Large Type Edition

The Braille Forum
Vol. XIX June, 1981 No. 12

ACB 1981 National Convention
St. Louis, Missouri, July 5-11

ACB Sponsors First National Legislative Seminar
(See Report from the President)

Published Monthly by the American Council of the Blind 
Mary T. Ballard, Editor

*****

National Office:
Durward K. McDaniel
National Representative 
1211 Connecticut Avenue, N.W. 
Suite 506 
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 833-1251

Editor, The Braille Forum:
Mary T. Ballard
190 Lattimore Road
Rochester, NY 14620 
(716) 244-8364

** Contributing Editors

George Card 
605 South Few Street
Madison, WI 53703

Elizabeth Lennon 
1315 Greenwood Avenue
Kalamazoo, MI 49007

** 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 
Summit Bank Bldg., Suite 822
310 4th Avenue, S.
Minneapolis, MN 54415

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

ACB Officers

Report from the ACB President, Oral O. Miller

ACB National Convention, 1981:
"Meet Me in St. Louis ... "
Braille Revival League
NABT Calling All Teachers!

Supreme Court Avoids a Decision in Camenisch, by Kathy Megivern

A Visit to Czechoslovakia, by Fred Krepela

The Archives Concluded:
Reflections After Twenty Years, by Durward K. McDaniel
The Archives Not Reprinted, by Christopher Gray

Reagan Budget Wins First Skirmish, by Kathy Megivern

Let Your Camera Do the Seeing

Evaluation of RSA Program for Blind and Visually Handicapped Persons

It's the Middle Name That's Really Important: the ACB Service Network, by Vernon Henley

The News Reel Club

LCCR Hosts 31st Annual Meeting

Amana Helps Open Microwave Cooking World to Visually Impaired

ACB Affiliate News:
ACB Parents President to Deliver Paper in Israel
Caring, Sharing, Daring! NDAB Summer Camp Program, by Doranna Robertson
Green Mountain Vendors Join RSVA
Utah Council 1981 Convention, by Tom Mitchell
News Notes from Wisconsin, by Dorothy Brown

Here and There, by Elizabeth M. Lennon

Notice to Subscribers

*****

** Report from the ACB President
Oral O. Miller

"It was much more interesting and more successful than we ever expected it to be!" "It exceeded all expectations!" "When will the next one take place?" Those were representative comments and reactions by many of the ACB members who have just taken part in the first ACB national legislative seminar, held in Washington, D.C., from Tuesday, May 12, through Thursday, May 14, 1981. The double purposes of the seminar were to better educate ACB members concerning the Federal legislative process and to vigorously bring to the attention of Congress the views of the American Council of the Blind concerning very timely legislative subjects. To those ends, approximately 60 ACB members, from almost all the ACB state affiliates and many of the key Congressional districts, were invited to the three-day seminar.

The first day was devoted to presentations about the Federal legislative process, tactics to be used in conferring with Congressmen, and approximately a dozen substantive issues (such as block grant funding of services for the handicapped, fair employment, fair housing, Social Security, tax incentives for employers of the handicapped, minimum wage, and voting rights). Each participant spent the second day, Wednesday, calling upon pre-selected Senators and Congressmen to discuss our position on the subjects with which each key Congressional committee is involved. While it was not possible or desirable to try to visit all 535 Senators and Representatives, most of the participants called upon at least three Congressmen during the day, gave them our position, discussed the issues, and left written statements of position with them. We operated from a base in the Rayburn House Office Building, and participants usually returned to that base for a short rest while preparing to keep the next appointment. However, several took advantage of the opportunity to sit in on deliberations in either the House of Representatives or the Senate. Wednesday evening and part of Thursday were devoted to reporting on the visits, evaluating the seminar, and planning future legislative and related action.

While we know realistically that the blind may not have the political power necessary to sidetrack the "block grant" system being proposed by the Reagan Administration for funding many services, we are positive that this seminar as well as future action on our part will have a material bearing on the funding system eventually used. Recorded and print copies of the position papers referred to above may be obtained by contacting the ACB National Office.

During the first week of May, 1981, it was my pleasure to attend and take part in the meeting of the Executive Committee of the World Council for the Welfare of the Blind, held in Gothenburg, Sweden. The International Federation of the Blind held its Executive Committee meeting in the same hotel that week, and then both executive committees took part in a joint session. While the pace of business in international meetings is somewhat slower than the pace to which we are accustomed in the U.S.A., several potentially important decisions were made during the WCWB Executive Committee meeting. For example, the Executive Committee, which consisted of approximately 35 members, recommended to the next international assembly a constitutional amendment which would require that at least 50 percent of the members of each national delegation shall come from organizations of the blind (as contrasted with organizations for the blind). The committee decided, also that the next international assembly, scheduled to take place in 1984, will be held in the Middle East (either Jordan, Saudi Arabia, or Bahrain). Many veteran observers at the meeting stated that the recommendation concerning the makeup of national delegations should have been made at least fifteen years ago. Although I was not the chairman of the international committee which had made many recommendations concerning proposed amendments, I was called upon to deliver the report in the absence of the chairman. In the process, it was my lot to receive the vigorous objections to some of the proposals and to have to "take the heat" in behalf of the committee.

Because of a very crowded meeting schedule during the WCWB Executive Committee meeting, we had very few opportunities to see Gothenburg or to learn a great deal about services for the blind in Sweden. We did, however, have a chance to visit a low vision clinic connected with the Saul Grenska Hospital. Although we did not see many low vision aids that we had not seen before, we were very favorably impressed by the extent to which Sweden is dedicated to the use of low vision clinics. It is the goal of the National Health Insurance Plan to establish one such clinic for every 300,000 people in the country. And to think that many American cities with populations in the millions have one such clinic each! Another service which we found interesting was the daily taped newspaper which was delivered to the hotel each evening at approximately 5:00 P.M. Although such a newspaper cannot compete, in my opinion, with a well-run radio reading service, it can help fill the information gap which many blind people experience.

It is my difficult task to report that as of July 1, 1981, our national staff attorney for the past three years, Kathleen Megivern, will leave our staff to accept a position as Executive Director of the American Association of Workers for the Blind. While we are pleased that Kathy will be able to advance her career in accepting the position, we are genuinely sorry to lose her. She goes to her new position with our best wishes for success and happiness. I am pleased to be able to announce, however, that she will continue to record The Braille Forum and to submit articles.

*****

** ACB National Convention, 1981

* "Meet Me in St. Louis … "

Seventy-seven years ago, in 1904, the year of the World's Fair in St. Louis, everyone was singing: "Meet me in St. Louis, Louis; Meet me at the fair." Today, 77 years later, the theme song again is: "Meet Me in St. Louis ..." The 1981 ACB Convention Host Committee and the Missouri Federation of the Blind wish to extend to each and every member of the American Council of the Blind a cordial invitation to join us in St. Louis at the Chase-Park Plaza Hotel, the week of July 5-11.

