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<BODY lang=EN-US vLink=blue link=blue><B>From:</B> Noel Nightingale
[nnightingale@earthlink.net]<BR><B>Sent:</B> Thursday, April 09, 2009 6:21
PM<BR><B>To:</B> Nightingale, Noel<BR><B>Subject:</B> FW: Your Message Regarding
IL Stimulus Funds and Contracts<BR>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV class=OutlookMessageHeader lang=en-us dir=ltr align=left><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2>-----Original Message-----<BR><B>From:</B> June Mansfield
[mailto:JMansfield@csbps.com] <BR><B>Sent:</B> Thursday, April 09, 2009 8:38
AM<BR><B>To:</B> Durand, LouOma (DSB); PhedraQ@wfse.org; Bob Huven; Cindy Van
Winkle; Diane Hansen; Edna Harper; J. Michael Freeman; Laura Beigh; Wilder,
Linda (DSB); Lou Colwell; Marlaina Lieberg; Michael Cunningham; Mike Davis;
Penny Grist; caprogram@qwest.net; dcolley@esd.wa.gov; Dean Stenehjem;
fpennell@watf.org; jnuccio@seattledbsc.org; kadams@seattlelh.org;
kjohnson@u.washington.edu; ruttllm@dshs.wa.gov; nnightingale@earthlink.net;
nwhknc@juno.com; paul.dziedzic@wwu.edu; pshoel@aol.com;
certainvictory@earthlink.net; Executive Team<BR><B>Cc:</B> All Staff; Sheila
Turner; Carl Jarvis; Cathy Jarvis; Cheryl Martin; Chris Ensor; Larry Weiss;
Laura Beigh; Margie Corier; Mimi Freshley<BR><B>Subject:</B> RE: Your Message
Regarding IL Stimulus Funds and Contracts<BR><BR></FONT></DIV>
<DIV class=Section1>
<P class=MsoNormal><A name=_MailEndCompose><FONT face="Times New Roman"
color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">Dear
LouOma,</SPAN></FONT></A></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">While I appreciate your response I do
not find it particularly satisfying or illuminating. Yes, we served over
300 Part B eligible clients last year. Many of these are people that DSB
has refused to serve until they are “VR ready”. I do find it surprising
that you were not aware of this given that this is your target population and
you are the head of the state department with a primary charge of serving them.
Perhaps earlier discussions with some of your partners would have led you to
discover this prior to making decisions about Part B funding that we feel will
be fundamentally detrimental to many of these individuals. </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">What you may not also know is that we
have taken over $1 million out of reserves in the past three years just so we
could continue to provide a high level of service to these very same
individuals. However, just like DSB, we and other private agencies are
facing significant reductions in funding from many levels. I
haven’t detected much understanding or awareness of this situation on your
part in any of your communications. Because of that we, too continue
to make strategic decisions and that may mean focusing more heavily on the
older blind adult (who are so vastly underserved – just take a look at the
amount of dollars available for VR and the amount provided for Older Blind
Services) and less on the Part B client leaving that group to be served by DSB.
Are you prepared to respond? We believe that effective July 1<SUP>st</SUP> that
we may need to just direct all Part B-eligible individuals to you for service
based on your current decision. We anticipate notifying Harborview and all the
local homeless shelters that DSB is to be the first point of contact. Are you
prepared? Or was the intent, that we should do all the screening first and
you should then decide which individuals you wish to serve. Who do they call on
Friday’s when DSB is closed? As you haven’t taken the time to discuss with us,
or others how such a transition might occur, I expect there to be lots of
confusion around just where one goes to get service in a time of extreme need.
</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">You clearly made some decisions awhile
ago as this was information shared with the rehab council but not with community
providers. To date, there has been no discussion with us or any other provider
that I am aware of as to how this transition is to occur. It is hard for me to
understand why don’t want to talk with us openly and in a meaningful manner.
