March 2001 Edition - Access Press by Access Press

Inside Help Teens With Disabilities Achieve Independence — p. 3

Volume 12, Number 3

Directory Of Organizations — Page 8

SOURCES

March 10, 2001

“Divide and conquer, in our world, must become define and — Audre Lorde empower.”

RESOURCES

March 10, 2001

SUPREME COURT LIMITS ADA NO SUITS AGAINST STATES IN FEDERAL COURT FOR MONETARY DAMAGES by Kathleen R. Hagen

On a street in Gdansk

Organizing In Poland The Fuga Mundi Foundation by Amy Farrar Last month Access Press talked about the state of disability rights in Poland. In this month’s Part 2 we look at a specific example of efforts underway in that country. “Fuga Mundi” is a Latin term for “Escape From the World.” Ancient philosophers coined the term thousands of years ago to describe when people went off to contemplate who they were in the grand scheme of things. That is why the term has been reanimated as the name of an organization in Poland that is educating people about the issues faced by people with disabilities in Poland. The leaders of the organization created it because of what they didn’t see anyone else doing in their country. The Fuga Mundi Foundation’s creator, Marek Piasecki, is a modern-day hero in the truest sense. Piasecki, who is paraplegic, started his organization three years ago with the help of friends in response to what they didn’t see around them when it came to support mechanisms and efforts on

behalf of people with disabilities in Poland. Piasecki himself makes no money at what he does, but is doing it because it is something that he and his wife, a physical therapist with two jobs, truly believe in. “It was incredibly energizing for me to see the amount of passion and time people put in to advance the cause of people with disabilities in their country for little or no wages,” commented John Tschida, the director of Public Policy and Research at Courage Center. Tschida visited Poland for two weeks in November and December after a group of Polish nonprofit organizations (called Non-Governmental Organizations, or NGOs) invited and paid for him to visit them and educate other NGOs and government and business leaders in Poland about changing public policy. The situation for people with disabilities in Poland today can be compared to that faced by people with disabilities 50 years ago in the United States. Advocates in Poland are fight-

ing to integrate children with disabilities into the public school system, and face blatant discrimination fueled by a religious belief system dictating that people with disabilities and/or their families must have done something to “deserve” the disability. They are also fighting an infrastructure that makes accessibility almost impossible, particularly for people in wheelchairs. Piasecki’s goals are to offer thorough rehabilitation services to disabled people in Poland through information and assistance, individual material and financial support, educational courses, and the construction of a rehabilitation and recreation center for people with disabilities. The center will provide training facilities as well as a community center similar to the Center for Independent living here in the Twin Cities. Piasecki has been successful at acquiring money from state funds by talking to government officials about the daunting issues faced by people Poland - cont. on p. 5

n Wednesday, February 21, 2001, the United States Supreme Court held, in “University of Alabama Board of Trustees vs. Garrett,” that state employees cannot sue their states for monetary damages in federal court under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). By eliminating the threat of a monetary damages suit, the Court has removed an important incentive for the states to examine and remedy existing policies and practices. Although the ruling prohibits monetary damages, state employees retain the right to sue for “injunctive or prospective relief.” That is, they can ask the federal government to force the State to cease existing discriminatory practices or to change existing policies. For several months, lawyers and advocates representing persons with disabilities have waited for the Supreme Court’s decision. The Supreme Court had signaled in many ways its philosophy of “States Rights,” or returning power of government to the states. The most recent decision involving civil rights and state employment was a case where a state employee in Florida sued the state for age discrimination. The Supreme Court held that states were immune from suit by state employees under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act because of the immunity protection granted states under the Eleventh Amendment to the Constitution. The Original Cases The Supreme Court’s “Garrett” ruling combined two claims of disability discrimination by state employees. Patricia Garrett was a nurse at the University of AlabamaBirmingham University Hospital. After she was diagnosed

with breast cancer in 1994, Garrett contended that her supervisor made negative comments about her disability, and repeatedly threatened to transfer her from her position as director of nursing at the hospital’s Women’s Services/Neonatology unit. Although Garrett could perform the essential functions of her job, she was demoted shortly after returning from sick leave. Milton Ash, who has diabetes and several respiratory impairments, including chronic asthma, worked in a confined area and also drove vehicles for the Alabama Department of Youth Services (ADYS). Because of his asthma, he repeatedly asked ADYS to enforce its existing non-smoking policy, and to repair vehicles which leaked carbon monoxide. Ash also asked to be transferred to another shift to accommodate a newly diagnosed condition — sleep apnea. Both Garrett and Ash brought suit against the State under the employment provisions, or Title I, of the ADA. The state brought a motion for summary judgment, which means that Alabama believed that, on its face, the suit was not viable and should be dismissed. They argued that states were immune from suit by state employees under the ADA because of the Eleventh Amendment. The state district court agreed with them and dismissed the case. The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals disagreed and reversed. The Supreme Court analyzed this case the same way as it has analyzed previous decisions involving suits by employees against a state. They asked two basic questions. First, did Congress intend to,

in essence, waive immunity by the states to suit under the Eleventh Amendment? Clearly, in this case, Congress had that intention. The ADA includes language at 42 U.S.C., Section 12202, which states: “A state shall not be immune under the eleventh amendment to the constitution of the United States from an action in Federal or State court of competent jurisdiction for a violation of this Act.” No “Widespread Discrimination” The second basic question asked by the Court was, did Congress have the authority to waive state immunity under the Eleventh Amendment in order to uphold the provision of equal protections or due process under the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution? Here, the Court said Congress had exceeded its authority because it had not proved that this waiver of immunity was necessary to adequately protect the equal rights of individuals with disabilities. The Court discounted the Congressional findings and record which led to the passage of the ADA, arguing that the record did not show extensive discrimination against persons with disabilities by states. The Court said that in order to uphold an “equal protection” argument, persons with disabilities would have had to prove that states had perpetrated the kind of blanket discrimination that was shown to exist against people of color, leading to the passage of the Voters Rights Act of 1965. Justice Breyer in his dissent attached an appendix of all the reported discrimination by states against employees or applicants for employment which had been

Court - cont. on p. 10

March 10, 2001

Charlie Smith Editor

know a number of people have been worried and concerned about my health. I do believe that the positive energy created by readers has had a positive effect. Thank you, and please keep it flowing! I have asked Jeff Nygaard to write the editor’s column for me this month. Charlie *** In our front-page story this

they also appear to be saying that the Federal government has no right to punish states for such discrimination even if it does exist. We can only hope that future rulings do not go even further along this route, as the Court could call into question the whole idea month, attorney Kathleen of the ADA! Hagen explains the impact of the recent Supreme Court *** “Garrett” ruling. By deciding that state employees cannot Making the transition from sue their state governments being a teenager to being an in Federal court for monetary independent adult is difficult damages under the Ameri- for anyone. The transition is cans with Disabilities Act, the even more challenging for Supreme Court of the United young people with disabiliStates has sent a frightening ties, in part because of the low message. Not only did the expectations that so many Court find that there is no influential adults have for “widespread discrimination” these kids. On page 3, Mark against people with disabili- Siegel from the PACER Center ties in the United States, but shows that, with the proper

approach, we adults can move away from being obstacles in these kids’ journey toward independence, and towards being helpful resources as these young people try to become effective advocates for themselves. A short list of useful phone numbers appears at the end of his article. *** See the story below, and then go visit the DNR accessibility website and start planning your camping trip now – summer is just around the corner! *** The update on goings-on at the legislature which appears on page 6 is shorter than we

Access The Outdoors by Nathan Halvorson

n the October 10, 2000 issue of Access Press, Dennis Stauffer reported on a new DNR Web Directory for People with Disabilities. Recently, DNR has expanded the page, featuring new information about accessible trails and waterways near Rochester and throughout the state. Larry Nelson, regional director of DNR, organized the webpage project and reemphasized to

AP that DNR wants people with disabilities not only to know about the page at www.dnr.state.mn.us , but, even more, they want people of all abilities to enjoy the accessible wilderness of Minnesota. This article serves as a little guide for seaching through the webpage—a handy tool in arranging an outdoor vacation this spring.

Like with any site, a person can concludes with the reminder surf themselves in circles that “an individual is the clicking through the options. best judge of her or his own Jonathan Leslie, a member of ability.” Capable Partners and an 3) On the left side of the “Open integral developer of the the Outdoors” screen, DNR website, gave some of the best runs a complete list of links: advice for scanning: “Just State Parks; State Trails; browse and have fun. Go to an Wildlife Management area, click and search.” Before Areas; State Forests; you go online with the DNR, Fishing Information; Huntyou may want to write a list of ing Information; Applicayour priorities for some time tions and Permit Forms; and away—location, geography, Other Outdoor Organizaand accessibility., for example, tions. could be a few. Here are some 4) From this panel, the choice is more ideas which could help in up to you. If you want to go exploring the accessible DNR to an accessible State Park, site: for example, you would click NEED HELP WITH: on the “State Parks” link from • Employment? • Housing? 1) Once the DNR page appears the list to the left of the • Health Issues? • Education? on your screen, find the well“Open the Outdoors” page. known blue wheelchair 5) The “State Parks” page has • Transportation? • Access? symbol; it opens the doora few options. One of the way to accessible MN. most useful for trip-planning Contact 2) If you scroll down and click is a link on this page titled on that button, a page called “Accessible Features” (This “Open the Outdoors” link appears in the “State appears, with a photograph Forests” and “Wildlife Your Source for information, of a family on an accessible Management Areas” pages, fishing pier. This page too). If you choose this link, referral and technical assistance. provides general guidelines you will open a PDF file with for accessible natural a list of the State Parks and 651-296-6785 or 1-800-945-8913 resources, including some complete information on Voice or TTY important notes of caution their accessibility features Email: council.disability@state.mn.us like “the degrees of acceslike campsites, hiking trails, Website: www.disability.state.mn.us siblity vary from site to site,” lodging and restrooms. and “DNR staff may not From looking at this list, a always be at a site to respond person can determine Quality • Dignity • Independence to emergency situations.” It whether or not a site would meet their accessibility needs for a trip. 6) Once you find a site that, on Co-Founder/Publisher (1990-1996) ................................................................... Wm. A. Smith, Jr. the chart at least, sounds Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief ............................................................. Charles F. Smith good, you can close the PDF Interim Managing Editor ............................................................................................ Jeff Nygaard file and go to the DNR search Cartoonist ..................................................................................................................... Scott Adams icon that you’ll find at the Production .......................................................................... Presentation Images, Ellen Houghton top of the page between the Editorial Assistant .............................................................................................. Nathan Halvorson “Home” and “Events” ACCESS PRESS is a monthly tabloid newspaper published for persons with disabilities by Access

MSCOD

The Minnesota State Council on Disability

ACCESS PRESS

Press, Ltd. Circulation is 11,000, distributed the 10th of each month through more than 200 locations statewide. Approximately 650 copies are mailed directly to political, business, institutional and civic leaders. Subscriptions are available for $15/yr. Editorial submissions and news releases on topics of interest to persons with disabilities, or persons serving those with disabilities, are welcomed. Paid advertising is available at rates ranging from $14 to $18/column inch, depending on size and frequency. Classified ads are $8.00, plus 35 cents/word over 20 words. Advertising and editorial deadlines are the 30th of the month preceding publication; special scheduling available for camera-ready art. Access Press is available on tape. Call MN State Services for the Blind, 651-642-0500 or 800-652-9000.

Inquiries should be directed to: ACCESS PRESS • 1821 University Ave. W. • Suite 185N • St. Paul, Minnesota 55104 • (651) 644-2133 • Fax (651) 644-2136 • E-mail: access@mninter.net.

had planned. Part of the reason is that our information sources have been so busy lobbying that it’s hard to get them to slow down long enough to write up their reports (see Lolly Lijewski’s column on page 5 to get just a hint of how busy these people are!) Another reason is that the Governor’s budget caught so many people by surprise that legislators and advocates are still formulating their responses as I write this column. It’s still early in the session; by next month we should have more to report. Stay tuned.

ordeal, often with many ups and downs. As this issue of Access Press goes to the printer, Editor-in-Chief Charlie Smith is experiencing a major “down” period. He is in the hospital fighting off a serious infection and other secondary effects of his ongoing treatment for esophageal cancer. Charlie has been informed that his cancer is more stubborn than had been thought, and his doctors are now recommending a new course of treatment. Although he is feeling quite poorly as I write these words, we all have hopes that this is just a *** temporary setback, and look forward to his return at the As anyone who has been earliest possible date. Get through it will tell you, can- well, Charlie! Q cer treatment is a difficult

Metro Mobility Update by Lolly Lijewski

he 2000 legislature asked the Metropolitan Council to conduct a study of the Metro Mobility system, looking specifically at four areas: longrange planning needs of the system; ways to integrate Metro Mobility into current and future transit options; the reintegration of taxis into the fleet; and any potential changes in state or federal legislation. That study has been delivered to the 2001 legislature. The Steering Committee worked for five months on the study and came up with some positive, pro-active ways to impact change for Metro Mobility and its riders. Some of those options include; the “Taxi Tickets,” program, which would not be a part of Metro Mobility, but would enable riders to use taxis with a base subsidy coming from the Metro Mobility budget. The rider would then pay any fare above the subsidy. Upon buttons. 7) If you type in the name of the State Park — “Crow Wing” for example — and select it, DNR will conduct a search and bring up a list of “Crow Wing” sites. 8) If you click on the one that says “Crow Wing —Current Conditions,” you will find all of the infor-mation you need — a map, geography, and contact phone numbers for more information.