Plans for the ACB convention and for the annual conferences and special seminars of its 16 special-interest affiliates and organizations are in the final stages of completion. In addition to their conferences, the special­interest organizations have scheduled ten breakfasts as well as luncheons and banquets. Five other social events are in store throughout the week, along with six tours or shows for the pleasure and entertainment of conventioneers. And, speaking of shows, we are pleased to announce that the two shows which will be playing at the Muni Opera during Convention Week are "George M." and "Camelot." At the time of this writing, 25 to 30 exhibitors have requested space.

By now, each of you should have received your pre-registration packets and returned the information forms as directed. The pre-registration process is arranged to make it more convenient for both conventioneers and the host affiliate to deal efficiently with the many details involved. With your cooperation, much of the work can be done in advance and you will not have to stand in line to register, purchase tickets, and the like.

It is the hope of the Convention Host Committee to have enough volunteers to meet conventioneers at the airport, Amtrak, and bus station. These volunteers will assist you with luggage and escort you to limousines or cab stands. Limousine service from the airport costs $5.50 per person and cabs more than double that amount. So three people can share a cab as economically as they can take the limousine. Cab fare from Amtrak to the hotel is approximately $5.50 and about $8.00 from the bus station.

Don't forget that the Missouri Federation is hosting a welcoming party on Sunday evening, July 5. There will be a cash bar at 7:00 P.M., with a show starring Bill Benson, a local night club entertainer, beginning at 8:00. There is no charge for the show.

It has been a long time since October, 1978, when the Missouri Federation of the Blind voted at its state convention to invite ACB to St. Louis for its 20th birthday. At Grand Rapids, our invitation was accepted, and the Host Committee enthusiastically went to work to make plans. Now these plans are almost finished, and we look forward with much enthusiasm to welcoming each of you. "Meet Me in St. Louis …" -- The words are as sincere today as they were in 1904, and they express the same heartwarming invitation.

* Braille Revival League

Is the use of braille declining? Is the teaching of braille emphasized less in our schools? Is the educational level of blind youth diminished because of the neglect of braille? Are blind people who cannot use braille just as illiterate as sighted people who cannot read or write print?

These points have been alleged so often and by so many people that it is time to search methodically for objective evidence to substantiate or disprove them. A group of people will meet on Tuesday night, July 7, at 8:00 P.M., during the American Council of the Blind convention to discuss braille and its importance to blind people. All who are interested in promoting the use and teaching of braille and the production of materials in braille are invited to participate.

Consideration will be given to the formation of an organization or a procedure for taking action on any recommendations coming out of the deliberation. Such an organization might be called the Braille Revival League (BRL). Join us in St. Louis.

* NABT Calling All Teachers!

The National Association of Blind Teachers is planning an informative program for its upcoming annual conference July 5-7 in St. Louis. A tour of the Missouri School for the Blind has been scheduled for Monday, July 6. Cost of the trip (including a box luncheon and bus transportation) is $6.00 per person. A highlight of the program on Tuesday morning, July 7, will be a panel entitled "Radio Reading Service, an Extension of Rehabilitation Teaching." Mr. Floyd Cargill of Springfield, Illinois, will serve as moderator. Monday and Tuesday afternoons will feature presentations by outstanding leaders in the field of education.

This is an election year for NABT, so it is vital that all members be present. Teachers who are not now members of NABT are urged to join.

*****

** Supreme Court Avoids a Decision in Camenisch
By Kathy Megivern

In a dazzling display of its ability to sidestep any issue, great or small, the Supreme Court announced its "opinion" in the case of University of Texas v. Camenisch on April 29, 1981. Using a procedural technicality, the Court found that the major issue before them was "moot," and, therefore, they sent the case back to the District Court. When the Court uses the term "moot," it means that the issue is no longer a question because circumstances have intervened.

The facts leading to this determination are as follows: When Walter Camenisch sued the University of Texas because of its refusal to provide a sign language interpreter, he asked the District Court for a preliminary injunction. This is a legal order requiring the University to provide the interpreter. The District Court ordered such an injunction and the University immediately appealed. Thus, there was never a trial on the merits because the issue became the appropriateness of the injunction itself. Before the case reached the Supreme Court, the University fulfilled the conditions of the injunction and provided an interpreter so that Camenisch could finish his studies and graduate. While the Supreme Court could easily have chosen to deal with the substantive issues of the case, the Justices decided instead to avoid the problem by relying on the technicality that it was the injunction itself being challenged and thus there remained no issue on that point, since the injunction had been complied with.

The effect of the Supreme Court's decision is that the case returns to the District Court, where all of the original questions will now be addressed. Even though the University provided the interpreter, they still maintain that there was no responsibility for them to do so, and it will be up to the District Court to decide who must pay the bill for the interpreter, services. 

While it is frustrating for everyone involved to have the case left unsettled after all the time and expense of a Supreme Court appeal, there is good reason to suspect that if the Court had issued an opinion, it may have been extremely negative for handicapped people. The questions asked by the Justices at the oral argument on this case indicated some serious misunderstandings of the nature of Section 504. Rather than viewing the interpreter services as a right assured under Section 504, several of the Justices were concerned about the financial status of Mr. Camenisch and his ability to pay for an interpreter on his own. They seemed to be implying that Section 504 requires such actions only if a handicapped person cannot afford to pay for them on his own. There is, of course, no financial means test applied to other civil rights issues, and their desire to consider Camenisch's income before deciding what his rights were disturbing, indeed.

Perhaps the most serious implication that the Court would have ruled negatively comes from the brief concurring opinion filed by Chief Justice Warren Burger. The way he poses the question can leave little doubt as to his opinion of the Section 504 regulations and the obligations imposed by them:

"It is undisputed that the University stood willing to permit respondent to have a sign language interpreter present in the classroom at respondent's expense, and in fact had allowed that for some time prior to the filing of this lawsuit. It is also undisputed that the University's refusal to pay for an interpreter was based solely on the fact that respondent did not meet the University's established income criteria for financial assistance to graduate students.

"The Court's opinion, of course, is not to be read as intimating that the respondent has any likelihood of success on the merits of his claim. The Court holds no more than that, since, there has been no trial, respondent has a right to present evidence in support of his claim. The trial court must, among other things, decide whether the Federal regulations at issue which go beyond the carefully worded non-discrimination provision of Section 504, exceed the powers of the Department of Health and Human Services under Section 504. The Secretary has no authority to rewrite the statutory scheme by means of regulations" (citations omitted).

*****

** A Visit to Czechoslovakia (Bohemia)
By Fred Krepela

Most of you have probably read in George Card's "Here and There" column in the February Braille Forum about my trip to Czechoslovakia, where both of my parents were born. Here are a few more highlights.

It was an individual trip; not a conducted tour. The reason it took me so long to make the trip was because I agonized on whether a blind person with no light perception could do it. Another deterrent was that I had never met the relatives and I was sure they knew nothing about blindness. The most difficult decision was to make up my mind to go. Once I had made this determination, I bought my airline ticket, and when this was done, everything seemed to fall into place and all of my worries evaporated.

