                               THE
                             OBSERVER

                           The Montana
                           Association
                             for the 
                              Blind



                              Winter
                               1998

                         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   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 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

>From The Editor
     By Rik James  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  1

What Blind & Low Vision Can and Can't Do for You
     by John DeHaas  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  3

Old Dogs, White Canes & Other New Tricks
     by Gwen Wood  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  4

1997 Summer Orientation Program
     by Myrle Tompkins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  6

Touching the Future: Scholarship and the Organized Blind
     by Jim Marks  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  7

No More Magoo!
     By Carolyn Brock, Dan Burke and Jim Marks . . . . . . . . . . . . .  8

Raising the Bar: First Time at National Convention
     by Dan Burke  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Chapter Roundup  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Inside The MAB / Personals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

In Memoriam  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Announcements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Board of Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

                     * *     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
             Myrle Tompkins & Dan Burke, Associate Editors


Vol. 49                      Winter, 1998                         No. 1

                            From the Editor
                       With Regrets, and Thanks
                             by Rik James

     This March marks five years since I volunteered to become the Editor of
our state newsletter, The Observer.  The circumstance that prompted me was
the illness of its editor for many years, secretary-treasurer Lelia Proctor.  I
had great regard for her, and the job she'd done for so many years, and I felt
it was something I could do to help out.  
     By April, Mrs Proctor had passed away, and I tried to continue to honor
her memory and to serve our members by carrying on the job.  In my last
letter from her, she wrote very favorably of the job I'd done, and said that
perhaps she should have asked me sooner.  
     The Observer took on a new look, with large print, and computer disk,
and E-mail as new formats.  I produced the cassette at home, and sent it to the
library.  The publication expanded in length, and scope. But at its core it
remained a newsletter for our organization, to promote a positive attitude and
provide information about blindness within our community of members and
the public at large.  
     I felt the long hours spent for each issue were worthwhile.  Many phone
calls and letters encouraged me.  I am proud of it, and am proud that original
articles written by our members were so highly regarded that indeed we have
had no less than eight articles reprinted in national publications.  The most
recent were two articles from this past issue -- young Cody Greiser's speech at
the parent's division at national convention in New Orleans last July
(reprinted twice) and Jim Marks' in-depth report on the Greisers fair hearing
regarding Cody's education.
     When I applied and was accepted to the graduate program at Louisiana
this past summer, I knew it would be a challenge, but I cared so deeply about
the ongoing work of the newsletter that I tried to continue to be the editor
from a distance.  I had good people back home who would help me with most
of it, and I felt that I could continue in the position.  But as you have surely
noticed, our publication has not been on its normal timely schedule.  For this,
there is no one who can apologize but myself.  And for any inconvenience it
has caused you regular readers, I am sorry.   
     There have been members who have been critical of the way I've done
the job.  They don't like Federation material in the newsletter.  They have
criticized that articles are sometimes too lengthy to be read on a CCTV.  Some
members have submitted things that were ultimately not included in the
newsletter.  As an editor, you come to expect that it is very difficult to please
everyone, and you try to do the best you can.  
     At the winter board meeting, I effectively resigned my volunteer position
as editor of our publication.  The school work simply must come first, and due
to the difficulties associated with recent aspects of the job, I decided it would
be best to step down.  I really wish it could have worked out, because it meant
very much to me, and I hope you will understand.
     It is my hope that you will continue to expect and receive the highest
standards for our organization's newsletter.  And I sincerely wish the new
editor all the best with it.  I am open to resuming the job at some time in the
future. 
     I'd like to thank all those who have given so much of their hard work for
each issue.  Top of the list would have to be my wife, Karen, who I'm missing
every day that I'm down here in Louisiana.  She proofread each and every
word of each article, and her time often goes unrecognized, not to mention the
hours labeling and mailing each issue.  Thanks to all other members for
contributing their articles, and on the braille and disk production committee,
Jim Aldrich and  Linda Hurlock.  And finally thanks to Dan Burke, who has
worked very, very hard on this issue; and Myrle Tomkins, who just signed on
to lend a hand last fall.
     I hope as you continue to offer yourselves to our work in the
organization, that it will include helping in whatever way with our newsletter
and giving support to the efforts of your new editor.               What Montana Blind & Low Vision Services
                       Can and Cannot Do for You
                    by John DeHaas, Bozeman Chapter

