The Braille Forum Vol. XXV July-August 1986 No. 1 Published Monthly by the American Council of the Blind Mary T. Ballard, Editor ***** Promoting Independence and Effective Participation in Society * National Office: Oral O. Miller 1010 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 1-800-424-8666 * Editorial Office The Braille Forum: Mary T. Ballard 190 Lattimore Road Rochester, NY 14620 (716) 442-3131 THE BRAILLE FORUM is available in braille, large-type, and cassette tape (15/16 ips). Subscription requests, address changes, and items intended for publication should be sent to: THE BRAILLE FORUM, 190 Lattimore Road, Rochester, NY 14620. Those much-needed and appreciated cash contributions may be sent to LeRoy Saunders, Treasurer, American Council of the Blind, 1010 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Suite 1100, Washington, DC 20005. You may wish to remember a relative or friend by sharing in the continuing work of the American Council of the Blind. The ACB 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/her Last Will and Testament may do so by including a special paragraph for that purpose. If your wishes are complex, you may wish to contact the ACB National Office. For the latest legislative and governmental news, call the Washington Connection. Toll-free: Daily, 5:30 P.M. to midnight Eastern time - 1-800-424-8666 Washington, D.C., metropolitan area: 5:30 P.M. to 9:00 A.M. Eastern time, weekdays and all day weekends and holidays — 393-3664. Copyright 1986 American Council of the Blind ***** ** Contents President's Message, by Grant Mack News Briefs from the ACB National Office, by Oral O. Miller Fast-Food War Continues Between Vendors and Defense Department, by Lynn Abbott Graphics on the "Perky," by Ike Presley Senator Weicker Introduces Rehab Bill, by Kathleen Megivern Meet the 1986 ACB Scholars, by Laura Oftedahl Live, Learn, and Enjoy, by Julie Hew Dole Announces New Urban Mass Transportation Regulations for Disabled Persons, by Lynn Abbott Ski for Light Offers Whole New World to Blind and Visually Impaired People Teacher Shortage and the Blind, by Bashir A. Masoodi Fair Insurance Act Seeks to Remedy Discrimination Against Blind Persons Nationwide Scholarship Program for Blind Teenagers 1986 National Blind Water Ski Competition High Tech Swap Shop Here and There, by Elizabeth M. Lennon Calendar of Events ACB Officers ***** ** President's Message By Grant Mack The 1986 national convention of the American Council of the Blind is now history. Although I am still weary from travel and meetings, I ask your indulgence for a few brief comments and a quick overview of this very successful gathering. Future issues of The Braille Forum will provide a more in-depth view of the action-packed and very full week. It was pure coincidence that the banquet celebrating ACB's 25th anniversary came on the Fourth of July. The root causes which led to the birth of our nation 210 years ago are strikingly similar to those that led to the formation of ACB just 25 years ago. Just as the yearning for independence and freedom of thought and the desire to discard a tyrannical yoke resulted in the surfacing of patriots in colonial days, so did these same basic motives and the determination to maintain freedom and right cause a number of courageous blind people to organize the American Council of the Blind on July 7, 1961. A re-enactment of the incidents leading up to the beginning of ACB, presented by many of the original players, provided a very enlightening and informative banquet program. Tapes of that presentation will soon be available. Watch The Braille Forum for an announcement of the availability of these tapes. You who have questions about the reasons and justification for ACB's formation should listen carefully to this presentation. "The growth has exceeded our wildest expectations." "ACB has really come of age." "The numbers are overwhelming." "ACB's influence is reaching into areas we never dreamed possible." These are just a few of the comments from some of those early charter members who participated in this historic program. Those who made the trip to Knoxville were rewarded in many other ways. Southern hospitality Tennessee­style, Bluegrass music, and numerous parties and social events created an overall atmosphere that will cause old-timers and newcomers to want to come back. The smoothness with which people were shuttled from hotel to hotel and meeting to meeting was remarkable. So many special­interest meetings were being held at the same time that one conventioneer was heard to comment that it was like a three-ring circus: it was impossible to see and do everything. Approximately 75 meetings, luncheons, and seminars were held during the week, in addition to six ACB general sessions. A highlight of the entire convention was the major address delivered by Senator Albert Gore of Tennessee. His candid and forthright address was met with thunderous applause. It was obvious that a new high in mutual respect had been achieved because of his appearance. One of the most moving, entertaining, and inspirational speeches of the entire convention was the address delivered by long-time ACB member and friend, Judge Leonard Staisey of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His dynamic talk will be listened to over and over again. It alone was worth the trip to Knoxville. ACB's historic willingness to cooperate and develop friendships with other organizations of and for the blind as well as other disability groups was emphasized with the appearance of several important visitors: Mr. Justin Dart, newly appointed by President Reagan to head the Rehabilitation Services Administration; Mr. John Crowley, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the American Foundation for the Blind; Mr. Jim Wells, President of the General Council of Workshops for the Blind; and Mr. John Denning, President of the American Association of Retired Persons. The resultant enlightened understanding and closer friendship with these important organizations can only bring tremendous benefit to the blind and visually impaired citizens of this country. The international flavor of last year's convention in Las Vegas with the appearance of Sheikh Abdullah M. Al-Ghanim of Saudi Arabia was carried forward to this year. Representatives from the United Kingdom, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Australia provided additional interest. Attendees heard from Christie Kruger of the Republic of South Africa; Tom Maley of the Royal National Institute for the Blind in London; Barbara Williams and Rebecca Maxwell from Australia; and Ruvimbo Mujeni, Director of the Council for the Blind in Zimbabwe. The book is now closed on ACB's 25th annual convention. At the end of the first 25 years, we stand as the largest, fastest-growing, most responsible and representative organization of blind people in the world. However, we still have a long way to go. Let us look to the future. May the spirit of reunification continue to prevail. The best is really yet to come! ***** ** News Briefs from the ACB National Office By Oral O. Miller National Representative There is strength in unity! The effectiveness of such unity was proudly reviewed during the May 1986 meeting of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights (LCCR), of which the American Council of the Blind has been an active member for several years. This very large coalition consists of approximately 185 national organizations, such as the AFL-CIO, National Organization for Women, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and the American Association of Retired Persons. Among the accomplishments reviewed were the blocking of attempts to do away with a very important Federal Executive Order mandating affirmative action and the passage by both houses of Congress of the Handicapped Children's Protection Act. Among the continuing projects and objectives of the Conference are the Civil Rights Restoration Act, pay equity for women, the provision of an administrative remedy for victims of housing discrimination, guaranteed housing accessibility for families with children, and reparations for Japanese-Americans who were damaged by internment during World War II. The American Council of the Blind was the first organization of handicapped persons to join this prestigious and very effective coalition. During May, it was my pleasure as National Representative to speak to the Communications Seminar of the National Council on the Handicapped about communications barriers encountered by blind people. We commend the National Council on its increasing awareness of the needs of blind people. At one point, the National Council was subjected to criticism because of its apparent concentration on the needs of mobility impaired people. How often have blind people been frustrated by the formatting or arrangement rather