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<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">
<DIV>Greetings to all!</DIV>
<DIV>Received from Pamela Gaston, NJ CBVI.</DIV>
<DIV>Another opportunity for those that are looking for an opportunity.</DIV>
<DIV>Remember, Newsline Registered. Please contact Jane Degenshein,
Coordinator.</DIV>
<DIV>973 736 5785 </DIV>
<DIV><A href="mailto:jdegen16@comcast.net">jdegen16@comcast.net</A>; </DIV>
<DIV>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>nfbnj1@verizon.net<BR><A
href="http://www.nfbnj.org">www.nfbnj.org</A></DIV>
<DIV>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><B>Subject:</B> DHS Clippings</DIV></DIV>
<DIV> </DIV></DIV>
<DIV
style='FONT-SIZE: small; TEXT-DECORATION: none; FONT-FAMILY: "Calibri"; FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: #000000; FONT-STYLE: normal; DISPLAY: inline'>
<DIV class=WordSection1>
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<DIV>
<DIV
style="BORDER-TOP: #e1e1e1 1pt solid; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; PADDING-TOP: 3pt; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in">
<P class=MsoNormal><B>From:</B> Pamela.Gaston@dhs.state.nj.us
[mailto:Pamela.Gaston@dhs.state.nj.us] <BR><B>Sent:</B> Monday, October 03, 2016
11:57 AM<BR><B>To:</B> CBVI.AllUsers@dhs.state.nj.us<BR><B>Subject:</B> DHS
Clippings<o:p></o:p></P></DIV></DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>State Library
Highlights Services for Visually Impaired During Blindness Awareness Month,
October 2016 <o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>CentralJersey.com,
September 28, 2016—By: <A
href="https://www.centraljersey.com/users/profile/Gary%20Cooper"><SPAN
style="TEXT-DECORATION: none; COLOR: windowtext">Gary Cooper</SPAN></A>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><A
href="http://www.centraljersey.com/content/tncms/live/#1"><SPAN
style="TEXT-DECORATION: none; COLOR: windowtext"><IMG id=Picture_x0020_1
border=0
alt="Description: Description: Description: Lolly Cheatham, Bruce Groendyke"
src="cid:959F51D657134FE2ADB6AFD3BA9B1DF1@JoeHP" width=189 height=146>
</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none; COLOR: windowtext">Lolly
Cheatham, assistive technology specialist with Advancing Opportunities,
instructs Bruce Groendyke of Hightstown in navigating the iPad. Groendyke
participated in a special program for veterans with visual impairments at the NJ
State Library Talking Book & Braille Center to learn the iPad.
</SPAN></A></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>In New Jersey, public
libraries are at the heart of their communities and play an important role in
reaching out to those with print impairments. The New Jersey State Library’s
Talking Book & Braille Center (TBBC) has joined forces with state agencies
and organizations focused on serving New Jersey’s visually impaired, to enhance
access to assistive technology across the state. TBBC has partnered with select
public libraries to provide a number of accessibility programs, at no additional
cost to residents.</SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>To help raise awareness
during Blindness Awareness Month, which takes place annually during the month of
October, TBBC is highlighting all of its assistive technology services through a
webpage on the State Library website: <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><A
href="http://www.njstatelib.org/accessibility/"><SPAN
style="TEXT-DECORATION: none; COLOR: windowtext">http://www.njstatelib.org/accessibility/</SPAN></A>.
New Jersey’s Blind Awareness Month resolution from the Assembly was sponsored by
Assemblyman Louis D. Greenwald and by Assemblywoman Pamela R. Lampitt, both of
District 6 and was signed into law by Governor John Corzine in
2009.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>iPad Training for
Veterans<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Thanks to a grant from
Disability Rights New Jersey, TBBC arranged classes to teach two groups of
veterans how to use the assistive technology features on iPads, to help reduce
the digital divide for veterans with visual impairments or blindness by
introducing them to new technologies that can assist them in their daily living.
