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A Publication of the NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND, INC.
August 1977
Volume I, Number 4
Alfred P. Maneki, Editor
The Braille Spectator
9736 Basket Ring Rd., Box 17
Columbia, Maryland 21045
Address Correction Requested
THE BRAILLE SPECTATOR
John T. McCraw, President
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND, INC.
Alfred P. Maneki, Editor
9736 Basket Ring Road, Box 17
Columbia, Maryland 21045
(301) 992-9608
Associate Editors:
Shirley Morris
Beth Schuster
Doris Samuels, Tapist
Denise Mackenstadt, Typist NFB of Maryland
503 Cherry Hill Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21225
(301) 355-5122
Address Changes Should be Sent To:
Shirley Morris
109 Enchanted Hills Road
Owings Mill, Maryland 21117
This newsletter appears every other month beginning in February. Material to be considered for a particular issue should be received by the editor on or before the first of the publication month.
THE EDITOR’S LOG
Once again this organization has marked the passage of summer by its national convention-held this time in splendid New Orleans, July 3-8. Over 2,000 Federationists throughout the land converged upon this bastion of southern hospitality, even from the faraway corners of Alaska, Hawaii and Maine. The Maryland contingent, 104 strong, was the fourth largest in attendance, exceeded only by Iowa, California, and
South Carolina.
For all participants, the convention afforded the opportunity to review the progress of the past year, and to chart objectives and shape policies for the organization. It was an occasion to renew old acquaintances, to make new ones, to share problems and experiences. Many took advantage of the chance to visit and explore the unique attractions of this Mississippi River City, replete with landmarks and cultural influences of its colorful French and Spanish past. The torrid tropical heat and humidity, while much noticed and the topic of many conversations, was not sufficient to slacken the hectic pace for each Federationist.
For the nation, this convention was a spectacular reaffirmation of the growing influence and vitality of the organized blind movement. The most casual of observers could not fail to notice the high emotional pitch, the sense of mission, and the enthusiasm which prevailed. The indignation and a note of urgency in the voices from the audience, questioning those officials who had appear- ed in order to render themselves publicly accountable, was mollified only by the increasing self-assurance that this organ- ization can correct inequalities and improve the quality of life by consumer action.
Most dramatic evidence of this effectiveness was on Friday afternoon when the convention received word that the Office of Education, DHEW, had denied funding of a proposal by the NAC to accredit programs for the blind in public schools. The campaign was mounted in early spring. Local chapters asked their congressmen and senators to intercede on their behalf. Direct contact was made with the Office of Education. NFB officials were assured that the NAC had “this one in the bag”, and there was no way to stop it. But this grant was stopped and this news, coming on the final afternoon of the convention, gave a fitting perspective to the week-long deliberation and all that the organization stands for.
The overriding concern of this convention was the retirement of the national President and the election of his successor. We think it appropriate to reiterate that Dr. Jernigan
leaves to his successor a stronger organization than he inherited from his predecessor. The corps of Federationists supporting the Presidency is larger and stronger now; the organizational network of state affiliates has been completed. Most importantly, there is a deeper understanding of the issues and greater effectiveness in Federation activities at the “grassroots” level. Dr. Jernigan's reassurance of his continued participation in NFB activities to the maximum extent possible was greeted with a collective sigh of relief.
We do not intend for these words to suggest that President Sanders is not equally capable or suitable. His numerous personal accomplishments and dedication to Federationism, proven leadership abilities, and administration savvy make him more than worthy of this office. Current problems notwithstanding, we believe those who view this change in administrations as a sign of weakness in the organization to be grossly in error.
The transition was smooth and orderly, and no radical changes will
take place. Indeed, the energetic spirit much in evidence at the convention is an embodiment of the true strength of the NFB today.
We left the 37th Annual convention with a deeper philosophical and emotional commitment to the goals of Federationism. The NFB's brief history is already filled with proof of the rare clarity of foresight and soundness of judgement of its founding fathers. The visions and hopes of these few are
now the visions, hopes and partial reality of the masses. Some progress has been made and social momentum continues to grow in favor of the organized blind. Through continued collective efforts and individual dedication these visions and hopes will all become reality.