</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">You refer to a process that you believe
is open and transparent. To me, openness involves inviting people to the
table BEFORE the decisions are made. Had there been openness I would not
have learned about the proposed closing of the OTC from a community member
because you did not share that information with your community partners. We are
all aware of the painful result of that process. As the CEO of one of the
largest private vision rehabilitation agencies, and one serving a large number
of Part B eligible individuals, I would have expected to have received some
communication about this possible change from you. I would have expected some
research to find out how many people might be impacted from such a
change. If the process is open, why I am forwarding your emails to other IL
providers because they are not on your distribution list for information? Why
don’t I see </SPAN></FONT><FONT color=#1f497d><SPAN style="COLOR: #1f497d">Carl
Jarvis</SPAN></FONT><FONT color=#1f497d><SPAN style="COLOR: #1f497d">,
</SPAN></FONT><FONT color=#1f497d><SPAN style="COLOR: #1f497d">Chris
Ensor</SPAN></FONT><FONT color=#1f497d><SPAN style="COLOR: #1f497d">,
</SPAN></FONT><FONT color=#1f497d><SPAN style="COLOR: #1f497d">Margie
Corier</SPAN></FONT><FONT color=#1f497d><SPAN style="COLOR: #1f497d">,
</SPAN></FONT><FONT color=#1f497d><SPAN style="COLOR: #1f497d">Larry
Weiss</SPAN></FONT><FONT color=#1f497d><SPAN style="COLOR: #1f497d"> and others
on this distribution list? I don’t recall prior to yesterday being invited
to submit any ideas for use of stimulus funds. I sent ideas several weeks
ago, mainly because I suspected that there would not be a forthcoming
invitation.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">Where have been the open meetings, the
requests for dialogue, the community interaction? Your statement that “we
welcome your ideas and know that many will be used in our deliberations” is
meaningless in that when there is no public engagement, there is no opportunity
to vet ideas, to consider alternative points of view, to share together a vision
for the future of all people with impaired vision in our state. Perhaps
the community wants something different. Perhaps they want more low vision
clinics; perhaps they want more social workers available to them. Perhaps they
don’t see “procure audit services to perform compliance reviews of client
service providers” (yes, this comes right from the DSB document) as an effective
use of funds. Perhaps, just perhaps, “they” have some really good ideas.
</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">Yes, things are moving quickly and the
outcome is uncertain. All the more reason to engage and join with the broader
community in developing a vision </SPAN></FONT><FONT color=#1f497d><SPAN
style="COLOR: #1f497d">NOW</SPAN></FONT><FONT color=#1f497d><SPAN
style="COLOR: #1f497d">. We don’t need to wait for final decisions to be sent
from on high – we can start now to be prepared. We can have an entire list
of wonderful ideas ready to go; we can harness the power of many individuals to
utilize this funding opportunity to make Washington a place where all
individuals with vision loss can get service how and when they need it.
Those same individuals should have a choice as to where they get their services
- a seamless transition between state and private services – all working
together for a common, shared vision. It shouldn’t just be a DSB vision,
it should be everyone’s vision. </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">You dismiss the idea of leveraged
funding, yet in your document sent out yesterday you identify 4 possible
partners to assist you in developing a funding stream (otherwise known as
leveraging) for the OTC. Much to my surprise Community Services for the
Blind was listed as one of the possible partners. First I had heard of it!
And, even more surprising as I am losing my portion of the contract that
serves those very same people. I understand that it may be more comfortable to
keep others “apprised of developments” rather than doing some of the sometimes
messy working of engaging, but engagement is what needs to happen.
