
               THE BLIND CALIFORNIAN



             Quarterly Magazine of the

          CALIFORNIA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND


Summer, 1997                       Volume 41 No. 3


Published in Braille, Cassette, Diskette, and Large Print



           Catherine Skivers, President
                 510-357-1986 Res.


                 EXECUTIVE OFFICE:
             3919 West Magnolia Blvd.
             Burbank, California 91505

                   800-221-6359
                   818-557-6372
                Fax:  818-557-6539
     Internet GBX Telnet gbx.org www.gbx.org 
Modems 916-568-6359 ccb listserv subscribe to: ccb-l@gbx.org
                subject: subscribe


 SACRAMENTO AREA OFFICE:  Cid Urena, 916-371-1514
   1399 Sacramento Avenue SP 25, Bryte, CA 95605

   BAY AREA OFFICE:  Cathie Skivers 510-357-1986
       836 Resota Street, Hayward, CA 94545

Please send all address changes to the Executive Office in Burbank.
             Editor: Winifred Downing 
                 1587 38th Avenue
             San Francisco, CA 94122 




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Call the "CALIFORNIA CONNECTION"  at 800-221-6359 for an update on legislation and CCB events Monday through Friday after 5 p.m. and all day on weekends.  At these times it is available also in Spanish. 

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


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

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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 Burbank office for other suggested forms. Thank you.

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                 TABLE OF CONTENTS

FROM THE EDITOR, by Winifred Downing 1

PRESIDENT'S REPORT: MY FIRST NINETY DAYS IN OFFICE, 
	by Catherine Skivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

WHAT IS MY AREA CODE? by D. Allen Wolfe . . . . .4

CONVENTION REPORT, SPRING, 1997, by Domenic Martinelli5

A TRIBUTE TO GEORGIE LEE ABEL, by Philip Hatlen, Ph.D.8

WORK OPPORTUNITY PROPOSAL, by Thomas J. O'Sullivan11

TESTIMONY PRESENTED AT THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY
	TOWN MEETING, by Roger Petersen. . . . . . . . 12

HOBO, by Richard Kinney . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

AN ADVENTURE IN BARRIER AWARENESS, by Jane Kardas15

SUMMARY OF CCB RESOLUTIONS, SPRING, 1997, by Jeff Thom17

LIFE MEMBERSHIPS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

BULLETIN BOARD, by Ruth Aletta Dean . . . . . . 18

TECHTALK: BRINGING THINGS TO LIGHT: AN EXPLORATION 
	OF LIGHTING STRATEGIES AND CHARACTERISTICS,
	by Kenneth Frasse  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

NEW HOPE FOR MACULAR DEGENERATION, submitted by Jannis Urena22

CAREER CONNECTIONS, by Catherine Schmitt. . . . 23

STATE LEGISLATIVE REPORT, by Cid Urena  . . . . 24

RESULTS OF A SURVEY OF LOW VISION READERS, by Joan Black26

A DEAR FRIEND DEPARTS, by Pat Urena . . . . . . 27

SELF-ADVOCACY: WHAT IS IT AND HOW DOES IT WORK? 
	by D. Allen Wolfe  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM (BEP): VENDING STANDS, 
	by Joe Xavier  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

THE LEGISLATIVE SEMINAR, by Ahmad Rahman  . . . 31

AROUND THE STATE  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

CCB OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS . . . . . . 33

CCB PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE  . . . . . . . . . . 34

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                 FROM THE EDITOR 

               by WINIFRED DOWNING 

	You will notice several changes in this issue of the Blind  Californian, most attributable to the recommendations of the members of the Publications Committee meeting at the spring convention in Sacramento.  The names and addresses of the CCB officers and members of the Publications Committee will be given again, as they used to be, in each issue.  Names and city locations of members of the Board of Directors will also be listed.  
	In recognition of the fact that the magazine rarely has any poetry and also of the fact that no deaf-blind members have contributed for a long time, we decided to use in each issue one of the poems written by Richard Kinney, deaf-blind director, until his death, of the Hadley School for the Blind and much loved author of poetry that is easy to understand and a pleasure to think about.  An appealing poem about a dog appears in this issue.  
	We also decided to encourage Letters to the Editor as a means of having more of our members contribute and also of fostering an exchange of ideas.  Here is a letter reacting to Daveed Mandell's article in the last BC, "Access for Everyone: That's the Law." 

530 Veechmont Lane
Hayward, CA 94544
510-785-2291 
	    I was very concerned about Daveed Mandell's article which began by wailing: "When will blind people stop being so grateful?"Gratitude isn't groveling, nor is it an enemy of gumption.  Being appreciative of the good in our lives doesn't turn us into lowly doormats or cringing worms.
     On the other hand, a constant flow of bitterness and anger is hazardous to health; it corrodes friendship and is a turnoff to anyone in a position to help us meet our needs or uphold our rights.
     Often a surge of genuine thanksgiving has lifted depression or averted it.  We all have unmet needs, including sighted people. That's all the more reason to take joy from what's right in our 
lives.
                                Diana June Colburn
     The last comment this time arises from the complaint often made that members are not receiving their BC issues.  The office needs to know the name and address of anyone having this problem and also the medium in which he or she prefers the magazine.  Sending in your chapter roster each year doesn't solve the difficulty since no one has the time to compare that list with the BC list even when you submit the names of people who were not members when the chapter last reported.  New members needing the magazine should be listed separately, being sure that the desired medium is made clear.  
	     I had a number of excellent articles that I couldn't fit in this issue, but be assured that they have a position of priority for the fall BC.  Best wishes to all for a happy summer, and don't forget our next deadline--September 1.  


 PRESIDENTS REPORT: MY FIRST NINETY DAYS IN OFFICE
Presented at the CCB convention ,in Sacramento, April, 1997

               by Catherine Skivers

	Thank you for coming to this convention and for being here this
evening.  Having you here is a source of strength and encouragement to me.  All presidents of this organization have had their own
agendas: they presented their ideas on how CCB should proceed and how its goals would be accomplished.  This evening I shall be sharing
with you my thoughts on how the Council should go forward.  
	My first days in office have been challenging; educational; sometimes surprising; not without a few adventures; and,  for the most part, quite rewarding.  I'd like to tell you about my vision of
what the future of CCB should include.  I also want to talk with you about some things that have transpired since January 1.  It is my intention to dedicate my time and energy making certain that all of our human and financial resources are committed to the strength and growth of this Council.  
	It is essential that we focus on communication, and thus it is my intention to keep the board of directors informed and involved in the affairs of CCB.  The members, of course,  has the supreme authority in this organization.  For the time being, it is my intention to continue to record the California Connection.  I believe this is the best way to keep you informed on issues that are of current interest to us.  In order for CCB to grow, we must have the involvement of many of you and the support of all of you.
	After the election, there was much speculation as to how I would make appointments and as to who would be appointed.  It was rumored that I might not select anyone who had not voted for me.  Of course that was nonsense and was no doubt started by some who really do not know me.  Chairpersons and committee persons have been chosen because I felt they were qualified.  Some came recommended by individuals in whom I have great confidence.  Most appreciated of all were those who volunteered.  It has been gratifying to me to have so many offers of help and so many good wishes for me and CCB.  I named the chairs who have been appointed to all committees.  This information was presented in the previous BC and will not be repeated here.  
	Two committees, however, will be mentioned.  We have a Grants Committee of which Don Brown is Chairman; the members are;  Jewel McGinnis, Dan Kysor and Kenneth Frasse.  Any of you having information about grant writing, please feel free to contact Don or me.  We also have a new ad hoc committee on blind and visually impaired legal non-citizens chaired by Jeff Thom.  
	Early in January, I went to our Burbank office to review all contracts we have with fund raisers, the auditor, and others; 
examine the will of a woman who left us a substantial bequest; and talk too many times with many lawyers.  From these activities resulted some good news and some not-so-good news.
	The good news:  On December 31, CCB received a donation of a building in San Fernando with an appraised value of $240,000.  Since that time, we have received donations of several lots.  From the donated building, the Council receives a monthly payment of
$1250.  Our bequest was expected by April 1, but now seems likely not to reach us until July. All the properties will eventually be sold.  The good news is that when these developments occur, we will be solvent again, and this will give us time to build income from fund raisers and grants.
	CCB has many worthwhile projects for which grant money should be available.  Our committee will be endeavoring to capitalize on these opportunities.  In reviewing the paper work in the CCB office, I realized that a surety bond payment, which had been pending
since 1993, had not been paid.  With the help of Allen Grossman, we have been able to settle this matter.  After legal expenses, CCB received, on May 22, a check for $30,000.  Your board of directors has demonstrated an ability to make some good decisions, one of
which resulted in receipt of this money.  They have also drawn
lines in the sand.  Persons dealing with CCB will be held
accountable for their actions.  Never again will the organization put all of its financial eggs in one basket.  
	For many years, CCB had a contract with a fund raiser who operated thrift stores from which the Council received most of its income.  That fund raiser no longer works with us.  We have, instead,  received assistance from a very honest man who has opened one thrift store in Arcadia from which we are earning a return every month.  
	Both Robert Acosta and our former fund raiser, Bill Ashe, have
filed bankruptcy.  As these cases progress, you will be informed of developments.  It has been my experience that you will get run over just as long as you allow it, and I am pleased to tell you that your board of directors will no longer allow it.
	A professional Fund Raiser is responsible for earning monthly sums to CCB as a result of selling cars donated for that purpose.  That same organization is responsible for the gift of the property we have received.  We have other fund raisers who bring us money from variety shows and the sale of household products.  This year we will also conduct another donation ticket sale fund raiser in conjunction with our chapters and an auction to be held at our Los Angeles Fall Convention.  That convention will be held from November 13-16 at the Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza, where we have met many times before.  
	Another activity that we hope will bring in some money has been initiated by Chris Gray who is working on a recipe book.  Round up your favorite recipes and please send them directly to him.  
	When I first took office, I wrote a letter to organizations of and for the blind telling them I was CCB's new President and asking
them to exchange meeting dates with us so that our meetings
wouldn't conflict.  This plan will allow our members to attend all 
meetings in which they are interested.  I have had good cooperation in this effort, receiving many fine letters in return.  In April, I will attend an afternoon meeting of CTEVH, and I have been asked to welcome the National Industries for the Blind Sales Conference on May 19 in San Diego.  Four to five-hundred people will be in attendance.
	A "Words in Washington" Meeting was held in March in Washington, D.C.  CCB was not in a position to send representatives so I asked for volunteers.  Al and Connie Gil, Jerry Fields and Ahmad Rahman volunteered to represent us; and From what I hear from Washington,
they really made themselves seen and heard there.  I know we all appreciate their willingness to serve our organization in this way.  Ahmad Rahman has been appointed as our Federal Legislative Chairperson and I know that he will do a good job. Cid Urena  continues to work hard for us as our Capitol Representative; and Mitch Pomerantz and Pat LaFrance have attended meetings relating to the reauthorization of IDEA and the Rehabilitation act.  Winifred Downing and Connie Schoeman attended JAC and other meetings.  Ken Metz went to a conference on IHSS in January and alerted us to Bill AB67 which we will support.  Tom Treher assisted the Friends in Art affiliate in California and as a result, CCB received $730.00 as a donation.  Dan and Ann Kysor participated in the same program in Sacramento which brought in $660 for GBX, a valuable service of CCB.  I want to thank all of these people for representing us so well.
	Dan Kysor, Jeff Thom, and Eugene Lozano have done a great job of working on this convention under some very trying conditions.  Our thanks to them and to Elena Negrete from Equal Access who brailled our menus, announcements, and programs free of charge.  She also loaned us a braille printer for the Resolutions Committee to use. 
	One of our members loaned us $20,000 until we are able to
complete some of our financial transactions.  We also received a
$5,000 scholarship grant from Air Touch Paging as a result of a letter written by Mitch Pomerantz.  John Lopez brought us a
$2,000 donation from a family member.
	At all times since I came to my new office, I have had tremendous support from Barbara Parker and Marni Alvino.  David Parker has also been most helpful in reviewing records with me and assisting me in various projects.  
	Finally--and yes I am really going to quit soon--we are going to try something new this evening.  At our board meeting, we always have public comment but I wonder if you would like some time at our regular convention sessions to talk about programming, hotel sites and other things you would like to see CCB undertake.  You know, each of you has a say in what goes on in CCB; and I would like to hear from you.
	One last thing.  I am concerned, for it is said that "pride goeth before the fall," and I am so proud of CCB--what it has
been and what I know it can be if we all work together--that I have to worry a little.  But I won't fall; don't you let me!


