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<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">
<DIV>Greetings to all!</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>We have pasted and included the attachment of the August Commission Edition
for 2017.</DIV>
<DIV>Please read and share as the information provided in this edition
demonstrates the raising of expectations to live the life we want!</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">We care. We
share. We grow. We make a difference<BR>Joe Ruffalo, President <BR>National
Federation of the Blind of New Jersey <BR>973 743
0075<BR>nfbnj1@verizon.net<BR>
<A href="http://www.nfbnj.org">www.nfbnj.org</A></DIV>
<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">Your old
car keys can be keys to literacy for the blind.<BR>Donate your unwanted vehicle
to us by clicking <BR>www.carshelpingtheblind.org <BR>or call 855 659
9314<BR></DIV>
<DIV
style='FONT-SIZE: small; TEXT-DECORATION: none; FONT-FAMILY: "Calibri"; FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: #000000; FONT-STYLE: normal; DISPLAY: inline'>
<DIV style="FONT: 10pt tahoma">
<DIV><FONT size=3 face=Calibri></FONT> </DIV>
<DIV><FONT size=3 face=Calibri>***</FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT size=3 face=Calibri></FONT> </DIV>
<DIV style="BACKGROUND: #f5f5f5">
<DIV style="font-color: black"></DIV>
<DIV
style='FONT-SIZE: small; TEXT-DECORATION: none; FONT-FAMILY: "Calibri"; FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: #000000; FONT-STYLE: normal; DISPLAY: inline'><SPAN
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align=left height=65 v:shapes="Picture_x0020_5"><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 24pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Bodoni MT Black",serif'>C</SPAN></I><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 20pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Bodoni MT Black",serif'>ommission
</SPAN></I><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 24pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Bodoni MT Black",serif'>E</SPAN></I><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 20pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Bodoni MT Black",serif'>dition</SPAN></I><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 20pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Bodoni MT Black",serif; mso-fareast-language: en-us'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></DIV></DIV></DIV>
<DIV class=WordSection1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 6pt; TEXT-ALIGN: center"
align=center><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Bodoni MT Black",serif'>The Monthly
Newsletter of the NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually
Impaired<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 6pt; TEXT-ALIGN: center"
align=center><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>August 2017 – Volume 5,
No. 8</SPAN><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: "Monotype Corsiva"'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Daniel B. Frye,
J.D.
Pamela Gaston<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Executive
Director
Editor<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 12pt"><U><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext">From the
Director’s Desk <o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>August, the culminating
month of the summer season, has been full of progress and activity at the
Commission. I want simply to share with you a sampling of the professional
accomplishments that have been realized at CBVI during the last little while
and, more important, to express my appreciation to all of our staff who have
played a part in helping our agency achieve these
milestones.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Throughout the course
of the summer, CBVI has successfully re-adopted, with amendments, two chapters
of the New Jersey Administrative Code that govern the delivery of services from
this agency. On July 3, 2017, NJAC 10:97, the Administrative Code chapter
related to our state’s Randolph-Sheppard program, was published in the <I>New
Jersey Register</I>. This notice announced a new program name for New Jersey’s
Randolph-Sheppard program (Business Enterprises of New Jersey BENJ), and
introduced a number of new program rules that promise to grow and strengthen the
BENJ program for our participating managers and their valued customers. Toward
effectively implementing these new rules, I was delighted on Thursday, July 27,
to conduct a training session with our BENJ staff and Elected Committee of Blind
Managers to describe and orient them to the most significant changes outlined in
the chapter. Similarly, on August 7, 2017, NJAC 10:92 was published, detailing
the new parameters of CBVI’s Blindness Education program. In relation to our new
Blindness Education rules, in particular I want to acknowledge and thank both
the internal and external members of the Commission’s Education Reform Taskforce
for their hours of deliberative work to help us develop a powerful and
forward-looking foundation upon which to build an even stronger and better
program for blind, vision-impaired, and deaf-blind learners in New
Jersey.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>During the first week
of August, I, along with Amanda Gerson, CBVI’s Coordinator of Vocational
Rehabilitation and Transition Services, presented on the structure and
operations of the Commission’s new Business Relations Unit at a national
conference, <I>Meeting Employer Demand in a Job-Driven Economy: Diversity,
Inclusion, and VR’s Evolving Role.</I> The conference was sponsored jointly by
the Job-Driven Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center (JD-VRTAC)
and the Vocational Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Demand-Side
Strategies (Demand-Side RRTC). I was one of four panelists to set the stage for
the conference, describing for conference attendees CBVI’s strategies for
employer engagement, a new activity required of VR agencies as a result of the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 (WIOA). Amanda ably represented
CBVI by presenting in one of several concurrent break-out groups on the use of
Labor Market Information (LMI) as a tool in the job search and managed a poster
presentation on the role of Assistive Technology when educating employers. The
fact that we were asked to play multiple roles at this conference reflects
positively on how our agency is being perceived throughout the country in terms
of embracing the new obligation to develop programs for employer
engagement.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The Student Hands-on
Alternatives Re-enforcement Program (SHARP), CBVI’s summer training session for
consumers in grades 1-8, ended triumphantly on Thursday, August 17. In our third