AFFILIATE AFFAIRS
By: John McCraw
We who attended the recent convention in New Orleans can attest to the indisputable fact that it was the best of all possible conventions. The Delta Airlines flights to and from the land of the Cajuns were refreshingly smooth and exhilarating; the hospitality flowed on an ebb tide; the sessions were thought-provoking and massively informative, the general assembly sessions were emotionally and educationally exciting; the door prizes were varied and plentiful; the fellowship and camaraderie were rooted in and issued forth from the philosophy of Federationism, and, in some instances, the wiles of amorous affiliations; and those of you who were not able to be with us, please read the September and October issues of Braille Monitor and after the fact, vicariously enjoy the 1977 convention of the National Federation of the Blind.
Now we look ahead and plan for the Eleventh Annual Convention of the
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, to be held in Ocean City, November 4th, 5th and 6th, at the Sheraton-Fontainbleu. Things you need to know about the upcoming State Convention, are: Rooms: Single $18.00...Double $24.00(Deposit of $18.00 or $24.00 required no later the first week in October. Reservation requests should be sent to John McCraw, 503 Cherry Hill Road, 355-5122 or Doris
Samuels, 805 Bartwood Rd., 358-2969)
Registration Fee: $1.00...Times 6:30 p.m. November 4th and at 8:00
a.m., November 5th Banquet tickets: $l0.00
Contact President John McCraw for information about transportation from Baltimore to Ocean City.
Attendance at all sessions of our well thought out agenda, including such items as:
Film: “WE KNOW WHO WE ARE”
Reports from agencies rendering Services to the Blind.
Reports from Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, Social
Security Administration, Office of Civil Rights (504).
State and National Legislative reports
Resolutions
Discussion: "Why Are We Here?" Report from National Representative Of paramount importance to all Maryland Federationists, in depth discussion of the plans and their ramifications for the 1978 National
Convention to be held in Baltimore.
See you in Ocean City, if not Before.
A LETTER TO RALPH SANDERS
July 16, 1977
For the record, I congratulate you on your ascendency to the presidency of the National Federation of the Blind. An aristotelian joy, an ebullient enthusiasm and a profound solemnity are all components of my most sincere congratulations, in which congratulations Connie, Buddy and Vince affectionately join me.
You know Ralph, what infinite esteem and love I have for our president emeritus, Dr. Jernigan. With a similar degree of intensity, I hold you in esteem and love -- My brother and my leader.
Let me outline the manner in which you and I will continue and amplify our interaction. As chairman of the board of trustees of Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, a policy making instrumentality, I pledge to you to continue fully supportive of your recommendations and to assist you personally in the implementation of all policies, without any, I hope, disruptive interference. We, the Board of Trustees of Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, and you and your administration, have progressed remarkably well within the last eighteen months, and the plans for the future are in place; and, success in the future is inexorably assured.
Of course, I will maintain, and where it is possible to do so, increase my level of activity in the National Federation of the Blind, that is, as a National Committeeman, I am cognizant of the mandate handed down to us by the rank and file membership. It is my firm intention to honor that mandate and to collaborate with you and my colleagues in furthering the tenets of Federationism.
The pulsating, ever strengthening purpose of our native Federationists along with the zestful zeal that has been infused into the Maryland affiliate by a significant number of newcomers into our Free State, makes it a thing of beauty to be alive and working in the organized blind movement. Call on us, Mr. President and watch the constrictively devastating momentum of our resolve in answering your call. The National Federation of the Blind is where it is! We know who we are! We know where we are going! And the consummate perversities of the world shall not stay us in our pursuit of the good life.
Cordially yours,
John T. McCraw
BISM Sets New Records by Ralph Sanders
Effective July 11, 1977 Blind Industries and Services of Maryland establishes a policy guaranteeing $2.30 per hour as a minimum wage to all production employees. This marked an increase from the previous wage guarantee of $1.70 per hour and puts BISM into full compliance with the minimum wage standards established by Federal Law for the protection of all employees.
In a period of less than two years average wages of BISM have been sharply increased from the old standards of subminimum wage compensation. The average hourly wage, system wide, has increased approximately $.70 per hour.
Sales by the industry division reached an all time record of $2.5 million plus during the fiscal year 1977. It was the second record breaking year in a row.
The vendors facilities program enjoyed an all time increase in the number of blind persons who successfully completed the program and began work as blind managers. In fiscal year 1976 there were 79 blind managers. By July 1977 that number has increased to 95.
During fiscal year 1977, the rehabilitation division delivered services to many blind persons across the state in both the vocational services program and the newly established social services program.