     (From the Editors: In the past year, Vocational Rehabilitation programs,
including those for the blind, implemented new guidelines for financial services. 
Many rumors have circulated through the MAB regarding what that might
mean.  Past MAB President John DeHaas looked into the new financial rules,
and filed this report.)
     Blind and Low Vision Services, a part of the Montana Department  of
Public Health and Human Services, provides assistance for the legally blind
and blind.  It  administers funds allocated for that purpose derived from
federal and state sources.  As I understand the new rules, to qualify for
financial benefits your income and assets, exclusive of the family home and
your car, must be within 230% of the poverty  level.  Most of us do not
understand how the amount is derived.  There is a table listing  family size,
annual income and resources (which do not include home and car).  If you
need services and fall  below these guidelines you are eligible for financial
assistance for such equipment as a CCTV,  magnifiers, visits to a Low Vision
Clinic, etc.  For a single person the annual income limit is $18,389 and 
"resources" of $9,194; for a family of 2 the income limit is $24,614 and
resource limit is $12,307; and for a  family of 3 the income limit is $30,839 and
resource limit of $15,419.  As family size increases the  limits are raised.  
     The resource limit is a particular problem for older people who need
help and yet who saved for years to have money to carry them through the
rest of their lives.   They are reluctant  to tap into reserves when they know
that medical expenses may well soar as they become older.   The  program
penalizes those who have worked for many years and have saved for the
future.  Perhaps they could continue working but cannot afford major items
they might need, such as a CCTV, scanner, computer  and voice synthesizer.
Yet some assistance and training might enable them to maintain their 
independence, or even continue working in their field.
     Some services are available to eligible persons regardless of income. 
These include:
               1)  Information and referral;
               2)  Assessment for vocational rehabilitation eligibility (including
          transportation, meals and lodging necessary for the evaluation); 
               3)  Counseling and  guidance; 
               4)  Placement; 
               5)  No-cost post-employment services; 
               6)  Instructional services; and 
               7)  Assessment for rehabilitation technology.
     Although the above list promises "instructional services," apparently 
these are to be offered only by Blind and Low Visions Services staff.  For
example, the MAB Summer Orientation Program  certainly is "instructional,"
but Blind and Low Vision doesn't support those who attend whose income
and/or resources exceed the limit.  Given the size of the state and the few 
instructors available to serve our population, many people never receive the
help they need.
     If you want further clarification on this you can talk to your  counselor,
or go to the top and contact Joe Mathews, Administrator of Disability
Services, or Bob Maffitt, Human Services Manager for Blind & Low Vision
Services.  The address for both is Dept. of Public Health and Human Services,
Rehabilitation/Blind and Low Vision Services, P.O.  Box 4210, Helena, MT
59624, phone 406 444-5622.  If you have been refused assistance by your
counselor you can appeal with the assistance of Lynn Winslow, Director,
Client Assistance Program, P.O. Box  1680, Helena, MT 59624, phone
1-800-245-4743 or 406 444-3889.

              Old Dogs, White Canes and Other New Tricks
                    by Gwen Wood, Missoula Chapter

     (From the Editors: Gwen attended the MAB Summer Orientation Program
in the early 90s.  She and her husband Bob don't seem to have slowed down
since.)
     I have macular degeneration.  It is an age-related disease that is the
leading cause of legal blindness in older Americans.  Thus, coping with
reduced visual skills presents a challenge to a generation that was raised with
the adage, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks."  You are faced with living
down this statement and getting on with your life.  The first step in that
process is to consult the professional, support, and organized groups that can
(and will) assist you in making the transition  to coping with limited vision. 
Since loss of visual acuity is a frightening experience, these groups will help to
allay your fears and start you on the way to learning new skills that replace
lost ones.
     One of the main sources of assistance on the road to independence is the
Montana Association for the Blind.  The program which was the most helpful
to me was the MAB sponsored Summer Orientation Program, held each
summer at Montana State University.  The classes offered during this training
helped me to regain self-reliance by acquiring skills such as orientation and
mobility, as well as an introduction to Braille.  These classes  are
confidence-builders, giving one  the ability to function in new ways.
     In O&M class, I learned the value of the white cane.  Since I retain some
peripheral vision, I was at first embarrassed and reluctant to use my cane, and
placed my reliance on a sighted guide.   However, when going out alone, I
realized that stairs, curbs, and traffic are challenges.  By using my cane, I can
cope with these challenges, and a cane provides me with protection as well as
alerting drivers to use care.  Now, my cane is out of the closet and used with
confidence.
     Another class offered at the SOP  is the introduction to Grade 1 Braille.
These skills help you  find the correct floor when using an elevator, and find
the proper rest room in public areas.  It also instructs you in how to use
Braille tape to label kitchen supplies  to aid in food preparation.  I find that
when I've labeled freezer foods, the packages are no longer a mystery.  There
are some humorous aspects to be found, as when I learned they had Braille
lettering on the drive-up ATM machines!
     The Missoula chapter of the MAB has taken up the task of promoting
Braille literacy.  We are publicizing the fact that Braille is not "another
language,"  but rather is English.  It includes proper sentence structure as well
as  spelling and punctuation -- all of which are necessary for literacy.  This
Braille literacy focus has evolved  into members tutoring other members in
Braille skills.  The Missoula chapter has also volunteered its members' skills
and  experience to the school system and stands ready to assist where and
when called upon.
     In conclusion, it has been my experience that the more skills  we seniors
acquire in O&M, Braille, and other areas promoted by the MAB in its
summer program,  the more expert and independent we can be.   These skills
really are new tricks, and old dogs need them to meet the challenges of today.                  1997 MAB Summer Orientation Program
             by Myrle Tompkins, President, Helena Chapter

     The MAB's Summer Orientation Program (SOP) for the Blind has been
in continuous operation since 1945.  Its goal has always been to help instill
confidence and teach skills to the newly blind of Montana, which leads to a
more comfortable and productive life.
     The impact of the Summer Orientation Program can't be stated more
eloquently than comments made by students themselves.  These are all taken
from the 1997 Guide.  "Learning and trying new ideas and skills make for a 
full, happy, active and independent life." ... "It is truly fun to go back to
school again even at 79 and to find I can still take instructions and learn again
to work and live normally though blind.  Thanks for my new grasp on life." ...
"I have learned something new everyday that will be helpful to me as my eyes
will be able to see less.  May the Program be able to continue helping people
like me."
     Montanans have every right to be proud of the service and outcomes of
the MAB's Summer Orientation Program.  This can best be summed up with a
quote from a staff member ... "When I see students arrive every year with so
much fear and anticipation, I wish I could let them peek four weeks into the
future, they would all see themselves surrounded by new  friends and new
skills. ... We all end up touching each others' lives in a way we never thought
possible, we trade our apprehension for appreciation and our consternation
for  confidence."
     Plans for the 1998 SOP are being made.  Please call the MAB office for
information at (406) 723-3383 or write MAB, Box 352, Butte, MT 59701.                         Touching the Future:
                  Scholarship and the Organized Blind
                    by Jim Marks, MAB Board Member

     Question:  Why do the Montana Association for the Blind and the
National Federation of the Blind give scholarships to blind college students?

