                      THE BLIND CALIFORNIAN



                   A Quarterly Magazine of the

                 CALIFORNIA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND


Summer 1993               Volume XXXVII             Number 3

         Published in Braille, Cassette, and Large Print




                        EXECUTIVE OFFICES:

                     John V. Lopez, President
                        Res. 213-268-4526
                 8700 Reseda Boulevard, Suite 208
                       Northridge, CA 91324
                         FAX 818-349-1573
                           818-349-2636
                           800-221-6359

               SACRAMENTO AREA OFFICE:  Cid Urena 
          1399 Sacramento Avenue Sp 25, Bryte, CA 95605
 
                  BAY AREA OFFICE:  Donald Queen
             648 Kearney Street, El Cerrito, CA 94530

                     EDITOR:  Maria E. Lopez
                     3925 East Sixth Street 
                      Los Angeles, CA 90023
                           213-268-4526
  
                Editor Assistant:  Norma Schecter 

Please send all address changes to the Executive Offices in Northridge. 


                    CCB PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE


     Ruth Dean Zulli, Chairperson, 8516 Alcott Street 2, Los Angeles, CA 90032 ; 310-659-1891

     Winifred Downing, 1587 38th Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94122

     Cherrie Handy Pomerantz, 1344 North Martel Avenue, 102, Los Angeles, CA 90046

     Cathy Schmitt, 167 Rockwood Street, Irvine, CA 92714

     Connie Skeen, 3250 Maple Avenue, Oakland, CA 94602

     David Keith, 8150 Broadway #233, Lemon Grove, CA 91945-2671



                         ----------------



Nonmembers are requested and members are invited to pay a yearly subscription fee of $10 toward the printing of The Blind Californian.  

If you or a friend would like to remember the California Council of the Blind in your will, you can do so by employing the following language:

"I give, devise, and bequeath unto the California Council of the Blind, a nonprofit charitable organization in California, the sum of $---- (or
'----') to be used for its worthy purposes on behalf of blind persons."

If your wishes are more complex, you may have your attorney  communicate with the Northridge office for other suggested forms.  Thank you.  

                        TABLE OF CONTENTS


FROM THE EDITOR'S DISK, by Maria E. Lopez  . . . . . . . . . . .1

HEADQUARTERS UPDATE, by John V. Lopez  . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

SPRING 1993 CCB CONVENTION REPORT 
     by Gerard Rossi   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

DEMOCRACY 2000 by John V. Lopez  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 1993-94--SESSION JUNE 1993 
     by Cid Urena  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

FEDERAL LEGISLATION 
     by Winifred Downing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

TIDBITS FROM CTEVH CONFERENCE 
     by Juliet B. Esterly  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

EQUAL ACCESS TO THE PRINTED WORD IN SACRAMENTO 
     by Donald Queen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

BITTEN BY THE CHINESE GIFT HORSE 
     by Keneth Frasse  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

THE HAND THAT FEEDS YOU 
     by Stanley Greenberg  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

THE STUDENT PERSPECTIVE 
     by Keneth Frasse  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

OUT OF THE DOGHOUSE 
     by Cherrie Handy Pomerantz  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

REPEAL OF EARNING TAX FOR BLIND AMERICANS. . . . . . . . . . . 36

PROFESSIONAL BLIND WOMEN PRESENT AT NATIONAL
     AGING CONFERENCE  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

CCB RESOLUTIONS--SPRING 1993 
     by Mitch Pomerantz  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

ALL NATIONAL DELEGATE ASSEMBLY--"ADVOCACY IN ACTION"
     by Mitch Pomerantz  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

MANUEL GONSALVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

BULLETIN BOARD by Winifred Downing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

AROUND THE STATE AND NATION  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
                     FROM THE EDITOR'S DISK 

                        by Maria E. Lopez


Thank you so much for all the great support that John and I received from all of you at the CCB Spring Convention.  We have experienced an extremely important and pleasant chapter in our lives for John's first convention as President and it has been gratifying to be working with such an excellent team made up of all our members.  

Just before the Convention, I was rather concerned because of the enormous responsibility before us, but with the cooperation of all the CCB members, John was able to perform serenely and adequately.  One thing that I will always cherish in my heart was your readiness and eagerness to help us in any way at the time we needed it the most.  And of course, thank you very much for all the praise that I got for my editing work.  Your well written and carefully prepared entries to our fine magazine makes The Blind Californian the best informative publication for blind people.  

This edition of the BC offers an example of the great talent that this organization enjoys.  Among the many diverse subjects presented in this issue of The Blind Californian, you will admire the elegant and impeccable writing style of Gerry Rossi in the "Convention Report"; Cid Urena has also outdone himself with his always important "Legislative Report" filled with up-to-date legislative issues; Stan Greenberg states his views on guide dog ownership in his article "The Hand That Feeds You"; to keep us informed of Federal concerns, Winifred Downing is always ready to give her "Report on Federal Legislation"; for the ALL Conference report, Mitch Pomerantz has presented a well-written summary; and Kenneth Frasse reminds us of how lucky we are to live in this country with his article titled "Bitten by the Chinese Gift Horse."  There are many other articles included in this issue for everyone's interest and concern.  

Our next BC deadline for the Fall will be September 1, 1993.  Hope to see you at the ACB Convention in San Francisco.  

My closing quotation is:  "One of the secrets of a long and fruitful life is to forgive everybody, everything, every night before we go to bed."  
                         ----------------

                       HEADQUARTERS UPDATE

                         by John V. Lopez


What a gratification my first California Council of the Blind Convention was as President of this fine organization.  At first, reaching this milestone seemed next to impossible, but as I continued to strive to the best of my abilities, the obstacles and barriers in my path started crumbling before me.  Achieving this goal, I owe to you members who have been eager to help and generous with your advice when the odds were against me. 

This whole memorable event adds up to this:  that not enough can be said to you members to show my sincere gratitude for your dedicated interest and hard work in making this convention a success, that giving you members the opportunity to use your talents to plan your convention and after seeing the grand results of your endeavor assured me that I was on the right track to "Unity in 93."  

The highlight for me in this Convention was awarding charters to these four CCB chapters:  Contra Costa, El Dorado, Redwood Empire, and San Mateo.  Many other exciting, informative, and fun activities occurred during our Convention which appear in the "Convention Report" expertly written by Gerry Rossi.  

All of us must begin thinking about our Fall CCB elections.  The Nominating Committee presented the following slate:  for re-election Don Queen, Second Vice President; Connie Schoeman, Secretary; Chris Gray, Director; Coletta Davis, Director; new candidates for the Board of Directors:  Al Gil and Ken Metz.  Remember that you may nominate from the floor, so begin your campaigning.  

Also, at the Spring convention a constitutional amendment was introduced to add the position of Immediate Past President to the CCB Board, and a Bylaws amendment calling for a standing vote in elections instead of a secret ballot vote.  These two amendments will be significant issues at our Fall convention.  

Another exciting experience was the presence of three distinguished guests at our convention:  Grant Mack, Board member of the American Council of the Blind and newly elected President of the Utah Council of the Blind; Peggy Schoel, member of the Washington Council of the Blind; and Joe Zalazar, a long-time and dear friend from my New Mexico school days.  

Some of you may know that the CCB invited Joe Zalazar to our Spring Convention where he would be able to observe how an ACB affiliate works for the betterment of blind people so that he could take this information back to New Mexico and perhaps rouse some interest among blind people in starting an affiliate there.  Let me share with you a letter that Joe sent me thanking all of us for this invitation:  
                            . . . . .

"My dear friend John, 

"It was a great honor and rare opportunity for me to be invited to observe the California Council of the Blind at work.  I am indebted to you, to your officers, and to the membership for the generosity and hospitality extended to us.  I assure you, it was a highly stimulating and enlightening event for me, and a very educational and pleasurable experience for my son.  

"I returned to New Mexico firmly convinced that through the concerted effort of many blind individuals the quality of life has been improved for all blind people in the state.  Concerted effort implies organization.  It is apparent that you have one of long standing.  I am told that NM too has an effective NFB organization.  I intend to find out for myself the status of NFB here.  

"Throughout the next couple of months I plan to contact a number of friends and acquaintances living in different parts of our state. I will try to generate some interest in matters that affect their lives.   

"John, I have been uninvolved for a long while.  I want to rectify that.  At this time I do not envision a dramatic birth, or rebirth of ACB in NM.  I want to have a gathering of those friends and acquaintances around the middle of August at my home and see where this leads.  You can rest assure that I will eagerly share my observations of CCB at work.  I was especially impressed with your legislative team and its work.  

"John, I commend your leadership style, for your dedication to CCB and ACB.  I intend to keep you informed of the steps we are taking and the progress we make.  

"Give my fond regards to Maria, and relay my sincere gratitude to CCB for the warm reception we received.  

Your friend Joe."
                            . . . . . 

On May 17, there was a tele-conference conducted by the President's Committee on Employment for People with Disabilities where 17 different California organizations were represented including the CCB.  At this conference, I represented the blind of this state and expressed some of our concerns and needs.  Elsewhere in this issue, I have submitted a full report of this tele-conference titled "Democracy 2000."  

The CCB is pleased to announce that all members may receive one hour of free legal consultation with a law firm located in Woodland Hills.  Areas of law include business law, personal injury, divorce, custody, employment and discrimination.  If you are interested in making an appointment, please call the CCB office for further information.  

  For those who could not attend the CCB Spring Convention, following is the discourse that I presented to the Council membership on Friday afternoon.  
                            . . . . . 

                           May 28, 1993

"I hope that all of you are enjoying the convention and that the speakers, panels, special-interest meetings, and socializing have provided an opportunity to answer questions and given you a chance to voice some of your concerns.  

"In the next few minutes, I will share with you something about myself, my philosophy, and my goals for this organization.  

"As some of you may know, I have been involved with the Council for over 30 years and am presently the East Los Angeles Chapter President as well as your newly elected Council President. 

"Even though the beginning of my presidency could have been smoother, I am still determined to serve the Council to the best of my ability and with your advice continue the great leadership of this fine organization.  Whenever I am confronted with an issue and have to make a decision, whether right or wrong, my intentions are always to assist the Council, not to offend anyone.  

"Obviously, none of us are born doctors, teachers, lawyers, civic leaders, or presidents, to name a few.  We need time, opportunity, and above all, patience from our predecessors and colleagues in order to develop our potentials and become flourishing professionals or acceptable and outstanding successors.  

"Through the process of reaching these aspirations, we will occasionally make mistakes, step on people's toes, and so on; but, in order to improve ourselves, we must accept our faults and be willing to make corrections and, at least, make modifications.  In our early days of development, our lack of experience may create frustration and mistrust in our ability to become a successful professional or leader, but through communication and dialogue this weakness can be ameliorated.  

"With this in mind, we need to put aside our emphasis on the negative and to focus our emphasis on the positive in order to concentrate our energies and thoughts to achieve our goals.  

"Although these past few months have been filled with challenges and opportunities, I sincerely believe:  this is your organization, and it cannot be run by one man--this is a membership organization which means just that.  Your input is needed and appreciated.  I want to hear your concerns and comments and will value them, for this is the only way this organization can survive.  Truly, a commitment to take the leadership role can only be successful if there is mutual respect for one another's opinion and if there is also a democratic process to follow.  

