                         THE BLIND CALIFORNIAN
                      Quarterly Magazine of the 
                    CALIFORNIA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND
Fall, 2003, Volume 47, No. 4
Published in Braille, Cassette, Diskette, online, and Large Print 
                     Jeff Thom, President 
                          7414 Mooncrest Way 
                           Sacramento, CA 95831
                           916-429-8201 res.
                           jsthom@attbi.com 

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

                 Los Angeles Area Office, Mitch Pomerantz 
             1115 Cordova Street 
             Pasadena, CA 91106
             626-844-4388                             
             mpomerantz@mailbox.lacity.org

                   Sacramento Area Office, Dan Kysor
                       225 15th St. 
                         West Sacramento, CA 95691
                         916-371-1514
                         Fax 916-371-7630
                         dan@ccbnet.org 


Please send all address changes to the Executive Office in Hayward

                       Editor: Winifred Downing
                      1587 38th Avenue
                      San Francisco, CA 94122
                     415-564-5798
                     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

2003 AMERICAN COUNCIL OF THE BLIND CONVENTION
      REPOROT, by Jeff Thom  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

NAT BROWN  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

ENSURING QUALITY SPECIAL EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN
      WHO ARE BLIND OR VISUALLY IMPAIRED, AER Report . . . . . . . . . . . 7

SEGWAY'S BUST PREDICTED, submitted by Dan Kysor  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

LETTER OF THANKS TO JEFF THOM, by Gabe Griffith  . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

ASSISTIVE TECH NEEDS A HAND IN D.C., by Suzanne 
      Robitaille, submitted by Ardis Bazyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

ADVICE TO HOSPITAL WORKERS, from BlindSkills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

CAREER CONNECTIONS, by Catherine Schmitt Whitaker  . . . . . . . . . . . .16

EIGHTEEN AND OUT OF THE HOUSE, by Jacob Lesner-Buxton  . . . . . . . . . .17

NEW BANK SERIES PROVIDES CANADIANS WITH INCREASED 
      ACCESSIBILITY, submitted by Gene Lozano  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

THE WAY OF THE BUS: WHERE THE END OF THE LINE IS THE 
      BEGINNING OF THE TRIP, by Dashka Slater  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

BULLETIN BOARD, compiled by Keith Black  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

OUT OF THE DOGHOUSE: PLEASE PET ME, by Toni and Ed Eames . . . . . . . . .25

FROM THE CAPITOL: CALIFORNIA CHAOS, by Dan Kysor . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

SOME E-MAIL SAFETY TIPS, by Frank Welte  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

CCB OFFICERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

CCB bOARD OF dIRECTORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

PUBLLICATIONS COMMITTEE  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34


 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

      All too rarely do I receive a Letter to the Editor, but I
have one this time from Cathie Skivers making some corrections to
Ardis Bazyn's summary of the "Minutes of the Pre-Convention Board
Meeting," April, 2003.
      "The trustees of the Newell Perry Fund are Pat Wolf, Richard 
Rueda and Catherine Skivers.  The trustees for the Ellen Murphy
Fund are Teddie-Joy Remhild and Catherine Skivers.
      The CCB Board of Directors voted to make available $1500 to
Catherine Skivers if needed in writing the history of CCB.  (The
BC indicated that this money had been allocated for me to work on
the ACB history, which, of course, is already completed.)"
      Now that business has been taken care of, I'll write a
little about a week's vacation that I found interesting.  I spent
it attending an Elder Hostel program held from August 8-13 at St.
Nicholas Ranch, a Greek Orthodox retreat center close to Sequoia
State Park.  The entire week was involved with things Greek.  One
day was dedicated to discussing the Odyssey emphasizing the
ethical and moral lessons it conveys, amazing since Homer's
writing preceded by 700 years the enunciation of such concepts by
Jews or Christians and Islam by 1300 years.  It was revealing to
hear the interpretation given by an actor who recited one of the
books of the Odyssey.
      Two days were spent hearing a learned professor treat of the
Greek philosophers who constituted the foundation of that subject
in western civilization, also preceding by hundreds of years what
later philosophers coming from religious traditions advanced.  
      An expert on the wild life of the area showed us seeds and
explained the ways evolved to ensure their distribution by their
relationship with insects, birds, and other plants.  He also took
us on a long hike down to a lake and on the way pointed out
tracks of different animals in the soft dirt demonstrating how
the skunk's tail dragged, for instance.  His involvement with the
environment sometimes requires him to destroy animals.  At some
period in the past, for example, domestic pigs were just released
and become wild.  Since pigs bear litters four times each year,
the population soon became excessive so that a hunter must shoot
groups of animals that intrude on residents of the area.  We saw 
graphic evidence of that problem one morning when the entire lawn
of the retreat center had been torn up during the night by the
marauders.
      We enjoyed a visit to an herb garden specializing in Greek
herbs, Greek food at all meals except breakfast, classes in Greek
cooking and folk dancing, and a visit to a monastery for Greek
Orthodox nuns and an impressive and beautiful cathedral recently
completed way out there in the middle of a sparsely populated
area. 
      The people (about 25 in our group)  who attend Elder Hostels
are always great.  They are mostly teachers, nurses, and
perpetual students who are eager and curious about everything. 
At the talent show on the final evening, not having any
particular talent to exhibit, I gave a brief talk about Louis
Braille; handed out braille alphabets and facts sheets; passed
around my slate and stylus, braille notetaker, children's books
in both print and braille, and an ordinary braille magazine.  We
had ben warned beforehand of the show so that I could bring all
these items with me.  It was great fun and people went home with
something new to think about.
      The deadline for the next issue of The Blind Californian is
December 1.