than the content or difficulty of standardized tests! There has been more than simply a mild disagreement with educators over the years as to how highly structured and carefully timed tests could be modified or replaced so as to be accessible to blind students, without decreasing the effectiveness or reliability of such tests (such as the Graduate Record Examination, the Law School Aptitude Test, and the Scholastic Aptitude Test). The American Blind Lawyers Association, for example, has been extremely concerned for many years regarding the LSAT and the matter is not yet finally resolved. However, at long last the Federal Government is beginning to show interest in the matter of unbiased testing. Recently representatives from the Justice Department met with the ACB National Representative and the Director of Public Affairs to further explore ways in which discrimination may be unintentionally practiced through standardized tests. As part of the input we provide to the Government, we would like to receive letters from any blind people who believe their test performances were significantly affected by the physical arrangement, the visual requirement, timing restrictions, or other physical features, not content, of standardized tests taken in recent years. The letters, in braille or print, should be as specific as possible and should include any suggestions as to how the undesirable features could be changed without affecting the reliability of the test. Among the visitors to the ACB National Office recently was Ms. Elda Oliphant of Soweto, South Africa. Ms. Oliphant, who is blind, was visiting this country to learn more about services provided by organizations made up of blind people. How often have blind people wished for a scale model of an unusually shaped building, monument, or other very large object as an aid in ascertaining the exact shape, proportions, and other interesting features of the object! For example, how many totally blind or low vision people know exactly how the hands of Abraham Lincoln are positioned on his huge statue inside the world­famous Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.? And how many really know the inside proportions of the United States Capital? Both these questions can be answered visually, but it is extremely difficult for a blind or low vision person to learn such details without asking hundreds of questions, because he or she simply cannot touch or get close enough to the features in question. It will come as good news to learn that a representative of the Curator of the United States Capitol is looking into the feasibility of designing and constructing truly informative, durable and "touchable" models of some of the most popular buildings, monuments, and areas in the Washington vicinity — such as the Capitol, the monuments, the White House, the mall area, the Arlington Cemetery area, etc. It was the pleasure of the ACB National Representative and Director of Public Affairs to confer with a representative of the Curator, and we are looking forward to meeting further with her as the project unfolds. By the time this issue of The Braille Forum goes to press, the new TV public service announcement about the American Council of the Blind and its affiliates will probably have been distributed to the affiliates participating in the joint project with the American Floral Marketing Council (AFMC). All state affiliates were contacted several weeks ago to determine the extent to which they would participate in funding part of the costs of producing the new PSA. In view of the interest of the AFMC in this PSA, this was an outstanding opportunity for ACB and its state affiliates to publicize the capabilities of blind people at a fraction of the cost otherwise. I am pleased to announce that ACB's monthly program on most of the radio reading services, ACB Reports, will be continued with essentially no interruption in service due to the untimely death of Vernon Henley. ACB's Director of Public Affairs, Laura Oftedahl, has assumed production responsibilities for this popular program. I regret to report that ACB's data processing specialist, Audrey Sundstrom, recently terminated her employment with ACB and moved.to another position as a part of her career advancement. Many ACB members and friends came to know Audrey as the soft voice at the other end of the telephone and as the "computer whiz" she is. During her two and a half years with ACB, we greatly increased the value and effectiveness of our data processing services. Although ACB will certainly miss Audrey's know-how and industry, we all wish her well as she moves ahead in her career. Congratulations to Otis Stephens, First Vice President of ACB, on his recent receipt of the Distinguished Service A ward from the National Accreditation Council for Agencies Serving the Blind and Visually Handicapped (NAC). Dr. Stephens was presented this award in grateful recognition of his sustained commitment to standards and accreditation, outstanding leadership in the field of work for the blind, and devoted service to blind and visually handicapped Americans. The handsome plaque was presented to Otis during the 25th anniversary convention of the ACB by NAC President Gibson DuTerroil. ***** ** Fast-Food War Continues Between Vendors and Defense Department By Lynn Abbott, Legal Assistant The United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on June 13, 1986, issued a decision in the controversial Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America, et al, v. Caspar W. Weinberger, et al, case. The vendors, joined by the American Council of the Blind, the National Council of State Agencies for the Blind, Blinded Veterans Association, Inc., and two individual plaintiffs, sought to reverse a lower court determination which found the awarding of fast-food contracts to McDonald's and Burger King by the Departments of the Army and Navy to be legal, in spite of certain provisions of the Randolph-Sheppard Act. The Court of Appeals opinion, authored by District Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer (sitting on the Court of Appeals panel along with Circuit Judges Abner J. Mikva and Robert H. Bork), stated that no decision had been made on the merits of the case because the plaintiffs did not pursue administrative relief prior to seeking a judicial determination. In other words, the court declared that the plaintiffs did not "exhaust administrative remedies." Accordingly, the Court of Appeals vacated the lower court's judgment and ordered the District Court to dismiss the case. As stated above, the dispute began in 1984 when the Army and Air Force Exchange Service awarded a fast-food contract to Burger King and the Navy signed a similar contract with Mc Donald's. Because Randolph-Sheppard vendors were excluded from the bidding process, the above-named plaintiffs expressed their concern that such actions by the Department of Defense were in violation of the Randolph-Sheppard Act. Under the Randolph-Sheppard Act, it is mandated that state licensing agencies be notified of, and that blind persons receive priority in, competitive solicitations for cafeteria contracts on Federal property. In this instance, not only did the Defense Department neglect to notify the state licensing agency of its action, but the Department also decided not to consult with the Secretary of Education regarding a determination of whether any state licensing agencies would be able to provide the desired food service. Even the District Court recognized that the Defense Department's "insensitivity to the plight of the blind vendors is deplored ..." Both actions resulted in the denial of opportunities for blind vendors to apply for either of the two contracts in question. Because the Randolph-Sheppard Act contains provisions which establish a grievance and arbitration process to resolve disputes, it is generally necessary to initiate proceedings at the administrative level. However, courts nationwide have determined that if "any resort to arbitration would have been futile," it would be permissible to bypass the usual administrative procedures by filing for judicial relief directly. In fact, when presented with this issue in District Court, the lower court determined that the arbitration process indeed would have been futile. Unfortunately, the Court of Appeals disagreed with the lower court and stated that it would not be proper for the courts to determine the complex issues of the case before the matter went to arbitration. The American Council of the Blind and the other plaintiffs intend to pursue this matter further, both legally and administratively. The Court of Appeals' poorly reasoned decision cannot remain unchallenged, and the Defense Department's blatant disregard of the Randolph-Sheppard Act will not be tolerated. ***** ** Graphics on the "Perky" By Ike Presley Information that must be presented