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</v:shape><![endif]--><![if !vml]><img width=70 height=65 src="cid:image002.png@01D23910.9ED40240" align=left hspace=12 alt="MC900030199[1]" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_1"><![endif]><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Bodoni MT Black",serif;color:black'>Commission Edition<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='margin-bottom:6.0pt;text-align:center'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Bodoni MT Black",serif;color:black'>The Monthly Newsletter of the NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='margin-bottom:6.0pt;text-align:center'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>October 2016 – Volume 4, No. 10</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Monotype Corsiva";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Daniel B. Frye, J.D. Pamela Gaston<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Executive Director Editor<o:p></o:p></span></p><h1><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'>From the Director$B!G(Js Desk <o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>October represents a month for celebrating programmatic achievements at the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI or Commission). The tenth month of the year is the beginning of our Federal fiscal year, and it$B!G(Js in this month that we traditionally receive and evaluate numbers related to our agency$B!G(Js performance during the previous cycle. Since the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), though, is introducing a new paradigm for capturing accomplishment in the Federal Vocational Rehabilitation program, CBVI has focused less this year on conventional measurements for quantifying success and has worked instead on anticipating what the new criteria for effective performance will be, readying and establishing new units within the agency that respond to WIOA priorities, and implementing other aspects of our own Strategic Plan.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>With these shifts in mind and well underway, I am nevertheless pleased to report that our staff were instrumental in supporting 211 blind, deaf-blind, and vision-impaired people to find integrated, competitive employment. The recent adoption of WIOA has refreshed and rendered more rigorous the definition of integrated, competitive employment, guaranteeing that the work must pay at least the Federal minimum wage, as adopted in given local jurisdictions; require that the disabled job seeker is working in an integrated environment, down to the smallest unit of the organization; and implement an expectation that career advancement can be achieved. As of this writing, we continue to analyze our 211 closures to offer a more detailed narrative about the types of jobs secured, the compensation and benefits offered, and other factors recorded, all of which speak to the quality of the Vocational Rehabilitation closures that were achieved this year. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Preliminary data suggests improvement in specific areas: 95.7% of our closures during the last Federal fiscal year were at minimum wage or above; our average hourly wage for an integrated, competitive closure was $16.67; 50% of our closures were full-time employment (35 hours or more per week); nine consumers were closed as self-employed; and CBVI saw an almost 100% increase in placement of consumers needing Supported Employment, with 4.27% of our closures falling into this traditionally under-served category. I attribute this last increase to our provision of the Customized Employment training to staff during the last year. In future issues of the <i>Commission Edition</i>, I will profile other statistics from our other professional disciplines that will reflect their work, but I think it can be said that CBVI has enjoyed another successful year of providing meaningful Vocational Rehabilitation services to our consumers while also managing to prepare for the new environment created by the adoption of WIOA.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>CBVI is an organization that values learning. I am delighted to congratulate Jenna Finley and Tierrah McLean, two of our most recently hired Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors (VRCs), who have applied for, and been awarded full stipends to participate in, the Vision Specialist program sponsored by the National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision at Mississippi State University. This graduate certificate in blindness and low vision is designed to give new VRCs in the field a comprehensive survey of blindness-specific aspects of the profession through four on-line graduate courses and a three-week residential experience at Mississippi State University where students will apply, first-hand, the skills and theories discussed in the courses. CBVI is pleased to deepen our expertise by supporting these two VRCs to participate in this respected course of study. It$B!G(Js noteworthy to acknowledge that four VRCs from CBVI applied for admission to the program, and all four were admitted. Diana Arias and Lori Kirn did not receive stipends to fund their participation, but also deserve a salute for their admission to the program. Diana and Lori$B!G(Js inclusion in the cohort reflects their readiness to engage in this specialized graduate instruction. Finally, Eric Duffy, one of our newer Technology Services Specialists, was selected to participate in an Accessible Google training hosted by Google at the Jernigan Institute in Baltimore, Maryland. Eric has returned with significant information about the accessibility features of products that operate in the Google environment. Again, participation in this course was competitively controlled, and Eric deserves our congratulations for his selection. All of these learners will ultimately no doubt return to CBVI with valuable information to share with our agency staff, rendering us a richer, better equipped organization to realize our mission.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>In closing this month, I want to encourage strongly all staff to plan to participate in our second biannual Statewide Staff Development Seminar, scheduled to be held on Thursday, November 3, 2016, at the DCF Professional Center in New Brunswick. Details about this agency-wide day of programming have already been circulated to each of you. I am optimistic that the agenda that our Planning Committee has prepared for you will serve to motivate, inspire, and introduce valuable information to all of our staff—from the newest to the most senior—resulting in a stronger, more coherent Commission community. Arranging for an event of this size requires a great deal of logistical planning, but I hope that we all leave this event better informed, aware of our influence on the lives of our consumers, and re-energized to continue the critical work of the Commission. Please come prepared to take full advantage of the day. The more you put into the experience; the more you will receive from it.