The Braille Spectator

The Newsletter of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
Winter 1996-97

Inside This Issue

1 Convention Highlights
2 State of the Affiliate
3 MSPAP
4 Teens Venture West
5 Forty Years A Federationist
6 Cane Deal
7 Success at CCB
8 Convention Impressions
9 Resolutions
10 Specks
11 Calendar30TH ANNUAL CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS

by Don Morris

     My vote is Sharon Maneki for Queen, Empress, and permanent
President of our State Affiliate. It is almost always said, "this
years convention is the best ever!" Often times that's true. This
year it was not only the best convention ever, but that's the
truest statement ever. Sharon's convention planning and preparation
were WONDERFUL. Not only did she select and arrange a really moving
agenda, (more about that later) but her choice of the hotel and her
work with the staff and management put a great finishing touch on
a really outstanding program.
     Our national representative, Allen Harris (Michigan) and his
wife Joy, got things off to a great start by presenting a seminar
titled "Sports, Recreation and Physical Education for Blind Youth"
for parents of blind children and for vision teachers. In the
seminar's discussion groups, parents of infants, children, and
teens went over their particular concerns and shared answers and
how-to's of raising blind children. At the conclusion of the
seminar, the kids came in, and Allen helped them to feel welcome
and part of the upcoming convention activities.
     In other Friday afternoon activities, there was a seminar
"Choices: Vision Loss in the Real World," (to reach out to persons
who have recently suffered vision loss) sponsored by our Sligo
Creek Chapter, and a pizza party sponsored by the NFB of Maryland's
Student Division. After several years of inactivity, our Student
Division has been resurrected with renewed enthusiasm and the
election of new officers: Yasmin Reyazuddin, President; Angela
Cummings, Vice-President; Ellen Nichols, Secretary; Felicha Potts,
Treasurer; Nouhou Inti, Nicole Fincham, Board Members.
     The NFB of Maryland Board Meeting followed shortly after the
conclusion of the seminar. President Maneki called the meeting to
order with all officers and board members present except Brenda
Williams Gladden and Blanche Payne. (Brenda and Blanche: we missed
you!) Mayor Edward Bohrer of Gaithersburg presented a proclamation
declaring November as the National Federation of the Blind Month in
Gaithersburg. Chapter representatives each reported on the year's
activities, and committees were appointed.
     The registration crew set-up shop and immediately began the
orderly registration of 263 participants. Their efficiency helped
everybody get through the registration process without delay.
     With our convention occurring just before Halloween, the
traditional Friday night youth party was filled with little
goblins. Big goblins attended the party starting an hour later.
Prizes for the best costumes were awarded at both parties. Many,
myself included, gave no thought to costumes and instead took part
in the prime rib buffet at the Gaithersburg Hilton's Martingayles.
     At 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, President Maneki gavelled the
meeting to order. Opening ceremonies were observed with James
Daughton providing the invocation. James was present at the
organizing convention of the NFB of Maryland, held thirty years
ago. Following the invocation, Dr. Jernigan, who was also present
at the organizing convention, spoke to us about many of the people
who were instrumental in bringing the affiliate into existence and
who helped to set it on the right course.
     Allen Harris gave a report from the National Office which was
informative and energizing.
     Next, President Maneki gave her report on the state affiliate.
She reflected not only on events of the past year, but also on the
growth and progress we have achieved in our thirty year history. As
always, her report received an overwhelming response of
acknowledgement and approval.
     Loretta White, president of our Parent's Division, then gave
a presentation on the "MSPAP: A Disturbing Trend in the Education
of Blind Children in Maryland." She articulated the harm that is
being done to blind students by excluding them from the MSPAP
tests. Juxtaposed with Loretta's presentation were remarks from
Nancy Grasmick, Superintendent of Schools, Maryland State
Department of Education. Dr. Grasmick acknowledged the problems and
identified some new initiatives by MSDE to solve those problems.
Superintendent Grasmick was given the honor of presenting Jeremy
Lincicome with the NFB of Maryland's Ambassador Award (a
certificate and $25 cash) for best exemplifying the NFB philosophy.
Jeremy, formerly a student at the Maryland School for the Blind,
currently attends Johnny Cake Elementary School. He spoke from the
floor to Dr. Grasmick, identifying himself as a blind third grader
who had not been permitted to participate in the MSPAP tests. He
asked Dr. Grasmick how he was supposed to spend his day while his
classmates got to participate. (A good question, Jeremy!) Other
students also raised questions with the Superintendent about
problems they have had with their Braille textbooks.
     Our lovely PAC Plan Chairman encouraged all members who are on
PAC to consider their ability and willingness to increase their PAC
pledges. He also encouraged members who are not currently
participating in PAC to do so, and to help pay the way for the many
benefits we all derive from the NFB. I again remind you, it's not
too late to do so now.
     Some reports and resolutions were presented before the noon
adjournment. All of the resolutions adopted by the convention
appear elsewhere in the Spectator.
     The Parents Division and the Business Division each had
luncheon meetings which were well attended. Surprise guest,
Congresswoman Connie Morella made an appearance at each luncheon.
She congratulated us on the good work we have done at the local,
state, and national levels; she also mentioned that election day
was only about a week away and that she was running for re-election
to Congress. Thanks to Congresswoman Morella for her appearance and
remarks.
     We reconvened at 2:00 p.m. with the program item presented by
Fred Puente, President, Blind Industries and Services of Maryland.
Among the many exciting activities at Blind Industries, Fred
announced that the Cumberland Plant would soon undertake the
manufacture of white canes exclusively for the National Federation
of the Blind. When introducing Fred, President Maneki noted that
BISM does not have a blind sales associate and that BISM needs a
job development outreach person. Fred acknowledged that this is
true and asked for help from the NFB in finding qualified
applicants for these positions. Fred then introduced Rosemary
Lerdahl, Director of Rehabilitation Services at Blind Industries
and Services. Rosemary talked about several programs within her
department and then introduced her staff and a number of
participants in BISM's summer Kids Camp. Staff and Kids sang a song
to the convention, "The NFB and BISM at Kids Camp." The song was
sung to the tune of "Old McDonald," the refrain being "Learning as
We Go." Their music and their spirit was a big hit with the entire
convention.
     Allen Harris kicked off the employment panel. He described to
us some of the "how-to's" and "why-for's" of his job as Social
Studies Department Chairman at Edsel Ford High and his further job
as Vice President, Dearborn Federation of Teachers. It's clear the
way Allen does it that the job is fun and rewarding.
     Lynn Mattioli, the next presenter, told us about her job as a
Clinical Dietician at Harbor Hospital in Baltimore. Lynn related
many of her early experiences and explained what her job entails.
She also offered encouragement to any of us (she might have been
looking at me) who might benefit from the services of a dietician.
     The final panelist, Dr. Michael Gosse, told us about an
exciting new career he has recently begun. Michael and his
partners, the Parallelization Company, already have established
contracts performing engineering consulting for government
agencies. With Michael's drive and talent this company will surely
be one to watch.
     The next speaker, Paul Gilden from the Maryland State
Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulations, spoke to us about
INTERNET access to job listings.
     Richard Ring, Director, International Braille and Technology
Center, gave his technology report on making technology work for
us. He described equipment available for examination at the IBTC
and even makes me believe that it's not just smoke and mirrors.
Mary Brady, Director, Maryland Technology Assistance Program,
Governor's Office for Individuals with Disabilities, followed with
her report on the same subject. Mary announced recent agreements
with the NFB which now bring the TAP Newsletter via Newsline for
the Blind. As always, Mary was a welcome participant in our
convention program.
     Chairman of the Associates Committee, Barry Hond, gave his
report which acknowledged those of us who recruited Associates in
the past year and he exhorted all of us to do more next year. Barry
is absolutely right. Associates are a good way to spread the word
about the NFB and also to help support our great programs.
     Bea Rodgers, Director, The Governor's Office for Persons with
Disabilities, presented a letter from the Governor commending the
good work of the NFB of Maryland. She told us of the availability
of her office to assist us in our endeavors.
     The next topic, "Is Maryland State Government Accessible to
the Blind?" The three speakers from Maryland State Government
answered, "Yes," and told us why they thought so. Those speakers
were, Gene Raynor, State Administrator, Board of Elections; Muffett
Robinson, Motor Vehicle Administration, Maryland State Department
of Transportation; Denise Davis, Librarian, SAILOR Project,
Division of Library Development and Services, Maryland State
Department of Education.
     At 7:00 p.m. the banquet commenced with 227 people in
attendance. Just as it was during the day, the banquet agenda was
full. National President, Marc Maurer, served as our Master of
Ceremonies. As you might expect, he kept things moving at a lively
pace. He introduced guests and award presenters.
     As usual, there were scads of awards to hand out. An award was
presented to Duane Gerstenberger in recognition of his years of
friendship and service and was given on the occasion of his
announced move from Baltimore to Seattle. Duane has been an
important member of our affiliate and of the NFB headquarters
staff. Good luck Duane, we will miss you. Spry 81-year-old Juanita
Thurber, was presented with the annual Anna Cable Award for
successfully acquiring the alternative techniques of blindness. She
insists on maintaining an independent lifestyle and learning
Braille despite her advanced age and Diabetes. Bob Fielden received
the NFB of Maryland's Distinguished Service Award for generously
devoting the time to reading the cassette edition of this
newsletter for many years.
     Other awards: Dr. Jernigan presented the award bearing his
name to Loretta and Joe White for the outstanding work they have
done on behalf of blind children. Senator John Hafer was presented
with the Legislative Service Award for the many battles he has
entered on our behalf, especially in helping us to bring the
Maryland School for the Blind to accountability. Thanks Senator
Hafer, your support is critical.
     The scholarship committee presented three awards: the first in
the amount of $1600 to Felicha Potts, Towson State University; the
second in the amount of $1400 to Nouhou Inti, Montgomery Community
College; and a new scholarship this year in the amount of $800,
available for prior scholarship winners, to Yasmin Reyazuddin,
University of Maryland College Park.
     President Maurer presented another honored guest and friend
for remarks. Dr. Frederic Schroeder, Commissioner, Rehabilitation
Services Administration, United States Department of Education,
offered words of congratulations and encouraged our continued
efforts on behalf of blind people everywhere.
     As expected, the cornerstone of the Banquet was the keynote
address given by Allen Harris, treasurer of the NFB and president
of the NFB of Michigan. Allen told a story which was moving,
inspirational, humorous, and motivational. The story described
Allen as: a blind youth, a blind student, a blind job seeker, a
blind educator, and a blind coach. Although Allen would never claim
it, the story he told clearly supported him as a leader and a bona
fide success.
     Following Allen's outstanding presentation, we recognized the
need to fund the state affiliate. The hat was passed and finally,
stuffed to capacity, landed in the lap of the treasurer. Good job
and thank you to all who gave in whatever amount!! A private note
to those of you with pledges outstanding: please honor your
pledges.
     Yellowstone Park has but one "Old Faithful." The NFB of
Maryland has two. They are, of course, Art Segal, who chairs the
tenBroek Auction each year, and Duane Gerstenberger, who has for
many years spoke in long sentences seemingly in "tongues" ending
with "SOLD!" This year's Auction again met it's goal of covering
our pledge to the tenBroek fund.
     Sunday morning began with devotional services in which Andrea
Brandies led us in songs and praise. Please note that Andrea was
assisted in choir direction by Maria Rivera. Rev. Ray, of the
National Center staff, offered the Benediction.
     The Sunday session began with a report from Arthur Segal,
Chairman of the Nominations Committee. Following Arthur's report,
elections were held with the following results: Sharon Maneki,
President; Don Morris, First Vice President; Barry Hond, Second
Vice President; Debbie Brown, Secretary; Judy Rasmussen, Treasurer;
Jean Faulkner, Joe White, Yasmin Reyazuddin, Board Members.
     In the panel, "Creative Solutions to Meeting Information Needs
of the Blind," Dr. Betsy Zaborowski, of the National Center staff,
spoke to us about Newsline for the Blind and how we can access a
variety of newspapers and other publications via touch tone
telephone. Judy Rasmussen, Director, Volunteers for the Visually
Handicapped, though usually very soft-spoken, was filled with
enthusiasm and excitement so that no one missed a word. Judy spoke
to us about the "cop out" reasons people give for not having
Braille and how we as consumers can help to make Braille
information more available to all of us. The third presenter,
Sharron McFarland, Director, Maryland State Library for the Blind
and Physically Handicapped spoke to us about the availability of
Library services and efforts to keep current with customer demands.
     The next panel addressed the topic "Living Federationism as
Blind Students." Carlos Servan, New Mexico, President, NFB Student
Division, spoke not only of his activities as a college student and
father, but also about his participation in organizing and
expanding the student division. Yasmin Reyazuddin, scholarship
winner and student at the University of Maryland College Park, was
our next speaker. She talked to us about her efforts and successes
in acquiring adaptive technology for blind students at College
Park. Bob Santo, previously a Marylander but in transition to
Colorado, was our third student speaker. Bob talked to us about his
experience at the Colorado Center for the Blind as a student. He is
about to begin a course of technical training in computer
maintenance and repair at the Denver Institute of Technology. He
described the need for computer technicians and how he found a
technical school willing to accept blind students. With the
enthusiasm and commitment shown by these three Federationists, our
future is bright.
     The next speaker was a special treat and delight for all of
us. Our friend and colleague, Roger Walker, Senior Citizens
Committee, told us of his "Journey Back to an Active Life" as a
blind person. In his comments, Roger said that he was inspired by
other blind persons. Roger, you inspire us.
     Dr. Robert Dantona, Services for the Blind, Division of
Rehabilitation Services, Maryland State Department of Education,
gave a report titled "What Can the Blind Expect From the Division
of Rehabilitation Services? An Age Old Question." Following this
report, two resolutions concerning DORS were presented and adopted.
Dr. Dantona chose not to respond to these resolutions.
     With the drawing of the final door prize, which I did not win,
the convention adjourned. I want to take this opportunity to
recognize and to thank everyone (and there are too many of you to
mention by name) for your outstanding work in putting this
convention together and making it the huge success that it was. See
you next year in Hagerstown.THE STATE OF THE AFFILIATE: 1996

