Scholarship Available
The American Association of Visually Impaired Attorneys (AAVIA) announces the availability of a $1,000 scholarship for the 2013-2014 academic year for current law students who are blind or visually impaired. This scholarship is named in memory of one of our former members, Lester Ketterling, who was an active member of AAVIA for many years.
Who is eligible? Any law student currently attending an accredited law school who is either blind or visually impaired. AAVIA uses the definition of legally blind set forth in law. This does not include an individual who has been accepted to law school, but has not yet begun classes as of April 1, 2013.
Any student desiring to apply may do so by submitting an essay on the topic of "Why I Want to Be a Lawyer" of 500 to 750 words. The essay must be typewritten in Microsoft Word or Word Perfect and sent to the following address: Chris D. Prentice, AAVIA president, by e-mail at [email protected], or if e-mail is not available for any reason, then by regular mail to 5516 War Admiral Drive, Del Valle, TX 78617-5868. Along with the essay, the applicant must include satisfactory documentation of a visual impairment from either a VR counselor or a physician and a note from the law school being attended proving current attendance at that school. These items must be in our hand by no later than 5 p.m. on June 1. Incomplete packets will not be considered for the scholarship.
The student chosen to receive the scholarship MUST attend the AAVIA annual meeting in Columbus, Ohio from July 6-9, 2013, where the scholarship will be presented. AAVIA will cover reasonable travel and hotel accommodations, and will provide a stipend for meals during the conference for the scholarship recipient. If you will not be able to attend the conference, then do not apply for the scholarship. There will be no exceptions.
If you have questions, contact Chris D. Prentice, AAVIA president, via e-mail, [email protected], or by phone, (512) 215-2032 (evenings) or (512) 539-5708 (work).
A Moment in History
Please come join our celebration!! The District of Columbia Council of the Blind, formerly known as the District of Columbia Association of Workers for the Blind, is marking its 100th anniversary. DCCB has a long and vibrant history serving D.C. residents who are blind or visually impaired. Our hope is that you will come and join us in this momentous occasion.
As announced in the March issue, the celebration will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2013 at the Channel Inn, 650 Water St. SW in Washington, D.C.
So far, our panels include: an oral history from past presidents; library services past and present; employment opportunities past and present; and vocational rehabilitation past and present. In addition to a packed program, there will be exhibits, time for socializing, and a scrumptious dinner. And DCCB is planning to have the program streamed on ACB Radio!
Registration packets are still in the works. If you would like to be part of our glorious celebration, please contact DCCB president Marilyn Lutter at (202) 783-0548, or via e-mail, [email protected].
Diabetics in Action Update
It is hard to believe summer is on the way, as is the annual convention. ACB Diabetics in Action is busy setting up speakers, the luncheon and the business meeting. This year we are combining resources with Blind Pride, so the seminar will definitely have interesting speakers.
We are also offering raffle tickets for $1 each, or 6 for $5. The winner will receive $100; second prize is $75; third prize is $50.
We hope you will join us at our seminar and luncheon. New members are always welcome. Dues for our affiliate are only $10 per year. For more information, contact Pat Wolf via e-mail, [email protected], or call her at (626) 279-2954.
CCLVI and IVIE to Hold Toastmasters Demo
Need to conquer the fear of public speaking? Need to hone your public speaking skills? Need to improve your communication style? Then Toastmasters might be just what you're looking for. The Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI) and the Independent Visually Impaired Entrepreneurs (IVIE) will host a Toastmasters demonstration meeting at this year's conference and convention on Tuesday, July 9, at 2:45 p.m. Learn how to capture and keep your audience's attention. Discover the effectiveness of humor and sincerity. Explore the challenge of extemporaneous speaking. Already a Toastmaster? Share your tips on handling notes, making eye contact, and other possible obstacles. Want to be on the agenda for a speech or other role? Contact Mary Hiland at (614) 471-1869 or [email protected]. Be sure to put the word "Toastmasters" (without the quotes) in the subject line. All are welcome. Pre-registration fee is $5.