LightHouse will be closed on Monday, May 27 for the Memorial Day holiday.
The week's events
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AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)
AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)
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Feb 5LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27.
Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.
This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.
Please bring with you:
- Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
- A copy of your social security card
- A copy of your photo ID
- If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.
Out of Scope:
If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.
- If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
- If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
- If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
- If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return. You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
- If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.
There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.
If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org
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The Blind Telephone Network (dial-in)
The Blind Telephone Network (dial-in)
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Feb 6Announcing the Blind Telephone Network 2024 program
The Blind Telephone network, originally founded by blind veterans, now is pleased to welcome all blind and low vision folks to join in phone calls will be held on Tuesday and Thursday of each week.
Tuesdays programs are what we call chit chat and chew the fat. During these sessions, most topics are acceptable; however, we refrain from discussing politics and religion. Prayer requests are acceptable, but will not be done during the call. This is a time for socializing, and sharing our experiences with blindness, in order to help others develop independence and self-confidence.
On Thursdays, we emphasize education, travel, technology, history, entertainment, and innovative role-models, etc.. These sessions will feature presenters on such topics as: Lewis and Clark expedition, Mt. Rushmore, railroad history and the mob museum in Las Vegas, Nevada.We encourage suggestions for topics or locations from our participants.
All sessions last for one (1) hour and start on time.
The call in number is: 605-475-5620, and the access code is: 3789127#. If you plan to save these numbers in your contacts, I recommend inserting two (2) commas between the main number and the access code.
Those wishing to receive an e-mail reminder for upcoming sessions or links provided by the presenter, should:
Send an e-mail to Doc Eudaly at deteacha@sbcglobal.net. Please put your full name, phone number, and email address in the body of your e-mail.
Calls for 2024 will begin on Tuesday, January 9.
For Thursday, January 11, our initial program will be on the FDR Memorial in Washington, DC. We hope to hear you on these free telephone calls, where you can both learn and contribute
On behalf of the founding members,
Douglas “Doc” Eudaly, PH,D
1-559-999-2625
Tech Together: February 2024 (online)Tech Together: February 2024 (online)
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Feb 6Join the Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times.
February 6: Updates from A.T.I.A.
The annual Access Technology Industry Association, (A.T.I.A.) conference is a gathering for venders, educators, AT professionals and AT users and, this year, LightHouse AT team members! Join us for Tech Together and the team will discuss updates and new horizons in access technology.
RSVP online for Updates from A.T.I.A., or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.February 13: Explore Apple Wallet
One of the goals for many in the access technology learning space is financial independence. Join the AT team for what will be the first in a series of discussions around accessible finance. This week’s focus will be all aspects of the Apple Wallet app.
RSVP online for Explore Apple Wallet, or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.February 20: Budgeting Basics
Continuing our theme of access technology and finance, join us for a discussion on budgeting basics and accessible ways to manage money.
RSVP online for Budgeting Basics, or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.February 27: Peer-to-peer Payments
Concluding our theme of access technology and finance, join us for a discussion of peer-to-peer payment applications. You’ll learn about platforms like PayPal and Venmo, and we’ll discuss the ups and downs of accessibility therein.
RSVP online for Peer-to-peer Payments, or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684. -
Goalball with BORP (in-person)
Goalball with BORP (in-person)
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Feb 7Bay Are Outreach and Recreation Program (BORP) Goalball Practice is a fun way to get exercise and meet new people. The practice is designed for beginners and experienced players. If you do not have your own equipment, we can provide you with both elbow and knee pads and eyeshades.
When: Wednesdays, from 6:30pm - 9:00pm
Where: The gym is located at 2100 Browning St. BerkeleyFor more details, please contact Brandon Young brandon@borp.org
Please note - Proof of full vaccination is required and will be checked for new participants.
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AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)
AARP Tax-Aide Program (in-person)
–
Feb 8LightHouse is again partnering with AARP’s Tax-Aide Program to provide free tax filing support at 1155 Market Street this tax filing season. AARP will be at LightHouse HQ on Mondays and Thursdays from February 5 – April 11, 2024 and Wednesdays February 21 and 28 & March 13 and 27.
Appointments are required and they can be made for 9:30 am, 11 am, and 12:30 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by leaving a voicemail at 415-694-7648 or completing the AARP Tax-Aide at LightHouse RSVP form.
This is open to anyone who needs support filing their federal and California state tax returns for the tax years 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. (note: each year requires a separate appointment and we will only be completing 2023 tax returns in February). There is no requirement based on age, income level, or San Francisco residency.
Please bring with you:
- Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
- A copy of your social security card
- A copy of your photo ID
- If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you via USPS.
Out of Scope:
If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.
- If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
- If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
- If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
- If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return. You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
- If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.
There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers; these will be addressed when the appointments are made.
If you have any questions, please call 415-694-7648 or email info@lighthouse-sf.org
The Blind Telephone Network (dial-in)The Blind Telephone Network (dial-in)
–
Feb 8Announcing the Blind Telephone Network 2024 program
The Blind Telephone network, originally founded by blind veterans, now is pleased to welcome all blind and low vision folks to join in phone calls will be held on Tuesday and Thursday of each week.
Tuesdays programs are what we call chit chat and chew the fat. During these sessions, most topics are acceptable; however, we refrain from discussing politics and religion. Prayer requests are acceptable, but will not be done during the call. This is a time for socializing, and sharing our experiences with blindness, in order to help others develop independence and self-confidence.