               2003 AMERICAN COUNCIL OF THE BLIND CONVENTION REPORT 

                           by Jeff Thom, CCB President  

      In writing a report such as this, I am guided by the old
proverb "different strokes for different folks."  Are you
interested in the political side of things? the truly frivolous
side?  Do you know almost nothing about the American Council of
the Blind, or have you attended a large number of national
conventions?  I hope this report will have something in it for
all of you.  The one thing that can be said with certainty is
that, for those of you who haven't ever attended an ACB
convention, there is no experience quite like it, and whether you
go to Birmingham next year, Las Vegas in 2005, or some other city
in the future, you will be glad that you did.  
      With convention activities starting on Saturday, July 5,
many attendees came in on the 4th and were greeted by Pittsburgh
thunderstorms, the likes of which native Californians just don't
see.  Many attended a tremendous fireworks display at the
baseball stadium for the Pittsburgh Pirates, which was within
walking distance of the Convention Center.
      Perhaps Saturday's highlight, insofar as California was
concerned, occurred while ACB President Chris Gray was hard at
work, during which time the First Lady of ACB, Marvelena Quesada, 
won a not inconsiderable sum of money on a casino tour.  
      The ACB Board of Directors met on Saturday, July 5, and made
many tough decisions.  ACB, like so many nonprofit organizations
in this post-911 era, is facing difficult fiscal challenges while
continuing to provide the most effective consumer advocacy for
blind and visually impaired American.   Under the leadership of
President Gray and fellow Californians Treasurer Ardis Bazyn and
board member Mitch Pomerantz, the board has begun a number of
long-term projects which should permit ACB to turn the budgetary
corner, but the board was required to make hard short-term budget
cuts like leaving vacant unfilled staff positions and cutting
travel expenses.  Examples of some of the new or expanded
fundraising efforts include changes in ACB thrift store
operations; expansion of the utilization of the Vehicle Donation
Program in states where the affiliates do not use it; the
increased use of corporate grants, which for this convention
underwrote several convention days' activities; and greater
emphasis on the Monthly Monetary Fund requesting members to
arrange for a sum to be withdrawn each month from their bank
account. 
      The opening convention session occurred on Sunday, July 6. 
Among the highlights was the Keynote Speech by Jim Gibbons,
Executive Director of the National Industries for the Blind
(NIB), the entity that oversees and assists sheltered workshop
programs for the blind throughout the nation.  Last year we
learned that virtually every such program was paying at, and in
many cases far in excess of, minimum wage to its blind employees. 
 As a rather disturbing aside, the statistics I have been able to
garner would indicate that many of our outstanding blind vendors
make less after their expenses than do those employed in a number
of these programs.  The big news from NIB is the establishment of
a management internship program under which blind and visually
impaired individuals will be hired to learn how to manage NIB
centers, a development that is expected to result in the
placement of blind and visually impaired folks in jobs that have
been almost exclusively held by sighted individuals.   This
program holds tremendous potential, and NIB is to be commended
for this endeavor.  
      Later in the session, ACB awards were handed out under the
able leadership of committee chair Teddie-Joy Remhild.  Although
many deserving awards were presented, I am going to focus on just
one winner.  The George Card award is conveyed annually to a
blind or visually impaired individual for his or her
contributions to the lives of those with vision impairments and 
to someone who is a role model for our population.  I can't think
of anyone more deserving than the wearer of a thousand hats,
including that of BC Editor, Winifred Downing.   She has had a
tremendous impact on the lives of thousands of people with whom
she is acquainted and far, far more who will never know of her
accomplishments.  As a parent, a teacher, an advocate, and a
representative of blind people, she is someone of whom we are
extremely proud.   
      Monday's session had something for everyone.   When it comes
to fierce advocates for the rights of people who are blind or
visually impaired, ACB Executive Director Charlie Crawford is at
the top of the list.  His executive director's report covered a
wide range of topics from rehabilitation to social services, and
from transportation to video description.   He talked of the
past, present, and future of ACB concluding that our greatest
strength lies  in the many fine people who comprise the greatest
organization of blind and visually impaired people in the nation. 
      As every person with a visual impairment knows,
transportation is a key to employment, recreation, where we live
and where we attend school, the list is endless.  Monday's
session provided the opportunity to listen to a number of
speakers on that most important topic.  Alice Richhart, co-chair
of the ACB Transportation Taskforce, reported on the recently
completed transportation survey in which many of you
participated.  Cudos to the taskforce, and especially to a former
CCB member who has recently returned to California, Ron Brooks. 
      The convention heard from speakers on Talking Signs and
automated stop announcements, two topics with which CCB, under
the leadership of our Committee on Access and Transportation and
its chair Gene Lozano, has long been acquainted.  Our final
transportation speaker was long-time ACB activist Donna Smith,
who is employed by Project Action.  This organization provides
training programs throughout the nation and offers grants for
unmet community needs.  Enterprising local chapters should keep
an eye on the Project Action grant cycle and give serious thought
to applying for a grant.  
      For many, one of the convention highlights is the address by
a talking book narrator; and this year's choice of Gordon Gould
was certainly a hit.  His humorous address on the meaning of
words is beyond my simple powers to describe.  
     Enrique Perez, our international speaker, not only heads a
Spanish organization of blind persons, but also is the president
of the International Blind Sports Association.  Lawyers, 
teachers, computer programmers, and a large number of physical
therapists, comprise a portion of the 64,000 blind and visually
impaired persons employed in Spain.  However, unemployment is
still high among the blind and visually impaired.  The good news
is that 20,000 jobs have been created in the past year; and
mainstream education, with the necessary services to go along
with it, appears to be working well.  Mr.  Perez also informed
the convention that it is possible to obtain a guide dog in
Spain, but schools are few.
      During Tuesday's session, the convention adopted some
amendments to the ACB Constitution including an amendment to
provide for a category of sustaining membership that will enable
us to more easily pursue corporate and other persons who may give
substantial donations.  Another amendment permits the admission
of junior members.  Since that day's theme was education, The
convention heard from speakers representing the schools for
Pennsylvania's blind and visually impaired students including a
representative from the nationally-renown Overbrook School for
the Blind.  Mark Richert, Executive Director of the Association
for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually
Impaired, spoke on reauthorization of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).  Time does not permit a
detailed account of the presentation, but CCB members should be
keenly aware of the issues regarding the reauthorization of this
extremely important federal law.  Mark is worthy of special
mention; for as a blind person and long-time consumer advocate,
he is working to make educators and other service providers into
involved advocates.  Mark's leadership embodies what CCB members
know especially after the passage of SB105.  Consumers and
providers working together can accomplish great things.  In
keeping with the theme of education, ACB's outstanding
scholarship winners were presented, a sizable percentage of whom
were in attendance.  Having the winners present for the awards is
a goal that CCB should strive to achieve.
      Technology was the word of the day on Wednesday.  Madeline
Bryant McIntyre from Microsoft gave an extremely fascinating and
wide-ranging address.  The aging population, rapidly changing
technology, and the need for uniformity and partnerships are just
some of the challenges facing our world.  She discussed a variety
of issues including things like the need for beta testers with
disabilities, the work of Microsoft to increase access, e-books,
and even issues not directly involving Microsoft like video
description, about which they can be of some assistance to us. 
      Tom Wlodkowski of America Online informed us of the great
strides that his company has made in making AOL accessible.  He
is blind, and knows that more needs to be done but feels that
great progress has been made.  
      Representatives from the National Library Service gave an
update on their new Web Magazine Project followed by Paul
Schroeder, formerly employed by ACB but currently with the
American Foundation for the Blind, who addressed the issue of
cell phone access.  Advances are being made, though perhaps even
more substantially in a few foreign countries than in the United
States.  With the advocacy efforts of ACB and the work of AFB and
others, we will prevail on this issue.   
      Wednesday evening was truly eventful with the ACB Gala for
the unveiling of People of Vision.  This ACB history tells the
real story and makes clear why this organization has always been,
and will continue to be, one in which all points of view will be
allowed and considered.
      On Thursday the convention passed two resolutions concerning
the complaint filed by Guide Dog Users International (GDUI)
against the Iowa Department for the Blind concerning alleged
discrimination against Stephanie Dohmen, a guide dog handler.  We
first adopted Resolution 2003-7, which indicated the
organization's support for the rights of guide dog handlers, but
also indicated an understanding of the ACB board's decision not
to sign on to the GDUI complaint but to merely assist those who
had filed the complaint.  Finally, Resolution 2003-6 required the
board to send a letter to the United States Department of Justice
within 15 days of the resolution's adoption supporting the GDUI
complaint.  
      One of Thursday's highlights was the Durward K. McDaniel
MacHatter's Party organized by our own Cathie Skivers.   Some say
she rigged the prizes, but we in California don't mind because
most of the raffle prize money stayed here in the hands of Mitch
Pomerantz, Connie Schoemann, and Rhonda King.  The real winners,
however, are the first-timers that ACB is able to send with the
money raised from this event.
      Friday's session was devoted exclusively to business.  All
the ACB officers sought re-election; and although they were all
victorious, the democratic spirit of ACB produced several tight
contests.  Thus, the ACB officers remain: Chris Gray, President;
Steve Speicher, First Vice President; M.J.  Schmidt, Second Vice
President; Donna Selliger, Secretary; and Ardis Bazyn, Treasurer.
Congratulations to them all!
      Although it is not my intention to provide a report on all
the resolutions adopted at the ACB Convention, as a full report
will be provided in The Braille Forum, I want to mention a few of
them.  Before doing so, however, I wish to acknowledge Gabe
Griffith, a member of our student organization, who attended
several of the Resolutions Committee meetings and made some
excellent contributions.  He even had the audacity to
occasionally disagree with the committee chair--me.  
      Two resolutions were based on CCB resolutions.  ACB
Resolution 2003 commended Hallmark greeting Cards for their
braille cards; and Resolution 2003, adopted at the CCB fall
Convention, urged airlines to make their Web sites accessible. 
The topics of the more than 20 other resolutions adopted at the
convention include transportation funding, accessible voting,
access to the federal courts, talking signs, cellular phones,
vending facilities, a proposed United Nations treaty addressing
the rights of persons with disabilities, and the need for
video-described DVD's.  Resolution 2003-21, brought to the
convention's attention by individuals primarily from the Colorado
delegation, requires ACB to present a fitting tribute for
inclusion in the permanent memorial being designed for the 911
crash site of United Airlines Flight 93.  During a week in which
we were toiling with issues relating to blindness, this was a
solemn reminder of the concerns of all Americans.
      After a long day of elections, voting on resolutions, and
some spirited debate on a few constitutional amendments that were
not adopted, convention attendees were ready for an evening of
fun, and that is what they got.  The ACB banquet held on Friday
evening was a tremendous success.   I can't even conceive of how
difficult it must be to raise a family as a deaf-blind parent. 
It was a real pleasure to hear stories of a typical family of
four; mom, dad, and two kids under 6; but Mom is deaf-blind. Kim
and Wess Smith somehow find the time to travel throughout the
country amusing audiences and exploding myths.  
      The other highlight was the presentation of an ACB award to
long-time radio personality and ACB member Eddie Walker with the
big surprise being that the award was presented by his partner in
crime for the last half century, the incomparable Willard Scott.  
Between the two of them, they reduced the hall to total bedlam;
but everyone survived the laughter.

      The Pennsylvania Council of the Blind--in fact the whole
city of Pittsburgh, were outstanding hosts; and we can look
forward to another wonderful time next year in Birmingham.   


                           NATT BROWN

     Drawing together elements of soul, pop, and R&B, Nat Brown,
the singer/saxophone player has become well-liked for his smooth
styling on classic songs.  With casual ease, Nat plays and sings
many songs from back in the day to the present (plus a few
originals).  He has been featured on radio and television shows
locally and internationally.  He has been the featured artist in
numerous newspapers and magazine articles such as In the Basement
out of London, England.  Nat's performances cover a
wide range of venues from concerts in the park to local senior
citizens' functions.  His music is truly enjoyed by people of all
ages.  Having shared the stage with Little Richard, Etta James,
The Coasters, Ike and Tina Turner, and the late Jackie Wilson in
earlier days, it's no wonder that Nat is reaching for the stars!
      With a group of youngsters who were playing in a schoolyard
Nat was seriously injured and as a result lost his sight. 
Because of this unfortunate accident, he attended Missouri School
for the Blind where he learned to play the sax.
      Nat's first CD, "First Day In Love," was released in 1997
and was an entrant for a Grammy award.  Nat was nominated for
Best New Artist and Best R&B Male Vocalist, too.
      His next CD, "Intimate Moments,"  received rave reviews from
In the Basement magazine, and  The single, "One
Thing's Wrong" rose to #15 on the charts in London. 
      The third CD, "I'll Be Home For Christmas," also received
great reviews from the local press.  "Treasures of Love" is the
fourth CD in Nat's collection.  It's been out for about a year
and features Nat crooning to many of the greatest standards of
all time.
      Now Nat is lending his lyrical styling to a Gospel CD in
collaboration with his mother, Toni Alexander, and his uncle,
Armetha Robinson.  Nat credits his family for his strong musical
roots.  You can visit Nat at:
www.natbrown.com or www.cdbaby.com or www.mp3.com and type his
name.  His home phone number is 916-683-1121, fax 916-683-4774.  