Outdoors - cont. on p. 6

the turnover of the fleet in July, Metro Mobility vehicles could be offered to taxi providers to increase the number of available accessible taxis in the Metro area. Legislation would need to be offered by the Met Council to change taxi regulations so that these vehicles could be used for this purpose. These options also include providing better interface between Metro Mobility and Metro Transit through integration of computer scheduling software and assistance to riders with trip planning. A travel-training program is recommended by the Council to assist riders who have not ridden fixed-route transit so that they can become more comfortable with this process. “It should be stated here that not everyone can or should use fixed-route service.” In addition, the use of technologies such as Mobile Display Terminals, Automatic Vehicle Locaters, and Global Positioning Systems are being explored to increase the efficiency of the system. An initiative which was proposed by the Met Council, and which the advocates did not support nor agree with, is the pilot project to do “functional assessments” on a percentage of new Metro Mobility applicants. Advocates would prefer to see more positive proactive steps taken first before any changes in eligibility are considered. Q

SPECIALIZED TRANSPORTATION

612-529-5019 • 651-483-9143 MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROVIDER Drivers Wanted! Call for more information.

Youth With Disabilities Can Achieve Independence by Mark C. Siegel

o you remember your teen fessions. It is never too early age years? Were they to begin exploring the world exciting? Scary? Carefree? All of work with your child. If of the above? For most people, parents and teachers express adolescence is a time to disconfidence in a child’s abilicover who we are as individuties and potential, that child’s als. It is also a time to begin self-esteem will increase and thinking about our futures. We they will have more hope for begin asking ourselves questheir futures. tions like “What do I want to • Educate Youth about Their do with my life?” or “Where do Disabilities – Many young I want to live?” For youth with people have very little knowldisabilities, the answers to edge about their specific disthese questions are often unabilities. Some youth cannot clear. Often, youth with disidentify the name of their disabilities have low expectations ability; much less explain how about their futures. In addiit affects their health. Young tion, parents, teachers, and people need this information other professionals sometime to become better advocates have diminished hopes for for themselves. Youth who these young people. have basic information about their disabilities are better While it is true that teens with equipped to explain to future disabilities face many obemployers what accommostacles upon entering adultdations they need to do their hood, parents and teachers can jobs. They can also begin do many things to prepare them directing their own health for this transition to indepencare because they better undence and, most likely, meanderstand how factors such ingful employment. With the as diet and stress can affect proper support and encourtheir physical well-being. agement, many young people Youth should be encouraged with disabilities have become to talk to their parents and quite successful in their adult physicians about questions lives. Below are a few ideas to related to their disabilities. consider when preparing a Vast amounts of disabilityyoung person to become a specific information can also happy and productive member be found on the Internet and of the community. in public libraries. • The Role of Schools – Under • Start Making Plans Early – the Individuals with DisabiliTalk to your child about his ties Education Act (IDEA), or her hopes and dreams for schools are required to prothe future. Encourage them vide transition services to to develop interests that students with disabilities might lead to a possible cabeginning at age 14 (or earlier reer. Give them the opportuif appropriate). Transition nity to observe different jobs. services can include job skills If they have career goals that training, college prep classes, seem impossible, don’t disdevelopment of independent courage them. Instead, show living skills, etc. The transithem what they will have to tion services should help the do to achieve that goal. Let student make progress tothem know that it is okay to wards post-secondary goals discover new possibilities as such as going to college, findthey pursue their original ing a job, or living independream. Friends and relatives dently. Transition services can also be valuable sources must be listed in the student’s of information for youth who Individualized Education are curious about certain proPlan (IEP). The student must

also be invited to any IEP meetings where transition will be discussed. If a parent or guardian feels that their child is not receiving appropriate transition services, they should ask for a meeting with the IEP team to discuss their concerns as soon as possible. Parents can also contact advocates at PACER Center with any questions related to transition services or IEP’s. • Know about Resources in the Community – There many agencies and organizations that can help youth with disabilities achieve their goals. For example, the Department of Rehabilitation Services assists people with disabilities in finding and keeping a job. Some of the services that DRS provides include job assessment and training, tuition assistance for college or technical school, and financial assistance for purchasing assistive technology. The Centers for Independent Living (CILs) can help youth develop skills such as balancing a budget or finding an apartment. CILs can also answer questions about personal care services, accessible transportation, or other disability related issues. The Social Security Administration has information about disability benefits programs such as SSI or SSDI. SSA can also answer questions about work incentives that allow people with disabilities to work without losing their health insurance. Youth with disabilities have more options for their futures than ever before. By teaching youth to advocate for themselves and using resources in the community, we can give them the opportunity to fulfill their dreams. Every journey begins with a first step. On the road to independence, what will your child’s first step be?

HOUSING AND PERSONAL CARE SERVICES Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI) offers subsidized one and two bedroom apartments for individuals with physical disabilities. We have housing in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, St. Cloud, Brainerd, Grand Rapids, Hibbing, Austin, Marshall, Willmar, and Duluth. The apartments are fully wheelchair accessible and each building has a central laundry room, large community room, secured entry and an on-site caretaker. ASI also offers shared personal care services 24 hours a day, at most locations, for adults with a physical disability and/or traumatic brain injury who qualify for Medical Assistance. For more information call (651) 645-7271 or (800) 466-7722. For services or housing call Lisa, for employment as a personal care attendant call Al or Angie.

Accessible Space, Inc.

March 10, 2001

IN BRIEF . . . . Entries For Sister Kenny Art Show Accepted Through March 20 Sister Kenny Rehabilitation abilities. The show is sched- Schultz at (612) 863-4463 for an Services is currently accept- uled for April 19th through May entry form with guidlines. The ing entries for the 39th Annual 16, 2001. Artists may enter two deadline for entries is March Art Show by Artists with Dis- pieces of art and may call Kathy 20th.

Distance Learning: Accomodating People With Psychiatric Disabilities ADA Minnesota will host a Kim MacDonald-Wilson, station for an employee with distance learning session, Accommodating People with Psychiatric Disabilties, on Tuesday, March 20, from 1:002:00 p.m., at the MCIL Office, 1600 University Avenue, Suite 16 in St. Paul.

Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation at Boston University, will be the presenter. She will talk about the necessary steps and challenges of providing a completely accessible work-

a physical disability. If you are interested in attending or have questions, contact Ann Roscoe, ADA Minnesota,651-603-2015(V),651-6032001 (TTY), or 1-888-845-4595.

Children’s Mental Health Advisory Council Volunteers Sought The Hennepin County Board • Two vacancies for a former Members serve three years of Commissioners is seeking client of the children’s men- from the date of appointment. applicants for seven vacantal health system The deadline for applications cies on the Children’s Mental • Three vacancies for a repre- is March 14. Health Advisory Council. The sentative of a diverse ethnic council reviews, evaluates and and cultural group/minority For more information about Hennepin County open apmakes recommendations to the population County Board regarding the • Two vacancies for someone pointments or to receive an local children’s mental health with an interest in children’s application, contact (612)3483257. system. Vacancies include: mental health.

Volunteers Needed For Arc’s Annual Rose Sale Do you have a few hours dur- with developmental disabilities Arc needs volunteers from ing the month of March, and would like to help sell beautiful roses while raising funds and awareness for chapters of Arc? Arc Minnesota, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of persons

and their families, is conducting its “Annual Rose Sale” in recognition of National Mental Retardation and Related Disabilities Awareness Month.

March 5 – April 6. Dozens of roses will be sold at discounted prices at various locations throughout the Twin Cities. To volunteer, or for more information, please contact Deb or Jammi at (651) 523-0823.

RESOURCES FOR 1815; Mankato: 507-345work incentives, visit Social MORE INFORMATION 7139; Marshall: 507-532Security’s Work Site at http:/ • Department of Rehabilitation 2221; St. Cloud: 320-529/www.ssa.gov/work/ Services (job training, place9000; Moorhead: 218-236index2.html. ment): 651-296-9981; in 0459; East Grand Forks: 218- • PACER Center (parent trainGreater MN: 800-328-9095; on 773-6100; Hibbing: 218-262ing and advocacy, informathe Internet: http://www. 6675; on the Internet: http:// tion, referral): 952-838-9000; mnworkforcecenter.org/rewww.macil.org Greater Minnesota: 800-527hab/vr/main vr.htm 2237; TTY: 952-838-0190; on • Social Security Administra• Centers for Independent Livtion (disability benefits, work the Internet: http://www. ing (independent living incentives): 800-772-1213; pacer.org Q skills, disability-related inforTTY: 800-325-0778; on the mation, referral): 651-646Internet: http://www.ssa.gov Mark Siegel is a transition 8342; Rochester: 507-285For detailed information on specialist at PACER Center.

METROPOLITAN CENTER for INDEPENDENT LIVING MCIL offers services for people with disabilities, their families and friends, service providers, and interested community members in the 7-county metro area. Information and Referral (Information hotline: 651-603-2039) Advocacy Independent Living Skills Training Individual Peer Support Deaf I.L. Services Personal Assistance Services (M.A. Subsidized) Ramp Project Transition Program ADA Information Meeting Rooms Computer Lab Resource Library Support Groups ...Chemical Dependency with Physical Disability GLBT with Disability Chemical Dependency with Traumatic Brain Injury

1600 U NIVERSITY A VE . W., S UITE 16, S T. P AUL , MN 55104-3825 651-646-8342 V OICE 651-603-2001 TTY 651-603-2006 F AX HTTP://WWW.MCIL-MN.ORG

March 10, 2001

Hello Nicole:

On Mental Illness/Brain Disorders

Life As It Is

Dear Nicole,

by Pete Feigal The following are excerpts f r o m Pete’s speech at the“Day on the Hill” rally for mental health at the state Capitol on February 20, 2001.

ecently I spoke to a respected legislator from the southwestern part of the state who told me that mental illness, from a political point of view, was a “non-issue.” He said that his constituents never talk about it, politicians aren’t interested in it, and that, although he appreciated what we were trying to do and the nobility of our cause fighting for equality, we were doomed to disappointment. He said that we were shooting for “pie in the sky,” and that we should “...Grow up, stop dreaming, which really IS madness, and start seeing Life As It Is.” I am 45 years old. I have battled mental illness for 35 years, and Multiple Sclerosis for fifteen. I was put into the mental health system when I was 15, and I have seen “life as it is.” I have seen the shame and pity of uneducated families and friends who didn’t know what to say to their loved one, so

they turned their backs and ing people who, although they never in their lives raised a didn’t say anything. hand in violence, took their I have heard the equally deaf- own lives in desperation and ening silence of the locked pain, with their deaths ending wards where, contrary to the up as criminal statistics. sensational images of the media, people are too lost and I have felt the desperation and pain of their grieving families hopeless even to cry. multiplied, when the religious I have experienced the inequi- institutions they belonged to ties of the health care system, wouldn’t even give them the where we have to be either grace of allowing their destitute or wealthy to access children’s bodies to be buried the medical treatment we need. in Holy ground.

I have always been a high functioning woman with muscular dystrophy but the years of activity and pushing myself are catching up with me. I have a weak neck for the first time EVER. My right arm and hand are considerably weaker. (I am right handed and this is really a problem.) For the first time in my life, I am scared shit-less!!! I hate going through this hideous “phase” of my disability but I have to learn how to handle it and get through it. I know there are others who have this disease and are worse off than I am. I just don’t know how to accept any more loss of strength and functioning. I don’t think I have it in me, to be honest with you. I appreciate your sharing your experiences and advice.

