

                         THE BLIND CALIFORNIAN



                      Quarterly Magazine of the 

                    CALIFORNIA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND



Fall, 2001, Volume 45, No. 4



      Published in Braille, Cassette, Diskette, and Large Print 




                     Catherine Skivers, President 
                          836 Resota Street 
                           Hayward, CA 94545
                           510-357-1986 Res.


                           Executive Office:
                             578 B Street
                           Hayward, CA 94541
                             800-221-6359
                             510-537-7877
                            e-mail ccotb@earthlink.net
                           Fax: 510-537-7830
                           www.ccbnet.org



                 Los Angeles Area Office, John Lopez 
             3925 East 6th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90023 
                             323-780-3500


                   Sacramento Area Office, Dan Kysor
                       2657 Truxel Road, No. 41
                         Sacramento, CA 95833
                             Fax/Office 916-648-3936
                       E-mail dan@kysor.net 


Please send all address changes to the Executive Office in
Hayward. 



                       Editor: Winifred Downing
                           1587 38th Avenue
                        San Francisco, CA 94122
                             415-564-5798
                     E-mail wmdowning@mindspring.com




Call the CALIFORNIA CONNECTION at 800-221-6359 for an update on
legislation and CCB events Monday through Friday after 4 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. 





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 Hayward office for other suggested forms.
Thank
you.

                           TABLE OF CONTENTS

FROM THE EDITOR, by Winifred Downing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

PRESIDENT'S CORNER, by Catherine Skivers . . . . . . . . . . . .1

A MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR AN OLD FRIEND, 
     by Jon Carroll  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

NEW LABOR SITE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES,
     by Marlaine Lieberg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

ABRAHAM NEMETH HONORED, submitted by 
     Christopher Gray  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

ACB CONVENTION REPORT, by Catherine Skivers  . . . . . . . . . .7

LIFE-ISMS, submitted by Patricia Price . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

CAREER CONNECTIONS: BROADENING YOUR HORIZONS, 
     by Catherine Schmitt  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

SUMMARY OF ACB CONVENTION 2001 RESOLUTIONS,
     by Jeff Thom  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

SEEDLINGS: SEWING THE SEEDS OF BRAILLE LITERACY,
     by Deborah R. Chappa  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

IN MEORIAM: ANNE FESH, by Charlie 
     Crawford  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

NOTES FROM SACRAMENTO, by Dan Kysor  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

BULLETIN BOARD, compiled by Keith Black  . . . . . . . . . . . 25

MIKE THE MECHANIC, by Brian Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

FEDERAL LEGISLATNION, by Ahmad Rahman  . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

THE POPSICLE TEST AND WHERE THE RUBBER MEETS THE 
     ROAD, part 1, by Dan Kysor  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

BENETIAN JOINS THE DIAPER BRIGADE, by Susan Young  . . . . . .34 

GOOD NEWS FOR STUDENTS, by Mary Ann Siller . . . . . . . . . . 36

ADDRESS BY DENNIS THERMON ON THE EDUCATION OF 
     BLIND CHILDREN, submitted by Winifred Downing . . . . . . 38

AROUND THE STATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

CCB OFFICERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

CCB BOARD OF DIRECTORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

CCB PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45


In accepting material for THE BLIND CALIFORNIAN, priority will be
given to articles concerning the activities and  policies of the
California Council of the Blind and to the experiences and
concerns of blind persons.  Recommended length is under 3 pages;
if space constraints make it necessary to divide an article,
every effort will be made to discuss the matter with the author
before publication. 
                         FROM THE EDITOR

                       by Winifred Downing

     During the first week of August, I sent out distress
signals, for I had no articles left from any previous issue to
begin preparing the fall 
bc.  I can't wait until the deadline to begin preparations or
there would be a very long delay before I could send the issue to
the printer.  
     Then in the last week of the month, several lengthy articles
about CCB matters that had to take precedence over other
submissions reached me.  I'm still struggling with bytes and
pages to see what has to be omitted; but if something you sent is
not used, please don't be offended.  I shall omit my own article
first, so I know well how disappointing it is to work hard on
something and then have it axed.  
     Thanks to those of you who are really considerate, sending
Word documents in Text Only, placing braille labels on disks,
letting me know by phone or e-mail that you have sent something,
and including a telephone number where I can check if I don't
understand something.
     There are two avenues of help that would assist me greatly. 
Please check the spelling of proper names you use even when you
think they are correct.  I spent hours going through convention
materials and issues of the FORUM and the  bc to check spellings. 
Often I would have almost finished editing an article before
realizing that a proper name wasn't spelled correctly; that meant
I had to start all over to check all the proper names that had
been used.
     The second way you can help me is by giving identifying
information in your article when you ask for response from
readers and listing your committee members if you ask readers to
contact them.  I did seek the identifying information but wasn't
able to track down committees.  

The next deadline for material is December 1, 2001.  


                       PRESIDENT'S CORNER

                      by Catherine Skivers 

     Busy is not the word to describe how things are in CCB these
days, for the summer has been packed with meetings of all kinds. 
When planning what to put into my portion of the BC, it is very
difficult to decide which of our activities I should bring to
your attention.  If I put everything that is in my calendar in
the BC, our editor would not have room for anything else, but 
here are some of the highlights. 
     We received a substantial bequest from Raymond Franchi.  He
was a high school teacher and so our board felt that it was
appropriate to put into our Scholarship Fund a portion of the
money he left to the Council.  When we make our selections for
scholarship winners, we will present $2500 to a student who is
studying to be a teacher in special education.  Raymond Franchi's
generosity is going to help us in continuing with our many fine
programs.  
     Delaine Eastin, Superintendent of Public Instruction, has
named a Blindness Advisory Task Force for the Department of
Education.  The task force has met and formed six subcommittees, 
one of which, the   one devoted to research, I am to chair.  We
hope to find out what laws have been passed relating to the
education of blind and visually impaired students and whether or
not these laws are being implemented.  In talking with members of
the task force, I realized that there is a lot to be learned
about what is happening in education.  I have sent out a survey
to those in charge of educating our blind children to see how we
may be able to improve delivery of services.  The survey will be
found at the end of my report.  
     The Commission bill, SB105, has gone to a 2-year bill.  We
are working on it with the Blind Alliance for Rehabilitation
Change members and with legislators.  Dan Kysor is doing a fine
job for us; you will be hearing about his work elsewhere in these
pages.  There has been considerable opposition from other
disability groups.  Some of them seem unable to understand that
all we are asking for is that, dollars that are available for
services to the blind be directed toward specialized services
that blind people need.  
     I hope you are listening to the California Connection.  If
you are, you know that our legislative program is progressing
very well.  I have met with some of the District Administrators
of the Department of Rehabilitation and regularly attend meetings
of the Blind Advisory Committee of that department.  
     As your delegate to the American Council of the Blind (ACB)
Convention, I went to Des Moines, Iowa, in July.  I am going to
report about that elsewhere in these pages; but just in case you
don't read the entire BC, I want you to know what a pleasure it
was to see Chris Gray, one of our own members, become president
of the ACB.  We were also pleased to see Ardis Bazyn, another
Californian, become ACB Treasurer.  Mitch Pomerantz was already
on the ACB Board of Directors, and Winifred Downing was on the
Board of Publications so now we have four Californians
representing us.  I am so glad that CCB is the strong and dynamic
organization that it is so that we can support our national board
members, as well as do a lot for the blind and visually impaired
in our state.
    By the time you read this, you will already have heard about
our fund-raiser for CCB and its chapters.  If you have not read
Rhonda King's article in the Summer issue of the BC, please do so
immediately.  You will see that our hard-working membership
committee has done much to stimulate membership in CCB.  We hope
to have the handbook they have prepared ready for you by the Fall
Convention.  
     Speaking of conventions, we have been in negotiations with a
number of hotels; and I am pleased to be able to tell you that
the convention room rates this fall, and in the spring will be
$70 for single or double accommodations.  This rate was not
easily secured.  Rates in all California hotels continue to be
outrageous.  I am thankful that our Board understands this and
has taken steps to enable us to present these rates.  
     A delegation from CCB attended America Walks in Oakland,
August 16-18.  There were 150 people who met to discuss
pedestrian safety.  Gene Lozano made a presentation, as did
Debbie Grubb on behalf of the ACB.   CCB members attending were
from the Access and Technology Committees.  I am sure we will be
hearing more about their activities.   Everyone that attended has
had positive comments and has been most enthusiastic about the
meeting.      
     Jeff Thom will go to San Diego in late August to meet with
oeace officers who will be discussing crimes against blind and
disabled persons.  They are talking about making a video to be
shown throughout the state.  The conference will last two days,
and I am confident that we could not find a better CCB
representative than our first vice president. 
     CCB is going to have its own Web site.   Those of you who
are computer literate know that the American Council Web site
recently experienced great difficulty.  Our thanks go to Dan
Kysor, who backed up the information that appeared on the CCB Web
page which had been linked to the ACB Web page.  The Board felt
that we should create our own Web site so that we will be
protected from future interruptions on the Web.  
     The Capitol Chapter held a contest to send a youngster to
Space Camp in Alabama.  This time a 13-year-old young lady living
near Los Angeles won.  We are inviting her and her parent to come
to our banquet at the fall convention.  We will be recognizing
our scholarship winners then so this seems like a good time to
get to know her and her family.
     The trust fund left by Ellen Murphy should be transferred to
us any day now.  Ellen wanted us to assist senior blind and
visually impaired women.  She talked with organizations of the
blind throughout the country and she decided she would trust CCB
to see that her wishes were carried out.  She named Pat La
France-Wolf, Teddie-Joy Remhild and me as trustees.  There is a
great deal of need among our seniors, both men and women; but it
was Ellen's wish that we use the trust fund for women only, so
that is what we will do.  I hope that someday we will have the
good fortune to find someone who has the same concerns for our
senior blind men.  If I have learned anything as your President
since January 1, 1997, it is that all things are possible.  Who
would have thought that, when we were so close to bankruptcy in
1997, we could have moved ahead to be in a sound financial
position today!
     The future of CCB looks very bright.  I invite you to become
a part of that future as a strong member of CCB.  
   Below is the survey sent to the Special Education Local
Planning Area (SELPA) Directors on July 31, 2001 by the Research
Sub-Committee of the Blindness Advisory Task Force of the
California Department of Education.
     1.  How many blind or visually impaired students are there
in your SELPA?
     2.  How many credentialed teachers for the blind and
visually impaired program do you have?
     3.  How many of the students use braille?
     4.  How many use large print?
     5.  What other reading formats are in use in your SELPA?
     6.  Do you utilize teacher's aids in teaching reading skills
to blind and visually impaired students?
     7.  Do you have resource rooms or itinerant teachers or
both?
     8.  How many of your students have been offered Braille when
preparing their IEP?


             A MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR AN OLD FRIEND 

                         by Jon Carroll

     (From the San  Francisco  Chronicle, July 27, 2001.
submitted by Elizabeth Heidhues.) 
     Let us not speak of tape recorders, an almost obsolete
technology that is even now writhing on the floor in its death
throes.  Oh, it will be years before they're gone completely, but
the handwriting is on the wall.   Mene Mene Tekel Memorex, it
says. 
     Here is our personal sitch: My wife enjoys listening to a
good book on tape while driving in the car or walking around Lake
Merritt.  Also, my wife's mother, the fabulous Ruth, enjoys books
on tape, partly because her eyesight is not what it used to be
and aural delivery of prose is really the only satisfactory
alternative at this point.  Tracy buys small tape recorders for
her lakeside rambles.  As we know, small tape recorders are built
to fall apart so you will buy another small tape recorder.  This
happened recently, and Tracy went shopping for a new one.  
     In the dusty corner of the store reserved for blacksmiths,
home movie cameras and Betamax machines, she found a new tape
recorder.  Pretty cheap. Only one problem: It had no rewind
button.  So that is what we are mourning today: the passing of
the rewind button.  It was a fine technology, but now it's a
premium item, an add-on luxury.  Wanna rewind? You're going to
have to pay a little more. 
     The makers of the tape recorder point out that, should a
person need to rewind, they can just take the tape out, flip it
over and press the fast forward, then take it out, flip it over
again and see if they've hit the right spot, and if not they can
take it out, flip it over . . . I mean. 
We understand that this is a subtle way of making the tape
recorder more difficult to use, so we'll all switch over to CDs,
which are the technology of the future until that fungus that
eats the discs really takes hold.  But that won't be decades yet. 
     Well, you ask, what is the matter with Books on CD rather
than Books on Tape?  They do come that way now.  They are more
expensive, but that's where the consumer electronics people are
pushing the nation. 
     As I said, Tracy enjoys sharing the tapes with her mother. 
Her mother has limited vision.  Have you seen what portable CD
players look like?  My Sony has very small buttons labeled with
really small print including fabulous nonintuitive captions like
"Sound" "Yes, Please", "Play Mode" and "Repeat/Enter." 
     Ruth belongs to the fastest-growing segment of the nation's
population, the segment that grew up with Victrolas and 78s. 
They went through LPs and stereos and tape recorders, and quite 
frankly, they are getting a little tired of the same old sounds
in new delivery systems.  On my Sony CD player, the most
important buttons aren't even labeled, they're just hard-to-see
cryptic arrows.  In short: Not  suitable for the visually
impaired. Even the big home 
entertainment systems with five-disc CD changers and shuffle
mode, feature really tiny buttons with odd labels.  My secret
belief is that it's a design choice that says, "Hey you
18-35-year-old disposable income music freak people, here's a
machine it's impossible for old people to use!  Isn't that
great!" Gosh I love generation-gap marketing. 
 So cassette tapes are the platform of choice in some portions of
the real world--and the rewind button has been phased out!  I 
reserve the right to be cranky about this for the next five
years. 

