeira, an independent living skills trainer based in Mercede, California. In her role, Liliana helps develop skills, strategies, and techniques to aid those dealing with vision loss to function independently. These skills include tasks for daily living such as meal preparation, household management, handling print material, shopping, travel utilizing various modes of transportation, advocacy, and many other skills to aid in remaining independent. Join us on Thursday for a fun and engaging conversation!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
May BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: May 24, 2023
Time: Noon until 2 PM (1-2 by Zoom)
Location: 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite 103
Speaker: Larry McNabb, M.A.,Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Trainer
Topic: More than Statistics: Warning Signs and Steps to take for Preventing Suicide.
In addition to recent statistics on the prevalence of suicide, Larry will present on warning signs, risk factors, resources and steps to help someone that may be suicidal. In 2019 and 2020, we saw documented suicide numbers decrease for the first time in fifteen years but in 2021 (most current data) we saw almost a four percent increase from 2020, with teens and young adults being the hardest hit group for mental health disorders since the pandemic.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, May 22, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. Let us know if you will need Wheels passes for attending in person.
May BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, May 25, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
April 2023
April BCB Community Outing – Cooking It up with Low to no Vision
Date: Tuesday, April 4, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: Fayette County Extension Office, Room A, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington
Please join us for this monthly series of free classes on healthy cooking and food preparation that will be accessible for people with low to no vision. Participants are encouraged to attend all seven sessions or as many as possible. We will prepare the food in class and there will be small portions to sample. Participants will also receive small giveaways after each class. Participants will need to provide their own transportation to and from the extension office; if using Wheels, BCB will reimburse your passes.
Registration: Call BCB to register at 859-259-1834 and if you have questions you can contact Susan at extension 6 or email at susana@bcbky.org.
April BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, April 6, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be hosted by Julie Jones, M.A., spouse of Michael Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
New BCB Headquarters Orientation Workshop
Date/Times: Wednesday, April 12, 2:30 – 3:30 PM or Thursday, April 13, from 5:30 – 6:30 PM
Location: NEW BCB Headquarters: 2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite102, Lexington
Dr. Kaiser, with UK’s O&M program, will provide this Orientation & Mobility workshop to help familiarize people with BCB’s new headquarters. All are welcome. Sighted folks are welcome to attend to learn tips for assisting others in navigating the new space. (Volunteers encouraged to attend.)
Registration: Please contact BCB to register at 859-259-1834 or info@bcky.org. Space is limited. Please choose only one of the sessions to attend.
April BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, April 12, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: NEW BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite102, Lexington)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, April 20, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
April BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date/Times: Thursday, April 13, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: NEW BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite102, Lexington)
Topic: New Canes on the Market
In this month’s AT Group Seminar, Sam will talk about two new canes recently released to the market. One can be used for hiking, while the other looks likea lightsaber! You don’t want to miss this one!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
April BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: April 26, 2023
Time: 12 PM until 2 PM in person, Zoom 1 PM until 2 PM
Location: NEW BCB Headquarters (2265 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite103, Lexington)
Speaker: Hazel Teichen, PACE Outreach Coordinator
Topic: PACE stands for Program for All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, and is for people age 55 and older. The program provides comprehensive care to help a person maintain independence in their own home including everyday tasks, and transportation to and from the PACE Center as needed. If you qualify, services are covered 100% by Medicare and Medicaid.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, April 24, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. Let us know if you will need Wheels passes for attending in person.
April BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, April 27, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
March 2023
Date: Thursday, March 2, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
March BCB Community Outing – Cooking It up with Low to no Vision
Date: Tuesday, March 7, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: Fayette County Extension Office, Room A, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington
Please join us for this monthly series of free classes on healthy cooking and food preparation that will be accessible for people with low to no vision. Participants are encouraged to attend all seven sessions or as many as possible. We will prepare the food in class and there will be small portions to sample. Participants will also receive small giveaways after each class. Participants will need to provide their own transportation to and from the extension office; if using Wheels, BCB will reimburse your passes.
Registration: Call BCB to register at 859-259-1834 and if you have questions you can contact Susan at extension 6 or email at susana@bcbky.org.
March BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups. Please note: The normally in-person afternoon meeting has been changed to Zoom only for March.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, March 8, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, March 16, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
March BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, March 9, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom Meeting Only
Topic: Getting the Time
When you lose your vision, sometimes the simple tasks become the most difficult. One of these is the simple task of getting the current time and date. In this month’s AT Group Seminar, Sam will be demonstrating a wide variety of tools and gadgets for telling the time!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register for this Zoom-only seminar. Remember, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
March BCB Lunch & Learn and Membership Meeting Combined
Date: Wednesday, March 22, 2023
Lunch & Learn Time: 12 PM until 2 PM (in person only)
Membership Meeting Time: 2 PM until 3 PM
Location: MOVED. Fayette County Extension Office, Room B, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington
Lunch & Learn Topic: Inspiring Stories
Speakers: BCB Members
Description: Come and listen to fellow BCB members as they take the mic and tell about their journey toward acceptance of their visual status, and what they learned along the way. On the menu: Pizza! Please wear green as a belated nod to St. Patrick’s Day! March food distribution will be available after the Lunch & Learn.
Membership Meeting Description: For New and Continuing BCB Members: Stay a little longer and participate in our first quarterly membership meeting of the year. We will have a fun and interactive teaching on the basics of running a meeting! Speaker TBA. As always, we will have door prizes. Get to know your BCB organization and your fellow BCB members.
Please note: There will be no Zoom option at this meeting.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, March 20, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Let us know if you will need Wheels passes.
March BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, March 23, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you live in Fayette County, we can deliver food distribution to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
Date: Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
February BCB Community Outing – Cooking It up with Low to no Vision
Date: Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: Fayette County Extension Office, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington
Please join us for this monthly series of free classes on healthy cooking and food preparation that will be accessible for people with low to no vision. Participants are encouraged to attend all seven sessions or as many as possible. We will prepare the food in class and there will be small portions to sample. Participants will also receive small giveaways after each class. Participants will need to provide their own transportation to and from the extension office; if using Wheels, BCB will reimburse your passes. Call BCB to register at 859-259-1834 and if you have questions you can contact Susan at extension 6 or email at susana@bcbky.org.
February BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Feb. 16, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
February BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: How to use an accessible COVID test
BCB has recently partnered with Ellume to offer accessible COVID tests to our consumers. In this month’s AT Group Seminar, Sam will demonstrate how these tests work and how you can take the test independently with the help of a smartphone app.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
February BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023
Time: 12 PM until 2 PM in person, Zoom 1 PM until 2 PM
Location: 1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1214, Lexington, KY 40504
Topic: Taking care of Your Health
Speakers: Dr. Abeni El-Amin and Lateefah El-Amin from Project Ricochet will be our first speakers and will speak on the importance of Covid 19 vaccinations and boosters to protect individuals and communities from severe illness. Today we’re in a stronger place to fight Covid and prevent its spread. Our second speaker is Joshua Crider, Executive Director from Oak Street Health. This primary care clinic which accepts Medicare is located on Legends Lane and is now accepting new patients. He will speak on the personalized care offered by Oak Street Health including transportation to and from appointments. On the menu: Chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, and green beans from Critchfield Meats Family Market.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, Feb. 20, by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. Let us know if you will need Wheels passes for attending in person.
February BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
January BCB Community Outing
Date: Tuesday, January 3, 2023
Time: 2 PM to 3:30 PM
Location: Coffee Times Coffee House, 2571 Regency Rd., Lexington
Come join your friends at BCB and make new ones at Coffee Times, a Lexington landmark since 1983. The menu includes coffee, teas, lattes, cocoa and soft drinks as well as soups and sandwiches, chips and pastries. You are responsible for any purchases as well as arranging your own transportation. We will reimburse with Wheels passes for anyone traveling by Wheels paratransit. Make plans now to attend and RSVP soon so we can have tables reserved.
The website for Coffee Times is www.coffeetimescoffee.com.
January BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
January BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Jan. 19, 2023
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
January BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: The RealSAM Pocket, Accessible Smartphone
The RealSAM Pocket is a new accessible smartphone that might be a good option for those who struggle with traditional smartphones. Using a Samsung Galaxy phone, the RealSAM is controlled by voice commands, which may be easier for some low-vision users. Join us in January for an in-depth demonstration.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
Date: Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023
Time: 12 PM to 2 PM (1-2 Zoom)
Location: BCB Headquarters 1093 S. Broadway, Community Room, Lexington, KY 40504
Topic: Tips for Preparing and Cooking Food
Speaker: Jacqui Denegri, Senior Program Assistant for SNAP Education with Fayette County Extension Office. Jacqui partnered with us for our Food Fair in November and we welcome her back to share more food preparation and nutrition related tips. Make plans now to join us for a very informative and practical presentation which will boost your healthy eating habits. Jacqui is busy learning methods to help people who are blind and low vision in the kitchen and is excited to share her newfound knowledge combined with years of experience teaching and talking about food! If you’ve registered for food distribution and you attend the meeting you can pick up your groceries after the meeting.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. Let us know if you will need Wheels passes for attending in person.
January BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution at the monthly Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
December 2022
December BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
BCB’s Holiday Luncheon Quarterly Membership Meeting
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022
Time: 12 Noon to 2 PM
Location: Centenary United Methodist Church, 2800 Tates Creek Road, Lexington, KY 40502
Please join us for our Holiday Party and Membership Meeting! We will serve a holiday meal and have time for socializing with BCB members and friends. If you want anything other than lemonade, water or coffee to drink, you may bring your own. Although not required, you are encouraged to dress in holiday attire and there will be an “Ugly Sweater” contest with prizes. Door prizes too! We are hoping for an appearance by Santa and if so, there will be photo opportunities! Bring your smiles and good cheer!