                        ENSURING QUALITY SPECIAL EDUCATION
                  FOR STUDENTS WHO ARE BLIND OR VISUALLY IMPAIRED

      (This paper was delivered at the conference on advocacy
sponsored by the Association for the Education and Rehabilitation
of the Visually Impaired (AERBVI), July, 2003.  For further
information, contact: Mark Richert, Executive Director, AER
(703) 671-6392; markr@aerbvi.org 
      OVERVIEW: Since its enactment more than a quarter century
ago, America's special education law, now known as the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), has had a
profound impact on the quality of public education for students
with disabilities.  However, a variety of statutory improvements
are necessary to make the promise of a Free Appropriate Public
Education (FAPE) truly meaningful for students who are blind or
visually impaired.  Some of these proposed changes are now
pending in Congress, while still others have heretofore gone
unaddressed by both the House and the Senate.
      S. 1248,  Provisions that Ensure FAPE for Children who are
Blind or Visually Impaired:  The Senate IDEA reauthorization
legislation currently includes several major improvements that
must survive the legislative process in order to ensure that no
child who is blind or visually impaired is "left behind."  They
include: 
      * Sec. 602(25), ensuring that "orientation and mobility" and
"travel training instruction" are recognized as distinct
disciplines in the IDEA definition of "related services."
      * Sec. 612(a)(22) and Sec. 613(a)(6), clarifying the
relationship between state/local educational agencies and
publishers of instructional materials to ensure that required
textbooks and related materials are made available to students
with disabilities in a timely manner.
      * Sec. 614(d)(3)(B)(iii)(II), ensuring that socialization
and independent living skills, orientation and mobility, and
skills in the use of assistive technology, including low vision
devices, are among the instructional services to receive special
consideration in the development of an IEP for a child who is
blind or visually impaired.
      * Sec. 675, creating both a uniform national standard for
publisher-prepared electronic textbook files and a central
repository for such files to facilitate efficient access by
state/local educational agencies and producers of accessible
materials for students who are blind or who otherwise have print
disabilities.
      Recommendation: House and Senate IDEA reauthorization
Conferees should accept these key imrovements in S. 1248, and all
Members should communicate their interest in these provisions to
the conferees.
      FURTHER IMPROVEMENTS ARE NEEDED
      Personnel Preparation: There is a profound national need for
more teachers of children with visual impairments, including
children with additional disabilities.  Over half the states in
the U.S. have no programs to train teachers of blind or visually
impaired students.  There are only 6,700 full-time-equivalent
Teachers of the Visually Impaired (including Teachers of the
Deaf-Blind) to serve the nearly 100,000 students needing such
special education services, and many more students may still be
unidentified.  These statistics indicate that 5,000 additional
teachers are needed immediately to meet current demand. 
      Similarly, approximately 10,000 Orientation and Mobility
Specialists are needed now.  Unfortunately, fewer than 250 new
Teachers of the Visually Impaired are being prepared each year,
and the national average of newly prepared Orientation and
Mobility Specialists is less than one per state per year. 
Moreover, the number of Rehabilitation Teachers available to
provide children with independent living skills necessary for
self-sufficiency is woefully inadequate.
      Recommendation: Congress must restructure provisions in the
current Section 673 of IDEA relating to "low incidence"
disabilities to ensure a threshold of funding to support new and
existing programs training personnel working with visually
impaired children.  Congress must also appropriate sufficient
funding to meet these objectives.
      Appropriate Educational Settings: The provisions of IDEA
mandating placement of students in the "least restrictive
environment (LRE), are all too often read to exclude placement,
even on an interim basis, in settings which are frequently best
suited to the unique educational needs of students with visual
impairments.  To be sure, Congress has, albeit not in IDEA per
se, recognized "the longstanding policy of a continuum of
alternative placements designed to meet the unique needs of each
child with a disability.  Placement options available include
instruction in regular classes, special classes, special schools,
home instruction and instruction in hospitals and institutions. 
For disabled children placed in regular classes, supplementary
aids and services and resource room services or itinerant
instruction must also be offered as needed." (Senate Report
105-17, page 11; House Report 105-95, page 91) 
      Recommendation: Congress should clarify the intent of the
"least restrictive environment" provisions by formally endorsing
the continuum of placement options in the statute itself. 
Congress should further emphasize that infants and toddlers with
visual impairments may be served in settings where only young
children with disabilities are served.


                             SeGWaY'S BUST PREDICTED!

                              submitted by Dan Kysor

      Inventor Dean Kamen promised that his superscooter would
change the world.  Then reality hit--hard.
By Gary Rivlin
      It would be premature to call the most talked about scooter
in the history of humankind a huge bust . But the Segway has
always been ahead of its time.  For a decade, Dean Kamen fiddled
and tested and tinkered with his invention, finally
stage-managing its public unveiling in December, 2001.  He
figured 2002 would be the year that the
Segway Human Transporter launched a transportation revolution. 
Executives at companies like FedEx and Amazon.com would behold
his high tech superscooter and wonder how they'd managed all
these years without it.  The .US. Postal Service and police
departments across the nation would overwhelm the company with
orders.  And behind Segway's institutional customers, Kamen
envisioned a long line of consumers from around the globe,
checkbooks in hand.  Maybe not all 6 billion of us would clamor
at once to own one, but to him that seemed only a matter of time. 
      After all, he was hawking the Segway as not merely a faster
way to get from here to there but also a solution to urban
congestion, air pollution, and dependency on fossil fuel.  To
prepare for the onslaught, Kamen leased a 77,000-square-foot
factory near his home in Manchester, New Hampshire and began
puzzling through the logistics of running round-the-clock shifts. 
He hired scores of lobbyists, who spent much of last year trying
to persuade state legislatures to rewrite their laws to permit
his scooter to operate on city sidewalks.  Before he'd sold a
single one, Kamen blithely forecast that by the end of 2002, his
enterprise would be stamping out 10,000 machines a week.
      Meanwhile, his best-known backer, venture capitalist John
Doerr, predicted Segway would rack up $1 billion in sales faster
than any company in history.  
      Segway's breakout year wasn't even a few months old before
bad news started to hit.  Kamen was pushing the scooter to
corporate customers amid a period of belt-tightening that has yet
to let up.  Supposedly obvious buyers like Federal Express said
no thanks, and others offered nothing but mushy maybes.  A
smattering of government agencies and corporate clients are
testing the vehicle, but none have agreed to any bulk purchases. 
Kamen's largest customer last year was Walt Disney, which ordered
four dozen machines for its theme parks and cruise ships.
      Meanwhile, the company decided to delay offering its scooter
to consumers until safety and training issues could be ironed
out.
 Segway officials acknowledge their factory sat largely idle last
year but refuse to disclose specific sales or production figures.
      "My sense is they're producing 10 per week," University of
Pennsylvania professor Karl Ulrich estimated near the end of
2002.  Ulrich is nominally a Segway competitor.  He's cofounder
of a company that manufactures electric motorbikes, but he shares
suppliers with Kamen and respects his work.
      Segway is still pushing its scooter to the corporate market,
but the great hope now is everyday consumers.  Inside
headquarters, a red brick former mill along the Merrimack River
in downtown Manchester, employees remain stoically upbeat.  In
November, the company announced that consumers could purchase a
Segway on Amazon for $4,950.  But at that price, the scooter
seems doomed to life as a yuppie plaything.
      Price isn't the only hurdle slowing Segway's consumer
launch.  Consider this: The vehicle weighs more than 80 pounds
and can travel maybe 11 miles on a charge, depending on terrain. 
Paul Saffo, a director at the Institute for the Future in Menlo 
Park, California, describes a ride on a Segway as a "gas" but
adds that the machine "costs three times what a consumer device
should cost, and it's about 40 pounds too heavy."
He believes the real Achilles heel is limited battery life. "If
they don't come up with a Stirling engine or a killer fuel cell,
this thing will go the way of the 128K Mac," says Saffo, whose
office is something of a shrine to interesting but failed
technologies.  (Kamen has been trying for more than a decade to
develop an external-combustion engine.)
      Then there are the pesky issues that sneak up on you when
you're trying to change the world.  Like training.  The company
promised it would require buyers to go through a minimum of four
hours of hands-on coaching before they would be turned loose on
the vehicles.  But how do you teach the subtleties of operating a
vehicle sold only over the Web? 
      "That's something we have to figure out how to do, that's
for sure," Kamen said two weeks before Christmas.  Maybe they'd
open kiosks in strategically placed regional hubs around the
U.S., or maybe they'd launch a fleet of RV-like training mobiles
to crisscross the country.  Each solution sounded more expensive
and convoluted than the one before.  There are times Kamen must
wonder what he was thinking back when he decided to start his own
transportation company.  Sitting in his fourth-floor office
overlooking the Merrimack, he alternates between bursts of
enthusiasm and frowns of resignation.
      He's a boyish-looking 51-year-old, a slight man with a pouf
of black hair and intense, coal-dark eyes who has never lost the
flinty Long Island accent of his youth.  Dressed, as he
invariably is, in a denim shirt, jeans, and scuffed work boots,
he exudes a fidgety, kinetic energy.  He's spent a lifetime doing
things that people told him were impossible, yet at the same
time, he seems incapable of sugarcoating the truth.  Kamen
declares himself "somewhat pleased and surprised" that so many
state legislators agreed to change their laws to accommodate his
scooter; he also allows that he seriously underestimated the size
of his task.
      "I wouldn't have predicted the mountain would be so big,"
Kamen says, "and that there would be so many hills to cross to
get to the top."
      In the beginning, there was only a rumor.  The first, vague
details of Kamen's supersecret project - codenamed "Ginger," aka
"IT" - were leaked to the press in January 2001.  Because Kamen
wasn't ready to talk about his invention, people guessed: It's a
Stirling engine.  It's a space-age hovercraft.  It's a
perpetual-motion machine.  To this day, Kamen believes his
creation suffers from inflated expectations born in the vacuum
created by his silence.  But surely he stoked the hype.  In those
first days after going public with his new device, he was like
all inventors, a dreamer who could not help himself.  If widely
adopted, the Segway would lead to urban redesign and renewal,
Kamen said.  His boldest claim came when he predicted in Time
that the Segway "will be to the car what the car was to the horse
and buggy."


                           LETTER OF THANKS TO JEFF THOM

Dear Mr. President,
  
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and the CCB
Board of Directors for sending me to the ACB National Convention
in Pittsburgh last week (July 5-12).  I was able to learn a lot
about ACB and its organization, operation and function.  I was
able to meet a lot of students from other states and have been
elected as treasurer for the National Alliance of Blind Students
(NABS).  It was a wonderful week, and I would not have had the
opportunity if it wasn't for the assistance from CCB.
 Thank you again.
  
   Sincerely,
     Gabe Griffith
  
  
                        ASSISTIVE TECH NEEDS A HAND IN D.C.

