THE
OBSERVER

The Montana
Association
for the 
Blind



Spring
1996



an affiliate of 
The National Federation of the Blind

Montana Association For The Blind
Box 352,  Butte  MT  59703
(406) 723-3383

Who We Are . . . 

The Montana Association For The Blind is a 501 (c) 3 consumer organization comprised
of blind and sighted people committed to changing what it means to be blind.  Though
blindness is still too often a tragedy to those who face it, we know from personal experience
that with training and opportunity it can be reduced to the level of a physical nuisance.

The Montana Association For The Blind has eleven local chapters around the state.  The
organization sponsors an annual training program, the Summer Orientation Program for the
Blind and Partially Sighted.  The Montana Association For The Blind is a chartered affiliate
of The National Federation of the Blind.

Our quarterly newsletter, The Observer, is produced in large print, Braille, 3.5" computer
disk, on cassette, or via E-mail.  Dues for membership are $5.00 annually.  To receive more
information about the Montana Association For The Blind, to make address changes for the
newsletter, or to be added to our mailing list, call (406) 723-3383.  Financial contributions
to offset our newsletter costs are appreciated.

Anyone is invited to send articles, information, and announcements to be considered for
publication in The Observer.  Please submit items in the most final form possible.  Unless
you specify otherwise, final editorial decisions rest with the Editor.  Send items on computer
disks, in print, tape, or by electronic mail to:  Rik James, Observer Editor, 716 N. Montana,
Bozeman, MT  59715-2921.  Phone:  (406) 586-4123  /  E-mail: <rikjames@mcn.net>

Disk and cassette subscribers:  You may duplicate the materials, but PLEASE return the
tape or disk to the return address on the envelope.  Braille subscribers:  You may keep the
Braille text of your newsletter, but PLEASE return the binder with the attached
instructional sheet  to the return address on its original envelope.  The Observer is
expensive enough to produce without these extra costs.  Your cooperation is appreciated.
CONTENTS

Treasured Memory, Treasured Life
The Privilege of Knowing Mike  (Lee Katzenberger)
My Memories of Mike  (Ruby Huckaba)
It Won't Be the Same   (Lois Haymond)
I Remember Mike  (John DeHaas)
Have You Known Mike?  (Steve Worth)
Light At The River  (author unknown)
Magic in Yellowstone Country   (Rik James)
Mike Connor, 1996 Bridgeman Award Winner (Paul Peterson) 
1996 Resolutions
From the MAB Office   (Betty Lou Berg)
Summer Orientation Program
Legislative Update  (James Gashel)
Warm Welcome   (Pat Domme)
New Diabetic Program   (Homer Page)
Chapter Roundup
Inside the MAB / Personals
Announcements
* *     The Observer     * *
Newsletter of The Montana Association For The Blind
(an affiliate of The National Federation Of The Blind)
P.O. Box 352, Butte, MT  59703    (406) 723-3383
Rik James,  Editor


Vol. 47     Spring , 1996     No. 2

     The day was blustery.  The wind made the air seem even colder.  And the snow had
begun to fall once again with its by now familiar winter ferocity.  It was March 4, the
afternoon that Karen and I were delivering the print copies of last Observer to the post
office, along with the taped version for the library, for them to duplicate and send out to
you.  We got home, and there was a message on the answering machine from Pat Domme. 
Mike Maloney had died earlier that day.  This issue of The Observer is dedicated in his
memory, and hopefully by hearing special memories of him written or told by those who
worked with, knew and loved him, we shall all share unity in honoring his memory.
O' Man of Two Visions! 
Close one eye and open the other.
Close one to the world and all that is therein
And open the other to the hallowed beauty of the Beloved.
(from The Hidden Words of Baha'u'llah)

Michael J. (Mike) Maloney 
Treasured Memory, Treasured Life

Michael James Maloney was born on August 7, 1922, in Fort Benton, Montana.  Until
March 4, 1996, when he died at home in Great Falls at age 73 of cancer, he brought much
richness to this world, both to those who were very close to him, and to those with whom
he only had brief crossings.
     For many of us in the Montana Association For The Blind, he was one of the
founding members, a pillar of reason, sound judgement and perspective.  His compassion,
humor and down to earth style will be sorely missed for some time to come.
     Mike went to the Montana State School for the Deaf and Blind, along with Lelia
Proctor and Ruby Huckaba and others.  He  graduated at top of class in 1940. During
MSDB's recent 1993 centennial, Mike was honored as "Outstanding Alumnus."  He
graduated Magna cum Laude, from the College of Great Falls in 1956.  
     In those early school years, along with his many activities with school and working,
Mike, Lelia Proctor and others, strongly sensed a need, and worked hard to organize the
Montana Association For The Blind.  A 50-year active member of the organization, he held
offices locally and statewide.  Mike was the first president of the Great Falls chapter.  He
worked the Summer Orientation Program; over the years he was a student, a teacher and
a committee member.  
     Mike also made the motion that started the Emil Honka Scholarship program of the
MAB, and chaired the committee for a number of years.  Many who attended last year's
50th state convention will remember Mike reflecting on his years with our organization.  In
that presentation he made us laugh by remembering the fun times, too. (see "When the Blue
Moon Turns to Gold," The Observer, Summer, 1995)
     Mike attended National Federation of the Blind conventions numerous times through
the years.  The first that he and his wife, Kay, attended was held in Santa Fe, New Mexico
in 1959.  They heard President Jacobus tenBroeck speak. 
     Mike Maloney was both the first blind student to attend or graduate from the College
of Great Falls.  He was also the first blind person certified to teach primary and secondary
school in Montana.  He taught grades five through twelve in Landusky, Winnett, and
Inverness and for the Montana Correspondence School.  He was later certified to teach in
Minnesota and Pennsylvania.  In both of those states he also participated in organized blind
activities.
     In 1967, Maloney earned a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology, from the
University of Minnesota.  Then he worked in this field in Minnesota and Pennsylvania
before serving on the Penn State University Faculty, Altoona campus.  Mike also taught at
Community College, Ponape in the Trust Territory of Micronesia.  
     As well his teaching career, Mike Maloney also served with suicide and crisis lines
both in Montana and Pennsylvania, and  he was an Advanced Class amateur radio operator
from the 1950's until his death.  He had many, many contacts around the world through his
radio work.
     Many in the communities of Fort Benton and Great Falls will remember Mike's very
early career, when after high school he owned and operated a Fort Benton cigar and
confectionery store, and in downtown Great Falls, he was the leading newspaper salesman
of the Tribune and Leader.  
     Mike had a wonderful loving family.  He married Kay LeBarron in 1956.  They
studied and joined the Baha'i Faith in 1969.  They had two sons, Patrick, born in 1963, who
is now a Navy Chief Petty Officer in San Diego, CA., and Colin, born in 1968, who now
works as a cryogenics technician in Bremerton, WA.  Kay and Mike were blessed with six
grandchildren.  Just a week after Mike entered Hospice Care at home in January, son
Patrick and Cindy Rasmussen moved the planned location of their wedding and were
married in Great Falls, with both Mike and Kay Maloney participating.
     The funeral for Mike, a Baha'i service, was held on Tuesday, March 5, at the Chapel
of the Chimes in Great Falls, and he was buried in the Fort Benton Cemetery.  Cadet,
Mike's Seeing Eye dog, Cadet, has gone to live with Colin.