               WHAT IS MY AREA CODE?

                by D.  Allen Wolfe

	Are you dreaming about three-digit numbers in your sleep? After
reading this article you might just start.  I  recently made the mistake of looking at the latest Pacific Bell telephone directory.  To my horror I saw a notice informing me of several area code splits
taking place during 1997.  
	A call to the California Code Administrator yielded even more bad news.  In addition to the five splits slated,  another six will occur in 1998.
	Why has it become necessary for area codes to split with such frequency?  Pacific Bell representatives state that approximately
500 million new phone lines have been installed throughout California
during the past two years.  These lines are used for voice
communications, TDD's, fax machines, cellular telephones, pagers,
computer modems, and more.  In my particular case, I have three phone
numbers--one for voice communications, a second for my cellular  number, and a third for my pager.  Spokespersons for the phone companies, the California Public Utilities Commission, and the California Code Administrator's office say California is running out of phone numbers faster than new area codes can be originated, and the problem will continue with no end in sight.What does this mean for the average telephone user?  A quick answer is: we will all improve our memory skills.  To make that process easier, you will find at the end of this article a "calendar of events".  It is hoped this summary of area code splits will assist you in knowing when phone numbers in files, modems, auto-dialers, and the like will need to be updated. 
	What if I'm in Los Angeles or the Bay Area and don't know which
area code I'm in let alone which area code I should be dialing?  The
state of California is requiring that all phone companies program
their switching equipment to accept permissive 10-digit dialing.  In other words, if I'm making a call from the 310 area code to
someone who also lives or works in the 310 area, I can either dial the 7-digit telephone number or, if I'm not aware that I'm calling from the 310 area code and want to make sure I reach the
party I'm calling, I can dial the area code plus the 7-digit
number.  Either way I will be able to reach the party to whom I want
to speak.
	How can you track the changes to California's area codes?  Pacific Bell has established two toll-free nuers which give the caller area code updates.  Callers wishing information about Northern
California area codes may dial 800-544-0355.  If you want
information about area codes in Southern California, the number you
should call is 800-455-6914.  What this proves, I guess, is that you don't have to be an accountant to dream about numbers.  Good luck!  
		AREA CODE SPLITS IN CALIFORNIA FOR 1997
January 25, 1997: 310/562
March 22, 1997: 619/760
June 14, 1997: 818/726
August 1, 1997: 415/650
November 1, 1997: 916-530

		FUTURE CALIFORNIA AREA CODE SPLITS
March 14, 1998: 510/925
April 18, 1998: 714/949
June 13, 1998: 213/323
July 11, 1998: 408/731
November, 1998: 209/not designated yet
December, 1998: 707/not designated yet 

	Beginning April 11, 1997 representatives from phone companies
throughout California will begin the planning process for
splitting the 310 area code.  It is projected that this split will
occur sometime in 1999.  


          CONVENTION REPORT, SPRING 1997

               by Domenic Martinelli

	The spring convention of the California Council of the Blind was held April 3-6 at the Beverly Garland Hotel in Sacramento.  Approximately 300 people were in
attendance.  The theme of the convention was "Teamwork: One Road to Success."  The hotel left a lot to be desired 2but the staff worked very hard to accommodate us and make us feel comfortable.  
	On Thursday afternoon, the Rehabilitation Committee held a workshop for potential employers of blind and visually impaired people.  They discussed how to work with the blind and showed a film dealing with blind employees and with technology.  Also, on Thursday afternoon, the Association for Multi-Cultural Concerns hosted a "Welcome to Sacramento" party.  The Braille Revival League convened its usual board meeting in the evening.  
	The CCB Board of Directors met Thursday evening; those meetings are always open to the public.  Most delegates were present as were
many other members and guests.  All fifteen board members answered roll call.  The agenda contained twenty-two items for discussion followed by public comment.  Julie Carroll, the Governmental Affairs Director of ACB, was introduced.  She was a guest speaker on the Friday evening program.  
	We heard from John Learned, from Professional Fund Raisers, who
directs a car collection program which is bringing in money for
CCB.  The efforts of his company have also resulted in properties worth $300,000 being donated to the Council.  These properties  will be put up for sale at an appropriate time.  George Lovedell, Executive Director of the Hemophilia Council in Sacramento, spoke about the grant that his group, CCB, the Center for the Deaf and the Center for the Developmentally Disabled have applied for from the state.  The purpose of this grant will be to teach AIDS awareness to county workers and the blind whom they help.  CCB's share of this grant will be $52,500 for each of three years.  Two blind and visually impaired part-time workers will be hired to train the many people who will be needed for this project.  
	The board took action on a variety of issues.  It voted to host an ACB Convention in California in 1999 or 2000 so long as there will be no cost to CCB.  It established $2 as the fee to be charged for lunch in the President's Suite on the following day, contrary to our former practice of serving free lunches when CCB's financial position was more stable.
	President Skivers selected Roger Petersen to take her place on the Awards Committee and thanked the many members who have volunteered to represent CCB in special projects.  She announced that every effort will be made to hold conventions under one roof and to have them in April and October.  Chapters interested in having conventions in their areas should contact the Council office.
	Fourteen or more exhibits were on display in the exhibit room from nine to five on Friday and Saturday.  One interesting item was a salad dressing which can be used also as a marinate for meat.  It is made and sold by a blind woman, and the bottle comes with a braille and print label.  
	There is no way, in the space allowed for it, that everything that happens at a CCB convention can be reported.  I have attended five conventions and found this one to be outstanding.  Our new
President conducted the meetings well and there was a sense of
family throughout this convention.  
	Friday morning was filled with various committee and affiliate
meetings.  It is hard to select the meeting you want to attend because there are so many interesting things from which to choose.
	The first general session occurred on Friday afternoon.  Kenneth Frasse introduced a panel of four women from different agencies for employment of  the blind.  It was pointed out that,
while resumes are important, the job interview, where the employer can pick-up on the prospective employee's personal characteristics and demeanor, is more significant.  Most of the panelists recognized the need for specialized services to help blind persons to prepare for and obtain employment.  The representative from the Employment Development Department talked about the one-stop service where everyone, disabled or not, goes to the same place for services--a practice to which CCB is strongly opposed.  This panel and some other parts of  the program might be good material for some
chapter programs.  
	Brenda Premo, Director of the California Department of
Rehabilitation, spoke about the current status of her department and its future.  The Department is funded primarily through the federal government with reauthorization occurring every five years.  Possible changes in the program are now being considered.  Regulations are, however, always years behind the changes made in the Rehabilitation Act.  Ms. Premo described some of these regulations.  It is important to retain categorical services and more incentives for people to work.  CCB opposes the plan which would require clients to pay for rehabilitation services.  Two resolutions were read by Jeff Thom regarding Rehab's hiring practices for counselor teachers and The
Business Enterprise Program.  
FrankFrank Ryan from the American Foundation for the Blind talked to us about the National Agenda on Education of Blind Children.    The eight goals of this program are in the Winter issue of the Blind Californian.  
	On both Friday and Saturday, there were many committee meetings
between general sessions.  The Presidents Dinner was reinstated
this year, and Thirty-two delegates and presidents talked about what was going on in their chapters and affiliates.  
	On Friday evening, Julie Carroll, Director of Governmental Affairs for ACB, gave an excellent talk about federal legislation.  We all need to keep in touch with the Washington Connection to see how much is going on in federal legislation.  Many policies today in Washington, are being driven by people who believe that everyone should go to work and really shouldn't be on Social Security.  They do not understand the problems that blind people face in trying to find employment.  Julie talked about the reauthorization of IDEA and of the Rehab act.  Be sure to read the Braille Forum and The Blind Californian for coverage of important issues.  With these publications and the information on the Washington Connection and the California Connection, you will be well informed about what is going on.  
	Marion Fisher did an excellent job as Nominations Chair.  The
following persons were nominated: Jeff Thom for second vice president; Kenneth Frasse continuing as Secretary; and five Directors: Roger Petersen, Teddie Remhild, Dan Kysor, Dr. Martin Jones and Eugene Lozano.  The first four have served terms on the board.  Elections will be held at the fall convention and, as always, at that time nominations can also be made from the floor.
	Saturday morning was filled with numerous committee and special
interest meetings.  Electric cars were on display at one of them.  Car manufacturers, as well as CCB members, are concerned about the safety of those who cannot see and will not be able to hear these cars.  
	At the afternoon general session, Ken Metz, a member of the board of directors, conducted a great
panel on mobility in unusual circumstances.  There is so much traffic nowadays and streets have been designed in such a way that traveling for the blind has become increasingly difficult.  
	Taymour Ravandi talked about the California Technology Act.  He is a blind attorney who works for the Protection and Advocacy
Organization in Sacramento where the emphasis is on getting  technical equipment and training to the disabled.  A handbook has been developed on the rights of people with disabilities to assistive technology.  It is available in all formats and has been
translated into Spanish and several Asian languages.  If you want additional information on this subject, call 800-776-5746. 
	Pacific Bell has a new voice-activated message service with a personality. It is called Wildfire and was demonstrated for us.  If you want to hear a demonstration or learn more about it, call 
800-545-9453.  
	Charles Nabarrete, Chair of the California Governmental Affairs
Committee; Cid Urena, Capitol Representative; and Ahmad Rahman presented a panel on State and Federal Legislation.  Up-to-date information on legislative issues is available elsewhere in the BC.The banquet on Saturday evening was different from past banquets since there was no main speaker.  The program was made up of music, awards, recognition of chapters which made contributions to CCB, and announcements of the names of those who were selected for the CCB Hall of Fame.  Ten persons had been previously inducted into the Hall of Fame;and  five more were added: Raymond Henderson (deceased), Irene McConnell, Ferne Fitzpatrick, Cid Urena and Allen Jenkins.  The six Hall of Famers who were in attendance were presented with gifts from the Council.  
	Three awards were made to volunteers--Bob Carter of San Jose, Harry Parker of Van Nuys and Darryl Skivers of Hayward.  Also, Dr. Martin Jones of San Francisco and Joyce Streff of San Bernardino received Distinguished Service Awards while Elinor Lund was given the Community Service Award.  Entertainment for the evening was furnished by Ruth Dean, John Lopez and Obbie Schoeman.   
	Sunday morning we heard from the Constitution and Bylaws Committee followed by the report of the Resolutions Committee.  A summary of the resolutions appears in this issue of the BC.  
	This was the fifth convention I have attended and I found it to be the best so far.  I would encourage each of you to make every
effort to come to the next convention.  You will learn a lot, meet many fine people and come to realize what it means to be a member of the California Council of the Blind. 