"Our strength is our unity.  Therefore, the  California Council of the Blind has a commitment to all the blind of this state.  If we stand as an organization ready to work, we will be heard, and there is no limit to our potential.  

"As your newly elected President, I am making this pledge to you: Your voice will be heard, and your participation will be welcome." 
                            . . . . .

The California Council of the Blind is proud to host the most important event for blind people in this country, the 32nd annual national convention of the American Council of the Blind,  to be held during the week of July 3-10, 1993, at the Airport Marriott Hotel near San Francisco.  As President of the CCB, I  sincerely welcome all of you to this outstanding national event and look forward to seeing you there. 
 
                         ----------------


                  SPRING 1993 CONVENTION REPORT

                         by Gerard Rossi


To the spacious and beautifully appointed San Francisco Airport Marriott Hotel in Burlingame there came a large and enthusiastic number of members and friends of the California Council of the Blind.  The theme of the Convention, held over the Memorial day weekend, was "Unity in 93".  
Among the very interesting special-interest meetings was that of the Braille Revival League of California, whose members heard "A Thorough Discussion of BANA's Proposed Unified Braille Code".  The speakers were Chris Gray, ACB and BRL representative to BANA and author of the Computer Braille Code, Winifred Downing, formerly a braille instructor with the Hadley School, and Norma Schecter, a prominent teacher of transcribers.  Unfortunately, Norma could not be present.  

Chris said that individuals, associated with BANA, who regularly employ braille and others who work with it would like to make it conform more with printed matter and would also like to end the many instances of confusion caused by the multiple usages of certain signs.  Specific examples of the Unified Braille Code were then cited.  

Winifred largely based her opposition on the premise that future users of braille, being unfamiliar with the system now in use, could not read the vast collections now extant.  To her, change would result in a tremendous waste of resources.  

Most came away from the meeting with the thought that, while certain change just might well be desirable, the proposed system should be more widely disseminated to braille readers who could then give their respective opinions before any substantial alterations might be adopted.  
Other meetings occurring Friday morning were:  The Committee on Access and Transportation, with Jeff Thom presiding; the Computer Interest Group, John Glass, Chairman; Guide Dog Users of California, Cherrie Pomerantz, presiding; and Blind Students of California, Kenneth Frasse, chair.  

Also meeting were Resolutions Committee, with Mitch Pomerantz, presiding, and the CCB Fund-Raising Committee, chaired by Obbie Schoeman.  All were well attended and often were sites wherein ideas were freely exchanged and policies for the future were set.  

Promptly at 1:30 the formal business portion of the Spring Convention was initiated with the invocation by George Fogarty, the flag salute by Ken Metz accompanied by a colorguard, and welcoming remarks  by the Honorable Bud Harrison, Mayor of the City of Burlingame.  

After these stirring ceremonies, conventioneers were treated to a very stimulating panel relating to transportation by the San Mateo County area.  Its moderator was Margie Donovan, and participating with her were Sal Gonsalez and Mark Whitefield, both of the County's transit system.  The transit of the present was described, and goals for the future were outlined.  Many of those assembled made their ideas known.  

Following this panel, Dr. Bill Crandall, of Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, told of his firm's "Fax Phone Connection Accessibility to Print".  A whole new world of immediately available data and resources will open up to nourish our minds and hearts.  Advanced technology invariably engenders a wealth of commentary and numerous questions from its auditors, and this session was no exception.  

Gary Bassett, a blind college instructor, thoughtfully urged all of us in his audience to think occasionally about the meaning and import of the general area of study known as the Humanities, a subject which details the full compendium of the history of the whole human race.  Amid the clamor for the new and the untried, we should periodically take stock of the old--the cultural heritage--bequeathed to us by our forebears.  Our language, literature, art, religion, philosophy, and so very much more are comprised within this specialty.  Those things by which we know ourselves and which help in large measure to differentiate us from all other forms of life are a precious patrimony to be cherished, understood, and passed on to those who will come along.  

Following this presentation, our President, John Lopez, movingly spoke of his commitment to meet with every chapter and to be of assistance in any way, to assure continued interest in the Council.  He said that his help was but a phone call away.  His goal is to make this organization truly democratic and dynamic.  

Friday afternoon was brought to a fitting close with the following offerings:  First Timers' Seminar, chaired by Margie Donovan, and featuring Al Gil and June Sutton as speakers who told of the activities and hopes of the Council; a Fragrance Seminar, presented by Nordstrom Department Stores, with Bernice Kandarian presiding; and finally, with the intrepid Bob Acosta presiding, a meeting of the ACB Convention Host Committee, whose task is to plan and oversee the forthcoming National Convention in Burlingame, July 3 to 10.  ACB's John Horst, Convention Coordinator, outlined many of the activities and events of the 32nd convention of this national organization.  Both he and Bob urged all to be there!  

At 5:15, chapter presidents and many others gathered to break bread together in this traditional semi-annual event.  Called the President's Dinner, this affair brings officers, future leaders, and others together to get to know one another and affords an opportunity to learn how local chapters function, raise funds, lobby area legislators, and help members in meaningful and significant ways.  Kenneth Frasse, President of the Blind Students Group, masterfully conducted these proceedings.  

At 7:00 p.m. the Council membership convened to hear the reading of the Credentials Committee report by its chairman, Sharlene Ornelas, who stated that virtually all chapters of the statewide organization were in attendance.  She noted that new chapters were to be chartered, but more about that later.  

Gil Johnson and Frank Ryan, of the San Francisco office of the American Foundation for the Blind, spoke to the point that, although moneys were presently not forthcoming, with a consequent number of cutbacks, the Foundation would nonetheless continue to play a significant role in all aspects of research as they pertain to the education, rehabilitation, and employment of the blind throughout the nation.  

Donna Brown, of the State Department of Social Services, next told of the efforts of her agency to integrate visually impaired senior clients into long- term care facilities.  Although there have been some instances in which problems have arisen and a certain amount of resistance encountered, the work will go forward, as it is a very necessary and desirable activity to pursue.  As Americans grow older and visual acuity diminishes within this ever enlarging segment of the population,  creative ways and means must be devised to assure quality of life in all cases.  

Ysidro "Cid" Urena, CCB representative in Sacramento, enumerated pending bills and assessed their respective chances for passage and possible effect upon the blind and the visually impaired.  In addition, he mentioned proposed items for the legislative hopper, and he carefully attempted to describe the attitudes of many of the law-makers and the general climate prevailing in Sacramento.  Cid, with his customary thoroughness, keeps the Council well apprised of events in the state capitol, and it is always evident that he has done his homework.  

A veritable smorgasbord was set before convention-goers on Saturday morning:  

An Education Committee panel, whose topic was the higher quality of education resulting from teaching with more than one perspective in mind, featuring Warren Cushman, Josie McKinney, Elena Negrete, and Leslie Thom, with Connie Bateman capably chairing; 

The CCCLV offerings:  "Street Aware", by John Amando, who stressed the importance of being as little noticed as possible while on city streets; a demonstration of the latest technology by Jerry Kuns, which is designed to make one more independent, and Gordon Fuller described a workstation with enhanced capabilities reaching out to the future; 

A meeting of the Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of California, under the leadership of Joe Smith; 

A panel by the Committee on the Senior Blind discussed the various programs available to senior blind individuals in Northern California; this panel featured Anita Baldwin, Donna Brown, Jane Merrill, Tom Ryan, Doris Strong, and Frank Synoground of the Oregon Commission for the Blind; Teddie Remhild was the moderator.  

The Orientation Center for the Blind Alumni Luncheon, with Barbara Kron presiding, was a paean of praise for the facility so fondly remembered by those who have gone there.  Allen Jenkins, Administrator there for 52 years and just recently retired, spoke and was well received by all at attendance.  Al Gil spoke of the present activities and of the acquisition of computers, to move the Center into a brave new world for those who will certainly come!  

At 1:45, President John Lopez introduced John Horst, ACB Convention coordinator, who told of the many programs and activities upcoming at the national convention, soon to transpire.  He said that it promises to be an outstanding convention.  

Mitchell Pomerantz moderated a panel concerned with blind employees and the attitudes which cohorts in the work-site exhibit toward the visually impaired individual.  Marion Fisher, a medical transcriptionist with Kaiser, June Sutton, a psychiatric social worker with Metropolitan State Hospital, and Cherrie Pomerantz, with National Medical Enterprises, all told of their unique situations and how they handle any problems which may arise.  Their thoughts were stimulating.  

The advocacy world of the CCB was defined and stressed by the panel moderated by Cathy Skivers, with Elmer Chapson and Cid Urena participating.  Often it is quite necessary for this organization to assess a given situation, to devise a solution or take a stand, and then work for its accomplishment.  This discussion, together with many questions from the audience, was enlightening indeed.  

Dr. Martin Jones, a counselor with the San Francisco Sheriff's Department, movingly spoke of the sheer necessity of the blind to work and of its joys and self-fulfillment.  

The formal business of the afternoon was concluded by the appearance of "guide dogs" who told of the many situations their masters and mistresses thrust them into.  The skit was cleverly written by Doris Fisher and skillfully rendered by "Guide Dogs" Leslie Thom, Ruth Zullie, Margie Donovan, Lee Morton, Marion Fisher, Jeff Thom, Pat LaFrance, and Doris Fisher.  

At 4:15, many committees met to discuss pertinent matters.  Of particular note among these was the appearance, before the Committee on Women's Concerns, of Renee Casella, a former Miss Universe, who charmed her audience.  

At 7:00 p.m., it was the distinct pleasure of President John Lopez and the Board of Directors of the CCB to tender a cordial welcome to all members and friends to our Spring Banquet.  This stellar event is a celebration of the accomplishments of the organization.  Audrey Hebner, the Mistress of Ceremonies, acquitted herself magnificently, to the delight of all of us who know and like her immensely.  However, she did not stop here!  She introduced her younger son, Timothy, who, with his mother, gave money to ACB John Hebner Scholarship Fund in memory of her husband John, a founding member of the Council and a tireless worker in its behalf. 

 New charters were granted to the Contra Costa County, El Dorado, Redwood Empire, and San Mateo County chapters, and the Cerritos Valley Chapter was reinstated.  To each of the new clubs, a check for $500 was presented by the CCB, to enable them meaningfully to function and serve within their respective areas.  

The diners were absolutely enthralled by the charming manner and sometimes humorous delivery of the feature speaker, Dr. Kent Cullers, a blind scientist, currently attached to NASA's Ames Research Center.  One of his chief tasks is to listen to the electro-magnetic energies emanating from outer space, in a concerted effort to determine whether or not there might be some sort of life capable of devising and sending such sounds.  The good Doctor was able to make abstruse terms and concepts understandable to his auditors.  He welcomed to questions, and many were forthcoming.  All of us in the room were over-joyed to know that a blind man had gone into realms within which we might have feared to tread!  

At 8:15 a.m. on Sunday morning, a devotional service was held; it was a time for remembering those who had gone on, the infirm, and a time to nourish the spirit through song and the Word.  Obbie Schoeman conducted it with reverence.  