     Memorials in Mike's name are requested to be sent to the MAB, P. O. Box 352,
Butte, MT 59703.


A Special Note From Kay  
(Mrs. Mike (Kay) Maloney, says that she has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of
memorial gifts, cards and letters following the news of Mike's death.  Mike always regarded
the Montana Association  for the Blind as his family.)
     "The most recent, and most amazing gift was the Keith E. Denton award.  Mike is,
I am certain, very, very proud of that recognition.  I am equally certain that he is still trying
to find the words to express gleefully what he feels about the marvelous contributions made
to the MAB adding to the Emil Honka Scholarship fund.  He and Emil usually found ways
to tell any story in a humorous way.
     I shall always treasure the memories shared with our MAB friends.  Your cards and
notes during the time he was ill are very dear to me.   Often things are not said until after
a death, but he got to hear many of your notes.  Shortly before he died, he commented that
he did not know he had so many good, good friends.  Please call or write or drop in.  I will
always appreciate it.  [Kay L. Maloney, 1620 Seventh Avenue North, Apt. A, Great Falls,
Montana 59401-1744.  Phone: (406) 727-1120.]

The Privilege of Knowing Mike Maloney
By Lee Katzenberger 
(Lee Katzenberger, a retired rancher living in Great Falls, delivered this eulogy at Mike's
funeral.)

     When Kay asked me to write down some of the history of my friendship with Mike,
Mike said we couldn't even talk about some of the things we did.  He was right!  I got to
know Mike while we lived in the Overland Hotel in Fort Benton.  I moved there in the fall
of 1942 and Mike moved in a short time later.  I was going to high school and Mike had a
small confectionery store and news stand next to the Capitol Theater.  We had rooms just
down the hall from each other on the third floor, which was occupied primarily by
permanent residents.  The Overland had a restaurant, too, so it was actually a lot like  a
boarding house.  A lot of the residents there were really characters (except for us, of
course).  The Overland was an old building and not well insulated, so you could hear
someone snoring several rooms away.
     The railroad had a crew working 24 hours a day digging out a tunnel through the
mountain.  Some of these workers stayed at the Overland.  One noon hour the lady who was
running the hotel came knocking on my door.  I don't remember why, but Mike had me
riding on his shoulders.  He walked over to the door and I just leaned out the transom.  The
landlady was so surprised she nearly forgot what it was she wanted to tell us, which was to
quit making so much noise, as some of the transients were trying to sleep.  We thought that
was ironic, since they made plenty of noise at all hours.
     Mike and I sure had our memories.  Mike wore a necktie to work everyday and, of
course, he couldn't see when one got stained.  One of my jobs was to tell him and he would
put on a different one.  He neglected to keep the stained ones separate from the others so
eventually he would put a stained one back on.  But we devised a foolproof solution.  When
a tie became unpresentable, we made a special ceremony out of cutting the tie in two so
that it couldn't be mistaken.
     Although Mike was blind, he did not want to be treated any differently.  When the
country dances were held in Carter and Highwood, many of us Fort Benton kids would go
and quite often Mike went with us to dance with the girls.  Mike even learned the sign
alphabet to be able to talk to those who were deaf.
     During World War II, the Army had a weather station at Fort Benton.  Mike and I
became friends with Hugh Pritchard who was stationed there.  When he was on duty, Mike
and I would go up to the airport to see him.  Mike was very interested in all the weather
monitoring instruments.  One day Mike, Pritchard, and I hitchhiked to all the way to Havre
and back.  Why, I don't know.  Probably because Mike hadn't hitchhiked before.
     I took Mike out to our ranch one day to ride. The horse that I put Mike on was
pretty smart.  He ran under a thorn bush trying to scrape Mike off.  Of course Mike got
scratched up and I asked if he wanted to go back to the barn.  He said, "No, we just got
started."  We rode several miles that day.
     I wouldn't recommend this to most people, but I taught Mike to drive a car down a
country road.  This car wasn't an automatic transmission, either; he had to use the clutch
and stick shift.  I told him where to steer, right or left.  Later on, I heard that Mike was
taking flying lessons and had been up in a hot air balloon.  Another time I remember
hearing that Mike was learning Japanese.  Mike could very well have originated the current
sang, "Been there, Done that!" 
     In 1945, I finished high school, spent a short time in the Marine Corps, and came
home to spend over 45 years on the same ranch, raising a family of one daughter and three
sons.  Mike left Fort Benton about the same time.  He also had a real nice family.  We
always kept in touch, through the years.  He would always call me when he'd heard a new
joke.
     Many of us would have been devastated by the prognosis that Mike received, but not
him.  To Mike, it was just something that he had never done before.  I'm proud to be
counted as a friend of Mike Maloney, a man who has been there, and done that.

(Other speakers at Mike's funeral, were Pat Domme, President, Montana Association For
The Blind, and Ray Landsiedel, of Great Falls, who spoke about Mike as a member of the
Baha'i Faith.)

My Memories of Mike Maloney
By Ruby Huckaba
(Secretary, Missoula chapter, and founding MAB member)

     When we went to the Montana State School for the Blind, I remember Mike as being
on the quiet side.  I thought he was ahead of most of us.  In the third grade he seemed to
be a real expert, as he was very skillful at reading Braille.  Mike was determined to get a
good education, and he did just that.  His diligence in teaching was remarkable.  He taught
at grade school, high school, and college.  We will all miss Mike Maloney.  He was special
to all of us.  

It Won't Be The Same Without Him
By Lois Haymond 
(Park County chapter President and former MAB Board member)

     It just won't be the same!  I refer to the fifty-first annual MAB convention to be held
in Billings this May.  I always expected to see my friend, Mike Maloney, at our annual
convention.  Mike and I served together on the board of directors and the scholarship
committee.  Mike was outgoing, caring, knowledgeable, and had such a sense of humor.  I
have lost a good friend.  He had capabilities that made him a person to be admired.  I
extend my sympathy to his wife, Kay, and their two sons.  The community of the blind and
visually impaired is richer for his having been a part of it.


I Remember Mike
By John DeHaas 
(MAB President Emeritus)

     I first met Mike Maloney at the 1984 MAB convention in Bozeman.  Then in 1985
he was my Braille instructor at the Summer Orientation Program.  Mike had served the
Montana Association for the Blind for many years prior to my coming in contact with him. 
Mike served as First Vice-President, MAB Scholarship Committee Chairman, and until his
recent illness was a member of the Summer Orientation Committee, handling student
applications.  He also served on many other committees.  
     He was always ready to share a new joke with me, and we had a lot of laughs as well
as amusing adventures during the years of our friendship.  In the late 1980s a number of us,
including Mike and his Seeing Eye dog, were at the NFB convention in Chicago, held in the
Hyatt Regency Hotel.  We had quite a time together.  On the last night Bernice and I were
dead tired after the banquet.  We were soundly asleep when, at 1:30 a.m., our phone rang. 
Mike wanted to know if we had started for the airport yet.  He had awakened and checked
his Braille watch. It told him the time, but not whether it was morning or afternoon!  That
problem was taken care of a few years later when some Japanese students who had been
teaching Mike their language presented him with a talking wrist watch that spoke the time
in either English or Japanese -- and added "a.m." or "p.m."
     Mike enjoyed learning.  He was a ham radio operator, skilled in Braille, a teacher,
a psychologist, and loved to tell of the time he flew an airplane -- but they wouldn't let him
land it.  
     I'll miss you, Mike, your jokes, the stories of early days in the MAB, the state and
national meetings we both attended, and most of all being able to call you to ask questions
and share feelings.  Rest well.

