The Braille Spectator
Winter                                                                                  1994-95


               The Newsletter of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland


28TH ANNUAL CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS

                                          by Don Morris

The 28th annual convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland was held at
the Holiday Inn Cumberland the weekend of November 4-6, 1994.  This convention's
Cumberland site afforded the NFB's Greater Cumberland Chapter the chance to celebrate its
25th anniversary in grand style.  Our movement has certainly come a long way, with many new
members at this convention and a few old-timers from 25 years ago.  Consider the past:  
   Cumberland, Maryland, May 9, 1969.  At the Moose Lodge here today, the Cumberland
Federation of the Blind, affiliate of the Free State Federation of the Blind, held its organizing
banquet.  The banquet was presided over by Freestate President, John T. McCraw.  Elections
were held for the local group with the following slate being elected:  President, Charlie Ellis; 
Vice President, Albert Gregory;  Secretary, Joyce Ellis;  Treasurer Elsie Heabner.  Georgia
Myers, a member of the local group circulating throughout the convention, sold delicious home
made rum balls as a fund raiser for the chapter.  The many members and guests present
received words of welcome from Cumberland Mayor Tom Conlon.  President McCraw offered
remarks to the group, outlining purpose and commitment.  All were inspired by his booming
voice and message.  
   And the present:  (with 207 registered, 198 at the banquet, and attendees from seven states):
Cumberland, Maryland, November 4, 1994.  The 28th annual convention of the National
Federation of the Blind commenced today with a JOB (Job Opportunities for the Blind)
Seminar, conducted by Eileen Rivera, Vice President, NFB of Maryland.  The JOB Seminar
featured speakers familiar with the job search and interview processes.  Pat Arnold from the
Maryland Department of Employment and Economic Development spoke about the changing
nature of jobs  and the future of the job market in Maryland as well as the numerous indicators
pointing towards service jobs becoming more prevalent.  Homer Page, President of the NFB
of Colorado, spoke about several students at the Colorado Center for the Blind, their process
of growth and development and their job search efforts. Even though many had given up on
these students, persistence paid off, as each of them now works and is a contributing member
of society.  Tammy Corbin, former Human Resources employee at United Parcel Service talked
about the interviewing process specifically and the "unknown quantity" that blind people present
to a sighted interviewer.  She recommended that we all keep in mind that employers are
looking to know what we can do for them.  She also recommended the book written by
Federationist Rami Rabby, "Taking Charge."  The final speaker at the JOB Seminar was Tom
Ley, a recent import to Maryland from Louisiana, where he taught high school mathematics. 
Tom spoke about the need to perform on the job in order to protect and insure the investment
of hard work put in to obtain a job.  There was a lively discussion between the audience and
panelists.  From the overwhelming positive comments, it is clear that the JOB Seminar was a
success.  
   NFB President Marc Maurer gaveled the Friday evening open Board Meeting to Order. 
President Maurer informed us that President Maneki's father had recently passed away and that
her mother was experiencing health problems.  As a result, Sharon and Al would be unable to
join us at the 1994 Convention.  He noted that their absence would be sorely missed and called
on all present to keep Sharon and her family in their thoughts and prayers.  He also called on
the membership to do the extra bit that each of us will have to do to fill in the large hole left
by Sharon and Al's absence.
   A Resolution was presented noting our affection for Sharon and recognizing her good work. 
It also expressed our concern and condolences and gave her our love.  
   Arthur Segal was appointed to chair the Nominating Committee.  Judy Rasmussen was
named to chair the Resolutions Committee.  National Representative Homer Page, President of
the NFB of Colorado and Chairman of the Colorado Center for the Blind, was introduced to
and greeted by the Board and audience.  The Board Meeting was adjourned.
   An interesting entertainment which was offered Friday evening was especially beneficial to
those who are more coordinated than this writer.  Kathy Brashears served as an M.C. and
instructor, teaching Country Line Dancing.  The evening was scheduled to take place in two
parts.  From 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. the younger set received instruction.  They were expected
to leave the floor at 9:00 when the older set were to be instructed.  The juniors learned well
and were having too much fun, so they simply permitted the old folks to join them.  A great
time was had by all!
   The Saturday morning session was called to order by President Maurer, who was the first
of many luminaries to welcome the convention to Cumberland.  Following the Invocation given
by Ron Burns of Florida, President Maurer read a Resolution from Governor Schaefer,
declaring November to be NFB Month in Maryland.  Next, Jean Faulkner and Jearl Conrad
were introduced and each brought welcome from our host chapter.  Mayor Ed Athey of
Cumberland was then recognized.  He brought us welcome and a Resolution proclaiming
November to be NFB Month in Cumberland.  The Speaker of the Maryland House of
Delegates, Casper Taylor, welcomed the group to Cumberland and spoke to us also about the
dramatic changes in the make-up in the Maryland House and Senate which could be anticipated
in the upcoming election.  As always, Del. Taylor was well received.  Also welcoming the
Convention, and also well received was Sen. John Hafer.  He offered to continue his efforts on
our behalf and said he looked forward to seeing us in Annapolis.
   National Representative Homer Page then spoke to the group, bringing us Federation news
with a national focus. In his report, he asked us to write immediately to Dr. Thomas Hehir,
Director of Special Education Programs for the U.S. Department of Education, urging
appropriate language be included in regulations for IDEA. 
   Following Homer's enlightening remarks, President Maurer stood in for Sharon Maneki
when he presented a report on the State of the Affiliate, 1994.
   A call for PAC was given.  During the Convention 8 new PAC commitments were made
totalling $59.00 per month.  17 PAC increases were received totalling $77.00 per month.  The
effect of these new and increased pledges now shows Maryland with 111 people on PAC
contributing $3556.50 per month.  PAC Chairman Don Morris urged people to use the PAC
Plan cards from their convention agenda even after they get home.  PAC is a relatively painless
way that members can help fund our movement and show their commitment.  
   Dr. Page and Robert Burns, Assistant Superintendent, Maryland State Department of
Education, spoke on "New Directions in Rehabilitation".  Homer told us of the exciting work
done at the Colorado Center for the Blind, citing statistics demonstrating program successes. 
Bob Burns talked about Maryland programs and their prospects.  He spoke of improved
cooperation and joint goal setting between his agency and the blind of Maryland.  He cited the
Vending Program as one of the areas where joint goals were being achieved.  He also discussed
the issue of "choice".  Jim Gashel discussed with Bob Burns the matter of choice in
rehabilitation services for blind persons, and indicated that choice really means freedom to
choose, not freedom to choose if some counselor approves of the choice.  Bob Burns
acknowledged that as a desirable state and indicated that that is the objective of the Department,
although certain constraints are put on DORS which may sometimes conflict with that
objective.  
   During the lunch break, most members reconvened in either the Business Division luncheon
or the Parents of Blind Children Division luncheon.  At the Business luncheon, president Barry
Hond introduced Leon Rose, a member from Columbia, who spoke on approaches to
advertising and promotion in business.  Elections were held, with Barry Hond returning as
president;  Fred Flowers, vice president; Leon Rose, secretary; Ray Swell, treasurer; Ray
Lowder and Holly Mooney as board members.
   The Parents Division luncheon featured a presentation by Homer Page, who spoke about the
benefits of work and responsibility as a blind child on his parents' farm.  He urged parents of
blind children to give their children similar opportunities and responsibility, an expectation of
normalcy and success.  An election of officers was held and Loretta White was elected
president.  Other officers elected: Russell Morris, 1st vice president; Mary Nichols, 2nd vice
president; Bernice Lowder, secretary; John Cheadle, treasurer; Danielle Becker, Dorothy
Sheeder, and Dolores Watson, board members; Christina Shorten, youth member.  
   Following lunch, Tammy Jones, a member from the eastern shore who is a vision teacher,
talked about her experiences with blind children in a public school system and their relationship
to that system and to their peers.  Tammy focused on the need for braille instruction and braille
literacy.  
Intended to appear on the same panel with Tammy was Louis Tutt, President, Maryland School
for the Blind.  Mr. Tutt not only failed to meet his promise to address the convention, but he
also failed to send a stand-in.  This, of course, was a big disappointment, in that Federationists
were unable to hear Mr. Tutt's comments on the subject of "Opportunities and Barriers and the
Education of Blind and Visually Impaired Children."  Even more disappointing was the cavalier
attitude of the School for the Blind, who apparently think the State's oldest and largest
organization of blind consumers does not even warrant a "by your leave."  This  attitude by the
Maryland School for the Blind is a true barrier to the opportunity to teach and be taught by the
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland.  We expect better from Louis Tutt and the
