MICHIGAN COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND
SEPTEMBER 18, 2008
VICTOR BUILDING
LANSING, MICHIGAN

RETREAT MINUTES

COMMISSIONERS PRESENT
Ms. Jo Ann Pilarski, Chair
Ms. Velma Allen, Vice-Chair
Ms. Margaret Wolfe
Mr. Mark Eagle
Ms. Geri Taeckens

COMMISSIONERS ABSENT
None

MICHIGAN COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND (MCB) STAFF PRESENT
Mr. Patrick Cannon
Ms. Sue Luzenski
Mr. Leamon Jones
Ms. Sherri Heibeck

GUESTS/ATTENDEES
Mr. Terry Eagle
Mr. Raymond Roberson

Committee of the whole called to order at 2:20 p.m.

Training on Role and Representation of Commissioners

Commissioner Allen opened the meeting speaking about a training module that her and Director Cannon had taken part of during the NCSAB conference in April 2008. The training module focused on the role and representation of commissioners, clarifying the roles and relationships between the commissioners and the administration in relation to directing the Director, not dictating or micro-managing. Commissioner Allen looked into presenting the training module at the retreat but a more in-depth look into accessing it and the length needs to be done by staff. Sue Luzenski will circulate a document that was prepared called Communications Protocol that may address some of these questions.

Dialogue moved into talking about the Director's objectives and how the Commissioners have taken a more active role than in the past. Director Cannon stated that the MCB Director is not only accountable to the Commissioners but also reports to Deputy Director Levin in DLEG and is held accountable by that office. Director Cannon stated that the Action Plan is a useful management tool which states clearly the goals and progress of staff. The plan contains many objectives related to the Director's evaluation.

P.A. 260

Chair Pilarski asked Commissioners to come forward with any issues or thoughts regarding PA 260. The law is still relevant today though current practices may be different in some instances than which is stated in the 1978 statute. Commissioner Taeckens brought up concerns regarding section 393.356, Education of Blind Youth. Commissioner Taeckens conducted a training program at Camp Tuhsmeheta this summer and notes that, in her view, the children were lacking in skills of independence. She asked what the Commission is doing to address the issue of educating blind kids. Leamon Jones spoke regarding the role the Commission plays in making sure that all MCB does is in compliance with special education limits. MCB currently has an MOU between MCB, DLEG and the Department of Education and MCB has made summer transition programs a focus. Further discussion centered around what the commission can do to begin educating youth earlier, communicating what services are currently available for blind youth age 14 and older, exposing blind youth to the tools necessary to help them be successful into adulthood both socially and economically, determining how much Braille teaching time is necessary to become proficient, having Braille and sign language be part of the Special Education Teacher curriculum during college, combating the notion of low expectations for blind and visually impaired youth, advocate groups that are currently formed to prioritize and address these issues and focusing on educating parents to advocate for their blind youth. The end result of this discussion was to have 1 or 2 of these advocate groups at a future commissioner meeting to discuss these priorities. It was suggested that a paper be put together regarding guiding principles for educating blind youth for topics of discussion to the Superintendent of public education.

Bylaws

Commissioner Eagle brought raised the point that portions of the Commissioner bylaws are outdated and need to be revised. Discussion included creating a 1 - 2 person sub-committee to review the bylaws, bring any recommendations to the Board at a future commission meeting and consider proposals to changes in the bylaws. Chair Pilarski indicated topics to be looked at: purpose of the board, role as liaison to MCB committees and definition of a consumer. Other items discussed was whether or not the vice-chair needs to be re-elected each year; an informal poll concluded that the commissioners do want to re-elect the vice-chair each year.

Chair Pilarski stated that she has received inquiries from BEP Operators regarding the role of Commissioners and BEP. Sherri Heibeck clarified who is the responsible authority of the BEP program. The Board's role is to have the final say on ALJ decisions and BEP policies. Legal action beyond the agency goes to Federal arbitration and then civil court.

Board Meeting Structure

Chair Pilarski raised the issue of public comment at recent commission meetings and the confrontational tone demonstrated by some individuals. There was further discussion on how to provide ample time for public comment and consumer involvement and still maintain orderly and respectful communications. Ms. Heibeck stated there are rules for conduct on any owned or leased state property and the DMB Policy for conduct on state property can be forwarded to the Commissioners for their review.

Another question was posed as to the number of meetings MCB has. Director Cannon spoke to the Rehab Act and how it states that there must be at least 4 meetings a year. The state has mandated a cut in meetings in response to the budget situation. Director Cannon noted that although regular meetings have been reduced to once every 3 months, the Chair can call a special meeting if an urgent issue arises which cannot wait until the next scheduled meeting.

