[nfbmi-talk] mcb report

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MCB REPORT

March 7, 2011

GOVERNOR APPOINTS TWO NEW COMMISSIONERS TO MCB

In a news release issued March 2, Governor Rick Snyder announced that he has made two appointments to the Michigan Commission for the Blind, naming Larry
Posont of Dearborn Heights and Lydia Schuck of Mason.

"We're fortunate to have dedicated citizens such as these individuals step forward and offer their skills on behalf of our state, "said Snyder.

The commission provides opportunities for individuals who are blind or visually impaired to achieve employability and to independently thrive in society.

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• Posont is president of the National Federation of the Blind of Michigan. He has served for 16 years on the board of directors for Opportunities Unlimited
for the Blind. Posont has been active with Michigan programs for blind persons through his service to the state and the Commission for the Blind Business
Enterprise Program.

• Schuck, of Mason, has been a member of the Commission's Consumer Involvement Council for more than six years. She also founded the Braille Sharing Library
for families who are home schooling with blind students.

list end

Posont replaces Commissioner Michael Geno and Schuck replaces Commissioner Margaret Wolfe. Appointees serve three-year terms, expiring Sept. 30, 2013, and
are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. It’s expected that the two new commissioners will participate at the next Commission meeting, set
for March 17 and 18 in Lansing, joining current Commissioners Jo Ann Pilarski, John Scott and Geri Taeckens.

GOVERNOR’S REORGANIZATION AFFECTS DELEG AND MCB

Governor Rick Snyder announced, February 23, the strategic reorganization of the Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth (DELEG) which will result
in a sharper focus on its mission and better program coordination across state government.  The department’s new name will be the Department of Licensing
and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), reflecting its leadership role in reinventing the state’s regulatory process and its increased licensing responsibilities.
 In the previous week, the Governor also announced the appointment of Steven Hilfinger as the department director

Director Hilfinger was managing partner of the Detroit office of Foley & Lardner, LLP and is a recognized expert in corporate acquisitions, restructurings
and regulatory affairs.  Foley & Lardner is a national law firm with more than 900 attorneys in the U.S. and internationally.

“Steve Hilfinger has an extraordinary background in helping companies navigate expansion and turnaround,” Snyder said.  “He has an impressive knowledge
of the business and regulatory environment and will do an outstanding job in creating a more practical and efficient regulatory system in this state.”

Hilfinger, of Beverly Hills, has focused his 23-year legal career on corporate and securities law matters, including mergers and acquisitions, corporate
restructurings, private equity and venture capital transactions, debt and equity finance transactions, business formation and corporate governance, and
general corporate and contract counseling.  His practice included representation of automotive suppliers and other manufacturers, medical device makers,
private equity and venture capital funds, financial institutions, and other publicly and privately held businesses.  Hilfinger is a member and former co-chair
of the firm's Automotive Industry Team and a member of the Transactional & Securities, Private Equity & Venture Capital and International Practices.

“Creating a climate of economic growth depends in large part on a simple, fair, efficient and transparent regulatory environment and a focused, efficient
state government,” Snyder said.  “Our new Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs will help drive this change by having a more coherent and consistent
approach to its mission.  By consolidating its core functions under one roof and transferring responsibilities that were not compatible to the appropriate
agencies, this streamlined department is better positioned to serve its customers while significantly contributing to our overall goal of fostering economic
success.  Steve Hilfinger’s background and expertise in the business and legal community will be invaluable as we move Michigan forward.”

The changes are implemented through Executive Orders 2011-4 and 2011-5 issued by the governor.  Highlights of the reorganization include:

List of 1 items
• Creating the Office of Regulatory Reinvention within the department.  The office will help create a regulatory process and environment that is conducive
to economic growth by reviewing current rules and regulations as well as proposed rulemaking and regulatory activities by departments and agencies.

list end
List of 1 items
• Creating the Michigan Administrative Hearing System as an independent agency within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.  The Administrative
Hearing System will centralize the state’s administrative hearings functions.

list end
List of 1 items
• Transferring the Bureau of Health Professions, the Bureau of Health Systems and the Controlled Substances Advisory Commission from the Department of Community
Health to the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.  The transfer will allow Community Health to concentrate on the actual health care delivery
aspects of its duties while allowing Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the licensing and professional regulatory aspects of these functions.

list end
List of 1 items
• Strengthening the Michigan Strategic Fund by transferring several energy functions into it, such as the Michigan Next Energy Authority.  In addition,
the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and the Land Bank Fast Track are transferred to the Strategic Fund, which is within the Michigan Economic
Development Corp.

list end

Creating the Workforce Development Agency within the Michigan Strategic Fund

Most functions of the Bureau of Workforce Transformation and the Council for Labor and Economic Growth are transferred to the Workforce Development Agency.

List of 1 items
• The Michigan Commission for the Blind (MCB) and Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS), the state’s two public vocational rehabilitation agencies, will
be part of the new Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

list end
List of 1 items
• Transferring the department’s Disability Concerns Commission, the Division on Deaf and Hard of Hearing, the Pacific American Affairs Commission and the
Hispanic/Latino Commission to the Department of Civil Rights.

list end
List of 1 items
• Abolishing the position of Automobile and Home Insurance Consumer Advocate that was created in 2008.

list end
List of 1 items
• Abolishing the position of Chief Energy Officer that was established in 2008.

list end

In addition to serving as department director, Hilfinger has been appointed director of the Office of Regulatory Reinvention and chief regulatory officer
for the state of Michigan.

Director Hilfinger announced the appointments of Mike Zimmer as chief deputy director, Brian DeBano as a deputy director of the Department of Licensing
and Regulatory Affairs and Steve Arwood as deputy director of several programs, including the Michigan Commission for the Blind.  Zimmer will also serve
as director of the Michigan Administrative Hearing System.

Zimmer previously served as deputy director of the State Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules.  He also served as director of the Bureau of Hearings
in the former Department of Consumer and Industry Services; as an attorney in the Office of Regulatory Reform under former Governor John Engler; and worked
for the Senate majority floor leader.  A resident of Dimondale, Zimmer earned a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and a law degree from
George Washington University.