           NEW LABOR SITE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

                       by Marlaina Lieberg

(Submitted from the Web by Sue Ammeter, August 2, 2001.)
     In October, a new federal Web site is expected to make it
much simpler to get information.  The Labor Department is
preparing to launch www.Disability.Direct.gov --a portal designed
to direct Internet users to local, state and federal information
about services available to people with disabilities.
     The site is part of President Bush's New Freedom Initiative,
which is intended to increase education, employment and housing
opportunities for Americans with disabilities.
     Unlike most federal Web sites, DisabilityDirect will focus
heavily on the local level where services are typically
delivered, rather than on the federal level where they are
funded, said Dick Griffin, the project's manager at Labor.
     Users will begin by entering a ZIP code that automatically
screens information to the user's locality.  Next, users select a
category of services or information and are presented with
details about programs and services available in their areas.
     Helpful tips, such as telephone numbers, travel instructions
and suggestions on steps to take, will also be offered, Griffin
said.
     "We've worked very hard to make this as easy as possible,"
he said.  Making the site easy for the public to use was only
part of the challenge, Griffin said.  It also had to be designed
for easy use by those who will supply information for the site. 
For the most part, they will be local, state and federal
employees trained to provide services to people with disabilities
but most likely not trained to operate Web sites.
     To a degree, the DisabilityDirect site will be automated.  A
search engine developed by Autonomy Corp.  will comb the Internet
for information and programs that would be useful to people with
disabilities.
     Unlike search engines that work by finding keywords, the
Autonomy engine analyzes Web content for concepts.  It will
develop lists of relevant Web sites for DisabilityDirect managers
to evaluate for inclusion in the public site.


                     ABRAHAM NEMETH HONORED

                  submitted by Christopher Gray

     (This article was written by Indiana journalist Max
Showalter.)
     Monday was not the first time the inventor of the Nemeth
Braille Code heard praise for his work;  but comments directed
toward Abraham Nemeth brought a smile to the face of the
82-year-old mathematician who has been blind since birth.
     Created in 1952, this mathematical braille system is used by
visually impaired students who are taking science and mathematics
courses at the high school and collegiate levels.
     "I'm forever in Dr. Nemeth's debt for creating the code. 
It's had such a profound effect on my life as a scientist," said
Cary Supalo, a blind chemist who received an undergraduate degree
from Purdue University and is pursuing a Ph.D. in chemistry at
Penn State University.
     "I first met Dr. Nemeth seven years ago at a meeting of the
National Federation of the Blind and I told him, 'I thought you
were dead.'' We've talked over the years since then."
     Nemeth was a lively guest of honor during an open house
Monday that celebrated a recent expansion at gh LLC, an
18-month-old company in the Purdue Research Park that provides
services to the visually impaired.
     "I'm very happy that what I have created is very important
to hundreds of people in the forefront of mathematics and
science," Nemeth said during a speech to staff members and
researchers from other high-tech firms. "I did it just for
myself, so I could study mathematics. I'm still trying to do as
much good as I can."
     David Schleppenbach is the founder of gh and a Purdue
alumnus who has written numerous articles for science and
educational publications.  He plans to author a biography of
Nemeth, who holds degrees from Columbia University and is an
emeritus professor of mathematics at the University of Detroit.
     Patti Walsh was a low-vision middle student who excelled in
mathematics and science.  In 1996, she lost her vision in a
medical accident but was able to continue an advanced studies
high school program and will soon graduate from Oregon State
University.
     "I lost my vision at the end of the eighth grade and spent
that summer learning the Nemeth Code after I was told I could no
longer pursue math and science," she told Nemeth. "I'm very
grateful for what you've done.  It was the step I needed to
continue on my career path."
     It's estimated that 30,000 high school and college students
are using the Nemeth Braille Code.
     Supalo recalled the general chemistry class he took as a
freshman at the West Lafayette campus--before he learned about
the code through Schleppenbach, who was a teaching assistant at
the time.
     "My grades went way up after that," said Supalo, who serves
as a consultant for gh. "It's a hard enough class as it is.  Not
being able to see was really difficult."
     Launched in February of last year, gh LLC provides services
to the visually impaired through the development of braille
textbooks, Braille manuals and Accessible HTML.  The company's
customers include schools and the federal government, especially
the Internal Revenue Service.
     Located in the Purdue Research Park, gh began with four
employees and now has a staff of 16 full-time employees and
several part-time workers.  Spokesman Dan Cravens said the
letters "gh" in the company's name don't stand for anything in
particular but look nice when written together.
  

                      ACB CONVENTION REPORT

                 by Catherine Skivers, Delegate
                  Jeff Thom, Alternate Delegate

     The 40th convention of the American Council of the Blind was
held in Des Moines, Iowa, from June 30th through July 7th.  It
was hard to believe that we had reached our 40th anniversary
already.  Many of us who were on hand when the ACB was formed
were very happy to be able to participate in 2001.  
     The national convention has several features that are
similar to our California Council of the Blind conventions.  All
general sessions begin with invocations from many denominations
and with the salute to the flag.  They also have entertainment
one half hour prior to the opening of each general session. 
     The first meeting was held Sunday evening, July 1st.  At the
same time our convention was meeting, there was an international
music festival going on in Des Moines; and we heard from one of
the groups, the  Des Moines chorale, a 45-voice children's
chorus.  Hearing them made some of us wish that we could have
attended the festival, which must have been truly wonderful.
     We were welcomed by Donna Seliger, President of the Iowa
Council of the United Blind and heard a speech by Iowa's Senator
Tom Harkin.  It is encouraging to know that we have a congressman
of his stature who works closely with the Iowa Council and has
supported much legislation of benefit to blind and other disabled 
persons.  
     Carl Agusto, President of the American Foundation for the
Blind (AFB), made a presentation which was a big surprise for me. 
As many of you know, I had received in the spring an award from
AFB for my work with the Automated Teller Machines.  Carl was
eager to have the whole country know about this success and made
the presentation again before the ACB Convention.  
     There were other particularly happy moments, too.  We were
delighted to hear of the addition of a new ACB affiliate from the
state of New Mexico.  The awards presented were also both
interesting and gratifying; you will read about them in detail in
the Forum.  This report aims to cover just the highlights of the
convention since it encompassed far too much for me to tell you
the whole story.  ACB will soon publish a special edition of the
Forum to cover all the events.
     Paul Edwards, President of the ACB, gave one of his usual
fine reports.  Although many topics were discussed, primary
emphasis was placed on our effort to ensure that FCC regulations
mandating a limited amount of video description are not
overturned.  Continuing efforts to make audible pedestrian
signals increasingly available was also discussed.  Paul dealt,
too, with issues of voting access reform and with the increasing
importance of ACB and its positions in the World Blind Union.  
     The impact of the Garrett decision, Paul cautioned, is
potentially disastrous; we cannot lose our right to obtain
reasonable accommodations from state employers.  We will also
continue fighting, along with those with other disabilities, to
ensure that we do not lose the rights and protections provided by 
IDEA, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. 
Vigilance, too, must still be directed to protecting  and
enhancing the opportunities afforded by the Randolph-Sheppard
program.   
     The session began on Monday with welcoming words from the
mayor of Des Moines and a presentation by Cynthia Towers,
Secretary of ACB, concerning her appearance on the Oprah TV show,
including a film clip.  
     Creig Slayton, director of the Department for the Blind in
Iowa, talked about the programs offered.  Except for income
maintenance and education, all blindness programs are
administered by that single department.  As an example of the innovations adopted, a number of BEP sights
have been established along the state highways.  Creig gave
statistics showing a steady increase in the number of blind and
visually impaired people employed from 1997 through the year
2000.  The average wage of a person being placed in the year 2001
was $12.11.  Employment placements are a priority in Iowa.
     As part of a panel on the Randolph-Sheppard program, Richard
Bird, vendor and long-time ACB member, commented on the drastic
loss nationally over the last decade in the total number of
facilities in the program. Julie Carroll, an attorney who
represents both the Randolph-Sheppard vendors of America and
individual vendors, reported on our success in the case seeking
to undermine our placement priorities in federal military
installations. The future is uncertain, however, for not only
might this case be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, but
legislation could be introduced to abolish our priority.  
     An ophthalmologist discussed recent breakthroughs in that
field, including the use of genetic mapping, chemical research
that may be used to find cures for genetic conditions, the use of
viral agents to fight genetic problems, and the availability of
cheaper and easier ways to administer tests for various eye
diseases like macular degeneration.  
     We heard a taped speech by Reese Robrahn, the second
president of ACB, serving  in that capacity from 1966 to 1972. 
His presentation was especially meaningful to me because I had
worked to have him become president of the organization and had
the privilege of serving on the Board of Directors during his
tenure.  Prior to becoming president, Reese had been a staff
member and a Treasurer of ACB.  He talked about the founding and
early days of our organization.  His humor, passion and knowledge
were all shown in this wonderful address.  
     "The Future of the Book" was the subject of the next panel. 
a new system is being developer and will soon be operational
which will allow all users to share their computerized texts by
downloading them to a central shared site.  The future of digital
recording of books and the efforts to develop international
standards for books and the devices to be used in playing them
were discussed by a representative of the Daisy Consortium.  Work
is progressing with e-books that are not currently accessible,
and some producers, like RFB&D are already making a few such
books available.  We heard an example of a digital book.  
     Mark Reichert, an ACB member and AFB staff member, commented
on our work with the Association of America Publisher and groups
in the blindness field to draft legislation on accessible
materials for students with disabilities.  A detailed article on
this subject appears elsewhere in this issue of the BC.
     Tuesday began with an ACB business meeting.  Oral Miller,
chair of the Nominating Committee, gave his report.  This year we
had to elect new officers for ACB, always an exciting time and
especially so for Californians because Chris Gray and Ardis Bazyn
were in the running with two candidates seeking every office. 
Although the election did not occur until Friday, this seems like
a good place to state the results: Christopher Gray from
California is the new ACB president; Steve Speicher from
Nebraska, first vice president; M.J. Schmitt from Illinois,
second vice president; Donna Seliger from Iowa, secretary; and
Ardis Bazyn from California, treasurer.  With the election of
M.J.  Schmitt to the office of second vice president, the Board
seat she had occupied became vacant.  Brian Charlson from
Massachusetts was elected to fill out her term.   
     Later that morning, a panel convened called "Progress to
Separate Agencies."  Charles Crawford was the moderator with M.J. 
Schmitt, Pearl Van Zandt and Catherine Skivers as panelists. 
Pearl Van Zandt, head of the Nebraska Commission for the Blind,
spoke at length about the fight to get the commission established
and the ongoing struggle to retain it.  She dislikes having to
expend any resources on these battles when they would be better
spent placing blind folks in jobs.  She listed the services the
Commission provides and referred to grants that the commission
had provided to ACB of Nebraska and its local affiliates.  
     M.J.  Schmitt described Illinois's current efforts to get a
commission for the blind or at least a separate department.  The
bureau that provides rehabilitation services to blind and
visually impaired clients has lost most of its autonomy.  
     I had the opportunity to talk about our work to have a
commission established in California.  It has indeed been
historic to have consumer and other agencies of and for the blind
working together toward this goal.  
     The ACB scholarship report was given, and the winners were
presented.  The names will appear in a future Braille Forum
issue.    Not scheduled on the agenda, but a highlight of the
convention for me, was an invitation to speak before the National
Alliance  of Blind Students.  We talked about the various ways in
which people become involved in leadership.  Later CCB hosted a
dinner for seven of the students.  They are a bright and
articulate group of young people, and we can be proud of having
them as CCB and ACB members.
     Tuesday morning continued with Oral Miller's reflections on
the 1970s when he served as President of ACB from 1978 to 1981. 
He was the first president not to have been a member of ACB, a
significant fact in that it indicated the maturation of ACB into
a thriving movement.  He described a number of ACB activities and
discussed the growth in membership and staff.
     Jim Gibbons, president of National Industries for the Blind
(NIB), discussed sheltered workshop employment, emphasizing both
the many advancements throughout the country and the slower
market conditions that are causing problems.  Machine operators,
workers at distribution centers and word processors, are just a
few of the jobs carried out by blind or visually impaired
individuals earning wages that are often extremely good. NIB
wants to communicate to  the world, and specifically to
employers, the success of blind workers.  An effort continues to
explore further potential fields of employment.  Research is
going forward not only on what other avenues might be appropriate
but on whether current workshop employees are satisfied with
their jobs.  
     Jim Chandler, CEO of Freedom Scientific, has been very
generous to ACB.  He highlighted trends that occurred during the
twentieth century, including the advance of disability rights,
the advent of computer technology, and increased access to
information.  Small companies have done much in the access
technology area but mid-sized companies are able to remain in the
market longer.  The future holds out hope for improved artificial
intelligence, speech recognition and language translation. Mobile
scanning will provide verbal instructions, and there will be more
product segmentation of different markets for blind folks.  
     During the convention, numerous by-laws and constitutional
amendments were read and discussed, the majority of which were
defeated.  About the only substantive measure which passed raised
the annual dues of ACB members from $3.00 to $5.00   Resolutions
were also read throughout the convention; Jeff Thom has a summary
of the principal ones in this BC issue.  
     Jim Olsen discussed ACB's major fund raising arm, ACB
Enterprises and Services (ACBES) as the first item on Wednesday's
program.  He described the main enterprises, which are thrift
stores, including one in Des Moines.  The quality of clothing is
monitored and what cannot be sold as regular merchandise is sold
for rags.  Brochures are distributed, and receipts for tax
purposes are provided. 
     In the procession of past ACB presidents, Otis Stephens, ACB
president from 1987 to 1989, talked about the 1980s when ACB
increased its staff and offices throughout the country.  The
success of the thrift stores enabled the organization to expand
and to enlarge the scholarship program.  The ACB was involved
with the PLAYBOY controversy with the federal government for its
refusal to put that magazine into braille.  Other issues of
interest concerned vendors and aircraft regulations.  Grant Mack
was also president during that period.  He lost his sight in
middle age and learned braille, which he used frequently in his
active life.  During that time thrift store income began to
decrease significantly causing ACB severe financial difficulties
in the mid-1980s.  Belt tightening, reduction in staff, and money
borrowed from affiliates and individuals rescued the organization
and ultimately made it stronger than ever.  Adversity fostered
unity.    
     A panel on voting was the next program item.  Melanie
Brunson discussed various competing bills currently in Congress. 
Two of them would establish a study panel on voting methods and
procedures and a commission to implement recommendations.  One
bill would also provide federal money to enable state and local
governments to modernize voting procedures and equipment.  It is
important to make sure that these grants are tied to access for
those with visual impairments so that we can all independently
cast a private, verifiable ballot.  
     Kent Culver, Iowa's Secretary of State expressed his
commitment to voting access for those with visual impairments and
is hopeful about the federal legislation being considered.  It is
supported by recommendations from the National Secretaries of
State Association on access to all.  Iowa's goals are voter
education and the training and recruitment of election workers to
serve at the local level.  Training will include issues relating
to visual impairments.  
     Jim Dixon, an accessible machine company representative
invited to participate in the panel, stated that every precinct
needs an accessible machine and that consumers should help the
manufacturers convince local and state officials that accessible
machines are available.  We must advocate for those machines and
bring lawsuits if necessary, especially when state or local
offices purchase inaccessible equipment such as optical scanner
systems.   
     Charlie Crawford then introduced the fine ACB staff.  The
NFB maintains that ACB is small and ineffective, But our many
victories, including transit platforms, audible pedestrian
signals and video description, indicate otherwise.  We are the
true representatives of the blind who care about their future.
     David Hartley-Margolin, NLS narrator, gave a rollicking
demonstration of how narration works in the studio.  He thanked
all the studio staff and gave us a great picture of how a  book
is narrated.  
     Following this lively interlude was the panel "Keeping
Informed the ACB Way."  Penny Reeder, Forum editor, reported on
the Forum, stating that subscriptions have increased over the
last year in all formats.  ACB sends out many press releases on a
variety of issues.  She and others also conduct interviews and
prepare items for the Web.  Erline Hughes, ACB Webmaster, said
that membership forms and scholarship applications are available
online.  It was also possible to fill out Legislative seminar
forms online, and many folks registered for the ACB convention
that way.    