</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">It truly is not my intent to make your
life difficult – although I am sure you are thinking that is exactly what I am
doing! I AM trying to get you to talk with us, to interact with us, to
have meaningful dialogue – not distributed reports consisting of insider
thinking. You claim to want to think outside of the box, but much of what
I see seems to be business as usual. I and my staff are willing to work
with you and your staff and any others who wish to join to work toward a shared
vision. Let’s call a meeting or several; let’s get people involved;
let’s hear what they have to say. Recall all the wonderful ideas that were
presented at the State Rehab Council meeting? </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">What’s holding you back? Yes, the
times are challenging; yes, things are moving at a fast pace; yes, it is a pain
sometimes to have to talk with others; yes, being a public servant is hard (you
get hit from us both as providers and contractors and as taxpayers who have an
interest in how government dollars are spent); yes, we are constrained by
government regulations (but too often we hide behind that as an excuse); yes,
life right now is damn difficult! I realize that I am going out on a
limb here, but the time is past to sit idly by. </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">By early next week I anticipate that
CSBPS will have a submission form available on our website to solicit ideas for
how funding could best be used. I am also looking at some revisions to our
newsletter scheduled to go out to 17,000 people to see if we can include an
invitation to comment there also. </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">I recently ran across this quote by John
Schaar, and to me it speaks about what we need to do. “The future is not some
place we are going, but a place we are creating.” Let’s create it
together. </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">Sincerely,</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">June Mansfield</SPAN></FONT><FONT
color=#1f497d><SPAN style="COLOR: #1f497d">, President/CEO</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman" color=#1f497d size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: #1f497d">Community Services for the Blind and
Partially Sighted. </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT face=Verdana color=blue size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">-----Original
Message-----<BR><B><SPAN style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">From:</SPAN></B>
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Durand, LouOma</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"> (DSB)
[mailto:LouDurand@DSB.WA.</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">GOV</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">] <BR><B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Sent:</SPAN></B> </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Wednesday, April 08,
2009</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"> </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">3:07
PM</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"><BR><B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">To:</SPAN></B> </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">June
Mansfield</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">; </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Durand,
LouOma</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"> (DSB); </SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">PhedraQ@wfse.org</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Bob Huven</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Cindy Van Winkle</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Diane Hansen</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Edna Harper</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">J. Michael
Freeman</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">; </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Laura
Beigh</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">; Wilder, Linda (DSB);
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Lou Colwell</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Marlaina Lieberg</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Michael
Cunningham</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">; </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Mike
Davis</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">; </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Penny
Grist</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">; </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">caprogram@qwest.net</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">dcolley@esd.wa.gov</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Dean Stenehjem</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">fpennell@watf.org</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">jnuccio@seattledbsc.org</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">kadams@seattlelh.org</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">kjohnson@u.washington.edu</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">ruttllm@dshs.wa.gov</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">nnightingale@earthlink.net</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">nwhknc@juno.com</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">paul.dziedzic@wwu.edu</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">pshoel@aol.com</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">certainvictory@earthlink.net</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">;
Executive Team<BR><B><SPAN style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Subject:</SPAN></B> RE:
Your Message Regarding IL Stimulus Funds and Contracts</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face="Times New Roman"
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0in"><B><FONT
face="Arial Bold" size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial Bold'">June:</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0in"><B><FONT
face="Arial Bold" size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial Bold'">I’m
writing in response to the various issues and concerns you raised in your note
yesterday.</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0in"><B><FONT
face="Arial Bold" size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial Bold'">I very
much appreciate your concern about having information in a timely manner in
order to facilitate planning. We are providing information and processes
immediately as they become available. With respect to IL contracts, we expect to
have major decisions made by the end of April, solicitations for contracts in
early May, and decisions regarding contracts in early June. This is the best we
can do given that the budget will not be finalized until the end of April.
Information regarding case transitions and case processes will be communicated
following the Management Team meeting scheduled for April 20.
