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<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">
<DIV>Greetings to all!</DIV>
<DIV>Please read and share with others as the NJ CBVI continues to provide
encouragement and guidance to raise expectations to live the life we want!</DIV>
<DIV>Let’s work together to make a difference!</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: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">***</DIV>
<DIV
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000"> </DIV>
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<DIV style="FONT: 10pt tahoma">
<DIV><B>Subject:</B> FW: October 2017 Commission Edition</DIV></DIV>
<DIV> </DIV></DIV>
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style='FONT-SIZE: small; TEXT-DECORATION: none; FONT-FAMILY: "Calibri"; FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: #000000; FONT-STYLE: normal; DISPLAY: inline'>
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<DIV>
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<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma","sans-serif"'>From:</SPAN></B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma","sans-serif"'> Daniel Frye
<BR><B>Sent:</B> Tuesday, October 24, 2017 6:30 PM</SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma","sans-serif"'></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Tahoma","sans-serif"'><B>Subject:</B>
October 2017 Commission Edition<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV></DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3>Special Note: I have pasted and attached
the Commission Edition for October, 2017.</FONT></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal>Colleagues:<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal>Please find attached the October 2017 issue of the
<I>Commission Edition</I>, the in-house monthly publication of the New Jersey
Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI). As always, I want to
acknowledge and thank Pamela Gaston and Melissa Brown for their assistance in
editing, proofreading, and formatting our newsletter. All of our staff are
invited to submit creative contributions for the <I>Commission Edition</I>,
which should add to the value and vitality of our communication.<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal>As we note the various national celebrations for the
disability community in October, I believe that the content of this month’s
<I>Commission Edition</I> clearly affirms that CBVI is working every
day--year-round--to promote the spirit and sentiment of these annual
observances. I encourage each of you to save our monthly newsletter as an
on-going library or resource for your reference, but these issues, collectively,
also reflect and chronicle the activity and history of CBVI. On Saturday,
October 21, 2017, I reached my fourth anniversary as this agency’s Executive
Director, and serving in this capacity has been a professional honor. Thank you
all for making my experience at CBVI memorable and rewarding.<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal>The last <I>Commission Edition</I> for 2017 will be released
in early to middle December, as a combined November/December end-of-year,
holiday issue. Until then, enjoy the balance of autumn, have a wonderful
Thanksgiving season, and know that your efforts on behalf of CBVI are deeply
appreciated.<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal>Keep in touch, be well, and do good work.<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal>With Kind Regards,<o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><o:p><FONT size=3></FONT></o:p> </P>
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<P class=MsoNormal><IMG hspace=12
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v:shapes="Picture_x0020_1"><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Verdana","sans-serif"; COLOR: #1f497d'>Daniel
B. Frye, J.D.</SPAN></B><o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Verdana","sans-serif"; COLOR: #1f497d'>Executive
Director</SPAN></B><o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Baskerville Old Face","serif"; COLOR: #1f497d'>State
of New Jersey</SPAN></B><o:p></o:p></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
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</SPAN></B><B><SPAN
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</SPAN></B><B><SPAN
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style='FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman","serif"; FONT-VARIANT: small-caps; COLOR: #76923c'>uman
Services</SPAN></B><o:p></o:p></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><o:p></o:p></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><o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><SPAN
style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman","serif"; COLOR: #1f497d'>
Newark, NJ 07101</SPAN></B><o:p></o:p></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><o:p></o:p></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
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style='FONT-SIZE: 8pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman","serif"; COLOR: #1f497d'>
Email: </SPAN></B><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
style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman","serif"'><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
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src="cid:B84DE1CADA624021901222F0E6BABBDF@JoeHP" width=70 height=65><FONT
face=""><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 28pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 24pt">C</FONT></SPAN></I><I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 23pt"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 20pt">ommission
</FONT></SPAN></I><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 28pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 24pt">E</FONT></SPAN></I><I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 23pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 20pt">dition</FONT></SPAN></I></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=""><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The Monthly Newsletter of the NJ Commission for the
Blind and Visually Impaired</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 12pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">October 2017 – Volume 5, No.