Membership is $10 and is required to attend; you can pay your membership fees ahead of time at www.bcbky.org/donate or at the door. Dues paid now will pay your membership through 2023. Each member can bring one guest.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org if you are planning to attend. BCB has already given numbers to the caterer for the BCB Holiday Luncheon and Membership Meeting, but if you haven’t registered yet and would like to join us, please do! Just bring your own lunch to enjoy with us or join the party at 1 PM, after the meal. And be sure to let us know if you will be using Wheels as passes will be reimbursed.
December BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom Meeting
Topic: The Accessible Kitchen
During this holiday season, we need to focus on the important things in life, friends, family, and most important of all, FOOD! That’s why in this month’s AT group seminar, we are talking about all the helpful accessible kitchen gadgets that will make this a holiday season to remember!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
December BCB Mentoring Small Group
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring and Food Distribution
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
December BCB Food Distribution
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
If you are attending the afternoon mentoring and registered for food distribution, you can pick up your food distribution following the meeting. If you are not planning to attend the mentoring meeting, you can stop by the office between 1 PM and 2 PM to pick up your food.
December BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot pick up your food distribution in the office on Wednesday and live in Fayette County, we can deliver it to your home. Please register by Thursday, Dec. 8, to ensure we can get enough drivers for this service. Thank you!
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
November 2022
Date: Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
BCB Food Fair, sponsored by Humana; Community Outing; and November Food Distribution
Date: Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Location: BCB office
Purpose: As the holidays and winter season approach, we want to share information, tips and resources for ways to stretch the food budget, access local resources and be sure that all have access to nutritious foods and maybe even learn about some new foods they have never tried.
Description: We will have several agencies on hand to talk about and distribute information on all things food-related including how to sign up for God’s Pantry Food Bank, eligibility for food stamps, nutrition and diabetes, and any additional resources for supplemental food. During this event, we will also hold our own food distribution service; this service is for anyone who is blind or low vision and could use extra groceries to help with the monthly budget and help ease the burden of shopping with a vision impairment.
Please note there will be no in-person mentoring group this month due to the Food Fair.
Registration: Please register by Thursday, Nov. 3, to ensure we have enough food boxes prepared for everyone.
November BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Nov 10, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot attend the Food Fair and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home. Please register by Thursday, Nov. 3, to ensure we can get enough drivers for this service. Thank you!
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
November BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Nov 10, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: Add more light to your life!
Did you know, one of the easiest ways to help with low vision is to simply add more light to the situation? For most people, adding high-quality light will often make things much easier to see! But what type of light and how bright does it need to be? Well that’s what we will be talking about in this month’s Assistive Technology Group Seminar. We’ll answer all those questions about lighting, what areas of the house might benefit from better lighting, and even explain some of those confusing terms like lumens and Kelvin! So be sure to register and join us on November 10 at
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
October 2022
October BCB Community Outing
Date: Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022 (Rain Date: October 11)
Time: 11a.m. until 12 p.m.
Location: McConnell Springs Park, 416 Rebmann Lane, Lexington, KY
Program: Join us for a guided nature walk, discussing plants, animals, and the history of McConnell Springs! McConnell Springs Park is located at the historic springs where the city of Lexington, Kentucky was named. The walk will be a ½-mile paved loop on a hard surface and is accessible with walkers or wheelchair. We will walk at a leisurely pace to accommodate everyone who signs up. Feel free to bring a friend. Let us know if you will need a sighted guide and we will do our best to recruit volunteers to help. Restrooms are located in the education center where we will meet. Please call with any questions.
Registration: Call the BCB office at 859-259-1834 or email susana@bcbky.org to register. You are responsible for your own transportation. However, if you are riding Wheels, we are able to reimburse you with passes.
October BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members
of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
October BCB Mentoring Small Groups
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834. If, at the time of the meeting, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please consider wearing a mask. Thank you!
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
October BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: Crazy Cane Technology
Although the design of the white cane hasn’t changed much, there have been some crazy design ideas over the years! While some design choices have been innovative, others have been truly ridiculous! Join Sam as he takes a look at some Crazy Cane Technology!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
October BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022
Time: 12 PM to 2 PM (in person); 12:45 PM to 2 PM (via Zoom)
Location: BCB Headquarters 1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY
Topic: Positive Coping Skills for Anxiety and Stress
Speakers: Keia Briscoe, AA CPRS & Lisa Garrison, United Healthcare of Kentucky. Keia is the manager of Recovery & Resilience KY. Her responsibilities include development of Peer Support and Community based non-traditional services. She advocates on behalf of consumers as services and policies are developed around Behavior Health. Her experience includes Drop-In Peer Support Centers, Certified Peer Support Services, Supported Housing & employment and Adult Mental Health First Aid. She will discuss the definition and common causes of Stress and Anxiety and offer positive coping skills for keeping calm under pressure. Pete Alberti (Medicare Advantage Plans & dual plans) and Lisa Garrison (Medicaid & United Healthcare), will also be presenting.
Everyone is invited to dress up, be creative and have fun! We will have prizes for the best Halloween Costume.
Registration: Please register by noon Monday, Oct. 24, by calling calling the office at 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org. Be sure to let us know whether you will be attending in person or need Zoom access information. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. If you are attending in person and using Wheels, let us know if you will need passes. If, at the time of the meeting, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please consider wearing a mask. Thank you!
October BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot attend the Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home the day after the monthly Lunch & Learn.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you need to make last-minute changes, it is most helpful if you can talk directly with a staff person, so that your message does not get missed. Thank you.
September 2022 Events
September BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
September BCB Community Outing
Date: Tuesday,Sept. 6, 2022
Time: Noon to 2 PM
Location: BCB Community Room 1093 S Broadway Suite 1214 Lexington, KY
Program: We will be showing the third part of the movie Atta Girl, Kelly! where the dog is matched with her human partner and becomes his guide. This is a Disney movie which first aired in 1967, was re-released in 2009 on DVD, and it is about the raising, training and matching of a German Shepherd who becomes a dog guide for a man who is totally blind. The movie is filmed on location at the Seeing Eye, one of the oldest dog guide schools in the country. It is a heartwarming movie suited for the whole family and we invite you to join us for this entertaining and informative showing. While it is not audio described, there is significant narration and dialog, and we will do our best to verbally fill in anything else you might miss. This movie was recommended by Linda Stewart, one of our long-time blind members who has had considerable experience with dog guides of her own. Please feel free to bring your own lunch; we will provide popcorn and drinks!
Registration: Call the BCB office at 859-259-1834 or email susana@bcbky.org to register. If, at the time of the outing, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please consider wearing a mask. Thank you!
September BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Sept 8, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: Microsoft Office Accessibility
Over the last few years, Microsoft has focused heavily on improving the accessibility of its Office suite of products. In this month’s AT group seminar, we will be joined by Matt Philipenko, a Microsoft 365 Apps Ranger, who will talk about and demonstrate some of Microsoft’s latest accessibility features! So be sure to register and join us on Sept 8 at 1 PM!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply. If you are attending in person and Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please consider wearing a mask. Thank you!
September BCB Mentoring Small Groups
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting on the second Wednesday of each month and an evening virtual meeting on the third Thursday.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834. If, at the time of the meeting, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please wear a mask. Thank you!
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
BCB’s Annual Business Meeting and Elections (Save the Date!)
Date: Wednesday, September 21, 2022
Time: 12 PM to 3 PM
Location: BCB Community Room, 1093 South Broadway, Lexington, KY
Program: This meeting is our Annual Business Meeting with Elections. It is for BCB members only. We will serve lunch and then open the meeting for business. We will begin with a roll call, pledge of allegiance, and moment of silence. The President, and other officers will give reports. This will be followed by elections of officers and voting on bylaws changes, if any. Of course we will have door prizes during the pauses to keep the energy lively and fun. On the menu: Taziki’s Signature pasta salad or optional chicken cabobs a-la-cart (which are gluten and dairy-free). When you register, please let us know your preference between the pasta salad and plain chicken cabobs. The salad has grilled chicken, penne pasta, tomatoes, lettuce and feta cheese with a balsamic dressing on the side.
Registration: Call the BCB office at 859-259-1834 or email us at info@bcbky.org. You may request Wheels passes if riding Wheels. If, at the time of the meeting, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please consider wearing a mask. Thank you!
September BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Time: 12 PM to 2 PM (1 to 2 PM by Zoom)
Location: BCB Headquarters, 1093 S. Broadway, Ste. 1214, Lexington, KY 40504
Topic: LexTran and Wheels Transportation: Transition to New Provider
Speaker: Our speaker will be Emily Elliott, Community Relations Manager at LexTran. As you may have heard, The Wheels program at LexTran is transitioning to a new provider and will no longer be managed by the American Red Cross. Emily will be here to tell us about the change and answer any questions you have about the change that may affect this paratransit service. The target date for this transition is on or before October 1. They do not anticipate any disruption of service and are working to ensure a smooth transition. We will serve a light lunch at noon, the talk will begin at 1 PM and there will be food distribution of grocery items after the presentation for those who have registered for that service.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register and let us know if you will be attending in person and need Wheels passes or need Zoom access information. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. If, at the time of the meeting, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please consider wearing a mask. Thank you!
September BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot attend the Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home the day after the monthly Lunch & Learn.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
August 2022 Events
August BCB SAFE Space group for spouses and family members of people with low
to no vision
Date: Thursday, August 4, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
August BCB Mentoring Small Groups
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting on the second Wednesday of each month and an evening virtual meeting on the third Thursday.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, August 10, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834. If, at the time of the meeting, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please wear a mask. Thank you!