     A.  To help the Blind Student.
     B.  To help ourselves.

     What is the answer?  Of the two responses given above, I prefer B.  Sure,
we give out scholarships to assist individuals.  Green cash in the hands of
students almost always helps the student.  But our intent goes beyond the
distribution of money to a few students.  The organized blind use the
scholarships to help ourselves.  We help ourselves by finding and funding the
leaders of tomorrow.  In other words, scholarships touch the future.
     We can look on the MAB-NFB scholarships as an investment.  Our
investment is in people who, with guidance and attention from today's leaders,
can be groomed for future leadership.  It's like a big circle: Today's leaders
invest in tomorrow's leaders.  When tomorrow's leaders take over, they turn
around and invest in the next generation.  By extending a hand to one another,
we remain strong and vital as an organization working towards a better life
for blind people everywhere.
     I have the good fortune to serve on both the state and national
scholarship committees.  Committee members like me get the opportunity to
meet positive thinkers from a wide variety of backgrounds.  Believe you me,
we find far more great candidates than we have scholarships for. Those
selected are the cream of the crop.  Their energy, fresh ideas, willingness to
learn, and diversity make the job of committee membership a real joy.  It is
invigorating to say the least.  One doesn't have to be a committee member to
get involved, though.  Every member should be doing what we can to get
students to apply.  And even more importantly, we should reach out with our
experience and knowledge to give the scholarship applicants the benefits of
what we have learned and accomplished.     To apply or for more information contact:

Montana Association for the Blind
Emil A. Honka Scholarship (Two at $1,000 each), Due March 20
               Scholarship Committee Chairman
     Roberta LeMieux
     305 Fifth Ave South
     Glasgow MT 59230
     (406) 228-2573

National Federation of the Blind
Scholarships (26 ranging from $3,500 to $10,000 each), Due March 31, 1998.
               Scholarship Committee Chairman
               Peggy Elliott
     805 Fifth Ave 
     Grinnell IA 50112
     (515) 236-3366

     In addition to the state and national scholarships, two Montana chapters
offer local scholarships.  For more information on these, contact the Bozeman
Chapter and Great Falls Chapter presidents.

                            No More Magoo!
      By Carolyn Brock, Dan Burke and Jim Marks, Missoula Chapter

     (From the Editors: "Mr. Magoo" was released by Disney on Christmas
Day, showing in Missoula at the Wilma Theater.  This letter was drafted by
members of the Missoula Chapter following a lively discussion of the issues and
a vote to move ahead with it at the December 3 meeting.  THE MISSOULIAN
initially indicated it would run the letter, but the film didn't last two weeks in
Missoula, and the letter never appeared on the editorial page.)
     On November 30, the Missoulian carried a feature about George
Kerscher, a local computer consultant, who is an international leader in using
current digital technology to make the written word accessible by the blind
and dyslexic.  This article  never mentioned that Kerscher is blind himself. The
reporter, Jim Ludwick,  wisely focused on Kerscher's contributions rather
than his ability or inability to see.  Thus Ludwick avoided the many pitfalls of
mistaken assumptions about blindness and gave Kerscher the  respect he
deserves.
     What a contrast to Mr. Magoo, the anti-hero of Disney's
recently-released film.  With his poor eyesight, Magoo is a bumbling buffoon
who walks headlong into walls and talks to sweaters on coat-hangers, a
worst-case scenario of what it is like not to see well.  He embodies every
sighted person's greatest fears about blindness.
     With the animated cartoon's first appearance in the 1940s, Magoo
became the bane of those without 20/20 vision.  "Hey Magoo!" became the
epithet of choice for taunting blind and low vision  children on playgrounds all
over America.  Disney's resurrection of the character opens the door for a new
generation to be subjected to this shame.  Last July, the National Federation of
the Blind pointed this out to Disney, and asked that the corporation
voluntarily stop production.   Disney complained that the blind were trying to
impose political correctness on them.  Now, the film's closing credits include a
little disclaimer stating that blindness can be respectable.  Whatever Magoo
may be, respectable he is not.
     Of course, Mr. Magoo is not blind -- or even visually impaired.  He is a
sighted person who can't see because he won't put on his glasses.  Those who
wear glasses or contact lenses may identify to some extent with Magoo, which
is what gives the character its veneer of credibility.  Near-sighted people often
assume that taking their glasses off, and their subsequent feelings of
frustration and inability to cope, is what it must feel like to be blind.
     Nothing could be farther from the truth.  Magoo has not learned how to
read Braille, navigate with a white cane, or work on a computer without
seeing a screen or clicking with a mouse.  He doesn't need to; he only needs to
remember where he left  his glasses!
     Competent blind people employ a wide range of skills unknown to
Magoo -- and most sighted people.  These skills make it possible for George
Kerscher and others in Missoula to lead successful, productive lives -- earning
a good living, raising families, contributing to their community.
     Meanwhile Magoo gropes  and stumbles on, this time tripping the Disney
Corporation and its feeble cries of foul play.  Disney, it seems, just wouldn't
put its glasses on.  Magoo's image simply lacks appeal for either sighted or
blind moviegoers.  Reviewers across the country are panning the film.  
Susanna Sonnenberg of the Missoulian gave it a mere star and a half, blaming
weak writing and direction for the movie's pratfall.
     We offer another explanation -- Mr. Magoo just isn't funny anymore.                           Raising the Bar:
                   First Time at National Convention
                             by Dan Burke