10</FONT></FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 10pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"></FONT></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 10pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt">Daniel B. Frye, J.D.<SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 6">
</SPAN><SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN><SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 3">
</SPAN>Pamela Gaston</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 10pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt">Executive Director <SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 7">
</SPAN><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 2">
</SPAN>Editor</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 12pt 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">From the
Director’s Desk </FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">October, in America, is generally used
to celebrate the accomplishments of persons with disabilities. Annually, since
1964, the President of the United States has issued a proclamation acknowledging
White Cane Safety Day, which has been more recently rebranded Blind Americans
Equality Day. Similarly, October has also been congressionally recognized as
Disability Employment Awareness Month. Both of these occasions are recognized at
the state and local levels with ceremonies, educational programs, and the like,
all calculated to acknowledge the mainstream or integrated role that persons
with disabilities are to enjoy across our land, on the aspirational foundation
of Federal, State, and Local laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA), The Rehabilitation Act, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education
Improvement Act (IDEIA), to name a few.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Finding ourselves in this month of
disability awareness, I am inclined to stop and reflect on the broad and
transcendent mission of the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually
Impaired (CBVI). Our agency’s mission is to promote and provide services in the
areas of education, employment, independence, and eye-health through informed
choice and partnership with persons who are blind or vision-impaired, their
families, and the community. Among the multiple elements of the job description
for the Executive Director of CBVI are the responsibility for representing the
agency before State and National organizations; interpreting the Commission’s
philosophy, policy, and programs; and presenting a constructive<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>view of blindness and vision-impairment
and the problems, aspirations, and accomplishments of blind persons to the
general public.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Given this ambassadorial function, I am
pleased to report that the Commission is succeeding in operationalizing its
mission every day. Quietly and effectively, we are doing good work in each of
our organizational disciplines.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">As is our custom, the Blindness
Education Unit within CBVI will be hosting our annual Teacher’s Symposium on
October 18-19 to provide practical strategies and instruction to public school
teachers and school administrators who have our blind, vision-impaired, and
deaf-blind consumers as students in their classrooms. Through the dedication of
our Director of Blindness Education and her committed team, we have increased
the number of students who are being taught Braille by almost 50% over the last
two years. And, finally, because of the attentive professional advocacy of one
of our Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVIs), the Commission worked with a
young learner’s parents and local school district to guarantee that this pupil
was placed in a learning environment that was consistent with his rigorous
intellect and curiosity; without this TVI’s perception and persistence, this
blind young man may have been placed in an educational setting that would have
been less challenging for him, potentially resulting in delays in his learning.
Quietly and effectively, we are doing good work.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">During the last Federal fiscal year,
CBVI has helped over 200 blind, vision-impaired, and deaf-blind consumers find
work in competitive, integrated employment. This year, in addition to helping
people find work, we have placed an emphasis on our self-employment, small
business program, where we have funded start-up costs for several creative
entrepreneurs. Last, consistent with the new Federal requirements under the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), we have established an in-house
Business Relations Unit (BRU), which has undertaken the important task of
cultivating strong and direct relationships with large and small New Jersey
employers, with the twin objectives of helping our consumers match their talents
with interested businesses and systemically educating the business community
about the inherent capacity of people who are blind, vision-impaired, and
deaf-blind. Quietly and effectively, we are doing good
work.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">In our Independent Living (IL) and
Independent Living—Older Blind (ILOB) programs, we have partnered with seven
libraries across the state to provide individual and group instruction in
Assistive Technology as part of our Library Equal Access Program (LEAP). On a
daily basis, our Rehabilitation Teachers visit with consumers in their homes to
provide individual instruction on a variety of skills that enable these people
to live self-sufficiently and with increased self-confidence. Further, our
Orientation and Mobility instructors meet with our consumers to teach them how
to travel with grace and poise while our cadre of Eye-Health Nurses engage with
our consumers to train them in strategies for managing their diabetes or other
conditions that require regular and responsible attention. And as of this
writing, CBVI has executed its third senior retreat, where groups of seniors
have been provided with a five-day intensive instructional session, emphasizing
the nonvisual alternative techniques of blindness. Anecdotally, we hear from
those who have participated in these senior retreats, that they have received
life-changing instruction and perspective. These individual stories are affirmed
in the positive results that we receive from the satisfaction surveys that are
regularly administered for CBVI by our partners at Mississippi State
University’s National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low-Vision.