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, August 18, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
August BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, August 11, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: Accessible Computer Keyboards
Did you know that computer keyboards can be accessible? Yes, it’s true! In fact, adding a large print keyboard is an easy way to help the frustrations of using a computer with low vision! In this month’s A-T Group Seminar, Sam will demonstrate some of the most common styles of large print keyboards. We will even talk about some braille options! So be sure to register and join us on August 11 at 1 PM!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
August BCB Community Outing
Date: Tuesday, August 16, 2022
Time: 12 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Community Room 1093 S Broadway Suite 1214 Lexington, KY
Program: We will listen and watch the first two parts of the movie Atta Girl Kelly! and plan to show part three in September. This is a Disney movie which first aired in 1967, was re-released in 2009 on DVD, and is about the raising, training and matching of a German Shepherd who becomes a dog guide for a man who is totally blind. The movie is filmed on location at The Seeing Eye guide dog training institute, one of the oldest dog guide schools in the country. It is a heartwarming movie suited for the whole family and we invite you to join us for this entertaining and informative showing. While it is not audio described, there is significant narration and dialog and we will do our best to verbally fill in anything else you might miss. This movie was recommended by Linda Stewart, one of our long time blind members who has had considerable experience with dog guides of her own. Drinks and popcorn provided; please feel free to bring your own lunch!
Registration: Call the BCB office at 859-259-1834 or email susana@bcbky.org to register. If, at the time of the outing, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please consider wearing a mask. Thank you!
August BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022
Time: 12 PM to 2 PM (in person); 1 PM to 2 PM (via Zoom)
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY)
Topic: Independent Living Services for help with low vision and blindness
Speaker: Jenny Ward, Independent Living Counselor with the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Division of Blind Services will be our featured speaker and will provide updates on the services offered. Jenny has a lot of experience serving people with low vision and blindness and we welcome her back to share ideas on ways to make life easier and increase independence especially in home management.
Registration: Please register by Monday, Aug. 22, if you are attending in person. Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register and let us know if you will be attending in person or need Zoom access information. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. If you are attending in person let us know if you will need Wheels passes. If, at the time of the meeting, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please consider wearing a mask. Thank you!
August BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot attend the Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home the day after the monthly Lunch & Learn.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
July 2022 Events
BCB Spouse And Family Encouragement (SAFE) Space group for spouses and family members of people with low to no vision
Date: Thursday, July 7, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Join us for a SAFE Space to talk about your challenges and successes as you learn new tips and techniques for living with or assisting a loved one with a vision impairment. This group is designed to offer a safe space to air your frustrations, talk about things that may be difficult to share with others who are not in a similar situation or to ask questions to learn from others who may have similar experiences. Our SAFE Space group is open to spouses, significant others, roommates, parents, children or any other individuals who may be living with or concerned about assisting a person with a vision impairment. SAFE Space meetings are confidential and everyone in attendance is required to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to participation and expected to be respectful of others. This is strictly a peer support group and any advice, recommendations or information shared are not necessarily the opinions of the Bluegrass Council of the Blind and are not to be intended as professional advice or counseling.
The SAFE Space group will be co-hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Program Manager, and Julie Jones.
Registration: Please contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834, ext. 6, to register or if you would like more information about participating.
July BCB Mentoring Small Groups
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, July 13, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834. If, at the time of the meeting, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please wear a mask. Thank you!
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, July 21, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
July BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, July 14, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: Introduction to Wearables!
Have you ever heard someone talking about “wearable assistive technology” and thought, what in the world is that?! Well, you’re in luck! In this month’s AT group seminar, we will be going over an intro to wearables! “Wearables” is a term that refers to vision aids that a person would wear in place of, or along with glasses, offering various features such as magnification, altered lighting options, audio feedback, OCR, facial recognition, and much more.
Most importantly, we will discuss how they can be helpful to you! So be sure to register and join us on July 14 at 1 PM! If, at the time of the meeting, Fayette County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please wear a mask. Thank you!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
July BCB Community Outing
July BCB SILVER Initiative Presentation at the Senior Center
Date: Thursday, July 21, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Lexington Senior Center (195 Life Lane, Lexington, KY 40502)
Topic: Staying connected with family and friends!
Explore Communication Options For Low Vision
Are you finding it difficult to use your phone due to your declining vision? Are you looking for an easier way to stay in touch with family and friends? Well, you might not realize just how accessible your smartphone really is! In this month’s presentation, the BCB SILVER Initiative will demonstrate several accessible phone options. Whether we’re using speed dial, pressing large print buttons, or making calls with our voices, it’s never been easier to stay connected!
July BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, July 28, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot attend the Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home the day after the monthly Lunch & Learn.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
Danville Orientation & Mobility Clinic
Date: Saturday, July 30, 2022
Time: 10 AM to 2 PM
Location: Boyle County Library (307 W Broadway, Danville, KY)
What to expect: Individual Instruction runs 10 AM – noon. Lunch will be served and group instruction and sighted-guide techniques will begin at 1 PM.
NOTE: The first 10 participants to register and participate for a session will receive a $40 Walmart gift card, so please be sure to let us know if you would like to attend.
Registration: To register, click here to complete this form. For more info or to register by phone, please call Theresa Thomas at 859-217-2270. If, at the time of the meeting, Boyle County is in the red zone in regard to COVID rates, please wear a mask. Thank you!
June 2022 Events
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, June 8, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, June 16, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
June BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, June 9, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: Handheld digital magnification options
In this month’s AT group seminar, we will be talking all about handheld digital magnifiers! We will discuss the different sizes and features, and even demonstrate some of the magnifiers we have on hand here at BCB. If you’re thinking about buying a new magnifier, or just wanting to learn more about them, join us June 9 at 1 PM!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
June BCB Community Outing
Date: Tuesday June 14, 2022
Time: 11 AM to Noon
Location: McLeod’s Coffee House (376 Southland Dr., Lexington)
What to Expect: Get together with friends for coffee or soda and casual conversation at a local establishment in the heart of Lexington. BCB visited McLeod’s a few years ago and a good time was had by all. In addition to special coffees, cappuccino, hot chocolate and tea, they serve donuts, croissants, and chicken salad sandwiches. Visit their website at mcleodscoffeehouse.org to learn more about this inclusive-minded business.
Registration: Call BCB to register at 859-259-1834 or contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org so we can be looking out for you and get an appropriate table. Wheels passes will be reimbursed for those who register, ride Wheels, and request passes.
June BCB SILVER Initiative Presentation at the Senior Center
Date: Wednesday, June 15, 2022
Time: 10 AM to 11 AM
Location: Lexington Senior Center (195 Life Lane, Lexington, KY 40502)
Topic: Resources for helping with reading
June BCB Lunch & Learn
June BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, June 23, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot attend the Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home the day after the monthly Lunch & Learn.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
May 2022 Events
May BCB Mentoring Small Groups
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, May 11, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, May 19, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
May BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, May 12, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: All about the NFB Newsline.
This month Sam will be joined by Todd Stephens, who will tell us all about the NFB Newsline! He’ll talk about the Newsline service, all the ways to access it, and how Newsline has made it easier to access the BCB Bulletin using their Alexa skill! Join us for this fun and informative session!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
May BCB Community Outing
Date: Wednesday, May 18, 2022
Time: 12 PM to 2 PM
Location: Independence Place, 2358 Nicholasville Rd, Suite 180, Lexington, KY
Program: We will have lunch with Independence Place and then listen to a presentation on Natural Circadian Rhythm and Non-24 Sleep/Wake Disorder. Our speaker will be Magdalena (Maggie) Felton, a registered nurse with Vanda who has presented to us before via Zoom and is excited to meet us in person! Non-24 is a disorder of the natural sleep cycle that may be prevalent among people with no sight due to the lack of natural light that regulates the circadian rhythm. Getting enough sleep is important to a healthy lifestyle and understanding how natural light affects sleep can help you regulate your own sleep pattern. Lunch will be provided by Vanda Pharmaceuticals and we will order from DaRae and Friends Catering.
Registration: Call the BCB office at 859-259-1834 or email susana@bcbky.org to register.
May BCB Senior Center Presentation
Date: Thursday, May 19, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Lexington Senior Center (195 Life Lane, Lexington, KY 40502)
Topic: In the Kitchen
Sam will be introducing helpful kitchen hacks and tools to make cooking safer and more enjoyable for people with vision impairment. Must be 60 years or older and a Fayette County resident to attend.
Orientation and Mobility Workshop
Date: Saturday, May 21, 2022
Times: Session 1: 9 AM – noon; Session 2: 1 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: The Kentucky School for the Deaf (303 S 2nd St, Danville, KY 40422)
This workshop is for individuals who have a vision impairment and wish to improve their confidence and safety in traveling around their home, school, work, and community. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Registered participants who are blind or visually impaired and complete the 2.5-hour training will receive a $40 Wal-Mart gift card upon completion (maximum registration is limited to 6 morning and 6 afternoon visually impaired participants and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration: Click this link to complete a brief registration or contact Theresa Thomas at 859-259-1834 to find out more information or to register over the phone. We look forward to meeting with you!
May BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Time: 12 PM to 2 PM (in person); 1 PM to 2 PM (via Zoom)
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: New accessible pharmacy option now available for Kentuckians
Speaker: Andy Burstein is a co-founder of Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind, a comprehensive, home-delivery pharmacy service specializing in the needs of the blind, the deaf/blind, and low vision community. They are the only provider of its kind and the largest blind-owned healthcare company in the United States. The company has been in business since April 2020 and currently has 65 employees. Join us as we listen to Andy tell us how we can live healthier lives by accessing the company’s services.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register and let us know if you will be attending in person or need Zoom access information. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply. If you are attending in person let us know if you will need Wheels passes.
May BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, May 26, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot attend the Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home the day after the monthly Lunch & Learn.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
April 2022 Events
April BCB Community Inning
Tai Chi with A Caring Place
Date: Tuesday, April 12, 2022
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Instructor: Rachel Eldridge
We will be joining the regular Tai Chi class with A Caring Place via Zoom; this class is not specifically for visually impaired. If you are new to the group or tai chi, we recommend you watch some of the moves from previous audio-described classes on our YouTube page here and here. These recorded sessions were made especially for those with sight impairment.