One group had varying degrees of visual impairment; the other group of veterans
was totally blind. The training included finger navigation, magnification and
text-to-speech features, as well as an introduction to using assistive
apps.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Most of the veterans’
sight loss was due to macular degeneration, a disease affecting the macula or
center of the retina of the eye which results in progressive loss of central
vision. Occurring most often among older people, it is the most common cause of
vision loss in people over age 55.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Although all the
participants had personal reasons for taking the course, the veterans who still
had some sight, like Marvin Horowitz, an Army veteran from Cherry Hill, was
preparing for the future. “I have to prepare myself for the inevitable,” he
said. “The macular degeneration is making it more and more difficult to see on
my devices and PC. This is preparing me and that was my goal.”
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Virginia Lucas, an Air
Force flight nurse during the Vietnam War from Trenton, was taking the course
just because she “thought it was about time I got up to date electronically.”
Lucas was the second female to join the Veterans of Foreign Wars in NJ and is a
37-year member of American Legion Post 458, Trenton. Her family operated four
Tripicin salt water taffy stores in Atlantic City.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Like Lucas, Bruce
Groendyke, an Army vet from Hightstown, called himself a “technical dinosaur.”
Severely nearsighted, he was learning how to use the iPad to see pictures,
videos and to do research, when he does not have access to his home
computer.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>“These classes were
highly beneficial,” said Horowitz. “They exceeded my expectations and will
enable me to keep up with what’s happening in the world.”<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Nancy Loveland of
Forked River, who served in the Marines, agreed. “This course was fabulous. It
was the right thing at the right time.” As a teacher’s aide at Lacey Middle
School she works with 7<SUP>th</SUP> and 8<SUP>th</SUP> grade special needs
children, many of whom have visual impairments. “For these children, the iPad is
the tool of choice, so the school was excited that I was learning how to use it
and can now teach those students with visual impairments. It made me a much more
valuable person in my role.” Loveland said she practiced on the iPad every day
to master it.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Library Equal Access
Program<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The Library Equal
Access Program (LEAP), provides free computer and iPad training classes at
assistive technology learning centers located in seven public libraries across
the state. Training includes beginner and advanced level instruction on how to
use reading magnification and speech software to read websites, emails and other
documents, as well as an introduction to using the assistive technology features
now available on iPads. This program is sponsored by the New Jersey Commission
for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI), and targets adults 55 years of age
and older. “The ultimate goal of the LEAP program is to promote independence and
to remove the digital divide for older adults with vision impairments,” said Dan
Frye, executive director of CBVI. “LEAP places state-of-the-art technology and
training in public libraries to serve people closer to where they live. These
classes for those new to iPads or assistive software will expand skills and
opportunities.”<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The East Brunswick
Public Library opened their LEAP Training Room on September 21 with a ribbon
cutting. According to Jennifer Podolsky, library director, the response to the
program was unexpected. “We were surprised that all our classes filled so
quickly. This just shows the need for this type of program for our residents
with visual impairments and how libraries are responding to the needs of our
diverse population.”<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>English To
Go!<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>On October 4, TBBC’s
Audiovision radio reading service will begin broadcasting a series of 3-minute
English conversation practice sessions every Tuesday and Thursday following the
airing of the <I>Star-Ledger</I> newspaper at approximately 1:55 and 7:55 p.m.
One 3-minute practice session at a beginner/intermediate level will be broadcast
each week. These brief sessions are for those whose primary language is not
English, and are visually- or print-impaired. Volunteer and staff readers have
recorded everyday English conversation that we conduct with friends and
neighbors, when making appointments over the telephone, ordering at a deli or
restaurant, talking with a stranger at the mall, and other situations.
Audiovision is available to those who subscribe to Comcast or Verizon Fios on
television, others may access it through their computer. For those who do not
receive Audiovision service or any other library services from TBBC, call
Audiovision at 800-792-8322 ext 806, for more information.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>sitecues® by
AiSquared<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The State Library added
sitecues®, an easy-to-use software designed to both magnify and read text, on
its website, as well as at all Outspoken Library computer kiosks, located in
thirty-eight public libraries and three veterans’ homes around the state.