by Sharon Maneki

     Fellow federationists. With this convention, we celebrate
thirty years of progress in our quest for equal rights and equal
opportunities for the blind of Maryland. In these three decades,
our society has experienced more cultural, political and
technological upheaval than it experienced in the entire previous
century. Yet, despite all of these social changes, and even though
most of our charter members are no longer with us, we in the
National Federation of the Blind today have never wavered in our
determination to accomplish the goals and to realize the
aspirations that were set forth by the founders of our movement.
The degree to which we have succeeded is a high testament to our
character and to the soundness of our guiding philosophy.
     A lot can happen in thirty years; in that length of time, it
is possible to grow from infancy to the prime of adulthood. During
this time, it is possible to get an education, start a family, and
establish a career, and more and more of us are succeeding at this.
Thirty years easily represents the span of time from one's first
day on the job to retirement, as Viola Johnson, James Daughton, T.
C. Johnson, and others can tell us. For a very few of us, thirty
years is not long enough to outlive one's retirement, as has been
Anna Cable's good fortune. Anna celebrated her one-hundred and
third birthday on June 29, and she is doing very well.
     For this thirtieth anniversary report, I would like to review
some of the highlights of our history; to remind us where we came
from, to take stock of what we have accomplished, and to renew our
commitment to the goals we have set for ourselves in our forward
march to first class citizenship. It is instructive for us to
review our legislative history, the efforts we have made to reform
and improve programs for the blind, and the steps we have taken to
build up this most remarkable vehicle for collective action -- the
National Federation of the Blind!
     If we find reasons to despair over the state of services for
the blind in Maryland today, think of how far we have come in the
past thirty years. It was no exaggeration to say that services and
programs for the blind were terrible in the 1960s and 1970s. Blind
production employees who worked at the former Maryland Workshop for
the Blind (now Blind Industries and Services of Maryland) were paid
by piece rate, and many of them earned as little as 25 cents an
hour. Black employees were expected to enter the Workshop through
the back door. The former Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
(now the Division of Rehabilitation Services) was just as
regressive in its outlook and practices. If you were unfortunate
enough to be both black and blind, you were excluded from the
Maryland Vending Program for the Blind.
     Although they did not appear overnight, dramatic changes did
take place. They began with our insistence on the right of everyone
to enter the Maryland Workshop via the front door, regardless of
skin color. The Workshop's name change to Blind Industries and
Services of Maryland in 1973 also helped to foster a change in its
attitudes towards blindness, and we ultimately succeeded in
attaining the minimum wage for all production employees at BISM.
Meanwhile, Federation efforts helped Willie Thompson, former
president of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, to
became the first African American to gain entrance into the
Maryland Vending Program for the Blind.
     Throughout our thirty-year history, we have maintained a
strong working relationship with the Maryland General Assembly, and
over time, that body has learned to look to the Federation for
information on blindness. Our legislative goals have always
involved the protection of our civil rights, in addition to
improving state programs and services for the blind, and we were
able to compile an impressive list of legislative victories in the
1970s, even though our affiliate was still in its formative stages.
Guidance from our national leaders and the dynamic local leadership
of the late John McCraw enabled us to gain passage of the model
White Cane Law, as well as the enactment of laws prohibiting
underwriters of life insurance from discriminating on the basis of
blindness.
     Through the urging of the NFB of Maryland, the General
Assembly held oversight hearings on the Maryland Workshop for the
Blind in the early 1970s. As a result, the membership of the board
of trustees was increased from seven to eleven. In time,
Federationists John McCraw, Doris Samuels, and Georgia Myers were
appointed to positions on the newly-expanded board. Evidence of
other management problems caused the General Assembly to hold
additional oversight hearings in 1974, which led to the ouster of
the workshop's director and board chairman. These actions paved the
way for the selection of John McCraw as chairman of the board and
the accomplishment of other reforms under his direction, including
the minimum wage guarantee.
     During the 1980s and 90s, we were able to persuade the General
Assembly to improve the legislation that it had passed in the
1970s, of which the White Cane Law is a prime example. This law, as
originally written, not only prohibits discrimination on the basis
of blindness in employment and housing, but also guarantees blind
persons the right to travel on the streets and highways and gives
us access to public accommodations. One of the first improvements
took place in 1983, when the fine for violating the White Cane law
was raised from $50 to $500. In 1987, the public was outraged when
two blind pedestrians were struck and killed on a busy highway in
Montgomery County. The offending driver was only given a $40 fine
for a moving violation. He could not be charged with a violation of
the White Cane Law, since the pedestrians were not crossing the
street in a crosswalk. Blind pedestrians have greater protection
under the White Cane Law today because we persuaded the General
Assembly to grant the unqualified right of way to blind pedestrians
in 1991.
     There were further modifications to the White Cane Law. In the
late '80s, initiatives to include service dogs for the mobility
impaired in the White Cane law led to debates on the free use of
all service dogs in public places. The matter was settled in 1990.
Service dogs for the mobility impaired were included in the White
Cane Law, without weakening the rights of blind persons using guide
dogs.
     Perhaps the most important legislative contribution of the
1990s has been the passage of the Maryland Literacy Rights and
Education Act of 1992. This law mandates the initial presumption in
every blind or visually impaired student's IEP that Braille should
be taught. When determining whether alternative reading media are
appropriate, the ARD team must consider both the prognosis of
vision loss and the student's future literacy needs. Since the
passage of this law, we have taken numerous steps to ensure that it
is fully implemented and enforced.
     The decade of the '80s posed severe challenges to the NFB's
historic commitment to fighting for the rights of all blind
persons. Programs for the blind were still very unresponsive to
consumer input, even though we had expended much time and energy
promoting the principle that programs for the blind are more
effective when the blind have a voice in shaping these programs.
Despite our reform efforts of the '70s, Blind Industries and
Services of Maryland did not live up to our expectations, largely
because of its inept management throughout most of the '80s. Many
of us remember how Fred Dewberry closed BISM's rehabilitation
program and then came to our 1987 convention but refused to answer
any of the questions we posed to him. As U.S. president Harry
Truman once said "if you can't stand the heat, get out of the
kitchen." Mr. Dewberry resigned from BISM at the end of 1988. The
results of his tenure at BISM led us to seek further changes in the
make-up of BISM's Board of Trustees. In that same year, with our
support, the General Assembly amended the laws governing BISM; at
least 4 of BISM's 11-member Board must be blind.
In 1987, the National Federation of the Blind came to the rescue of
blind vendors who were being exploited by the Division of
Vocational Rehabilitation. The Division was illegally charging them
set-a-side fees based on gross sales revenues instead of net sales
revenues as specified in the Randolph Sheppard Act. In 1987 the
Division had already been fourteen years delinquent in writing the
rules and regulations to implement the set-a-side fee structure and
to govern other aspects of the vending program. Therefore, in the
Fall, twenty blind vendors stopped paying their set-a-side fees. In
January 1988, the National Federation of the Blind assisted these
vendors in filing suit against the Division of Vocational
Rehabilitation to prevent the Division from removing them from the
program in retribution. This suit was finally settled in 1991.
Under the settlement agreement, each blind vendor in the program in
1987 would receive a payment of $2,000 a year until the year 2009.
Set-aside fees were reduced to three percent of net sales revenues,
and would remain in effect until 2009. Does the National Federation
of the Blind make a difference in the lives of blind vendors? Yes,
it does.
     The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland's most
publicized campaign of the 1980s involved our attempts to improve
the quarters for the Maryland State Library for the Blind and
Physically Handicapped. When the State of Maryland decided to renew
the lease at 1715 N. Charles Street for LBPH in 1988, we went into
action. We brought our campaign to the press and to television. By
attending the Board of Public Works meeting, we brought the
decrepit condition of LBPH's quarters to the attention of Governor
Schaefer. The rest of the story is well known. It was most
appropriate that the three persons who held the ceremonial shovel
at the ground-breaking ceremonies for the new library building in
July 1991 were Governor Schaefer, Mayor Schmoke and NFB President
Marc Maurer. Who is responsible for the new building that houses
LBPH? It is the National Federation of the Blind.
     At the 1992 convention of the National Federation of the
Blind, held in Charlotte, North Carolina, Dr. Kenneth Jernigan
described the shifting balances in the blindness system across the
nation. He spoke to us about the change in relationships between
the agencies, both public and private, the professionals who work
for those agencies, and the consumers in the National Federation of
the Blind. In his speech, Dr. Jernigan stated, "I say that those
who base their actions on yesterday's perceived truths (whether
real or imagined) are poorly equipped to deal with today's
realities and are likely to have much time for reflection in
tomorrow's leisure of unemployment." This shift in balances has
occurred in Maryland as well. Agencies are beginning to understand
the advantages of working in partnership with the National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland. Let us consider some recent
developments in Maryland in the context of Dr. Jernigan's remarks.
     Since 1993, the Parents of Blind Children division of the
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, the Maryland State
Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, and the Friends
of LBPH have sponsored the Braille storybook hour for four
Saturdays in August to encourage Braille reading and use of the
library. During the past year, Lloyd Rasmussen has been serving as
a consultant on Braille production to the Maryland State Library
for the Blind and to the Howard County Public Schools. Thanks to
Lloyd's willingness to share his expertise, these programs are
making better use of their Braille equipment and translation
software. Early this year, the NFB of Maryland successfully
intervened with the Secretary of the Department of Budget and