1978 promises to be another record breaking year. The industries division projects sales in excess of $3 million with a continued increase of wages to production employees.
The rehabilitation division, with several new staff positions, will be exploring areas of new services to blind persons as well as providing existing services to an increased number of blind persons in Maryland.
During fiscal year 1978 BISM will initiate aids and appliances sales program to be operated by the rehabilitation division. Inventories will be maintained in Baltimore, Cumberland and Salisbury where you can go and purchase items in person. In addition a catalog of items will be delivered by mid year so that blind persons, throughout the state can order by mail.
_As always we are eager to have the input of blind persons throughout the state in helping us to identify new services which need to be established as well as existing services which need to be improved.
MEMBER’S OPINIONS ON THE NEW ORLEANS CONVENTION
Jearl Conrad, Cumberland, Maryland, fourth convention; "It was a very educational convention. Everyone had a great time.”
Leona Conrad, Cumberland, Maryland, first convention; "It-was very good. I learned a lot. I learned what discrimination really is.”
Stan Smith, Delaware; "Super! Great! Informative, a chance for people to gather and share ideas.”
Thomas DeMarco, Baltimore, Maryland. fourth convention; "One of the better conventions. Happy for Ralph and he will need a lot of help. A lot was accomplished. Next year more will be accomplished."
Althea Pittman, Baltimore, Maryland; first convention; "Strength is in unity and unity is the NFB. I was most impressed_ with the strength.”
Wilnetta Sutton, Baltimore, Maryland; "I conducted a very informal survey among some members of the Maryland Delegation of the 1977 NFB Convention in New Orleans. The survey included blind persons as well as a few of their sighted family and friends. Of the twenty-three persons that I asked seven were attending their first NFB convention. Comments from them included; ‘I found the sessions very informative and very interesting’; 'I never saw so many blind people in my life. I would not go to a new city alone and yet they did. I learned a lot about special services available to blind people. I heard the talking adding machine for the first time etc., etc., etc.’”
Comments from persons who had attended several previous conventions were mostly in the same range; i.e., 'The best convention ever; and the most emotional banquet I've ever attended'. There were two comments about the inadequate banquet meal (in a city known nationwide for its good food) but there was a truly unanimous feeling that the total convention was a great experience.
The ultimate challenge is to Maryland who will host the 1978 NFB convention in Balto. Indeed New Orleans is a "hard act to follow". Of course, we do know that we will “meet and beat the challenge.”
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE GREATER CUMBERLAND CHAPTER
By Georgia Myers
(Editor’s Note: The following material was taken from this year's
White Cane letter of the Greater Cumberland Chapter)
This past year has been a great year. Some of the recent accomplishments and activities of the chapter are as follows: HOUSING-We aided in funding housing and helped to find aid in repairing their homes.
PUBLIC EDUCATION-We have ten visually handicapped students in Allegany County Schools. One blind, the others have 20/200 sight. One of our members donated her time to teach the blind student.
MATERIALS-One student with 20/200 vision had trouble seeing the blue lined paper. We helped get black lined paper and many other materials for other visually impaired students.
BOARD OF EDUCATION-We met with the Board of Education to help set up a better educational program for the blind students.
TRANSPORTATION-Provides funds for transportation to meetings, doctors and many other places.
DONATION-One hundred dollars was donated to the Herman Corbin Fund.
Bought a reading glass for an 85 year old blind person.
COLLEGE-One member of Blind Industries and Services of Maryland went to college this year. We directed her to the right agency and helped her thru the trying time.
EDUCATION- Promotes public education programs for the blind by distribution of pamphlets, literature and provides information and referral service. We do have speakers. If you know of any club, association or chapter that would like a speaker on blindness, please write or call.
MINUTES OF THE BOARD MEETING
By A. P. Maneki
May 21, 1977
Variety Club Recreation Center Baltimore
Call to order 1:30pm
All members present except Doris Samuels and Florence Squire. Guests Present were Mr. Terry Carney- Assistant Director of the Tennessee
Bureau for the Blind
Reading of minutes from 12-11-76 waved. Treasurer's report read and adopted. President John McCraw reported on a donation of 1,000 dollars from a benefit concert given by Charlie Pride. A letter of appreciation to the sponsors of the concert was read. Correspondence-
Letter to Gov. Mandel supporting MARC bill was read.