                               by Suzanne Robitaille

      Lawmakers must do more to encourage companies to create
technology that helps the disabled live and work
independently.  Technology is a great enabler; but for America's
54 million citizens with disabilities, it's more than that--it's
a lifeline.  Assistive technology gives these people a better
shot at success, via innovations that help the blind "read"
magazines, the deaf "hear" college lectures, and those with
cognitive or mobility impairments to write, talk, and use
computers.
      Without such equipment, the disabled might have to rely on
kin or Medicare.  In fact, many already lag behind in school and
the workplace, victims of a visible chasm of social disadvantage:
One out of five adults with disabilities hasn't graduated from
high school in contrast with fewer than one in ten of those
without disabilities.  Unemployment rates for the disabled of
working-age hover at around 70%, more than 10 times that for
people without disabilities and of the same age.
      PRICEY TECH AIDS:  While plenty of technology is now
available to help these people--hundreds of companies manufacture
thousands of products for them--much remains to be done before
they're plugged in, hooked up, or logged on.  The primary
obstacle to that may be that assistive technology can be
prohibitively expensive: A personal computer configured for a
disabled person's use can cost as little as $2,000 or as much as
$20,000, depending on the user's needs.  Most employers aren't in
the habit of spending that much for a laptop, so for the
forseeable future, the push to make assistive technology widely
available must come from Washington.
      For instance, schools that accept federal aid are now
required to provide individualized education programs, or IEPs,
for their special-needs students and to purchase technology that
will enhance their learning experience.  In the workplace,
employers often will foot the bill for assistive technology in
the name of a "reasonable accommodation" that's required under
the Americans with Disabilities Act.  Private insurers will pay
for some assistive technology that falls within the definition of
Durable Medical Equipment--wheelchairs, hospital beds, or oxygen
tanks that are prescribed by a physician.  And unemployed or
low-income individuals can get such equipment through Medicare.
      Two other federal statutes also are helping to push the
envelope: Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996
requires makers of telecom equipment to make sure the disabled
can use their products and services.  And Section 508 of the
Rehabilitation Act requires most federal agencies to use only
"accessible" electronic and information technology--including
making their Web sites usable for the disabled.
      CORPORATE INITIATIVES.   Meanwhile, the federal government's
involvement is spurring companies to develop cutting-edge
technologies.  IBM, for instance, is testing Netscribe, software
for the deaf that translates
a professor's spoken lecture into a text document that can be
printed or viewed online, complete with corresponding graphics
and slides.  Netscribe's bugs are being worked out in real-life
experiments at St. Mary's University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and
at a few U.S. universities.  If the product proves successful,
IBM hopes to sell it to schools and, perhaps, also launch it as a
virtual conferencing tool for companies.
      IBM says Netscribe is a hit with mobility-impaired students
who can't take handwritten notes and with foreign students who
might not fully understand every word of a lecture and want to
revisit the transcript.
      Another imaginative approach comes from Xerox (XRX), which
has launched a digital copier that lets the blind and visually
impaired make photocopies without assistance, using a PC that
runs Xerox's Copier Assistant software and is connected to a
Xerox copier.  Copier Assistant uses text-to-speech technology to
talk the user through the copying process--and sells for only
about $500.  It may never be a huge revenue generator, but Xerox
is hoping to capture the business of some of the 12 million
Americans with visual impairments.  It's also aiming for the
aging boomer population, which in theory would prefer to talk to
a copier rather than press buttons and might like an enlarged
on-screen user interface.
      INNOVATIVE PARTNERSHIPS: To hold down its development costs,
Xerox partnered with the Association for the Blind and Visually
Impaired-Goodwill Industries in Rochester, N.Y.--a new approach
that big companies are using to get ADA-compliant products onto
shelves quickly.  Thanks to that partnership, in which Xerox
created the product while the agency tested it, the new software
took only about nine months to finish.
      It may take years for such advances to lower the
unemployment rate of the disabled to something below Depression
levels and to raise their education standards above those of
developing countries: It has already been 13 years since the
passage of the ADA, and both problems persist.
      Yet, momentum is building to bring more assisitive
technology to market.  And as it arrives, it will create more
work opportunities for millions of disabled people, lessen their
financial burden on society, and help do away with the stigma
that's attached to them.  Technology gives the disabled a chance
to function more autonomously in school and in industry and in a
society that values hard work and independence, that can make it
a great equalizer.  Still, Washington needs to keep up the
pressure for assistive technologies--and employers and the wider
public should give the disabled a chance to show what they can
do.
  
  
                            ADVICE TO HOSPITAL WORKERS

      The material below has been prepared by Blindskills,Inc. and
will be sent to anyone requesting it for use when entering a
hospital with workers not accustomed to serving blind persons. 
For individual copies, contact Blindskills, P.O. Box 5181, Salem,
OR 97302-0181; phone, 503-581-4224.)
      When you enter the room of a patient who is either low
vision or blind, address the person by name if you know it; and
identify yourself by name and the organization you represent. If
someone else is in the room, too, avoid such inquiries as, "Does
he want the TV on?"  Questions and comments should be made
directly to the patient, not through a third party.
      Walk over to the side of the bed or chair and continue
conversation with the patient staying in one place while you
speak.  It is difficult for a visually impaired person to
concentrate on facing a speaker who continually moves around. 
When you are finished visiting, it is good to say good-bye with a
tap on the person's arm or a handshake or even a tap on the foot
as you go by depending on the circumstances.  Remember, a blind
person does not have the advantage of your smile or wave or other
affirmative body language that you might ordinarily use.  
      When you enter a room, always speak to the patient telling
him or her what you plan to do.  It is particularly important to
describe what is on a tray when delivering a meal.  This is
common courtesy for someone who cannot glance at you and
automatically see what you are carrying.
      Whether you are a visitor or staff, please take time to
describe anything new that may have been added to the room since
the patient arrived.  If the patient's chart is available in the
room, ask if he would like to have it read if this information is
regularly available to sighted patients.  Explain any written
instructions that may be posted in the patient's room.
      Guiding: When assisting a visually impaired patient from his
or her bed to walk to the bathroom, to a chair, or down the hall,
always offer your elbow.  The visually impaired person will take
your arm with his fingers holding the inside of your arm, just
above the elbow and his thumb resting on the outside of your arm. 
When you get to a doorway, identify the door by saying, "The door
is opening away from us on the right;"  or "The door is opening
toward us on the left."  Then pass through the door before the
person you are guiding and let him catch the door as he passes
it.
      Orienting the Patient to the Room: When the visually
impaired or blind patient first enters a room in advance of
having surgery or for any other reason, let him examine the
furnishings in the room.  This can be done by allowing him to
trail the wall to learn the location of the doorway to the hall,
the doorway to the bathroom, the windows, chairs, closet, etc. 
The patient might want to "square off" at the foot of his bed,
for example, by placing his back against the foot so he can line
up to cross the room.  If the patient is accustomed to using a
cane, he should be encouraged to employ it in his room if he
chooses to do so.  An adequate orientation for a patient at the
beginning can foster independence throughout the stay.
      Orient the patient to the controls of the bed, paging system
and TV and radio.  By explaining the operations of these items,
you will learn about the patient's independence and may discover
some time-saving measures.  In all cases, be sure to ask the
patient if he or she needs assistance.  It will then be up to the
patient to communicate those needs.  Difficulties sometimes arise
when staff or other visitors assume they know what the patient
needs.  When dealing with specific orientation to objects like
chairs, the sink, or other fixtures, remember that the patient
"sees" with his hands.  When you are guiding a patient who has
your elbow and you want him to locate the sink, put your hand on
the front of the sink and ask him to move his hand along your arm
to the sink.  When he is standing squarely in front of the sink. 
Other directions can be given regarding the room.  You might say,
"When you are facing the sink, the toilet is to your left.  When
you are seated on the toilet, the paper is on your right", etc. 
When guiding a person to a chair, place his hand on the arm of a
lounge chair or the back of a desk chair.  Let the individual
examine the tray table that slides over the patient's lap when
meals are served.
      Your Demeanor: Relax.  This patient might be a new friend in
the making.  He or she is used to being blind or visually
impaired, except in the case of a recent trauma which may have
caused the loss of sight.  In most cases, the individual is
familiar with living with diminished vision.  The best way to
carry on the conversation is to stick to topics of interest
rather than the condition of the patient.  Reporting some local
news or an event you witnessed takes the person away from himself
momentarily.  You will naturally show interest in the progress of
his condition.  Just before you leave, ask if there is anything
you can do to help.  He might need to review how to operate the
TV or find something he may have dropped or other small assist. 
Again, consideration can be your guide.
      Allaying Your Doubts: Remembering that your concept of what
a blind person can do may be far from the ability of a particular
patient, ask for information instead of presuming.  If you lost
your sight tomorrow, you would still be the same person with
capabilities and choices.  Let this new acquaintance, who happens
to be blind, maintain his or her independence during the stay in
the hospital.  It will make your visit or work more pleasant, and
the patient will be treated with the same dignity you would hope
to receive if your roles were reversed. 
 
 
                                CAREER CONNECTIONS

                           by Catherine Schmitt Whitaker

      Detra Bannister, National Employment Associate and Manager
of AFB CareerConnect, prepared this article for THE BLIND
CALIFORNIAN.  
      The American Foundation for the Blind has been pioneering
services and solutions for people who are blind and visually
impaired since 1921.  Our mission is to eliminate the inequities
faced by the ten million Americans who are blind or visually
impaired, inequities in independent living, literacy, employment,
and access to technology. 
      One way AFB proposes to assist with increasing the
employment opportunities for persons who are blind and visually
impaired is through our new program, AFB CareerConnect (tm).  AFB
CareerConnect is a free, easy to use, employment planning on line
resource for blind or visually impaired job seekers and students. 
If one does not have Internet access, a CD-ROM version is
available. 
      Who can benefit?  high school students interested in
exploring the fascinating world of work; college students
transitioning into the work force; adults with vision loss
seeking employment information and/or role models; rehabilitation
professionals; job placement specialists; teachers of the
visually impaired; parents of blind children and youth.
      Let me briefly share a few of the many valuable features of
AFB's CareerConnect which can provide the leading edge in
pursuing and finding satisfying employment. 
      The AFB CareerConnect home page contains interviews with
mentors, a guide for students, a guide for rehabilitation
professionals, an overview of the site, links for career
exploration and mentor matching, tips for job seekers, "My
CareerConnect" (an interactive on line work station), technology
in today's work place, and a resource list. 
      Through the Career Exploration link one can search and read
about thousands of careers in general, by personal interest, or
key word.  If a mentor is available in the occupation searched,
that information will appear on the screen.
      The Mentor Match link will Search for mentors by
geographical location, vision status, occupation, or mentor ID
number.  When a mentor of choice is found, a direct connection
can be made by using CareerConnect's email option.
      On the Mentor Match Web page, the "window on the world of
work" section will feature an article written by a CareerConnect
mentor who has experienced vision loss.  The articles will focus
on the mentors' occupations, the process they went through to get
hired, what it is like on the job, and what is necessary to stay
employed.  A new article will appear every other month.
      The Tips link offers Tips for job seekers including finding
job leads, strategies for getting hired, and keeping the job
after being hired.
      "My CareerConnect" (interactive tools) Creates and stores
personal data sheets, builds and prints resumes, schedules and
tracks appointments with an electronic calendar, and checks the
message board for messages. 
      On the Technology in Today's Labor Market link, one can read
about different types of assistive technology, how it is used,
and where to find it. 
      The Resources link provides links to job postings and other
disability-related employment resources; a comprehensive listing
of organizations and agencies that provide career counseling,
vocational training and placement; a recommended reading list of
interesting publications about various topics on blindness; and
publications about, and written by, interesting and well known
blind individuals.  
      The American Foundation for the Blind believes that AFB
CareerConnect will help prepare young people and adults in
transition for rewarding careers of their choice.  Please visit
our Web site at: www.afb.org/careerconnect. 
      To reach CareerConnect, write, telephone, or e-mail: 
American Foundation for the Blind CareerConnect, 949 3rd Avenue,
Suite 200, Huntington, WV  25701; 1-888-824-2184;
careerconnect@afb.net