Quietly and effectively, we are doing good work.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Project BEST (Better Eye-Health
Services and Treatment) continues to provide eye screenings to thousands of
children, diabetics, migrants, and other residents of New Jersey. These
invaluable examinations keep residents of our state aware of their own
eye-health and best practices for maintaining their vision. In instances where
we notice that a person may have an issue with his/her vision, these
preventative services allow CBVI to refer these people for further medical
attention and introduce them, when appropriate, to Commission services. As our
Field Representatives in Project BEST undertake their vital duties, a positive
message about blindness or vision-loss is provided to people when a test
indicates that an eye-health issue may exist for any of them. Within the last
month, our professionals in Project BEST have been recognized for their
professional services by requests for a positive feature story from local
newspapers in Red Bank. Quietly and effectively, we are doing good
work.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">To be sure, this brief survey of
Commission services neglects to mention numerous programs and activities that
are undertaken by our staff each day. As a matter of professional course and
routine commitment, members of our staff come to work with the aim of promoting
our organizational mission through the performance of their individual duties.
Our staff members perform their responsibilities without fanfare or fuss, but
their collective efforts make a substantial difference in the lives of thousands
of blind, vision-impaired, and deaf-blind consumers every year, a difference
that helps to facilitate the American promise of inclusion, opportunity, and
full integration in society. During this October, as we focus on national
disability observances, at CBVI quietly and effectively, we are doing good
work.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 12pt 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Daniel B. Frye</FONT></FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Executive Director</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"></FONT></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoSubtitle
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt; LETTER-SPACING: 0.75pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT face=Arial><EM>Learning Lunch Reminder:
</EM></FONT></SPAN></U></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">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.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>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 </FONT></FONT></SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><A
style='href: "mailto:Melissa.Brown2@dhs.state.nj.us"'><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT
face=Arial>Melissa.Brown2@dhs.state.nj.us</FONT></SPAN></A></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> </FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 9pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt">***************************************************************************************************************************************************************</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Program
Administration – John C. Walsh, Chief</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 6pt 0in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt" align=center><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Self-Employment as a Viable Employment
Goal</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">CBVI operates a small business program that is designed
to provide vocational rehabilitation services to those consumers whose goal on
their Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) is to establish a solely owned
business. The program is administered within the Business Enterprises New Jersey
(BENJ) unit, with Napoleon (Deacon) Truesdale as the lead liaison with consumers
and counselors.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Deacon is able to
provide technical assistance to consumers to steer them to community resources
to develop their small business concept into a viable business plan.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>He provides information on Small
Business Development Centers connected with institutions of higher education in
the consumer’s community and also contract information for the Small Business
Administration (SBA) and the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE).<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>CBVI has found these community partners
to be excellent resources for consumers to learn the intricacies of developing a
small business.</FONT><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> </FONT></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Consumers may also seek start-up funds for their small
business from the agency, as regulated by NJAC 10:95-12.3.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The funding formula follows a
cost-sharing model, specifying the amounts the consumer must contribute to the
start-up costs of their business, based on the size of the requested grant from
CBVI, e.g. for a consumer requesting a startup grant over $15,501, they must
secure 40% of the total start-up costs for the business from funds secured from
other sources, including their own expenditures with personal funds for items
dedicated to the business, SBA backed loans, or other financing.