At 9:00 a.m., after President Lopez gavelled the Convention to order, Mitch Pomerantz, chairman of the Resolutions Committee, presented various resolutions for consideration.  These are presented elsewhere within these pages.  

Grant Mack, an ACB Board member and newly elected President of the Utah affiliate, spoke glowingly of the health and vigor of the national organization and of its efforts to organize state affiliates where there are not any.  He commended the CCB for its dynamism and business-like operation.  

Bob Slauson told of the joys of skiing and urged others to join the fun.  

Manuel Urena and Alice Hackney provided an update on matters within the Department of Rehabilitation.  Invariably such a discussion generates questions, and there was no lack of that.  

After some perfunctory business, President Lopez adjourned the proceedings, amid the jubilation and gender by a profound sense of accomplishment.  

                         ----------------


                         DEMOCRACY 2000 

[President Clinton's modern approach to the "Town Hall Meeting" with respect to the President's Committee on Employment of Persons with disabilities.]

                         by John V. Lopez


In May 1993, I was invited, along with 17 other major Southern California disability organizations, to share in a new process of representation proposed by the Clinton Administration.  

This new format of representation is guided by what the Administration calls a concept of "People First", the idea being to reinstate the old concept of town hall meetings.  The difference is that these "Town Hall Meetings" are held over vast distances and via tele-conference.

The following is an abstract from the recent tele-conference of the President's Committee on Employment of Persons with Disabilities and seventeen representatives of major consumer organizations representing the major disability communities of Southern California.  Disabilities from cerebral palsy and the developmentally disabled to learning disabilities and the blind were represented on the call, and I was honored to represent the blind.

The tele-conference started with an introduction by Mr. Rick Douglas, the Director of the President's Committee on Employment of Persons with Disabilities.  Mr. Douglas explained that it is crucial to the welfare of the country to involve persons with disabilities in the decision-making process of government and to develop grass roots, American empowerment strategies--essentially to develop a "communications network".  The principal aim of this "communications network" would be to further empower the state and national representatives of every major disability constituency in order to engage in meaningful, on-going dialogue and "action cooperation" with each other and the federal government.

Justin Dart, the Chair of the Committee, continued with a brief outline of the format of the call.  He listed the six major areas that the federal government sees as critical areas of concern, after which each representative was given 2 minutes to list what they saw as the 3 greatest concerns of their constituency.  The call was then finalized with a general discussion of these and any other issues of concern.  
Mr. Dart also touched on some problem areas within the country.  He said that traditional liberalism and conservatism are pass because they have reached the limit of their potential, and too many people are left out of the system when political dogma is put ahead of people.  Our goals must include empowering individuals to fulfill their particular potential, struggling to overcome powerful lobbies that pander to our illusion of security and who further an obsolete, wasteful status quo.  We must oppose token behavior that deems us second-class citizens and promotes poverty and unemployment.  The six major issues for the federal government are:  

     1.   the ADA and how can it best be used; 
     2.  to create affordable, quality health care for all Americans, including persons with disabilities; 
     3.  to establish a national program of personal assistance services that empowers all persons with disabilities to participate in the mainstream; 
     4.  to revolutionize our obsolete production, educational, and social safety systems to empower all Americans capable of working to have decent jobs that pay decent wages; 
     5.  to ensure that the new technological infrastructure of the coming information age is required by law to be completely accessible to, and affordable by, persons with disabilities; 
     6.  to pay our debts but to remember that we need quality jobs so that people with disabilities can have jobs; if we do not have jobs, we cannot pay our debt, and if we cannot pay our debt, we will not have empowerment.  

Now it was our turn, as representatives of the disabled, to voice the concerns of our constituencies.  Many issues were propounded, but several in particular surfaced as the major concerns of our era.

When my turn came to state the needs of the blind, I submitted that three of the major concerns for the blind are currently:  adequate representation on the boards of agencies that provide services for the blind, greater protection of categorical funding such as the guide dog allowance, and increased cooperation within the different disability communities to facilitate a more coordinated and unified effort toward our common progress.

Mr. Ronald Cohen of the United Cerebral Palsy suggested that more affordable, accessible housing was needed.  Mickey Moore of the Learning Disabilities Association said that many tests assess a disability rather than an ability.  Marta Russell of ADAPT encouraged this body to develop a "Bill of Rights" to be submitted to the Administration regarding attendant services policies.  Jess Batres of the Department of Developmental Services brought up the issue that the federal Small Business Administration's "Handicapped Assistance Loan Program" only caters to sheltered workshops and should target mainstream businesses as well.  Dr. Delgado of Mobility Access of San Diego stressed accessible technology in the coming Information Age while John Coombs of the State Board of the Learning Disabilities Association emphasized the necessity of reasonable accommodations with full inclusion.  Bill Davis of the California Alliance of the Mentally Ill stated that better case management and continual care from the Department of Rehabilitation would further the progress of clients.

After approximately 40 minutes of input from the representatives, we started a general discussion of the issues that had been put forth and some that had not yet been mentioned.  Affordable, quality health care was the greatest area of concern for most of the representatives, and services that encouraged independence rather than dependency came in a close second.  Stronger enforcement of the ADA was also discussed.  The remainder of the tele-conference was taken up with the possibility of having a disability summit meeting in California that would seek to address these issues and convey information on laws and awareness to the non- disabled.  All the representatives were enthusiastic about having the summit meeting, and it appeared to be a strong possibility on the part of the Committee.

All in all, the tele-conference was very encouraging and future communication and follow-up have been promised by the Committee.  I think that we can look forward to working with other disabilities and using the President's Committee to mediate in an effort to strengthen all of our endeavors and better all of our lives.

I will be informing all of you of what the President's Committee is doing to forward this "Communication Network" and strongly encourage and welcome all of you to submit to the CCB office your thoughts on issues that are crucial for us and a successful summit conference as well as what you see as paramount to the growth and direction of the CCB.  Thank you all for your interest and support.

                         ----------------


         LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 1993-94 Session -- June 1993

             by Cid Urena, CCB Capitol Representative


Greetings from Sacramento!  LUNCHEON REPORT:  I'm reporting to you on a legislative luncheon that was held April 17, 1993 in Los Angeles.  Shortly after John Lopez became President, he asked me if I would assist him in promoting a legislative luncheon for three area chapters of the California Council of the Blind in L.A.:  San Gabriel, Vincent Calderon, President; Whittier, Pat LaFrance, President; and East L.A., John Lopez, President.  I thought this was a great idea and agreed to do it.  I also told him that bringing the three chapters together would be very beneficial since it would bring in more people.

I'm happy to say that in spite of the problems that occurred on that day due to the Rodney King verdict, we were able to have over 40 people there.  So we deemed it to be a real success from a number of standpoints:  

First of all, it was well attended.  Second, the chapters were fairly well represented and the participation by the members in attendance was outstanding.  It was really great to see our members involved in give-and- take with their legislators and/or their representatives.

The meeting began shortly after 11:00 in the morning.  There were a number of state legislators, legislative representatives and congressional representatives from California.  It was a large room with about 15 tables.  The dais was filled with members of the legislature or their representatives, as well as President Lopez, Maria Lopez, and myself and my wife, Jannis.  There was a very attractive floral arrangement at the podium which was donated as a door prize near the end of the event.  And behind the dais was a ceiling-to-floor mirror extending the width of the room, creating an additional feeling of space and light.

Let me tell you about the specific legislative people who were there.  Assemblywoman Grace Napolitano spoke about her bill AB 1660 which will change the regulations to permit disabled and blind individuals to utilize their bus passes in other cities with other transit districts.  The rate that is paid by the disabled in those cities would apply to the out-of-town traveler.  In other words, if somebody from Los Angeles goes to Fresno, the Fresno disabled transit rate will apply to the person carrying the L.A. card.  Obviously, where there is no disabled rate, this bill will not affect the traveler in that area.  It is hoped that this bill will pass some time soon.  

Not only did the assemblywoman talk to us about her bill, but she joined us at the luncheon and spoke to those who had questions.

Another legislator who attended was Assemblyman Louis Caldera.  He talked about various pieces of legislation and how individuals can participate in the activities taking place in Sacramento. Although he is not carrying any of our legislation this year, he said that perhaps next year he may have an opportunity to carry a CCB bill.

We had Carlos Penilla from Assemblywoman Hilda Solis's distrct right in the East L.A. area.  He brought an informative booklet which described the legislative procedure from beginning to end of how a bill becomes law.  Included were suggestions on how to present ideas for bills and how to help your legislator secure passage of bills, such as letters, telegrams, phone calls, etc.   The CCB has made a limited number of braille, large print, and cassette  copies of this booklet available to our chapters.  It is very important that your wants and needs are made known to your legislators.  That is the only way they can keep in touch with the people in their districts.

Also present was Carmen Hernandez representing Assemblywoman Diane Martinez.  Diane is carrying our legislation dealing with the Orientation Center, AB 1267.  This bill says there "shall" be an Orientation Center for the Blind in California.  That bill, by the way, has done so well that it so far has passed all the Assembly committees and the Assembly floor.  It is now waiting to be heard in the Senate Human Services, chaired by Senator Diane Watson of Los Angeles.  Carmen gave a very good talk on how we came to develop this bill. Diane Martinez sent her apologies for not being with us.  She said she had a close relative being married at the same time as our meeting.  Naturally, we all agree that family comes first.

>From Congress, we had Aydee Balle representing Lucille Roybal-Allard and also Alta Rodriguez sitting in for Xavier Becerra. Ayd presented some excellent remarks on a bill dealing with the independent living services.  She took quite a long period of time describing this because it is a very complex issue. Currently $13 million is designated for this area.  It is foreseen that this figure will be exceeded and at that time all states will participate in a network which will benefit older Americans who are blind.  We're talking about using this money for such things as providing rehabilitation for people who are 65 or older and become blind, because it is felt, and I'm sure it's correct, that a lot of these people are really quite capable.  The majority should not be required to go into nursing homes where it costs from $1,200 to $3,000 a month.  But instead, for about $600, they can get rehabilitation training so they are enabled to remain at home rather than be institutionalized.

Alta Rodriguez spoke at length about some of the current budget items and the money which is owed to California by the Federal Government.  The state is attempting to have that money reimbursed.  (Note:  I understand that the final word is that rather than the $1.4 billion requested, California will receive something like $564 million.)  It was nice to be recognized by Alta because of having previously worked with Becerra's office before he escaped to Washington and got away from us.  
President John Lopez did a great job of hosting and introducing our guests.  It was due to his efforts that so many legislators and their representatives were present.  Congratulations to all three chapters for their help and participation.  However, I believe the most important part of the meeting was that in spite of the ominous day on which it occurred, there were over 40 in attendance.  What impressed me most was that every legislator or representative had something positive to offer.  They realized that we were fewer in number because of the situation.  But they certainly appreciated the courage of those who actually came to hear them.  

The CCB should take great satisfaction in the success of this event.  The secret of a good relationship with our California Senate and Assembly is to stay in communication with them; make them aware of our wants and needs, as well as our displeasure with a negative action.  We certainly look forward to the positive interaction of another good legislative luncheon next year.  This can only work to the CCB's benefit in dealing with the legislature.  