Another issue is the meeting not moving around the state allowing the exposure to all consumers throughout the state. Commissioner Taeckens suggested having a common meeting place where consumers can congregate to participate as a large group by phone or go to a library to share audio streaming capabilities during a commission meeting. There was also discussion about conducting all of the meetings in Lansing as opposed to holding some meetings in different parts of the state as had been done in the past. It was agreed that consideration should be given to holding one meeting next year in the northern part of the state, perhaps Marquette in the fall.

Public Comment

Terry Eagle:

Mr. Eagle stated there is an issue with correspondence between people who write to the board but get a response from Director Cannon. He stated the board should be united, talking amongst themselves and coming up with a response, not push this off on an administrator. There should be a duty to respond to them directly as a board.

Mr. Eagle commented when MCB started there was 11 meetings with two 15 minute public comment sections, then meetings were reduced to 6 and now to 4 a year. Mr. Eagle agreed with putting a timer on public comment, other solutions could be a sign up sheet, issues spoken of being specific to agenda items, public comment held before lunch and then again at the end of the meeting.

Ray Roberson

Mr. Roberson stated that there is insufficient time for public comment at commission meeting. How will the commission know what problems the public is facing if you don't hear from consumers? If there are problems and issues how will the board know if they don't give consumers a chance to speak directly to the board?

Adjourned: 5:18

______________________________

Chairperson Jo Ann Pilarski

[end of retreat minutes; commission meeting minutes follow]

MICHIGAN COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND
SEPTEMBER 19, 2008
VICTOR BUILDING
LANSING, MICHIGAN

MINUTES

COMMISSIONERS PRESENT
Ms. Jo Ann Pilarski, Chair
Ms. Velma Allen, Vice-Chair
Ms. Margaret Wolfe
Mr. Mark Eagle
Ms. Geri Taeckens

COMMISSIONERS ABSENT
None

MICHIGAN COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND (MCB) STAFF PRESENT
Mr. Patrick Cannon
Ms. Sue Luzenski
Mr. Leamon Jones
Ms. Sherri Heibeck
Ms. Christine Boone
Ms. Susan Turney
Ms. Constance Zanger
Ms. Diamalyn Gaston
Ms. Lisa Kisiel
Ms. Elizabeth White
Ms. Nicole Wright
Ms. Debbie Wilson
Ms. Shawnese Laury-Johnson

GUESTS/ATTENDEES
Mr. Mike Ellis
Mr. Larry Scott
Mr. Tom Carpenter
Mr. Marcus Simmons
Mr. Fred Wurtzel
Mr. Larry Posont
Ms. Kimberly Monk
Mr. Steve Langtry
Ms. Risa Patrick-Langtry
Mr. Joe Sontag
Ms. Elizabeth Monk
Mr. Terry Eagle
Ms. Crystal LaFleche
Mr. Ray Roberson
Ms. Barbara Schmidt
Mr. Michael King
Ms. Cecily Cagle
Mr. Bill Myers
Ms. Gwen Botting
Ms. Cheryl Mattson
Mr. Shaun Williams
Ms. Lydia Schuck
Ms. Maria Peak
Ms. Pat Sypho
Ms. Sharon Burton

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
The Committee of the Whole was opened by Chair Jo Ann Pilarski at 9:04 a.m.

COMMISSIONER ACTIVITIES
Chair Pilarski asked each Commissioner to give a brief overview of their activities as each Commissioner turned in written reports.

Ms. Geri Taeckens reported that she has no official Commission business but had spent a week out at Camp Tuhsmeheta running a Braille camp. She reported that, in her view, all of these kids were behind in Braille skills, blind skills, hand coordination and muscle movement and she said she was concerned about the lack of education. Michigan Parents of the Visually Impaired is putting on a program at the Frankenmuth indoor water park where 120 people are participating.

Ms. Margaret Wolfe reported that she attended the Commission's Cultural Diversity committee meeting in July and is looking forward to the Cultural Diversity training to be conducted by the Commission in October. She also reported she participated in a workshop, "The Many Ways of Seeing" in Ann Arbor, September 8th. Lisa Marchione represented the Commission to talk about MCB services and conducted a blindness awareness survey.

Mr. Mark Eagle reported that he attended the Service Delivery and Design Team meetings in April and June. Review of the small business policy was the highlight of those meetings. The College Policy Review committee was another meeting he attended and he reported that the committees work is progressing well, although there are some concerns about the committee coming under the "open meetings act."

Ms. Pilarksi reported that she attended a meeting of the Commissioner Planning and Quality team and that the agencies action plan was the major topic of discussion.