DeBano recently served as chief of staff and chief operating officer for the Michigan Department of State.  In that capacity, he played an active role in
streamlining the department’s licensing functions.  Prior to that, DeBano served as the director of State Government Affairs for former Governor Engler
and also worked in the Michigan House of Representatives.  The Laingsburg resident has a bachelor’s degree from the James Madison College at Michigan State
University and a master’s in public administration from Western Michigan University.

Steve Arwood joins DELEG from Windlab Developments, USA, LTD, where he served as U.S. Regional Director. He previously served as deputy director and in
other executive management positions at the Michigan Jobs Commission under Governor John Engler. He has also served as director for the House of Representatives
Programs and Policy Office. In his role as Deputy Director of DELEG, Steve will oversee several workforce employment programs, including the Michigan Commission
for the Blind

MI-TOP PURPOSEFUL COLLABORATION WORKSHOP

A Lansing conference hosted jointly by the Michigan Transition Outcomes Project (MI-TOP), Michigan Rehabilitation Services, Michigan Commission for the
Blind and Special Education Services was held in Lansing, January 27.  With a theme of “Purposeful Collaboration”, attendees focused on three important
questions to assist students with disabilities in achieving success in transition:

1.    Are we providing what’s necessary to make sure our students are prepared to belong and succeed in their community?

2.    Is the community prepared to support our students as they leave school to belong and achieve success?

3.    How would we know?

Over 100 individuals from the participating agencies attended the conference, including several MCB staff.  Eleanor White the new Director of Office of
Special Education and Early Intervention Services (OSE-EIS), MRS Director Jaye Porter and MCB Director Pat Cannon provided welcoming comments to kick off
the event.  A variety of breakout sessions were provided to attendees including:

·        Sharing Student Information:  Respecting Confidentiality and Making it Meaningful

·        Discovering the Potential of Aligning the IEP and the IPE

·        Assessing the Elements of Productive Collaboration

·        Student and Family Engagement in the Transition Process

·        Nuts and Bolts of Funding Collaborative Services and Programs

·        Michigan Commission for the Blind (MCB)

PRESIDENT OBAMA SIGNS PEDESTRIAN SAFETY BILL INTO LAW

The U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 841, The Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act on December 16, legislation that will provide blind, visually impaired,
and other pedestrians greater security when traveling in close proximity to hybrid or electric vehicles.  President Barack Obama signed the important legislation
into law, January 5, following advocacy efforts by two blind consumer organizations, the American Council of the Blind (ACB) and the National Federation
of the Blind (NFB), with each organization hailing the action.

"The passage of this legislation is momentous and marks over two years of vigorous advocacy by ACB membership that has resulted in consensus by the blind
community, auto industry, and Congress," stated Mitch Pomerantz, President of the American Council of the Blind.

“The National Federation of the Blind is pleased that this critical legislation has been signed into law, preserving the right to safe and independent travel
for the blind,” said Dr. Marc Maurer, President of the National Federation of the Blind.  “The blind, like all pedestrians, must be able to travel to work,
to school, to church, and to other places in our communities, and we must be able to hear vehicles in order to do so.  This law, which is the result of
collaboration among blind Americans, automobile manufacturers, and legislators, will benefit all pedestrians for generations to come as new vehicle technologies
become more prevalent.”

Pomerantz said ACB extends its appreciation to Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.), Reps. Ed Towns (D-N.Y.), and Cliff Stearns (R-Fla.) for their staunch leadership
over the past two years regarding this very important safety issue. The National Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers and Association of International
Automobile Manufacturers have also worked collaboratively with the blind community to ensure that the legislation could effectively resolve the current
and growing unintended safety problems that hybrid and electric vehicles present to the public when traveling at low speeds.

The new law will require the U.S. Department of Transportation to begin writing standards that would set requirements for an alert sound that allows blind
and other pedestrians to reasonably detect a nearby electric or hybrid vehicle. It also requires that those rules be finalized within three years.

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF STATE AGENCIES FOR THE BLIND

Nearly 100 administrators and professionals representing state agencies serving individuals who are blind are expected to attend the Annual Spring Conference
of the National Council of State Agencies for the Blind (NCSAB), April 13-15, in Bethesda, Maryland.

With a conference theme of “Sharing Our Vision: Featuring Media Productions that Tell Our Stories,” attendees will focus on a variety of topics important
to blind rehab agencies, including effective ways to deal with challenged state economies, creative approaches to employment while state unemployment rates
remain high, doing more with less, facing threats to the Randolph-Sheppard Program and effective utilization of creative media to tell the story of how
public rehabilitation programs are restoring hope for persons who are blind.

In addition to presentations by the NCSAB Committees on Employment, Residential Training Centers, Randolph-Sheppard Programs, Independent Living, and Technology,
those attending the conference will also hear important presentations by Lynnae

Ruttledge, Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), other RSA officials and Andrea Guest, the President of the Council of State
Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR).  Steve Wooderson, the new CEO of CSAVR, will also provide an update at the conference and speak on
his vision for the organization.

Attendees will also hear from Dr. Fred Schroeder, NCSAB Policy Advisor, who will provide his Washington Update and report on the status of Workforce Investment
Act reauthorization and finalization of the Congressional budget and its impact on VR agencies.  Charles Glaser, RSVA and Kevan Worley, NABM, will offer
their perspectives on the state of the Randolph-Sheppard Program in the country and there will be a special presentation by Ruth Ann Abrams, representing
the U. S. Postal Service, who will speak on a new Randolph-Sheppard initiative by USPS.

MINI ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM IN LANSING

MCB will conduct its first Mini Adjustment Program Workshop of 2011, March 20-25, at the Causeway Bay Hotel in Lansing, with 43 MCB consumers expected to
participate.  Commission clients attending the week-long Mini-Adjustment Program workshop are introduced to a variety of skills of blindness, such as cane
travel, Braille, managing time and money, adaptive kitchen skills and other skills to enhance independence.