</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0in"><B><FONT
face="Arial Bold" size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial Bold'">I’m
delighted to hear that CSBPS serves 300 Part B customers per year. Given
that we have only 12 of your Part B clients on our caseload right now, and that
we served only 157 individuals statewide in Part B, I assume you mean you have
served individuals under the age of 55 with other funding. The makes
me think that we will probably operate much the same way in the future, given
the limited resources in this program. Since King and Snohomish counties have
high service ratio in comparison to the underserved and un-served parts of the
state, we will undoubtedly focus our efforts on geographic areas where DSB
is the primary source of funding. </SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 12pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0in"><B><FONT
face="Arial Bold" size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial Bold'">With
respect to the Stimulus funding, we are in fact actively engaging all partners
and soliciting ideas. You and other IL providers have sent in several excellent
suggestions. We welcome them and know that many will be reflected in our final
decisions. While I am very open to the possibility of leveraged funds, it will
not be a deciding factor in our decisions. We are most interested in increasing
statewide capacity and service provider competencies. We’re fortunate that our
new service delivery system, although painfully frustrating for all of us, has
netted some excellent data about the quality, quantity and cost of IL services.
This information, along with our best thinking and the wealth of ideas coming in
from the community, will shape our final decisions about the Stimulus package.
As previously indicated, you will be receiving updates on this as we move the
budget and Stimulus scenarios toward finalization. Meanwhile, we absolutely
welcome the discussion.</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face="Arial Bold"
size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial Bold'">Sincerely,</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face="Arial Bold"
color=navy size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: navy; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial Bold'"></SPAN></FONT></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=4><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 14pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Lou Oma
Durand</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Executive
Director</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Department of
Services for the Blind</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face=Arial
size=3><U1:STREET u2:st="on"><U1:ADDRESS u2:st="on"><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">3411 S. Alaska
St</SPAN></U1:ADDRESS></U1:STREET></FONT></B><B><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">.</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><U1:PLACE u2:st="on"><B><FONT
face=Arial size=3><U1:CITY u2:st="on"><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Seattle</SPAN></U1:CITY></FONT></B><B><FONT
face=Arial><SPAN style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">, <U1:STATE
u2:st="on"></SPAN></FONT></B><B><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">WA</U1:STATE></SPAN></FONT></B><B><FONT
face=Arial><SPAN style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-FAMILY: Arial"> <U1:POSTALCODE
u2:st="on"></SPAN></FONT></B><B><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">98118</SPAN></U1:POSTALCODE></FONT></B></U1:PLACE></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Voice: (206)
721-6435</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Toll-Free:
1-800-552-7103</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Fax: (206)
721-4103</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Email: <A
href="mailto:loudurand@dsb.wa.gov">loudurand@dsb.wa.gov</A>
</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face="Arial Bold"
size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial Bold'"></SPAN></FONT></B> </P>
<DIV class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; TEXT-ALIGN: center"
align=center><FONT face="Times New Roman" size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt">
<HR align=center width="100%" SIZE=2>
</SPAN></FONT></DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><B><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">From:</SPAN></FONT></B><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"> June
Mansfield [mailto:JMansfield@csbps.com] <BR><B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Sent:</SPAN></B> </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Tuesday, April 07,
2009</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"> </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">8:36
AM</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"><BR><B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">To:</SPAN></B> Durand, LouOma (DSB); PhedraQ@wfse.org;
Bob Huven; Cindy Van Winkle; Diane Hansen; Edna Harper; J. Michael Freeman;
Laura Beigh; Wilder, Linda (DSB); Lou Colwell; Marlaina Lieberg; Michael
Cunningham; Mike Davis; Penny Grist; caprogram@qwest.net; dcolley@esd.wa.gov;
Dean Stenehjem; fpennell@watf.org; jnuccio@seattledbsc.org;
kadams@seattlelh.org; kjohnson@u.washington.edu; ruttllm@dshs.wa.gov;
nnightingale@earthlink.net; nwhknc@juno.com; paul.dziedzic@wwu.edu;
pshoel@aol.com; certainvictory@earthlink.net<BR><B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Cc:</SPAN></B> Direct Service Staff; Sheila Turner;
Carl Jarvis; Cathy Jarvis; Cheryl Martin; Chris Ensor; Larry Weiss; Laura Beigh;
Margie Corier; Miriam Freshley<BR><B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Subject:</SPAN></B> RE: DSB Director's Update
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">4/6/09</SPAN></FONT></P></DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face="Times New Roman"
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana">Dear
LouOma,</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana">Thank
you for the very complete update on what is happening
currently.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana">I