summer of SHARP, we were filled to capacity and beyond, where we served 92
students. To be sure, you will learn more about the specifics of the SHARP
program elsewhere in the <I>Commission Edition</I>, but I had the pleasure this
month of visiting and observing the SHARP students in all three of our Service
Centers, Newark, Freehold, and Cherry Hill. While visiting our SHARP students in
Freehold, I was accompanied by a representative from the Department of Human
Services’ (DHS’) Public Relations team, and 19 pictures of our students at work
were featured on the DHS Facebook page, with a brief blurb about the SHARP
program. A special shout-out is owed to all of our staff who played a role in
making SHARP 2017 another real success. SHARP is a program that teaches and
creates meaningful summer memories for New Jersey’s youngest blind,
vision-impaired, and deaf-blind learners.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>In addition to serving
our youngest consumers, 15 students in grades 9 and 10 participated in our
annual Life 101 program, a two-week residential program held at our Joseph Kohn
Training Center (JKTC) in New Brunswick. This transition program introduces new
blind, vision-impaired, and deaf-blind high school students to programs focusing
on college exploration, career exploration, skills of independent living, and
orientation to advanced Assistive Technology. Infused throughout this
Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) program is an emphasis on
self-advocacy skills. Beyond the content of this intensive curriculum, our Life
101 participants enjoyed evening field trips, recreational activities, and
informal interactions that were designed to foster critical social skills. I had
the pleasure of speaking to this year’s class of Life 101 graduates, their
families, and our staff during the Life 101 graduation ceremony on Friday,
August 4. The most encouraging aspect of the program was hearing this group of
articulate students reflect upon their ambitions for the future and attributing
some of their newly gained self-confidence to involvement in CBVI’s Life 101
program. I offer my congratulations and gratitude to the staff of our JKTC for
executing another successful year of Life 101.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>August has also been a
month for significant administrative strides, the kind of achievements that do
not often garner public attention, but which are critical to the forward
momentum of the Commission. The administrative team has made significant
progress in moving our agency forward in relation to our migration from Libera’s
System Seven to Alliance’s Aware Case Management system. This migration will be
an approximately two-year project, but we are moving toward the next stage of
the migration exercise. Additionally, the Commission has been working with our
Federal partners at the Rehabilitation Services Administration, U.S. Department
of Education, to affirm that we have made progress in implementing our new
policies on Pre-Employment Transition Services (PRE-ETS), a new category of
service required as a result of WIOA. We also anticipate further training on
PRE-ETS procedures in the early fall. Our dedicated Human Resources staff has
been hard at work hiring new staff to add to the Commission’s professional team.
Please welcome some of the new hires and promotions that have been announced
during the last month. Knowing that I will inevitably leave somebody out if I
list particular names, I’ll simply say that we’ve hired new supervisors in our
Blindness Education Unit, new instructors at the Joseph Kohn Training Center, a
new supervisor in our Business Relations Unit, and at least one new Vocational
Rehabilitation Counselor in our Freehold Service Center. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>As you can see, August,
often the month for lulling around and taking vacations, has been incredibly
productive at CBVI. I am keenly aware that this productivity could not be
realized without the support of all of our staff. Please accept, again, my
gratitude for the role that each of you play in making our operations happen. In
closing, I want especially to acknowledge the work of John Reiff, our manager
for the Northern Service Region, for his yeoman-like effort in recent weeks and
months, to keep services under his watch smoothly operational. It occasionally
takes extra effort on the part of all of us to maintain the quality services
that CBVI is known for providing; John has truly stepped up to the plate to help
the agency during the last little while. I salute you all.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 12pt"><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Daniel B.
Frye<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Executive
Director<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoSubtitle><B><U><SPAN
style='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: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>As previously noted,
during each of these monthly sessions, I will meet with five CBVI staff and a
member of our Executive Management Team to receive feedback or suggestions on
what the Commission might do that is new and exciting. Please indicate
your interest in being part of such an up and coming forum by sending an email
with the subject line “Learning Lunch” to my assistant, Melissa Brown, at
</SPAN><A href="mailto:Melissa.Brown2@dhs.state.nj.us"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Melissa.Brown2@dhs.state.nj.us</SPAN></A><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>***************************************************************************************************************************************************************<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 0in"><U><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext">Program
Administration – John C. Walsh, Chief<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>New Program
Initiative in VR – Blindness Learning Community<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The agency strives to
find ways to build the capacity of our community partners in order to improve
the quality of service provision to our consumers with the ultimate goal of
improving overall outcomes. Related to those efforts, on
August 14, 2017, CBVI issued a Notice of Fund Availability (NOFA) and a Request
for Letters of Interest (RLI) inviting Supported Employment provider agencies to
participate in a Blindness Learning Community (BLC) that focuses on building the
capacity of staff at these agencies to more effectively serve individuals who
are blind, vision-impaired, and deaf-blind and require supported-employment
services to obtain and maintain a job. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The Blindness Learning
Community will provide targeted training and coaching on evidence-based,
non-visual methods of instruction for individuals with low or no vision.