I have known ill and lonely people who preferred to freeze in the winter, starving under highway overpasses, prey to any predator in the “food chain” of the street, rather than return to the humiliation and torture they experienced in Sincerely, decades past at the hands of Weakling the mental health system, a I have witnessed the helpless- system that they are convinced Dear Weakling, ness of wonderful medical pro- still exists. fessionals who leave the menWhen it comes to issues like tal health system in frustration I have seen life as it is, and this there are never any easy because they can’t stand be- when life is this crazy, this in- answers or simple responses. I ing part of the dysfunctional sane, who’s to say where mad- also have muscular dystrophy revolving door system where ness lies? When even in the and I know how hard it is to no real healing or recovery United States of America, in lose strength and functioning. Minnesota, in the Twenty-First As with any progressive distakes place. Century, the systems our poli- ability it becomes a matter of I have grieved for gentle, lov- ticians, insurance companies, living day to day and adjusting and physicians have created when our physical ability to “help” suffering people with changes. a medical condition are this out-of-control, heartless, and Loss of physical strength is ineffective, who can say where devastating. All of us, even “mental illness” really lies? the most able-bodied person, Maybe true craziness is when will one day have to face the we “grow up,” stop dreaming, breakdown of our bodies. Of stop trying and accept “life as course, we fear this day. I beit is.” Maybe to surrender to lieve our fear of physical debitterness and cynicism, like cline is so overwhelming that it the legislator I spoke to, is the causes disabled and elderly most insane of all. persons to be shunned by our I have lived in the insanity of The System, where our disease is covered by the Department of Human Services -- the department that deals with welfare, dog-catching and snow removal -- while all other illnesses are covered by the Health Department.

He’s wrong. It’s only by our dreams and hopes that the world will ever change. And it is changing.Q

Handi Medical Supply 2505 University Avenue West St. Paul, Minnesota 55114 At Hwy. 280 & University Avenue HANDI MEDICAL SUPPLY

(651) 644-9770

Visit Our Large, Fully-stocked showroom open to the pubic.

YOUR COMPLETE MEDICAL SUPPLYVENDOR • Wheelchairs/with complete • repair service • • Walkers/canes, crutches • • Bathroom safety aids • • Incontinent/Urological supplies

Commode & shower chairs Ostomy/and wound care Blood pressure equipment Diabetic supplies

GREAT SERVICE & PRICES We offer 24 hr. Emergency Service exclusively to our regular customers. Free UPS and deliveries to Mpls., St. Paul & Suburbs.

society. It is very sad when our fear causes us to shut down our hearts to the people experiencing this most difficult time. Many of us don’t even know how to be compassionate in the face of elderly or disabled people, instead we feel uncomfortable and we long to escape to our television ideals of fash-

ion models and perfect health. other more natural emotion than this type of depression. It is a The problem is, if we have spent time of sad hibernation, muchour lives escaping the reality deserved self-pity, and introof physical decline, we will be spection. Finally, this sobercompletely unprepared when ing up often opens the way to our time comes. Somehow we finding out how I can get along have thought that it wouldn’t now that this has happened to happen to us. Or that if we me. I start life again from my didn’t think about it too much new perspective. it wouldn’t happen to us – at least not for a long time. We I have found that there is not keep busy as a further assur- only no way to get around our ance than it “cannot” happen bodily decline, but there is also – “not now.” We are so afraid no way to get around our emoof losing physical ability and tional reaction to it. We need to health that we want somehow allow ourselves to go through to be able to get a handle on it, this hard time and not add to gain some sense of control. stress and judgement on ourselves by telling ourselves that Unfortunately, we can’t con- we should be handling it bettrol our physical decline -- even ter. We all handle it the best we if we eat healthy, slow down, can. It is not easy. No amount and try to be happy -- eventu- of positive thinking can lessen ally life catches up to us. Most our pain (although it might of us feel we can’t handle it or mask it temporarily). There is don’t have the ability to cope no reason why we need to apwith such loss. Yet, since we pear as martyrs when we are have no choice we find ways to going through one of the hardcope. Intellectually, humans est times of life. I think it is more are very inventive and good at helpful if we just try to be huadjusting to change. Our emo- man— tions are another story. To allow ourselves to go Every time I experience a loss through all the feelings withof physical functioning I go out judging ourselves. through the same routine of emotions. First I panic and try To admit we feel like we can’t to get away. I may try to hide, get through this and that we ignore or deny that this is re- hate it. ally happening. I might even push myself further in an at- I think you would be inhuman tempt to defy this loss of abil- if you felt any other way at this ity. I do anything I possibly time. can to get away from the fact of my physical decline. When I While I certainly feel overcan no longer deny it, I get whelmed by the reality of my angry. I think this is not fair progressive loss of physical because I already had so many ability, I also know that even problems even without this though I feel I can’t get through new added problem! Somehow this, somehow eventually I will it seems like because it is unfair find a way. I hope this helps. it should not or could not really be happening. I may find ways – nicole to blame myself, others, or God. I might think that if I promise Question? Complaint? not to do such-and-such again Comment? Write to I will get better. In time, these Nicole: volatile emotions quiet down % Access Press, 1821 and are replaced by an over- University Ave. W,#185 N; whelming feeling of despair, St. Paul, MN 55104; hopelessness, or grief. Once HelloNicoleAccess@yahoo.com there is no getting around the reality of my loss, there is no

Diamond Hill Townhomes We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list at Diamond Hill Townhomes, a great property located near the Mpls. International Airport. We have two and three bedroom townhomes that are HUD subsidized and rent is 30% of the total household's adjusted gross income. We have a large number of mobility impaired accessible units and we are scheduling appointments for persons in need of a mobility impaired accessible unit immediately. To schedule an appointment please call (612) 726-9341

We bill M.A., Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medica and many other insurances

March 10, 2001

Religion and Disability

Disability Culture

One Day In The Life Of An Advocate Stop The Stigma by Sister Jo Lambert

by Lolly Lijewski

eing an advocate isn’t that glamorous. It’s never one of those occupations students identify as what they want to be when they grow up. Most advocates would say they didn’t plan it, they “kind of fell into the work.” It’s not an occupation profiled on many TV programs. And the image of advocates these days, in some arenas, isn’t a positive one. So, what is a day in the life of an advocate like? It starts about 8 A.M. as I walk into room 5 in the State Office Building (affectionately called the “SOB”) for a hearing on the Metro Mobility legislative study. I have my testimony prepared, which I spent three hours writing the night before.

As I take my seat, I hear that there is someone on the schedule before the Metropolitan Council’s presentation and the advocates. I look at my watch, knowing I have a Metro Mobility ride scheduled for 9:30.

As I wait for our turn, I review my notes. Then Nacho Dias from the Met Council gets up to give their presentation of the study. As time moves on, I realize that I’m not going to be able to testify because my ride is due soon and Nacho is still speaking. Fortunately, two other advocates are in the room with me and ready to testify. “OK,” I say as I take off my coat and sit down to listen. I know It comes time for me to leave what’s coming, but I listen and I take my ride back to my because I know that’s what I office. I walk in the door and would want someone else to do for me.

POLAND - Cont. from p. 1 with disabilities in Poland. He is struggling to educate the work force, businesses, and government about how people with disabilities can benefit them. Most important of all, Piasecki wants to shatter the viewpoint that people with disabilities are a population that should be maintained through government checks or seen as wards of the state. Piasecki and other advocates’ biggest obstacle, said Tschida, is history itself. He said there are very low societal expectations for people with disabilities in Poland, among politicians, business leaders, and people with disabilities themselves. “There is a local colloquialism in Poland that you can do anything ‘for’ someone, but not ‘with’ someone,” he said, meaning there are problems in the country with people and organizations working as teams to achieve results. “Although this is changing, they need to do a better job,” said Tschida. “The situation in Poland is not without a silver lining,” he added, pointing out that many new build-

our receptionist says there’s a consumer on the phone who wants to talk to me. I haven’t yet taken my coat off, and have my hands full of stuff. “OK, let me go to my office and you can put them through.” I walk into the office and throw my stuff on the empty chair across from my desk as my phone rings. As I pick it up I reach over to turn on the computer. “Hello, this is Lolly,” I say, and on the other end of the phone an exasperated voice says, “I’m calling to talk to you about Metro Mobility.”

ings are accessible, and there are highly-placed and influential public officials with disabilities. Organizations are starting to come together to combine their political clout and have a greater effect on changing policy. Ironically, he said, “The Polish Constitution recognizes people with disabilities in ways ours doesn’t.” Tschida learned that the state rehabilitation fund has also swelled with direct appropriations and money derivedfrom fines levied against businesses, and it pays for many of the same things the state rehabilitation organizations here pay for, including education, training, and computers. “While you can argue the merits of some of these ‘benefits’ they do at least point to a greater recognition of the disabled,” he said. The evolution that will bring about change in Poland for people with disabilities will be a step-by-step process, said Tschida. He predicts people with disabilities in Poland will witness greater changes over the following decade than ever before. Q

“I’m so frustrated!” says the voice, almost in tears. “My ride was two hours late picking me up and I was on the van for over 90 minutes. The driver could hardly speak English and got lost and wouldn’t ask for directions.” I listen and try to comfort the frustrated consumer. I know that I can’t offer immediate solutions, and I know that the policy work being done by advocates will take a while to show up in the service, but I can’t say that to the consumer. For now I can only offer a friendly voice and a willing ear. As I hang up I simultaneously check my voice mail and email. I have seven voice mails and another 30 emails. I triage them as if I were an E.R. nurse. I move through the work I can and then pick up my coat and my dog’s harness and I am off again to the Capitol for more meetings with legislators. The topics will vary today: Metro Mobility, accessible housing, and MA-EPD. Some of the legislators we’re seeing we don’t know well. Will they be

his article is taken from because of the limitations of the inclusive ministry their illness. newsletter known as Inroads, published by the Office of In- • I would never fear a diabetic clusive Ministry in the Archbecause s/he might be condiocese of Seattle, Washingtagious. ton in January 2001. I wonder As we complete a particularly how many of us can truly say • I would never say a person with leukemia is to blame for difficult meeting with a legisla- we “never make these judgehis or her own illness. tor who is a highway supporter ments.” and not a transit supporter, we walk out and breathe a sigh of • I would never blame the par- • I would never expect to atents or the family of a person tend a movie based on the relief; “Made it through that who develops kidney disantics of a person with cereone.” ease. bral palsy. After the meetings I come back to the office to prepare for an • I would never describe a per- It is, after all, the year 2000, and son with Multiple Sclerosis we are far more knowledgeable evening presentation. It’s as emotionally weak. and sophisticated than ever going to be a 13-hour day. In before. I would wager that you my absence, more voice mails and more E-mails have accu- • I have never heard a news- would never make these judgecaster describe a violent crimi- ments, either. But, I live with a mulated. I get the materials nal as slightly asthmatic. mental illness and all of the ready for the presentation and above have been attributed to write out my outline. The presentation will cover the ADA, • I have never heard that a me and others in the same situperson with arthritis has di- ation. plus local advocacy issues minished learning and mensuch as transportation, health tal capacity. By Mary Hopkins care, housing, employment and the workforce shortage. It will also cover global issues like • I have never described a per- Are we knowledgeable and son with heart disease as lazy sophisticated? Q assisted suicide, genetic engineering, prenatal testing, selective abortion, and the value of a life with a disability. receptive? Will they raise issues we can’t respond to? Most legislators know a little about a lot of things. It’s our job to educate them about the details.