DISCUSSION OF COMMISSIONER RETREAT
Chair Pilarski gave an overview of the Commissioner Retreat which took place on September 18. The Commissioners focused on PA 260 and its relationship to education of blind children. Other items discussed were Board Organization - Authority, Structure and Policies, future meeting structure and discussion of participating in a training module on the role and representation of commissioners. There was also discussion about the number of public comment sessions on the meeting agenda and limiting the length of public comment in order to allow more individuals to participate. Commissioner Eagle spoke regarding the need to take a look at the Board Organization document. There was discussion regarding creating a committee of 1 or 2 Commissioners to look at the bylaws and recommend updates and changes.

ISSUES FROM LAST MEETING
No issues were carried over from the last meeting. Director Cannon did remark that he held meetings with 2 advocate groups, Richard Clay from Advocates for the Blind and Terry Eagle and Ray Roberson from Michigan Association of Independent Blind Persons (MAIBP).

CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL AND DETERMINATION OF QUORUM
The regular meeting was called to order by Chair Jo Ann Pilarski at 9:25 a.m. Roll call was taken and a quorum was present. Chair Pilarski asked that public comment be delivered in a civil and courteous manner.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

MS. ALLEN MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MR. EAGLE TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE JUNE 20, 2008 MEETING; THE MINUTES WERE APPROVED UNANIMOUSLY.

BOARD CORRESPONDENCE
There was no board correspondence.

DIRECTOR'S REPORT
Director Cannon reported that Tony Van Stavern, a former commission employee, passed away on September 11th. Tony was a popular rehab counselor and teacher who worked out of the Gaylord office more than 20 years and retired in 2004.

On September 9th the American with Disabilities Amendments Act passed which helps to restore the original intent of the ADA legislation. Since the ADA's enactment in 1990 several court decisions were at odds with Congressional intent and the new amendments will help restore the ADA to its original strength.

Director Cannon also highlighted several components of the written MCB report which was distributed previously and which is also posted on the MCB website. He noted several activities taking place to commemorate the Commissions 30th Anniversary October 1, in Lansing, Kalamazoo, Flint and Grand Rapids.

Roberta McCall, a MCB Independent Living teacher, received international recognition for her work and articles were featured in several publications.

The two MCB consumer groups will be holding their conventions. Michigan Council for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MCBVI) will be held the last weekend of September in Grand Rapids and the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) will be in November in Lansing.

Finally, Director Cannon gave some highlights of the upcoming CSAVR/NCSAB fall conference to be held in San Diego November 16 - 21. The NCSAB theme is Categorical Services: Securing our Future through Advocacy, Collaboration and Education attendees will hear presentations from Federal officials on the reauthorization of the Rehab Act and discussions about the Randolph-Sheppard Act, which governs food service by blind operators. There will also be reports on efforts to merge blind rehab agencies with general agencies and how agencies fought to preserve specialized services.

MS. WOLFE MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. TAECKENS TO ACCEPT THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

CONSUMER SERVICES REPORT
Mr. Leamon Jones reported that MCB will be conducting a consumer satisfaction survey administered by the Michigan Commission on Disability Concerns. Results of this survey will be reviewed by the Service Delivery Design Team and others to assist in the agencies ongoing commitment to continuous improvement.

The Commission is continuing to work collaboratively with community partners, SILC offices, CIL's and the Area Agencies on Aging throughout the state creating business alliances.

The mini-adjustment employment readiness seminar held in August was a success and is continuing to provide the necessary job search skills to consumers.

MCB's Grand Rapids office is continuing to build a partnership with Hope Network, a program that provides employment opportunities for high school transitioning youths. This is a collaboration between Hope Network, Fifth-Third Bank, Kent County ISD and the VR program. East Region staff is also working with Oakland and Macomb counties to expand job opportunities through Project Search with General Motors being the employer.

The Service Delivery Design Team established a small business ad-hoc committee to examine its small business policy. This committee will be seeking input from a variety of consumers, community partners and entrepreneurs and will continue to engage partners and consumers in this continuous improvement effort. Lastly, the Consumer Services Division joins with the International AER to congratulate Roberta McCall for receiving the Elizabeth Lennon Meritorious Achievement Award for outstanding service during a professional's career. Great work, Roberta!

MS. TAECKENS MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. ALLEN TO ACCEPT THE CONSUMER SERVICES REPORT; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

TRAINING CENTER REPORT
Ms. Christine Boone, Training Center Director reported that two new staff are currently at the Training Center for their employee training.

October events at the Training Center include a celebration for the anniversary of the Commission for the Blind and the next BEP training class will start with 5 students currently signed up.

Ms. Boone reports that four classes are currently available in the area of technology, three levels of computer skills classes and the access technology class. These expansions in classes are very beneficial for students coming in with job in jeopardy status.