Have You Known Mike?

(Editor's Note:  Finally, we reprint the following poem written for Mike.  It is special not
only for the kind words in it, but that it came from halfway around the world, from a man
who had only met Mike through the radio and through this new communication medium
known as the Internet.)

For Michael James Maloney
A man who has served his God and his land
Who arose with strong, steady hand
A sightless man with inner sight
Who still took out the trash each night
A husband, a father - a wonderful life
A gift of two sons and a wonderful wife.
Guided by a dog in this world of reflection
Guided by a God in that world of perfection
A pioneer, a volunteer who, in his stand,
Taught minds and hearts to understand.
A man in touch, well received
Reaching more than he believed.
His crystal set and crystal heart
Have kept many together though far apart.
A man now summoned to that place
Of endless life and eternal grace.
'Tis a loss not to have known
This man through whom many have grown.
Perchance on some snowy, winter night
When my soul too takes its flight . . .

(Steve Worth, South Africa, Jan. 6, 1996)

Light At The River
(author unknown, from an old hymn)

There is a river, we must cross over
When life's sun goes to sleep in the west
Yes, there'll be a life for me at the crossing
Guiding me safe to that home's sweet rest
When I shall reach the banks of the river
Where the chilled waters murmer their song
Nothing to harm me, nothing to warm me
When I'm sailing to my new home
Down at the river, soon I'll be standing
Bidding farewell to friends left below
As loved ones free me, old friends will greet me
Shining their light at the river for me
There'll be a light for me at the river
Guiding my soul over the foam
Down through the valley, past the dark shadows
I know my light will guide me safe home

"What the Cause now requires is not so much a group of highly cultured and intellectual
people who can adequately present its Teachings, but a number of devoted, sincere and loyal 
supporters, who, in utter disregard of their own weaknesses and limitations, and with hearts
afire with the love of God, forsake their all for the sake of spreading and establishing His
Faith."    -- Shoghi Effendi


Magic in Yellowstone Country
By Rik James

     The weekend of June 17-19 in Billings was a lot of work and a lot of fun for
members of the Montana Association For The Blind.  The War Bonnet Inn was the place
to be, as members and guests gathered to greet one another, to learn from each other, and
discuss matters vital to the interests of blind persons here in the Treasure State.
     There is, as always, a well-deserved and hearty thank you extended to the host
chapter, and this year was no exception.  The members of the Yellowstone chapter pulled
it off in splendid fashion.  All the planning, organizing and special little touches really paid
off to create an atmosphere of hospitality and warmth for our fifty-first annual state
convention.  
     The weekend began with an open board meeting on Friday afternoon.  The board
introduced and welcomed the National Federation of the Blind representative, Allen Harris,
who is the President of the National Federation of the Blind of Michigan.  A fairly light
agenda was before the board, including discussions among other things on technology and
evaluation/training programs which some of our members, particularly from the Missoula
chapter are offering on behalf of the MAB.  The cookbook committee also offered a
prototype to the board and members to comment upon, and there was a discussion of the
Braille edition of The Observer.  Somehow, someone started a rumor that MAB was
discontinuing the Braille edition--we are not nor will we ever produce our newsletter without
Braille being one of the available formats.  So spoke our President and so said the board. 
Thankfully, Rumor Control Central got it straightened out.
     The officers of the board were the moderators of the general sessions this year, with
Nancy Holt, Virginia Sutich, Rik James, and Pat Domme respectively handling gavel duties. 
A host of speakers and guests addressed the membership in the first three sessions. 
Speakers included representatives from the VR state agency, Blind & Low Vision Services
(formerly Visual Services), Montana Low Vision Services, Montana Talking Book Library,
as well as representatives from both the Eastern and Western Montana Radio Reading
Services.  Also addressing the group was an eye technician speaking on common causes of
blindness.  A representative from the Billings chapter of the Lion's Club  International
spoke to our group, as did representatives from Eagle Mount and Ski For Light.  Great
Falls member Brian Tocher is the current President of Ski For Light Montana.  Pat Joyce,
who is working with blind and low vision children in the Billings area spoke to our members
also.  Pat mentioned in his remarks that he had once again raced in the Boston Marathon
and raised money for the MAB by running for us as well as MSDB.  Thanks, Pat.
     After the Treasurer's Report, Memorial Loan Fund Report, and Legislative Report
presented by First Vice President Rik James, former MAB President John DeHaas of
Bozeman spoke to the assembled members.  Speaking after John was national representative
Allen Harris, who is on the national board and also President of National Federation of the
Blind of Michigan.  Allen spent much of his time among our members and was very well
liked--he made it clear that he was pleased with what we are doing in Montana, and was
glad to have been here with us.
     There was a panel on Saturday, moderated by Rik James, which discussed
membership and our organization and what that means.  Panelists included Allen Harris,
Peggy Setters, Missoula chapter President, and Dan Burke who was attending our
convention for the first time.
     The banquet was an evening of great food and music.  Somewhere in between the
two, presentations were made to individuals selected for our MAB awards.  Scholarships this
year were awarded to Dan Nau, who is enrolled at MSU-Bozeman, and to Jack Snare who
is pursuing studies in Havre at the college there.     The most prestigious award that
MAB offers, the Dorothy C. Bridgeman Award, established in 1970, which is for service on
behalf of the blind over a long period of time, this year was awarded to Mike Connor of
Missoula.  Mike, who was vocational rehabilitation counselor to blind and low vision clients
in western Montana for 22 years until illness necessitated an early retirement.  Everyone
who knows and has worked with Mike over the years knows that he did more than a good
job; he always gave everything he could and reached out to people.  Unfortunately Mike
couldn't be there to receive the award, but members from the Missoula chapter said they
would go together and present to award personally to him.
     The Keith E. Denton Award, established in 1978, generally goes to members who
have contributed efforts on behalf of blind persons in Montana over the past year.  But this
year the awards committee felt moved to offer the award to a member who helped to found
our organization, taught at our summer program, served many years on board of directors,
and up until his passing this past March, 1996, was the committee chairman and originator
of our MAB scholarship program.  Mike Maloney, of Great Falls, was selected as the 1996
recipient of the Keith E. Denton Award.  There to receive the award in Mike's name was
his wife, Kay, who expressed through her tears her appreciation and said she knows, as we
all do, that Mike would have been very pleased and honored to receive the award.  
     A number of chapter and special awards were also presented at the banquet.  Allen
Harris gave a brief but heartfelt address, relating his own personal exeriences, and his
commitment to our movement to help change our world by improving opportunities and
dispelling misconceptions about blindness.
     The evening ended with a wonderful dance band, a local favorite, Doc McBride and
his Tailgate Dixieland Band, with trombone, trumpet, bass, drums and guitar.  The evening's
most celebrated dancer was Frannie Longie, just under two years old, she could have gone
all night, but the party was over by midnight.  Other entertainers thoughout the weekend
included the Montana Old Time Fiddlers, Dena Jackson on piano, the Sweet Adelines, and
the Sugar Daddies, a real fine accordion band.
     On Sunday morning, the final general session of our fifty-first annual state
convention, a memorial service with a candle being lit for each member who passed away
since our last convention.  A pair of beautiful new candelabras were used for the service,
which had been made by MAB member Aaron Tillman.
     The morning session followed tradition after the memorial service by conducting the
business of the Montana Association For The Blind.  Discussion was held over a variety of
topics, and resolutions and financial contributions to other organizations were proposed and
voted upon by the membership.  The resolutions are listed and discussed elsewhere in this
issue.  Election results were announced by the election committee, and Bernice DeHaas
conducted the swearing in.  Continuing their positions on the Board of Directors for the
Montana Association For The Blind for another two years are: District 1 Representative Jim
Marks; District 2 Representative Bennie Longie; District 3 Representative Kay Kjellstrom;
District 4 Representative Sharon Larson; and District 5 Representative Sarah Bradley.
     As the final decision of the convention, it was agreed that the MAB would accept the
offer made by the Helena chapter to host the 1997 convention.  If you didn't make it to this
convention, and we sure wish you could have been here, please try to be sure and make it
next year.  It is your organization and it works best when members are involved.  And our
state convention is the most important time to be involved.   Next year it will be another
great convention of the Montana Association For The Blind.