     On Thursday morning, Leroy Saunders talked to us about his
years as president, 1989-1995.  He was the first low vision
person elected to that office in ACB.  He was also the first one
to send correspondence in accessible formats.  During his
administration, Nolen Crabb became Forum editor, and Paul
Schroeder and Julie Carroll were hired by the organization.  Paul
Schroeder was subsequently elected to the White House as ACB
representative.  Leroy initiated a long-range plan.  He reported
to the Board of Directors for the workers of the Blind Union.   
     At this point, those attending the convention divided into
breakout groups. Group A was concerned with safely getting to the
location of the ATM; Julie Carroll took care of that part of the
discussion.  The accessibility of ATM's was discussed by Lainey
Feingold.  Group B dealt with "Communicating Rather Than
Stressing" a great program facilitated by Pam Shaw.  Group C was
devoted to descriptive video, "DVS in Your Community", with Mary
Watson of station WGBH in Boston, Kim Charlson and Joel Snyder
from Washington, D.C.    
     Jeff Thom attended the breakout session on video description
featuring Melanie Brunson's discussion of the ongoing case
against the FCC by NFB and companies involved with TV and
broadcasting.  An excellent presentation was made by Kim Charlson
on local efforts to secure video description including a grant
that the Boston area obtained to train local narrators.  More
details of the breakout sessions will appear in the Braille
Forum. 
     On Friday morning we heard from Gordon Dingle from the
Canadian Council of the Blind.  He represents the National
Federation of Canada.  The federation is growing, and there is
now a federal commitment to work with the provinces on blindness
issues, but consumers do not have much to say in government
decisions.  Service providers dictate what and how services will
be rendered.  The Canadian Federation is in no way connected with
the National Federation in the United States.  
     Paul Edwards, a dynamic ACB president from 1995 to 2001,
delivered an address, "The Millennium, Recollections."  As usual, he gave a fine speech, a moving account of the many
things that happened during his administration.  
     The election of officers, reported on earlier in this
article,  followed. Before elections all candidates appear at
caucuses held by all the states.  Because many Californians had
convention responsibilities of various kinds and were quite busy,
I solved our caucus problem by having a breakfast at 7 AM on
Thursday morning.  I could, therefore, determine which CCB
members were present; and we were all able to hear the candidates
so that, by the time elections began on Friday, we all knew who
was going to be supported and what we were going to do.  
     Many affiliate representatives talked to me about our car
donation program.  Some of them already have successful programs. 
I met for lunch with the delegation from Arkansas and was able to
put them in touch with John Learned, who heads up our car
donation program.  May they have the success that California has
enjoyed!
     There was a little extra challenge at this convention
because people were lodged in five hotels.  The fact that the
general sessions were held in the Convention Center, which was
fairly distant from the hotels, called for greater effort and
more initiative from members than usual.  Although the hotels
were connected by a skywalk, it required a great deal of
commuting by foot or wheel.  
     Your delegate managed to keep pretty busy at the convention. 
 I attended the Nominating Committee meeting, all general
sessions, a breakout session, and some committee meetings;  but I
also managed to have some fun.  On one such occasion I was
invited to play the piano for Teddie-Joy Remhild's Alliance on
Aging and Vision Loss mixer.  People stood around the piano and
sang for two hours.  
     There is no way that we can hope to bring to you the spirit,
the energy and commitment of people who attended the ACB
convention.  I thank the CCB members who attended a lot of the
functions that were held during the week and especially Jeff
Thom, who was an extremely capable and dependable alternate
delegate.  Not only did he attend all general sessions as I did,
but he was (is) president of the American Council Blind Lawyers
Association and served on the demanding Resolutions Committee.  
     The next ACB convention is scheduled for Houston, Texas, at
the Adams Mark Hotel from June 29 to July 6th, 2002.  The
telephone number for making reservations is 800-444-2326.  The
rate for single and double occupancy is $65 per night plus 17%
tax.  If you get the chance, I urge you to attend this
convention.  ACB met at this hotel, and members found is fairly
easy to navigate.  The convention for 2003 will take place in
Pittsburgh, PA and will move to Alabama in 2004.  
     Tapes of the ACB convention are available from the national
office for $25: 800-424-8666 between 11 AM and 2 PM Pacific time. 


                            LIFE-ISMS

                     submitted by Pat Price

     1. Living on earth is expensive, but it does include a free
trip around the sun.
     2. Birthdays are good for you; the more you have, the longer
you live.
     3. How long a minute is depends on what side of the bathroom
door you're on.
     4. Ever notice that the people who are late are often much
jollier than the people who have to wait for them?
     5. If ignorance is bliss, why aren't more people happy?
     6. Most of us go to our grave with our music still inside of
us.
     7. If Wal-Mart is lowering prices every day, how come
nothing is free yet?
     8. You may be only one person in the world, but you may also
be the world to one person.
     9. Some mistakes are too much fun to make only once.
     10. Don't cry because it's over; smile because it happened.
     11. We could learn a lot from crayons: some are sharp, some
are pretty, some are dull, some have weird names, and all are
different colors, but they all have to learn to live in the same
box.
     12. Everything should be made as simple as possible, but no
simpler.
     13. A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on
a detour.
     14. Happiness comes through doors you didn't even know you
left open.


          CAREER CONNECTIONS: BROADENING YOUR HORIZONS 

                      by Catherine Schmitt

     Becoming bored with your job?  Ready for a change?  These
are thoughts individuals sometimes have about their current
employment.  Many do nothing and stay in the same job for years. 
They do nothing regarding these feelings because they do not know
what steps to take to change positions. 
     If you are in this situation, there are some things that you
can do to either help guide your current position in a different
direction or to seek other avenues of employment.  Listed below
are some ideas on how to explore potential growth opportunities. 
     The best time to search for a new position is when you are
already employed.  Not all these suggestions may work for you,
and many will probably need to be done on your own time. 
Remember, though, that the reward (a new position) will probably
outweigh the initial costs.  
     The first step to exploring other possibilities is to sit
down and write out everything that you now do on your job.  Next,
identify the duties that you like doing, those that you are so-so
about and those that you do not like doing.  Then list tasks that
you have seen others performing in which you would like to engage
(even if you do not know how to do the task at the present time. 
     Once you have your list, see if there are any patterns among
the listed tasks.  Does a pattern emerge showing that you want
more customer interaction, or that you would like to perform more
financial management duties, for example?    Once you have an
understanding of what you would like to do, take a look around
your current employment setting to see if there is that type of
position within the organization.    Or is it a position that
there is a demonstrated need to create within the organization?  
     If there is a position within the organization, identify the
person presently doing that work and conduct an informational
interview with him or her.  Explain that you would like to move
into a position like the one the person has, but you are not out
to take over her position.  Seek her advice because she is the
expert compared to you.  Ask about the specific duties; learn
about training opportunities and professional conferences in the
field.  Ask if there are any projects/committees that you could
become involved with to gain more experience and understanding in
the area.  Also ask the person to let you know when she hears
about other position openings in the field.
     While you need to assess your own situation, often
individuals do not share their interest in growing professionally
in a different direction with their boss because they are
concerned with negative retribution.  Many managers actually like
to hear from their employees when they want to grow and want help
the employees reach their goals.  So, consider sharing your
wishes for professional growth with your supervisor.  
     Are you looking at changing in 6 months or 3 years after
some more education? Knowing that can help your manager in the
planning process for the department.  Request your manager's
support.  Ask if she could recommend your participation on
certain types of committees or projects that will help you reach
your goals.  Let it be known that you are willing to pursue some
of these additional opportunities (such as participating in a
committee) on your own time.  Also bring up any professional
conference related to your area of interest and ask if you could
have the time to attend if you pay your own way.  Who knows?  The
boss may pay your way as well as allowing you the time to attend! 
     The key is to be specific as to what you believe you need to
learn to be able to transition into your position of choice.  Ask
your boss if she has any other suggestions for ways to increase
your opportunities. 
     Looking outside your organization, do you know anyone
professionally or personally who is in the type of position that
you want?  If yes, then speak with that individual specifically
about what she does and ask for her to share resources, volunteer
opportunities and information about conferences and job openings.
It is also good to have everyone you know be aware of your goals
because you never know who may have a lead for you.
     Identify organizations that have the types of positions that
you are interested in pursuing.  Contact one and ask to conduct
an information interview with the person in the position of
interest.  You are not asking for a job at this time but gaining
information and learning what you need to do to increase your
chances for successfully obtaining a position.  
     Begin reviewing job descriptions and job announcements in
the area of interest.  Identify things that you have done that
meet the requirements for the position.  You probably have many
skills that will transfer from one field to another.  For the
tasks that you have not completed or if more education is
necessary, develop a plan for how you will address these
deficits.  Do you need a certificate or another degree for which
further attendance at school is required?  
     Going to a relevant conference will allow you to accomplish
several things.  You will become more aware of the trends within
the industry, you will be able to identify the companies that
hire in the area of interest, you will be able to network, and
you can mention attendance at a trade-related conference in your
cover letter which is sent out with your resume.
     Becoming involved with discussion via the Internet can also
provide valuable information about trends, position openings and
contacts.  Research industry Web-Pages and read trade journals to
learn more about the industry generally and the competition.  You
can also request company annual reports for additional
information.
     Once you have an understanding of what it is that you want
to do, create a resume outlining anything and everything that you
have done related to that type of position.  Include committee
work, presentations and discussions that you have had with
others.  Once you have a resume created, ask an appropriate
person to review the resume and provide feedback.  
     These tips will enable you to grow personally and
professionally.  Now it is your turn to put in the effort.


