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<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>Greetings to all on the announcement list!</DIV>
<DIV>It is with great pleasure to share the informative newsletter from July
2016, Commission Edition.</DIV>
<DIV>To our members, please take notice and share with others as we continue to
share information to raise expectations to make a difference to live the lives
we want!</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">We care. We
share. We grow. We make a difference<BR>Joe Ruffalo, President <BR>National
Federation of the Blind of New Jersey <BR>973 743 0075<BR><A
href="mailto:nfbnj1@verizon.net">nfbnj1@verizon.net</A></DIV>
<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000"><A
href="http://www.nfbnj.org">www.nfbnj.org</A> <BR>Your old car keys can be keys
to literacy for the blind.<BR>Donate your unwanted vehicle to us by clicking
<BR>www.carshelpingtheblind.org <BR>or call 855 659 9314<BR></DIV>
<DIV
style='FONT-SIZE: small; TEXT-DECORATION: none; FONT-FAMILY: "Calibri"; FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: #000000; FONT-STYLE: normal; DISPLAY: inline'>
<DIV style="FONT: 10pt tahoma">
<DIV><FONT size=3 face=Calibri>***</FONT></DIV>
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV
style='FONT-SIZE: small; TEXT-DECORATION: none; FONT-FAMILY: "Calibri"; FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: #000000; FONT-STYLE: normal; DISPLAY: inline'><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif'></SPAN></DIV></DIV>
<DIV class=WordSection1>
<P class=MsoNormal><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></I> </P>
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align=center><SPAN
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v:shapes="Picture_x0020_1"><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 20pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Bodoni MT Black",serif'>Commission
Edition<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 6pt; TEXT-ALIGN: center"
align=center><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 18pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Bodoni MT Black",serif'>The Monthly
Newsletter of the NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually
Impaired<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 6pt; TEXT-ALIGN: center"
align=center><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 18pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>July
2016 – Volume 4, No. 7</SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 18pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Monotype Corsiva"'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Daniel B. Frye,
J.D.
Pamela Gaston<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Executive
Director
Editor<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1><U><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">From
the Director’s Desk <o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>For eleven years now,
The New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI or
Commission) has sponsored a blindness awareness night at a baseball game
featuring the Trenton Thunder, a minor league team for the New York Yankees.
Themed, Covering the Bases, CBVI staff, consumers, families, and other agency
stakeholders gather for an evening of education about blindness and
vision-impairment, shared with members of the public over a community baseball
game. This year’s event was held on Thursday, July 14,
2016.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>As in previous years,
Department of Human Services (DHS) Acting Commissioner Beth Connolly and I
greeted the crowd, offered a few words about the general capacity of blind and
vision-impaired people to live full and rewarding lives, spoke about the wide
array of blindness-related services available from CBVI, and referred interested
people to visit our information booth on the ball field’s concourse level.
Additionally, during the brief pre-game ceremony, five deserving students were
awarded academic scholarships to support their post-secondary careers. During
the Seventh Inning Stretch, thirteen-year-old CBVI consumer, Kaleigh Brendle,
sang, sharing her emerging vocal talent, to the delight of all
present.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The underlying purpose
of this annual evening at the ball park is to demonstrate the innate abilities
of those of us who are blind or vision-impaired to individuals interested in
learning about us. Throughout the evening, we interact with one another,
vendors, and the general public, enjoying a slice of America’s favorite pastime
and engaging in effective education through simple fun.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>In May of this year
Eric Duffy of Columbus, Ohio, joined CBVI’s staff as a Technology Services
Specialist. Consistent with the theme of this month’s column, I want to share
with all of you Eric’s story about baseball, emphasizing how the game has proven
not only to be a personal passion of his, but also a metaphor for his confidence
in himself and others who live their lives, blind and bold, ready to change
public misconceptions and eradicate stereotypes about the absence of vision.
