Visions 2008 Is Another Hit

Visions 2008: Technology and Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired was another tremendous success with nearly 1000 people attending from all parts of Michigan, Ohio and even Canada! This biennial vendor fair was co-sponsored by the Washtenaw County Library for the Blind and Physically Disabled and the Michigan Commission for the Blind.

The fair featured more than 50 vendors, representing agencies, businesses and organizations providing services and products for persons with disabilities.

Ann Arbor’s Coalition for Voter Access demonstrated the AutoMark voting machine which is currently available at polling sites provides the opportunity for seniors and voters with disabilities to vote privately and independently.

Alicia Jaros, Miss Washtenaw 2008, greeted folks at Visions 2008.

As an adjunct to the event, Dr. David Zacks from UM Kellogg Eye Center talked about “What’s New in Eye Therapy?” to an audience of 250 in the adjacent Towsley Audito

Over fifty individuals served as volunteers - many were Washtenaw County employees who had signed up to be sighted assistants through the County's Professional Development program.  Angela Zander who served as a volunteer summarized her experience, "It was truly a wonderful time meeting so many interesting people.  I really, really enjoyed myself.  When the day was over, I was exhausted, but I had the best time and hope I\'ll be able to participate again next time."

And, of course, the hardest working individuals on this busy day: many great guide dogs with their owners.