1996 Chapter Awards:  Chapter awards were plentiful this year as members chose to show
their appreciation. Among those honored were Ardeth Clinger, Gertrude Lindgren, Patty
Howse, Brian Tocher of the Great Falls chapter; and Peggy Setters and Jim Marks of the
Missoula chapter. The Park County chapter named Carolyn Kahle as their outstanding
member this year. And from the Yellowstone chapter, Arnold Korell, Marge Moberly, Betty
Penn, and Steve Williamson were selected for special awards.  Thanks to Judy Longie for
chairing the Awards Committee this year.

Mike Connor, 1996 Bridgeman Award Winner
By Paul Peterson

(Editor's Note:  Paul is Assistive Technology and Peer Support Coordinator at the Summit
Independent Living Center, Inc. and he is one of many who express their appreciation for
what Mike has done over the years to be worthy of the Dorothy C. Bridgeman award.)

     I first met Mike Connor in 1978.  I had moved to Missoula from Phoenix, where I
had learned that I was losing both my kidneys and at least part of my sight.  All of us know
that the adjustment to a newly acquired disability is a traumatic time in our lives.  I was glad
to meet a person who was willing to buck, what seemed to me, a belief system that said that
people with my degree of disability and physical illness could not accomplish anything
meaningful.
     Mike invested his time and energies in me, and that made me want to succeed as
much as, or more, than anything else.  Although Mike was an employee of the "bureaucratic
establishment," he worked the system where he could to see that I got what I needed.  He
listened to what I wanted to do with my life, trusted my self-evaluation of my abilities, and
backed my vocational goals.
     Mike was selected for the Dorothy C. Bridgeman Award at the May state convention
of MAB, an award he justly deserves.  Mike has been and still is a strong and gentle spirit
with a strong influence on the people that surround him.  I am glad that MAB recognizes
his contributions to the blind people of Montana.

Montana Association for the Blind - 1996 Resolutions

     On Sunday, May 20, 1996, The Montana Association for the Blind passed five
resolutions during our 51st convention.  The following are the resolutions preceded by a
brief introduction for each.  Resolutions are the statements of direction for the organized
blind of Montana.  Resolutions are written by MAB members and approved by the
membership during convention.  A Resolutions Committee is formed to present resolutions
to the membership.  One may either submit ideas through the committee or from the floor
of the convention.  Predominately the resolutions are written in legal language standard to
resolutions reached by organizations like the MAB.  Between the Whereas's and the Be it
Resolved's are the heart and soul of our collective wisdom and purpose.  The committee
members who volunteered to serve were Jim Marks (Chairman), Marty Greiser, Jeff
Haworth, Karen James, Rik James, and Evelyn Pool.

Resolution 9601
Introduction:   This resolution thanks the Yellowstone Chapter for coordinating the 1996
Convention.  Putting on a convention is hard work, and those who roll up their sleeves to
make everything happen deserve the appreciation of the general membership.  Great job! 
9601 passed unanimously.

Whereas the Montana Association for the Blind held our 51st convention at the War Bonnet
Inn, in Billings, Montana, May 17-19, 1996; and Whereas the Yellowstone chapter worked
hard and long organizing and making preparations;
   Be it therefore resolved the Montana Association for the Blind general membership
extends a heartfelt thanks to the Yellowstone Chapter for a job well done!

Resolution 9602
Introduction:  This resolution calls for Montana government and the MAB to look into
forming a Commission for the Blind.  Blind and Low Vision Services, formerly Visual
Services, is a division of Montana's general rehabilitation program serving all people with
disabilities.  Recently Montana re-organized state government services by combining several
agencies into one large unit.  This unit is the Department of Public Health and Human
Services.  Re- organization may improve efficiency, but also added administrative levels to
state programs like Blind and Low Vision Services.  As a result, Blind and Low Vision
Services will likely become less responsive to the people served and to the general citizenry
of Montana.  Therefore, the MAB calls for the study of a different model:  a Commission. 
A commission is governed not by bureaucrats but by citizens appointed to a commission by
the Governor.  Rehabilitation services for the blind would become a stand alone unit within
state government.  Many states, such as Idaho and Oregon, have a Commission for the
Blind.  According to many from Idaho, Oregon, and other commission states, commissions
deliver services vastly superior to those using organizational models like Montana.  The
separate nature of a Commission grants the kind of attention and responsiveness best suited
to meet the unique needs of the blind.  Since all the pros and cons of a Commission are not
yet known, the MAB has called for a study rather than leaping into a direct request for a
Commission.  We want to act with sound information and solid plans.  9602 passed with a
single opposition vote.

Whereas the State of Montana has re-organized many of its departments in the name of
improving the efficiency of government; and Whereas the re-organization has diminished
the standing of Montana Blind and Low Vision Services by burying this vital agency within
the behemoth Montana Dept. of Public Health and Human Services; and Whereas the
undue administrative burden imposed over the only state agency solely devoted to serving
blind Montanans will erode rehabilitative services for the blind; and Whereas autonomous
agencies for the blind best meet the unique rehabilitative needs of the blind as evidenced
by the success of such agencies throughout the nation:
   Be it therefore resolved that the Montana Association for the Blind calls upon Governor
Marc Racicot and officials of the Dept. of Public Health and Human Services to collaborate
with the Montana Association for the Blind by assembling a task force to study and report
on the merits of establishing a Commission on Blind and Low Vision Services.

Resolution 9603
Introduction:   This resolution calls upon schools to teach blind children to read and write,
as well as how to travel  independently.  Montana's blind children are not being taught as
are their peers because schools have yet to meet the unique challenges of educating the
blind.  The federal government has recognized this fact, and consequently, on November 3,
1995, wrote a memorandum to educators in all states, demanding that the schools live up
to their responsibilities.  It has come to the attention of MAB, that many educators in
Montana had not even seen or heard about this memorandum.  In fact, at our convention,
an educator told the convention that he had not heard of it, and wondered why.  The MAB,
in its role as guardian for all rights for the blind, including the right to learn, joins the
federal push for education.  We are requesting that lead education officials come up with
a plan that changes education.  We seek effective teaching methods such as Braille and cane
instruction.  And we ask that the officials report to us on the progress they will be making. 
9603 passed unanimously.