graphically has always proved to be difficult to obtain for the visually impaired person. In the past, methods of preparing this information have been both tedious and time-consuming, with results that leave a great deal to be desired. Now that we are embracing the Information Age, technology has provided an improved method for the preparation of graphic materials needed by the visually impaired. This new method is implemented through the combined use of computer hardware and software. Graphic material can first be drawn as an image in the Power Pad graphics tablet which is connected to an Apple computer. The image is then saved as a file on a disk using Island Graphics' Micro Illustrator program. Through the use of the Super Cranmer Graphics Package (SCGP) program, this file can then be sent to the Cranmer Modified Perkins Brailler ("Perky"), which embosses on braille paper a raised-dot representation of the original graphic information. Preparation of graphic material in this manner decreases the production time required, while at the same time providing the ease of use associated with the editing features of the computer. Therefore, graphic information can now be produced for the visually impaired person in less time and with greater ease than was possible with previously available methods. My first use of "Perky's" graphics capability was suggested by Dave Mueller, an orientation and mobility instructor at Shamrock High School in Decatur, Georgia. He wanted to make a tactile map of some of the local mass transit rail stations. We obtained drawings of the stations from the Transit Authority and began the process of enlarging and reducing the copies until we had reached the desired size. Then we began drawing the outline and details of the station. It was a simple task to use the frame and line functions of the Micro Illustrator program to create the rail lines, elevators, platforms, and escalators. We used different types of fill patterns to distinguish the different objects. Our future plan is to create maps of each station, have them thermoformed, and post a copy in each of the stations. The students will use a copy of the map to learn the layout of the station, and then when they are in the stations, they may go to the posted map to refresh their memory. Since that time, I have found multiple uses for this system, which I will describe below. At present, I have an eighth-grade blind student enrolled in physical science. The first graphic I made for him involved the subatomic structure of the atom. This was quite a simple task. I used the circle function of the Micro Illustrator program to create the nucleus, protons, neutrons, electrons, and the electron orbit. I then drew a plus inside the proton circles, a minus inside the electron circles, and left the neutrons blank. After having the Perky print this on one sheet of paper, I inserted the page into a regular brailler and brailled in the key for the drawing and labels. With the confidence gained from this success, I then attempted the drawing of the bonding of molecules, again with great success. The student had no difficulty in grasping the concepts represented by the drawings. Needless to say, his science teacher was impressed and well pleased with his understanding of the material. My most recent adventure into the realm of scientific drawings deals with light waves. I have made drawings representing light waves of various amplitude and frequency. This was followed by a drawing which depicted a beam of white light passing through a prism and being broken down into the colors of the spectrum. The next step was to produce a drawing that illustrated the entire electromagnetic spectrum. This required a great deal of labeling, but was not difficult to accomplish. Again enter Dave Mueller, our O & M instructor. This time he wanted to make maps of the downtown area of Atlanta. By now he had become proficient at using the system himself, so I made a few suggestions and turned it over to him. He decided to make two maps. One was a large, six-page map with a great deal of detail. Then he concentrated on making a one-page map that the student could take along on a mobility lesson to use as a reference when needed. This time Mr. Mueller took a different approach. Instead of drawing the streets and then filling in the blocks, he decided first to fill in the entire area and then to go back and draw in the streets with a thick brush. After completing and printing the map, he placed the street names and other labels on the map using a braille Dymo-Mite label maker. My latest and most ambitious project yet is the production of world maps and continental maps. I began with a world map that came on the Super Cranmer Graphics Package disk. First I added the equator and then the prime meridian. At this point I was able to get some of my low-vision students involved in the process. The overlay that comes with the Power Pad is divided into sections with grid lines marked in equal segments. We were able to determine that approximately eight lines on the grid would equal 20 degrees latitude. Then we used the line function of the Micro Illustrator program to draw in the latitude lines. On a separate map we made longitude lines. Now I had a series of maps that I could use to teach the blind students about world geography. We started with just the outline map that came on the SCGP disk and worked with it until the students could identify all the continents by their shape and location. Then I introduced the map with the equator and the prime meridian as basic points of reference. Next we began using the map with just latitude lines and the prime meridian. There was some confusion with all of these lines plus the continent outlines. We frequently referred to the outline map in order to keep a good picture of the continents in mind. Through guided instructions and experience, the students were able to locate the latitude of major continents and some countries. After much practice at this stage, we moved on to the map with longitude lines and repeated the process above until the students were familiar with this means of measurement. Finally I introduced the map that had both the latitude and longitude lines. At this point, a great deal of confusion can occur, but with repeated exposure and careful guidance, students can learn to locate major areas based on latitude and longitude. At present, I am making a great effort to produce maps of each continent and some of the major areas of the world. Again I have been able to use. some of my low-vision students to trace print maps on the Power Pad. These maps are not always totally accurate, but they are generally close enough so that all I need do is make a few corrections in order to have a usable product. My plan for these maps is to place the latitude and longitude lines only on the outer edge of the maps and then have the students use a ruler or straight edge to locate specific areas by latitude and longitude coordinates. Through repeated experiences of this type, I feel sure that the students will be able to comprehend the geographical relationships of major areas of the world. Future projects in this area include algebra and geometry drawings, which have always been troublesome for the visually impaired student. I am also excited about the possibility of developing graphics for earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics courses. These hard copies of graphic information, along with the development of the Tactile Graphic Display by the American Foundation for the Blind, will open a new world of information for the visually impaired person. I am not at all suggesting that we abandon other methods of graphic production, but, rather, that through the use of this and other new technology we can continue to narrow the gap in the availability of graphic information for the visually impaired person. I would be most interested in corresponding with anyone who is involved in graphic production. Please send your questions or suggestions to: Ike Presley, Shamrock High School, 3100 Mt. Olive Drive, Decatur, GA 30033; (404) 633-9235. (Ike Presley, who is partially sighted, is a resource teacher of blind and visually impaired students at Shamrock High School in Decatur, Georgia.) ***** ** Senator Weicker Introduces Rehab Bill By Kathleen Megivern As expected, Senator Lowell Weicker (R., CT) has introduced the Senate version of a bill to reauthorize the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The bill varies in several respects from the House-passed version, and it has caused some controversy among supporters of the rehabilitation program. On the positive side, as promised, Senator Weicker's bill retains the 80%/20% ratio of Federal to state money in Section 110. The House bill has provisions for phasing in a lower (75%/25%) Federal share. Mr. Weicker's bill also contains