I found a Salemite who was also going to Czechoslovakia, and he promised to help me through the Czech customs and the U.S. customs on the return trip. While in Europe, I was to be entirely on my own. I can speak the Czech language quite fluently, and I used it entirely during my visit, although many of the store clerks and public officials can also converse in English.

I took a small tape recorder with me, and I was never questioned about using it in any part of the country. I actually used the tape recorder in the customs office, recording sound effects and conversation. At the customs office, it seemed I was treated like a VIP, which I am not, I used the tape recorder in the police station in Kutna Hora. (All visitors to Czechoslovakia must register at a police station. This is done for their own protection; in case of emergency, the police could notify friends or relatives.)

I used the tape recorder when I visited Jarmila Krivanona, the Czech national librarian. She informed me their library also distributes talking books and records for the blind. This was a most interesting visit for both of us, and I believe it could have lasted all day had I the time to spend.

Another visit was with Jan Dertina of the Czech National Blind Association. Here we exchanged talking book records. I took him some magazines, including The Braille Forum, and he gave me some Czech music recordings. We also had an interesting time comparing our retinitis pigmentosa problems as well as our respective work in visually handicapped activities.

Another interesting visit was with amateur radio operators. On one of those visits with a ham, Joseph, OK1AQM, he stated over their Czech frequency that he had a visitor, "Fred Krepela, W7WTM, from Salem, Oregon, U.S.A." The ham he contacted repeated my name and call and hoped I would have a good time in his country.

All the time I was there I stayed with relatives -- all the way from living in the country, with the old-fashioned outhouse, to a modern home with central heating, electric and gas ranges, garage, and a beautiful flower and vegetable garden, to a fine first-class apartment in the central part of Praha, the Czech capital.

One of my relatives who is an engineer in one of the commune farms took me in his personal car well over 1,000 miles, including a 250-mile round trip to Brno, Moravia, which is one of the states in Czechoslovakia. He refused to accept any expense money for petrol, food, and other incidental expenses. So when I left, I packaged my little tape recorder and gave it to his sister to give to him when my plane was in the air.

I found the Czech people to be happy and carefree, thoroughly enjoying life. There was plenty of most food in the country, and stores were well stocked with all kinds of merchandise. Czechs may retire at age 60, and I think they receive a fair social security. One of my relatives, a farm worker, receives around $100 equivalent in U.S. money every month as her pension. This is delivered by the postman, and she has to sign for it. Gasoline (petrol) is expensive. Roads are very modern, with off-ramps to cities and frequent rest stops. The forests are like parks, and the rivers and lakes seem to be very clean.

I also visited the birthplace of my parents and probably walked on the same ground they did when they were young.

Among the souvenirs I brought back was an eight-day striking clock which has a nice double chime on the half hour and strikes the hours. I had to baby-sit the clock all the way home, as no airline would accept it in their baggage compartment for fear of breakage.

Another specific item of interest was my visit to the Presidential Palace grounds. On the grounds was a plaque stating that in 900 A.D., Bohemia built an international school for the blind on this location. At that time, it was only the second school for the blind in Europe. One of my relatives read the plaque to me. Of course, there is nothing left of the school now.

Other interesting visits were made to the Presidential Palace, to the Charles Bridge, with its many statues, to the Lydec Castle, and to the Orlay clock, which when striking has mechanical characters that dance, bow, and wave.

I could never forget this wonderful trip. Everyone from public officials to store clerks, the general public, and my relatives all treated me as a VIP. In fact, if health and conditions permit, it is quite likely I will do it again.

*****

*** The Archives Concluded

** Reflections After Twenty Years
By Durward K. McDaniel

The Archives series has stimulated much curiosity about the turbulent years which preceded the founding of the American Council of the Blind. Many people have suggested that all of the issues of the Free Press should be re-issued. Perhaps they will be, and our files are rich with additional information, much of which will appear in the long-intended history of that era.

The decision to form ACB was made on July 7, 1961, the last day of the annual convention of the National Federation of the Blind. The political events of that convention have not been fully publicized, although some of them were dealt with in the last issue of the Braille Free Press, in September, 1961. I find that many people assume that those who would have reformed the NFB were a small, demoralized faction at its 1961 convention -- Not so! The reform faction's efforts had been effectively augmented by George Card's year-long campaign to rescue the Federation from its autocratic administration and thereby to restore unity to a badly divided organization. Jacobus tenBroek himself acknowledged the effectiveness of our reform efforts in his melodramatic, bitter resignation speech on the first day of the convention, when he referred to "the kind of force represented by the Free Press Association -- the kind of force which has reduced the NFB to the deplorable state of a corporate shell"; and said further that he stepped out "with discouragement that the large middle body of Federationists was not really prepared to face the issues squarely and return answers to the unavoidable questions; with the belief that I still have a substantial majority vote behind me personally in this organization, that many of those who would cast that vote on the conditions necessary to make progress possible would do so with serious reluctance; ..."

Certainly the tenBroek faction had a commanding majority of the Executive Committee. But the simple truth was that just prior to the 1961 convention, tenBroek could count upon only 20 votes out of a total of 49. Then, as now, each affiliate had one vote. Floyd Qualls, in his article, "Braille Free Press Association Votes to Dissolve," in the last issue of the Braille Free Press, summarized the final political events of the "civil war" thus:

In 1958 we saw the unrestrained public abuse of Dr. Burson and the censure of Illinois. 1959 brought the unprecedented and unconstitutional "purge" of three duly elected members of the Executive Committee. In 1960 came the suspension of six affiliates -- without notice, charges, or hearing -- and the second "purge" of the Executive Committee. ... In 1961 we saw the right of an affiliate to choose its own convention representative usurped when actions of the North Dakota and Alabama conventions were disregarded by the NFB Executive Committee. This gave the NFB administration two more votes. ...

In light of the above history, we must admit that our efforts to reform the NFB have failed. True, the advocates of reform have grown from a "disgruntled few" in 1958 to a majority in the Federation in 1961. However, because of suspensions and the usurpation of the rights of affiliates, the will of this majority could not express itself at Kansas City. If the votes of the six suspended states and those of North Dakota and Alabama had been added to the opposition, the outcome of every major policy decision at Kansas City would have been reversed.

In other words, the reform faction was legally entitled to 29 out of 49 votes, not 21 out of 43. Moreover, most of those who did vote to adopt the tenBroek proposals — which were deliberately cast in vague, general terms — did not realize how these decisions would be implemented. It is significant that the actual conditions for continued affiliation were not brought up before the convention, but were applied by the Executive Committee afterward. I am convinced that many of that "large middle body of Federationists" whose fervor was doubted by Jacobus tenBroek would not have gone along with the demands that affiliates restrict the rights of their officers and members and expel certain members as conditions of continued affiliation. These punitive conditions were made, and fifteen affiliates refused to accept them. They left the Federation, taking with them about 40 percent of the national membership. The political results of the 1961 convention and the realization that under no circumstances would the reform majority ever be able to express itself within the Federation led to the decision to form the American Council of the Blind.