Where much of the remainder of this month’s <I>Commission Edition </I>focuses on
the important programs and emerging regulations that will govern our services, I
hope this story conveys in a different way the spirit that all of us at CBVI are
charged with promoting to our consumers and the general public that come to the
Commission for assistance.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Taken from the
twenty-sixth volume of the National Federation of the Blind’s Kernel Book
Series, <I>The Lessons of the Earth</I>, here is Eric’s account, <I>Take Me Out
to the Ball Game</I>:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>I am one of
eight children, the only one with a disability in my family. My parents were
devastated to learn that I was blind. They had no hope for any sort of a future
for me, but as a child I never thought of myself as particularly different from
sighted kids. I couldn’t do some things very well, and I knew that, as we grew
older, some of those things would be more significant. From an early age I knew
that I would never be able to drive a car for example, so I always looked for
things in common with my sighted siblings and friends. Sports was one of these.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>True, I could
not catch a football or hit a baseball the way others could, but I could learn
everything possible about the games that I loved. There was a time when nothing
was more important to me than baseball. I studied the game; I knew something
about every major league team, something about every player, and everything
about the Cincinnati Reds. Those great ball players of the early ’70’s—Johnny
Bench, Pete Rose, Joe Morgan, Tony Perez, and many others—were my heroes.
Cincinnati Reds broadcasters Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxall brought the game to
life for me as for thousands of others. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>With their
vivid descriptions of the game and my insatiable desire to learn all I could
about the sport, I could hold a conversation about baseball with anyone—my
parents, my brothers, or my parents’ friends—it simply didn’t matter.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>I knew the
game, and I could hold my own with anyone who wanted to talk baseball. I showed
no mercy to anyone who challenged the vast superiority of the Big Red Machine to
all other teams in the major leagues. No other catcher (living or dead) was in
the same category as Johnny Bench.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>At the time I
was a student at the Ohio State School for the Blind, and although the doctors
said I was totally blind, I had some usable vision through most of junior high
school. Some of my friends had no vision at all, some just met the legal
definition of blindness (20/200), and others were somewhere between the two. We
wanted to find a way for all of us to play baseball together. We began by
rolling a kick-ball on the ground. That way we did not have to worry about upper
and lower strike zones. We stipulated that the ball must be on the ground before
reaching the plate. If it went over the plate without being hit, it was a
strike. If it did not touch the plate and the batter didn’t swing, it was a
ball. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The standard
rules of baseball applied—with the exception of having to roll the ball on the
ground. Of course, as I have already said, we used a kick-ball rather than a
baseball. First base was at the sliding board. Second base was a tree. Third
base was a jungle gym. Home plate was a merry-go-round. Of course each of these
objects had the appropriate base marker in front of it.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Someone at the
base would clap or shout to guide a totally blind base runner. I was not fast,
so I would hit the ball as far as I could, then slide headfirst into base
because that’s the way Pete Rose often did it. Some plays resulted in physical
altercations. I remember talking about our games with my older brother, who was
also playing informal games at school. We both expressed frustration at trying
to get our teammates to understand that they could not run as fast as they could
throw the ball. This is an important concept to understand when trying to put an
opponent out. An accurately thrown ball reaches base long before the runner
can.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>At that time I
did not know about the National Federation of the Blind, but it was then that I
began to understand part of the NFB philosophy. I knew that, although my sighted
brother and I were playing baseball under different conditions and different
rules, the fundamentals of the game were the same. We enjoyed and loved the game
in much the same way.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>At home we
used the same system, but the bases were orange cones. These were easy for me to
see, and since my father worked construction, they were easy to get. As we got
older, almost everyone got tired of this game. Those with enough vision to do so
wanted to hit the baseball. The ball had to be in the air: no more rolling it on
the ground. I, however, was determined not to be left out. I began pitching. I
was taking a chance that the ball would hit me on a line drive, but it was a
chance worth taking. I was still in the game.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The game of
baseball has changed a great deal in the last thirty years. I don’t enjoy it
nearly as much as I once did. My own life is now very different as well. I now
have two little boys, who are beginning to learn to play. I can throw the ball
so they can work on their fielding skills. I can help teach them the
fundamentals and history of the game. I go to practices and to games. I pay
attention to the sound as the bat hits the ball, and I listen to the comments of
people around me and on the field. When appropriate, I say, “Good hit, son.” And
at the end of the day, it never hurts to say, “Hustle a little
more.”<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Whether we’re
talking about the game of baseball or the game of life, blind people can find
ways to be successful. A very small percentage of the population earns a living
in professional sports. So blind people aren’t at much of a disadvantage with
our lack of skills on the ball field. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>As a blind
person I know that, if I approach life in the same way that I approached
baseball as a kid, I can be successful. But the key to success for blind people
is good training and opportunity. Although good training can be hard to get, it
is available. Equal opportunity is harder to win. More than 70 percent of
working-age blind people are unemployed. Commitment to the dream of changing
this prospect is one reason why I am a member of the National Federation of the
Blind. In this as in many, many other ways we are changing what it means to be
blind. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 12pt"><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Daniel B.