Maryland School for the Blind.  
   The next presentation was a status report on BISM, which was presented by Fred Puente, 
Board Chairman and acting President; Rosemary Lerdahl, director of the Rehabilitation Division
of BISM; and J.R. Helmstetter, BISM Rehab Student.  Fred spoke about the financial recovery
going at BISM, acknowledging that there were not currently jobs for all of the blind people
who wanted to work at BISM.  He described prospects as looking up, but cautioned that
changing  patterns in government procurement are a challenge to growth and continuity.  He
spoke about a newly arrived purchase order of nearly a million dollars which should bring the
Salisbury plant back to full employment.  He introduced Rosemary Lerdahl who spoke of
exciting developments in the BISM Rehabilitation Program.  Although there is much work left
to do,  Rosemary told us about the steps which have been taken to acquire a residential facility,
which will house as many as ten BISM Rehab students at a time.  She told us that BISM has
had several out of state students. Very significant, also, is the fact that two BISM students are
clients of the Division of Rehabilitation Services, which is paying for their rehabilitation
training at BISM.  Rosemary then introduced a current student, J.R. Helmstetter, who spoke
about some of his experiences and achievements during his training.  
   Next we heard an extremely interesting panel discussion on employment.  Panelists were: 
Geraldine Burke, Attorney;  Frank Stark, Clinical Social Worker; Bob Santo, Transmission
Specialist; Al Carter, Restaurateur.  Each of them spoke to us about their role and relationship
with bosses, peers and subordinates on the job.  All four of these speakers held the audience's
attention and there was a lively exchange of questions and answers following their remarks.
   The next panel dealt with Library services.  Judy Rasmussen, Treasurer, NFB of Maryland,
and David Andrews, Director, International Braille and Technology Center, made presentations
on current service and future opportunities for the Maryland Library for the Blind.  Among the
concerns Judy presented was the limited access to the Library via telephone created by the
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. work schedule for the Library.  David Andrews spoke about an
innovative Library System he developed for the State of New Mexico wherein borrowers can
call the Library and from a touch tone telephone can "browse electronically titles and
annotations of books, which can then be ordered electronically" for delivery via U.S. Mail.
   Maurice Travillian Assistant State Superintendent, Division of Library Development, and
Sharon McFarland, Director, Maryland State Library for the Blind,  responded to Judy and
David and provided an update on the Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped and
services provided.  Mrs. McFarland noted that Library hours had been expanded so it is
possible for blind borrowers to conduct business between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. 
She also indicated that an after hours "system" was being considered wherein borrowers could
request books even though Library Staff was not present.  Unlike the advanced system designed
by Mr. Andrews, the technology being considered by the Maryland Library is apparently a
telephone answering machine with a recorder.  Let us hope and insist that the Maryland Library
consider advanced technology and not settle for poor solutions from the past.  
   President Maurer gaveled the convention to adjournment pending the banquet which
commenced at 7:00 p.m.  This year's banquet was ably M.C.'d by  David Andrews.  He first
presented Adrienne Ottavianni, one of the Allegany County Commissioners, for the reading of
a Proclamation.  Also introduced were two candidates running for the same office.
   The key note speaker of the banquet was Dr. Homer Page, who based his remarks on the
line, "April is the Cruelest Month," from T.S. Elliot's poem, "The Wasteland."  Elliot's thesis
is that April is the cruelest month because it holds great promise as in all the promise of
springtime.  However in "The Wasteland," the rest of the year turns to dust and the promise
of April is never fulfilled.  In Homer's speech, he reminded us that our minders would
sometimes have us in a wasteland solely on the basis of our blindness.  We, like April, would
fail to deliver on our promise if we accepted the narrow view of the agencies and custodians. 
Homer described to us the number of attempts by people in his life to diminish his promise but
he also spoke of those who helped him achieve and deliver on his promise.  
   Kimberly Dodd was presented with the 1994 Anna Freyz Cable Award (a certificate and
$50.00) for her successful adjustment to blindness.  Kim became blind as a result of
complications of diabetes five or six years ago.  She began training at the BISM Rehabilitation
Training Program and completed projects in all areas of her training, graduating in 1993.  She
is the first member of BISM's "Key Club".  Membership in the "Key Club" is bestowed on
BISM graduates who complete all areas of training, symbolizing the individual's ability to
unlock the doors to his or her future.  She is active in BISM's Alumni Association and is
employed part-time by a local computer company.  
   Lance Finney, former Director of the Maryland State Library for The Blind and Physically
Handicapped, was presented with the NFB of Maryland's Distinguished Service Award (an
engraved plaque) for his cooperative efforts with the NFB.  
   NFB of Maryland McCraw scholarships were awarded to Yasmin Reyazuddin ($1400) and
Kia Johnson ($800).  Yasmin is a second-year student at Montgomery Community College,
from which she will be receiving her A.A. degree this summer.  Kia is a freshman at Bowie
State University.  From the acceptance remarks by the winners, it is clear the scholarship
committee did their work well. There is hope for our future as these young people develop and
take part in the Federation.  
   Mr. Maurer then conducted the "sharing ceremony", which funds the programs of the NFB
of Maryland in a major way.  This resulted in significant contributions from many, many
members.  Contributions were made on the spot, and pledges were received for payment before
January 1, 1995.  Members dug deep to fund our worthy programs.  
   Following the banquet many of the group reconvened for an auction conducted by Duane
"double lips" Gerstenberger.  Items auctioned ranged from a caricature of a toy train to two
beautiful handmade quilts, each of which were highly prized, based on the spirited bidding and
substantial prices paid.
   Sunday's morning session was preceded by a worship service conducted by Andrea
Brandies. Many of us took part, and all of us felt better for having done so.  President Maurer
brought the Sunday morning session to order.  Arthur Segal reported the results of the
nominating committee.  Elections were then held with the following outcome.   Sharon Maneki,
President;  Don Morris, 1st Vice President;  Barry Hond, 2nd Vice President;  Debbie Brown,
Secretary; Judy Rasmussen, Treasurer;  Board Members re-elected were Jean Faulkner, Blanche
Payne and Brenda Williams.  Board Members whose terms expire in 1995 are Ron Coleman,
Fred Flowers and Ken Canterbery.  
   Mary Brady, Director, Maryland Technology Assistance Program, reported on activities at
her agency.  
   President Maurer next asked for a report on the PAC Plan. A drawing was held with one
entry for each current PAC contributor and one entry for each new PAC contributor and one
additional entry for each increase in PAC contributor.  The drawing was for hotel
accommodations at the 1995 NFB of Maryland Convention at the Carousel Hotel in Ocean
City, Maryland.  The winner was Andrea Brandies.  
   The next item was a truly inspiring video presentation.  It was the NFB Braille Literacy
promotion program.  Even though many of us knew what to expect, all of us were moved by
the heartfelt stories told by blind people and parents.  We were equally moved by the
commitment to literacy for the blind demonstrated by our organization.  This video is available
for purchase.  Each of us should take the steps necessary to air this program for each of our
service organizations, church groups, neighbors, legislators, and friends.  The video, narrated
by Dr. Jernigan, is available in a 17 minute or a 27 minute version.  
   Another moving program segment was "Fun, Friends and Fitting In," presented by three of
tomorrow's stars, Charles Cheadle, Ellen Nichols and Meagan Berger.  Each of them spoke of
their experiences as students or Scouts or church members or youth group participants, and how
they matched up with their peers, participating fully in all of their activities including the
demonstration of leadership.  Not only were their stories meaningful, but each of them gave a
polished delivery.  
   The final item of the convention was the presentation of the Resolutions Committee and the
discussion and voting on Resolutions which are found elsewhere in this publication.  
   MISCELLANEOUS:  It was also observed that Georgia Myers circulated throughout the
convention, selling delicious homemade rum balls as a fund raiser.  She assured this reporter
that these rum balls were not left over from 1969.  There were door prizes galore.  In fact, there
were enough door prizes that if certain people, who for their protection will remain nameless,
had not won so many, the rest of us could have each won one.  Our thanks to Pat Maurer,
Alice Kassel, Lorinda Riddle and Christina Debrouse for their good work in giving away the
door prizes. Special thanks to Georgia Myers and the Cumberland and Frostburg Chapters for
their good job in collecting all of those door prizes and providing hospitality.  At great risk of
forgetting some person who is absolutely vital, I'm going to try to name names of the
registration crew who did such a tremendous job at getting everybody in and accounted for: 
Debbie Brown, Christina Debrouse, Fred Flowers, Barry Hond, Holly Mooney, Lloyd
Rasmussen, Marla Sewell, Mary Ellen Thompson, Brenda Williams, and Shirley Morris.  As
President Maurer requested, everybody did dig a little deeper to help make this a great
convention.  If Sharon and Al would have been with us it would have been not just great, but
perfect.  