some new provisions in the area of rehabilitation engineering which are viewed as quite positive. The problems have arisen, predictably, in the area of "supported employment." Senator Weicker's bill (S. 2515) places repeated emphasis on supported employment throughout the bill. In addition, it adds a new definition to the Act for the term "employability," as follows: "(6) The term employability, with respect to an individual, means a determination that, with the provision of vocational rehabilitation services, the individual is likely to enter or retain full or part-time employment consistent with capacities or abilities of the individual in the competitive labor market, the practice of a profession, self-employment, homemaking, farm or family work (including work for which payment is in kind rather than in cash), supported employment training and time-limited post­employment services, sheltered employment, homebound employment, or in other work." Some advocates see this shift toward supported employment as a threat to the Act's historical emphasis on competitive employment. Negotiations are continuing in the hope of finding an acceptable compromise. One move which has been suggested is to keep the "laundry list" of options in the definition of employability, but to add a priority for placement in competitive labor. The Weicker bill authorizes $1.281 billion for Title I of the Act. This figure is $20 million less than the one in the House-passed version. However, the Senate bill adds $25 million to a new state grant program for supported employment and another $9 million in demonstration funds for the development of supported employment projects. According to conservative estimates, the $25 million for supported employment would serve approximately 1,716 supported-work clients. Opponents of the shift to supported employment point out that the same $25 million would serve nearly ten times as many people in the "regular" rehabilitation program. As we go to press, it appears that a compromise similar to the one discussed above involving a priority for competitive placement has been reached, and the bill may be reported out of the subcommittee prior to the July 4 recess. It still must undergo full committee mark-up before coming to the floor of the full Senate for approval. ***** ** Meet the 1986 ACB Scholars By Laura Oftedahl Director of Public Affairs Seventeen blind and visually impaired college students are the proud recipients of American Council of the Blind scholarships for the 1986-87 school year. The winners were selected from among hundreds of outstanding applicants from coast to coast. A total of $25,500 in scholarship money was awarded to students at all academic levels, ranging from entering freshmen to doctoral candidates. Awards from $1,000 to $3,000 were made based on the students' academic achievements, career objectives, and involvement in extracurricular and community activities. Competition for the Floyd Qualls Memorial Scholarships ($24,000) and the Melva T. Owen Memorial Scholarship ($1,500) was stiff. Congratulations are in order for all applicants, who worked diligently to document their accomplishments and goals, and applause are in order for the 1986 ACB scholars. Let's meet them. WENDY PAVA - Wendy receives $3,000 to assist with her doctoral program in clinical psychology at the University of Washington/Seattle. She has found through raising a son that there is a profound lack of research in the area of disabled parenting, so she's specializing in this subject area. When not studying or raising a family, Wendy enjoys working on public awareness and advocacy issues as well as hiking, downhill skiing, and sailing. SHERI BARKER - Sheri is a sophomore at Columbia University, with ambitions to use her degree in electrical engineering/computer disabled people. A $2,500 ACB scholarship will help her on this career path. Her extracurricular time is filled working as a leader/adviser for the National Conference of Synagogue Youth. She also plays the bassoon in the Columbia University Concert Band and the Barnard­Columbia Philharmonia. SCOTT LA BARRE - Scott is the top winner of $2,500 in the entering freshman category and plans on attending St. Johns University in St. Cloud, Minnesota, to concentrate on international relations and political science. He spends many hours at his "ham" radio station making friends and helping the public through message handling and emergency communications. In high school he was a varsity wrestler and president of the Spanish Club. KRISTAL HAGEMOSER - Kristal receives $1,500 in the professional/ vocational division to assist with her studies at the University of Wisconsin/Madison. She is in the genetic counseling curriculum and plans to help patients -- perhaps specializing in sensory deprived patients -- understand the genetic, medical, and psychosocial issues surrounding their circumstances. Ms. Hagemoser has a green belt in Tae Kwon Do and spends time volunteer ing at the hospital and sexual assault care center. Kristal's favorite pastime is dancing of any kind. PATRICIA RIZIO - Another $1,500 recipient 1n the profes­sional/ vocational area is Patricia Rizio of the University of Wisconsin/Madison. She is in nursing school and upon graduation to practice in rehabilitation nursing. Patricia writes: "I enjoy finding opportunities to be creative in both my private and professional life — music is one of my hobbies, along with the sculpting of clay and stone." Her many honors include induction into the National Honor Society for Nursing. WALDEN HUGHES - The $1,500 Melva T. Owen Memorial Scholarship goes this year to Walden Hughes, who is beginning his studies in finance and economics at the University of California/Irvine. Scouting is a big part of Walden's life. He is not only an Eagle Scout, but has also received the highest ranking (Vigil) in the Order of the Arrow. Another of his interesting activities is membership in the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Oldtime Radio. BARBARA JONSSON receives $2,000 from ACB for her doctoral studies at the Columbia University School of Public Health. Other winners in the graduate area include law students SUZANNE RUBINS at American University, Washington, D.C., and EARL (BILL) ANDERSON of Rutland, North Dakota, at the University of North Dakota. Both of these outstanding scholars receive $1,000. GYNGER INGRAM is a second­year English education major at Northwestern State University of Louisiana and will be assisted by a $1,500 award from ABC. Other ACB scholars in undergraduate studies are LISA GAZAREK, a $1,000 winner studying Slavik languages and literature at Harvard University, and MATTHEW KING, who receives $1,000 for his electrical engineering studies at Notre Dame University. STACIE CRANNEY, from Oakley, Idaho, is a first-year journalism major at Brigham Young University and receives a $1,500 scholarship. Two $1,000 recipients in the entering freshman scholarship division are ESTHER RHEE, from Marion, Indiana, beginning her studies in political science at the University of Chicago, and education student ROSE ANGELOCCI at the University of New Orleans. Missoula, Montana, resident PAUL PETERSON is awarded $1,000 for his accomplishments in the accounting program at the University of Montana, and RUTH SHEETS of Vanderbilt University receives $1,000 to assist with her Master of Divinity studies there. The ACB Scholarship Committee, chaired by M.J. Schmitt, devoted a great deal of time to selecting these deserving scholars. The American Council of the Blind established the Floyd Qualls Memorial Scholarships in 1982 in honor of its third president and dedicated leader. The Melva T. Owen Memorial Scholarship was created two years later by the Tarver Foundation of Richmond, Virginia. The Council has a scholarship endowment fund and relies on contributions from members and friends to continue this worthwhile assistance program. ***** ** Live, Learn, and Enjoy By Julie Hew 1986 National Journalism Contest President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped (Note: The theme of the 1986 National Journalism Contest, for high school students, sponsored annually by the President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped, was "Disabled People in Action." Each entrant was required to find out what people with disabilities are doing in his/her community and to write a brief report. The first-place winner was Ms. Julie Hew of Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii. Her report below tells the story of Aloha Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired member Elroy Malo. For it, Ms. Hew received the $3,000 first-place Judge Robert S. Marx Award.) While slowly dialing the numbers on the telephone, I glanced at the clock. 