June 2001 Edition - Access Press

*

P

Inside The Casey Martin Decision — p. 10 Local ADA Lawsuit Started — p. 12

What IF The Government Shut Down?

— Page 9

June 10, 2001

1

“Disability is not a ‘ brave struggle’ or ‘courage in the face of adversity’ . . . disability is an art.

It’s an ingenuous way to live.”

— Neil Marcus

Non-profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 12, Number 6

SOURCES

RESOURCES

June 10, 2001

ACCESS PRESS YEAR IN REVIEW DESPITE BIG LOSS, SHIP STILL ON COURSE

by Jeff Nygaard

I

Repetitive Motion Disorders: The Unseen Disability

by Amy Farrar Part 1 of 2: Treatment, compensation “an uphill battle”

T

he Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary defines “disabled” as “incapacitated by illness, injury or wounds.” Many of us, when we think of someone who has a disability, think of people who are incapacitated in some way that is visually obvious. But for people with repetitive motion disorders, their disability is not always so readily apparent. This simple fact alone has led to widespread misunderstanding of the origins, symptoms, and clinical background of repetitive motion disorders, and no doubt has contributed to the recent repeal by the Bush administration of ergonomics legislation that would have required employers to take measures to protect workers from these injuries by providing ergonomic workspaces and equipment.

The whole issue of repetitive motion disorders (RMDs) is mired in a firestorm of controversy. RMDs—also called cumulative trauma disorders, musculoskeletal disorders (a wider classifica-

*

tion of injuries including those that result from repetition), repetitive stress disorders, and repetitive strain— affect people differently and present with a wide variety of symptoms, all dependent on a multitude of factors. These factors make it extremely difficult to assign one “cure” for RMDs. Furthermore, since RMDs affect people differently, it can often be difficult to determine their origins, although the numbers are weighted heavily toward the workplace. This is just the tip of the iceberg.

A Widespread Problem According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 246,700 people in the United States had disorders associated with repeated traumas, a number representing 66 percent of the total number of injuries recorded in 1999 (the most recent year for which statistics are available.) Not all RMDs result in temporary damage that heals with time.

In fact, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, many RMDs can cause permanent damage to soft tissues in the body such as

muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments. RMDs can occur in the hands and arms (where they most often present), but also occur in the wrists, elbows, shoulders, neck, back, hips, knees, feet, legs and ankles.

BLS statistics show that workers in almost every industry are exposed to the risk of acquiring RMDs. However, a large proportion of RMD victims are women.

BLS statistics state that 18,651, or 67 percent, of all cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, and 10,127, or 61 percent, of tendinitis cases, were reported by women in 1999. These statistics, says the BLS, do not account for unreported cases of RMDs. While the BLS says they cannot estimate the number of unreported cases, according to Stephanie Barnes, the founder of ARMS, the Association for Repetitive Motion Syndromes, it is becoming extremely commonplace for employers to know that they have employees who have these problems, but do nothing about it. In addition, an unknown number of workers go to the doctor for an RMD, Stress - cont. on p. 13

t would be an understatement to say that this past year has been a historic one at Access Press. Founder, editor, and publisher Charlie Smith was diagnosed with cancer on the day before Thanksgiving last November and died just as the May 2001 issue was going into production. Charlie hired me as the interim editor in January, but he continued to direct the paper from his sickbed right up until the end. In fact, he and I had an editorial meeting about the May issue only five days before he died. Just as he would have wanted.

Remarkably, through all of the turmoil caused by Charlie’s illness and death, Access Press never missed a single deadline during the past year, hitting the streets on the 10th of every month, right on schedule. Charlie was a stickler about getting the paper out on time, so he would be happy about that!

Credit for this remarkable achievement is due to more people than I could possibly name in this space, but I will single out a few.

First and foremost are the central production team, those “behind-the-scenes” people who make each issue happen.

Nathan Halvorson, editorial assistant, did yeoman’s work during this past few months.

Despite only starting with the paper in May 2000, he stepped into the breach between Charlie’s entry into the hospital in November and my coming on board in January. Thanks, Nathan!

Ellen Houghton, Access Press typesetter and paste-up wizard, extricated the office crew from many a jam over the past few months. Her years of experience with the paper have been invaluable

during the past year.

Our regular columnists— Lolly Lijewski, John Schatzlein, Nicole Roberts, and Pete Feigal—have been great, as has cartoonist Scott Adams, and the numerous advocates and personal friends who have chipped in to help in a million ways.

Once again this year, the Friends of Access Press provided crucial and ongoing support. The total Friends contributions this year came to more than $10,000! Our thanks to all of you. The support of the Friends is always critical, and even more so in a time of turmoil such as we are going through right now. Not only does the financial support provided by the Friends support the paper directly, but it also provides the concrete evidence that we will need to document as we seek out grants and other support in the months and years ahead.

The Medtronic Foundation once again this year saw fit to make a generous grant to Access Press, as reported in the April issue. Some of these funds will be used to pay extra costs involved in re-organizing the paper in the wake of Charlie’s death, such as training for new staff, new accessibility systems for the new editor, new computer software, and so forth. This year in particular, the importance of the Medtronic Foundation’s generosity cannot be overstated.

During the past year Access Press continued to bring you profiles of outstanding community members, announcements of new information resources, notices and reviews of arts and cultural

events, letters to the editor, and even a report on how our severe winter weather affected people with disabilities!

Of course, Access Press also always strives be true to our mission “to inform the disability community about topics of concern to us and to provide accurate information about disability issues to the general public.” Whether it was reporting on such national issues as Social Security and the Supreme Court, or on local issues such as the closing (and reopening) of Allina’s Wound Clinic and the new state hiring goals for people with disabilities, Access Press continued during the past year to provide coverage of issues that were often under-reported—or unreported—in the mainstream press.

Finally, new editor Tim Benjamin was hired by Charlie in April. Over the coming months he will be meeting and getting to know many of you – feel free to share your thoughts and feelings about the paper with him!

This article is supposed to be about the past year, so I won’t talk about some of the exciting projects that Charlie initiated and that we hope to bring to completion in the near future.

You’ll be hearing about them.

During the past year we received a letter from a local law firm telling us that Access Press is now considered by the legal community to be “the resource for people with disabilities” in the region. With your help and support, we hope remain so.

Q

*

*

P

June 10, 2001

2

Tim Benjamin & Jeff Nygaard Editors

the right to see her son play sports in the same way that most moms can. Our first report on this case appears on page 12. We’ll be following this case as it proceeds through the courts, so stay tuned. ***

T

his month we report on two important ADA lawsuits. The best known one is the Casey Martin decision sent down by the U.S. Supreme Court on May 29th.

Attorney Kathy Hagen gives a clear and straightforward report on this landmark case

on page 10. Just five days earlier, on May 24th, a less well known lawsuit was initiated here in the Twin Cities, also having to do with access to sports for people with disabilities. That one has to do with a mom in a wheelchair who is suing for

Lots of opportunities in this month’s issue! See page 11 to learn how to volunteer for several state advisory committees for people with disabilities, and for information on volunteering to test new voice technology in motor vehicles. See the “In Brief” section on page 3 to find out about going to the zoo, going to the woods, and going to

sign-language camp. Get session that usually ends in involved, and have some fun! May. This year, the legislature has failed to get its work done on time, so our wrap-up *** will have to wait until July.

On page 9, Bob Brick Advocates I have spoken with illustrates the many ways that have been using words like state government programs “shameful” and “appalling” and services impact the lives to describe the performance of people with disabilities. of the new “tri-partisan” Although we seem to have experiment, which seems more averted a government shut- interested in providing politidown for this year, Bob’s cally-popular refunds and piece illustrates that we rebates than it is in meeting shouldn’t take these things for the needs of our citizens. It is granted. truly an outrage that our state is looking at funding cuts in *** everything from education to transit to health care proTypically the June issue grams at a time of record includes a “Legislative Wrap- budget surpluses. How can up,” summarizing what went we even call them “surpluses” on during the legislative when so many needs are going

unmet? *** For the first time ever, a photo of someone other than Charlie Smith appears at the beginning of this column. I imagine that this seems as strange to Access Press readers as it does to us! Tim and I will do our best to continue the work that Charlie had carried on so well. On June 3rd a wonderful public tribute to Charlie’s life and work was held in St. Paul. A proclamation issued by the Governor on that day appears on this page, and our report on the event appears on page 14. Q

Social Security Expands Horizons

by Joani Werner

T

he recent unveiling of a statue of Franklin D. Roosevelt in his wheelchair underscored the promise that any American can grow up to be President, even those with disabilities. To many young people with childhood disabilities this is an important message. Far too many do not

realize the opportunities that exist to attain what seems unattainable, and as a result have low expectations.

changes in the law dramatically increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities. For young people just starting out in life, these Social Security is making a rules may be even more special effort to reach young important. They include: people with disabilities who receive benefits under Social • Continued cash benefits Security programs. Recent while a person tests the ability to work • Continued Medicare and Medicaid coverage, now up to 93 months (seven years, 9 months) beyond the trial work period NEED HELP WITH: • Expedited reinstatement of benefits if unable to conEmployment?

• Housing? tinue working Health Issues?

• Education?

• Community support, counTransportation? • Access? seling and assistance in making the transition to work Contact • Help with work expenses Help with rehabilitation and training

MSCOD

• • •

The Minnesota State Council on Disability

Your Source for information, referral, training and technical assistance.

651-296-6785 or 1-800-945-8913 Voice or TTY email: council.disability@state.mn.us website: www.disability.state.mn.us Quality • Dignity • Independence

Another recent change allows Social Security to exclude more earned income of students with disabilities who are under age 22 and who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The excludable amounts increased from $400 of their monthly earnings (up to an annual limit of $1,620) to $1,290 in

ACCESS PRESS Co-Founder/Publisher (1990-1996) .................................................................... Wm. A. Smith, Jr. Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief (1990-2001) ......................................... Charles F. Smith Editor ............................................................................................................................. Jeff Nygaard Editor – Designate ...................................................................................................... Tim Benjamin Cartoonist ....................................................................................................................... Scott Adams Production ............................................................................ Presentation Images, Ellen Houghton Editorial Assistant ............................................................................................... Nathan Halvorson ACCESS PRESS is a monthly tabloid newspaper published for persons with disabilities by Access 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.

people with disabilities. It is also a helpful educational tool for parents, teachers and rehabilitation counselors. This package includes written materials, two computer software disks, and a video. For a copy of GTI, contact Graduating to Independence, Social Security Administration, 545 Altmeyer Building, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, Young people who want more Maryland 21235; fax 410information on these provi- 966-8597. sions can request the Graduating To Independence (GTI) You may also obtain informamulti-media package which tion about Social Security’s explains the help available to other employment provisions monthly earnings (up to an annual limit of $5,200). The rule changes also provide for automatic yearly adjustments based on increases in the cost of living. These changes will make it easier for students receiving SSI benefits to continue their education and transition from school and public benefits to careers.

from our work website, www.ssa.gov/work. Our website provides a list of vocational rehabilitation programs, employment resources, a Community Events calendar, and examples of success stories of people with disabilities who used Social Security’s employment support services to obtain a job.

For more information, call our toll-free number, 1-800772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-3250778) and ask for the publication, Working While Disabled — How We Can Help. Q

June 3rd Proclaimed

“Charlie Smith Day” The following is the text of a proclamation issued by Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura on the occasion of the June 3rd memorial service held for Charlie Smith (see story on page 9): In recognition of Charlie Smith Day, June 3, 2001: This certificate of recognition is presented in honor of Charlie Smith, who committed his adult life to advancing the civil rights of people with disabilities; who founded Access Press, a newspaper by and for people with disabilities; and who lived by example, with integrity, quiet power, and humor, with the appreciation and respect of the people of Minnesota.

I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Minnesota to be affixed at the Capitol in the City of St. Paul, June 3, 2001.

SPECIALIZED TRANSPORTATION

612-529-5019

th

Advertising and editorial deadlines are the 30 of the month preceding publication; special scheduling available for camera-ready art.

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROVIDER

ACCESS PRESS is available on tape. Call MN State Services for the Blind, 651-642-0500 or 800-6529000.

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.

*

*

*

P

“Toolbox Offers” Resources For Farmers

F

arming is physically demanding enough for an able-bodied person. Imagine what it’s like for a farmer with a severe disability, such as an amputation, paralysis, or a visual impairment.

Those images stirred Purdue University’s Breaking New Ground Resource Center to action. The result was “The Toolbox,” a resource manual for farmers with disabilities.

First published 15 years ago, “The Toolbox” was believed to be the only such catalog of assistive technology for farmers.

The third edition recently rolled off the presses, with many new and updated sections, said Paul Jones, manager of the Breaking New Ground Resource Center. The Center is Purdue’s outreach program for farmers with disabilities. There are about 550 different items featured in “The Toolbox.” The main topic areas include: Tractors & Self-Propelled Equipment;

Livestock Handling & Housing; Crop & Materials Handling/Storage; Outdoor Mobility; and others.

“You’ll find such things as tractor lifts, hitching devices and powered gates,” Jones said. “A lot of these are homemade devices. Fifteen to 20 percent are homemade products people submitted.”

Commercially available items are listed with supplier contacts.

June 10, 2001

3

IN BRIEF . . . .

tasks. And each year, approximately 10,000 new cases of debilitating injuries or illnesses occur.