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:12.0pt'><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Daniel B. Frye<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Executive Director<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoSubtitle><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>Learning Lunch Reminder: <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>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 $B!H(JLearning Lunch$B!I(J to my interim assistant, Christine Cooper, at </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;color:black'><a href="mailto:Christine.Cooper@dhs.state.nj.us"><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Christine.Cooper@dhs.state.nj.us</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>***************************************************************************************************************************************************************<o:p></o:p></span></p><h1 style='margin-top:0in'><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'>Program Administration – John C. Walsh, Chief<o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><h2><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt;line-height:115%'>Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA): #4 – Partnerships </span></b><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'><o:p></o:p></span></b></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>On October 11, 2016, Dennis M. Bone, Chairman of the State Employment and Training Commission (SETC) released the revised version of the New Jersey Combined State Plan that provides a blueprint for the talent development system in New Jersey. In his announcement, Chairman Bone noted the collaborative efforts of the core partners including the Departments of Education, Human Services, Labor and Workforce Development, and the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to develop this comprehensive plan that will guide the provision of services over the next four years. The 440 page plan, <i>New Jersey Combined State Plan for WIOA, 2016,</i> can be found in its entirety on the SETC website at </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;color:black'><a href="http://www.njsetc.net"><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>www.njsetc.net</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The Commission$B!G(Js administration worked closely with key staff at the SETC and other partners to include specific sections of the plan that address the work of CBVI and also to provide input on the overall plan. The goals and the objectives for the Commission, as contained in the plan, are in alignment with the agency$B!G(Js strategic plan. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>A key component of the <i>Combined State Plan</i> is an emphasis on building and expanding partnerships, not only amongst the various core partners of the Workforce Development System, but also developing more robust relationships with employers and the business community to respond to their unique business and workforce needs. The creation of the CBVI Business Relations Unit is one example of the Commission$B!G(Js response to further developing services for our customers from those communities. Over the next year, CBVI will be working with various partners throughout the state to find ways to collaborate on the provision of services that enhance employment outcomes for our consumers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>In the Introduction section of the <i>Combined State Plan</i>, five core activities are detailed that stress the importance of developing partnerships and strengthening collaborations amongst the various partners in the state$B!G(Js talent development system, including the state$B!G(Js diverse employers. These core activities are:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo1'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>1.<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>New partnerships with employers across the state$B!G(Js seven key industries<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo1'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>2.<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Strong collaborations between workforce programs, education and higher education<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo1'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>3.<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The use of technology to better connect jobseekers and employers<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo1'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>4.<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Better labor market intelligence to inform workforce investments and<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo1'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>5.<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Innovative partnerships between the state, local governments, community and faith-based organizations and educational institutions<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>In addition, the <i>Combined State Plan</i> focuses on five primary themes that summarize key activities of workforce development partners within the blue print document for the next four years of implementation of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014. I have included them below in their entirety to serve as a guide as CBVI staff engages with partners in our system to improve access to other programs and services for our consumers to promote employment outcomes. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Theme 1: Building Career Pathways with a Focus on Industry</span></i></b><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Cambria Math",serif;color:black'>$B!>(J</span></i></b><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Valued Credentials<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Through a common definition of career pathways, a newly created list of industry</span></i><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Cambria Math",serif;color:black'>$B!>(J</span></i><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>valued credentials, literacy standards and a renewed commitment to Employment First for all persons with disabilities, New Jersey will ensure that all workforce investments are enabling individuals to access greater economic opportunity and to build on their skills throughout their careers. These efforts will expand the number of career pathways, at all levels of education and workforce services, which will help more individuals obtain industry-valued credentials and degrees.