On Thursdays, we emphasize education, travel, technology, history, entertainment, and innovative role-models, etc.. These sessions will feature presenters on such topics as: Lewis and Clark expedition, Mt. Rushmore, railroad history and the mob museum in Las Vegas, Nevada.We encourage suggestions for topics or locations from our participants.
All sessions last for one (1) hour and start on time.
The call in number is: 605-475-5620, and the access code is: 3789127#. If you plan to save these numbers in your contacts, I recommend inserting two (2) commas between the main number and the access code.
Those wishing to receive an e-mail reminder for upcoming sessions or links provided by the presenter, should:
Send an e-mail to Doc Eudaly at deteacha@sbcglobal.net. Please put your full name, phone number, and email address in the body of your e-mail.
Calls for 2024 will begin on Tuesday, January 9.
For Thursday, January 11, our initial program will be on the FDR Memorial in Washington, DC. We hope to hear you on these free telephone calls, where you can both learn and contribute
On behalf of the founding members,
Douglas “Doc” Eudaly, PH,D
1-559-999-2625
LightHouse + Vision Zero: Autonomous Vehicle Forum (hybrid)LightHouse + Vision Zero: Autonomous Vehicle Forum (hybrid)
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Feb 8LightHouse is pleased to announce the rescheduling of the LightHouse + Vision Zero Autonomous Vehicle Forum. Please join LightHouse, Vision Zero SF, and our esteemed panelists for this informational discussion about pedestrian safety and the role autonomous vehicles can play in maintaining safer transit options for residents and visitors of San Francisco who are blind or have low vision.
RSVP: To RSVP, please complete this Autonomous Vehicles forum RSVP form by Thursday, February 1
Please Note: For those attending in person, the forum will be held at the LightHouse HQ located at 1155 Market Street, 10th Floor, in San Francisco. Light refreshments will be provided. (Please indicate any food allergies in the RSVP form above.) For those attending virtually, please be sure that you list the best email address to reach you – a link to access the live stream will be emailed to the address submitted in the RSVP form on Wednesday, February 7.
Meet Our Panelists
Maddy Ruvolo – Principal Transportation Planner for San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency
Dr. William Riggs – Professor at University of San Francisco; Leader in Urban Technology, Transport & Automation
Fernando Macias – Access Technology Specialist at LightHouse for the BlindThis forum is made possible by generous funding from the and the City and County of San Francisco.
Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Teens and Young Adults: Stranger Things (online)Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Teens and Young Adults: Stranger Things (online)
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Feb 8Are you looking for a thrilling escape into the world of science fiction and mystery? Look no further! The Reel Escape Audio Description Club is back this fall, bringing together blind and low vision teens and young adults for an exciting social gathering over an audio-described TV show.
We'll be embarking on an unforgettable journey into the 1980s with the popular Netflix series Stranger Things. This captivating show revolves around a group of kids in a small town, facing supernatural mysteries, government conspiracies, and the enigmatic powers of a mysterious girl with psychokinetic abilities.
Every Thursday evening at 8:00 pm, join us via Zoom to watch the latest episode of Stranger Things and connect with your LightHouse and EHC friends. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of excitement and adventure while enjoying the company of like-minded peers.
Check out the official Stranger Things trailer.
Parents, Please Take Note: Stranger Things is rated TV-14 for horror elements and language, which may not be suitable for kids under 17. While Seasons 1-3 were rated TV-14, Season 4 received a TV-MA rating. For more detailed information, you can check the Stranger Things Parental Guide. If you are under 18 and wish to join this series, we kindly request your parent or guardian to contact a LightHouse Youth Team member with written permission for your participation.
RVSP to Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.
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Seeing AI Training for Seniors 65+ at Earle Baum Center (in-person)
Seeing AI Training for Seniors 65+ at Earle Baum Center (in-person)
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Feb 9Attention to Sonoma County Residents who have low vision and are 65 or older.
Interested in learning more about using Al apps on your iPhone or Android?
The Earle Baum Center is offering a free phone stand and two hours of training on how to use the Seeing Al App on iPhone and Android.
Cathy Mulhern will be teaching you how to use the Seeing Al App to:
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- Read mail
- Read a bill
- Read a letter on your own without someone else knowing your business
- Identify what you have in the pantry (is the can beans or dog food?
- Identify what currency you are handing a cashierCathy Mulhern will be teaching you how to use the Seeing Al App to:
What you need: Bring your phone and materials you want to be able to read and that you currently rely on others to read for you such as mail, a can of food etc.
Where: Earle Baum Center at 4539 Occidental Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95401
When: Fridays from 10:00 am to noon or 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm in Room 3.
Prerequisites:
- Have Seeing Al app downloaded on iPhone or Android.
- Know how to use Siri and have it set up for iPhone users.
- Have not received a phone stand from Earle Baum Center.
RSVP: To Cathy Mulhern at 707-206-8486 by calling Monday – Friday between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm.
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The events for the upcoming week are read aloud on our event hotline every Friday, which can be accessed by calling 415-694-7325. For more information about visiting the Adaptations Store, head to our shop page.
The LightHouse is scent-free. Please abstain from wearing colognes, perfumes, or other scented products. Additionally, coffee must be securely lidded at all times and citrus should not be peeled on the premises. Thanks for supporting our efforts to respect chemical sensitivities!