Family Outdoor Adventures For People Of All Abilities Wilderness Inquiry welcomes Park and Itasca State Park in mation

people with disabilities and their families to participate in “In the back of ‘The Toolbox’ their outdoor adventures for we’ve put case studies of the year 2001. Destinations individuals who’ve risen include Voyageur’s National above their disabilities,” Jones said. “A lot of them have the spirit that they’re not going to be beat. They have the attitude that if they can’t do D ynaMic Duos, United something one way, they’ll Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of find another.”

Minnesota and DynaVox

Minnesota and the St. Croix Riverway in Wisconsin. A group will also go to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. For more infor-

about these opportunities call (612) 6769400 or (800) 728-0719 (voice or TTY) or visit the website at: www.wilderness inquiry.org.

UCP Sponsors Zippity Zoo Day

day, June 27th at the Minnesota Zoo. Zippity Zoo Day 2001 is an event for augmentative and Systems are excited to alternative communication Web surfers can download a announce Zippity Zoo Day (AAC) users. Children and “Toolbox” preview at http:// 2001 to be held on Wednes- adults who rely on AAC pasture.ecn.purdue.edu/ABE/ Extension/BNG/toolbox preview.pdf.

Both the 1986 and 1990 editions of “The Toolbox” sold out print runs of more than 1,000 copies each. Jones said he hopes the new edition will do the same: 300 of the “The Toolbox” sells for $80, 1,000 copies printed have including shipping and handling. To place an order, call been spoken for.

Breaking New Ground tollThe manual’s market is sub- free at (800) 825-4264. Breakstantial. More than a half ing New Ground plans to million farmers and other make “The Toolbox” availagricultural workers in the able on CD-ROM later this United States have physical year. CONTACT: Paul Jones, disabilities that make it diffi- (765) 494-1221; jonesp@ecn. cult to perform routine farm purdue.edu. Q

devices can enjoy a day together at the zoo. Register

by June 20, 2001. For info call UCP at 1-800-328-4827 ext.

1437 or ucpmn @isd..net.

Sign Language Camp For Families Families with a child who is be held July 9-13 at Camp The camp is a collaborative deaf or hard of hearing can develop and enhance their communications skills in a camp setting this summer.

The 10th annual Adventures in Summer Learning Family Communications Week will

Knutson near Brainerd.

Activities include sign language classes and games, shared reading, storytelling, tubing, archery, canoeing, parent discussion groups and a panel of service providers.

effort sponsored by the Minnesota departments of Human Services and Children, Families and Learning and Lifetrack Resources. (Contact Karen Smigielski, information officer, 651-296-1258.)

Bush Appoints Anti-ADA Judge President Bush has announced the disability community: persuaded the Supreme Court his nominations for the federal appeals court judgeships.

Among Bush’s selection of several outspoken conservatives, one is very notable to

Courage Center Seeks Nominations For M.A.T. The Phillips Award

Jeffrey S. Sutton. Mr. Sutton is well-known for his support of modern-day states’ rights over the federal government’s.

In a recent suit, Mr. Sutton

Metropolitan Area Transit, Inc.

C

ourage Center is seeking nominations for the 2001 Rose and Jay Phillips Awards.

Presented annually since 1964, the Phillips Awards honor men and women with disabilities who have achieved success in their careers.

Sponsored by the Rose and Jay Phillips Family Foundation, recipients receive a substantial cash award.

The purpose of the Phillips Award is two-fold: to encourage individuals with disabilities to prepare for and find employment in their chosen field and to encourage employers to recognize the advantages of hiring people with disabilities.

The Rose and Jay Phillips Awards honor the contributions of individuals with disabilities who have achieved financial and vocational independence through employment. The winners are honored for their professional success, their leadership skills and their contributions to their community.

These

*

awards

will

be

presented at the 2001 “Celebration of Courage Gala” on Saturday, August 25th, at the Medtronics World Headquarters in Minneapolis.

Nominations are due July 10, 2001. For more information or to request a Phillips Award application, call John Tschida at (763) 520-0533 or TTY (763) 520-0245. Q

that states may not be sued under the ADA for discriminating against their disabled workers (as featured in the March 2001, Access Press).

Celebrating 29 Yrs Of RENTAL • SALES SERVICE • REPAIR

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 **Standing Orders

** Group Charters

IN-HOME ASSESSMENTS TO DETERMINE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT NEEDS

(952)

933-1126

ST PAUL (651) 641-1917 8:30 - 6:00 M-TH · 8:30 - 5:00 FRI 8564 EXCELSIOR BLVD HOPKINS FREE DELIVERY AND SET UP · MINIMUM ORDER APPLIES MPLS - ST. PAUL & ALL SUBURBS

ACCESS IS FREEDOM! National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc.

Affordable/Accessible Housing For Mobility Impaired Physically Disabled Adults

AXIS Healthcare thanks ACCESS Press, our Member Workgroup and pilot participants for all you have taught us.

After two years of learning together, the health care stage is set for change.

Community Enrichment Through Housing Diversity

CALL 651-639-9799

(651) 641-0887

*

*

P

June 10, 2001

4

On Mental Illness/Brain Disorders

The King Of Infinite Space

by Pete Feigal

O

ne of the gifts of having a visionary like Charlie Smith, even when we lose him, is that it makes us reexamine our world, makes us look closer at who we are, at where we are going. And Charlie was one of those rare few who helped people with special abilities define themselves, helped us ask those crucial questions.

doubt that Sigmund Freud, Albert Einstein and Abe Lincoln kept their Complete Works of Shakespeare right by their beds.

All of Will’s great characters, tragic or comic, Lear, Richard III, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, Othello, Mercutio, all suffered from ailments of the spirit, as (if the whole “normal” world were honest) we all do.

How a culture defines itself is not by its system of government or technical level, but by its arts. And one of the great ironies is that our artistic culture has been largely created by those whom society has so often treated as outcasts, those with the labels of mental illness, or the “disabled,” the “crippled,” the “unemployable.” Being forced by their illnesses to look inward, artists from Mozart to Michelangelo to Mark Twain discovered new paths of creativity and invented our vocabularies for being human, the hopes and despairs that define us.

But his greatest creation was Hamlet, the Melancholy Dane who has become the best-known figure in theater. Through Hamlet’s words, actions, and lack of actions, has come one of the first definitions – and maybe the best – of despair and hope ever written. Shakespeare’s vision is so clear, many literary experts believe that he must have personally suffered with mental illness to be able to describe it with such passion and accuracy.

Arguably the greatest inventor and creator of our culture was William Shakespeare. His plays and poems have, over the last 400 years, defined the human. His explorations into the human heart and soul have given us the models not just for humanity, but for philosophy, law, science, even medicine. And I have no

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

The most recognizable lines in drama, and the most dreaded by young actors, are found in Hamlet’s immortal soliloquy, the famous “To be or not to be” speech. It’s been so badly pawed by mediocre high school English teachers and community actors that it’s almost ignored today. But its strength and depth of insight into the essence of human pain and doubt will never be diminished.

The moment comes in Act III, Scene I,. but the key to the speech comes in the preceding scene when Hamlet’s old college friends, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, are sent to him from his uncle as spies to ascertain the truth of Hamlet’s madness. He welcomes them to the “prison”of Denmark, to which they respond, puzzled, that they don’t think it is a prison.

Hamlet replies that, why then, to them it isn’t, as “there is nothing good or bad but thinking makes it so: to me it’s a prison.”

They tell him it’s because he’s just too big a guy for such a small kingdom. And he tells them: “O God, I could be bounded in a nutshell and think myself a king of infinite space, were it not that I have bad dreams.”

And there’s the key to Hamlet’s and our own dilemma in times of despair. None of us can comprehend death; our only concept or point of reference is sleep. And Hamlet’s sleep is equally horrific, filled with terror and nightmares. Read it once more and hear maybe the greatest definition what it is to be human.

To be, or not to be, that is the question: Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing, end them? To die, to sleep – No more, and by a sleep to say we end The heart-ache and the thousand natural shocks That flesh is heir to; ’tis a consummation Devoutly to be wish’d. To die, to sleep – To sleep, perchance to dream: – ay, there’s the rub, For in that sleep of death what dreams may come, When we have shuffled off this mortal coil, Must give us pause; there’s the respect That makes calamity of so long life; For who would bear the whips and scorns of time, Th’ oppressor’s wrong, the proud man’s contumely, The pangs of despis’d love, the law’s delay, The insolence of office, and the spurns That patient merit of th’ unworthy takes, When he himself might his quietus make With a bare bodkin? who would fardels bear, To grunt and sweat under a weary life, But that the dread of something after death, The undiscover’d country, from whose bourn No traveller returns, puzzles the will, And makes us rather bear those ills we have, Than fly to others that we know not of?

Thus conscience does make cowards of us all, And thus the native hue of resolution Is sicklied o’er with the pale cast of thought, And enterprises of great pitch and moment With this regard their currents turn awry, And lose the name of action. Q

Rehabilitative Services Physical / Occupational / Speech Therapies PCA Provider Organization Medicare Certified / Medical Assistance Waivered Services / Private

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

Religion and Disability

Spirituality And Charlie Smith

by John Schatzlein

I

n trying to put the column together this month, all I could think of was Charlie’s ability to exhibit his Spirituality on a daily basis, often without knowing it. Many of his attributes were wellidentified and shared in the

last issue of Access Press.

It is obvious to us, here in our office, that Charlie was a person who was able to know his “inner self,” sometimes called the “soul.” One’s soul is the moral and/or the emotional makeup of a person, the spiritual or emotional warmth they bring to the world. Charlie shared his spirituality, his passion for right, his respect for others, and had an ability to convey patience and calmness while pushing for justice and inclusion.

Whether he knew it or not, Charlie was able to share his inner self (his spirituality) with others in a way that did not create anxiety about his spirituality being seen as “religious” stuff. Charlie took on challenges to search out facts and comments about needs, issues, systems, service delivery gaps and the overall societal myopia in the way individuals —their plights and life concerns—were viewed and ultimately accepted or respected by others in the community.

Charlie took risks in publishing Access Press by including ideas and viewpoints that were not his own. (For example, by providing space for columns like this Spirituality column). He listened to his readers and had the vision to hear what they were saying about what they wanted his publication to be. Charlie would have been the first to correct me and say that the publication was not his alone, but rather, it belonged to all of the contributors of articles, to all of the readers, and to all of Spitituality - cont. on p. 11

Eleven Y ears WOW !!!

Years Advocating Change Together Visit our web page selfadvocacy.org 651 641-0297

*

*

*

P

Disability Culture

Disability Services: Does One Size Fit All?

by Lolly Lijewski

June 10, 2001

5

Hello Nicole:

Dear Nicole, My daughter is disabled and just turned six years old. Part of her disability requires her to wear leg and torso braces.

She’s never been troubled by the braces, and most of her friends have seen them, but now this spring she won’t wear certain clothes in public because she doesn’t want her braces to show. I’ve tried to bring her up to know she doesn’t have to hide her disability. Where have I gone wrong? Is it best to make her wear her shorts, or let her suffer in the heat because she is ashamed of her body?

Sincerely, Upset Mom

place on her because of her and joke with her to lessen the seriousness and help keep disability. things in perspective.

On the other hand, what your daughter is going through is I always recommend to parjust normal child develop- ents that they introduce their ment. Around age six, chil- children with disabilities to dren are starting to under- adults with disabilities who stand how they fit into are active in life and/or society. Many children at this advocating for disability age will suddenly become rights. It so hard for children shy, develop a concern for with disabilities to find their their physical appearance, dignity when they grow up and worry about what others without disabled role models. think of them. Children with Your daughter should know disabilities often get their first the history of the disability inklings of prejudice at this movement and how we have time and begin to see that they fought for independence, have reason for concern over equality and access. their social acceptability.

This background will not only I definitely don’t think that help her better understand you should force her to wear where prejudice and discrimiclothes that she is uncomfort- nation come from, but enable wearing. The last thing courage her to speak up for you want to do is put yourself her rights when there is an in opposition to your daugh- issue at school, with her ter. Give her unconditional friends, etc.. support. This doesn’t mean you agree that hiding her Obviously, you’ve already braces is best or necessary, given your daughter a lot of but just that you respect her the vital foundation of supfeelings at this time. Some- port and awareness she needs times disguising or hiding our to constructively work with disability can give us a sense her disability. You have laid of power or control over what some very important groundpeople think of us; perhaps work that I’m sure will be a your daughter is seeking her source of strength and confipower in the face of societal dence throughout her life. prejudice? Whatever the rea- Continue to be firm in how son, the more you can see her you perceive disability, but at feelings in a positive and the same time work to honor compassionate way, the less your daughter for who she is: negative emotional energy you an individual with a disability will add to her process. Don’t making her own choices ridicule her or put her down, about her life. but make light of the situation -- Nicole

Part 2 of a 2: A History of an “Agency for the Blind,” are affirmed by the few Separation now known as Minnesota experiences at integrating that State Services for the Blind. they have attempted. For The Governor has proposed these reasons, some find it that the Department of Eco- For the most part, separation more appealing to remain nomic Security be abolished. has been based on the differ- separate.

Some agencies which serve ent access needs of people people with disabilities that who are blind, such as the Disability identity are currently in that depart- need for materials in alternate Some people who are blind do ment will move to a new format (e.g. braille, sound not see blindness, in and of place. This month’s column recordings, large print), train- itself, as a disability. This is a looks at some of the issues ing in orientation and mobil- minority within the blind from the point of view of ity, and adapted techniques community.