** The Archives Not Reprinted
By Christopher Gray

Since November, 1979, The Braille Forum has been reprinting archival materials primarily from the Braille Free Press. With the tremendous growth in membership of the American Council of the Blind, it seemed likely that many people would be interested in learning about the historical and philosophical roots of the organization. In the various reprints, I have tried to cover both of these topics, as time, space, and availability of material would permit. The conclusion of this series comes at the 20th anniversary of the organization, which sprung from and profited by the historical events chronicled in these reprints.

Though ACB's 20th anniversary is a fitting time to bring this series to a close, it is done with the knowledge that many worthy items will not be included. However, a few of these articles are worthy of a brief comment. Earl Scharry's stinging critique of the policies of the tenBroek administration is perhaps most notable by its title, "The Brave New World of the Personality Cult." Durward McDaniel is typically known for his persuasive and diplomatic temperament. The uninitiated are allowed a brief glimpse of a more demanding and aggressive personality in "And We Shall Be Heard." In addition to her editorial duties for the Braille Free Press, the primary contribution of Aileen McDaniel was an article which presented a detailed expose of the financial condition of the National Federation of the Blind. Their financial statement of the previous year was rigorously scrutinized and itemized in over 20 braille pages. She concluded that the organization was perilously near bankruptcy. The truth of this conclusion was borne out by the cessation of publication of the Braille Monitor in October of 1960 and the reduction of other organizational activities. Also not reprinted are a myriad of resolutions and proposals which suggested ways in which the organization could again have been made representative and democratic.

As the 1961 convention drew near there was deep concern about the future of the NFB. Torn by its internal struggles and facing the reality of a near bankrupt treasury, stalled programs and divided loyalties, the future appeared dismal and bleak. The mood of many was apprehensive, with the knowledge that the time had come for final decision-making. In the June, 1961 issue of the Braille Free Press, George Card wrote: "... The time is growing very short. At Kansas City, we shall be at the crossroads and we must make a final choice. Let us choose the road that we can travel along together! Let us have an end to suspensions and to autocratic rule, and then let us have an end to bitterness and to recriminations. Let us, in a word, recapture our Federation and give it back to the membership. And then let us go forward once again toward the goals for which we organized." This hope of reconciliation and reunification was quickly dashed.

And so, to what end came this dedicated struggle? What were its primary accomplishments? As pointed out by Floyd Qualls in the final, September 1961 issue of the
Braille Free Press the magazine itself had been a great success. It had expressed a differing point of view. This had been one of the main purposes of the Free Press Association. Also, the magazine had succeeded where the Braille Monitor had failed, even though funding had been on a subscription and donation basis.

Internal reform of the NFB had been a different matter. Floyd Qualls reflected the mood of many in his final comment: "No one, I guess, likes to admit failure. Many of us are now convinced, however, that further efforts to reform the NFB would be futile. I know not what course others may choose, but I prefer to spend my time and energies in more constructive areas." As ACB members know, he has done precisely that. The vehicle through which such constructive endeavors were to be continued and new ventures undertaken was the American Council of the Blind.

The goals and the methods for achieving these "constructive endeavors" are best exemplified by the first president of the American Council of the Blind, Ned E. Freeman. Born in 1902, he was educated as a chemist. Upon losing his sight, he turned to farming. Besides his work with the Georgia Federation of the Blind, he was actively involved in various community activities, particularly in mental health and as a lay preacher in the Episcopal Church. His initial shaping of the path which ACB would follow can be seen in his opening statement at the final meeting of the Provisional Committee of Suspended States, of which he was chairman:

"This is a sad and solemn occasion. We have just witnessed the death of a great organization. My mother was born on the day Lincoln was buried, and her mother said at that time, 'There are more tears being shed on the day of your birth, my child, than will be shed at your death.' I do not know whether a new organization of the blind will result from this meeting or not. I do know this, that I have no intention of presiding over, nor will I have any part in, an organization whose chief aim is to fight or even to compete with the National Federation of the Blind. If we can build our own organization, with its own positive and forward-looking program, well and good. Let us go forward."

In the September, 1961 issue of the Braille Free Press, Ned Freeman set forth his basic philosophy in an article entitled "American Council of the Blind, a New National Organization." I can think of no more fitting way to conclude this series than by excerpting portions of this testament to our organizational goals. After twenty years, ACB has come to reflect a membership and composition far different than in 1961. Yet, these avowed principles still hold within them great intentions, growing strength, and the elements which will allow us to remain the most progressive and democratic consumer organization of the blind in this country.

"ACB is a voluntary service organization, not a 'serve-us' pressure group. Its members, who are engaged in almost every known occupation, are economically independent, socially integrated people -- or are striving to become so. It is their desire to help other blind people, especially the newly blinded, to find their way in a strange and often frightening world.

"ACB is an individual membership organization, entirely separate and distinct from any other organization, either of or for the blind. ...

"The Council believes that only those who know from personal experience the problems of blindness and the abilities and limitations of the blind can work effectively to assist blind people to fulfill their potentialities.

"It believes that blind people are first of all people -- and have the same rights and responsibilities as anyone else to be citizens and members of their community.

"Although ACB is primarily an organization of blind persons, it welcomes sighted friends who are genuinely interested in promoting the well-being of the blind, and whose ideas and tangible support we need and appreciate."

(Editor's Note: The Braille Forum wishes to express its appreciation to ACB Board member Christopher Gray, without whose time, effort, and thought in selecting and developing these articles, "From the Archives" would not have been possible. Chris has become a true student of the early history of the organized blind movement. In preparing this series, he spent countless hours reviewing materials published in the late 1950s and early 1960s, as well as extensive correspondence and unpublished documents of the period. It is hoped that "From the Archives" will serve to put into perspective for a growing membership the reasons for and the forces which brought about formation of the American Council of the Blind.)

*****

** Reagan Budget Wins First Skirmish
By Kathy Megivern

In the first legislative test of President Reagan's proposed budget cuts, the House of Representatives voted its approval on May 7 of the Latta-Gramm budget resolution. This version of the first budget resolution is very similar to the Reagan proposal, and the vote was hailed as a great victory for the President. 

While the importance of this vote cannot be denied, much of the media coverage has been very misleading. The first budget resolution merely serves as guidance, providing the specific committees with proposed ceilings on spending. Now those committees must examine the specific programs within their jurisdiction and determine where the cuts should be made to reach the proposed spending levels. The overall limits set by this first budget resolution are not binding, and Congress could well change those levels in the second budget resolution this autumn.

Ironically, the vote on this first budget resolution came on the day which had been declared "Independence Day" for disabled people. About 1,000 disabled persons from around the country were gathered on the west front of the Capitol that morning. But even as speakers such as Congressmen Fred Richmond (D., NY), Tony Coelho (D., CA), and Morris Udall (D., AZ) spoke to the crowd about the importance of saving programs for the handicapped, the House of Representatives proceeded on its vote to approve the Reagan cuts.