Registration: Call Susan Ament at 859-259-1834, extension 6, or email susana@bcbky.org. She will see that you receive access information. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
April BCB Mentoring Small Groups
We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an in-person afternoon meeting and an evening virtual meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, April 13, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, April 21, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
April BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, April 14, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: BCB’s Favorite Apps!
In this month’s A/T Group Seminar, we will be discussing the staff’s favorite accessible apps for both Android and iOS! Join us on April 14 at 1 PM to learn about some new apps, or to see if your favorite app made the list!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
April BCB Community Outing
The BCB SILVER Initiative Health Fair
Date: Friday, April 15, 2022
Time: 12 PM to 1:30 PM
Location: Lexington Senior Center (195 Life Lane, Lexington, KY 40502)
Event: BCB Silver Initiative Health Fair
What to Expect: The BCB SILVER Initiative Health Fair, supported by United HealthCare, Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Vanda Pharmaceuticals and the Lexington Senior Center, will host 16 booths focusing on screenings, services and resources for seniors and adults with low to no vision. Exhibitors include BCB, United HealthCare, Accessible Pharmacy, Lions Vision and Hearing Screenings, Lions Diabetes Screenings, and more. UK Pharmacy students will have booths for diabetes foot exams, hypertension (blood pressure) screenings, and medication counseling (bring a list of medications you are currently taking for a consultation on how food and other medications may interact). Enjoy an afternoon out and discover ways you can improve or maintain your current healthy lifestyle.
Registration: This event is open to adults of all ages. To register, call BCB at 859-259-1834 or contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org so we can be looking out for you. Wheels passes will be available at the BCB booth for those who register and request passes. At the time of this printing the Senior Center is currently requiring face coverings for all staff, vendors and visitors to the Lexington Senior Center. Thank you for your cooperation.
April BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, April 27, 2022
Time: Noon to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: Resources for seniors and people with disabilities
Speaker: Dana Davidson, a social worker with the Aging and Disability Resource Center, will give an overview of services available and how to access them. These services may include help in the home and meal delivery, among others. She will provide information on applying for a fee waiver through Medicaid. Her talk will be short to allow plenty of time to address specific questions that you may have so bring your curiosity and you may leave with a wealth of useful knowledge!
Supplemental food will be distributed after the program. This meeting is in person at the BCB office! Registration is required at least two days prior, so register by noon on Monday, April 25!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
April BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, April 28, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you cannot attend the Lunch & Learn meeting and live in Fayette County, we can deliver your food distribution to your home the day after the monthly Lunch & Learn.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
March 2022 Events
Our goal is to return to in-person meetings in March, though that is subject to change. As always, your safety and the safety of our staff and board is the driving force.
March BCB Community Inning
Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired
Date: Thursday, March 3 and March 31, 2022
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Instructor: Rachel Eldridge
Please join us for Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired, brought to you through a partnership with A Caring Place. If you are new to the group, you may want to review some of the moves from previous classes on our YouTube page here and here.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
March BCB Community Inning
Tai Chi with A Caring Place
Date: Tuesday, March 8, 2022
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Instructor: Rachel Eldridge
Please join us for Tai Chi with A Caring Place via Zoom. If you are new to the group, you may want to review some of the moves from previous classes on our YouTube page here and here.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email susana@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
March BCB Mentoring Small Groups
Share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment in these small group settings. Do you have questions and just don’t know where to find the answers? Are you trying to deal with challenges due to your vision and wondering how others manage? Join us for a more personal way of sharing and learning. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome! We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an afternoon meeting and an evening meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, March 9, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Headquarters (subject to change) 1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, March 17, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
March BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, March 10, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: Mobile Screen Reader Basics
It’s time to get back to basics! In this month’s AT group seminar, we will be going over the basic operations of TalkBack and VoiceOver. If you need a bit of a refresher course in your favorite screen reader, definitely join us on March 10th!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
Date: Wednesday, March 23 2022
Time: Noon to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste. 1214, Lexington, KY 40504)
Topic: Smart 911
Speaker: Debbie Nantz with Lexington Enhanced 911 will tell us all about Smart 911 that protects you and your family during an emergency by providing specific information to first responders. It involves creating a tailored safety profile that is free, private and secure. We will have a few volunteers here to help you create an account and add info to your Smart 911 profile. The information provided is entirely up to you and is intended to help first responders better provide for your individual and specific needs should there come a time when you need to call 911.
Supplemental food will be distributed after the program. This meeting is in person at the BCB office! Registration is required at least two days prior, so register by noon on Monday, March 21!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, if you can’t join us in person, you can use a landline telephone, cell phone, computer or tablet to access the meeting via Zoom. Carrier rates may apply.
March BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, March 24, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
Those who attend the Lunch & Learn are expected to take their food distribution home with them then. If you cannot attend the Lunch & Learn on March 23, are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and need food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, you can sign up for your food to be delivered.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
February 2022 Events
Meetings in February will be held via Zoom for now.
February BCB Community In-ing
Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired
Date: Thursday, Feb. 3 and Feb. 17, 2022
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Instructor: Rachel Eldridge
Please join us for Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired, brought to you through a partnership with A Caring Place. If you are new to the group, you may want to review some of the moves from previous classes on our YouTube page here and here.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
February BCB Mentoring Small Groups
Share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment in these small group settings. Do you have questions and just don’t know where to find the answers? Are you trying to deal with challenges due to your vision and wondering how others manage? Join us for a more personal way of sharing and learning. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome! We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an afternoon meeting and an evening meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
Please note the new day! Evening Mentoring will now happen on the third Thursday of each month. To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
February BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Feb. 10, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Topic: DIY Digital Magnification Solutions
Do you have a smartphone or tablet lying around? Did you know these can be used as very capable magnification devices? Along with a few extra items, like a stand and some free apps, you can make an affordable DIY digital magnifier! In this month’s A-T Group Seminar, Sam will demonstrate how to use a smartphone or tablet to see things a little more clearly!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
O&M Workshop
Date: Saturday/Sunday, Feb. 19/20, 2022
Time: Morning and afternoon sessions available
Location: Kentucky School for the Blind, 1867 Frankfort Ave, Louisville, KY 40206
No prior O&M training is required.
The February clinic will focus on assessments, which would be best for those participants who have had little to no O&M instruction but is not limited to those. This workshop is open to adults and students of all ages, but limited space is available.
Registration: The deadline to sign up is Tuesday, Feb 15, 2022. Click here for more info and to sign up. If you need additional information or have other questions, please contact Theresa Thomas at the Bluegrass Council of the Blind, 859-259-1834, ext. 3.
February BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Topic: Covid 19 and Vaccines: Questions, Concerns & Answers
Speaker: Elisa Argueta, Information and Referral Specialist at Independence Place.
Elisa will give an informative talk on Covid-19 and vaccinations, including research and reliable websites. She will answer questions you may have in a judgment free space, with the emphasis being on informed consent. Prior to her accepting her role at Independence Place, Elisa worked as an educator in the fields of domestic violence and mental health. She is looking forward to meeting with us, providing helpful information and getting to know our needs.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
February BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and need food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB offers a pre-determined variety of grocery items we can deliver to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
January 2022 Events
Meetings in January will be held via Zoom for now.
Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired
Date: Thursday, Jan. 6 and Jan. 20, 2022
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Instructor: Rachel Eldridge
Please join us for Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired, brought to you through a partnership with A Caring Place. This class will use verbal descriptions to familiarize people with vision impairments with the various movements and forms of Tai Chi, a relaxing form of exercise that is also meditative. Movements will be done from a seated position and there will be a short, guided meditation at the end of the class. Sighted guests are welcome to join. If you are new to the group, you may want to review some of the moves from previous classes on our YouTube page here and here.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
January BCB Mentoring Small Groups
Share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment in these small group settings. Do you have questions and just don’t know where to find the answers? Are you trying to deal with challenges due to your vision and wondering how others manage? Join us for a more personal way of sharing and learning. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome! We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an afternoon meeting and an evening meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Monday, Jan. 17, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Susan Ament at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
January BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Topic: How to easily change the voice on your iPhone or iPad
Does Siri or VoiceOver on your iPhone or iPad sound like a robot? Well, did you know there are other voices available? These voices are much more natural sounding and won’t make you feel like you’re in an episode of “Lost In Space”! Join Sam for this month’s A-T group seminar, where he’ll show you how easy it is to get a natural and much more lifelike sounding voice for your Apple device. Have your apple devices with you and your questions on IOS settings and join us by Zoom.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
January BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Topic: BCB Programs and Services for 2022
Exciting new services are in the works and we want to let you know all about them! The BCB staff will present new services and cover some basic info on how to access services from BCB and many other services available to people with vision impairments in our community. This will be the beginning of our BCB 101 Series.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
January BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Jan. 27, 2022
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
At this point, January food distribution will be delivery only. If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and need food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB offers a pre-determined variety of grocery items we can deliver to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
December Events
December BCB Community In-ing
Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired
Date: Thursday, Dec. 2, 2021
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Instructor: Rachel Eldridge
Please join us for Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired, brought to you through a partnership with A Caring Place. This class will use verbal descriptions to familiarize people with vision impairments with the various movements and forms of Tai Chi, a relaxing form of exercise that is also meditative. Movements will be done from a seated position and there will be a short, guided meditation at the end of the class. Sighted guests are welcome to join. If you are new to the group, you may want to review some of the moves from previous classes on our YouTube page here.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
BCB Holiday Party and Quarterly Membership Meeting
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2021
Time: Noon to 2 PM
Location: Centenary United Methodist Church, 2800 Tates Creek Road, Lexington, KY 40502
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Registration for the meeting closes two days prior, so be sure to register by noon on Monday, Dec. 6! This meeting will be in person so masks are required while you move about the room and offices.