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Before a counselor refers a consumer to be considered
for the small business program, the counselor should review the following
eligibility criteria for entry to this program:</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 1in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt; TEXT-INDENT: -0.5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">1. <SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </SPAN>The
consumer must indicate a commitment to own and operate his or her own
business;<SPAN style="mso-tab-count: 1">
</SPAN></FONT><SPAN style="mso-tab-count: 1"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">
</FONT></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 1in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt; TEXT-INDENT: -0.5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">2. <SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </SPAN>The
business goal must be appropriate to the consumer‘s physical/mental condition
according to the counselor, based upon documented medical conditions pertaining
to the requirement of the business;</FONT><SPAN style="mso-tab-count: 2"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">
</FONT></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 1in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt; TEXT-INDENT: -0.5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">3. <SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </SPAN>The
consumer must demonstrate an ability to acquire basic business management skills
such as maintaining inventory and financial records;</FONT><SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 2"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">
</FONT></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 1in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt; TEXT-INDENT: -0.5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">4. <SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </SPAN>The
consumer shall have at least two years of experience in the type of business or
have related experience in the business that he or she wishes to operate;
and</FONT><SPAN style="mso-tab-count: 2"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">
</FONT></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 1in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt; TEXT-INDENT: -0.5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">5. <SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </SPAN>The
consumer shall develop a comprehensive business plan which shall allow the
Commission and other funding sources (such as, banks and the Small Business
Administration) an opportunity to evaluate its chances for
success.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Deacon will provide consultation to the referred
consumer on the requirements of the program, and when the consumer completes the
early draft of a business plan, he will give them feedback on how to improve
it.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Consumers are encouraged
to work with SBA-sponsored programs in their community, to learn current
practices for writing a robust business plan.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Once a final draft is submitted by the
consumer to Deacon, I convene the Self-Employment Review Committee, composed of
members of the executive staff and chaired by me, to perform a comprehensive
review.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>An evaluation
instrument is used by committee members to evaluate the plan for compliance with
NJAC 10:95-12.3, and for its viability for success as a business concept.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The consumer is informed of the
Committee’s decision.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>In a
favorable decision, which means that the business plan was approved for funding,
the consumer would have to register his/her business with NJ START to make them
a state vendor, and the grant is issued directly to the business.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Consumers must maintain records of all
expenditures from grant funds, and expend all funds within the first year of the
business’s operation.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">In a changing economy that often creates niche business
opportunities for entrepreneurially minded individuals, we want to make sure
that our consumers can also avail themselves of these self-employment
opportunities that are facilitated through the vocational rehabilitation
process.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 24pt 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Vocational
Rehabilitation and Transitional Services – Amanda Gerson,
Coordinator</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 6pt 0in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt" align=center><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">National Disability Employment Awareness Month –
“Inclusion Drives Innovation”</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Each year, the month of October brings the celebration
of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), an initiative within
the Federal Government to celebrate the skills, abilities and of workers with
disabilities and educate the general public on the value of an inclusive
workforce. Initially established in 1945, after the return of service members
with disabilities from World War II, <SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>President Harry S. Truman approved a
Congressional resolution declaring the first week in October as “National Employ
the Physically Handicapped Week” to increase awareness of individuals with
disabilities in the workplace. It was later amended to remove the word
“physically” to acknowledge individuals with all types of disabilities in 1962,
and then further expanded and modified to National Disability Employment
Awareness Month in 1988 under President George H.W. Bush. In 2001, Congress
established the Office of Disability Employment Policy (OPED) within the US
Department of Labor. Previously only existing as an advisory council under prior
administrations, the creation of ODEP established a permanent entity focused on