Then a woman comes in to see me about a project she’s working on. She is looking for some resource information on disability culture. As we talk I give her several ideas and referrals. This meeting is fun and easy. Before I leave for my presentation, I have an appointment scheduled to help a woman shoot a video as part of an application process for getting a guide dog to work with her as she transitions into using a wheel chair. As I’m shivering, waiting on the icy sidewalk for her and the photographer to cross the street, I think about my job and how lucky I am to have such a variety of interesting tasks and issues to cover. With all of its challenges and frustrations, I wouldn’t want to be doing anything else. Q

Private Pay HOME CARE

Exceptional Home Health Aides

Live-in or Hourly

Licensed, bonded, insured

We serve the entire metro area

Homewatch Living Assistance

763-546-8899

M.I.L.S. HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICE 24 HOUR ON CALL SERVICE __________________________________

Specializing in Full Home Care Service Personal Care Assistants Home Health Aides Homemakers Live-in Caretakers Skilled Nursing

Rehabilitative Services

Home Care Services

Physical / Occupational / Speech Therapies

Available 24 hours per day

PCA Provider Organization Medicare Certified / Medical Assistance Waivered Services / Private

Specializing in the care of Children • Adults • Elderly We provide Personal Care Assistants • Home Health Aides • Homemakers • Live-in Caregivers • Nursing Our Rehabilitative Services include: Physical/ Occupational/Speech/Respiratory Therapies PCA Provider Organization MA/Waiver/Medicare Certified

612-544-0315 or 1-800-231-0315

(952)

933-1126

612-379-4027 2010 East Hennepin Avenue, Bldg. #5 Minneapolis, MN 55413

March 10, 2001

Update: MN Legislature 2001 by Jeff Nygaard As a follow-up to last month’s brief response to the impact of Governor Jesse Ventura’s 2001 budget proposal, Access Press presents the following very brief update on legislative activities, based on reports from disability advocates active at the Capitol. This month we give a few details on Metro Mobility, the Workforce Crisis in home health and community-based care, the Consumer Support Grants Program, and Special Education. Next month we hope to give further updates on these issues, plus information on things not addressed this month, including the waiting list for community services for people with developmental disabilities, the Medical Assistance for Employed Persons With Disabilities program, prescription drug coverage, and the 100% Campaign, among others. Metro Mobility Advocates continue to report problems and delays with Metro Mobility, indicating that, despite notable successes in the lobbying efforts of advocates for the disabled, there is still a long way to go to have the type of paratransit system that our citizens need. One of the most significant successes is the recent proposal by the Governor of full funding for the Metro Mobility system, which we reported

last month. Additional successes include: advocating that the Metropolitan (Met) Council undertake long-range planning for the system for the first time in its history, a projected increase in the Metro Mobility fleet for the first time in eight years; an 11 percent increase in the re-

quested allocation for the biennium from the Met Council; trip denials are now being counted according to the Federal Transit Administration’s interpretation of the ADA; the Met Council has requested an additional $2 to $3 million to

Metropolitan Area Transit, Inc.

SPECIAL TRANSPORTATION PROVIDER “On Time Every Time or we will buy you lunch” call for details

(612) 379-4107 MA, U-CARE, MEDICA, PRIVATE PAY, PRIVATE INSURANCE ** Group Charters

delay before education services begin. Also, these bills will require that school days will have to be as long as the days in the local school district, whereas a child in the care Special Education As reported last month, no new facility typically receives only funding for special education one hour of instruction each is provided for in this legisla- day. tive session. Instead, the Governor would like to put pres- The House has discussed the sure on the federal level to ADHD legislation (Sen. 447, fund 40% of pupil costs. Ad- House 768) that moves for alvocates are concerned that leg- ternative treatment before preislators do not understand the scribing amphetamine prenecessity for increased fund- scription drugs, such as Ritalin, and parents who refuse an ing at the State level. evaluation cannot be charged House Bill #447 and Senate Bill with educational neglect. #768 will establish parity between kids in care facilities and A bill will be introduced to kids in the public education allow paraprofessionals to do system. For children in the clerical paperwork for special care facilities, they will receive education teachers, freeing Consumer Support Grants educational services within the more time for them to focus on As reported last month, the first three days of their stay, as students. Q Governor’s Department of opposed to the current 2-3 week Human Services (DHS) budget proposal limits the statefunded Consumer Support Grant (CSG) Program to 200 persons. It is expected that the number of persons using the CSG Program will exceed 200 before the end of the legislative session. DHS thus far has not revealed whether or not they will cut persons from the program, and, if so, how such termination decisions would be made.

Committee. Due to the large size of this proposed increase and the breadth of services it covers, it is likely that we will see smaller rate increases each year than currently proposed. This amount will, in part, be influenced by the number of phone calls, letters, and perWorkforce Crisis sonal visits made by people Bi-partisan members from both who want to see this legislation passed. This means caregivers, providers and recipients of these services have a chance to directly impact the final outcome! If you care about this bill, it is important for you to contact your State Representative and Senator. Tell them in your own words how this legislation would help you if it passed or hurt you if it didn’t.

Mental Health Rally at the MN State Capitol, Feburary 20th

M.A.T.

**Standing Orders

address directly the issue of trip denials; they have invited advocates to be a part of the budget process for the first time in history; and sufficient money will be allocated in the new provider contracts for an increase in driver wages.

the State Senate and House of Representatives wasted no time in introducing legislation for rate increases for home care workers, despite the minimal amount proposed in the Governor’s budget. Senator Samuelson (DFL) and Representative Goodno (IR) introduced identical bills -- S.F.372 & H.F.559 -- requiring a 6% increase in Year One and 6% increase in Year Two of the biennium. This will help address our current workforce crisis by helping to attract and retain caregivers for people who receive home and community-based services through Medical Assistance. Eighty percent of the proposed increase is to be used to raise wages and related costs for direct care staff. A hearing for S.F. 372 was already held in February in the Senate Health and Family Security Committee. The bill passed unanimously and was referred to the Health Finance

The CSG Program is being increasingly utilized, especially by families of children with significant disabilities, due to the crisis in obtaining staff from agencies to provide services. Unfortunately, only 14 counties have decided to offer this safety net service. Many persons with disabilities across Minnesota would like to use this service but their counties have not agreed to offer it. Representative Fran Bradley (HF 1064) and Senator Leo Foley (SF 963) have introduced bills which would require counties across the state to offer the CSG Program. DHS would be required to contract with other counties or agencies to administer this CSG Program in counties unwilling to participate by September 1, 2001. Clearly,

If you are a consumer or a provider and know health care can and must be done better, we need to hear from you.

expanding the CSG Program statewide runs counter to the Governor’s proposal to limit the program to 200people.

OUTDOORS - Cont. from p. 2 This is just a simple option for you to begin carving your own path through the DNR site. It is a comprehensive site— complete with permits for people with disabilities, full descriptions of “Interesting Accessible Highlights” like Mystery Cave and Gooseberry Falls, up-to-date information on traffic, conditions, and events, and links to groups like Wilderness Inquiry, Capable Partners and UFFDA, (the United Feder-ation of Disabled Archers) who are there to help people with disabilities who want to make their own trails through Minnesota’s acces-sible wilderness.

DNR page, www.dnr.state. mn.us, is a community effort. Leslie commended DNR for voluntarily taking up the project: “This is not a funded mandate. The DNR people are doing this on their own with extra time. It is the product of people who are concerned and care for people who are physically challenged. I hope the DNR site will help people get enthusiasm back and overcome the hurdle of thinking they can’t use the outdoors” because, as Mike Passo, a DNR site contributor from Wilderness Inquiry insists, “the opportunity to recreate in the outdoors is such an integral part of everybody’s life.” Q

The accessible portion of the

Don't Miss An Issue! Subscribe Today! $15 Buys A Full Year (12 Issues) Of Access Press Name _____________________________________ Street _____________________________________ City ______________________________________ State ______________ Zip ____________________ Telephone _________________________________

A REVOLUTIONARY APPROACH FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

651-641-0887

Limited income subscription: $5 I have an idea for editorial coverage. Please call me. I’ve enclosed my check for $15. Start my subscription. Send your advertising rates. MAIL TO: ACCESS PRESS; 1821 University Ave. W., #185N, St. Paul, MN 55104. (651) 644-2133

Accessible Performances The following performances will be Audio Described (AD) for people who are blind,or have low vision, or interpreted in American Sign Language (ASL) for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. “The Finger Dance: A Deaf Girl’s Journey Through Music” ASL 3/9-3/25: Fri. 7pm, Sat.-Sun. 2pm; no show 3/17; Tues-Thurs 9:30, 11:30 & 12:45; AD Tue, 3/20, 11am; SteppingStone Theatre, 651/ 225-9265 “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf” AD Sat., 3/10, 1pm (sensory tour 11pm); Fri., 3/23, 7:30; ASL Fri., 3/16 & Thurs., 3/ 22, 7:30; Guthrie Theater, 612/ 377-2224, TTY 612-377-6626 “Captain Bob Sets Sail” ASL/ AD Sun.,3/11, 2pm, & Thurs., 3/15, 12:30; Stages Theatre Co., 952/979-1111 “A Little Night Music” 3/8-3/ 25; *ASL/AD Sun, 3/11 FargoMoorhead Community Theatre, 701/235-6778 “An Enemy of the People” * ASL Sun, 3/11; Commonweal Theatre, (507) 467-2525, 800657-7025 MN Community Theatre Play Festival AD/ASL Wed.-Sun., 3/14-3/18; Wed.-Sat., 7pm; Thurs.-Sat., Sun. 9am; Showcase Wed. 8; wkshops Thurs.Sat. 8:15, 10am; Paramount Theatre, 320/259-5463 “Hamlet” * AD Fri, 3/16, 8pm; Theatre de la Jeune Lune, 612/ 333-6200; “Gertrude & Alice: A Likeness to Loving” ASL Fri., 3/16, 7:30; AD Sat., 3/17, 1pm; Guthrie Lab, 612/377-2224, 800848-4912, TTY 612/377-6626 “The Bald Soprano” and “The Lesson” ASL Sat, 3/17, 8pm reserv. ASL ; U of M Theatre at

Rarig Ctr, 612/624-2345

March 10, 2001

Hearing And Deaf Together In The Finger Dance by Nathan Halvorson

“The Civil War” AD/ASL Sun, tepping Stone Theatre 3/18, 2pm; State Theatre, 612/ For Youth Development 373-5650 or 612/989-5151 presents the world premiere of The Finger Dance: A Deaf “The Primitive” * ASL Sun, 3/ Girl’s Journey Through Mu18; Playwrights’ Ctr, 612/870- sic by Mark Steven Jensen 6583 and Flint Keller, with music by Gary Rue. Keller also is the “Tales of Djoha: Trickster in director of this bi-lingual play Two Worlds” * ASL Sun, 3/18, (American Sign Language 8pm; concerts 3/15-18; South- and English) which features a ern Theater, 612/340-1725 spirited and talented cast of seventeen hearing and Deaf “Rent” ASL/AD Sat., 3/24, children. The Finger Dance 2pm; Ordway Theatre, 651/224- opened at The Landmark 4222, TTY 651/282-3100 Center in St. Paul on March 9 and runs through March 25. “Eternity” AD Sat, 3/24, 8pm; See the ad on this page for ASL Thurs., 3/29, 10am; Sat., 3/ details. 31, 8pm; Great Am History The 17 young people in the Theatre 651/292-4323 show unite hearing and Deaf “Blithe Spirit” ASL Sun, 3/ from all ages and areas of the 25, 2pm; Eden Prairie Perform- Twin Cities, with some actors ing Arts Ensemble at Hennepin (and their parents) travelling up to an hour each way to Tech. College, 952/949-8453 or take part in the nightly TTY:952/949-8399 rehearsals in St. Paul. When the production began just a “Passage” 3/10-31, Thurs.- month ago, the hearing and Sat. 8pm, Sun. 2pm; * AD/ASL Deaf struggled to find comSat., 3/31; Theater Mu at Intermedia Arts, (612)871-4444 “Angels in America, Pt II: “H.M.S. Pinafore” 3/16 - 4/8; Perestroika” * ASL Sat, 4/7, AD Sat, 3/31, 3pm; Howard 7:30 * AD Sat, 4/14, 7:30; Conn Arts Ctr, 651/255-6947 Pillsbury House Theatre, 612/ 825-0459 “Spinning into Butter” AD/ ASL Sat, 3/31, 8pm; Park Square “Sympathetic Vibrations” * AD Sat, 4/7, 8pm; Rosy Simas Theatre, 651/291-7005 Dance Projects at Red Eye 612/ “Lyle the Crocodile” AD/ASL 870-0309 Wed., 4/4, 10pm; Fri., 4/6, 7:30; Children’s Theatre Co., 612/ “Johnny Moonbeam & the Silver Arrow” * 4/6-4/7; ASL/ 874-0400 AD Sat, 4/7; Fargo-Moorhead “The Barber of Seville” * AD Comm. Theatre, 701/235-6778 Fri, 4/6, 7:30; MN Opera at the “My Fair Lady” * 3/29 - 4/8; Ordway Ctr, 612/333-6669 ASL Sat, 4/7, 8pm; County “Hand Driven III: Original Stearns Theatrical Co. – ParaWorks of Puppetry & Object mount Theatre, 320/259-5463 Theatre” ASL Fri, 4/6, 8pm; “The Tempest” AD Sun, 4/8, Theatre Garage 2pm; Theatre in the Round Play“Wit” ASL/AD Sat, 4/7, 2pm; ers, 612/333-3010 Q Fitzgerald, 612/673-0404

