The Braille Forum Vol. XVII January, 1979 No. 7 Published Monthly by the American Council of the Blind Mary T. Ballard, Editor * President: Oral O. Miller 3701 Connecticut Avenue, N.W. Suite 236 Washington, DC 20008 * National Representative: Durward K. McDaniel 1211 Connecticut Avenue, N.W. Suite 506 Washington, DC 20036 (202) 833-1251 * Editor: Mary T. Ballard 190 Lattimore Road Rochester, NY 14620 (716) 244-8364 The Braille Forum seeks to promote the independence and dignity of all blind people; to stress responsibility of citizenship; to alert the public to the abilities and accomplishments of the blind. The Braille Forum carries official news of the American Council of the Blind and its programs. It is available for expression of views and concerns common to all blind persons. ***** ** Contents Notice to Subscribers Report by the ACB President Randolph-Sheppard, 1978, by Durward K. McDaniel It's Michigan in '79 — ACB National Convention! Summary of Major Provisions of the Rehabilitation Amendments of 1978, by Reese Robrahn Oral Miller to Be Honored at Reception Low Vision Care: A New, Ongoing Obligation of the Ophthalmologist Reese Robrahn to Broaden Efforts on Behalf of Handicapped Persons Handicapped Executives Eligible for Unique Presidential Exchange Suit by Handicapped Accuses U.S. of Bias Defunct National Eye Care Association Sues ALL Braille Authority Annual Meeting, 1978 ACB Affiliate News: Vermont, Connecticut, and Hawaii Conventions Here and There, by Elizabeth M. Lennon ACB Officers ***** ** Notice to Subscribers The Braille Forum is available in braille, large-type, and two recorded editions -- flexible disc (8 1/3 rpm), which may be kept by the reader, and cassette tape, which must be returned so that tapes can be re-used. As a bimonthly supplement, the flexible disc edition also includes ALL-O-GRAMS, newsletter of the Affiliated Leadership League of and for the Blind of America. Send subscription requests and address changes to The Braille Forum, 190 Lattimore Road, Rochester, NY 14620. Items intended for publication may be sent in print, braille, or tape to Editor Mary T. Ballard at the above address. Those much-needed and appreciated cash contributions may be sent to James R. Olsen, Treasurer, c/o ACB National Office, 1211 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 506, Washington, DC 20036. You may wish to remember someone by sharing in the continuing work of the American Council of the Blind. The National Office now has available special printed cards to acknowledge to loved ones contributions made in memory of deceased persons. Anyone wishing to remember the American Council of the Blind in his or her Last Will and Testament may do so by including in the Will a special paragraph for that purpose. If your wishes are complex, your attorney may wish to contact the ACB National Office. ***** ** Report by the ACB President A number of very important decisions came out of the long, but productive meeting of the American Council of the Blind Board of Directors, held in St. Louis, Missouri, on December 9, 1978. For example, the realistic budget which was adopted provided for the expansion of services as soon as funding is available. While American Council of the Blind Enterprises and Services is still too new to allow full evaluation of its effectiveness as a source of needed income for ACB, its progress to date indicates that it probably will be very effective. However, in order to consolidate ACB’s obligations, the Board authorized ACBES to borrow funds, which will be repaid from future earnings. A notice concerning the attractive terms on which this money will be borrowed from ACB affiliates, members, and friends is being sent to affiliate presidents in the very near future. The Board decided, also, that the position of Director of Governmental Relations (the position held until recently by Reese Robrahn) will be filled just as soon as funding is available, and that the beginning salary range will be from approximately $16,000 to $18,250 annually. These amounts correspond roughly to Federal Government Grades GS-9 and GS-11 ratings, and they are frequently used as mid-level entering grades. The Board also authorized the filling of a second position (tentatively described as that of a research assistant or technician) as soon as funding is available. Anyone interested in the position of Director of Governmental Relations should write to me at the ACB National Office so we can send a copy of the job specifications as soon as they are finalized. I am pleased to report that the Board also accepted the application of the Pennsylvania Federation of the Blind for affiliation with the American Council. We are looking forward to meeting more of the members of the Pennsylvania Federation during the next few months and at our 1979 national convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the first week in July. While I do not want to sound like a broken record, I would like to repeat that ACB is in need of greater support and assistance from its affiliates, members, and friends. In my last report, I pointed out that it costs more than $9 a year per person merely to publish and distribute the braille edition of The Braille Forum, whereas we received an average of less than $1 per person in dues. The fact that ACBES now finds it advisable to borrow funds may seem advantageous from the viewpoint of prospective lenders, who stand to receive attractive interest for their investments. However, many believe the interest rate is very high, and all agree that the money paid out in interest could be used more effectively for other purposes. I am pleased that ACB has never twisted the arms of any of its affiliates for donations, but it is no secret that some of its more prosperous affiliates could easily afford to make significant donations to be used for such purposes as the publication and distribution of The Braille Forum, litigation, and other forms of advocacy in behalf of the blind, public education concerning the blind, and membership development. The costs of litigation, for example, are astounding to many people. Today we paid over $500 to a firm for merely printing the briefs and exhibits required in connection with a suit we are now prosecuting to compel the Department of Health, Education and Welfare to comply with a Federal law relating to the blind. I occasionally hear members question the value of services received, and in response, I would like to report that within the past eighteen months, the ACB National Representative, as an attorney, has provided legal services which enabled two affiliates to receive bequests totaling approximately $14,000. If these services had been paid for on the open market, they would have cost several thousand dollars. Again, I am not twisting the arms of any affiliates, but this information is being provided to enable you to understand better some of the reasons for our current financial situation. Any money donated may be earmarked for specific service or informational activities. As reported elsewhere in this issue of The Braille Forum, ACB plans to host a reception in the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C., on January 30, 1979. The main purpose of the reception is to introduce ACB and the new ACB president to Congress and the public. While the sponsors of the event are not obligated financially in any way, and while it is hoped that the proceeds from ticket sales and contributions will result in a small surplus to be used for the support of ACB, I am pleased to report that some of the official sponsors of the reception are Senator Charles Percy, Senator Lloyd Bentsen, Dr. Robert McLean, Mr. Douglas Fraser, Congressman John Brademas, Senator Jennings Randolph, Congressman Charles McC. Mathias, Congresswoman Gladys Spellman, Congressman Newton Steers, Congresswoman Martha Keys, Congressman Carl Perkins, Congressman Joseph Fisher, Congressman Robert Drinan, Congressman Don Edwards, Senator Robert Stafford, Senator Harrison Williams, Congressman Kenneth Holland, Congressman James Jones, Congressman J.J. Pickle, Congressman Sam Gibbons, Mr. Edward Walker, Senator Daniel Moynihan, and Congressman Morris Udall. I sincerely wish that all ACB members could be present, and I urge you to encourage your Senators and Representatives to come to meet with us. Let me take this opportunity to wish each of the readers of The Braille Forum and all the friends