     (From the Editors:  In 1996, the MAB Board of Directors decided to create
more opportunities for Montanans to attend the National Federation of the Blind
convention.  A "first-timer" category was created and budgeted for any member
who had never attended the national convention.  In 1997, Dan Burke of
Missoula was the first member to benefit from the $1000 award, enabling him to
attend the convention in New Orleans.  The MAB sends a delegate each year,
whose travel expenses are covered by the NFB.  In addition to the First Timer,
MAB pays for an Alternate Delegate at $1000 and three stipends of $350 each to
assist other members.)
     In New Orleans last summer, the National Federation of the Blind broke
its own convention attendance record -- well over 3000 blind people from
across the United States, Canada, and from around the world came to New
Orleans.
     That was an organizational best, setting the bar a bit higher for future
conventions to better.  But I embraced a personal challenge -- raising the bar
of what I expect of myself as a blind person.
     As I left high school and moved through college more than two decades
ago, the wisdom spoken all around me was to take the safe route, forget about
childhood dreams, ignore the heart.  Both my parents and my Counselor for
the Blind in Colorado truly wanted the best for me, but my discussions with
them left me with the distinct impression that the rules were different for me
because I was blind -- or rather, because I would become blind.  At the time, I
didn't know better. It would be a long time before I began to realize that what
needed to be different was what I thought about being blind, not about what I
wanted for myself.
     I struggled through college in four years, "passing" as a sighted person
but always afraid of being discovered and feeling the embarrassment of
inadequacy at my inability to function as a sighted student.  After college, I
put my sheepskin in a drawer and set off aimlessly on what turned out to be a
downward-spiraling series of unsatisfying jobs.  I skipped my 10-year high
school reunion.  Though I was bound for graduate school the next fall, I felt
my life was at an all-time low, and just beginning on its upward turn.  The
facts were, as I saw it that summer, that I had accomplished nothing, was on
Social Security, had just become a  father and was broker than I had ever
been in my life.
     I was finally heading into a rehabilitation career, but by default.  I
didn't have the confidence to attempt anything else, frankly and like so many
who feel little personal power to help their own circumstances, I decided the
thing I needed to do was to help others.
     That attitude that I must accept less than what I wanted began to
change, though.  And by the time I landed in New Orleans last summer I was
hungry for confirmation that blindness need not mean giving up on dreams,
giving up on achieving beyond the expectations of family, friends, neighbors
and rehabilitation professionals.  And I found what I was looking for.
     I was impressed with many things -- the many divisions, such as Braille,
merchants, blind lawyers, scientists and techno-geeks, writers and journalists. 
The greatest impression, I suspect, were the many professions introduced in
general session or in smaller division meetings.  The scholarship candidates
especially intrigued and excited me, because among their many academic
disciplines were several I had ruled out when a younger man as being closed to
me as a blind person.  We heard from a surgeon (who once lived in Missoula!)
Who found his way back into employment after becoming blind, working as a
consultant.  I talked to a woman working on her Master of Fine Arts in
creative writing and teaching courses as well.  One of the scholarship
candidates was completing study as a dinosaur paleontologist.  A VR program
in Nebraska helped a blind man in his dream of being a truck driver -- not to
drive, but to begin a successful trucking company.
     Admittedly, there was a time in my life when hearing about such
successful blind people would have terrified me.  It would have confronted my
own feelings about my blindness, and the insecurity I felt.  It would have
raised the bar, the level of expectations for achievement, that didn't fit with
my lack of confidence in myself.  Now, however, I am tickled pink to carry my
white cane.  The news carrier can likely hear my Perkins Brailler thunking
away at 5:30 in the morning as I compose poems in Braille. 
     In the end, the talk I had with a man from Iowa, a scholarship finalist
who was preparing to begin work on his doctoral degree in clinical
psychology, summed it up the best for me.  His chief area of interest, he told
me, was in examining how the way we feel affects the way we think.  Of
course, I thought to myself, if I feel depressed or embarrassed or useless
because I can't see, then I will think there is little open to me because I can't
see.  But when I can begin to feel that blindness isn't the problem, I can begin
to think in terms of possibilities -- begin to expect more and work harder for
what I want.  I can raise the bar higher and higher for myself.
     And so, since the convention last July, that's what I have done.

                            Chapter Roundup
                            1997 in Review

     (From the Editors: We asked each chapter to send a "year in review"
article for this issue's Chapter Roundups.  We Hope you enjoy them as much as
we did!)

Billings, Yellowstone Chapter
submitted by Marge Moberly 
In March we gathered at West Park Retirement center one night
For a great social gathering
-- What a delight!

For the Keith Denton Award
We nominated Janice Six.
Guess what?  She came out
Tops in the picks!

In May Barnes & Noble
Paid us many dollars
To help them sell some books
To their Sunday callers.

We also said good-bye to Monica Sayler, our good friend
Who moved back to Great Falls, Her mother to tend.

In August our annual
Picnic was eaten 
And a time like this with friends Can hardly be beaten.

     In September we helped Billings Low
Vision Clinic open their new shop,
Now to visit is easy parking
And just a skip and a hop.

Bruce and Joy fell in love
And got married
So over punch and cake
We celebrated and tarried.

     In October the Chapter voted to keep
Officers the same 
So no ballots were marked,
Just the arm raising game.

Merry Christmas brought a potluck At Casa Village Rec Hall
A tasty turkey and all the trimmings We did eat it all. 



A Christmas shopping story
>From Janice and Gerry Six
Had a hilarious gift swap
In a glorious mix.