9:04 A.M. My stomach churned. What am I going to say? Should I greet him cheerfully or seriously? I hope I don't say anything insensitive or offensive. All these thoughts raced through my head as the phone rang. "Hello," came the warm voice at the other end. "Good morning, Mr. Malo, this is Julie Hew." "Oh! Howzit." Instantly l relaxed -- this wasn't going to be so difficult after all! Elroy Malo, a pure Hawaiian leprosy patient, has come a long way from the isolated little community of Kalaupapa, where he was sent in October 1947 at the age of 12. As a young boy, Elroy enjoyed the vast new playground and the escape from labor in the family taro patch. However, the stigma of being a Hansen's disease patient soon set in. The pain of that experience is still deeply imbedded. Hansen's disease, or leprosy, has been around for centuries. It attacks the nerves of the extremities, leaving the fingers and toes to shrivel. Ulcers and sores develop on the arms and legs that are void of feeling and unable to indicate pain or injury. Blindness also occurs in later stages. It is frequently referred to as "the living death" because the disease itself is not fatal, but the victim lives with the physical and mental distress for the rest of his life. Today, 11 million people throughout the world are afflicted with leprosy. Most cases occur in South China, Southeast Asia, India, Central Africa, South and Central America, the Malay Peninsula, and the South Pacific Islands. In Hawaii, the disease is thought to have originated in China when immigrants brought it over in the 1850's. Hawaiians, having been isolated for so long, had little immunity to foreign disease and caught it readily. Until recently, an effective treatment for leprosy did not exist. Thus the patient was forced into isolation from the rest of society. The falsehoods that provide the stigma of leprosy depict those patients as the dregs of society, those who are being punished by God, or inhuman. But leprosy patients are people with a disease, and they have the same feelings, desires, and goals as anyone else. Elroy Malo is an example of how one can overcome difficulties and make the most of life. Leprosy claimed his body and his sight, but not his brain or heart. While living on Molokai, and later in Pearl City, Elroy was restricted to the grounds of a school or hospital. He was never allowed to be completely free. By nature, he was energetic and proud, and he came to resent the brand others put on him or the invisible walls that kept him from being like other people. He became very bitter and angry at the world. Rebelling, he refused assistance from his teacher and doctor, and preferred to be alone, drowning his sorrows in alcohol. His depression and negative attitude continued until 1972, when he finally moved out of the hospital. After 24 years of confinement, Elroy was ready to become an active part of the community. Until 1971, Elroy practiced self­rehabilitation. He taught himself how to use a cane by trial and error -- frequently walking into walls and banging sensitive shins. Then he started rehabilitation at Ho'opono School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. In 1972, he began attending the University of Hawaii with three goals in mind: voice training (singing is a great passion of his), learning to speak Hawaiian, and learning to write. School was a test in itself on Elroy's determination and perseverance. He had to take oral exams and tape­record lectures, which meant studying twice as hard as everyone else. In 1978 the hard work paid off and Elroy received his bachelor's degree in Hawaiian language. Two years later he was awarded his teaching certificate. Now Elroy sits on numerous boards of non-profit organizations, sharing his views as a representative of disabled people. He has been on boards of directors for the Eye of the Pacific, Ho'opono School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and the Aloha Council (affiliated with the American Council). He was also the representative of the disabled to the Oahu Tenants Association Council, and the second vice president for the Association in his building. The Aloha Council engaged him to make speeches at rallies to various groups on his experiences and the importance of the Council. Elroy is also an active participant in the Very Special Arts group that puts on plays by the disabled for the community. ***** ** Dole Announces New Urban Mass Transportation Regulations for Disabled Persons By Lynn Abbott Secretary of Transportation Elizabeth Hanford Dole announced a new rule on May 21 which aims to improve urban mass transportation services for persons with disabilities. The rule, which carries out Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, replaces an interim final rule published in July 1981. In addition to implementing Section 504, which prohibits discrimination against handicapped individuals in federally­assisted and federally-conducted programs, the newly-drafted regulations also carry out Section 317(d) of the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982. This provision requires the Department of Transportation to publish regulations establishing minimum service criteria to persons with disabilities. Specifically, the rule requires federally-funded urban mass transportation systems to establish programs to provide transit services to handicapped riders. Each transit authority may choose the type of service it wants to provide. Some popular choices include scheduled or on-call accessible buses, paratransit vans, subsidies for taxi fares, or any combination of the above. There are six service criteria which would apply to these special transit services. First, service must be provided within 24 hours of the request by the disabled person. Second, the transit provider may not impose restrictions or priorities based upon the purpose of the trip. Third, the fare must be comparable to that charged non­handicapped riders. Fourth, the service must operate throughout the same geographic area as the bus service for the general public. The service must also operate during the same days and hours as the service to the public. Finally, in order to be considered eligible for the service, one must be "physically unable" to use the bus system for the general public. The last service criterion poses numerous problems for blind and visually impaired individuals. For example, the term "physically unable" is not defined in the regulations. In the section-by-section analysis which precedes the final rules, however, there is an extended discussion of the Regulation's eligibility criteria. The Department noted that six million persons in this country are considered "transportation handicapped" (i.e., persons whose disabilities make their use of transit more difficult, but not impossible). Department studies indicated that making these. persons eligible for special transit services (in addition to the 1.4 million individuals who are regarded as "severely disabled" in this country) would impose an undue financial burden on many transit authorities. Because of this, the final rule does not require transit systems to consider all handicapped and elderly persons eligible for special services. It was suggested by a Department official at a May 20 briefing on the newly issued Regulation that blind persons may be considered automatically eligible only if they are unable to climb the steps of a bus serving the general public. Additionally, it was stated that a transit authority is not required to consider, in the case of blind and visually impaired persons, the accessibility of bus stops or individual independent mobility skills. Because transit authorities have one year from the effective date of the regulations to make decisions and submit programs to the Urban Mass Transportation Administration regarding the provision of service to handicapped persons, it is not known how blind transportation users will ultimately be affected by the new rule. One positive aspect of the new rule is that public participation is mandated at all stages of the planning process. Be alert to public hearings on transportation services in your locality, and use this opportunity to make your voice heard. (Copies of the final rule are available in print or on cassette. To obtain a free copy, write to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of the General Counsel for Regulations and Enforcement, Room 10424, 400 7th Street, S.W., Washington, DC 20590; (202) 426-4723. Because the Department is in the process of installing a new telephone system, the above number is expected to change during the month of July to (202) 366-9305.) ***** ** Ski For Light Offers Whole New World to Blind and Visually Impaired People Many blind folks have never experienced the invigorating outdoors in winter, with its fresh smells, frolicking sounds, and crystal clear sunshine. These are the people who have never taken part in the Ski for Light program. Those who have come together for