LEGISLATIVE BILL REPORT:

So far this has been one of our better legislative years. 

Beginning with AB 1267 by Diane Martinez, D-49, a CCB bill, which has passed the Assembly floor and is to be heard in the Committee on Human Services, date unknown.  This bill will prohibit the closure of the Orientation Center without approval of the legislature.  Support. 

AB 1419 by Assemblyman Joe Baca, 62nd District, a CCB bill, has passed the Assembly and is in the Senate Rules Committee, to be assigned for hearing to the proper policy committee.  This bill relates to guide dogs and covers several areas:  (1) allows in-home training with specified restrictions; (2) requires that that guide dogs be neutered; (3) contains several elements which clarify definitions already included in the statutes; (4) creates a new criminal definition which would make it a misdemeanor to interfere with guide dogs and/or users; (5) strengthens punishment for vehicle operators failing to yield right-of-way to blind persons with dog guide or cane.  Support.

AB 1602 by Assemblyman Paul Woodruff, 65th District, is a Department of Rehabilitation bill.  It is also in Senate Rules awaiting disposition.  This bill permits the Department to conform to federal regulations.  

AB 1624 by Assemblywoman Debra Bowen, 53rd District, would require the Legislative counsel, with the advice of the Joint Rules Committees of the Senate and Assembly, to make available to the public by means of access by way of computer modem, specified information concerning bills and proceedings of the houses and committees of the legislature.  I am happy to report that today (6-7-93) this bill passed the Assembly floor by a vote of 72-0 and is now on its way to the Senate.  Support.

AB 1660 by Assemblywoman Grace Napolitano, 58th District, a CCB bill, will permit blind and disabled individuals to use transit passes from their home districts in all other areas of the state where disabled discounts are permitted.  Senate Committee on Transportation for hearing on June 15.  Support.

AB 1863 by Assemblyman John Burton, 12th District, a CCB bill, which provides for arbitration in a tuation where a guide dog user is in danger of having his guide dog removed from his custody.  This arbitration to be conducted by the State Guide Dog Board.  The bill is currently in the Senate Business and Professions Committee awaiting a date for hearing.  Support.

AB 2020 by Assemblyman Phil Eisenberg, 9th District, sponsored by the California Optometric Association, woulld allow optometrists to prescribe medications and treatments for specified diseases of the eye.  The California Council of the Blind is totally opposed to this bill and letters of opposition are being sent to the Business and Professions Committee where the bill is now awaiting a hearing date.  Oppose.

SB 477 by Senator William Craven, 38th District, sponsored by the SPCA, improves SPCA regulations:  i.e. promotes better education for personnel, promotes better understanding of cruelty to animals by the general public, but because of the opposition by many members of the SPCA the bill has been changed to a two-year bill.   Remains in Senate Judiciary Committee for future action.  Support.

SB 742 by Senator Milton Marks, 3rd District, is a bill which the CCB is opposing because of its continuing efforts to reduce the standards of the Guide Dog Board, namely unlicensed dog trainers.  Senate floor to be heard.  Oppose.

SB 897 by Senator Dan McCorquodale, 12th District, is a two-year bill and is currently in the Senate Education Committee and has been an extremely controversial bill.  The language of the bill inhibits certain regulations applying to Special Education.  Oppose.

SB 1104 by Senator Tim Leslie, lst District, attempts to restore lien laws for some individuals.  Though it does not affect the blind at this time, a trend of this type could grow.  Senate floor, third reading.  Oppose.

SCR 16 by Senator Teresa Hughes, 25th District, a CCB resolution, would mandate adaptive computer equipment for the disabled in the open computer labs serving the general student population in the CSU and UC systems.  Senate Resolutions Committee.  Support.

For further and more immediate updates, telephone 1-800-221-6359 evenings after 5:00 p.m. or weekends.  

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                 FEDERAL LEGISLATION--June, 1993

                       by Winifred Downing


There are not many issues presently requiring specific action on the federal level, but there are a number on which we need to be informed so that when action is necessary, we will possess the necessary background. 

Education: This year calls for the re-authorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, a law encompassing a large number of programs dedicated to students with special needs and concerns, most of which are not associated with disabilities.  A part of Chapter I of the act contains, however, provisions which relate to funding for the residential schools for the blind and the deaf.  This section, known as Chapter I, Handicapped or 89-313, was adopted in the 1960's originally to furnish much needed money to institutions housing mentally retarded students for whom there were virtually no educational opportunities.  Since the funding was directed to students in residential institutions, schools for the blind and the deaf also benefited.  

In 1989-90 3,674 blind and visually handicapped students benefited from 89-313 funds.  The money has been used for reading and writing needs in large print and braille, remedial strategies for multi-handicapped students, purchase of adapted technical devices and instruction in their use, community-based integration programs, etc.  One advantage of dollars coming from 89-313 is that they follow the child for whatever services he needs: they are not channeled to the Local Education Agency (LEA) as are 94-142 funds.

Keeping this funding separate from that called for to carry out the provisions of 94-142 was for many years been considered important because the amount per child allowed by 89-313 funding was markedly larger than that allowed by 94-142.  Over the last five years, however, that difference has lessened from $200 per child to just $9, and so the emphasis on this separate legislation is no longer so important.  What will be important, however, is that, when IDEA is re-authorized in 1994, its provisions are altered to allow funds to be awarded to meet the needs of students in residential institutions, since now all funding goes to the Local Education Agencies.  Knowledgeable congress people have pledged their continued support of the  residential schools for the deaf and blind, and it is hoped that this support will ensure maintenance of these schools.  The automatic one-year extension on legislation relating to education will undoubtedly postpone the re-authorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act until 1994; but meanwhile, write to Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi who is the only Californian on the Subcommittee on Labor, HHS, Education, and Assorted Services; send copies to the committee chair, William Natcher, and to Tom Harkin on the Senate side.  Advocate strongly that no further cuts be made in 89-313 funding, a practice which has already seriously eroded the services offered by the residential schools.  

In this effort, and in all the discussion which will be occasioned when IDEA is up for re-authorization next year, it is important to be aware of the influence of those who are promoting "full inclusion", which is just a restatement under a new banner of the philosophy arising from the narrow definition of Least Restricted Environment, the movement called Schools Are for Everyone, and other efforts to force all children into the regular classroom, thus limiting the range of educational options available.  
Independent Living Services for the Older Blind:  The same subcommittee and the same persons cited above should be contacted concerning funding for programs which will teach older persons who experience vision loss to care for their daily needs in their own homes.  The program to fund these services was formerly administered under Title VII, Part C of the Rehabilitation Act as competitive grants awarded to 28 selected states each year.  The unfairness of that system is obvious from the fact that some states received two such grants while states like California and Florida, with very large numbers of senior citizens, never received a grant at all.  (Florida will get some funds this  year.)  

P.L. 102-569, the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992, sets up a system of formula grants to all states that will become effective when $13 million is appropriated for that purpose.  The requested sum of $26 million would allow for additional funding based on the population of the states and is considered necessary for the full implementation of services.  It is important that many letters be written to Nancy Pelosi, with copies to William Natcher, chair of  the subcommittee on Labor, HHS, Education, and Assorted Services, stressing the fact that the over-65 population has more than doubled since 1960, with the largest increase by far in those who are over 85.  Most visually impaired seniors could live for many years in their own homes if they received adequate training in daily living skills; the cost of $600 for such training is far less than the annual cost of nursing home care at an annual cost of $25 to $30 thousand.  

Health Care Reform:  As we approach passage of a national health care program, many plans are under discussion, but whichever one is ultimately adopted,  it must cover all persons without reference to employment status or to pre-existing conditions.  Because the vast majority of blind and visually impaired persons are not employed, this group is particularly dependent upon changes in health care programs.  

There are differences of opinion about what services advocates should insist upon having covered.  Should the program adopted provide only medical care to all in the usual sense of that word or should it extend to preventive services, adaptive equipment to cope with physical and mental limitations, training in strategies to cope with such problems, etc.?    

At the Affiliated Leadership League conference in March, valuable instructional material was given to us.  Here is a list of some definitions of terms used in the discussions.  You may find them as helpful as I have. 
     "Fee for service" means that the patient or insurer pays whatever fee the doctor or hospital establishes; this is the most widely used payment method now.  
     "Global budget" is an amount that would be awarded to each state for its health care programs; negotiations would determine the fees to be paid to doctors and hospitals.  
     "Health Maintenance Organization" (HMO) provides full medical care to its members for a fixed payment each year; care is limited to the doctors and hospitals which elect to belong to the plan.  
     "Managed care" is an approach by insurers to review proposed treatments to rule out those which are not cost effective or truly necessary.  This plan can also mean that the patient is furnished with an approved list of providers and that he must pay extra if he chooses to seek service outside that list.  
     "Play or pay" is a plan which requires employers to insure their employees or pay into a central fund which will insure them. 

Technology: HR1757 to Promote Computer Communication and Access to Information is being considered by the Science Subcommittee of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee.  It is important that the legislation require that strategies be adopted which will allow access by blind and visually impaired persons.  Such access depends upon programs which avoid icons and other pictorial approaches.  The Californian on that subcommittee is Anna Eschoo, a freshman Congresswoman from  the Silicon Valley.

Address members of the House of Representatives: House Office Building, Washington, DC  20015; address members of the Senate: Senate Office Building, Washington DC 20010. 

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                  TIDBITS FROM CTEVH CONFERENCE

                       by Juliet B. Esterly


The California Transcribers and Educators of the Visually Handicapped (CTEVH) had its usual very informative conference in Sacramento, April 1- 3.  My only complaint is that there are so many workshops, you need to be triplets to hear everything (or buy the recorded tapes of workshops you missed).  Here are a few items that might interest our readers: 

Registered with the California State Department of Education are 5927 legally blind students.  The braille readers consist of 472 in public schools and 67 in private schools.  The others are almost equally divided into oral, large-print, and non-readers.  

Incidentally, The Braille Forum reported in its April edition that the U.S. 1990 census reported 2,578,000 severely visually impaired persons age 65 and over.  This population has more than doubled since the 1960 census.  The fastest growing part of this number are those 85 plus with one in four being severely visually impaired.  

Sally Mangold, Ph.D., a blind professor at the San Francisco State University, said they have the largest program in the U.S. for training teachers of the visually handicapped.  This is the only state that requires two semesters of braille instruction and she does not consider this enough.  SFSU has a two weeks summer course for braille.  

Dr. Mangold said that in 1965, 50 percent of visually handicapped students in the U.S. were braille literate; in 1992 only 12 percent were braille literate.  She quoted Dr. Susan Spungen's recent article saying that 85 percent of employed blind persons in the U.S. used braille as their primary reading medium.  Dr. Mangold pointed out that this means that current students were not being taught reading skills they will need later.  
After passing a braille course, some teachers may not have a student needing braille for several years, and so they need a test to verify their competence to teach braille.  The National Library Services for the Blind and Physically Handicapped is just about ready to offer such a test.  It was stressed that this would only test knowledge of the braille code but notteaching methods.  Some states may accept this test as evidence that the teacher was qualified to teach braille; other states may also require a certificate showing formal academic instruction.  There are three parts to the test, all of which must be passed.  The first tests braille reading.  The second tests writing with both a slate and stylus and on a brailler.  The third part is 25 multiple choice questions listing four possible answers.  There are four versions of the test, each containing material of equal difficulty.  A fifth version can be sent out to interested persons as a sample.  If the person does not pass the first time, it can be taken again in six months and then about six months later.  After that, the individual must provide proof that a formal course of instruction has been completed satisfactorily.  The individual arranges for a test site and for a monitor, who does not need to know anything about braille.  The test will be sent to the monitor and returned by the monitor.  About four to six hours may be allowed to take the test. Originally when I reviewed this test, I considered it too easy but I was assured it is now harder.   