Whereas literacy and orientation and mobility are fundamental to the education of the blind
children of Montana; and Whereas the Montana Association for the Blind agrees with the
United States Dept. of Education's assertion that current educational practices are not
appropriately addressing blind childrens' unique educational and learning needs, particularly
their needs for instruction in literacy and orientation and mobility;
   Be it therefore resolved that the Montana Association for the Blind calls upon the
Superintendent of the office of Public Instruction, and the President of the Board of
Education, and the Superintendent of the Montana School for the Deaf and Blind, to report
to this body in writing and in person on the progress of the implementation of the policy
guidance on educating blind and visually impaired students by the United States Dept. of
Education dated November 3, 1995.

Resolution 9604
Introduction:  This resolution asks the MAB Board of Directors to send a representative to
the American Council of the Blind (ACB) convention.  It sparked much debate and
controversy.  The Resolutions Committee did not include 9604 in its submissions to the
convention.  However, committee approval isn't required, and the resolution was presented
from the floor.  9604 strays from the format of other resolutions.  Its form is that of a
petition.  Eleven members signed the petition.  Their names follow.  The controversy
centered on the issue of national affiliation.  The MAB is an affiliate of the National
Federation of the Blind (NFB); not the ACB.  Only two national organizations of the blind
exist, the NFB and ACB.  Both were one organization under the NFB from 1940 to 1959. 
During the 1959 NFB Convention, a split took place, and the ACB was formed.  It is
important to note that the MAB remains an NFB affiliate.  This resolution requests that a
representative be sent to the ACB convention.  It is up to the MAB Board to decide
whether the resolution will be met.  9604 passed 32 to 23.

We the Montana Association for the Blind (MAB), do hereby propose to send a
representative at large to the American Council of the Blind, beginning n 1996 and the
MAB will defray part of their travel and accommodation expenses.  The appointed
representative will gather information and oversee what other national organizations are
doing for the blind.  
Signed:  Bill Kleinhans, Ann Rohloff, Don Kjellstrom, Sarah Bradley, Dean Phillips, Betty
Penn, Norm Haworth, Jeff Haworth, Dick Howse, Patty Howse, Evelyn Pool.

Resolution 9605
Introduction:  This resolution calls for the 1997 MAB
Convention to focus on children's issues.  9605 was presented from the convention floor, but
the Resolutions Committee assisted in its drafting.  In essence, the resolution will provide
a theme for the 1997 MAB Convention.  The MAB has the charge of promoting security,
equality, and opportunities for all blind Montanans including children.  The theme should
make for a productive and lively convention.  9605 passed unanimously.

Whereas the Montana Association for the Blind hosts its annual  conventions in various
cities around the State of Montana; and Whereas the constitution of the MAB calls on
members to promote and investigate issues related to the blind; and Whereas blind children
grow up to be blind adults:
   Be it therefore resolved that the 1997 MAB convention focus on issues related to blind
children in public schools and to children of blind parents; and be it further resolved that
the MAB request that the Montana Office of Public Instruction send the Superintendent
of instruction or her assignee to discuss these issues at that convention; and be it further
resolved that care shall be taken to include these children in the 1997 MAB convention by
coordinating scheduling for the convention with Games for the Visually Impaired.

From The MAB Office    by Betty Lou Berg, Secretary
     This is a reminder of which individuals may send material Free Matter for The Blind
And Physically Handicapped and when these individuals may use this service.

1.  Only persons who are blind or physically handicapped may send material through the
mail Free Matter For The Blind And Physically Handicapped.  The blind or physically
handicapped person must be sending the material to an individual who is also blind or
physically handicapped.  A sighted person may NOT send material this way even if the
material is being sent to a blind or physically handicapped person.

2.  Only material that is in large print, on a cassette tape, on a computer disk or in Braille
may be sent Free Matter For The Blind and Physically Handicapped.  This means that a
blind person may NOT send checks through the mail Free Matter.

3.  Material sent Free Matter For The Blind And Physically Handicapped must NOT be sent
in a sealed envelope.  You may tuck the envelope flap under or use a bit of cellophane tape
to keep the material in the envelope or use an envelope with its own metal fastener.  The
postal workers must be able to open the envelope easily if they wish to check to make sure
the material inside is in large print, in braille, on computer disk or on a cassette tape.

     Please remember that using this service is a privilege that we have, and it is very
important to such programs as the Talking Book Library and Recordings for the Blind and
Dyslexic.  If we abuse this privilege then we are apt to lose it.  And I for one would hate
to lose the Talking Book Library.  If they had to use postage to send out their books on
tape, the program would probably come to an end.  So for all our sakes, please send
materials Free Matter For The Blind And Physically Handicapped ONLY when the law
permits and don't abuse this privilege.

Summer Orientation Program - 1996
     Time is fast approaching for this year's summer program.  The MAB's Summer
Orientation Program, will be in session from June 23 through July 20, 1996, on the MSU-
Bozeman campus.  Application forms are available at the regional offices of Blind & Low
Vision Services offices in Billings, Butte, Missoula, and Great Falls.  If you know of anyone
that can benefit from this one month long residential program, please encourage them to
apply.  
     The program is also looking for donations of equipment.  Anyone wishing to donate
equipment is invited to do so.  Interested parties should contact the MAB, P.O. Box 352,
Butte MT  59703 or call (406) 723-3383.  Please indicate what you would like to donate. 
Tax receipts can be given for your donation.  The Program is looking for adaptive
equipment such as low vision aids like magnifiers and monoculars, Braille typewriters, or
adaptive items used for daily living skills.  These donations will be used in the summer
orientation program and it is the hope of the SOP committee to have a complete supply of
all strengths of the optical equipment as well as other equipment for demonstration and use
during this rehabilitation program.

Legislative Update: Social Security Earnings Limit 
By James Gashel, Director of Governmental Affairs, NFB 

     When President Clinton signed the debt ceiling bill on March 29, 1996, the earnings
limit for seniors increased to $12,500 for 1996.  However, the earnings limit for blind people
stayed at $11,520 for this year.  Next year it will probably be $11,880, while the limit for
seniors will be $13,500.  This means that the linkage of the earnings limits has been broken,
at least for the time being.  In the final analysis, it was the decision by House leaders to
place the earnings limit change on the debt ceiling bill which led to our present situation. 
[The amendment that would have restored the linkage was not considered on the floor.]
     If anything, the degree of understanding and support for our position on the earnings
limit matter has been strengthened during this present battle.  Therefore, we should all do
what we can to thank our supporters in Congress and go forward with hope for better
results on another day.  If we do our work well, that day will be sooner rather than later.

A Warm Welcome 
By Pat Domme
     The MAB would like to extend a warm welcome to Lee and Duran DuBoise.  The
DuBoises moved here from Kansas City, Missouri as Lee has accepted a rehabilitation
teaching position with the Department of Public Health and Human Services - Blind and
Low Vision Services in the  Butte office.  Lee worked at a rehabilitation center in Missouri
where her duties were teaching adaptive skills to blind individuals.  She is excited about her
new job; she prefers an agency rather than a rehabilitation center. She likes the agency
concept of instruction, which allows her to see the clients in their home setting.  Her work
in the client's environment enables her to teach adaptive skills appropriate to the needs of
the client.  It also allows her to be creative, and of all things, Lee enjoys creativity.
     Lee started her job on March 25 and has been busy traveling with Robin Loen, O
& M specialist from Butte, throughout the district.  This works well as Robin has been Lee's
resource for learning the policies and procedures of the department as well as learning
about the clients that Lee will serve.  Arrangements are being made for accommodations
which will enable Lee to travel, and independently handle her job responsibilities.
     Duran, has been busy learning Butte.  He and his guide dog can be spotted walking
all over town, or using the city bus system.  Duran worked in Kansas City on transition
programs for young adults.  Lee and Duran both say that so far they really like Montana. 
So, get out your welcome mats for Lee and Duran. They hope to meet you in the near
future.