cross-country ski instruction, dancing, meeting blind and sighted people from foreign nations, and just plain fun have discovered there is no happier and healthier way of life than the Ski for Light life. Ski for Light invites all blind and visually impaired adults who want to learn how to live a more physically active lifestyle to apply to be a part of the 1987 International Ski for Light Week in Traverse City, Michigan. You need not be an athlete to attend: Ski for Light wants you, the person who has never tried anything like this before, to come learn at your own pace from experienced sighted skiers. First-timers are encouraged to come and learn from this one-on-one program; then return home and get into a more active lifestyle with blind and sighted peers. Ski for Light even offers limited scholarships to new participants, so you have nothing to lose and a whole lot to gain in new friends, new skills, new self­confidence, and a terrific way to become active in your community. The twelfth annual Ski for Light event will take place from Sunday to Sunday, February 1-8, 1987, at the Grand Traverse Resort in Traverse City, Michigan. Persons from 18 to 80 years, both blind and sighted, will take advantage of the top-notch ski trails and other recreational facilities at the resort. The Grand Traverse and Ski for Light offer modern accommodations, interesting meals, stimulating cultural presentations, and lots of socializing. For those not familiar with skiing, cross-country or Nordic skiing differs quite a bit from downhill or Alpine skiing. The equipment for cross­country skiing is much lighter and more comfortable. Downhill skiers go only downhill, propelled by gravity. In addition to enjoying the downhills, the cross-country skier moves at his own pace, providing his own propulsion and creating plenty of his own body heat. Norwegians who grew up on cross-country skis aptly describe the activity by saying: If you can walk, you can ski! A blind skier follows pre-set tracks or grooves in the snow while a sighted instructor/guide skis in tracks alongside the blind skier. The sighted partner teaches the proper skiing techniques, informs the skier of changes in terrain, and gives interesting descriptions about the countryside. The total cost for this unique week is $375.00 double occupancy. This amount includes room, board, registration, transportation from the airport, and the use of ski equipment for participants who do not have their own. In addition, first-time blind and visually impaired participants can apply for financial assistance to help with their transportation costs to Traverse City. Do not pass up this opportunity to add something exciting to your winter and your lifestyle. Interested persons are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, and no later than November 1,1986. For an application and information, contact Judy Dixon, 1104 N. Stafford Street, Arlington, VA 22201; (703) 276-9191. Correspondence can be in braille or typewritten form. ***** ** Teacher Shortage and the Blind By Bashir A. Masoodi (Note: Bashir A. Masoodi has been in the field of education for the past 25 years. He has been a resource teacher in a public school setting and has taught at a residential school for the blind. At present, he is Special Education Coordinator for the Gary, Indiana, Public School Corporation and Director of Highbrook Lodge, Learning and Camping Facility for the Blind.) It is estimated that between now and the next seven to ten years, the United States will need about 1.7 million new teachers to staff its classrooms. The need is for both elementary and secondary school teachers, especially those in the areas of English, mathematics, the sciences, special education (including teaching the blind and visually impaired), industrial arts, computers and technology, foreign languages, speech, and business education. The teacher shortage is caused by the unavailability of women, minorities, and others in large numbers who traditionally enter the teaching profession. A large number of persons teaching now will also be retiring within the coming decade. A shortage of teachers of the adult blind (including those engaged in mobility and low-vision training) is also forecast. A recent survey with which I was involved shows that 76 percent of all working-age blind and visually impaired persons are unemployed. This does not include blind and visually impaired individuals who have other handicaps or disabilities. Half of the 24 percent who are employed are under-employed. Many employed blind persons are holding entry-level positions, and upward mobility and promotions are non­existent. Out of the estimated half-million blind population of the United States, over half, or about 250,000, are the aged; another 50,000 are pre-school and school-age children. Half of the remaining 200,000 blind persons are individuals with additional mental and/or physical handicaps. Out of the remaining 100,000 blind and visually impaired persons, about 24,000 have some type of employment, with only 12,000 of this group being fully employed. However, most of these hold only entry-level positions, and job advancement and promotions are severely limited. This means that right now, over 75,000 blind persons could be employed and another 12,000 could be helped with full employment. One of the fields in which blind persons have been employed from ancient times is the field of education -- or simply "teaching." Names such as Louis Braille, Anne Sullivan, Sir Francis Campbell, and Fannie Crosby come to mind when we talk about blind teachers. From time immemorial, blind teachers have taught blind children and adults and have instructed sighted students in almost every subject from elementary school to college and university levels. It has been only during the last four or five decades that some misguided authorities at teacher training institutions in the United States started questioning the ability of the blind to teach, especially blind and other school-age children. Then came the employment crunch in elementary and secondary schools in the 1970's and early 1980's. There was a large surplus of teachers in almost all fields. Mainly due to the above two reasons, most blind persons could not enter the teaching profession during recent decades. There is now a golden opportunity for blind and visually impaired persons to take a fresh look at the teaching profession as a career. Even those blind persons who had entertained thoughts of entering the teaching field but were discouraged, or those who were trained but were unable to obtain employment, should take another look at the field of education. Some of them might need just a few courses to hone their skills. Thanks to recent Federal and state legislation, teacher training institutions cannot reject an applicant who is otherwise qualified because of blindness alone. As most teacher training institutions receive Federal funds, this puts them under the requirements of Section 504 of the rehabilitation Act of 1973. Most organizations of the blind and agencies for the blind will support a qualified blind applicant for admission to a teacher training program. School guidance counselors, rehabilitation counselors, college and university career counselors, parents, blind individuals, and organizations and agencies of and for the blind should seek out and encourage potential blind teachers to prepare for and enter the field while there is an acute national shortage of teachers. This will increase employment opportunities for the blind and visually impaired. ***** ** Fair Insurance Act Seeks to Remedy Discrimination Against Blind Persons As more blind and visually impaired individuals enter the job market and the mainstream of society, the need for insurance coverage increases. Illness and accidental injury pose enormous financial threats to those who cannot obtain adequate insurance protection as the results of physical disability. Insurance carriers often assume blind individuals to be higher risks than sighted people and, therefore, set them apart from the "standard" pool of insurance applicants. All too often, the result is partial and inadequate coverage, disproportionately high premiums or a total lack of coverage. The Fair Insurance Coverage Act (H.R. 2741 and S. 1290), introduced on June 12, 1985, in both the House and the Senate, is a piece of legislation which addresses the issue of discrimination in the insurance industry against blind persons. Specifically, the bill "prohibits discrimination in insurance on the basis of blindness or degree of blindness." The bill seeks to prevent insurers from refusing to make insurance available to any blind applicant, or from treating the applicant differently from sighted applicants, in respect of the terms, conditions, rates, benefits, or requirements of the insurance contract. In the event a discriminatory