Frye<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Executive
Director<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoSubtitle><B><U><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>Learning
Lunch Reminder: <o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>As previously noted,
these monthly sessions will see me meeting with five CBVI staff and a member of
our Executive Management Team to receive feedback or suggestions on what the
Commission might do that is new and exciting. Please indicate your
interest in being part of such an up and coming forum by sending an email with
the subject line “Learning Lunch” to my assistant, Prestina Peters, at
</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><A
href="mailto:Prestina.Peters@dhs.state.nj.us"><SPAN
style='FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Prestina.Peters@dhs.state.nj.us</SPAN></A></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>***************************************************************************************************************************************************************<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 0in"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">Program
Administration – John C. Walsh, Chief<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Workforce Innovation
and Opportunity Act (WIOA) - Implementing the Law: </SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>On July 22, 2014,
President Obama signed into law the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(WIOA) that authorizes the six core programs that comprise America’s Workforce
Development System. These programs include: <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>1) Vocational
Rehabilitation <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>2)
Adult<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>3) Dislocated Workers
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>4) Youth
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>5) Adult Education and
Literacy<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>6) Wagner-Peyser Act
Programs, (i.e., public employment services including re-employment services to
unemployment insurance claimants.)<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The passage of WIOA
supersedes the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (WIA), and with its signing into
law, requires all core programs in the Workforce Development System to implement
key changes which Congress believes will better address the needs of
Americans preparing for the 21<SUP>st</SUP> century workforce.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The passage of the new
law also requires amendments to the existing federal regulations that govern the
operations of the workforce development programs, including state agencies that
are key partners in implementing the requirements of the law. On April 16,
2015, the U.S. Departments of Education and Labor jointly issued Notices of
Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) documents in the Federal Register. A comment
period was established to allow all interested parties to submit their comments
and concerns regarding the proposed new regulations. The comment
period ended on June 15, 2015. An initial release of the amended federal
regulations occurred on June 30, 2016, which included an exhaustive analysis of
the numerous comments that were received and provided a rationale for either
changing the proposed rules based on public comment or for maintaining the rules
as published in the NPRM. The regulations are slated to become final
thirty days after they are published in the Federal Register for programs
administered by the U.S. Department of Education, which includes the VR program,
and sixty days after publication for all programs administered by the U.S.
Department of Labor, including the One-Stop Career system. It is
anticipated that the publication of the rules in the Federal Register will occur
this summer.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>CBVI’s administration
is currently reviewing the various regulatory documents associated with WIOA to
incorporate amended and new regulations into the Commission’s administrative
codes, including N.J.A.C. 10:95, and developing new policies, procedures, and
practices to address the mandated changes involving the workforce development
system. Although these changes will predominantly affect staff providing
Vocational Rehabilitation services, there will also be changes in CBVI practices
that will be evident in all departments and programs.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>A core principle of the
law is to facilitate a greater alignment of all programs within the broader
workforce development system, with the common goal of providing a robust set of
diverse services to better prepare all employment-seeking U.S. residents to
pursue a viable career pathway. I believe this mirrors our efforts to
foster greater alignments of the Commission’s various programs along with our
community partners. This will enable CBVI to continue to improve our services
and programs around a common objective of assisting all individuals we serve to
achieve their highest potentials, while pursuing their dreams and
goals. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Over the next several
months, I will be publishing a series of articles in the <I>Commission
Edition</I> to begin the process of explaining the changes that will be of
impact to our programs and services as a result of the passage of
WIOA. We will be sharing information widely on the new regulations
to assist in the necessary transition resultant to the new law. As
with any change, there will be growing pains, but I know that we are well
positioned as an organization to move forward with implementing these
initiatives.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Below is a brief
overview of the major change themes that are contained within WIOA and more
specifically the reauthorization of Title IV within WIOA, the Rehabilitation Act
of 1973, as amended. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>These three main change
initiatives within the law will impact how CBVI provides
services:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph
style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.75in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">1)<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'> </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Promote greater
alignment within the various components of America’s Workforce Development
System: </SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>One method to increase
this alignment is that all states are now required to submit one state plan,
combined or unified, for all core programs within that state’s workforce
development system. This past year CBVI’s administration worked with
all the core partners in New Jersey to develop one combined state plan. In
addition, all core programs will be measured for effectiveness with one set of
performance metrics. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst
style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.75in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">2)<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'> </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Increase the emphasis
on competitive, integrated employment:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> “Employment outcomes”