Passage of the severe budget cuts was made possible by the defection of 63 Democrats. Since there are many important battles ahead, it is useful to identify those Representatives at this time. If your member of Congress is listed below, we urge that you communicate your concern to his or her office. These persons must be reminded of the value of programs for the handicapped and urged not to cast any future votes which would repeal or otherwise devastate these programs.

While the President's plan has won this first skirmish, there are many difficult battles ahead. Already serious doubts are being expressed about the equity and soundness of the President's tax cut plan, and it faces a much rougher time in Congress. 

The greatest danger facing opponents of the Reagan budget cuts is the premature sense of defeat being expressed by many. We urge you to stay involved. Continue to make your views known. The fight continues, and these vitally important programs can and must be saved. 

* Democrats Who Voted for the Reagan-Backed Budget Proposal 

Alabama - Bevill, Flippo, Nichols, Shelby 
Arizona - Stump 
Arkansas - Anthony 
California - Patterson
Florida - Bennett, Chappell, Fuqua, Gibbons, Hutto, Ireland, Mica, Nelson
Georgia - Barnard, Brinkley, Evans, Ginn, Hatcher, Jenkins, Levitas, McDonald
Indiana - Evans, Jacobs Kentucky-Mazzoli, Natcher Louisiana — Breaux, Huckaby, Roemer, Tauzin 
Maryland - Byron, Dyson, Long 
Michigan - Albosta 
Mississippi - Bowen, Montgomery
Missouri - Skelton, Volkmer, Young
Nevada - Santini 
North Carolina - Andrews, Fountain
Ohio - Hall, Luken, Mottl 
Oklahoma - English 
Pennsylvania - Atkinson, Yatron 
South Carolina - Derrick, Holland 
Tennessee - Bouquard, Jones 
Texas - Gramm, R. Hall, S. Hall, Hance, Hightower, Leath, Stenholm, White, Wilson
Virginia - D. Daniel

All 190 House Republicans voted for the Reagan-backed plan.

*****

** Let Your Camera Do the Seeing

Let Your Camera Do the Seeing, the world's first photography manual for the legally blind, is available from the Council of Citizens with Low Vision (CCLV) and the American Council of the Blind. 

The manual, written by George Covington and edited by Ann Ford, is a beginner's guide to photography, tailored for the individual with impaired vision. Covington, who has been legally blind since birth, is a board member of CCLV. He has received national media coverage of his work in photography. 

The manual is priced at $5.00, including postage, and is available by sending a check to Let Your Camera Do the Seeing, Council of Citizens with Low Vision, 1211 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 506, Washington, DC 20036.

*****

** Evaluation of RSA Program for Blind and Visually Handicapped Persons

The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) has announced completion of a study entitled Evaluation of RSA Program for Blind and Visually Handicapped Persons. The study, conducted by JWK International Corporation of Annandale, Virginia, for the Rehabilitation Services Administration, was undertaken to assess the effects that the organizational and administrative structures of vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies have upon delivery of services to blind and visually handicapped clients. The final report consists of: (1) Executive Summary Report; (2) Utilization Seminar Report; (3) In-Depth Study Report; (4) National Report; and (5) individual State Reports. RSA will be making an initial distribution of these reports to the various state vocational rehabilitation agencies that serve blind and visually handicapped clients.

The Executive Summary Report outlines conclusions and recommendations drawn from study findings and reads in part as follows:

"... All state VR agencies serving blind and visually handicapped clients were included in the study. ... This study also explored the relationships among the components of the VR system for blind and visually handicapped persons: the state VR agencies, RSA regional offices, and RSA's Bureau for the Blind and Visually Handicapped.

"All questionnaires were developed by JWK's staff, with the advice of the Project Advisory Committee. Members of this committee actively participated in all phases of the study. A Utilization Seminar was held to review study conclusions and formulate recommendations.

"These conclusions were drawn from the study findings:
•  Blind clients are served better in specialized case loads;
•  Length of time in the VR process and the cost of services are related;
•  Visually handicapped clients are as satisfied with VR services as other handicapped clients;
•  There appears to be a lack of communication among the three components of the VR system;
•  There appears to be confusion concerning the essential functions of RSA regional offices and the Bureau for the Blind and Visually Handicapped;
•  The type of administrative structure of state VR agencies has only a slight relationship to program outcomes; and 
•  There is no evidence to indicate that any one type of agency is more cost effective than another.

"The following recommendations were suggested by the Project staff and approved by the Utilization Seminar participants:

•  Blind and visually handicapped VR clients should be served in specialized caseloads of only blind and visually handicapped clients;
•  The role of the RSA regional offices and the Bureau for the Blind and Visually Handicapped should be clearly defined regarding provision of technical assistance and policy interpretation to state VR agencies serving blind and visually handicapped clients;
•  Communication among the three components of the VR system serving blind and visually handicapped clients should be improved;
•  In-service training should be available to rehabilitation counselors and to regional office staff;
•  The reports produced by this study should be disseminated by the National Rehabilitation Information Center;
•  The assumption that combined agencies are more cost-effective should be seriously questioned; and
•  Further research, study, or demonstration projects should be undertaken that would focus upon the rehabilitation process for blind and visually handicapped persons."

Anyone interested in obtaining copies of these reports may do so by contacting the National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC), 4407 8th Street, N.E., Catholic University, Washington, DC 20017; telephone (202) 635-5822. Copies will be available in print or tape cassette. A nominal fee will be charged for handling and processing.

*****

** "It's the Middle Name That's Really Important":
The ACB Service Network
By Vernon Henley

"It's the middle name that's really important."

For more than a decade, that has been the attitude of the thousand-plus hams who have participated in the American Council of the Blind Service Network. The ACB Service Net meets seven days a week, year-around, at 1800 hours Zulu (12:00 noon central time) at 14,305 mhz. (During daylight savings time, the time moves to 1700 Zulu.) Transmission is by single sideband voice. Because of the SSB method, a general class or higher license is required to join in on the ACB Service Net.

A word for the uninitiated. A radio amateur "network" is a group of hams with a specific interest who gather via shortwave radio. Listening to a "net" is often like sitting in on a cross-country roundtable complete with a master of ceremonies. This "emcee" — properly known as the "net control" -- will issue a call for participants in the net, and interested hams -- both regulars and interested dial-twirlers -- indicate their presence and desire to participate.

The ACB Service Net is primarily a "traffic" network, sending personal, non-commercial messages -- both emergency and routine -- across the country. Many amateurs find message handling to be the most rewarding and exciting aspect of their on-air work, and through the years ACB Service Net has handled literally thousands of communications.

The Net was founded by blind hams and provides many services to fellow hams and to those interested in becoming members of the radio amateur fraternity, with the enthusiastic cooperation and participation of both blind and sighted operators across the country. For the blind ham, the ACB Service Net is a constant source of information. The daily meetings give the blind amateurs a forum to share their problems and solutions with others who might have encountered similar dilemmas. This sharing of common experience helps all the members improve their skills as operators and make their hobby more enjoyable.

The Net is also dedicated to helping any blind person who wants to start in amateur radio or upgrade his or her license. In association with the Oklahoma Division of Visual Services (Travis Harris, Director), the ACB Service Net has arranged for a variety of instructional materials in both theory and code to be made available to any interested blind person. There is no charge or fee for these materials, although the user must provide tapes. Third-party inquiries to the ACB Service Net on behalf of blind persons who want instructional materials is encouraged. If Net members are unable to provide a quick answer to questions and inquiries, a group of volunteers at the Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped will research the topic and try to supply an answer or solution. Files are maintained on equipment and modifications and adaptations to aid the blind ham. If the information is on file, it is usually mailed within 24 hours to the person needing it. Investigation of topics which have not been previously researched does, however, take somewhat longer.

If you or a friend have come up with a unique solution or modification, please share it with the ACB Service Network, c/o Travis Harris, K5DZV, P.O. Box 25352, Oklahoma City, OK 73125. Your information will be filed with other data to be shared as needed.

Many members of the ACB Service Net also gather annually at the national convention of the American Council of the Blind for a business meeting and face-to-face QSO's. Net control has often been run from the convention site for an interesting and unique "QSO" for the hams who stay home.

All of us associated with the ACB Service Net hope this information has been of interest, and we hope that you will now wrap up your reading and tune your rig to 14,305 as soon as 1800 Zulu rolls around again.

*****

** The News Reel Club

The News Reel Club is a non­profit organization of persons, blind and sighted, who share experiences and ideas through a cassette magazine every month. "News" is the key word. Because of monthly publication, ideas can be shared promptly. "Reel" -- the magazine started when tapes were on reels. Now the reels are inside cassettes. Each monthly issue is 90 minutes long.

News Reel membership is $6 if the member returns each tape in the special mailer. Some members prefer paying $16 and keeping each issue as a library or using the tape as they choose.

Who are the members? Who are the reporters? The members are several hundred of the most active blind and physically handicapped persons in America. The reporters are the members. Here is where ideas are expressed with the author's enthusiasm showing in the author's voice. Tragedy is reported in the words and emotions of the person who witnessed the event. The news is not so much about organizations as about people. In the past, articles have covered such topics as postal free privileges, cane travel and dog guide techniques, travel privileges on buses and airlines, establishment of radio reading services, tax considerations, benefits and problems with organizations for and of the blind, and many other vital subjects. Tours -- many with on-the-spot recordings -- have described river boat jaunts, under­water diving, and trips to foreign countries.

Membership advantages include: Current news from persons in similar situations across the nation; ability to buy many items at lower rates because of the purchasing power of the News Reel (e.g., cassettes, braille slates, mailers, and a variety of items recommended by the members); the chance to meet members during annual conventions held at various locations and planned by the News Reel board; the feeling of fellowship created as you hear the most active members report.

For further information and a membership application, write Stanley Doran, Editor, the News Reel Club, Inc., 176 Brehl Avenue, Columbus, OH 43223.

*****

** LCCR Hosts 31st Annual Meeting

The Leadership Conference on Civil Rights hosted its 31st annual meeting on April 29 and 30, 1981, in Washington, D.C. In addition to program highlights, the meeting marked the introduction of a new chairman and a new executive director for LCCR.

Marvin Caplan, who had served as LCCR's director, in addition to his own job with the AFL-CIO, had to give up his role with the Leadership Conference when he was promoted to Director of Legislation for the Industrial Union Department of the AFL-CIO. Although LCCR advertised the position and reviewed applications for the job, they were unable for many months to make a selection because of the uncertainty concerning finances. After months without a director, the Industrial Union Department of the AFL-CIO contributed $25,000 to LCCR to assure the first year's salary. The American Council of the Blind also made a special donation to the Leadership Conference. Ralph Neas, former administrative aide to Senator Edward Brooke and later to Senator Dave Durenberger, was appointed to the position. With an executive director in place and the finances of the organization somewhat more secure, planning proceeded for this 1981 conference. 

The two-day meeting was a mixture of pessimistic reports on the current state of civil rights and rousing speeches about the battles ahead. The tone was set early by both Representative Peter Rodino (D., NJ), Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, and Senator Charles McC. Mathias (R., MD). Both legislators acknowledged the serious obstacles facing proponents of fair housing and voting rights, but neither speaker was willing to concede defeat, and each one promised continued commitment to the battle for such programs.

The highlight of the Wednesday afternoon session was a panel discussion on the current state of civil rights enforcement. The panel included representatives from the National Council of Senior Citizens, the Mexican-American Legal Defense and Education Fund, the Women's Legal Defense Fund, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Discussing the area of civil rights for handicapped persons was Durward K. McDaniel, National Representative, American Council of the Blind. Also appearing on the panel was blind attorney David Tatel, former Director of the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights. Panel members reviewed the status of many civil rights regulations which have been "frozen" by the Reagan Administration. It was also noted that most of the positions in the Federal Government responsible for enforcement of various civil rights laws remain vacant. There was general consensus that the Reagan Administration's failure to appoint persons to these important jobs is a purposeful strategy to avoid effective enforcement of civil rights laws.

The highlight of the LCCR annual meeting traditionally is the presentation of the Hubert H. Humphrey Civil Rights Award at the banquet named in Senator Humphrey's memory. An unusual aspect of the presentation this year was that the award was presented not to an individual, but, rather, to the AFL-CIO. This was done in celebration of the modern American labor movement's 100th anniversary and in recognition of organized labor's longstanding and continued commitment to civil rights. AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland accepted the award, and his speech was a moving call to action for all those present. A tape of a speech made by Senator Humphrey to a past LCCR annual meeting was played, complete with applause. The fact that Senator Humphrey's words are as relevant today as ever before was emphasized by the applause from the 1981 audience as well.

Other speakers during the two-day program included Senator Howard Metzenbaum (D., OH) and Congresswoman Pat Schroeder (D. CO). 

Everyone was saddened to learn of the decision by Clarence Mitchell to step down from his position as chairman of LCCR. Mr. Mitchell, who was the ACB banquet speaker in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1979, cited personal reasons for his decision. He announced that the Executive Committee had agreed to appoint Benjamin Hooks Executive Director of NAACP, to fill Mr. Mitchell's term as chairman. Delegates then voted unanimously to name Clarence Mitchell Honorary Chairman of LCCR.

*****

** Amana Helps Open Microwave 
Cooking World to Visually Impaired

With Amana's exclusive new Radarange® microwave oven braille kit, the visually handicapped are able to more fully enjoy the benefits of microwave cooking. The kit includes specially designed braille-marked, clear polyester overlays that fit over the control panel. These overlays allow visually handicapped users to easily make necessary cooking settings and check timing progress without impeding the use of the controls by sighted users.

The kit also includes seven audio cassette tapes. Each cassette is voice­indexed, an innovation that allows the user to quickly locate desired information within the tape. Titles of major sections and recipes are recorded so that they can be clearly heard as the tape is being run in Fast Forward. The user can easily locate desired recipes and other information without having to listen to an entire cassette or resort to a hit-or-miss, start-and-stop search of the tape when instructions are needed.