Minnesotans who are blind for daily living. Another, less and visually impaired. well-known, factor is the So much of how our disability perception by many non- identity is formed depends on History disabled people that losing those with whom we choose Dear Mom, As far back as the 1500s their sight is one of the worst to build relationships. If we I don’t think you have gone services for blind people were things that could happen. feel safest with those we think wrong! Even if you’re a separate. They sometimes This stigma attached to blind- are the most like us, we’re perfect mom, your daughter is were paired with people who ness has been borne out in likely to seek out those who still growing up in a society were deaf, and often with the many studies that have asked are like us for support. If we where the prevailing view is poor. Residential schools for the general public which feel even more marginalized that we should be ashamed of the blind were created in the disability they would least by those who should, by our disabilities. Your daugh1700s. The first residential like to have if they had to have rights, understand our ter needs time to come to school for the blind opened in a disability. marginalization from society terms with this view and find Minnesota late in the 1800s. (i.e. other people with dis- her way toward acceptance of A feeling began to surface abilities), we are unlikely to her disability. It’s very natural Fears and concerns among teachers of blind Because of the historic sepa- build relationships with people that during her process, she children that parents of blind ration of services, integration who have disabilities other will need to experiment with children did not know how to into the “disability commu- than our own. her own feelings about her care for them properly. The nity” does not seem necessary body and her sense of dignity. same curriculum that was to many people who are blind. If we are to change this I understand that it’s hard to taught to sighted students was Their services have histori- pattern it will take two people watch your daughter feel taught in residential schools. cally been provided to them who are willing to risk disap- ashamed, and that you wish There were some additions to without integration with other pointment and being misun- she didn’t need to go through the curriculum that were disability groups, and with an derstood, and who are willing this. However, she does need unique to students who were emphasis on integration into to come back until the gap of to try out various styles of blind, such as braille, cane society at large. They have knowledge and understanding coping with her disability and travel, abacus, and crafts like found common ground is bridged and trust is estab- dealing with the pressures and basket weaving and chair through associating with other lished.

Because we are preconceptions that others caning to provide a skill for people who are blind through oppressed doesn’t mean that Question? Complaint? Comment? Write to Nicole: % Access Press, 1821 the students to earn a living the political organizations or, we don’t oppress others once they graduated. in some cases, through social within our community. Some- University Ave. W, #185 N; St. Paul, MN 55104; HelloNicoleAccess@yahoo.com clubs. Rehabilitation centers times it takes a while to recogAlso in the 1800s sheltered and Dog Guide Schools have nize when we’re perpetrators workshops were established. provided another source of of oppression, just as it takes a come. Another factor is the impairments who may acquire inch by inch.” This applies to These were places where community. while for those who oppress acquisition of secondary and blindness as they age. This change within our own piecework was performed us to understand their actions. tertiary disabilities by people too may help bridge the gap. disability community as well. and individuals were paid by Because it has always been who are blind and visually Q the number of pieces they this way, some people who Coming together impaired. The reverse is also Matthew Little of the NAACP assembled. These workshops are blind fear the merging of One way this chasm may be true for those with mobility says, “Social change happens were established because, as services, seeing it as a dilution bridged is if individuals from society became more mecha- of their hard-won rights and the blind community and from nized, sighted people be- access to society. They know the cross-disability community lieved it would be too danger- their workplace accommoda- take the initiative to sit across ous for people who were blind tions are often among the the table and begin building to work in shops with heavy most costly. This brings a fear relationships, attempting to machinery; in addition, trans- that others will want to raid understand each other’s needs, portation and travel to the the financial pot of money fears, and concerns, and shops was an issue. appropriated for these accom- pledging to stand in solidarity. modations. They have found Then, gradually, change will The sheltered workshops were that when they have tried either close to residential to integrate with other schools, or assistance with disability groups, their transportation was provided own needs take second to the people who worked in place. to For example, the shops. In 1915 a law was materials are not provided passed allocating $300 for the to them in the appropriate expenses of blind students formats, or orientations who wished to attend the are not provided to hotels Thank you for your continuing University of Minnesota. This where conferences are efforts to increase awareness and was the forerunner to the held (which does not effect change. Keep up the good current “Blind Student Tu- make them feel welcome). work, you are an important part of ition Waiver.” In the early Often, access is defined our community.

1900s the Minneapolis Soci- only in terms of physical ety for the Blind was estab- and architectural barriers, lished as the first rehabilita- rather than in their terms, tion center in Minnesota for which would put immedipeople who were blind. In ate access to information 1923 The Minnesota State at the forefront. In short, The residents and staff of Board of Control established their fears and concerns Accessible Space, Inc.

Congratulations Access Press!

*

*

*

P

June 10, 2001

6

The Accessible Church: REFLECTIONS: Toward Becoming The The Birth Of A Magazine Whole Family Of God

by Linda Larson

by Linda Larson

W

here are Moses, Jacob, Job, Bartimeus and countless other spiritual leaders – people with disabilities, all, chosen by God – who are not lifted up as spiritual leaders in the Church? The Massachusetts and Rhode Island Councils of Churches have asked this question and have endorsed a thoughtful and prayerful statement entitled THE ACCESSIBLE CHURCH: TOWARD BECOMING THE WHOLE FAMILY OF GOD. “The boards of directors of the two states’ leading ecumenical bodies seek to draw attention to the...lack of persons with disabilities in the life of the church and to answer two key questions: ‘Why do we find ourselves in this situation?’ and ‘How do we begin to work together for changes so that all may worship and be one in Christ?’”

“Many Christians are without a community of believers to share their joys and struggles; it means that many congregations are impoverished and incomplete.” The Massachusetts and Rhode Island Councils of Churches have begun

an unprecedented campaign together with a network of disability advocates to move toward reconciliation, wholeness and unity.

These seem lofty words, and one may be skeptical that all the fine words in the world do not necessarily create change.

It is this reporters’ firm belief that there is integrity in the process that the two councils have begun. It has been the experience of this reporter that the issues of disability and ableism have drawn many different denominations together to speak with one voice. There is a moral mandate to address and act upon these issues of disability and ablism from the Biblical and historical roots of the Church.

Faith communities are called to be social witnesses, to speak out against the barriers that persons with disabilities and their families face. The greatest barrier is communication. There are also the barriers of education, transportation, employment, recreation, and ATTITUDE. A firm foundation and grounding comes from a statement from the World Council of Churches. There is a common

United Cerebral Palsy of MN remembers Charlie Smith and pays tribute to him and Access Press for another year of keeping people informed.

belief in a loving and just God, that humankind is created in God’s image, and that God’s creation is indeed good. Every person is vital to the life of the Church and we all are dependent on one another and on God to experience God’s grace within community.

The most exciting part of their statement is that they acknowledge that the Church “has not done the critical thinking, political analysis, and prayerful reflection necessary to unmask our biased patterns of thought, language, and behavior which [reveal as unacceptable] our prejudice and discrimination against persons with disabilities.” It has been this reporters’ experience that THIS, in particular, moves congregations far beyond a comfortable place and does much to heal the injustices that persons with disabilities have historically confronted.

this culture due to accident, disease, or genetics. I NEED to pass on what I know of disability culture and history.

I realize I MUST pass this on to persons I haven’t even met yet. The only question is HOW?Here is the Epiphany!

I called Charlie Smith and told him I wanted to do a magazine that was by students with disabilities. It would be read by non-disabled and disabled alike. I asked Charlie, “How do I start?” After some sage advice from Charlie, I was ready to begin. I called on another wonderful mentor and colleague, Craig Dunn, from VSA Arts of Minnesota.

Craig gave us a grant of $500.00 and access to a network of teachers in special education throughout the metro area. I asked a teaching colleague of mine, Alison Konkol from Columbia Heights Alternative Learning Center, would her class like to do the layout? She said “Yes!” I had to decide on a theme. What are Reflections?

I asked students from grades 6-12 to answer any of the following questions: “How do you see yourself? How do you think others see you? How would you like others to see you? How would you want the world to be? What part does disability play in how you view yourself, how others view you, how the world view you?”

I too come from a minority culture, the culture of disability. But wait...although it is beneficial for my children to understand that I come from this culture, it is not my two non-disabled daughters who need this information in order to survive. It is the next We are all faced with a moral generation of persons with command, both non-disabled disabilities. persons and persons with disabilities and their families, I can think of no other culture to unite to DO justice. For in which history and cultural those persons who do not trust information is not passed on that the actions of the Massa- to the next generation of chusetts Council of Churches immediate family, but rather and the Rhode Island Council to the next generation of of Churches cannot create strangers who happen into change, this reporter would ask you to risk trusting and to take responsibility to share this news with others. YOU are the one who can make this happen. Q Disabled & Proud, It’s For a copy of “The Accessible Church: Toward Becoming The Whole Family Of God,” write to the Rev. Diane Kessler 14 Beacon St, Rm. 416, Boston, MA 02108-3760.

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

(651) 644-9770

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

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

wonderful mentor and friend, Cathy Nelson, once told me, “I’m in that uncomfortable spot again.

D***! Now I’m going to have to do something about it!”

Cathy taught me many things about teaching and being a voice with and for students and I’ve never forgotten that brief moment. Last summer I had an epiphany, a moment of revelation, where I knew I had no choice but to do something about it. I had been reading a book on the importance of parents imparting their culture and history to their children, especially children from minority cultures. This betters their self-esteem, connects them to their past and present, and is vital to their educational success.

Martha Hage’s RADIO SHOW

Advancing the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with cerebral palsy and similar disabilities.

HANDI MEDICAL SUPPLY

A

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

Not An Oxymoron

June 12: Candidates for the 2nd ward Council Members: Joan Campbell, Cam Gordon, and Paul Zerby June 19: Kathy Hagen, attorney at MN Disability Law Center discusses the lawsuit against the City of Brooklyn Park.

KFAI Every Tues.

7:30 p.m.

106.7 FM — St. Paul 90.3 FM — Mpls

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

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

651-641-0887 We bill M.A., Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medica and many other insurances

*

A REVOLUTIONARY APPROACH FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

I asked for essays, poems, short stories, and/or blackand-white art. The e-mails were sent. Who would respond? I wish to thank the very dedicated teachers who looked at the e-mail and actually responded to it!

Thank you for your time. I also wish to thank the courageous students who submitted their work. The quality of their pieces is incredible. The next step was to ask students from the University of Minnesota Disabled Cultural Center to help put the order of the magazine together. Again, I thank them for their help and dedication. Finally, I contacted another colleague and friend, Bob Welch from IBI Graphics who had helped me in the past with another work I edited. After many months and numerous rough drafts, REFLECTIONS was actually printed. My dream had come true. Now it was time to CELEBRATE! Columbia Heights School District graciously allowed us the use of their new community room.

Teachers ordered buses for their students. I ordered cheeseburgers from McDonald’s and they graciously donated some orange drink.

IBI Graphics delivered the magazines, VSA Arts of Minnesota was there to take orders and collects payments, as well as help take pictures of our Signing Party. We had 40 people show up to hear the authors and illustrators read or tell about their work. We had family and friends of students come to buy copies of the magazine and to say congratulations. One student even gave up a trip to ValleyFair because this signing party was more important! I was asked if there would be a volume two of REFLECTIONS. The teachers want it, and the students are already thinking about what they might do for next year. There goes that darned uncomfortable spot again. There is only one answer: OF COURSE! See you next year!The signing party was dedicated in memory of Charlie Smith, who would be smiling at this wonderful event and whom I miss. Q Linda Larson is the editor of REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE can be purchased through VSA arts of Minnesota. Email mn.vsarts.org: call 612332-3888(V&TTY): FAX6123050132: write VSA arts of Minnesota, 528 Hennepin Av., Suite 305, Mpls., MN 55403. Copies are $5/ea. for 1-9 copies, $3/ea. for 10 or more copies.

*

* Reader Profile

P

June 10, 2001

7

Debra Burke: The Importance Accessible Performances Of Our Community

The following performances villians travels to the fantasy mance to speak about the one will be Audio Described (AD) world of Hollywood. thing all women experience;

by Nicole Roberts for people who are blind or directed by Laurie Carlos.

“Becket” by Jean Anouilh have low vision, or Interpreted [Editor’s Note: This is the third in an occasional series of profiles designed to share personal “The Sound of Music” accounts of how other people with disabilities are doing in the community. Last year, Nicole in American Sign Language ASL Sat., June 16, 8:00 — Rochester Civic Theatre, (ASL) for people who are deaf ASL Saturday, June 30, 7:00 – profiled Tina Schroeder and Kathy Hagen of Minneapolis.]

(507)282-8481 or hard of hearing.

Interpreters: Mary Holte & ebra Burke works as a example, the Shari Estep; Eden Prairie PerClient Services Manager teachers would “First Lady” by Erica Christ “Sound Stage” – composer forming Arts Ensemble at for Care Planners, a PCA look at me funny * AD Saturday, June 9, 8:00 – Paul Dresher; * AD Sat., June Hennepin Technical College company in St. Paul, Minne- and say, “Oh? Audio Describer: Mari Grif- 23, 8:00 – tactile tour at 7:30 Auditorium, (612) 949-8453, sota. She has Osteogenesis That’s nice.” fin; * ASL Sunday, June 17, Zeitgeist, at the Southern The- TTY 952-949-8399, donation Imperfecta and uses a power 2:00 — Interpreter: Mary ater, (612)340-1725 Zeitgeist wheelchair. Both of Debra’s It also bothered Holte Cheap Theatre and Hid- musicians explore different “Communicating Doors” by parents are disabled, which me that people at den Theatre at the Playwrights’ possibilities of a stage.