action occurs which falls under the jurisdiction of state law prohibiting such an action, the proper state authorities must investigate the allegation and complete the appropriate criminal and/or administrative proceedings (excluding judicial review) within 180 days of notification of the discriminatory action. If state law does not provide relief for this type of action, or if the state fails to complete action on the complaint within 180 days, the applicant may institute a civil action against the insurer. There is a three­year statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit. The United States Attorney General may also bring a civil action against an insurance carrier if the Attorney General has reasonable cause to believe that the insurer is engaged in a "pattern or practice of discrimination" against blind applicants. The Fair Insurance Coverage Act was approved by the House Subcommittee on Health and the Environment on May 15, 1986. The House Committee on Energy and Commerce will now consider this piece of legislation, while on the Senate side the bill awaits action in the Senate Finance Committee. The American Council of the Blind is closely monitoring the situation and urges Congress to pass this long­awaited legislative response to a serious problem. ***** ** Nationwide Scholarship Program for Blind Teenagers A nationwide search is under way to bring the best and brightest blind and visually impaired high-school students to Overbrook School for the Blind. Dubbed "Operation Talent," the program offers a limited number of full and partial scholarships to visually handicapped young people between 14 and 19 years of age who have demonstrated superior academic achievement and/or exceptional talent in other areas such as leadership, athletics, or the arts. According to the school's director, Dr. Joseph J. Kerr, Jr., "'Operation Talent' is designed to attract students of high academic promise who plan to go on to higher education and are seeking a college preparatory curriculum. The program, one of several specialized offerings at Overbrook School for the Blind, is dedicated to helping talented visually handicapped youngsters develop to their maximum potential. Our aim is to help them learn to use their superior abilities so that they can become productive, contributing adults and leaders in their own right." The special talent-nurturing curriculum includes a complete range of college preparatory courses plus opportunities to grow in the performing arts and interscholastic athletics. Located on a suburban 20-acre campus at the edge of the city of Philadelphia, the residential facility is one of the oldest educational institutions of its type in the world. "Over the years, students from Overbrook have been enrolled in courses at the University of Pennsylvania under the 'Young Scholars Program,' and others have studied music at the internationally acclaimed Curtis Institute," Kerr says. Further information on "Operation Talent" and application forms may be obtained by writing to: Dr. Joseph J. Kerr, Jr., Director, Overbrook School for the Blind, 64th and Malvern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19151, or by calling the school at (215) 877-0313. ***** ** 1986 National Blind Water Ski Competition The 1986 National Blind Water Ski Competition will be held at Sonesta Village, near Orlando, Florida, October 7-11. If you are legally blind, you fully qualify as an entrant in the competition. There will be three divisions for male and three for female participants: totally blind, low partial, and high partial. First-place winners in each division will have the opportunity to represent the United States in the 1987 International Competition. Ray Sturgeon and his wife Jackie and their staff at Splash 'n' Ski Water Sports will conduct four days of free training and practice sessions for registrants prior to the competition. Everyone is encouraged to participate -- even those who have never water skied before. You will never know how much fun and challenge you will find in this sport, or the feeling of accomplishment, until you try it yourself. Santa Monica Blind Skiers, Inc., a non-profit organization, will be underwriting the cost of room accommodations, trophies and awards, boats and fuel for water skiing, the wine and cheese party, and the banquet. Registration and release forms must be received no later than September 1, 1986. For further information, contact Ed Kanan, Santa Monica Blind Skiers, Inc., 2325 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90403. ***** ** High Tech Swap Shop * FOR SALE: VersaBraille I. Like new -- used only ten hours. For more information, contact Claire L. Mitchell, 2905 Berkshire, Mesquite, TX 75150; (214) 681-2771. * FOR SALE: Optacon -- Typewriter -- Typewriter attachment (Smith Corona model). Excellent condition. Best offer. Call Dulce I. Muccio, (305) 665-3212. * FOR SALE: VersaBraille, P1. Used less than 24 hours. $2,750.00 or best offer. Contact D.R. Schumpert, 1107 Sox, West Columbia, SC 29169; (803) 794-6558. * WANTED TO BUY: Disk drive with controller, and controller module for TI 99/4A computer. I would also appreciate hearing from anyone who uses the TI 99. Please respond in braille or on cassette. Fred E. Nolkemper, 5949 Sherry Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63136. ***** ** Here and There By Elizabeth M. Lennon When the Statue of Liberty re­opened over the July 4 weekend, large numbers of physically disabled persons were able to participate for the first time. The following accommodations have been made specifically for visually impaired visitors: portable cassette players with recorded tour and accessibility information; tactile exhibits, including a four-foot model of the Statue and life-size replicas of her face and left foot; large-type and raised-letter signs in contrasting colors; adequate and even lighting, with non-glare glass; elevator panels with raised lettering and a system for indicating floors either by counting bells or by taped announcements. Similar accommodations have been made on Ellis Island, along with infrared listening systems which provide narration and details of films and recordings of written materials, as well as a model of the main building. Bruce Gatlin, rehabilitation counselor in Fort Meyers, Florida, was this year's winner of the Division of Blind Services/Florida Council of the Blind Counselor Placement Award. Mr. Gatlin placed a total of 40 blind persons during the Federal fiscal year 1984-85. This joint award is given annually in recognition of the counselor who makes the most placements for that year. From Disabled USA: The Social Security Administration has issued a new edition of its 13-page pamphlet on work incentives in the Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income programs. "Benefits for Disabled People Who Return to Work," November 1985 edition, discusses, among other things, deductions for impairment-related work expenses, continued medical coverage after earned income terminates, cash benefits, and how the concept of substantial gainful activity applies differently for blind people. For a copy, call your local Social Security Office and ask for Publication No. 05-10095. From Hoosier Starlight (Indiana): Lyn Pasak of Tigard, Oregon, has an interesting business. The legally blind former counselor owns and operates Cheesecake Babes Dessert Company. In an average week, she bakes about 100 cheesecakes in nine different flavors, as well as a new dessert, silk mousse. These are wholesaled to restaurants, delis, and gourmet stores. "I didn't choose this business because it was well suited to me, considering my vision," says Lyn. "I started it because my own blend of dreams and ambitions led me in this direction." Dr. Ruth Kaarlela, a prime mover in establishment of the rehabilitation teaching program at Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, and Chairperson of the Department of Blind Rehabilitation there since i980, retired on April 30. *** Harry Friedman, Manager of the Howe Press at Perkins School for the Blind, retired recently. During his long tenure as Manager, he did much to develop better aids and appliances for the blind and visually impaired. According to the Perkins newsletter, Mr. Friedman's article on the history of mechanical braille writers is the authoritative work on that subject. Two leaders in work for the blind passed away recently while attending professional conferences. Carl Lappin, who was for many years in charge of the Central Catalog of Volunteer­Transcribed Books at the American Printing House for the Blind, and well known to braillists and tapists, died on May 5 while attending the Southeast Regional meeting of the National Braille Association in Raleigh, North Carolina. *** Joseph J. Larkin, Executive Director of Helen Keller Services for the Blind, Brooklyn, died suddenly on