We did a few others things Throughout the year
Including school visits by Members, so cheer,
"Rah, Rah!" cause some kids
Now know a little bit more 
About blindness
     And low vision than they ever did before.

     That's all from this Chapter for this time 
We do hope you enjoy
Our short little rhyme.

Bozeman
submitted by Bernice DeHaas
     After a slow start (heavy snow fall forced cancellation of the January
meeting) the Bozeman Chapter had a busy year.  Attendance was usually
between 25 and 30 members and guests.  The calling committee reminds
everyone of the meetings each month, which helps keep attendance up.  In
addition to the monthly business meeting we usually have a program. 
Speakers in 1997 included Pat Domme, MAB President, Sharon Larson,
District 4 Representative, Helen Cowles telling about her activities with the
Blind group when she is in California, and our local members who attended
the State Convention.  Other programs featured a book review by Nancy
Gilchrist and a presentation by Michelle Simard of the Alta Physical Therapy
and Fitness Center on the importance of regular exercise and a description of
the facilities at the Center.  
     In July the Chapter provided a luncheon for students and staff of the
Summer Orientation Program and enjoyed visiting with everyone.  As is
customary, the September meeting was a pot luck luncheon to bring people
back after no meeting in August.  The Bozeman Lions Club members were our
hosts for the December Christmas luncheon , with the local Chapter arranging
the table favors and entertainment.  This year the Sweet Adelines sang for the
group.  At the conclusion the Lions presented our "visually challenged"
members with fruit baskets. 
     In 1997 the Bozeman Chapter was pleased to be able to present three
$500 Bayard and Erma Todd Scholarships to blind students attending
Montana State University.  These went to Kere Sheppard, George Bennett and
Frank Schwaller.  A substantial surprise bequest left to the Chapter by Leo
Benolken required several meetings and discussions as to how to use it. 
Finally it was resolved to reserved $5,000 for the scholarship fund, plus $1,500
for scholarships in 1998-1999; give $5,000 to the MAB Summer Orientation
Program; and put $5,000 in the Lelia Proctor Memorial Fund.  The latter has
been growing more slowly of late, but the Chapter hopes it will be seed money
for an eventual permanent center or other project to honor Lelia.
     We were sadden by the death of several members and former members:
Arthur "Mike" Schultz, Irma Patrick, Barbara Harman, and Mildred Leigh. 
Some have moved away (Bill & Peggy Schultz, and Blaine & Rose Cobat
among them), but we have acquired a number of new members, both area
students of the SOP and others who are facing impaired vision.
     We don't know what challenges 1998 will bring; hopefully we will be
equal to them.

Silver Bow and Beaverhead Chapters
     (From the Editors:  These Chapters were too busy to send anything but the
announcement for the 1998 MAB Convention to be held at Fairmont on May 1, 2
and 3.  It will be a great time and all should plan to attend.)

Helena, Capital City Chapter
submitted by Myrle Tompkins
     Our year was dominated by hosting the 1997 MAB State Convention.  It
was a successful group effort and left us feeling very proud and pleased.
     Myrle Tompkins attended  the Low Vision Seminar in Billings last May. 
It was an enlightening experience.  All low vision members should take
advantage of the next one.
     It was our Chapter's privilege to  help sponsor Brittany Eldredge to
attend  Space Camp in Alabama in September.  She delighted us with her
experiences when she spoke at our October meeting.
     Unfortunately our Convention Coordinator, Lorraine Cattermole,
suffered a heart attack in December but is now recovering.
     We gained three new members: Jim Hopkins, June Weston and Rose
Ramsey.  Sandy Jarvie is leaving us for Texas.  She has been our Chapter
secretary for the past three years.  Many know her as the director of the
Talking Book Library.
     We are starting 1998 by dining out.  This will be a farewell to Sandy. 
The year's planning will begin in February.

Kalispell, Buffalo Hills Chapter
     (From the Editors: The Buffalo Hills chapter was unable to submit a
"year-end" report, but here is a summary of their fall meeting reports, submitted
by Peggy Grafe.)
     The Buffalo Hills Chapter of Kalispell took the summer off, and resumed
meetings in the fall.  Their activities included presentations by Dr. Barth of
Kalispell, who discussed facts and myths about vision and vision loss.  In
October they were introduced to a Leader Dog, and learned of the training
process for both dog and master in the effective use of the working animal.
     In the late summer, some members enjoyed a kayak and canoe trip,
which was featured in an article in the Eureka paper.
     As the year came to a close, the chapter prepared to begin calendar sales
and to work with the local United Way.

Northwest Chapter
submitted by Aggie Gustafson
     The Northwest Chapter of MAB has had a great year with the
participation and enthusiasm of our increasing membership.  This year the
chapter doubled its membership.  We have a great group of new and old
members.  
     In July Audrey and Leonard Jungers hosted a potluck picnic at their
home for members and families.  It was a beautiful day.  President Flo and Joe
Nelson attended the Low Vision Seminar held in Billings in May.  Flo returned
with lots of enthusiasm and helpful ideas.  In September Pat Domme visited
our Chapter and reported on projects of MAB.  Several of the Chapter
attended the District meeting held in Kalispell.  In October our District
Representative, Jim Marks, visited us.  He presented our Chapter with the
book Walking Alone, Marching Together, which was donated to the Flathead
County Library in our name.  In December several of the group donated items
for the Buffalo Terrace Christmas Party for visually impaired children of the
valley.  December 12 the Chapter held its no-host luncheon at the Outlaw Inn. 
13 members and guests attended.  Entertainment was by the West Valley Girls
Chorus singing a variety of Christmas songs led by their delightful leader,
Linda Peterson.