In conjunction with the workshop, the Commission will also conduct an Employment Readiness Seminar, March 24, for 15 rehab clients who have advanced to
the job-readiness stage of their rehabilitation program.  Consumers attending the seminars learn about various approaches to job searching, Michigan Works!,
the Talent Bank, interview preparation and resume development.  They also participate in mock interviews and hear from local employers on their workforce
needs.  Additionally, consumers receive information about social security benefits and work incentives, as well as information about the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) and how it relates to employment of persons with disabilities.  Plans are underway to conduct three additional Mini Adjustment Program
and Employment Readiness Seminars this year in Gladstone (near Escanaba), May 1-6; Detroit, September 11-16; and in Gaylord, October 9-14.

CONGRESSMAN MARKEY RECEIVES ACB AWARD

U. S. Representative Edward J. Markey, author of the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act, has received the James R. Olsen Award for
Community Service from the American Council of the Blind (ACB). Named after Jim Olsen, who first served as ACB’s elected Treasurer and then employed by
the Council for over 25 years, the award was created to recognize individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to the advancement
of opportunities for people who are blind and visually impaired.

The 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act, authored by Rep. Markey and signed into law last year by President Obama, is groundbreaking
legislation that will make it easier for individuals who are blind, deaf or both deaf and blind to access the Internet, smartphones, television programming
and other communications and video technologies.

“I am honored to receive this award from the American Council of the Blind, and I look forward to continuing my work to fight for equal access to technology
for all Americans,” said Rep. Markey upon receiving the award. “Whether it’s a Braille reader or a broadband connection, access to technology is not a
political issue- it’s a participation issue. Americans with disabilities need access to the latest 21st century communications and video tools to compete
in the job market and engage in daily activities that increasingly rely on the technology. I am proud that the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility
Act is now the law of the land, and I know we will continue to make great strides so all individuals can more fully participate in society.”

The 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act significantly increases accessibility for Americans with disabilities to the indispensable telecommunications
and video technology tools of the 21st century by:

·        Increasing access to the Web for Americans who are blind through improved user interfaces for smart phones

·        Enabling Americans who are blind to enjoy TV more fully through audible descriptions of the on-screen action

·        Making TV program guides and selection menus accessible to people with vision loss

·        Providing Americans who are deaf the ability to watch new TV programs online with the captions included

·        Mandating that remote controls have a button or similar mechanism to easily access the closed captioning on broadcast and pay TV

·        Requiring that telecom equipment used to make calls over the Internet is compatible with hearing aids

·        For low-income Americans who are both deaf and blind, providing a share of a total $10 million per year to purchase accessible Internet access
and telecom services

“Representative Markey has played an instrumental roll over the last four years in not just introducing the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility
Act, but leading the blind community through some very difficult negotiations so that a landmark bill could be signed in to law. We sincerely thank him
for all of his efforts in ensuring that the blind community will be able to gain access to important information that is conveyed on television or through
a smart phone,” said Mitch Pomerantz, ACB President, who presented the award to Rep. Markey, March 1, at a luncheon in Washington, D.C.

CONSUMER SERVICES REPORT

During this period of time, the Consumer Services Division have had some time to initiate ideas to provide expanded programs for both VR and ILOB, as well
as YLV and transition.  The division has been involved in programs with the Department of Education, Department of Community Mental Health and employment
activities.

MCB participated in a transition workshop during the month of January.  This transition workshop provided an opportunity to present to transition coordinators
statewide.  This is an area that MCB continues to work with the coordinators to improve transition outcomes for individuals that are visually impaired
and blind.  At this workshop, MCB hosted two breakout sessions where participants were able to gain information regarding MCB’s programs and how Training
Coordinator’s can work cooperatively with MCB consumers.  Further, some staff attended a regional transition meeting where information was shared regarding
ways to improve transition activities for individuals with disabilities.  At this regional meeting, MCB was able to connect with several staff, parent
groups and coordinators of transition programs within the intermediate school districts to begin developing strategic plans to incorporate MCB’s initiative
to enhance transition opportunities for blind and visually impaired students through collaborating with teacher consultants for the visually impaired.
 A meeting is scheduled for March 26, 2011 where details will be outlined regarding the goals and objectives for the collaborative effort between the two
entities.  MCB will be attending this meeting and will have an opportunity to share with the attendee’s ways to increase transition activities for individuals
that are blind and visually impaired.

The Consumer Services Division through its participation with the Department of Community Mental Health (CMH) and Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS)
have jointly planned several meetings to increase CMH awareness of vocational rehabilitation services provided by MCB and MRS.  The primary goal of MCB’s
participation has been awareness of the agency’s services.  One of the objectives is to increase referrals from CMH for vocational opportunities leading
to employment.  As a result of these meetings, CMH is more aware of the types of services that MCB provides to persons who are blind and visually impaired.
 The agency encouraged CMH to evaluate their coding for secondary disabilities which may increase the number of individuals referred to MCB for vocational
training and employment.  Another opportunity that MCB will be working with CMH is the Evidence Based Employment.  This is a program that provides direct
job placement as a result of the individual’s current skills and abilities. The agency will be working closely with the CMH’s to increase opportunities
for individuals with visual impairments to obtain employment.