ANNUAL ANNAPOLIS DAY FOCUSES ON BRAILLE

From The Editor:  The NFB of Maryland conducted its Day in Annapolis on January 19, 1995. 
This year, we are asking the General Assembly to insist that the State Department of Education
properly implement the Literacy Rights and Education Act for Blind and Visually Impaired
Students.  We are reprinting the text of the position paper which we circulated to the General
Assembly.  As usual, our Day was very successful, with many sympathetic responses and
promises of support.  By the end of the Day, we had already received reports of a number of
legislators confronting Secretary Grasmick about our complaints in her appearance before the
House Ways and Means Committee that afternoon.  We were also fortunate to receive excellent
coverage from Baltimore's Channel 13, whose news crew happened to be in the General
Assembly that day.  Since there are many new members of the General Assembly, we held a
reception for legislators and their guests on Monday, January 23.  This reception gave us an
opportunity to become better acquainted with the new legislators and to have futher discussions
with them about the Braille issue.  Every guest at the reception was presented with a copy of
the NFB's new video, That the Blind May Read.  Here is the position paper:

SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Local Education Agencies, The Maryland School for the Blind, and the Maryland State
Department of Education, Division of Special Education, have earned poor marks for their
implementation and enforcement of the Maryland Literacy Rights and Education Act for Blind
and Visually Impaired Students.  Blind and visually impaired students are still not being given
adequate instruction to achieve basic literacy, as is required by this act.  Only 16 additional
students are now receiving instruction in Braille as a result of the passage of the Maryland
Literacy Rights and Education Act.  Of the 167 students who are now receiving Braille
instruction, only 59 even have an IEP goal of reading Braille at their grade level; only 3
students of the above 167 are even functional readers.  See exhibits A and B at the end of this
report card.    The Maryland State Department of Education still has not established procedures
to coordinate the statewide availability of textbooks and supplementary instructional materials
in nonvisually accessible media (Braille, large print, or audio cassette books), as is also required
by this law.  If a local education agency needs a Braille, large print, or audio cassette textbook,
it has no way of knowing if this textbook is already available in, and can be borrowed from
another local education agency.  This failure in statewide coordination leads to needless
duplication of effort and expenditures in procuring the specialized textbooks needed by blind
and visually impaired students.
   In a separate action, the Maryland State Department of Education issued Guidelines on the
Selection of Reading and Writing Media: Braille, Print or Both, in December 1992. 
Unfortunately, the Department of Education has made no attempt to monitor how local
education agencies are implementing either the Maryland Literacy Rights and Education Act
or its own Guidelines.  
   The Maryland State Department of Education will not properly exercise its responsibility for
the education of blind and visually impaired students unless it becomes directly accountable to
the Maryland General Assembly and the taxpayers of Maryland.  Therefore, the National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland recommends that the Maryland General Assembly: 
   (1) require the Maryland State Department of Education to submit an annual report to the
General Assembly on the status of Braille instruction and the implementation of the Maryland
Literacy Rights and Education Act for Blind and Visually Impaired students.
   (2) require the Maryland State Department of Education to amend and resubmit to the
General Assembly the report which it made on November 29, 1994 to the AELR committee,
correcting errors in statistical data and including complete answers to the questions prepared
by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland.   
   (3) insist that the Maryland State Department of Education immediately begin to coordinate
the statewide availability of textbooks and supplementary instructional materials in nonvisually
accessible media. 
   The Maryland General Assembly should ensure that the Maryland State  Department of
Education properly enforces the Maryland Literacy Rights and Education Act for Blind and
Visually Impaired Students.  Members of the General Assembly may wish to contact: 

Dr. Nancy Grasmick
State Superintendent
Maryland State Department of Education
200 W. Baltimore St.
Baltimore, MD 21201-2595

BACKGROUND

INTRODUCTION

For the past ten years the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland has been deeply
concerned about the poor quality of instruction in the reading and writing of Braille which has
been offered to Maryland's blind and visually impaired students.  Our initial efforts for
improvement were met with hostility and resentment by both the Maryland State Department
of Education and the Maryland School for the Blind.  But with the passage of time, the
education profession has begun to understand that our efforts are sincere and that the problem
of Braille literacy must be addressed.  In 1992, on the recommendation of the National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland, the Maryland General Assembly adopted the Maryland
Literacy Rights and Education Act for Blind and Visually Impaired Students into law.  The
General Assembly agreed with us that it is unconscionable for blind and visually impaired
students to graduate from Maryland's schools without basic literacy skills.  Also in 1992, on
the recommendation and assistance of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, the
Maryland State Department of Education issued Guidelines on the Selection of Reading and
Writing Media: Braille, Print or Both, a publication to help teachers and parents determine
which students should be taught Braille, which should be taught Braille and print, and which
should be taught print and Braille.     There are three provisions in the Maryland Literacy
Rights and Education Act for Blind and Visually Impaired Students:  
   (1) The right of every blind or visually impaired student to receive instruction in the reading
and writing of Braille,
   (2) The upgrading of certification and recertification requirements for vision teachers, those
teachers who provide supplemental services to blind and visually impaired students in the public
schools,
   (3) The establishment of procedures to ensure the availability of textbooks in nonvisually
accessible media throughout the state.
   In a sincere spirit of harmony and cooperation, the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland sought to have the Maryland State Department of Education adopt the strongest
possible set of regulations to implement this law.  When it became evident that the proposed
regulations on the certification and recertification of vision teachers were inadequate to
implement the law, the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland asked the General
Assembly's AELR Committee to conduct oversight hearings.  These hearings were held in
September 1994.  Although the AELR Committee chose not to amend the proposed regulations,
it did ask the Maryland State Department of Education to submit a report on the status of
Braille instruction and on the implementation of this law.  
   The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland submitted a list of questions to the AELR
Committee, and requested that the Maryland State Department of Education provide the answers
to these questions as a part of its report.  Again, while the Committee forwarded these questions
to the Department of Education, it did not insist that the department answer these questions
specifically.  As it turned out, some of the questions were answered, although the quality of
some of the answers left much to be desired.  The questions which were not answered render
the report incomplete, and thus, it fails to provide an accurate picture of the status of Braille
instruction in Maryland.  It should be noted that the Department of Education's report contains
inaccuracies which lead us to question its validity.  For example, when categories of students
are divided into sub-categories, the sum of the number of students in the sub-categories does
not equal the total number of students in the category.  With these reservations in mind, the
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland's analysis of this report follows:  

FAILURE TO ADEQUATELY DETERMINE WHICH STUDENTS COULD BENEFIT FROM
INSTRUCTION IN BRAILLE

According to the report, 1,404 students are currently entitled to special education services
because they are blind or visually impaired, as defined in federal law, the Individuals With
Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).  Of these 1,404 students, the report claims that 973 students
meet the NARROWER definition of "blind or visually impaired student" under the Maryland
Literacy Rights and Education Act.  These 973 students are either legally blind, have a
medically indicated expectation of visual deterioration, or have a medically diagnosed limitation
in visual functioning that restricts the student's ability to read and write standard print at levels
expected of other students of comparable ability and grade level. The major tenet of the
Maryland Literacy Rights and Education act as stated in Section 1 is: 
       "In developing the Individualized Education Program for each blind or visually impaired
       student, it shall be presumed that proficiency in Braille reading and writing is essential
       to enable the student to communicate effectively and efficiently."  
   This "presumption of Braille" is essential to solving the literacy problem.  Students whose
vision may have been adequate to read print when they were in the first or second grade find
that they are illiterate in high school because their poor vision makes it impossible for them to
keep up with increased reading demands, and because they were not taught to read and write
Braille.  Of the 1,404 students identified as visually impaired, only 1,107 students (78%) have
a documented Individualized Education Program (IEP) showing that Braille was discussed
during the IEP meeting and that a decision was made regarding its use.  The law requires that
Braille be discussed at every IEP meeting.  Of the 1,404 students who meet the definition of
visual impairment under IDEA, only 964 (68%) have a documented assessment of reading and
writing media.  Again, the law requires that all students have such an assessment.  From the
cases we have investigated, the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland believes that even
this percentage is over-exaggerated.

FAILURE TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS BEING TAUGHT BRAILLE

According to the report, only 167 (17%) of the 973 students who could benefit from Braille
instruction are actually receiving instruction in Braille.  The Department of Education further
reported that as a result of the Maryland Literacy Rights and Education Act, only 16 additional
students (2% of the 973) are receiving Braille instruction.  This low percentage of increase
indicates that no effort is being made to offer Braille instruction to all blind and visually
impaired students, as the law requires.  (See exhibit A.)

FAILURE TO INTRODUCE STUDENTS TO THE USE OF BOTH PRINT AND BRAILLE
MEDIA

The Maryland Literacy Rights and Education Act states "the use of other reading and writing
media does not preclude the use of Braille or instruction in Braille."  If this law were properly
implemented, more students would be taught to read and write both print and Braille so that
the individual could select the appropriate reading or writing media for any given situation. 
Persons with limited vision need options.  Of the 973 students who come under the definition
"blind or visually impaired student" in the Maryland Literacy Rights and Education Act, only
31 (3%) read "print complemented with Braille;" only 12 of the 973 (1%) are learning "Braille
complemented with print."  The number of students who could benefit from "print
complemented with Braille" or "Braille complemented with print" constitutes a majority of the
973-student population.  
   The law also states that when selecting a student's reading and writing media, his or her
future literacy needs must be considered.  Of the 973 students eligible for Braille instruction,
only 94 (10%) are being taught Braille to meet future literacy needs, rather than to merely meet
their current literacy needs.  Here again, the law is not anywhere near to being universally
implemented.

FAILURE OF VISION TEACHERS TO SET HIGH STANDARDS OF EXPECTATION FOR
THEIR STUDENTS 

According to the report:
   Of the 167 students who are receiving Braille instruction, only 3 (2%) are functional Braille
readers.
   Of the 167 students receiving Braille instruction, only 59 (35%) have an IEP goal of reading
Braille at grade level.
   Of the 167 students who are receiving Braille instruction, only 66 (39%) are able to read at
a level commensurate with their "age-appropriate peers."
   Of the 167 students who are receiving Braille instruction, only 43 (25%) have an IEP goal
to learn to use the slate and stylus, the portable method of writing Braille.
   These figures justify the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland's claim that Braille
is not being properly taught to blind and visually impaired students (See exhibit B).  If only
25% of sighted students were taught to write with a pen or pencil and the remainder of the
students were taught to write only with a typewriter or computer, there would be a public
outcry for immediate reform.  These substandard percentages are not due to an inability of blind
and visually impaired students to function at normal levels.  Teachers and educators, unfamiliar
with the Braille code and lacking an understanding of the importance of Braille as a tool for
literacy, must bear the major responsibility for setting standards far below that which should
be expected of blind and visually impaired students.  For these reasons, the National Federation
of the Blind of Maryland finds the Department of Education's requirements for the certification
and recertification of vision teachers unacceptable.  If higher standards were set for vision
teachers, they will develop higher standards of expectations for their students.  