Lewistown, The White Cane Club
     (From the Editors: The White Cane Club was unable to provide a "year in
review" article.  Here are highlights of fall meeting reports submitted by
Secretary Katherine Kurns.)
     The White Cane Club of Lewistown meets monthly at The Meadows. 
But the members met at the home of Helen Dalton for their August pot-luck
picnic.  Helen set up the table in the patio, and it was a beautiful day.  We had
a variety of food and Helen served coffee and lemonade also.  The time was
spent in eating and visiting.  
     During early fall, members sold at least 10 Large Print Cookbooks,
which are  available from the MAB.  Helen turned 90 and was celebrated
throughout the community.  Other members visited with family, cared for
livestock and completed woodworking projects.

Livingston, Park Chapter
submitted by Mildred McMillion
     The Livingston Chapter of the Blind has had a very interesting year.  We
began the year by welcoming two new members, Ann Woodhall and Carolyn
Alverson.   One of the highlights of our year was our picnic.  It was held in the
city park.  We had a very good turnout  and wonderful food, including
homemade ice cream and a variety of chicken, salads and desserts.  
     We had some very interesting programs this year.   One was about
animals of the far north and a second program with detailed information
about the sights and sounds of China.  
     Sam Lorango visited us and explained the working of the funding for the
blind services in the State.  It seems to get more complicated every year. 
     In April Mildred McMillion fell and broke her ankle so several different
people acted as secretary for the next two months.  
     Margo Asserland spoke about working with blind children and the
efforts being made to main stream them.  We also had a program about Senior
Companions.  We ended the year with a lovely no host Christmas party at the
Paradise Inn.  A good time was had by all.
     It has been a very interesting and productive year.

Missoula
submitted by Carolyn Brock
     "Good habits shouldn't be broken."  That was the theme of the Missoula
Chapter's recent book fair, and one of the year's highlights for us.  As the
original intent of the project was to publicize the importance of Braille for
blind people of all ages, we created the slogan to emphasize the idea that
reading was a habit which should not be broken, even if a person could no
longer read print.  But the phrase came to mean much more:  the good habit
of lending our association's support to locally owned businesses, and that of
those businesses supporting organizations such as the MAB.  The three ideas
are now inseparably linked.
     Our chapter's book fair to promote Braille literacy was held on
November 6th in three local bookstores:  Fact and Fiction downtown,
Freddy's Feed and Read in the university area, and the Book Exchange in a
busy shopping center.  Owners of each of the three stores had agreed to donate
ten percent of their sales that day to our chapter.  In each store, a display table
or counter was set up, and chapter members were on hand all day to discuss
the importance of Braille for blind people of all ages. We handed out the
Braille alphabet cards provided by the state library, as well as print copies of
the NFB pamphlet "Questions Children Ask about Blindness."  We had
samples of publications in Braille, and also print copies of the most recent
edition of the Observer.   We also demonstrated how to write Braille, using
both a slate and stylus, and a Perkins Brailler.  We all wore Braille name tags,
as did the bookstore employees -- a real attention-getter!
     Of course, our most curious customers were children.  One of the stores
had run a newspaper ad the previous day, emphasizing the opportunity for
children to learn about Braille.  Since the grade schools were not in session
because of parent-teacher conferences, a number of parents brought their
children in, wanting a mini-lesson in Braille and a name tag.  Children were
eager to punch out letters on the slate and to type on the Brailler.    We were
repeatedly amazed at how fast they learn!
     Another of the stores had invited Jeannette Ingold, a local writer whose
book, The Window, is about a blind teen-aged girl.  (Those of you who
attended last year's MAB convention will remember Jeannette as our banquet
speaker.)    It was fun to join her and the book store owners in good
conversations about good books we had all read -- another example of a good
habit which shouldn't be broken.
     The book fair was also an occasion for our members to enjoy working
together, as we put in our shifts at the bookstores in groups of two or three.   
It was a chance to talk about books and to improve our knowledge about
Braille, learning from each other.
     The Missoula Chapter has  developed a steady membership since moving
meetings to evenings two years ago.  We had a summer pizza party in the park
to celebrate spring, and kicked off the fall schedule with a meeting at Bonner
Park followed by the City Band Concert.  We have a chapter treasury over
$1000, remarkable in that prior to the change to evening meetings, the chapter
never had more than $100 in its account!  
     In 1997 we made connections in the area with parents of blind and low
vision children, and for 1998 plan to work more closely with educators and
rehabilitation professionals in western Montana.       We ended the year with a
Christmas party, hosted by Gail and George Kerscher in their home.  Gail's
co-workers from Missoula Hospice were also there.  The party was a well-
deserved celebration for a busy and productive year in Missoula.




                   Montana Association For The Blind
                        Low Vision Cook Books 
                   Now Available,  only $10.00 each

The State Coordinator for Sales is Kay Kjellstrom (406) 453-0452.
The recipes are your own.  Impress your family and cook away!
Does your chapter have a cookbook coordinator yet?  Volunteer!                      Inside the MAB / Personals

Low Vision Library Access
     The Glasgow City-County Library now has a Closed Circuit TV, a Luxo
Lamp and a new desk thanks to the determined work of Candi Lemeiux. 
Candi chose this goal as her Girl Scout Gold Award Project -- the highest Girl
Scout achievement possible.  At 17, Candi is one of the youngest girls  to
receive this award, which takes three years to complete.
     Candi earned $2800 by catering a 3 day Girl Scout Camp in May, asking
local businesses to help, as well as  receiving individual donations from the
Glasgow community.
     Candi is the daughter of Clem and Roberta Lemeiux, all members of the
MAB.
     This project makes the Glasgow library and its contents accessible to
community members with low vision.  Candi has demonstrated a wonderful
sense of citizenship.  She is a young lady that we can all be very proud of. 
Thank you Candi!