disability and federal labor policy. </FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">As part of the NDEAM celebration, the Commission’s
Business Relations Unit is keeping busy with a range of activities, including a
number of Disability Mentoring Days and other disability awareness and outreach
events with our business partners, such as Prudential, Port Authority, and
ShopRite. Disability Mentoring Day is a national effort spearheaded by the
American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), and implemented
nationwide “to promote career development for students and job-seekers with
disabilities through hands-on career exploration and ongoing mentoring
relationships.” </FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">From their web site: “The AAPD is a convener, connector,
and catalyst for change, increasing the political and economic power of people
with disabilities. As a national cross-disability rights organization, AAPD
advocates for full civil rights for the 50+ million Americans with disabilities
by promoting equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and
political participation.” </FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Their programs and initiatives not only include
employment-oriented programs, such as Disability Mentoring Days, a summer
internship program, and the Disability Equality Index, but also focus on full
community inclusion, education, transportation, health, housing, technology, and
veteran’s issues. Their website (</FONT></FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><A style='href: "http://www.aapd.com"'><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT
face=Arial>www.aapd.com</FONT></SPAN></A></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">) provides a wealth of information and resources,
including research, law and policy, services, and programs pertaining to the
inclusion of people with disabilities. </FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 6pt 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Educational
Services – Christine Hinton, Deputy Director of Blindness
Education</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt" align=center><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Visiting the Kentucky Correctional Industries Prison
Braille Services Program</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Earlier this month I attended the American Printing
House for the Blind’s (APH) Annual Meeting for Ex- Officio Trustees on which I
serve as CBVI’s representative and an APH Trustee. This was my first opportunity
to attend the Prison Braille Forum which is usually held a couple of days before
the opening of the annual meeting. This forum brings together correctional
institutions and agencies of states that have Prison Braille Programs and
representatives of agencies who are interested in learning more about the
program. Part of this year’s forum included a tour of the Kentucky Correctional
Industries Braille Services Program. </FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The Kentucky Correctional Industries Braille Services
Program is located in the Kentucky Correctional Institution for Women (KCIW)
outside of Louisville, Kentucky.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>This facility houses inmates who are serving anything from community
service to life sentences.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>The Braille Services Program was established in 2000 as an effort to
provide braille for students who are blind and to provide the participants
(inmates) with the opportunity to develop good work ethics as well as
employability skills such as willingness to learn, reliability, self-motivation,
effective communication and team work in addition to the skills required for all
areas of braille transcription.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>Training and Braille Transcription certification for participants include
Literary Braille, Nemeth Braille (Math), Music Braille and Proofreading.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Currently there are over 30
correctional facilities in the United States that have a braille
program.</FONT><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> </FONT></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">National Prison Braille Programs not only provide
students throughout the country with braille textbooks, but the program also
helps address the need for more transcribers, especially for the subjects of
math and science.</FONT><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> </FONT></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> </FONT></SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">My
visit to the KCIW Braille Services Program not only re-confirmed the importance
of braille production services for the provision of quality<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>textbooks that enable classroom
inclusion and access to information for the success of our students but also,
enlightened me to the program’s potential for addressing
recidivism.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 0.25in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Independent
Living & Clinical Services – Elizabeth DeShields,
Coordinator</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P style="BACKGROUND: white; MARGIN: 6pt 0in" align=center><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
color=#333333 face=Arial>Independent Living Assistive Technology
Services</FONT></SPAN></B><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></B></P>
<P style="BACKGROUND: white; MARGIN: 0in 0in 6pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial>According to Cathy Bodine, Executive
Director of </FONT></SPAN><A
style='href: "http://ucdenver.edu/academics/colleges/medicalschool/programs/atp/Pages/AssistiveTechnologyPartners.aspx"'><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; mso-themecolor: text2"><FONT color=#1f497d
face=Arial>Assistive Technology Partners</FONT></SPAN></A><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT color=#333333> </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">(ATP), “The demand for devices to help people with
disabilities and the elderly is increasing exponentially as the population ages.