Alan Ayckbourn * AD/ASL gives her an interesting per- school assumed I Center, (612) 822-6060, runs Saturday, June 30, 8:00 — AD: spective on disability culture lived in a group June 1-17. Back from the dead, “Candida” by Bernard Shaw Rick Jacobson; ASL: Susan and history. Debra is 31 years home or nursing Eva Perón narrates her life as AD Sunday, June 24, 2:00 – Masters & Anthony Verdeja old. She recently bought her home. That really she careens toward an un- Audio Describer: Mari Grif- Park Square Theatre, (651) first home, in Crystal, where confused me. I timely, painful death before fin Theatre in the Round Play- 291-7005 A sci-fi murder she lives with her four cats. didn’t realize how ers, (612) 333-3010 her time. mystery & time travel advenfortunate I was ture! Runs June 16 to July 8.

Access Press: Can you des- that I got to stay “Gulliver: A Swift Journey” “My Fair Lady” by Loewe cribe a little about your home with my par* AD Friday, June 15, 8:00 – and Lerner * ASLS u n d a y , “Jacques Brel Is Alive & disability? ents while a lot of AD: Rick Jacobson; Theatre June 24, 2:00 – Cross Com- Well & Living in Paris” AD/ disabled kids weren’t able to meet? de la Jeune Lune, (612)333- munity Players at Maple Grove ASL Saturday, July 11, 8:00 Debra Burke: Osteogenesis do that. As I got older, I Junior High, (763) 391-ARTS — AD: Rick Jacobson; ASL: 6200 Imperfecta (OI) causes my learned that my mother was DB: They belonged to a Eliza Doolittle takes lessons Susan MastersPark Square bones to break easily and one of those people who disabled organization of “Once in a Lifetime”AD Sat., from cynical speech teacher Theatre, (651)291-7005 Q become deformed. I also didn’t get to be raised at bowlers. My dad was one of June 16, 1:00 (tour 11:00); Henry Higgins to grow out of have problems with my teeth home. the few people who drove, Fri., June 29, 7:30 - Describer: her social station and into love. * Selected performances are and hearing—it affects anyand he would often drive my Laurie eligible for Reduced AdmisPape Hadley thing having to do with my AP: Tell me about your mom home from bowling.

ASL Fri., June 22 & Thurs., “The Menstruation Project” sion Prices through Access to bones. mother.

Monday, June 25, Theatre. For more info conJune 28, 7:30 - Interpreters: ASL AP: Even nowadays, people Lauri Krouse & Anthony 8:00 – Presented by Intermedia tact VSA arts of Minnesota, AP: How do you feel about DB: From the age of about with disabilities are often not Verdeja Guthrie Theater, Arts and Mama Mosaic at mn@vsarts.org. (612) 332-3888 or statewide (800) 801-3883 your job? three or four until she was expected to have intimate (612)377-2224, TTY (612) Intermedia Arts, (612) 871(voice/TTY). about fifteen, my mom lived relationships and can be 377-6626; A trio of NY vaude- 4444 A multimedia perforDB: I’m proud to work for a at Gillette Hospital in St. frowned upon for getting company that’s run by and for Paul. She only got to see her married and having children. people with disabilities. I parents about once a year. Do you think your parents had marched into the hospital, had to get together and ask our was like another language. I think it’s time that disabled She met her little brother for to deal with this type of scooped me out of bed and teacher to teach us how to was so embarrassed I didn’t people start taking care of the first time when he was discrimination? took me home. I never went write—or we wouldn’t ever want to ask for help. Eventueach other. I like being a part five. It was hard on her. back to Gillette. have learned. ally, they said I had a learning of a PCA company that is not Things like not seeing her DB: Yes, definitely – even disability. I often wonder if just a service, but that little brother hurt her a lot. more so because they had a AP: Where you mainstreamed I feel like that school con- my learning disability is real, provides an independent liv- The only fond memories she disabled child. When my in schools? ducted business the way it did or if it’s a product of my lack ing model for people. I also told me were about the other older sister was born everybecause there was this under- of early education. like having a disabled em- disabled kids that she became one was just relieved she was DB: No, for most of elemen- lying understanding that disployer because she is very friends with. Still, she didn’t able-bodied. But when I was tary school I was segregated abled people are never going AP: Do you have any closing understanding when I have complain about her child- born, some people told my in a school for the disabled – to live normal lives or amount statement? issues with my disability. hood. I think because she mother she was selfish to have it was more like daycare. We to anything, so we didn’t need knew that her parents never had another child. They said had to ask them to teach us to know these basic skills.

DB: The disabled community AP: What were your early meant to hurt her, they just she should’ve been happy things. For example, in third needs to learn: There is one. views of disabled life? wanted what was best, unfor- with her one healthy child. grade, myself and two other In high school, when I did Last summer, I was telling one tunately the doctors told them students wanted to learn to finally get mainstreamed, I of my clients about Leah DB: Disability has always that the hospital was best.

At other times, I think people write in cursive. They hadn’t saw how far behind I was in Welch, and how she was a been very prevalent in my life. thought my parents weren’t fit taught us because all the other basic skills. I remember my leader in the disabled commuExcept for my sister who is I think it was the era she was to be parents because they kids in class were more English teacher made a list of nity. My client stopped me in able-bodied, I grew up com- born in. She was born in were disabled. When I was a severely disabled and couldn’t punctuation marks on the mid sentence – he said, “Displetely surrounded by people 1934, the oldest child of year old, I had been having a use their hands to write. So, board and the other kids knew abled leader? Disabled comwith disabilities. I have the farmers in northern Minne- lot of fractures and every time the three of us eight-year-olds what they were, but for me it Profile - cont. on p. 11 same disability my mother did sota. The doctors pressured I did my parents would bring (she passed away in 1992) and my grandparents to put her at me to Gillette hospital. There my father is a double ampu- Gillette.

They said that was a nurse there who alleged METROPOLITAN CENTER tee. Disability wasn’t ever a because my mother was child abuse – she didn’t for INDEPENDENT LIVING separate part of my life, it just disabled, she would be better believe OI could make my was life. off in the hospital. But my bones break this easily and MCIL offers services for people with disabilities, their families mother actually had OI a lot said it must be abuse – so the and friends, service providers, and interested community members My early images of disabled less severely than me: I think hospital wouldn’t let me go in the 7-county metro area. life were very positive. My in her life she had around 50 home. parents and the majority of fractures, where I have had Information and Referral (Information hotline: 651-603-2039) Advocacy their disabled friends were around 300.

AP: That must have been hard Independent Living Skills Training Individual Peer Support married, had children, jobs, for your mom, especially Deaf I.L. Services cars and homes – they lived I really admire my mother since she was raised at Personal Assistance Services (M.A. Subsidized) very normal lives at a time because even though she went Gillette.

Ramp Project Transition Program ADA Information when a lot of people with through so much and had Meeting Rooms Computer Lab Resource Library disabilities didn’t. every reason to be completely DB: Yes, I think that was part Support Groups ...Chemical Dependency with Physical Disability oppressed and inactive, she of the intimidation she felt GLBT with Disability I really never thought any- wasn’t. She left her little town because when the hospital Chemical Dependency with Traumatic Brain Injury thing negative about having a and moved to Minneapolis by said that she couldn’t bring disability until I was school herself, got her own apart- me home, she thought there age and I started finding out ment, finished school, found a was nothing she could do.

1600 U NIVERSITY A VE . W., S UITE 16, S T. P AUL , MN 55104-3825 that people had low expecta- job, was very social with her Luckily, my mom had a home 651-646-8342 V OICE 651-603-2001 TTY 651-603-2006 F AX tions about my future. When I friends and got married. health aide who got really HTTP:// WWW .

MCIL MN .

ORG would say I was going to grow upset when she heard what up and have a job, for AP: How did your parents had happened. This aide just

D

*

*

*

P

June 10, 2001

8

Governor Vetoes Patient Protection Bill

Most MA-EPD Participants Likely To See Premiums Increase

by Anne L. Henry

P

remium increases for persons using Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities (MAEPD) will be one likely result of the 2001 legislative session. Although the ink is not yet dry on the Health and Human Services Omnibus bill, both the House and the Senate passed nearly identical versions of a plan to increase premiums for over 4,000

working persons with disabilities who need Medical Assistance for health care coverage.

due beginning in September 2001. DHS will send a general notice of the new premium sliding scale schedule to each participant in July and hopefully that notice will contain a website address to use to determine individual premiums due in September.

The new premium schedule is likely to take affect September 1, 2001, and will mean that approximately 4,000 persons using MA-EPD will soon receive a notice of a The new premium schedules premium increase. The first passed by both the House and new premium payment will be Senate will require premium payments from individuals beginning with 1% of total gross income at 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG), currently $716 per month. Payments will be capped at 7.5% of income when total gross income reaches 300% of FPG, or $2,148 per month.

Disability Culture Rap

The new schedule means that many more individuals will be paying a premium, ranging from $7 per month for those with monthly earnings of $716, and rising to $161 per month for those with monthly gross incomes of $2,148. For those with gross incomes over $2,148 per month (which is 300% of FPG), the premium will be 7.5% of monthly gross income. It is important to remember that the premium will be based upon both earned and unearned income before taxes and any other deductions.

Who said planning the future is fun and games?

The new premium schedule was a compromise in order to change the Department of Human Services’ budget proposal. That proposal would have re-instituted a spenddown for those with unearned income (for example, Social Security benefits) of more than 100% of FPG, or $716 per month. The DHS proposal would have hurt persons who still receive Social Security Disability benefits, but would not have been a stable source of funds in the long run, since it is expected that a good number of MA-EPD participants will lose their Social Security benefits as their earnings increase over time.

Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities will remain a strong work incentive for persons who need the health coverage provided by Medical Assistance (MA), but are able to work. First of all, using MAEPD, individuals will be relieved of having to spend their income down to the Medical Assistance income standard. The MA “spenddown” is like a deductible which requires that the person spend any income above the MA income standard (currently$482 per month) for health care before MA will cover health care costs.

In addition, MAEPD will continue to allow persons to save money up to $20,000, not including allowed retirement accounts, a home and a vehicle.

by Joel Ulland

G

overnor Ventura vetoed a bill that would have enhanced patient protections for people receiving their health insurance through a health plan. The Governor was concerned about the potential costs of these changes to the state employee health plan. The bill passed the Senate on a vote of 62-0 and the House of Representatives 132-2.

or more enrollees must be licensed as physicians in Minnesota. Many medical directors who are making decisions about what a person does and does not need for their medical care are not licensed to practice medicine in Minnesota.

Civil penalties collected by the Department of Commerce and the Department of Health for violations of laws or rules on the part of the health plan must, in most cases, be shared 50-50 with the policyholders affected by the plan. This provision was brought from the concern of how consumers were treated if the health plan had made a decision that violated a law or a rule. In these cases a fine could be levied against the health plan, but the consumer would receive no compensation for their time and trouble.

Some of the provisions included in the bill were providing continuity of care for 120 days in specified circumstances if a person was changing health plans. An example of this is a person with multiple sclerosis who has a flare-up of their symptoms while they are in the process of changing health plans. Under this bill, that person could continue to see their doctor—who was familiar with their health care needs—for an additional 120 As of press time, it was days. unclear if the House and Senate would attempt to The bill also requires that the override the Governor’s veto medical directors of health during the upcoming special plan companies with 50,000 session. Q The regular MA asset limit is $3,000 for an individual.

Also, MA-EPD does not count a spouse’s income and assets when determining the person’s eligibility.

notice from DHS about the premium schedule in July.

Watch for more details in future editions of Access Press and through disability advocacy organizations and the Consortium for Citizens It is important to spread the with Disabilities Work Incenword to the 5,500 Minneso- tive Work Group. Q tans with disabilities using MA-EPD that a premium Anne Henry is an attorney increase is likely by Septem- with the Minnesota Disability ber 1, 2001. Each MA-EPD Law Center participant will receive a

T S E

he t s d! l s i r M Wo ’t n e h off Do ce a nt f i s yer up ls pla rld C y e e o e W ock erH ockey Wh w o 1 P rH

H

T T O

™

0 est owe , 20 N ’s b 01 P 9 d l r 0 M wo e 2 st 5 olis, u The at th g p u nea n i M

HA W .E

Powe rH W

ey ck LD CUP o OR

U .S

A

Call 763.535.4736 Or visit us at www.powerhockey.com to find out more!o fnd out

M

in n

1 esota 200

more!

Sponsored in part byi

*

*

*

P

Government Shutdown: What Would It Look Like?

by Bob Brick Editor’s Note: As this issue was being written, the Governor and Legislative leaders had just reached an agreement on the overall budget for the next two years. Governor Ventura was expected to call a Special session in early June, averting a Government shutdown. However, the threat of a shutdown got us all at Access Press thinking about the variety and importance of State programs and services that affect the lives of people with disabilities. In this article, Bob Brick of Arc Minnesota takes us through an imaginary “Day in the Life” of a Minnesotan with a disability as it might unfold if the state government were to shut down due to a budget stalemate.

M

onday, 6:00 AM: Time to start the week already? Sure wish my PCA would get here. [Telephone rings] I wonder who’s calling this time of day. “What? You can’t come? Why not?... You haven’t been paid for the past two weeks and the agency is shutting down, due to cash flow problems....I know what you mean; I need to get out of bed to keep my cash flow coming...Yeah, I know you’re sorry and you have to get another job. Good luck.”

I need to call my brother to see if he can pinch hit until I can arrange something else.

8:00 AM: “Thanks Mike. I couldn’t have started the day without you. It’s too bad that the state parks are closed and you won’t be able to go camping this week...OK...I just need to confirm my Metro Mobility ride to the doctor and I’m all set.”