It will also present an opportunity for CBVI staff to work with
staff of provider agencies on building a community of practice that focuses on
developing intervention strategies that serve individuals who are blind,
vision-impaired, or deaf-blind, and who have multiple disabilities, including
intellectual and developmental disabilities. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Below are the links
with additional information about these opportunities:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Notices of Funds
Available (NOFA): </SPAN><A
href="http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/providers/grants/nofa/"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/providers/grants/nofa/</SPAN></A><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Blindness Learning
Community (Request for Letters of Interest):<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><A
href="http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/providers/grants/rfprfi/RFPfiles/CBVI%20Blindness%20Learning%20Community%20RLI.pdf"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/providers/grants/rfprfi/RFPfiles/CBVI%20Blindness%20Learning%20Community%20RLI.pdf</SPAN></A><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The goal of the project
is to improve employment outcomes for this consumer population.
Participation in the BLC is voluntary, but all provider agencies that meet the
eligibility criteria are encouraged to participate. CBVI will be providing a
one-time grant of up to $7,500 to each provider agency who is found eligible to
participate in the Blindness Learning Community. The agency will be
accepting letters of interest until close of business on September
1<SUP>st</SUP>. It is anticipated that the learning community will begin
to meet in early November 2017.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><U><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext">Organizational
Logistics – Ines Matos, Chief</SPAN></U><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; COLOR: black; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Talking Book and
Braille Center Loan Program, submitted by Colleen Faupel:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> The TBBC loan program
for computers and CCTV’s has been a very successful program for CBVI consumers.
It allows us to provide a loaner system to individuals who may not be eligible
for purchase yet but, who have already begun training for technology skills
or are participating in training programs, including college courses
towards their VR goals. With this in mind, there are a few guidelines that are
important to highlight as reminders to caseworkers and supervisors who are part
of the process so that we can continue to offer this program with greater
efficiency. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Overdue systems and
late extension forms are two of the biggest hurdles we face with this program,
and we are working to improve in these areas. Below are a few guidelines to
remember when submitting a consumer’s name for a loaner system and what is
involved in the process for it to move smoothly and quickly. Should you have any
questions, please feel free to reach out to Colleen Faupel (TSS Supervisor) for
clarification </SPAN><A href="mailto:colleen.faupel@dhs.state.nj.us"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>colleen.faupel@dhs.state.nj.us</SPAN></A><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 8pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">1.<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'>Equipment
loaner forms need to be filled out in FACTS to initially receive a system and
should also be used for all extensions. The initial loan period request time is
up to 6 months. An extension up to an additional 6 months can be requested upon
the completion of the first 6 months if needed.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 8pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 8pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">2.<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'>Extensions
should be requested before the initial due date, preferably a few weeks prior to
that date. We have received many extension requests months after the initial due
date. When this occurs, the extension is approved from the original due date not
this later date. When a system is delivered by the Talking Book and Braille
Center (TBBC), caseworkers are notified that the due date will be in exactly 6
months. One suggestion for keeping track of this is to set a calendar reminder
to check in with the consumer a few weeks before their due
date.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 8pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">3.<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'>If
an extension beyond 12 months is necessary, an additional review will be done by
the TSS Supervisor. Additional information may be required, including
specifics as to how much longer the consumer will need the system for school or
training. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 8pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 8pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">4.<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'>When
submitting a request for a loaner, the caseworker should send a copy of the
Assistive Technology Assessment to Chris Riehl of the TBBC to ensure that he has
the TSS recommended specs and software for the consumer. Please note that if an
assessment form has not been dated, it has not been completed by the TSS. There
are various reasons why an assessment form may not have been dated for
completion and it is best to check with the TSS if you notice this before
sending an incomplete form to TBBC. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 8pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">5.<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'>When
the form is completed in FACTS and sent to the supervisor for approval, the
supervisor should then use the “Send to” feature within FACTS to send this
document to Chris Riehl at the TBBC. Chris Riehl’s email address is </SPAN><A
href="mailto:criehl@njstatelib.org"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'>criehl@njstatelib.org</SPAN></A><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'> .
We recommend that supervisors also copy the caseworker. Although this process
has been in place for a few years, there continues to be inconsistencies which
result in delays. Adhering to this standard process will help eliminate any
duplicates and will greatly improve the overall efficiency of the program.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 8pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">6.<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 106%'>While
many of the loaner systems are laptops, some desktop systems continue to be
distributed. Please remind consumers that these systems must be set up in a
common area and not a bedroom or basement. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>We will be reviewing
all of the processes for this program over the next few weeks and will send out
an updated set up guidelines as needed for everyone to reference. These are just
a few tips to get things moving in the right direction. Should you have any
questions, please do not hesitate to contact TSS Supervisor Colleen Faupel.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><U><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext">Educational
Services – Eva Scott, Director of Blindness Education<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><B><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; BACKGROUND: white; COLOR: #333333'>“We
keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're
curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.</SPAN></I></B><B><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; COLOR: #333333'>”’
</SPAN></I></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; COLOR: #333333'>- Walt
Disney </SPAN></B><B><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>This has been a very
busy summer, and now we are able to celebrate the success of SHARP 2017 and the
re-adoption of the N.J.A.C 10:92, that governs Blindness Education Services. But
as this season ends, we’re already preparing for the new beginnings of the
fall. Our service agreements from school districts are arriving daily, and
each week we are introduced to new students who need our services.