A New Diabetic Program
By Homer Page

     Persons who are blind and diabetic face a unique set of challenges.  If they are to live
independent, productive lives, they must learn to manage their diabetes, develop healthy life
styles, and plan effectively for their future.  They must learn to use the adaptive technology,
which is now available for the management of diabetes.  They must learn to plan and
prepare nutritionally sound diets.  They must develop healthy life styles, and they must plan
for meaningful vocations.  They need to develop challenging yet realistic expectations for
themselves.  They need to make sincere commitments to the management of their own lives. 
These needs will be addressed in the new program at the Colorado Center for the Blind in
Denver.  A 3-month program is being offered.  This program will be divided into two parts. 
Part I will consist of a 6-week intensive experience located at the CCB facilities.  Part II will
involve continuing follow up by CCB staff with each client in his or her home environment.
     During the first part of the program, the client/student will participate in a daily
program, which lasts for 6 weeks.  The student will participate in classes that explore the
medical and psychological dimensions of diabetes, adjustment to blindness, fears and
expectations for one's future, creating a healthy life style, planning for a meaningful career
and life, and strategies for immediate implementation of one's goals for the future.
     During the second of the program, each individual will work with a staff person in
his or her home environment.  Staff and student contact will be maintained as frequently
as needed to ensure that the student has the support that he or she may need to implement
the goals that were developed during the first part of the program.  Three outcomes should
emerge from this program.  Each individual will develop a working knowledge of how he
or she can independently manage his or her diabetes.  Second, each student will develop the
knowledge needed to develop and implement a healthy life style.  And finally, each student
will develop realistic expectations and a plan for personal and vocational development.  The
fee for this service is $2,000 per month for the 3-month program.  If housing is needed,
there will be an additional fee of $350 per month.  Students will be expected to provide for
their own maintenance.  For more  information contact Homer Page at the Colorado Center
for the Blind: (303) 778-1130 or (800) 401-4632.

Chapter Roundup
(Here are some reports from your local chapters.)


Bozeman:     On February 15 the Bozeman Chapter held its regular meeting at the
Darlington Manor with 15 present.  Chairman Ken Harman gave the calendar report.   The
program, enjoyed by all who were there, was presented by John Salsbury, who described his
life and experiences.  
     Nineteen people attended the March 8 meeting of the Bozeman Chapter.  Nancy
Gilchrist and June and Hank Droge were visitors.  It was voted to send $10 each in memory
of Ethel Vaughn and Mike Maloney to the Memorial Loan Fund.  Bill Boyd from Langohr's
Greenhouse gave the program on the general care of houseplants.  He also brought small
pots of polka dot plants for each person.  For those of us with less-than-green thumbs he
pointed out that the chief reason plants fail to thrive and then die is over-watering.
     At the April 9 meeting of the Bozeman Chapter there were 20 present including
guests Nancy Gilchrist, Vanetta Perkins and her daughter, Michelle Cusack.  Vanetta has
since joined the MAB and has applied to go to Summer School.  It was voted to offer two
$500 scholarships to visually impaired students at Montana State University, and also to send
$50 to Yellowstone Chapter to help with convention expenses as well as a $25 door prize. 
The group tried out a microphone and amplifier donated by Bea Horswell and RSVP. 
Thanks, Bea, it helps a lot.  Christi the Wordsmith (Christi Smith) originated a program in
Bozeman on radio station KGLT that is now heard on more than 60 stations, including
Armed Forces Radio carried around the world.  Her topic was Metathesis, better known to
us as "Spoonerisms" after the Rev. Spooner who had a reputation for mixing up words and
sounds, as:  "Mardon me, Padam, you're pitting in my shew."   
     Thirty-two people attended the May 10 meeting of the Bozeman Chapter, including
guests Miriam and Bill Shunk, Hazel Kennedy, Clarence Hildebrand, Rita Lunt, Charles
Kirk, Robin Neel Loen and Lee Duboise.  The program, Cane Usage and Etiquette, was
presented by Robin.  She also introduced Lee Duboise, the new Rehab Teacher for the
Butte District.  Thanks to Emily Smyth, volunteers will again be inserting flyers about White
Cane Safety in Drivers Manuals.  The group discussed the upcoming MAB annual
convention; it appeared that at least 10 people from Bozeman will attend.  Edythe Crouse,
one of our snow-bird members, reported on a Low Vision Enhancement System that she
had the opportunity to try while in Arizona.  The system consists of a helmet-like device
with small TV cameras mounted on it; the images are merged onto a screen in front of the
wearer's eyes.  She thought it quite effective -- but very heavy and also very expensive.  The
user also has to carry a short-lived battery pack to power the cameras.  Her opinion is that
it could be quite useful for some people, but only after the system is improved to overcome
those shortcomings.  During the coffee hour following the business meeting and program
Charles Kirk set up and demonstrated the computer/scanner system, Talk and Tell, that he
has developed.  He also plans to exhibit that at the convention.  
Bernice DeHaas, reporting.

Great Falls :  The chapter met March 11, with 30 members present.  A brief candlelight
ceremony was held before the meeting in memory of Helen Archer and Mike Maloney.  
By all reports the Health Fair was successful again this year, and a number of children
attended the games.  Dick Howse suggested that the chapter nominate itself for the J.C.
Penney Golden Rule award.  Kay Kjelstrom and Patty Howse said they would write it up
and send it in.
     The chapter thanked Phyliss Rohloff for sending thank you letters to the members
of United Way, expressing our appreciation for their support of our state organization.  A
motion passed by the chapter to give $50 to each of the 23 chapter members who were
planning to attend the state convention.  Nancy Holt asked if the chapter couldn't come up
with some ideas for recreational activities between meetings.
     The chapter met again on April 15, and enjoyed a pot luck supper prior to the
business portion.  14 members and guests were present.  Brian Tocher reported on our
calendar sales.  We sold about 40 less than last year.  Mary Weaver reported on the
progress of our grocery receipt fund raiser.  The upcoming MAB state convention and the
NFB convention were mentioned and members were encouraged to attend.
     The Great Falls chapter met on May 13 for their regular meeting with 27 members
and guests present.  As no applications for chapter scholarships had been received, it was
decided to extend the deadline until fall.  It was decided to have a chapter meeting in June. 
Ted Robbins, reporting.