of ACB a Happy New Year! Oral O. Miller, President ***** ** Randolph-Sheppard, 1978 By Durward K. McDaniel As we begin the fifth year after the progressive Amendments of 1974, some key factors in the Randolph-Sheppard vending facility program need to be recognized and dealt with. In passing the Amendments, Congress set a goal to double the number of jobs in the program within five years. That goal was attainable, but the planning, job development, funding, and execution have not occurred. The Act mandates the conducting of national surveys for new vending locations, but none have been done. The Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America have been advocating 100% Federal funding for new vending locations, but the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, which is supposed to oversee the doubling of vending locations, has opposed the increased funding. Vendors and state agency directors waited for more than two years for the issuance of Federal rules which created more problems than they solved and virtually assured the failure of the five-year expansion goal. A lawsuit to compel the Secretary of HEW to reform the rules is now pending in the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington. Several months ago, "guidelines" were sent by the Rehabilitation Services Administration to the State Licensing Agencies, but not to the State Committees of Blind Vendors. Such "guidelines" do not have the force and effect of law, but they are quite often followed by state administrators. These "guidelines" contained some helpful material, but much more which added to the confusion created by the defective rules. As we enter the fifth year, we know that the provisions of the Act providing for the payment of certain vending machine revenues to state agencies have been ignored by many Federal agencies charged with the responsibility for collecting and paying such revenues. While it is not alone, the Department of Defense appears to be the principal violator. However, some individual defense installations have made some payments. The Elected Committee of Blind Vendors in Texas requested that the Texas Congressional delegation have the General Accounting Office investigate non-payment of vending machine revenues. That investigation began in mid-November on certain Federal agencies in Texas, and a report is expected early in 1979. When hearings were held on the Randolph-Sheppard Amendments, the Department of Defense had permitted only 46 Randolph-Sheppard vending locations on its property. We have just learned that the figure has now declined to 29. We have also learned that the Department of Defense has submitted draft amendments for the Randolph-Sheppard Act to the Office of Management and Budget for its advance approval. The Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America, through its 1974 campaign to produce 75,000 names supporting the Amendments, decisively assured their enactment. They have been trying to make the system work. They need your help. During the first ninety days of this year, we propose to bring a message to Joseph A. Califano, Jr., Secretary of HEW, to convince him that thousands of vendors and other Council members demand that this law be enforced, and its goals implemented. His mailing address is 200 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20201. His telephone number is (202) 245-7000. ***** ** It's Michigan in '79 ACB National Convention Circle July 1-7, 1979, on your calendar now! Those are the dates for the national convention of the American Council of the Blind, to be held at the Pantlind Hotel, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Grand Rapids, Michigan's second largest city, offers the best of two worlds -- the advantages of a large metropolitan area on the one hand, and on the other hand an area rich in scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and adventure. The Pantlind Hotel, covering one square block right in the downtown area, is close to shops, restaurants and entertainment, and it has 750 spacious, well-appointed rooms, including many suits and numerous entertainment and hospitality rooms. In the hotel are nine excellent restaurants, including the Knife and Fork, open 24 hours a day, the Backdoor Saloon, with a piano bar, and the Cypress Cellar. Room rates are excellent: single, $15; double, $18; triple, $27; and quad, $34: Prices on suites can be obtained from the Pantlind Hotel, 187 Monroe Avenue, N.W., Grand Rapids, MI 49502; telephone (616) 459-7201. Grand Rapids is served by United, North Central, and several smaller airlines, as well as by Greyhound and North Star bus lines. There are Amtrak connections in Kalamazoo with bus service to Grand Rapids. Working closely with ACB Convention Coordinator Oral Miller, the local host committee is well on its way to planning an interesting and fun-filled week for conventioneers in Michigan. Elizabeth M. Lennon, 1315 Greenwood Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, is host committee chairman. Special-interest organization presidents are asked to contact Glenn Veysey, 935 N. Sycamore Street, Lansing, MI 48910, regarding meeting plans. Groups anticipating served-meal functions may obtain suggested menus, prices, and other details from Kathryn Scholtens, 3284 Roosevelt, Muskegon, MI 49441. ***** ** Summary of Major Provisions of the Rehabilitation Amendments of 1978 By Reese Robrahn The Rehabilitation Amendments of 1978 were passed by the Congress and signed by the President under the title of "Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services and Developmental Disabilities Act of 1978." This is regarded by many as the most progressive and potentially most effective measure ever adopted by the Congress on behalf of handicapped children and adults of this nation. It behooves all handicapped persons to become informed of the provisions of the Act and to exercise their rights secured by the Act, and to exert what pressure they can to see to it that the Act is adequately funded and implemented. The following is a summary of the major provisions of particular interest to visually impaired citizens and to all handicapped individuals. 1. The Act authorizes expenditures for basic vocational rehabilitation services to be distributed to the states through a formula in the amount of $808 million for the fiscal year 1979, and that the authorizations for the succeeding three fiscal years shall be tied to the Consumer Price Index, but that in no event shall such sums exceed the amount of $880 million for fiscal year 1980, $945 million for fiscal year 1981, and $972 million for fiscal year 1982. 2. State Plans for rehabilitation services shall be filed once every three years instead of annually, as presently provided, but with the exception that the Secretary of HEW may require a State Plan filing in any year from any state. 3. The Act authorizes the expenditure of the following sums for Innovation and Expansion Grants for the following fiscal years: $45 million for fiscal year 1979, with a $5 million increment for each of the next three succeeding fiscal years. The Act extends the duration of Innovation and Expansion Grants to a term of five years instead of limiting the same to a period of three years, as presently authorized. 4. The Act removes the numerical limitation on Client Assistance programs; enlarges the scope of assistance to include assistance in pursuing administrative and legal remedies to insure and protect the rights of handicapped persons; and increases the authorizations from $1.5 million each year to $3.5 million each year. 5. The Act provides for the creation of a National Institute of Handicapped Research, with the director to be appointed by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate; requires that the Institute conduct comprehensive research concerning handicapping conditions, to coordinate all such research programs nationally, and to submit a Comprehensive Plan within 18 months after the effective date of the Act; provides for the creation of an Interagency Committee to coordinate such research within the Federal departments and agencies; and authorizes the Director to take all necessary actions to keep the Congress informed and advised concerning such research programs. The Act provides that such research shall include model programs for training of pre­school handicapped children, research activity in such areas as training of rehabilitation personnel, and, in particular, training and retention of rehabilitation personnel in rural areas of the country. The Act authorizes expenditures of whatever sums may be necessary for the administration of the Institute, but specifies for the next four fiscal years the expenditure of 50, 75, 90, and 100 million dollars. 