continue to urge that you include all partners in ongoing discussions about DSB
changes as well as the potential for additional funding under the stimulus
bill. It is vital that engagement occur as soon as possible so that those
of us serving the community aren’t faced with an immediate deadline to implement
something with no chance to plan ahead of time. Our experience with the
implementation of the new IL contract was unfortunately less than great and we
would hope to not repeat that under these new circumstances.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana">Of
particular concern continues to be the planned transition of the IL Part B
clients to DSB. That means that planning needs to be occurring now – how
will transition occur for those clients that we are currently seeing under
contract. How will future referrals be made and handled. What will
the waiting period be for those individuals? Harborview trauma cases
require immediate response. Last year our organization served over 300
part B eligible clients. While only a small amount were able to be put on
the program due to the funding limitations, how does DSB plan to handle 300
additional clients in a timely manner starting July 1<SUP>st </SUP>we
expect that under this new plan we would direct all of those people to DSB for
contact and screening for eligibility. And that is only from one service
provider! How will DSB screen these individuals – how will DSB decide
which to reject? Who will serve those that DSB does not wish to or cannot serve?
All of this demands planning and integration with community partners and
this must start now – not July 1<SUP>st</SUP>.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana">In
addition, I know all of the community partners are very interested in the
stimulus funds for the Older Blind program. As I read through the
Department of Education policy statements regarding the recovery I find
statements such as: grantees under the State IL grants and OI B programs should
consider how they can use the additional funds to improve and expand IL
services; serve additional consumers, especially populations that are unserved
or underserved in the state, increase the capacity of IL service providers to
provide IL services…” Additional statements include the following:
“Generally funds should be used for short-term investments with the potential
for long-term benefits, rather than commitments that the State may not be able
to sustain once ARRA funds are expended… some examples include building
long-term capacity by improving the technological core of the program,
including, but not limited to, purchasing equipment, improving connections, and
obtaining software in order to better serve consumers.”</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana">To me
much of this suggests that engagement with community partners, many who are able
to leverage philanthropic dollars is key and very important. With the
leverage that we are able to provide, services are extended farther and wider,
especially to the older blind who we are all aware are the most under served
population in our state, with the least amount of state and federal dollars set
aside to provide programs and services to them. With early planning we may
be able to leverage additional dollars from the community but all of that takes
time and planning. </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana">Now is
the time to start planning with your community partners – all of them. Remember,
we also have boards and constituencies that we answer to and they too are
looking for answers. We all must work together to assure that
people with vision loss, across the entire age spectrum can benefit from the
stimulus funds. In my view, we should have a whole array of ideas and
projects on the table so that when the money starts flowing we are able to jump
right in serving people. Let’s not wait any longer for these discussions
to occur. </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana">June
Mansfield, President/CEO</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana">Community Services
for the Blind and Partially Sighted</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in"><FONT face=Verdana color=blue
size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: blue; FONT-FAMILY: Verdana"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">-----Original
Message-----<BR><B><SPAN style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">From:</SPAN></B> Durand,
LouOma (DSB) [mailto:LouDurand@DSB.WA.GOV] <BR><B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Sent:</SPAN></B> </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Monday, April 06,
2009</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"> </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma
size=2><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">3:29
PM</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"><BR><B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">To:</SPAN></B> PhedraQ@wfse.org; Bob Huven; Cindy Van
Winkle; Diane Hansen; Edna Harper; J. Michael Freeman; Laura Beigh; Linda
Wilder; Lou Colwell; Marlaina Lieberg; Michael Cunningham; Mike Davis; Penny
Grist; caprogram@qwest.net; dcolley@esd.wa.gov; Dean Stenehjem;
fpennell@watf.org; jnuccio@seattledbsc.org; June Mansfield;
kadams@seattlelh.org; kjohnson@u.washington.edu; ruttllm@dshs.wa.gov;
nnightingale@earthlink.net; nwhknc@juno.com; paul.dziedzic@wwu.edu;
pshoel@aol.com; certainvictory@earthlink.net<BR><B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Subject:</SPAN></B> DSB Director's Update
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">4/6/09</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma size=2><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma"><BR><B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Importance:</SPAN></B> High</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face="Times New Roman"
size=3><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"></SPAN></FONT> </P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">GREETINGS
EVERYONE:</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">This email may be redundant for some
of you, but I want to get as much information out to people as possible.
