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program that he was able to complete the program and return to his home in a relatively short period of time. He was given extensive training in mobility, skills of daily living, communications and industrial arts and on December 16, 1971 he was terminated as it was felt he gained maximum benefit in all the aforementioned areas.

The placement was a joint effort, since the National Center received the fine cooperation of Miss Tauba Sass, Rehabilitation Counselor of the Utah State Commission for the Visually Handicapped, the employment office of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints, and the management of the Beehive Clothing Mills. If this cooperation had not been forthcoming the placement of a deaf-blind person such as Mr. Hancock would be almost impossible. In addition to this, Mr. Hancock's ability is equally important because it was he who

John Hancock at stayer machine making boxes at Beehive Clothing Mill, Salt Lake City, Utah.

demonstrated to the management that he could work with the dual disability of deaf-blindness. His competence actually alleviated any apprehension on the part of the management.

Mr. Hancock is operating what is known as a "Stayer Machine". This machine, operated by a foot pedal, tapes the corners of pre-scored cardboard ultimately making various sized boxes and lids. The operator must have good organization, good hand-foot coordination, and good finger dexterity. In this type of job rhythm and speed are gained by performing the duties over a period of time. Not too many hours passed on Mr. Hancock's first day of employment when it became evident that he would meet production standards.

John is doing exceedingly well,

according to Mr. Harmon, manager of Beehive Clothing Company, and Mr. Allan Birmingham, maintenance supervisor and John's boss.

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Not only is the machine and surrounding area spotlessly clean, but John is keeping his daily production record of completed boxes, relieving his supervisor of this task. After only a month on the job, he has made as many as 1000 boxes and lids per day. The company is planning to train John on other jobs so that he will have continuous employment.

As mentioned above, a successful placement needs the cooperation of many people and many agencies. It should not be forgotten that the families of deaf-blind persons must also cooperate. Had it not been for the kindness and understanding of Mr. Hancock's wife and children, his

rehabilitation might not have materialized. However, since it was offered in the best interest of Mr. Hancock, he is now gainfully employed and reunited with his family as its husband and father.

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QUESTION BOX

By Louis J. Bettica, A.C.S.W.
Director of Services

Q. At present, how long is the period of
waiting before a deaf-blind person is

accepted for training at the National
Center?

Q. What is the present capacity of the
National Center in its temporary
facility with regard to the number of
trainees it can accept at one time?
A. These two questions are so closely
related that they can be answered as
a single question.

At present the National Center finds itself in the unusual position, for the first time, of having a number of deafblind people waiting for admission. Originally, it was anticipated that the Center's temporary facility and staff would be able to handle a maximum