The staff of the Consumer Services Division continues to seek opportunities to work collaboratively with employers within the various communities.  At one
of the managers’ meetings a presenter from Lansing Community College shared with the manager’s information regarding Information Technology Apprenticeship
programs.  The apprenticeship program, provided through the college, places individuals with an employer within the community where the individual gains
valuable experience as they continue with their academic program.  This program is eighteen months to two years where the individual will receive a certificate
of completion and/or continue their education to receive an associate degree.  Individuals desiring to enroll in this program must be registered with LCC
and have completed one year of academic study. This is another opportunity for MCB’s consumers to become involved in obtaining skills that will lead to
gainful and productive employment.  MCB has collaborated with its sister agency MRS in meeting our target of 2% of individuals with severe disabilities
to work for the federal government at the Army Tank Command in Warren, Michigan.  Currently, applications are being screened based on the individual’s
degree and the ability to perform specific job duties.  This opportunity is a result of the East Region manager collaborating with the business service
representative from MRS.  The staff was informed of this opportunity to submit appropriate resumés of their consumers to the East Region manager for consideration.
 The agency continues to forge ahead with the internship program to provide valuable work experience through several state agencies.  Currently, there
are seven additional individuals being considered for placement in the internship program.  Two additional individuals are enrolled in on the job training
programs where they will be employed upon the completion of the on the job training.  The staff has been working with the intermediate school districts
where two transition students are receiving on the job work experience.

MCB has begun to enter into discussions with BEP, Opportunities Unlimited for the Blind (OUB) and intermediate school districts regarding summer transition
programs.  The agency is anticipating supporting several transition programs during the summer of 2011.  Again this year, MCB is working with BEP to provide
the Summer Work Opportunity Program (SWOP) for transition youths to obtain work experience and to become familiar with the food service industry.  The
agency has had an informational meeting with OUB/Camp T.  Further discussion will be forthcoming regarding specific program development and MCB’s participation.
 MCB will provide its College Prep program at Western Michigan University for seniors and graduates from high school.  The summer transition programs will
provide individuals with information regarding soft skill development as well as work experiences and job shadowing.  The agency is working to develop
transition activities that will include a summer program in Western Wayne County.

The Consumer Services Division would like to welcome Leon Wilborn, administrative support in the Detroit office and Pat Angerman, counselor in the Kalamazoo
office to the MCB family.

BRAILLE AND TALKING BOOK LIBRARY REPORT (BTBL)

New Volunteer

Braille and Talking Book Library (BTBL) is happy to announce that Donald Bowman, former MCB Commissioner, began volunteering at BTBL in the past few weeks.
Don is covering the phone on Monday and Tuesday afternoons after graciously rearranging his schedule.  Don is also a skilled BARD user and will coach patrons
on an “on-call” basis from home.

Digital Deployment

Sixty-four percent of BTBL individual patrons now have a digital player.  Of those who do not yet have one, three percent have declined or returned their
digital player, preferring the cassette machine. BTBL is beginning to supply institutions with up to five machines each and are pleased to report that
digital books accounted for 52 percent of circulation for the month of February. NLS has ceased production of new titles on cassette, however, many older
titles have not yet been converted.

BARD

January statistics show that 446 BTBL patrons and another 384 Michigan subregional library patrons are using BARD to download books. That equates to approximately
seven percent of all active patrons in Michigan.  The 446 BTBL patrons downloaded 2,538 titles in January alone, which averages 5.7 downloads each. The
BARD site now has more than 20,000 book titles and 40 magazines. Scott Norris, Nancy Verburg and subregional staff are training through NLS to take over
local administration of BARD service. All approvals and issues with registration will be handled locally in the very near future. Scott and Nancy will
serve as primary administrators for six of the subregionals, and act as back up for the remaining two. Nancy Verburg is working with all schools serving
qualified students. She and Scott are planning to hold teacher in-service trainings on downloading from BARD.

Computer Club

Computer Club continues to draw patrons to the library on a monthly basis. Unless otherwise noted, Computer Club meets in the BTBL Lobby on the first floor
of the Library of Michigan from 10:30-12:30. OPAL online meeting room allows individuals to attend from home using text and/or microphone/speakers to chime
in.

Book Club

Book Club meets in the same location, immediately following Computer Club after a short lunch break. Patrons may attend either in person or over our OPAL
online meeting room, which can be accessed at:
www.conference321.com/masteradmin/room.asp?id=rsb8c86b1df295

Enter any user name you wish and leave password blank.

March's selection is DB/RC63131, BR16929, The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid by Bill Bryson, read by Bill Bryson. A travel humorist, he reminisces
about growing up in 1950s middle America recalling the simple pleasures of family life and teen culture under the shadow of the Cold War.

Recording Studio

The recording studio is back in service and two narrators are working on digital projects.  Staff hopes to be able to offer the first locally produced digital
book in the next few weeks. Wry Martinis by Christopher Buckley, DBL8258, narrated by Keith Kurek, is currently in the edit and mark up phase of production.
Michigan’s Columbus: The Life of Douglas Houghton, by Steve Lehto, DBL8258, narrated by Michael Donovan (2010 Michigan Notable Book) is also in the edit
stage.

Described Movies on DVD

The library has added about twenty DVD movies that include a narration option.  BTBL will continue to grow this collection with funding from the Library
of Michigan Foundation.  Menu navigation is still an issue due to the lack of standardization in the industry but circulation of described videos will
continue as long as there is a demand.

In Focus Newsletter

The winter issue of InFocus has been submitted for publication. The large print version will be mailed out in early March. Braille versions will be sent
to those who have indicated Braille preference. PDF and text versions will be posted on the BTBL web page.

TRAINING CENTER REPORT

Training Center Remodel

MCBTC staff meet bi-weekly with contractors, DELEG staff, and DTMB Project Managers regarding the status of the Training Center remodel.  As of this date,
everything is going according to schedule and the tentative projected finish date for the project is October 28th 2011.  The asbestos abatement is complete,
much of the demolition is completed and the HVAC contractor began well digging for the Geo-Thermal HVAC System.  The Thermal HVAC System requires 72 wells
and to date 39 of the wells are done.  The entire building has been completely gutted and at this point it is hard to visualize what it use to look like
or will look like in the future.  The floors are being torn up for new sewer pipes and the ceilings have been torn down.  Imagination, floor plans and
a few pieces of new ductwork are the only traces of what the future will bring to the building.