“Hello; Metro Mobility? I am confirming my...What do you mean you’re not filling ride requests today? No money? I know better than that—you’re operated by the Metropolitan Council, not the State of Minnesota...You say that its not getting its state funding and services are being temporarily discontinued?

What...there’s no mainline service either? The bank won’t lend you money? I know the feeling—thanks for nothing.”

8:15 AM: “Mike, can you give me a lift to the Doctor?

Thanks.”

8:45 AM: “Right on time— Thanks Mike. Can you wait for me?”

“I’m here to check in for my 9:00 appointment. Here’s my Medical Assistance card...

Why won’t you accept it?...The State is not paying you?...No...I can’t afford to pay for this visit. I’ll have to cancel my appointment. I hope I don’t end up in the emergency room before the politicians settle this deal...Oh—the paramedics aren’t running either? I guess a lot of services are affected.”

9:00 AM: “Guess I’m going to work earlier than they expected me today, Mike.

Yeah—I really like my work as a job coach at Jobs R Us.

*

It’s a day training and habilitation organization for people with disabilities. We help people become taxpayers, and more independent.

Great people and great work— although I’m still waiting for my cost-of-living pay increase. It’s apparently tied up with this budget stalemate. I sure could use the raise.”

9:30 AM: “Hey look at the sign on the door. Operations are suspended due to the Government shutdown. What does the Government have to do with Jobs R Us. Oh yeah— most of our funding flows through the state, and they’re not open. I can get by for a while, but I know many of my co-workers and clients can’t.

Our business partners are expecting us to be there, too.

I’m sure they’re not going to be happy. I’ve got to check in with my supervisor—this is getting to be depressing.”

paid—we just agreed that these services are necessary.

We know the school is facing budget cuts and the State’s not coming through, but I’m recommending that Mike and Julie not sign off on this plan until we get this issue settled.

You can expect them to use their due process rights.”

1:30 PM: “What a meeting. I can’t believe what you have to go through to get Sara an appropriate education. Let me look this stuff over and we’ll figure out the next step.”

“Watch out for the pothole.

That one will swallow a car...It’s been there since April?...The City’s not repairing roads, until it gets its State aid payment? Hope this budget stuff gets settled soon, for your car’s sake.”

2:00 PM: “I’m starved. Can we stop and then go to the post office? I have a registered 10:00 AM: “Well, I guess its letter to pick up. Boy,White back home. They’re suspend- Castle just keeps getting ing operations and everyone’s better and better, doesn’t it?” laid off until the Government gets back to work. I can’t even 2:45 PM: “Look at this letter. file an unemployment claim. The Minnesota Housing FiWhat are you up to today, nance Agency can’t manage Mike? ...You have an IEP my apartment complex any [Ed. note: IEP is “Individual longer due to staff layoffs.

Education Plan”] meeting for Seems like they’re trying to Sara and you expect prob- find a private party to purlems? I haven’t worked on chase the complex. Looks like education issues for a while, my rent will be going up. but I’d be happy to attend as What a day!” your advocate. Let’s go.”

3:00 PM: “Mike, how’s the [Cell phone rings] “Hello... application for Sara’s develWhat’s that?...My assessment opmental disabilities waiver for this week is canceled and slot going?...Really? You you’ll just authorize services mean the County can’t act on as is until your public health it until the State comes nurses come back?...The through with their money for County’s just dealing with the County?...No staff to help emergencies? Well, I can with the intake process? . . . wait, but my PCA agency Hmph. So much for taking seems to be teetering. I’ve got advantage of the unlimited no PCA today and probably slots opportunity.” not for the next couple of weeks...Yeah, I’ll call if I 3:30 PM: “Hey, there’s Tom can’t get help. Bye.” and Cindy. They’re the parents of one of my clients. Lets “Mike, I’m glad you’re on say hello.” vacation buddy—don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“How ya doin’?...You’re kidding me!? The house is 11:30 AM: “I’m pleased to closing? Where will Ryan meet you Ms. Johnson. I’m live?...You’re bringing him assisting Mike and Julie with home, and Cindy will take a the IEP. Looks like the whole leave of absence from work? school is here. Oh—this is Boy, that’s great timing; I just just the IEP team?” heard that UMD’s tuition is going up after they re-open 1:00 PM: “What do you mean because they didn’t get enough you can’t guarantee Para money from the Legislature ... support or therapy services? Your daughter will need to get We don’t care how they get another job to make up for

June 10, 2001

9

Tasks Receives Phillips Grant For The Benefit of People Affected

By Schizophrenia

Cindy’s lost wages? Well, eople affected by schizohang in there—looks like phrenia, bipolar disorRyan lost a job and home der, and other severe mental today. If I can help, give me a illnesses are probably one of call.” the most economically disadvantaged groups in our soci4:30 PM: “Mike, let’s stop for ety. An astounding 85-95% of a beer; it’s been a heckuva persons with treatable severe, day... Look at that guy—I sure persistent mental illness are hope he’s getting a cab. No, unemployed (according to a he’s getting into his car. 1999 report by the National Quick! call 911 Alliance for the Mentally Ill).

In sharp contrast, all partici“Hi, we need a highway patrol pants at Tasks Unlimited are here ASAP....What do you employed. It is part of an mean, there’s no highway overarching philosophy to patrol in this area?...Due to help people lead happier, the state shutdown they’ve all more self-sufficient lives. been pulled? You’ve got to get this guy off the highway That’s why the Phillips Fambefore someone gets ily Foundation awarded a killed...OK...I hope you do $50,000 challenge grant to find someone, goodbye.” help Tasks launch their first major fundraising campaign— “Can you believe this?”

Let the Secret Out. “At Tasks, everyone works. In fact, 6:30 PM: “Time to go Mike. almost a third fully support Lets take the side streets. I’m themselves through their leery about who is on the road, work,” said Tasks Executive given all that’s happening out Director John Trepp. “That’s there. No need to stop to eat. why we provide the highest I’ve got a pizza in the free- wages of any supported emzer.” ployment provider in the state.”

8:00 PM: “Great pizza. I didn’t know they could do so Tasks has a 30-year track much with unusual toppings. record of success in helping Mike, can you help me into people with severe mental bed?...I know it’s early, but I illness (schizophrenia, bipodon’t have anyone to help lar disorder, and major delater.” pression) lead more fulfilling lives. “Employment does more “Did I ever tell you you’re the than give all of us a sense of best brother in the world? independence. It builds selfYeah, I know I’m sucking up. esteem,” said Trepp. “It’s no Can you be here tomorrow at different for participants at 7:30? Looks like I’ll have the Tasks. It gives them a chance whole day to go through to manage their lives with a Sara’s records. Thanks new sense of confidence— Buddy!” Q and willingness to try new

P

things, volunteer, travel, and more.” Many participants live in Tasks’ family-style settings, called Lodges. Others live in apartments. They manage the daily responsibilities of life on their own, yet have easy access to supported employment and housing as well as mental health professionals.

The Phillips Family Foundation makes grants that support self-sufficiency. “We are honored by this generous award from the Phillips Family Foundation,” said Trepp. “Because of this grant, we have the momentum we need for our first major fundraising effort.” New individual donors can now double the impact of their contributions, and help Tasks serve many more people. New funding will help provide more affordable housing, support for the aging,, and efficiency through technology.

Stigma, discrimination, homelessness, criminalization, social isolation, and poverty often mark the lives of people affected by serious mental illness. “These people are not strangers,” said Trepp. “They are our family members, friends, and co-workers. Every one of them deserves to lead a happy life, fully participating in our community. After three decades of success, we are well poised to expand our capabilities to help even more people.” Q Information for this article provided by Tasks Unlimited

*

*

10

P

June 10, 2001

Supreme Court Reaches Decision In Casey Martin Case: Martin Can Use Golf Cart to Play

by Kathleen R. Hagen

T

he first decade following the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has seen much litigation in the areas of gaining access to a job, to City Hall, to the Courthouse, and other necessary services to live.

Persons with disabilities are now reaching beyond those very important areas to seek equal treatment regarding sports and recreation. The first case to reach the Supreme Court in that regard is the Casey Martin case. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions involving the ADA, the holding in the Martin case, issued on Tuesday, May 29th, was surprising and very positive. The U.S. Supreme Court held that the Professional Golf Association (PGA), cannot deny Casey Martin the privilege to play in their tournaments simply because he uses a golf cart. They ruled that his use of a golf cart does not fundamentally alter the game of golf even though other players in this tournament must walk.

The PGA sponsors three tours. While players can gain admission to these tours in various ways, it is usually done by qualifying through a three-stage competition known as the Q-School. Golfers can enter this competition by paying a $3,000 fee and submitting two reference letters from PGA members.

Golfers are not precluded from using golf carts during the first two stages of the QSchool competition, but are precluded from doing so at the third and final stage.

Casey Martin, now 28 years old, has had a very successful career in golf since the age of 15. Despite his disability, Martin has qualified in several competitions.

Casey Martin has a permanent and degenerative condition called Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber Syndrome. It is a degenerative circulatory disorder that

*

not a public accommodation, but a private club with a select membership not open to the public. Private clubs are exempt from coverage under the ADA. In case the Court didn’t buy its “private club” argument, the PGA made an alternate argument that the golf tournaments constituted a public accommodation only in terms of providing entertainment to spectators, and did not constitute a public accommodation with regard to the participation of players.

In other words, the PGA had to make the sport accessible to spectators but not to players. The PGA argued that the portion of the golf course “behind the ropes” was not a public accommodation beIn response to the PGA’s cause the general public had refusal to let him use a cart, no right to enter the area.

Martin filed suit in Oregon District Court alleging that The District Court held that the PGA was violating Title any member of the public can III of the ADA by not enter the Q-School competimodifying their rule regard- tion if they have the $3,000 ing the use of carts so that he fee and two reference letters could continue to compete to from PGA members. Thus, qualify for the PGA tourna- the membership is not selecment. Martin alleged that tive and the PGA is not a their unwillingness to modify private club. The District their rules regarding the third Court further held that the stage of the Q-School compe- PGA constituted a public tition resulted in discrimina- accommodation as it was a tion against him because of “commercial enterprise operhis disability. The two issues ating in the entertainment to be decided by the Court industry for the economic were: A. Do the PGA’s golf benefit of its members.” Thus, tournaments constitute a pub- both spectators and players lic accommodation for pur- were protected from discrimiposes of the ADA? B. If so, nation under Title III of the can the PGA successfully ADA, and the PGA was a raise the defense that allowing public accommodation for Martin to use the cart in this purposes of the ADA. third stage of Q-School competition is a fundamental The District Court then realteration of the game and viewed a great deal of therefore not required by the evidence regarding whether ADA? The District Court or not walking the golf course determined that the PGA did was an essential part of the constitute a public accommo- game. If it were found to be an dation for purposes of the essential element of the game, ADA, and that Martin’s use of then allowing Martin to use a a cart would not fundamen- cart might constitute a “fundamental alteration” of the tally alter the game of golf. game. Public accommodations are not required to The PGA Arguments The PGA argued at the modify rules and procedures District Court level that it was if such modifications fundamentally alter the program itself. The Court ultimately accepted the testimony of Martin’s expert that walking the golf course did not inject physical fatigue into the game for golfers without disabilities. The expert testified that the main elements injecting fatigue and stress into the game were the mental efforts it took to plot strategy and time shots.

The Court credited testimony that the amount of fatigue Martin suffered—even using a cart— was greater than the fatigue others had while walking the course. obstructs the flow of blood from his right leg to his heart.

His right leg has already atrophied. He still has limited ability to walk, but too much walking causes pain, fatigue, and anxiety. In addition, too much walking can cause him to have life-threatening blood clots, or put him at high risk of fracturing his tibia so severely that amputation of his leg might be required. Throughout his golfing career, Martin has always used a cart. Martin submitted letters from his doctor to the PGA, indicating why it was necessary for him to use a cart during the third stage of the Q-School competition. The PGA denied his request to use a cart.

Testimony to the Court indicated that Martin had no extra advantages by using the cart.

Golfers, including Martin, testified that they would rather walk than use a cart, that they did not believe it gave them an extra advantage because they were more in control of the ball when walking.

Ultimately, the Court determined that the essential element of the game was moving a golf ball from the tee into the hole using as few shots as possible. Thus, Martin’s use of the cart did not constitute a fundamental alteration of the game. The District Court entered a permanent injunction ordering the PGA to let Martin play using a cart.

The PGA appealed the ruling, and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with the District Court on all of the essentials of the case, and affirmed the District Court’s decision and its order that Martin be allowed to use a cart when playing in PGA tournaments.

ment, not unlike a theater.

While spectators, or audience members, were protected by Title III of the ADA, players were really independent contractors and providers of the entertainment of the tournaments, not unlike actors.

Thus, only spectators, or customers, must be afforded the advantages and privileges of a public accommodation.

The Supreme Court rejected this argument saying that players were not independent contractors but were, in fact, customers, who paid the PGA a fee for the privilege of participating in the tournament. If they were winners, they might get financial rewards, including advertising contracts on television, but that did not make them employees or independent contractors employed by the PGA. Thus, the court affirmed that players are covered by the public accommodation provisions of the ADA. The Court further reaffirmed, using the same arguments accepted by the lower Courts, Within the same week that the that allowing Martin to use a Ninth Circuit released its cart did not fundamentally decision upholding Martin’s alter the game. right to play golf using a cart, the Seventh Circuit Court of The Court then went on to Appeals, in Ollinger vs. address the administrative USGA, reached the opposite burden defense raised by the conclusion with regard to Seventh Circuit in Ollinger another golfer with disabili- even though it had not been ties who was suing the USGA raised in Martin. The Court because it would not let him said that the few applications use a cart in tournaments. The the PGA would get from Seventh Circuit did not dis- qualified applicants who pute that the USGA consti- would be precluded from tuted a public accommoda- playing because of their tion for purposes of the ADA. disabilities did not rise to the The Court asserted, however, level of an undue administrathat requiring the USGA to tive burden. The Court further review individual applica- said that athletic tournament tions for a waiver from the sponsors were required to rule that everyone must walk consider the individual cirand not use carts constituted cumstances of a case to an administrative burden that determine whether a specific the USGA shouldn’t have to modification for the person’s bear. The Court held that disability would be reasoninstituting a uniform neutral able, necessary for the rule would remove that ad- person’s participation, and ministrative burden.