This growth is fueled by an aging population, as one in five people are expected
to be 65 or older by 2035”</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="BACKGROUND: white; MARGIN: 0in 0in 6pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial>As a result of the increasing demand for
assistive technology services, Eddie Montanez has joined the Independent Living
(IL) team as the Assistive Technology (AT) Specialist. Statewide, Eddie
services those consumers in IL in need of additional or enhanced assistive
technology instruction. These services may include but are not limited to: MAC
or personal computer trainings including various software programs; mobile
phones; Braille Notes and voice controlled smart home devices.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="BACKGROUND: white; MARGIN: 0in 0in 6pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial>Once a consumer is in an Independent
Living/Independent Living Older Blind (ILOB) status 18 with an open assistive
technology goal/objective, the IL/AT referral process can begin. The IL/AT
referral is first sent to the IL Supervisor who will review the referral which
must include detailed reasoning for the referral request and then it is
forwarded to the IL Coordinator. The referral is then assigned to the
IL/AT Specialist. After completing an IL/AT assessment with the consumer, Eddie
makes recommendations for devices and training as needed. Progress notes,
documenting instruction are entered into the consumer’s electronic case file
(ECF). The entire IL/AT referral procedure can be found in the
Independent Living Manual in FACTS.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="BACKGROUND: white; MARGIN: 0in 0in 15pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial>CBVI has taken steps to address the needs
of our growing senior population including their desire to stay connected to the
world. As the IL Assistive Technology Specialist, Eddie Montanez helps those in
the ILOB program by sharing his knowledge of assistive technology and conducting
presentations at our Assistive Support Programs for Independence Renewal and
Education (ASPIRE) network and helps with organizing the assistive technology
training portion of our Senior Hands-On Retreat Experience (SHORE).
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 24pt 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Joseph Kohn
Training Center – Del Basha, Manager</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P style="BACKGROUND: white; MARGIN: 6pt 0in 0pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><FONT face=Arial>CBVI
consumers who begin the training program at the Joseph Kohn Training Center
(JKTC) enroll to learn a variety of blindness skills that will empower them.
>From day one, each consumer is provided customized instruction each day for a
period of several weeks or months. <SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>They are able to develop and refine
skills in the various JKTC classes: Braille and Communications; Activities of
Daily Living (ADL); Careers, Technology; Fitness; Keyboarding; Orientation and
Mobility; Nutrition; and Finance, the newest course added to the JKTC
curriculum. <SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The instructor, Amo
Musharraf, who initially came to JKTC to teach physical fitness in the updated
JKTC gym, continues to teach fitness but now also teaches Finance. <SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>He brings a unique skillset to JKTC and
students have let us know that they appreciate the valuable topics being
addressed in the Finance class. Amo has experience as a professional in the
marketing industry, is affiliated with athletic and competitive sports programs
for individuals who are blind, and serves as a mentor for the Employment,
Development, Guidance, and Engagement (EDGE) program. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="BACKGROUND: white; MARGIN: 6pt 0in 0pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><FONT face=Arial>We
are confident that all of the JKTC classes effectively promote independence for
blind and vision impaired individuals, and we look forward to the opportunity to
help change lives for CBVI consumers. Graduates of the JKTC program have gone on
to college, successfully pursued career goals, and have contributed to society
in a number of other ways. <BR><BR>“Success comes from seeing yourself as a
truly integrated, contributing member of society, somebody who benefits from
society, and a person who contributes back to society." - Dr. Fredric
Schroeder.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 12pt 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Business
Enterprises of New Jersey – Deacon Truesdale, Manager
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"'><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">CBVI and the Business Enterprises of
New Jersey program (BENJ) was well represented by location managers at the
recent Business Leadership and Superior Training (BLAST) held in
Nashville, TN. This national conference for the Randolph-Sheppard program was
hosted by Nick Gacos, who is not only the chairman of the NJ Blind Business
Managers’ Committee but is also the President of the National Association of
Blind Merchants (NABM). <SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Dan Frye,
CBVI’s Executive Director, who is also the President-Elect of the National
Council of State Agencies for the Blind (NCSAB), provided welcoming remarks
during the conference’s opening ceremony. Much to Dan’s surprise, he was
recognized for his years of work, dedication, and support of the national
Randolph-Sheppard program, when the National Association of Blind Merchants
honored him during its Leadership Breakfast with its highest award given to
somebody who has significantly influenced and contributed to this national
entrepreneurial program, the Gold Star Award.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style='FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"'><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">BLAST is held every year and provides
relevant information about current vending trends and events in Randolph
Sheppard. Highlights of this year’s conference included workshops on loss
prevention, effective hiring, rest area commercialization and healthy vending
machine mandates. </FONT><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> </FONT></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 12pt 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Staff
Development – Kenya Whitehurst-Percell</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The primary purpose of staff development is to
facilitate opportunities for staff to refine and gain skills and knowledge they
can apply to their jobs. I recently read an article on how to be an engaged and
active learner entitled, <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">“Carpe Training!