Fiscal Planning to include an additional appropriation of $150,000
for LBPH in Governor Glendening's supplemental budget request to
the General Assembly.
     The NFB of Maryland has undertaken a number of new projects
this year. Under the initiative and efforts of Lorretta White, our
Parents Division has embarked on a new venture. In cooperation with
the rehabilitation department of Blind Industries and Services of
Maryland, they conducted a successful summer camp program for
students from 8 to 11 years old. This program was unique in that it
promoted both independence through the alternative techniques of
blindness, and interaction with blind role models. In a separate
effort, we are also working with Blind Industries and Services of
Maryland on ways to reach out to newly blind senior citizens. To
publicize the new options for choice in rehabilitation that were
included in the Rehabilitation Act of 1992, the National Federation
of the Blind of Maryland initiated an effort with the Division of
Rehabilitation Services to write a brochure outlining possible
rehabilitation options, also listing various resources and services
that are available to blind clients. During the past year, several
members of the DORS staff attended special technology training
classes that were conducted by the National Federation of the Blind
at our National headquarters. This past summer, the NFB of Maryland
signed a formal partnership agreement with the Howard County Public
Schools. Under this agreement, we will assist Howard County's
vision program by providing guidance and support to its students
and their parents.
     With down-sizing and budget-cutting rampant in both Washington
and Annapolis, there is a greater need for cooperation between the
organized blind movement and the agencies which are supposed to
serve us. The type of cooperation we have always advocated will not
make us the tools of the agencies. If these agencies will permit us
to cooperate with them on terms of equality and mutual respect, we
will always be able to maintain our roles as advocates and watch-
dogs. I would like to give you my assessment of current conditions
in the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Physically
Handicapped, Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, the
Maryland State Department of Education, and the Maryland School for
the Blind.
     The Maryland State Library for the Blind needs to come up with
more innovative ways to develop and market its services. For so
many years, LBPH had very little to offer to blind patrons, and
many of us have ceased turning to LBPH for our reading needs. It
will take some time and effort for LBPH to win back the confidence
of its patrons to the point that we will automatically look to LBPH
to fulfill our reading and information needs. For example, rather
than discontinuing its once-a-month Saturday hours, LBPH should
place more emphasis on developing Saturday programs to attract
customers into the library. We commend LBPH for developing the
Marylandia collection, which consists of books on uniquely Maryland
subjects. The number of books in this collection should be
increased. When these books are advertised in LBPH's newsletter,
short descriptions of each title should be included. I think that
all of us would like to know what each book is about. The LBPH
staff must learn to make better use of the new Braille and Internet
technologies so that it can provide more information for its
customers. It is incumbent upon LBPH to grow into a library that
can meet the demands of blind readers in the 21st century.
     Blind Industries and Services of Maryland also faces many
challenges. As the largest employer of blind persons in Maryland,
it must make sure that it is producing products that are relevant
in today's marketplace. It must also provide training in production
skills that are transferable to competitive employment so that
production employees are not limited to jobs within the workshop
system. Unfortunately, there are still no blind executives at BISM
and there are no blind account executives in its sales department.
We commend Blind Industries and Services of Maryland for making
much needed improvements in its rehabilitation program. However,
BISM still needs to hire an employment specialist to seek new job
opportunities for its clients.
     The brightest note in the field of rehabilitation is the
recently-legislated right of clients to exercise a degree of choice
in the rehabilitation services they receive. Jackie Mushington and
Bob Santo chose to take rehabilitation training at the Colorado
Center for the Blind. Both Jackie and Bob successfully completed
this unique and difficult rehabilitation program. They are now
pursuing further study to meet their vocational goals. Jackie is a
senior at Clark Atlantic University majoring in early childhood
education with a minor in psychology. Bob, former automatic
transmission mechanic, is planning a career change and will study
electronics at the Denver Institute of Technology. Several students
have chosen to attend the rehabilitation training program at BISM.
Despite the roadblocks of too many slow-moving counselors and their
supervisors, and the endless delays of needless evaluations, it is
possible for rehabilitation clients in Maryland to exercise their
right of choice with a degree of success, if they will come to the
National Federation of the Blind for help. We must continue to urge
DORS to satisfy the needs of its client rather than those of the
bureaucracy.
     The education of blind and visually impaired students remains
woefully inadequate in Maryland. Too many vision teachers assume
that students learning Braille in the lower grades cannot read on
grade level with their sighted peers. The curse of low expectations
by well-intentioned teachers and administrators turns into self-
fulfilling prophecy, and students so treated are doomed to a
lifetime of failure and underachievement. Yet we know that when
given opportunity and encouragement, blind or visually impaired
students can be nurtured to perform on grade level with their
sighted peers. At last year's convention in Ocean City, we took
issue with the Maryland State Department of Education for its
exclusion of students reading Braille from the Maryland School
Performance Assessment Program (MSPAP). The MSPAP was designed to
measure a school's performance in teaching numerous skills to all
of its students. Therefore, when a school contains students whose
primary reading medium is Braille, these students should be
included in the MSPAP. As a result of meetings we held with
officials from the Maryland State Department of Education during
the past year, Superintendent Nancy Grasmick has assured us that
the MSPAP tests will be transcribed into Braille, starting with the
spring 1997 testing period.
     The Maryland School for the Blind, because of its
administration and board of directors, remains one of the most
regressive agencies in the field of work with the blind. The
Maryland School for the Blind was one of the first agencies to be
accredited by the National Accreditation Council for Agencies
Serving the Blind and Visually Impaired (NAC). As we were to find
out in the early 1970s, this was an insignificant achievement,
since NAC will accredit any agency willing to pay its annual fees.
The Maryland School for the Blind is one of the very few agencies
that still pays these fees today.
     In the 1980's, under the direction of its long-time
Superintendent, Dr. Richard Welch, the Maryland School for the
Blind opposed the teaching of Braille to students with partial
vision. Dr. Welch appeared before the General Assembly to testify
against our first Braille literacy bill. Parents who went to due
process hearings to fight for Braille for their partially sighted
children could count on opposition from MSB, but persistence pays
off. Charles Cheadle is a successful Braille reader today, despite
the opposition of the Maryland School for the Blind. Charles
Cheadle is able to compete on terms of equality as a student at the
University of Maryland Baltimore County because the National
Federation of the Blind won his case in 1989.
     Against this background of opposition, we are encouraged by
the recent participation of some of MSB's students in our Braille
Readers Are Leaders Contest during the past few years. We applaud
the efforts of the teachers and staff members who have made this
participation possible. This is a most compelling example of the
benefits of cooperative efforts between the National Federation of
the Blind and agencies serving the blind.
     The latest controversy at MSB involves its accountability to
the public taxpayers, and direct access of blind consumers and
parents of MSB students to MSB's Board of Directors. The Maryland
School for the Blind is organized as a private corporation and is
not subject to Maryland's Open Meetings Law. Legislation which we
supported in the General Assembly this year constituted one
possible solution to opening up MSB's Board of Directors to greater
public scrutiny. Interest in this legislation was further
stimulated by the General Assembly's growing recognition of the
need for closer oversight of MSB's large annual state subsidy. In
his testimony before House and Senate committees, Harry Wright,
Chairman of MSB's Board of Directors, blatantly denied our claims
that its meetings were closed to the public. He also testified that
the schedule of Board meetings was publicized and that MSB complied
with the spirit of the Open Meetings Law. From long painful
experience, we knew otherwise.
     On June 19, Barbara Cheadle, Debbie Brown, Nouhou Inti and I
attended the MSB board meting which had been scheduled to take
place that day. We also took a cameraman with us to make a video of
the proceedings for the public record. The meeting never took place
because Chairman Wright, rather than face the public, adjourned the
meeting. What was so sensitive about this meeting that caused the
MSB Board to shy away from the public? Here is the published agenda
for that meeting: "Call Regular Session of Board to Order; Board
Members Absent; Board Meeting Observers; Board Member Service
Award; Recognition of J. Kirk Walter's Appointment as New
Superintendent of the New Mexico State School for the Visually
Handicapped; MSB Alumni Property Committee Presentation; Computer
Presentation to Full Board; Executive Session Announcement, (Staff
and Observers Excused); Minutes of March 13, 1996; Treasurer's
Report; President's Report; Budget, Finance, and Audit Report;
Human Resources Report; Community Relations and Financial
Development Report; Building and Grounds Report; Instructional,
Residential, and Educational Support Committee; Long Range Planning
and Research & Technology Report; Nominations Committee Report; Old
Business: LINC; Jazz Camp; New Business: MSB 1996-97 School
Calendar Request for Approval; Adjourn." This sounds like mundane
stuff to me! So, why not let four peaceful members from the public
sit in as observers? Who can believe now that MSB complies with the
spirit of the Open Meetings Law?
     Shortly after its June 19 fiasco, Chairman Wright and his
Board went a step further by filing suit against the National
Federation of the Blind, the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland, Barbara Cheadle and me for trespassing. The suit seeks
injunctive relief to prevent our attendance at future board
meetings. After the suit was filed, we received overtures from MSB
offering to settle, on its terms of course. We countered by telling
them that they had no terms to offer and that we would see them in
court. The scene here has been quiet for a while, as MSB no doubt
ponders its next move.
     For the third year in a row, MSB officials have declined to
attend our convention. To show you what we are dealing with, let me
read to you my invitation to Chairman Wright and his response. On
July 12, 1996, shortly after the suit was filed, I wrote to
Chairman Wright as follows:
     