6. The measure provides for demonstration projects for deaf and blind persons without regard to age or vocational potential. 7. The Act provides that the Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration may award grants to the states, or to public or private non­profit agencies and organizations of national scope, so determined by the Commissioner, to provide reading services to blind persons who are no otherwise eligible for such services through other state or Federal programs and to expand the quality and scope of reading services available to blin persons, and to assure, to the maximum extent possible, that the reading services provided under this Act will meet the reading needs of blind person attending institutions providing elementary, secondary, and post-secondary education, and will be adequate to assist blind persons to obtain and continue in employment. (1) The employment of persons who by reading aloud can afford blind persons ready access to printed information. (2) Transcription of printed information into braille or sound recordings, if such transcription is performed pursuant to individual requests from blind persons for such services. (3) The storage and distribution of braille materials and sound recordings. (4) The purchase, storage, and distribution of equipment and materials necessary for the production, duplication, and reproduction of braille materials and sound recordings. (5) The purchase, storage, and distribution of equipment to blind persons, to provide them with individual access to printed material by mechanical or electronic means. (6) Radio reading services for blind persons. 8. The measure makes similar provision for the furnishing of interpreter services to deaf persons, but without the specificity or definition. However, the Act does provide by means of grant for the training of interpreters for deaf persons. 9. The measure provides for grants to states, and to public and private non­profit agencies and organizations, for payment in part, or all, of the costs of the initiation of recreation programs to provide handicapped individuals recreational activity to aid in mobility and socialization of such individuals, to include scouting, camping, 4H activities, sports, music, dancing, handicrafts, art, and homemaking. It requires that, to the extent possible, existing resources shall be utilized, and that, with respect to children, the activities will be conducted after school hours. 10. The Act authorizes state vocational rehabilitation agencies to establish and operate Comprehensive Rehabilitation Centers which will provide information and referral services, counseling, job placement, health, educational, social and recreational services, and technical assistance and information, including interpreters for the deaf, to local governmental units and to non-profit entities. 11. The measure authorizes expenditures for the training of rehabilitation personnel, including interpreters for deaf persons, in the following amounts for the next four fiscal years: $34 million, $40 million, $45 million, and $50 million. 12. The Act establishes a National Council on the Handicapped within the Department of HEW, having fifteen members, to be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate; to be representative of handicapped individuals, national organizations concerned with the handicapped, providers and administrators of services for the handicapped, individuals engaged in conducting research relating to handicapped individuals, business concerns and labor organizations, with the provision that at least five of such members shall be handicapped persons or parents or guardians of the same. The National Council will have the following duties: (1) Establish general policies for the review and operation of the National Institute of Handicapped Research; (2) Provide advice to the Commissioner with respect to the policies of and conduct of the Rehabilitation Services Administration; (3) Advise the Commissioner, the appropriate Assistant Secretary, and the Director of the Research Institute on the development of the programs to be carried out under this Act; (4) Review and evaluate, on a continuing basis, all policies, programs, and activities concerning handicapped individuals and persons with developmental disabilities, conducted or assisted by Federal departments and agencies, including programs established or assisted under this Act or under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Acts, in order to assess the effectiveness of such policies, programs, and activities in meeting the needs of handicapped individuals; (5) Make recommendations to the Secretary, the Commissioner, and the Director of the National Institute of Handicapped Research respecting ways to improve research concerning handicapped individuals, the administration of services for handicapped individuals, and the methods of collecting and disseminating the findings of such research, and make recommendations for facilitating the implementation programs based upon such findings; (6) Submit, not later than March 31 of each year, beginning in 1980, an annual report to the Secretary, the Congress, and the President. Members of the council will be paid, and the Council will establish its own staff. 13. The membership of the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board is enlarged to include the heads of ten specified Federal departments and agencies and eleven members of the general public, five of whom shall be handicapped persons. The Board is given express authority to bring civil actions to enforce its final orders, and it is given additional authority to provide technical assistance; and it is required to provide the Congress, at the end of one year, a report as to what sums may be necessary to make accessible to handicapped persons all programs and activities receiving Federal financial assistance. 14. The Act amends Section 504 so that its provisions apply to all Federal departments and agencies in the Executive Branch of the Government and to the Postal Service, and requires the heads of all such departments and agencies to issue appropriate regulations and submit the same to the appropriate committee of Congress at least 30 days prior to the effective date of such proposed regulations. 15. The Act provides that the remedies, procedures, and rights under Section 717 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 shall be available to complainants under Title V of this Act, and further provides for the recovery of attorneys' fees for a successful complainant. 16. The Act authorizes projects, to be administered by the Department of Labor, for Community Service Employment Pilot Programs, including training, with 90% Federal funding, which may be conducted by local governmental units and public and private non-profit organizations. Authorizations to carry out these projects are in the amounts of $35 million, $50 million, $75 million, and $100 million for the next four fiscal years. 17. The Act provides for projects with business and industry, to be administered by the Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration, for the training of handicapped individuals to prepare them for competitive employment, which shall include the provision of supportive services and adaptive aids and equipment and job placement services. Such employment shall be at a rate not less than the minimum wage. Likewise, the Act authorizes projects, to be administered by the Commissioner, to train and assist handicapped persons to set up and engage in business enterprises. 18. The Act provides for comprehensive services for independent living, to be provided to persons with severe handicaps who without such services cannot live independently and cannot, because of great costs, pursue a vocational goal. Such services shall include counseling, housing, job placement, transportation, attendant care, physical rehabilitation, therapeutic treatment, needed prostheses and other appliances and devices, health maintenance, recreational activities, and services to children of pre-school age. The services are to be provided by the state rehabilitation agencies and/or through public and private non-profit organizations and agencies. 