(Seize the Training!)”</I> that provided the basis for a few valuable tips that
I believe could be helpful for all:</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; mso-fareast-font-family: symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><FONT face=Symbol>·</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial>Choose to learn. Before attending, know why you are going. Ask
yourself are you open to learning? Is this an elective training or
mandatory event? While mandatory trainings may seem to be scheduled at the most
inopportune times, make the best of it. Decide how best to use the information
being provided.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; mso-fareast-font-family: symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><FONT face=Symbol>·</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial>If it’s an elective program, engage your supervisor or manager. Share
your training objectives so she or he will know why you want to attend, what you
will be learning and how it will impact upon your work
performance.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; mso-fareast-font-family: symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><FONT face=Symbol>·</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial>Plan ahead. Organize your work in the days before the training,
especially if it’s more than one day. Leave an out of the office message on your
voicemail as well as your email. If you are constantly taking phone calls or
checking and answering emails during the training, you are probably not actively
learning. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; mso-fareast-font-family: symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><FONT face=Symbol>·</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial>Stay focused on the class and participate. I’ll be the first to say,
it isn’t easy standing in front of a group of people that have mentally checked
out.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; mso-fareast-font-family: symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><FONT face=Symbol>·</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial>After the training, provide feedback. Take a few minutes and complete
evaluations or surveys (if provided). Besides numerical ratings give specific
suggestions or feedback. This information is critical for the facilitators or
content developers and enables them to modify and improve their
presentations.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoListParagraph
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; mso-fareast-font-family: symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: ignore"><FONT face=Symbol>·</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial>Apply the learning. After the training, review the materials and find
ways to incorporate the information you have received. If possible share the
information and materials with your colleagues, supervisors and or manager.
Peer- to-peer learning is both efficient and cost effective. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">For more information on this article visit: <SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><A
style='href: "http://hrweb.mit.edu/learning-development/engaged-participant"'><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT
face=Arial>http://hrweb.mit.edu/learning-development/engaged-participant</FONT></SPAN></A></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">. </FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">For training suggestions and inquiries please don’
hesitate to contact me at: 973-648-2820 or </FONT></FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><A
style='href: "mailto:kenya.whitehurst-percell@dhs.state.nj.us"'><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT
face=Arial>kenya.whitehurst-percell@dhs.state.nj.us</FONT></SPAN></A></FONT><SPAN
class=MsoHyperlink><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 0.25in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Regional
Updates</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt" color=#365f91> </FONT></FONT></SPAN></H1>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 12pt 0in 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Southern Region
– Jack Thompson, Manager</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt" color=#365f91> </FONT></FONT></SPAN></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><FONT
face=Arial><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Submitted
by Susan Hickman, Eye Health Nurse:</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> <SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Every September the Gloucester County
Department of Health and Senior Services holds a picnic for area seniors. This
year’s theme was “American Bandstand” and approximately 1200 seniors gathered
for an afternoon of food, dance, entertainment, and the opportunity for a
leisurely stroll through the park visiting vendor and informational resource
displays.</FONT><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> </FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">I arrived early, along with my colleague, Carmen Toth.
We set up CBVI’s table with our agency literature and a neatly arranged display
of the tools and devices we use on a regular basis to assist consumers. We
estimate that about 150 people visited our table seeking information on CBVI
services and programs. Of special note was the number of people who had never
heard of our agency, many of whom took more than one brochure because they “knew
someone” who would benefit from CBVI services. While there we also were visited
by people who are currently receiving services or had been provided services in
the past. It was very rewarding to talk with them and to hear how CBVI services
are making a difference in their lives and how much they valued their
independence. </FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 24pt 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Northern Region
– John Reiff, Manager</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The Northern Service Region (NSR) welcomes Home
Instructor Patricia Hipkins-Carr to the Newark Service Center’s (NSC) IL team.