</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Thank you, DSB staff, for
participating in our first attempt at an all-staff conference call. I wish
we could have all been in the same room at the same time. For those of you
who already had other commitments and couldn't be on the call, I also want to
make sure you get the same information. As you know, Nancy Kim sent out
some excellent notes on Thursday and I want to thank her for her keen listening
and writing skills and quick action. I also want to thank Don
Alveshere and Marla Oughton for figuring out how to make our conference call
happen.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">BUDGET NEWS AND
BOTTOM LINE:</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">I am grateful for DSB's current
fortunate situation in these very difficult times. I have deep empathy for
other agencies, other parts of state government, other state employees, and
especially for the education system, because of the extreme challenges they
face.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">After analyzing the Senate and House
budget proposals, at this point in the process, we are still in the same
ballpark that we were with the Governor's budget, which cut us at
$137,000. That means that we are looking at a cut in state dollars of
around $140,000, plus or minus about $20,000. The Senate cut us at about
$151,000 and the House cut us at about $126,500.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">So far, the Legislative budgets do
not micromanage how we take the cuts, with the exception of a proviso in the
House version that we cannot make any cuts to the </SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Arial><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Deaf-Blind</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Arial><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial"> </SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Arial><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Service</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Arial><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial"> </SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Arial><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Center</SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Arial><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">. Our FTE cap remains at
75. The budgets include the authority to spend all of our stimulus money
without any penalty to our regular funding.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Cost of living increases for all
state employees are eliminated, and only employees represented by the
</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Union</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial"> could receive any pay increases. There will
also be some impacts on retirement funds and employee participation in health
insurance premiums. So far, we still have a separate State Rehabilitation
Council.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Cuts to DVR’s state dollars are
creating a “maintenance of effort” issue in </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Washington</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">, and VR will suffer a penalty in federal
funding. However, DVR has assured us that they will absorb the penalty and
this will not impact DSB. In spite of our cuts, we will be able to match
our federal dollars. One of our goals through this crisis has been to
protect our federal funding.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Now the House and Senate are working
on reconciling the two budgets and the current date for a Conference Budget to
go to the Governor’s office is April 26<SUP>th</SUP>. The ink needs to be
dry on the Governor’s signature before we can finalize our decisions for next
year’s spend plan. But as you know, the economic crisis has created a
rapidly evolving environment for decision-makers.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">We have been getting feedback and
analyzing the scenarios you are familiar with, based on the Governor’s budget
cuts.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">OUR
VISION:</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">In the context of all this, we do
have a vision for sustaining and improving services to our DSB customers.
Our vision is an</SPAN></FONT><B><SPAN style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">
</SPAN></B><B><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">integrated,
customer-focused</SPAN></FONT></B><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial"> approach to service delivery, where we would
continue to offer comprehensive, individualized services to all age groups of
blind and visually impaired individuals statewide. We propose to
accomplish this by creating regional cross-functional teams that can be deployed
to meet any customer’s needs, as effectively and seamlessly as possible.