19. The Act provides for rehabilitation and special services to older blind persons, to assist such persons in coping with daily living. Such services are to be provided through grants to public and private non-profit organizations and agencies. 20. The Act authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to establish advocacy systems to the states, to advocate and protect the rights of severely handicapped persons. ***** ** Oral Miller to Be Honored at Reception A reception honoring American Council of the Blind President, Oral O. Miller, will take place in Room 2175 of the Rayburn House Office Building, January 30, 1979, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mr. Miller, who is an attorney with the U.S. Small Business Administration, will be introduced to members of Congress, people in the Executive Branch, and leading persons in related fields of interest. Invitations are being mailed to a broad cross section of people in the Washington metropolitan area. The three local ACB affiliates -- D.C. Association of Workers for the Blind, the American Council of the Blind of Maryland, and the Old Dominion American Council of the Blind -- are assisting with plans and volunteer efforts. Mr. Edward H. Walker, popular talk show co-host on WJLA-TV, will "M.C." the program of greetings from Congressmen, to a background of music and refreshments of wine and cheese. ***** ** Low-Vision Care: A New, Ongoing Obligation Of the Ophthalmologist (Reprinted from SUNDIAL, Publication of the Eye Research Institute of Retina Foundation, Boston, Mass., April-May, 1978) (This article is adapted from a paper delivered by H. MacKenzie Freeman, MD., Senior Clinical Scientist and Vice President of the Eye Research Institute of Retina Foundation, to the Symposium on Low Vision at the Eighty-first Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmologists and Otolaryngology, October, 1976.) Today, advances in retinal and vitreous surgery and photocoagulation have resulted in improvement or preservation of vision in eyes that were heretofore inoperable or untreatable. Upside-down surgery may unfold a giant tear. A vitreous balloon can be used to break retinal adhesions making retinal reattachment possible and enabling some vision in the eye to be salvaged. Vitreous membrane scissors may make it possible to reattach a retina where multiple scleral buckling operations have failed. Open-sky vitreous surgery makes possible the removal of preretinal membranes so that a retina may be reattached. Argon laser photocoagulation may arrest or improve certain cases of macular degeneration. A long-standing vitreous hemorrhage may be successfully removed by closed vitrectomy. But in many cases these new procedures are performed on patients with eye conditions so severe that treatment, no matter how successful, can bring improvement only into the low-vision range. We have taken a hard look at the results of our surgery in terms of visual performance and have come to recognize the need and obligation to include low vision care and rehabilitation in the spectrum of patient management, which should not end following successful surgery. Further, with increasing life expectancy, more people will reach the age where macular degeneration is prevalent. The sad truth of the matter is that laser photocoagulation will help only a small percentage of those affected. But the elderly, now more involved in society, are no longer complacent about accepting poor vision as a part of aging. They demand, quite rightfully, that all possible steps be taken to improve their vision. Therefore, we should evaluate the eyes of these frustrated persons as thoroughly as possible. Granted, a large percentage of these patients can be brought only to low levels of visual acuity with laser photocoagulation; nonetheless, even a small improvement by low­vision aids in that salvaged vision may mean much to the patients. It can make a world of difference in their lives, enabling them to be independent, self-supporting members of society, or to enjoy the pleasures of retirement. Traditionally, retina surgeons have striven to improve techniques and instrumentation to achieve better anatomic results. Now we are approaching a second equally important milestone in retinal care, which involves improving functional results in desperate cases. We feel that our obligation does not end with a reattached retina, a vitreous cleared of chronic hemorrhage, or a macular condition arrested or improved. The orthopedic surgeon does not perform a hip procedure and then consider patient management completed. He calls in a team of physiotherapists to teach the patient how to make the repaired hip function optimally. Similarly, we must realize that where our treatment ends, low-vision evaluation should begin. New vitreoretinal surgical techniques can take the patient only so far. The ophthalmologists must encourage him further along the next step in a continuum of eye care which involves a comprehensive study of retinal function, a low-vision assessment to determine visual needs and desires, followed by the prescription of low-vision aids, then mobility training, and social and vocational rehabilitation. Why should ophthalmologists take on this added responsibility of overseeing care? Without question ophthalmologists are best fitted to assume this leadership role inasmuch as they can diagnose and define which patients may benefit from surgery, photocoagulation, medical therapy, or low-vision aids. They are equipped to oversee total eye care and to follow ocular conditions most knowledgeably. Now more than ever, the ophthalmologist should promote, stimulate, and support the establishment of multidisciplinary Low­vision Clinics. Here the ophthalmologist, the optometrist specializing in Low­vision, the optical engineer, the social worker and the visual aid therapist must work as a team to give the patient maximum use of remaining vision. ***** ** Reese Robrahn to Broaden Efforts On Behalf of Handicapped Persons Reese H. Robrahn, Director of Research and Governmental Affairs for the American Council of the Blind since 1976, was recently named Executive. Director of Indices, Inc., of Falls Church, Virginia. The appointment was the culmination of a six-months, nationwide search. Indices, Inc., was founded in 1972 as a not-for-profit corporation engaged in activities to improve the quality of life for handicapped individuals. Current projects include job placement activities for partially sighted persons and research relative to leisure time activities for the developmentally disabled. A future project will involve a community block grant with Arlington County, Virginia, to demonstrate how to make existing housing accessible to handicapped people. Another possible demonstration project would be to develop a center for handicapped citizens in Arlington County to coordinate and act as a referral service, identifying and implementing services not currently provided. "We will direct our energies toward the provision of services to handicapped persons whose special needs have not been addressed, such as independent living services for severely handicapped individuals, older blind persons, and individuals with developmental disabilities," Reese said. Reese Robrahn has been involved in the establishment and development of social service programs and legislation for blind and visually impaired persons for well over 25 years. A charter member of the American Council of the Blind, he served as ACB president from 1966 to 1972. During his tenure, several of ACB's special-interest affiliates were organized, including the Randolph­Sheppard Vendors of America, Visually Impaired Secretarial Transcribers Association, Visually Impaired Data Processors International, National Association of Blind Teachers, and American Blind Lawyers Association (of which he has been an officer and active member). A native of Kansas, he served as Coffee County Attorney from 1946 to 1948, and later for eight years as Shawnee County Magistrate Court Judge in Topeka. Currently, he is vice president of the National Accreditation Council for Agencies Serving the Blind and Visually Handicapped and a member of the Board of Trustees of the American Foundation for the Blind. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the American Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities, and serves on the Executive Committee of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights. This well-deserved professional advancement for Reese represents a distinct gain for Indices, Inc., and a great loss for ACB -- a loss, that is, insofar as his full­time services as an ACB staff member are concerned. "The fact that I am changing jobs," says Reese, however, "does not mean that my efforts on behalf of the American Council and handicapped people generally will be lessened in any way. I will continue to actively seek legislation to bring about inclusion of handicapped people in all civil rights laws, and I fully intend to continue with the associations and relationships that I have built up these past three years with the American Council of the Blind." ***** ** Rehabilitation Compromise -- A Challenge for 1979 Most of us had supposed that the collective efforts of many had persuaded President Carter to sign the Rehabilitation Amendments of 1979 notwithstanding to advice to veto which came from the Office of Management and Budget. This legislation contains many progressive and remedial. provisions, and we were all immensely relieved and encouraged by their enactment. The letter printed below, addressed to U.S. Senator Harrison A. Williams, Jr., Chairman of the Committee on Human Resources, indicates that our work is not finished. Our collective efforts will be required to meet the challenge of the apparent compromise set forth in this letter. With respect to appropriations for the new programs in Title VI and Title VII of the Act, our efforts will be directed to the House and Senate subcommittees on Labor-HEW appropriations early in 1979. Your help will be needed too. For a summary of the provisions in Titles VI and VII, see items 16 through 20 in Reese Robrahn's article, "Summary of Major Provisions of the Rehabilitation Amendments of 1978," in this issue of The Braille Forum. Since all authorizations for existing rehabilitation programs expired in 1978, there has been no regular appropriation for rehabilitation for 1979. Accordingly, we must work diligently for a supplemental appropriation for all rehabilitation purposes. In short, we must confront the Congress to assure the implementation of this law in our unceasing effort to advance the well-being of handicapped Americans. THE WHITE HOUSE Washington November 17, 1978 Dear Chairman Williams: On November 6, the President signed H.R. 12467, Amendments to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. As we indicated, he would not have done so without the assurances I conveyed to him that you would support modification of key features of the bill during the next Congress. Early next year, the Administration will send legislation to the Congress incorporating the following modifications that you approved or your staff approved on your behalf: 1. Repeal of the provisions in H.R. 12467 indexing program funding to the consumer price index. 2. Repeal of the provisions excluding Rehabilitation Act programs from the Joint Funding Simplification Act. 3. Repeal of the provision prohibiting states from appealing to federal district courts when the federal government finds their plans to be not in compliance with the Act. 4. Assurance that these 1978 Amendments did not take away existing authority of the Circuit Courts of Appeal to stay the withholding of funds in a state plan is under appeal on the issue of compliance. 5. A provision ensuring that the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board does not have a majority of new public members. This provision should be along the lines of the original Senate bill which establishes a fifteen-member Architectural Board with ten government members, each having 1/2 vote. Instead of six non-government members as m the Senate bill the Board will have five such members, each with a full vote. Therefore, the Board will have a five-to-five voting split. The President reaffirms his support for strong public participation on the Board. Moreover, you have agreed not to seek funding next year for the new programs in Title VI and Title VII of the bill, except that you will support up to $2 million for independent living services in FY 1979 and up to a $10 million appropriation for Title VII programs in FY 1980. Your willingness to compromise has made it possible for the President to sign this important legislation. He shares your view that conciliation is far superior to confrontation where the well­being of handicapped Americans is at stake. Very truly yours, Frank Moore Assistant to the President for Congressional Liaison ***** ** Handicapped Executives Eligible For Unique Presidential Exchange If you are a middle manager with a proven record of management ability, significant on-the-job accomplishment, and a high intellectual capacity, you may be eligible to take part in a unique one-year job exchange program which can provide valuable management development experience. Over 450 highly qualified executives have participated in the President's Executive Interchange program since it was established by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The President's Executive Interchange Program seeks fast-paced, self-motivated executives with clear top-management potential. Qualified minority, handicapped, and women applicants are actively sought. Though not on a one-for-one direct exchange, the program places high potential middle managers from business, industry, and higher education in senior-level Government posts, while simultaneously placing promising Government executives in responsible private sector positions. "First-hand exposure to the operations and decision-making processes of the opposite sector provides the executives with a valuable opportunity for management development and professional growth during the important middle period of their careers," according to Lee Cassidy, Executive Director of the President's Commission on Personnel Interchange, which administers the program. An extensive education program is an important part of the interchange experience. Five days of seminars start off the year, acquainting the participants with the issues and problems affecting both sectors. Throughout the year, executives sit in on Congressional sessions, attend informal meetings with Senators, Cabinet officers, agency heads, members of the Washington press corps, and many other key national figures. In the middle of the year, a ten-day International Study Seminar is held in Brussels, Paris, Bonn and Berlin, where the executives meet with senior officials of various governments and discuss political and economic alliances, along with trade and military pacts. "In achieving its objectives, the program provides the nation with a cadre of promising individuals in both sectors who can be called upon in later years for Government advisory posts and important appointive positions," says Cassidy. Nominations for the 1979-80 Interchange year are now being accepted. For further information, write to: President's Commission on Personnel Interchange, 1900 E. Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20415; phone (202) 632-6834. ***** ** Suit By Handicapped Accuses U.S. of Bias (Washington, Nov. 17, 1978 – UPI) Charging the Federal Government with discriminating against its own handicapped employees, the National Association of the Deaf filed a class action suit on November 17, challenging a Civil Service policy that denies many of the employees job security. The suit was brought on behalf of Edward N. Shirey, a deaf computer systems analyst who worked at the Goddard Space Flight Center for four years until his job was abolished last January. The suit challenges the longstanding Civil Service policy under which "excepted service" employees -- those hired without having to take normally required competitive examinations -- can be dismissed, demoted, or suspended without a hearing. Such employees are also limited in competing for promotions or getting transferred and are denied the right to be reassigned to new jobs if their old ones are abolished. The suit charged that the policy violated the 1973 Rehabilitation Act which forbids discrimination against Government employees on the basis of their handicap. The suit was filed in United States District Court for the District of Columbia. A 1977 Government survey said that