Patricia comes to us from JKTC and is a welcome addition. We are grateful to Del
Basha and John Walsh for releasing her. </FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The Freehold Service Center (FSC) welcomes NSR Home
Instructor Rebecca Espenscheid back from an extended leave. She gave birth to
twins Talia Elizabeth and Carter Michael on July 26<SUP>th</SUP>.
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The FSC also welcomes back Southern Service Region (SSR)
Home Instructor Ally Cohen who gave birth to Noah Julian Cohen on February
17<SUP>th</SUP>.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">One day in the coming months the FSC will hopefully be
welcoming back SSR Home Instructor Amy McIntyre who gave birth to Juliana Eve
McIntyre on October 5<SUP>th</SUP>.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Finally, the NSR is preparing to say goodbye to Home
Instructor Julio Perez, who is definitely not pregnant, but he will be retiring
at the end of October. We all wish him well and will celebrate this milestone
with him in the NSR 5th floor conference room at 2:00 p.m. on October
26<SUP>th</SUP>.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">New or
Noteworthy</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P style="MARGIN: 6pt 0in 0pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial>The
Affordable Housing Alliance <SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT
color=#2c2c2c>(</FONT></SPAN></FONT></SPAN><A
style='href: "http://www.housingall.org"'><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial>www.housingall.org</FONT></SPAN></A><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT color=#2c2c2c>) </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">is the administrator for the Payment Assistance for Gas
and Electric (PAGE) program. The PAGE program, funded by the Board of Public
Utilities (BPU), is an annual assistance program and is designed to help low to
moderate income households across the state of New Jersey who are experiencing
economic hardship and struggling to pay their electric and natural gas
bills.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial>The
PAGE energy assistance program benefits homeowners and renters who are NJ
residents; have not have received a Universal Service Fund (USF) grant in the
past 6 months or Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grant
within the last heating season, facing a crisis situation that includes a
documented notice of overdue payment for gas and/or electric service, and have a
past history of making regular payments towards their utility
bills.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial>The
Affordable Housing Alliance has partnered with community-based agencies in the
different counties to assist residents in the completion of the application
process. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face=Arial>Click here for a </FONT></SPAN><A
style='href: "http://www.njpoweron.org/page-application.html"'><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial>list of agencies</FONT></SPAN></A><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT color=#2c2c2c
face=Arial>.</FONT></SPAN><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 6pt; BACKGROUND: white; PAGE-BREAK-AFTER: avoid; LINE-HEIGHT: 18pt"
align=center><A
style='href: "http://www.nj.com/monmouth/index.ssf/2016/06/nj_girl_to_compete_in_national_braille_competition.html#comments"'><B><SPAN
style='TEXT-DECORATION: ; FONT-FAMILY: ; BACKGROUND-IMAGE: none; BACKGROUND-REPEAT: repeat; BACKGROUND-ATTACHMENT: scroll; BACKGROUND-POSITION: 0% 0%; COLOR: ; DISPLAY: none; LETTER-SPACING: 0.15pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-underline: none; mso-hide: all'><FONT
style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #0582ff" color=#000000><FONT
style="TEXT-DECORATION: none" face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">comments</FONT></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></A><SPAN
style='FONT-FAMILY: ; DISPLAY: none; LETTER-SPACING: 0.15pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hide: all'><FONT
face=Arial><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> </FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 0.25in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"><U><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT face=Cambria><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The Last
Words</FONT></FONT></SPAN></U></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10pt; MARGIN-TOP: 6pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">“One child, one teacher, one book and one pen can change
the world.” – Malala Yousafzai</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P>
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style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Arial><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"></FONT></FONT></SPAN></I> </P></DIV>
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style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto"><FONT
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