mon ground. One of the hearing actors, Paul McGlave, who plays the role of Cole in the play, said that “it was hard at the beginning, not being able to talk to everybody and not being able to understand them. We could only really hang out with the kids who could hear, but now that we learned a little sign language, it’s making it easier. I really liked meeting a whole bunch of people that I wouldn’t have met before, and just hanging out with them.” Terria Middlebrook, who plays the role of Kelly, shared that he also “liked getting together as a whole group. Sometimes, in school, people make fun -- that Deaf and hearing are different. Here, we worked together and learned that we’re all human beings.” Terria continues to say that his hearing ability has no affect on his dreams. “There are famous deaf actors, and they are an inspiration to anybody.” As ASL Director, Nicole Zapko developed the children’s ability to communicate through sign language, which was essential in breaking down the barriers be-

tween the two groups. She says that now the actors are “like a family.” Such unity, though, came only through the result of Zapko’s and a team of others’ careful guidance, and everybody’s dedicated practice and enthusiasm, because the circumstances of the play introduced many challenges. In The Finger Dance, every line is interpreted: if a Deaf actor has a line, a hearing actor will translate the line for the hearing audience; if a hearing actor has a line, a Deaf actor will translate the line for the Deaf audience. So, every actor faced the challenge of learning their own lines, learning other people lines, learning a completely foreign language, learning how to give visual meaning to sign language, learning where to be on the stage when acting and where to be on the stage when interpreting, and somehow changing from kid clothes into black interpreting shirts and back again while never going offstage. All of this in just one month! And, in just one month, these children did more than find language bridges, build friendships, and combine their

efforts to focus on a sincere, energetic, and thoughtful play. As director and writer Flint Keller said, they learned that “They share certain experiences regardless of the fact that they speak different languages. It goes beyond just being able to say ‘Hi. How was your day at school?’ It goes to the level of ‘You live a life that has elements that are just like my life.’ The cultural barriers between mutual experiences is small. They are all teenage kids…no matter what roots they have.” Hearing-impaired customers may reach the theatre for more information about The Finger Dance by calling the Minnesota Relay Service at 1-800627-3529. Group rates are available for groups of twenty or more. Q SteppingStone Theatre for Youth Development is dedicated to developing the whole child by using educational theatre programs and full staged productions to build self-esteem, confidence, and a sense of community while celebrating diversity in a supportive, noncompetitive environment.

*Selected performances are eligible for Reduced Admission Prices through Access to Theatre. For more info contact VSA arts of Minnesota, mn@vsarts.org, 612/332-3888 or statewide 800/801-3883 (voice/TTY).

ACCESS IS FREEDOM! National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc.

Affordable/Accessible Housing For Mobility Impaired Physically Disabled Adults

MARCH 9 - 25 a visual symphony of music, rhythm, dance and poetry.

EVERY PERFORMANCE IN ASL AND ENGLISH By Mark Jensen & Flint Keller Music by Gary Rue Featuring an ASL poem by Cara A. Barnett Directed by Flint Keller and Nicole Zapko Shelby was an excellent pianist before an injury destroyed her hearing. Now she lives in a world without music, made even more difficult by the silent prejudice that separates the Deaf and Hearing communities in her school. When a music contest is announced, Shelby is inspired to create a new form of expression which ultimately unites the two cultures through the exploration of rhythm and movement.

Community Enrichment Through Housing Diversity

CALL 651-639-9799

March 10, 2001

Directory of Organizations for Persons with Disabilities A A Chance to Grow, Bob DeBour, 612-521-2266 AccessAbility, Inc., 612-331-5958 Access to Employment, Lori Sterner, 612-870-0578V/TTY Accessible Space, Inc., Stephen Vanderschaaf, 651-645-7271 Achilles Track Club-Uptown, Kay Christianson, 612-822-7872 ACT-UP MN, Robert Halfhill, 612-870-8026 Adult Basic Education/Special Needs, Betty Sims, 651-290-4729 Advocating Change Together, Kathy Sanders, 651-641-0297 Alliance for Mentally Ill - Wash. Co., Bob Rafferty, 651-439-3800 Alliance for Mentally Ill of MN, 651-645-2948 ALS Assoc. (Lou Gehrig's Disease), 612-672-0484 Altern. for People with Autism, Inc, John Makepeace, 763-560-5330 Alzheimer’s Association, John Kemp, 952-830-0512 Am. Behcet's Disease Assoc., 1-800-723-4238 American Cancer Soc.- MN Div., 612-952-2772, 1-800-227-2345 Am. Cancer Soc. (Ramsey Co.), 651-644-1224 Am. Council of Blind Services, James Olsen, 612-332-3242 Amer. Diabetes Assoc., Lee Johnson, 612-593-5333 Amer. Heart Assoc., Robin Durand, 952-835-3300 American Lung Assoc., 651-227-8014 Anoka Metro Reg. Treatment Ctr., Judith Krohn, 763-712-4000 ARC - Anoka/Ramsey Counties, Marianne Reich, 763-783-4958 ARC - Carver County, Susan Hines, 952-448-8829 ARC - Hennepin County, Kim Keprios, 952-920-0855 ARC - MN, Bob Brick, 651-523-0823, 1-800-582-5256 ARC - St. Croix Valley, Dick Ulrich, 651-439-0721 (Ans. service) ARC - Suburban, Joan Fawcett, 952-890-3057 ARRM, Bruce Nelson, 651-291-1086 Arthritis Foundation, Deb Dressely, 651-644-4108 Assoc. of Late-Deafened Adults, 1-800-627-3529 B BLIND, Inc., Joyce Scanlan, 612-872-0100 Boy Scouting for People w/ Spec. Needs, 651-224-1891 Brain Injury Assoc. of MN, Mike, 612-378-2742, 800-669-6442 C Camp for Child. & Teens w/ Epilepsy, Deborah McNally, 651-6468675, 1-800-779-0777 Camp Winnebago, Katy Geely, 507- 724-2351 Candle in the Window, Kathy Szinnyey, 1-502-895-0866 Capable Partners, 612-542-8156 Capella Management Group, Gerald Glomb, 651-641-0041 Catholic Charities, Program for People with Disabilities, John Schatzlein, 651-222-3001 Center for Learning & Adaptive Student Serv. (CLASS), Sue Carlson, 612-330-1053, 612-330-1748 Chemical Injury Resource Assn. 651-643-4220 Children’s United Hospital, 651-220-8000 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Association of Minnesota, 612-285-9067 Client Assist. Project (CAP) MN )Legal Aid), 612-332-1441 Closing the Gap, MaryAnn Harty, 1-507-248-3294 Communication Center for the Blind, Dave Andrews, 651-642-0513 Community Bridge Consortium, Pat Svendsen, 651-748-7437V/TTY Comprehensive Seizure Ctr, Neurology,Regions Hosp. 651-221-3700 Courage Center, Linda Wolford, 763-520-0520 612-520-0245 TTY Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Nancy Viking, 651-631-3290 D Dakota Co. Social Services, 612-891-7400 Deaf Blind Services MN, Mary Hartnett, 612-871-4788 V/TTY Disability Institute, Wendy Brower, 612-935-9343 Div. for Persons w/ Developmental Disabilities, 651-296-2160 Down Syndrome Assn. Of MN, 651-603-0720 Duluth Consumer & Family Regional Resource Center, 218-728-3531 E East Suburban Resources, Sue Schmidt, 651-351-0190 or MRS 800627-3529 ELCA Committee on Disabilities, Linda Larson, 612-788-8064 Emotions Anonymous, 651-647-9712 Epilepsy Found., 651-646-8675, 800-779-0777 F Fraser Community Services, Diane Cross, 612-861-1688 Functional Industries, Laurie Cameron, 612-682-4336 G Gay and Lesbian Helpline, 612-822-8661 V/TTY, 1-800-800-0907 Gillette Children’s Hospital, Lynn Carpentier, 651-229-3845 Goodwill Indus./Easter Seal, Michele Heinbigner, 651-646-2591 V, 952-891-7400 H Hearing and Service Dogs of MN, Alan Peters, 612-729-5986 V, 612729-5914 TTY Hearing Impaired Prog., Joyce Dougaard, 612-627-2623 V/TTY Help Yourself, Sara Meyer, 651-646-3662 Helping Paws Of Minnesota, 612-988-9359 Hemophilia Foundation of MN, 612-323-7406 Henn. Co. Lib. Homebound Serv., Becky Mobarry, 612-847-8854 Henn. Co. Mental Health Ctr., Joel Pribnow, 612-348-4947 Health Psychology Clinic, U of M, 612-624-9646 Homeward Bound, Inc., 612-566-7860

I Independence Crossroads, Rob Olson, 612-854-8004 Indian Family Service, Maggie Spears, 612-348-5788 Institute on Community Integration,, Vicki Gaylord, 612-624-4512 Interact Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, 612-339-5145 V, 612-339-6465 TTY Interstate Rehabilitation Center, Mary Augustine, 612-338-7108

O Ombudsman for Mental Health & Mental Retardation, 651-296-3848 1-800-657-3506 Opportunity Partners, 952-938-5511, 612-930-4293 TTY OUT Front MN, 612-822-0127 V/TTY 1-800-800-0350 Owobopte, Inc., 651-686-0405