</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">As described in my previous emails,
we would move our Independent Living services to customers under age 55 inside
the agency. So that staff who formerly served only children and families,
would serve adults as well. We expect this change to provide a better
array of services to this population, to improve access to O&M, assistive
technology and the OTC, and to improve transition to or from VR. The older
blind population would continue to be served through our contracted
providers. We hope to expand our OTC training to include some IL and
Transition customers as well as VR. </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Every individual customer matters to
us. We know how greatly OTC students have benefited from their experience
at the apartments. We hear from parents and families about what a
life-changing difference it makes for them to learn that their blind child
can have a successful and independent future, and to connect with resources and
support. We hear from the </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Deaf-Blind</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial"> </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Service</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial"> </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Center</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial"> about how individuals are empowered to communicate,
manage their lives and maintain employment. We hear how much our IL
services matter to older individuals in the community. We know what a huge
impact a summer of work experience can have on a Transition-age youth. Or,
for a young adult to have access to information (including the news) and
technology and the opportunity for higher education. We know what it means
for someone to go to work in a competitive job with benefits, or to establish a
successful business. We know how important it is for a person to keep a
good job, and health insurance, especially in this environment. All of
this is important.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">We want to preserve our unique
expertise in blindness, which means our skilled, professional staff, to serve
the blind population of all ages in </SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Washington</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial">. We are a unique resource because we can teach
the alternative skills of blindness, provide assistive technology and
specialized counseling. This is what sets us apart from other workforce
and social service agencies. The Governor’s office and Legislature have
been actively looking for opportunities to eliminate or consolidate programs and
agencies. Our unique, in-house expertise helps to keep us separate.
</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">ISSUES AND
CHALLENGES</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">We want to preserve and further
develop the infrastructure of the OTC by providing intensive training to more
than just VR customers. We have heard the feedback about the importance of
the residential component and keeping at least a couple of the OTC apartments,
and we are trying to work this out. We are grateful that the Legislature
is not micromanaging how we move forward. At the same time, we know that
government promotes the greatest good for the greatest number, so we must be
prepared to justify with outcome and cost benefit data what taxpayers are
buying. Stay tuned.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">We want to manage our resources
effectively so that no customer ever has to be in an Order of Selection, a
circumstance where some “less significantly disabled” customers may not even
receive any services. The Governor has been looking at ways to combine
programs and agencies to improve efficiencies. If we are operating as
efficiently as possible and avoiding an Order of Selection, this reinforces our
agency’s autonomy. We are currently watching our VR case expenditures very
closely. We started this current fiscal year with $195,000 less in our VR
spend plan than last year. We have been spending VR dollars at a higher
than historical rate, though this may be tapering off. The good news is
that we have 20 more successful employment outcomes than we did at this same
time last year, which is pretty terrific given this economy. Way to go
VR! However, we will probably end the year with an over-expenditure in VR
of at least $200,000. Because of some carry-over dollars and reserves, we
will be okay for this year. But we need to determine how much funding we
will need to sustain VR services into the coming biennium, without going to an
order of selection. </SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">We need more rehabilitation teachers
and O&M instructors in the field. And we need a third team leader to
help manage the statewide scope of cradle-to-grave services.
Unfortunately, the hiring freeze may continue into the next biennium, so we will
have to accomplish our mission and our vision with our existing staff.
Some staff will need to assume some new duties or work in a different location
or work with an expanded age range. This will at least affect the current
Child and Family staff and probably some OTC staff. We are working
with the Union on these changes as well.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Our FTE cap, which is controlled by
the budget, is still at 75. I am very thankful that, so far, we are not
being mandated to do lay-offs. However, we are currently burning our
FTEs at about 78. Historically, we had been running about 5 or 6 vacancies
at a time, and we made the decision a while back to convert our reader-drivers
to state employees too, anticipating that we would still stay under our
cap. We did include a decision package in our budget proposal for
additional FTEs to cover the read-drivers, but that did not move forward.
Also, in the last two years, we became very successful at recruiting and hiring
excellent, highly qualified staff. Then, ironically, the crisis hit when
we had only one vacancy. The Governor has made it clear that we cannot
hire above our FTE cap. So, even if the hiring freeze is lifted, we would
not be able to fill back any vacancies or create any new positions until at
least 4 positions are vacated (through attrition or however). This creates
some challenges in how we do business, so we will all need to work creatively
together. Every staff person and staff person’s job is important.