FAILURE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO PROVIDE SPECIFIC
INFORMATION AND RELIABLE DATA

As an example of the Department of Education's failure to provide specific information:  the
department merely reports in Question 18 that 43 students have an IEP goal "relating to
learning slate and stylus."  In the list of questions that the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland submitted to the AELR Committee, the following five seek specific information
concerning the use of the slate and stylus by blind and visually impaired students:
       13. How many blind/visually impaired students who use Braille have instruction in and/or
       use of the slate and stylus in their IEPs?  
       14. How many blind/visually impaired students receive slate and stylus instruction in
       accordance with the following time allotments:  a) less than 30 minutes a week,  b) 30
       minutes to one hour a week,  c) more than one hour a week,  d) no time specified?
       15. How many blind/visually impaired students who use Braille have an IEP
       goal/objective to use the slate and stylus daily for note taking in the classroom?  
       16. How many of the Braille users who are no longer receiving Braille reading or writing
       instruction report using the slate and stylus: a) daily,  b) weekly,  c) occasionally,  d)
       seldom,  e) never,  f) do not remember receiving slate and stylus instruction.
       17. Of the Braille users who are no longer receiving Braille reading and writing
       instruction, what was the duration, per the IEP, of slate and stylus instruction: a) three
       or more years,  b) two to three years,  c) one to two years,  d) six months up to a year, 
       e) three to five months,  f) one to two months,  g) less than a month but more than one
       session,  h) one session,  i) no documentation of slate and stylus instruction in the IEP, 
       j) slate and stylus was in the IEP but no documentation of duration of instruction?  Please
       specify the number of students reported for each of these ten categories.
   As a second example of the Department of Education's lack of specificity, the report further
states, in the answer to the report's question 21, that during the last 5 years, 24 students who
"graduated with a diploma" were capable of "using Braille."  How competent were these 24
students?  Could they use the slate and stylus to take notes in class, or just to jot down a phone
number?  Could these 24 students keep up in class by reading their assignments in Braille? 
Just to put this figure in perspective, what percentage of the total number of blind and visually
impaired students who graduated in the past five years do these 24 students represent? 
   As examples of unreliable data:  
   The total number of students reported in Question 12 as "using Braille," categorized by
grade level is 156, which does not equal the total number of students reported in Question 3
as "using Braille as specified in their IEP," which is 167.  If a discrepancy should even exist
between the two numbers, one would think that the total number simply "using Braille"
(Question 12) would be the larger figure.
   In Question 7 the total number of students "receiving vision services" in the local school
systems (1,160) does not equal the total number of students in Question 1 "with visual
impairment . . . receiving vision services as documented in their IEP," in the local school
systems (1,235) as the note to Question 7 claims.  The department further claims that "the
abbreviated timeline did not allow for further refinement" of this already inaccurate data; the
department did not offer to get back to the committee with more reliable data which shows their
lack of interest in blind and visually impaired students.  Blind and visually impaired students
in Maryland need your help in the struggle to achieve basic literacy.
   (Exhibits A and B are omitted.)


                           WHAT'S THAT POLE FOR? AND OTHER REVELATIONS

by: Mildred Rivera
From The Editor:  Mildred Rivera eloquently tells us all about herself in this article, so an
introduction is not necessary.  It suffices to report that she has written this article for an
introductory book by and about the Louisiana Center for the Blind.  We are extremely
privelieged to have the opportunity to print this article.
   When I began my studies at the Louisiana Center for the Blind in August 1989, I had no
idea what was in store for me.  I soon learned that life at the Center would be one challenge
after another.  
   The first challenge came quickly.  When my plane landed from San Francisco, I was greeted
by 118 degrees, 100 percent humidity, and a smiling southern gentleman who I soon realized
did not understand my fast spoken northern speech!  That was OK, because I could not
understand his sing-song southern Louisiana drawl, either.  After what seemed like several
hundred excuse me's and pardon me's, I felt some comfort when I asked if there was a
McDonald's in Ruston.  And the laughing reply was--Yes.  I had been warned by Zack Shore
that Ruston was a tiny southern town, and I was worried.  With that settled, I moved on to the
important subject of insects and snakes.  My questions were met with less assuring responses
this time and I was again a bit anxious.  My driver and soon-to-be good friend, Stuart Long,
explained that he was the Center's apartment manager and a student at Louisiana Tech.  I was
glad to know I had already made one friend, which of course makes any challenge a lot easier!

Any former student could probably contribute something to each section of this book and then
some.  Although it would be a lot of fun, it would not be very helpful to you.  I would like to
share a few experiences I had while learning the alternative technique of travelling around the
world with a long white cane--cane travel.  
   I knew that students with partial vision were expected to wear blind folds or sleep shades
throughout their training and for a "high partial" like me it was certainly a must.  I had been
using a cane in the evenings for several years and during the day for a couple of months.  I
wanted to get a jump on my training.  I learned that there was actually a correct and incorrect
way to swing the cane and tap it on the ground.  I learned that my instructor Ruth Lnu was
totally blind and that she would be SUPERVISING my travel.  
   The first experience that stands out in my mind is when Mrs. Wilson, the Director, suggested
that the students accompany her to a local ice cream parlor for cones.  Since we were well into
August, this sounded like a great idea, and I joined her, the travel instructors, and about 10
students.  Little did I know that this was a planned travel route.  I should have guessed, seeing
that both travel instructors were going, but students can be naive at times.  We started walking
on Trenton Street.  It was a sunny day, but I had not noticed.  Mrs. Wilson asked the group if
we knew in what direction we were walking--North, South, East, or, of course, West.  I did not. 
Some other students suggested some directions.  She asked them how they knew for sure.  She
then asked if anyone could feel the sun.  I was puzzled by the question but intrigued.  I yelled
out that I could feel the sun and that it was on the right side of my body.  "Well then what time
is it?" came the reply.  I thought this was a strange question.  I thought, some blind people
were good but no one was that good!  Another student checked their braille watch and
announced that it was 2:30 p.m.  
   Then I realized what she was suggesting.  If you know it is afternoon, then you know that
the sun is on its westerly decent.  If the west is to your right, you are traveling in a southerly
direction.  This was a revelation in travel for me and I have often used this simple principle
to assist me in my travel.  I have not forgotten this first lesson to this day.  
   When I went for my first official travel route, I stuck closely behind Ruth and engaged her
often in conversation, mostly to determine if I was still going in the right direction.  She was
probably used to these tricks already from the students who had proceeded me, but I persisted
nonetheless.  I found that I was scared to death, and she must have sensed that too.  As a
young law school graduate, I was a bit embarrassed about my obvious lack of proficiency, and
I was determined to learn whatever I could from my patient teacher.    
   I wish I could tell you the road was an easy one.  But I can not.  I often walked into parked
cars on quiet streets and crossed diagonally through waiting traffic.  It was frustrating and
difficult and after two weeks I still felt that I was missing some main ingredient.  Maybe I
would never learn to be a good cane traveler.  I was beginning to believe this when I asked
Ruth how she knew when to turn into a store entrance or that there were no houses across the
street or how she got out of the way of a parked car before her cane hit it.  
   Then I learned about the "echo".  Yes, the echo.  Up to this point I had been using my cane
simply to feel my way around the world.  That day I learned there was so much more that your
senses and your cane could tell you.  I learned that travel was an experience shared by all the
available senses.  We walked up to the jewelry store and she tapped her cane.  Then she moved
away from the store and tapped her cane again.  I did not hear the difference at first, but a few
days later I did, and it was an exciting moment.  When I tapped the cane near the building,
there was a hollow sound which I call an echo.  But when I tapped the cane away from the
building, there was only a small resounding sound.  
   The more I listened the more I was aware of different sounds around me and the different
echoes of my cane.  For example, with my cane I could determine that there was an overhang
in front of the jewelry store.  This is why the cane had a louder echo there.  I could feel that
there was a small mat right in front of the entrance and then I could walk gracefully into the
store.  I tried this same technique with parked cars.  On a quiet street I could hear the echo
from the parked car just before my cane reached it.  I walked around the car avoiding it
altogether without walking into it as I had in the past.  On other streets I could tap my cane
loudly and see if I heard an echo from across the street.  If I did this meant that there was a
home or building there.  If not this meant that there was an empty lot.  Other sounds helped
too.  I could tell by the loudness of the crickets and other insects whether the opening was a
well groomed lawn or a lot with overgrown grass.  This was another travel revelation for me. 
I do not have to rely on my cane for this type of detail now, because I can often use my
residual vision instead.  Nonetheless, I feel confident knowing that if and when . . . I do I have
the skills to be an effective traveler, solely dependant on my long white cane.  
   Even after learning about the helpful "echo" life was not perfect; one day Ruth assigned me
to go to the Civic Center and back.  It was only a short four or six blocks away--no turns--
along the main street in Ruston.  I was optimistic.  But 30 minutes later I found myself lost on
my way back.  I was so discouraged that I sat on a short wall that sounded like it was near a
gas station and cried.  I was glad I had my sleep shades on then so no one could see my tears. 
Then a small voice inside said, "You graduated from Cornell and Penn Law, you took the bar
exam, AND you have a TOTALLY BLIND teacher who says you can do it!  Get up and keep
walking--no matter how long it takes."  So I got up, cautiously starting to walk in what seemed
to be the right direction.  Well it took me what seemed like an hour but I made it back to the
Center.  When I tapped into the office things were as I left them--Nita on the phone, students
in the office making too much noise, and of course Ruth in her office waiting for my return. 
She did not comment on the length of my trip, but merely said, "I think they are waiting for
you in cooking class."  I thanked her and went to see what other challenges awaited me that
day.  I can assure you that there were still some challenges ahead.  But now I felt somehow
that I could meet whatever challenge came my way.  
   Another memorable day was the day of my "drop route".  I had heard of this peculiar ritual
before enrolling at the Louisiana Center for the Blind, but mistakenly thought it was a myth
or tall tale.  [After all, I hadn't found any snakes around my apartment!]  On the day of my
drop route I climbed into the passenger's seat of one of the Center cars and the driver, Linette
Calvo, rolled up the windows and put on the radio.  She did not want me to have a any clue
of where she was told to drop me.  Well, I must admit that I tried to keep track of the turns
but after a short while I realized that would be fruitless.  In a few minutes we came to a stop
and Linette announced that we had arrived, and that she would see me back at the Center in
an hour or two.  
The rules were clear.  You were not allowed to ask any questions to strangers until after one
hour and then you were only allowed three.  So I got out of the car and waved good-bye.  By
this time I had gotten over my nervousness, and was actually excited about the prospect.  I
heard some sounds that I immediately recognized!  I knew where I was!  I was at the school. 
I heard the children playing in the school grounds.  I had just been there about a week earlier
with my instructor.  This was going to be a piece of cake!--So I thought, anyway. 
   Well, I must have taken a wrong turn somewhere and I did not realize it until I heard
another familiar sound--basketballs at Louisiana Tech!  How did I get here?  So I decided to
investigate.  I walked into the gym and confirmed that it was in fact basketballs that I heard. 
Well, I knew where I was, but I knew it would be a long walk back.  Nonetheless, I did not
worry.  I just turned around and started back east.  In about 45 minutes I walked into the
familiar doors of the Louisiana Center for the Blind and announced that I was ready to graduate
from Cane Travel!  I was proud, happy, and tired.   
   A few days later I received news that I had passed the California Bar exam and was
officially a Lawyer!  There were congratulations from everyone.  But I knew that was not as
exciting or meaningful as graduating from the Louisiana Center for the Blind--ready to face the
world as a confident blind woman who happens to be a lawyer!  Or did I get that wrong?  
   I did graduate in March 1990, and began working as an associate at Bronson, Bronson, &
McKinnon, a San Francisco based law firm.  When I sat in my office and held my first
PAYCHECK I could not help but pick up the phone and call Joanne Wilson to thank her for
her help.  As I hung up the phone, I got out my checkbook and sent a small but heart-felt
donation to Louisiana from my first paycheck.  Since then I have moved to the east coast and
have been working for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.  The lessons of those
months in Ruston, Louisiana are still with me five years later.  They were with me recently
when my boss said, "Mildred, your reader is sick today -- how are you going to get to
Washington for your meeting?"  I knew I could do it alone, even if she didn't.  
   I hope you will take the challenge to better your life and learn the essential skills of living
for blind people.  The Louisiana Center is one way to help you do just that.  