Date: Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom Meeting
Topic: “All about the OrCam!”
BCB Focus Group
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2021
Time: 7 PM to 8 PM
Location: Zoom Meeting
If you have received any BCB service since July 1 and did not participate in the Nov. 17 focus group, you are invited to participate! BCB is eager to hear your feedback on our services to help us with grant reporting and evaluating programs.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register.
December BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
December food distribution will be delivery only. If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and need food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB offers a pre-determined variety of grocery items we can deliver to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
December BCB Mentoring Small Groups
Date: Monday, Dec. 20, 2021
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
Share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment in these small group settings. Do you have questions and just don’t know where to find the answers? Are you trying to deal with challenges due to your vision and wondering how others manage? Join us for a more personal way of sharing and learning. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome! We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an afternoon meeting and an evening meeting.
Join us for a more personal way of sharing and learning. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome! To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
November Events
November BCB Mentoring Small Groups
Share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment in these small group settings. Do you have questions and just don’t know where to find the answers? Are you trying to deal with challenges due to your vision and wondering how others manage? Join us for a more personal way of sharing and learning. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome! We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an afternoon meeting and an evening meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
CANCELED – The Nov. 15 Mentoring Group has been canceled
November BCB Community In-ing
Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired
Date: Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Instructor: Rachel Eldridge
Please join us for Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired, brought to you through a partnership with A Caring Place. This class will use verbal descriptions to familiarize people with vision impairments with the various movements and forms of Tai Chi, a relaxing form of exercise that is also meditative. Movements will be done from a seated position and there will be a short, guided meditation at the end of the class. Sighted guests are welcome to join.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
November BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Topic: The Scan Jig
Do you use a text-to-speech app on your phone to read your mail? How about the cooking instructions on a food package? If you’ve ever had difficulty holding your smartphone or tablet while scanning text, then the November AT seminar is for you! This month we will be demonstrating the Scan Jig! The Scan Jig holds both smartphones and tablets in the perfect position and angle for scanning documents. Several of these devices have been made available for distribution through a generous grant from the Kentucky Colonels and we can’t wait to show you how it works! Join Sam as he demonstrates how the Scan Jig can work with a wide variety of phones, tablets, and apps, and see if one of these gadgets is for you!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
BCB Focus Group
Date: Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021
Time: Noon to 2 PM
Location: BCB Headquarters (1093 S. Broadway, Ste. 1214, Lexington, KY 40503)
If you have received any BCB service since July 1, you are invited to participate in our annual focus group! BCB is eager to hear your feedback on our services to help us with grant reporting and evaluating programs. We’ll supply boxed lunches, and the attendance will be capped at 20 to keep everyone socially distanced.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Registration is required by noon on Monday, Nov. 15. This meeting will be in person so masks are required while you move about the room or office.
November BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
November food distribution will be delivery only. If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and need food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB offers a pre-determined variety of grocery items we can deliver to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
Kentucky Council of the Blind 48th Annual Conference and Convention
Date: Nov. 18-20, 2021
The 2021 Kentucky Council of the Blind Virtual Conference and Convention will be held November 18 – 20 on the Zoom platform and on ACB Media, heard on all Alexa devices, on the computer at acbmedia.org, and on any telephone by dialing (518) 906-1820.
Good Giving Challenge
Date: Nov. 30-Dec. 6, 2021
Please choose BCB as your nonprofit during the Good Giving Challenge! Visit www.bggives.org/BluegrassCounciloftheBlind between Nov. 30 and Dec. 6 to donate or start your own fundraiser. And please tell your friends! The Bluegrass Council of the Blind is the only nonprofit exclusively meeting the needs of adults who are blind or visually impaired in Central Kentucky. Your donation will help BCB continue providing services to blind and visually impaired adults; their family members and caregivers; and professionals who work with those with low to no vision of all ages. You can set up a fundraiser anytime between now and the end of the Challenge, but the earlier the better! And of course, please consider donating if you can! Thank you for supporting the Bluegrass Council of the Blind!
October Events
October events may or may not be held in person, depending on the spread of COVID-19.
BCB 2021 SEE Cruise presented by Gates Ford
Date: Sunday, Oct. 10, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 8 PM
Location: O’Neill’s (2051 Richmond Rd., Ste 140, Lexington, KY 40502)
Please come along on this cruise-themed fundraising event featuring live music from two popular regional bands (CONCH REPUBLIC and Sammy’s Left Eye), and loads of fun raffles. Our Honorary SEE Captain, Bill Meck, will help us cruise to St. Somewhere for a day of fun and philanthropy! Advanced tickets are $20 are available now through Wednesday, Oct. 6! Tickets will be $30 at the door. Click here to buy advanced tickets.
October BCB Community In-ing
Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired
Date: Thursday Oct. 14 and Oct. 28, 2021
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Instructor: Rachel Eldridge
Please join us for Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired, brought to you through a partnership with A Caring Place. This class will use verbal descriptions to familiarize people with vision impairments with the various movements and forms of Tai Chi, a relaxing form of exercise that is also meditative. Movements will be done from a seated position and there will be a short, guided meditation at the end of the class. We will be offering the class every other Thursday via Zoom. Sighted guests are welcome to join.
Registration:Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
October BCB Mentoring Small Groups
Share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment in these small group settings. Do you have questions and just don’t know where to find the answers? Are you trying to deal with challenges due to your vision and wondering how others manage? Join us for a more personal way of sharing and learning. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome! We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an afternoon meeting and an evening meeting.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
Evening Mentoring
Date: Monday, Oct. 18, 2021
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information.
October BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Oct. 14, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Topic: Streaming Accessibility
Are you having trouble seeing the icons on your Apple TV? Do you wish you could talk to your Amazon Fire Stick? You may not realize just how much accessibility the most popular streaming services actually have! Join Sam for this month’s AT seminar to learn more about streaming accessibility right into your home!
Registration:Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
October BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Topic: Blind Ability Celebration
Speaker: Wren Blae Zimmerman
Location: Zoom Meeting
Wren is a blind equestrian show jumper who lives with an invisible disability, competes against able-bodied riders, advocates for para-show jumping to become a Paralympic sport, and changes the perception about what the blind and visually impaired are capable of.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
October BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
October food distribution will be delivery only. If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and need food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB offers a pre-determined variety of grocery items we can deliver to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
September 2021
September BCB Mentoring Small Groups
Share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment in these small group settings. Do you have questions and just don’t know where to find the answers? Are you trying to deal with challenges due to your vision and wondering how others manage? Join us for a more personal way of sharing and learning. We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an afternoon meeting and an evening meeting, both will be via Zoom in September.
Afternoon Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome!
Evening Mentoring
Date: Monday, Sept. 20, 2021
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome!
September BCB Community In-ing
Date: Monday, Sept. 13, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom Meeting
Join us via Zoom for a fun social hour talking about some of our favorite destinations to visit in Lexington. Please bring ideas for future community outings we can take when it is safe to visit destinations again as a group.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired
Date: Thursday Sept. 16 and Sept. 30, 2021
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Instructor: Rachel Eldridge
Please join us for Tai Chi for the Visually Impaired, brought to you through a partnership with A Caring Place. This class will use verbal descriptions to familiarize people with vision impairments with the various movements and forms of Tai Chi, a relaxing form of exercise that is also meditative. Movements will be done from a seated position and there will be a short guided meditation at the end of the class. We will be offering the class every other Thursday, with the first class being Thursday, Sept. 16, via Zoom. Sighted guests are welcome to join.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
September BCB Assistive Technology Group Seminar
Date: Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Topic: All About Audiobooks
Location: Zoom meeting
In this month’s AT Group Seminar, we will be talking all about audiobooks. We’ll discuss what is an audiobook and why you should be listening to them, including some of the best places to get audiobooks for free! Join us on the 16th via Zoom for some great information!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
September BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Zoom meeting
Topic: Medicare Updates for 2022 Annual Enrollment
Speaker: Pete Alberti, Kentucky Health Solutions
Pete will be reviewing some of the Medicare changes for 2022. Topics will include upcoming changes with Medicare, Medicare Supplement plans, Medicare Advantage, and Part D prescription drug coverage. He will also be sharing some information on the Medicaid/Medicare Advantage plans. Feel free to bring your questions about Medicare.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
September BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Sept. 23, 2021
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
September food distribution will be delivery only. If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and are in need of food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB offers a pre-determined variety of grocery items we can deliver to your home.
Registration: To register for food delivery, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call when you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
BCB Quarterly Membership Meeting and Annual Business Meeting
Date: Thursday, Sept. 30, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 3 PM
Location: Zoom Meeting
With the continued spike in COVID-19 cases, BCB’s Quarterly BCB Membership and Annual Business Meeting will be held via Zoom only — NOT in person. We will conduct the annual business meeting with reports from the executive director and board officers. We will also vote on new board members for 2022 through 2023. Positions to be voted on are vice president, secretary, and two at-large members. The board has approved a slate that will be emailed to all current members prior to the business meeting. Nominations will be accepted from the floor and all nominees must be present at the meeting.
Membership is required to attend and membership must be paid in full 30 days prior to the meeting.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a Zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
August 2021
August BCB Community Outing
Date: Monday, Aug. 2, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: Fayette County Extension Office Gardens (1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington, KY 40504). We will meet outside by the back entrance to the building.
Please join us for a multisensory tour of the Fayette County Extension Public Gardens! The BCB August Community Outing will be a fun experience of the scents and feel of herbs, flowers and plants in all their summer glory. The Outing is open to anyone who is interested, whether visually impaired or sighted, and each participant will go home with a couple garden-fresh tomatoes and an herb sample.