Blindness Education is regrouping as we look forward to the 2017-2018 academic
year. As Walt Disney has advised us to do, we “keep moving
forward.”<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>SHARP 2017 - Student
Hands-On Alternatives Reinforcement Program: </SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>SHARP 2017 is now
history. A total of 92 students in grades one through eight completed the
program. The students were supported by Blindness Education teachers and
supervisors, numerous instructors from the Independent Living Unit, and
technology specialists from the Assistive Technology Services Unit. The
students also had an opportunity to interact with high school students from our
Employment Development, Guidance, and Engagement (EDGE) Program who worked
within SHARP as interns. The program was also assisted by staff from the Meyer
Center, Management Services, and Human Resources. My deepest gratitude to
everyone who helped make SHARP 2017 a tremendous success.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Changes in Blindness
Education and the Meyer Center: </SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>To help move the
Blindness Education Unit and the Meyer Center forward and make sure that there
is strong supervisory leadership in all locations, there will be some staffing
changes that will take effect in mid to late August.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Cynthia
Madric</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>, who has been an
Education Supervisor in the Newark Service Center, will be moving into the
position of Meyer Center Supervisor. Cynthia’s outstanding supervisory and
organizational abilities will assure that the Meyer Center continues to fulfill
its vital function in providing accessibility to general curricula for CBVI
students.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Joan
Boyle</SPAN></B><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>,
who has been a Blindness Education teacher in the Freehold Service Center, will
now serve consumers as an Education Supervisor in that location. Joan, who
has demonstrated leadership as a colleague of the teachers in Freehold is
looking forward to her new responsibilities as supervisor.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Jessica
Cubberley,</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> who has been a
Blindness Education teacher in the Freehold Service Center, will take on the
role of Education Supervisor in the Newark Service Center. Jessica, who
has had supervisory experience prior to becoming a teacher, is eager to exercise
her leadership ability in Blindness Education.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>I welcome each of these
wonderful colleagues to their new positions. They are all to be commended
for taking on new challenges and responsibilities in a field that is constantly
evolving as the needs of our students change. These three capable
individuals have the talent and ability to lead and support our staff and assure
the ultimate successful outcomes for our students.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>A Milestone for a
Teacher in Blindness Education: </SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>It is my pleasure to
announce and celebrate a milestone for one of our Freehold teachers. On
August 21, 2017, Mr. Richard Dunning marked his 46<SUP>th</SUP> anniversary as a
teacher at CBVI. In 46 years of service Richard has experienced many
organizational changes as well as changes in the field of Blindness
Education. Richard began his career prior to the federal law mandating
free and appropriate public education for all students including those with
disabilities. Despite the absence of a federal mandate, Richard taught
blind and vision impaired students because he and CBVI saw the importance of
doing so. Over the years, Richard’s hard work and dedication has helped
many New Jersey students realize success in their lives. His years of
successful teaching have made Richard a wealth of knowledge about teaching blind
and vision impaired students, and this experience has been of benefit to his
colleagues. Anyone who interacts with Richard knows that he demonstrates
the same level of enthusiasm for the work that I am sure he demonstrated as a
newly graduated teacher. Congratulations to Richard for 46 years of
successful teaching, and we’re looking forward to his continued service to CBVI
consumers. Just keep moving forward.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 12pt"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>From the George F.