was redefined to only include work outcomes that are in competitive, integrated
employment. Sheltered employment has not been included as a
countable employment outcome since the 1998 reauthorization of the law, and in
this reauthorization, unpaid and homemaker outcomes will be gradually
discontinued as countable employment outcomes.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.75in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">3)<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'> </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Expansion of services
to students and youth with disabilities: </SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>WIOA has created a new
category of services called Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), which
are to be provided to “students with disabilities”, (i.e., individuals with
disabilities ages 14 – 21) who are still in educational settings, either
secondary or post-secondary education, who are “potentially eligible” or
“eligible” for VR services. There are five “required” services that
constitute Pre-Employment Transition Services:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo2; mso-text-indent-alt: -9.0pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN>i.<SPAN style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Job exploration
counseling<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo2; mso-text-indent-alt: -9.0pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN>ii.<SPAN style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Work-based learning
experiences<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo2; mso-text-indent-alt: -9.0pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN>iii.<SPAN style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Counseling related to
transitioning to post-secondary education and training<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo2; mso-text-indent-alt: -9.0pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN>iv.<SPAN style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Workplace readiness
training to develop social skills and independent living<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast
style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo2; mso-text-indent-alt: -9.0pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN>v.<SPAN style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Instruction in
self-advocacy<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>In future articles, I
will expand upon the specific areas of change within these three broad
categories to begin the work of moving our policies, procedures, and practices
towards alignment with the parameters set forth in WIOA. There is much
work to be done in the year to come, but know that CBVI, as an organization is
up for the challenge. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">Organizational
Logistics – Ines Matos, Chief</SPAN></U><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 18pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; COLOR: black; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>What’s new in Assistive
Technology:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> Last year, was
the pilot kick-off of the LEAP (Library Equal Access Program), and this Fall we
will add new libraries to the list of available locations for assistive
technology classes for the age 55+ population. Classes will be offered in the
Atlantic County Library at Mays Landing, Cherry Hill Public Library, Atlantic
City Public Library, East Brunswick Public Library, Johnson Public Library in
Hackensack, and the South Orange Public Library. Cherry Hill Library has already
committed to offering the classes and has received their equipment.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Classes will be held
September through December in the fall and then March through May in the
Spring. This year’s programs will include options for computer skills with
screen reading or magnification as well as iPad classes focusing on the built in
zoom and voice over options available. Each library will have one class a month
and the topics covered will change each month.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>All of the libraries
will also make computers with the assistive technology, as well as the iPad’s,
available to library guests who will benefit from the assistive technology when
classes are not in session.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>We plan to continue to
add new libraries each year and build the program up to reach as many people as
possible. If you know anyone who would benefit from one of these classes, please
have them call Advancing Opportunities at 1-888-322-1918 ext. 595 and speak to
someone about registering for a class at a library near
them.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>A Note to all Assistive
Technology (AT) Users from Tiffany Jessen</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>:
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Hello
Everyone,<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>My goal for the summer
is to improve the skills, efficiency, and confidence some of our staff have for
using technology to perform their job duties. In particular, I am focused on the
access technology users, but the items can be mainstream tasks as well. In order
to manage a caseload efficiently, staff should be capable of reading documents
by the up/down arrow, creating folders, managing documents, adding entries to
both their calendar and contact lists, and more. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Supervisors have
recently asked that staff be trained in tasks such as: viewing other people’s
calendars; accessing data that has been exported from FACTS into Excel; viewing
and editing timesheets in e-CATS; and various mobile phone functions, including
reading in different granularities (character/word/line/paragraph),
synchronizing data, updating the operating system, the Talkback app, and turning
on the portable hotspot and/or tethering.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Whether the AT issue is
major or minor, if my assistance can be helpful, please don’t hesitate to
ask. If there are tasks that you would like to work on, or would like your
staff to work on, let me know, and I will arrange time to get together for some
training. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">Vocational
Rehabilitation and Transition Services – Amanda Gerson, Coordinator
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Work experiences and
internships in high school and college can provide invaluable lessons to our
transition and college aged consumers. These early work experiences allow the
opportunity to explore various fields of employment and work settings, hone
their vocational goals and interests, and practice their “soft skills”, such as
communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and time management. These experiences
can contribute to their growth and confidence, add meaningful experience to
their resume, and increase their network for future employment opportunities.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>CBVI has established
some formal pathways for high school students to obtain work experience, through
various transition programs, such as EDGE (Employment, Development, Guidance,
and Engagement), the Work Skills Preparation Program at The College of New
Jersey, and VR Counselor referrals to supported employment agencies.