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Theme 2: Expanding High</span></i></b><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Cambria Math",serif;color:black'>$B!>(J</span></i></b><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Quality Employer</span></i></b><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Cambria Math",serif;color:black'>$B!>(J</span></i></b><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Driven Partnerships<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Across departments, New Jersey is focusing investments and programs on building employer-driven, high quality partnerships that follow a common definition and framework. These partnerships are critical to building new career pathways for jobseekers and students and help increase the number of individuals with an industry</span></i><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Cambria Math",serif;color:black'>$B!>(J</span></i><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>valued postsecondary degree or credential. To further support these efforts, the state$B!G(Js seven industry-focused talent networks will facilitate the development of new high</span></i><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Cambria Math",serif;color:black'>$B!>(J</span></i><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>quality, employer-driven partnerships across the state; and investments in new Targeted Industry Partnerships and Talent Development Centers will build a foundation for all of the state$B!G(Js workforce development investments.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Theme 3: Strengthening Career Navigation Assistance through One-Stop Career Centers and Broad Partnerships<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>New Jersey is committed to supporting One-Stop Career Centers that meet local needs and assist individuals in obtaining new skills and employment. New Jersey will expand the number of jobseekers and students who have access to high quality career guidance and job search assistance through a new network of One-Stop Career Centers, community colleges, libraries, community and faith-based organizations, and organized labor and educational institutions.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Theme 4: Strengthening Governance through Effective Workforce Development Boards and Regional Collaborations<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Effective Workforce Development Boards (WDB) are critical to the success of New Jersey$B!G(Js Talent Development system. Led by the private sector, but inclusive of key partners, local WDB engaged in an active governance role ensure that investments are made in effective programs and that local residents can access the services they need for career success. New Jersey has committed to supporting regional planning, service coordination and resource sharing for all workforce education and training programs, recognizing that labor markets are not constrained by governmental or political boundaries. New Jersey is a densely populated state and our labor markets are not constrained by state and county boundaries. These efforts will be organized around three regions of the state: North, Central and South.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Theme 5: Ensuring System Integrity through Metrics and Greater Transparency<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>To reflect the strategic priorities of the state, New Jersey is adopting an additional set of performance measures and applying these measures, and those required by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, to a broader number of programs. New Jersey will make performance data on workforce development programs accessible to workforce decision-makers and the public. The Eligible Training Provider List and Consumer Report Card are critical tools for assisting jobseekers and students who are making decisions about short-term occupational training programs.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><h1><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'>Human Resources – Hugo Ruiz, Manager<o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><h2><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt;line-height:115%'>What Human Resources Means Today</span></b><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'><o:p></o:p></span></b></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>When we stop to think about what human resources means to us, there is the inevitable tendency to immediately think of it in somewhat narrow and limited terms. After all, isn$B!G(Jt human resources just about recruiting employees, making sure they get paid, and terminating them if they don$B!G(Jt work out for the organization? Perhaps such a definition would have been adequate 30 or 40 years ago. However, as we will see, the human resources field has evolved into a complex discipline over the years. Today it plays a vital role in the success of an organization. To be a key player in the organization, human resources staff must focus on more than just recruiting, paying, and terminating employees.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Consider for a moment all the changes that have occurred in the last couple of decades in our state and federal laws. In the year 1960, for example, we didn$B!G(Jt have any of the following laws on our books impacting the workplace:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, landmark federal legislation prohibiting discrimination in the workplace, schools, and places of public accommodation based on race, gender and other protected categories<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The New Jersey Family Leave Act<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The New Jersey Public Employer-Employee Relations Act of 1968, (the Magna Carta of unionized public workers in New Jersey)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The New Jersey Conscientious Employee Protection Act of 1986 ($B!H(JThe Whistleblower Act$B!I(J)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, protecting employee health information (HIPAA)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>An analysis of these laws would be beyond the scope of this article, but perhaps they each merit individual treatment in subsequent issues of the <i>Commission Edition</i>, but suffice it to say that they have had a direct impact on how we do things as employees and the role that human resources plays in the modern workplace. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Equally important, when human resources deals with a unionized workplace, as is the case with the State of New Jersey$B!G(Js public workers, it must know how to properly administer, interpret and apply the various contractual provisions contained in the labor agreements in a multiplicity of areas, such as grievances, employee discipline, leaves, seniority, reassignments, transfers, layoff rights, indemnification for legal claims arising in the workplace, and in many other areas. In the same vein, it must know how to act with professionalism, civility, and understanding when addressing employee issues and dealing with authorized union representatives, not only in disciplinary matters, but also in grievances and potential unfair labor practice matters. Employee relations, an integral sub-discipline of human resources, must possess a clear understanding of the relevant contractual language when addressing these issues. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>In the public sector, human resources must be knowledgeable of the applicable New Jersey civil service laws and regulations protecting employees in the areas of discipline, leaves and hours of work, classification and compensation, selection and appointment, veterans preference, benefits, employee training and development, and equal employment opportunity. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Lastly, human resources must maintain clear lines of communication with staff throughout the organization. It must successfully interact with directors, managers, supervisors, professional, and support staff to help resolve the many issues that arise on a daily basis. It must help management manage the organization, direct it, lead it, train it, professionalize it, and help bring about transformational change to always strive, as in the case of CBVI, to improve the delivery of services to our consumers and forge closer bonds of cooperation with our many partners in the field of blindness education and prevention. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>In sum, it should be clear by now that there is more to human resources than many of us may think. As always, please bring any questions or concerns to our Human Resources Office. Our staff is here to provide you with all the assistance you need. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (973) 648-2412; fax: (973) 648-3419; and email </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;color:black'><a href="mailto:Hugo.Ruiz@dhs.state.nj.us"><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Hugo.Ruiz@dhs.state.nj.us</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><h1><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'>Vocational Rehabilitation and Transition Services – Amanda Gerson, Coordinator <o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:6.0pt'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Employment, Development, Guidance, and Engagement (EDGE) Program Update</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>: The second year of the EDGE Program kicked off on September 24<sup>th</sup>. Approximately 40 students have enrolled in the program for the 2016-2017 school year, with rolling admission available for newly referred students. During the first meeting, in addition to the students getting to know one another and their mentors, Chris Miller from Disability Rights NJ, presented on the importance of voting, and a hands-on demonstration of a voting machine was provided. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>This year, the program will be running two tracks - one for new EDGE students, and one for our students returning for a second year. The first will have a similar curriculum to last year for new EDGE students to explore professional communications, college and career preparation, independence skills, interviewing skills, and resume building. The new track for our returning students will be even more hands-on, putting the conceptual skills they learned last year into practice to further their college and career readiness. All students will also have the opportunity to participate in more recreational and community-based events to enhance their independence and travel skills, including a trip later in October to see an audio-described production of $B!H(JThe Producers$B!I(J, and a trip into New York City to visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Business Relations Unit Update</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>: Our Business Relations Specialists are busy this month for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, holding events for consumers in each part of the state, as well as working with our business partners, such as Unilever, Prudential, and the Federal Aviation Administration. To learn more about National Disability Employment Awareness Month, including the history and this year$B!G(Js theme of $B!H(J#InclusionWorks$B!I(J, you can visit the Office of Disability Employment Policy$B!G(Js website at: </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;color:black'><a href="https://www.dol.gov/odep/topics/ndeam/"><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>https://www.dol.gov/odep/topics/ndeam/</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>WE Team Update:</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> The Welcome and Evaluation (WE) Team went live on September 6<sup>th</sup>, 2016, and has been busily working to serve all potential CBVI consumers and to provide information and referral to individuals contacting CBVI. Since its inception, through the first week in October, the WE Team facilitated the opening and referral of 78 consumers to CBVI services. We thank everyone for their support, and will be seeking feedback from the service centers in late October to gather more information and data on how the pilot is going.<o:p></o:p></span></p><h1 style='margin-top:0in'><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'>Educational Services – Eva Scott, Director of Blindness Education<o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-top:6.0pt'><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>$B!H(JIf you have knowledge, let others light their candles in it.$B!I(J</span></i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> - Margaret Fuller <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The Annual Teachers$B!G(J Symposium</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>: The Blindness Education Unit$B!G(Js Annual Teachers$B!G(J Symposium occurred on October 12<sup>th</sup> and 13<sup>th</sup>, 2016. There were approximately 150 classroom teachers and other school professionals in attendance, and most of the individual workshops were filled to capacity. Each day of the Symposium began with a wonderful keynote address from CBVI$B!G(Js Executive Director, Dan Frye, whose remarks helped promote an understanding of the importance of welcoming blind and vision-impaired students into school communities and in having high expectations of them. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Our Blindness Education teachers conducted small workshops on a variety of topics related to Braille readers, large print readers, dual media readers, and students who are blind and have additional disabilities. There was also an informative and very well received presentation on adaptive physical education for blind or vision-impaired students. The participants also had an opportunity to learn from O&M instructors, transition counselors, and technology specialists during presentations pertaining to their areas of expertise and for the second year in a row, Dan Frye and I conducted a workshop for school administrators and child study team members. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Given the positive feedback I received from both participants and presenters, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all who presented workshops or provided essential support behind the scenes to make the event successful. This includes staff from Blindness Education, O&M, Assistive Technology, Transitional Services, the Meyer Center, Management Services, and Organizational Logistics. Numerous participants commented as they were leaving the symposium, that they now have a much better understanding of their blind or vision-impaired students, and they complimented our staff on their knowledge and professionalism.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>It is important to note that the Annual Teachers$B!G(J Symposium is an essential event because by bringing together classroom teachers who serve students who are blind or vision-impaired, we provide an opportunity for them to witness the full array of services provided by CBVI and to gain a broad perspective in terms of our students$B!G(J current educational needs as well as their future educational needs. This event helps participating teachers bring into focus what needs to take place now, in our students$B!G(J educational programs to establish a foundation for their future success. Simply stated, when our staff share their knowledge with classroom teachers, we are able to demystify how blind and vision-impaired students learn and what they need to become successful adults.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Provider Service Agreement Update</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>: To date, we are still awaiting approximately 328 outstanding provider service agreements (contracts) from school districts. The service agreements are arriving each day. In mid to late December I will prepare a third mailing to school districts with service agreements still outstanding. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><h1 style='margin-top:6.0pt'><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'>Independent Living & Clinical Services – Elizabeth DeShields, Coordinator<o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><h2 align=center style='text-align:center'><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt;line-height:115%'>A SHORE Thing Proved to be a Sure Thing<o:p></o:p></span></b></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>From September 25<sup>th to</sup> September 30<sup>th</sup>, 12 consumers accompanied by four companions participated in our first ever Senior Hands On Retreat Experience (SHORE) held at Resorts Hotel in Atlantic City, NJ. Programming was scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. throughout the week, with some slight variations. Plenty of staff were always in attendance during scheduled hours, and a Support Service Provider (SSP) was available every evening from 5:00 to 11:00 PM to assist the participants as needed. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>After the participants and companions arrived at the Resorts they were met by staff and Orientation and Mobility (O&M) lessons began immediately. Following O&M instruction, we gathered in our meeting room to go over the agenda for the week and introductions. Sixteen strangers were paired up randomly to participate in an ice breaker introduction activity. The couples were given time to find out about each other and then introduce the other person to the group. What happened next was amazing and completely set the tone for the rest of the week: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Two of the participants found out they went to high school together in Staten Island, New York, attended the same church while in NY, and their children knew each other<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in'><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Two participants discovered that each of their first cousins are married, to one another<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Two participants were thrilled that they were both Puerto Rican, immediately bonded and began started speaking Spanish to each other<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Another pair who$B!G(Jd never met before discovered that they not only currently live in the same apartment complex, but also realized that they played on opposing sports teams when they were younger. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Throughout the week more commonalities were discovered and additional connections developed.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>After just one day, it became obvious that the participants were becoming more independent and gaining confidence in their skills. Their companions also began to encourage independence, although some companions found it difficult to take a step back.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Throughout the week participants received instruction in kitchen safety, cooking, communications, introduction to Braille, and assistive technology (IPad) training led by our RT and AT staff. An overall health and nutrition workshop was presented by CBVI Eye Health Nurses (EHN). Participants were provided many opportunities to continue to build on the independent living skills that were shown to them. These skills were practiced in various settings, such as walking the boardwalk, shopping at the supermarket, dining at restaurants, cooking at the Lion$B!G(Js Blind Center in Absecon, train travel to Philadelphia from Atlantic City, participating in a Touch Tour at the Italian Market in South Philadelphia, and many other day-to-day experiences throughout the week at the hotel. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Other SHORE program presentations and learning opportunities included: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>DHS Acting Commissioner, Beth Connolly, spent time with some of the participants in Philadelphia at the Italian Market.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>LaTreice Branson provided a variety of drums and led a drum circle for all. The attendees expressed their enjoyment and commented that they found this activity both therapeutic and entertaining. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in'><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Morgan Fitzpatrick, a certified Yoga instructor provided the group with Yoga lessons and relaxation therapy. Morgan also performed a one-man show, entitled <i>CONES</i>, which detailed his own experiences as a person living with vision loss. All participants said that they could relate to the play and were pleased that it was included in our Philadelphia outing. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Tony Santiago, a Certified OneTouch instructor, provided information and lessons on OneTouch Self-Defense Techniques for people who are blind and vision-impaired. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in'><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Bruce Kastner gave a presentation on common eye conditions that effect seniors. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in'><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Symbol;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Susan Vanino, Support Program Coordinator spoke to the participants about adjustment to vision loss and Assistive Support Programs for Independence Renewal and Education (ASPIRE) and several of the participants opened up to the group and shared their experiences. One of the women, who had been very quiet and appeared to be shy, inquired about support groups in her area so that she may attend.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>In between all the wonderful programing and events, it was evident that the participants were bonding. The uplifting environment and positive energy was contagious. Some of the men were getting together in the evening after programming and just $B!H(Jhanging out.$B!I(J Others were looking out for one another and always made sure that everyone was with the group. Participants were sharing their knowledge and teaching their new found friends and laughter was, for the most part, the background music for the entire program. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>On the last day of the program during our closing ceremonies, CBVI Executive Director, Dan Frye, offered inspirational remarks to the participants. John Walsh, Chief of Program Administration and Jack Thompson, Southern Regional Manager also provided words of encouragement, however, some of the most uplifting and heartfelt words came from the individuals who participated in the program. One of the companions stated $B!H(JI now realize that I have to back off and allow Josh (the participant/consumer) to be independent, since he really can do it.$B!I(J Another said, $B!H(JI came here feeling alone and I$B!G(Jm leaving with family.$B!I(J Dennis admitted to not going out to eat in several years, because he didn$B!G(Jt feel comfortable and now he has the confidence to eat in public. All were overjoyed by the week$B!G(Js events, the staff, the friends they made and the skills they acquired. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The positive feedback didn$B!G(Jt end there - when staff followed up with one gentleman who attended the program, not only did the consumer and his companion retell stories of the week and express their gratitude but, went on to say how they have plans to get together with two other consumers that participated in the program. Russ, a participant of the program sent a card that read, $B!H(JWhat a team! A SHORE Thing was great, and something to build on. The staff hit a home run. I feel like I have a new start.$B!I(J<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>A SHORE Thing was a pilot program, and although the planning committee was confident that it would be well received, none of us could have anticipated just how successful and awesome this experience turned out to be, not only for those that attended the program, but also, for those of us staffing the event.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>To the planning committee and all of the staff that assisted and went above and beyond, thank you for all of your hard work behind the scenes and during the event. </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#1F497D'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Getting to work together with each of you, and our consumers, plus all the incredible experiences and joy that occurred as a result of this program has been tremendously rewarding. <o:p></o:p></span></p><h1 style='margin-top:12.0pt'><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'>Joseph Kohn Training Center – Del Basha, Manager<o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Think back for a second to the very first computer you ever used. If it was a Commodore 64 for example, that system was the cutting edge product back in 1982. Cutting edge of course meant that it was an 8-bit computer with 64 KB of RAM. Fast forward a few decades to the latest Toshiba Satellite with 12 GB memory and a 1 TB hard disk. To put this in perspective, remember that it takes one million kilobytes (KBs) to make up just one gigabyte (GB) and one thousand GBs to make up just one terabyte (TB). Keeping in mind this exponential growth in the world of technology, it$B!G(Js imperative for those with vocational plans to be exposed to the state of the art technology innovations. One of the objectives of the JKTC program is to do just that. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>JKTC Technology Training - Submitted by Jay Durnan, TSS: </span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>People often ask, $B!H(JWhat do students learn in Technology class at the JKTC?$B!I(J Well, here is the answer to that question that burns in all of your thoughts. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Consumers who come through the JKTC are first assessed on their keyboarding skills. Then they work with a program called Talking Typer to help improve any typing skills that are lacking. After they have learned the keyboard, they move on to Technology class, where it is determined which assistive technology software would work best for them. Whether it is JAWS, MAGic or ZoomText, students learn how to set up program settings to best suit their needs. After the settings are finalized, students are ready to learn how to navigate different areas of the computer, such as the desktop, the taskbar, the Start screen, and the file explorer. Microsoft Word is then introduced for them to learn about file management by practicing creating documents, saving them, and finding them again. Next, they move on to text editing, to learn how to navigate text by various elements, such as character, word, line, and paragraph. Students are then shown how to select text and perform cut, copy and paste functions. After they are comfortable with those functions they learn how to format text by applying different font attributes, such as bolding, italicizing, underlining, changing font size, and creating bulleted lists. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Next the students move on to learning about using the Internet. They practice going to different websites and navigating around webpages. Eventually, they will also learn to use email, including practicing how to send basic text emails, sending emails that contain attachments, how to detect emails that have attachments, and how to download an attachment into specific locations.