P PACER Center, Inc., Pat Bill, 612-827-2966 V/TTY Parent Support Network (EBD/ADD/ADHD/LD), 612-783-4949 People, Inc. Epilepsy Services, Anne Barnwell, 612-338-9035 L The Phoenix Residence, Darlene M. Scott, 651-227-7655 League of Women Voters, 651-224-5445 Pilot City Mental Health Center, Sy Gross, 612-348-4622 Learning Disabilities Program (Family Services of St. Paul), Lory POHI District Consultants-Mpls. Public Schools, Barb Reynolds or Perryman, 651-767-8321 Judy Azar - District Consultants, or Jim Thomas - Anwatin Coord., Learning Exchange, Lynn Dennis, 612-885-8531, TTY 612-885-8590 612-668-2450 Legal Advocacy for Persons with Dev. Disabilities, 612-332-1441 Project Compass, Adult Disability Program - Winona Comm. Educ., Legal Aid Society of Minneapolis, Laurie Moser, 612-332-1441 Helen Newell, 507-454-9450 Voice/TTY Leukemia Society of America, MN Chapter, 612-545-3309 Project Enhance, Deb Clark, 612-627-2925 V 612-627-3131 TTY Lifetrack Resouces, 651-227-8471, TTY 651-227-8471 Project SOAR, Janice Wade, 612-470-2855 V Lifeworks Services, Susan Sczcukowski, 651-365-3732 Lupus Foundation of America, MN Chapter, 612-375-1131 R Lyme Disease Network of Minnesota, Sherri, 612-441-2857 Radio Talking Book, 651-642-0500 Lyme Disease Coalition, Linn Olivier, 651-644-7239 Regional Transit Board, 651-292-0593 Rehab Services Branch, 651-296-5616 or 800-328-9095, 651-296M 3900 TTY MELD (MN Early Learning Design), 612-332-7563 V/TTY Rehabilitation Centers, MRCI - Burnsville, 952-894-4680 Mental Health Association, 612-331-6840, MRCI - Carver/Scott 952-445-6811 1-800-862-1799; www.MentalHealthMN.org MRCI - Chaska, 952-448-2234 Mental Health Consumer/Survivor Network, 651-637-2800, 1-800MRCI - Fairmont, 507-238-4388 383-2007; csnmt@uslink.net MRCI - Industrial Operations, 507-386-5600, Steve Ditschler Mental Health Law Project, Pat Siebert, 612-332-1441 MRCI - Lakeville, 952-898-5025 Methodist Hosp. Ctr. for Senior Services, 612-993-5041 MRCI - New Ulm, 507-233-2700 Methodist Hosp. Stroke Supp. Grp., 612-993-6789 Reuben Lindh Learning Center, 612-721-5111 Methodist Hosp. Parkinson Center, 612-993-5495 Rise, Inc., 763-786-8334 Metro Ctr. for Independent Living, 651-646-8342 V, 651-603-2001 TTY S Metro Mobility, 651-602-1111, 651-221-0014 TTY Self Help for Hard of Hearing (SHHH), Leslie Cotter, 651-772-4931 Metro North Adult Basic Education, 612-755-6626 V/TTY Metro Regional Service Ctr. for Deaf & Hard of Hearing People, Marie Sight & Hearing Association, 651-645-2546 Koehler, 651-297-1313 TTY, 651-297-1316 V SILC-Statewide Independent Living Council, 651- 296-5085 V, 651Metro Work Center, Inc., 612-729-738 297-2705 TTY Midway Training Services, Barbara Kale, 651-641-0709 Sister Kenny Institute, Bill Bauer, 612-863-4622 Midwest Special Services, Gene O’Neil, 651-778-1000 Ski for Light, 612-827-3232 Mpls. Advisory Commitee for People with Disabilities, Margot SE MN Ctr for Independent Living (SEMCIL), 507-285-1815, 507Imdieke Cross 651-296-6785 285-0616 TTY Mpls. Community and Technical College, Office for Students w/ So. MN Independent Living Enterprises & Serv. (SMILES), Alan Disabilities, Melissa Newman, 612-341-7000 V/TTY Augustin, 507-345-7139 Mpls Rehabilitation Center, Kim Fellen, 612-752-8102, So. Suburban Adaptive Rec., Jennifer Watson, 612-861-9360 V/TTY MN AIDS Project, Lorraine Teel, 612-870-7773, 612-870-0700 Spina Bifida Association of MN, Lisa Schaffee, 651-222-6395 MN Assoc. for Child. Mental Health, 651-644-7333, 1-800-528-4511 St. Paul Advis. Comm.for People w/Disabilities, Roger Schwagmeyer, MN Assoc. of Deaf Citizens, Inc., Douglas Bahl, 612-757-5998 TTY 651-266-8891 MN Bio Brain Assoc., Theresa Carufel, 612-922-6916, www.mnbba.org St. Paul Rehabilitation Ctr (See Lifetrack Resources) MN Children with Special Health Needs, 651-215-8956, 1-800-728- STAR Program-Governor’s Council on Technology, 651-296-2771, 5420 V/TTY 651-296-9478 TTY MN Commission Serving Deaf & Hard of Hearing People, 651-2977305 TTY T MN Comprehensive Health Assoc., Floyd Robertson, 612-881-6741 Traumatic Brain Injury-TBI Metro Services, 612-869-3995 MN Consortium for Citizens With Disabilities, Tom Brick, 651-296- TSE, Inc., Phil Saari, 651-489-2595 3478 Twin Cities Autism Society, 651-647-1083 MN Dept. of Human Services, Traumatic Brain Injury Program, 651-582-1938 U MN Depressive & Manic Depressive Assoc., 612-379-7933 United Blind of MN, Inc., 612-391-3699 MN Developmental Achievement Center Assoc, 651-647-9200 United Cerebral Palsy of MN, JoAnn Erbes, 651-646-7588, 1-800MN Disability Law Ctr., 612-332-1441 328-4827, ext.1437 MN Gov. Council On Dev. Disabilities, Katy Peterson, 651-296-4018 UofM Disability Services, 612-626-1333 V/TTY V, 651-296-9962 TTY UofM Disabled Stud Cultural Ctr, 612-624-2602, 612-626-7003 TTY MN Higher Education Services Office, Sarah Beth Mueller, 651-6420675 V MN Relay Service, 1-800-627-3529 VSA MN, 612-332-3888 V/TTY, MN@vsarts.org MN State Council on Disability, 651-296-6785 Vinland Center, Beth Milligan, 763-479-3555 V/TTY MN State Services for the Blind, 651-642-0500, 800-652-9000 Vision Loss Resources West, 612-871-2222 Muscular Dystrophy Assoc., Lisa Pachan, 612- 832-5517 (Mpls. Vision Loss Resources East, 651-224-7662 district), 612-832-5716 (St. Paul district) Volunteer Braille Services & Large Print, 612-521-0372 MultiplePersonality Disorder Consumer Advocacy Network Hotline 612-752-8010 W West Hennepin Community Services, Mary Perkins, 952-988-4177 N Wilderness Inquiry, Corey Schlosser-Hall, 612-379-3858, 800-728National Ataxia Foundation, Donna Gruetzmacher, 612-553-0020 0719 V/TTY, www.wildernessinquiry.org Nat’l Center for Youth w/ Disabilities, Elizabeth Latts, 612-626-2820 Wings, Mark Davis, 612-752-8600 Nat’l Handicap Housing Inst., Inc., Mike Bjerkesett, 651-639-9799 Nat'l. Multiple Sclerosis Society, MN Chapter, 612-335-7900, 1800-582-5296 V/TTY National Spinal Cord Injuries Assn, Roger Hoffman, 651-464-7559 North Suburban Consumer Advocates for the Handicapped (NSCAH), Jesse Ellingworth, 612-783-4708, 612-783-4724 TTY Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council, 763-493-2802 V/TTY K Kaposia, Inc., Cindy Amadick, 651-224-6974

If your organization would like to be included in the Directory of Organizations, contact ACCESS PRESS at Suite 185N, 1821 University Ave.W. St. Paul, MN 55104 • 651-644-2133• access@mninter.net

March 10, 2001

Speech-Disabled Gain Independence With Speech-to-Speech Service U

ntil recently, many Minnesotans with speech difficulties would never consider using a telephone without the assistance of someone willing to make a call on their behalf. But thanks to a new custom calling service from the Minnesota Relay Service called Speech-to-Speech (STS), most people with speech difficulties, whether short or long-term, can now place and receive calls independently and at no charge. STS is similar in concept and operation to the Minnesota Relay Service, which facilitates phone calls between hearing people and people with hearing loss. Telecommunications Access for Communications Impaired Persons (TACIP) program Administrator Jim Alan said, “STS relay is simply a three-way conference call between a person with speech difficulties, a specially trained operator called a communication assistant (CA), and a third party. A communication assistant acts as an interpreter by helping the third party understand the person with speech difficulties. In addition to having high levels of hearing accuracy, CAs must also have a great deal of patience, a positive attitude and some unique coaching skills.” STS users are typically people with moderate to severe speech difficulties resulting from cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, Huntington’s chorea, amyotropic lateral sclerosis, head injury, other degenerative diseases, laryngectomies, or the effects of stroke. With help from a CA, STS users can make any kind of call they wish, at any time, by using a standard or hands-free telephone. Some STS users may benefit by using specialized telephone equipment that is available at no charge to income-eligible

Minnesotans from TACIP’s Equipment Distribution Program (EDP). EDP distributes Speakeasy communication devices, voice-amplifying phones, TTYs, and a wide variety of other custom communication devices. STS users with both speech and motor control difficulties may require hands-free speakerphones and customized accessories such as sip/puff, jelly bean, pillow, or voice-activated switches. People with mobility difficulties often make use of amplified cordless phones.

citizens prepare for living a complete and highly functioning life no matter what physical differences they may have. Speech-to-Speech relay is simply one more tool to help individuals live a fuller, more independent and useful life. If you have difficulty speaking and are ready to start making calls with help from a STS communication assistant, make sure you have ready the area code and number you wish to call, then dial: 1-877-627-3848. When your call to STS is answered, tell the CA the number you wish to call. When the person you are calling answers, the CA will then revoice what you say. The CA will also revoice the conversation of the person you are talking to if they also have difficulty speaking.

Following its September 1999 startup, an aggressive outreach effort has made Minnesota’s call volume the fastest-growing and third-highest in the nation with up to 900 calls being placed per month. “Almost everyone I’ve worked with is very excited about Speech-to-Speech,” STS Outreach Coordinator Sara Meyer said. “First-time users may require some initial training Speech-to-Speech relay is made available through the TACIP program at the Minnesota Department of Commerce and is which we can do at someone’s home or over the phone.” funded by a portion of the $.12 per month TACIP surcharge “People tell me it’s about time we have a program like this. With on each telephone access line in the state. The only cost to the help from the communication assistants, those of us not accus- caller is for toll calls billed through the caller’s long distance tomed to speech difficulties can now understand that the company. person calling us simply has some difficulty speaking,” Meyer said. Before STS, people with speech difficulties were afraid For a free brochure or videotape explaining how to use STS, that others would conclude by their speech patterns that they or to arrange a home visit or group presentation, contact the were drunk, unintelligent, or both. Now everyday calls, either Minnesota Relay Service consumer relations office by calling: personal or business, can be made independently without 1-800-657-3775 voice/tty. STS presentations are available at waiting for help from a personal care attendant, friend or family no cost to interested groups and organizations. Q member.” Email: jim.alan@state.mn.us The Department of Commerce estimates that there are thousands of people in Minnesota who will be able to use the This is a paid advertisement sponsored by the Minnesota service. Minnesota is known across the nation for helping its Department of Commerce. www.commerce.state.mn.us

March 10, 2001

COURT - Cont. from p. 1 included in the Congressional Findings regarding the passage of the ADA. The Court said that even some 300 documented incidents did not prove widespread discrimination. The most disturbing part of this decision was a throw-away sentence stating at least the opinion of the author of the majority opinion, Justice Rehnquist. Such statements are generally called “dicta.” They do not reflect on the main issues under consideration in the case, but give some preview of what some Justices are thinking about a particular issue. In this case, Justice Rehnquist stated that asking a state employer to hire a disabled person instead of an equally qualified nondisabled person, when it might cost more to hire the disabled person and provide reasonable accommodation, might be beyond what can be required of state employers. The four Justices who dissented do not accept that argument, and even some of the Justices who concurred with the opinion declined to accept that particular philosophy. But this is a signal that we will face this issue in future cases. The Garrett decision dealt only with state employment because only states have this immunity from suit provided to them by the Eleventh Amendment of the United States Constitution. This holding does not endan-

ger the rights of persons with disabilities who have employment discrimination claims against private employers, or employees with claims against cities and counties. This holding also leaves individuals with disabilities free to sue in state court under the Minnesota Human Rights Act and to file charges with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. Individuals may also file charges with EEOC for investigation. If probable cause is found, individuals with disabilities, as stated above, will probably only be able to recover injunctive relief or prospective relief. The Garrett decision does not affect the ability of persons with disabilities to sue cities and counties who fail to provide access to their services and programs, nor the ability to sue private businesses which do not make themselves accessible. Future Decisions By The Supreme Court This Supreme Court term, we will get the results of at least one other case which has been argued before the Supreme Court regarding the public accommodations provisions of the ADA. This is the Casey Martin case, which poses the issue, can the Professional Golf Association deny Mr. Martin the use of a golf cart because it “alters” in some way, the playing of the game of golf? We will hope that the answer

to that question is either a resounding no, or that at worst the decision is very narrow in its interpretation if the answer is yes. It seems likely that the Supreme Court will not totally dismantle protection for persons with disabilities regarding access to services and programs considered public services under the ADA, even when such services and programs are provided by states, although we will have to await the Supreme Court’s further guidance on this matter.

Act? The Minnesota Human Rights Act contains much of the same language as the ADA. An additional advantage with state claims is that a plaintiff has a choice whether to file with the Department of Human Rights or to go directly to court and file a private lawsuit. Under the employment provisions of the ADA, a plaintiff must file with EEOC first and either wait for their decision or a letter from EEOC dismissing the case and giving permission to file a private lawsuit in Federal Court. There are some differences in damages which can be awarded in state court. The major disadvantage of a state claim under the Human Rights Act is that plaintiffs do not have access to a jury trial. In a few instances, the EEOC has found juries to be quite helpful in awarding damages where employers either acted particularly egregiously, or where reasonable accommodation was not considered and could have easily been provided. Perhaps at some point we will need to try to amend the Minnesota Human Rights Act to incorporate other features of the ADA, particularly trial by jury.