Dr. Mangold thought the test should be called the Literary Braille Transcription Competency Test to stress that it does not include methodology.  

The test is free and can be requested now from NLS.  Indicate whether you wish print or braille editions of the instructions and the test.  

Dr. Mangold thinks that there should be two tests:  one for entry level teaching and two years later, a master level test.  She also thinks there should be a five-year certificate available for those who do not have many braille reading students.  

The topic that was discussed in many workshops was the research being done to have a Unified Braille Code that would include literary, mathematics, computer, textbook format, and science but not the music code.  At present, the same dot arrangements may have different meanings in the different codes.  The aim is to have a certain dot arrangement have only one meaning so that there would be no problem in a computer putting braille into print or print into braille.  Now it's hard to know if something is written in bold type, underlined or in a special script, and whereas the opening and closing braille parentheses are the same, the opening and closing print parentheses differ.  No Grade II contractions would be changed or added but rules would be changed and indicatorswould use two or three cells to show when underlining or bold type began and then when it ended.  Some blind persons presently felt it was absolutely necessary, but as I read reactions, I felt most of the blind readers and transcribers felt it too complicated.  

This will be discussed in publications and at our ACB convention in July.  I hope you will try to study the matter with an open mind and be prepared to give some reactions to this Unified Braille Code.  

                         ----------------


          EQUAL ACCESS TO THE PRINTED WORD IN SACRAMENTO

                           by Don Queen


Since the amendment of the California Constitution in 1920 initiated by Dr. Newel Perry, Founder of the California Council of the Blind, this organization has succeeded in passing over 200 laws which have materially improved the lot of blind and visually impaired Californians.  These include Library services for the Blind, Reader Services for Blind College Students, the White Cane Law and the protection of blind people under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEPC).  While we have usually prevailed, we have never been able to compete on an equal playing field with bureaucrats, agencies for the blind and other groups who have opposed us. 

Even though we could write and visit our legislators like anyone else, we could not read and scan the thousands of bills as our opponents and other advocacy groups could.  Clearly, we did not let this hold us back,  so we enlisted the assistance of sighted members, volunteers, paid for readers and plagued our families for help.  

However, advancement in technology and recent legislative developments promise to give the blind and visually impaired equal access to the written word in Sacramento and level this uneven playing field once and for all.  The technological developments, of course, include the computer as well as the modem and a spin-off from the Department of Defense called Internet.  The legislation is the passage of the Americans With Disabilities Act mandating that laws and regulations be provided in accessible format.  AB-1624 by Assembly member Debra Bowen would make bills introduced to the Legislature accessible to the public over the telephone by computer modem.

The beauty of a computer is that what is printed to a computer screen can be read by a blind or visually impaired person through a speech synthesizer, in braille, or large print.  The California Legislature is now computerized, but in former times, you would always bring a copy of the bill in question to show the legislator or staff person when visiting members of the legislature.  Today, they usually turn to a computer terminal, call up the bill, the Legislative Counsel's digest, its status, where and when it will be heard next, or the text itself.  We have been wondering for some years why this system could not be made available to blind persons on computer disk or by modem.  

Fees on these commercial data bases ranges from $12 per hour on COMPUSERV to $75 per hour on BRS to access the Library of Congress Talking Book Catalog.  Many private individuals and clubs have set up free data bases or bulletin boards where individuals can call in and share programs and send messages to each other.  An example is BayTalk, telephone (415) 864-6430, which is operated by an organization of blind computer users in the bay area.  A member can download files containing demo speech and other programs, magazines such as the BC, the Braille Forum, copies of the Rehab Act, Federal Regulations on transportation or ADA.  Why not a legislative bulletin board in Sacramento? 

Today the California Council of the Blind is subscribed to a legislative data base in Sacramento.  It is called LEGI-TECH and is a subsidiary of Hewlett- Packard.  On LEGI-TECH you can search the thousands of bills introduced in the current session for the word "blind" and, in less than thirty seconds, get a list of bills containing this word.  It allows a user to search every bill introduced into the legislature by author, words, or statute which it affects.  It will provide you with a list of these bills, their summaries, current status, committee votes, date and room where they will be heard and the committee.  You can also read the text of the bill and save it in a file on your own computer disk to be reviewed later.  It is very expensive.  It costs several hundred dollars to join and currently $1.50 per minute plus long distance charges to use.  This limits the CCB to using it only a few times a year and is prohibitive for individuals.  It is a long way from equal access.

Assemblywoman Debra Bowen's bill AB-1624 provides a unique solution.  Put the Legislature's existing data base on Internet.  Internet is a network of expensive and high quality data lines established by the Department of Defense to facilitate communications between its University researchers and private contractors around the country.  This communications network is now available to the general public and not just academics.  If you have a modem, download a file called NET.COM from Baytalk and try it out.  There are many data base systems which can be accessed on internet if you know the password.  For example, the Federal Registry lists its proposed regulations on Internet.  It will not cost the state any additional money.  The legislature is already paying for the data base.  The Defense Department paid for Internet.  Individual users can pay the reasonable charges.  The main opposition is that very few persons have computers.  

Assemblywoman Bowen has documented that Internet will work as it has been working for the Federal Register and other state legislatures.  Unfortunately, by this writing, Assemblyman John Burton, Chairman of the Assembly Rules Committee, is opposing this bill because he believes it will not work.  Assemblyman Burton is a long-time friend of the blind.  Perhaps we can persuade him to support this bill.  

In view of today's technology, there is no reason that we should face the same inequities as Dr. Perry faced in the 1920's.  Please write your legislator and John Burton at the State Capital, Sacramento, CA 95814.  Send copies to Cid Urena; his address is on the front of this magazine.

                         ----------------


                BITTEN BY THE CHINESE GIFT HORSE 

                        by Kenneth Frasse


This article is a reminder of tolerance, expectations, and civil rights, and, mostly, the absence of these elements.  

     Many of us assume that our civil liberties are natural and forthcoming.  We have become accustomed to entitlements, anti-discrimination policies, and the basic right to develop and strengthen these rights.  Often many blind and visually impaired individuals forget the battles that have been fought for them over the years to ensure these rights which they now enjoy and from which they now benefit.  Some individuals say that there is no reason to become active in legislation or that they are too busy to become involved in advocacy.  As a reminder to all of us of the battles that have been fought and of the distinction between empowerment and poverty, I wish to share a brief letter from a young man in China who, without assistance, will never experience the self esteem of empowerment nor even the simple but essential freedoms that we take for granted.  Here is his letter to the Blind Students of California (BSC) dated December 14, 1992:

"Dear President Kenneth:  

"In this letter I will answer all your questions listed in your letter, and, meanwhile, I will also tell you more about me.  

"I was born on February, 1965; I am now 27 years old.  Immediately after my graduation from a high school in the city, I attended Hunan University, a main university in China, to study air conditioning engineering in September, 1982.  Because of glaucoma, I had to leave the university at the beginning of my fourth school year, in September, 1985.  Then I came back home to stop my college education and have stayed home without any job.  

"There is no school for the blind, or handicapped, in this city that has a population of 1.45 million not including its four governed counties.  I had to learn Chinese braille completely by myself.  Since 1989, I began taking courses from the Hadley School for the Blind.  Through their home study courses, I grasped grade 2 English braille.

"Whenever I have studied, I have been one of the most excellent students, and, since my childhood, I already decided to become an advanced engineer.  For this ambition, I was, and am, very good at math and science, especially physics which you are interested in.  I had read plenty of books and magazines in science and engineering, especially mechanics and electronics until my loss of sight.

"My family is the poorest in this neighborhood.  My father died on duty in February, 1973.  My mother has always stayed home with no job because of high blood pressure and a heart attack.  My only brother is a worker, 35 years old.  I have no relatives overseas, and it is absolutely impossible for me to afford the college tuition in the United States.  You, as a person living in western world, are quite surprised to hear the data of my income, called relief money.  My mother gets the same amount of money each month:  42.50 Chinese dollars, less than 8 U.S. dollars per month (one Chinese dollar exchanges for 5.55 U.S. dollars; October, 1992).  

"Although the relief money is little to me, the handicapped in the countryside cannot get the money.  The handicapped in the countryside are poorer than me.  What can I do for them?!  The "Great Communist" Chinese government doesn't think highly of those poor people.  

"Today's China is the world of members of the Communist Party of China.  No telephone is in my family.  With your help, I want to attend your university to learn physics and pedagogy.  In fact, I do not know the details about American colleges, though I know the California State University is famous.  To select my major field in American university, I have to consider what kind of job I will do when I come back after attaining degree.  I love science, but I ought to do my best for other blind in China.  Therefore, learning pedagogy is helpful for me in future to seek a job in China and help other blind people in China.  

"I have received some braille textbooks in learning braille and
physics from the Overseas Blind Foundation in California whose services is donating used american braille materials and braillers.  My Perkins brailler and the braille paper of this letter are all from this organization.  By studying these textbooks, I already have mastered the complete Nemeth Code, the braille code for textbook format, and computer braille.  Soon I will finish the study of the 32 volume, braille version of "Modern Physics", whose original publishers were Holt, Reinhart, and Winston, though it was the 1968 edition.  I have applied to enroll in grade 3 braille an Introduction to Micro-computers through Hadley.  

"To stay home to study by myself, I am often laughed at by some people.  Almost all people, including my friends, have thought my studying a waste of time because I am blind.  Furthermore, some people, some of them officials, have insulted and spited me and my family.  I always feel guilty that my blindness has brought my family into depression and my 69 year old mother burst into tears sometimes for this family.  What can I do now?

"All people, whether bad or kind, have the same words to me: "If you were not blind, you are quite intelligent and have made enough effort, but it is impossible for you to succeed because of your blindness."  I need your help!!!  All people here will say that it is an unprecedented marvel if I could continue my college education, especially in science field, if I attend the university again.  Help me to work the marvel and let people know the blind are capable of anything!!"

Yan-Yan is one of many individuals who are striving for the opportunity to develop themselves in china but are being stifled with no opportunity in sight.  It is amazing that a culture that is many times older than our own cannot see the light of opportunity or the legitimacy of equality.  Perhaps the greatest lesson in this for us as we attempt to help Li is that those liberties which we enjoy and often take for granted are never permanent nor to be assumed.  We must remember the fundamental meaning of the Greek words, "demos", the people, and "cratis", strength, which make up our "democracy".  The BSC will keep you abreast of Mr. Li's progress, and we hope that all of us will recognize the determination and work that has afforded us what we sometimes too casually refer to as our "inalienable rights".  