Additionally, our College VR Counselors regularly encourage students to take
advantage of work study, internships, and co-ops through their college or
university career services office or programs of study. With the advent of the
Business Relations Unit and the increased focus on Pre-Employment Transition
Services under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, CBVI will begin
exploring new ways to increase these opportunities for young adult
consumers. One strategy is through exploring partnerships with businesses
and other governmental agencies as we plan to do with the Business Relations
Unit. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The internship
opportunity described below was offered to CBVI by U.S. Senator Cory Booker’s
office. This was an extension of Senator Booker’s efforts to be as
inclusive as possible to the various communities that his office serves,
including individuals with disabilities. The result of Ms. Sahiti’s internship
was the facilitation of opportunities for improving awareness through meaningful
conversations, and, thanks to the outstanding work of this consumer, a
partnership that will extend internships to additional CBVI
consumers.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>“Dear CBVI
Community,<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>My name is Donjeta
Sahiti, and I am an undergraduate student at Seton Hall University. During my
spring 2016 semester, I had the privilege of interning at the office of Senator
Cory Booker. This was my first experience in the workforce. Everything was new
to me and from the start I was quite nervous.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>I learned a lot from
taking the first step of applying for the internship which was my introduction
to the application process for a new job. The process also required me to create
my first resume and develop a cover letter. This was followed by my first
official job interview. This experience will benefit me in the future and
I believe I will be prepared to approach future opportunities for internships
and employment with confidence.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>When I received the
phone call from Sen. Booker’s office advising me that I had been selected for
the internship I was extremely excited but still quite a bit nervous. I expected
it to be a very strict work environment, and I was delighted to find out I was
wrong. I found myself working with a diverse group of young and energetic
people who are genuinely passionate about what they do. It was an amazing
experience to be a member of such an efficient and well-organized team. My
co-workers were all extremely considerate and friendly. We got a lot of work
done, but we also truly enjoyed one another. Meeting a lot of great new people
and making some amazing new friends was an unexpected perk of my internship.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Even though we had a
good time with one another, we also got a lot accomplished. The interns were
assigned to a variety of tasks and projects. I worked the front desk, answering
calls and providing general information to constituents; I was required to
compose concise memos; and do research. I was allowed to use my personal
computer which was great because it already had all of the accessibility
features I needed to complete my work. Another concern was mobility around the
office, but even that was easier than I had originally expected. In the
beginning of my internship, I was given a one-on-one tour of the office and
after that there were no issues. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>One of the most
memorable moments of the internship was getting to meet Senator Booker himself.
I was working on an assignment and the Senator had a meeting in the Newark
office. After his meeting, he came up to me and introduced himself and even
called me by name. He is a genuinely kind person who cares about every person he
meets. He took the time out of his busy schedule to meet with his interns and
took a personal interest in our lives. He is a very kind, warm-hearted,
authentic individual. It was a pleasure being able to work at his office and
learn so much about both the workforce and myself in the process.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>I know that this
experience has opened doors for me. This experience has challenged me to push
myself even further and to re-think the limits I placed on myself. I highly
encourage other students to participate in either this internship or any other
internship in any field of interest. An internship is an incredible way to get
real-world experience in the workforce, meet new people, and discover things
about yourself.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Sincerely,<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Donjeta
Sahiti<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 0in"><U><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext"><o:p><SPAN
style="TEXT-DECORATION: none"> </SPAN></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 0in"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">Educational
Services – Eva Scott, Director of Blindness Education<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>“Keep Calm and Carry
On”</SPAN></I><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> -
(The British Government to the British people during the Battle of
Britain)<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><U><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>SHARP
2016</SPAN></U></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>: SHARP 2016 has
finally arrived! During the first two weeks of the program, our students
have used their literacy skills, technology skills, and independent living
skills to access information, find their location, prepare a meal, travel
safely, and interact with new friends. In between they have also taken
fitness classes, participated in their own Olympics games, created beautiful
artwork, visited an aquarium, attended a jazz concert, visited a science museum,
and played musical instruments with members of a rock band. Those are the
activities that have occurred so far. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>As you can see,
everyone in Blindness Education is busy making the summer wonderful for many of
our students. However, it is important to note that while SHARP 2016 is
going on, our teachers are still busy providing braille instruction to students
who were not able to attend SHARP. With so much to do in Blindness
Education during the summer, I often find myself saying aloud, “Keep calm and
carry on.” <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><U><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Provider Service
Agreements to School Districts:</SPAN></U></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> </SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>A few weeks ago, our
provider service agreements (a.k.a., school contracts) for the 2016-2017
academic year were sent out. Within a week of the mailing, signed
agreements began returning to CBVI. During this process, I have had the
opportunity to speak with a number of school district officials who have been
very complimentary of the professionalism of our teachers and the quality of the
services they provide. Many of these officials were eager to receive a
service agreement to make sure we would be serving their students during the
upcoming academic year.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The following essay,
submitted by Joan Boyle, is an essay question response, as written by CBVI
student, and National Braille Challenge finalist, Kaleigh
Brendle:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>2016 National Braille
Challenge Questionnaire: What do you want to be when you grow up and
why?<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>“I strive to become a
renowned author, a successful singer, and or possibly an activist fighting for
environmental law. After middle school and high school, I hope to attend
Princeton University or Harvard University and thereafter pursue my chosen
en-devours. It is my dream to inspire optimism and creativity in the minds of
children so that our future generations will be even more successful than our
past. The astounding works of JK Rowling have fueled my passion for writing, and
it is my hope that I will someday be as successful and inspiriting as she.