          A TRIBUTE TO GEORGIE LEE ABEL 

             by Philip Hatlen, Ph.D.  

	(Georgia Lee Abel was born in 1907 and attended the Tennessee  School for he Blind.  She studied at George Peabody University and taught at the Tennessee School for the Blind and the state schools in Idaho and Iowa, where she was the school principal.  From this practical background, she went to Philadelphia and then to be consultant in education at the American Foundation for the Blind.  In 1960 she came to San Francisco State University to work in the personnel preparation program.  On April 13, 1997, she passed away.  This tribute was written by Philip Hatlen, long-time director of teacher training at S.F. State and presently superintendent of the Texas State School for the Blind.  It covers a period in the history of the education of the blind which most CCB members remember vividly.) 
	I think I first met Georgie Lee Abel in 1955 when the entire nation was struggling mightily with the crisis brought on by
literally thousands of children, blinded by retrolental
fibroplasia, entering school.  Decisions had been made across the
country, in every state, by parents and local school districts,
that many, in fact most, of these children would be educated in
their home districts.  
	These local school districts were often frantic for advice and consultant assistance as they tried to design decent educational services for blind students.  If they turned to their state departments of education, they seldom found anyone who knew anything about the education of blind children.
     Georgie Abel, Education Consultant for the American Foundation
for the Blind, was called upon countless times in every state to
come and assist them as they tried to develop services.
     I was a student at San Francisco State College at that time,
learning how to teach blind students.  Georgie Lee visited the
campus often, meeting with two of her closest colleagues, Florence
Henderson and Katie Sibert.  She always made it a point to talk with
the group of future teachers, for no one knew better than Georgie
Lee how desperate the need for teachers was.
	The dramatic turn of events that resulted in most blind and
visually impaired children attending their local schools began its
momentum in the 1950s, fueled by the need to develop services for
the RLF children.  Educators and parents needed leadership as they
discovered how ill-prepared the education profession was in
providing strong, knowledgeable support for local school programs
for visually impaired children.  The one national exception was Georgie Lee, working out of AFB, traveling the country, responding
to both professional and parental needs.  	Georgie Lee would travel across the U.S.  at the request of a single desperate parent.  She would use her gentle, persuasive skills in working with reluctant school administrators.  She was so well-versed in the knowledge of what children needed and how to teach them that her in-services were legendary.  And, when necessary, Georgie Lee could be strong and firm in her belief in the educational rights and needs of visually impaired children.
	The Georgie Lee Abel of the 1950s was perhaps the single most
effective person in advocating for local educational services for visually impaired children.  Georgie Lee and a handful of other
courageous educators and parents literally reshaped the education
of visually impaired children in the 1950s, and it will never,
ever, be the same again.  
	However, there are two other little-known facts about Georgie Lee that should even further cement her status in the history of the 
profession.  First, when she left the American Foundation for the
Blind in the early 1960s, she came to San Francisco State College
(now University) and nurtured its small program in teacher
preparation into one of the largest, most well-known, and most
productive university personnel preparation programs for teachers
of the visually impaired in the country.  Second, it was Georgie Lee Abel and Kay Gruber that first recognized that the newly developed orientation and mobility program at Hines Veteran's Hospital was as applicable to school-age children as it was to veterans.  Even before there were personnel preparation programs for orientation and mobility instructors, Georgie was offering workshops to teachers of visually impaired children so that they were competent in providing at least the beginning skills of independent travel.
	Georgie Lee was a visionary.  She was bold and unafraid to entertain new concepts and ideas.  She was not only a
leader, she was a mentor to leaders.  

             WORK OPPORTUNITY PROPOSAL

             by Thomas J. O'Sullivan 

	(Tom O'Sullivan was a Member of the Oakland group which developed the original Social Security proposals which were essentially accepted by the National Council on Disability.)  
     The National Council on Disability Employment Proposal was
developed in part by a panel of consumers, policy analysts and
service providers who met in Oakland, California, beginning December 1996.  The goal of the panel was to develop legislation that would significantly improve work opportunities for SSI and SSDI recipients and that would be politically acceptable so that it could be implemented relatively swiftly (if passed, at least some portion should be in effect by 1998.) 
     Panelists sought parity in the application of benefits to all disabilities--parity which was to be achieved by bringing
everyone up to the highest level possible, given the existing
political climate.  They were mindful of the Clinton attempt at
health care reform in the early 90s and the unproductive results
of the 1992 SSI Modernization Project.  
	Importantly for the blind, a provision was included to guarantee they would not lose in any area as a result of suggested changes.  They would be free to choose to come in under he new proposal or to remain under current SSDI regulations. 
	The proposal brought to Houston by members representing the
Oakland group is very similar to the one discussed at the
National Council on Disability Hearing, May 14, 1997, in San
Francisco.  It uses $500 as its base line for determining the
start of reduction of cash benefits because this is the
Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) figure used in determining
initial eligibility for award of cash benefits.  This $500
(indexed over time) figure is renamed the Earned Income
Exclusion.  Thus the proposal is working to modify, rather
than radically change, the existing Social Security Program.  It deals strictly with post-entitlement regulations and makes no statutory changes to the initial application process or criteria.For this reason, the Earned Income Exclusion rests at $500--the same as SGA for initial claims gor all recipients of SSI.  The earned income exclusion is, therefore, increased from $65 to $500.  This figure does not take into consideration any work-related expenses, which would increase the amount an individual would be able to earn before any reduction in benefits.  Under this proposal, an individual would be able to earn up to $1,780 before losing eligibility for cash benefits. 
	In the case of a blind person on SSDI there is a disadvantage at the lower earning levels.  For example an individual receiving $700 from Social Security and earning $1,000 in a particular month under the present program would have $1700 in that month as compared to $1450 under the new proposal.  That same individual earning $1100 now would make $1100 and would lose Medicare if he/she continued working for 36 months.  This SSDI beneficiary receiving $700.00 in cash benefits can earn up to $1900--a substantial increase in the potential for seeking career
employment.  ($700 is the 1997 SSDI average national benefit
amount, according to the SSA Office of Disability.)   
	Please note well that the current SGA figure for the blind has
been frozen in 1997 at $1,000.  The proposed $500 earned
Income Exclusion is indexed in the proposal.  The profile of
available benefits for all disability groups will be identical
over time.  This is to be a win-win situation for all. 
     Under the current program there is a tendency for individuals to park at the lower level of earnings so they will not lose benefits.  The blind are free to choose to come under this program which is significantly better for all blind on SSI and most who qualify for SSDI.  Under SSI the base is increased from the current $65 to $500.  SSDI beneficiaries have the choice of staying with the $1000 earnings ceiling or going for the higher level available under the proposal.  
     Bryon MacDonald of the Oakland Center for Independent Living
called for the inclusion of Excluded Work Expenses (EWE's) in his May 14th Testimony.  EWE's were part of the original proposal to come out of Oakland and the concept was accepted at the National
Council on Disability sponsored meeting in Houston earlier this
year.   
     An EWE would be allowable in SSI and SSDI.  The budget
methodology for deducting an EWE would be the same as the one used
today for Blind Work Expenses in SSI only.  It is important that
we support Bryon in including this change, as well as any positive
changes which would help to strengthen the proposal.  We should
all become part of the process and not fail to help others as
well as ourselves in this matter.  I urge you to participate and
support the proposal. 

 
  TESTIMONY PRESENTED AT THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY
   SOCIAL SECURITY TOWN Meeting, MAY, 14, 1997,
           IN SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 
          Revised and Extended Testimony 

