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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72"><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Greetings to all!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Please share the following comments with others.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey hosted a town hall zoom call with Dr. Bernice Davis, Executive Director, New Jersey, Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired last Thursday, May 21, 2020.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Minutes and websites mentioned during the call are below.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>With over 100 participating, thanks to those that attended to the call.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>The NFBNJ thanks Dr. Davis for her time, interest, and concerns to raise expectations to transform dreams into reality.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Let’s Work Together To Make A Difference!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Joe Ruffalo, President<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>973 743 0075<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><a href="mailto:nfbnj1@verizon.net" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0563C1'>nfbnj1@verizon.net</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><a href="http://www.nfbnj.org/" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0563C1'>www.nfbnj.org</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Meeting Minutes: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Subject: Town Hall Meeting: The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey Sponsored a Town Hall Meeting with Dr. Bernice Davis, Executive Director, New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Date/Time: Thursday, May 21, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Media: Zoom <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Host: Joe Ruffalo, President of the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey (NFBNJ) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Co-host and moderator: Linda Melendez, 1st Vice President, NFBNJ <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Attendees: Approximately 100 members, friends, parents of blind children and CBVI Employees <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Summary: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>President Ruffalo thanked everyone for being on the call and thanked Dr. Davis for accepting our invitation to meet and gave special thanks to Linda Melendez for moderating the Zoom Meeting. Joe reminded us about this year’s National Convention on the Zoom Platform and while it is free you do need to register <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><a href="https://www.nfb.org/registration"><span style='color:#0563C1'>https://www.nfb.org/registration</span></a> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>The dates of the Convention are July 14 through 18 and it is the 80th National Convention . President Ruffalo then introduced Dr. Bernice Davis, Executive Director of the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) and thanked her for always working with her clients to make a difference in their lives. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Dr. Bernice Davis: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Dr. Davis was happy to have the opportunity to participate with us and said that in 2020 CBVI is celebrating their 110th year of providing lifesaving services to the blind and visually impaired in the state of New Jersey. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>She said the Covid 19 crisis has put us in unprecedented times. There have been many challenges in the way we deliver services to our consumers. We are guided by CDC health precautions and it has taken a lot of ingenuity, retooling and hard work to ensure safe and expedient assistance to those who need it. Through innovation in video platforms, email, telephone calls staff work from home with their clients. She thanked her staff and consumers to adapting so quickly to the “new normal”. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Dr. Davis discussed the various programs of CBVI: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Independent Living: There are no in-home visits. The staff continues to work with their clients to provide skills of daily living, including training in Braille via on-line and phone. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Orientation and Mobility: Staff have assisted parents to enable them to help their blind child. The benefit has been they have spent a lot more time with families and have been using assistive technology to engage the student and family. Families are really stepping up and getting involved. At this time there is no projected date for when “in-person” O&M services will resume. CBVI staff will be guided by the governments multiphase approach for re-opening services. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Community Outreach: Staff have prepared videos and written guidance on how to work with blind and visually impaired people in the community. These materials have been shared with nursing homes, hospitals, police, and fire departments. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Aspire/Self-help peer groups: These groups have been very active. Issues of social isolation are producing a lot of anxiety and staff work to keep people connected. They have started a group for the deafblind community, and this too has grown and is benefiting the participants. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>CBVI knows that the social distancing mandate has had a huge impact on “our consumers”. We will continue to examine ways to improve community outreach, better deployment of social workers and staff to help address food, housing, and health issues. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Education Services: These services continue and the Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVIs) have eased into the “in-home edition” since students have a lot of assistive technology to help them. Again, parents have been wonderful in supporting their student through the “new norm”. Demands for Assistive Technology have been so high CBVI has had to hire a new specialist, so we can continue to meet our student’s needs. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>JKTC: This no longer operates as an “on-site” training center. Zoom training is taking place and we hope to start virtual assessments of new students who are interested in starting the program. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Vocational Rehabilitation and Entrepreneurial Training: These services were hit very hard by the change in the economy. We are looking at new ways to help entrepreneurs rebuild what was lost. Dr. Davis gave a shout out of thanks to Nicky Gacos for his support. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Myers Center: This facility is not in operation at this time. Anyone needing equipment should work with their TVI to obtain it. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Eye Health Services: Free eye exams are on-hold at this time. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Summer Programs: Dr. Davis said they are still planning summer programs in a virtual environment and these include: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>· Sharp for younger students <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>· Vocational Rehabilitation for transitioning students <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>CBVI is working to bring excitement and learning to our summer programs. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>President Ruffalo shared that the NFB is having three sessions of the BELL In-Home Edition (Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning). Information has been provided to CBVI and members. He asked all to share this information with parents who may have blind or vision impaired students (ages 4 through 12) who may be interested in participating. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><a href="https://www.nfbnj.org/bell-academy/"><span style='color:#0563C1'>https://www.nfbnj.org/bell-academy/#</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Lastly, Dr. Bernice reminded everyone that CBVI staff is still here to help them. Staff are working from home, answering their emails and phone calls. Please do reach out to them. She provided her email to all who have questions or concerns that are not being addressed: <a href="mailto:Bernice.Davis@dhs.nj.gov"><span style='color:#0563C1'>Bernice.Davis@dhs.nj.gov</span></a> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Questions and Answers: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>First Vice President Linda Melendez, NFBNJ, moderated this part of the meeting. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: Will CBVI make the use of “sleep shades” mandatory in the discovery method of O&M training? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: Unlikely to make anything mandatory. Consumers want choices. Needs are addressed on a case by case basis. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: I have friends who have been unable to receive CBVI Services. What do they need to do? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: We are still handling new cases and providing assessments. Consumers need to meet the eligibility criteria to receive services. Staff is still working, and Dr. Davis said to please reach out to her by email if you are not getting the help you need. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: What county offers the best service; field support and what kind of salaries do staff receive? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: Good question. Dr. Davis would need to do a data run to provide an answer. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: When will the JKTC reopen so people can go for evaluations? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: JKTC is operating remotely. After Memorial Day Weekend we will start discussing evaluating people virtually. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: I need assistive technology. Do I need to be working or in school to receive it? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: Normally we set goals and provide assistive technology to help the consumer meet that goal. Let independent learning know what you need. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: Do you have guidance on how we can protect our eyes to prevent from Covid infection? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: That is a medical question and should be addressed to your ophthalmologist. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: Is there a way to continue to receive services if my GPA is below 2.0. I thought there was a resolution passed to address this? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: We are governed by Federal Grant Criteria and there is a waiver process. Speak with a counselor and provide a proposal with justification for your special circumstances. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: Some blind/visually impaired people live totally on their own and have problems getting from one place to another and doing shopping. Are business owners being made aware of the unique challenges of the blind? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: CBVI has primarily addressed this to health care workers. As businesses start to open this will be a good opportunity to engage with them. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>At this time President Ruffalo encouraged people who are having problems with “Big Box Stores” (Target, Walmart etc.) to email him at<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><a href="mailto:nfbnj1@verizon.net"><span style='color:#0563C1'>nfbnj1@verizon.net</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>We are a solution based organization. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: What kind of support do you have for students who need to access lab science equipment? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: Please reach out to Eva Scott, Director of Blindness Education, <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><a href="mailto:Eva.Scott@dhs.nj.gov"><span style='color:#0563C1'>Eva.Scott@dhs.nj.gov</span></a> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>At this time Dr. Cary Supalo, Ph.D. Blind Chemist spoke up and assured the student that there are solutions. There are a lot of innovative products that make lab science possible for the blind. President Ruffalo also suggested that the person visit <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><a href="http://www.nfb.org"><span style='color:#0563C1'>www.nfb.org</span></a> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>and reach out to the National Association of Blind Students (NABS) and to the Stem Programs. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: When will be get supplies to assist students with remote learning? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: Please work through your TVI for these needs. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Comment: An NFB member shared that she has been working virtually with her SSP and they have accomplished a lot. She is learning to access information on the internet using JAWS. (not there yet!) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: Is CBVI providing guidance to unemployed vendors on how to receive unemployment? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: This is outside the purview of CBVI however Nicky Gacos has done a tremendous amount of work advocating for unemployment benefits for vendors. This needs to be addressed to the Department of Labor. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: How are employment services being provided? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: Vocational Rehabilitation Service is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reach out to your counselor. It has been very difficult to provide some of the Assistive Technology needs because employees cannot enter homes to set up the equipment. If you are able to set up your own equipment we have been able to get it delivered to your door based on your assessment needs. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>President Ruffalo shared about the NFB Newsline which is supported by CBVI and said it provides information about job openings. During the meeting, Newsline Coordinator Jane Degenshein provided her contact information. (973 736 5785 or <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><a href="mailto:Jdegen16@comcast.net"><span style='color:#0563C1'>Jdegen16@comcast.net</span></a>) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>She explained that there are over 500 newspapers and 300 magazines, job searches, breaking news, blindness advocacy groups and much more.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>If interested in this valuable free service, get in contact with her and you will be reading and learning on one of the many ways it is available like, computer, newsline app, the touch telephone and even Alexa.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Q: One parent asked about starting a parent’s group—she feels she is constantly negotiating between the school district and CBVI for her child’s needs. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>A: This is a great idea and Dr. Davis and Eva Scott have been discussing having quarterly meetings with parents to discuss their difficulties. She reminded the parent that CBVI is a contractor and while we invite a discussion you still need to work with your school district or raise concerns to the Department of Education. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>NFBNJ President of Parents of Blind Children, Carol Castellano agreed that POBC would welcome the opportunity to open a discussion with CBVI and parents. Having raised a blind child in the New Jersey public school system she is intimately involved in the IEP process, where resources can be obtained and how to get them. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>The Town Hall meeting concluded. Both President Ruffalo and 1st Vice President Melendez thanked Dr. Davis and attendees for their participation. President Ruffalo emphasized that we are a solution based organization and are proud to work collaboratively with CBVI to address and solve problems the blind face especially in this time of crisis. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>The meeting ended at 5:19 p.m. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>To learn more about the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey visit <a href="http://www.nfbnj.org"><span style='color:#0563C1'>www.nfbnj.org</span></a> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:5.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:5.0pt;margin-left:0in;text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Minutes respectfully submitted by Ellen Sullivan, Affiliate Secretary, NFBNJ <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Reviewed by Joe Ruffalo, President and Linda Melendez, First Vice President, NFBNJ <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>