Registration is required. If you are interested, please let us know as soon as possible. If we do not have at least 6 participants for this outing, it will be cancelled. To register, call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org. For those using Wheels, reimbursement passes will be provided.
August BCB Mentoring Small Groups
Share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment in these small group settings. Do you have questions and just don’t know where to find the answers? Are you trying to deal with challenges due to your vision and wondering how others manage? Join us for a more personal way of sharing and learning. We offer two dates for the mentoring small groups: an afternoon in person meeting and an evening meeting via Zoom.
In-person Mentoring
Date: Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Office, 1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1214, Lexington, KY 40504
This meeting is in person at the BCB office! We can allow a maximum of 10 participants (the first 10 to register). Registration is required at least two days prior, so register by noon on Monday, Aug. 9!
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome!
Mentoring via Zoom
Date: Monday, Aug. 16
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome!
August BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021
Time: Noon to 2 PM
Location: Zoom only
Topic: Brent Claiborne, LFUCG Parks and Recreation, and Brandon, personal trainer at Tactile Training
Brent will be speaking first about therapeutic recreation and what is available through LFUCG Parks & Rec. He is also looking for feedback and would love for our BCB folks to share recreational opportunities you would be interested in learning more about or the opportunities you would want to participate in if they were made available through the LFUCG Parks & Recreation Department. If you have activities you would like to recommend to the Fayette County Parks Department, such as goal ball, beep baseball or any other adaptive recreation, contact Theresa at 859-259-1834 or info@bcbky.org.
Brandon, with Tactile Training, is a personal trainer who specializes in working with people with disabilities, including those who are visually impaired. Tactile Training uses verbal cues to describe how movements should feel when performed correctly and safely.
Registration is required at least two days prior, so register by noon on Monday, Aug. 23!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register and receive Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
August BCB Food Distribution Home Delivery
Date: Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and are in need of food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB can help. We offer a pre-determined variety of grocery items we can deliver to your home.
To participate in our monthly supplemental food distribution:
If you would like supplemental food delivered to your home, call 859-259-1834 and press 1 to leave your name, street address and phone number, and state that you would like food delivered. If you are unsure of your availability, please only call once you are certain of your arrangements to avoid confusion. If you have questions, please call the BCB office during normal office hours and press zero to talk with a staff member. If you do leave a message but then need to change your request, you must talk with a staff member to make the change. Changes will NOT be accepted through the voicemail system.
JULY 2021
July BCB Mentoring Small Groups
Location: BCB Office, 1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1214, Lexington, KY 40504
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
July BCB AT Group Seminar
July BCB Community Outing – Game Day at BCB
Date: Monday, July 26
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Office, 1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1214, Lexington, KY 40504
Please join us for Game Day at BCB to play bingo! Kathy Holder with United Healthcare will join us, providing snacks and prizes. Registration is required. To register, call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org.
July BCB Food Distribution
O&M Clinic Workshop
Date: Saturday, July 31, 2021
Time: 9 AM to 3 PM
Location: UK’s Dickey Hall (251 Scott St, Lexington, KY 40508), Rooms 135 and 109
Topic: Guide dog teams and using a GPS device when navigating
Registration: Registration is required and registrations close July 16. You can register by clicking this link. You do not need to have a cane, device or dog to attend and participate.
JUNE 2021
BCB Quarterly Membership Meeting and Picnic
Date: Sunday, June 6
Time: 5 PM to 6:30 PM EST
Location: BCB Office, 1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1214, Lexington, KY 40504
This meeting is in person at the BCB office and registration is required!
This second quarterly Membership Meeting is an in-person picnic in the parking lot of the BCB office building (1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1214, Lexington, KY 40504). A boxed meal and drink will be provided and distributed at 5 PM; the business meeting will start at 5:30 PM. We will be voting on bylaw changes, which have been mailed and emailed to members.
The governor has lifted the mask mandate for outdoor events under a thousand attendees, so no masks are required unless we need to move the meeting inside. (You are welcome to wear a mask if you prefer.) Vaccinations are NOT required and we will NOT be asking if people have been vaccinated.
Registration and Membership Is Required: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org to register. Participants who are not comfortable or able to join in person can still call in or join us by video conference using BCB’s Personal ID Zoom Link, which we will send to you upon registration. Please note this will be an outdoor meeting and we will do our best to accommodate those attending by Zoom, but we cannot guarantee sound quality when meeting outdoors.
Please note: In the case of bad weather, we will postpone the meeting to the following Sunday, June 13, at the same time and location. PLEASE call the office at 859-259-1834 before you head out to the meeting if the weather looks questionable at all. Someone will answer or the recorded message will state if the meeting is postponed or still happening. Thank you.
June BCB Mentoring Small Groups
Join in these small group settings to share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment.
Date: Wednesday, June 9
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Office, 1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1214, Lexington, KY 40504
Topic: Let’s share about ways we can help others with low vision or blindness.
What ways can YOU help someone else who is experiencing a change in vision, or maybe their vision is stable, but they are going through other changes that are a struggle with vision loss.
This meeting is in person at the BCB office! We can allow a maximum of 8 participants (the first 8 to register) and masks will be required. Registration is required at least two days prior, so register by noon on Monday, June 7! Participants who are not comfortable or able to join in person can still call in or join us by video conference using the Zoom Link.
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome!
Date: Monday, June 21
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
Topic: Let’s share about ways we can help others with low vision or blindness.
What ways can YOU help someone else who is experiencing a change in vision, or maybe their vision is stable, but they are going through other changes that are a struggle with vision loss.
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome!
June BCB Technology Seminar
Date: Thursday, June 10, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: BCB Office, 1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1214, Lexington, KY 40504
Topic: Audio Description and Where to Find It!
In this AT group seminar, we will be discussing what Audio Description means when talking about movies and television. We will also list several ways to access Audio Description, both at home and in the theaters. If you’ve been looking for a more immersive way to watch your favorite movies, be sure to join the AT group seminar on June 10!
Lexington Lions Club Bluegrass Fair
Date: June 10-20, 2021
Location: Masterson Station Park
Time: Noon to 2 PM
June BCB Food Distribution
Date: Wednesday, June 23, 2021
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and are in need of food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB can help. We offer a pre-determined variety of grocery items each month and have volunteers deliver them to your door. To apply for BCB’s food distribution service, please call 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org.
MAY 2021
BCB Community Outing
Date: Monday, May 10
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: UK Arboretum
Join us for an outing to UK’s Arboretum for a walking tour to enjoy the spring plants, trees and flowers! The smell of flowers in bloom, the sounds of fountains flowing, the feel of the grass beneath your feet, and the many plants that can be soft, prickly or smooth can ignite your senses. We will gather at the main building by the brick wall where we will have some sighted guides available, upon request. We will walk together for approximately 1 mile. We will try to secure a picnic table nearby, but can’t guarantee a place to sit, other than the retaining wall. The walk will be on both concrete and fine gravel. Registration is required and the outing will be canceled if we do not have more than 3 participants. If you need a sighted guide provided to assist you, please let us know at least one week prior. Masks or face coverings will be required. We will meet at 1 PM and the group walk will begin at 1:15 PM. The group outing will end at 2 PM, but you are welcome to stay as long as you wish on your own. Please contact Theresa Thomas if you have any questions. Comfortable shoes and clothing is recommended and please dress for the weather. This will be postponed if there is rain or inclement weather, so if the weather looks questionable, please be sure to call the office (859-259-1834) before you leave for the outing. For those using Wheels, reimbursement passes will be provided and you should expect to be there for 1 hour, scheduling your return ride between 2:15 and 2:45 PM. Hope to see you there!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org.
BCB May Mentoring Small Groups
Join in in these small group settings to share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment.
Date: Wednesday, May 12
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Location: BCB Office, 1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1214, Lexingon, KY 40504
Topic: How your vision impairment has changed your life, your dreams and your goals.
This meeting is in person at the BCB office! We can allow a maximum of 8 participants (the first 8 to register) and registration is required at least two days prior. So register by noon on Monday, May 10! Participants who are not comfortable or able to join in person can still call in or join us by video conference using the Zoom Link.
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome!
Date: Monday, May 17
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
Topic: How your vision impairment has changed your life, your dreams and your goals.
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 for access information. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome!
BCB May AT Seminar
Topic: Which Tip Is on Top?!
May BCB Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, May 26, 2021
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Topic: Share How You’ve Benefitted from BCB Services
Location: Zoom meeting
Join us to learn about the services offered at BCB and how they have helped people increase independence, security, access and quality of life. Share your own encouraging story and listen to others as they share how they have used the information and tools they have acquired from BCB services to improve their lives.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org.
BCB May Food Distribution
Date: Wednesday, May 26
Time: Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and are in need of food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB can help. We offer a pre-determined variety of grocery items each month and have volunteers deliver them to your door. To apply for BCB’s food distribution service, please call 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org.
APRIL 2021
Monday, April 12, 1 PM to 2 PM
BCB April Community In-ning
Zoom Meeting
Speaker: Pat Ryan, BCB member, Past President of Lexington Lions Club
Topic: How Making Healthy Life Choices Helped Me to Overcome Diabetes
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom
access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone,
computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
Wednesday, April 14, 1 PM to 2 PM EST
Mentoring Small Group Zoom Meeting
Zoom Meeting
Topic: TBD
Join Dr. Susan Ament in a small group setting to share and learn tips and
techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment.
To participate, contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 and she
will send you access information. These groups are confidential, and participants
are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal
information is shared. New group members are welcome!
Date: Monday, April 19
Mentoring Small Group Zoom Meeting
Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
Location: Zoom meeting
Topic: Using other methods to recognize people when you can no longer see their face
Join in in this small group setting to share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment.