The would not fundamentally alter Court also held that granting a the nature of the game. The waiver of the walking rule and Court said that failure to do allowing Ollinger to use a cart this individualized analysis, fundamentally altered the and unwillingness to consider game of golf. When two modifying a rule might well conflicting appellate deci- cause discrimination against sions come about, the U.S. persons with disabilities and Supreme Court will often certainly did not fall within agree to review the issue if the spirit of the law as someone appeals. The PGA Congress intended it when in the Casey Martin case did they passed the ADA. appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.

A Win For the Disability Community The PGA introduced a new This decision is definitely a argument this time to explain win for the disability commuwhy it was not a public nity. We can assume that accommodation. It argued more persons with disabilities that the PGA Tournament, will seek inclusion in sporting and the golf course leased for events, in contests of all sorts. such tournaments, were places It is the first recognition by of exhibition and entertain- this Court that persons with

disabilities have the right to participate in sporting events and in recreational opportunities available to persons without disabilities.

The Court clearly intended, however, that this be a narrow ruling and assumes that there will be very few persons who are talented enough to compete in elite athletic events, and who have disabilities severe enough to preclude their participation without modifying a rule.

F or example, the Court advises that discomfort when walking would not constitute a disability severe enough to qualify a person for such rule modifications.

Reviewing the dissent in this case reminds us that we must continue to be watchful. The dissenting opinion was written by Justice Scalia and was joined by Justice Thomas.

Justice Scalia said in his dissent that the Court had made its decision out of “compassion” rather than reason. Justice Scalia believes that people with disabilities need only be allowed to participate in sporting events if they can do so without any modification of the rules, and that such events are defined as public accommodations only for the spectators of such events. Justice Scalia argued that this decision will lead to a plethora of cases, perhaps even to the parents of a Little Leaguer with attention deficit disorder arguing that their child, because it took him more time or concentration to hit a ball, should be allowed four strikes instead of three.

People with disabilities must keep in mind that we are now in a new administration.

President Bush will probably have the opportunity in the next four years to appoint one or two Supreme Court Justices as other Justices on the Court retire. President Bush has indicated that Justices Scalia and Thomas represent the model for the kind of Justice he would appoint to the Court. This could lead to a complete control of the Court by conservative activists intent on re-writing Civil Rights laws. We must be constantly vigilant and protest mightily the appointment of others with such conservative and misguided views to the Court as those expressed in the most recent dissent. Q Kathy Hagen is a staff attorney with the Minnesota Disability Law Center

*

*

P

he Minnesota Department of Human Services is seeking applications for three new regional citizen committees that will provide advice on the state’s direct services to people with mental illness, developmental disabilities, chemical dependency, traumatic brain injury and other disabilities.

erning Board, a citizen group that sets strategic policy direction for the system.

Among issues the committees will be asked to address are: • Clients’ satisfaction with services; • Service needs of the regions and how SOS might fill service gaps; and • Availability, access and quality of care provided by “The Ventura Administration SOS. is committed to citizen involvement and satisfaction One regional advisory comwith government. In keeping mittee will be appointed for with this, we are seeking each of the three regional greater grassroots participa- State Operated Services nettion in shaping services that works: touch the lives of thousands of • Northern—including AhMinnesotans each year,” said Gwah-Ching Center in Human Services CommisWalker, Brainerd Regional sioner Michael O’Keefe. “Our Human Services Center, goal is to attract people active Fergus Falls Regional Treatin their communities to make ment Center and Moose recommendations about State Lake Regional State OperOperated Services and also to ated Services; communicate about these ser- • Metro—including Anokavices to the public.”

Metro Regional Treatment Center, Eastern Minnesota State Operated Services (SOS) State Operated Community includes the state regional Services and the Minnesota treatment centers and also Extended Treatment Opprovides other communitytions Program; and based services to people with • Southern—including St. Pedisabilities, often in partnerter Regional Treatment Cenship with other health care ter and Willmar Regional providers.

Treatment Center campuses and community services.

The advisory committees will be charged with bringing The Southern and Metro observations, questions and groups will have 10 to 15 concerns to the attention of members; the Northern group the commissioner, SOS man- will include 15 to 20 memagement, and the SOS Gov- bers. Committee members

will meet at least quarterly beginning in September 2001 at a location within the region.

Committees will determine future meeting dates and locations.

Initial appointments will be for one, two, and three-year terms. Members may be reappointed.

11

Auto Voice Technology Testing Volunteers Needed

State Disability Committees Seeking Applications T

June 10, 2001

A

ssistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMN) announces a call for volunteers to assist us in a collaborative research study / fundraising event. Beginning June 11, 2001 through the end of June 2001, we are engaging in a research study with the University of Colorado to test new voice recognition software to be integrated into new automobiles.

Experience in health care is not required, although understanding of the needs of We need 100 volunteers, 18 people with disabilities will years of age and older to be considered a strong asset. participate in the study. Each volunteer will spend one hour Service will be voluntary. of time with staff from ATMN However, travel and related and the researchers from the expenses will be reimbursed. University of Colorado. The volunteer will accompany the Applications may be down- research team member by loaded from the DHS website riding along in a new Chevrolet at www.dhs.state.mn.us/news- Blazer equipped with voice room/news/openappt.pdf or recognition software and a can be obtained by contacting variety of technology devices.

Debbie Rielley, Department of Human Services, State Operated Services Support Division, 444 N. Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55115-3826, the supporters, from advertistelephone (651) 582-1882. ers, to monetary donors, to She also can be reached via donors of time. the Internet at debbie.rielley @state.mn.us o r the Minne- Charlie would have said that sota Message Relay Service, he had an idea, and that the idea was not to share his TTY (800) 627-3527. spirituality, but rather to The deadline for applications create a voice for those unis June 22. Orientation to SOS heard, for those disenfranand the strategic plan estab- chised, for those left behind in lished by the SOS Governing a racing, self-focused world.

Board is scheduled for late Charlie enjoyed his abilities and I am sure his success at August. Q bringing his idea as far as it

The volunteer will be the passenger and asked to navigate a predetermined local city-driving route by using the technology installed in the Blazer.

This takes just one hour of your time. We will be using the Administration Building at the State Capitol for our meeting place for the first 510 days, June 11-June 20.

Volunteers will meet at the Administration Building, review the information and then take a test ride in the fully equipped Blazer. We will be using the ATMN office location for the second driving route of the study beginning on June 21 through the end of the study, late June.

ing Site or join us at the ATMN office located just off Highway #12 in Maple Plain (about 30 minutes west of downtown Minneapolis).

Volunteers are asked to call the ATMN office at 763-479-8239 leave your full name and a daytime telephone number or send an email to cfury @tds.net.

ATMN receives a stipend for each volunteer who participates in the study. Call a friend or two and sign up for this exciting adventure in application of technology to mobility.

For more information on the study, go to the University of Colorado Web Site, or http:// Volunteers have the opportu- cslr.colorado.edu or http://cu nity to sign up for either the move.colorado.edu Q State Administration Build-

SPIRITUALITY - Cont. from p. 3 had come. He enjoyed the hunt for information, the challenges of fairness in representation of comments.

He enjoyed the fights that were a part of the territory of change.

I will remember all the comments others shared about Charlie Smith. I will remember his gentle prodding to get this column in; his respectful prodding to make it more diverse but keep it focused on

spirituality. Keep it applicable to the daily lives of those we all serve.

Charlie, thank you for the forum, for the spirituality you conveyed through who you were as a person, as a leader, a friend, family member, mentor to many, and as a very fine human being. Your Spirituality will live on as an example of what we can all strive to become, a person who respects and cares for others. Q

PROFILE - Cont. from p. 7 munity?” He was shocked! It really struck me then, how distant the disabled community is from one other. We are brought up in an able-bodied world, ashamed of our disability, and therefore ashamed to make contact with one

another.

For example, when I was in college, some people in the Disabled Students Organization decided that they wanted to rename the organization to something without the word

disabled in it. Every other minority organization in the school identified their minority in the title (such as the African American’s Student Organization) but we didn’t want to be known as a group of disabled people. That’s

how ashamed we are of who we are.

Home Care Services People with disabilities need to get together more. Most people with disabilities don’t even realize the PCA program wasn’t given to us, but that the disabled leaders in our community fought to make it happen. We all don’t have to be on a mission, but we do need to unite and embrace one another if we are ever going to overcome our oppression and loneliness. Q

Available 24 hours per day 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

Don't Miss An Issue! Subscribe Today! $15 Buys A Full Year (12 Issues) Of ACCESS PRESS Name ______________________________________________________________ Street __________________________________ City ________________________ State _______ Zip __________________ Telephone _____________________ 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.

(651) 644-2133

ns ptio i r c s t Sub e grea k ma fts! gi

MAIL TO: ACCESS PRESS • 1821 University Ave. W. • #185N • St. Paul, MN 55104

Access@mninter.net

*

*

*

12

P

June 10, 2001

Commentary

Lawsuit Filed For Sports Citizens With Disabilities Accessibility; Many Want To Contribute Facilities Not Accessible To Minnesota’s P Economic Future

by The Minnesota Disabiltiy Law Center

by The Disability Institute

T

he unemployment of Minnesotans with disabilities who can and want to work is at an unacceptable rate of 50%. Minnesota must reduce this alarming statistic and dramatically increase the employment opportunities and self-sufficiency of its citizens with disabilities. This can only be accomplished by delivering workforce development programs to Minnesotans with disabilities in 21st Century ways that meet two needs: 1) job seekers with disabilities and 2) employers.

have hired people with disabilities would encourage others to do likewise.

The Disability Institute’s publication “Better Jobs, Brighter Futures” reported that stereotypical attitudes toward and low expectations of people with disabilities are fundamental barriers and obstacles to increasing the competitive employment of this population. Due to yesterday’s thinking, people with disabilities still face poor education and training. Unfortunately, much of our state’s workforce Minnesota’s long-term labor development programs reshortage is a threat to our flect these outdated notions. economic future. For starters, one only has to consider the The timing is perfect for retiring baby boomers. Em- overhauling Minnesota’s employers in Minnesota will ployment and training system: need skilled, qualified, and reliable people to perform a • New laws are on the books, variety of jobs. Studies reveal for the first time, that that 87% of employers who provide employment incen-

Private Pay HOME CARE z

Exceptional Home Health Aides

z

Live-in or Hourly

z

Licensed, bonded, insured

z

We serve the entire metro area

Homewatch Living Assistance

763-546-8899

tives for people with disabilities • Major advances in medicine and technology offer unprecedented opportunities • Studies repeatedly show that the overwhelming majority of unemployed people with disabilities want to work • Minnesota has unparalleled existing resources and expertise that can be utilized and coordinated According to Wendy Brower, Executive Director of The Disability Institute, “People with disabilities want to be valued, supported, welcomed, and respected. They want to contribute in meaningful ways, feel better about themselves, and live up to their potential.”

She further stated, “People with disabilities want better employment opportunities and simply do not want jobs that someone else decides are ‘suitable’ for them. People with disabilities should be viewed as solutions to Minnesota’s labor force challenges.”

As Minnesota’s job training system is examined, it is absolutely essential to seek meaningful input from all major stakeholders in the process.” People with disabilities are pivotal!

Minnesota government must roll up its sleeves, assemble ALL its talent, and create a win-win solution for all Minnesotans. Q

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 Cami, for employment as a personal care attendant call Al or Angie.

Accessible Space, Inc.

*

atricia Scott started a lawsuit on May 24, 2001 in State District Court against the City of Brooklyn Park and the Brooklyn Park Athletic Association (BPAA). Scott is suing the City of Brooklyn Park to remove physical obstacles in its parks which keep her from being able to take advantage of recreational opportunities available in those parks for people who do not use a wheelchair or other walking aid, and for compensatory damages. Scott is suing the BPAA because they currently do not schedule sporting events in space that is accessible to persons who use wheelchairs. Scott is not suing BPAA for monetary damages.

Scott had polio as a child, and now has Post-Polio Syndrome. Because she has very limited ability to walk, she uses a motorized wheelchair.

Scott is a single parent with a son, Zachary, who is now 12 years old. Zach loves sports, and takes advantage of most of the recreational sports programs available to him as a Brooklyn Park resident, including soccer, baseball, basketball and football.

“Ever since my son was five years old and played T-ball, I have not known, from game to game, from sport to sport, whether or not I would be able to participate at his games and events in the same way that parents without disabilities do. Parents come to these games, sit together and socialize with each other, shout encouragement to their children, even talk to them if they have problems in the game, or bring them ice if they get an injury, all kinds of things.

When I try to attend Zach’s games, his practice games, or award ceremonies or picturetaking ceremonies, I often cannot participate, or I am relegated to sitting in isolated space away from the rest of the parents and the teams.

This is humiliating and very painful for me,” Scott said.