May 20 in Clearwater, Florida, where he was participating in a sales meeting of National Industries for the Blind. A native and resident of Brooklyn, Mr. Larkin joined Helen Keller Services for the Blind (also known as the Industrial Home for the Blind) in 1948 and served in a variety of positions. He was named the agency's fifth Executive Director in 1975. Mr. Larkin was past president and at the time of his death a member of the Board and Executive Committee of National Industries for the Blind. Repair, lubrication, and cleaning of braille writers by an experienced technician are offered by Life-Line Studio Ministries, Inc., 31 Dakota Place, Hempstead, NY 11550. Average cost is $15.00, plus shipping and insurance. A cruise to the Mexican Riviera especially for blind and visually impaired persons is being offered by Evergreen Travel Service, 19505-L 44th Street, W., Lynnwood, WA 98036. This eight-day cruise is scheduled for October 24-31. Write Evergreen Travel at the above address for further information. The Overseas Blind Foundation, Dr. D.M. Reynolds, President, 5053 Morocco Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95405, is a tax-exempt, non-profit, all-volunteer foundation that mails surplus reading materials in braille, large-print and cassette to institutions and private persons overseas, chiefly those in developing nations. The Foundation would also welcome gifts of equipment such as braillers. Materials may be sent as "Free Matter for the Blind." From The Missouri Chronicle: Doris Meyer, who lost her sight early in life and was divorced many years ago, is the first single blind parent in Missouri to adopt a child, Sally. Along the way, she has been a foster­mother to a succession of children -- eight in all -- and also was the first blind medical transcriptionist in the state. A drug used to treat an estimated 700,000 severe acne sufferers may have side effects hampering the ability of some patients to see at night, according to a medical report quoted by the Associated Press. The report, published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, cites Accutane as the cause of potential problems. "I don't think this is reason for alarm, but it's certainly cause for healthy concern," said Dr. Richard G. Weleber, an Oregon ophthalmologist who worked on the study. American Thermoform Corp., manufacturer of Thermoform duplicators for a quarter of a century, has added computer braille paper called Compu-Dot to its product line. Compu-Dot is available in two grades: 60 lb. "Rough Draft" stock for single use in correspondence and proof reading is $16.95 for a box of 1,000 sheets, and "Final Edit," a high-quality Manila tag stock for books and other presentations, is priced at $36.95 for a 1,000-sheet box. Volume discounts are also available. Compu-Dot samples may be obtained by contacting American Thermoform Corp., 2311 Travers Avenue, City of Commerce, CA 90040; (213) 723-9021. For blind people who write -- students, secretaries, administrators, others -- braille is still the best system for efficiency and accuracy. VersaText, a powerful grade 2 braille-to-print word processing program, allows you to write, edit, and spellcheck reports, briefs, memoranda, and correspondence, with automatic translation, page formatting and printing of quality comparable to documents produced by sighted persons. The program can be used with any of the VersaBraille systems connected to either a CP/M or IBM PC type computer. Versa­Text options include: Spellchecker, batch-mailing utility, rapid-access name and number directory, and expanded forms writer; an extensive file management system is currently being developed for the Versa Text secretary package. For information, contact Am pro Computers, Inc., P.O. Box 390427, Mountain View, CA 94039; (415) 962-0230; or VersaText Systems, Inc., P.O. Box 451, Station A, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1N 8VS; (613) 592-3367. Patrick Sturdivant, 243 Altitude Drive, San Antonio, TX 78227, a blind computer programmer, has developed PHONE TALK, a computerized telephone number storage and dialing system. The program allows the user to enter, change, delete, find, dial, list, print, and save up to 250 names and telephone numbers. It is designed to run on the Apple II, Ile, or Ile personal computer, using the ECHO II or ECHO PLUS speech synthesizer. Write Mr. Sturdivant for details. I. Magnin, San Francisco, recently held a tactile fashion show for the blind and visually impaired as a benefit for the Lighthouse for the Blind and Broadcast Services for the Blind. Commentated by Sonja Caproni, Magnin's fashion director, audience members were able to "see" fashions through touch, a verbal description, and by color association. The BT-1 audible battery tester is a hand-held unit which tests AAA, AA, C, D, N, and 9-volt batteries by emitting a strong buzzing sound when the battery is good, a weaker buzz when marginal and should not be used for recording, and there will be no sound when discharged. A visual display is present for those who can use it and allows for testing of camera button cells. To order, send $15.95 (add $.25 for braille instructions) to: Ann Morris Enterprises, 26 Horseshoe Lane, Levittown, NY 11756. The Baruch College Guide Dog Book Fund announces publication of "A Guide to Guide Dog Schools." Written by Edwin Eames, Toni Ann Gardiner and Avrama Gingold, the book describes the ten operational guide dog schools in the United States and explores basic issues relating to getting a guide dog. The book is available in print for $5.00 or on cassette for $3.50 and may be ordered from: Professor Edwin Eames, Box 511, Baruch College, 17 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10010. Checks or money orders should be made payable to Baruch College Guide Dog Book Fund. No other form of payment will be accepted. A major training workshop/conference on employment and technology for the blind and visually impaired is being cohosted by the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) and Employment and Immigration Canada, September 29-October 2, at Loews Westbury Hotel, 475 Yonge St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The conference theme is "Opening Doors ... Blind/Visually Impaired People in the Workplace." Objectives will focus on showing how technology, pre-vocational preparation, creative training, and community resources combine to make exciting things happen. For further information, contact Frank Schmidt, Program Consultant, Department of Rehabilitation, CNIB National Office, 1931 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4G 4C8; (416) 486-2602. ***** ** Calendar of Events This Calendar of Events is prepared by the Public Affairs Department in the National Office of the American Council of the Blind to assist ACB affiliates as well as national organizations of and for the blind in publicizing their events. We need your conference dates to maintain this popular service. Please contact Laura Oftedahl at 1-800-424-8666 as soon as your meetings are set. September 19-21 - South Dakota Association for the Blind State Convention - Sioux Falls September 20 - Maine Fraternal Association of the Blind State Convention - South Portland September 26-28 - Kansas Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired State Convention - Wichita September 26-28 - Old Dominion Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired State Convention - Norfolk, VA October 3-5 - ACB of Indiana State Convention - South Bend October 4 - Nevada Council of the Blind State Convention - Las Vegas October 10-12 - Pennsylvania Council of the Blind State Convention - Philadelphia October 10-12 - Alabama Council of the Blind State Convention - Birmingham October 10-12 - Michigan Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired State Convention - Windsor, Ontario, Canada October 11 - ACB of Maryland State Convention - Silver Spring area October 17-18 - ACB of Minnesota State Convention - Minneapolis October 17-19 - ACB of Ohio State Convention - Columbus October 18-19 - Oregon Council of the Blind State Convention - Springfield October 24-26 - ACB of New York State Convention - Rochester October 25-26 - Rhode Island Regional Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired Fall Convention - Providence November 6-9 - California Council of the Blind State Convention - Los Angeles November 8 - Delaware Council of the Blind State Convention - Wilmington ***** ** 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: Durward K. McDaniel 9468 Singing Quail Drive Austin, TX 78758 * Secretary: Karen Perzentka 6913 Colony Drive Madison, WI 53717 * Treasurer: LeRoy Saunders Box 24020 Oklahoma City, OK 73124 * Contributing Editors: Elizabeth Lennon 1315 Greenwood Avenue Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Kathleen Megivern 7113 Fort Hunt Road Alexandria, VA 22307 ###