The project managers, however, do have a definite vision and are staying on task.  Color swatches, flooring samples and office modular designs have been
presented.  There are also plans for audio visual components and a hearing looping system for Deaf/Blind students.  The Training Center staff is also gearing
up to provide training for Apple computer products because of their exceptional accessibility for blind and low-vision users.  In addition, in-service
training for the Apple equipment will be provided to staff so student training can begin when the new Technology Center is opened.

Vocational Exploration and Career Planning Class

MCBTC is expanding and enhancing the “World of Work” class.  The significant upgrade has warranted a new name for the class.  This class is now called the
“Vocational Exploration and Career Planning” class (VECP).  It is a 2 track career exploration and job readiness training course.

The first track will assist students not only in the choice of academic and career direction, but also in the development of individual identity and purpose.
  Work can give life meaning, it often defines people, and how individuals live. Because the right job can add enrichment to life, it is important to find
work that matches interests, abilities, skills, qualifications and aptitudes.   The course will assist students in matching their traits and abilities
through vocational exploration.  The class will cover:  Aptitude Testing that will measure the basic academic skills of reading, spelling and mathematical
computation necessary for effective learning, communication and thinking; Interest Assessment which helps an individual learn the most about themselves
in relation to the wide variety of occupations available; Self Directed Search that provides individualized career matching using a battery of self assessment
tools where an individual begins to clarify his/her goals, assess strengths and weaknesses and explore alternatives and new possibilities; Career Exploration
and Planning by assisting clients based on the information above to assess job interest via the Occupational Outlook Handbook, Occupational Information
Network, Career One Stop, Job Profiles, New Guide for Occupational Exploration, Job Shadowing and Informational Interviewing.  Also covered in this class
will be Job Searches, Networking, and Resume, Cover Letter and Application/Application Data Sheet writing.

The 2nd track is for those individuals with no employment experience and/or no demonstrated work skills or for individuals with cognitive, physical or other
limitations.  This segment will provide Evaluation and Assessment including Occupational Therapy Evaluation; Situational Work Assessment; Interest Assessment;
Career Exploration; Job Readiness Training; and Job Seeking Skills Training.

This program has already provided great resources to TC students since the Training Center reopened in January.  Many students were introducted to resources
available in the library for career exploration and job search at the Kalamazoo Public Library and this service will be an ongoing part of the VECP Class.
 In addition, there have been actual work experiences for students as a Dishwasher at Denny’s Restaurant and a Janitor at MCBTC Maintenance Department.
 Many informational interviews and job shadows have been provided including: Investigator at Kalamazoo Public Safety Department, Criminal Investigations
Division; Hearing Impaired Teacher at Woodland Elementary School; Child Protective Service Worker at Michigan Department of Human Services; Sports Psychologist
with Dr. Thomas George, Ph. D. at University of Michigan; Pre-School Teacher/Childcare Worker at Curious Kids – Portage Public Schools

Teacher Assistant/Childcare Worker; Hearing Impaired Teacher at Portage Public Schools/Portage Central High School; Self-Employment/Small Business Owner
with Dykstra’s Appliance Service Inc; and Teacher Assistant/Childcare Worker for 3 year old/4 year olds at Curious Kids Pre-school Program.

MCBTC is in the process of acquiring some accessible work sample tools to be used in the VECP class that are designed to elicit information on several work-related
characteristics, including the ability to follow instructions, stamina, motivation, concentration skills, ability to follow instructions, frustration tolerance,
communication skills, decision-making skills, and self-confidence.  A special recognition should go to Wendy VanElk who did a great job with the initial
World of Work class and to Karen Devera who has worked diligently to expand and upgrade this course.

Training Center Personnel

MCBTC has two new hires.  Katie Irish is the new Domestic Service Aide and Marie Knapp is a new Support Services staff.  Both are doing a great job and
are a great asset to the Training center.  The Training Center also has three individuals that have changed positions.  Corda Moss is now a Departmental
Analyst and will be working on automating the Centers client tracking capabilities.  Karen Devera is now a Rehabilitation Teacher and teaching the Vocational
Exploration and Career Planning class.  Ian Shadrick is providing counseling as well as technology instruction. MCBTC has also been given the green light
to hire two Orientation and Mobility Teachers and two Rehabilitation Teachers to fill the vacancies from recent retirements.  Those positions have been
posted and the plan is to fill them as soon as possible.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES REPORT

MCB continues to expend American Reinvestment and Recovery (ARRA) funding.  Some of the projects established to improve MCB's ability to serve clients are:
 the hiring of 3 job developers; several student assistants who are gaining valuable work experience to assist them in their career search; the provision
of teacher kits to more easily and efficiently identify Independent Living (I L) consumers’ needs for assistive devices; expansion of statewide training
for staff and commissioners; projects with Native American health clinics to promote I L services, clinic staff and provide vision screenings; assistive
technology training at senior center sites; provision of low vision evaluations, assessments and assistive devices not otherwise available; construction
and establishment of an expanded Technology Center focusing on accessible employment related technology; and provision of assistive and ergonomic technology
for older blind clients to access equipment, devices and software at the Commission’s newly expanded Technology Center

Agency staff has begun work on the DE LEG 2011 COSO Control Environment Survey.  Using the COSO framework, managerial staff conducts internal control evaluations
by analyzing the environment and processes by which the agency pursues its primary business objectives.  Each Agency in DE LEG is participating in the
process.  Materials submitted for review by the Office of Audit & Financial Compliance will be compiled in a report to be presented to the Governor on
May 1, 2011.

In addition, the Office of the Auditor General (O A G) has commenced its biennial single audit review of the Commission’s I T systems and the Vocational
Rehabilitation Program for fiscal years 2009 and 2010.  The O A G has already conducted interviews with program staff.  At present, they are identifying
and collecting documentation required for the review.

Administrative Staff continue to work to refine both B E P System 7 and V R System 7.  After an absence of several years, B E P licensees can once again
place bids on available facilities via telephony, and until a final determination is made by the courts regarding the 3% retirement health care contribution,
set-aside fee bills reflect the required contribution.  And, System 7 will be expanded to include the Training Center and staff is embarking on developing
a System 7 component to schedule and document consumer activities while they are at the Center.