Adele’s enthralling voice pushes my drive to excel vocally in the much beloved
world of music, while the moving story of environmental activist, Severn
Cullis-Suzuki, fuels my desire for the protection and preservation of our
environment. If I am so fortunate in one or more of these fields, then I would
like to donate proceeds from my success to organizations aiding the Blind and
Vision Impaired. It is imperative that all children are treated equally no
matter their vision impairment; nothing must prevent them from achieving their
desired life goals. “<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">Independent Living
& Clinical Services – Elizabeth DeShields,
Coordinator<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>As part of our
partnership with t</SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>he National Research
and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision of Mississippi State University,
Kendra Farrow and I arranged Diabetic Education training for the Eye Health
Nurses (EHN).<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>During a recent meeting
at the Cherry Hill Service Center, Independent Living policies and procedures
were reviewed, but the highlight was the discussion of the Diabetic Education
Conference. Karen Brazinski and Mary Tigges, RN’s an EHN’s from the
Southern Region out of the Freehold Service Center, share their thoughts
below:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>“Recently on June 16,
the EHN’s attended a conference on Adaptive Blood Glucose Monitoring and Insulin
Measurement, presented by Debra Sokol-Mckay. It was an excellent
conference during which we were able to discuss some of the techniques and
devices we currently use, as well as some items which were new to many of the
EHN’s. Of special interest was the Surgilance, a single use lancet device
which is pressure activated, and may be helpful to our consumers with severe
neuropathy of the hands or those that have only the use of one hand. The
presenter also introduced an insulin pen tip, the AutoShield, which eliminates
needle sticks when self-administering insulin via an insulin pen. Within a
week after the conference, I was able to suggest this device to a consumer, who
is blind and has severe neuropathy in his hands which has resulted in him
inadvertently sticking himself a few times, when practicing to use an insulin
pen. The AutoShield was a great help to this
consumer.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>This conference
provided practical information, feedback on currently used techniques, and an
opportunity to gather as professionals to exchange ideas and thoughts. We gained
“hands on” experience, in addition to increasing our knowledge about different
glucose testing methods which are currently available. At the conclusion
of the conference, we were each provided with Diabetic Education Kits that
included a 3-D tactile model of the consequences of diabetes, a flip chart, and
a model foot that simulates diabetic wounds and foot disease. All of this
will clearly help us educate our consumers in the areas of diabetes as it
relates to their eye condition.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Thank you for all those
involved in arranging this conference.” <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 12pt"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">Joseph Kohn
Training Center – Del Basha, Manager<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; COLOR: black'>In
addition to the various instructional classes that are available to students who
enroll in the Joseph Kohn Training Center (JKTC), there are also group
discussions which focus on vocation related topics. Students have expressed
their appreciation for these interactive discussions, since they offer a unique
opportunity for individuals to provide feedback, learn valuable information, and
ask key questions. These groups are conducted periodically by the manager,
supervisors, nursing supervisor, and social worker. The social work component is
effective in helping consumers to continue to become more independent. These
meetings can sometimes resolve critical issues confronting consumers.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; COLOR: black'>Social
Work - Submitted</SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; COLOR: black'> by
Alexandra Ramos:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; COLOR: black'>
</SPAN><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The Social
Work Office at the JKTC provides <SPAN style="COLOR: black">a </SPAN>variety of
services to the center’s students. In addition to <SPAN
style="COLOR: black">scheduling tours</SPAN> and arranging pre-admits, students
are provided <SPAN style="COLOR: black">with </SPAN>supportive services <SPAN
style="COLOR: black">related to various needs and requests.</SPAN> These
services include<SPAN style="COLOR: black">:</SPAN> applications for housing,
<SPAN style="COLOR: black">acquiring a </SPAN>DMVC non-driver’s photo ID, <SPAN
style="COLOR: black">completion of </SPAN>medical related documents, and <SPAN