NASA Space Camp
     (From the Editors:  This is a recap of Brittany Eldredge's report on her trip
to the NASA Space Camp in Alabama.  Brittany is a junior at Helena High
School.)
     Brittany Eldredge took her  first trip away from home and first airplane
flight.  She left Great Falls with Becky Monroe, her mobility instructor.  In
Huntsville students were taken to the space center and assigned quarters in
"the Habitat" with three other space travelers.  Brittany and shipmate Winter
were scientists on their first mission.  They went through physical conditioning
and constructed model rockets.  Other pre-flight preparations included
several space flight simulators. 
     They next became familiar with the booster prop and learned how to
check the engines, all about the planets and what it is like to live in space. 
They performed their mission on Thursday and it was a success!
     Brittany graduated with her Space Class and expressed a desire to go
again.

Miscellaneous
     Bruce Breslauer and Joy Root married September 27 at Messiah
Lutheran Church with a  reception following.  The newlyweds address is  51
Roundup, Billings, MT 59102-6289.
     Kay Maloney of Great Falls is also rumored to have married on October
4,  details unknown.
     Board Member Kay Kjellstrom and Ann Sutton went camping and
hiking in Glacier over the Labor Day weekend.  Kay says she saw the Park in
a different way even with the leg she broke and for which she is still in
therapy.  (Kay broke one leg in three places falling off an unexpected step next
door, not while hiking in Glacier.) 
     Aaron Tillman of Great Falls broke both legs in a fall from his roof out
in Belt.  Friends completed the re-roofing on the day of the Great Falls picnic.
     Alice Ridl had a replacement knee put in September 21.  You may write
to her at 1016 7th Ave. No, Great Falls, MT  59401.

                              In Memoriam

     In recent months, a number of MAB members and friends of the MAB
have been lost, including Helen Burns of Kalispell last fall, Earl Lee
Chamberlain on December 8 and Lori Wold of Bozeman on January 2.
     Mrs. Rosetta Lawson of Columbus, Mississippi,  passed away April 10.  
Mrs. Lawson was the mother of Third Vice President Nancy Holt of Great
Falls.  Nancy flew to Mississippi to attend the services, missing last April's
convention in Helena.  She brought her father back when she returned.  Mrs.
Lawson came to Great Falls in spring 1994 when Nancy had her leg
amputated and stayed until Nancy went to summer school.  She attended
MAB chapter meetings.
     Richard Gilead, an MAB member from Havre and Alice Ridl's brother
died August 11.
     The Bozeman Chapter lost three members since the first of the year. 
Mildred Leigh, a former SOP student died recently. Avis and Wayne Martin
both died as a result of an  auto accident in late January.  Memorials in the
names of the Martins should be made to the MAB, Bozeman Chapter, c/o John
DeHaas.
     Our deepest sympathies to all the friends and families of all those we've
lost in the past year.                             Announcements
Call for New Editors
     With Rik James resigning as  Observer editor  the Montana Association
for the Blind is looking for a new team of editors.  Interested people should
send letters to the state  office at P.O. Box 352, Butte MT  59703-0352.  
     The letter should include  ideas for publishing the quarterly newsletter 
of the association, ideas for obtaining articles and for informing members of
programs and activities happening within our state and organization.  
     The letter should be in the state office by March 12, 1998.  All letters of
interest will be reviewed by a committee and prioritized as to interest, ideas,
and ability.  The list will be given to the Board of Directors for review.  The
Board of Directors will choose the best team of Editors for  the Observer.
     Any articles, chapter reports or other announcements for the Observer
should be sent to the state office, P.O. Box 352, Butte, MT 59703.

Convention Is Coming!
     The 1998 MAB Convention will be held May 1, 2 & 3 at Fairmont Hot
Springs.  Featured speaker will be Nikolai Stevenson, President of the
Macular Degeneration Foundation.
     Transportation from the Butte bus station and the airport are being
arranged.  Registration and reservation materials will be in the mail soon. 
Mark your calendars and watch the mail!

MAB Election '98!
     (Editor's Note: Linda Hurlock of Billings is serving again this year as
chair of the nominations committee for the MAB.  The letter below was sent to
chapter presidents in early January.  However, as of press time, no nominations
have arrived.  As a result, the deadline for receipt of nominations has been
extended to March 7, 1998.)
     It is time again to think about the upcoming election.  This  year, we will
be electing five district representatives.  All the  nominations with
biographical sketches must be mailed by February 28th to the MAB
nominating committee, Linda Z. Hurlock Chairman,  3116 8th Avenue North,
Billings, MT 59101, so the ballots can be sent out in March.  Don't hesitate to
nominate someone other than yourself; just remember they must reside in the
district and be willing to serve if elected.  Biographical sketches should be no 
more than 150 words in length.  It will be the most helpful to the voting
membership if the sketch follows these guidelines:
               1)  A short description, the candidate is blind, low vision, long time MAB
          member etc.;
               2)  a summary of past and current  involvements with the MAB, such as
          summer school committee, legislative  committee, local chapter
          officer etc.;
               3)  Overall goals and  directions, more involved membership, include
          transportation,  technology training etc.;
               4)  Lastly, a brief position statement. 
     The closer you follow these guidelines, the less editing there will  be and
if you stay within a hundred words, there will be no editing at all.
     Let's work hard to be sure that there are at least two  candidates from
each district.  It's a great opportunity to contribute on the state level.  Don't
just sit back and let others do it!
     Sincerely,
     Linda Z. Hurlock
     (406) 255-8957 

MAB Scholarship Time!
     Each year at its spring convention, the MAB awards two $1000
scholarships in the name of Emil A. Honka.  The Honka scholarships are open
to any Montana resident who is blind, legally blind or has a prognosis of
severe vision loss, and is completing either an undergraduate or graduate
degree.  
     Applications must be received by March 20, 1998. They will be awarded
during the convention banquet on May 2 at Fairmont Hot Springs.
     For more information and for application materials, contact Scholarship
Chairperson Roberta Lemieux, 305 5th Avenue S., Glasgow, MT 59230 or call
her at (406) 228-2573.