                           EIGHTEEN AND OUT OF THE HOUSE

                              by Jacob Lesner-Buxton

      (This article is taken from the news letter of the National
Association of Parents of the Visually Impaired  and was
submitted by Patty Williams of the Living Skills Center, San
Pablo, California.  Patty says, "Jake has some serious cerebral
Palsy and is low vision.  At the moment he is in Russia with a
disability rights group, and then he will enter college in the
fall.  A great kid!)  
      Growing up, I always saw myself living independently. 
Dreams of owning and taking care of my own place filled my sleep. 
However, in those visions I always saw myself without
disabilities.  People with my disability were portrayed as
staying with their parents or in a group living situation which
was controlled by inept social workers.  These two images were
not appealing.
      Still, there was a chance that independent living wouldn't
be a possibility because of my minimal experience in the skills I
needed to maintain an apartment.  I barely knew how to clean,
didn't do laundry and could cook only in a microwave.  By living
with my parents, I wasn't motivated.  I couldn't move out
successfully without having living skills.
      My mom then suggested that instead of going to college right
away, I take a year off and move into the Living Skills Center
for the Visually Impaired about twenty miles away.  At the time,
I was outraged at the idea because I wanted to graduate college
with my age group.  However, that anger of delaying my education
subsided upon learning that half of my high school teachers were
still finishing their college credits.  Once that fear was axed,
I still felt uncomfortable about living in a "program."
      On my first visit, I discovered that the Living Skills
Center was located in an apartment building.  Students pay for
food, power, rent and phone exactly like a real apartment. 
Individuals can decide what they want to learn and come and go as
they please.  With this information, I started thinking of this
experience as real life and not going to a center.
      Still, in my head I was confusing the word "independence"
with "isolation."  In the months before moving out, paranoia
started hitting me.  I felt that I couldn't ask for help at my
new place.  I was going to be the most independent person with a
disability.
      Yet behind my tough skin, I was scared of failing.  I had
earmarked a whole year for this program.  What if something
happened that messed it up?  Nightmares of forgetting to pay rent
and getting kicked out of the Center flooded my head.  I didn't
want people to dismiss me as a helpless person who couldn't
manage on his own.
      The first night the mantra I believed, "I will not ask for
help," got tested.  I was having a hard time trying to open a
container of pasta salad and was almost in tears over the
situation.  Just then one of my neighbors came by to check on me,
and I got up the courage to ask him to open the container. 
Although he was nice, I was horrified by my actions because I
felt like I relied on him.  Luckily, over the next few days, I
met the other students in the program and saw that they weren't
perfect at being independent.  Teachers were helping my neighbors
with everything from using the ATM to cooking dinner.  After
seeing them, I finally relaxed and let people help me.  As long
as I made an effort to do all I could by myself, I saw no reason
not to ask people for assistance.
      Over the next few weeks, my teachers taught me many skills. 
For example I was able to learn how to use the stove, make
computer checks and clean the house.  When someone showed me how
to use the  burners safely, suddenly I could cook pasta without
fear.  I now pay my rent without assistance because I learned how
to print checks on my computer.  My living skills teacher gave
guidance on the best methods of cleaning the house.  Learning to
use these tools helped me to feel more comfortable about living
alone.
      After I got over all my worries, I was able to experience
the joy of living alone.  I decide when I do chores, shop and
cook.  Plus, being around people my own age who had similar
disabilities gave me a lot of social opportunities.  I found that
living independently forced me to overcome my shyness and connect
with people.  No longer are my parents around to provide social
interaction; instead, I have to find it myself.
      For the first time in my life I feel confident in myself and
my future.  Over the past six months I have gained a better
understanding of what I can and cannot do.  Chores, mistakes and
the unplanned incidents are daily occurrences in my life. 
However, I get a rush of adrenaline from fixing a problem or
completing a task.  Each day I get satisfaction from knowing that
with support I can live a life which is fulfilling and my own.


                          NEW BANK NOTES SERIES PROVIDES 
                      CANADIANS WITH INCREASED ACCESSIBILITY

      In its commitment to provide barrier-free access to bank
notes, the Bank of Canada developed a comprehensive accessibility
program as part of the design of the new series of bank notes. 
      With the release of the $10 note in January, 2001, the
central bank launched its new series, entitled "Canadian Journey"
to reflect the new designs on the back of the notes.  Four
different features have been incorporated into the bank note
design to facilitate note denomination.
      Tactile Feature: The tactile feature is used to designate
bank note denomination through a series of symbols formed by
raised dots and separated by a smooth surface, in the upper right
corner on the face of the notes.  Each symbol is composed of two
columns of raised dots.  The dots are embossed and back coated to
enhance their durability.  The number and position of symbols
vary according to the denomination: the $10 has two symbols; the
$5 will have one; the $20, three; and the $50, four. The tactile
feature on the $100 will be similar in length to the one on the
$50 except that the two middle symbols will be absent.
This feature was developed by the Canadian Bank Note Company, in
collaboration with the Bank of Canada, the Canadian National
Institute for the Blind (CNIB), and experts from Queen's
University.  This highly functional denomination method requires
a minimum amount of familiarization without the use of an
electronic device or template, addressing the issues of privacy
and ease of use which were raised during consultations.
      Large High Contrast Numerals: The denominational numeral
found on both sides of the note has a high print contrast, which
is further improved given that the area behind the numeral is
free of printing.  The numeral on the front of the note is dark
on a pale background while the one on the back of the note is
white against a dark background.  It is approximately 30% larger
in comparison to the previous series.
      Colour Contrast: The colouration difference for the various
denominations has been maintained from the previous series (i.e.,
$5 is blue; $10, purple; $20, green; $50, red; and $100, brown)
to help low-vision users identify their notes.  
      Improved Bank Note Reader:  The improved bank note reader is
a hand-held device being developed to denominate bank notes from
the new series, as well as from the Birds of Canada series. The
unit should be approximately half the size and weight of the
existing model. The selectable output modes (voice, tone and
vibration) will address the privacy concerns that have been
expressed by the users. The improved readers should be available
later in the new series.
      Research and Consultations: Throughout the development of
the new series, the Bank, in collaboration with the CNIB and the
Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB), conducted consultations with
blind and vision-impaired Canadians from across the country to
find out their preferences concerning ways to best identify bank
notes.  The recommended features were developed and refined
through trials conducted by tactility and low-vision experts,
assisted by bank note printers and representatives of CNIB.  
      Theme and Design: The notes from the Canadian Journey series
feature themes that celebrate Canada's history, culture, and
achievements.  The subject on the back of the new $10 note is a
tribute to Remembrance Day and Peacekeeping.  To the right of the
note, a veteran and two young people observe a Remembrance Day
service as members of the Land and Naval Forces stand vigil. A
member of the Armed Forces in a peacekeeping role complements the
scene.  To the left, the first verse of John McCrae's poem "In
Flanders Fields" is featured together with doves and a wreath of
poppies, which symbolize peace and commemoration.  The new larger
portrait on the front of the $10 note is of Sir John A.
Macdonald, Canada's first prime minister and one of the Fathers
of Confederation.
      Security Features: Among the many state-of-the-art security
features incorporated in the design of the new notes, the easiest
to use is perhaps the raised ink.  The ink used on the large
number "10", the words "BANQUE DU CANADA BANK OF CANADA", the
portrait, and the Coat of Arms feels thicker to the touch.  There
are also several new visual security features.  At the base of
the Parliamentary Library, three iridescent maple leaves, pale
and matte in appearance, change to a reflective gold colour when
the note is tilted. The edges of the leaves are smooth and well
defined.  a large "10", also called "Hidden Number", becomes
visible in the heavily printed rectangle on the left of the
portrait only when the note is held at a 45 degree angle.  When
exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, an image composed of the Coat
of Arms, the words "DIX TEN" and "BANK OF CANADA BANQUE DU
CANADA" glows blue over the portrait.  White security fibres,
invisible in normal light, glow red under UV light.
      For further information on the new series of bank notes,
contact the Bank of Canada at 888-513-8212 or for additional
information on the tactile feature, call your local CNIB district
office.  
www.bank-banque-canada.ca


              THE WAY OF THE BUS: WHERE THE END OF THE LINE IS ALSO 
                             THE BEGINNING OF THE TRIP

                                 by Dashka Slater

      (Reprinted from the San Francisco Chronicle, August, 3,
2003.)
      Many people have said to me: How do I find the Way of the
Bus?  I have seen  the place where the bus comes, but I do not
know if it will take me to the place I seek.  Others say I have
wanted to follow the Way of the Bus, but I have waited a long
time and it seems the bus never arrives.
      To all these people I say, "Have patience.  When you no
longer look at your watch, when the map no longer interests you,
then you will know you have found the Way of the Bus."  Like
life, the way of the bus is circuitous and slow.  Relax.  Your
stop will come.
      The Way of the Bus begins, it is true, at a fixed spot. 
Stand at this place and clear your mind of all expectation. 
Sometimes you will find that many buses come, all ready to carry
you to the place you desire.  The Way of the Bus is offering you
its teaching:  Many Buses are no better than one Bus.  Why then
do we always crave more than we need?
       At other times, the Bus seems never to come at all.  Buses
that take others to their destinations pass us as we wait for the
Bus that is ours.  Yet we are not dissuaded from our path, for we
know that we do not want to go to the Transbay Terminal or the
Outer Richmond.  This, too, is a lesson of the Way:  You cannot
arrive at your destination by traveling another man's path.