style="COLOR: black">setting up </SPAN>NJ WINS<SPAN style="COLOR: black">
presentations</SPAN>. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Recently<SPAN
style="COLOR: black">,</SPAN> one of the JKTC students was assisted with <SPAN
style="COLOR: black">her </SPAN>application for Medicaid / Workability (formerly
known as the Ticket-to-Work program). This client was in the process of
losing her Medicaid health insurance<SPAN style="COLOR: black">. W</SPAN>ith
guidance from the Social Work office, the consumer’s application was thoroughly
completed and processed in a timely manner. Ultimately, the consumer was then
re-approved for the service. Since authorization for <SPAN
style="COLOR: black">many services </SPAN>can take up to three months, it is
<SPAN style="COLOR: black">crucial </SPAN>to start the paperwork early<SPAN
style="COLOR: black">.</SPAN> <SPAN style="COLOR: black">As such, the regular
updates that occur between consumers and staff are very beneficial.
</SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 12pt"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">Business
Enterprises of New Jersey – Deacon Truesdale, Manager
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The Department of
Defense (DoD) has recently proposed regulations that would violate the
Randolph-Sheppard Act and regulations regarding the application of the
Randolph-Sheppard Act to military food services. These proposed
regulations could severely limit opportunities for blind entrepreneurs. The DoD
is looking to narrow the definition of the operation of a cafeteria to eliminate
all activities except for the “exercise of management responsibility and day to
day decision making authority” over the entire facility. Blind vendors
have much more than just a managerial role when operating a cafeteria.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>“Cafeteria means a food
dispensing facility capable of providing a broad variety of prepared foods and
beverages (including hot meals) primarily through the use of a line where the
customer serves himself from displayed selections. A cafeteria may be fully
automatic or some limited waiter or waitress service may be available and
provided within a cafeteria and table or booth seating facilities are always
provided.” <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>These ancillary
services are already established under the priority for Randolph-Sheppard as
regulated by RSA. There is enough vagueness with this proposed rule that could
potentially spark litigation as vendors face a reduction in the amount of
contracts that the Randolph-Sheppard priority applies. The proposed
definition opens up many doors to subcontracting services that will separate
services that already fall under the priority. This can potentially lead
to lost revenues to the blind vendor. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The National Council of
State Agencies for the Blind (NCSAB) has drawn up a draft letter stating the
above mentioned issues. NCSAB has reached out nationwide to the State
Licensing Agencies asking all to take part in a legal argument against these
proposed regulations. In BENJ we provide troop dining to the Cape May
Coast Guard Training Center and our manager, Frank Collepardi happily assisted
in providing the necessary information to submit the comments on behalf of
BENJ.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 12pt"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">Regional
Updates</SPAN></U><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 18pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></H1>
<H1
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 6pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0in; mso-margin-top-alt: 12.0pt"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">Southern Region –
Jack Thompson, Manager</SPAN></U><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 16pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>What Is a VRT? –
Submitted by Wanda Blann:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> I would like to
tell you about a profession that the world knows very little about. This
profession is a Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (VRT). Here at CBVI we are known
as Rehabilitation Teachers or (VRT/RT’s). Up until two years ago I had never
heard of this profession and because I have been vision-impaired since birth, I
have to admit I never thought about people who are blind or vision-impaired
needing someone to help them adjust and maintain independence. I am going to
tell you just what a VRT is and does as well as where to receive some of the
best educational training. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>VRT professionals are
people who teach adaptive independent living skills that help those who are
blind, deaf-blind, or vision-impaired to perform a wide range of daily life
activities. We also assist by providing information that empowers and
enables consumers to be more informed about available services and programs.
VRT’s go into individuals’ homes, work, care facilities, and even prisons.