To participate, contact Theresa Thomas at info@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 and she will send you access information. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome!
Thursday, April 22, 1 PM EST
BCB April AT Seminar
Zoom Meeting
Topic: Make Your Internet Browsing Easier
This month, Sam will demonstrate how to customize your computer’s Internet
browser to make it easier to use with low vision. He will talk about using custom
themes and plug-ins to make things easier to see, and even have those long
emails read out loud to you! Be sure to join in the Zoom call on April 22 to learn
more!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom
access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone,
computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
BCB April Lunch & Learn
Date: Wednesday, April 28
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Speaker: Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton
Log on or call in to the Zoom meeting to hear remarks from the mayor, after which she will open the floor up for questions.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
Wednesday, April 28, between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
BCB April Food Distribution
If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and are in need of
food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB can help. We offer a
pre-determined variety of grocery items each month and have volunteers deliver
them to your door. To apply for BCB’s food distribution service, please call 859-
259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org.
MARCH 2021
Monday, March 8, 1 PM to 2 PM EST
BCB March Community In-ing
Zoom Meeting
Speaker: Cheryl Adams, Mary Kay Consultant
Topic: “Love the Skin You’re In!”
Cheryl will stress the importance of taking good care of your skin and describe Mary Kay products that help nourish your skin. This will include a basic skin care, men’s skin care, fragrance and body products. There are many options, even products designed for chafing and breakouts from constantly wearing face masks during the pandemic! Your skin is your biggest organ, so be sure that you keep it healthy and give it the love it deserves.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
Wednesday, March 10, 1 PM to 2 PM EST
BCB March Mentoring Small Group
Zoom Meeting
Topic: Fears Related to Vision Loss
Join Dr. Susan Ament in a small group setting to share and learn tips and
techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment.
To participate, contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 and she
will send you access information. These groups are confidential, and participants
are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal
information is shared. New group members are welcome!
Monday, March 15, 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM EST
BCB March Mentoring Small Group
Zoom meeting
Topic: Share an accomplishment related to adapting to your sight loss that gives you a feeling of joy or achievement. This can be an important achievement or a small step along the way.
Join Dr. Susan Ament in a small group setting to share and learn tips and techniques for living and coping with a vision impairment.
To participate, contact Susan at susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834 and she will send you access information. These groups are confidential, and participants are expected to be mindful and respectful of one another’s privacy when personal information is shared. New group members are welcome!
Wednesday, March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day), 1 PM to 2 PM EST
BCB Quarterly Membership Meeting
Zoom Meeting
Theme: St Patrick’s Day!
Program: Is the LUCK of the Irish with you? Join in the fun at the March Membership meeting and maybe you will win a prize! Following the pledge of allegiance and the business meeting, which will include approval of the September annual meeting minutes, we will enjoy a game of trivia, hear some great Irish music, and give away some door prizes! The membership committee cordially invites you to wear green and dress in St Patty’s day attire for this festive occasion.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
Thursday, March 18, 1 PM to 2 PM EST
BCB March Assistive Technology Seminar
Zoom meeting
Topic: WeWalk Navigation App
This month’s assistive technology seminar is all about finding your way! Sam will be leading the discussion and demonstrating the newly updated WeWalk navigation app, possibly one of the best navigation apps for the visually impaired community!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
Wednesday, March 24, 1 PM to 2 PM EST
BCB March Lunch & Learn
Zoom Meeting
Speaker: Todd E Stephens, State Coordinator, NFB-NEWSLINE Kentucky
Topic: Are you seeking a convenient way to access the news as a person who is blind or low vision? Did you know you could select from hundreds of publications to have read to you over the telephone or by asking Alexa? Come listen and learn about the variety of content available through NFB-NEWSLINE and how easy it is to gain access! Todd will cover the four C’s of NFB-NEWSLINE. The four C’s are Content, Convenience, Compliance and Clarity. He will answer any questions and help with registration for the NFB Newsline service.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
Wednesday, March 24, Between 3 PM and 6 PM EST
BCB March Food Distribution
If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and are in need of food due to financial difficulties or barriers to shopping, BCB can help. We offer a pre-determined variety of grocery items each month and have volunteers deliver to your door. To apply for BCB’s food distribution service, please call 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org.
FEBRUARY 2021
Monday, February 8, 1 to 2 PM
February BCB Community In-ing/Outing
Zoom Meeting
Topic: Dining In with Delivery
Please note, we have changed the focus of this In-ing: Have fun and try ordering lunch from a favorite restaurant using an app such as Door Dash, Grub Hub or Uber Eats! We will share our experiences and maybe inspire others to try doing so for a little variety and spice to life during the pandemic. Splurge a little on yourself and help boost the economy. You can order ahead and ask for your food to arrive at the start of the meeting if you like. If you don’t have a computer or smartphone you can use a regular phone and order from a restaurant that delivers to your door, such as a pizza place or some Chinese takeout places. Of course, you can join the conversation and learn from others even if you decide ordering food is not for you. Hope you can join us!
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting.
Wednesday, February 10, 2 to 3 PM
BCB Mentoring Support Group
Topic: Vision impairment and blindness are normally conceived as a loss and many go through some type of grieving related to this experience of loss. However, there is “light” at the end of a tunnel if only in a metaphorical sense and some of us find something of worth to be gained. We will spend some time talking about the positive aspects of sight loss and how our lives or at least our perspectives may even have improved due to this “loss.” Please join us and share your experience on this interesting topic.
Monday, February 15, 7:30 to 8:30 PM
BCB Mentoring Support Group
Topic: We will spend some time updating each other on our progress on the goals we set at our January meetings. It helps to have a group so we can be accountable! If you were not able to join us during January, please feel free to do so now and set some achievable goals for yourself! New members welcome. Please contact Susan Ament if you have any questions about joining in the discussions at Susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834. Zoom links will be sent to current group members and to new applicants.
Wednesday, February 24, 1 to 2 PM
BCB February Lunch & Learn
Via Zoom meeting
Speaker: Maggie Felton, MSN, RN, Clinical Nurse Educator, Vanda Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Topic: Non-24 Sleep Wake Disorder. When deprived of natural light, which regulates our sleep and waking states, many people undergo a disruption of their sleep cycle. Ms. Felton will present the possible causes and symptoms of this disorder for which treatment is available and take your questions. There also will be a drawing for a door prize.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
Wednesday, February 24
February Food Distribution
If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and need help getting food due to financial difficulties or not being able to shop regularly, you can sign up for BCB’s monthly food delivery service by calling the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org.
Thursday, February 25, 1 to 2 PM
February BCB Assistive Technology Seminar
Topic: Choosing the right device for you
In this month’s assistive technology group Zoom meeting, we will be talking about how to choose the right device for you. With so many different options out there right now, it might be difficult to know the best option. Sam will discuss some helpful tips for choosing the perfect magnifier, computer, smartphone, etc.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting. Carrier rates may apply.
JANUARY 2021
Monday, Jan. 11, 2 to 3 PM
BCB Community In-ing
Topic: We’re Having a Talent Show!
Please join to share a talent you have! You can read a poem, tell a story, sing a song, play an instrument, describe an art or craft project, or share another talent. There will be no judging!
Registration: To register, call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting.
Thursday, Jan. 14, 1 PM
BCB January Assistive Technology (AT) Seminar
Zoom Meeting
Topic: YouTube Resources for Assistive Technology. In this month’s A-T group zoom call, BCB’s Assistive Technology Program Manager Sam Seavey will be discussing helpful assistive technology resources available on YouTube. We will look at specific channels, talk about how to find assistive technology information, and even watch some sample videos. Join Sam in his first group A-T meeting back at BCB.
Registration: To register, call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting.
BCB Mentoring Support Groups
Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2 to 3 PM (please note the time change)
Monday, January 18, 7:30 to 8:30 PM
Topic: Goal Setting
Registration: Please contact Susan Ament if you have any questions about joining in the discussions at Susana@bcbky.org. 859-259-1834. Zoom links will be sent to current group members and to new applicants.
Wednesday, Jan. 27, 1 to 2 PM
Lunch & Learn
Via Zoom meeting
Speaker and Topic: Helga Gilbert, Division Director of the Blind Services Office of Vocational Rehabilitation will speak on the organization and availability of blind services at OVR including independent living and the McDowell Center. She will talk about how they are using virtual services during this time to meet the needs of consumers and the positive impact this is having.
Registration: Call the office at 859-259-1834 or email info@bcbky.org for Zoom access info. Remember, you can use a landline telephone as well as a cell phone, computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting.
Wednesday, Jan. 27
January Food Distribution
If you are blind or visually impaired, live in Fayette County and need help getting food due to financial difficulties or not being able to shop regularly, you can sign up for BCB’s monthly food delivery service by calling 859-259-1834 or emailing info@bcbky.org.
DECEMBER 2020
December 2020
Wednesday, Dec. 9 at 1 PM
BCB’s Quarterly Membership Meeting and Holiday Party
Zoom Meeting
BCB Members, you are cordially invited to our quarterly membership meeting and holiday party, via Zoom, on Wednesday, December 9, at 1 PM
There will be holiday music, door prizes, memorials, volunteer recognition, entertainment and more. Please dress in your favorite holiday hats, sweaters or festive-wear and join by phone or video! We would love to see you for the holidays!
RSVP: Call BCB at 859-259-1834 to register and receive the zoom link.
Tuesday, December 8 at 7 PM
BCB December Assistive Technology (AT) Seminar
Zoom Meeting
In this month’s AT seminar, Richard Sizemore, BCB Acting Assistive Technology and Training Program Coordinator, will go over programmable keyboards and mice. You can purchase mice and keyboards you can program with accessibility shortcuts to make your life easier. In this seminar, we will demonstrate some of the cool things you can do with these devices.
RSVP: Call BCB at 859-259-1834 to register and receive the zoom link.