Meyer Instructional Resource Center- “Blindness Education- Clean Data
Initiative”, submitted by Christine Hinton, Deputy Director of Blindness
Education: </SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The Commission for the
Blind and Visually Impaired, Blindness Education Services Unit’s leadership is
launching the “Blindness Education- Clean Data Initiative” beginning September
2017. This initiative is an effort to allow this unit to produce and
submit reports electronically and efficiently to both internal and external
state and federal agencies that govern services to CBVI education
consumers. Having clean data also supports the integrity of the
agency and it’s consumers by having current and accurate information about this
community.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The process of cleaning
data includes determining and identifying specific areas of concern to be
addressed and corrected in the process. The Blindness Education Unit will
focus on these areas in Phase One:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: symbol; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">·<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>Accuracy</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>:
To determine if collected data is a true reflection of the consumer in real
time;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: symbol; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">·<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>Completeness</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>:
To assess if data fields are completed as required;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: symbol; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">·<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>Consistency</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>: To
ensure that date is consistently entered across the system to produce accurate
reporting; and<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-add-space: auto"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: symbol; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">·<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>Uniformity</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>:
To apply procedures so that the data is recorded by the same measures throughout
the unit.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Applying these measures
will help the Blindness Education Unit to position itself for future
opportunities for its consumers in the field of Blindness Education.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 0.25in"><U><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext">Independent
Living & Clinical Services – Elizabeth DeShields,
Coordinator<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Project Better
Eye-Health Services and Treatment (BEST) – Teamwork Leads to Success, submitted
by Sunil Parikh, Supervisor of Project BEST:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> Not too long ago a
gentleman approximately 45 years of age attended a Project BEST eye screening
with his brother. The gentleman appeared to be nervous and anxious,
fiddling with the clip board, and pacing. The Project BEST team determined
that he needed assistance in filling out the screening form, and he was helped
accordingly. <B><o:p></o:p></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>He then received a
thorough eye screening as provided by the Project BEST Field Representatives and
the assigned eye physician on site. He was diagnosed by the
physician to be legally blind and have Strabismus (a condition in which the eyes
do not properly align with each other when looking at an object). During the
post screening interview, it was found that he had diabetes for more than 10
years. He also mentioned that he was employed successfully for a
long time, was presently on temporary disability, but knew he would soon be
losing his job due to his vision issues. This was upsetting to him as the
sole bread winner in his family of four (a wife and two daughters). He
also shared that his vision loss was also negatively impacting his family
life.<B><o:p></o:p></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>He was immediately
referred to our Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Unit where a team proceeded with
addressing his needs. The VR counselor, eye health nurse, rehabilitation
teacher, supervisor and manager, all got involved in serving this consumer.
Their dedicated efforts combined with the consumer’s initiative had positive
results. The consumer not only was able to return to his place of
employment, but was quickly promoted to a supervisory position. His
adjustment to his vision impairment renewed his self-confidence, and being back
in the work force, helped to resolve his family issues.
<B><o:p></o:p></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Project BEST, which
serves more than 37,000 consumers annually, is often the first introduction and
first point of entry into CBVI. Through the diverse populations and target
groups that are served by the various eye screening initiatives, (preschool,
fixed sites, Diabetic Eye Disease Detection, migrant workers, and community
health fairs), Project Best is a vital source for referrals to CBVI’s other
units. Project BEST provides not only community education on sight conservation,
vision screenings, diagnoses, follow up examinations and treatment, it also
promotes all of CBVI’s services and instructional programs by educating
potential consumers and the community. Project BEST shares information
about how CBVI professionals make it possible for individuals with vision loss
to develop skills that enable self-sufficiency through a variety of
rehabilitation and education programs for people of all ages to facilitate
personal independence, employability, and full integration into their community.
<B><o:p></o:p></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNoSpacing><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>For a list of Project
BEST fixed site screenings, please contact Sunil Parikh by email: </SPAN><A
href="mailto:Sunil.Parikh@dhs.state.nj.us"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Sunil.Parikh@dhs.state.nj.us</SPAN></A><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> .
<B><o:p></o:p></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 12pt"><U><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext">Business
Enterprises of New Jersey – Deacon Truesdale, Manager
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Recently a business
enterprise location at the U.S. Postal Service Dominick V. Daniels Processing
and Distribution (DVDP&D) Center in Kearny, NJ became available to
BENJ. This location had been successfully managed for many years by U.S.
military service veteran Albert “Skip” Robinson, who is retiring from the
Randolph-Sheppard Program. The DVDP&D is a large 24/7 facility with
many vending machines and a Dunkin Donuts. The availability of this
location created a great opportunity for a licensed manager in the program and
will also create promotional opportunities for other BENJ managers through the
bidding process. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The bidding process is
implemented when a location becomes available. A licensed manager or qualified