“sitecues®, offers visitors to the website, who rely heavily on online research
tools, an easier way to navigate and read documents. It also allows us to offer
our public library partners an easy-to-use accessibility tool which they can
offer to their community members who might struggle to read web pages because of
a reading disability or because the text is too small,” said Mary Chute, New
Jersey State Librarian.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Professional Training
Provides Equal Access to Information<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Instruction for the
computer and iPad training programs will be provided by Advancing Opportunities,
a leader in assistive technology training, and includes one-on-one assistance
from Lolly Cheatham, assistive technology specialist, who has been instructing
for three years. With patience as one of her prime virtues, Cheatham said the
biggest challenge for her students with visual impairments is their level of
knowledge of the technology and the terminology. “They have to learn about apps;
learn what a rotor is on the iPad; learn gestures to navigate, all of which are
new to them.”<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>“Public libraries are
learning centers for new technology,” said Adam Szczepaniak, deputy state
librarian and director of TBBC. “These initiatives help boost that level of
learning to include not only assistive software for those with vision
impairments, but training, as well, which is in high demand by those who need
assistance learning how to use an iPad, or who need help browsing the internet
because their vision is changing.”<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>About the New Jersey
State Library<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The New Jersey State
Library (NJSL), an affiliate of Thomas Edison State University, connects people
with information and resources through its service to libraries, government and
people including those with special needs. NJSL’s mission has expanded since its
establishment in 1796 to lead in the provision, promotion and support of high
quality library and information services to all the people of NJ. Led by State
Librarian Mary Chute, NJSL coordinates, promotes and funds the NJ Library
Network by providing advisory and technical information and services to support
NJ’s libraries in the fulfillment of their missions. NJSL also provides support
for public, school, academic, and special libraries, and continues to promote
services for learners of all ages, including key areas of continuing need such
as digital literacy, business outreach, workforce development, and summer
reading programs. NJSL continues its focus on innovation and future trends, and
seeks out exemplary models and technologies that can help assist the NJ library
community in remaining relevant and essential community anchors. For more
information, visit <A href="http://www.njstatelib.org/"><SPAN
style="TEXT-DECORATION: none; COLOR: windowtext">www.njstatelib.org</SPAN></A>.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>About the New Jersey
Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The mission of the New
Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) is to promote and
provide services in the areas of education, employment, independence and eye
health through informed choice and partnership with persons who are blind or
vision impaired, their families and the community. CBVI was created by the State
Legislature in 1910 and has several offices and facilities throughout the state.
CBVI works to provide and/or ensure access to services that will enable people
who are blind or vision impaired to obtain their fullest measure of
self-reliance and improved quality of life. CBVI also seeks to assure that
people who are blind or vision impaired are treated as dignified and worthy
individuals who are fully engaged in their communities, on equal footing with
their sighted peers. For more information, visit <A
href="http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/cbvi/"><SPAN
style="TEXT-DECORATION: none; COLOR: windowtext">http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/cbvi/</SPAN></A><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>About Disability Rights
New Jersey<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Incorporated in 1994,
DRNJ was subsequently designated by the Governor to serve as New Jersey's
protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities. Disability Rights
New Jersey provides services to persons with disabilities regardless of race,
creed, religion, color, national origin, age, marital status, familial status,
sex, sexual orientation, ancestry or disability. DRNJ undertakes its mission
through a team approach, built on an issue foundation defined both by the
agency's federal funding sources and its consumer-driven priorities. For more
information, visit: <A href="http://www.drnj.org/"><SPAN
style="TEXT-DECORATION: none; COLOR: windowtext">http://www.drnj.org/</SPAN></A>.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>About Advancing
Opportunities<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>A leader in the
disability services field, Advancing Opportunities has been providing
person-centered, community-based services to people with all types of
disabilities and their families since 1950. In addition to assistive
technology services, the agency provides family support services, advocacy,
residential programs, respite care, substance abuse prevention education, and
community education and transition services throughout the state. For more
information about Advancing Opportunities visit <A
href="http://www.advopps.org/"><SPAN
style="TEXT-DECORATION: none; COLOR: windowtext">www.advopps.org</SPAN></A> or
call 1-888-322-1918. To see the ways assistive technology can help people
with disabilities, visit <A
href="http://www.assistivetechnologycenter.org/"><SPAN
style="TEXT-DECORATION: none; COLOR: windowtext">www.assistivetechnologycenter.org</SPAN></A>.<B>