The tapes include the "Use and Care Manual," general cooking guidelines, and recommendations for preparation of frozen and convenience foods. Additionally, the tapes contain recipes for meats, soups, casseroles, vegetables, breads, desserts, and more, taken from the Amana "Introduction to Cooking with the Radarange Microwave Oven Cookbook."

What's more, the braille kit is designed specifically for Amana's moderately priced Radarange® ovens, Models RR-7B and RR-8B.

The kit is available through Amana's nationwide network of retailers at no extra cost to visually handicapped purchasers of these models. It is not available separately for purchase. If your dealer is unable to help you, you may call the company in Amana, Iowa, at (319) 622-5511.

*****

*** ACB Affiliate News

** ACB Parents President to Deliver Paper in Israel

The International Symposium on Visually Handicapped Infants and Young Children: Birth to Seven (see "Here and There," The Braille Forum, December, 1980), has accepted an abstract and paper written by Mrs. Gretchen Smith, President of American Council of the Blind Parents. The Symposium is being held June 14-19 at the Kibbutz Shefayim, Tel Aviv, Israel. Her paper is entitled, "Why the Need for Parent Support Groups?" It will be given during the afternoon session on June 18, which will be devoted to the topic of "Support Services."

Mrs. Smith expresses her surprise and pleasure at the acceptance of a non-professional's paper. The abstracts are being combined in a book of abstracts that will be translated into "at least" Hebrew. It is also possible that the Symposium proceedings may be produced.

The rapid growth of American Council of the Blind Parents is the basis for her paper, in which she suggests to professionals that similar support organizations can be a supplement to professional work -- though certainly not attempting to replace it. Much of the popularity of the organization is the common sharing of the common bond of parenting and visual problems -- whether the parent and/or the child has the visual condition -- which is shared in articles written by members in the quarterly newsletter. In its first year and a half, the organization has grown to over 200 members in 40 states.

** Caring, Sharing, Daring! NDAB Summer Camp Program
By Doranna Robertson

Caring, sharing, daring! These three qualities are necessary in starting a camp for blind and visually impaired adults. The North Dakota Association of the Blind, Inc., found these qualities in two of its hard-working, concerned members -- Olga Neal and Lloyd Robertson. They enlisted the advice of Smith Shumway of Wyoming in June of 1970, and by August they dared to have the first session. It started small, but has grown to capacity in ten years.

They found that people will come for a relaxed situation quicker than for a convention. Of course, that is partly due to the fact that no camper pays any fee. The camp is NDAB's biggest and most successful project. After a good, solid beginning, there have been other directors at the helm, with ever-increasing numbers of campers, activities, responsibilities -- and yes, expenses!

Our present location lacks nothing except more obstacles, architecturally, and city traffic necessary for teaching mobility. We have a good variety of exposure to crafts, academic work, and mobility. People in all walks of life and from age 18 on are welcome. The best part is that we 
hire very little sighted help. Our own members are the instructors, bank supervisors, and contacts for discussing problems. The instructors learn from the campers and vice versa. It's give and take for a wonderful week. When newcomers are apprehensive, shy, homesick, or maybe even lazy, seeing others being active and learning something new spurs them on to accomplish what they thought they never could do again, now that they are losing sight. It makes everyone feel good when someone blooms from a frightened, skeptical, newly blind person to a more confident, cheerful, capable person in a short week.

Is the NDAB proud? You bet!

** Green Mountain Vendors Join RSVA 

The operators of Vermont's four Randolph-Sheppard vending facilities have formed a state affiliate of the Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America. Spurred on by the Vermont Council of the Blind, the Green Mountain Vendors met March 9. They adopted by-laws and named Richard Ryan of Middlesex as their temporary chairman. Ms. Waneta Boutin of Montpelier will serve as Secretary-Treasurer. 

Affiliation with RSVA was vigorously endorsed by Vermont's new director of the Division for the Blind and Visually Handicapped, David Mentasti. He told the group he hopes that through RSVA Vermont's vending program will be expanded and strengthened.

** Utah Council 1981 Convention
By Tom Mitchell

The Utah Council of the Blind held its 1981 convention January 31 at the Murray B. Allen Center for the Blind in Salt Lake City. Considering the heavy snowfall that morning and the previous night, the convention was reasonably well attended, and those who did come enjoyed one of the best conventions UCB has had. 
The morning session was devoted to the theme of "Volunteers -- Those Who Help Us in Many Ways." First was a group of teachers who have a puppet show called "The Kids on the Block." In this show, puppets who portray handicapped children in different ways are shown meeting other children on the block in different situations to explain how they live. After each act, the puppets were passed through the audience so that those in attendance could observe how the puppets were made.

Gerry Buttars talked of the need for more volunteers for the State Library for reading recorded books and emphasized a crying need for volunteer braillists. Rex Wallgren reiterated the same problem of the need for dependable volunteers for the radio reading service.

A luncheon was held, and because of the heavy snow, the entertainment was not able to be there. But LeRoy Saunders of the American Council of the Blind Board of Directors filled in the time admirably with a speech detailing the history, present state, and possible future of sheltered workshops.

The afternoon was given over to elections, followed by three workshops or mini-seminars on electronic games and other devices for the blind, daily living skills, and homemaking skills. 

In the elections, the presidency and two board positions came before the convention for re-election. UCB President Leslie Gertsch was elected to a two-year term. Also elected to the Board of Trustees were Jenny Gagnier of Salt Lake City and Carmen Martinez of American Fork. Grant Mack retains his seat as Past President, and Tom Mitchell was re-elected Publications Director.

** News Notes from Wisconsin
By Dorothy Brown

Last year at the national convention of the American Council of the Blind held in Louisville, Kentucky, the Badger Association of the Blind received its charter of affiliation. The Badger Association is a strong and well-established organization of the blind of Wisconsin, having a history of over fifty years of service. It has a 
membership of over 400 visually impaired persons. The Badger Association operates and maintains a home of the blind in Milwaukee.

In recognition of the new affiliation, ACB Day was held on April 4, 1981, at the Howard Johnson Motor Lodge in downtown Milwaukee. A committee chaired by Gordon 
Haldiman was appointed to arrange a suitable program and banquet, in addition to the monthly meeting of the Association. Over 100 persons took part and found food for thought, soul, and body during the day-long meeting.

The program began at 9:30 A.M. with a cheery "Hello!" from Adrian De BIaey, President of the Badger Association of the Blind. Gordon Haldiman introduced the speakers of 
the day, who covered four areas of interest and concerns of the blind of Wisconsin.

Library and volunteer services as offered by the Milwaukee Library for the Blind was discussed by Sister Mary Leon Miller, Librarian. She also spoke on "New Trends in Regional Library Services" (computerized library service). Kathy Strombon, Coordinator of Volunteer Services, spoke on "My Personal Experiences with the Blind of New Zealand and Wisconsin."

The program continued with a discussion and questions on ''Status of the Bureau for the Blind-Services for the '80s," by T.K. McClarnon, Acting Director, DVR Central Office, Madison. Serious concern was expressed for the future of services to the blind as they exist today. Much concern was expressed by the membership in regard to the continuing fragmentation of services as offered by the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation of Wisconsin. 