individual on the BENJ certified for placement list submits their interest in
the location and an interview is scheduled shortly thereafter. The
candidates are then interviewed by a panel from within BENJ and CBVI
staff.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The bidding process for
the DVDP&D will mark the first time the new applicable rules and regulations
of the re-authorized N.J.A.C.10:97 will be put into practice.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><U><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext">Staff Development
– Kenya Whitehurst-Percell<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The following documents
are posted on CBVI’s Intranet (</SPAN><A href="http://cbvi-web/intranet/"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>http://cbvi-web/intranet/</SPAN></A><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> ). They are
there as a resource for you to assist you in working with CBVI consumers:
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph
style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">·<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The <B>2017 DHS
Division of Disability Services Resource Guide</B>: This publication identifies
all levels of government, community organizations and professionals working to
assist people with disabilities. It provides access to up-to-date
information that individuals with disabilities may need to flourish in their
physical, professional, and recreational lives.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph
style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">·<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The <B>2016 CBVI State
Rehabilitation Council’s (SRC) Annual Report:</B> This report provides an update
on CBVI programs, achievements, and accomplishments. With an emphasis on
vocational rehabilitation services, this publication chronicles the ongoing
teamwork and collaborative efforts of CBVI and the SRC.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph
style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore">·<SPAN
style='FONT: 7pt "Times New Roman"'>
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The <B>2017 Red
Book</B>: This is a summary guide to employment supports for people with
disabilities under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and the
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>The links for locating
these documents on the intranet are listed below: <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>2017 DHS Division of
Disability Services Resource Guide<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 6pt"><A
href="http://cbvi-web/intranet/ftproot/LocalFTP/DDS%20RD_17-final-web.pdf"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>http://cbvi-web/intranet/ftproot/LocalFTP/DDS%20RD_17-final-web.pdf</SPAN></A><SPAN
class=MsoHyperlink><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 12pt"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>2016 CBVI State
Rehabilitation Council’s (SRC) Annual Report</SPAN></B><B><o:p></o:p></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><A
href="http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/cbvi/publications/srcar/2016_SRC_AR_Final.pdf"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/cbvi/publications/srcar/2016_SRC_AR_Final.pdf</SPAN></A><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>2017 Red
Book</SPAN></B><U><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; COLOR: #1f497d'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></P>
<P class=MsoNormal> <A
href="http://cbvi-web/intranet/ftproot/LocalFTP/TheRedBook2017.pdf"><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>http://cbvi-web/intranet/ftproot/LocalFTP/TheRedBook2017.pdf</SPAN></A><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 0.25in"><U><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext">Regional
Updates</SPAN></U><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></H1>
<H1
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 6pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0in; mso-margin-top-alt: 12.0pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: windowtext">Southern Region – Jack Thompson,
Manager</SPAN></U><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-AUTOSPACE: "><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>First Annual Reverse
Job Fair Event, submitted by Heather Candelaria, VR Supervisor:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> On Thursday,
June 29<SUP>th</SUP>, the Vocational Rehabilitation Unit of the CHSC held its
first annual Reverse Job Fair Event at the Cherry Hill Library. Under the
direction of Andrea Askie-Rosario and Caroline Ziemiak from the Business
Relations Unit (BRU), we were able to host a well-organized and successful
presentation to the attending employers. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-AUTOSPACE: "><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-AUTOSPACE: "><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Just what exactly is a
reverse job fair you might ask? A Reverse Job Fair is a new and
interesting concept where instead of the employers being stationed at a table
and having consumers walk up to them and ask questions, it’s flipped to where
the employers get a chance to walk around to the consumers stationed at
the tables and ask the consumers questions about themselves. To better
illustrate the set-up, each consumer is seated at a table with a tri-fold
designed to showcase their skills and abilities with exhibits demonstrating
their talents including hobbies, educational credentials, and work history.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-AUTOSPACE: "><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-AUTOSPACE: "><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>This effort required an
extensive amount of planning. VR counselors were responsible for
identifying and prepping job-ready consumers (eleven in total) who would be up
to the challenge and willing to put in the work. Before the main event the
consumers attended a Job Ready Boot Camp and a dress rehearsal. During the boot
camp VR counselors broke into groups of two and collaboratively facilitated a
discussion with the consumers on job hunting skills, resume building,
interviewing skills, and appropriate dress. During the dress rehearsal VR
counselors worked with the consumers in designing their tri-folds including
brainstorming on what they should display. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-AUTOSPACE: "><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-AUTOSPACE: "><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>On the day of the event
the consumers came well prepared, dressed in business attire with their resumes,
tri-folds, and assistive technology. VR Coordinator, Amanda Gerson,
provided welcoming remarks and discussed the benefits of hiring and working with
individuals with disabilities. Some of the employers in attendance were
Princeton University, Rowan at Gloucester County College, Goodwill Industries,
Longhorn Steakhouse, and ShopRite. At the closing of the event, the
employers provided us with positive feedback. Some employers said it was
very creative and a more visual way to think about the recruitment process.