     You are cordially invited to participate in and address the
thirtieth annual convention of the National Federation of the Blind
of Maryland from Friday, October 25 through Sunday, October 27,
1996. The convention will be held at the Gaithersburg Hilton in
Gaithersburg, Maryland.
     The agenda is still in the planning stages. I will write to
you later to give you a time to address the convention. I am
contacting you now, so that you can keep this date open for us.
     You and your guest are also invited to attend the convention
banquet, which begins at 6:30 PM on Saturday.
     Please forward this invitation to all of the members of MSB's
Board of Directors. I am also extending this invitation to Dr.
DeMott. I sincerely hope that all of you will join us at our
convention. For the benefit of the blind students whom we serve, it
is most important for us to settle our differences through serious
dialogue and not by litigation.
     Please let me know as soon as possible if you can address our
convention. I look forward to hearing from you.
     
     I should point out that there was no date printed on Chairman
Wright's response to my invitation, but his letter was postmarked
August 19, 1996. Here it is:

     Thank you for the invitation to address the annual convention
of the NFB being held October 25 to 27, 1996, in Gaithersburg, Md.
I will forward this invitation to all our Board members, as you
requested.
     I have given this invitation considerable thought, but I must
respectfully decline your offer. The reason for the declination is
due to the thoroughly thoughtless and disrespectful way that you
and your associates responded to my invitation to observe our Board
meeting on June 19, 1996. Your conduct was outrageous and illegal,
to boot. It was a colossal waste of time of our volunteer members,
most of whom take time from their primary jobs to attend and many
of whom were unable to attend the rescheduled meeting due to your
collective disregard for proper decency and good manners, in
addition to your disrespect for our process as a private
corporation not subject to the open meetings laws.
     I, too, feel that it is most important for us to settle our
differences through serious dialogue and not by litigation, but
feel it is absolutely mandatory that our organizations deal with
each other with respect for the next year or so before I would
consider addressing your convention or organization in any format.
     I look forward to our working together with you in the future.
     
     What are we to make of the tone and content of Harry Wright's
response to my invitation? When he agrees with my call to settle
differences through dialogue rather than litigation, has he
forgotten that he was the initiator of the suit? When he says that
we must deal with each other with respect for the next year before
he would consider addressing our convention, I have the feeling
that he considers us more as recalcitrant children who are to be
punished for alleged misdeeds. By refusing to come to our
convention, he cuts off the very opportunity for dialogue that he
says he wants to have. If Harry Wright were here at this convention
today, I would tell him this: do not make the mistake that others
have made of underestimating either the determination or the
strength of the National Federation of the Blind. Through the force
of our arguments, the Maryland School for the Blind will come to
understand that it is accountable to blind consumers and the
taxpayers. Through the force of public opinion, the Maryland School
for the Blind will come to understand that it has a responsibility
to provide a quality education to blind and visually impaired
students.

     The convention agenda this year is heavily weighted towards
our access to information technology. Advances in this technology
offer new opportunities and challenges for us. However, when
improperly designed and implemented, it can have the unintended
effect of discriminating against the blind by denying us access to
information that is being delivered to the rest of the general
public. We will not allow state government agencies to overlook the
needs of its blind or visually impaired customers when they are
procuring special purpose systems to deliver information to the
public. When agencies of the state government post information on
their Internet home pages, this information must also be accessible
to its blind and visually impaired customers. Are we up to the
challenge of helping state government agencies to solve the
problems of information access? You bet we are!
     The National Federation of the Blind serves us well as our
vehicle for collective action. For the past thirty years, we in
Maryland have joined our blind brothers and sisters across the
nation in a network of local chapters and state affiliates to
proclaim our philosophy, to advocate our rights, and to extend a
helping hand to each other. The changes we have brought about have
had little to do with changes in abstract and nebulous ideas that
give us warm and fuzzy feelings about ourselves. Instead, the
changes we have brought about have made a substantial difference to
our lives. If you don't believe it, think about the work of our
Parents Division to bring the convention experience to blind youth
for the third consecutive year. They need to know that blindness is
not a barrier to their dreams for the future. If you don't believe
it, think about the difference we have made in the lives of Lydia
Richardson and Emine Watson, because we had a chapter on the
Eastern Shore whose members cared enough to raise the funds that
were needed to send Lydia and Emine to the summer program at the
Colorado Center for the Blind. If you don't believe it, think about
what Barbara Cheadle and Bernice Lowder are doing with the service
learning projects in the Baltimore city and Baltimore county public
schools to promote the virtues of Braille. If you don't believe it,
think about the difference we have made for Jackie Mushington and
Bob Santo!
     I will not attempt to predict our victories for the next
thirty years. But I am optimistic that we will continue to build on
our victories of the past. As we go forward into the coming years,
let us continue to seek inspiration from the struggles of our
predecessors. Let us remain watchful for new strategies to promote
equal rights and equal opportunities. Let us partake of the
confidence that we can gain through the love and support that we
give to each other. Our future is bright with hope and promise.
With unity of purpose, with the courage of our convictions, and
with joy in our hearts, let us go forward in our drive to first
class citizenship. THE MSPAP: A DISTURBING TREND IN THE EDUCATION OF BLIND CHILDREN IN
MARYLAND

by Loretta White

From The Editor: Loretta White is the President of the NFB of
Maryland's Parents Division. Despite her busy schedule, she has
been an active member of the affiliate and has been responsible for
initiating a number of innovative programs to help blind youngsters
and teenagers. Loretta delivered the following remarks during the
Saturday morning session of our convention. The agenda was
deliberately set up so that her address was given upon
Superintendent Grasmick's arrival at the convention. All of us who
heard Loretta's remarks, the Superintendent included, were deeply
moved by Loretta's keen and sensitive observations.