MAB Awards
     The MAB gives two state-wide awards each year at its spring
convention, as well as recognizing contributions at the chapter level.
     The Dorothy C. Bridgman Award may be given for outstanding
contributions to the blind, either as a member or non-member.  The Keith
Denton Award is given for significant contributions to the MAB by a member..
     All awards information are mailed to the chapters, or may be obtained
from the state office.

SOP Positions Open
     And of course, planning is underway for the 1998 Summer Orientation
Program in Bozeman.  Positions are available for instructors in cooking,
Orientation & Mobility, Rehabilitation Teacher, crafts, Braille, typing,
computers and low vision.  There are also positions for discussion leader,
exercise leader and Director's Aide.  Applications are due at the MAB office in
Butte by March 31, 1998, and materials can be obtained by calling Betty Lou
Berg at the MAB office, (406) 723-3383.

Until Next Time
     Thanks to our contributors,  as well to the volunteers who help put this
issue together.
     Thanks also to Jim Aldrich, you get a high quality Braille edition.  His
phone number is (406) 259-3729, should you want to talk about it or just
thank him.  And thanks to Linda Hurlock who mails out the computer disk
version. She asks that we remind you that the card in the pocket of the disk
mailer is to be flipped so the mailer can be sent back.  Any envelope with
velcro is a returnable mailer.  Please remember to send your change of
addresses and preference for format to Secretary Betty Lou who keeps the
ever changing mailing list up to date.  Our thanks to the Montana State
Library who duplicate and distribute the cassette version.   
     The remaining two pages are reference sheets of addresses and phone
numbers of your leaders.  Use them.  Let them hear from you!  And please
send the editor your news notes and articles for the next issue.  Deadline is set
at May 30, 1998.



                           MAB Office Hours
                    Mrs. Betty Lou Berg - Secretary
        12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.   Monday / Tuesday  / Wednesday
               8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  Thursday / Friday
                       Phone :    406 / 723-3383
Items you should send to the Secretary:  Annual membership dues, chapter
meeting times and location, the names of officers, chapter financial reports,
committee reports, and your mailing address and format preference for
receiving The Observer.

                 Chapter Presidents and Meeting Times
                   MONTANA ASSOCIATION FOR THE BLIND
                        1997 Chapter Presidents

Billings:  Yellowstone Chapter
Tracy Rector, President
415 19th St. West
Billings MT 59102
(406) 698-7672
     Meets 3rd Tuesday at 7 p.m. at First Congregational Church
Bozeman:  Bozeman Chapter
Lillian Todd, President
402 Yarger Dr.
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 587-3729
     Meets 2nd Friday at 2 p.m. at Darlington Manor, 606 N. 5th Ave.
Butte:  Silver Bow Chapter
Rita Layman, President
2123 Silver Bow Blvd.
Butte, MT 59701
(406) 723-0289
     Meets 3rd Thursday at 7 p.m. at Community Center
Dillon:  Beaverhead Chapter
Julie Jacobsen, President
725 West Park St.
Dillon, MT 59725
(406) 683-2826
     Meets 2nd Monday at 7 p.m. at Women's Resource Center
Great Falls:  Great Falls Chapter
William Kleinhans, President
3624 3rd Ave. South
Great Falls, MT 59405
(406) 761-4818
     Meets 2nd Monday at 7 p.m at Senior Citizen Center
Helena:  Capital City Chapter
Myrle Tompkins, President
1307 9th Ave.
Helena, MT 59601
(406) 443-4352
     Meets 4th Monday at 7 p.m. at Eagles Manor
Kalispell:  Northwest Montana Chapter
Flo Nelson, President
Box 271
Big Fork MT 59911
(406) 837-3888
     Meets 2nd Friday at 1:30 p.m. at the Public Library
Kalispell: Buffalo Hills Chapter
Nancy Buri, president
Buffalo Hills Terrace
40 Claremont St. #115B
Kalispell, MT 59901
(406) 257-8859
     Meets 1st Friday at 1:00 p.m. at Buffalo Hills Terrace
Lewistown:  White Cane Chapter
Tim Hayward, President
414 4th Ave. N.
Lewistown MT 59457
(406) 538-3856
     Meets 2nd Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Meadow Manor, 707 Farewell St.
Livingston: Park County Chapter
Lois Haymond, President
125 S. 7th
Livingston, MT 59047
(406) 222-1339
     Meets 1st Monday at 1:30 p.m. at Living Steps Wellness Center
Missoula:  Missoula Chapter
Carolyn Brock, President
3020 Elm Park Drive
Missoula MT 59801
(406)543-8077
     Meets 1st Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at Corbin Hall, University of Montana, Missoula





                   Montana Association For The Blind
                   Board of Directors - Autumn, 1996

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@mcn.net

2nd Vice President :
Myrle Tompkins
1307 9th Ave.
Helena, MT 59601
     (406) 443-4352

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
Montana Association For The Blind                                               FREE MATTER     
P.O. Box  352                                                                  FOR THE BLIND    
Butte, MT  59703                                                             FIRST CLASS MAIL   

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