Shoprite HR recruiters discussed customizing a position at their store for
possibly two consumers. And the Longhorn Steakhouse HR recruiter who was
very impressed with one consumer in particular is considering that individual
for a position at one of their locations. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-AUTOSPACE: "><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-AUTOSPACE: "><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Overall, the Business
Relations Unit and the CHSC VR counselors did an excellent job in working
together to make this event a success. The Reverse Job Fair definitely
exceeded expectations, and we look forward to planning for next year.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-AUTOSPACE: "><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Below are a few photos
from the event:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: en-us'><IMG
id=Picture_x0020_4 border=0 src="cid:8911386D4759418B95B260DACD7DFFF9@JoeHP"
width=293 height=259><IMG id=Picture_x0020_3 border=0
src="cid:F01B59C8C32C40FD8B1F6196F9268D40@JoeHP" width=340 height=259><IMG
id=Picture_x0020_2 border=0 src="cid:7E5DC299EB5B4E63BA15270B06F924F5@JoeHP"
width=279 height=230><IMG id=Picture_x0020_1 border=0
src="cid:7EC7854154E44D0CB0124800E424F340@JoeHP" width=374
height=230></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Photo #1: Andrea
Askie-Rosario and Caroline Ziemak opening the Job Ready Boot
Camp.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Photo #2: Another boot
camp photo with VR counselors and consumers discussing – “What you need to know
when preparing to interview”.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Photo #3: Consumer
Adiel Mendez, dressed in business attire with his resume and assistive
technology on the table in front of him.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Photo #4: Consumer
Robin Hester, also dressed in business attire, standing next to her tri-fold
display with her business cards, diplomas, and assistive technology on the
table.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="BACKGROUND: white; PAGE-BREAK-AFTER: avoid; TEXT-ALIGN: center; LINE-HEIGHT: 18pt"
align=center><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-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; BACKGROUND: #0582ff; COLOR: windowtext; LETTER-SPACING: 0.15pt'>comments</SPAN></B></A><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif; LETTER-SPACING: 0.15pt'>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN-TOP: 0.25in"><U><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext">The Last
Words<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-TOP: 6pt"><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>“Work joyfully and
peacefully knowing that right thoughts and right efforts will inevitably bring
about right results.”</SPAN></I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> – James Allen
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<DIV
style="BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 3pt dotted; PADDING-BOTTOM: 1pt; PADDING-TOP: 0in; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; mso-element: para-border-div">
<P class=MsoNormal
style="BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; PADDING-TOP: 0in; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in"><I><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></I> </P></DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Please send items or
suggestions for the next issue of the <I>Commission Edition</I> by or before 11
a.m., Monday, September 18, 2017:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align=center><A
href="mailto:Pamela.Gaston@dhs.state.nj.us"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Pamela.Gaston@dhs.state.nj.us</SPAN></B></A><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> and </SPAN></B><A
href="mailto:Melissa.Brown2@dhs.state.nj.us"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'>Melissa.Brown2@dhs.state.nj.us</SPAN></B></A><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'> </SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style="COLOR: #1f497d; mso-fareast-language: en-us"><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style="COLOR: #1f497d; mso-fareast-language: en-us"><o:p></o:p></SPAN> </P>
<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><SPAN
style="mso-fareast-language: en-us">From:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style="mso-fareast-language: en-us"> joe ruffalo [mailto:nfbnj1@verizon.net]
<BR><B>Sent:</B> Thursday, August 24, 2017 6:01 PM<BR><B>To:</B> Brian Mackey
<bmackey88@gmail.com>; joe ruffalo
<nfbnj1@verizon.net><BR><B>Subject:</B> Paste In The Body Fw: August 2017
Commission Edition<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV></DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p></o:p> </P>
<DIV>
<DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us">
Brian, no rush,please paste in the body.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us">We care. We
share. We grow. We make a difference<BR>Joe Ruffalo, President <BR>National
Federation of the Blind of New Jersey <BR>973 743 0075<BR><A
href="mailto:nfbnj1@verizon.net">nfbnj1@verizon.net</A><BR>Your old car keys can
be keys to literacy for the blind.<BR>Donate your unwanted vehicle to us by
clicking <BR><A
href="http://www.carshelpingtheblind.org">www.carshelpingtheblind.org</A> <BR>or
call 855 659 9314<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV>
<DIV>
<DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV>
<DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="BACKGROUND: whitesmoke"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'>From:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'>
<A title=Daniel.Frye@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:Daniel.Frye@dhs.state.nj.us">Daniel.Frye@dhs.state.nj.us</A>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="BACKGROUND: whitesmoke"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'>Sent:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'>
Thursday, August 24, 2017 5:08 PM<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="BACKGROUND: whitesmoke"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'>To:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'>
<A title=CBVI.AllUsers@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:CBVI.AllUsers@dhs.state.nj.us">CBVI.AllUsers@dhs.state.nj.us</A>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="BACKGROUND: whitesmoke"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'>Cc:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'>
<A title=Elizabeth.Connolly@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:Elizabeth.Connolly@dhs.state.nj.us">Elizabeth.Connolly@dhs.state.nj.us</A>
; <A title=Doris.Windle@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:Doris.Windle@dhs.state.nj.us">Doris.Windle@dhs.state.nj.us</A> ; <A
title=Nicole.Brossoie@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:Nicole.Brossoie@dhs.state.nj.us">Nicole.Brossoie@dhs.state.nj.us</A>