     Before I get into my talk today, Id like to share with you a
little about myself. I have been a member of the National
Federation of the Blind for over nine years now and I've been an
officer or board member in the parent division for about 7 of those
years. Im a special educator and Im working toward becoming a
teacher of the visually impaired. Im very happily married, but the
bottom line of what brings me here today and what I think qualifies
me to speak to you is that I am also a MOM. Particularly, I am the
mother of a blind child. My daughter Nicole is almost 10 years old.
     Im sure all of us have heard of MSPAP but what does it mean
and how does it impact our blind children who use Braille? Well, to
find out, I went to the Internet. I searched the acronym MSPAP only
and I was stunned at what I found. There are 96 web sites on the
Internet related to MSPAP. As I sifted through, I found a lot of
good information from the state and several counties. I'll
summarize Calvert County's definition from their MSPAP Handbook.
     MSPAP stands for the Maryland School Performance Assessment
Program. It is a statewide testing program to evaluate how schools
are doing. Results are used to make improvements in instruction.
MSPAP tells schools whether or not their students are meeting state
standards for educational achievement. It is different from other
tests in that it is not multiple choice or short answer. MSPAP is
more a test of skills rather than knowledge. It tests students
ability to apply what they have learned to real-life problems. It
includes reading, language usage, writing, math, social studies,
and science. Schools are scored in each subject. All students in
the 3rd, 5th and 8th grade who are working toward a high school
diploma are tested. MSPAP is important to all students every year
because it requires good thinking skills which have to be taught
and developed over a period of time. The test is given during the
first two full weeks in May with each grade testing for 90 minutes
a day for one week.
     So, what about students with disabilities and MSPAP? Well, the
State Department of Education has a 51 page document called the
Requirements and Guidelines for Exemptions, Excuses, and
Accommodations for Maryland Statewide Assessment Programs dated
October 10, 1995. The general principles are basically that all
students are to be included to the fullest extent possible,
accommodations are to be made to ensure valid assessment of a
students real achievement and are designed to assist a student to
move from dependence toward independence.
     I think this is a good document, both as a parent (and that
includes children with and without special needs) and as a special
educator because basically it requires the inclusion of all
students who are pursuing a high school diploma. And since MSPAP is
about accountability for the education of our students, it is right
that we be accountable for the education of each and every student.
     So, blind students take the MSPAP right alongside their
sighted peers and we all live happily ever after. Well not quite.
Let me go back again to the Requirements Document. Special
accommodations listed include scheduling, setting, equipment,
presentation, response and level of participation. So it would seem
that the state is making a real effort to include all kinds of
disabilities in the MSPAP, with the exception of one group: blind
students. Lets look at the equipment again. The test provides sign
language interpreters, large print, calculators, electronic devices
including mechanical spellers, word processors, computers,
augmented communication devices, CCTV, amplification, audiotape of
materials, visual displays, written copies, and other. But no
Braille. I personally do not know of a single disability that is
not accommodated other than blindness. Excluding Braille users from
the MSPAP reinforces existing problems on multiple levels. It
reinforces a philosophical problem, it reinforces an educational
problem, and it reinforces a personal problem.
     The federal government is committed to the provision of equal
education for persons with disabilities including equality of
opportunity to participate at all levels of education. This is
evident in legislation such as IDEA and Section 504 of the
rehabilitation act. Check out the policy statements from OSERS over
the last 5 or so years. MSPAP tries to emulate the real world. Im
sure you've all heard of the story of the engineer who could give
you the square root of a door knob but couldn't turn it. Well, the
purpose of MSPAP is to see if the students can turn the doorknob,
so to speak. And this is a good thing. Further, MSPAP checks to see
if the students can do this individually, in pairs, in groups, with
others they are used to working with, and with those they are not.
Again, this is a good thing because this is how the real world
works. And isn't that the bottom line, to educate persons who can
function successfully in the real world? In a very negative sense,
excluding Braille users from MSPAP does imitate the real world. It
mirrors the 70% unemployment rate of blind persons in this country.
And it goes beyond that. Excluding our children from MSPAP begs the
question of whether or not we are truly committed to finding a
place for blind people in our society. It suggests that it is
acceptable to exclude blind children.
     The exclusion of blind students from MSPAP also creates an
educational problem. Again, the purpose of MSPAP is to raise the
level of performance, and to create accountability of the schools
for the education of our children. It is clearly an attempt to
reform and revamp instruction. It is a clear statement that we need
to improve the education of our children. This is not anything you
dont already know. It is regularly in the news. Excluding our
Braille users from MSPAP also means excluding our Braille teachers
from the continuing education they need to be able to keep up with
improvements in education and instructional practices. At a recent
state-level meeting about Brailling MSPAP which included
representatives from across the state, a teacher of the visually
impaired raised the issue that they were not included in any MSPAP
in-service or training activities and that they did not have access
to the materials. This meeting included teachers of the visually
impaired and administrators from across the state and while there
were nods of agreement, not one person said their county included
teachers of the visually impaired. And I dont think I need to
belabor the fact that when our students are placed in local
schools, the teacher of the visually impaired basically shoulders
the responsibility for the students education.
     So why not just get around the Braille issue by using readers?
Because it will not work. First off, how many third or fifth
graders have been taught the skills needed to use a reader to get
an assignment done. But far beyond that, the key to MSPAP is
literacy. Can the student read? And I dont mean just decode words
on a page. Can the student understand and use what he reads? Can he
locate information to answer a question, pick out major points,
identify relevant details, follow directions? It is not reasonable
to do this with a reader. For example, if a reader skims for major
points, whose skills are you testing, the Braille users or the
readers? And since MSPAP is inextricably linked to the real world,
I wonder how many of you have a reader available and ready to go
each time you need something read.
     The last issue I have with the exclusion of Braille users from
MSPAP is what it does to the student. Unless you have a child who
is in school or you yourself are in a school, you may not realize
the changes MSPAP has brought. It truly is creating fundamental
changes in how we teach our children and what they are exposed to
on a daily basis. Preparation for MSPAP begins on day 1 of the
school year and escalates all the way to the first two weeks in May
when it is administered. It creates an underlying feeling of
excitement and importance. Many schools dedicate a certain time
each week when all students are to be engaged in MSPAP activities.
I saw a sign at the door of a first grade class that read "MSPAP is
Life" in big letters, and underneath it said "Thursday is MSPAP
morning." I have seen the MSPAP icons and words on bulletin boards
and hanging in the halls of elementary and middle schools alike.
Many schools have an MSPAP word of the day which they discuss and
define on morning announcements. Last year I taught in a Baltimore
City school, had one child in a Baltimore City school and had two
more children in a school in Anne Arundel County. Starting in about
January last year, we share over dinner what our MSPAP word was for
the week. Almost every newsletter for each of their schools
addresses MSPAP, and we even received forms from the school
offering parent training on how to prepare for MSPAP and home
activities to do with our children. Even though I filled out every
one and returned it to school, I never received a single one. When
I asked the principal about it, I was told "Oh, your child won't
take the MSPAP so she doesn't need it." Wait a minute. The purpose
of MSPAP is to improve the education of our children. What do you
mean my child doesn't need it?
     Well, meanwhile, back on the ranch, our children are
experiencing all this in the announcements, and homeroom
activities, etc. Even when the involvement is indirect, they get
excited. And this is intentional. We want our students pumped up
and confident and ready to take the tests. But then when the test
comes, our blind students are left out, for a whole week. And Im
here to tell you, these kids are not stupid. They do feel left out.
They do feel different. The do feel inadequate. My daughter was a
third grader last year. She was crushed when she was not allowed to
take MSPAP. Even though we had told her it was not Brailled, her
answer was "But Mom, Mrs. Kearney said it was for all third
graders, and Im a third grader, too." I had no answer.
     In conclusion, I would like to consider what might happen if
our Braille users were included in MSPAP. First, our teachers of
the visually impaired would have to receive the same training as
other teachers so they would be able to deliver instruction that
would prepare the students to participate. Secondly, MSPAP requires
that students have "prior knowledge," so teachers of content areas
such as science and social studies and other instructional staff
would be put on notice that these students are expected to learn
the same information as their print using peers. Thirdly, our
Braille students would learn how to participate in cooperative
learning in pairs and group activities because that is how many of
the MSPAP activities are administered. Fourthly, principals and
schools in general would pay more attention to how and how much our
Braille students are learning because now these students would
count on the school's performance report card from the state. It
would create accountability for the education of our blind
children. And overall, this would result in full participation
across the curriculum and across all activities to the greatest
extent possible. And isn't that what we wanted in the first place?BLIND TEENS VENTURE TO WEST

by Tracy Sahler
Daily Times Staff Writer

Reprinted from the August 12, 1996 issue of The Salisbury Daily
Times.

     Pocomoke City - Like explorers venturing into the great
unknown, teenagers Emina Watson and Lydia Richardson left their
familiar homes here this summer to learn more about a world they've
never seen.
     Watson, 16 today, and Richardson, 14, have been blind since
they were infants and had not traveled alone so far from home
before. But a month ago they went to the Colorado Center for the
Blind in Denver to explore educational tools for the blind,
recreation, including rock climbing, and living skills like
shopping and doing laundry. "I went grocery shopping," Richardson
said. "At one point we couldn't get a shopper's assistant, so we
had to go to the manager and talk to him about that. We learned
from that."
     The more than $2,500 cost of sending the two girls to the
Colorado center was covered by fund-raisers by the Delmarva chapter
of the Maryland National Federation of the Blind and donations to
the chapter's Children's Fund from Elks and American Legion 64 of
Salisbury, Veterans of Foreign Wars in Crisfield and Delmar, the
Moose Lodge in Queenstown, Md., American Legion in Perryville, Md.,
and Chesapeake Bay Memorial VFW. The chapter formed less than a
year ago with about 75 members including Watson and Richardson.
There will be more trips like the one Watson and Richardson came
home from Saturday.
     "One of the goals of course that we've had specifically in our
chapter is to...start early with our children," said Joan Mitcheil,
president of the Delmarva chapter. "We want them to have the
opportunities that a lot of us did not have."     Blindness is only
a characteristic, and it should not determine how people like
Watson and Richardson live their lives, Mitcheil said. Both girls
will be ninth-graders at Pocomoke High School this fall and plan to
go to college, and at the Colorado center they learned about
assistive technology that enables blind people to use computers.
FORTY YEARS A FEDERATIONIST

by Thomas Bickford

From the Editor: Tom Bickford has been an active member of our
Sligo Creek Chapter for many years.