                         THE NATIONAL LITERARY BRAILLE COMPETENCY TEST:
WHAT'S IN IT, AND WHO SHOULD TAKE IT?

by Thomas Bickford

Yes, this is the test that was devised by the Library of Congress National Library Service for
the Blind and Physically Handicapped at the request of the Committee on Joint Organizational
Effort.  This test is to measure the competence in literary Braille of teachers of blind children
and adults.  That is enough for the long names and general purpose.
   I took the test for two reasons.  First: I wanted to speak from personal experience when
talking with state and federal legislators about getting this test into the regulations for teachers
of blind people.  We have more work to do on that point in Maryland.  Second: fewer than two
hundred have taken the test so far, and that is a small number for validation studies.  I was glad
to be one more statistic.  Taking the test may be of interest to some people who act as
advocates in IEP hearings.
   In a Maryland legislative hearing in September, 1994, opponents of the test, some teachers
with cold feet and their blind friends, disparaged the test by calling it "invalid."  Studies of the
test are planned for additional validation, but that is a very different thing from "invalid."  I
would have hoped that a teacher with a college education would have known the difference.
   So, let me tell you about the test and how to take it, if that interests you.  The test can be
administered in either braille or print.  There are three main parts.  Part One calls for
transcribing print or uncontracted Braille into grade two Braille.  You use both a slate and
stylus and a Braille writer.  Use all the Braille rules, and follow all the instructions in the test. 
For one thing, you are told to use a twenty-seven-cell line for the slate.  If your slate has
twenty-eight cells you may wish to cover the last row with heavy masking tape.  You are
allowed to use a Braille eraser, but any erasure is an error.  You are allowed to use a print or
audio dictionary as guidance in hyphenating words.  A sighted monitor is allowed to assist a
blind applicant at this point.  
   Part Two calls on your proofreading ability.  Simply read the passage and use a pen or
pencil to mark the many Braille errors imbedded in the text.
   Part Three is in multiple-choice form.  You must identify certain contractions and rules of
usage.  A few of the questions are rather tricky, but others are dead give-aways.
   In general, I feel that NLS has written a good medium level test.  You need to know braille
pretty thoroughly to pass, but this test is nowhere near as detailed as the last lesson in the
transcribers or proofreaders course.
   This is a power test, not a speed test.  You are allowed as much as six hours, plus breaks. 
There is enough time to make and correct errors.  When I turned in my transcribing section,
I included three false starts.  On one of them I got most of the way down the page before
making an incorrectable mistake. "What a place to make an error," said I to myself, and reached
for a fresh sheet of paper.  Even at my slow pace of reading braille I had time to proofread my
own transcription and go through the other parts twice.
   If you plan to take the test, NLS wants to know that you have fulfilled one of the following:
completed the NLS proofreading or transcribing course through lesson fourteen; or successfully
passed a college level course in Braille; or have five years of more experience using Braille.
   The candidate is responsible for arranging an appropriate place and monitor for
administration of the test, and associated costs, if any. You provide your own Braille paper and
writing equipment.  You must also supply the return of test materials to NLS by certified
delivery.  NLS will want to approve all arrangements before sending test materials, so allow
at least six weeks for the process.
   Upon request NLS can send you a detailed description of the test and all requirements for
taking it.  There is now a sample test available which is a shorter but similar version of the
main test which you can take pass/fail  without it counting against you.  If you fail the main
test, you must wait six months before a retest, six more months before the second retest, and
a year before the third retest.  For the third time you must include evidence that you have taken
more instruction in Braille along with the application.
   The scoring of the test is on the strict side.  Your transcribing must be neat and accurate. 
You must be able to find the errors imbedded in the proofreading section.  Your knowledge
must include the contractions and rules of usage in the multiple choice section.  If you fail one
section, you have failed the test.
   You and one designee will be informed of your performance, and if your work was good
enough, you will pass the test.  Last, but not least, you will receive a certificate that says you
have demonstrated competence in literary Braille.
For further information, contact:
   Braille Development Section
   National Library Service for the Blind & Visually Handicapped
   1291 Taylor St. N.W.
   Washington, DC 20542
   (202) 707-9307
   (800) 424-8567


                   MD STATE LICENSING AGENCY VS. THE VETERAN'S ADMINISTRATION
                                          by Don Morris

From The Editor:  The following article is reprinted from the Merchants Messenger, Fall 1994,
the quarterly newsletter of the NFB Merchants Division.  Following the events reported in this
article, the Maryland State Licensing Agency has filed suit against the Veterans Administration
in federal district court for violating the decision of the appeals panel.  Although the VA is
permitting the SLA to operate a small vending facility, the VA insists on operating its own
larger facility in direct competition with the SLA's facility.  We will keep you posted on future
developments in this case.

   In the Spring, 1994, issue of the Merchants Messenger, you read about our victory over the
Veterans Administration in Minnesota.  The Federal Court ruled that VA Hospitals really are
federal facilities and therefore are subject to the Randolph-Sheppard Act.
   Here is continuing news about the VA Hospitals.  This time the Maryland State Licensing
Agency (SLA) went against the VA for the right to operate a vending facility on VA property. 
As you will see, the VA loses again.
   Andrew Freeman, Esq., is the attorney who successfully handled the Maryland Vendors
lawsuit/grievance against the Maryland SLA several years ago.  That same SLA was duly
impressed with Mr. Freeman's skill and extensive knowledge of the Randolph-Sheppard Act
and its provisions.  The SLA selected Mr. Freeman to serve as their appointed arbitration
panelist.  (You recall that each side chooses one panelist and together, those two select a third.) 
The case was argued by attorneys for the VA and the SLA.  The arbitration panelist had
questions for both sides.
   It is common in an arbitration that decisions are reached two to one.  That is to say that the
panelist appointed by one side or the other, along with the argument presented, will sway the
third panelist to their opinion.  In this case, however, the arguments by the SLA were so strong
and the defense by the VA so weak that the other two panelists agreed with Andy Freeman and
decided in favor of blind vendors and the Randolph-Sheppard Act with a vote of 3-0.
   Whether the VA accepts defeat and permits the blind vendor to go to work without further
delay from VA or whether the VA drags their feet longer by appealing this arbitration decision,
only time will tell.  We will keep you posted.


                             MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN BALTIMORE COUNTY

                                       by: Mildred Rivera

From The Editor:  Local chapters of the NFB are always looking for interesting and innovative
projects.  As this article shows, there is no shortage of chapter projects when members have
their eyes and ears open.  

   Baltimore County began a recycling program in March 1994.  It distributed small booklets
to the neighborhoods that would be participating in the program.  In the brochure, it was stated
that a cassette version of the book was available.  I contacted the bureau of Waste Management
and learned that no such tape was available.   
   I then decided to bring this to the attention of the Baltimore County Chapter.  I proposed
that we record the booklet in an effort to reach some of our blind neighbors who may not be
aware of the NFB and the recycling project.  The chapter approved the motion unanimously. 
I found two volunteers to record the booklet, Christopher Toland and his mother.  Both are
volunteers for the Baltimore Radio Reading Service for the Blind, and excellent readers.  I
project that the tape will be available for distribution by January 1, 1995.  Please contact the
Baltimore County Chapter if you have any questions or comments.  


                                 LOU AND THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

                                          by Don Morris

From The Editor:  The following article is reprinted from Merchants Messenger, Fall 1994, the
quarterly newsletter of the NFB Merchants Division.  Its subject, Leon Zuares, catered the
gourmet fair that was served at our legislative reception on Monday, January 23.  We take this
opportunity to thank Lou for a job well done in this most successful event.  We are reprinting
this article to introduce you to this most remarkable Federationist.