Helena:   The February 26 meeting was preceded with singing provided by a quartet from
Helena's Sweet Adelines.  They performed in the Eagles' dining room with many of the
residents present.   Selections were both varied and entertaining, and a good time was had
by all.
     There were 17 members present at this meeting and Mrs. Charles (Mary) F. Stogsdill
was welcomed as a new member.  Our chapter voted to send money for door prizes at the
MAB convention in Billings and Peg Barnekoff volunteered to make an afghan as a prize. 
She presented a very pretty afghan at the April meeting.  It will be a treasure for some lucky
person.
     Myrle announced that a support group for blind or visually impaired persons was
being formed and members were encouraged to attend and to spread the word.  This group
has held two meetings and meets at 1:00 on the fourth Thursday of each month at the
Neighborhood Center.
     The March meeting was held at the Methodist Church with a delicious dinner hosted
by the Zonta Club.  Mr. Christopher Sellers, a local classical guitarist, provided guitar music
throughout the dinner.  An enjoyable time was had by all.
     Myrle attended a dinner meeting with the Sons of Norway and talked about her
experiences in the Ski for Light program.  She expressed her appreciation for their support
of this program.
     Pat Domme attended the April meeting and led a very informative discussion on the
role of the MAB, the Summer Orientation Program and what services are available for the
blind.  Lorraine Cattermole displayed a plate that she had crafted locally to aid her in seeing
food on it.   Lorraine and Dick Cattermole and Myrle and Al Tompkins will be attending
the MAB convention in Billings.  Myrle Tompkins, reporting. 

Kalispell-Buffalo Hills:  After two years of the Buffalo Hills chapter of the Montana
Association For The Blind, we are still going strong.  We started with an organizational
meeting of 36 members, about half of whom were support members.   At our last meeting
we discussed what we offer in terms of information and education about products.  We
discussed a number of items that people use such as line guides items that are of use for
writing. 
     Also emphasized in our discussion was the importance of use of the white cane, and
especially when in unfamiliar surroundings.  We addressed the reluctance among some of
us who could benefit, but choose not to use it.  We talked about how it not only helps, but
protects us by alerting others to your lack of or limited vision. 
     Evelyn Pool described some low vision techniques that she says work well for locating
where in the visual field your best vision is.  For example, she suggests this test.  Look at
the center of a clock dial.  Try to determine which numbers that you are best able to see. 
Are some darker, some lighter?   Practice, especially for folks with low vision conditions
such as macular degeneration, can do much to best use what vision you have.  Evelyn also
talked about special lights, and that many are finding "halogen" lights to be the most
effective.  They are brighter, and emit not yellow, but a white light.  
     We mentioned where people can find low vision devices, such as the Low Vision
Clinic, with offices in Helena and Billings.  Beatrice Woessner, President and Marlis
Berlinger, Acting Secretary, reporting.

Kalispell-Northwest:  Martha Rethmeier writes us that they have had a period of little
activity within the Northwest chapter, due to poor weather and health.  But in April, things
picked up.  We had a guest speaker, Ruth Morton, who told us about what all is involved
in becoming a certified Braille transcriber.

Lewistown:  The White Cane chapter met in March with six members attending.  A
memorial was sent to the MAB Memorial Fund in memory of Helen Archer.  At the time
of the April meeting, Secretary Katherine Kurns was having surgery, so Beryl Archer took
minutes for us.  We were all extending well wishes for Katherine, who had been suffering
something terrible the past few weeks.  Ed Durbin brought a lunch for the group, as the
hostess was unable to attend.
     Tim Hayward wasn't feeling too well at the May meeting, so Vice President Ed
Durbin presided.  Ed told of a lady in town who needed some help, so he was going to
contact Blind & Low Vision Services for her.  It was uncertain who if anyone would be
attending the convention in Billings, but the chapter did send a check to help the
Yellowstone chapter with expenses.  The next meeting was scheduled for June 12, at The
Meadows.  Beryl Archer served great cherry muffins after the meeting.  Katherine Kurns,
reporting.

Livingston:  On March 11, the Park County chapter and program chairman Carolyn Kahle
welcomed Eva Dupuy's daughter, Betty Smith.  Betty brought with her a little lamb for all
to put their affectionate hands on.  It brought back memories for many, of lambing seasons
past, out on the ranch.  Betty has a progressive breeding program, and a fine band of
Suffolk sheep.  Their wool is used in the making of rugs.  She also knows all of their names
and can tell you about their personalities.
     The April meeting was called to order by our President, Lois Haymond.  The
program for the day was presented by Eunice Nelson, who told the group of her years as
a dog trainer.  She spoke about the training and showing of her collie dogs, and working
with 4-H groups.  Eunice also had met Bruce Breslauer and his former wife at a show in
1990. They were also showing their dog at the time.  Eunice's dog, a confirmation champion,
named Clover's Corker, was a big hit with them. Eunice was delighted when they recognized
Corkie the next time around, just from brushing against his coat and nose.  Eunice told how
she was really impressed with the Breslauers as dog trainers and handlers, demonstrating
technical proficiency, that heretofore she'd not seen blind persons do. 
     The May meeting program was presented by Beth White, who told the group about
her days as the wife of the sheriff.  She reflected upon those days, living in the basement
of the old courthouse, raising their two sons there, and cooking for the prisoners.  Eunice
Nelson, reporting.

Missoula:  The Missoula chapter remains a vital gathering with strong attendance and an
active interest in various issues and events.  At the March meeting, discussion revolved
around of a booth at the Western Montana Fair this summer.  Member Lisa Sutton has
been working on it.  We also discussed our chapter's nominations to submit to the awards
committee.  
     A recently adopted regular feature of each meeting is a "show-and-tell" of low-tech
gadgets, with a couple of people in charge.  Anyone who wishes may bring in a gadget to
demonstrate.  One month we looked at kitchen gadgets, and the next month it was clocks
and watches.
     At the April 3 meeting, the show-and-tell portion of the meeting involved breaking
into four, rotating demonstration groups.  Featured were basic adaptive computer
equipment. Dan Burke demonstrated Large Print DOS, a program which enlarges text on
a computer screen.  Jim Marks showed members the  Arkenstone scanner with speech
synthesis.  Paul Peterson did some  word processing with WordPerfect 5.1 on a lap-top
computer with speech synthesis), and George Kerscher demonstrated Book Manager a very
innovative program for organizing reference materials).
     In a future meeting, the chapter looks forward to another demo session on high-tech
devices,  such as the Braille 'n Speak, and an evening will be devoted to exploring on-line
services especially appropriate for use by the blind. 
     Members in the Missoula chapter have come up with yet another idea for using their
talent--doing technological evaluations for vocational rehabilitation clients.  They are
offering to do the evaluations and donate the fee to be divided among the chapter, the state
and national organization.
     Since the interest is so high, the chapter is considering breaking tradition and
continuing to meet throughout the summer.  They are currently exploring a different means
of transportation for the summer months, when the Delta Gamma girls are not available.
     At the May meeting, Lisa Sutton announced that the booth for the chapter has been
approved at Western Montana Fair which is in June.  The chapter will now be working to
make preparations to greet the public and provide demonstrations at the booth.
     In other news, George Kerscher reported that he and Dan Burke had a very
worthwhile luncheon meeting with a group of ophthalmologists.  The purpose of this
meeting was to establish a basis for referrals to our MAB outreach program. The Rocky
Mountain group now includes our information sheet in the packet of materials they provide
for patients with vision loss. 
     Dan Burke reported on progress of the technology evaluation program.  So far, Dan
Burke, George Kerscher, and Carolyn Brock are involved, and we hope that in time, more
members will be able to participate.  Ruby Huckaba reporting, with additional notes from
Carolyn Brock.