                         ----------------


                     THE HAND THAT FEEDS YOU

                       by Stanley Greenberg


The year was 1848.  The debate over slavery had began to gather momentum.  Those who supported freedom for the slaves were in the minority and those who supported a continuation for the system were articulate and organized.  

A company which later would become the George Gallup organization decided to take the pulse of the slave community.  They chose a sample of 1247 slaves and asked them to respond to the following question:  "If you had the choice of remaining a slave or becoming a free independent person, which would you choose?"  78 percent of those polled chose to remain as slaves.  19 percent chose to become free.  4 percent were undecided.  The pollsters claim that there was a 3 percent margin for error in their research.  

Of course, the survey never took place as it would have been impossible to conduct it.  However, we do know that after the Civil War, a large percentage of free slaves chose to remain on the plantations of their former owners and many of them continued to work for no wages.  Their living conditions did not change and indeed it was not until 1954, the year of "Brownd vs. Board of Education" and 1964, the year of the passage of the first "Civil Rights Act", that meaningful progress was made towards full independence for people of color.  

Blind people are not slaves and yet, many of us, when given a choice, choose dependence over independence, reliance over self-reliance, and second-class status over first-class status.  How?  Well, there are many instances in which blind people choose to have our lives continue to be controlled by others in general and by the services that we receive in particular.  Our position concerning ownership of our guide dogs is a classic example.  

A vast majority of guide dog users, when asked whether they want to own their dogs unconditionally, respond that either it makes no difference to them or that they prefer to have the school from which they graduated own the dog.  Only a few of us believe passionately that we should own our dogs.  

The reasons which people give for either not wanting to own their dogs, or not caring whether or not they own them, are interesting.  Some of them say that by insisting on ownership, we are "biting the hand that feeds us".  Others believe that they need to be protected and defended against those who might threaten us.  Still others believe that the dogs need to be protected from the few of us who abuse them.  Those who espouse ownership believe that we should control our destiny, that guide dog schools are here to serve us, that only through unconditional ownership we can be truly in control of the relationship between us and our dogs, and that adequate protection exists within the society which we are working to integrate to protect dogs from those few of us who would be abusive.  

We must ask ourselves, however, a very penetrating question:  Are we really talking about ownership or are we talking about something far more reaching?  Are we willing to take full charge of our lives?  Are we willing to view ourselves as fully independent, fully capable human beings who deserve to take a rightful place in society?  Should we control the services that we receive or should we permit ourselves to be custodialized and patronized by our service system?  Are we willing to say to the guide dog schools who do not permit unconditional ownership and to other service providers who insist they must control us that we will be in charge of our lives, that we will own our dogs, that we will accept the responsibilities and the consequences of ownership and that our service providers will join us in a partnership for independence?  Until we do, we will continue to live as second class citizens and no law or movement will move us ahead.  

                         ----------------


                     THE STUDENT PERSPECTIVE 

                        by Kenneth Frasse


This article is an update to the last issue of the Student Perspective by Ron Brooks.

In an effort to address the computer access issue on the California State University and University of California campuses, the Blind Students of California has submitted, with the indispensable aid of Cid Urena, a request to the California Legislature.  This request was marked up as a Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR 16).  This resolution enjoys the support of several legislators already, and we are hopeful that it will pass.  Since Cid included this resolution in his last legislative report of the BC, here I am only presenting the "Resolves" that were modified and added after.  

RESOLVED, by the Senate of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, that the legislature supports mandating adapted and accessible computers for all students in open labs that serve the general student population, including those in the libraries, within the California State University and the University of California; and be it further

RESOLVED that the procedure for determining the number of adapted computers for each open lab be determined by the greater of the following:  a) a minimum of one 1) computer fully adapted for all disabilities for each open lab, or; b) the number obtained by multiplying the number of computers in each open lab by the ratio of disabled students on campus to able-bodied students on that campus; and be it further

RESOLVED that the monies used for said adapted equipment shall come from the university department housing the lab and not from the Disabled Student Services program which is not responsible for adapting these open labs; and be it further 

RESOLVED that the Secretary of the State transmit a copy of this resolution to the California State University and the University of California.

The BSC will keep you abreast of this resolution, and we are all crossing our fingers that it passes! 

                         ----------------


                       OUT OF THE DOGHOUSE

                    by Cherrie Handy Pomerantz


It was wonderful to see so many of you this spring, especially since I know that ACB's national convention will take place in just a month!  I was delighted with the quality of our spring convention program, and I hope you were too.  

We began our Friday morning workshop with a panel on legislation, as we have four bills in Sacramento this year.  In addition, we were brought up to date on SB742, supported by Senator Marks and his consultant, Joan Ripple.  

Our next speakers were a surprise.  Doug Hunter and Jim Hyatt from Guide Dogs of the Desert made a completely unexpected but very welcome appearance on Friday, as they had a graduation the next day.  We also heard from Jane Brackman of IGE, now called Guide Dogs of America.  Jane also discussed a project she and I are working on regarding communication between blind and sighted people.  You will hear much more about this project in GDUC's magazine, HAVE GUIDE DOG WILL TRAVEL.  

During our business meeting we heard committee reports and elected Lee Morton as GDUC's delegate to the GDUI convention for July, 1993.  

Our second panel dealt with issues of guide dog retirement.  This has been quite a year for retirements.  Margie Donovan, Lee Morton, and Bob Acosta made presentations.  All three schools were present and expressed their appreciation for an opportunity to be involved in discussing a subject that touches all of us so personally.  

At our luncheon, we heard presentations on puppy-raising from Don Frisk, now Director of Field Services for Guide Dogs for the Blind, and Nick Terrones, Director of Training of Guide Dogs of America.  

Let's take a moment to talk about logistics.  The relief area is excellent!  The hotel did place trashcans at strategic points, and plastic bags were available upon request at the front desk.  Our spring convention offered a much-needed dry run of how the relief area will fare this summer.  There were about 60 dogs at the convention this spring.  Let's all try to keep the relieving area pleasant for our dogs, particularly when there will be so many dogs at this year's convention.

On to the program!  On Monday afternoon we'll hear school updates.  During the convention we will have panels on after-care, and guide dogs in the family.  We will have a presentation at our luncheon from Canine Companions for Independence, (CCI) and Hearing Dogs, discussing myths, misconceptions and commonalities of all of us who use dogs as partners.  We will be hearing from an allergist too, so get all your questions ready.  In addition, we are looking forward to a presentation from Eva Brantley, a human rights attorney who is actively working to open the United Kingdom to us and who has also been very active in assisting us in our efforts to open Hawaii to guide dogs.  

It should be an excellent program.  On Monday evening, there will be a discussion of retirement.  Also, a group has requested that time be made to discuss behavior problems experienced particularly during conventions.   
I'm looking forward to seeing everyone at our national GDUI convention.  It will be a great convention.  See you there!  

                         ----------------


            REPEAL OF EARNINGS TAX FOR BLIND AMERICANS

[Editor's Note:  Thanks to Ruth Ann Acosta for sharing the following important information so it can be printed in the BC.] 


Hon. Christopher Cox introduced a Social Security Disability Benefits for the Blind Act, which will bring into the work force many blind Social Security  disability beneficiaries who are presently prevented from working because of economic disincentives built into the Social Security system.  

Current law punishes blind individuals who are gainfully employed by withholding their Social Security disability benefits.  Worse, if a blind beneficiary earns more than a meager $880 per month--that's $10,560 per year--he or she loses all Social Security benefits and, after a period of time, Medicare coverage as well.  With disincentives such as this, it's no wonder that nearly three out of four blind persons are not employed-- despite the fact that many are able bodied and willing to work.

The Social Security Disability Benefits for the Blind Act will eliminate the counter-productive tax on disability benefits for blind Social Security Disability Beneficiaries.  In so doing, this legislation will boost the economy by increasing economic productivity and producing new tax revenues for the U.S. Treasury  and the Social Security and Medicare trust funds.   Most importantly, though, this legislation will afford many visually impaired Americans the opportunity to seek employment--and to fulfill their aspirations.  

The Social Security Disability Benefits for the Blind Act has been endorsed by the Affiliated Leadership League of and for the Blind, the American Council of the Blind, the American Foundation for the Blind, the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired, the Blinded Veterans Association, the California Council of the Blind, the National Federation of the Blind, the National Industries for the Blind, and the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare.  

I invite my colleagues to co-sponsor this important bill, so that we may truly bring to an end this unconscionable policy of discouraging work.  
HR2157 

                         ----------------


                PROFESSIONAL BLIND WOMEN PRESENT 
                   AT NATIONAL AGING CONFERENCE


Teddie Remhild, Gerontologist; June Sutton, Psychiatric Social Worker; and Dr. Rose Resnick, D.ED were presenters in a workshop at the annual conference of the American Society on Aging held on March 27-30, 1993 in Chicago.  

The topic of the workshop was "Aging with a Disability:  A Professional Perspective."  The presentation was multi-focal, addressing the issues of personal life experiences of aging with a disability from three diverse perspectives:  rehabilitation, consumerism, and the role of the service provider as viewed by these three professional service providers.  

Disabilities which develop in later years have long been the focus of research by the aging network, but understanding the problems and needs of the older adults who have lived with a life-long disability is a relatively new area of interest.  

June Sutton spoke of vision loss which began in adolescence and her experiences, struggles, and successes as she evolved into matured adulthood.  She particularly addressed the lack of support and assistance available from the State Rehabilitation Department.  She also described lack of understanding and support from her family and community.  Her message revealed that "she succeeded in spite of them, not because of them."  

Teddie Remhild experienced vision loss as a young housewife with three small children.  Her experience was one of denial, frustration, a struggle for independence, and career fulfillment.  She emphasized the importance of positive role models, how they have profoundly affected her life course, and how she strives to be a positive influence on others in her life.  The message was to focus on possibilities and not disabilities.  

Dr. Rose Resnick, Founder and Director of the Rose Resnick Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired in San Francisco, discussed congenital blindness, the freedom she was allowed to experience in her childhood, her family's support--all of which led to her pioneering achievements in the field of programs for the blind.  Rose's life has truly been an inspiration for all of those who have participated at her Center for the past 30 plus years.  She spoke of the need for opportunities and options for the blind and visually impaired, so that self esteem may be enhanced and success more attainable.  

These three professional and successful blind women were participants in the nationally recognized conference at a time when aging, disability and rehabilitation have become a major issue in our society.  Theirs was an important contribution in this field and to the theme "Maximizing Human Potential."  They exemplify excellence in evolving human potential.  

                         ----------------


                 CCB RESOLUTIONS -- SPRING 1993 

                   by Mitch Pomerantz, Chairman


                        RESOLUTION 93-A-1

WHEREAS, Assembly Bill 2020 would give optometrists broad authority to diagnose and treat eye diseases well beyond their competence and training; and 

WHEREAS, in 1992, a study published by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, described 690 cases of patient injury directly attributable to optometric care, 13% of which ended in blindness; and

WHEREAS, the California Council of the Blind has always been vitally concerned with all issues relevant to blindness including its treatment and prevention:  Now, therefore, be it 

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that this organization voice our strong opposition to AB-2020 as being potentially harmful and not in the public interest; and be it further

RESOLVED, that this Resolution be immediately transmitted to the appropriate committees in the State Senate and Assembly.
      