                 by Roger Petersen

	Thank you for giving me this opportunity to present written
testimony, which will, I hope, be a bit more complete and better
organized than my oral presentation was.  As I said in oral
testimony, I represent myself as a member of the board of Directors of the  California Council of the Blind but I don't represent my testimony as being the official policy of CCB; I take full responsibility for this document.  However, as a thirty-year veteran of the Organized Blind Movement, I think I know something about prevailing opinion.
	There are some good things about this proposal, to which I will mostly give silent assent.  I do want to mention that I agree about the importance of establishing criteria of disability to replace Substantial Gainful Activity.  One of the reasons for the past greater success of blind people and old people as compared with the disabled population in general in getting reasonable Social Security provisions is that there is a statutory definition of blindness which is almost as objective as the definition of age in years.  This objective definition separates the determination of whether you fit the category of eligibles from financial issues.  
	But I want to dedicate most of this testimony to an attempt to explain to the Council where I think the proposal is seriously off the mark.  
	First, in my world and in that of most blind people I know,
Social Security problems are not anywhere near the top of the
list of barriers to employment.  Most of us still don't receive
job offers very often, and things seem to be getting worse rather
than better.  The traditional "Employ the Handicapped" model which vocational rehabilitation agencies still use dates from a time when the world of work was different from today's work  climate.
	The old assumptions hold that an employer will hire a person with a disability who is very well trained and prepared for a particular job which the employer needs done.  The employer and the employee will then be loyal to each other and both will live happily ever after.  If that was ever the case, it is not now.  Employers want to hire generalists, who may not be optimal at any particular job, but can switch jobs or take on additional job tasks as the corporate structure is revised and down-sized.
	People with major disabilities are at a serious disadvantage in this climate because the accommodation they need may change as
they are moved about in the "workplace of the '90's."  Furthermore, assuming that an employee will become indispensable after three years is doubtful at best.  I worked for almost ten years for a company engaged in producing and selling adaptive technology for blind people; and when it was decided that my skills were no longer needed, I all-of-a-sudden didn't meet the productivity standards.  My time there was a continuous fight for accommodation, and I would not have received even the accommodation which I did receive had it not been accomplished with off-the-shelf equipment which the company itself produced.  This company viewed ADA as a sales opportunity, but not as a responsibility to its own employees.
	I'm afraid that I must also take issue with the "voucher" system under which people can choose from a number of public and private agencies.  Although this idea sounds good on its face, it will result in a two-tierd system in which the least disabled, best educated and most effectively advocated people will be separated like cream by the private facilities and the most disabled and hardest to rehabilitate will be ghettoized with the state VR Agency.
	Next, I want to object to your assertion that people under-utilize the current work incentives.  These incentives are so complex as to be unintelligible in spite of the Social Security Administration's intense efforts to explain them.  My experience has been that the average SSA district office
representative does not understand them, and the management level
at SSA has done its best to undermine them.  I know 
well some people who have worked in district offices and who were
conscientious about doing the right thing for the claimants.  They were not rewarded for their efforts.  In fact often they were punished because quality was considered no substitute for
quantity, no matter how shoddy the work was.  As for the attitude
of the leadership of SSA toward work incentives, one only has to
point to the new PASS regulations which make a program that was
already of limited usefulness even less useful.
	Finally, I think it is important to talk about the difference between the blindness earnings limit under Disability Insurance and the amount for the rest of the disability population.  The blindness community, some years ago, achieved linkage of the SGA amount for blind SSDI beneficiaries and that for retirees 65-69 years old.  It is worth pointing out that this achievement resulted from years of campaigning for a disability insurance program with no earnings limitation.  The linkage was a compromise.  We would not have achieved it if we had not started out asking for more than what we got. 
	Suggesting that we should give up the level of SGA that we fought hard and long to accomplish is singularly politically inappropriate.  I feel sure that the organizations of the blind will not buy into this, even with the "grandfather" provision.  It is disappointing to me that NCD is participating in the old divide and conqueror strategy so commonly used by those who oppress us.  We recognize that $500 is not a tolerable income level for anyone, and it would be a breach of faith with the members who elect us as leaders to advocate for that level under any circumstances.  A person working at the minimum wage forty hours per week makes more than $500.
	In closing, I would point out that the strategy of muddling SSI and SSDI together is ill-advised.  I agree with one of the speakers at the meeting who said that we are in danger of getting
disability insurance separated entirely from Social Security and
being further ghettoized.  Furthermore I am from the school of
negotiating which holds that you don't give away the store in
advance.  You start with a position of advocating for what you
really want or for more so that you have something to give up.  This proposal doesn't have anything to give up.  It would be strategically better to advocate that we be treated exactly as the old age population are treated.  
	Addendum 
	Really, this time I'm closing.  I want to make it clear, in case it sounds as if I am a blind chauvinist, that I have good cross-disability credentials.  I was one of the founders of the American Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities in 1974, and I think I know some of the reasons why it failed.  But to illustrate the cross-disability problem that still exists, I need to tell you that the "Town Meeting" was, in a number of ways. inaccessible to blind people.  First, we were given incorrect and imprecise information about the location of the meeting.  Second, the people signing us up to speak did not put into place a mechanism by which those of us who arrived first spoke first.  Third, the first item on the program was the guy from Virginia Commonwealth University who showed slides and seemed surprised when we asked that they be described.  He also offered his computer and program for us to examine and was surprised when we asked if there was speech on the computer.  This is the kind of stuff blind people must always endure at the hands of other disabled people and we are really tired of it.  It makes it very hard for me to advocate cross-disability issues in our organizations.  


                       HOBO

                 by Richard Kinney

The stray pup came, as hobos do,
	Without an invitation;
He sauntered up the avenue
	And stopped for information.

With a winsome wag and a wicked leer,
	He asked my little daughter
If a well-bred tramp might sojourn here,
	And I guess he sort of caught her

In an ace-high mood, and he caught me,  too--
	And so he took his lodging.
We talked of the pound and (in fun) the zoo,
	But the scamp proved apt at dodging.

Now he owns the house and we all must board
	Like pensioners on his bounty.
He's the third worst pest in our voting ward--
	And the best blamed dog in the county. 


         AN ADVENTURE IN BARRIER AWARENESS

                  By Jane Kardas

	It was a misty April morning as we all gathered at Saint Rose
Church in Santa Rosa, California, to take part in an annual event
known as Barrier Awareness Day.  As I sat with several members of my Chapter listening to the plans for the day, my good friend
Barbara Kron kept encouraging me that I was going to love this.  I was very nervous, as most of us are when we take part in something totally new without knowing exactly what to expect.
	Barrier Awareness Day is celebrated annually to bring decision
makers from the community together with the disabled, in order that Leaders might experience the barriers faced daily in the lives of persons living with disabilities.  The Community Leaders are known as "participants" for the day, and those with disabilities are known as the "guides".  There are three disability groups represented: people that are mobility impaired, visually impaired and hearing impaired.  participants and guides are randomly matched through a system known as the "Lottery of Life."
	Gary Zanolini, Assistant Chief of Sonoma Sheriffs Department, stepped forward and drew my name.  I was asked to stand by my chair where Sheriff Zanolini approached me and said, "I don't mean to be rude or offensive, but you must understand that I am a very religious man and that I prayed to God all night that I would not draw the name of a blind person."  Do I need to tell you I was shocked and, for a brief moment, speechless?
	When I regained my composure, I said, "You know, they say the Lord works in mysterious ways.  Perhaps this is one of them."  I convinced him to come with me into an area where Allen Brenner was
fitting participants with canes and Speedo goggles which had been
blackened, leaving only a pin point of light but not enough to
allow for any vision.  
	We went outside and I gave the sheriff a few instructions on proper cane technique.  With his goggles donned and his cane in place, he said to me, "I have my car right out in front and I want to take you to the Sheriffs  Office to meet my colleagues."
	I replied, "We can't take a car, because blind people don't drive cars."  
	He countered, "Well, I guess we can't go," and I answered that of course we could.
	"It's too far to walk," he argued.  
	"That's fine, we'll take a bus," I suggested.  
	"Well, I don't know where the busses stop here." 
	"Nor do I.  I have no idea whatsoever, but we'll start asking questions as we walk along, learn where the bus stop is, find it, and make our way out to the Sheriffs Department." 
	So we started down the street with his hand in a vice grip on my arm, and I began to ask people if they had any idea where the bus stop was.  Eventually we found it.
	"We're never going to know what bus to get on.  We may as well forget it." he worried. 
	"No! That's not the way it will be because every time a bus
door opens, we will ask if this bus goes out to the Sheriffs
Department, and finally we'll find the right one, and we'll get
there.  Just don't worry about it."
	We could get a bus, but in order to do so, we had to go downtown
and transfer out.  This was a wonderful experience for
Sheriff Zanolini because he was grumbling all the way!  
Ultimately, we made our way to the Sheriffs Office, met his colleagues, and were interviewed by Channel 50, the local television station.  Since the purpose of Barrier Awareness Day is for each
participant to find his/her barrier for the day--something that
needs to be corrected--we identified a problem: there was no safe way
to cross the street to and from the Sheriffs Offices--No crosswalk,
no boulevard stop sign, and no tweeters.
	After the interview, we continued our journey, climbing aboard the bus and returning to downtown Santa Rosa for lunch.  By this time we were relaxed and on a first-name basis.  I had to admit that Sheriff Zanolini was quite a trooper.   
	At the restaurant he had many questions about how we would read the menu and what we would order.  I told him someone
would read to us and suggested he avoid spaghetti.  He
laughed and agreed.  He found it challenging to discover the food on
his plate and to identify it by taste, and he was fascinated when he
realized how much influence his visual acuity had on his taste.
	We went back to Saint Rose Church, where we formed small groups to discuss the experiences of our day.  In our group we
were joined by the City Architect, a gentleman in a wheelchair, his
partner for the day, a young woman who was hearing impaired,
her sign language interpreter and her partner.  The gentleman in the wheelchair spoke first, saying that he had been in a chair for several years, that he enjoyed his vision and hearing, and that he would not choose to change places with anyone having another disability.  His partner for the day spoke of their experiences and his personal challenge in using a wheelchair for the first time.
	The next person in our group was a young college student, deaf
since birth.  She said she enjoyed long walks and loved to read and
hoped one day to have a deaf baby, as she was the fifth generation of deaf persons in her family. 
	My  partner discussed his day and how his experiences had
literally "opened his eyes."
	At  the close of the discussion, I approached Sheriff Zanolini with a request he couldn't resist--to teach self-defense classes to our Redwood Empire Chapter of the CCB.  Subsequently, he, along with another deputy and his son, taught us self-defense with a hands-on demonstration.  It was a wonderful day!  He has joined the Barrier Awareness Day committee and says he often speaks to groups as a representative of the Sheriffs Office about his experience.  In turn I told him that I often talk of my day with him when addressing groups.  This event provides all of us in the blind community a wonderful opportunity to enlighten the public. 
	This incident occurred four years ago.  This past year when visiting a membership committee meeting, John Lopez asked each of us what we do in our community to make ourselves known as blind individuals.  I told him that, aside from being President of the Redwood Empire chapter, I am a Peer Counselor on the Senior Blind Committee assisting newly blinded people and a member of Retired Senior Volunteers and the Lake and Mendocino County Health Board Planning Committee.  I am also vice president of the Orientation Center for the Blind Alumni.  I then proceeded to tell John about Barrier Awareness Day.  He was impressed and, when I asked him if he would consider being a guide, he accepted immediately.
	This year he joined us on April 25th.  His partner was John Bloom, a special Advocate Attorney interested in disability rights.
Immediately they became fast friends.  
	I was a guide again this year, and my partner was
Nancee Pacquin, who is involved in a training program and is
writing a brochure for United Airlines and Associates Travel
Agencies.  She had a camera person follow us throughout the day; the photographs will be used in the training sessions.
	John Lopez encouraged me to write this article in the hope that other groups will engage in a similar event.  I will be glad to furnish any information that may be of help.  My address is: 810 Maple Avenue, Ukiah, California 95482; 707-468-5510.