The Commission hosted another successful mini-adjustment program in Farmington Hills. The final mini-adjustment program for 2008 will be held in Battle Creek November 16 - 21.

The Training Center hosts Western Michigan University practicum students giving them the opportunity to experience teaching in the blind community. This program happens year round and is beneficial for all involved. She also reported that groundbreaking has taken place for a new storage facility at the Training Center which will help address storage issues at the center.

Ms. Boone noted that the Training Center currently is housing 25 students and residents and during the summer programs had 27 students and residents plus 5 additional students attending classes during the day.

Employment is another area where the Training Center is progressing by creating a curriculum in career planning. This will expose students to volunteer opportunities and internships out in the community.

The Training Center has instituted an in-house customer satisfaction survey that is completed by the students, independently, during the last week at the center. Feedback from this survey will help develop future programs and keep current classes up to date.

Finally, the Training Center is very excited to announce that it has been the recipient of an anonymous grant in the amount $765,000 that will be used for 5 major projects at the Center. The staff was asked to come up with projects and renovations that needed to be done at the Training Center and submit their ideas. All the projects were accepted and will be completed over a period of time.

MS. ALLEN MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. TAECKENS TO ACCEPT THE TRAINING CENTER REPORT; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES REPORT
Ms. Sherri Heibeck, Administrative Services Manager reported that the current budget is in good shape. Expenditures for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008 are on target with the operating budget and staff is working to develop the operating budget for fiscal year 09, October 1 - September 30, 2009. While having adequate general fund money available to match federal dollars is always a challenge the commission is optimistic that adequate match is identified for FY 08 and appears to be adequate for FY 09. The Commission is still facing the challenge of having adequate legislative authority to receive match and spend additional federal dollars available to the commission and continues to work with the DLEG financial office on the authority issue.

Ms. Heibeck attended the Financial and Data Management conference in August hosted by the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). The information obtained at the conference is useful and will help the commission to prepare for Federal monitoring next year. Administrative Services staff, along with staff from the Michigan Department of Information Technology, is rolling out the state financial interface with System 7, the Commission's internal client data tracking system. The Lansing system is in place and the rest of the MCB offices throughout the state should be integrated in October/November.

MS. ALLEN MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. WOLFE TO ACCEPT THE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES REPORT; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Chair Pilarski asked Ms. Heibeck about the Commission's Vision 2020 Listserve and how people could participate. Ms. Heibeck explained that the Listserve is designed to receive comments on Commission services and other blindness issues from Commissioners, staff, consumers and other stakeholders. Those interested in participating can obtain more information on the MCB website or may contact Ms. Heibeck directly.

BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM REPORT
Ms. Constance Zanger, Business Enterprise Program (BEP) manager reported that the next BEP manager training starts in October and there are currently 5 students signed up to participate.

The Office of Retirement Services (ORS) has given their decision on the final average compensation matter; all future retirement monies will be calculated on net income. Individual operator information is confidential therefore any issues regarding individual accounts can not be answered by BEP staff and should be directed to ORS.

Ms. Zanger reported that the BEP staff has been actively involved in all the anniversary celebrations. This has been a great collaboration between MCB and BEP staff.

She also reported that BEP staff and VR staff continue to discuss practices and procedures to provide computers and other technology for VR clients and BEP operators.

At the last commission meeting the Commissioners passed a motion to uphold the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) recommendation for BEP to develop a position paper on unauthorized sales of goods by state employees in state owned and leased buildings. There has been much discussion throughout the Elected Operators Committee regarding this issue and currently the document is being reviewed by the State Attorney General, Michael Cox.

Ms. Zanger reported that BEP is proud to announce that the Highway Vending program has been in existence for 25 years and will have a celebration at the Clare Rest Area. This rest area was the first in the program with its operator retiring just a few months ago.

MS. TAECKENS MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. WOLFE TO ACCEPT THE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM REPORT; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Administrative Law Judge Decisions (ALJ)

Before discussion began regarding the ALJ decisions Commissioner Eagle asked to discuss not including staff recommendations with the ALJ decisions that are forwarded in the Board packet. He felt that the operator, who is generally not present when the ALJ recommendations are discussed, does not get a fair and impartial hearing.

MR. EAGLE MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. PILARSKI TO REMOVE THE STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE ALJ DECISIONS; THE MOTION DID NOT CARRY WITH AYES BY EAGLE AND NAYS BY TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE AND PILARSKI

Commissioner Taeckens and Commissioner Allen both stated the comments were helpful in understanding the whole situation.

MR. EAGLE MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. TAECKENS TO ADD COMMENTS FROM THE COMPLAINANT TO THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

Ms. Zanger presented three ALJ recommendations to Commissioners as a result of grievances filed by BEP operators and Commissioners were asked to either affirm or reject the ALJ decision.