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Students also have an opportunity to learn Microsoft Excel. If they choose to proceed, they will learn how to read and navigate spreadsheets, detect, read, insert, edit and delete comments. They will also learn how to create basic formulas and how to fill information into additional cells quickly. They are shown how to hide and unhide columns and rows, along with deleting them. They are also shown how to resize columns and rows and how to format a spreadsheet. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>All technology instruction is customized to each consumer$B!G(Js needs and employment goals. Some students may not cover every topic but others may receive training in areas not mentioned above, for example, focusing more on learning about their SmartPhones or tablets. What is definite is that students will leave the JKTC with more technology knowledge than they had when they first arrived at the center. <o:p></o:p></span></p><h1 style='margin-top:12.0pt'><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'>Business Enterprises of New Jersey – Deacon Truesdale, Manager <o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The Business Enterprises New Jersey (BENJ) program is continuing to proactively establish, maintain, and enhance communications with VR staff. On September 22<sup>nd</sup> members of the BENJ unit welcomed and met with Dawn Corbett-Nivison and Stephen Hornikel, the two VR counselors newly assigned to working with the program$B!G(Js current licensed managers. This meeting included discussion of the various services that both the BENJ Field Representatives VR counselors provide. This meeting was very useful towards clarifying roles and dispelling misconceptions. I would like to thank all who attended this meeting. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Any VR counselors interested in learning more about the program or visiting a location are encouraged to contact the BENJ office at 732-418-3270.<o:p></o:p></span></p><h1 style='margin-top:12.0pt'><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'>Regional Updates</span></u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></h1><h2><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt;line-height:115%'>Northern Service Region – John Reiff, Manager</span></b><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></b></h2><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='margin-top:6.0pt;text-align:center'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>How We Doin NSR?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Three PDQs measure how the IL and VR primary caseworkers (PCW) performed in the NSR with regard to closing cases in status 26 during Federal Fiscal Year 2016 which ran from October 1, 2015 through September 30, 2016.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>VR PCWs assigned to the NSR during this period closed 97 cases as successful vocational rehabilitations in status 26. Top performers were Fanny Mendoza with 19, Vlad Kravtsov with 17, and Carolina Gonzalez with 15. Nice work ladies and gentleman. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>The IL and ILOB 26 closures are not a measure at this time of successful closures for which services were completed during FFY 2016. A large number of the IL and ILOB 26s were cases for which services had been completed prior to October 1, 2015. However these cases were not closed until sometime in FFY 2016. Hence the numbers that follow largely reflect the effort to catch up with closures on some caseloads. With that in mind, IL PCWs in the NSR closed 187 IL cases and 338 ILOB cases in status 26 during FFY 2016. That represents a lot of work and I thank each of you, although we still have some catch up to do with IL and ILOB closures. The objective is of course case closure at the time when services are completed. The result will be lean, primary caseloads that are easier to manage. <o:p></o:p></span></p><h2><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt;line-height:115%'>Southern Region – Jack Thompson, Manager</span></b><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></b></h2><p style='margin-top:6.0pt'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Submitted by Karen Markey, Certified O&M Specialist:</span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> There are many professional service disciplines existing within CBVI such as O&M, Rehab Teaching, Eye Health Nursing, VR, Blindness Education, as well as supervisors and management. Our collective mission is to offer individualized skills which impact the level of independence and confidence of consumers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>CBVI employees bring to their jobs a variety of skills and ideas. For instance, working with individual consumers or groups may also involve requesting the assistance or creative ideas of someone other than an employee. An example of this occurred during a trip to the USS Battleship New Jersey. Naval veteran, Don Fortune, created a model of the USS Battleship New Jersey for a group of CBVI students touring the ship during a summer trip. <span style='background:#FAFAFA'>The children were encouraged to feel the model and perceive the different parts of the ship as they toured the vessel along with their sighted peers. Mr. Fortune$B!G(Js model changed a casual walk along an historic icon into an educational experience. This is an example of the importance of collaboration and creative thinking that is required for optimal experiences for our consumers. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black;background:#FAFAFA'>Another challenge working with consumers is assessing and planning instructional strategies for individuals with other disabilities. One of these disabilities may be that individual$B!G(Js inability to communicate, either expressively or receptively. This issue may result from hearing loss, stroke or traumatic brain injury. A non-verbal consumer needing O&M, experienced difficulty in expressive language due to a stroke, which affected the temporal and occipital part of his brain. The consumer initially had vision after the stroke but was incapable of speaking or recognizing letters. At that time, his family used visual symbols on a board and a Dynavox, (augmented communication device) was used to assist his expressive language. Subsequently, the consumer then became blind and the family sought the CBVI services.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black;background:#FAFAFA'>At the time of the primary intake, it was noted that the consumer needed to learn to ambulate independently around his home and to also find a way to communicate. While being introduced to the mobility cane, he used body gestures in attempt to communicate his needs. This often resulted in the consumer$B!G(Js increased level of frustration. His wife asked for ideas on how she could help improve her husband$B!G(Js ability to express his thoughts and eliminate some of his fears and frustration. Attempts were made to teach uncontracted Braille with the idea that, if he could easily learn Braille, he could use the Braille writer to communicate his thoughts.