     SUMMARY OF CCB RESOLUTIONS, SPRING, 1997

                   by Jeff Thom

     Resolution 97A-4, relating to audio description of educational materials, was tabled.
     Resolutions 97A-22 and 97A-23, relating respectively to signage and a priority for transportation, were withdrawn by the
authors.
     All other resolutions were adopted by the membership.
     97A-1 condemned a policy under which an orientation and mobility service provider would certify that an individual was competent to travel merely through the client's answers to questions.
	97A-2 endorsed state legislative proposals to provide to aliens legally residing in California but slated to lose their SSI/SSP benefits in August, 1997, citizenship assistance, funding, and a state cash assistance program. 
     97A-3 directed that action be taken to require that 
grant funds be awarded by the California Energy Conservation and
Development Commission for research to ensure pedestrian safety by retaining appropriate noise level reductions for vehicles using alternative fuels.  
     97A-5 expressed the organization's support for entities electing to explore innovative uses of remote signage, an example of which is the product Talking Signs, but opposing its use as a replacement for either audible signals or tactile signage.
     97A-6 demanded that transit districts around the state cease unlawful practices which deny to blind and visually impaired persons paratransit eligibility, and directs the CCB president to take appropriate action if these problems are not remedied.  
	97A-7 commended the California Department of Transportation for establishing a statewide database of fixed route and paratransit  providers, but urges that the database be made accessible through universal computer design and via a
toll-free telephone number.
     97A-9 urged the Federal Transportation Administration to compile a similar nationwide database, and requires submission of this proposal for consideration by ACB at its 1997 convention.
     97A-8 concerned taking specified actions aimed at ending the unlawful treatment of blind vendors in buildings under the control of the General Services Administration.
     97A-10 expressed our appreciation for the outstanding efforts of the volunteers at the Spring 1997 Convention.  
     97A-11 expressed our appreciation for the oustanding efforts of the staff of the Beverly Garland Hotel. 
     97A-12 demanded that the Director of Rehabilitation eliminate any inconsistencies in hiring practices and procedures with respect to the Counselor-Teacher and Rehabilitation Counselor for the Blind positions.
     97A-13 urged that the Department of Rehabilitation
not require a candidate for the Counselor-Teacher position who has successfully passed the braille proficiency examination to retake the test during the time that the candidate list is active.
     97A-14 requested the American Council of the Blind
to prepare a position paper outlining problems and solutions
concerning paratransit eligibility and operating practices.
     97A-15 requested that the American Council of the
Blind explore modification of ADA provisions and policies in order to increase paratransit services.
     97A-16 demanded that the Department of Rehabilitation fulfill a promise made almost four years ago by establishing a diabetic training course at the Orientation Center for the Blind.
     97A-17 directed the CCB president to correspond with ACB and AFB, urging that the amount of time allocated to briefings on legislative issues at the ACB/AFB Josephone Taylor Leadership Seminar be increased from one-half day to at least one full day.  
     97A-18 urged Congress to retain specialized rehabilitation services for the blind and visually impaired in its
reauthorization of the Rehabilitation Act.
     97A-19 required Congress to retain specialized independent living services for blind and visually impaired persons 55 years or over in its reauthorization of the Rehabilitation Act.
     97A-20 urged Congress to retain specialized educational services for blind and visually impaired children in
its reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act.
     97A-21 required Congress to restore the linkage for income exemption for blind SSDI beneficiaries to those for Social
Security beneficiaries aged 65-69.
     97A-24 urged legislative action to include among the allowable purposes for which blind and visually impaired
persons may use in-home supportive services, the purpose of obtaining accessibility to printed materials.


                 LIFE MEMBERSHIPS

	Here is the name of the one new life member of the California Council of the Blind this quarter.   Life memberships costs $200 and may be paid for over two years in $40 installments.  CCB is grateful for this extra help.

Allen Jones


                         BULLETIN BOARD

                       by Ruth Aletta Dean

	The new spring-summer, 1997, catalog for Speak to Me products is now available.  It features many unusual items besides the usual talking products like clocks, key chains, music boxes, etc.  You can find, for example, historical talking picture frames, coke memorabilia, a famous singing group collectable, porcelain figures, talking salt and pepper shakers, talking dolls, singing and talking plush bears, talking toothbrushes, a generous choice of religious items, and gifts and decorations appropriate for Christmas.  Call 800-248-9965 to receive a free catalog in print or on cassette or IBM floppy disk.  
     From Dialogue,Spring, 1997:  CD-BLND.  The National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) offers CD-BLND, a CD-ROM which includes the entire catalog of braille and
recorded books produced by NLS, and approximately 250,000 records of special format materials from more than two dozen libraries
throughout the world.  It is complete with a revised user's
manual.  Contact:  The Superintendent of Documents at NLS, P.O.
Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA  15250-7954; 202-512-1800.  The cost
is $92 per year in the U.S.  For further information contact: 
Robert Axtell, Head, Bibliographic Control Section, National
Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped,
Washington, D.C.  20542; 202-707-9248.
    REHABILITATION TEACHING BRAILLE TEXTBOOK REVIEW, by Cheryl 
Richesin, M.Ed., provides a detailed review of nineteen of the
most commonly used braille teaching programs for adolescents and adults in North America.  Lesson sequence, teaching strategies,
and many more areas of concern are included.  The book is
available in print, large print, and computer diskette for $30.  Profits from the sales go to AER Division 11, Rehabilitation
Teaching and Independent Living.  To order, contact:  AER, 206 N. Washington St., Suite 320, Alexandria, VA  22314; 703-548-1884.
     Bitstream is a bi-monthly cassette magazine for the blind, visually impaired, print handicapped, and others interested in ccessible high technology.  The primary focus is computers with braille or speech output, but access tools of all kinds are covered.  The six 90-minute issues include interviews, product reviews, demonstrations, and more.  Subscriptions are $22, check or credit card.  Contact:  Peter M. Scialli, ShrinkWrap Computer Products, 11706 Saddle Crescent ircle, Oakton, VA  22124; 800-377-0774.. 
	The Foreign Languages Department of the China Braille Press is making available in English, for braille and talking book readers world-wide, books about Eastern cultures and alternative medicines.  Books include:  The Miracle of Acupunture, 2 vols., $25; A Guidebook for the Blind Traveling in China, $20; and more.  Catalogs are  available upon request.  Contact:  China Braille Press, 39 Chengnei St., Lugouqiao, Beijing 100072, PRC; telephone/fax plus 86-10-63833585.
     From The Matilda Ziegler Magazine, April, 1997:  New Self-
help Group.  A new self-help group for blind and sighted
survivors of incest and sexual abuse is forming.  It will work
much as a group meeting would, but through tape round-robin. 
Send tape letters only to Ziegler Magazine, Box 4A, 80 8th Ave.
No. 1304, New York, NY  10011; or call 941-694-1108. 
     From The Matilda Ziegler Magazine, May, 1997: Engineers, mathematicians, or scientists may be interested in the Technical Braille Center being established.  Highly technical material will be produced in braille or in a special file format.  Mathematics will be done in the Nemeth Code.  Tactile graphics will be done when practical.  Information is needed on how many people might use the service and the kinds of technical material most needed.  Contact:   John Boyer, Computers to Help People Inc., 825 E. Johnson St., Madison, WI 53703; 608-257-5917.
     Sugar Free Marketplace sells candy, cookies, cereals, soups, sauces, dessert mixes, and many other foods without
refined sugar, corn syrup, molasses or honey.  Other products
include cookbooks and books about diabetes.  For a free tape
catalog, contact:  Sugar Free Marketplace, 6710 N. University
Dr., Tamarac, FL  33321; 800-726-6191.  


             Bringing Things to Light:
    An Exploration of Lighting Characteristics and Strategies

                        by Kenneth Frasse

	(This is the second in a two-part series on lighting and how lighting plays a vital role in the visually impaired individual's work environment.  This article is reprinted with permission from the publisher, from ACCESS REVIEW, a quarterly publication of Sensory Access Foundation.  To obtain the complete text, or for inquiries about the publication, please contact the Editor, Kenneth Frasse, at 1-415-329-0430, or by writing to: Sensory Access Foundation, 385 Sherman Avenue, Suite 2, Palo Alto, CA 94306.)
	Abstract: Lighting can be the arch-nemesis of the visually impaired.  So many factors play a crucial role in the proper dispersion of light that it is often extremely difficult to determine how to best accommodate a visually-impaired individual.  The following article attempts to impart some knowledge to individuals in the hope that they can then recognize key factors in what can be done
to assist them in their lighting needs.
	Guidelines and Strategies: Now that we have reviewed some of the basic terminology and characteristics of light and light sources, we can investigate some of the qualifiable properties of light, and how we might implement certain guidelines for desired lighting.
	Direct Versus Indirect Lighting: Direct lighting can be most effective when used as task lighting, where the task to be performed requires more light than the surrounding area.  Common tasks that generally require more light are reading or any detail work.  One may choose to use a task lamp for this purpose, and these types of lamps come in incandescent, halogen, and fluorescent sources.  Though each
individual must choose what source works best for them, there are
certain guidelines that can be followed when making choices.
	Incandescent task lamps will invariably offer a "warm"
environment.  Halogen and fluorescent task lamps vary in their
"color" and usually generate more light on the task area because
of their increased efficiency over incandescent task lamps.
	Incandescent source variables include wattage and the coating on
the inside of the light bulb.  Some bulbs have no coating, while
other bulbs have white or off-white coatings.  Each individual
must determine which suits him best; the CRI value for
incandescent sources is 100.
	Halogen sources generally appear "crisp" and more intense than
either incandescent or fluorescent sources.  The variables in
halogen source lights are the wattage and the fixture; the
CRI value for halogen sources is 100.
	Fluorescent sources have a larger market in the work place and
have several variables that can alter.  Though fluorescent
sources contain gases that "excite" and emit a specific and
unique color, it is the coating on the inside of the fluorescent
source that emits the perceived light.  The higher the CRI value
for a fluorescent source, the more ability it has to better
represent the actual colors present; a CRI value of 75 or higher
is preferable, and a CRI value of 90 or more is desirable if the
cost is not prohibitive.
	The "color" of the most prominent light emitting from a
fluorescent source is dependent upon the temperature.  A
fluorescent tube that has a temperature rated at 70, indicating
7,000 degrees Kelvin, will have predominantly blue hues.  A
fluorescent tube with a temperature rating of 45, indicating
4,500 degrees Kelvin, will have more pink and yellow overtones
and appear "warmer".
	Indirect lighting is usually found in most offices and work
environments and is usually a fluorescent source.  Whether in
work environments or at home, the rules for fluorescent light
sources still hold in that a high CRI value reflects more of the
visible light spectrum.
	Contrast: A natural contrast is formed when a task lamp is used to illuminate a task area; this is beneficial because the individual
wishes to have this increased lighting.  Increased contrast on a
computer monitor or a dark background behind a computer monitor
can also be beneficial.  Contrast is not beneficial, however,
when it is present in the principal lighting of a room.
	Ineffective contrast can be present when either direct or
indirect light sources are placed too far from each other, or
when direct light sources cause "shadowing".  When this occurs,
an individual's pupils must dilate when viewing or scanning the
darker areas of the room.  Conversely, the individual's pupils
must contract to view or scan the brighter areas of the room. 
This can result in reduced visual stamina and even frequent
headaches.  
	There are two basic rules to avoid this unwanted contrast.  A
general rule-of-thumb is that no surface around a light source
should be less than one-fourth the intensity of the light source
itself; this can be measured, or can be tested by placing the
light sources nearer or farther apart.  The second rule is that
direct light sources should not be placed where they will create
an extreme shadow where individuals must look or work.
	Glare: There are many perpetrators of glare.  The following presents two fashions by which to decrease or eliminate glare surrounding a work area; the first is a general principle for overhead lighting, and the second refers to computer use.
	Overhead lighting, whether direct or indirect, should be
installed with the smallest angle of dispersion as possible.  If
we draw a line vertically from the middle of a light source to
the ground, and we call this line the normal, direct light
emanating from the light should not exceed an angle of 30 degrees
between the normal and how far the light "spreads" out.  Another
manner of describing this principle is that the direct light
emanating from a light source should not exceed a total of 60
degrees where it strikes the ground.
	Essentially, if the angle of the light source is greater than
this, it will have a tendency to shine into your eyes more
frequently wherever you are in the room.
	In the context of computers, we have a "zone" of 90 degrees in
which we need to be cautious.  First we draw a line from our eyes
to a computer monitor screen directly in front of us.  Let us
then draw additional lines, that are parallel to the computer
monitor screen and that extend to the far walls and ceiling. 
The lines that are parallel to the monitor screen and that extend
to the far walls and ceiling, describe a plane that is parallel
to the surface of the monitor screen.  We have now described an
angle of 90 degrees between the line that runs from our eyes to
the monitor screen and the plane that is parallel to the monitor
screen.  If we have a light source within this 90-degree angle,
it can potentially cause glare.   
	Orienting the computer so that there is minimal light shining
onto the screen from within this 90-degree "zone" will minimize
glare.  Also, the use of anti-glare screens on computer monitors
can be very useful in diminishing glare.
	Alternative means can be used to diminish glare in the work
environment, depending upon the inclination of the employer. 
Removing fluorescent lights immediately above and behind the
computer user can effectively diminish the glare, especially if a
task lamp is used for light reinforcement on specific tasks. 
Changing the type of fluorescent tubes in overhead lighting can
also assist in diminishing glare or intensity.
	Summary: Though certainly complex and multifacetted, we see that
controlling the lighting environment in the immediate area
surrounding a visually-impaired employee is possible.  It is our
hope that this article has, at least in part, imparted some
concrete knowledge about lighting that can assist individuals
when they explore lighting and their work environments.  Little
can substitute for a true technical evaluation of the environment
and lighting by knowledgeable evaluators, but an awareness of
what is available and what is possible can be empowering and a
good first step!