In addition, Patricia Scott is unable to participate in many other park activities. “The City has 55 beautiful parks which offer great opportunities for family recreation, including hikes, picnics, and children’s sporting events. I can’t participate in most of these activities, and other people who use wheelchairs would not be able to either, because we cannot independently navigate parks where

there are no accessible pathways,” Scott said. “I’ve also seen elderly persons, persons who broke their legs and are on crutches, mothers with strollers, all kinds of people, who have trouble navigating these parks when there are no accessible paths,” Scott adds.

Attorneys from the Minnesota Disability Law Center are representing Scott in this lawsuit. They filed a complaint on behalf of Scott in District Court against the City of Brooklyn Park for its unwillingness to remove physical barriers in its parks.

Scott wants the City of Brooklyn Park to remove physical obstacles, to provide accessible pathways and public toilets, and to provide handicapped parking. “I am suing the City for monetary damages as well. I want to send a message that they cannot continue to ignore their responsibility to make the parks accessible,” said Scott. Scott is not suing the BPAA to recover any monetary damages.

The barriers she has encountered include: no handicapped parking in some parks, no accessible pathways to fields or bleachers, wire barriers surrounding the parking lot which prevent her from getting into the park, and lack of accessible public toilets.

Scott wants the City to remove those physical obstacles. She also wants the City to compensate her in monetary damages for the emotional distress she has suffered over the years trying Scott’s attorneys, Kathy to access various parks and Hagen and Rick Macpherson, state that the City of Brooklyn services.

Park was required to remove Scott is also bringing suit all physical obstacles and against the Brooklyn Park make its facilities and proAthletic Association for con- grams accessible by June 7, tinuing to schedule programs 1985. “Sixteen years after and events in parks which are that date, the City has still not not accessible to Scott or removed physical barriers in other persons with disabilities its parks. This is a violation of in violation of the Minnesota the public service provisions Human Rights Act and the of the Minnesota Human Americans with Disabilities Rights Act,” states Hagen.

Act. “I’m not suing Brooklyn The parks included in the suit Park Athletic Association for are the ones that Scott has money. I just want them to used in connection with her schedule their programs and son’s games and athletic athletic events in accessible activities. These parks include: the two soccer complaces,” Scott said. plexes, Central Park, North Since the summer of 1998, Woods Park, Norwood Park, Scott has discussed the prob- River Park, Zanewood Park lems with staff of the City’s and Monroe Park. Scott Parks and Recreation Depart- believes, however, many other ment, and has even toured parks are also not accessible some of the more problematic to persons who use wheelparks with staff to demon- chairs or other walking aids. strate the access problems.

“The City and the Brooklyn In June 1999, when no Park Athletic Association substantial changes had oc- both should have been workcurred, Scott filed a com- ing toward making all parks plaint against the City with the and recreational opportuniDepartment of Human Rights. ties accessible to anyone with They were The Department investigated a disability. the charge and found Prob- putting the burden on me to able Cause to believe that the take extra steps to provide my City had discriminated against own access. Even when I took Scott. She participated for those extra steps, the practice several months in a process of games remained inaccessible conciliation through the Of- to me, and many scheduled fice of the Attorney General games were held in parks in an attempt to settle this which were not accessible. I complaint with the City. always had to worry, any time While her charge resulted in I went to a game or practice some improvements by the game, or to pick Zach up from City in some of its parks, the a practice game, or tried in City was unwilling to take any way to participate, that I measures to remove physical would not be able to even get obstacles in compliance with into the park. It creates constant tension and anxiety the law. every time Zach has a sporting “I want to send a message” event,” Scott said. Q

*

*

P

STRESS - Cont. from p. 1 but never file a workers’ out a workers’ compensation compensation claim for fear claim, but didn’t reach a court they will lose their jobs, says settlement until late in 1996.

Barnes.

Barnes started ARMS in The direct and indirect costs 1992, to offer educational and of RMDs in the workforce is emotional support to others staggering. According to a with RMDs. When she started report by the National Acad- the organization, she said, “I emy of Sciences, the esti- met with some resistance. A mated workers’ compensa- local journalist told me there tion costs in the United States weren’t enough people [with associated with lost workdays RMDs] to get it off the range between $13 and $20 ground.” Barnes later found billion annually. When the out the journalist’s own son indirect costs of lost wages, had Nintendo thumb, an productivity, and tax rev- RMD caused by the repetitive enues are factored in, it’s hand motions involved in estimated that an additional playing video games. Within $45 to $54 billion are drawn weeks of the appearance of an out of the economy annually article in a local paper for disorders reported as covering Barnes’ organizawork-related. tion, Barnes said she began getting swamped with teleBarnes has a thorough under- phone calls to her Santa Rosa, standing of RMDs and all the California home from people legal, social, and political looking for information and situations surrounding them. support.

Barnes, who has carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and Crippling and Debilitating fibromyalgia, discovered she was injured in 1991, when she Although most RMDs dewas working for a large velop over long periods of publishing company. Like time, according to Barnes, many workers, Barnes had one of the most shocking been wearing one too many things about these disorders is hats at the company and was how quickly the symptoms either on the phone or using a can develop, and how cripcomputer for long hours every pling and debilitating they can day. After she began having be. One physical therapist pain in her wrists, Barnes took told Barnes that pain is the last

symptom of a developing RMD, the last sign before more permanent damage sets in.

them out through lay-offs,” said Barnes, marking the start of an often uphill battle for sufferers of RMDs.

According to a 1999 article in the Journal of the American Medical Association, more than 200,000 surgeries for carpal tunnel syndrome are performed each year in the United States, “which makes it the most common surgical procedure performed on the hand.” JAMA also said direct medical costs for these surgeries are estimated to be more than $1 billion per year.

The process of finding appropriate medical care can be confusing, and often extends beyond the period of time allocated by workers’ compensation. “Many specialists think their niche is the answer, but it’s a very complex situation,” said Barnes, who has spoken with ergonomics specialists, chiropractors, alternative health care professionals, medical doctors, physical therapists, and other practitioners. She said it’s important for anyone suffering from an RMD to get an exam that can be called either a “physical capacities” or “assessment exam” so they can prove they are capable of navigating the vocational rehabilitation system.

In Barnes’ case, she had been working on computers since the early 1970s, as a writer, teacher, and bookkeeper. It wasn’t until she began to feel the pain of her injuries that she realized how important is was for her to have an ergonomically-designed workstation and a hands-free telephone. Like many companies, especially in the early 1990s, Barnes’ employer took a passive stance in regard to her situation. “It’s really common for employers to act like it isn’t happening,” said Barnes.

There are a variety of measures that can be taken, both on the part of the individual and on the part of the employer, to prevent RMDs from occurring in the first place. For example, work tables and monitors can be set at the correct height for “A lot of people [with RMDs] factory workers. The probwind up quitting their jobs, or lem, however, is that many employers find a way to ease victims of RMDs have no idea

June 10, 2001

13

that their pain has anything to do with the work they perform for an employer, said Debora Weinstock of the AFL-CIO. “People are intimidated against reporting. Some employers encourage people not to report so their workers’ compensation costs don’t go up. Some employers even provide incentives to encourage employees not to report their injuries,” she said.

workers’ compensation claim is accepted, insurance companies will find ways to get people out of the system so they aren’t covered.” In her case, Barnes’ doctor had to submit a report every 30 days, and if it was late, her benefits were abruptly cut off. She urges people with RMDs to have a reliable attorney and a physician who can document their case and provide copies of the reports if needed for Peter Rachleff, a professor in legal reasons. the History Department at Macalester College who has “What’s happening with the worked as a union consultant ergonomics legislation is the for the past 25 years, agrees most telling indication of with Weinstock. “The politi- what’s happening in this cal structure in this country is country [with RMDs],” said not prepared to recognize Barnes. Read about recent what a difficult place the legislative developments reworkplace is,” he said. “Prob- garding RMDs and ergonomlems such as carpal tunnel, ics in Minnesota and the backaches, insomnia, and nation in the next issue of stress-related problems are Access Press. Q not taken seriously or investiFor additional information gated.” on RMDs, the following Web Barnes said the recognition of sites may be of use: the RMDs as a disability by Occupational Safety and official state or federal agen- Health Administration, at cies is erratic, depending on www.osha.gov; the American the agency and the people Federation of Labor and working in it. She also said Congress of Industrial Orgathat how workers’ compensa- nizations, at www.aflcio.org; tion cases are handled and the U.S. Bureau of Labor how they are resolved vary Statistics, at www.bls.gov; tremendously. She said in and the National Academy of some states, “Even if a Sciences, at www.nas.edu.

GET MORE OUT OF YOUR MEDICARE. If you’re eligible for Medicare, UCare for Seniors can provide additional health care benefits designed to fit your needs and your budget. There are two different levels of coverage to choose from. Both options provide generous benefits, including free eye, hearing and physical exams, worldwide emergency and urgent care coverage and more. For an affordable monthly plan premium, you receive 100% coverage on many services that you might otherwise have to pay for out of your own pocket. That’s one reason why thousands of Minnesotans have chosen UCare for Seniors. Maybe you should, too.

Free Information Packet. Call 612-676-3500 Toll Free 1-877-523-1518 Hearing Impaired 612-676-6810 UCare Minnesota is a Medicare+Choice organization with a Medicare contract. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium.

You must use plan providers. Anyone eligible for Medicare living in the following UCare for Seniors service area may apply: Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Washington, and select zip codes in Mille Lacs (55371, 56330, 56363, 56313, 56353) and Wright (55328, 55390, 55349, 55363, 55373, 55358, 55313, 55376, 55341, 55301, 55362, 55380, 55320 )

*

*

*

P

June 10, 2001

14

Charlie Smith Memorialized On June 3rd, 2001

by Nathan Halvorson

D

uring Charlie Smith’s 47 years, he impacted the lives of people from a wide array of backgrounds and persuasions.

On Sunday, June 3rd—“Charlie Smith Day” in the state of Minnesota— more than one hundred of those people gathered at the Phalen Park Pavilion in Saint Paul, Minnesota to remember the life and work of this remarkable man.

Sponsored by Access Press, with help from many organizations and people in the disability community, the event served as a rally and rededication to the spirit of Charlie and how he lived his life—as a quiet, determined, and resilient fighter for disability and human rights.

onto the pavilion floor, a parade of speakers gave the audience a variety of vivid impressions and memories of the late Access Press cofounder and publisher. In the eyes of the event’s opening speakers—Senator Paul Wellstone, U.S. Representative Betty McCollum, and County Commissioner Pete As the late-day sun broke McLaughlin—Charlie was rethrough the clouds and membered as a teacher. splashed bright, clear light Wellstone remarked, “If I had to identify one of my real teachers in the community, it was Charlie Smith.”

Yoga And You

by Matthew Sanford

W

hat is this yoga craze, anyway? Why is it making the cover of TIME Magazine?

Who knows exactly why any fad catches fire? But the disciplined practice of yoga does offer a plethora of benefits: added strength, improved balance, increased flexibility, not to mention a heightened sense of well-being.

been living with a spinal cord injury, paralyzed from the chest down, for the last twenty-two years. I have been practicing yoga for over a decade.

What yoga teaches is that ‘where’ and ‘how’ your mind resides within your body truly matters. The more conscious, the more precise your presence is, the greater the benefit.

But does yoga offer these This truth does not discrimithings to someone living with nate. Everyone is welcome. a disability? The answer is: Absolutely yes! For nearly The Courage Center yoga three years, I have been class is offered on Thursday teaching a yoga class at the nights from 6:30 to 8:00, in Courage Center, open to all, the gym. For more informaincluding people with special tion, call Pat Friese in the needs. I know with certainty Sports and Recreation Dethat the benefits of yoga are partment at the Courage accessible to everyone. I have Center: (763) 520-0473. Q

Governor’s office. When the group demanded they be allowed to speak directly to the Governor about PCA/ TEFRA legislation, they were told the Governor was unavailable. To this, Charlie replied plainly and firmly, “We’ll just wait here, then.”

And wait they did. To protect his fellow demonstrators, Charlie had even arranged for an attorney to be present, aware of the possibility that group members might be jailed for using such tactics.

However, much to the delight of the demonstrators—and Mc-Laughlin added that much to the consternation of “Charlie Smith had a clear the State Troopers present— agenda and there was no no one could figure out how to backing down.” transport the “Wheelchair Dozen” to jail!

Long-time activist Jeff Bangsberg illustrated Mc- Former state representative Laughlin’s point with an Lee Greenfield commended anecdote of Charlie as an Charlie for his solid journaladvocate. In 1996, Charlie led ism. Greenfield pointed out to a demonstration at the those in attendance that

Charlie was not like the average journalist. For one thing, Greenfield said, “When Charlie Smith interviewed you, you knew that he knew what he was talking about.”

Charlie often was invited out into the community to speak to children about disability culture and issues. A touching moment came when some St. Paul schoolchildren spoke of the impact Charlie’s efforts had on them. Two notes written by these gradeschoolers appear elsewhere on this page.

Rick Cardenas, a longtime friend of Charlie, presented the audience with a view into their friendship. He remembered that they could talk together about music, beer, and women, topics that one “can’t talk to just anybody about.”

Charlie’s well-deserved reputation as a family man also received mention in the memorial. As Senator Wellstone said with conviction “He was a great uncle to his nieces and nephews.”

Representative McCollum spoke for many when she said that “The best way to honor Charlie’s spirit is to pass on the knowledge.”

Margot Imdieke Cross pointed out that Charlie’s legacy goes beyond simply knowing, reminding those present that “Charlie Smith was a man of action.”