Tuesday, December 15, 7 to 9 PM
BCB December Focus Group
Zoom Meeting
If you have received services in the past six months, please come help us help you. We are holding a focus group to better our organization, and we need your feedback. During the first hour, the group is focusing on the Peer Support Program. The second hour will focus on the Assistive Technology Program. All participants will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a $50 gift card.
Registration: To participate, please contact the office for the zoom link information or you can click here to preregister.
October 2020
Wednesday, October 14, 1 p.m.
Monday, October 19, 7:30 p.m.
BCB October Mentoring Support Groups
(There will be two virtual mentoring support groups in October.)
Topic: Understanding Acceptance as it relates to Vision Loss and Blindness
Host: Susan Ament, Ph.D.
RSVP to Susan at susana@bcbky.org or call 859-259-1834.
Tuesday, October 27
7 p.m.
Zoom meeting
BCB October Accessible Technology Seminar: “What’s new in IOS 14”
In this month’s AT Seminar, we are covering some of the new and exciting features of iOS 14. Come see what is new and how these changes and updates will work with accessible features like VoiceOver and magnification. Please join us! Everyone is welcome!
Presenter: Richard Sizemore, BCB
RSVP: Call the office for the zoom link or preregister by clicking here.
Wednesday, October 28
1 p.m.
Zoom meeting
BCB October Lunch & Learn
Barbara Penegor, with Kentucky Talking Books Library (KTBL), will talk about updates at KTBL, current status, safety measures and the new Braille and E-reader pilot project. There will be time for questions, as well as sharing and chatting about our favorite authors and books, recommendations and ideas for reading.
RSVP: Call the office 859-259-1834 or email susana@bcbky.org for Zoom access. Remember you can use an ordinary telephone as well as a computer or tablet to call and join in the Zoom meeting.
Monday, November 9
1 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
BCB November Community In-ing
Bob Denham, a BCB member and Lions Club member who prepares lunches for the Lexington Lions Club, will be sharing with us some tips for preparing delicious foods suitable for a diabetes-friendly lifestyle. He will also include a discussion of ideas and devices that make cooking easier for people with blindness and low vision. This will be a great way to gear up for holiday cooking! You may even discover a new, fun hobby!
RSVP: Call the office 859-259-1834 or email susana@bcbky.org for Zoom access. Remember you can use an ordinary telephone as well as a computer or tablet to access a zoom meeting!
SEPTEMBER 2020
Friday, September 4
7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
Community In-ing
BCB is invited to join the Kentucky Council of the Blind’s annual Derby Party by Zoom this year. There will be recipes for snacks, games and Derby trivia. Join the fun at this Virtual Derby Party!
RSVP to 859-259-1834 for the Zoom access info or visit kentucky-acb.org under the Events tab. All you need to join is a landline, smartphone or computer. Hope to see you there!
Friday, September 18
1 to 3 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
UK Human Development Institute Seminar
Accessible, affordable transportation is an essential part of inclusive community life. Arthur Campbell, a disability rights advocate who has dedicated his life to transportation equity, will share a history of the movement for accessible transportation. Frank Huffman, an emerging leader for accessible transportation, will share insight on the ongoing efforts for transportation services in rural areas. Transportation Initiative project director Maria Kemplin will provide an overview of transportation options available.
Presenters: Arthur Campbell, Jr. is a disability rights advocate and part of the movement leading to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. He is the 2015 Lifetime Advocacy Award recipient from the Kentucky Statewide Council for Vocational Rehabilitation. Frank Huffman is a disability rights advocate. He is the 2020 recipient of Kentucky Protection and Advocacy’s Victoria Scott/Billy Cox Award for Advocacy. Maria Kemplin is the Project Director for the Human Development Institute’s Transportation Initiative.
Register for free at this link: https://uky.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JJOXlCHiT6SlByR4eeb0Cg For help registering, contact walt.bower@uky.edu
BCB September 30 Quarterly Membership Meeting
Wednesday, September 30
1 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
Quarterly Membership and Business Meeting
Open to BCB members and friends, this is BCB’s Quarterly Membership and Business Meeting with election of officers. We will meet via by Zoom.
RSVP by calling the office at 859-259-1834 to receive the access information.
AUGUST 2020
Thursday, September 17
7:30 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
Mentoring Support Group
Get to know one another and share your vision challenges during this mentoring group session. New members welcome.
RSVP to Susan Ament, PhD, Peer Support Program Coordinator for Zoom access, susana@bcbky.org or 859-259-1834.
Wednesday, August 19
11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
Community In-ing
Our group is invited to join the Lexington Lions Club for one of their regular meetings. The Lions Club is one of our benefactors and we can show our gratitude for their support by attending this Zoom meeting. It is a great way to socialize. Mark your calendar now for this opportunity to show our gratitude for the Lions Club! You do not need to be a Lions Club member to participate.
RSVP to 859-259-1834 and we will get you the Zoom access info needed to join. All you need is a regular phone to join if you do not have a computer or smartphone.
Wednesday, August 26
1 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
Lunch & Learn
Kathy Holder, from United Healthcare, will be our guest and will present on the benefit plans they offer to folks who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid at no cost to them. It is called a Dual Special Needs Plan (DSNP) and is a comprehensive health plan with extra benefits. The meeting will be by Zoom.
Call the office (859-259-1834) to RSVP and we will provide you with the access phone numbers and codes, or if you are joining by computer, we will email the links to join.
MARCH 2020
Thursday, March 12
Noon to 2 p.m.
BCB Office (1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1220)
March Membership Meeting – CANCELED
We will share info about the 2020 Vision Campaign, the SILVER Initiative, the Woodturning Project and more! We’ll also offer a 50/50 drawing and
door prizes. We are encouraging members to invite potential members and to be sure, by this point, you’ve renewed your 2020 membership with BCB. That week, we will be submitting our 2020 membership list to ACB.
RSVP by Tuesday, March 10, to 859-259-1834
Tuesday, March 17
Time: 10 to 11 a.m. (New time)
BCB Office (1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1220)
March Assistive Technology Seminar
You had the intro, now join us for Narrator, Part I!
RSVP please, before March 16
Wednesday, March 25
Time: Noon-2 p.m.
BCB Office (1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1220)
March Lunch & Learn
Austin Robinson presents Edge Music Therapy. Learn about the benefits of music therapy, Austin’s practice of music therapy and a demonstration of his music art.
RSVP by Monday, March 23, to 859-259-1834
FEBRUARY 2020
[Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Low Vision Awareness Month]
Monday, February 10
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
McLeod’s Coffee House (376 Southland Drive)
Community Outing
Come out and enjoy a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, soft drink and sandwich or donut with us at McLeod’s Coffee House. This special coffee shop on Southland Drive employs people with special needs and is the brainchild of Brewster McLeod, a retired pastor from Southland Christian Church.
Wednesday, February 12
Time: 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
BCB Office (1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1220)
February Mentoring Group Meeting
In January, BCB kicked off the 2020 Mentoring Support Group! What are your challenges and successes as a visually impaired individual? This is an opportunity for you to participate in a small group setting, on the second Wednesday of each month, facilitated by Dr. Susan Ament. A first-time application for the program is required. If you are interested, please contact Dr. Ament at 859-259-1834.
Wednesday, February 26
Noon – 2 p.m.
BCB Office (1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1220)
February Lunch & Learn
Program: Mark Armstrong, from the Confident Living Program with the Helen Keller National Center, will speak on Programs for Older Adults with Hearing and Vision Impairments, joined by Chad Hunt of the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, presenting on his agency and role as the State Deaf-Blind Services Coordinator.
RSVP by Monday, Feb. 24 to 859-259-1834 (Wheels passes available)
JANUARY 2020
Wed., Jan. 8, 2020
1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
BCB Office (1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1220)
New On-Site Mentoring Small Group!
Occurring the 2nd Wednesday of every month at the BCB office and hosted by Dr. Susan Ament, BCB’s Peer Support Coordinator, the mentoring small group is an opportunity for folks who have lived with vision loss to support and mentor those newly experiencing vision impairment. Please email Susan at susana@bcbky.org or call the office (859-259-1834) if you would like to participate in the group.
Mon., Jan. 13
12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
BCB Office (1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1220)
Community Outing:
We will watch the audio-described movie Sea Biscuit in the Community Room. Call to RSVP.
Wed., Jan. 22
12 Noon to 2 p.m.
BCB Office (1093 S. Broadway, Suite 1220)
Lunch & Learn with Laura Dake of Bluegrass Care Navigators
Come for a lunch of chicken pot pies and salad and stay for an interesting and practical talk about eldercare including in home services and hospice care. RSVP needed by noon on Monday of that week.
Wed., Jan. 22
5:30 to 9 p.m.
Comedy Off Broadway (161 Lexington Green Circle, #C4)
Wise Eyes Trivia Night
Attention, Eye Care Professionals! Please join us for BCB’s first-ever Wise Eyes Trivia Night fundraiser! We invite you and your colleagues to create teams of two to six people and stir up some friendly competition for a great cause! We hope you will consider this for a company activity or a team-building opportunity to bring your co-workers and employees closer together while engaging in community philanthropy and a bit of “healthy competition.” Details here.
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Please RSVP for any event you plan to attend at least two days in advance –
859-259-1834 : info@bcbky.org
BCB Inclement Weather Policy The Bluegrass Council of the Blind follows Fayette County Public Schools (FCPS) lead in cancelling activities. If FCPS is closed or on a delay BCB will cancel all activities. The office voicemail will be updated with the current status for the day.
If you plan to attend an event and unsure about the weather, it is always best to call the office and check the voicemail to be sure the event or appointment has not been canceled due to the office closing. Please stay safe.
- Wheels passes will be provided as reimbursement for members who pay for Wheels transportation to and from BCB events.