; <A title=Christina.Mongon@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:Christina.Mongon@dhs.state.nj.us">Christina.Mongon@dhs.state.nj.us</A>
; <A title=Bonny.Fraser@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:Bonny.Fraser@dhs.state.nj.us">Bonny.Fraser@dhs.state.nj.us</A> ; <A
title=Christopher.Bailey@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:Christopher.Bailey@dhs.state.nj.us">Christopher.Bailey@dhs.state.nj.us</A>
; <A title=Joseph.Amoroso@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:Joseph.Amoroso@dhs.state.nj.us">Joseph.Amoroso@dhs.state.nj.us</A>
; <A title=David.Alexander@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:David.Alexander@dhs.state.nj.us">David.Alexander@dhs.state.nj.us</A>
; <A title=Ellen.Lovejoy@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:Ellen.Lovejoy@dhs.state.nj.us">Ellen.Lovejoy@dhs.state.nj.us</A> ;
<A title=Jennifer.Bryan@dhs.state.nj.us
href="mailto:Jennifer.Bryan@dhs.state.nj.us">Jennifer.Bryan@dhs.state.nj.us</A>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="BACKGROUND: whitesmoke"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'>Subject:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma",sans-serif; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us'>
August 2017 Commission Edition<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV></DIV></DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: black; mso-fareast-language: en-us"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV></DIV>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black">Colleagues:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black">Please find attached the August
2017 issue of the <I>Commission Edition</I>, CBVI’s monthly newsletter,
detailing the array of programmatic items sponsored by, and occurring within,
the agency. As is my custom, I want to acknowledge and thank Pamela Gaston and
Melissa Brown for their invaluable support with editing, proofreading, and
formatting our in-house publication. Additionally, staff are encouraged to
submit your own original offerings for potential inclusion in these pages; your
creative contributions promise to make the <I>Commission Edition</I> a more
engaging read for all.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black">Please join me in celebrating and
congratulating our colleague and friend, Leanne Ennis, Orientation and Mobility
Instructor out of our Cherry Hill Service Center, on the birth of her second
daughter. Nicole Lynn Ennis was born healthy on Wednesday morning, August 9,
2017, weighing six pounds and 11 ounces. I am delighted to report that all of
the family are doing well. Additionally, as you will read in this month’s
Blindness Education news, Richard Dunning, Teacher of the Visually Impaired
(TVI) in our Freehold Service Center, celebrated his forty-sixth anniversary as
a teacher of blind, vision-impaired, and deaf-blind students on Monday, August
21. This is quite a remarkable professional accomplishment. Thank you, Richard,
for positively influencing the lives of several generations of New Jersey
learners.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black">As you review the <I>Commission
Edition</I> for August 2017, I trust you will agree that many good things are
happening in the delivery of services to New Jersey’s blind, vision-impaired,
and deaf-blind consumers. These activities and accomplishments are attributable
to the collective work of our entire staff. Please accept my gratitude for your
individual efforts that, together, help to guarantee the continued productivity
of Commission services.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black">Most regard August as the last
full month of summer, so for those of you who enjoy this season of the year,
please take full advantage of the outdoor recreational opportunities that are
available to you as we head toward September. Keep in touch, be well, and do
good work.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black">With Kind
Regards,<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><IMG hspace=12
alt="Description: Description: Description: Description: cid:image001.jpg@01D2B1F6.52173710"
src="cid:0FF15CDE57AD4BCFA4452ECCFBF26B75@JoeHP" width=80 align=left height=72
v:shapes="_x0000_s1026"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Verdana",sans-serif; COLOR: #1f497d'>Daniel
B. Frye, J.D.</SPAN></B><SPAN style="COLOR: black"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Verdana",sans-serif; COLOR: #1f497d'>Executive
Director</SPAN></B><SPAN style="COLOR: black"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Baskerville Old Face"; COLOR: #1f497d'>State
of New Jersey</SPAN></B><SPAN style="COLOR: black"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase; COLOR: #76923c'>D</SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; FONT-VARIANT: small-caps; COLOR: #76923c'>epartment</SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase; COLOR: #76923c'>
</SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; FONT-VARIANT: small-caps; COLOR: #76923c'>of
</SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase; COLOR: #76923c'>H</SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; FONT-VARIANT: small-caps; COLOR: #76923c'>uman
Services</SPAN></B><SPAN style="COLOR: black"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase; COLOR: #76923c'>C</SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; FONT-VARIANT: small-caps; COLOR: #76923c'>OMMISSION
</SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase; COLOR: #76923c'>FOR
THE BLIND </SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; COLOR: #76923c'>AND
<SPAN style="TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase">VISUALLY IMPAIRED
</SPAN></SPAN></B><SPAN style="COLOR: black"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; COLOR: #1f497d'>153
Halsey Street, 6<SUP>th</SUP> Floor, P.O. Box 47017</SPAN></B><SPAN
style="COLOR: black"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; COLOR: #1f497d'>
Newark, NJ 07101</SPAN></B><SPAN style="COLOR: black"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; COLOR: #1f497d'>
Office: (973) 648-2324 ● Mobile: 973-951-1156 ● Fax: (973)
648-7364</SPAN></B><SPAN style="COLOR: black"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; COLOR: #1f497d'>
Email: </SPAN></B><SPAN style="COLOR: black"><A
href="mailto:Daniel.Frye@dhs.state.nj.us"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif'>Daniel.Frye@dhs.state.nj.us</SPAN></B></A></SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; COLOR: black'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="COLOR: black"> </SPAN><SPAN
style="COLOR: #1f497d"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto"><SPAN
style="COLOR: black"> </SPAN><SPAN
style='FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman",serif; COLOR: #1f497d'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto"><SPAN
style="COLOR: black"></SPAN> </P></DIV></DIV></DIV></DIV></DIV></DIV></DIV></BODY></HTML>