If you are impatient, you may be tempted to begin following the
Way of the Bus on foot.  The Way of the Bus does not forbid this. 
It says, "I cannot always carry you; sometimes you must make your
own Way."  But your heart must be committed to this path.  Do not
choose it unless you are wearing comfortable shoes.  Many
travelers have found themselves wandering the vast desert between
stops whereupon the Bus has passed them by.
       It is well to remember that there are many paths up the
mountain.  If the No. 30 does not arrive to take you from
Stockton and Ellis to Pac Bell Park, you may take the No. 45 or
the No. 9X.  On the Way of the Bus, the shortest distance between
two points is not necessarily a straight line.  Sometimes we may
need to travel away from our destination in order to approach it
in a more harmonious manner.
       Once you have boarded the bus, the novice may assume a
posture that is either seated or standing.  Advanced
practitioners may attempt some of the variations on these
postures, such as Seated While Reading Newspaper, Standing While
Reading Newspaper, Pretending To Read Newspaper While
Eavesdropping On Nearby Conversation, Seated So As To Enjoy A
Light Sleep, and Seated So As To Sleep Off A Five-Day Bender. 
The latter two should not be attempted by the novice, as she will
likely miss her stop.
      The novice is often tempted to sit at the front of the bus,
perhaps hoping to discuss her destination with the driver.  This
is permissible if the Bus is not crowded, although the driver is
often occupied with a meditation on the Inferiority of Other
Drivers and may not wish to be disturbed.  But remember to
relinquish these forward seats if they are needed by anyone who
moves through the world on wheels.  Such persons are sacred to
the Bus, and the Bus kneels at the sight of them.  Those who
refuse to give up their seats will suffer calamitously long waits
and unexpected mechanical breakdowns until they purify themselves
by paying thrice the customary fare for seven consecutive
journeys.
      The Way of the Bus has few rules, but the novice must learn
to follow them.  Refrain from boisterous behavior and loud music
as these sow discord amongst the passengers.  Do not distract the
driver, for the Way of the Bus will be short and painful if the
Bus collides with another Bus.  No eating or drinking, for the
Way of the Bus will be unpleasant if it is accompanied by vermin.
       As the journey unfolds, the traveler must open her senses
to the Way of the Bus.  Let the smells of the bus permeate your
nostrils, the sensations of the bus permeate your skin.  This
should be easy, as the other passengers may be pressed up against
your body, and some may not have bathed in many weeks.  Most
important, you must listen to the words exchanged around you, for
these conversations are the murmurings of the Way and they may
contain a message for you.  If the woman at the rear of the bus
shouts "Miracle? Or Mackerel?" at frequent intervals, do not hide
behind the headphones of your iPod.  It may be you she is
reminding that a fish and a blessing can be difficult to
distinguish.
      At last, it will be time for you to depart the Bus.  Note
how even as you got off, others are getting on, how the end of
the line is also the beginning of the return trip.  Now, as you
descend, take a last breath of its diesel perfume and contemplate
how much the Bus has given you.  The Way of the Car has no
lessons to teach, for you are alone in the body of the car and
may be fooled into believing yourself alone in the world.  On the
Way of the Bus you travel with others.  Their Way may not be
yours, but for the duration of your journey, they are your
companions.  Bid them a kind and a grateful farewell for you will
meet again, if not on this bus, then on another.


                                  BULLETIN BOARD

                              Compiled by Keith Black

      Each section of "Bulletin Board" will be terminated by a
line of asterisks.  After the first item from a magazine is
listed, subsequent items will be marked with a single asterisk at
the beginning of the paragraph.
      Talking Bar Code Scanner has huge database! En-Vision
America has just released its newest I.D. Mate II.  It has a huge
database of products.  It is a portable, electronic tool that
aids an individual with the identification of items in the home
or the workplace using the product's bar code or UPC.  It can be
used to identify and get detailed information about any product
or item that is not identified by touch.  I.D. Mate II can be
used to identify cans, jars, boxes, bottles, clothing, playing
cards, prescription drugs, compact discs, albums, cassette tapes,
diskettes, important papers or file folders and the list goes on.
It's as easy to use as a cassette player.
      The package includes: I.D. Mate II; Bar Code Scanner;
Carrying Case with Strap; 4 High-Capacity NiCad Batteries; AC/DC
power adapter; 100 Pre-printed Bar Code Labels (used for items
that don't have an existing barcode); and a 64 MB CompactFlash
Memory Card.  Eearphone and microphone jacks are installed.  It
measures 11 by 4 by 4 inches and weighs less than 2 pounds. 
      The memory card comes with a database of over 500,000
grocery, pharmacy, and music items already installed; and as an
added benefit, many items in this database include extended
package information including nutritional information,
ingredients, warnings, etc.   
      You can also record your own messages for any item.  The 64
MB memory card has enough storage for recording over 1500 of your
own messages.  Larger cards can be purchased.
      The device comes with large print and cassette instructions,
is warrantied for one year, and has a a built-in talking help
mode.  Upgrades from old-style I.D. Mate models are available. 
Price: $1,599.  
      David Raistrick; En-Vision America, Inc.; 1013 Porter Lane;
Normal, IL 61761; 800-890-1180.

*****          *****          *****          *****
      From The Matilda Ziegler Magazine, July 2003: AT Connection. 
Purchasing assistive technology is difficult even for
knowledgeable consumers and professionals.  Most information
comes from manufacturers seeking to promote their products.  It
is not easy to find out how products perform in actual use.  
      The AT Connection is a new Web-based forum where users of
assistive technology can confidentially post product reviews and
exchange information about their experiences in using AT
products.  There is no cost or commitment for use of this
resource.  This exchange of information can benefit consumers and
professionals in the field of rehabilitation and education of
people with disabilities.  The AT Connection was developed by
Tech Connections, which is funded through a grant from the
National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research.  To
learn more, visit www.techconnection.org/forum.cfm.  

*****          *****            *****            *****
      From The Matilda Ziegler Magazine, August 2003: New
Publications.  Two not-for-profit magazines will be dedicated to
publishing original writing by blind people.  "Arch and Bark", a
semi-annual magazine of independent travel, welcomes articles
about white cane and guide-dog travel.  "Blind Cites", a
quarterly literary magazine, seeks poetry and short fiction
submissions of up to 2,500 words.  Payment for contributions will
be made upon their publication.  Subscriptions to "Arch and Bark"
cost $15 and for "Blind Cites" $25.  The magazines are to debut
in late 2003 or early 2004 in large print and cassette.  Contact
Dennis Holter in braille, print, or tape at 1000 Kiely Blvd. #21,
Santa Clara, CA 95051; E-mail dennisholter@yahoo.com, or call
408-241-1646.  
*     Math, Science Software.  MathSpeak is a new HTML creation
mechanism released by Theorist Interactive, the makers of
LiveMath and MathEQ Software.  This set of special HTML tags
enables all screen readers to read correctly all mathematical and
scientific notation on Web pages created with this software. 
MathSpeak is built into the new version 4.0 of MathEQ for Windows
and Mac.  Visit www.mathspeak.org.  

*****          *****          *****            
      From Dialogue, Summer 2003: If you have access to the
Internet, you can find out which television programs have audio
description as part of the presentation by visiting 
www.tvnow.com/dvs/index.html.  
*     Victor Reader Vibe is a new DAISY book player available from
VisuAide.  In addition to playing files in the new digital
talking book format, the Vibe plays MP3 files and music CD's. 
Priced at $219, the Vibe is the least expensive stand-alone DAISY
player to date.  The Vibe is a clam-shell-type device with
buttons around the top arranged somewhat like the dial of a
rotary phone.  
      The company has also released its version of a talking
Global Positioning Satelite system called Trekker.  Trekker
includes a hand-held computer known as a Personal Digital
Assistant, a GPS receiver, a speaker, and a battery pack.  It
offers talking menus, talking maps, and GPS information.  Trekker
costs $1,595.  For more information, contact Visu-Aide by phone
at 888-723-7273; Web site: www.visuaid.com.  
*     PnC Net is a Web browser designed specifically for low-
vision  users.  PnC Net is software that enlarges the screen of
any Web page and reads text aloud.  As words are spoken, they are
also highlighted.  Page layout is preserved, and text wraps so
that a minimal amount of left and right movement is necessary to
keep text on the screen.  The browser costs $245.  For more
information, contact  JBliss Imaging Systems, 100 W. El Camino
Real, Suite 68, Mountain View, CA 94040; 650-940-4115 or 888-452-
5477; fax: 650-903-4136.  
*     Easy Talk Computers offers numerous items for sale including
desktop and laptop computers that feature GW Micro's Window-Eyes. 
It also sells a variety of speech synthesizers, reading machines,
low-vision reading equipment, embossers, notetakers, and more. 
For more information, contact  Easy Talk Computers, 2201 Limerick
Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32309; 850-906-9821; fax  850-894-9203;
(Call business phone before sending fax.)  Web site visit
www.easytalkcomputers.com.                  



