VSU plans activities for National Disability Awareness month

Disability Awareness Month activities begin at Valdosta State University on Tuesday, Oct. 1, with the ninth annual Mayor's Council for Persons with Disabilities awards and recognition banquet at 7 p.m., in the University Center Magnolia Room.

VSU President Ronald M. Zaccari will provide the opening remarks for the event and J. Brian Bergeron, manager of Bosch Olds-Buick, will be the keynote speaker.

The awards ceremony honors individuals in the community that are making a difference for persons with disabilities, including special awards for employee and employer of the year.

On Wednesday, Oct. 2, the Dance Troupe from the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind (FSDB) will perform in the university's Old Gym at 11:30 a.m. This event is open to the public free of charge.

The troupe entertains the audience with sign language and dance to a wide variety of music. They have performed throughout the state of Florida for schools, colleges, civic and service organization and the State Capitol for the Florida Legislature.

"The FSDB students are known to provide an exciting performance with a great lesson for the audience on the abilities of people that are hard of hearing or deaf," said Kimberly Godden, Special Service Program coordinator.

The third annual Accessibility Expo is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 23 from 10 a.m to 2 p.m., in the University Center Magnolia Room.

Exhibits from area schools, business and organization will be on display to provide information and demonstrate resources that are available to persons with disabilities. This is event is open to the public free of charge.

"This is an outstanding opportunity to learn more about the programs that exist in our community," Godden said.

For more information, contact Kimberly Godden in the department of Special Services at 245-2498.