Committee Reports:
Membership- Judy Sanders reported her committee will give a seminar on
NFB issues, primarily designed for new members at the Variety Club Recreation Center, Balto. at l0:OOa.m. on June 18th. All interested members invited to attend.
Public Relations: Ray Lowder reported that his committee was continuing to have them shown on all channels.
Legislative: Correspondence to Maryland congressional delegates regarding funding of NAC by Office of Education reviewed. Letters supporting our position from Sen. Sarbanes and others was read. The
Committee Chairman was charged with communicating directly with Commissioner Boyer as we have yet to receive his position. A letter from Secretary Califano concerning his decision not to reappoint Dr. Adams was read. A meeting of Legislative committee was tentatively scheduled for June 11, 1977 at 5:00p.m., to map strategy for the BISM bill, s1190; being considered by the legislative council.
Scholarship: Gary Mackenstadt announced the five recipients of $100 grants to be used for National Convention in New Orleans. They are:
Ruth Twigg, Goldie Thomas, Cathleen Chapman, Marie Larson, Althea Pittman. Also, 40 scholarship applications were mailed out and none yet returned.
Report from BISM: Ralph Sanders announced Kurzweil reading machine is expected at BISM on June 10th. He discussed changes in employee retirement plan and clarified BISA's policy on lay offs and seniority.
Convention report: Current plans to hold the next NFB of Maryland convention on November 4, 1977 in Ocean City were reviewed. The high cost and location were sighted as factors against these convention plans. A motion was adopted to investigate the possibility of changing the sight to Salisbury. Pres. John McCraw appointed Joe Bardari to assist him with convention planning. Judy Sanders and Lloyd Rasmussen were appointed as co-chairpersons to plan for convention program. Report on newsletter: The editor recognized and thanked those people assisting him with the newsletter and asked members to co-operate by submitting news items and suggestions for improvement. It was agreed that the deadline for submitting articles for any issue would be by the 15th of the preceding month.
Meeting was adjourned at 3:00p.m.
MINUTES OF LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
By A. P. Maneki
June 12, 1977
Columbia, Maryland
Call to order at 2:00 p.m. In attendance: Mr. and Mrs. John McCraw,
Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Sanders, Gary Mackenstadt, Don Morris, Bill
Thompson, Al Maneki, Beth Schuster
Reviewed correspondence from Maryland Congressional delegates and committee directed to write Delegate Marjorie Holt concerning her dealings with HEW.
Reviewed Comprehensive Services to the Blind Bill which has been submitted to the Legislative Counsel.
Identified three areas of activity in which this committee must engage in immediately.
Develop action to deal with Legislative Counsel concerning comprehensive Services to the Blind Bill.
Develop closer grassroots relations with Maryland congressional delegation.
Develop broader familiarity with the members of the state legislature. Determination needed of who is on the counsel and when it meets.
Also, to get counsel to endorse a Mallas Study of services. Gary Mackenstadt is to get a list of names of Maryland legislators. He and chairman will identify members of concern to each chapter. Scheduling of a leadership seminar for July 30 and 31 on general issues and items pertinent to legislative activity.
A tentative list of possible participants was drawn up and is in the possession of Judy Sanders. Judy Sanders and John McCraw will finalize list of participants. Seminar agenda to be planned by Ralph Sanders and Al Maneki. Participants will be furnished with literature to be read before the seminar. Ralph Sanders will select the literature and Judy Sanders will collect it in New Orleans. The seminar will be held in Baltimore. The arrangements for out-of-town participants will be made at the Lord Baltimore Hotel by Ralph Sanders.
(Editor’s Note: The leadership seminar has been re-scheduled for
August 27-28)
SPEKTATER SPEX
Members of the NFB of Maryland please begin to purchase your dinner dance tickets now! We need to make a final report by early September. Your early cooperation is strongly encouraged.
Azalee Thompson
Chairperson
The Radio Talking Gazette may be heard every Thursday on WEAA (88.9 FM) at 11:00 a.m. This one hour program features interviews with blind individuals, Pioneer Spots, and readings of periodical literature relevant to the blind. The WEAA broadcast area includes Central
Maryland.
Four Marylanders attended the NFB of West Virginia convention in Morgantown held the weekend of August 13th. Mr. and Mrs. John McCraw and Mr. and Mrs. Gary Mackenstadt attended.
Blind Industries and Services of Maryland is interested in purchasing
Perkins Braillewriters. Interested persons should contact Gary Mackenstadt at 233-4567 Ext.40 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.