1.  Ms. Hazell Brooks made a request for an evidentiary hearing in regards to payment of $1,200 for a cleaning bill. The Commissioners affirmed the order at a special commission meeting held on April 17, 2008, yet the bill was not paid until June 24, 2008. The ALJ recommends that the Commission deny Ms. Brook's request for rehearing.

MS. ALLEN MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. WOLFE TO AFFIRM THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

Discussion by Commissioners included holding MCB staff to the same standards as BEP vendors in regards to having payments and paperwork submitted in a timely manner. Chair Pilarski asked that staff think about have an ad-hoc committee to develop a policy to address the situation. Commissioner Taeckens indicated she would work with the EOC and staff to develop this policy. There was also discussion on whether MCB was able to offer Ms. Brooks compensation to restore the interest she may have lost during the delay of payment.

2.  Ms. Hazell Brooks requested to hold a rehearing in the matter of the Office of Retirement Services (ORS) Employee Activities Committee which raises funds for employee events and charitable causes by selling snacks, prepackaged foods and coffee which are in direct competition with the BEP facility in the building. The petitioner, Ms. Brooks was seeking lost income due to an illegal competing operation. The ALJ denied Ms. Brooks' request for a rehearing.

MS. TAECKENS MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. WOLFE TO AFFIRM THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

BEP staff reiterated that the position paper has been developed and is now in the Attorney General's office awaiting comment.

3.  The final ALJ decision pertains to BEP operator Richard Thelen whose license was suspended. Mr. Thelen requested to be monetarily compensated for losses during his suspension after the allegations against him were not substantiated. The ALJ recommendation has numerous components.

MS. ALLEN MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. PILARSKI TO AFFIRM THE ALJ RECOMMENDATION IN ITS ENTIRETY; THE MOTION FAILED WITH TAECKENS, WOLFE AND EAGLE VOTING NAY AND ALLEN AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

MR. EAGLE MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. TAECKENS TO TAKE EACH RECOMMENDATION OF THE ALJ SEPARATELY; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

1. The Administrative Law Judge recommended Mr. Thelen be reimbursed for losses caused by this suspension in the amount of $770.

MS. TAECKENS MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. ALLEN TO AFFIRM THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED WITH TAECKENS, ALLEN, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE AND WOLFE VOTING NAY

2. The Administrative Law Judge recommended Mr. Thelen be reimbursed for Attorney fees in the amount of $3550.

MS. ALLEN MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. WOLFE TO AFFIRM THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

3. The Administrative Law Judge recommended Mr. Thelen be compensated for 7 weeks or $1346.72 [in lost earnings], but only after Petitioner has successfully bid on a new location.

MS. WOLFE MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. ALLEN TO AFFIRM THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

4. The Administrative Law Judge recommended Mr. Thelen, as agreed by the Commission, be reimbursed for the inventory value at the time of the suspension in the amount of $1578.

MR. EAGLE MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. WOLFE TO AFFIRM THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

5. The Administrative Law Judge recommended Mr. Thelen be denied any payment for speculative prospective damages.

MS. TAECKENS MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. WOLFE TO AFFIRM THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

6. The Administrative Law Judge recommended Mr. Thelen be denied credit of retirement service time lost due to the suspension.

MR. EAGLE MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. TAECKENS TO DENY THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

Commissioner discussion on this issue felt that if Mr. Thelen was suspended but his license was restored his retirement should be restored to what it should have been. The Commission Board is a recommendation and the final decision on this matter will lie with DLEG and ORS.

7. The Administrative Law Judge recommended Mr. Thelen apply for local openings as they become available, including out of the area vending locations.

MS. TAECKENS MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. WOLFE TO AFFIRM THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

8. The Administrative Law Judge recommended the Commission provide Mr. Thelen additional assistance in obtaining a new location and consideration regarding the required profit percentage taking into account possible negative effects caused by the political events publication referenced in the Recommended Decision.

MS. TAECKENS MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. WOLFE TO AFFIRM THE ALJ DECISION; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH COMMISSIONERS TAECKENS, ALLEN, WOLFE, EAGLE AND PILARSKI VOTING AYE

Commissioner Taeckens encouraged MCB and BEP to work together to find something locally for Mr. Thelen.

CONSUMER INVOLVEMENT COUNSEL

Crystal LaFleche, Consumer Involvement Counsel (CIC) Chairperson and Lisa Kisiel, MCB liaison to the CIC gave an update on the activities of the CIC. In the last year the CIC has had 4 meetings, because of new members the first 2 meetings were spent orienting these new members including updating the roster of representatives, question and answer time with Director Cannon regarding the role of the CIC and educating all members on the complaint process between the consumer and the counselor. Future plans include meeting in person, encouraging member participation in areas that aren't currently represented and have CAP attend another meeting to inform CIC members on transition services. One of the main issues the CIC has dealt with is the communication process in the event of a complaint. Director Cannon identified what groups hold each of the 12 spots on the CIC, bylaws can be looked at to open the CIC to other advocacy groups.