   Leon "Lou" Zuares has a varied business background and a wealth of experiences.  Although
Lou was born in Egypt, his religion is Jewish.  His mother was born in Italy, his father in
Saradina.  Lou has lived in several countries and is fluent in French, Italian, Arabic, and
English.
   Lou has been a blind vendor in the Maryland Program since 1984.  He currently operates
three restaurants.  His primary operation is at the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund (MAIF)
located in Annapolis.  He has an annex facility at the U.S. Department of Agriculture
Experimental Farm in Greenbelt, Maryland.  He has recently taken over the management of a
third full-line cafeteria; this satellite operation is located in the Legislative Services Building
in downtown Annapolis.
   We all know that the real Santa Claus lives at the North Pole, but Lou Zuares is a genuine
long-distance Santa's helper.
   For the past nine years, Lou has provided Christmas dinner to any and all of the 500
employees at the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund.  The price of admission to this
traditional Christmas dinner is a gift-wrapped toy.  There is a barrel placed inside the door. 
As diners file past, they deposit their gifts in the barrel.  Packages are marked as being for a
boy or a girl and indicate the approximate age.  Lou places no minimum price requirement on
the presents.  He says, "We leave it up to each person what they want to give.  From what most
people tell us, the presents have a value of around $7.00 to $10.00 each."  The gifts will be
turned over to "Toys for Tots" who distributes them to children in needy families.
   Wearing chef hats and aprons provided by Lou, the serving line is staffed by the senior
management of the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund, who scoop the potatoes, dip gravy
and carve the twenty-two freshly roasted turkeys.
   Even though lunch is served in three shifts, this still means a very large group of diners at
any given time.  To accommodate the large number, Lou rents additional tables and chairs, as
well as linens for every table.  Entering the cafeteria is a sensory delight.  The wonderful aroma
of roasting turkeys, and the scent and sight of poinsettias and other table decorations heighten
the Christmas Spirit.
   Once everyone has been served, Lou and his own employees take over for a massive clean-
up effort.  In addition to the normal clean-up procedures, "leftovers" are packed for transport
to a Salvation Army facility which distributes them in a feeding program for homeless people.
   Lou is modest about his generosity.  He says, "This is just something I like to do." 
However, his customers and the children who receive the gifts say more.  "When I have
Christmas lunch with Lou, his food feeds my body and his kindness for children feeds my
soul," reports one customer.
   Because gifts are donated anonymously, Lou doesn't hear from any of the children, but our
guess is they appreciate this unlikely Santa's helper.


                                       TOGETHER, WE STAND

                                      by Yasmin Reyazuddin

From The Editor: Yasmin Reyazuddin has been an active member of our Sligo Creek Chapter
for several years.  She has organized her chapter's JOB seminars and has attended numerous
legislative hearings for Braille literacy and other NFB issues.  She was awarded a McCraw
scholarship at the NFB of Maryland's 1994 convention in Cumberland.  Here is her account
of her first national convention.  May it serve as inspiration to and encouragement for hesitant
souls to attend the 1995 convention in Chicago.  

   I had heard many stories about the national convention of the National Federation of the
Blind from friends and others.  It was a dream for me to go to the national convention and
listen to the national convention and listen to the great leaders of the Federation.  This year the
dream came true when I attended the annual convention in Detroit, Michigan.
   The convention started on July 1, 1994.  The first three days were very busy and
overwhelming for me.  I attended many seminars and meetings.  It was a fine opportunity for
me to learn many useful skills for the future.  The JOB seminar and the student's seminar were
very interesting.  I also met with many people and made friends.
   On July 4, the general session began with a loud roar.
   During the roll call of the states, I felt as if all states were rivers, big and small, flowing into
an ocean.  Throughout the convention, in every group activity, the picnic, and at the banquet,
I felt as if I were a part of this ocean.  My existence was like a drop but very important.
   During the convention, there were many important issues discussed.  I realized the
importance of Braille and travel skills in my life and for every blind person in the world.  One
of the panel discussions held at the convention was especially interesting.  On Wednesday July
6, 1994, the discussion by President Maurer, Diane McGeorge, Joanne Wilson and Joyce
Scanlan about the training programs provided by the orientation centers was very helpful.  The
skills that blind persons need can be provided by other expert blind individuals.  The federation
is like a family, providing support and counsel to its members in need.
   Every single word spoken at the convention by Dr. Jernigan and president Maurer and others
was somehow related to me or someone I had known.  Wednesday afternoon, the discussion
about Braille and its importance in one's life was very interesting.  Dr. Jernigan spoke about
Braille literacy, and why there is a lack of Braille education for blind children.  The banquet
speech by President Maurer was also very interesting.  The federation is changing the lives of
many blind people by providing support and other services.  At the end of the banquet,
scholarships were given to blind students.  
   The National Federation of the Blind is like a big family, and we are the members of this
ever- growing family.  We share common interests, and our goals are collective.  Tiny drops
of water in the form of rain can make the dry earth wet again, and we as federationists can
make the changes in society.  At the end of the convention, I learned this important lesson.

                              BLIND VENDORS LOG ON FOR INDEPENDENCE

                                        by Shirley Leung

Reprinted from the Baltimore Sun, Monday, August 15, 1994.  

Joe Byard's laptop computer has no screen.  But at a punch of a key, it can speak to him.
"It's opened up a whole new world for me.  Before, I depended on family and employees," said
the 43 year-old Dundalk businessman, who is blind.
   "I can go home at night.  I can walk upstairs -- not bother my wife -- close the door, and
independently do the record-keeping for the day," he said.
   For the past nine years, Mr. Byard has owned and operated the Traffic Stop, a convenience
store at the Motor Vehicle Administration in Glen Burnie.  He has done so with the help of a
talking cash register, a talking calculator and a money identifier.
   Until this year, he could not track the inventory for his 400 square-foot store, which sells
soda, candy and snacks to about 1,200 customers a day.  Nor could he do any other 
bookkeeping by himself.
   But in March, he enrolled in a pilot program that is teaching business-related computer skills
to visually impaired vendors from the Maryland Vending Program for the Blind.  Mr. Byard
is one of three vendors in his class.
   The vending program, established in 1936 by the Randolph Sheppard Act, authorizes money
to enable visually impaired individuals to run businesses on state and federal properties.  In
Maryland, there are 79 such vendors who manage businesses ranging from cigar stands and
cafeterias to gift shops.
   The three businessmen in the training effort are working one-on one with instructors from
Learning Independence Through Computers Inc.  (LINC), a nonprofit group that specializes in
teaching computer skills to the disabled.
   They each have been allotted 15 hours of training.  During a recent hour-long session, Mr.
Byard worked on setting up spreadsheets to take inventory, to add daily receipts and to do
payroll.
   Although products that make computers accessible to the blind have long been available,
only in the past five years have there been choices in software and hardware, said Mary
Salkever, director of LINC, on Ostend Street in South Baltimore.
   On the market are laptop computers, such as the TYPE 'N SPEAK model that Mr. Byard
bought for about $1,100.  There are also programs that can be loaded onto home computers to
make them more accessible to the blind.
   For example, screen-readers are software programs that read the screen our loud for blind
users.  They use the speaker in the computer and can read line by line, word by word or even
character by character.  For low-vision users,there are screen enhancers--programs that magnify
the characters on the screen up to 12 times.
   Of the 750,000 legally blind Americans, it is estimated that the number of computer users
is in the tens of thousands, according to the National Federation of the Blind, based in
Baltimore.
   "Computers are powerful tools for blind people," said David Andrews, director of
International Braille and Technology Center for the Blind, a part of the federation.
   "But they aren't saviors.  They'll give some control and independence, but the other side is
that you need good skills.  You need to be a good businessman," Mr. Andrews added.
   In the past, the high cost of software programs and finding proper training made it difficult
for the blind to use computers, said Scott Dennis, director of the Maryland Vending Program
for the Blind, a division within the state's Rehabilitation Services.  That is why the vending
program did not begin computer training earlier, he said.
   Mr. Dennis expects the pilot program, which is costing $2000 to operate, will continue and
hopes to expand it.  Twenty-five of the 79 vendors have expressed interest in learning computer
skills.
   Mr. Byard has found the computer gives him more confidence in dealing with his workers.
   "When you're blind, people think you're not capable.  My employees wouldn't look at me
as an employer.  They just say 'Oh my God, it must be awful to be blind.'
   "Now I can show them a printed page, and they look at me and say, 'He knows what he's
doing,'" he said.
   Mr. Byard was born with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative disease of the retina.  Growing
up he had some vision, but lost all sight 12 years ago.
   So when he and his wife bought a computer two years ago, he didn't think he could use it.
   But after learning about a screen reader program and having LINC give him instruction, he's
able to use him home computer.
   Mr. Byard said he hopes to soon do away with accountants' fees because he can handle his
own bookkeeping on his home computer and the talking laptop.


                                 BLIND YOUTHS TELL THEIR STORIES

From The Editor:  For the past two years our Parents of Blind Children division has sponsored
a youth adventure program to enable blind teenagers to attend National Federation of the Blind
of Maryland state conventions, to meet blind adults and learn about the Federation.  Here are
the stories of Megan Berger and Ellen Nichols--two members of the Blind Youth Association
of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland--as they told them at the Cumberland
convention.  
from Megan Berger: 
   First of all, to tell you about myself, my name is Megan Berger, I'm 13 years old, I attend
Braddock Middle School, and attend the LaVale United Methodist Church.
   Today I have chosen to talk about what it has been like for me to have to go to public
school and to try to lead a normal life.  Although it has been hard because some people only
see me for what is wrong with me, there have been three main supporters in my life.  These
three things have been:  my family and teachers, my church and faith, and the Maryland School
for the Blind.  
My family has helped me by being supportive.  My parents have always taught me that I could
achieve whatever I wanted to.  Knowing this, I have had a lot of confidence.  This has enabled
me to make many friends and achieve many things, including being able to stand up in front
of this many people and talk.  There have been many times when my confidence has been
tested, but that can be true for anyone.  My parents have also taught me that no matter what,
they would be there for me, and they have.  I have a teacher this year named Mr. Smith.  He
has helped me very much by accommodating me and not the other way around.  I would like
to thank him right now for that.
   