     It was in October of 1956 that I first joined the National
Federation of the Blind. Kenneth Jernigan was the president of the
chapter in Oakland, California at the time, and that is where I got
a thorough grounding in Federationism. I didn't know what I was
getting into, but the more I participated, the better it got for
me.
     You had better believe that we had an active chapter. We sold
raffle tickets. We wrote letters to legislators. We traveled to the
state capital to appear at hearings. We made friendly visits to
nearby chapters. We participated in the NFB state conventions. On
top of all that we got together for dinner parties. As you see, we
were busy.
     The most important part of these activities for me was a
growing understanding that it was all being done by blind people.
Meetings were chaired. Reports were given. Trips were taken.
Activities were organized. I became a part of all that, and I was
just as blind as they were.
     My first national convention was the next summer in New
Orleans. There are many members who know what a learning experience
that can be for a young person. Three days by Trailways bus from
Oakland to New Orleans was just the beginning. I had my first
experience with that Southern food called grits and observed
racially segregated facilities for the first time. I had yet to
learn how close that would come to my own life. I learned a lot
about the Federation, but I learned even more about myself. I have
missed more national conventions than I have attended, some for
good reasons and some for bad reasons, but every one was full of
fun, fellowship, learning, and inspiration.
     The thorough grounding in Federationism I got has stood me in
good stead through the decades. I consider my achievements in and
through the Federation as glory to the cause. I have enough ego to
be glad when I hear my name spoken or find it published, but I know
it is there because I stayed with the Federation, its principles
and its members. Over the years I have served as president, vice
president, secretary and treasurer in the chapters where I was a
member as well as chairman and member of many committees. If I tell
you of my three proudest achievements, you must believe that they
are glory for the cause as well as for me.
     In 1968 and 1969 I chaired the committee that presented
several candidates for the NFB official song. The convention chose
the Battle Song, and that song has inspired us through the years.
I am glad that we also inspired more people to write more songs,
and now we have books full of songs.
     In 1971 and 1972 I chaired a committee in Washington, D.C.
which presented testimony before Congress that led to the passage
of the White Cane law covering the District of Columbia. It all
started when I was trying to help two blind men through a
discriminatory situation in a local movie theater. That led to
their local congressman to whom I sent a copy of Dr. tenBroek's
model White Cane law. When it was all over I got a souvenir pen
from the Nixon White House with the Presidential seal on it.
     In 1992 I found myself explaining to a sighted friend some of
the techniques I use to know when to get off the bus. I decided to
write it down, and that was the beginning of Care and Feeding of
the Long White Cane. I spent lots of evenings and weekends with my
braille writer on my lap, and I received lots of help from my
Federation friends in the form of ideas and the physical production
of the manuscript. In November of 1993 the Federation published it.
     There is always more work to be done for the cause. How do you
know what to do? The more you get involved, the more will come to
your attention. If you can do more things and better than I have
done, more power to you. There are gavels ready to be pounded;
paper waiting for your ink or braille; interviewers looking for
subjects; cakes to be baked and sold; and always more people who
need us and whom we need. If you need help, ask, and people and
materials will be on your doorstep.
     Lots of us collect quotations which we find, so here is one
for today. "An artist in not a special kind of person, but every
person is a special kind of artist." I would add that all of us
have more than one talent to bring to the cause. Sometimes I am
just a warm body, sometimes a loud voice, maybe a not-so-perfect
typist writing a letter, now and again a song leader at a picnic,
or part of a brainstorming session deciding how to make use of
someone else's talents. Some of these abilities I brought to the
Federation, but others I developed after I joined. What kind of
artist are you?
TWO ORGANIZATIONS FOR BLIND TO BENEFIT FROM CANE DEAL

by Ernest F. Imhoff
Sun Staff

Reprinted from The Baltimore Sun, Thursday, October 17, 1996.

     A white cane means independence for a blind person.
     Ten thousand canes mean even more.
     Four blind workers who have been employed part time for
Baltimore-based Blind Industries and Services in Maryland will work
full time to assemble canes under a $200,000 contract with the
National Federation of the Blind of Baltimore.
     Other workers might be hired later.
     "This is a landmark day for us, the blind working for the
blind," said Frederick J. Puente, president of Blind Industries, at
2901 Strickland St., the state's largest employer of blind people.
     Until now, the nonprofit group has made goods for the general
population.    Formed by the General Assembly in 1908, Blind
Industries has plants in Baltimore, Cumberland and Salisbury.
     Half of its 200 workers, or "associates," are blind.
     The staff makes about 150 products, including physical fitness
suits for the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, floor care
products for the state and mesh tote bags for the Giant supermarket
chain.
     The canes contract is a first for the federation, at 1800
Johnson St., the biggest distributer of white canes in the country
and the largest national advocacy group for blind people.
     It previously bought canes from foreign companies.
     Dr. Kenneth Jernigan, president emeritus of the federation,
said Blind Industries offered a competitive price and competitive
quality.
     He said he is proud the canes will be an American product.
     Tom Owens, a blind instructor at Blind Industries' plant off
Wilkens Avenue, explained his eight month course in cane travel.
     He used prototype canes to be assembled in the Cumberland
plants with parts bought from companies from Maryland (fluted
rubber washers) to Taiwan (reinforced tubes).
     "White canes are crucial," Owens said. "It's your
independence. If you can't travel freely, companies won't hire
you."
     The canes feel, vibrations and sound provide clues to what's
ahead.

Owens said it takes three or four months for a blind person to move
comfortably with confidence. It takes eight months to graduate from
his program.
     "I try to build confidence in the users," he said.
     First, beginners are accompanied by teachers. They walk solo
one or two blocks in the neighborhood near Southwestern High
School. Then they master walking to a destination such as a cafe-
"two blocks west, two blocks north." They might have directions in
Braille.
     Owens introduces walkers to the bus-how to find its stopping
point, where to put the money, what to say to the driver.
     They go downtown by bus with him, then alone. Then they learn
to transfer.
     It can be a formidable learning process. "If you can see,
close your eyes and imagine for a moment what it's like to go
downtown without seeing," suggested Angela Hartley, director of
planning and development.
     The new white canes will come in variations-with more rigid
carbon fiber, giving some vibration and bend, or with more flexible
fiberglass reinforced plastic. Some are collapsible. They range in
price from $15 to $35.
     Owens said about 575,000 of the nation's 720,000 blind people
walk with white canes.
     The agency's rehabilitation course is free for blind Maryland
residents. In addition to cane travel, it offers courses in reading
Braille, computer literacy, independent living, physical fitness
and understanding blindness.
     For information about agency services, call 233-4567.
SUCCESS AT CCB

by Bob Santo

From The Editor: For over 20 years, Bob Santo was successfully
rebuilding automatic transmissions at Glen Burnie Transmissions.
But times change. Bob needed to acquire new skills to keep up with
changes in transmission technology. Although Bob was highly
respected in his craft, his employer was simply unwilling to give
Bob the opportunity to advance his skills. Despite our efforts, Bob
found himself pounding the pavement looking for another job, as he
describes in his article. Now, with proper training, Bob will have
a good chance at a second career. Here is Bob's article. It is yet
another cogent answer to the question: "Why the NFB?"

     I lost my job in October of 1995 and was about to give up, but
that's not like me to do that. I had to start over again. After
working 23 years at the same job, it was hard to get used to not
working.
     After going through months of looking for ways of putting my
life back together, I found out about the Colorado Center for the
Blind. I went to the CCB on June 3, 1996. After a few days at the
CCB my life started to turn around. I saw other students
successfully reaching their goals, feeling good about themselves.
I was unsure of my goals at that time but things started to fall in
to place. I brushed up on my Braille and travel skills as well as
learning about things like computers. I participated in many group
activities such as rock climbing, which was a real confidence
builder. The first day I did not reach the top of the mountain, the
second day I did. It goes to show that we often give up instead of
pushing on. I really felt good about myself after that. The staff
would often compliment me and tell that they believed in me. I
wasn't used to that.
     We had group discussions about living as a blind person and
sharing ideas in business class and job class. We learned
alternative ways for employment. By August 1 was teaching other
students travel and daily living and was showing leadership. My
confidence was greater than ever. I really believed in myself. I am
learning computers very well. I graduated on October 4 and will be
going to the Denver Institute of Technology to learn electronics
and computers. I will succeed. I am free and able to do what ever
I want to do. 
THREE IMPRESSIONS OF THE NFBMD CONVENTION

From the Editor: While we receive many verbal comments about the
activities of the NFB of Maryland it is not often that we receive
written correspondence, especially from newcomers or those
peripherally associated with us. This time, we received three
letters shortly after our state convention. (See Don Morris'
Convention Highlights and Sharon Maneki's annual report elsewhere
in this issue.) Jack Indig, the proprietor of Downtown Printing
Company, is a longtime associate and supporter, since he produces
the print edition of this newsletter. Jack and his wife, Karin,
attended the convention banquet for the first time. Bob Fielden
ably reads the recorded edition of this newsletter and was
recognized at the banquet for his many years of service. Felicha
Potts was the recipient of a McCraw Scholarship, and attended her
first convention. Here are their letters.