                        OUT OF THE DOGHOUSE: PLEASE PET ME 

                           by Toni and Ed Eames

      I sat in the cancer center lounge awaiting my first
post-surgery chemotherapy treatment.  In a nervous state of
anticipation, I bent down frequently to caress my golden
Retriever guide dog Escort lying at my feet.  
      "May I pet your dog?" asked the patient sitting on my right. 
Without hesitation, I invited her to gain comfort from my silky
canine stress reliever.  Realizing that, as a guide dog partner,
I had the right and privilege of having Escort with me at all
times, I felt compelled to share my dog with others who could
benefit from his presence.
      When I trained with my first guide dog, a golden Retriever
named Charm in 1967, The prevailing advice given by trainers was
never to allow anyone to pet a guide dog in harness.  That view
still dominates the guide dog movement to this day.  For the
first few months after graduation, I strictly adhered to the no-
petting-in-harness policy.  However, after entering graduate
school, I needed to take a revisionist stand.
      The theory behind the no-petting policy is that dogs will
get too excited and distracted, ignoring or neglecting their
work, endangering the blind partner.  The harness, according to
this thinking, should always be regarded as a symbol of work mode
to the dog.  During team training, my classmates and I were
advised to remove the harness before allowing our dogs to
interact with members of the public, giving our canine assistants
the off-duty signal.     
      Wanting Charm to be able to associate with friends, family
and classmates without the hassle of removing her harness, I
developed my own approach to this issue.  Recognizing that the
fundamental problem was keeping Charm focused on her work as
guide, I trained her to remain in a SIT or DOWN STAY while
accepting hands on attention from others.  Rather than removing
the harness, I gave her the off duty signal by dropping the
handle.  She was not allowed to solicit attention by pulling
toward a stranger's reaching hand or toward a person she knew or
liked.  At home, of course, where she was out of harness and
functioned as any other pet dog, Charm was free to greet, play
and cuddle with anyone visiting our home.  
      Another part of the training regimen was teaching Charm not
to respond to strangers calling to her by whistling, clucking or
offering her food.  My perceptive partner quickly learned she
would receive plenty of affectionate pats only when given the off
duty signal and calmly assuming a SIT or DOWN position.  When I
held the harness in my hand and Charm was performing her role as
guide, she regarded outstretched hands as obstacles to be
avoided.  
      After completing graduate school, I was employed at a
psychiatric hospital where Charm was the focus of attention from
many fellow workers and patients.  Her early training paid off,
and she was able to enjoy an active social life without
compromising her guide dog duties.  I was an early pioneer of the
therapy dog movement without even realizing it.  Although Charm
was not in harness in my office and patients could play with her
there, many did not understand the prohibition of touching her
while she guided me in the building and on the hospital grounds. 
Because of the conditioning I had done with her, Charm was not
distracted by these friendly overtures.  Incorporating  her love
of people into my counseling sessions, Charm was able to provide
solace to patients by letting them pet her, brush or comb her on
occasion and even play with her. 
      Recognizing the value for me and my guide dogs of controlled
interaction with members of the public, I subsequently trained
Charm's successors, Flicka, Ivy and Escort, to the same standard.
                                     Ed Eames
      Unlike Toni, who could not keep her hands off any animal
entering her personal space, I did not consider myself an animal
lover.  Therefore, when I trained with my first guide dog, a
black Labrador named Perrier in 1981, the strong admonition never
to permit anyone to pet my dog in harness was never questioned. 
      All that changed one day when I was in a center city bakery
in Philadelphia buying doughnuts and muffins.  Perrier was
sitting quietly at my side near the counter when an elderly woman
approached and asked if she could pet him.  Before I could get
out my usual, "No, he's in harness and can't be petted," she said
in an emotion-laden quivering voice near to tears, "I used to
have a dog, but had to give him up when my husband died; and I
moved into an apartment building where they won't allow pets." 
      Responding to her obvious need for a furry fix, I said, "Of
course you can pet him.  His name is Perrier."  Taking his cue
from the exchange, Perrier calmly leaned into her hand as she
petted him on the head for the next two or three minutes. 
      Stepping up to the counter, the sales person commented that
the woman left the store all smiles.  From that time on,
Perrier's guide dog role was expanded to include short-term
therapy for people in need of a doggie fix!  
      My continued relaxation of the "no-pet" rule had
unanticipated consequences.  While soliciting support for a
blindness-related bill in Sacramento, I breakfasted at the state
capitol dining room.  The day before, I had walked the halls of
the assembly with a friend who never allowed anyone to touch her
guide dog.  The committee vote was going to be very close, and we
needed the support of one committee member who was never in his
office.  As I put my breakfast tray on the table, I contemplated
various strategies to get to this elusive politician.  As soon as
I sat down, a friendly voice asked if he could pet my guide dog
Kirby lying under the table.  Welcoming the intrusion, I invited
the stranger to join me for breakfast.  Shifting the conversation
from our mutual love of dogs, I asked him what he was doing in
the capitol; and to my delight, he proved to be the elusive
politician, and over a cup of coffee, I was able to discuss my
issue with him.  He was the swing vote and our bill passed,
thanks to Kirby!  Had the assemblyman approached my blind
colleague, he would probably have felt rebuffed; and the
opportunity to lobby him about the bill would have been lost!
                                 Toni and Ed Eames       
      Since our marriage and move to California, our careers have
literally gone to the dogs!  We lecture at veterinary schools and
conferences, and our dogs are like magnets to those
folks.  As we wander around the exhibit hall and hotel lobby,
Escort and Echo attract lots of attention enabling us to meet and
network with scores of people in the animal health care
community.  
      Strolling through the mall or waiting for trains, planes and
buses, we have the opportunity to speak with many people who
otherwise may have avoided talking to a blind person.  Children
can be educated about the need to always ask before approaching a
dog, how to be gentle, and why our dogs are with us in public.  
      Even the most committed dog lover should ask before
approaching a guide, hearing or service dog.  Just as you would
not hug a stranger, the same etiquette should be extended to
working canine assistants.  Many disabled people feel their dogs
are an extension of their bodies and resent unsolicited attention
showered on their teammates as an invasion of their personal
space.  Some dogs sport signs saying, "Please don't pet me, I'm
working."  
      Of course, if you run into us and want to say hello to Echo
and Escort, please come over and give us the opportunity to
settle the dogs for a visit!
      Toni and Ed Eames can be contacted at 3376 North Wishon,
Fresno, CA 93704-4832;  559- 224-0544; eeames@csufresno.edu.  


                        FROM THE CAPITOL: CALIFORNIA CHAOS?

                             by Dan W. Kysor, Director
                             CCB Governmental Affairs

      By the time you receive this issue of the BC, Californians
will have spoken on an unprecedented recall election which could
change the face of the state's government while I continue to be
struck by the utter normality of the legislative process with one
exception, our voting system.  State and Federal laws mandate
that by 2006 all voting systems in California become touch-screen
systems.  Complicating matters, a push to have these systems in
place by 2004 or even earlier and mandating accessibility
standards are putting much pressure on counties and the Secretary
of State's office.  CCB's Secretary, Ardis Bazyn, completed her
term on the California Help America Vote Act planning committee
and has recently been appointed to the Voting Access
Implementation committee.  She reports that, although there has
been much talk of a voter verifiable ballot receipt, her
committee did not recommend that the ballot receipt be certified.
This type of receipt would preclude the right of an independent
and verifiable ballot by the blind and visually impaired voter
because he/she could not read it.  Finally, the Secretary of
State agreed with the committee's recommendation to wait until
the U.S. Justice Department signs off on this concept of a voter
verified ballot receipt.  I urge all CCB Chapters to get involved
with your county Elections Implementation Committee.
      At this writing, all committees of the California
Legislature have finished their work.              
      Two measures concern education.  AB 662 by John Dutra, which
would create an education task force of parents, teachers of the
visually impaired, and other interested parties, and make other
important changes that affect blind and visually impaired pupils,
has become a two-year bill.  More encouraging is SB 302 by Sheila
Kuehl that would clarify state law relating to the California
State University and its compliance with recently enacted
accessibility laws on informational technologies.  It heads to
the Governor for his signature.
      Good news for transit riders because AB 467, also by John
Dutra, was recently signed into law by Governor Davis.  It will
require at least one accessible fare machine per transit station. 
This bill was sponsored by the NFBC and strongly supported by
CCB.
      SB 262, another bill by Sheila Kuehl, would require county
counsels to enforce ADA laws and pursue actions against ADA
violators.  It would create a voluntary standard for
certification of ADA consultants through the Division of State
Architect.  The bill was sponsored by the Attorney General of
California and is headed to the Governor's office for signature .
      AB 1400 by Lois Wolk would create Universal Design
incentives for homebuilders and owners regarding features
advocated by disabled persons.  The bill now moves to the
Governor.
      Good news for guide dog users who receive the California
assistance dog allowance.  This important benefit, which CCB
helped to establish, will continue as usual and will not be
affected by reductions in the 2003-2004 budget.  SSI
beneficiaries will receive an increase in the state's share of
their benefits retroactive to June 1, 2003.  However, although a
federal increase in benefits for the 2004 calendar year will be
provided, no further increase in the state's share will be made
in 2004.  Overall, the elderly, blind and disabled did very well,
but we must remain vigilant in these turbulent times. 
      AB 268 by Gene Mullin was signed into law.  It requires all
State of California supervisors to be trained in the Americans
with Disabilities Act.  CCB was in support of this bill.
      Several pieces of legislation ran into trouble and have been
put over until January of 2004.  AB 1010, sponsored by the NFBC
and authored by Leland Yee, would create incentives for the
credentialing of teachers of the visually impaired by making
available loan forgiveness funds.  It has run into fiscal
troubles leaving the sponsors trying to find a funding source for
this important program.
      The bill which implements the Federal Help America Vote Act,
AB 714 by Assemblyman Mark Leno, has also been held over.  The
author feels he needs more input from advocacy groups and CCB
will be at the table on this bill.
      SB 69 by Senator Rico Oller would establish a 60-day
notification period for individuals who seek to file an ADA
complaint against violators.  This bill is strongly opposed and
has also been put over until next January.
      SB 74 by Tom Torlakson would mandate that at least 50% of
all products dispensed from a vending machine on state property
be "nutritious".  We vigorously oppose this bill because it
interferes with the free trade by California's blind
vending program.
      Two bills that relate to universal health care are still
being decided upon at this writing, SB 2 by John Burton and SB
921 by Sheila Kuehl.
      AB 209 by Tim Leslie, which would have created a 60-day
waiting period for individuals wishing to file ADA complaints
against violators died in its first committee hearing
after much opposition.
      I will have the final report of the 2003 legislative session
for you in the next issue of The Blind Californian. 
      As always, I can't thank all of you enough for your phone
calls to legislators and your letters of support or opposition on
issues we are following.  I will present my final report on
California legislation during our fall convention at the Crowne
Plaza Hotel in Los
Angeles, October 16-19.  I look forward to seeing all of you
then.