         NEW HOPE FOR MACULAR DEGENERATION

	(This article was submitted by Jannis Urena from Senior Magazine, March, a997.)
	Doctors at the University of Chicago performed a new operation
in January that may offer renewed hope for the millions of
American seniors who suffer from macular degeneration. 
	The operation, performed by retinal expert, Dr. Samir Patel and his associates, involves transplanting fetal retinal cells to the area beneath the recipient's retina in an effort to replace the
cells damaged by macular degeneration.
	The operation is controversial because it involves the use of
tissue obtained from abortions.  Roughly 250,000 cells were
collected from the eyes of a fetus donated by a woman who
underwent an abortion in order to save her life.  Fetal cells are used because it is felt that they offer the best chance of
regenerating damaged retinal tissue.  If the cells both survive
and function correctly, the vision should improve dramatically.
	Macular degeneration causes damage and scarring to the central portion of the retina.  The severity can range from so slight
that only a doctor can detect it, to so severe that there is no
central vision.
	It will take a few weeks before doctors determine whether the
implanted cells are growing as hoped or if they are rejected.  It will be at least 3 months before visual improvement can be
demonstrated.  The operation is based on a similar procedure
performed on 8 patients at the University of Rochester who
suffered from an inherited retinal disorder.  Of the 8, half
reported improved eyesight.  This new procedure offers some real hope for sufferers of macular degeneration.
	(More information can be obtained by writing to Kenneth T.
Meyer, M.D., The Eye Surgery Center of N. CA, 5959 Greenback
Lane, Citrus Heights, CA 95621.)


                CAREER CONNECTIONS 

               by Catherine Schmitt

	"I am looking for a job, but just can't find anything," is a
comment that I often hear from individuals who are seeking
employment or feel stuck in their present job.  If you are in this situation, I challenge you to ask yourself the following questions:  1) How much time have I spent in my job search over the past one, two, or even six months?  2)  Was sending out resumes to employers my primary "job search" tool?  
	I want to focus on the "how to's" of an effective job search.  As many of us know--maybe all too well--looking for a job is hard work!  And that is how one needs to view a job search: as though it were a full-time job.  To send out a few resumes every once in a while or to be only looking for the "ideal" job description is NOT an effective way to search for a job.  An individual who is serious about his/her job search will do the following:
	* Set a routine schedule.  Establish certain days and times each week to devote to your job search.  Keep this schedule and arrange other activities around it.  For example, Sundays from 2-5 pm, Mondays 8 am to noon, etc...
	* Dress for work and sit at a desk or table.  You will be more
productive, take yourself more seriously, and be less distractable if you dress for the occasion.  Sitting at the same desk or table during each session will bring continuity and structure to the
routine.
	* Begin your week on Sunday.  It is estimated that the heaviest
response from Sunday newspaper job listings takes place by mid-
morning Tuesday at the latest.  Responding quickly can improve your chances of consideration if there is no stated deadline.  You have more time if there is a stated deadline.  (Note: answering newspaper advertisements is not the hmost effective job search tool as many believe.  I will comment
more on this next time.)
	* Keep yourself organized.  Develop a recording system which will include a copy of the job announcement or your notes as to the
qualifications and responsibilities), contact information, date and place the announcement was advertised.  Most importantly, record the action taken: was a resume sent? telephone call made for further
information? a letter of recommendation or sample project included when resume was sent? etc...  Keep track of the date and
individual(s) spoken with, and information provided as follow-ups are made.  After sending out several resumes, you don't want to say "what position did I apply for?" when an employer calls from
Working Wise company.
	* A cover letter is expected, even if it is not requested.  A cover letter introduces you and your resume to the reader.  The
letter should identify what position you are applying for, how you learned of the position (especially if someone else referred you), what your experience is and why you are qualified.  Additional
information that will give the reader a clearer understanding of who you are as a person is encouraged.  This is also an opportunity to discuss breaks in employment, organizational
membership/leadership experience, and personal qualities. 
Employers have stated that they have thrown away resumes sent
without cover letters.  If possible, try to address the letter to a specific person.
	* Use the prospective employer's terminology.  People like persons who use similar words and ideas.  Try to use key words/phrases from the announcement in your cover letter and resume.  Be cautious not to overuse the words and to add your personal flavor as well.
	* Standard advice is to not state salary history, even when this information is requested.  This can be used as a screening tool
before looking at anything else (you don't want that) or you may ask for less than the employer has in mind.  State in the cover letter
that you are interested in discussing salary during the interview or after a mutual fit is realized.  When salary is discussed, try to learn what the employer has in mind first and then offer a wide range.  If you do not have paid work experience or have worked for very little, research what the average salary is for the type of position that you are applying for at the company or its
competitor.  Then give a range around the average amount with an explanation that now that you have experience, you feel you are well worth the salary.  
	* Reward yourself.  Establish a time to relax and have fun each
week after you have "worked" on your job search.  You need to set short term (weekly) goals and feel good about achieving them.  This will help you realize how much you are "working" and remain
hopeful.
	Following these tips will help you keep a positive attitude and
stay healthy during your job search.  Your hard work now will
result in a job in the long run!  


        STATE LEGISLATIVE REPORT, JUNE 1997

       by Cid Urena, Capitol Representative

	Greeetings from Sacramento once again!  First, to our CCB bills:
	SB246, by Senator Teresa Hughes (Resolution 96-B2, tax exemption to those employing blind people), has become a two-year because of stiff opposition, for which we hope to have answers in time for the second half of this session; 
	SB1332, by Senator John Vasconcellos (Orientation Center trust fund bill), passed to the senate floor and is on the consent calendar.  
	AB1546, Committee on Consumer Protection, Governmental Efficiency and Economic Development--Assemblywoman Susan Davis, Chairwoman--(extension of the sunset of the Guide Dog Board), was amended, which made it very controversial because it included a large
number of other state boards.  Nevertheless, some of these boards have been dropped from the bill and we are hopeful that all of
them (except for the Guide Dog Board) will eventually be removed.  Both CCB and the Department of Consumer Affairs (co-sponsors of AB1546) oppose the inclusion of these other boards.  The bill is now in Senate Rules awaiting assignment to committee, which will probably be tje Business and Professions Committee.
	From time to time your Capitol Representative is approached to
assist in some special legislation.  The following letter (which was presented to the Resolutions Committee) is self-explanatory.  After reading the letter, you may want to review Resolution 97-A24 which was prepared to correspond with the Senior Legislature resolution.  

CALIFORNIA SENIOR LEGISLATURE PROPOSED LEGISLATION, 1997 SESSION  
Prepared by: Lee Mills, CA Senior Legislature, Assemblywoman,
1166 S. Riverside Avenue, Space #75, Rialto CA 92376, (909) 875-3623
March 24, 1997
SUBJECT: Assistance for visually impaired and functionally illiterate individuals, including Senior Citizens, who are eligible for and receive in-home supportive services.
	Legislation is needed to permit the use of in-home supportive service hours to read important mail to visually impaired and
functionally illiterate individuals and to balance checkbooks,  prepare letters, applications, checks and other documents for those individuals.
	Whereas, present in-home supportive service regulations do not permit granting service hours to visually impaired and functionally illiterate individuals, including senior citizens who are eligible for and receive in-home supportive service hours for the purposes of reading and responding to important documents, notices and bills; and
	Whereas, at the present time individuals who are visually impaired or functionally illiterate may have no friends or family members available to read mail on a weekly basis and may suffer
severe negative consequences such as: termination of financial
and medical benefits if important deadlines to file documents and medical verifications are not met, legal consequences if bills
are not paid promptly, including, but not limited to, the turn-
off of utilities, negative credit ratings, the cancellation of
credit accounts, the cancellation of checking accounts, and fees imposed by banks for cashing checks with insufficient funds on
hand; and
	Whereas, the loss of control over financial, medical and other
benefits, because vital written information may not be readily
accessible to individuals who are visually impaired or
functionally illiterate can lead to situations where individuals are unsafe, insecure, and suffer unnecessary financial penalties and burdens; and
	Whereas, the loss of control over key portions of an
individuals life will result in feelings of inadequacy, anger,
depression, frustration and despair, leading to a loss of self-
confidence, dignity and independence; and
	Whereas, the safety, security and financial welfare of
individuals within today's society is secured, in part, by the
appropriate written response to documents and notices; and
	Whereas, an individual's financial affairs, including the
payment of bills, reconciling statements, balancing checkbooks,
responding to deadlines, and understanding benefits and services of insurance companies and government agencies require diligent
attention to the written word;
	Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senior Senate and the Senior Assembly of the California Senior Legislature, that the use of
in-home supportive service hours be authorized in order to read
documents, and assist visually impaired and functionally
illiterate individuals with their written responses to manage
their financial affairs, and establish and maintain services and benefits.

	I will be representing the CCB regarding this issue at the
convening of the Senior Legislature this fall.
	The following are bills which have been supported by the CCB:  
AB31, by Assemblyman Fred Aguiar (technology grant bill), has
become a 2-year bill; several of the remaining technology bills
(AB521, 530, and 781) are in suspense at this time and we will
not know what happens to them until the suspense calendar is
heard.  
	AB1011, by Assemblyman Fred Aguiar, AB1012, by Assemblyman
Charles Poochigian, and AB1013, by Assemblywoman Kerry Mazzoni, are technology bills which were introduced at the request of Governor Wilson.  Three of us (2 CCB members, 1 JAC member) have met with the Governor's office in an attempt to have the blind included in one of these three bills to provide equal access.  At this time it appears there is a good chance of having one of these bills contain this inclusion. 
	AB504, by Assemblyman Scott Wildman (a regionalization bill for
the purpose of improving the education of all low incidence
pupils), was amended by the CCB to include the blind.  The CCB
wishes to thank the many JAC members who have written in support of AB504 and of its amendment.  The bill just today (May 29) went to the Assembly floor.
	AB58, by Assemblywoman Martha Escutia, extends the sunset of
special education to 6/30/2009, and, of course, is being supported by CCB.  It has passed to the senate where it will probably go to the Education Committee.
	AB67, by Assemblywoman Martha Escutia (IHSS) providing services
that allow aged, blind and disabled persons to remain in their homes is in the suspense file.  AB72, by Assemblymen, Knox, Honda, Villaraigosa provides funds to establish citizenship
assistance centers and is in Senate Rules Committee awaiting
assignment to the appropriate committee.
	In conclusion, remember to listen to the California Connection
--800-221-6359--for updates.  I also wish to thank all of you who have written in support of the bills we have endorsed.  


                     RESULTS OF A SURVEY OF LOW-VISION READERS 

                   by Joan Black

     Last year, Bernice Kandarian and Roger Petersen developed a
questionaire on low vision, which was used to conduct the survey. 
Attendees at the CCB convention in San Jose were asked to
participate, and the following results have been compiled from the
twelve responses received.  

1.  Preferred color of paper:      off white--8; stark white--2; 
	recycled light gray--1; and no preference--1.  
2.  Preferred type size:  14 point--8; 18 point--2; and 24 point--
	2.  
3.  Preferred space between lines:  single-spaced--6; space and a
	half--4; and double-spaced--2.  
4.  Preferred type style (More than one choice available):  san
	cerif--2; regular--2; block--7; evenly spaced--1; cerif(footed)-0; bold--2; rounded--0; and proportional--0.  
5.  In a two-column format, preferred layout:  vertical bar between
	columns--4; ragged right margin--5; right margin even--3; 


               A DEAR FRIEND DEPARTS

                   by Pat Urena

     Mary Catalano passed away last Fall.  It has been nearly a generation since she was an active, vibrant part of the Council
fabric, for Mary retired in 1978, at age 74.
     The story of Mary Catalano is emblematic of the ideals and
aspirations of those who made America the most successful boiling pot, building with the sons and daughters of, first, Europe and
Africa and adding many more countries and cultures as the years passed.  
	Born January 17, 1904, in Lockport, New York, she was part of a large family, close-knit and loving.  An important event in Mary's childhood was the birth of her brother Anthony, three years younger and with slowly progressive blindness.  As with all the brothers and sisters in the family, Mary and Tony were close and would grow closer with time.  Among the many interests they shared was a fascination with the stock market, reading the stock pages carefully and often.
     By the early 1950s the entire Mannino family, with the
exception of Tony, moved to Los Angeles. After much persuasion
they convinced him to join them though he was loath to leave a  successful career in factory management.  (In one of those wonderful coincidences of life, Tony had managed a factory which manufactured, among other things, brooms.)
     Soon after his arrival in California, Mary joined Tony in his work on behalf of blind persons with such organizations as the American Brotherhood for the Blind, the National Federation of the Blind, and, most notably, the California Council of the Blind.  As general factotum of the CCB office, Mary kept the books, typed letters, answered the telephone--in fact did everything.  Later, when it was possible to hire help, she scrutinized what went on with a sharp eye on expenditures but a hand always willing to help others.  Even though the CCB office was humming with activity, Mary and Tony found time to continue studying the stock market. 
     Mary worked in concert with Tony on day to day matters for
the Council, but she also helped with planning conventions and
the like.  Her bargaining with hotel personnel was legendary,
resulting always in low room rates and other benefits to Council members.  More than once, she bargained a particularly favorable
rate for a convention function--the banquet, for instance.  Then she would proceed to get further concessions--a nicer dessert, more menu choices, and so on.
     In spite of all her wonderful industry and energy, Mary was a diminutive lady with silver hair carefully coifed, a neat
appearance, and a pleasant demeanor.  She had a twinkle in her eye as she greeted the world with humor and a ready wit.  Still, she did not suffer fools gladly and did not avoid showing her displeasure to those who didn't measure up--except for blind people, who had her enduring support and interest.
     Friends laughed for a long time over a story which
demonstrates Mary's utter unwillingness to be intimidated by
anyone.  While she and Tony were at a state conference on services for the blind, they made up a party to dine in a nearby
restaurant which was pretty swank.  The group emerged after
dinner and stood in line for a valet to retrieve Mary's car--a
venerable Chevrolet which ran like a top.  As cars were 
brought up, the valets called out in impressed tones, "Mr. Jones, your Mercedes," . . . Mr. Brown, your Cadillac," . . . etc.  When the valet drove up in Mary's Chevrolet, it was, "Maam, your car."  Mary turned to him and informed him with, "Yes, and it's paid for, too." 
	Mary spent a major part of her working life as a caterer in and around Los Angeles, serving many celebrities and developing a wonderful file of recipes.  She and her husband Santino were
highly successful in food service and management.  Mr. Catalano
passed away in the mid-1960s.
     It is hard to express in the confines of the written page
the affection and respect those of us who knew Mary felt toward
her.  In the kitchen of her warm, comfortable home, she created dozens of meals after meetings, making sure that everybody had a place to sit and was fed; served other meals even during meetings; double checked to make sure that anyone who wanted to go to Active Blind had a ride; invested with tireless care the Council's funds for maximum income; and offered herself as a friend to many. 
     She is survived by her son John Catalano and daughter-in-
law Anita, her brother Carl Mannino, and Frances Mannino, who is her sister-in-law and a long time Council member.  Mary had five
grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.  One of her
grandchildren, Jim Catalano, spoke at the convention last fall
on the occasion of awarding the Mannino scholarship.  He and
his sister, Joan Gilmour, are now the family representatives for the Scholarship Fund, established in memory of Tony.  Mary and Frances Mannino were instrumental in setting up this fund in memory of Tony Mannino, a Council leader of great distinction  over a long period of progress in the organization.  In her final days Mary continued to be deeply interested in the Mannino Scholarship Fund and its role in continuing Tony's work of  helping his fellow blind.       
	Her hand continued to touch many, even late in life as she guided the Active Blind into more and better services for the senior blind.  She was never unctuous, never assumed, and was of great heart.  She took us all to that heart.  There will never be her like again.


 SELF-ADVOCACY: WHAT IS IT AND HOW DOES IT WORK? 

                by D.  Allen Wolfe

	It is so easy for all of us to go to someone else when we have problems.  We ask friends for solutions to our personal crises; we ask our organization's leaders to intervene when we have problems with an entity like the Social Security Administration; and the list goes on.  What I am going to attempt with this series of articles is to explain the process of self-advocacy as well as walk you through an actual situation where self-advocacy has been successful.
	The first thing we must deal with is just what is self-advocacy.  In its simplest terms self-advocacy is representing yourself--sticking up for yourself.  Advocating means to go out and get what you want.  Advocacy can take many forms.  It can be as simple as negotiating with your spouse to have the bedroom painted hot pink instead of off white.  It can be as complicated as introducing a piece of legislation in Sacramento or Washington, DC.  In both examples, however, the process is more or less the same.
	Advocacy is something we use in everyday life.  When you ask your supervisor for some time off, you often have to justify why you want it.  If you fail to do this, you probably won't get what you requested.  In the next article, we will describe processes  which you will use to identify those things which you may want to advocate for as well as how you go about doing it.  Why is advocacy important?  Again, breaking it down into its most elementary form, if none of us advocated for anything, we would  have only that which someone saw fit to give us.  In other words, many of the so-called professionals would dictate our lives.Many of you, like me, probably remember being told to "know your place."  This was--and is--just a fancy way of saying keep your mouth shut and be thankful for the small crusts we happen to throw to you from time to time.  We were then, and are now, faced with a choice.  We can accept the impositions and do nothing or we can advocate for ourselves.
	With everything, there is a down side; and Advocacy is no exception.  If you are trying to gain friends, win a popularity contest, or make everybody happy, then an advocate you may not  want to be.  If, on the other hand, you believe in your own principles, possess strong moral convictions, and have no problem weathering a storm of disagreement from your friends, associates, teammates, and/or the community at large, then you will probably make a good advocate.
	How does one become an advocate?  The first thing to do is to pick something that interests you.  In my case, I decided to advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities as outlined in the
Americans with Disabilities Act with special emphasis on the
transportation provisions.  It is very important to remember not to
try to be "a jack of all trades;" for if you do, you will surely be "a master of none."  In other words, pick a specific area in which you believe you can excel.  You may, for example, wish to help yourself and others deal with social security issues.  In that case, you will need to learn as much as you can about laws and regulations covering SSI, SSDI, and related issues.  Next, you may wish to accompany friends to their appointments so that you can get a feel for what goes on at your local social security office.  Finally, you will want to talk with others who possess the knowledge you are trying to gain.  Explain to them what you are trying to do and ask if you can pick their brains.
	There is no substitute for hands-on training.  At the point you
feel most comfortable, you will want to actually take on a case.
Your first few might involve working with someone who has been at
it for a longer period of time.  Try to do as much as you can on
your own, remembering that it's all right to ask for help if you're
not sure.
	In the next installment we will work through a couple of issues
illustrating how to identify priorities for each situation as well as
the actual field work that may accompany the solution of a
particular problem.  In the meantime, now is the perfect opportunity
to choose the area you feel most comfortable with.  Let your fellow
chapter members know you are willing to advocate for them as well
as yourself and study, study, study! 