Consumer Involvement Council Update

The MCB Consumer Involvement Council met on January 18 and welcomed new member Fred Wurtzel (NFB of Michigan).  The group also elected Crystal Gorton to
continue as chairperson, and Phyllis Magbanua is the new vice chairperson.  Other current members are Mae Kent (MCBVI alternate), Georgia Kitchen, Wayne
LePiors, Sarah Norwood (NFB of Michigan), Lydia Schuck (Parents of Blind Children, NFB of Michigan), and Geer Wilcox (NFB of Michigan alternate).  MCB
staff include Susan Turney as CIC liaison and Carrie Martin as CIC secretary.  Since the last meeting, Clara Powell has joined the group as a senior representative.
 There are three vacant seats on the CIC:  a current VR client, another parent representative, and a CIL representative.

Shannon McVoy gave a presentation on the draft MCB Small Business Policy.  Several suggestions for changes were discussed.  The draft policy will be presented
to the commission board by the CIC Chairperson at the March meeting as a policy recommendation.

Lydia Schuck informed the group that Geer Wilcox received the John Mullen award for outstanding contributions to NFB of Michigan.

Questions regarding the MCB Training Center were discussed, and it was suggested that MCBTC Director Sherri Heibeck could be a guest at the next CIC meeting,
and/or a future meeting could be held at the temporary location of the training center.

Future meetings are scheduled for May 12 and September 8 in 2011, and January 12, 2012.  All three meetings are currently scheduled for 9:00 a.m. to noon
in Lansing, but one of the meetings may be relocated to Kalamazoo if there is space at the MCBTC’s temporary location.

Communications & Outreach Update

Several media outlets did stories on the December 10 MCB Achievement Honor Roll Awards presentation.  Three Lansing TV channels (6, 10, and 47) aired stories
on consumer award recipient Jeff Smith, formerly of Owosso.  In addition, the Owosso Argus-Press and the Flint Journal published stories on Jeff Smith,
and the Traverse City Record-Eagle noted that Bill Jones of Bellaire had received the award.  The press articles are posted online with links on the Press
Room page of the MCB website (
www.michigan.gov/mcb).

In late December, MCB State Director Pat Cannon and Consumer Services Director Leamon Jones were interviewed in Lansing by DSE-TV President Ann Bratsburg
regarding MCB’s mission and array of services.  DSE-TV is a Muskegon local cable TV station and multi-media organization broadcasting on Comcast channel
97,
www.dsetv.com,
and YOUTUBE CH-dsetvmuskegon.  The program is expected to be re-broadcast in the future and posted online.

Pat Cannon was invited to share the podium with optometrist Dr. Sarah Hinkley during her presentation titled “Low Vision Rehabilitation Through the Lens
of Primary Care,” presented at the Michigan Optometric Association’s annual Winter Seminar of continuing education on February 9.  This is the first time
that an MCB director has been invited to participate as a presenter at this event, which has been strictly limited to technical presentations within the
field of optometry.  Although Director Cannon was unable to participate in person on that day, he prepared a video message on the important role of eye
care professionals in referring their patients to MCB for rehabilitation services.  Dr. Hinkley spoke about the importance and relevance of low vision
rehabilitation in a primary care optometry setting, and the DVD was played as a part of her presentation.  Dr. Hinkley received many favorable comments
from the seminar participants, and since then MCB has received phone calls from optometrists requesting MCB publications to distribute to their patients.

MCB Communications and Outreach Coordinator Susan Turney met with the executive director of the Michigan Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (MiSEPS)
to discuss opportunities for collaboration during 2011.

The MCB 2010 Annual Report has been posted on the MCB website in Microsoft Word and PDF formats.  It is currently being printed and distributed.  This year’s
report includes highlights of MCB’s FY 2010 accomplishments, information on the high return on investment for dollars spent on rehabilitation, statistics
on how new clients hear about MCB and are referred to the agency, and the photos and stories of the six 2010 consumer Achievement Honor Roll Award recipients.
 The cover photo features 2010 Achievement Honor Roll Award recipient Steve Scott of Portage repairing a snow blower in his store.  Steve is a former consumer
of West Region Assistant Manager Lisa Kisiel, and he’s the owner of Something for All Seasons, a lawn mower and snow blower sales and repair store. There’s
also a photo in the report of Hope Springstead (a former consumer of Lansing Rehabilitation Counselor Nichole Wright).  Hope has just graduated from MSU
with a degree in journalism and wants to become the first blind news anchor in the U.S.

Print copies of the 2010 MCB Annual Report will be mailed to approximately 3,000 individuals and organizations.

MCB is continuing to post information on its services in print and online community service directories and to send MCB publications to eye care professionals,
Michigan Secretary of State offices, health care professionals, community service organizations, and individuals upon request.

MCB Website Highlight—Resources page

The Resources page of the MCB website has an array of resources related to blindness and visual impairment.  To reach this page from the home page at
www.michigan.gov/mcb,
click on Resources in the main menu.

The Resources page is divided into three sections.  From top to bottom, the sections are titled Publications, Organizations, and Other Resources.

The Publications section has MCB publications in PDF and Microsoft Word formats, and the smaller publications also have audio links.  (Currently, state
of Michigan websites have the capacity for audio files of up to about nine minutes.)

Information is included on how to request additional formats of MCB publications.  MCB publications include the annual reports, the main Welcome to MCB
brochure in English, Spanish, and Arabic, the Business Services brochure for employers, the Independent Living Program brochure, the Youth Services brochure,
the MCB Policy Manual, and others.  There’s also a link to publications of several other organizations, including information from the U.S. Postal Service
on mailing free matter for the blind and a brochure titled
Protection and Advocacy for Voter Access
published by Michigan Protection and Advocacy Service (MPAS).