Commissioner Taeckens is interested in having the Upper Peninsula represented and questioned how the information about the bylaws is disseminated. Ms. Kisiel informed the Board that information is posted on the websites, members are expected to take the information back to their respective groups and it is the responsibility of the counselors to let new clients know all the resources available to them.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Chair Pilarski opened public comment by stating that each commenter will be given 3 minutes, timed by Ms. Luzenski who will give a 1 minute left warning.

Mr. Ray Roberson, Michigan Association of Independent Blind Persons, stated that he felt the quality of the audio in the meeting is poor and a concern; he said that equipment maintenance should be written in the contract.

Ms. Kimberly Monk, spoke about a previous discussion regarding college policies that took place at the June Commission meeting. She commented on all college disability offices being given a copy of the college policy; staff receiving more training in the ways blind people do things; and when counselors are assigned to clients the counselors should be informed so there is no disruption in services.

Mr. Fred Wurtzel stated that the NFB Convention is in November and next summer Detroit will be hosting the National NFB convention. He said he understands the need to set time limits on public comment and reduce the number of meetings, but there is a perception that MCB is restricting all services and consumer participation.

Mr. Larry Posont thanked the Commissioners for having Friday meetings but felt that four meetings a year show a lack of the Commission providing services and the history that has created the Commission is lost.

Mr. Terry Eagle thanked the Commissioners for the opportunity to sit in on the informal retreat and supported the Commissioner discussion on how payments are handled by both internal staff and BEP vendors. He stated that BEP operators will turn out to protest the ORS ruling.

Mr. Bill Meyers, Elected Operator Vice-Chair said he was attending the meeting today on behalf of the EOC because Ms. Hazell Brooks, the EOC Chair was unable to attend.

MR. EAGLE MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. WOLFE TO CREATE A SUBCOMMITTEE FOR REVIEW OF THE BYLAWS AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Chair Pilarski designated Commissioners Eagle and Allen to serve as the subcommittee.

Recessed for lunch at 12:15 p.m.

__________________________________

The meeting was reconvened at 1:05 p.m.

YOUTH TRANSITION SERVICES PANEL

The afternoon session was set up as a panel to speak about youth transition services. The session was broken up into the three 40 minute sections with each section asking a specific question for panel members and giving audience members time for participation. The panel members were:

Leamon Jones, Director, Consumer Services Division
Shaun Williams, a blind student who participated in the summer program
Gwen Botting, President of Michigan Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (MPVI) and parent of a blind student
Shawnese Laury-Johnson, MCB Rehab Counselor who works with students in transition
Lydia Schuck, Parents of Blind Children and Quest program provider
Maria Peak, Eaton County ISD Transition Coordinator

Section 1

Question: What good things are happening with our students regarding transition?

Gwen Botting: Ms. Botting opened by commenting that she did not feel the Commission was involved in a lot of positive things, except for the Steps Program done in Grand Rapids by the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. A variety of skills are learned and the kids enjoy all aspects of the program and each other. Transportation reimbursement by the Commission would open the program up for more kids to participate. When student become a Commission client they should be given the guidelines of what is needed to know to graduate from high school. MPVI is looking into developing a program called Camp in a Box which would entail buying a van and driver and take blind kids camping and bring the activities to the kids.

Leamon Jones: Mr. Jones gave an overview of MCB's programs for youth students in the summer. The Steps program is partially funded by the Commission and MCB is involved in many programs that will expose the students to socialization, pre-employment skills, mobility, job shadowing and work experience. Additional programs teach the use of transportation, dressing for success and teaching of technology. All of these programs are available all over the state and the plan is to have these programs available for students year round so students are continually exposed and are ready to transition from high school to college.

Shaun Williams: Mr. Williams gave a positive overview of what he did in his summer employment initiative, the Summer Employment Excursion Program. Mr. Williams stated he created a list for his employer consisting of technology sites, chat rooms and information websites all having to do with the blind. He felt this program taught the value of learning to adapt to new skills and he gained a lot of knowledge.

Lydia Schuck: Ms. Schuck works with the Camp Tuhsmeheta program, she observed that the ten kids involved this past summer were excited and genuinely enjoyed each other. Different aspects of the Camp T program included going on excursions to a bank, farmers market and laundry mat using local transit. The soft skills aspect focused on what employers are looking for and this allowed kids to hear information about a job applicant and decide if they were eligible for a job; the kids also participated in the interview process themselves. One particular student who is hearing impaired and mildly autistic was very focused on food courts at malls in any town he visited. He chose to interview for a job cleaning tables at Camp T. During the interview this boy gave insightful answers and made it clear that if they were willing to train him he was willing to do any jobs they gave him.