Many of the presenters spoke of Charlie’s strengths with a call to the audience to carry on in honor of the example that he set. Access Press Board Member Steve Kuntz promised that “We will carry on the torch, Charlie.” Q

The following are two letters from young students at a St. Paul grade school.

They were read at the June 3rd Charlie Smith Day event: “We had a man named Charlie come into our classroom. He was in a wheelchair because when he was little it was a hot summer day and he and this girl were standing on a diving board. She was being funny and pushed him. He was trying to catch himself but instead of going into the water he fell on the concrete and from that day on he was in a wheelchair and in very critical condition. A couple of weeks ago he died and everyone he knows really misses him a lot. In loving memory of Charlie.”

“I did not know Charlie well over his lifetime. All I know is he was a good man. He came to our class. I was sad for him, but I got to know him well. I loved him, just like you. He made me a NEW person. He’s not in my family, but I loved him, it is sad. He was a great man—he forgave people. We will miss him for the great things he did. He is gone but his soul will live on. He did great things in his lifetime, but he’s in a better place and we will miss him every day. He is up in heaven and he is watching us every day with joy, hoping we will be strong, rejoicing in the sky above. He was the best man in the world, too. But one thing—he was strong.”

Professional Directory M.A.T. METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSIT, INC.

www.mainlevelliving.com

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

REAL ESTATE SERVICES, INC.

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

A GREA T RESOURCE! GREAT

DirectAbility.com 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.

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

R.C. SALES AND MFG., INC. 14726 Wake Street NE · Ham Lake, MN 55304 · (763) 786-6504

www.rcsalesmfg.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

Ellen Houghton • 952-404-9981 • ehought@juno.com

*

*

*

P

June 10, 2001

Access To Employment EMPLOYMENT ADS ARE $14 A COL. INCH; JUNE 29 IS THE DEADLINE FOR THE JULY 10 ISSUE. Mail to: ACCESS PRESS 1821 University Ave. • #185N St. Paul, MN 55104 • Fax 651-644-2136 • E-mail: access@mninter.net PROJECT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

Nursing OUTPATIENT MANAGER/ ADULT SERVICES Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, a regional medical facility that provides care for individuals with chronic disabilities, has a new opportunity for a dynamic Outpatient Manager.

This position exists to ensure the coordinated delivery of high quality, efficient and effective outpatient services to adult patients. Responsibilities include: effectively planning and managing for the ongoing operations of the department/ services; ensuring that services provided by staff meet the patient’s needs and standards along with coaching of staff; coordinating patient goals with multidisciplinary team members; managing program development and growth with program managers/ medical directors; implementing goals that contribute to the overall success of Gillette Children’s Mission, Vision and Values along with developing community relationships in support of this program.

To qualify for this position you must have an interest in and commitment to advancing services for adults with disabilities; have a BS or BA degree in nursing, occupational/ physical therapy, social work, psychology or other health related discipline, Masters preferred; knowledge, skills, and experience in human relationships, time management, problem solving, conflict resolution, policy and procedure development, finance and budget management, program analysis and development; supervisory and/ or management experience; working knowledge of reimbursement including Medicare; prefer experience working with adults with disabilities.

Gillette Children’s offers a competitive salary and benefit package. Interested candidates please send resume to Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, Human Resources Dept SH, 200 E. University, St. Paul, MN 55101, e-mail: shen negen@gillettechildrens.com or fax: (651) 290-8700. Job line: (651) 229-1728. Visit our website at: www.gillettechildrens.org

EOE/AA

*

Faegre & Benson LLP is seeking a highly self-motivated Project Support Specialist to work with an energized team of individuals supporting 850 users on a Microsoft network.

This position offers an opportunity to work on leading edge technology such as W2K server, NT server, SMS 2.0, IIS, Office 97, Windows 2000, Intranets and video-conferencing. You will contribute to all of these areas, with the primary focus on supporting end users. We are seeking individuals highly knowledgeable in PC hardware and software usage, installation, configuration and troubleshooting; and interested in advancing their career and working in a dynamic environment. We support education for Microsoft certification and are interested candidates either already on that track or who have completed their MSCE certification. Two to three years experience is required along with a 4-year degree in computer science or related discipline. Experience with SMS administration is highly desirable. This position also participates in a weekend on-call rotation schedule. We offer a professional environment, competitive wages and excellent benefits including a discounted bus program - Metropass. For additional information about Faegre & Benson, visit our web site at www.faegre.com.

Please send resume and salary history to Human Resources: FAEGRE & BENSON LLP 2200 Wells Fargo Center 90 South Seventh Street Minneapolis, MN 55402 Fax: 612-336-3846 Internet: HR@Faegre.com Equal Opportunity Employer

Accounting GENERAL ACCOUNTANT Faegre & Benson LLP, Minnesota’s second largest law firm, is seeking applicants for a General Accountant. This person reports to an Accounting Manager and works with various general ledger accounting functions including: analyses of accounts; reviewing and maintaining capitalized and leased fixed asset records; preparing ad hoc reports; completing special accounting projects and more.

Candidates should have a 4-yr. accounting degree; at least 2 yrs. general ledger experience; excellent communication and analytical skills; strong spreadsheet experience; and a team-oriented work style. We offer a competitive salary, outstanding benefits package, and exceptional opportunity for professional growth. For additional information about law firm, visit our web site at www.faegre.com Please send your resume and salary history to Human Resources: FAEGRE & BENSON LLP 2200 Norwest Center 90 South Seventh Street Minneapolis, MN 55402 Fax: 612-336-3846 E-Mail: HR@Faegre.com Equal Opportunity Employer Administrative HOSPITALITY SERVICES ASSISTANT Faegre & Benson LLP, a leading Minnesota law firm, has an immediate opening for a Hospitality Services Assistant This position will assist in ordering food for meetings; setting up various functions & meetings; Maintaining log books of food orders & inventory, along with a variety of other administrative duties. Our ideal candidate will have at least 1 year administrative experience; strong computer skills & attention to detail; ability to communicate successfully with many different personalities: and a team-oriented work style.

In addition, our candidate will be people, service & actionoriented. We offer a competitive salary and an outstanding benefits package, including a discounted bus program — Metropass. For additional information about our law firm, visit our web site www. faegre.com. Please send your resume and salary history to Human Resources:

St. Cloud Area Legal Services Housing Project seeks fulltime VISTA volunteer for 1 yr position to work as part of team to enforce fair housing rights of low-income tenants.

Tasks include tenant organizing, outreach & ed, fact development, investigation & litigation support. Attorneys and non-attorneys welcome to apply. Exper with affordable housing issues, tenant organizing, poverty law, or outreach & ed +. VISTA vol receives stipend for hlth ins, living, travel & training expenses.

To apply, request VISTA app & full job desc: Minnesota FAEGRE & BENSON LLP Housing Partnership, 1821 2200 Wells Fargo Center University Ave W, #S-137, 90 South Seventh Street St. Paul, MN 55104, www.

Minneapolis, MN 55402 mhponline.org or Ann Cofell, Fax: 612-336-3846 SCALS, 320-254-0121. Apps E-Mail: HR@Faegre.com accepted until position filled.

Equal Opportunity Employer

LEGAL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS

15

adv.s Morep. 14 on

Banking LOAN TRANSACTION SPECIALIST

Gray Plant Mooty, a 130+ attorney firm located in downtown Minneapolis, is seeking Faegre & Benson LLP, MinFaegre & Benson LLP, a lead- the following: nesota’s second largest law ing Minnesota law firm, great firm, is seeking applicants for PARALEGAL opportunities for Legal Ada Loan Transaction Specialist REAL ESTATE ministrative Assistants in both to assist banking/commercial our Corporate Finance and Paralegal with 5+ years of transaction lawyers in connecFloater groups. Ideal candi- transactional commercial real tion with commercial loan and dates will have at least 3 years estate experience. The candi- leasing transactions. Responlegal secretarial experience or date must have knowledge of sibilities include: preparing an an executive administrative procedures for recording docu- amending loan or leasing docubackground; excellent organi- ments, Torrens registration ments; reviewing and analyzzational and communication proceedings, and possess ing UCC, tax lien and judgskills; proficient word process- transaction experience. Must ment searches; assisting lawing skills; keyboarding at 60+ be client-oriented, demon- yers in preparing for and conwpm; along with a team- ori- strate excellent organizational ducting closings; and more. skills, be detail oriented, and Candidates must have a 4-year ented, flexible work style. have extensive writing and college degree with a strong These positions offer interest- editing experience. Paralegal academic record; and strong ing and fast-paced opportuni- certificate desired. skills in: computer software ties in a professional work enapplications; verbal and writPARALEGAL vironment. Faegre & Benson ten communication; attention FRANCHISE LLP offers competitive wages to detail; and organizational and an excellent benefits pack- Paralegal with 5+ years of fran- abilities. This position would age, including a discounted bus chise experience. Duties in- be an excellent experience for program–Metropass. For ad- clude assisting with the prepa- anyone considering a legal, ditional information about ration and filing of franchise banking or financial career.

Faegre & Benson, visit our registrations and related docu- We offer a rewarding and proweb site at www.faegre.com. ments, docketing of renewal fessional working environPlease send resume and salary deadlines, file maintenance, ment, and a competitive salary history to Human Resources: updating and maintaining at- and benefits package. For adtorney research/forms data- ditional information about base and assisting with fran- Faegre & Benson, visit our FAEGRE & BENSON LLP chise exemption and advertis- web site at www.faegre.com.

2200 Wells Fargo Center ing filings. Paralegal Certifi- Please submit resume and salcate desired.

90 South Seventh Street ary requirements to Human Minneapolis, MN 55402 Resources: LEGAL SECRETARIES Fax: 612-336-3846 Internet: HR@Faegre.com Gray Plant Mooty, 130+ attor- FAEGRE & BENSON LLP ney downtown Minneapolis 2200 Wells Fargo Center Equal Opportunity Employer law firm, is seeking experi90 South Seventh Street enced full and part time legal Minneapolis, MN 55402 Legal Aid’s Housing Discrimi- secretaries for permanent and Fax: 612-336-3846 nation Law Project seeks floating positions. Our current E-Mail: HR@Faegre.com full-time VISTA volunteer for openings include employment 1 yr position to work as part of law, transactional corporate, Equal Opportunity Employer legal advocacy team to enforce litigation, franchise and emfair housing rights of subsi- ployee benefits.

ATTORNEY dized tenants. Tasks include tenant organizing, outreach & We offer a professional ed, fact development, investi- work environment, educa- Mid-Minnesota Legal Assisgation & litigation support. tional opportunities, a cul- tance seeks full-time atty to Attorneys and non-attorneys ture emphasizing work/life work in St. Cloud office. Atty welcome to apply. Exper with balance, competitive sala- will provide assistance to affordable housing issues, ten- ries & benefits (including low-income clients on family ant organizing, poverty law. medical, dental, profit shar- law & other poverty law isor outreach & ed +. VISTA ing, and 401k). Send resume sues. Representation can invol receives stipend for hlth with cover letter to HR, clude service work, complex ins, living, travel & training Gray Plant Mooty, 3400 City litigation, legis/admin advoexpenses, To apply, request Ctr, 33 S. 6th St,, Mpls, MN cacy & community ed. StartVISTA app & full job desc: 55402; fax to 612-333-0066; ing sal: $30,000, excel benes, Minnesota Housing Partner- or e-mail to Anne including fully paid familyship, 1821 University Ave W, Weinauer@gpmlaw.com hlth, Resume: Ann Cofell, #S-137 St. Paul, MN 55104, SCALS, P.O. Box 886, St. Cloud, MN 56302. EOE. www.mhponline.org or MesEqual Opportunity and cal Urich, HDLP, 612/827Affirmative Action 3774. Apps accepted until poEmployer sition filled.

Corporate Finance & Floater Groups

TEACHER 8/26/01 start date Small school-to-career alternative h.s. seeks teacher interested in working with diverse population and able to teach a variety of subjects. Prefer mature individual who works well in a fast-paced team atmosphere. Licensed individual preferred, but will consider equivalent. Must be able to handle multiple priorities, have an understanding of learning styles and individualized learning strategies. People of color encouraged to apply.

Apply in person: LNB, 1925 Nicollet Ave., Mpls M-Th, 9-4 pm. Agency application req’d Deadline 7/15 or until filled.

EOE

*

*

16

P

June 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 1998 Dodge Ram S1500, like new - UNDER 4,500 MILES! Fully loaded (air, cruise, power everything) plus Waldoch custom conversion including raised roof, TVVCR,Crow River power wheelchair lift, power driver’s seat with hand driving controls. $32,000 OBO. 612279-5806(day)/612-7191329(eve) For Sale—1993 “Vibo” Pontoon Boat 24FT w/2/3 Canopy Wheelchair Widened DoorsSmall fold down ramp on front entrance. Less than 130 Hours use on 40 Horse Force Motor.

Elec. Start, Power Tiller, Fish depth finder, Live-well Asking $4900.00. Previous owner’s wheelchair users.

Contact: J.Schatzlein 952881-2129 or 651-215-2216.

Amigo electric wheelchair, dual wheels, charger, other accessories, $700.00, OBO, 952-831-6973.

Sponsorship levels: Basic (low income): $5.00

Jan Snook’s, Helpful Hints Computer Guidebook” is simple and understandable.

Hard covered book covers Word, Excel, and tips for the Internet. Jsnook1234@aol. com (612)378-2610 $19.00 Shipping. Also, other computer work requests perTwo Shower Chairs. One is formed. Free estimates. top of the line $3,000.00 New in the box, taking best offer. “Words of Love” is a CD by Other is $150.00. Call Bran- