The Braille Forum
Vol. XX February, 1982 No. 8

Floyd Qualls Memorial Scholarships Established by ACB Board of Directors

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

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National Office: 
Oral O. Miller 
1211 Connecticut Avenue, N.W.
Suite 506 
Washington, DC 20036 
(202) 833-1251

Editorial Office 
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: 
Grant Mack 
139 East South Temple, 
Suite 5000 
Salt Lake City, UT 84111 

* First Vice President: 
Dr. Otis H. Stephens 
2021 Kemper Lane, S.W. 
Knoxville, TN 37920 

* Second Vice President: 
Dr. Robert T. McLean 
2139 Joseph Street 
New Orleans, LA 70115

* Secretary: 
Karen Perzentka 
6913 Colony Drive 
Madison, WI 53717 

* Treasurer: 
James R. Olsen 
Summit Bank Bldg., 
Suite 822 
310 4th Avenue, S. 
Minneapolis, MN 55415

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.

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** Contents

Contributing Editors

ACB Officers

President's Message, by Grant Mack

Floyd Qualls Memorial Scholarship Program

News Briefs from the ACB National Office, by Oral O. Miller

Braille Forum Goes to Congress

Some Changes in Tax Law Will Benefit Individuals, by Kathy Megivern

It's Atlanta for You in '82!, by Stephen E. Douglas

Discount Air Fares to the 1982 ACB National Convention

Notice to Applicants for and Renewals of ACB Membership-at-Large

Ned E. Freeman Article of the Year Writing Competition, by Harriet Fielding

A Consumer's Guide to Social Security Overpayments, by Barbara Nelson

Striking Out Blindly

The Honeybee Lens, by Dr. Randy Jose

H.R. 4775 Makes the Social Security Administration Work Better for You, by Scott Marshall

The Listening Ear, by Dorothy Stiefel

Handicapped Transportation Made Easy, by Stephen Hoyt

ACB Affiliate News: Oregon and New York Conventions

Letter to the Editor

Here and There, by George Card

Notice to Subscribers

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** President’s Message
By Grant Mack

On one of my recent trips to Washington, D.C., I shared a cab from Washington's National Airport to the downtown area with a gentleman who turned out to be a professor from Northwestern University. Because most people's curiosity is stimulated when they encounter a blind person traveling with a dog guide, this gentleman was full of questions and I had an opportunity during that short ride to tell him about the American Council of the Blind, its goals and accomplishments, and its plans for future growth. He was duly impressed with the fact that blind people were doing these kinds of things and seemed impressed that we were able to develop our own funding source through the Thrift Store operation.

The thing that impressed me, however, was a comment he made shortly before we parted company about how significant was the contribution of so many volunteers. He had recently spent one year in Germany on a sabbatical and indicated he had done some research on volunteerism in Europe. His observation was that it was almost nonexistent in European countries, particularly Germany. "Over here, volunteer work is almost taken for granted, but in countries like Germany it is almost impossible for people to conceive of such a phenomenon." 

I have thought about that statement quite a bit in the last few weeks, and I realize that without volunteer efforts, ACB would be hard-pressed to even function. It would be an impressive and almost unbelievable statistic if we could calculate the amount of time given by ACB members in just a one-month period. No affiliate could accomplish anything without volunteer efforts. Volunteerism from people not even directly connected with ACB is very important to our success. Perhaps the United States is unique in the amount and quality of donated time.

Maybe it is because I have been thinking along these lines that I am impressed to bring to your attention a few specific examples of outstanding volunteer service by some people with whom I have been directly associated these past few weeks. One of the very important committees in the ACB structure is the Budget Committee. In order to remain fiscally sound and to permit full utility of a good many hundreds of thousands of dollars, it is absolutely essential that there be careful planning by the Budget Committee. Three of our busiest and most effective people make up this important unit. They are LeRoy Saunders, Chairman, James Olsen, Treasurer of ACB, and Delbert Aman. And although Oral Miller is not an official member of the Budget Committee, his input is significantly important in the preparation work.

This group met in the National Office shortly before Christmas and spent two full days discussing every program of the American Council which requires the expenditure of dollars. You should know that much thought was given in determining the amount and kind of expenditures in order to squeeze the greatest utility out of each dollar spent. Following that meeting, Jim Olsen spent many hours honing up these figures in order to have a very well-defined budget to present to the Board for their approval at the mid-year Board meeting held in Atlanta on January 9, 1982. You should understand that LeRoy, Jim, and Delbert received no extra compensation for the long hours devoted to this project. But like so many others in our organization, they are motivated in some way to willingly give this additional time. 

It is difficult to determine what really motivates people to give of themselves. I suppose the reasons are as varied as are the personalities of the people involved. However, no matter what the motivation, organizations like the American Council of the Blind could not survive without the great contributions of those who give of themselves and their talents to the program. 

Someone has said that the value of any organization can be measured by the options which it gives to its members. You who know the American Council know that, judged by this standard, we have one of the great organizations in America. Not only do we have options to think as individuals, but we also have a structure which provides options for many kinds of volunteer service. 

Again may I express my thanks to all of you who give so willingly of yourselves.

*****

** Floyd Qualls Memorial Scholarship Program

Very soon after Floyd Qualls' death last June, the Board of Directors of the American Council of the Blind began planning for a permanent memorial to give recognition to his lifelong leadership and dedicated service in the causes and interests of blind and visually impaired people. The crowning climax of his work and service was his three terms as ACB's third president, 1972-1978. 

In July, President Grant Mack appointed a subcommittee to develop recommendations for the memorial. At its January 9, 1982, meeting, the committee, consisting of Carl McCoy, Chairman, M.J. Schmitt and Robert Campbell, recommended and the Board approved the immediate creation of the Floyd Qualls Memorial Scholarship program. Four scholarships of $2,500 each will be awarded this year to legally blind applicants who have been admitted for vocational, technical, professional, or academic studies at postsecondary levels. 

Applications, instructions, and criteria may be obtained from ACB's National Office, 1-800-424-8666. Applications, with supporting documents, should be addressed to the Floyd Qualls Memorial Scholarship Committee, c/o American Council of the Blind, Suite 506, 1211 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20036, and must be received by April 30, 1982. The ten leading candidates will be interviewed in May, and the successful applicants will be notified by June 15, 1982. The awarding of the four scholarships will be announced at the ACB 1982 national convention and in The Braille Forum.

The Board of Directors realized that the timing of these first year awards is later than it should be in relation to the beginning of the fall semester. But it was determined to initiate this scholarship program this year. A revised time schedule effecting the 1983 scholarship program will be published in the latter part of this year. 

The Board of Directors also established the Floyd Qualls Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund to provide for the continuation and advancement of this worthwhile service and memorial. ACB members, other interested individuals, and ACB affiliates are invited to become supporting contributors in the establishing of the Floyd Qualls Memorial Scholarship program. All such contributions are tax deductible. Your contribution should indicate its use for the scholarship program. Checks should be made payable to the American Council of the Blind and should be sent to the treasurer, James R. Olsen, Suite 822, Summit Bank Building, 310 Fourth Avenue, S., Minneapolis, MN 55415.

Floyd Qualls was one of the great personalities in this movement and work in which we are associated together in the American Council of the Blind. It is appropriate and commendable that the Board of Directors acted so promptly and constructively.

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** News Briefs from the ACB National Office
By Oral O. Miller

Although a summary of the ACB Board of Directors meeting held in Atlanta on January 9, 1982, will be published in a future issue of The Braille Forum, a few of the decisions made at that meeting should be announced at this time so Braille Forum readers may start thinking about some of the things they will be called upon to do later this year. 

IMPORTANT!! The American Council of the Blind plans to conduct another legislative action seminar (similar to the highly successful one conducted in May of 1981). The exact date of the 1982 seminar has not yet been selected, but it will be announced in The Braille Forum and in an Action Memorandum as soon as a decision is made. As in the past, attendance will be based primarily upon residence in the districts and states of Congressmen who serve on committees most likely to act upon matters of concern to the blind and visually impaired. As in the past, ACB plans to subsidize transportation to and from the workshop, but we are asking our affiliates to cover the cost of board and lodging while their members are in Washington. 

By this time, ACB's recorded public service announcements have been distributed to over a thousand selected radio stations throughout the United States, and we have already started receiving inquiries and requests for assistance from listeners. We plan to refer as many of these inquiries as possible to our state and special-interest affiliates, so affiliate presidents should be prepared to follow up by contacting the inquirers and assisting them however possible. 

It should be pointed out that the announcements were originally made in the hope that our state affiliates would assist with their production costs in the amount of $10.00 per set of tapes distributed in each state. Since all state and regional affiliate presidents have been provided with a list of the stations receiving the tapes, we hope we may count on each affiliate to make a good-faith effort to assist with the production costs of these very important tapes.

The 1982 ACB national workshop for blind students will take place in Atlanta on Sunday, July 4, preceding the ACB national convention. Although a separate article on this important workshop will appear in next month's issue of The Braille Forum and it will be discussed in more detail in an Action Memorandum to all affiliate presidents in the fairly near future, affiliates should start thinking NOW about the blind students that they would like to sponsor. As in the past, the American Council will provide a substantial subsidy to each postsecondary student and the affiliates will be asked to assist with the expenses of their students while in attendance at the workshop and the national convention. I cannot overemphasize the importance of this workshop. Also, its importance is underscored by the recent decision of the ACB Board of Directors to offer the Floyd Qualls Memorial Scholarships, described in detail elsewhere in this issue of The Braille Forum.

ACB's new information hotline service, the "Washington Connection," has been very popular since its inception in early January. You may call, toll free, for a brief recorded message concerning the ACB legislative program and other organizational news. This service is available from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m., Eastern Standard Time, weekdays or any time weekends and holidays. The number is 1-800-424-8666. All ACB members, and particularly each state's legislative chairperson, are encouraged to call regularly.

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** Braille Forum Goes to Congress

What do you and your Senator or Representative have in common? You both read The Braille Forum. 

Beginning with this month's issue, The Braille Forum, large print edition, is being sent to all 539 members of the U.S. Congress. Each member will also receive with the first issue a letter introducing the American Council of the Blind and describing the organization's many activities.
 
ACB is proud of The Braille Forum and is confident that it will prove to be a valuable resource in each Congressional office concerning issues affecting blind and visually impaired persons. 

ACB's staff of lawyers and information specialists based in Washington, D.C. stands ready to advise and consult with members of Congress on legislative matters. 

Members are encouraged to refer to Braille Forum articles when writing to Congress. Lawmakers should also be reminded that additional information on a particular issue can always be obtained by calling the ACB National Office at (202) 833-1251.

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** Some Changes in Tax Law Will Benefit Individuals 
By Kathy Megivern

One of the foremost campaign promises made by Ronald Reagan to the American public was his pledge to cut taxes. Such a promise is often heard during the campaigns and then forgotten. But Mr. Reagan was determined (despite much advice to the contrary) to keep this promise. And so, less than seven months after taking office, he signed into law the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981, the largest tax cut in our nation's history. 

The law makes significant cuts in both personal and corporate taxes. Individual income tax rates are cut across the board by 1 1/2% in 1981, 10% in 1982, 19% in 1983, and 23% in 1984. While these changes will mean some savings for most taxpayers, the real benefits go to the wealthy. In addition to across-the-board cuts, the maximum tax rate was cut from 70% to 50%, and taxes on long-term capital gains were reduced. 

There are other provisions in the law which will cover some further relief to individual taxpayers. There has been a lot of publicity in recent years about the "marriage penalty" affecting two-earner couples. This law tries to ease that situation by allowing such couples an additional deduction. The deduction is phased in over two years and amounts to 5% in 1982 and 10% in 1983, of the first $30,000 of earnings of the spouse with the lesser earnings. 

Another provision intended to benefit lower-income workers is the increase in the rate of the child-care credit for children under 15 years of age. This credit goes up from 20% to 30% for taxpayers earning $10,000 or less. There is also an increase in the maximum amount of employment-related expenditures from $2,000 to $2,400 for each of the taxpayer's first two dependents.

The law contains some important changes related to charitable contributions, which will benefit taxpayers and, in the process, encourage more of such contributions. Under the new law, any taxpayer, whether using the short form or the long form, will be able to deduct a percentage of charitable contributions. For 1982 and 1983 the deduction is 25% of the first $100 in contributions. In 1984, the percentage remains the same, but it becomes 25% of the first $300. By 1985, the deduction increases to 50% of all contributions; and in 1986 (the last year in which the provision is in effect), the taxpayer is allowed to deduct 100% of all charitable con­tributions. 

Under prior law, if a taxpayer sold a residence, there was a period of 18 months in which to reinvest in another residence before the proceeds were subject to capital gains tax. That period is now extended to two years. In addition, taxpayers aged 55 or older are allowed to exclude up to $125,000 (previously $100,000) of capital gains on the sale of a residence from gross income. 

Several changes are made with respect to interest and dividends. After 1981, the current $200 exclusion will be terminated and the previous $100 dividend exclusion will again take effect. Beginning in 1985, taxpayers will be able to exclude 15% of any interest income insofar as it exceeds non-business and non-mortgage interest deductions. (The maximum exclusion is $450.) 

Various forms of saving are encouraged by the new law. In the area of retirement savings, there are two major changes relating to individual retirement accounts (IRA's). The limit on deductions for contributions to IRA's is increased from the lesser of 15% of compensation or $1,500 to the lesser of 100% of compensation or $2,000. Perhaps even more significant is the law's extension of eligibility for IRA deductions to persons who are already enrolled in other tax qualified retirement plans, For persons who are self-employed and have a Keogh plan, the Act increases the maximum annual deduction for such contributions from $7,500 to $15,000.

The new law also excludes up to$1,000 of interest earned on qualified savings certificates. These are the certificates issued between September 30, 1981, and January 1, 1983, by financial institutions which invest in residential financing or agricultural loans. (This is an attempt to help the troubled savings and loan industry.)

The Act makes many changes in the estate and gift tax provisions of the tax law. Since space is limited here, we can only alert you to the fact that changes have been made. You should consult an attorney or financial adviser if these provisions do affect you. 

There are also many provisions in the law relating to corporate taxes. For the most part, tax rates are reduced and other benefits are created for corporations. 

In addition to personal and corporate tax changes, the law extends and modifies the Targeted Jobs Tax Credit Program. This program allows an employer to take a tax credit for wages paid to employees who fall into certain categories. Among these categories are handicapped persons who are referred by vocational rehabilitation agencies and recipients of Supplemental Security Income. 

As stated earlier, there was some opposition to the tax cut proposals because of the state of the Federal budget. There are frequent rumors that the Administration is now looking at possible tax increases in 1983 or 1984. Even the White House has admitted that the promise of a balanced budget is unattainable. Despite the further severe cuts proposed in social programs, the effects of inflation and the largest peacetime defense budget in history have created a need for increased revenues. The White House states that there will be no changes in the individual income tax cuts, but they reportedly are looking at increased excise taxes on items such as alcohol and possibly gasoline.

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** It's Atlanta for You in ’82!
By Stephen E. Douglas
Host Committee Chairman

It is difficult to realize that in just about six months from the date this article is being written, members and friends will gather together in Atlanta for the 21st annual convention of the American Council of the Blind. The 1982 convention will be held in Atlanta July 3-10. Begin making your plans now to attend. If you are coming by air, use the free shuttle bus service between the airport and the hotel. If you are coming by car, don't worry about parking, because the Marriott-Atlanta Airport hotel has parking space for 975 vehicles. 

Many of those who attended the Southeastern States Leadership Training Seminar, held in Atlanta over Thanksgiving weekend, had not seen the Marriott before. They were greatly impressed and pleased that the 1982 national convention was to be held there. Many more members saw the Marriott at the January meetings of the ACB Board of Directors and boards of several special-interest affiliates. They, too, were impressed. 

For the special-interest organizations who have not yet sent in their meeting requirements for Convention Week, by all means, get them in as soon as possible. The special-interest coordinator is Johnny Wilson, 3614 Canadian Way, Tucker, GA 30084; (404) 939-4808. Let us know your needs immediately, if you have not already done so. This will be greatly appreciated.

Last month, Indians were mentioned in telling of the "Must!" trip to Stone Mountain. Yes, the Indians do attack the train on the other side of the mountain. And, although I have never made the boat trip, I am told that the Indians also shoot arrows at the boat as it makes it way around the lake. This unique Stone Mountain tour, with its many attractions such as its old-fashioned barbecue supper and the Dixie Land music, should be given serious consideration when making your tour selection.

Another tour well worth considering is the one to Warm Springs, Georgia, to the Franklin D. Roosevelt museum and the Little White House, with its rustic furnishings just as F.D.R. left them, and a stroll around the grounds he loved. The tour will then proceed to Callaway Gardens, where you will visit the vegetable and flower gardens which are in bloom most of the year, as well as other scenic spots such as the golf course, the lake, and the chapel. Lunch will be served at the Garden Inn, with vegetables in season, and before returning to the hotel a stop at the Country Store, which features many unique homemade items and delicacies such as country ham, bacon, preserves, and more. 

Now for a little bit about Atlanta. Atlanta is sometimes called "the Jewel of the South" —- and rightly so. It is a city bursting with energy, yet rich in history and brimming with treasures. The treasures of Atlanta include its excellent restaurants, exciting shops and fascinating historical sites just waiting to be discovered by conventioneers. 

Remember the place: the Marriott Hotel – Atlanta Airport, 4711 Best Road, College Park, GA 30337; (404) 766-7900.

Remember the dates: July 3-10, 1982. 

Remember the room rates: $29.00 per day for single, double, triple, or quad. 

Think about the tours mentioned thus far. Start making your plans to attend. You will find it an exciting convention.

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** Discount Air Fares to the 1982 ACB National Convention

Since the air travel industry was de­regulated approximately eighteen months ago, the number of special fares and travel conditions has virtually exploded, to the point that now it is almost impossible to decide, after talking to a few or even several different airlines, that the best and most economical travel arrangements have been made. That is, it is very difficult, unless a professional travel agency is at your disposal. Yes, it is still possible to make travel reservations on one airline through a separate airline (as long as at least part of the trip is made on the airline making the reservations). However, it is common knowledge that each airline is interested primarily in selling its own service; hence such airlines are very reluctant to mention special fares and other services being offered by competitors. On the other hand, it is the business of an independent travel agency to know of such fares and special services and to bring them to the attention of its customers.

The Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. travel agency of Olsen and O'Leary (toll-free telephone number, 1-800-245-6497) is prepared to assist all American Council of the Blind members and friends in making their travel arrangements to attend the 1982 national convention, scheduled to take place at the Atlanta Airport Marriott Hotel the week of July 3-10. There is no charge for the call, and there is no separate charge for the service by the travel agency because it earns its fee from the airlines rather than from the customers. Tickets, which may be charged on all major credit cards, will be mailed anywhere in the United States. 

Since air fares are going up constantly, and since travel reservations may be difficult to make inasmuch as an enormous international convention is scheduled to take place in Atlanta the week before our national convention, you should make your travel reservations NOW!

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** Notice to Applicants for and Renewals of ACB Membership-At-Large

The American Council of the Blind Constitution and By-Laws provide that any person who has reached the age of 18 years and who is not a voting member of an ACB affiliate is eligible to become a member-at-large, with the right to an individual vote at the annual convention. Annual membership-at-large dues are $2.00. New applicants for membership-at-large pay an initiation fee of $3.00, which includes the first year's dues. Application forms are available from the ACB National Office.
 
The Constitution and By-Laws further provide that all dues are to be received no later than ninety days prior to the ACB national convention; that is, in 1982, by April 8. All membership-at-large dues should be clearly identified as such and should be sent to the ACB National Office, Attention: James R. Olsen, Treasurer, 1211 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 506, Washington, DC 20036, no later than April 8, 1982.

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** Ned E. Freeman 
Article of the Year Writing Competition
By Harriet Fielding, Chairperson 
ACB Board of Publications

Your attention, please! It is now February, 1982. Please hurry!

The "Talking Clock" announcement paraphrased in the above paragraph is an urgent reminder that the Ned E. Freeman Article of the Year writing competition will close at the end of March. Please note that this is a change from the closing date previously announced. Because so few entries have been received, the deadline for receiving articles has, for this one time only, been extended from March 1 to April 1. 

The subject for this year's writing competition is, "If My Dog Guide (or White Cane) Could Talk." Surely, visually impaired persons have that precious thing called imagination. Your thoughtful or fanciful article can earn you the Ned E. Freeman Article of the Year Award of $100.00 and a certificate which will be presented to the winner at the Awards and Charter Gala during the July 1982 ACB convention in Atlanta. 

Sit down right now and write your article. Guidelines were published in the September and December 1981 issues of The Braille Forum. If by chance you need more information, please contact Mary Ballard, Editor, The Braille Forum, 190 Lattimore Road, Rochester, NY 14620; (716) 244-8364.

Remember, it's later than you think!

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** A Consumer's Guide to Social Security Overpayments
Part II 
By Barbara Nelson

This is the second part of a two-part guide to Social Security overpayments. Part I (see The Braille Forum, December 1981) explained the procedure for requesting a waiver of an overpayment. Part II deals with how to appeal an adverse Social Security decision.

The Social Security Administration is notorious for its inefficiency and bungling. Each year it pays thousands and thousands of dollars in benefits to claimants who should not receive them. Later it must try to recoup the money it erroneously paid.

From the claimant's perspective, this causes a problem. Many claimants who. have carefully reported changes in their status continue to receive checks. Months or years later, they may receive a nasty notice from Social Security demanding the money back. As explained last month, these claimants who were without fault in causing the overpayment and who cannot afford to repay the money are entitled to have the overpayment waived.

Often the claimant's initial waiver request is denied without careful consideration by Social Security. At that time, the claimant has the right to appeal the decision denying the waiver request. Also, sometimes Social Security becomes over-zealous in trying to collect overpayments and, without having its facts straight, sends overpayment notices to people who have not actually been overpaid. If that happens, the claimant also has the right to appeal the decision that he or she has been overpaid. 

The first level of appeal is the reconsideration level. A reconsideration is a review of the determination made by Social Security. This is done by a Social Security claims representative other than the person who made the original determination. The process must be started by your filing a "Request for Reconsideration" form obtained from the Social Security Administration. This must be done within sixty days of the receipt of the overpayment notice or denial of the overpayment waiver request. 

You can choose one of three methods of reconsideration. A case review is done without your presence by another claims representative, who simply reviews the information in your Social Security file to be sure that the initial determination was correct. The second alternative is an informal conference with a Social Security claims representative. This is the method of reconsideration I recommend. It is done by visiting the Social Security office and reviewing your situation and your file with the claims representative. The third alternative is a formal conference which is run much like a hearing, where both sides bring in witnesses to testify on their behalf and the claimant can cross-examine the witnesses from the Social Security Administration. Since the next stage of appeal is a formal hearing, this third option is rarely used.

At the reconsideration level, you need to do some investigating and creative thinking. First you must figure out what went wrong and which facts caused Social Security to decide you were overpaid or that you were at fault in causing the overpayment. What rules did they apply to your case? Which facts can you point out to correct any false information which Social Security may have? Social Security can tell you the facts and the rules that were applied in your case. You have the right to see your file and to have an explanation of what it means. Dealing with Social Security claims representatives is an art. Sometimes you have to be assertive and persistent to get a thorough, understandable explanation of your case and the reason Social Security believes you were overpaid. On the other hand, claims representatives are generally willing to work with you to help you understand the reasons for the decision.

You should remember, though, that you have the "burden of proof." This means it is up to you to provide relevant information to enable Social Security to decide in your favor. You may have to do some digging to find documentation or someone who can verify your side of the case. For example, if Social Security is saying that you did not report changes which affect your benefits, you will have to find someone to help you document that you did in fact report. Some possible sources to consult are readers, vocational rehabilitation counselors, and employers who may have been contacted by Social Security. If you visit the Social Security office and discover that there is more information you need to supply, Social Security can wait a reasonable amount of time until the information is provided. After they have all the facts, they will review the situation and make a decision. 

A notice of the reconsideration decision will be mailed to you. If the reconsideration decision is not favorable, you may request a hearing with an administrative law judge in the Social Security Office of Hearings and Appeals. This request must be made within sixty days of the reconsideration decision, on a form provided by Social Security. You must state why you disagree with the decision made at the reconsideration level. It may be many months before a hearing is scheduled. 

This hearing is the last chance you will have to establish the facts in the case. Any further appeals will be merely reviews to determine whether the administrative law judge applied the law correctly to the facts in your case. Therefore, if at all feasible, it is very important to retain an attorney to assist you at this stage. If you cannot afford an attorney, your local legal services office may be able to assist you. If, however, the amount of the overpayment is so small that it would not pay to hire an attorney, and if you are not eligible for legal assistance, you can go to the hearing without a lawyer. 

There will usually not be witnesses or a lawyer from the Social Security Administration at the hearing. The only person present will be an administrative law judge, a person with a legal background and who has the responsibility to hear the facts in your case and make a decision based on the Social Security Act. Although the administrative law judge is paid by Social Security, he or she is supposed to be neutral. The judge has a great deal more discretion than the claims representative had to decide the case in your favor. 

Prior to the hearing you should:
1.  Review your file at the Hearings and Appeals Office. Find out why the reconsideration was not decided in your favor.
2.  Get your facts together. If there are people familiar with your case, ask them to come with you to the hearing or to prepare a statement explaining the facts as they know them. If you have letters or other documents for the hearing, send them to the Appeals Office well before the time when the hearing is scheduled.
3.  Make a list of all the things you want to say at the hearing. The administrative law judge will ask you questions, so it is good to have a list of facts to refer to so that you can be sure to get them all on record.

On the day of the hearing, arrive at least a half hour early. Review your file again to make sure that all the evidence you sent in is there.

The judge will begin by explaining how the hearing will be conducted. The hearing will always be tape recorded. You and the witnesses with you will be sworn in and the judge will ask you questions. If you do not understand a question, ask to have it repeated or explained. When the judge has no more questions, ask for an opportunity to add any information you believe is important. It is important to be thorough, but be careful not to repeat yourself unnecessarily or to drag your story on with unnecessary or irrelevant details. 

If you don't win at the hearing, your chances of receiving a waiver or a positive determination are very slim. If you receive an adverse decision at the hearing, the next appeal procedure available to you requires the assistance of an attorney. Further action will be costly and time­consuming.

A few final thoughts: First, it is easier to get a Social Security disability benefit overpayment waived than it is to get an SSI overpayment waived. Second, if your appeal of a determination that you were actually overpaid is unsuccessful, you can request a waiver of the overpayment at that time. Third, if you decide that the overpayment actually occurred and that it was your fault and, therefore, cannot be waived, you might as well “face the music” and work out a repayment plan with Social Security. Social Security will keep after you until you pay back the money anyway, so it is best to be cooperative and make arrangements to repay the amount you owe or have it deducted from your Social Security checks.

There is no doubt that the Social Security Administration can be one of the most perplexing, annoying, inefficient, and frustrating bureaucracies to deal with. When faced with unwarranted, adverse Social Security decisions, it is natural to panic and feel angry, confused and lost. These appeal procedures are designed to assist you in straightening out problems as they occur and to give you a fighting chance to present your side of the story. If you are patient and persistent, you can be successful. Sometimes David can beat Goliath!

*****

** Striking Out Blindly
(Reprinted from The Clayton Times and The Missouri Chronicle) 

Dateline Houston: America's 1.5 million blind people were further handicapped today when it was learned that their traditionally faithful guide dogs (a.k.a. "seeing eye dogs") had voted to strike. Negotiations between the dogs and their owners, which had been going on here since Thursday, broke off shortly after suppertime. The dogs have been without a contract since last Friday. 
"We've reached the end of our rope," was the only printable comment unleashed by an angry member of the negotiating team. 

As a result of the strike, hundreds of thousands of blind Americans will be left to maneuver busy sidewalks and cross crowded intersections by themselves. A spokesman for the owners said he hoped management personnel (mostly trainers and breeders) would be able to fill in for the striking guide dogs. It appears, however, that such a move would in many cases result in the blind literally leading the blind. 

Prior to the strike vote, the dogs had been involved in a job-action slowdown, including actions such as: not informing their masters of sidewalk litter (at times placed purposely by the disgruntled canines), and refusing to fetch items such as slippers. The guide dogs claim such services are "acts of loyalty" performed above and beyond the call of duty.

The major point of contention, as seen by the dogs, who are mostly of the German shepherd and golden retriever variety, is the freedom to be treated like any other dog. Prince, head of the "Dogs Offering Guidance (DOG)" union, claims that seeing eye dogs are not allowed to "frolic, play with balls, or nip at the heels of small children," activities which Prince calls essential in the healthy development of a dog.

Aside from the freedom-to-play issue, the dogs sought improvements in several other areas. Since the dogs are not paid for their services, money is not an issue; but vacations and benefits were. Under their present contract, dogs work six and a half days a week and receive 100 percent reimbursement of medical expenses. The new demands call for a full day off each week, along with a one-week vacation during the "dog days" of August. 

"We'd just like a little respect from our peers," snarled Prince. "For instance, there's a men's club in London that has a sign which reads: 'Absolutely No Dogs Allowed. Seeing Eye Dogs Will Be Regarded as Cats.' For Rin-tin-Tin's sake, we shouldn't have to put up with that." 

Union negotiators for DOG are also reportedly seeking a clause in the new agreement that would include psychological treatment in the guide dogs' medical package. Alphaholism is a major problem among dogs working in stress jobs, accounting for more on-the-job accidents than any other single factor. 

If the labor action is prolonged, the effects of this unprecedented strike could be tragic. Millions of sightless Americans rely on their dogs' eyes to aid them in their daily functions. Around the nation, money for canes was being raised in an effort to once again make the sightless able to maneuver. 

Meanwhile, Prince told reporters he did not think the union's demands were extreme. 

"Look, man, we don't want to bite the hand that's been feeding us," he growled. "We just want the little things that every dog in this great country of ours is allowed. It's unnatural for a dog to have to relieve itself with somebody holding on to its harness. Think for a moment what it means to not be allowed to chew on a slipper or chase a motorcycle. You can't imagine how embarrassing it is to be allowed into restaurants where other dogs are kicked away. All the other dogs give us the cold nose."

Asked if it were true that DOG had demanded that President Reagan place a guide dog on his Cabinet, DOG’s Washington chapter representative, Kato, responded: "Yes, that is true. We think that would show America that the President is not blind to our ambitions." 

In sympathy with the DOG strike, pet store mynah birds are refusing to talk; Morris, the finnicky eater, is rumored to have strolled off the set where he (actually, she) was filming a new commercial; and the porpoises, dolphins, and killer whales at America's most popular aquarium were planning to stay underwater.

*****

** The Honeybee Lens
By Dr. Randy Jose

(Reprinted from the RP Messenger, Texas Association of Retinitis Pigmentosa, Fall, 1981) 

(NOTE) On October 1, 1981, both major news services carried feature articles containing accounts of the latest breakthrough in low vision aids, the "honeybee lens." Dr. William Feinbloom, well-known for his many previous contributions to the field of low vision optometry, had for a long time been fascinated by the construction of the eyes of honeybees and certain other insects, where there is not just one lens as in the human eye, but a great many - each at a slightly different angle. He finally succeeded in incorporating this principle into a complex lens to be worn by people with partial vision. The following article by a specialist in the field of low vision optometry should answer many questions which people have raised about this new lens. Dr. Randy Jose is Director of the Low Vision Unit, Rehabilitative Optometry Clinic, College of Optometry, University of Houston.) 

As with most breakthroughs in the technology of designing new lens systems for individuals with low vision, the news of the honeybee lens was received with a great deal of excitement and misunderstanding.

The honeybee lens, like all other optical aids, does not allow for normal vision. It is a series of three miniaturized telescopes which are mounted in the upper part of a conventional spectacle lens. (Single units mounted this way are called bioptics.) They provide 3X magnification, or 300% increase in acuity, as described by the newspaper reports. The field of the new telescope is approximately three times larger than that of the old single unit of bioptic. 

This is where the major technical advancement lies. Dr. Feinbloom was able to modify the mounting of the telescopes so that the person using them can see through all three telescopes at the same time. This gives the person the impression that the field through the central telescope is much larger.

Some cautions must be observed regarding the lens. The system is not ideal for all people. Presently 3X magnification is all that is practical (although with special helmet type mountings, powers as high as 8X magnification can be designed; the person may have to wear special headgear to support this system.) The honeybee lens does not increase visual fields 3X for those people with very restricted fields, like with retinitis pigmentosa. (These people are still best served with reversed telescope Some cautions must be observed regarding the lens. The system is not ideal for all people. Presently 3X magnification is all that is practical (although with special helmet type mountings, powers as high as 8X magnification can be designed; the person may have to wear special headgear to support this system.) The honeybee lens does not increase visual fields 3X for those people with very restricted fields, like with retinitis pigmentosa. (These people are still best served with reversed telescope field expanders or using fresnel prisms to improve scanning into the peripheral field.) It is more difficult to wear these for long periods of time because of the weight. They are not as practical for walking around as the old bioptic design because of the placement of the three telescopes and the inability to move the eye from one telescope to the next without experiencing prism displacement and distortion. 

The honeybee lens probably can be demonstrated to very few people. They must be exactly aligned for the individual in order for the person to appreciate the simultaneous views through each telescope. Most people will benefit more from other wide­angle single telescopes (like the camera lens). A thorough clinical evaluation by a low vision optometric specialist is needed in order to determine an individual's ability to benefit from this new lens design.

The honeybee lens is most useful for an individual with 20/200 acuity or better; has no major field losses; and who has used telescopes before. It can be a tremendous aid for individuals who need to use telescopes for tasks like viewing a blackboard, watching television, working off a computer screen; working with ledgers, printouts and other large manuscripts; possibly for drafting and some yard work. All these tasks require a large field to view the task and do not require mobility or lots of head movement. Since the person always looks through the central telescope, some disorientation can occur when making a lot of head and eye movements. 

For special cases, the honeybee lens is a tremendous breakthrough in the technology of designing telescopic lenses with wider fields of view.

*****

** H.R. 4775 Makes the Social Security Administration Work Better for You 
By Scott Marshall 

Have you ever been initially denied Social Security benefits, only to find that twelve months later an administrative law judge decides the case in your favor? Or has one of your Social Security checks been lost in the mail and it took months to obtain a replacement?

Representative John Seiberling (D., OH) has introduced H.R. 4775, which requires prompt decisions on claims, prompt payment of approved claims, and expedited replacement of undelivered benefit checks. 

Specifically, the Social Security Administration must decide cases within ninety days of the date of application for determination or reconsideration, and decisions after an administrative hearing must be made within 120 days after the request for the hearing has been made and filed. A similar time limitation of 120 days applies to decisions by the Appeals Council.

Decisions must also be made within 60 days on hearings or Appeals Council review in cases where the Social Security Administration has terminated disability benefits. 
If the Social Security Administration does not make a decision within these time frames, benefit payments must begin to be made within ten days after the claimant's written request. Such payments are based on the claimant's earnings record and are not considered to be overpayments, even if the Social Security Administration subsequently denies the claim.

Payments of approved claims must also be made promptly; i.e., within two months of the month in which the claim was approved. 

Finally, if your check is lost in the mail or for any other reason does not reach you, a new check must be issued within ten days after you make a written request for a replacement, or the Social Security Administration must advise you in writing as to why you are not entitled to receive a check. 

Your ACB Washington office has reviewed H.R. 4775, and the American Council of the Blind recommends that members support this legislation. Write to your representative, indicating that you would like to see passage of this bill. It would also be useful to write to Representative J.J. Pickle (D., TX), who is the chairman of the Social Security Subcommittee of the House Ways and Means Committee. Tell Mr. Pickle that you support passage of H.R. 4775 and that you would like to see his subcommittee schedule hearings on the bill.

*****

** The Listening Ear
By Dorothy Stiefel

Dear Dorothy: 

I have had retinitis pigmentosa since I was a teenager. I am now 45 years of age and have been legally blind for a number of years. It irritates me that people are always asking me why I don't use a cane. How would you explain to them that a cane is for people who cannot see to get around? I am not blind, and I don't want to be treated like some blind people are. I don't want to hurt my friends' feelings, so I really don't know quite how to handle the situation. Can you help me?

- C. T., Texas 

Dear C. T.: 

I am not sure how you think your friends would treat you if you were totally blind, but I have a good idea how most people react to hostile attitudes. If you are in firm control of problems a disability can present, then you will be less likely to be intimidated by what anyone may say to you. I find most people to be helpful, especially when I have taken the time to explain to them my particular visual restrictions. 

Is it possible that you have not explained to your friends the inconsistencies of your invisible disability? If you have been inclined to use the term "legally blind" when discussing RP, a great deal of confusion may be the real culprit. 

It is encouraging to note that more and more individuals with partial sight and restricted fields of vision are utilizing the long white cane, which in the past has had the unfortunate reputation of being a label of helplessness. It is now becoming recognized as a tool of independence. I hear people refer to the cane as a status symbol - a functional status symbol - that the person has a vision problem and may need assistance in certain situations. I have also noticed that more people with limited vision are dog guide owners. I have sometimes asked such persons why they have chosen to use a dog guide. They all said they felt more comfortable, more secure, or more independent. None of them said they couldn't see.
 
The next time someone wants to know why you don't use a cane, try to accept the question as an attempt to communicate with you in order to understand a friend's circumstances. 

Dear Dorothy: 

Do you know what I can do about getting major medical insurance? My husband is employed by the county, and he has been told that as a spouse with a vision problem, I cannot be insured. Isn't this pure, outright discrimination? Has anyone else complained to you about this problem, and is it mainly a problem among people with RP?

- Mrs. L. B., Alabama

Dear Mrs. L. B.: 

A number of cases similar to yours have been brought to my attention. It is discriminatory, and people with all kinds of disabilities are waging the same fight for sufficient medical insurance at equitable rates. 

Yes, you can do something about your complaint, and airing it through this column was a good start. Also, the National Office of the American Council of the Blind is gathering as much information as possible from individuals who have experienced insurance discrimination. Write American Council of the Blind, 1211 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 506, Washington, DC 20036, Attention: Barbara Nelson, Staff Attorney. 

I understand that lobbying and advocacy groups are making inroads regarding this growing concern. The Low Vision Council of Southern California (an advocacy group of visually impaired people) is collecting information on experiences people have had relating to insurance problems. Perhaps a letter to them will uncover some alternatives for you. Write to the group at P.O. Box 1341, Santa Monica, CA 90406.

Readers are encouraged to share their comments in response to any letters appearing in this column. If you have a concern to share or a gripe to air, write to Dorothy Stiefel, c/o The Listening Ear, P.O. Box 8388, Corpus Christi, TX 78412. For a personal response, please be sure to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE). 

*****

** Handicapped Transportation Made Easy
By Stephen Hoyt

The title of this article, "Handicapped Transportation Made Easy," has the quality of being short, but it's not quite accurate. A more accurate title would be: "We Think We Have a Solution to the Handicapped Transportation Problem that Will Comply with U.S. Department of Transportation Regulations, Under 504, as They May Now Be Rewritten." 

As everyone knows by now, there has been an enormous backlash in response to the original demands of the U.S. Department of Transportation in its regulations for compliance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, providing for access by handicapped persons to public transportation. The heart of the problem was that it focused on "public" transportation. The regulations were developed with input, as required, from handicapped individuals and organizations. But (and this is to be expected) the people they heard from were the most vocal; the most aggressive; the most demanding. Now, if we hadn't had vocal, aggressive, demanding people around, we would all still be living in caves. We hope such people will always be with us. However, man's ultimate survival has been by the "pendulum principle"; that is, a situation goes from one extreme to the opposite extreme; then, in time, comes back to a mid-point. That seems to be what is happening with handicapped transportation. (The alternative to that principle is the process of hard-nosed confrontation. History provides a long list of the successes of that process. The Civil War and the unemployed air traffic controllers are examples which come readily to mind.) 

The original regulations proved to be so expensive and difficult to meet and, in those cities where an attempt was made to meet them, so little used by handicapped people, that they encountered increasing resistance from transportation providers and local authorities. (In Omaha, Nebraska, with a system like ours, and based upon 47,000 passenger trips last year, only 6% of the passengers said they could use accessible public transportation.) This has brought about a re­examination of those demands, with the prospect of new provisions which may open the door to a successful achievement of the goal. 

Two keys to this area are: (1) the change in the language from "access to public transportation" to "transportation handicapped persons can use"; and (2) the local-option concept, which, while not new, is being considered more seriously. It gives local authorities, transportation providers, and the local public, handicapped and non-handicapped, the opportunity to work out a practical and efficient system that truly meets the needs of the local handicapped population. The fear is that this will "let them off the hook." Not if we play our cards right. 

In Daytona Beach, Florida, we are particularly intrigued with these new developments for an interesting reason: We, like some cities much larger than ours, are a couple of years ahead. So, for those who may be involved in developing transportation handicapped persons can use, our story may be helpful. 

Daytona Beach has three lift­equipped, twelve-passenger mini-buses called "Handi-Wheels" in demand-responsive, door-to-door service, covering the same service area as the fixed-route system. Each bus cost approximately the same as the added cost of equipping a fixed-route bus to accommodate wheelchairs, and the service provided to our handicapped people is far superior to that of the so­called "accessible" city buses. Also, there is no disruption of the fixed­route system. For the period October 1, 1980, through July, 1981, with 1,418,068 passenger trips on the 28 fixed-route buses, there were 13,983 handicapped passenger trips on the paratransit buses. This was almost 1% of the non-handicapped ridership in its first year of operation. It not only provides genuine assistance to the passengers; it practically. eliminates the problem of accessibility of related facilities. And all at a direct (net) operating cost of only $4.00 per trip (about $4.50, less a $.50 fare). 

Our success story started in April, 1977, when Carl McCoy, Director of the Rehabilitation Center for the Blind (and a director of the American Council of the Blind), called a meeting of key people from local service agencies and others who worked with handicapped people. There were 38 people - all enthusiastic about the challenge he gave them: Let's get a transportation system that handicapped people can use. 

A committee, Realistic Approach to Transportation for the Handicapped and Elderly (RATHE), was formed and work was assigned to subcommittees - and the course was set. (Note the word "realistic." That's important.)

The first step was to meet with County authorities. Our committee's appearance was placed on the agenda as just one item of business. But, when committee members made their entrance - one with a white cane, one on crutches, two in wheelchairs, and one with a dog guide - the members of the County Council suddenly came to attention. After the presentation, it was implied that we had their full support. But, we thought, that could be just lip service - which it might have turned out to be if we had relaxed for one minute. 

There was no relaxing. We knew there was Federal money available - 80% for capital costs and 50% for operating net expenses - so we went for it. That was under legislation that had been passed fourteen years previously. 

That legislation, the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1963 (amended in 1964) and the DOT regulations that followed the passage of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 were the key to the first part of this story. And this brings us to an important point: That source of funding should still be possible — in spite of Government cutbacks — provided any grant application is backed by proof that it is realistic and cost-effective. The present increasing questioning on the part of Government officials as to which way to go - if any - may make this an opportune time to present such a plan. 

The RATHE committee did not have to picket or storm the portals of Washington. By June, 1980, Handi­Wheels was in full operation. The problem now is that we underestimated the enthusiasm with which handicapped people would respond, and already we need another bus. We avoided confrontation by realizing at the outset that, while accessible public transportation may be a civil right, it is not realistic mobility. We opt for mobility.

*****

** ACB Affiliate News

* Oregon Council Convention 

"Even You Can Be a Leader!" This challenge, calculated to inspire each and every affiliate member, was the theme chosen for the 1981 annual convention of the Oregon Council of the Blind, held in beautiful Coos Bay the weekend of October 16-18. Attendance was greatly aided, thanks to the cooperation of the Oral Hull Foundation of Sandy, which made its bus available to transport 28 members from Portland, Salem, and Eugene to the convention in Coos Bay.

Among those who rode the bus from Portland to Coos Bay was ACB's Director of Public Affairs, Ms. Laura Oftedahl, who represented the national staff of the American Council of the Blind. In addressing the convention theme, she outlined several steps in exercising effective leadership: Get involved. Check out resources. Check out members and get them involved. Feel good about yourself. OCB members enjoyed meeting and getting to know Laura, as well as her frisbee-catching dog guide, Casey. 

On Friday evening, Laura and Casey were also· guests of the newly organized OCB chapter, Guide Dog Users, Inc., of Oregon. Organizers sought dog guide users and supporters of the dog guide concept, for the purpose of promoting the use of dog guides and the equality of dog guide users under the law. 

A featured speaker was Mr. Robert Dibble, Associate Professor of Psychology and adviser/counselor to handicapped students at Southwestern Oregon Community College. He observed that as soon as an infant has any sense of awareness, he is impressed with his inferiority and how small he is compared to the world around him, and he spends the rest of his life trying to achieve a sense of security. Mr. Dibble stressed his conviction that any adult has the capacity to become a leader: each individual has the option to accept or reject responsibility, and that choice is up to the individual. You can become what you want to become, disabled or not. 

The program also included a panel discussion on the broad subject of fund-raising, conducted by three community leaders. They spoke and answered questions about grant writing, program development, and conventional moneymakers such as baked food sales. A second panel addressed the subject, "The Media and You." Representatives from TV, radio, and the newspapers fielded questions on such subjects as public service announcements, when to purchase advertising space, and where one goes to produce a professional commercial. 

Speaker at the Saturday night banquet was Larry Hardin, an optical engineer, who spoke on the nature of sight, optics, and the importance of innovation in a modern society. The 1981 OCB Outstanding Service Award was presented to State Senator Keith Burbidge. In accepting the award, Senator Burbidge reaffirmed his support for programs to assist the blind and, most important, his support for the continuation of programs at the Oregon School for the Blind.

Carol Derouin McCarl reported on the OCB toll-free information number. Total calls received from 9/1/80 through 8/31/81 were 289, including 50 from newly blinded persons. Since the toll-free service began in February of 1978, 963 persons and agencies have been assisted. 

The following officers were elected: President, Kim Charlson; First Vice President, Carol Waymire; Second Vice President, Carl McCally; Secretary, Barbara Kaufman; and Treasurer, Don Rohde.

* ACB of New York State Convention 

The American Council of the Blind of New York State held its annual convention in New York City during the weekend of October 16-18, 1981. Approximately 100 persons were in attendance. 

The convention program theme, "Fun and Safety in New York," provided a refreshing and stimulating interlude between serious matters discussed at the Friday night board meeting, Saturday afternoon committee meetings, and Sunday morning business meeting. Scott Marshall, Director of Governmental Affairs in the ACB National Office, was the keynote speaker on the Saturday morning convention program. 

Many members attended the Saturday afternoon meetings of the ACB/NYS Publications Board and Legislative Committee. These two committees will work closely during the coming year to improve communications among local chapters throughout the state and to help chapters organize and carry out effective plans for legislative action. 

Conventioneers came away refreshed and revitalized for the work ahead in 1982.

*****

** Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor: 

I am writing in response to the article in the December, 1981 issue of The Braille Forum entitled, “Fast Track to the Block Grant,” and written by Scott Marshall.

Based upon information contained in this excellent, informative article, I have contacted the legislators representing my interests and have circulated the article to appropriate departments within the Illinois State Board of Education. 

I am writing this Letter to the Editor for two purposes. First, I wish to commend the American Council of the Blind for keeping its members and friends so well informed of current events that impact upon our lives as citizens and visually impaired persons. Second, I wish to encourage ACB members to share The Braille Forum with friends and colleagues. Such sharing of information gains recognition for the ACB, informs our fellow citizens that we are involved in matters that so seriously affect us, and encourages our fellow citizens to join with us, thus giving us strength in numbers. 

I commend the excellent work of the ACB National Office and extend to all of you a very happy, prosperous, and fulfilling new year.

- Nancy Spinner, Program Evaluator, Illinois State Board of Education, Springfield, Illinois.