In the Organizations section, there are two links.  The first link is titled
Michigan and Local Organizations & Services,
and includes links to websites of consumer organizations such as the Michigan Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired and the National Federation of
the Blind of Michigan, as well as organizations for parents of blind children, radio reading services, library services, recreational opportunities, services
for seniors, and professional blind rehabilitation organizations.  Below the Michigan link is a corresponding link to a list of
National Organizations,
including the American Council of the Blind, American Printing House for the Blind, Leader Dogs for the Blind, the National Federation of the Blind, and
more.

The section titled Other Resources includes these links, in alphabetical order:

American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) Senior Site, Braille Transcribing and Equipment Repair Services, Careers in Blind Rehabilitation (information on
university programs in Michigan), Computer Consultants, Eye Doctors (linking to the websites of the Michigan Optometric Association and the Michigan Society
of Eye Physicians and Surgeons), MCB Vision 2020 Listserv (how to subscribe), Michigan Assistive Technology Loan Fund, Michigan Disability Resources Website,
Michigan Telework Loan Fund, NFB Newsline, Orientation and Mobility Instructors, Public Act 260 of 1978 (establishing the Michigan Commission for the Blind),
Scholarships and Grants for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired (on the AFB website), and Technology Related to Blindness and Visual Impairment.

The final link on the Resources page is titled
Information for MCB Staff.
This is a group of documents used mainly by MCB staff.  Everything here is public information, and most of these documents can be found elsewhere on the
MCB website.

For suggestions on additional resources to include on the MCB website, contact MCB Communications and Outreach Coordinator Susan Turney at
turneys at michigan.gov.

Staffing

Between October and December, fifteen MCB employees retired as part of the Governor’s incentive plan. Those people were:

·        Sue Anderson

·        Rosalind Byers-Lang

·        Lori Curtis

·        Wendy Flournoy

·        Dave Greenwald

·        Bernie Kramer

·        Nancy Lapekas

·        Betty Lujan-Roberts

·        Aliyamma Lukose

·        John McEntee

·        Claudette Peatross

·        Sally Postal

·        Bob Savage

·        Judy Terwilliger

·        Barb Wile

Steps are being taken to fill as many of these positions as possible. Unless there is an exception, agencies are being allowed to fill one vacancy for every
two created by the retirement. Exceptions have been granted to fill the six Rehab Teachers on a 1:1 basis.

Since the last MCB report, several new hires have joined the Michigan Commission for the Blind. They are:

·        Pat Angerman, Rehabilitation Counselor, Kalamazoo Regional

·        Elsie Duell, Administrative Services Manager, Central Office, Lansing

·        Marie Knapp, Rehabilitation Services Coordinator, MCBTC

·        Katie Irish, Domestic Services Aide, MCBTC

·        Leon Wilborn, Secretary, Detroit Regional

In addition to the new hires, Corda Moss is now a Departmental Analyst at the Training Center and Karen Devera has moved from a Rehabilitation Counselor
position to a Rehabilitation Teacher position at the Center.

Also, a couple of new student assistants have started at the Braille and Talking Book Library – Samantha Blankenship and Felecia Sheldon.

Training

A program called Race and Culture in Rehabilitation Services was presented on December 13 in Lansing. Unfortunately, a severe winter storm prior to that
date resulted in only about half of the scheduled participants being able to make it. The presenter, Dr. John Lee from Michigan State University, has agreed
to do a repeat presentation for those who missed the last one. That information will be shared with all staff as soon as Dr. Lee is able to find time on
his busy schedule. The feedback from those in attendance was overwhelmingly positive. In fact, at least a couple people said it was the best session they’ve
ever attended on race and culture.

The Blindness Training Group continues to meet to discuss new ideas for staff training. Several suggestions have come from this committee as well as the
Consumer Involvement Council (CIC). Some of those suggestions have already been initiated. For example, it was suggested by the CIC that the Training Center
incorporate a low vision component to the new employee orientation. The staff at the Center have implemented the idea and that information will be discussed
further at the next Blindness Training Group meeting on March 22. It has also been reinforced that new hires are not to participate in the new employee
orientation at the Center until at least their third week on the job. Another suggestion that will be implemented very soon is to have all new staff meet
with the Presidents of the two major consumer organizations to learn more about those groups. That will be a regular item on the new employee orientation
list. The Blindness Training Group will also be coming up with a survey of staff who have recently gone through the orientation at the Center to gain their
input, ideas, and suggestions on how to improve it as well as the new staff orientation process in general. Several other ideas have been generated by
this group that will be looked at and addressed in the near future.

The annual MAER Conference is scheduled for April 14-15 in Livonia. About eight MCB staff are expected to attend. The agenda for the conference covers a
wide range of topics including a session on assistive technology.

Other in-service training programs being considered or already scheduled for the coming months are a follow-up session on the Motivational Interviewing
training that occurred last summer for counselors and teachers from the TACE Center, a CRC ethics program being presented by the Job Placement and Development
Division of the Michigan Rehabilitation Association, and a safe driving program with the Michigan State Police.

Safety

As noted above, a program has been scheduled with the State Police to provide safe driving instruction for staff and drivers. The program is scheduled for
April 1 and has three components. About ten people will participate in a 3-hour lecture program only on defensive driving, seat belt use, and winter driving.
About five more will sit in on the 3-hour lecture and then participate in a driving simulator program. Finally, about 15 people will attend one hour of
lecture and spend the rest of the day on the road track actually driving a car through a variety of safe driving exercises with a State Police trainer
in the car. This “Train Like a Trooper” program will give the hands-on experience in a number of areas such as controlled braking, evasive maneuvering,
and others. Future sessions will be planned for other staff unable to participate on this date.

Another recommendation from the Safety Team that is being implemented is the purchase of “car safety kits” for all state vehicles. These kits will include
items such as a flashlight, reflective triangles, and Life Hammers. Many of these recommendations came from the safety consultant at DTMB who has been
working closely with the MCB Safety Team. A brief orientation in the proper use of some of this equipment and other roadside situation procedures will
be planned for staff in the near future.