           SUMMARY OF ACB CONVENTION 2001 RESOLUTIONS

                          by Jeff Thom

     A future issue of the Braille Forum will provide a brief
summary of every resolution adopted at the 2001 ACB Convention. 
This article is intended to discuss some of the more important
and interesting resolutions.  The topics of some of the
resolutions not specifically discussed in this summary include
needed state law reforms in eligibility for long-term care,
disability insurance and auto insurance, expansion of a copyright
exemption to include large print materials, a resolution
supporting potential action by the Department of Justice to
modify the definition of service animals, and the failure of the
Department of Veterans Affairs to vigorously enforce
Randolph-Sheppard vendor requirements with respect to facilities
under their jurisdiction.  
     Resolution 2001-1 dealt with the nomination of  Joanne
Wilson as head of the Rehabilitation Services Administration,
about which there is much concern given the fact that Ms. Wilson
is a long-time Federationist in charge of the Louisiana Center
for the Blind.  The resolution provided that we would oppose any
nominee who refused to endorse the 13 principles adopted last
year by ACB as the basis for operating a state agency serving the
blind.  Many of these principles are related to the need for fair
and equal treatment of consumers and for consumer input and
choice.  
     The controversial nature of this resolution topic, and the
fact that it came up on the last day of the convention, spawned a
motion that, I think, symbolizes why we pride ourselves on being
a far more open organization than the other major consumer group
of blind and visually impaired Americans.  It was moved that
controversial resolutions should be brought up prior to the last
day of the convention so that more individuals would be able to
debate and vote upon them.  The motion, after lively debate, was
adopted.  Although it may be somewhat difficult to carry out, the
reason I bring it to your attention is that it signifies the
extent to which ACB members want controversial issues to be aired
publicly and debated openly.       
     Two resolutions were adopted with respect to the Garrett
decision, by which the United States Supreme Court ruled that
states were not subject to suits for damages under Title I of the
Americans with Disabilities Act.  
     Resolution 2001-10 encouraged the adoption of state laws
that would allow such suits, while Resolution 200-04 urged the
adoption of federal legislation under which states would be
required to waive immunity against those lawsuits as a condition
for receiving federal funds.
     Three resolutions were adopted on the subject of braille,
two of which were in direct response to a resolution passed at
the spring, 2001, CCB convention expressing our opposition to the
proposed Unified English Braille Code (UEBC) and urging ACB to
take a similar position.  
     First, Resolution 2001-27 placed ACB on record as not
endorsing the UEBC until satisfied that wide-ranging input has
been received, considered, and evaluated by consumers in
NorthAmerica.  It opposed adoption of the UEBC if proposed for
adoption at the 2003 quadrennial meeting of the International
Council on English Braille (ICEB) and suggested that this vote be
postponed until the ICEB's 2007 meeting.  It urged the Board of
the ICEB to consider a code proposed by Abraham Nemeth and
Christopher Gray and review the proposals of the Universal
Braille System (UBS) before making a decision on a unified code. 
     Resolution 2001-3 directed the 2002 ACB Convention to
include a general session program item addressing the issues of
Braille unification.
     Finally, Resolution 2001-24 urged the National Library
Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped to convene a
task force to explore promotional and training avenues that will
keep the art of transcribing music into Braille alive and
growing.
      The convention also adopted a resolution expressing our
appreciation to the Association of American Publishers on the
joint work with ACB, AFB, and other organizations proposing
development of legislation requiring, as a condition for
receiving federal funds, that states implement plans to ensure
that disabled students receive instructional materials in
accessible formats and at the same time as nondisabled students.  
It would also require the United States Secretary of Education to
establish a national depository of accessible materials.  ACB
will continue to work with the other participants toward the
introduction and passage of this legislation.  
     Resolution 2001-11 called upon the Department of Justice and
the Access Board to monitor procurement by federal entities to
ensure that goods purchased for use by the federal government
comply with accessibility standards required by Section 508 of
the Rehabilitation Act.
     Resolution 2001-14 urged members to file complaints for
enforcement of Section 255 of the Federal Communications Act, to
ensure that products, such as cell phones, comply with federal
law.  
     Several resolutions were adopted with respect to voting. 
Resolution 2001-28 instructed the president to appoint a Task
Force on Accessible Voting to undertake various tasks, including
determining positions to be adopted on voting issues, subject to
review and approval by the ACB president, executive director, and
affiliates. 
     Resolution 2001-12 Urged state affiliates and their chapters
to initiate ongoing dialog with county election supervisors,
county commissioners, state election officials, secretaries of
state, and, when appropriate, state legislators to make changes
that ensure accessible voting systems in all precincts.  The
resolution also adopted principles setting forth standards for
private, independent, and verifiable ballots.  Finally,
     Resolution 2001-23 supported federal legislation requiring
all states to provide, with all deliberate speed, access to
private, independent and verifiable ballots for persons who have
disabilities, whether or not the State accepts federal funds for 
the modernization of election systems and procedures.


                   SEEDLINGS: SEWING THE SEEDS
                      OF BRAILLE LITERACY 

                      by Deborah R.  Chappa
                      Southfield, Michigan

     (This article appeared in Dialogue Magazine, in the fall,
1999, issue; it is presented hear as updated, June, 2001. 
"Bulletin Board" contains information about how to subscribe for
Dialogue.) 
     You may have begun with WINNIE THE POOH or THE CAT IN THE
HAT.   Leaping into the adventure of a good book, your heart
pounds as the protagonist struggles and cheers when a resolution
is achieved.  Turning the last page, you sigh with satisfaction
and the good feelings linger.  It is no different when we move on
to adult fiction.  Elaine Morse confirms, "We experience
psychological and physiological responses as we read." The former
Seedlings board member on the management team of Borders Books
reflects, "The ability to read is empowering.   It opens a door
to complexity, depth and richness." 
     In this kernel of truth lies the genesis of Seedlings
Braille Books For Children.  In 1979, Debra J.  Bonde was working
as a secretary and bookkeeper at the Toledo Society for the
Blind.
     "I was struggling to find my place and purpose in life," she
confided.  I attended a church retreat where one of the
icebreaker exercises had everyone wearing a tag 'Ask me about
blank.'  I was drawn to a woman whose tag said 'Braille.'  Our
short conversation opened a door within me."
     Though her job did not require it, Bonde took the initiative
to learn transcription on a six-key Perkins braillewriter, and
became proficient with slate and stylus.  In the meantime, she
became godmother to George, the son of friends, Vince and Mary Jo
Schumacher.  Sensing their frustration over meager literary
options for their child, who is blind due to cerebral palsy,
Bonde began wondering if she could do something to help.
     "I visited Bettye Krolick, a music braillist in Colorado who
sat on the board of the National Braille Association.  Bettye
listened to my dream and challenged me to make it a reality.  I
learned about the Apple IIe and a computer transcription program
called Ed-it Braille.  That $100 was the best money I ever
spent!"
     Returning to Vince Schumacher, Bonde enlisted the Grand
Rapids attorney to walk her through a paperwork maze.  In the
summer of 1984, Seedlings was incorporated with non-profit, tax
exempt status.
     "So there I was, running a little business in a corner of my
basement," she said.  "My daughters, Anna and Megan, were three
years old, and six months old, respectively.  I had one goal,
Which hasn't changed in 17 years: getting affordable braille
children's literature into the hands and homes of the visually
impaired."
     But it was vital that Seedlings have a printing mechanism,
an embosser, to create books.  Unfortunately, those available
were very expensive.
     "My dad built my first embosser," she said.  "He found all
the parts and made it work," Bonde said with a touch of amazement
and pride.  Her father, Ray Stewart, now deceased, started an
electronics company when Debra was in first grade.   "I'm sure I
absorbed a lot," she said about his entrepreneurial spirit.
     Debra was born in Palo Alto, California where she achieved
straight A's through high school.  She left California to attend
Willamette University in Salem, Oregon.  "It's a small and lovely
academic setting--the oldest liberal arts college west of the
Mississippi," she said.  "But after two years, I wanted to get
out in the world and accomplish something." 
     In its first year, Seedlings embossed and sold 200 books. 
By the conclusion of its 2000 fiscal year, Seedlings had moved
from donated space in a former high school to an office suite,
added two new high speed embossers and, in that one year, printed
nearly a million braille pages.  In simple terms, almost 15,000
books were produced in twelve months--from contemporary
literature to well-loved classics, including numerous titles
bearing Newbery Awards and Honors.  The mission continues to be
served, as each book is sold for almost half its production cost.
     This necessitates fund-raising, which Bonde freely admits
has been her biggest personal obstacle.   "People want to hear my
story and it's not hard to tell, but I get so nervous in front of
a group!" she said.
     Approximately 42 percent of operating income is received by
donations from individuals, groups, corporations and foundations.
A bowl-a-thon is held each spring.  Awareness and philanthropy
are ongoing imperatives to help contain book prices.  Susan
Bresler joined Seedlings' staff in April 1998, applying her
vivacious and creative energy to public relations and
fund-raising activities.  A dedicated and diverse volunteer corps
supplements the small staff with book transcription and
production, and organizational steering by way of the board of
directors.
     Paula Korelitz, a founding board member, remains passionate
about Seedlings.  Retired from Detroit schools where she taught
visually impaired youngsters, Korelitz stresses, "Braille
literacy is crucial, and many young adults wish they had learned
it as children.  For example, how can they jot themselves a note
or label things around the house without a slate and stylus?  And
it's very difficult to give a speech using large-print media."
      Fellow board member, Barbara Lewis, is a Children's
Services Librarian.  She echoes Korelitz' deep concern that only
ten percent of the country's 50,000 visually impaired children
can read braille.  "Debra Bonde really opened my eyes.  When
children do not read braille, relying on audio media instead,
they are illiterate.  That got me hooked on Seedlings!"  Thanks
to Lewis, The Livonia Public Library is a pioneering force in
maintaining a children's braille literature collection.  When
possible, Lewis promotes Seedlings' mission in library science
periodicals and professional gatherings.
     Who are Seedlings' customers?  The world map on the office
wall bears a multitude of pushpins on almost every continent! 
Fifty percent of book orders come from libraries, schools and
agencies.  But all other orders come from individuals.  
Seedlings is a wonderful source for gifts, but if you are unsure
about picking a title, gift certificates are available.      
     "It's so wonderful to build my granddaughter her own
library!" one grandparent exclaimed.
     It is noteworthy that Seedlings' product line also serves
families with blind and sighted members who want to read
together.  There are print-and-braille books for pre-readers and
early readers, including the newest line featuring textured
inserts.  While some print-and-braille books include pictures,
others match braille and print, line by line, to assist in the
learning process.
     "I love braille!" one fan said.   "My mom taught me after
teaching herself first," she wrote.   "My mom feels that
Seedlings has accomplished more to increase braille literacy than
our U.S. Congress in the recent past.  . . .  Seedlings has made
a monumental step forward to help blind individuals."     
     However, Bonde credits Congress with an important measure of
support.  "In 1996, the Chaffee Amendment altered copyright law
to allow non-profit organizations and government agencies the
freedom to produce 'special format' books and magazines without
first obtaining permission from the copyright holder.   The
former permission process could take up to 18 months!"      
     In 1994, through a special bequest of funds, Seedlings
commenced the ROSE Project, providing free encyclopedia articles
in braille for students' projects and reports.  Staff strive to
mail the articles within 24 hours.  "Thank you for the World Book
articles you sent to my daughter," one mother wrote.  "She got an
"A" on her project!"
     When asked what has sustained her for 17 years, Bonde
eagerly stated, "I love what I'm doing.   The letters and phone
calls really keep me going.  I believe God chooses the most
unexpected people to do great things.   I've just been along for
the ride!"  When she's not on the serendipitous Seedlings ride,
Bonde enjoys spending time with her daughter and participating in
a number of music groups at church.
     Bonde, a dedicated, soft spoken woman, has never sought
personal acclaim for her work.  But in 1992, the Detroit Chapter
of the Women's National Book Association honored Debra with their
"Bookwoman of the Year" award for her unique advancements in
publishing.  The Livonia City Council recognized Bonde with their
first annual "Angels Among Us" award, in October, 1997.  Most
recently, the Livonia Human Relations Commission placed Bonde on
the city's "Honor Roll" in February, 1999 "for promoting
diversity and encouraging understanding."
     Debra personally invites readers to acquire the Seedlings
catalog free of charge.  "It's updated in September and brimming
with choices.  This past year we've added 40 new books."  The
catalog also appears on Seedlings' Web site.
     For more information, contact Seedlings at P.O.  Box 51924,
Livonia, MI  48151-5924; 13967 Farmington Road, Livonia, MI
48154; 800-777-8552; 734-427-8552; E-mail:  seedlink@aol.com; or
Web site:  www.seedlings.org.  