Inside the MAB / Personals

     On March 19 Mike (Arthur) Schultz of the Bozeman chapter was featured in a
segment on the Bozeman local news on TV Channel 4/26.  He has moved from the
Mountain View Care Center to an apartment with another physically disabled man under
the sponsorship of Reach, Inc.  Reach formerly worked only with developmentally disabled. 
Mike is enjoying his greater independence in the new arrangement.
     Lois Stephens Haymond of Livingston was selected by the Big Sky Retired Teachers
and Personnel of Gallatin and Park Counties to receive the community service award for
the 1995-96 year.  She was selected in recognition for her contributions to improving and
advancing community interests and projects as president of the Montana Association for the
Blind, Park County Chapter.  Lois is a graduate of Montana State University and a long-
time teacher of elementary children.  (excerpted from The Daily Bozeman Chronicle, May
19, 1996)
     During Historic Preservation Week (May 12-18), at a ceremony before the Bozeman
City Commission, the Historic Preservation Advisory Board presented John DeHaas with
one of the Historic Preservation Awards for Excellence given in 1996 in the category of
Individual Contribution in appreciation for his many years of interest and activities on behalf
of historic preservation.

In Memorium

     Since our last issue, we have lost a few valuable members, among them were Helen
Archer and Mike Maloney.  And just very recently, Great Falls chapter member, Robert
Lindstrom, passed away during the night of May 25.  He had suffered recurring cancer.  We
extend our sympathies to his surviving wife, Ellen and her family.  Bob was well known
around Great Falls for his music making.  We've also received word that member Maymie
Briggs, of Hamilton, has recently passed away.  Maymie attended the summer program in
1987. 

Announcements

MAB Cookbook Project:  It was decided that the Large Print Cookbook being produced by
the MAB will be more of a tool for low vision cooks than a fund raising project. 
Accordingly, we are requesting that all you cooks out there share your secrets with us.  We 
want to have a page or two of "Helpful Hints" to assist users with preparing  the recipes in
the book.  Please share any methods or utensils that you have  found especially helpful when
cooking--measuring cups, ways to check if cakes  are done, measuring and mixing, working
with eggs--anything that you learned or you have discovered is useful.  Please send all your
suggestions to Linda  Hurlock, Cookbook Committee Chairman, 3116 8th Avenue North,
Billings, MT  59101.

Summer Picnic:  Come one, come all!  The Great Falls Chapter will be holding their annual
picnic, at 12 Noon on August 10, 1996, at 3624 3rd Avenue South.  All are welcome--please
come.

Name Change:  The Montana agency providing vocational rehabiliation services has changed
their name.  Formerly called Visual Services, they are now called Blind & Low Vision
Services. The agency is now part of the Department of Public Health and Human Services. 
And, for persons in the Great Falls area, their office has a new telephone number.  It is
(406) 454-6060.

New Address for EMRRS:  The Eastern Montana Radio Reading Service has just moved
into their new studio facility.  Their new address is 929 Broadwater Square, Billings, MT
59102.  Their phone remains 1-800-735-1176 or in Billings (406) 256-5404.

For Sale:   OutSpoken software for Mac computers.  $250 -- half the new price.  Berkeley,
the maker, has approved this sale and will register and support the new owner.  It gives the
user all the mouse controls from the keypad on the keyboard.  I have all the inkprint,
recorded and braille instructions, etc.  Contact:  Kay Maloney, 1620 7th Ave. North, Apt.
A, Great Falls, MT  59401.

For Sale:  CCTV, 14" Vantage, B&W, Model Eric-WI.  Like new, excellent shape.  $1,000,
with manual.  Contact Elmer Stuhlmiller, Box 516, 510 Second Ave., Harlem, MT 59526-
0516.

New Book Available:  There is a newly published book written from the perspective of blind
people by blind author and Navy veteran, Harry Martin.  It is entitled What Blind People
Wish Sighted People Knew About Blindness.  The purpose of the book is to help build a
bridge of understanding between the sighted community and the blind, and to promote a
better understanding of blindness on the part of sighted people.  The book is 190 pages,
softcover, and is available in large print or on five two track audio cassettes for only $14.95
a copy, plus $3 shipping and handling.  You may order this book directly from the author
by sending your check or money order to:  Harry Martin, 2314 River Park Circle, #2111,
Orlando, Florida  USA  32817-4828.

MD Research:  Johanna Seddon, M.D., from Harvard Medical School, is studying risk
factors for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in order for scientists to move forward
in searching for preventative therapies.  If you have AMD and have either a sibling with
macular degeneration or a living parent and a living sibling with or without macular
degeneration you may be eligible to participate in this study.  If you are interested, call
Karen Clements, Study Coordinator, at (617) 573-4061 or (617) 573-4010.

Wilderness Walks:  The Montana Wilderness Association is having is 34th annual
Wilderness Walks program this summer.  The Walks take place throughout the state all
summer and each walk is classified as to difficulty.  Participants are required to accurately
judge their own ability before calling to sign up for a hike.  The following is a listing of hikes
from the Wilderness Walks program.  If you are interested in any of them or want more
information, call Linda Hurlock in Billings, 406-255-8957, or John Adams, 406-256-3874, to
get a complete copy of the Wilderness Walks guide. Don't stagnate this summer--get out
and enjoy Montana!

A Closing Quip:  After returning from the Billings convention, I had a phone call early the
next morning from a friend who has a substantial hearing loss.  She said she was concerned
about what Pat meant when she said he is "sick of Helen and probably sick of me."  I was
stunned for a moment, then I had to laugh right out loud.  Then I told her the real story. 
Pat had said "Helen-a."  He was talking about going to the state legislature in Helena, and
was hoping someone would go besides himself.  He said that he "was sick of Helena, and
that they were probably sick of him."   Just one more rumor squelched by Rumor Control
Central.  (Thanks to Bozeman member, Helen Cowles, for the chuckle.)
Montana Association For The Blind
Board of Directors

President :  Pat Domme,  2724 Amherst Ave., Butte MT, 59404  
     (406) 494-4571

1st Vice President : Rik James, 716 North Montana Ave., Bozeman MT, 59715-2921  
     (406) 586-4123   E-mail:  rikjames@dns.mcn.net

2nd Vice President :  Virginia Sutich, Box 27, Tracy Route, Sand Coulee MT, 59472  
     (406) 736-5277

3rd Vice President : Nancy Holt, 905 32nd St. South, Great Falls MT, 59405 
     (406) 761-4348

District One : Jim Marks, 540 E. Kent, Missoula MT, 59801
     (406) 549-7047   E-mail: marks@selway.umt.edu

District Two  :  Bennie Longie, 1160 E. Sebree, Dillon MT, 59725
     (406) 683-2826

District Three : Kay Kjellstrom, 3222 Second Ave. North, Great Falls MT, 59401  
     (406) 453-0452

District Four :  Sharon Larson, Box 81, Shawmut MT, 59078
     (406) 632-4706

District Five :  Sarah Bradley, 1633 Lynne Ave., Billings MT, 59102  
     (406) 656-7162
June, 1996

Dear Reader,

     The Montana Association For The Blind is pleased to have you as a reader of our
quarterly newsletter, The Observer.  However, we need reassurance that you are in fact
wishing to receive it.  In an effort to update our mailing list below is a form we request that
you fill out and return to us right away.  The costs of producing a newsletter are increasing
and we don't want to send any to those who do not use it.

     Your cooperation in filling out the form and returning it to us promptly is much
appreciated.

Please Return to:        Montana Association For The Blind
                    P.O. Box 352
                    Butte, MT  59703


___________________________________________________________________


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