                        RESOLUTION 93-A-2

WHEREAS, monitoring of capillary blood sugars, insulin intake and dietary balance are critical aspects of properly controlled diabetes; and

WHEREAS, personal control of these aspects is fundamental to the diabetic's independence and confidence; and

WHEREAS, the goal of both the Orientation Center for the Blind and the Vocational Independence Program is to rehabilitate individuals who are newly blind so that they gain the tools necessary for independent living as well as regain their independence and confidence; and

WHEREAS, diabetics typically comprise a large percentage of the population at OCB and VIP:  Now, therefore, be it 

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that this Council request that the State Department of Rehabilitation institute a class/program at the Orientation Center for the Blind, the Vocational Independence Program and any other similar facility which will provide training for blind and visually impaired diabetics in the use of talking blood glucometers in addition to the drawing and injection of the proper dosage of insulin; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the Directors of each agency be urged to forward written information to the CCB regarding the proposed start-dates for, and implementation of, such class/program.
      
                        RESOLUTION 93-A-3
      
WHEREAS, many employed deaf-blind persons require interpreters for effective job performance; and

WHEREAS, the Department of Rehabilitation could provide interpreter services through expansion of the Supported Employment provision in the Federal Rehabilitation Act; and

WHEREAS, such interpreter and/or other services would clearly facilitate even more deaf-blind individuals entering the work force:  Now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that this Council strongly urge the Department of Rehabilitation to consider providing interpreter services through the Supported Employment provision in the Rehabilitation Act to its deaf-blind clients who become employed; and be it further

RESOLVED, that this Resolution be forwarded to the ACB Resolutions Committee for development of a national policy statement on this matter.
      
                        RESOLUTION 93-A-4

WHEREAS, the California Council of the Blind has a policy supporting the use of audible pedestrian signals as a means of safe access at busy intersections by blind persons; and

WHEREAS, the Silicon Valley Council of the Blind has relocated its regular monthly meetings to a site near the intersection of Grant Road (Route 237) and El Camino Real, both of which are heavily traveled State highways; and

WHEREAS, SVCB members must cross this difficult intersection in order to attend meetings; and 

WHEREAS, the Silicon Valley Council of the Blind can provide useful feedback to Caltrans concerning the effectiveness of an auditory signal at this location:  Now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that this organization join the Silicon Valley Council of the Blind in urging Caltrans to immediately install an audible pedestrian signal at the intersection of Grant Road and El Camino Real in Mountain View, California; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the President of this organization be directed to transmit copies of this Resolution along with a suitable cover letter to the President of the Silicon Valley Council of the Blind, and to appropriate officials of the City of Mountain View and Caltrans.

                        RESOLUTION 93-A-5

WHEREAS, it has been the practice of the California Council of the Blind to pay the President's expenses at each Convention of the CCB; and

WHEREAS, due to the Convention's decision not to pass a constitutional amendment providing for the payment of CCB Convention expenses, it is felt necessary to clarify the will of the membership to continue paying the President's Convention expenses:  Now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that it is the policy of this organization to pay the reasonable CCB Convention expenses incurred by the President.

                        RESOLUTION 93-A-6

WHEREAS, there is only one Counselor-Teacher to serve the 10 most northerly counties in the Chico District of the Department of Rehabilitation; and

WHEREAS, due to the rural nature of this area, the Counselor-Teacher is unable to serve as many clients as a Counselor-Teacher in an urban area due to the long driving distances; and

WHEREAS, despite the rural nature of this area, the blind population in these 10 counties has increased dramatically, resulting in many blind persons being denied services:  Now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that this organization strongly urge the Department of Rehabilitation to add an additional Counselor-Teacher to meet the unmet needs of the blind population residing in the 10 most northerly counties of the Chico District.


                        RESOLUTION 93-A-7

WHEREAS, orientation and mobility training is one of the most vital services provided by the Department of Rehabilitation to blind persons on a statewide basis; and

WHEREAS, the Department of Rehabilitation does not currently provide orientation and mobility training to blind persons in the 10 most northerly counties of the Chico District:  Now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that this organization strongly urge the Department of Rehabilitation to provide orientation and mobility training to the blind in the 10 most northerly counties in the Chico District as is provided in every other part of the State.

                        RESOLUTION 93-A-8

WHEREAS, the California Council of the Blind has effectively represented the blind in Sacramento for over 50 years using paid and volunteer readers to keep up with, and evaluate the avalanche of bills each session; and

WHEREAS, while we have been effective, we have never competed on a level playing field with our opponents and other advocacy groups as far as access to the printed word; and

WHEREAS, technological developments such as the computer, speech synthesizer and braille display processor have made printed material accessible to blind and visually impaired people; and

WHEREAS, the California Legislature maintains a database of the thousands of bills introduced each session providing to the legislature and state agencies the actual text, status and other pertinent information on each bill; and

WHEREAS, Assembly Member Debra Bowen has introduced Assembly Bill 1624 which would make this database available to all Californians via computer modem at no cost to the State and only nominal cost to the consumer; and

WHEREAS, while AB-1624 was not introduced with the blind and print handicapped in mind, it does meet the State's responsibility to provide information in accessible media:  Now, therefore, be it    

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that the officers and staff of the CCB be authorized to support enactment of AB1624 by Assembly Member Debra Bowen and any other measure which makes the legislative process more accessible to the blind and visually impaired; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the CCB thank Assembly Member Bowen for introducing AB1624; and be it further

RESOLVED, that this organization recommend to the State that its designated officials work closely with the CCB and its Committee on Access and Transportation to ensure accessibility to the blind and visually impaired.

                        RESOLUTION 93-A-9

WHEREAS, Henry Chang, Director of the Southern California Regional Library at the Braille Institute of America, recently refused an invitation to become a part of the program at the convention of the Library Users of America, July 5 through 7, in San Francisco, California; and

WHEREAS, his refusal was based on Braille Institute's inability to afford the funds necessary for him to travel from Los Angeles, a decision certainly made by the Institute's Director, Russell Kirbey; and

WHEREAS, the annual convention of the American Council of the Blind will bring together some 3,000 blind persons, thus presenting an unprecedented opportunity for blind persons and those involved in serving the blind to exchange information and plan for future growth; and

WHEREAS, representatives of all the other library services for the blind in California and of those from a number of other states have accepted the invitation of the Library Users of America:  Now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that this Council deplore the decision made by the Braille Institute of America and strongly urge its Director, Russell Kirbey, to reconsider his original decision by agreeing to send the Library Director, Henry Chang, to the convention of the Library Users of America; and be it further

RESOLVED, that copies of this Resolution be sent to the Board of Directors of the Braille Institute, Russell Kirbey and Henry Chang.

                        RESOLUTION 93-A-10

WHEREAS, at the recently concluded meeting of the National Library Service's Advisory Committee concerned with the centralized distribution of braille books, held in Washington, DC, final decisions were reached on the degree of involvement required by cooperating network libraries; and

WHEREAS, one possible option allows libraries circulating braille books to continue to operate as they always have with regard to patrons reading Braille:  Now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that the CCB strongly emphasize to the State Librarian, Gary Strong, our wholehearted conviction that the existing decentralized approach to the distribution of braille books best serves those persons who are braille readers; and be it further

RESOLVED, that this organization commend Mr. Strong for the stand he has thus far taken and urge him to maintain his position regarding the centralization of braille book services.

                       RESOLUTION 93-A-11 

WHEREAS, San Francisco State University and the Department of Rehabilitation jointly participated in the "Workability IV" Program, which offered career guidance and job placement to students who are clients of the Department; and

WHEREAS, an important segment of this program was a course, Counseling 674, which was supposed to include a comprehensive history and description of the disability rights movement; and

WHEREAS, in fact, this course focused entirely on the history of the disability rights movement from the perspective of speakers from the World Institute on Disability and local centers for independent living; and

WHEREAS, there was no mention of the contributions of the organized blind movement which was responsible for enactment of Aid to the Blind, reader services for blind college students and establishment of a strong rehabilitation program for the blind and other disabled, long before the advent of the independent living movement; and

WHEREAS, one-fourth of the students enrolled in this course were legally blind and when presenters and instructors were questioned as to why there was no mention of the organized blind, the responses included: "we have never had a blind student before"; "we have not researched it"; "the organizations of the blind were not part of the independent living movement, fight among themselves, and are divisive":  Now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, by the California Council of the Blind in Convention assembled, in Burlingame, this 30th day of May, 1993, that this organization urge that in future, any course of this nature offered by SFSU and funded by the Department of Rehabilitation, include a comprehensive history of the disabled civil rights movement which provides a full, fair and unbiased survey of the contributions of all segments of the disabled community including the blind; and be it further

RESOLVED, that this organization offer its assistance in providing speakers and materials on the history of the organized blind movement; and be it further

RESOLVED, that copies of this Resolution be sent to all San Francisco Area legislators including members of the State Senate and Assembly.

                       RESOLUTION 93-A-12 

This Resolution was not passed by the Convention.  

                         ----------------



       ALL NATIONAL DELEGATE ASSEMBLY--"ADVOCACY IN ACTION"

                       by Mitch Pomerantz 
       

The annual meeting of the Affiliated Leadership League of and for the Blind of America (ALL) was held Saturday through Tuesday, March 20-23, in Washington, DC.  The first thing which occurred to me as I boarded the "redeye" late Friday evening was that had the meeting been scheduled for the previous week it likely would not have taken place.  Folks in the Eastern third of the country will not soon forget the "Blizzard of '93" and neither would those 20 or so delegates from California had we been airborne one week earlier.  Fortunately for us the weather was acceptable, for Washington in mid-March. 

Since THE BRAILLE FORUM carried an excellent summary of the ALL     conference itself in the May issue, the focus of this article will be on our efforts as California advocates.  I will say that the program was extremely informative as usual, and the agenda capably managed by ALL's President (and CCB's First Vice President) Robert Acosta.  While National Conventions of the American Council of the Blind are always outstanding events packed with valuable information, the ALL Delegate Assembly is where one goes to become fully immersed in national legislative issues and activities. 

This year, our President John Lopez included some first-timers in CCB's delegation, offering them the opportunity to advocate for our cause.  Whatever your political ideology, there is something a little magical about Washington, DC, particularly if this is one's first visit.  As it happened, this was the first visit for many of the Californians in attendance. 

Thanks to a great deal of advance planning and a pre-meeting conference call, we arrived prepared with assignments in hand.  The goal was to visit the entire California Congressional delegation (53 in all) and both new Senators.  My understanding is that we came very close to achieving our goal.  

Visits to Capitol Hill actually began early Monday morning, although the bulk of the scheduled meetings took place Monday afternoon and Tuesday.  While we typically did not see the elected officials themselves (and many of them were seen), most key aides to those officials were contacted and given much valuable written material.  We handed out and discussed four major position papers which had been prepared for this purpose: Meeting the Educational Needs of Children who are Blind and Visually Impaired, Health Care Reform and the Effect on People who are Blind or Visually Impaired, Independent Living Services for Older Persons who are Blind, and Congress Must Address Major Problems in the Blind Vendor Program (see the April BRAILLE FORUM).  
       