Shawnese Laury-Johnson: Ms. Johnson is a counselor for the Detroit office who works with students in the Detroit summer youth program. She adheres to MCB's model of plan, do, study, act. The program plan begins at the end of April with MCB staff meeting with school administrators to discuss how many students will participate in the program, gather a list of placement opportunities and plan trips for participants. Twenty-five to thirty students participated in this past summers' program with the programs teaching the students about orientation, transportation, traveling, work skills and social skills. At the end of the program each student is able to share about their experience and the skills they learned. Most of the summer programs are 6 - 8 week summer programs though one agency has a year round program, Careerworks Agency.

Maria Peak: Ms. Peak began an initiative in 3 counties: Eaton, Ingham & Shiawassee contracting with Peckham Vocational Industries to fill an unmet need to develop job skills through a summer program for students. Students learned how to use MichiganWorks!, career interest inventories and exploration, spent a day gathering job applications and went on job tours with the highlight being a radio station. Currently the ISD is in process of finding ways to help this program continue throughout the school year by meeting bi-monthly. The program is supported with funding by cash match dollars through all the participating districts.

Public Comment:

Christine Boone commented that the Training Center gets frustrated when a child comes for the college assessment and they have had no exposure to cooking, cleaning, mobility and sometimes Braille. MCB struggles to try and get young people to come to the center at end of their sophomore or junior year to learn the skills they need to pass the college assessment. The Training Center has strengthened the summer program by planning outings and are excited to have the young people come and acquire the skills that are needed.

Larry Posont: Mr. Posont spoke on behalf of Camp T and Opportunities Unlimited for the Blind stating that it is hard to build and offer programs on a yearly basis and the shorter programs touch people and change their lives. The camp is creating job opportunities for the blind with half the staff being blind individuals.

Fred Wurtzel: Mr. Wurtzel spoke on the expanded core curriculum which is all the skills a blind child needs before they graduate this curriculum is available on the AFB website. Camp T incorporates the expanded core curriculum into all of their programs.

Section 2

Question: What are the priorities and greatest needs of our kids?

Lydia: Ms. Schuck felt that blind and visually impaired kids need more time doing Quest-like things in the summer which would include short job shadows, hobby exploration and more recreation. Ms. Schuck's daughter was involved in the program at Peckham Vocational Industries. She was asked to leave the program because of an incident. Issues she saw were the program was Braille-free, there was not adequate staff to meet the needs of the students in the workplace, more lead time in planning was needed and exploration of things that could happen. Faith Meadows talked to students at the end of Quest and reported she did not have the response from kids that she expected. An opportunity exists for free collaboration between MCB and the educational community by taking advantage of Michigan Association of Education and Rehabilitation of Blind and Visually Impaired and the Listserve.

Gwen: Ms. Botting feels that blind kids need a more consistent education and it is imperative that the Commission spearhead this cause to develop standards through the Department of Special Education. Braille is being offered in one-half hour sessions 3 times a week and this is not enough, kids need to be made more aware what they need to do personally to be employed, develop job shadowing and service opportunities. MCB needs to make the connection between the employer and the kids, making the kids aware that they can't be students the rest of their life. The things our kids need to be successful are summer and school year jobs, friends, hard work, rewards, expectations and opportunities.

Leamon: Mr. Jones commented that the Commission believes more resources are key to success for our students. Immediate needs are to collaborate with intermediate school districts to provide more transition programs showing them how vital these programs are. The larger districts create more difficulties and we are aware of the need to show employers and schools about offering programs year round and MCB will continue to work with school districts. Key areas of importance are Braille, low incidence and outreach programs and strengthening independent living skills. A program that has just finished its 3rd year is the BEP work experience program, offering real work opportunities for blind youth at food service facilities. MCB staff is continually trying to increase the BEP program and help is needed filling the spots with students to keep this program successful.

Maria: Ms. Peak agreed with everything heard and stated that it will become more difficult to provide transition services as state monies are reduced. There is a need to have someone educate ISD people to give them the knowledge to train others and develop programs.

Shawnese: Ms. Laury-Johnson also agreed with all the views expressed and added that there is a need to focus on socialization of students and the importance of more parent involvement. The students need to learn more problem solving skills and learn other ways to function if technology fails.

Shaun: Mr. Williams specifically focused on students needing more mobility training. He currently receives 1 hour of mobility training each week. His skills can't improve with this limited amount of training, even 3 hours a week would make a difference and give greater results.