                         TECHTALK: SOME E-MAIL SAFETY TIPS

                                  by Frank Welte
 
      An ever-growing number of visually  impaired people are
using e-mail as an easy means of communication.  Unfortunately,
e-mail, like any other communication medium, has its pitfalls. 
Last time we learned how users of the Outlook Express e-mail
program can use folders, filters, and the Block Senders list to
minimize junk e-mail and organize incoming messages.  Would that
junk mail was the only danger facing the Internet connected
computer user.  You must always watch out for e-mail-borne
computer viruses that can damage the data on your computer and
fraudulent e-mail messages designed to separate the unwary from
their money.
      E-mail-borne computer viruses: There's much to be said about
computer viruses; but because of space limitations, I'll be brief
here.  In recent years the most dangerous computer viruses have
been spread via e-mail.  Some viruses are contained in files that
are attached to e-mail messages.  When you open the file the
virus is activated in your computer system.  Some newer types of
viruses are hidden in the e-mail message itself, so the act of
simply opening the message activates the virus.  Here are some
steps you can take to protect your system from virus-harboring e-
mail.
      1. Install antivirus software on your system, and keep the
software as well as its associated virus definition files up to
date, and configure the software to continuously scan your
computer as well as your incoming and outgoing e-mail messages,
for viruses.  If you don't have updated antivirus software
running on your computer as you read this article, immediately
put down this magazine, hold your phone calls, cancel your
appointments, and get that antivirus program up and running. 
      2. Many viruses are written specifically to exploit
weaknesses in the security measures built into the various
versions of Microsoft's Windows operating system.  Microsoft
frequently posts updated software on its Web site which plugs new
security holes as they are discovered.  Get into the habit of
frequently visiting the Windows Update Web site,
http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com, and download the latest
updates for your version of Windows.  Recent versions of Windows
have an option on the Start menu, Windows Update that will take
you right to the correct Web page.  There's also an option on the
Windows Update page that will scan your computer and identify the
updates you haven't installed yet.
      3. Perform a full virus scan of your computer using your
antivirus software on a regular basis.  It's a good idea to do
this task once each week just after you have installed Windows'
latest updates and downloaded the latest virus definitions file
from your antivirus software maker's Web site.  Your antivirus
program may actually allow you to schedule both these tasks so
that they'll happen automatically.
      4. Many e-mail programs allow you to open and view attached
files within the program.  This is a dangerous thing to do.  The
file may contain a brand new virus that your antivirus program
doesn't yet recognize.  Opening the file may activate the virus. 
You should save the file to a special directory you create on
your computer's hard disk where you store files you haven't yet
scanned for viruses.  Don't open that file until after you've
done your periodic virus scan routing described in the previous
item.
      5. Ignore the numerous virus warning messages that will find
their way into your inbox, and don't forward them to others. 
Most of those messages are hoaxes.  The more shrill the tone of
the message, the more likely it's not true.  If you're following
the steps listed above, you will already be safe from nearly all
computer viruses anyway.  The few really dangerous viruses, the
ones that do real damage because antivirus software can't yet
detect and stop them, are widely reported in the press.  In
short, if you hear about some new, nasty virus from some source
other than your favorite daily mainstream news broadcast, ignore
it.  If you really want to research the current crop of viruses,
visit the Web site of your antivirus software publisher.  These
sites usually have reliable bulletins about viruses.

      E-mail fraud:  Unsavory characters were separating fools
from their money long before e-mail came along, and the crooks
are using the same deceptive pitches via e-mail messages that
they previously used via telephone solicitations and print
advertisements.  Use the same good judgment in evaluating e-mail
offers that you would for other forms of solicitation.  If an
offer looks too good to be true, it's probably bogus.  Limit your
purchases to established, reputable companies.  Don't send
sensitive financial information, such as your Social Security
number, credit card numbers, or bank account numbers via e-mail. 
When you encounter fraudulent e-mail messages, consider notifying
your Internet service provider, as well as the Internet service
provider from which the message originated.  They may be able to
take action against the perpetrator.
      One unique form of Internet fraud involves sending out an
official-looking e-mail message warning the user that there is
some kind of problem with his/her account on some popular
E-commerce site, like Ebay.  The fraudulent message directs the
user to Click on a link contained in the message which is
supposed to take the user to the site's customer service section
for resolving the alleged problem.  In reality the link takes the
victim to a counterfeit Web site that looks just like the real
site.  The fake site is used to collect personal information,
such as Social Security numbers or credit card numbers from the
visitor.
      How do you protect yourself from this kind of fraud?  First,
examine the suspect message carefully.  For example, I recently
received the following message.

From: "Ebay Account-management" <Bobbye_Mouna@yahoo.co.uk>
To: <fwelte@sbcglobal.net>
Subject: Urgent. Your Ebay account is on hold.

Dear Sir or Madam,

Ebay Account Management regrets to inform you that your Ebay
account has been suspended due to credit card verification
problems. Your credit card failed to authorize and as a result,
your account has been flagged. All further transactions with your
account will be denied until this flag is removed.

Please take a moment to confirm your account by going to the
following address: Ebay.com

Trully your, Ebay account management team.

Three things told me right away that the message was bogus; the
notice came from an e-mail address outside the Ebay domain, it
contained grammatical errors, and I Don't even have an account on
the Ebay site.  I didn't follow that alleged link to the Ebay
site, and who knows where I would have ended up if I'd done so.
      Second, if you get an administrative message from an
E-commerce site asking you to follow a link to deal with an
administrative task of some sort, don't click on that link
sitting in the message.  Instead, launch your browser, open up
the home page of the legitimate E-commerce Web site from which
the message claims to come, and follow the appropriate link from
the site's home page to the area of the site that addresses the
particular administrative issue raised by the questionable e-mail
message.  While you're on the E-commerce site, post a message to
the site's administrator to let him or her know that a potential
scam may be using their site as a cover.  


                                   CCB OFFICERS

      (Editor's note: We are indebted to Bernice Kandarian who
updates and corrects 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.  The presence of an asterisk means
that the individual served a partial term before the first full
term.)  

President, Jeff Thom (02-04, 1st term)
     7414 Mooncrest Way
     Sacramento, CA 95831
     916 995-3967 C 
     <jsthom@comcast.net
1st Vice President, Mitch Pomerantz (02-04, 1st term)
     1115 Cordova Street, #402
     Pasadena, CA 91106
     626 844-4388 H
     213 847-9124 W  
      <MPomerantz@mailbox.lacity.org>
2nd Vice Preesident, Ken Metz (01-03, 1st term)
     540 N. Formosa Avenue
     Los Angeles, CA 90036
      310-559-0170 H
     323-295-4555 Ext. 255 W
     <kmetz@comcast.net 
Secretary, Ardis Bazyn (01-03, 1st term)
     500 South 3rd Street, H
     Burbank, CA 91502
     818 238-9321
     <abazyn@earthlink.net>
Treasurer, Peter Pardini (*02-04, 2nd term)
     267 Cardinal Road
     Mill Valley, CA 94941-3618
     415 381-9211 H
     <peterpar@pacbell.net>
Immediate Past President, Catherine Skivers (2002-??)
     836 Resota Street
     Hayward, CA 94545
     510 357-1986 H
     <ccotb@earthlink.net>

                                BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Al Biegler (01-03, 2nd term)
     819 Colusa Street
     Chico, CA 95928-4116
     530 893-8840 H
     <albiegler1@juno.com>
Martin Jones (01-03, 4th term)
     730 Victoria Street
     San Francisco, CA 94127
     415 469-8048 H
     415 558-2489 W
Jane Kardas (*01-03, 2nd term)
     810 Maple Avenue
     Ukiah, CA 95482
     707 468-5510 H/Fax
     <janecalvert35@yahoo.com>
Rhonda King (02-04, 3rd term)
     4541 Cyclamen Way
     Sacramento, CA 95841
     916 349-9960 H
     <imjoking@earthlink.net>
Eugene Lozano, Jr. (01-03, 3rd term)
     4537 Sycamore Avenue
     Sacramento, CA 95841
     916 485-8307 H
     916 278-6988 W; <lozanoe@csus.edu>
Ahmad Rahman (02-04, 3rd term) 
      19616 Leapwood Avenue, 
      Carson, CA 90746; 
      310 327-0463 H, 
Barbara Rhodes (02-04, 2nd term) 
      6396 Tamalpais Avenue
      San Jose, CA 95120; 
      408 268-2110 H; 
      <brhodes@pacbell.net>
Richard Rueda (01-03, 1st term) 
      1501 Decoto Road, #169; 
      Union City, CA 94587; 
      510 324-0418 H, 
      richr@surfside.net>
Frank Welte (02-04, 1st term) 
      1432 San Carlos Avenue, #6, 
      San Carlos, CA 94070; 
      650 508-8329 H; 
      <fwelte@sbcglobal.net>

                           PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE
Bernice Kandarian, Chair
       2211 Latham Street #120
       Mountain View, CA 94040
       650 969-3155
       bernice@tsoft.nett
Winifred Downing, Editor
       1587 38th Avenue
       San Francisco, CA 94122
       415 564-5798
       wmdowning@mindspring.com
Joan Black
       4925 Coke Ave.
       Lakewood, CA 90712
       562 630-2304
       kvblack@ix.netcom.com
Brian Hall
       5722 Abraham Avenue
       Westminster, CA 92683
       714 894-3497
       brianlhall@earthlink.net
Charles Nabarrete
       239 North Walnuthaven Drive
       West Covina, CA 91790
       626 338-8106
       charlesn@cuiab.ca.gov
Patty Nash
       901 Central Avenue, #C
       Alameda, CA 94501
       510 521-2042
       p.a.nsah@att.net
Louis Preston
     17129 Antonio Avenue
     Cerritos, CA 90703
     562 404-7935
     lpreston@csulb.edu
Bonnie Rennie
     1719 West Olive Avenue
     Fullerton, CA 92833
     714 870-9135
     eal727200@aol.com
Richard Rueda, CCB-L
       1501 Decoto Road, #169
       Union City, CA  94587-3548
       510 324-0418
       richr@surfside.net
Catherine Schmitt Whitaker
       604 Camaritas Drive
       Diamond Bar, CA 91765
       909 861-2931
       clschmitt@csupomona.edu
Dan Kysor, Webmaster
       225 15th Street
       West Sacramento, CA 95691
       916 372-9869
       dan@kysor.net