 Business Enterprise Program (BEP): Vending Stands

                   by Joe Xavier

	Recently the question has been asked why has BEP attracted so few people to the job opportunity that is offered by BEP.  I would like to take a few moments to discuss some of the factors that are involved in becoming a BEP vendor as well as the image that BEP has endured in the past.  
	Since the late 1980s, many events have occurred with BEP that have caused both clients and counselors to be leery of getting involved with the program.  Although some of the damage has been self-inflicted, some criticism has been unjustified.  Rumors of money that has been squandered by BEP remain just rumors even after the allegations have been investigated by the State Attorney General's office along with the State Police.  
	As a result of the downfall of the Krum administration, to my knowledge only one individual lost his state job and, again to the best of my knowledge, no formal charges were ever brought against anyone.  however a continuous turnover of staff, including administrators and important persons in management within DOR, has resulted in an environment in which continuity is difficult to achieve.  Without continuity, goals and objectives change frequently and, consequently, are never accomplished.  The administration of BEP is a complicated undertaking, including administering a business program within the structure of a bureaucracy and a legal mechanism permitting vendors to provide input in the development of major program policy/  
	In addition to the poor image that BEP must contend with, there are also the down-sizing of all government departments and the budget crunches that we are all too familiar with.  Often the population of a large building--of the size necessary for a vendor to make a living--dwindles because of relocation, cut-backs and attrition.  BEP has, therefore, closed and combined locations where vendors were making only a marginal living.  Yet there still are significantly more locations than there are vendors to fill them.  
	Counselors have been reluctant to direct clients to BEP for a number of reasons: costs, negative image, and order of selection.  By the time a client of The Department Of Rehabilitation decides to become a BEP trainee and subsequently a BEP vendor, significant expenditures must be made by the department.  Yet a successful placement in BEP by a counselor is a gainful job placement and not just a case closure.
	What kind of individual does it take to be a BEP vendor?  More often than not, it is someone who is willing to work 50- to 70-hour weeks and often weekends.  It is someone who can make decisions  quickly and efficiently.  It is someone who can be a leader--able to direct and control others in their jobs including hiring, training, promoting and, when necessary, terminating.  It is someone who can handle a cash business with large amounts of money while keeping in mind that the cash does not belong to him but to the business.  It is someone who has the discipline to plan, budget, and set funds aside for expenses related to having employees and running a business.  It is someone who can be creative and innovative and stay abreast of the ever-changing trends, rules, regulations and laws within the industry and BEP.  It is someone who likes to work with people and knows how  to get the best out of them.  It is someone who can take a complaining customer and make that same customer a supporter.  It is someone who is self-motivated and a self-starter and who is not afraid of having others critique his efforts.  
	Now that we have some idea of what kind of person it takes to become a BEP vendor, let's also keep in mind that, with the development of technology, many other fields of employment have opened up to the same people who would consider BEP as a vocation.  Aware of the hours and responsibilities that are required in each job opportunity available, you can see why many more individuals are choosing careers other than BEP.  
	But times are changing.  Oh yes!  An administrator was hired who has knowledge, drive, integrity and a willingness to work with the issues surrounding BEP.  Our current administrator has been in the position for over two years and, by all accounts, will remain in the position for many more.  Top DOR management has remained reasonably stable, thus allowing for the continuity needed for the program to advance.  BEP has established an applicant review panel which assists in the screening of potential trainees to ensure that those selected have the necessary skills and qualifications to assure some measure of success in completing the course and becoming capable vendors.  The Training Subcommittee also spends many hours promoting BEP.  Presentations are made regularly at regional counselor meetings where questions can be asked and answered.  
	A special fund, known as the 652 fund, has been established to pay the costs of BEP training instead of depending on the counselor's case funds.  Efforts are underway to streamline the required paperwork the counselor must complete for a client to be a BEP  trainee.  The current level of referrals has filled the spring  training class to capacity, and six students are being scheduled for  the fall class.   
	In spite of the image that many have of BEP, The opportunities available still make stand operation one of the best programs out there.  A person who chooses BEP as a career can do quite well for  himself and his family.  There are vendors who have only marginal incomes, but there are also those who make over $100,000 annually.  The average yearly income in California is $33,000.  What must be stressed, considering the type of person it takes to be a BEP vendor, is that the opportunity is there and what the person does with that opportunity is what will determine placement and income.  I am not aware of any other program which provides for someone with two dimes to become a self employed business person.
	Currently openings are unfolding in BEP.  The locations on roadside rest areas are being developed as well as the state prisons.  Many of these new opportunities are in the area of vending machines  which make fewer demands on the number of hours and responsibilities required while still furnishing a substantial income.  
	At every CCB convention we hear that the unemployment rate among the blind is over 70%; Yet BEP offers a real opportunity for someone.  If you know anyone who might be the kind of person that it takes to be a BEP vendor, inform him/her of the program and have that person make the counselor aware of BEP.


              THE LEGISLATIVE SEMINAR
                 by Ahmad Rahman 

	In March  there were only four delegates who attended this year's legislative seminar in Washington D.C.  The delegates  besides me were Al and Connie Gil and Jerry Fields.  We agreed that, in addition to keeping our personal appointments, we should also see "key" representatives.  These are legislators who chair or serve on committees that can affect the blind or visually impaired.  
	I made appointments with Senators Barbara Boxer and Diane
Feinstein and also with representatives Julian Dixon, Jane Harman, Stephen Horn, Juanita McDonald and Maxine Waters.
	In the past a simple telephone call was all that was necessary to confirm an appointment.  This year, however,  representatives requested that a fax be sent indicating the organization that we represented, the number of people in our group, The date and time of the appointment, and the issues to be discussed.
	I arrived in Washington on Sunday.  monday the Legislative Seminar, co-sponsored by the American Council of the Blind in conjunction with the American Foundation for the Blind, began.  The session opened with welcoming speeches by Carl Augusto,
President, AFB., and Paul Edwards, President, ACB.  Several panel discussions preceded lunch.  The Legislative Training and Advocacy Workshop began at 2:30 p.m. and ended at 5:30 p.m.  A number of
delegates expressed concern about whether a three-hour training
session was adequate to prepare us to present critical issues to our national leaders.  At previous seminars, a day and a half had been devoted to speakers and panel discussions of the issues to be presented on the Hill.  Those delegates unfamiliar with the issues had time and opportunity to carefully read the position papers, discuss them and ask questions.  Secondly, having a day and a half on the Hill allowed the newer delegates to go on appointments with the more experienced ones.
	At the workshop the speakers included Julie Carroll, Director, Governmental Affairs, ACB; Denise Rozell, Governmental Relations, AFB; and Scott Marshall, Vice-President Governmental Relations, AFB.Julie Carroll began with the R-Authorization of the Rehabilitation Act.  She indicated that she believed the Rehabilitation Act will be reauthorized this year but warned us of the importance of insisting upon retaining specialized services and programs for the blind and visually
impaired.  She reminded the delegates that at this time congress is not unduly concerned about assisting the blind community.  Preserving the specialized services for the blind gives the states the option  of creating separate commissions for the blind.  
	Since our return from the seminar, HR1385, the Reauthorization of the Rehabilitation Act, has passed the house; senate action is anticipated.  
	Ms.  Carroll also dealt with the social security linkage issue and the bills introduced to restore it.  The delegates were urged to have their senators support Senator John McCain's Bill.  In the House Congresswoman Barbara Kennelly has authored similar legislation. 
	Denise Rozell, Governmental Relations, AFB, gave a concise analysis of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which was to be reauthorized.  That has recently been accomplished; and the language protecting braille instruction, orientation and mobility services, and assistive technology has been preserved.
	Scott Marshall, Vice-President Governmental Relations, AFB, spoke about the need to urge congress to increase the pressure on the
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to implement regulations
that would ensure accessible telecommunications equipment under the Telecommunications Act of 1996.
	Tuesday morning we were taken by bus to the Rayburn Building, Room 2203--the "nerve center" for our visits on the Hill.  It was our debriefing room, lunchroom, rest area and pickup point for materials and information for the "walking warriors.
	All the appointments with congressmen were scheduled from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.  The Senators were seen in the afternoon.  
	The most effective way to influence the decisions of legislators is in face-to-face dialogue.  Going to the Hill is the first step in the process.   After introducing ourselves we presented the issues in which we were interested.  We tried to be specific, clear, and simple.  By relating real experiences and problems, we personalized the issues.  One congressional representative was able to identify with our cause because her mother was blind, and there were a number of staff persons who had blind relatives and friends or who had other disabilities.
	We were instructed that each representative and senator must be thanked for meeting with us.  The letters should emphasize the key points made in the interview.  The purpose of letters is to remind the legislators of the visit and the organization being represented.A critical approach is to call upon the legislators when they are at their local offices during congressional recess.  We should all seek appointments with our legislators since They are generally receptive to their constituents.  This is a good time to again go  over the issues presented in Washington.  We should provide them with copies of position papers and other appropriate materials.  


                 AROUND THE STATE

	The bicycle rental concession at Yosemite National Park has acquired a tandem bicycle for use by blind or visually impaired persons.  You need to provide your own sighted pilot.  Since only one tandem is available at this time, advance reservations
are strongly encouraged.  For further information and reservations. contact Joe Alfano at 209-372-1208.
	*****	     *****	                    *****
                   Chapter News

	San bernardino Chapter: Rhonda Marshall is chapter President and says things are going quite well.  Meetings are held at the Lighthouse for the Blind and are well attended.  The latest activity was a Cinco de Mayo celebration which drew an enthusiastic crowd of members and guests. 
	How about news from other chapters to give us all new ideas!  Please send them to AROUND THE STATE. 
Long Beach Chapter - Membership has improved this year and the chapter is initiating a campaign to contact civic and service organizations in the greater Long Beach area in an effort to get their help in distributing a brochure about the chapter.  It is hoped that this will result in more inquiries and referrals of possible new members.  

 
                   CCB OFFICERS

President:  Catherine Skivers, 836 Resota Street, Hayward, CA 94545

First Vice President: John Lopez, 3925 E. 6th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90023 

Second Vice President: Jeff Thom, 7414 Mooncrest Drive, Sacramento, CA 95831 

Secretary:  Kenneth Frasse, 141 Del Medio Ave., Apt. 223, Mountain View, CA 94040

Treasurer:  David Parker, 1600 Florida Street, Vallejo, CA 94590 

                CCB BOARD MEMBERS 

Jerry Glass, Redlands 	                    Kenneth Metz, Bay Point
Brian Hall, Westminster  	Charles Nabarrete, West Covina
Dr. Martin Jones, San Francisco	Roger Petersen, Mountain View
Dan Kysor, Sacramento 	                    Mitch Pomerantz, Los Angeles 
Patricia LaFrance, Temple City  	Teddie Remhild, Anaheim

              PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE 

Joan Black, Chair: 4925 Coke Ave., Lakewood, CA 90712;310-630-2304

Bernice Kandarian, Vice Chair:2211 Latham Tt. #120, Mountain            View, CA 94040; 415-969-1688
Ruth Dean: 1535 Westgate Ave., #4, Los Angeles, CA 90025;
	   310-826-8106
Winifred Downing: 1587 38th Ave., San Francisco, CA 94122;
	    415-564-5798
Brian Hall: 5722 Abraham Ave., Westminster, CA 92683;           
     714-894-3497
Maria Lopez: 3925 E. 6th St., Los Angeles, CA 90023; 213-268-4526
Daveed Mandell: 2720 Del Monte ave., El Cerrito, CA 94530;  
	    510-532-7687
Teddie Remhild: 200 N. Bilbert, #3, Anaheim, CA 92801; 
	   714-533-6051 
Cathy Schmitt: 348 S. Prosectors Road,#9,Diamond Bar, CA 91765 
     909-861-1653
Connie Skeem: 3250 Maple Ave., Oakland, CA 94602; 510-235-8715

    
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