October 28, 1996
Dear Al and Sharon:
     Karin and I would both like to thank you for inviting us to
your annual dinner on Saturday. As someone who is not visually
handicapped I have taken so much for granted that after being at
your function I no longer can. The spirit, fire and can-do attitude
that your organization has leaves me so impressed that words can't
describe my true feelings.
     Please count on Karin and myself as supporters and partisans
of your organization.
Sincerely,
Jack Indig

October 27, 1996
Dear Sharon:
     What a surprise and thrill it was for me last evening to be
awarded the Distinguished Service Award at the annual banquet!
Having been recognized in the remarks by the M.C., I had no idea
that there was any further part in the program for me.
     As I think I said in my response to Al's presentation of the
award, I have had no assignment in the past twenty plus years of
volunteer taping which I have enjoyed more (and few as much) as The
Braille Spectator. More often than not, what comes in my eyes and
then out of my mouth into the recorder bypasses my brain. The
"Spectator," on the other hand always seems to hold my interest. As
I said further, so long as God gives me the health and voice and
NFB of Maryland wants me, I stand ready to serve.
     The banquet meal was excellent. Tom Bickford and his wife,
along with the others at the table were most gracious to me and my
guest, Marian DeHoll. I wish my wife's health had permitted her to
be there.
     I know that you are primarily responsible for me receiving the
award. I am humbly proud and ask that you pass this on to the board
or committee which agreed with you. My very best to you and Al.
Sincerely,
Bob
P.S. The plaque now occupies a space of honor on my den wall amidst
my prized memoirs of my 26 year Naval service.

October 28, 1996
Dear Mrs. Maneki:
     I just wanted to take this opportunity to again thank you and
the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland for awarding me a
scholarship on October 27 at the state convention in Gaithersburg,
MD.
     I can't really express the joy I felt, but I want you to know
that the support and assistance I received is greatly appreciated.
I had a wonderful time. The power and progress of the Maryland
affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind is directly
related to your leadership. I admire and will continue to look to
you as a mentor.
     I look forward to actively participating in the state chapter
as well as its newly-formed student chapter.
Thank You,
Felicha Potts
RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE 1996 CONVENTION

Resolution 96-01
     WHEREAS, for too long, the Maryland State Library for the
Blind and Physically Handicapped (LBPH) had little to offer to its
customers beyond books and magazines produced by the National
Library Service, causing many to cease looking to LBPH to fill any
of their reading and reference needs; and
     WHEREAS, LBPH has started to undertake programs to encourage
literacy and to better serve the needs of its customers, e.g.,
children's storybook hours, monthly Saturday openings, and new
cassette titles in its Marylandia collection; and
     WHEREAS, LBPH is the only statewide library serving blind
customers; and
     WHEREAS, sighted citizens of Maryland take it for granted that
they can have access to library services during evening hours and
on weekends; and
     WHEREAS, it is our understanding that after only one year,
LBPH is disappointed with the number of customers who take
advantage of the current Saturday services; and
     WHEREAS, the number of customers served is not as important as
the quality of the services they receive and the word-of-mouth
publicity generated by this quality service; and
     WHEREAS, there seems to be minimal outreach, beyond the tri-
annual newsletters, to promote Saturday hours and other enhanced
library services; NOW THEREFORE
     BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland, in convention assembled this 27th day of October, 1996,
in the city of Gaithersburg, that this organization applauds LBPH
for the measures it has taken to better serve its customers; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge LBPH to maintain existing
Saturday hours, and develop programs to promote reading and
information access for blind Marylanders. These programs could
include: introduction to the use of SAILOR with adaptive
technology, book discussion groups, and an introduction to Braille.

Resolution 96-02
     WHEREAS, in 1992 the Literacy Rights and Education Act for
Blind Students became Maryland law; and
     WHEREAS, in 1994 the State Department of Education adopted
regulations to implement this law; and
     WHEREAS, fewer than 15% of blind and visually impaired
students in Maryland are currently receiving Braille instruction,
indicating woefully inadequate implementation of the law; and
     WHEREAS, the Baltimore City Public Schools have recently
included on their standard IEP form language that explicitly
addresses the requirements for the proper selection of reading
media, in a good faith attempt to put the Braille literacy law into
practice; NOW THEREFORE
     BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland, in convention assembled this 27th day of October, 1996,
in the city of Gaithersburg, that this organization commends the
Baltimore City School System for its recognition of Braille as an
essential reading medium; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge the Division of Special
Education of the Maryland State Department of Education to strongly
encourage all other Local Education Agencies in the state to add
language as proposed by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland to their IEP forms.

Resolution 96-03
     WHEREAS, insufficient information access is one of the most
disabling aspects of blindness; and
     WHEREAS, quality information access is a critical tool for
enabling blind people to become full and equal participants in our
community; and
     WHEREAS, the National Federation of the Blind, the largest
organization of the blind in Maryland and in the nation, has
undertaken the development of new technology to provide blind and
visually impaired individuals real-time access to the printed news
of the day via telephone; and
     WHEREAS, the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, in
partnership with four key community sponsors established the
Newsline for the Blind service in Maryland on January 25, 1996;
and
     WHEREAS, these four donors: Bell Atlantic-Maryland, Legg
Mason, the Knott Foundation, and the USF&G Foundation were
instrumental in providing the essential financial leadership to
establish Newsline for the Blind in Maryland; and
     WHEREAS, the National Federation of the Blind's Newsline
service can now offer a number of daily newspapers, free of charge,
to thousands of Marylanders unable to read conventional newspapers;
NOW THEREFORE
     BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland, in convention assembled this 27th day of October, 1996,
in the city of Gaithersburg, that we applaud and commend these
newsline pioneers: Bell Atlantic-Maryland, Legg Mason, the Knott
Foundation, and the USF&G Foundation for their generosity and
leadership on our behalf; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the National Federation of the
Blind encourage these leaders to continue their excellent support
for this tremendously worthwhile news program, so that the Newsline
for the Blind in Maryland may continue to erode the barriers to
important news and information.

Resolution 96-04
     WHEREAS, in 1996, the Maryland General Assembly created the
commission to revise election laws, for the purpose of recommending
changes in these laws to take into account the requirements and
problems posed by the adoption of new voting systems; and
     WHEREAS, the State Administrative Board of Election Laws
(SABEL) which is responsible for administering Maryland's election
laws has also taken an interest in the problems that the
replacement of the lever-operated voting machines may be causing
for some blind voters; and
     WHEREAS, the lever-operated voting machines were advantageous
to blind voters in two ways:
     1. With the knowledge of which levers controlled which entry
on the ballot, a blind voter could theoretically cast a ballot
without assistance, i.e. cast a secret ballot; and
     2. The curtain placed around the front of the lever-operated
voting machine provided a sufficient private area for a blind voter
to cast his/her ballot with the assistance of election judges, or
with the assistance of another person whom the blind person has
brought to the polling place; and
     WHEREAS, blind voters have generally been satisfied with the
voting laws which govern the assistance they may use to cast their
ballots, with the exception of laws requiring them to sign
affidavits stating that assistance was used (such laws are archaic
and unnecessary); and
     WHEREAS, in some counties lever-operated voting machines have
already been replaced by voting systems using machine-readable
ballots which voters are to mark with a pencil; and
     WHEREAS, no measures have been taken to make this new system
accessible to blind voters, such as, no areas of privacy for blind
voters to cast their ballots with assistance--negating both
advantages of the lever-operated voting machines; NOW THEREFORE
     BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland, in convention assembled this 27th day of October, 1996,
in the city of Gaithersburg, that this organization urges the
commission to adopt the following recommendations:
     1. Maintain the rules governing the assistance that may be
rendered to blind voters, with the exception that the signing and
filing of affidavits to record the rendering of assistance be
eliminated.
     2. Ensure that polling places provide privacy for blind voters
to cast their ballots, either when they use assistance, or use the
voting system directly.
     3. SABEL will not certify the adoption of voting machine
systems which cannot be made accessible to blind voters with
reasonable modifications.

Resolution 96-05
     WHEREAS, the Client Assistance Program is established to
assist blind and disabled persons who complain of poor service or
unfair treatment by the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS);
and
     WHEREAS, the Client Assistance Program is housed within DORS,
thereby creating a conflict of interest; and
     WHEREAS, in 40 states the Client Assistance Program is not
housed in the agency it is designed to monitor; and
     WHEREAS, the Governor can readily move the Client Assistance
Program from DORS to some other entity; and
     WHEREAS, in answer to a question addressed to him during an
airing of the Mark Steiner show on radio station WJHU this April,
Governor Paris Glendening stated that he had not given this matter
any thought, but that he would seriously consider the suggestion
that the Client Assistance Program be moved out of DORS (the
suggestion was offered by a blind constituent); NOW THEREFORE
     BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland, in convention assembled this 27th day of October, 1996,
in the city of Gaithersburg, that we call upon Governor Glendening
to act expeditiously and remove the Client Assistance Program from
DORS so that it can objectively monitor the agency it is
established to watchdog.

Resolution 96-06
     WHEREAS, the Maryland School for the Blind (MSB) provides
vital services to blind children in the state; and
     WHEREAS, parents of MSB students and members of the blind
community have an intellectual need and moral right to attend
meetings of the Board of Directors of MSB in order to be informed
concerning developments at MSB and plans for the future, and in
order to facilitate contact between Board members and those
individuals who are most interested in helping MSB achieve its
potential; and
     WHEREAS, at a unique question and answer session hosted by MSB
on April 30, 1996, parents of blind students and blind persons had
the opportunity to convey concerns and address inquiries to leaders
of MSB; and
     WHEREAS, members of the MSB Board stated that, at the Board of
Directors meeting to be held on June 19, 1996, the Board would
decide whether it would hold open meetings from then on, announcing
the time and location of each meeting in a publication that is
generally known to the public; and
     WHEREAS, meetings of the MSB Board are still not open to
parents of students at MSB and members of the blind community; NOW
THEREFORE
     BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland, in convention assembled this 27th day of October, 1996,
in the city of Gaithersburg, that we call upon the Board of
Directors of MSB to make all Board meetings open to the public
starting immediately; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call upon the Board to
periodically conduct question and answer sessions like that held on
April 30th, 1996, to facilitate dynamic dialogue between members of
the Board, parents, and members of the blind community.