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black;background:#FAFAFA'>Braille soon became problematic and determining another possible means of communication became a critical concern. Consulting and then collaborating with Eye Health Nurse, Nancy Kasmar proved to be beneficial. Having had experience with ways to communicate with patients in a hospital setting, she was able to offer alternative communication ideas, after interviewing and assessing the consumer, but, he continued to be frustrated. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black;background:#FAFAFA'>During a visit, the consumer repeatedly gestured that he wanted to go to his bedroom. His wife assisted him and once there, he pointed up into the closet. He wanted his drawing pad and pencils. We returned to the kitchen where we all sat down at the table anticipating consumer$B!G(Js next request. He took the pencil and felt for the parameter of the drawing pad. Beginning at the top of the page, he drew what appeared to be the sky and a bird. He then used his left hand to find the middle part of the page and began to draw. We all were questioning him as to what objects he was drawing. He shook his head yes when we were correct in guessing - a tractor. The consumer then used his hand to position the pencil on the bottom of the page and drew what appeared to be a cow. His wife asked if it was a farm animal and he shook his head yes. Nancy and I were amazed at his spatial orientation to the drawing paper. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black;background:#FAFAFA'>The consumer then began to gesture pointing to a small room off from the kitchen. His wife began asking him what he wanted. She asked if he was drawing his farm and he shook his head yes. His wife mentioned that he wrote a book of poetry about his farm. At this time the consumer began smiling and nodding his head yes. His wife asked if he wanted her to show us his book of poetry and he again nodded, yes. The consumer smiled each time his wife verbally affirmed his thoughts. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-top:6.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black;background:#FAFAFA'>It took months to reach this consumer but working with my co-worker, Nancy Kasmar, and receiving her thoughts and ideas was an integral part of his intervention and success. </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><h1 style='margin-top:12.0pt'><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>New or Noteworthy<o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><p style='margin-top:6.0pt'><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>1784:</span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> The first school for the blind, The Royal Institution for the Young Blind was established in Paris, France, by Valentine Huay. The purpose of the school was to educate the students, but also to teach the trades of spinning and letterpress. During the French Revolution, the school was taken over and in 1791; it became The National Institute for Blind Workers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>1820:</span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> Louis Braille, who had been a student at The Royal Institution, learns Night Writing, invented by Charles Barbier in response to Napoleon$B!G(Js demand for a code that soldiers could use to communicate silently and without light at night. In 1829, he simplified that code to a 6-dot tactile reading and writing system for use by the blind. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>In addition to Braille, a number of other methods for blind people to read and/or write on paper were used. One of the most popular was the English system of Dr. William Moon, invented in 1845. Moon type was thought to be easy to learn because it strongly resembled the written alphabet but Braille, with its slate and stylus was unique in that it was the first and, until the advent of computers with screen readers, only method for a blind person to write and read what they had written independently.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center;line-height:18.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;background:white'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;color:black'><a href="http://www.nj.com/monmouth/index.ssf/2016/06/nj_girl_to_compete_in_national_braille_competition.html#comments"><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext;letter-spacing:.15pt;background:#0582FF;text-decoration:none'>comments</span></b></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black;letter-spacing:.15pt'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><h1 style='margin-top:.25in'><u><span style='font-size:18.0pt;line-height:115%;color:windowtext'>The Last Words<o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:6.0pt'><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>$B!H(JChallenges are what makes life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.$B!I(J</span></i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> Joshua J. Marine<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'> </span><i><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><span style='color:black'> </span><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'>Please send items or suggestions for the next issue of the <i>Commission Edition</i> by or before 11 a.m., Monday, November 21, 2016:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;color:black'><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:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'> and </span></b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;color:black'><a href="mailto:Bernice.Davis@dhs.state.nj.us"><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Bernice.Davis@dhs.state.nj.us</span></b></a></span><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Forwarded by:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Freestyle Script"'>Brian A. Mackey<br><br></span></b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Brian A. Mackey<br>Owner, Mackey Enterprises, LLC<br>Treasurer & Webmaster, National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey<br>609-953-6988<br><a href="mailto:Bmackey88@gmail.com"><span style='color:#0563C1'>Bmackey88@gmail.com</span></a><br><a href="http://www.mackeyenterprisesllc.com/"><span style='color:#0563C1'>www.mackeyenterprisesllc.com</span></a><br><br>$B!H(JHappy are those who dream dreams and are willing to pay the price to make those dreams come true$B!I(J<br> <i>-Vince Papale<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>