there were 143,000 handicapped Federal Government workers. ***** ** Defunct National Eye Care Association Sues ALL According to a detailed article in the Des Moines Register of November 23, 1978, Iowa's new Senator, Roger Jepsen, has closed down operations of the National Eye Care Association. NECA had been offering insurance against the total loss of sight in a single incident. Jepsen, according to the article, is about to enter on a new profit-making enterprise in the supplying of eyeglasses. Within a week of his election to the U.S. Senate, NECA, which had Roger Jepsen listed as president and chairman of the board, entered suit for $10 million against ALL, the Affiliated Leadership League of and for the Blind of America, Inc. The article states, in part: Baltimore, Maryland -- A lawsuit filed in Federal District Court here indicates that the National Eye Care Association, a firm headed by Iowa Republican Senator-Elect Roger Jepsen, ceased operating two months prior to the election. The suit, brought by NECA against a Baltimore-based charitable organization, accuses several groups of conspiring to drive the firm out of business. It asks $10 million in damages. The lawsuit alleges the groups conspired against NECA because they were part of a "bitter, nationwide struggle" against Kenneth Jernigan, a Jepsen friend and business associate who formerly served as president of the NECA. The National Eye Care Association got started -- with much fanfare -- May, 1977. Jernigan, then the director of the Iowa Commission for the Blind, was president of the firm, which planned to sell insurance against total, accidental blindness, as well as other goods and services. The $75,000 insurance policy was to be sold through optometrists' offices. NECA was a wholly owned subsidiary of the Healthy Eyes Program Corporation, which Jepsen founded and headed. Jepsen, a former Iowa Lieutenant governor living in Davenport, was successful in raising more than $400,000 from 35 investors to start the Healthy Eyes Program Corporation. He continues to be the firm's "only operating officer," according to an aide, but he has announced plans to divest his interest in the business before he enters the Senate in January. Jernigan resigned as president of NECA in late 1977 and Jepsen assumed the post. Jernigan is president of the National Federation of the Blind. The suit alleges that when the organizations learned that Jernigan was president of NECA, "they erroneously concluded that NECA was a part of the National Federation of the Blind and consequently a part of the faction within the field of work with the blind against which (the organizations) had so long been opposed." The lawsuit, filed five days prior to the election, is the latest in a series of actions brought by Jepsen's firm. About one year ago, NECA sued the National Accreditation Council for Agencies Serving the Blind and Visually Handicapped Director, Richard Bleecker, for $10 million. In May, NECA filed suit against the American Foundation for the Blind, Inc., and its director, Loyal E. Apple, also for $10 million. Both earlier suits were filed in New York City. The latest suit was brought against the Affiliated Leadership League of and for the Blind of America (ALL), which describes itself as a non-profit coalition of 59 organizations "seeking to advance rights and services for all blind and visually impaired persons." The suit also charges that the Minneapolis Society for the Blind, Inc., and the Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind participated in the conspiracy to drive the NECA out of business ... Despite the fact that NECA has closed its doors, Jepsen has said that the parent company the Healthy Eyes Program Corporation, is a going concern. It has formed new subsidiaries, he said, and is embarking on a promotional campaign. One of the firm's new subsidiaries apparently is the American Consumer Eyeglass Service, Inc. (ACES), which is operated in Davenport at the same address and phone number used by NECA ... Jepsen had indicated earlier this year that NECA's business was troubled, but the lawsuit against ALL is the first public admission that the business had ceased operation. The lawsuit does not state in detail the reasons why NECA stopped doing business. In general terms, however, the suit claims that ALL and other organizations contacted optometrists, optometric associations, other businesses, and state regulatory agencies in an effort to "intentionally, maliciously and without legal justification" destroy the business. The suit against ALL charges that it violated the Sherman Anti-Trust Act, as well as other sections of the Federal Code, by conspiring to "coerce third parties from doing business" with NECA ... ***** ** Braille Authority Annual Meeting, 1978 At its annual meeting held in Washington, D.C., November 15-16, 1978, the Braille Authority of North America (BANA) elected as its chairman Floyd R. Cargill of Illinois, delegate from the American Council of the Blind. Other officers elected were: Vice Chairman -- Ralph McCracken, American Printing House for the Blind; Secretary -- Helen Perry, Canadian National Institute for the Blind; and Treasurer -- Margin Droege, Clovernook Home and School for the Blind. In attendance were delegates from the following member organizations: Library of Congress -- National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, American Association of Workers for the Blind, Clovernook Home and School for the Blind, American Council of the Blind, Association of Computing Machinery, Canadian National Institute for the Blind, National Braille Association, American Printing House for the Blind, and Association for Education of the Visually Handicapped. By by-law amendment, effective immediately, delegates from member organizations are to be appointed for three-year terms, with one-third to be appointed each year. A system of rotation was established by lot as follows: one-year term -- American Association of Workers for the Blind, National Library Service, and Association of Computing Machinery; two-year term -- Clovernook Home and School for the Blind, National Federation of the Blind, American Council of the Blind, and American Foundation for the Blind; three-year term -- National Braille Association, Canadian National Institute for the Blind, Association for Education of the Visually Handicapped, and American Printing House for the Blind. There will be no limit to the number of terms a delegate can serve. Board officers will be elected for one-year terms and will be limited to three consecutive terms in any one office. BANA will be working with the National Uniform Type Committee of the United Kingdom to explore the possibility of establishing a common literary braille code for the English language. As expressed by Frank Kurt Cylke, Chief, National Library Service, Library of Congress, the presence of two codes reduces the supply of books in braille for both the British and American braille reading public. BANA feels that it is vitally important to maximize the supply of braille books. At the present time, braille books produced in Britain present at least a small problem for the American braille reader. By eliminating this problem through a common literary braille code, the books produced in Britain would be a greater potential source of reading material in this country. BANA wants to take steps toward reducing the differences in practices of the two countries. At its spring meeting, BANA adopted a resolution expressing its desire to join the National Uniform Type Committee of the United Kingdom, to explore the possibility of devising a common literary braille code for the English language. The exploration should encompass both readability and computer implementation. A liaison committee has now been established to develop a plan for implementing that resolution. Richard Evensen (National Library Service) will act as chairman of that committee. The liaison committee will be known as the UK/US Committee and will be charged with the responsibility of identifying problems that may be encountered and a plan of procedure for handling them: How do we meet the costs of such a project? How do we exchange current research? How do we identify the real experts in various areas of the Braille Codes? How do we bring these experts together? What will be our approach to the entire project? How do we develop the machinery for future