It doesn’t matter where the consumer is. If our services are required, we will
be there to address their needs. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Currently, I am
receiving my formal educational training from Salus University located in Elkins
Park, Pennsylvania. Salus is one of only four universities that offers a
Certificate and a Master’s program in the discipline of Vision Rehabilitation
Therapy. Salus University has a ninety-seven year legacy of academic
superiority and assurance of thoughtful development and growth. Salus
University’s rigorous academic programs are based on a holistic primary-care and
patience-centered philosophy that emphasizes hands-on learning and innovative
student learning. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>In the VRT training
program the “Andragogy” approach is used. Andragogy is a student-driven
approach, in which the student tells you what and where their needs are and are
in turn guided through the learning process. Salus understands that as
graduate students the majority of us have some type of job, full or part time
and therefore offer their programs online, with a single, mandatory, intensive,
six to eight weeks, on campus during the summer session. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The Salus program
prepares VRT professionals with the necessary expertise and provides
comprehensive vision rehabilitation therapy services to people who are blind and
vision-impaired. Once you have successfully completed the one and a half year to
two year program you will have achieved either a certificate or Master’s degree
and you will fully be ready to take the ACVREP exam which will grant you the
national certification that will be recognized anywhere in the
USA.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 12pt"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">New or
Noteworthy<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>CBVI consumer Johnnie
Porter of Jersey City didn’t want to sit around thinking about what he could no
longer do when he lost his vision. He wanted to go back to work or go to school,
but when those things didn’t happen for him, he decided to do some community
service. Mr. Porter got in contact with the United Way of Essex and Hudson
counties and through them he became a volunteer for “Angie Cares”, a program
founded by Assemblywoman Angela McKnight. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Along with his
volunteer work, Mr. Porter was dealing with a variety of personal problems not
the least of these being his health and adjusting to his vision loss. With the
assistance of his caseworker, and referrals to the appropriate resources, he was
able to resolve some longstanding personal concerns which greatly improved his
quality of life. This enabled him to increase his involvement with “Angie
Cares”, and since then he has dedicated two hours a day, seven days a week, to
calling and accepting calls from seniors and individuals with
disabilities. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Mr. Porter said,
“Sometimes people just want to hear a kind word, but often people need help. I
might call someone to wish them “Happy Birthday” and next find myself talking to
somebody who says they have no food in their house. It varies from day to
day.”<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>In April of this year,
Mr. Porter was hospitalized for an amputation. Although he was, in his own
words, “devastated”, he made his daily phone calls from his hospital bed.
“I had to because I know they depend on hearing from me,” said Mr.
Porter.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>As a result of his
dedication, Assemblywoman McKnight and the CEO of United Way visited Mr. Porter
at his home to present the President’s Volunteer Service Award along with a
personal letter of recognition from President Barack Obama.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Mr. Porter sent copies
of both to CBVI with the following note: <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Dear Commission:
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>As a blind person I
would like to thank the Commission for what you all have done for me. I would
like to share this award with all the blind people like myself in the State of
NJ and nationwide.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Sincerely,<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Johnnie
Porter<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="BACKGROUND: white; PAGE-BREAK-AFTER: avoid; TEXT-ALIGN: center; LINE-HEIGHT: 18pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><A
href="http://www.nj.com/monmouth/index.ssf/2016/06/nj_girl_to_compete_in_national_braille_competition.html#comments"><B><SPAN
style='TEXT-DECORATION: none; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; BACKGROUND: #0582ff; COLOR: windowtext; LETTER-SPACING: 0.15pt'>comments</SPAN></B></A></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LETTER-SPACING: 0.15pt'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 0.25in"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%">The Last
Words<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<H3><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>“Every
child deserves a champion – an adult who will never give up on them, who
understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that
they can possibly be.”</SPAN></I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: windowtext; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>
- R. Pierson</SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></H3>
<DIV
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<P class=MsoNormal
style="BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; PADDING-TOP: 0in; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in"><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></I> </P></DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Please send items or
suggestions for the next issue of the <I>Commission Edition</I> by or before 11
a.m., Monday, August 22, 2016:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><A href="mailto:Pamela.Gaston@dhs.state.nj.us"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Pamela.Gaston@dhs.state.nj.us</SPAN></B></A></SPAN><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> and </SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><A
href="mailto:Prestina.Peters@dhs.state.nj.us"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Prestina.Peters@dhs.state.nj.us</SPAN></B></A></SPAN><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> </SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><I><SPAN
style='FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></I> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p></o:p> </P></DIV></DIV></DIV></DIV></BODY></HTML>