My older sister Jenny, who has the same disability as myself, has gone through many situations
that have taught me many things.  In a way, she has many more problems because she's older,
and goes through problems before I do, so I can learn from her mistakes.  She has always
helped me through problems, and I appreciate her very much.  I only wish that every child
could have such a supportive family as I do.  
   The second thing that has helped me has been the Maryland School for the Blind.  The first
time I heard about the Maryland School for the Blind's Summer Program was in the Spring of
1993.  My vision teacher, Vicki Thorton, heard about it and thought that I might be interested. 
I attended the Maryland School for the Blind's Summer Program in 1993 and 1994.  In two
years at MSB, the various teachers and friends that I have made have taught me independence,
friendship, how to be a sighted guide, learning skills, and how to live with an eye disability. 
They have also taught me how to compromise, and how to deal with friendships.  But most
importantly, I learned that being accepted by the "popular" people is not essential.  I know that
it can be hard if you are not, because it is very hard for me.  I have experienced many so-called
"consequences" for not being very popular.  But I have learned that being popular is not the
most important thing to accomplish.
   The third most important thing that has helped me has been my church.  My faith has
always been there.  My friends are my symbols of friendship.  In my church, the people are
always supportive, kind, and understanding.  My belief in God and my faith in Him has given
me strength, and encouraged me to look past the people who do not see me for who I really
am, but for my disability.  
   One thing that has amazed me and taught me that there are other people like me is the
example of my sister's courage.  One day, Jenny was watching television and saw a show
called "Claiming the Promise."  This show focused on visually and physically handicapped
people who were very strong in their faith (many being ministers and reverends).  One lady on
the show named Kathy Reeves especially touched Jenny.  This was probably because she has
a similar visual problem to Jenny's and mine.  Also, she is a minister, and that was and is a
career that Jenny is looking into.  Jenny wrote Kathy Reeves and received a response.  In the
letter that Kathy wrote Jenny, she told more about herself.  She also sent us a tape of the show
that Jenny had seen.  As I said before, this has inspired me to know that there are really other
people who have the same problems as myself.
   In conclusion, the two most important things to know are that someone will always be there
to help you, and that social acceptance is only important when you know that the only truly
important thing is what you think of yourself and that you believe in yourself.

from Ellen Nichols:
   My name is Ellen Nichols.  I am 14 years old, and in the ninth grade at Arlington Baptist
School in Baltimore County.  My church is Trinity Assembly of God in Lutherville.  My two
older brothers and my little sister and I were adopted from Korea.  Now that I have told you
a little background, I'd like to share with you my life as a blind teenager.
   Most of the time I am busy, either at home or doing other activities.  I belong to Korean
groups that reach out to the disabled.  During this past summer, I was a counselor in training
for Camp Evergreen, which is a camp for Korean disabled children.  I am also involved with
various things at my church and youth group.  
   If I'm at home and not busy with doing other things, I will occupy myself by singing,
playing the piano, trying to compose songs, learning how to play the guitar, and now I want
to play the violin.  When I am with my friends, we almost always have a great time.  I am
either with my friends from the Korean groups, school, church, or the Federation.  We do
things together such as spend the night at each other's houses, go to the mall, or even going
out to dinner.  I've also had quite a few slumber parties.  Because both of my parents are blind,
some people are doubtful of how they can manage something like that, but they do it like
everyone else does.  
   It's really sad when people think that their blindness is a limitation.  Sometimes they are told
that they cannot have any fun in life because of that.  Blindness should not be an obstacle,
because it is a blessing.  It's a blessing to share that there is hope for blind people who think
that they can't do anything.  


                             NFBMD BUSINESS DIVISION ELECTS OFFICERS

                                          by Leon Rose

The Business Division of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland elected a new slate
of officers for 1995 at the group's annual luncheon on November 5, 1994.  The meeting is held
each year during the NFB of Maryland's convention.  The site of this year's conclave was the
Holiday Inn in Cumberland, Maryland.
   Re-elected to serve a second year as president of the Business Division is Barry Hond. 
Other officers include: Fred Flowers, vice-president; Raymond Sewell, treasurer; Leon Rose,
secretary; and Holly Mooney and Raymond Lowder, directors.  The Business Division is
composed of NFB of Maryland members concerned with the development of career and
entrepreneurial opportunities for the visually impaired.  The group meets on an every-other-
month schedule, and membership is open to all.  Dues are just $4 per year.  For further
information call Barry Hond at (410) 484-7041.

RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE 1994 CONVENTION

BOARD RESOLUTION 94-101

WHEREAS, Sharon Maneki was first elected to the Presidency of the National Federation of
the Blind of Maryland in 1986; and
WHEREAS, she has served in that capacity with distinction ever since first being elected; and 
   WHEREAS, Sharon Maneki is unable because of personal unavoidable commitments to
attend the 1994 convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; and
   WHEREAS, the members of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland deeply regret
her absence;
   Now, therefore, be it resolved by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in
convention assembled this sixth day of November, 1994, in the city of Cumberland, that we
express our tremendous respect and heart-felt love for our president, Sharon Maneki.  We miss
you a bunch.

                                        RESOLUTION 94-01

   WHEREAS, the Maryland School for the Blind is one of the principal entities in Maryland
charged with the responsibility of providing education to blind children; and
   WHEREAS, the largest, oldest, and most experienced organization of blind people in
Maryland is the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; and
   WHEREAS, there currently exists a crisis in education for blind students of such severity
that national statistics indicate that under ten percent (10%) of blind students are being taught
to read and write Braille; and
   WHEREAS, to address this crisis in education for the blind the Maryland legislature
adopted, with the support of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, the Maryland
Literacy Rights and Education Act for Blind and Visually Impaired Students; and
   WHEREAS, the experience of blind people in Maryland reveals the astonishing and
unbelievable fact that teachers of the blind in this state are very often unable to perform the
most basic activities required for educating blind students, such as reading and writing Braille;
and
   WHEREAS, to implement the Maryland Literacy Rights and Education Act for Blind and
Visually Impaired Students regulations were proposed which included a requirement that
teachers of the blind pass an examination demonstrating that they had the ability to read and
write Braille; and
   WHEREAS, Mr. Louis Tutt, President of the Maryland School for the Blind, opposed
adopting a comprehensive test to determine whether teachers of the blind were able to read and
write in Braille; and
   WHEREAS, Mr. Tutt was invited in his capacity as president of the Maryland School for
the Blind to attend the convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland to
discuss programs for educating the blind at the School and other activities undertaken by the
School for the Blind, which invitation he accepted; and
   WHEREAS, after accepting the invitation to participate in the convention of the National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland, Mr. Tutt declined to come and also declined to send a
representative from the Maryland School for the Blind; and
   WHEREAS, the Maryland School for the Blind is not only opposing competency testing for
teachers of the blind in Maryland but is also attempting to establish a teacher training
curriculum for teachers of the blind; and
   WHEREAS, in its efforts to establish this teacher training program for the blind, the
Maryland School for the Blind and Louis Tutt have not been concerned about the views of the
blind or been in consultation with leaders of the organized blind movement; and
   WHEREAS, the organized blind of Maryland are deeply concerned that any program of
teacher education established as a result of efforts of the School for the Blind and Mr. Tutt will
reflect the negative view of the importance of literacy for blind students which has been
exhibited at that institution in recent times; and
   WHEREAS, the Maryland School for the Blind is a publicly-supported entity using millions
of tax dollars provided by the citizens of Maryland each year; and
   WHEREAS, the Maryland School for the Blind is obliged to be responsive to the needs of
blind citizens of Maryland -- an obligation which must be met by discussing those needs with
the blind; and
   WHEREAS, the Maryland School for the Blind (despite the objections of the National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland) continues to waste tax dollars by spending money on a
small New York-based corporation called the National Accreditation Council for Agencies
Serving the Blind and Visually Handicapped (NAC), which Council has demonstrated that it
does not accredit quality programs but serves primarily as a shield for some of the most
disreputable, unethical, and sometimes illegal practices in work with the blind; Now, therefore,
   BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in convention
assembled this sixth day of November, 1994, in the city of Cumberland that we call upon the
legislature to review the policies and practices of the School for the Blind:  a) to assure that
education of blind children has as a top priority the teaching of blind students to read and write
in Braille, b) to assure that the Maryland School for the Blind does not instill its anti-Braille
bias in other programs of education for the blind or of education for teachers of the blind, and
c) to instruct the Maryland School for the Blind to cease wasting several thousand tax dollars
each year by supporting the discredited and bankrupt National Accreditation Council.  

RESOLUTION 94-02

   WHEREAS, the actions taken by the MTA directly affect the lives of blind Marylanders;
and
   WHEREAS, Mass Transit Authority's Consumer Advisory Committee for Accessible
Transportation (CACAT) does not play a role in shaping MTA policies before they are
implemented, but merely serves as a forum for presentation after the fact, such as in the
case of the talking bus; and
   WHEREAS, the MTA does not directly survey the blind community to determine its
needs, nor does it consult with or involve consumer organizations such as the National
Federation of the Blind in finding solutions; and
   WHEREAS, the National Federation of the Blind is the largest consumer organization of
blind people in the state of Maryland; Now, therefore,
   BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in convention
assembled this sixth day of November, 1994, in the city of Cumberland, that this
organization call upon the MTA to work closely with the NFB in developing transportation
policies that affect blind people before they are implemented.  RESOLUTION 94-03

   WHEREAS, there is a 70 percent rate of unemployment and underemployment among
the working-age blind; and
   WHEREAS, during 1993 and 1994 Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM)
had to lay off a large percentage of its employees for long periods of time; and
   WHEREAS, clients graduating from rehabilitation programs which use the services of a
job development specialist have greater success in finding competitive employment; and
   WHEREAS, BISM plans to enhance its rehabilitation program by hiring a job
development specialist in January, 1995:  Now, therefore
   BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in Convention
assembled this sixth day of November, 1994 in the City of Cumberland, that this
organization commends BISM for recognizing the need for a job development specialist;
and
   BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this organization strongly urges BISM to
additionally offer job development services to all BISM employees, and 
   BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that BISM work with the National Federation of the
Blind of Maryland, DORS, and other agencies to establish job development services for all
eligible blind Marylanders as soon as possible.