A positive note was struck by George Sippl, Coordinator­Supervisor of the VIP Program of the Milwaukee Area Technical College. He reported on "Rehabilitation, Mainstreaming, and Employment of the Visually Impaired Person" program begun in January, 1980. This program has been very successful and has been reported on National Public Radio. The Milwaukee Commission on Aging was represented by Mrs. Robin Maryl, who urged participation of the blind in programs offered in the community. 

The morning's activities concluded with peppy talk on "Action Tours for the Handicapped" and a satisfying report from Jim Olsen, Treasurer of ACB, on the Thrift Stores in Milwaukee. The Thrift Store project is proving to be most successful and financially advantageous. 

Durward McDaniel was the speaker at the evening banquet. He spoke of his close retirement as ACB National Representative and his plans to make his home in Austin, Texas. Durward was confident about his retirement, for he reports continuing growth of the American Council of the Blind, which is now the largest organization of the blind in the United States. He also had good reports on the financial strength of the organization. Durward also said most candidly that he will not be too far away if help is needed.

*****

** Here and There
By Elizabeth M. Lennon

Among the special services and materials available to the visually impaired through the Metropolitan Opera Guild Educational Department are: program notes in braille or cassette, on free loan; braille libretti; a limited number of desk seats at $2.00 each (at a location with very favorable acoustics, but with no view of the stage); special 1 3/4-hour backstage tours; and articles in braille from Opera News. For further information, reservations and tickets, contact Susan Markel, Special Services Coordinator, Metropolitan Opera Guild, 1865 Broadway, New York, NY 10023.

Plastic lenses placed within the cornea may one day replace the donated cornea, according to an item in Science News. Bernard E. McCarey of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, is currently using the artificial lenses in animals, with the hope that in the future, people will not have to depend upon donor tissue. — Retinal blastoma, an eye cancer responsible for 5% of the blindness among children, is now believed to be caused by a virus. According to Today's Child, this virus has been isolated by a research group headed by Dr. Noritsugu Mukai of the Boston Eye Research Institute. It is hoped that this research will help scientists to find means for treating the cancer.

The Mid-America Conference of Rehabilitation Teachers (MACRT) is planning a workshop to be held at the Town House Motel, Belleville, Illinois (about one-half hour from St. Louis by public transportation), July 2-4. MACRT is a professional organization of rehabilitation teachers from a 20-state area in the Midwest. Theme of the workshop is: "The Geriatric Client." Continuing education credits will be granted for the workshop. For further information and registration details, contact Glenda Farnum, 4129 Holiday Place, Oklahoma City, OK 73112.

"The Miracle of God's Word in Me" is the theme of this year's National Church Conference of the Blind, to be held July 27-30 at Grace College, Omaha, Nebraska. For information, write Rev. Ben Watson, 800 S.E. 5th Street, Newton, KS 67114.

The Talking Book Service, Fairfax County Public Library, 6209 Rosehill Drive, Alexandria, VA 22310, will serve parents in any part of the nation who are interested in borrowing books, pamphlets, or articles on child care, child development, health, safety, and experiences of blind parents.

Position available -- Executive Director, Association for the Blind of Rochester, New York. Manage private, not-for-profit rehabilitation agency serving the blind and visually impaired. Staff of 50; budget of $2 million. Qualifications: administrative skills in personnel, finance, and public relations. Prefer MSW and five years' supervisory or administrative experience. Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Resumes only: Mark Hauserman, 1151 Titus Avenue, Rochester, NY 14617.

Raymond (Bud) Keith of Arlington, Virginia, was elected president of Healthsports, Inc. (formerly Ski for Light) at the organization's annual meeting held in Saratoga Springs, New York, February 8, 1981. Bud Keith, Immediate Past President of the ACB Federal Employees, has been involved in the Ski for Light program since the start. Healthsports Vice President Oral O. Miller will become an at-large member of the organization's Executive Board. He, too, has been involved in Healthsports and Ski for Light from the start.

SI-FI-CEE is the name both of a science fiction fan club of and for blind people and of its bi-monthly cassette "fanzine." For further information, braille readers should contact SI-FI-CEE editor, Mary Lou Lacefield, 413 Atwood Street, Louisville, KY 40217. Print readers should contact William Hedl, 4716 Olde Bailey Way, Columbus, OH 43213.

The Computer Center for the Visually Impaired at Baruch College provides two five-week workshops in computers each summer. Students are taught the basics of computers — their history, development, and application to daily living and work, as well as how to program in the FORTRAN language. Graduates of this program have a good idea whether they want to pursue further training. In addition, the instructor provides each student with a written assessment of his or her potential in the field. Funding for the program is on a fee for service basis, generally paid for by the cooperating state agency working with blind and visually impaired people. For further information, contact Judy Gerber, Baruch College Computer Center for the Visually Impaired, Box 264, 17 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10010; telephone (212) 725-7644.

"Legal Advocacy for the Handicapped" is the first "talking book" manual developed by the Legal Services Corporation. Published in 1980 in print and on 15 audio cassettes, the manual was intended initially for the blind and handicapped. The audio format, however, has found wide use among organizations of the handicapped, veterans groups, and attorneys whose work demands frequent automobile travel. The manual covers such areas of the law as architectural and communications barriers, employment rights, and advocacy resources and procedures. Cost of the manual is $20.00 for the 15 cassettes. It may be ordered from Training Resource Center, Legal Services Corporation, 733 15th Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20005.

From The Vendorscope: The Sanyo Corporation of Japan has a new telephone answering device that lets you phone your home and use voice commands to turn on the oven, lights, or other appliances, or turn them off. Sanyo says the circuitry can be programmed so that it will recognize only your voice. Known as TRA-X10, the new equipment is expected to reach stores by early 1982 and will probably sell for under $1,000.

Coping With Sight Loss: The Vision Resource Book, published by Vision Foundation, Inc., is now available in large print (18 point) as well as voice-indexed cassette. The handbook may be ordered directly from Vision Foundation, Inc., 770 Centre Street, Newton, MA 02158. Large-type edition, $10.00; cassette edition, $5.00 each for the first 500; $10.00 each when original supply is exhausted. Prepaid orders only.

Mobility International will hold its 1981 conference August 2-9 in Toronto. Mobility International is a London-based organization which promotes the integration of disabled persons into society, particularly through travel and educational/cultural exchange. Theme of the 1981 conference is: "Living Together," based on the IYDP theme of "Full Participation and Equality." Speakers from all over the world will represent a broad spectrum of disabilities and nationalities. The conference will be translated into English and French, as well as both sign languages. Mobility International USA will be applying for official membership at this conference, joining a network of 44 other national affiliates around the world. For further information, write Canadian Bureau for International Education, 141 Laurier W., Suite 807, Ottawa, Ontario K1P 5J3.

*****

** 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 a relative or friend by sharing in the continuing work of the American Council of the Blind. The National Office 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, you or your attorney may wish to contact the ACB National Office.

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