cooperative working relationships with another committee so far away? BANA has established two technical committees -- the Literary Braille Code Committee, with Dick Evensen as chairman, and the Braille Textbook Format Committee, with Ralph McCracken (American Printing House) as chairman. In addition, BANA recognizes the committees established by the Florida State University project as official technical committees. Those committees include music, mathematics, and computerization. These technical committees are charged with the responsibility of analyzing specific braille codes, answering technical questions in a particular field, researching any proposed changes, and making final recommendations for possible changes. Dick Evensen and Ralph McCracken visited the Florida State University project in late May, 1978 and reported a positive feeling of progress and mutual cooperation. Florida State University (Visual Disability Section, Division of Professional and Clinical Programs, College of Education) was awarded a grant by the U.S. Office of Education, Bureau for Education of the Handicapped, to conduct a project entitled, "Braille Code Standardization Project." Dr. Gideon R. Jones, Coordinator, Visual Disabilities, is the project director, and Marjorie Hooper is the Major Investigator. The project was formally initiated in October, 1976, and its completion is scheduled for September 30, 1979. Florida State University recognizes BANA as the official braille authority and provides quarterly reports to it. Tentative plans call for the next meeting of BANA to be held in mid-April or mid-May of 1979. Your questions, problems, and concerns about the braille system should be directed to the ACB delegate, Floyd R. Cargill, 216 W. Miller Street, Springfield, IL 62702. ***** ** ACB Affiliate News The 1978 convention of the Vermont Council of the Blind was held in Rutland, September 23. Following routine reports, President Al Nichols introduced Mrs. Jo Hess, Director, Special Services Division, Vermont State Library. Mrs. Hess outlined the many library services available to blind and visually impaired persons of the state and encouraged everyone to take advantage of such programs as recorded materials and large-type books. Large-type materials, she pointed out, can be circulated through the mail, as well as through local libraries. Luncheon speaker was Mary Ballard of Rochester, New York, editor of The Braille Forum. She reviewed the history and development of the American Council of the Blind and, concurrently, of The Braille Forum. She also spoke of how, if blind people of this country are to attain the goals to which they aspire, each and every individual, in his or her own way, must contribute to the cause. In essence, Mary's message in that regard was: No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. Jim Rogers of Wayland, Massachusetts, regional representative for Telesensory Systems, Inc., told of the many technological developments in which TSI is currently involved. He explained some of the devices which had been on display throughout the day. Vermont, he suggested, should be doing more than is being done in training people to utilize these aids, and blind people of the State are really being short-changed in this regard. Final speaker of the day was John Provost, outreach counselor for the Vermont Association of the Blind. John told of the many and varied services available to blind citizens of Vermont from the VAB, including orientation and mobility training, home teacher services, and low vision screening and counseling. ****** A recorded message from Oral Miller, President, American Council of the Blind, launched the third annual convention of the Aloha Council of the Blind, held at the Ala Moana Hotel, Honolulu. October 21, 1978. The all-day meeting was presided over by Coletta Whitcomb, President of the Aloha Council. Yoshiaki Nakamoto, who with several other delegates from Hawaii had attended the Salt Lake City ACB national convention, reported on their trip. With three outstanding speakers taking part, Mrs. Ann Ito conducted a panel discussion on "Blindness -- Some Causes and Effects (a Medical, Genetic, Psychological View)," which was most informative and stimulated great interest. Exploring the subject were Dr. Malcolm Ing, ophthalmologist, who discussed the mechanisms of blindness and some of its common causes and aids; Dr. Edward Hsia, Professor of Genetics at the University of Hawaii School of Medicine, who dealt with the benefits to be derived from the study of genetics through discovery of reoccurring patterns of defective genes in families and, through genetic counseling, the ability to make choices toward avoidance or correction of potential problems. Dr. William Tsushima, a clinical psychologist, examined the evolving attitudes of the sighted majority toward the blind minority, citing cases and prevailing attitudes from ancient through modern times. All three speakers demonstrated. a profound respect for the dignity and sanctity of human life, a dynamic dedication to their respective professions, compassion, and a sense of humor. U.S. Congressman Cecil Heftel expressed satisfaction in ACB's participation in community affairs and stressed the need for legislators to know what is needed to aid handicapped persons in achieving their potential. U.S. Senator Spark Matsunaga reported on a bill to (1) extend reading for the blind, and (2) authorize rehabilitation services to older persons. Consultation as to how these provisions can best be utilized will take place between Congress and groups like the Aloha Council. George Fogarty, member of the ACB Board of Directors, spoke from his long years of experience at the California School for the Blind in Oakland. The importance and effectiveness of organized effort was stressed. He emphasized the great value of the American Council, as through group effort only can common objectives be realized. A panel discussion led by Leonard Withington, Aloha Council director and assistant to the president of the Hawaii Chamber of Commerce, dealt with "Employment of Handicapped Persons." The panelists were in agreement that though much has been accomplished since the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, much still remains to be done, especially in the area of educating potential employers, both private and government, as to the abilities and qualifications which abound among the handicapped. Members of the Aloha Council provided a musical program. John Dillon, master of ceremonies, received honors for his work as editor of the newsletter. Officers elected at the close of the convention are: President, Coletta Whitcomb; First Vice President, Howard Nunn; Second Vice President, Yoshiaki Nakamoto; Recording Secretary, Elvira McCarthy; Corresponding Secretary, Dr. Lillian Holcomb; and Treasurer, Donald Doi. ***** ** Here and There By Elizabeth M. Lennon ACB President Oral Miller was among recipients of a certificate for completing a course in sailing given by the American National Red Cross in Washington, D.C. Each blind participant in the course rigged a small sloop by setting the sails and lines, and did most of the handling of the boat once it was under way. An experienced, sighted sailor accompanied each student at all times. Some of the students had never been in a sailboat before, but all became competent in the basic functions of small boat handling during the course. The Newsletter of the National Association of Blind Teachers reports that the State of Arkansas is seeking applicants for the position of coordinator and ten counselors to monitor implementation of Public Law 94-142 throughout the state. Those interested should contact J.M. Woolly, Superintendent, Arkansas School for the Blind, 2600 W. Markham Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72203. From AFB NEWSLETTER: This year, for the first time, the AFB's catalog, "Aids and Appliances for the Blind and Visually Impaired," contains a special section listing some 45 new products. One such product is a Braille Tapewriter which embosses braille on 3/8 or 1/2 inch vinyl or magnetic tape; also, a "Talking" Alarm Clock, a "Talking" Multi-Purpose Thermometer, an Audable Ball new desk and travel alarm clocks, a Low-Vision Timer, and others. Free catalogs are available in print or braille from the American Foundation for the Blind, Aids and Appliances Division, 15 W. 16th Street, New York, NY 