KABVI NEWS - Volume 47, Spring 2004

CHAPTER CHATTER

The Southwest Kansas Association for the Visually Impaired (SKAVI): In October, members learned about skin care and application of makeup. A holiday celebration was held in December. In January, SKAVI members learned about the local Cancer Center.

Central Kansas Association for the Visually Impaired (CKAVI): The annual benefit sale was successful. Members enjoyed holiday celebrations.

In November, the Western Kansas Low Vision Support Group learned about watching TV with low vision from Tom Perski. They also learned about the importance of Good Lighting.

Wichita Association for the Visually Handicapped (WAVH): WAVH presented its Margaret C. Champ Award to Representative JoAnn Freeborn from Concordia, who played a key role in the enactment of HB 2197. The Bill, signed into law by Governor Kathleen Sebelius on April 30, 2003, marks a significant improvement in the rights of and protection for individuals using assistance dogs.

The Champ Award was established by WAVH in 1993,

to honor individuals and groups who keep Mrs. Champ's spirit of service alive by assisting blind and visually impaired persons. For many years prior to her death at age 96, Mrs. Champ worked tirelessly on numerous projects. One of her most cherished contributions was the coordination of WAVH's annual Christmas dinner, originally designed to give blind residents of the area who had no other option a way to celebrate this joyous holiday. The award was presented at WAVH's 42nd annual Christmas dinner, December 4, 2003 at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Schulte, Kansas.

The Topeka Association for the Visually Impaired (TAVI) celebrated Thanksgiving with turkey and all the trimmings. At Christmas, the celebration involved fellowship, treats and carols. In January, TAVI members learned about a program providing health education and care to the people of Honduras from Dr. Ron Edwards, Director of Medical Services at the Shawnee County Health Agency.

The Northwest Kansas Assotiation for the Visually Impaired (NKAVI): The All American Breakfast fund raiser at the American Legion netted over $1,000. In January, members were introduced to “A Resource Guide for Seniors” with information about such things as durable power of attorney, living wills, etc. NKAVI members voted to donate $300 to Kansas Talking Books, $200 to the Hays Public Library, and TO set aside $250 for a scholarship. Thanks to the generosity of several individuals, NKAVI gave $1,000 in scholarships in 2003. Good going, NKAVI!