In Minnesota we also are bound by the decisions of the federal Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, which seem to indicate that states may generally be immune from suit under the ADA because of this Eleventh Amendment immunity. This would mean that people with disabilities may not sue states for lack of access to public services and programs. The Supreme Court just last month refused to review a case involving whether or not states are immune from suit by individuals with disabilities seeking just such access to services and programs. However, there will certainly be cases in the future which will challenge the rights of ADA Retains Support persons with disabilities unof Public der the ADA. We must admit that this decision, while it is no surprise, is What can state employees a blow to the disability commugain by filing a complaint nity. The decision limiting fedunder the state Human Rights eral authority is particularly

ironic in view of the Supreme Court’s decision to interfere in the voting procedures of Florida, reverse the state’s decision, and in essence decide the presidential election. However, we must not lose sight of the gains we have made in the past decade because of the passage of the ADA. Small businesses and entertainment facilities are more likely to be physically accessible to persons in wheelchairs than they were in 1990. Employers have found that hiring persons with disabilities was not costly most of the time even when accommodations must be provided. People who are deaf are more routinely provided with interpreter services when they try to access services and programs of states, counties and cities than they were ten years ago. This decision teaches the lesson that we cannot let up on our efforts to educate the public and monitor cases and legislation to protect the rights we have gained through the ADA. We can be proud in Minnesota that our own Attorney General, Mike Hatch, led the way in submitting an amicus brief to the Supreme Court asserting that states were not immune from suit under the ADA. Thirteen other states signed on to his brief. Hawaii led the pack for states supporting Alabama’s position, and only seven states signed that brief. Former President Bush and Former Senator Bob Dole both

submitted briefs on behalf of individuals with disabilities retaining the protections set forth under the ADA, including the ability to sue states. Our current President, George W. Bush, recently held a press conference in which he talked about the need to continue to push for access for individuals with disabilities. Therefore, despite this disappointing decision, we need to remember that we had lots of support from the public to pass the ADA, and we still retain that support. Surely, that means that the progress we have made since the passage of the ADA will not be totally lost. Q

Kathleen R. Hagen is an attorney at Mid-Minnesota Legal Assistance in Minneapolis [Editor’s note: As this edition of Access Press goes to the printer, legislation has already been introduced in California whereby that state would “consent to be sued in state or federal court by any person seeking to enforce rights or obtain remedies afforded by the following federal laws and their implementing regulations...” The listed laws include the ADA, despite the claim to states’ immunity granted by the Supreme Court in the Garrett decision. Other states are considering similar legislation, and Access Press will report news in this area as it becomes available.]

Professional Directory M.A.T. METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSIT, INC. SPECIAL TRANSPORTATION PROVIDER

For ALL your buying and selling needs. Providing you with the services you’ve come to expect & deserve!

Mn D.O.T. Certified Transportation Specialist

Lynn Kadlubowski, Broker/Realtor Independent Diversified

612-379-4107 MA, U-CARE Minnesota, Private Insurance - Pay

A GREA T RESOURCE! GREAT

•

612-404-9981

612/861-2345office 612/861-7295 fax lynsazsold@aol.com

Nygaard Notes

DirectAbility is a comprehensive, ever-expanding, award-winning, Internet directory devoted to disability-related products, services, resources and information throughout the state. Online at www.directability.com.

Ellen Houghton

REAL ESTATE SERVICES, INC.

Independent Weekly News and Analysis

DirectAbility.com

Computerized Desktop publishing: Brochures Catalogs Direct Mailings Flyers Newsletters Newspapers Project Mgmt Resumes Scanning ... & more!

www.mainlevelliving.com

www.freespeech.org/nygaard_notes P.O. Box 14354 Minneapolis, MN 55414

Be Seen by Thousands! Put Your Card Here! Call 651/644-2133

nygaardnotes@mm.com

INDEPENDENCE CROSSROADS, INC. Serving people with disabilities since 1976. In-Home Counseling

Community Support Groups

Information & Referral

Advocacy

Public Education

NO FEE REQUIRED www.independencecrossroads.org 8932 Old Cedar Ave. So., Bloomington, MN 55425 Office (952) 854-8004 Fax (952) 854-7842

March 10, 2001

Access To Employment

SUPPLEMENTAL INSTRUCTION COORDINATOR/ CAREER SPECIALIST

EMPLOYMENT ADS ARE $14 A COL. INCH; MARCH 30 IS THE DEADLINE FOR THE APRIL 10 ISSUE. Mail to: ACCESS PRESS 1821 University Ave. • #185N • St. Paul, MN 55104 Fax 651-644-2136 • E-mail: access@mninter.net Provide leadership for estabAccountant INTRANET HUMAN RESOURCES lished Supplemental Instruc- CUSTOMER SERVICE ANALYST ASSISTANT ASSISTANT tion program (60% time) and GENERAL (Benefits Emphasis) provide career counseling ACCOUNTANT Faegre & Benson LLP, Minne(40% time). Master’s degree in AGS is a publisher of educaFaegre & Benson LLP, Minne- sota’s second largest law firm, counseling, student affairs or tional & assessment tests lo- Faegre & Benson LLP, Minne- sota’s second largest law firm, has a new opening for an related field and two years ex- cated in Circle Pines, just 20 sota’s second largest law firm, is seeking candidates for a Intranet Analyst opening with perience with academic sup- minutes north of downtown is seeking applicants for a Gen- Human Resources Assistant. our Library Services group. port programs required. Abil- Mpls/St. Paul. We’re looking eral Accountant. This person You would be responsible for This fast-paced position will ity to select, train, and super- for a Customer Service Assis- reports to an Accounting Man- providing a wide variety of develop content and applicavise undergraduate student tant to share in out success. ager and works with various services and assistance to the tions for our Firm Intranet; idenleaders required. Ability to We are committed to provid- general ledger accounting HR Department and the Firm, tify and evaluate work progather and statistically ana- ing our customers with profes- functions including: analyses primarily focused in the Ben- cesses that could be improved lyze data for program evalua- sional, knowledgeable accur- of accounts; reviewing and efits administration area, in- through the development of tion are required. Must pos- ate, and timely service that maintaining capitalized and cluding: maintaining and pro- web-based applications; desess skills to provide job search consistently outpaces the leased fixed asset records; pre- cessing employee records, files sign and develop resulting assistance to college students. standard in the educational paring ad hoc reports; com- and claims related to medical, applications, along with assist Ability to communicate with publishing industry. Our Cus- pleting special accounting dental, disability, life insurance, in training, maintain awareness students, faculty, administra- tomer Service Assistant per- projects and more. Candidates health and dependant care ex- or emerging technologies, and tors, and employers is also re- forms a variety of clerical, tasks should have a 2-yr accounting pense accounts; retirement perform a wide variety of other quired. Position is regular in support of our Customer degree (4-yr accounting de- plans; answer routine ques- duties. 12-month full-time appoint- Service Department. gree preferred); at least 1 yr tions related to benefits; upment. Applicants must include general ledger experience; ex- dating benefit information in Our ideal candidate will have a letter of application, resume, We offer you: cellent communication and HRIS system; and more. bachelor’s degree, along with three current letters of referanalytical skills; strong spreadsignificant web development Excellent benefit program: sheet experience; and a ence, transcripts, and MSUM The successful candidate will experience and a thorough health, dental life, & retire- team-oriented work style. We Standard Application Form have a minimum of 2 years ex- understanding of the web ment benefits (available on website: http:// offer a competitive salary, out- perience in Human Resources. authoring process. In addition, www.mnstate.edu/vanancy/ standing benefits package, and A 4-year degree in Human Re- you should have strong project Tuition reimbursement or call 218.236-2227). Screenexceptional opportunity for sources or a related area is management skills and exceping begins April 2 continuing professional growth. For addi- preferred. The position re- tional written and verbal skills. Company-owned fitness tional information about our until position is filled. Apply quires the following skills: Prefer experience with corpocenter to: Dr. Deborah Seaburg, Minlaw firm, visit our web site at strong written and verbal com- rate or law firm intranets and nesota State University www.faegre.com. Please send munication; a service-oriented, experience with Cold Fusion, Free Parking Moorhead, Box 417, Mooryour resume and salary his- problem-solving work style; Access, HTML, DHTML, head, MN 56563. Phone (218) tory to Human Resources: the ability to work success- Javascript, scripting lanHours: 8:00-4:30, M-F 236-2227. fully in a fast-paced, profes- guages and database driven AA/EOEE FAEGRE & BENSON LLP sional service environment; applications. We offer a proSalary; $9.00 to start, with 2200 Wells Fargo Center and experience with word professional work environment, SCIENCE EDITOR regular increases based on 90 South Seventh Street cessing, spread sheet and HRIS competitive wages and excelperformance Minneapolis, MN 55402 database applications. This is lent benefits. For additional TPT/Twin Cities Public TeleFax: (612) 336-3846 an excellent opportunity for a information about our law vision seeks a science editor This is an entry-level position E-Mail: HR@Faegre.com candidate dedicated to a ca- firm, visit our web site at for a new children’s science with great opportunity for adWebsite: www.faegre.com reer in Human Resources. We www.faegre.com. Please send series. This highly skilled and vancement for an individual offer competitive wages and resume and salary history to experienced professional will with good verbal and written Equal Opportunity Employer an excellent benefits package; Human Resources: oversee research activities and communication skills including a discounted bus be responsible for the science SENIOR program—Metropass. For ad- FAEGRE & BENSON LLP and pedagogical content of the We are looking for candidates TRANSPORTATION 2200 Wells Fargo Center ditional career opportunities series. S/he will work with the with the fo lowing: ENGINEER 90 South Seventh Street with Faegre & Benson, visit series producer to incorporate Minneapolis, MN 55402 our web site at www.faegre the research content into the Enthusiasm SRF Consulting Group, Inc. .com. Please submit resume and Fax: (612) 336-3846 television series. The successseeks a Transportation Engi- salary history to: Human ReE-mail: HR@Faegre.com ful candidate must be capable Strong interpersonal commu- neer to prepare area transporWebsite: www.faegre.com sources: of working with a minimum of nication skills and the ability tation plans, corridor studies supervision, and of ensuring to relate to a wide spectrm of and traffic studies. QualificaEqual Opportunity Employer FAEGRE & BENSON LLP that all programs conform to people tions include a BS in transpor2200 Wells Fargo Center EXECUTIVE SECRETARY science curriculum standards tation/civil engineering 4-10 90 South Seventh Street Southern MN Regional Legal and the guidelines dictated by Detail-oriented years experience in traffic and Minneapolis, MN 55402 Services—Administrative inquiry-based learning theory. transportation work including APPLICATION Fax: (612) 336-3846 Unit; WP; 70 wpm; friendly Ability to interpret and fol- accident analysis, growth proThis is an exciting and rewardPROCEDURES E-Mail: HR@Faegre.com and diverse working environlow verbal and written in- jections, travel-time, data colFor additional information on ing full-time position with exment. Salary DOE. Resumes INFORMATION structions lection and systems planning. qualifications and application cellent benefits for an eager to: Maria Luisa Giese; TECHNOLOGY Knowledge in land use and procedures, contact the RCTC individual with a BA or equivaSMRLS; 46 E. 4th St., Ste. LITIGATION ASSOCIATE lent and 4-6 years of experiProficiency with computers transportation issues desirHuman Resources Office. 700; St. Paul, MN 55101. a plus able. Must have strong anaPhone: 507-285-7125; TTY: ence in science education. Send EO/AAE Leonard, Street and Deinard cover letter, resume, and sallytical and communication 507-285-7119; Fax: seeks an associate for its Intelary expectations to: Box 383- Send resume to AGS, JH, 4201 skills and proficiency in spreadMinnesota Department of 507-285-7514 lectual Property and Informa- Agriculture Laboratory 1; TPT/Twin Cities Public Woodland Rd, Circle Pines, sheets and databases. E-mail: tion Technology law practice. Services Division rctc.humanresources@roch.edu Television; 172 E. 4th St.; St. MN 55014, fax to 763-355-2078, Paul, MN 55101. Interviews or email to jobs@agsnet.com. In addition to varied and excit- Applicants should have four Visit our website at: will begin on Feb. 26 and will ing work in a positive atmo- or more years of experience in Work with a Food Safety Team http://www.roch.edu AGS is an sphere, SRF offers competi- information technology litiga- doing MICROBIOLOGICAL “An Equal Opportunity continue until the position has been filled. E E O equal opportunity employer. tive salary and benefits, pay tion, strong academic creden- PATHOGEN ANALYSIS for Employer/Educator” for all hours worked, 401 (k)/ tials and a passion for technol- the Minnesota Department of FULL-TIMECOORDINATOR profit sharing, vacation and ogy law. Send resume to Agriculture in St. Paul, MN. Dianne Dimond, Leonard, Must have 21 quarter or 14 The MN State Bar Assn, a non-profit professional assn, is looking for a person to work FT sick leave. Send your resume Street and Deinard, 150 South semester college credits in performing database and office-related responsibilities. The primary responsibilities of the to SRF Consulting Group, Inc., Fifth Street, Suite 2300, MinMicrobiology and 4 years miOne Carlson Pkwy. N., #150, position include working with staff to resolve exporting issues (ACCESS 97); training a team to neapolis, MN 55402. crobiological laboratory expePlymouth, MN 55447; fax to understand membership database and exporting (ACCESS 97); maintaining a database; particirience. For a job description 612-475-2429, or e-mail to pating on a team to identify software training issues; ordering office supplies; assisting the Dir. www.leonard.com. and application call 651. 296 hr@srfconsulting.com; EOE. of Administration generally. The successful candidate should have at least 2 yrs of administraEqual Opportunity Employer. -2323. Fax resume, transcript, tive exp; working knowledge of MS Word and Access 97; exp managing multiple priorities and and completed application to maintaining a database, have excellent customer service skills; and enjoy a fast-paced team651-297-7868. We are an oriented setting. Send resume and salary requirements to: Equal Opportunity Employer. Dir. of Adm., 600 Nicollet Mall, Mall, #380, Minneapolis, MN 55402. EOE Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC), Minnesota’s oldest community college, combines the best in liberal arts, technical and lifelong learning offering 70 technical and transfer programs. RCTC is currently accepting applications for the following positions. DIRECTOR OF NURSING Provide leadership and direction to faculty and staff in the Associate Degree, Practical and Nursing Assistant Programs. INTERNATIONAL/ SPECIAL NEEDS ADVISOR Develop and administer comprehensive program to ensure the needs of International and Special Needs students are met. FULL-TIME FACULTY POSITIONS English. (Two Permanent FT openings). Teach all levels of college English from developmental writing to honors courses, including literature courses. (Two Temporary FT openings). Teach college composition and developmental writing. ESL. (Temporary FT). Teach all levels of ESL courses, including grammar, reading, listening and speaking, and writing skills. Health and/or Physical Education. (Permanent FT). Broad background in Health and/or Physical Education to teach a variety of health and PE courses. Nursing. (Two Temporary FT positions). Teach medicalsurgical nursing. Speech and/or Theatre. (Permanent FT). Direct theatre productions and teach all levels of speech courses, including acting. Minimum Qualifications: Traditional minimum qualification is master’s degree in the assigned field(s) or with 23 graduate quarter/16 semester credits in the assigned field(s) which would apply to the major.