Other items on the Safety Team’s radar include training on blood borne pathogens, emergency evacuation procedures in all state offices, and identification
of safety monitors in each office.

BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM REPORT

Staff Updates

BEP is pleased to announce that effective March 7, 2011, Constance Zanger has returned to her position as the BEP Manager.  Staff have missed her expertise
and are thankful for her return.

Training

In mid-February, 2011, the nine students who were participating in the BEP VST completed the On the Job Experience in both a vending location and a snack
bar facility.  Each of the students performed well and was placed on the Potential Licensee list.  As of this date, four of the students have successfully
bid on and been awarded facilities and inventories should be conducted soon.  Staff would like to congratulate each of them on the successful completion
of training and look forward to working with them as they move forward in their BEP careers.

Presently, there are 4 students projected to participate in the BEP VST Spring 2011 class.  As some of these students are still completing some of their
prerequisites, there is not yet a projected start date for the class, however, it will begin in April, 2011.  As the vacancy of the BEP Trainer has yet
to be filled, BEP staff are working on alternative methods to conduct the training including detailing one staff person to the task or enlisting the services
of a third party trainer.

Facilities

In the last report, BEP announced that there were still many vacancies in facilities caused by the early retirement of BEP Licensees.  At the current time,
there are 8 facilities that are available on the bid line, 3 facilities that are not currently available because of pending hearings regarding contested
bids, and 2 facilities that have been removed from the bid line pending renovations that are currently closed.  It is hoped that with the new Potential
Licensees, half of these vacancies will be filled in the coming months.  Additionally, the Commission looks forward to working with the EOC to evaluate
each of our locations and to determine what, if any, changes should take place in each location in order to maximize earning potential for operators.

The Commission was notified by the U.S. Coast Guard that despite actively pursuing direct negotiations, a full food service contract could not be reached
for services at the USCG Station in Sault St. Marie.  While disappointed at the outcome, Commission staff could not agree to the pricing required by the
government and would not commit to a contract that did not give a licensee an adequate possibility to be successful in operations.

Plans to renovate the Grand Tower facility have been put on hold with the appointment of a new Director of the Department of Human Services.  While it had
been previously agreed upon, DHS is no longer willing to relinquish its space adjacent to the facility until a complete review of plans has been conducted
by the new Director.  This information has been forwarded and staff await a response.

MDOT

Commission Staff and the chair of the EOC Highways sub-committee met with officials from MDOT and the State Police to discuss Operation CARE scheduled to
occur each of the three holiday weekends at the Rest Areas.  Previous concerns, including non-permitted groups and competing food products were discussed.
 MDOT and MSP were receptive and responsive to Commission concerns and have taken steps to require permits to be approved two weeks prior to the holiday
so that proper notice can be given to the operator of the location, CARE volunteers must wear vests in order to better identify them, and groups that violate
their permit will be sanctioned more severely including a possible one year ban on participation.  Additionally, the number of participants has dropped
significantly in the past few years from 35 to 20 last year.  With a reduced number of operations and better monitoring, it is believed that these events
will cause less impact on the revenues at our locations.

MDOT is in the process of bidding out the maintenance of each of its Rest Areas in the coming months.  Staff will monitor this as relationships between
licensees and building maintenance staff is critical in building a strong business on the roadsides.

Sagebrush Conference

Acting Program Manager James Hull and Promotional Agent Joe Pelle participated in the RSVA Sagebrush Conference held Feb 6-11, 2011.  Highlights of the
conference included discussions about modernizing the BEP, a round table discussion with other state Administrators, dialogue with RSA Commissioner Rutledge,
and an introduction to the new RSA Randolph Sheppard Manager Dan Fry.  One of the biggest concerns nationally for BEP is the aging of the program and the
inability of programs to bring younger licensees into it with so many other career paths now available to them.  This discussion centered on the concept
of making BEP into a true entrepreneurial program and encouraging licensees to use BEP as a stepping stone to build and develop skills that would help
them move into the private sector.  Many states expressed concerns about finding qualified candidates; however, in Michigan BEP graduated 12 students in
the past 12 months, more than twice that of any other state.

EOC Relations

The Agency and EOC have continued to participate in an Ad Hoc committee in order to discuss issues and concerns and develop positive and creative solutions.
 The groups have had two meetings in the past two months.  Discussions have revolved around the role of the Agency and the kinds and level of support the
Licensees are wanting and needing from the Agency.  Roles have been clarified and specific action items have been established that are being worked into
the day to day activities of Commission staff.  The next meeting, scheduled for March 25, is going to discuss the role Promotional Agents have in monitoring
of Licensees and methods that can be employed to successfully complete this requirement while still allowing for independent business for operators.

The EOC has met several times and has presented several issues to the agency for consideration.  The biggest concern of operators and agency staff is facilitating
repairs in a timely manner.  While the issue has been identified, a clear solution has not.  Commission staff has met with the Locations and Repairs sub-committee
chair in order to discuss proposed methods to be more responsive to operator needs in this area and it is hoped that systems put into place from that meeting
will begin to relieve strains in this area.  Another concern that has been presented is the Operators participation in the 3% Health Care Trust Fund contribution.
 In October, 2010, as a part of the early retirement legislation, all participants in the state retirement were required to contribute 3% of their gross
compensation into a fund to cover retiree’s health care costs.  After consultation with the Office of Retirement Services, it was determined that Operators
would need to participate in the contribution as the legislation required all state retirement participants to contribute.  At the recommendation of the
EOC, Agency staff asked RSA if this payment could be made out of the Set Aside Fund, but were told that this is not an allowable expenditure of the fund.
 In February, the Civil Service Commission voted that this was not a legal requirement for NERE’s and as Licensees do not participate in a union it was
determined that this ruling would apply to them as well.  Administration officials determined that they would continue to collect the funds until a ruling
was made by the courts.  In late February, Ingham County Circuit Court determined that this was not a legal requirement and ordered that the collection
of funds cease.  The state has appealed that decision and will continue to collect the funds until a later ruling is made.