                                        RESOLUTION 94-04

   WHEREAS, universal jury service in our democratic society is not only an obligation but
also the foundation of our legal system; and
   WHEREAS,  blind persons have demonstrated their equal status in society by
successfully serving on juries in cities and counties throughout Maryland for many years;
and
   WHEREAS, some local jurisdictions in Maryland, including Baltimore city, Anne
Arundel County, Wicomico County, and Worcester County are expanding their lists of
potential jurors by using lists of licensed drivers supplied by the Maryland State Motor
Vehicle Administration (MVA); and
   WHEREAS, this method of expanding lists of potential jurors discriminates against blind
persons, since by definition, blind persons are not licensed drivers; and
   WHEREAS, Baltimore City has assured the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland that it will also expand the list of blind persons for potential jury service by using
the list of non-driver identification card holders provided by the MVA, but when this
organization filed an inquiry, the MVA reported that Baltimore City did not include the list
of non-driver identification card holders in its request for the list of licensed drivers; and
   WHEREAS, the MVA claims that it is required to provide local jurisdictions only with
what is specifically requested, and that it is a simple matter to provide lists of non-driver
identification card holders; Now, therefore,
   BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in Convention
assembled this 6 day of November 1994, in the City of Cumberland, that this organization
condemns and deplores the discriminatory practices of local jurisdictions which attempt to
expand their list of potential jurors in such a way that the list of blind persons who may be
considered for jury service is also not similarly expanded; and
   BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that  this organization urges the Attorney General of
Maryland to adopt regulations to require that when local jurisdictions adopt measures to
expand their lists of potential jurors, such measures must comparably expand their lists of
blind persons for potential jury service. 

                                        RESOLUTION 94-05

   WHEREAS, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) requires that detectable warnings,
including raised truncated domes, be installed in all public transit key stations; and
   WHEREAS, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rightly
claims that installation of the detectable warnings has not been proven safe, and therefore
refuses to install them; and
   WHEREAS, the Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus, Ohio, has been commissioned
by WMATA to study the effects of different platform edge surfaces on visually- and
mobility-impaired passengers; and
   WHEREAS, the study uses participants who do not routinely travel through transit
stations, as there are none in Columbus; and
   WHEREAS, the performance of these participants will be measured under conditions that
impose artificial limitations on their ability to use environmental cues such as:
1)  Participants must wear headphones which will mask all outside sounds;
2)  Participants will be directed toward the platform edge by guide ropes;
3)  A guard rail will be placed just beyond the "platform edge" during part of the
   experiment; and
4)  There will not be a drop-off at the "platform edge" during some portions of the
   experiment; and
   WHEREAS, the experience of thousands of blind people is more relevant to support
WMATA's position than a study conducted with participants who are not experienced
transit riders; NOW, THEREFORE
   BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in convention
assembled this sixth day of November, 1994, in the city of Cumberland, that this
organization supports WMATA in resisting misguided Federal directives requiring detectable
warnings; and
   BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that whatever the results of the Battelle study, the
experience of blind transit riders amply demonstrates that transit use by blind persons does
not require detectable warnings, and in fact, the warnings are considered to be unsafe.

                                        RESOLUTION 94-06

   WHEREAS, a Maryland law known as the Blind Students Literacy Rights and Education
Act was enacted by the General Assembly in 1992; and
   WHEREAS, this Act is similar to laws promoting Braille literacy which twenty-four
other states have passed; and
   WHEREAS, during the next year the United States Congress will be considering
legislation to extend and alter certain provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act (IDEA); and
   WHEREAS, IDEA provides the basis for leadership by the federal government in the
area of special education policy, but as yet IDEA is silent on Braille literacy and is even
sometimes used to oppose state-level Braille literacy efforts; Now, therefore 
   BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in Convention
assembled this sixth day of November, 1994, in the City of Cumberland, that this
organization urge all members of the Maryland Congressional delegation to work actively in
the Congress so that the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act will be amended to
include strong Braille literacy provisions which are similar to those enacted in the Maryland
law.

                                        RESOLUTION 94-07

   WHEREAS, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 provides funds for each state to have a Client
Assistance Program (CAP) which is designed to fulfill an ombudsman role on behalf of
applicants for or recipients of rehabilitation services; and
   WHEREAS, in order to perform effective advocacy for clients, it is necessary for the
CAP to be administered through a line of authority that is not controlled by the director of
the state vocational rehabilitation agency; and
   WHEREAS, the CAP for the state of Maryland is operated internally within the Division
of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), and the state director of DORS has reportedly voiced
opposition to having a CAP that is not under his administrative control; and
   WHEREAS, supervision of the CAP by DORS inescapably leads to mistrust of the CAP
by clients due to the appearance, if not the reality, of unwarranted control; and
   WHEREAS, the Rehabilitation Act requires CAPs which were established after
enactment of the Rehabilitation Act amendments of 1984 to be administered by an agency
which does not receive funds under the Act, and distinctly not by the rehabilitation agency
itself; Now, therefore,
   BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in Convention
assembled this sixth day of November, 1994, in the City of Cumberland, that, upon the
election of a new Governor in our state, this organization request reorganization of the
Client Assistance Program so that it is removed completely from within the Division of
Rehabilitation Services; and
   BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that legislation be sought to achieve this objective if
necessary.

                                        RESOLUTION 94-08

   WHEREAS, newly blinded individuals have a difficult time obtaining information about
the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS); and
   WHEREAS, it is DORS' responsibility, in consultation with the client, to develop
Individualized Written Rehabilitation Plans (IWRP's), the framework on which all services
provided are based; and
   WHEREAS, DORS staff continue to procrastinate in the provision of documents and
correspondence in Braille, audio cassette, and large print formats for clients who request
them; and
   WHEREAS, providing documents in alternative formats is a requirement of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; Now, therefore,
   BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in convention
assembled this sixth day of November, 1994, in the city of Cumberland, that we call upon
DORS to adopt a standard for the production of documents in alternative formats which
includes their availability at the same time as the ink-print versions.


                                             SPECKS

Carlos Thompson, an active member of our Sligo Creek Chapter, graduated from the
University of Baltimore with a bachelor's degree in Corporate Communications at the end
of the fall semester.  Graduation ceremonies were held at the Lyric Opera House on January
15.  Congratulations, Carlos!

Fred Puente, who had been serving as the acting president of Blind Industries and Services
of Maryland for over a year, was formally appointed to that position by the Board of
Trustees on January 26.  We extend congratualtions and best wishes.  The problems and
challenges confronting him are formidable.  

Roslyn McCraw, was selected as BISM's 1994 employee of the year.  She attended the NIB
confrence in Tyson's Corner, VA, last October.  Congratulations Roslyn !!

Call (410) 992-9608 for 1995 McCraw applications.  Two scholarships of $1400 and $800
will be awarded at our 1995 convention in Ocean City.  

Linda Ripley, recipient of an NFB scholarship in 1987, began employment as a family
stabilization worker with the Division of Child & Family Services in the Department of
Human Services, Washington, D.C., last August.  Congratulations, Lin!

Approxmiatly 30 job applicants took part in the Job Opportunties for the Blind Seminar held
at the National Center for the Blind on January 10.  The seminar was planned, advertised,
and conducted by our Sligo Creek Chapter.  Our thanks to the chapter members for a job
well done.
                                            CALENDAR

Wednesday, Feburary 15:                       Braille Readers are Leaders Contest Ends 

Friday. March 31:                          Deadline for NFB National Scholarships
Friday, March 31-Saturday,April 1:            NFB of MD Retreat

Monday, May 1:                             Deadline for articles for the Spectator
Monday, May 15-Sunday May 21:                 National White Cane Week

Thursday, June 1:                          Deadline NFB  of MD McCraw Scholarships

Saturday, July 1- Saturday, July 8:           National Convention, Chicago, IL
Friday, July 21 7:30pm-11:30pm:            Crab Feast, Martins North Point

Sunday, October 15:                        National White Cane Safety Day

Friday, November 3-Sunday, November 5:        NFB of MD Convention, Ocean City

THE BRAILLE SPECTATOR

                           Al Maneki, Editor

                            Winter 1994-95

      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; Donald 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, Blanche Payne, Brenda Williams.               



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

Baltimore County Chapter, Hilda Cullison, president (410)284-2575
      Monthly meetings second Thursday
Greater Baltimore Chapter, Eileen Rivera, president (410)433-5176
      Monthly meetings third Saturday
Central Maryland Chapter, Brenda Mueller, president (410)997-1862
      Monthly meetings first Tuesday
Greater Cumberland Chapter, Gary Klatt, president (301)777-0131
      Monthly meetings first Tuesday
Frederick County Chapter, Gerald Schultz, president (301)662-6803
      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 fourth Saturday
Parents of Blind Children Division, Loretta White, president (410)360-5108
Business Division, Barry Hond, president (410)484-7041
Diabetics Support Network, Donna Goodman, chairman (410)730-9430
      Monthly meetings fourth Tuesday