Resolution 96-07
     WHEREAS, the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) has
been designated as the state rehabilitation agency in Maryland,
i.e., all disabled persons seeking state supported rehabilitation
must apply to DORS for their individualized written rehabilitation
programs (IWRPs) as well as for the funding of training and related
services specified in the IWRP; and
     WHEREAS, the quality of rehabilitation service that DORS
offers to blind persons is adversely affected by two factors:
     1. Inadequate adjustment to blindness training: Proper
adjustment to blindness training must include not only the teaching
of skills in the alternative techniques of blindness, but also the
development of a healthy self image and positive attitudes toward
blindness. The quality of the adjustment to blindness training
provided by DORS is deficient in both competence in subject matter
and its expectations for the performance of students. Most blind
persons in Maryland are compelled to take their adjustment to
blindness training from the Maryland Rehabilitation Center.
     2. Inadequate funding: For the past few years, DORS has
expended its state appropriation several months before the end of
the fiscal year. Once this state appropriation is exhausted, no new
referrals are processed, IWRP'S cannot be modified, and service to
new and existing clients comes to a virtual standstill while the
staff continue to receive their paychecks. Increased caseloads and
increasingly expensive assistive technology which is needed to meet
modern demands in education and employment, have not been offset by
commensurate levels of funding; and
     WHEREAS, the budget which DORS has requested for the 1998
fiscal year contains an increase of $2.4 million exclusively for
case services; and
     WHEREAS, a budget increase will better enable blind clients to
exercise their options to choose more effective adjustment to
blindness training offered by other rehabilitation agencies
pursuant to the choice provisions of the Rehabilitation Act
Amendments of 1992; and
     WHEREAS, failure to provide adequate case services funding
jeopardizes DORS' federal funding, compounding an already dismal
situation; NOW THEREFORE
     BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland, in convention assembled this 27th day of October, 1996,
in the city of Gaithersburg, that this organization supports the
requested $2.4 million increase for case services as a minimum
level of increase; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge the Governor of the State
of Maryland and the Maryland General Assembly not to cut this $2.4
million increase.

Resolution 96-08
     WHEREAS, in the fall of 1995, the Maryland Division of
Rehabilitation Services (DORS) hired an orientation and mobility
instructor to teach independent travel skills to blind people
throughout the entire state; and
     WHEREAS, learning to travel independently is essential for
blind people to secure gainful employment, participate in community
activities, and achieve equal status with their sighted peers; and
     WHEREAS, between the fall of 1995 and the spring of 1996,
rehabilitation counselors could only make referrals to the state-
hired mobility instructor, causing interminable delays, and in many
cases no service at all; and
     WHEREAS, this decision had an adverse impact on hundreds of
blind people throughout the state who were waiting for this
essential service; NOW THEREFORE
     BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland, in convention assembled this 27th day of October, 1996,
in the city of Gaithersburg, that DORS establish a policy stating
that the state-hired mobility instructor should have no more than
15 people waiting to receive orientation and mobility instruction
at any one time; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that should caseloads exceed 15,
referrals for orientation and mobility should be made to other
instructors in the state, and that this policy be sent in writing
to all rehabilitation counselors serving the blind and visually
impaired. SPECKS

Home Ownership Opportunity
     We were asked to carry the following announcement:
     ERA Eagle Reality and Crossland Mortgage presents a home
ownership program for the visually impaired.
     Goals: To promote home ownership in the visually impaired
community. To offer low down payment financing. Include funds for
custom renovations for the visually impaired to the property for
convenience.
     Benefits: Possible tax deduction. Appreciable asset. Provide
convenience and safety by integrating today's technologies for the
blind into your new home.
     Financing: FHA (Federal Housing Administration) Low Down
Payment Loans. Include home renovations into financing. Individuals
with only Social Security Income can qualify.
     Call John, office: (410)426-2700, voice mail: (410)892-0574,
or Laura, office: (410)825-5700, voice mail: (410)806-0986.

Wedding Bells
     On November 9, 1996, two federationists, Joyce Hall and Brian
Calahan were married in Baltimore. Congratulations to the
newlyweds.
     
New Baby
     On January 4 at 7:11 a.m., Kevin Kuczynski came into the
world. Kevin's parents, Carol Dobak and Christopher Kuczynski, are
enjoying their new arrival and their new status as first time
parents.

Father of the Year
     Ken Canterbery was awarded Parent of the Year of 1995-1996.
Adam Canterbery, Ken's son, nominated him in the Golden Ring Middle
School contest. Ken was selected from 850 other entrants. He was
awarded a certificate and $50 cash. Congratulations to the
Canterberys.

Employee of the Year
     On October 18, 1996, Frank Stark, Silver Spring, MD received
the Employee of the Year Award from PSI Services, Inc. at its
Seventeenth Anniversary Celebration held at the Washington Navy
Yard Officers Club. PSI is a family of over 600 skilled
professionals from fields such as rehabilitation, medicine,
mental health, developmental disability, social work, physical
therapy, speech, and education. Its trademark is Helping People
Grow. The Employee of the Year Award is a peer award, based on
nomination by the employees of the person who most exemplifies
the company trademark.
     Frank is a clinical social worker who began the Employee
Assistance Program for the Washington and Baltimore offices of
PSI as well as supervising case managers and foster care workers
and providing direct clinical services to a caseload of persons
ranging in age from 6 years old to senior citizens. He has been
employed by PSI since August 1992.
     He has been a member of the Sligo Creek Chapter of the NFB
since moving to Maryland from New York in November 1991. He is a
resource person through JOB for individuals interested in
entering the human services field. He can be reached at
star/k@nmaa.org or (301)649-7904.

Talking Newspapers
     Newsline contains newspapers and more. Have you checked
Newsline lately? Did you catch the ballot questions for the 1996
elections? Did you read the Ravens schedule or the schedule at
Center Stage? New features are being added to Newsline all the
time. For information and applications to Newsline, the telephone
talking newspaper service containing "USA Today," "The Chicago
Tribune," and "The New York Times," call the National Center for
the Blind at (410)659-9314.CALENDAR

January 18: NFB of MD Student seminar: Paying for Your College
Education; National Center for the Blind, 1800 Johnson St.,
Baltimore.

January 23: Day in Annapolis; visit with our state Delegates and
Senators.

February 1: Braille Readers Are Leaders contest closes.

February 2-5: The Washington seminar to visit Congress.

March 31: Deadline for national scholarship applications.

May 15-21: White Cane Week.

June 1: Deadline for John T. McCraw Scholarship applications.

June 28-July 5: NFB Convention; New Orleans.

August 1: Third Annual John T. McCraw Scholarship Fund Crab
Feast; Overlea Hall, 6809 Belair Road, Baltimore.

October 15: National White Cane Safety Day

October 24-26: 31st Annual NFB of Maryland Convention; Ramada
Inn, Hagerstown.     THE BRAILLE SPECTATOR

                        Al Maneki, Editor

                         Winter 1996-97

     The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, an
affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, is a non-
profit organization of blind people whose purpose is to promote
equal opportunities for the blind.  We provide advocacy services
for the blind, special training programs for parents of blind
children, job referrals and placements for the blind, public 
education programs, scholarships to blind students, and help the
newly blinded to acquire special techniques for maintaining
productive lives.
     The Braille Spectator is published quarterly for members of
the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland and others who
share an interest in the work of this organization.  The recorded
edition, available on cassette, can be obtained upon request.
Cassettes may be returned to the National Center for the Blind,
1800 Johnson Street, Baltimore, MD 21230.
     Send all inquiries, donations, news items, articles, letters
to the editor, address changes and additions to the circulation
list to the NFB of Maryland, 9736 Basket Ring Road, Columbia, MD
21045.

     Officers of the NFB of Maryland: Sharon Maneki, President;
Don Morris, First Vice President, Barry Hond, Second Vice
President; Debbie Brown, Secretary; Judy Rasmussen, Treasurer.
     Members of the Board of Directors: Ken Canterbery, Ronald
Coleman, Jean Faulkner, Fred Flowers, Yasmine Reyazuddin, Joe
White.                   

CHAPTERS AND DIVISIONS OF THE
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND

Baltimore County Chapter, Hilda Cullison, President (410)284-
     2575
     Monthly meetings third Thursday
Greater Baltimore Chapter, Fred Flowers, President (410)325-
4825
     Monthly meetings third Saturday
Central Maryland Chapter, Leon Rose, President (410)730-3578
     Monthly meetings first Tuesday
Greater Cumberland Chapter, Gary Klatt, President (301)777-
0131
     Monthly meetings first Tuesday
Frederick County Chapter, Ed Florance, President (301)695-7312
     Monthly meetings fourth Tuesday
Sligo Creek Chapter, Debbie Brown, President (301)881-1892
     Monthly meetings second Saturday
Mountain City Chapter, Jean Faulkner, President (301)729-8942
     Monthly meetings third Thursday
Southern Maryland Chapter, Ken Silberman, President (301)552-
2839
     Monthly meetings first Saturday
Parents of Blind Children Division, Loretta White, President
(410)360-5108
Business Division, Don Morris, President (301)447-6380
Student Division, Yasmine Reyazuddin, President (301)949-6685
Diabetics Support Network, Donna Goodman, Chairman (410)730-
9430
     Monthly meetings fourth Tuesday
Committee on Senior Citiczens Concerns, Roger Walker, Chairman
(410)525-1029