 

                     IN MEMORIAM: ANNE FESH

     (This tribute in meory of Anne Fesh was circulated on the
ACB leadership list.)   
     Our American Council of the Blind family has lost a dear
friend, a valued member and a tireless worker who lifted us all
up by her dedication to carrying out her duties without concern
for how hard or how long it would take.  
     Anne Fesh passed away this morning; and, while her physical
battle was lost to the disease that took her life, her spirits
never faltered nor her caring for all of us whom she has had to
leave behind. 
     While Anne Fesh was mostly in the background of all our work
at the national office, she stood in the foreground of the very
reason for ACB's success.  Anne Fesh did her job and did it well. 
She took every building block and placed it at the foundation of
our efforts.  
     Thank you for being who you were and making us in real ways
who we are.  Thank you for not complaining when resources were
low or when you had a right to be upset.  Thank you for staying
the course and showing the rest of us that with all your
education and knowledge, it is really the small but steady things
like keeping on task and being there that count and make a
difference.  ACB and all of us at the national office will miss
you, and there will be times when we will not really know what to
say except you have earned our respect as a person, our love as a
friend and our admiration for just being who you were.  We pray
for your peace and rest, and we will share the arrangements with
your ACB family as soon as we know them.  We give you this final
tribute not for the day or the moment, but for all the days you
shared with us and for all the days to come in which you will not
be forgotten.  For all of ACB and our national office, 
with love, 
Charlie Crawford 


                  NOTES FROM SACRAMENTO

    by Dan Kysor, Director, CCB Governmental Affairs

    We have a lot of good news to report on our CCB legislative
agenda for 2000-2001.  It is very difficult reporting on the fall
legislative outcomes because the governor usually doesn't sign or
veto bills until the middle of September or early October.  I
must avoid guessing about what is going to happen and thus
leading you astray.  
    The first thing I am pleased to report to you concerns the
budget, which, although several weeks late, was signed into law. 
$500 million was appropriated to the school districts as
reimbursement for special education costs plus an additional $100
million per year specifically for special education.  These funds
result from settlement of a long-standing battle between
California and the federal government and a promise that 40% of
federal funds would be appropriated to the state.   Although the
present appropriation does not reach the 40% promised, it goes a
long way in providing money needed for California's beleaguered
special education programs.
     CCB bills SB87, by Nell Soto, and SB1190 have made it
through both houses and are headed to their final floor hearings.
There is no opposition; and at this writing, the governor has
told us he would sign SB87 which re-establishes the loan account
for blind vendors in the Business Enterprise Program, (BEP).
     SB1190, by the Health and Human Services Committee, brings
the SSDI level to that of SSI for the assistive dog benefit.  
     AB855, by John Dutra of Fremont, is currently in suspense, 
and it is unclear what the prospects are for the bill's future. 
It would increase the salaries of special schools teachers to
match that of teachers in the surrounding public school
districts.  It would also add to those who would experience an
increase in salary many other teachers in special facilities such
as prisons and youth centers and even the Orientation Center in
Albany.  Because of these additions to the teachers covered, the
cost has risen greatly; and the governor feels that the
Department of Personnel Administration and the unions will come
to an agreement through collective bargaining.
     Assembly Joint Resolution 1, by Sally Havice, has been
signed into law by Governor Davis.  This bill informs the federal
government that California will object to any weakening of the
Americans with Disabilities Act.  Thanks to President Skivers for
all her work on this bill.
     AB77, also by Assemblywoman Havice, was signed into law,
Chapter 62.   This bill protects victims with disabilities from
adverse behavior in the courtroom.
     AB1723, by Rod Wright, the "telephonic reader bill, is also
in suspense, and the Department of Finance has tacked on an
additional $3 million expense.  We feel this is an erroneous
assessment by "Finance," and we are working to convince the Davis
administration that the bill specifies only a one-time $2 million
expenditure from an already existing account of the Public
Utilities Commission.
     AB306, by Darrio Frommer, the NFBC Braille Bill, also has an
had erroneous fiscal impact item tacked on to it by the
Department of Finance.  Instead of the $1.6 million cost which
would be absorbed by the 
$100 million new yearly special education appropriation,
"Finance" estimates a $6.5 million cost.  We are also working to
convince the Davis administration of this error.  The bill would
assign the IEP team the requirement of assessing functionally
blind pupils with respect to their need for, and ability to use,
braille.  It also contains provisions regarding teachers of
braille and community college courses for teaching braille.  It
is currently on suspense in its final committee, Assembly
Appropriations.   
     AB925, by Dion Aroner, is a disability work-related bill. 
It allows disabled persons who are employed to keep their
Medi-cal benefits.  It also makes accessible one-stops for all
disabilities.  The bill has encountered problems with the
governor and may be killed by the author.
     SB136, by Liz Figeuroa, has cleared Assembly Appropriations
and moves to the Assembly floor.  This measure extends the sunset
of the Guide Dog Board for 4 more years.
     The CCB Board of Directors has approved the installation of
its own stand-alone Web site.   The address is www.ccbnet.org.  
As CCB webmaster, I was able to replicate the page used on the
previous site with no problem.
     CCB members have had a direct impact on the design of the
Secretary of State's Web site, www.ss.ca.gov since we convinced
the webmaster to establish a text-only link.
     Jeff Thom and I were appointed to a special task force by
the Secretary of State to examine voting machine accessibility
and to assist in the creation of regulations.
     We are pleased to report that CCB member Ann Kysor,
President of the Capitol Chapter, was appointed to the California
Attorney General's Committee on Crimes Against Disabilities.  Ann
currently serves on a state-wide coalition on this topic, as well
as the CCB Committee on Hate
Crime and Domestic Violence.
     The Commission for the Blind bill, SB105, by John Burton--
the bill establishing a separate commission for the blind--is not
expected in committee until January, 2002.  It will probably be
"double referred" to the Health and Human Services Committee and
the Senate Governmental Organizations Committee.  Please contact
Jeff Thom if you have any situations or stories about your
service with the Department of Rehabilitation.   E-mail Jeff at
jeff.thom@lc.ca.gov or phone him at 916-445-0295.
     As always, it is you I must thank for your letters of
support and personal testimony on these various bills.  You are
the important link; without you, our agenda would certainly be
dead in its tracks.  Please monitor ccb-l and the California
Connection for updated up-to-date information
on our legislation.


                         BULLETIN BOARD

                    compiled by Keith Black 

     From The Matilda Ziegler Magazine, August, 2001: Scourby
Award-Winners.  The American Foundation for the Blind has
bestowed its 15th annual Alexander Scourby Narrator of the Year
Awards.  The fiction award recipient is Erik Sandvold.  In the
nonfiction category, the winner is Bill Wallace.  Both are
employed by Talking Book Publishers in Denver.  The recipient in
nonfiction American history is Robert Sams, a narrator with
Potomac Talking Books Services in Bethesda, MD.  
     Poetry Books.  The Louis Braille Center has brailled a
collection of classical poetry by British and American poets. 
The collection includes:  "A Shropshire Lad" by A. E. Housman,
$10; "Selected Poems" by Emily Dickinson, $12; "Renascence and
Other Poems" and "Second April", both by Edna St. Vincent Millay,
$10 each; "Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience" by William
Blake, $10; "Sonnets from the Portuguese and Other Poems" by
Elizabeth Barrett Browning, $12; "Lyric Poems" by Keats, $12;
"You Come Too" by Robert Frost, $12; "Best Poems of the Bronte
Sisters" by Emily, Anne, and Charlotte Bronte, $12; and "Complete
Sonnets" by William Shakespeare, $15.  Anthologies include:  "One
Hundred and One Famous Poems" compiled by R. Cook, $35; "Great
Short Poems" edited by Paul Negri, $12; "Thirty-five Favorite
Poems" edited by the Louis Braille Center, $8; and "Love, A Book
of Quotations" edited by Herb Galewitz, $10.  The group welcomes
suggestions for other poetry to braille.  Contact the Louis
Braille Center, 320 Dayton St. #125,Edmonds, WA 98020-3590; 425-
776-4042; e-mail lbc@louisbraillecenter.org, or visit
www.louisbraillecenter.org.  
     From Dialogue Magazine, Summer, 2001: A free 22-page booklet
titled "Know About Low Vision" is available from the National Eye
Institute.  Request the booklet by calling toll free 877-569-
8474, or by E-mail at 2020@nei.nih.gov.  The publication can be
downloaded from the Web site at www.nei.nih.gov.  
     "If You Are Blind or Have Low Vision, How We Can Help" is a
publication from the Social Security Administration available in
print, braille, audiocassette, and on the Internet at
www.ssa.gov/pubs/10052.html.  Call toll free 800-772-1213 and ask
for Publication 05-10052 in your preferred format.  The Social
Security Administration has also made the 2001 "Red Book on
Employment Support:  A Summary Guide To Employment Support
Available To People With Disabilities Under The Social Security
Disability Insurance And Supplemental Security Income Programs"
available.  It is a joint effort sponsored by SSA, OPM, RSA, VA,
and State VR agencies.  The Web site is
www.ssa.gov.work/resourcestool.is/redbook.html.  For more
information, contact Project Able, Social Security
Administration, Room 107, Altmeyer Bldg., Baltimore, MD 21235-
6401; 410-597-0429.      Reference Service Press has developed
two specialized products that will make it easier for persons
with visual impairments to find out about available funding. 
These listings are updated annually.  
     "Funding For Persons With Visual Impairments, Large Print
Edition, 2001" (ISBN 1-58841-025-0) lists scholarships,
fellowships, loans, grants-in-aid, awards, and internships that
are set aside just for persons with visual impairments--from high
school seniors through professionals and others.  More than 250
funding opportunities are described in detail.  The entries are
grouped by program type and arranged alphabetically by program
title.  The text is printed in Helvetica Bold, in 19-point type
and is available for $30 plus $5 for shipping.  
     "Funding For Persons With Visual Impairments, Plus Edition,
2001" (ISBN 1-58841-026-0) on disk, is much more extensive than
the large-print edition.  It includes all the program description
found in the large-print edition, plus 300 additional funding
opportunities open to persons with any disability (including
visual impairments).  
     The Plus Edition is available in both Macintosh and IBM
compatible versions (3.5-inch disks).  The text is in ASCII (text
only) format and will work with any standard word processing
program.  The cost is $50 plus $5 shipping.  Contact Reference
Service Press, 5000 Windplay Drive, Suite 4, El Dorado Hills,
California 95762; 916-939-9620 or 916-939-9626; Web site: 
www.rspfunding.com.  
     Full Life Products of Mirror Lake, New Hampshire, offers a
range of caller ID's that talk, and one with a large-print
display, all made by Oregon Scientific.  The Jumbo Caller ID
displays numbers in 1-1/2-inch high format.  Besides large print,
the Jumbo has a 99-cell memory, a date display, an inside-outside
thermometer, and a built-in clock with alarm feature.  The cost
for this Jumbo (model 888) is $89.95. They range in price from
$29.95 (model 500)  to $129.95 ((model Dialogue JV-35 talking
telephone) designed for people with visual and/or hearing
impairments.  Other talking-only models cost $60 to $80 each. 
With one model only (JV 35), you can receive a cassette
instruction tape and braille quick guide free upon request.  All
products are subject to shipping and handling charges of $8.95. 
For more information and ordering, call 800-409-1540.  
     IBM has released its updated version of Home Page Reader. 
HPR is a low-cost, easy-to-use talking Web browser that works
with e-business Web sites.  Many computer users with visual
impairments will be able to buy, sell, and trade on the Web for
the first time.  HPR provides Javascript support for complete
access to the Web, supports nine languages, and offers many new
options and features that simplify set-up and operation of the
browser.  Javascript support allows the software to speak aloud
all information on a Web page, including conventional text,
tables, graphic descriptions, text in column formats, data input
fields, forms and image maps.  This enables blind and visually
impaired users to complete on-line forms for purchasing, selling,
or trading products and services over the Web.  The new version
supports three additional languages--Brazilian Portuguese,
traditional Chinese, and simplified Chinese in addition to the
existing U. S. English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, and
Japanese languages.  Home Page Reader is a complete, self-
contained talking browser, and no screen reader is required.  The
suggested retail price for HPR Version 3.0 is $149.  Users of
Home Page Reader versions 2.0 and 2.5 can download a free upgrade
to Version 3.0 from the IBM Accessibility Center Web page at
www.ibm.com/able.  For more information, contact IBM media
representative Rebecca Gee at 914-945-2913, or e-mail at
geerebec@us.ibm.com.    
     From Jessica Lorenz, Blind Students of California: "When one
door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so
long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been
opened for us." -Helen Keller
     Visit BSC's new home on the Web at:
http://www.geocities.com/bscteam/


                        MIKE THE MECHANIC

                          by Brian Hall

     Mike Conrad is one guy who doesn't mind getting his hands
dirty.  In fact he loves it.  Conrad, president of the Greater
Long Beach Chapter, CCB, works as a mechanic for the Los Angeles
county Fire Department.  He keeps fire engines and  trucks
running in tiptop shape.
     "Mechanical work was always an interest," said Conrad. 
Mike, 49, has been blind since birth because of RLF, a condition
associated with premature birth.  
     "As a little kid, I could tell you what kind of a car you
were looking at just by touching the door handle.  No one in my
family was into cars, so I don't know where the fascination came
from."
     His title is "Equipment Maintenance Worker," a position that
requires rebuilding a  lot of components such as brake calipers
and pressure valves.  Conrad has been with the fire department
for six years and the county for 26 years.
     Before the fire department, he fixed the transmissions of
Sheriffs' cars.  Conrad began in the county's "Off Highway
Section," working on equipment like lawn mowers, edgers and wood
chippers.  He said he was the first blind person to do
small-engine repair for the county.
     Conrad may be unique, but he isn't the only
mechanically-inclined, visually impaired person working for the
county.  Two others have been hired.  One specialized in
refrigeration and is now an electrician's helper.  The other had
some tunnel vision and went to work on diesel engines.  
     "There wasn't much friction," said Conrad of Paramount. 
"But when I started out, some mechanics had a hard time with it
and didn't think I would work out.  Some of the old timers didn't
think it was the place for a blind person to be, but most people
accepted me."
     Conrad was born and raised in Long Beach where, in seventh
grade, he was given his first car to repair, a 1956 Ford Crown
Victoria, which he still owns.  He rebuilt the Ford's motor and
rear end, and he replaced the automatic transmission with a 4-
speed manual transmission.  When he finished fixing up the car,
he and a couple of buddies took it out for a spin.  Well, to be
more specific, Conrad said he took it for a test drive.
     "I was in high school, and it was two in the morning," he
recalls.  "A sheriff's deputy stopped me for having loud pipes. 
It wasn't for the way I was driving."  
     The deputy asked him for his license.  Conrad told him that
he didn't have one.
     "He asked me,  "Why not?  Aren't you old enough?"" said
Conrad.  "I told him I couldn't pass the eye test.  But I just
had to try it out."
     Luckily, the deputy didn't arrest or run young Conrad into
the station.  Instead, he called the teenager's father to come
pick up the car.  
     The experience didn't deter him from taking another turn
behind the wheel.  He later drove another car in a safer locale,
Lake El Mirage near Victorville.  
     Not only was Conrad's driving record unusual for a blind
person, but his school record as well.  Auto shop was among his
favorite electives while attending Woodrow Wilson High School.
When Conrad decided to pursue more advanced vocational training,
Keith Black became his rehabilitation counselor.  Black, a former
president of the Long Beach Chapter, helped Conrad get into a
school for small engine repair.  Conrad parlayed his education
and experience into a mechanic's spot with the Downey Mower and
Saw Company.
     "He's always been a resourceful guy and very positive in
outlook," said Black.  "Mike was right on the ball when I worked
with him.  He didn't need somebody to push or motivate him."
(30)
 
                       FEDERAL LEGISLATION

                         by Ahmad Rahman

     S565, Election Reform: ACB sounded the alert; CCB and others
affiliates responded by contacting members of the Senate Rules
and Administration Committee urging members to agree to
legislation ensuring that voters who are blind or visually
impaired, and all voters with disabilities, are able to exercise
their right to cast their votes reliably, privately, and
independently.
     As a result of our efforts, on August 2, 2001, the Senate
Committee on Rules and Administration voted to send the S565 to
the Senate floor.  The committee voted to send S.565, the Equal
Protection of Voting Rights Act of 2001, introduced by
Christopher Dodd (D-CT), to the next level.  The legislation is
aimed at overhauling the nation's election system.
     The legislation must: 1) Require that by a specific date
each polling place shall be equipped with at least one voting
system that is fully accessible to voters who are blind or
visually impaired and that all polling places shall be physically
accessible to voters with disabilities; 
     2) Establish national mandatory standards for both polling
places and equipment ensuring their accessibility to voters with
disabilities;
     3) Authorize federal appropriations to assist state and
local jurisdictions in meeting the obligation of all
accessibility and, if such funds are made available, make sure
that full compliance with well defined standards for polling
place and equipment accessibility are prerequisites to receive
these funds.
     4) Make sure that access standards are set by the agency
with expertise, the Architecture and Transportation Barrier
Compliance Board (the Access Board).   
     ACB Action Alert: In 1988, Congress enacted the
Technology-Related assistance for People with Disabilities Act,
otherwise known as the Tech Act.  Title I of this law affords
grants to state technology projects with the objective of
providing assistive technology loans to people with disabilities. 
Title I of the Tech Act is scheduled to expire in September,
2001,  because of a  provision in the law calling  for the
gradual elimination of state/territorial Tech Act projects
beginning September 30, 2001.  Such provisions are known as
sunset provisions.
     Title I of the Tech 
Act can be saved! The disability community is requesting Congress
to enact an amendment in the Labor, Health and
Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations
Bbill which will eliminate the sunset provisions for Title I of
the Tech Act.  Contact members of the House Committee on
Education and Workforce and urge the members to support an
amendment to eliminate this provision. Stress the role that
assistive technology can play in securing independence and
equality of opportunity for people with disabilities.  Use
concrete examples of how assistive technology enhances your life.
     You can contact members of Congress on the Education and
Workforce Committee via phone through the House switchboard at 
1-800-202-2243.  California representatives: Buck McKeon, George
Miller, Lynn Woolsey, Loretta Sanchez, Hilda Solis, Susan Davis. 


                THE POPSICKLE TEST AND WHERE THE 
                      RUBBER MEETS THE ROAD, Part 1

                          by Dan Kysor

     This first National Congress of Pedestrian Safety Advocates
was Sponsored by America Walks.
     It was an honor to be one of the seven representatives from
the California Council of the Blind at this national congress,
held August 16-18, in Oakland, California.  Gene Lozano, Barbara
Rhodes, Roger Petersen, Bernice Kandarian, Peter Pardini and Jane
Kardas were the other members present.  We mingled and made
contacts with pedestrian safety advocates from around the United
States, Australia, and Canada.
     ACB also had an excellent representation with over twenty
members from around the nation in attendance including Debbie
Grubb, president, Guide Dog Users Inc., and Ken Stuart, president
of the Council of Citizens with Low Vision International.
We quickly realized that the needs of the blind and visually
impaired mirror those of pedestrians and bicyclists alike.
     Perhaps one of the world's leading pedestrian safety
advocates and guru of the pedestrian safety movement is Dan
Burden, a streetscape design engineer and president of Walkable
Communities Inc.  He was the keynote speaker for the congress. 
Burden believes in sidewalks that are wide, clear and well
maintained; streets that have separate bicycle paths; and traffic
controlling measures, like decreasing the number of traffic
lanes, adding green canopies of trees (a proven method of slowing
traffic), and decreasing the width of the cross walk by the use
of curb extensions.  
     When towns and cities are made more "walkable", two
remarkable things happen: people begin to know their neighbors
and have an appreciation of their community and the community
itself begins to thrive, causing downtown areas to revive. 
     "Try the popsicle test!", Burden says.  "If you want to find
out how walkable your community is, buy a popsicle at your ice
cream store and, if it melts by the time you get home, your
community has failed the test."
     Burden further states that, If human society around the
world is to remain stable and healthy for centuries to come, we
must learn to move more easily with shorter distances and less
impact on the resources of the planet.  Not only are we
approaching peak world oil production (estimated to peak in 2005) 
and experiencing the early effects of global warming from
emissions, but our lifestyle, based on automobile travel,  is
becoming disruptive in virtually all households and life
situations.  New terms are being coined to reflect our declining
civility; road rage is directly related to the frustration and
lack of control travelers are experiencing with our present
course. 
     Transportation and urban planners say there are no easy
answers.  There is no end to growing urban traffic congestion. 
     Burden says that even in small places, like Livingston,
Montana, and Littleton, New Hampshire, people are saying that
congestion and delays are unbearable for many residents. 
Meanwhile large metropolitan areas, such as Houston, Atlanta and
Detroit, where autos and highways have their fair share of heavy
financial support, are finding serious degradation in quality of
life.  
     The average Atlanta resident spends more than 12 hours a
week stuck in traffic.  These are prime hours that would be
better spent with family and friends in sports, recreation, and
intellectually stimulating activities.  Commuters complain about
the speed and volume of traffic where they live and the long
distances they must travel to get basic products and services.  A
growing number now want tranquility where they live and an end to
the sprawl where they bought their homes.  
     Urban areas no longer rely on walking and bicycling as
travel choices.  Rather, they are becoming unfit and unhealthy. 
The U.S.  Center for Disease Control is deeply concerned that
convenient daily physical activity, especially walking, is
lacking in American life.  There are fewer and fewer towns in
America where people feel welcome to walk.  Many newly built
communities have little civic or public space.
     Poor planning and policy have made it impractical in many
cities to conduct even simple trips without depending on cars. 
The trend toward larger and larger stores, parks, schools and
even churches eliminates the possibility of short trips.  Our
response to the flawed decisions that have led to this situation
includes building ever wider streets and more complicated
intersections, further dividing towns.  In some areas, conditions
are so extreme that children are bused distances of less than 300
feet because they cannot safely cross the streets necessary to
reach their schools.  Many people get into their cars just to go
to the store on the opposite side of the street.  Our children
are growing up dependent on their parents for almost all their
travel.  Parents welcome the day when they are no longer the taxi
drivers for their families.
     In documents provided to congress attendees, David Engwicht,
from Brisbane, Australia, and the author of Reclaiming Our Towns
and Villages, describes, in his statement about the purpose of
cities, the link between transport and land use.   Cities were
developed to maximize exchange of goods, services, culture,
friendship, ideas and knowledge and to minimize travel.  Engwicht
goes on to say that the role of transport is to facilitate that
exchange.      
     Note that during the 4000 years of recorded civilization,
almost all decisions minimized travel and maximized exchange.  It
was not until the last 50 or 60 years that things went awry. 
With vast wealth and technology, it was believed that modern
nations could afford to be less efficient.  The development of
sprawl made it easy to get away from problems like crime, air
pollution, noise and urban decay, and the new problems that would
be created were not yet recognized.  We are now learning the
folly of planning just to escape our woes; in the end, all
problems must be faced.  Unfortunately, about 80% of this
development in the U.S.  came during the joyous, easy-answer,
fifty years, accompanied by unwise land use decisions.  Solving
the problems will not be easy.  The piper is waiting to be paid.  
     The core of America Walks are the fourteen principles of
pedestrian safety.  In a presentation before the entire
conference, Burden explained these concepts.  
     Principle 1.  Build for Everyone.  All towns built before
automobiles were designed to be multi-modal.  Grand Rapids,
Detroit, or any other city at the turn of the last century was
packed with people, horses, bicycles, and trolleys.  A little
later came trucks and autos.  Today, many urban streets are void
of bicyclists and pedestrians while disabled people are a rarity. 
 Buses and other forms of transportation are nonexistent or few
in number, and skimpy service is offered in places where
distances are too great for walking.  
     "An all too shocking personal experience brought this
oversight home to me.  In 1993, I was selected as one of five
people from around the world to serve on a United Nations
Technical Advisory Team on bicycling with the intention of
assisting China.  In studying the situation before traveling
there, I learned that a recent 3-volume transportation
improvement study for China by the World Bank never once
mentioned the word bicycle.  I was dumbfounded.  For a nation
where the mode of travel providing the greatest freedom of
movement, transportation that was most affordable, easiest to
park, most efficient, and most popular (accounting for 63% of all
movement), the bicycle had not been mentioned even once." 
     "After arriving in China (my second trip there) our entire
team was shocked by officials who told us we were there to help
them solve the "bicycle problem."  We tried to correct them,
stating that the bicycle was not the problem for China but the
solution; but our words were of no avail.  My point is that many
countries, the U.S. included, have turned their backs on the most
workable, sensible, basic forms of transportation, labeling them
problems and not thinking of them as solutions.
Let all nations be warned: high tech planning and engineering
applications for the most basic human needs, ignoring the most
fundamental tools, is folly in any country.  Common sense must
always dictate design." 
     A good first place to begin reconstructing high quality
urban areas is to conduct an inventory of how many people walk,
bicycle or use transit to reach their destinations.  In a healthy
central urban area, it should be possible to look up or down
streets and see people walking, bicycling, entering or exiting
buses, and driving.  The health of a place is determined both by
numbers of users, and also by the diversity of people coming and
going, lingering and exchanging.  These people should be of all
ages,  young children and teenagers, older adults and persons
with disabilities.  
     Principle 2.  Scale For People.  Towns and portions of towns
identified as neighborhoods must be planned for walking.  Towns
are built of many intact neighborhoods.  History has proved that 
a distance of a quarter-mile radius forms the near perfect place
for people to interact.  Both small villages and trolley stops
were planned and built to this scale.  No other scale works as
well.  It allows people to reach most primary destinations in
five-minute walks.  It is possible to get completely across the
entire area in 10-minutes.  Until recent years, all modes of
transportation were best supported and most functional because of
this scale.  
     Suburban towns must learn to convert faceless shopping
plazas into village centers.  Each village needs to be scaled to
a walking radius.  Streets must be added, while parking lots are
removed.  Brea, California, in the heart of traffic-choked Los
Angeles (Orange County), has applied these principles to older
shopping plazas, laying out a new downtown area and a number of
healthy public places with mixed uses and many links to adjacent
single-family neighborhoods.
     Principle 3. Create Many Linkages.  Towns and portions of
towns need many links.  For this linkage to happen, most new
streets must be kept short, 400 to 600 feet.  By keeping block
lengths short, traffic speeds are held in check.  People walking,
bicycling, using transit, or driving need many route choices to
move from one place to another.  Where dysfunctional street
patterns are already in place, new linkages can be created.  
Although it is rarely possible to retrofit streets in established
neighborhoods, natural land features--utility corridors,
waterways, and other open space--can be used to create walking
and bicycling trails.  These linkages make it practical for
people to walk or bicycle to parks, schools, libraries and
commercial centers.  
     In Seattle and King County, Washington, conversion to public
space is measured in the hundreds of millions of dollars for land
acquisition and construction.  These steps are key to greatly
increased mobility, walking and bicycling.  In the past ten
years, the city and the entire region have seen a steady increase
in these activities. 
     Principle 4. Streets Have Multiple Uses.  Streets perform
many missions in addition to moving and storing vehicles.  Both
main and neighborhood streets serve as outdoor living rooms. 
Well-constructed streets elicit appropriate behavior, increasing
neighborliness, a feeling of belonging, acceptance, pride and
play.  When roadways become focused on inappropriate volumes of
auto traffic, streets become problems, breeding crime, litter,
degradation of property, and other social problems.    Streets
teach young people life skills and allow seniors and people with
disabilities to interact with others.   Well-designed streets
provide safe and efficient movement of all vehicles while also
providing for sanitation, utilities and timely emergency
response.  Quality design of streets determines property values.
When streets are engineered for fewer purposes, focused on moving
traffic and little else, they fail the greater needs of a city. 
One of the greatest challenges to any town or city is
identifying, funding, and bringing together a coalition of
stakeholders to revive decaying and unhealthy urban streets.
     (Note: Part 2 of this article, with a further enumeration of
the principles required for creation and maintenance of
pedestrian safety, will appear in the winter issue of The Blind
Californian.)


                BENECIAN JOINS THE DIAPER BRIGADE

                         by Susan Young

     (Taken from the San Francisco Chronicle, July 18, 2001, and
submitted by Elizabeth Heidhues.)
     Any mom or dad can relate to the stress felt when your child
decides it's time to fly the familial coop.  Especially  if that
child is heading down to  Los Angeles for a career in show biz.
     But Lori and Daryl Quan of Benicia have prepared daughter
Dionne Quan well.  And Quan, 22, already has a job waiting for
her as the voice of Kimmie on Nickelodeon's "The Rugrats." 
     Kimmie, who is Chuckie's new stepsister, was introduced in
the 2000 movie "Rugrats in Paris, The Movie."  In January, Kimmie
became a regular in the series. 
     The animated adventures of a group of toddlers celebrates
its first decade on the air with "The Rugrats 10th Anniversary 
Special" at 8 p.m. Saturday on Nickelodeon. 
     In the show, the toddlers are thrust forward 10 years in
time to become preteens.  It only lasts for the duration of the
special, before the youngsters return to their playpens and
diapers.
     Quan recently was awarded the Shining Star Award from the
Bay Area chapter of Women in Television and Radio.  The upbeat
young woman, who is blind, was lauded for being an inspiration
for those with physical disabilities and providing a positive
image for Asian-Americans.
     Is it a little frightening thinking about moving away to Los
Angeles?
     "It's a little scary, but I think it will be a good
experience for me and I will get more (acting) opportunities.  I
rely a lot on my parents, but for the last couple of years I've
been doing Independent Living training.  I learned how to cook,
clean and be totally independent.  But my brother Daryl (21) is a
student down there and will live with me.  Mom is going to stay
with me for a few months.  Mom's a little scared, and I'm sure
she's going to be worried once she leaves.  I expect she will
call me every day."
     "How did you land the role of Kimmie on "Rugrats"?
     "When I got the call from my agent to audition, I didn't
even think I would get the part.  I grew up watching the show, so
it was exciting just to get a chance to audition.  Then I got the
movie part and the series.  It's so exciting to be part of a show
that is such a hit.  I'm really honored to be part of the whole
thing."
     "When did you decided you wanted to be a voiceover artist?"
     "I originally wanted to do musical theater, but that didn't
work out because there were a lot of communication blocks. 
People assumed I could or couldn't do certain things.  For
example, it is more difficult for me to learn to dance, so
someone would need to take more time with me than with a sighted
person.  I love to sing and have been taking lessons for a while,
but I found there weren't any opportunities for me to be on
camera.  So I found out that voiceovers were for me.  "Rugrats"
is my biggest project, although I have also done work on "The
Wild Thornberries" (produced by the same animation company as
"The Rugrats") and "Cow and Chicken."  I've also done commercials
for companies like GTE Wireless and Microsoft."

     "What is a typical day like for you?
     "Right now, it's getting ready to move.  But a typical work
day, which happens once a week, involves my flying down to L.A.
early in the morning with my mother.  My uncle takes the day off
of work and meets us at the airport.  We have lunch, then I go to
work with the cast.  It's a pleasure working with such great
people in person.  Then we rush to the airport and fly home.
     "When I move to L.A., I won't have my uncle do that any
more. I'll probably have my brother take me when he isn't at
school, or some sort of transit."
     "A typical non-working day is pretty boring actually.  I see
my friends, take singing and piano lessons.  It's going to be
weird not having my friends from the Bay Area around when I
move."
     "Do you think of yourself as a role model?"
     "It's kind of strange.  I don't think anyone thinks of
themselves as role models.  I was in San Diego recently
encouraging braille literacy, and I talked a little about myself. 
I do things like that and I know (from my interaction) that kids
do look to me as a role model.  But it is kind of new for me and
I don't know quite what to make of it.
     "As an Asian American, I definitely think there are not
enough of us in the performing arts. I think it is important to
encourage other people to do it."
     "How did you get into the performing arts?"
     "I originally went to acting school at the New Conservatory
Theater in San Francisco for a couple of years.  Then my dad
heard about a voiceover school offering lessons and we went."
     "So what is the difference between you and your character?"
     "Well, between 2 and 22 there is the obvious age difference. 
Kimmie is really tough, fearless and definitely a leader, and I
don't really think I'm any of those things.  She's not shy and I
kind of am.  I'm quiet, and she says what is on her mind.  It's
great to play a character like that."
     "Has any of Kimmie rubbed off on you?"
     "Some people might say she's rubbing a little bit off on me. 
We are both optimistic, so we are alike on that.  And we both
believe that everything will eventually turn out fine."


                     GOOD NEWS FOR STUDENTS

             by Mary Ann Siller, Co-chair of the AFB
                       Education Program 

     (The following message, directed to the members of the AFB
Solutions forum, was forwarded to the Blindness Advisory Task
Force dealing with educating blind children by Rod Brawley on
July 12, 2001.)
     Wow, what a difference six months makes!  
     1.  National Legislation is really moving forward.  Everyone
involved is pleased by the end result of the June 27 meeting
hosted by the Association of American Publishers.  A final
AGREEMENT was reached on the text of the proposed Instructional
Materials Accessibility Act of 2001.  In addition, we agreed to
begin immediately to work collaboratively toward enactment of
this vital legislation.
     AFB, along with the Association of American Publishers, 
National Federation of the Blind, American Council of the Blind
and the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind
and Visually Impaired, Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic,
American Printing House for the Blind, the Texas Education
Agency, and the other major constituencies of the AFB Solutions
Forum have agreed to work together to develop the necessary
strategies to get the bill introduced, passed and signed.  This
is outstanding news for all students who are blind or with low
vision throughout the U.S.A.
     It will be critical for each of us to be active in
discussing the importance of this bill to people in each of our
states.  A unified voice will be important in the upcoming weeks
and months.  Once again the principal points will be outlined on
a fact sheet and will be distributed to each of you very soon.
     2.  As we move forward in fulfilling  the objectives of the
Electronic Files Work Group and the Training Work Group, I have
exciting news about two training projects.
     I am pleased to say AFB's National Literacy Center has
recently been given an RSA Special Projects Appropriation Award. 
Because of this generous award, several of the critical projects
identified by the AFB Solutions Forum stakeholders are being
started sooner than projected and with more creative features.
     a. The AFB Solutions Forum is embarking upon an important
and revolutionary project to define a new occupation for braille
transcribers.  We are joining forces with Northwest Vista College
in San Antonio, Texas, to complete an occupational profile of a
braille textbook transcriber and develop a new career/profession
for a braille textbook transcriber.  This is a joint partnership
with Northwest Vista College in San Antonio, Texas and the Texas
Education Agency.
     Focus groups will be conducted in August.  We will be
completing an occupational profile of braille textbook
transcribers.
     b. On June 29-July 1, the AFB Solutions Forum held a meeting
with 23 experts associated with XML, braille transcriber
training, Web-based instruction, and general training seminars at
AFB's National Literacy Center in Atlanta, GA.  The upcoming
training will assist braille transcribers in understanding the
necessary steps to work with publishers' files and the upcoming
DAISY/NISO XML file format.
     We are planning to showcase the seminar at three national
training meetings in 2002 and then offer it as a Web-based
program.
     This important project is part of the Joint Technology Task
Force of the AFB Solutions Forum and our unique collaborative
partnership with AAP.  This national training issue was
identified as a critical need in the results of the national
training survey conducted in the summer of 2000 and by the
attendees of the March 15 AFB Solutions Forum meeting in
Washington, D.C.
     More news on these and other critical issues will be
forthcoming.



                ADDRESS BY DENNIS THERMON ON THE
                   EDUCATION OF BLIND CHILDREN

                 submitted by Winifred Downing 

     (This is a summary of an address delivered to the joint
meeting of the Library Users of America and the Braille Revival
League on July 4, 2001 at the national convention of the American
Council of the Blind.  Dennis Thermon is the superintendent of
the Iowa Braille and Sightsaving School.)
     Following a variety of initial teaching experiences, Dennis
Thermon was employed at a school in Boston when his wife learned
of an opportunity to work at the Perkins School for the Blind. 
At the conclusion of the interview for the position, Thermon was
sure the other applicants would be preferred, but several days
later he was offered the job.  He was to teach six or eight boys
12 to 16 years old who had an educational level of about the 3rd
grade.  In spite of his initial doubts, he was "hooked" after
three or four months and has remained in the blindness field ever
since.  He has had experience in Australia, Canada, and various
parts of the United States.  His intention to spend this year in
England studying schools for the blind there had to be abandoned
when the foot and mouth epidemic was announced; with 75 percent
of those associated with the Iowa School also associated with
farms, he couldn't risk staying in England, though he hopes to
return in the future. 
     Residential schools for the blind have a long history in the
United States; the institution in Iowa, for instance, dates from
1852.  What are the factors that now determine the shape of these
schools? 
     The first is the law passed in 1976 assuring to all children
a free and appropriate public school education in the least
restrictive environment and, as often as possible,  in the
neighborhood school.  From that time forward, decisions about
where pupils in special education would receive their instruction
depended upon the individualized education program, thus altering
permanently the population of the residential school.  It has
been students with low incidence disabilities--the blind, the
deaf, and the deaf-blind--who have experienced the greatest
difficulty as a consequence of this process, arising particularly
from a paucity of well-trained teachers who can impart in local
schools the special skills needed to address these disabilities.
     Another circumstance shaping the residential school and its
role is geography.  Schools located in urban areas with two
thirds or more of their students attending classes during the day
have retained a healthy enrollment, while emphasis on educating
children in neighborhood schools has drained residential schools
in rural areas.  A city like St. Louis, for example, with a much
larger overall population than the Iowa school, has far fewer
resident students.  
     Though only 52 students are on site, the Iowa school has
responsibility for 600 children throughout the state, hiring and
supervising o&m and itinerant teachers for the whole state,
providing summer school terms for two different age groups,
offering 1-week training sessions to assist specific students to
participate in a local school activity like cheerleading or a
sport, consulting with ordinary classroom teachers throughout the
state, providing library and other services to students, etc. 
     While some years ago, a preponderance of residential school
students may have had extremely severe additional disabilities,
most such schools now no longer try to handle students who need
life supporting strategies in addition to having very limited
educational possibilities.  
     One more consideration influencing residential schools is
political since monetary support is crucial.  There are three
wealthy private schools, Perkins, Overbrook, and the New York
Institute.  The schools in some states, like  Alabama, have
retained a close working relationship with all state entities
like the governor, legislature, and local officials.  No one can
deny the seriousness of the cost of residential school education,
for $87,000 per pupil per year is the Iowa fee--10 times what it
costs for a student at the University of Iowa, and 2 1/2 times
the outlay for a year at Harvard.  The Iowa school is under the
Board of Regents, often an arrangement which ensures better
teachers' salaries and other advantages.  
     What can we expect in education of blind children by 2026? 
Additional residential schools will probably close;
specialization will increase to provide teachers for the severely
disabled, the deaf-blind, and the academically talented; and
emphasis to the funding sources will focus on specific benefits
for each student and for the state.  
     To ensure continuing education for blind children, the
residential school must be retained with its opportunity to
provide a central experience for students and trained teachers. 
Teacher training must receive greater attention, for it is being
phased out in more and more universities: the Universities  of
Michigan,  Minnesota and Northern Illinois this year.  States
like Iowa with no teacher training opportunities must continue to
press for such programs.  Iowa now pays a salary of $29,000
annually for a teacher with a Bb.A. Degree and no experience and
$40,00 for someone with a Masters Degree; appropriate  pay must
remain an important issue.  
     There must also be an understanding of the changes in the
population of blind children.  Some years ago, most  students who 
came to the schools had retrolental fibroplasia, retinitis
pigmentosa, glaucoma, or cataracts.  These causes of blindness
are disappearing. Now we most frequently see cortical visual 
impairment (brain damage during the birth process or soon
afterward), retinopathy of prematurity, fetal alcohol syndrome,
and optic atrophy; and all these causes are associated with
additional severe disabilities.  
     We must recognize, too--and parents especially must
recognize--that beginning with the 1975 federal law, the emphasis
is not on educational issues but on civil rights.  The right of
the child to attend his neighborhood school is stressed, not what
specific educational gain he will derive from that experience. 
While those who see the shortcomings of this approach and of
mainstreaming inveigh against it, there will never be a going
back to the approach to education advanced 30 years ago.  We must
concentrate on using the residential schools, skilled teachers,
and increased specialization to accomplish educational goals.  


                        AROUND THE STATE 

     The Orientation Center for the Blind Alumni announces its
luncheon and election of officers to be held at the Crowne Plaza
Hotel, Los Angeles, California, at 12:00 p.m. on November 3,
2001.  Mike Cole, OCB Director, will be the luncheon speaker.
Alumni are urged to attend, and those willing to serve as
officers are requested to make their wishes known before the
election.  Anyone having questions, call Jane Kardas, 707-468-
5510. 

*****          *****          *****          *****          
The Active Blind-LowVision Group will host a Guide Institute at
Camp Wawona in Yosemite National Park from Sunday, May 12, to
Thursday, May 16, 2002.  This will be a sequel to the guide
dog-/echnology session held at Camp Wawona in May, 1998, at which
we had the services of a trainer and an outreach specialist from
Guide Dogs for the Blind, and a representative from amajor
communications technology firm. 
     The purpose of the Institute will be to provide asessment
help for guide dog handlers wishing to refine their travel
skills.  Other legally blind persons seriously considering
replacing the cane with a guide dog will be included as well.  We
also accept experienced guide dog handlers willing to offer peer
counseling, function as role models, and participate actively in
our seminars.  The participants will be limited to 12 persons
plus 3 staff leaders.  A second, standby list will be maintained
to replace any cancellations.  A $50 deposit must be received by
December 1, 2001, covering 3 nights' lodging, will hold the
reservation.
     There will be plenty of time to enjoy the wonders of the
park.  The waterfalls, giant redwoods, the flora and fauna will
all be at their best during May.
     All prospective participants are advised that the animals
native to the park wander freely throughout, including Camp
Wawona.  If you have any concerns, contact the Rangers Office to
inform yourself of any risks to consider.  For additional
information and reservation requests, contact Joe Ring,
Coordinator, 559-439-4457 between 4 and 5 PM weekdays only;
address: 6687 N. Farris Ave., Fresno, CA 93711. 

****          *****          *****          *****
     In mid-August, Norma Schecter, long-time CCB member and well
known transcriber and teacher of braille, received the following
letter from the Braille Institute:
Dear Norma:
     Braille Institute has created an annual Braille Literacy
Award to recognize and honor those who have made significant
contributions to promoting braille reading and writing skills. 
We believe very strongly in the vital importance of braille
literacy in the lives of those who are blind.
     Your contributions to the world of braille literacy are
legendary, not only here at Braille Institute but throughout our
country.  It is based on your life-time achievement in promoting
braille literacy that we would like to present you Braille
Institute's 2001 Braille Literacy Award.
     May we invite you and your husband and your guests to the
special luncheon following our Annual Meeting on Wednesday,
September 26, for the presentation of the Braille Literacy Award. 
We have no greater event for celebrating such a recognition.
     It is our distinct pleasure to honor you with our Braille
Literacy Award.
Sincerely,             

Leslie E. Stocker, President
Braille Institute of America 
*****          *****          *****          *****          *****
     The Oakland Public Library, Services for Blind and Low
Vision Users, welcomes patrons and announces available materials
and services.  
     There are two Kurzweil reading machines at the Main Library,
125  14th Street.  They both scan printed items and read them
aloud.  The newest one can also read in six other languages:
Spanish, Russian, German, Italian, French, and Dutch.  To use the
Kurzweil readers, you must sign up by calling the Science Desk at
510-238-3138.  
     There is a CCTV at the Main Library which enlarges printed
material and projects it onto a screen.  The Brookfield branch
also has a CCTV.
     A Perkins brailler and thermoform machine are available for
use at the Main Library.  Thermoform paper is available, but you
need to bring your own paper for the brailler.  Call 510-238-3136
to schedule an appointment.
     The library has catalogs and applications to borrow free
recorded and braille materials from the Sacramento Library for
the Blind.   These are in the Art Department at the Main Library
and in each branch library.
     The library owns many descriptive videos.  A narrative
description of action has been inserted into the original sound
track with attendant pictures.  
     Jaws and ZoomText are available on a computer at the Main
Library.  Ask in the Science Department about where to get off-
site training on these programs.
     The library will soon have its online catalog and the
Internet made audible for blind and low vision users at the Main
Library and four branches.  
     There is a library  program called Extended Services for
persons with disabilities that is free and  provides patrons
double check-out  time on books and one week on all videos.  You
can also sign up from home and designate someone else to pick up
your materials from the library.  Ask for the application form at
any of the Oakland Public Library locations. 
     If you have any questions on these services, call Lynne
Cutler, the library's Disability Services Advocate, at 510-238-
3134 or 510-238-4974 voicemail. 

*****         *****          *****          *****

     Announcement from Al Biegler, President, Braille Revival
League of California: At the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles,
the BRLC Board meeting will take place on Thursday, Nov. 1, 2001,
at 6 p.m.
     The business meeting will occur on Friday, Nov 2, 2001, at 9
A.M..
     At 10 a.m. there will be a taped address by Norma Schecter,
"What will Braille be like in the new Millennium?"

*****          *****          *****          *****
     Report on the Fundraising Committee, Charles Nabarrete: The
Fundraising Committee of the California Council of the Blind
hopes to make this an exciting and profitable year for our
organization.  The Committee not only provides the vehicle for
raising funds for CCB, but also gives members an opportunity to
get involved and to assist the Council in a very important and
tangible manner.
     Our efforts began at the semiannual meeting at the spring
convention in Sacramento.  Members enthusiastically discussed the
work of the committee for this year, implementing existing
fundraising projects, and possible new fundraising ideas.  These
include a dance to be held on one of the convention evenings and
making a presentation at a general session of the fall convention
on fundraising efforts of chapters throughout the state. 
     The Fundraising committee is actively working on two
projects for this year and will pursue others in the future. 
Work is being completed on the CCB recipe book.  Chris Gray has
collected recipes from CCB members; editing and printing in
various formats need to be done.  CCB will offer the book for
sale in California and also at the ACB national convention in
Houston.
     Also sweepstakes tickets have been prepared for a drawing
during the banquet at the fall convention in Los Angeles in
November.  The grand prize is $500.00, and there will be several
other prizes.  Tickets will be sent to chapters for sale with 30
percent of the money going to the chapter.  With help from all of
you, we can make this event very successful. 
     We need additional members who will help with this important
effort.  Please contact me with your willingness to assist and
with fundraising ideas: Charles Nabarrete, 626-338-8106.

*****          *****          *****          *****          *****

     From the Association for Multicultural Concerns:  Blind and
visually impaired people in Peru need your help!  Julio Ilfredo
Guzman, president of the National Confederation Of the Disabled
of Peru, a leading institution that represents 119 organizations
of and for the disabled throughout Peru, recently commented on
the urgent need for blindness-related products for the thousands
of Peruvians with varying visual impairments.  
     The Association for Multicultural Concerns (AMC), a Special
interest affiliate of the California Council of the Blind, heard
the cry, and members are responding as part of the affiliate's
Project Unity.  Each year, the AMC selects a country with an
under-served blind population and collects and distributes needed
items to these individuals.  
     You can assist us in this effort by generously donating any
of the following items: folding telescopic or rigid canes for
children and adults,  talking or braille compasses, braille or
talking wrist watches for men or women, talking table clocks,
plastic or aluminum slates and styluses, abacus for math, tools
for raised line drawing, braille or raised line rulers and other
measuring devices, braille paper and paper for raised-line
drawings, scales and other weighing devices especially adapted
for the blind, tape recorders, braille writers, calculators, and
computer-related equipment.  
     You can donate in one of two ways.  Items can be mailed
"free matter" to: Don Brown, 1816 San Benito Street, Richmond, CA
94804; 510-528-1744; dlb123@mindspring.com
or Lillian Scaife, 1620 Molino Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90804;
562-494-4306; lmscaife@earthlink.net
     If you plan to attend the CCB fall convention, you may place
donated items in the receptacle near the Registration
table.  Thank you in advance for your charitable contribution.   


                         CCB OFFICERS, 

     (Editor's note: We are indebted to Bernice Kandarian who
updated and corrected the list of CCB officers and board members, 
cluding the number of the term each is presently serving and the
years covered by that term.  We shall publish the list this way
at least in issues just preceding and following elections and
routinely if members wish.)  

President, Catherine Skivers (00-02, 3rd term)
     836 Resota Street 
     Hayward, CA 94545
     510 357-1986
     e-mail ccotb@earthlink.net
1st Vice President, Jeff Thom (00-01, 1st term)
     7414 Mooncrest Drive
     Sacramento, CA 95831
     916 429-8201
     e-mail jeff.thom@lc.ca.gov
2nd Vice President, Teddie Remhild (00-01 partial term) 
     1100 W. Olive Ave., #220
     Burbank, CA 91506
     e-mail teddieremhild@earthlink.net 
Secretary, Kenneth Frasse (99-01, 4th term)
     141 Del Medio Avenue, #223
     Mountain View, CA 94040
     650 941-2421
     e-mail kfrasse@concentric.net
Treasurer, Peter Pardini (00-02, 1st term) 
     267 Cardinal Road
     Mill Valley, CA 94941
     415-381-9211
     peterpar@pacbell.net
Past President, Mitch Pomerantz
     1344 North Martel Avenue
     Los Angeles, CA 90046
     323 851-5148


             CCB BOARD OF DIRECTORS, January 1, 2000

Al Biegler, (99-01, 1st term)               
     819 Colusa Street
     Chico, CA 95928-4116
     530 893-8840
     e-mail albiegler1@juno.com
Martin Jones (99-01, 3rd term)
     730 V730 Victoria 
     San  San FSan Francisco, CA 94127
     415 469-8048
Jane Kardas (99-01, 1st term) 
     rm)810 Maple Street
     Ukiah, CA 95482
     707 468-5510
Rhonda Marshall King (00-02, 2nd term) 
     4541 Cyclamen Way
     Sacramento, CA 95814
     916-349-9960
Barbara Kron (00-02, 1st term), 
     May-November: 8304 Blue Spruce Way, 
     Windsor, CA 95492 
     707-838-9207 
     November-'Apri\, Box 13010, No. 323 
     Yuma, AZ 85366; 
     520-539-1323 
     e-mail badkron@aol.com 

Eugene Lozano, Jr. (99-01, 2nd term)
     3701 Whitney Avenue
     Sacramento, CA 95821
     916 485-8307
     e-mail lozanoe@csus.edu
Peggy Martinez (99-01, 1st term)
     2510 Cropley Way
     Arcata, CA 95521707 822-3122
e-maie-maill pegmar1@earthlink.net
 Rahman (00-02, 2nd term)
     t term)19616 Leapwood Avenue
     Carson, CA 90746
     310 327-0463   
Barbara Rhodes, (00-02, 1st term) 
     6396 Tamalpais Ave., 
     San Jose, CA 95120 
     408-268-2110; 
     e-mail brhodes@pacbell.net

                   CCB PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE

Joan Black, Chair: 4925 Coke Ave., Lakewood, CA 90712; 
     562-630-2304
Keith Black, 4925 Coke Ave., Lakewood, CA 90712; 
     562-630-2304
Bernice Kandarian, Vice Chair:  2211 Latham St. #120, Mountain   
    View, CA 94040; 650-969-1688
Winifred Downing: 1587 38th Ave., San Francisco, CA 94122; 
     415-564-5798
Brian Hall: 5722 Abraham Ave., Westminster, CA 92683; 
     714-894-3497 
Patty Nash, 901 Central Ave. Apt. C, Alameda, CA 94501; 
     510-521-2042
Charles Nabarrete, 239 N. Walnut Dr., West Covina, CA 91790; 
     562-338-8106
Teddie-Joy Remhild: 1100 W. Olive, #220, Burbank, CA; 
     818-848-2475
Catherine Schmitt: 1356 B South, Diamond Bar Boulevard, Diamond
     Bar, CA 91765 909-861-2931

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