· · · · · ·

· ·

· · ·

March 10, 2001

Reach 11,000 Active, Interested Readers with ACCESS PRESS Classifieds. $8 up to 20 words, 35¢/word thereafter. Mail with check to: ACCESS PRESS, 1821 University Ave W, #185N, St. Paul, MN 55104; (651) 644-2133

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE Like New 16” Quickie P-110 with charger gel-cell batteries $1000. Pat (952) 934-6340, Eden Prairie. Invacare Power Ranger Wheelchair. Like new—best offer over $500. (763) 529-8678. Home with Elevator, Completely Handicap Accessible. Built in 1992 with 4 BR’s, 3 baths, elevator to all 3 levels, walk out basement to private backyard located on a quiet, wooded cul-desac in Lino Lakes bordering White Bear Lake. Close to freeway access. $246,000. Mike Burth (612)812-0965 or www.mike burth.com. Real Estate Masters. Scooters For Sale. Red Rascal 3Wheel, 3 years old, like new. Ridden only 15-20 hrs, only indoors. $1,500.00 or best offer. Call (952) 882-0406. 1996 Chevy Van, Hi-Top, Tiara Conversion, Power doors, seats, windows, Crow River lift, swivel passenger seat, A/C, TV, VCR, AM/FM, TAPE/CD, 30,000M, Mint condition, $17,000. C.Foss, 429-5124.

Sponsorship levels: Basic (low income) . $5.00

Must Sell: Invacare Ranger II powerchair. New, still warranted, never used. Cost $10, 484.20. Will sacrifice for $5-6,000.00 firm. Contact Ken or make sure to leave message! (952) 898-3587, Burnsville.

$$$ for client or staff referrals

Omni Frame, Inc., custom picture framing. Make your pictures stand out with quality mats and frames. Randall J. Almquist (612) 788-4330.

Oron Griffitt Carpentry: Decks, Remodeling, Home Repair, Base1988 Ford Econoline Conver- ment Finishing. Additions, Ramps, sion van, automatic. Has power and Accessibility. Free Estimates. lift for wheelchiar, sent converts Call Rob (612) 636-2846. to bed. Runs good. 125,500 miles. $2,500. (651) 257-9583 Super low cost, attractive web page designed and published for you. Send a self-addressed stampMISCELLANEOUS Jan Snook’s, Helpful Hints ed envelope and $5 to 227 Oak Computer Guidebook is simple Grove St. 207, Mpls, MN 55403. and understandable. Hard covered book covers Word, Excel, and tips Volunteers wanted. People who for the Internet. Jsnook1234@aol. have received occupational com (612) 378-2610 $19.00 Ship- therapy services and are willing to ping. Also, other computer work describe their experiences to help requests performed. Free esti- a student with his thesis project. mates. A one-page survey will be mailed to you, with a SASE for return. If “Words of Love” is a CD by you are interested in contributing Snoopi Botten, a musician with to this research study, please call cerebral palsy who writes and Steve Anderson at (952) 593-0381. performs inspirational songs using a synthetic speech system. To St. Auben’s Carpet Cleaning— order, call (612) 872-7233 or visit 2 average sized rooms for $55. Snoopi’s website at http:// Also available: furnace, ductwork hometown.aol.com/dectalk/ and fireplace cleaning services. Call myhomepage/index.html. (612) 823-3805 or (612) 721-5105.

....Sick of not getting your calls returned? ....Tired of constant PCA turnover? .....Do you just feel like a number? SERVICES WE OFFER:

• Personal Care Attendants/Home Health Aides • On-Call Staff • Company Car For PCAs With... “Car Trouble”... In Home Personal Care St. Louis Park

(952) 929-5757 Home Care With A “Personal” Touch Since 1991 For Reliable, dependable and punctual nurses, TMA, CNA/ PCA, call Charleston & Charlmars at Workers Availability Home Health Care at (651) 291-8754

lis. Seward Square is barrier-free housing and is federally subsidized. For an application, please call (612) 338-2680. Equal Opportunity Housing.

(651) 488-9923. St. Paul, MN Equal Opportunity Housing.

Holmes-Greenway Housing One and two bedroom apartments designed for physically handiFOR RENT Lewis Park Apartments: Barrier capped persons. Convenient SE Seward Square Apartments: We free housing with wheelchair user Minneapolis location. Call (612) are currently accepting applica- in mind. Section 8 subsidized. One- 378-0331 for availability infortions for our waiting list at Seward and two bedroom units. For more mation. Equal Opportunity HousSquare Apartments in Minneapo- information on availability call ing.

THE FRIENDS OF ACCESS PRESS Friend .. .$25.00 & up

Bronze .. $75.00 & up

Silver .. .$150.00 & up

Gold . .$350.00 & up

Diamond ... $500.00 & up

Benefactor .. $1,000.00 & up

The Friends of ACCESS PRESS are vital to the paper’s success. We need your continued support to keep publishing. Your gift entitles you to a one year complimentary subscription to ACCESS PRESS. ACCESS PRESS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Checks should be made out to ACCESS PRESS. Your contribution is tax deductible. Please mail your sponsorship to ACCESS PRESS, 1821 University Avenue West, Suite 185N, St. Paul, MN 55104. Your help is crucial if ACCESS PRESS is to continue being the voice for people with disabilities! Thank you.

SPONSORS OF ACCESS PRESS: Thanks to the following sponsors for supporting ACCESS PRESS this year. ------------------------------------- BASIC SPONSOR ------------------------------------Margaret Beier Patricia Guerrero Beth Jensen Debra Johnson Ericka Johnson Rosanne Kramnicz Steven McKeever Kathleen M. Miller Cindy Moore Jane & Albert Olson Carla Reichenberg Paul W. Taylor Kelli N-E Wysocki ------------------------------------- FRIEND SPONSOR ------------------------------------Sue Abderholden Lynda Adams Mary Andresen David Baldwin Marisa Bennett Mike & Karen Bjorgan Susan Blaylock Maynard Bostrom Bob Brick Wendy Brower Carlyn Bryngelson Susan Bulger Deah Cain Lynne Corneli Stephanie Cunningham Marty Cushing Justin & Yoshiko Dart Jolene Davis LeRoy deBoom Neil Doughty Craig Dunn Mel Duncan Lee Ann Erickson Robert J. Geldert Candace/David Gislason Tom Gode Rep. Kevin Goodno Nadine & Andy Groven John Hoffman Bradley J. Holmes Ellen & Skip Houghton Judy Hunt Cindy & Gregory Johnson Deb Johnson Ericka Johnson Linnea Johnson Hoff Barb Kane Mary Kay Kennedy Diah Kinion Beth Knutson-Kolodzne Eugene Kook Sherry Lampman Sue Lasoff David Larson Linda Larson Dorothy McCoy Jim and Cindy Musselman William O’Dowd Margery Pilhofer Dwight & Chris Porter Barbara Proehl Virginia Puzak Kelly Rathcke Kim Rezek Stuart Rosen Ginger Rudberg Patricia Rydeen Elizabeth Smith Adele Spavin Helen Thompson Gerry and Barb Tollakson Caryl Wattman Mary Frank-Wawokiyawin Teri Welcher Curt Wiehle David Wood Accord Health Care Services All Temporaries, Inc Alliance for the Mentally Ill of MN Arc of Anoka/Ramsey Cty Arc Suburban Arc Minnesota Best Care Blue Sky Designs, Inc. Brain Injury Assn. of MN Consumer Council of The Alliance for the Mentally Ill Disabled Dealer East Suburban Resources Equity Services-St. Paul Franciscan Sisters of St. Paul Forensic Alliance of Mentally Ill Fraser Community Services Home Health Care JQ-P, Inc. Kaposia MBW Company Metro Mobility Service Center Staff MN Bio Brain Association MN Developmental Achievement Center Assoc. (MnDACA) NAMI New Dimensions Northeast Contemporary Services Kelly Rathcke Resource RISE Inc. S.M.I.L.E.S. United Cerebral Palsy of MN

------------------------------------- BRONZE SPONSOR ------------------------------------Steve Alarik Anonymous Susan Asplund David Baldwin Kathleen Ball Jeff Bangsberg Jill Bedow Janet Berndt Bill Blom Anita Boucher Tom Brick Rick Cardenas Michael and Janice Chevrett Margot Imdieke Cross Chris Duff Robert Gregory Luther Granquist Doris Groven Roger A. Hoffman Dianna Krogstad Linda Lattin LoRene Leikind Lolly Lijewski Christopher Meyer Cliff Miller Bill Niederloh Michael Otubushin Louise Pattridge Catherine Reid & Liddy Rich Rick Ryan John Smith Peter & Pamela Stanfiel Mary Jane Steinhagen Eric & Carline Stevens J. Quinn Tierney Candace Warne Jerrold Wood Joe & JoAnn Zwack Dept. of Occupat’l Therapy-U of MDiv. MN Rehab. Assoc Job Placement & Dvlpmt FastServ Minnesota Work Incentives ConnectionMerrick Companies Pat Siebert, MN Dis. Law Ctr. National Results Council New Ways ------------------------------------- SILVER SPONSOR ------------------------------------Scott Beers Robert E. Buuck Catherine Eilers M. Therese Gockenbach Martha Hage Judy Haaversen David and Susan Houghton Lynn Noren Michael Otubushin Dean Doering & Lisa Scribner Kevin Sullivan Arc Hennepin County Help Yourself Job Placement and Development Division, MN Rehab Assn Mental Health Consumer/Survivor Network Mpls. Advisory Committee St. Paul Mayors Advisory Committee on People with Disabilities Twin City Transportation Vinland Center ------------------------------------- GOLD SPONSOR ------------------------------------David M. Dreier Shirley Larson Ronna Linroth Bridget & Diane Smith In Homes Personal Care ------------------------------------- DIAMOND SPONSOR ------------------------------------Rapit Print ------------------------------------- BENEFACTOR SPONSOR -------------------------------------

------------------------------------- IN HONOR ------------------------------------Anne Henry by Karen Adamson Cecelia Bilbrey-Baer by Patrick J. Bilbrey Jaehn Clare by Candice Warne Kyle by Joe & JoAnn Zwack College of Saint Catherine’s Occupational Therapy Masters Program by Steven Anderson “The good work the paper does!” by Diane Sprague Work Incentive law by LeAnne & Larry Dahl U of M Occupational Therapy Education Program by Erica Stern ------------------------------------- IN MEMORY------------------------------------Troy Fahlenkamp and Valerie Birosh by David Dreier Mabel Heuer by Dawn Doering Miss Irene MacKaloney by Roger Hoffman Bill & Renee Smith by Becky J. Bugbee-Tong Bill Smith by Joe & Peg Figliuzzi Uncle Bill & Aunt Renee Smith by Mary & Henry Pattridge Bill & Renee Smith by Helen Thompson Bill Smith by Kathy & Paul West Linda Wolford in memory of Tony Lebahn