<o:p></o:p></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Computer and iPad
Trainings Offered at Libraries Across the State to Help Users Who Are Blind or
Have Experienced a Change in Vision <o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>BusinessWire.com,
September 28, 2016 <o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>TRENTON,
N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In New Jersey, public libraries are at the heart of their
communities and play an important role in reaching out to those with print
impairments. The New Jersey State Library’s Talking Book & Braille Center
(TBBC) has joined forces with state agencies and organizations focused on
serving New Jersey’s visually impaired, to enhance access to assistive
technology across the state. To help raise awareness during Blindness Awareness
Month, which takes place annually during the month of October, TBBC is
highlighting all of its assistive technology services through a webpage on the
State Library website: <A
href="http://www.njstatelib.org/accessibility/">http://www.njstatelib.org/accessibility/</A>.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>TBBC has partnered with
select public libraries to provide the following programs, at no additional cost
to residents: <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The Library Equal
Access Program (LEAP) provides free computer and iPad training classes at
assistive technology learning centers located in seven public libraries across
the state. Training includes beginner and advanced level instruction on how to
use reading magnification and audio tools to read websites, emails and other
documents, as well as an introduction to using the assistive technology features
now available on iPads. This program is sponsored by the New Jersey Commission
for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI), and targets adults 55 years of age
and older. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>TBBC has also arranged
trainings to teach veterans how to use the assistive technology features on
iPads, to help reduce the digital divide for veterans with visual impairments or
blindness by introducing them to new technologies that can assist them in their
daily living. The training includes magnification and text-to-speech features,
as well as an introduction to using assistive apps. This program was made
possible through a grant from Disability Rights New Jersey.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Instruction for both
programs will be provided by Advancing Opportunities, leader in assistive
technology training. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>“Public libraries are
learning centers for new technology,” said Adam Szczepaniak, deputy state
librarian and director of TBBC. “These initiatives help boost that level of
learning to include not only assistive software for those with vision
impairments, but training, as well, which is in high demand by those who need
assistance learning how to use an iPad, or who need help browsing the internet
because their vision is changing.” <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>New Jersey’s Blind
Awareness Month resolution from the Assembly was sponsored by Assemblyman Louis
D. Greenwald and by Assemblywoman Pamela R. Lampitt, both of District 6 and was
signed into law by Governor John Corzine in 2009. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>About the New Jersey
State Library <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The New Jersey State
Library (NJSL), an affiliate of Thomas Edison State University, connects people
with information and resources through its service to libraries, government and
people including those with special needs. NJSL’s mission has expanded since its
establishment in 1796 to lead in the provision, promotion and support of high
quality library and information services to all the people of NJ. Led by State
Librarian Mary Chute, NJSL coordinates, promotes and funds the NJ Library
Network by providing advisory and technical information and services to support
NJ’s libraries in the fulfillment of their missions. NJSL also provides support
for public, school, academic, and special libraries, and continues to promote
services for learners of all ages, including key areas of continuing need such
as digital literacy, business outreach, workforce development, and summer
reading programs. NJSL continues its focus on innovation and future trends, and
seeks out exemplary models and technologies that can help assist the NJ library
community in remaining relevant and essential community anchors. For more
information, visit <A href="http://www.njstatelib.org">www.njstatelib.org</A>.
<B><A href="#back"><SPAN style="COLOR: #000066">(Back to
Top)</SPAN></A></B><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Colonna MT"'>Pamela L.
Gaston<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal>Executive Assistant 3<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal>NJ State Department of Human Services<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal>Commission for the Blind & Visually
Impaired<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal>P.O. Box 47017<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal>Newark, NJ 07101-47017<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal>973-648-6149 – Office<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal>973-900-2564 – Cell<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal>973-648-2043 – Fax<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal>Visit us on the web at: <A
href="http://www.cbvi.nj.gov/">www.cbvi.nj.gov</A><o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><I>“From the start, I made my learning, what little there
was, as useful as I could, in every way that I could.”</I> – <SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Edwardian Script ITC"'>Mary McLeod
Bethune<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p></o:p> </P>
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