*****

** Here and There
By George Card

The Missouri Chronicle reports legislative success in the enactment into law of a bill increasing the state's blind pension by $25.00 a month. … Fred Lilley, as president, conducted his first meeting of the Greater St. Louis Council of Lions. 

From The Lions: "I wouldn't worry too much if your son makes mud pies," advised the doctor, "even if he eats them. Sometimes that's quite normal." — "Well, I don't think so," replied the woman, "and neither does his wife." 

From The Free Press (Wisconsin): Plastic lenses within the cornea may soon replace donated human corneas. Researchers at Emory University are currently using the artificial lenses in animals, in the hope that in the future people will not have to depend on donated tissue. ... Retinoblastoma, an eye cancer among children, is now believed to be caused by a virus. A research group has succeeded in isolating the virus, and it is hoped that this type of research will help scientists find a way of treating and curing this type of cancer. ... Dr. Nancy Bryant, superintendent of the Michigan School for the Blind, has resigned her position and will accept the directorship of the New York Institute for the Education of the Blind. 

From The New York Daily News (Dec. 2): The Food and Drug Administration gave its first formal approval to the marketing of a plastic lens that is implanted in the eyes of patients whose natural lens has been removed through cataract surgery. An estimated 500,000 Americans have had such intraocular lenses implanted - 200,000 in the past year alone. Until Tuesday's action, the lenses were classed as "experimental." The approval was for use on patients over 60. Commissioner Arthur Hall Hays, Jr., said that the lenses "can be of particular help to patients who cannot see well with glasses alone and who have difficulty handling contact lenses." 

From The ACBC Digest (California): Paul Stebbins, radio engineer at KNBR-AM and KYUU-FM, San Francisco NBC Network stations, is the only known blind person working in a radio network station in the country. He competed for his present job with twenty sighted radio engineers and has been employed by the station for more than a year. ... In the fall of 1973, Paul English (5% vision) was asked by a friend to go for a run. Seven years, two Canandian and two world records later, English is hoping to land a berth on the Canadian marathon team for the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles. 

The CCB Outlook (Canada) tells of the career of Jim Swail, employed as a senior research officer at Ottawa's National Research Council. Swail has designed more than a hundred practical items for use by his fellow blind, from a folding white cane to a talking computer, a braille electronic bathroom thermometer, a braille calculator that operates using a combination of sound and touch, and a remote-control sound beacon that allows a blind person to press a button in his pocket that triggers an audio signal as he approaches his own home so he can identify which house he should enter. 

From The Wisconsin State Journal: It takes the pancreas of 26 cattle to supply one diabetic with enough insulin for one year. 

From the Associated Press: The Xerox Corporation will present 100 reading machines for the blind, worth $3 million, to colleges and university libraries around the country. The Kurzweil reading machines, which scan printed material and then read it aloud by synthesized speech, will assist more than 6,000 blind and visually impaired students. 

In some states, legislation has been introduced which would require insurance companies to pay for insulin infusion pumps, a new device which automatically injects diabetic patients their medication. 

The World Council for the Welfare of the Blind Newsletter welcomes two new members — large societies for the blind in Pakistan and Lebanon .... "As a major contribution to the International Year of Disabled Persons, the Royal Commonwealth Society for the Blind has announced the beginning of a five­year campaign to save the sight of 60,000 children likely to become blind from malnutrition. This campaign, the largest of its kind in the world, will operate in 40 communities and 16 states in India. Lack of Vitamin A in early childhood is the world's largest destroyer of children's eyes. Throughout the developing world, it annually blinds 200,000 children. Distribution of vitamin concentrates is the best available initial action, but the long­term remedy must be a change in the diet of children to include vitamin­rich vegetables, which are plentifully and cheaply available in most areas where this disease is prevalent. Special centers will be set up for children needing emergency treatment to save them from imminent blindness." ... British railways have extended to blind persons from abroad the facilities already granted to blind nationals. A blind person and his guide may travel for the price of one ticket. The Netherlands also grants deductions to blind foreigners. ... The Asian Foundation for the Prevention of Blindness was launched in Hong Kong on February 21, 1981, with an initial gift of one million Hong Kong dollars and the promise of much more from business and financial interests . … The Rittmeyer Institute for the Blind in Trieste is setting up a center to help sightless students, both Italian and from abroad, who are studying at the School of Languages for translators and interpreters at the University of Trieste. 

From The Vendorscope: Maturity is the ability to do a job whether or not you are supervised, and to bear an injustice without wanting to get even. 

From The New York Daily News (Dec. 4): Large doses of Vitamin E can prevent a common form of blindness in premature infants caused by excessive amounts of oxygen, researchers in Texas report. The Vitamin E treatment offers at least a partial solution to the dilemma which has confronted doctors for the past four decades. The oxygen which is sometimes necessary to keep premies alive is often damaging to the eyes if given in the amounts required for effectiveness. None of the babies suffered bad side effects from the treatment.

From The ACBC Digest: California's last major sheltered workshop for blind people will be phased out over the next twelve months. The San Francisco Blind Craft Shop has been in continuous operation since 1914, has provided employment opportunities for hundreds of people, and has sold its products worldwide. The decision affects 32 clients, all of whom are blind and many of whom have additional disabilities. 

From a Sydney Harris syndicated column: "The ring-necked pheasant is so sharp of hearing that it can detect very loud noises such as cannon fire up to a distance of 300 miles. ... Most American Indian tribes wholly lack blood types A and B. Their blood is composed almost completely of type O."

According to a recent issue of The Promoter (North Dakota Association of the Blind), in the State of North Dakota there is a law allowing blind individuals exemption from payment of property taxes on the home in which they live. This applies to both men and women, married or single, and has no correlation with income. If only one spouse is legally blind, a 100% exemption is allowed if the home is jointly owned or if singly owned by the blind individual. This law also applies to mobile homes. Proof of legal blindness is required. 

From Association News (D.C. Association of Workers for the Blind): According to an Associated Press release, retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart, who sat on the High Court for 23 years, has volunteered as a reader at the Washington chapter of Recording for the Blind, to read case histories for blind law students. He is reading not only texts of various cases, but also the detailed footnotes in fine print. 

Recording for the Blind is anxious to contact practicing lawyers who have used RFB's recorded textbooks to obtain their education. In mid-1980, all borrower information was put on computer. Data on persons who have used the service since May 1980 has not been entered into the system, and the manual system used prior to that time is a chronological system with no cross-indexing by major fields. If you are a blind or visually impaired attorney who has used RFB recorded textbooks, please send your name, address, telephone number, and the name of your employer to Shiela V. Brand, Director of Public Relations, Recording for the Blind, Inc., 215 E. 58th Street, New York, NY 10022.

The U.S. Blind Chess Association is holding an over-the-board chess tournament in the Greater Washington, D.C. area on Washington's birthday weekend, February 13-15, 1982. The winner will be the official U.S. braille chess champion. He/she will represent the U.S. in competition for the world chess championship later in 1982. For further information, contact Dr. James R. Slagle, 4101 Holly Tree Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748; telephone (301) 899-1077 (home); (202) 767-2669 (work).

*****

** 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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