You each equal important customer service. You all contribute to our
economy and our state’s well-being.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">STIMULUS
FUNDS</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">To make these times even more
interesting, we have both the opportunity and the pressure of the Stimulus (S)
funds. We know we need to make wise short term investments
that will promote long term gain. We are learning more about both RSA’s
and the Governor’s expectations, which are not completely the same. The
Governor’s focus is clearly on “quick attachment to jobs”, with a high level of
transparency and accountability for how the funds are spent. The federal
approach takes a broader approach to stimulating the economy in general and
increasing capacity, while still emphasizing saving and creating
jobs.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">DSB staff and managers are working
together creatively and rapidly to implement S fund spending in the most
appropriate and effective ways possible. We appreciate all the ideas you
have already communicated to us and you will continue to help shape DSB’s plans
and outcome measures for the S funds. New projects and approaches also
require additional horse power and effort. You will all be key to the
implementation and success of this opportunity.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">There is so much information to
share with you about the Stimulus funds, I am going to send you another email
soon just on that topic.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">In summary, we have through
September of 2011 to spend those dollars. The VR funds do not require a
state match, but the Independent Living funds will still require a 10% state
match. VR will receive about $1.5 million. The Older Blind
Independent Living portion will be around $736,414, and the Independent Living
Part B (under age 55) portion will be $43,083.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">TIMING AND
PROCESS:</SPAN></FONT> </B><B><FONT face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-FAMILY: Arial"> NEXT STEPS</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">We are still on a fast track for
making decisions, but the timing has been somewhat delayed due to ongoing
developments. The deadlines are pretty much the same as indicated on the
calendar I sent to you all a couple of weeks ago.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">The Executive Team will continue to
assess and analyze the budget and Stimulus requirements, considering all of the
ongoing developments and feedback. Managers will continue to discuss
scenarios, impacts and implementation possibilities with staff, the SRC, and
stakeholders. Any of you is welcome to contact any of us directly at any
time with ideas or concerns.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Our analysis and information
regarding various scenarios, which will address the feedback you have provided,
will be shared again with staff, the SRC, the Union and stakeholders by April
13th. We will be open to continued input throughout this process and up to
when we send back to you another “best thinking” scenario. We hope to
share this scenario on Thursday the 16<SUP>th</SUP>. The Management Team
will focus on this scenario at their meeting on April 20<SUP>th</SUP>.
This process will become the basis for the development of our new biennial spend
plan, and the corresponding programmatic and organizational changes. Based
on financial restrictions, new opportunities with the Stimulus funds, as well as
our intention to move toward integrated service delivery, we will modify our
Strategic Plan. We will also be restructuring our GMAP and updating our VR
State plan by the end of April.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Our Spend Plan for FY 2010 will be
developed by the end of May. Based on this plan, the teams will design
many of the details of implementation prior to July 1, 2009, when our updated
Strategic Plan becomes effective.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">During all this,
we will find a variety of ways to keep you posted. But, please never
hesitate to contact me directly. </SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Thanks,</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Arial size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Lou
Oma</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Tahoma color=black size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: black; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Lou
Oma Durand</SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><B><FONT face=Tahoma color=black size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; COLOR: black; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Executive
Director</SPAN></FONT><I><SPAN style="FONT-STYLE: italic"> </SPAN></I></B></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Tahoma size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Department of Services for the
Blind</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Tahoma size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">3411 S. Alaska
St.</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Tahoma size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Seattle, WA </SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Tahoma><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">98118</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Tahoma size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Voice: (206) 721-6435
</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Tahoma size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Toll-Free:
1-800-552-7103</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Tahoma size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Fax: (206)
721-4103</SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="MARGIN-LEFT: 1in"><FONT face=Tahoma size=3><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">Email:</SPAN></FONT> <A
href="mailto:loudurand@dsb.wa.gov"><FONT face=Tahoma><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma">loudurand@dsb.wa.gov</SPAN></FONT></A></P></DIV></BODY></HTML>