The highlight for most of our contingent occurred while we were meeting with an aide to Senator Diane Feinstein.  Toward the conclusion of our time and without advance notice, the Senator strode into the conference room.  She spent approximately 10 minutes shaking hands, listening to our issues, and of course having her picture taken with several members of our delegation. 

Without question, this most recent example of CCB advocacy in action was a tremendous success.  Everyone who wishes to do so, should have the opportunity to attend the ALL Delegate Assembly and to walk the halls of Congress on behalf of blind and visually impaired persons nationally and throughout California.  It truly is what the California and the American Council of the Blind are all about! 

                         ----------------


                         MANUEL GONSALVES

               from New World (CAPH), January 1993


As a teacher of Modesto High School since 1962, he has gained quite a reputation, especially for a guy who wanted to be a tuna fisherman like his father.  Manuel lost his eye sight through glaucoma at the age of 12.  Soon thereafter, when a junior high school teacher in Berkeley became his mentor, Manuel decided to become a teacher and not a fisherman.  The rest, as they say, is history.

Part of that history includes education at the University of California, Berkeley, where he received a membership to Phi Beta Kappa in 1961 for his 3.8 grade point average.  After graduating from Berkeley, Manuel sought a teaching position.  He circulated his application to about 50 school districts and was hired by Modesto City schools, impressed by his training and academic excellence.  

As the senior member in the government department at Modesto High, Manuel sets a fast pace.  He is currently serving on the Board of Governors for the California Association of Persons with Handicaps, Modesto Mayor's Committee for the Disabled, Modesto Breakfast Lions Club, International Lions, National Association of Blind Teachers, and the Modesto Teachers' Association, to name just a few.  

Manuel also has many accomplishments to his credit, including spearheading and developing a program in Stanislaus County to employ persons with disabilities.  He helped to enact a law to provide teachers who are blind or partially sighted with paid readers.  He also aided in the passage of a law to allow guide-dog users to obtain title to their guide dogs.  He developed a special scholarship for students with disabilities at Modesto Junior College in 1989, and he has worked with Assemblyman Cannella to make all paratransit systems accessible.  In addition, he recently helped the city of Modesto prepare its ADA transportation plan and was instrumental in establishing the city's Affirmative Action/Disability Commission.  

Manuel Gonsalves is a valued and admired member of CAPH.  Although the world may have lost a good tuna fisherman when Manuel decided to become a teacher, it gained considerably more from his chosen profession.  

                         ----------------


                          BULLETIN BOARD

                       by Winifred Downing


Again this year Blackhills State University in Spearfish, South Dakota, is conducting a special program for blind persons.  Called the Summer Retreat for Visually Impaired Persons, it extends from July 29 to August 7.  It is modeled after the Elder Hostel presentations which are commonly available to persons over 55.  In the mornings one can take four classes out of a total of six.  Courses taught last year, for instance, were in Black Hills history, Indian history, Presidents of the United States, Creative Writing, Music Appreciation, and Drama.  Afternoons and some evenings are given over to tours of places of local interest like museums, an outdoor amphitheater which shows the Passion Play, and the Mount Rushmore National Monument.  Dormitory accommodations are comfortable, though not luxurious.  Showers and toilets are in one facility, but each room has its own sink.  The food, attention from community volunteers, enthusiasm of the  Blackhills faculty, and general good fellowship are tops.  The cost, covering all board and lodging, tours, and classes, is $470.  A deposit of $50 is required to hold a reservation.  For more information write to Verla  Fish, Ext. Summer Sessions, University Station, Box 9508, 1200 University, Spearfish, SD 57799-0001. 

The Lantern, newsletter of the  San Francisco Lighthouse, contains a report done by staff of the Resource Center on a TV remote control  device that can be used easily by blind and visually impaired people.  Circuit City sells a universal remote control that is designed for people with low or no vision. It is called One for All--3 BE (Big Easy) and costs $19.97; it will work with TV, VCR, and cable box.

National Braille Press, 88 St. Stephen St., Boston, MA 02115, announces the extension of their Children's Braille Book Club to serve the intermediate age group from 8 to 13 years.  The Baby-Sitters Club books have been chosen as a starting point for print/braille books for this group that has outgrown the Children's Book Club.  The first book offered is New York, New York! by Ann Martin.  Three other titles are also being produced, including Hannah, a story about a nine-year-old blind girl which shows readers about blindness from a young person's point of view.  The combination of print and braille make the books appropriate for blind parents reading with sighted children and for sighted parents with blind children.  Write to National Braille Press for further information.

APH also announces its new heavy-duty tape recorder.  It plays and records on all four tracks and at two speeds, has controls and jacks identified by tactile symbols, and offers the  extensive features familiar to users of the desk-top model which APH has sold for many years.  These include tone indexing, variable speed, audible preview in fast-forward and rewind modes, a tape motion sensing window to tell by touch if the tape is moving, pause control, etc.  The machine is 3 inches high, 9 3/8 inches wide, 11 1/8 inches deep, and weighs 4 1/4 pounds.  Order from the  American Printing House for the Blind at the address given above.  The catalog number is 1-07130-00; price $198.00. 

>From Tactic, Fall, 1992: The Ear Surround is an earphone unlike those which plug into the ear or hang over the ear with a flimsy plastic hook; it has a frame shaped like a print letter C, and the flap of the ear fits through this frame.  The sound is more like that of a speaker than an earphone, and the comfort level for the wearer represents a great improvement over the usual earphone.  It has been used with radios, tape recorders, the Braille 'n Speak, and any other device for which an earphone is appropriate.  The earphone costs $12 with a $1.50 shipping charge.  The part number is EAR-022 available from Cardinal Sound and Communications 2317 Kansas Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20910; 
301-589-3700. 

>From Lifeprints, Spring, 1993: IRTI has moved to a new location which will make it possible for extended services in demonstration of equipment, a low-vision center, and a storefront location to permit visitors to inspect  items before purchase.  Also, a special inducement is presented to subscribe to Technical Innovations Bulletin.  Anyone purchasing a 1993 subscription for $15 will receive also the 1994 issues at no additional cost or that person can sign up a friend for no additional fee.  Write to IRTI, 1411 W. El Camino Real, Mountain View, CA 94040; 
415-961-3161 or 800-322-4784.

>From Dialogue, Spring, 1993: MSMT has completed the transcription  of two new braille books: the All New Cookbook for Diabetics and Their Families in 2 volumes at $32 and The Language of Letting Go, Daily Meditations for Co-dependents in 4 volumes at $56.  Order from MSMT Braille Center, 3917 Mayette Ave., Santa Rosa, CA 95405; 
707-579-1115.

Rivercity Collection is a cookbook (available in braille only) with recipes for entrees, salads, vegetable dishes, and desserts.  The cost is $10.   Order from Tri Visual Services, P.O. Box 221310, Sacramento, CA 95822- 8310. 

Two collections of large type piano music are now available from CPPS/Belwin, Inc.  They are Through the Years, Golden Standards and All Time Christmas Favorites.  Each costs $9.95 plus $2 for postage and handling.  Both notes and lyrics are in large print.  Contact CPPS/Belwin, Inc. P.O.  Box 4340, Hialeah, FL  33014-9969.

"Free Matter for the Blind" adhesive labels are available in two sizes, 1 3/4 inch by 1 inch, at 35 cents per 100 and 2 1/4 inch by 1 inch, 45 cents per 100.  Order in print or braille from Herb Anderson, 617 N. 3rd Ave. No. 204, Phoenix, AZ  85003. 

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                   AROUND THE STATE AND NATION


THE BLIND CHILDREN's CENTER is celebrating its 55th anniversary with a re-union picnic on Sunday, October 17, 1993 at 11 a.m. at the Center, 4120 Marathon St., Los Angeles, CA 90029.  

"Please join us for a barbecue lunch, entertainment, games for kids, wonderful memories and much more!  RSVP 213-664-2153."  

                              * * *

FORMER STUDENTS AND FACULTY of the California School for the Blind (CSB) will be saddened to hear of the death of their former classmate and teacher, Bernice LaFlamme Anderson, on March 28, 1993. 

After graduation from CSB, Bernice Anderson was appointed to the faculty in 1936, and retired in 1968.  She taught Spanish and Mathematics.  Besides being a talented pianist, and active in her church and the American Association of University Women, she used to knit all sorts of complicated dresses and sweaters.  

                              * * * 

CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF PERSONS WITH HANDICAPS, INC.  presents three training workshops on physical access laws of Title 24 and ADA.  Each workshop will run two days.  100 participants will be selected and attend day one, and 20 of that group will be chosen to attend day two.  Dates and locations:  April 3-4, 1993, Oakland; June 25-26, 1993, Sacramento; October 12-13, 1993, Anaheim.  Free to CAPH members and clients of the Department of Rehabilitation.  For further information call 707-427-8868; or send applications to  Linda Wyatt, 70 Lugo Drive, Fairfield, CA 94533.  

                              * * *

ATTENTION TO ALL VISUALLY IMPAIRED AND BLIND PERSONS!  Steven Hazzard is offering a new INFO Line service which will give a list of readers and drivers in the person's area. The cost is negotiated between the consumer and the reader or driver depending upon the circumstances.   The INFO LINE FOR THE BLIND also has listings of community resources; listings of businesses will soon be added.  For more information, please contact the INFO LINE FOR THE BLIND at 
800-550-4636.

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FROM THE CALIFORNIA FRANCHISE TAX BOARD: "We have discovered an error in our exemption credit audit program that may affect you.  This error affects those taxpayers who claimed a blind exemption on their 1990 California tax return and did not claim the blind exemption on their 1990 Federal tax return.  Many of these taxpayers may have received an erroneous tax assessment disallowing the blind exemption.  

"Unfortunately, we do not have the information available to identify these specific taxpayers.  If you think you may have received one of these assessments disallowing your blind exemption, please call 916-369-4979 to have the notice corrected.  This is a special hot-line that we have set up to handle this particular problem.  You may also call our regular toll-free number at 800-852-5711.  

"Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience this may have caused."  

                              * * *

SKI FOR LIGHT INC. January 21-23, 1994.  Skiing at Tahoe Donner cross- country.  Applications along with a $25 deposit must be received by November 1, 1993.  Upon acceptance, full payment will be due before December 15, 1993.  Call Betsy Rowell at 916-362-5557 for an application.  

                              * * *

THE SAN BERNARDINO CHAPTER of the CCB  presented 24 touch-and- color blind children's coloring books to the blind children of the San Bernardino area.  Donna Hawkins, representing the chapter, visited the visually handicapped program at Arrowview Middle School and presented the books to Carol Vasquez, Director of the Visually Handicapped Program for the San Bernardino School District.  Donna said, "It was a very busy but satisfying day for our chapter."  

"I spent years of my life involved in training and educating young children," Donna said.  "I would like to see our organization do more for the younger children and would also be interested in meeting any CCB member with the same concern."  For more information contact Donna at 2222 North Mountain Avenue, #9, San Bernardino, CA 92404; 
714-886-6337.  

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