10011. From TRENDLETTER: Three years ago, Attorney Morton Feldman, a long­time volunteer worker for the blind, drove the first nail for his "Braille Trail." The trail consists of a long line of metal markers one-quarter inch thick, nailed to every fourth board of the Atlantic City Board Walk, running parallel to the Board Walk's hand railing. The blind feel their way along the line until they reach a cluster of markers at the end of each block. There a coded band of stainless-steel rings on the railing reveals the block number. As soon as funds plans permit, Feldman plans to mount braille placards giving further information such as Resorts International, Gino's Restaurant, etc. The 1979-80 U.S. Blind Correspondence Chess Championship tournament, sponsored by the U.S. Blind Chess Association, will begin during March, 1979. Anyone wishing to compete may obtain full information by contacting (in braille) Gintautas Burba, 30 Snell Street, Brockton, MA 02401. Nine new inspirational titles in large print have been added to the G.K. Hall & Co. collection for Fall, 1978, bringing to more than fifty the number of titles currently available. For a catalog, write G.K. Hall & Co., 70 Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111. From RECORDING FOR THE BLIND NEWSLETTER: During the school year 1977-78, one out of every six borrowers of RFB materials had disabilities other than blindness. Most common were dyslexia, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and quadriplegia. The RFB Master Tape Library currently contains more than 42,000 titles and is the largest free circulating library of educational textbooks in the world. RFB services are available not only to the blind, but also to the perceptually and physically handicapped. For further information, write Recording for the Blind, 215 E. 58th Street, New York, NY 10022. From VIEWS AND VENTURES (Virginia Commission for the Visually Handicapped): Mrs. Juha S. Zozaya of Phoenix, Arizona, has been named runner-up for the 1978 "Handicapped Professional Woman of the Year." She is legally blind and is particularly active in organizations with Mexican Americans and older people and is employed in the Special Programs Office of the Arizona Department of Economic Security. The award is co-sponsored by the President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped Pilot Club International, and Sears, Roebuck & Co. From VISUALLY HANDICAPPED VIEWS (South Dakota Association of the Blind): "Key to the Keys for the Visually Handicapped" is a unique, self-taught piano method slanted toward adolescents and older beginners, who easily learn familiar tunes with left-hand chords from the first lessons, advancing to arrangements beyond the elementary level. The course is available on four C60 cassettes from Music Section, National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress, 1291 Taylor Street, Washington, DC 20542. From MOBILITY ON WHEELS: The Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company has available stick-on dial plates with half-inch-high numbers for customers who have restricted vision. Robert Berry, local manager, said the circular plastic plates have a special adhesive backing and fit on a telephone set under the dial. They easily side on standard rotary-dial desk or rotary-dial wall telephones and are only usable on these two models. The special plates are available free from C & P's Telephone Service Center for Disabled People in Washington, D.C. The Center, serving C & P customers in Washington, Virginia and Maryland, was established to help telephone customers who need special telephone services because of hearing, speech, vision, or motion impairment. The Center also helps customers with requests for directory assistance, information, and special telephone equipment orders. From JOURNAL OF VISUAL IMPAIRMENT AND BLINDNESS: People with low vision often have difficulty writing on small surfaces such as checks. Faculty members at the University of Louisville School of Medicine have come up with a simple solution to the problem -- a clip-on eyeglass loupe attached to a fine-point felt pen. The clip is bent slightly to provide a direct line of sight to the pen tip. For more information, write G. M. Hope, Ph.D., Department of Ophthalmology, Kentucky Lions Eye Research Institute, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 301 E. Walnut Street, Louisville, Ky 40202. From CALIFORNIA REHAB: Momentum Talent Management (MTM), a theatrical and talent agency specializing exclusively in furthering artistic careers of the physically disabled, has been formed. Actors, comedians, authors, athletes, artists, and other talented disabled people will be promoted for their abilities, not their disabilities, by the agency. It is believed to be the first of its kind. MTM's president and founder is Bonnie T. Schachter, who has had wide experience in travel for the handicapped. The initial business thrust, according to Ms. Schachter, will be toward television, newspapers, and the movie industry. For further information, contact Mark Gordon, Momentum Talent Management, 228 E. 89th Street, New York, NY 10028; phone (212) 876- 3442. Herbert P. Douglas, 91, the oldest living graduate of the Seeing Eye, and probably the oldest dog guide user in the United States, died recently. Mr. Douglas obtained his first dog in 1930 in a pilot class conducted by G. William Debetas in Pittsburgh, Mr. Douglas's hometown. Over the years, he obtained five more dogs. He trained with his last dog, Ista, at the age of 89. The Hilton Hotel, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, will be the site of the 15th national conference of the National Braille Association, Inc., May 14-17. Co­hosts for the conference will be the Bower Hill Braillists Foundation and the Rodef Shalom Temple Sisterhood. Scheduled are 35 workshops in all media -- braille, large-type, and tape. These include one on teaching the Nemeth Code and one on "screening" the Nemeth Code, designed for those who are considering studying the Code and wish to know what is involved. Complete information may be obtained from Mrs. Warren S. Cook, Conference Chairman, 645 Arden Lane, Pittsburgh, PA 15243. The National Football League Charities Foundation made a presentation of a $10,000 check to Arthur E. Copeland, President of the U.S. Association for Blind Athletes, between halves of the Dallas Cowboys versus the Washington Redskins game on Thanksgiving Day at Dallas. The presentation was made by Dallas quarterback Roger Staubach, who also serves on the National Advisory Committee of the USABA. The presentation was carried on CBS television. The Rite-Line Copyholder, a product of Rite-Line Corporation, 9107A Gaither Road, Gaithersburg, MD 20760, comes equipped with a telescopic eyeguide. The eyeguide can be moved up one, two, or three spaces with a touch of the finger on the space bar. The device accommodates copy of any width, from a machine tape to 20 inches. The Copyholder sells for $42.95. Rite-Line also has available line magnifiers of 11, 15, and 20 inches in length. From NLS NEWS (National Library Service): A Dictionary of Braille Music Signs, by Bettye Krolick, will be published by the National Library Service in 1979, in braille and large print. The dictionary will be an unparalleled reference work for braille music readers. Currently, there are only transcription manuals which deal with transposing print music into braille, not with determining the meaning of unfamiliar braille symbols. The main portion of the dictionary will consist of braille music signs, arranged in the standard order for the braille literary code, followed by definitions ranging from the most common to the least common usage. There will also be descriptive sections on braille music format, fundamentals of braille music, and history of the braille music code. ***** ** ACB Officers * President: Oral O. Miller, 3701 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 236, Washington, DC 20008 * First Vice President: Delbert K. Aman, 115 Fifth Avenue, S.E., Aberdeen, SD 57401 * Second Vice President: Dr. Robert T. McLean, 2139 Joseph Street, New Orleans, LA 70115 * Secretary: M. Helen Vargo, 833 Oakley Street, Topeka, KS 66606 * Treasurer: James R. Olsen, 6211 Sheridan Avenue, S., Minneapolis, MN 55423 ** Contributing Editors George Card 605 S. Few Street Madison, WI 53703 Elizabeth Lennon 1315 Greenwood Avenue Kalamazoo, MI 49007 ###