Public Comment:

Beth White: There is an issue convincing ISD's that kids are not participating in transition activities and their needs are not being met. One summer program student had a job opportunity as a result of their participation with more opportunities becoming available. An issue arising is kids want to have a summer and not participate in a summer program, so year round activities are good. Finally MCB Counselors need more than 1 - 2 days notice for IEP's with schools and parents have to be involved.

Cheryl Mattson: The Michigan Youth Leadership Forum is a program that is available for high school students with any disability. Participants go through a 5 day course at MSU focusing on leadership, disability history, ADA and how to properly prepare for a job interview. Students pick an issue, debate at the capitol and learn about becoming active politically.

Pat Love: Ms. Love represents the Department of Education's Low Incidence Outreach program which is available to provide technical assistance to school districts when working with the visually impaired. The Department also provides more technical assistance to school districts by doing student evaluations, providing feedback, collaborating with school districts to provide independent living skills training to students and parents, and sending teachers out to school districts to provide hands on technology training around the state. The Department is collaborating with MCB and meets quarterly with the Commission to talk about the needs in the state and how to provide services to students.

Sharon Burton: Ms. Burton stated that she started out as a volunteer at Camp T and has now taken over as Executive Director.

Experiences kids have at Camp T include learning skills that are needed for everyday living, listening to speakers, foster friendships and offer enjoyable camp experiences.

Section 3

Question: Where do we go from here?

Leamon Jones: Mr. Jones said that parents need to be aware of transition opportunities and MCB needs to work collaboratively with parent groups by meeting with them to keep parents informed.

Maria Peak: Ms. Peak stated that effective communication is key sharing information with people who can commit to making a difference. Another important aspect is expanding peer mentoring programs.

Gwen: Collaborating with MCB and parent groups is imperative to the success of our youth, by stating clearly how much Braille is expected, how much orientation & mobility is needed. MCB needs to be able to talk to the kids before they are 14. She supports Geri Taeckens' idea of having the Department of Education pushing all general education teachers to learn about special education and blind kids including rudimentary Braille and sign language classes. The Commission needs to be involved because they know what is missing and need to intervene, if not kids will continually fail.

Shawnese: Find a way for the parents, education system and Commission to all collaborate together instead of not taking responsibility. The parents make a difference and need to be involved and schools need to stop dumbing down classes by awarding students A's when they are not earning them and the students aren't truly ready for college.

Shaun: The Summer Employment program needs to continue but more jobs need to be available to allow more choices. Teachers need to value blind people more than they do, treating them equally, pushing them to be as well educated as a sighted child. Lastly, he said that most textbooks are not available in Braille and that he currently only has math and speech textbooks in Braille and this needs to be addressed.

Lydia: Ms. Schuck stated Braille should be taught across the board. She said blind students need to be held to high standards of expectations and helped to be more visible. Parents' failure to be involved in IEP's is a huge problem and can affect student outcomes dramatically. Year round programs keeps students involved with their peers and keeps them connected with each other. The education and rehab systems need to address the needs of a hidden population of borderline employable students who need extra support.

Public Comment:

Crystal LaFleche: Ms. LaFleche stated that every year the exact same legislation is brought up for better education for teachers for students with disabilities. Mentors can help play an important role in supporting youths and teaching them how to gain the information and advocate for themselves.

Fred Wurtzel: Mr. Wurtzel stated that he was impressed with the participation of Shawnese Laury-Johnson and Crystal LaFleche. MCB has the authority in the law to get names of all the students in the state and to hire a youth coordinator. The budget has been increased and some of that money could be used in youth services. Commission staff is not being adequately prepared and needs more training than 4 weeks.

Terry Eagle: Terry Eagle stated that his child is 22 and successful but he still has a vested interest in what the system will have as a vision for blind youth. He said that as a former employer in the BEP program 2/3 - 3/ 4 of his staff had disabilities and he was able to do that because the Commission had employment specialists. The Commission needs to get back out there and help the employers connect with people who have disabilities.

Chair Pilarski concluded the afternoon session by stating that the Commission and the Department of Education need to collaborate more effectively, involving parents, consumers, universities, students and ISD's to address these issues. Chair Pilarski stated that a group needs to form to set policies and establish ad hoc committees to create a book of standards for education of our youth and standards for teachers to follow. The panel members responded by offering permission to post their contact information on the MCB website.

MS. TAECKENS MOVED, SUPPORTED BY MS. ALLEN TO ADJOURN THE MEETING; THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY;

The meeting was adjourned at 3:09 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Friday, December 12 at the Kellogg Center, East Lansing. The meeting will begin at 9:00 a.m.

Jo Ann Pilarski, Chairperson

Date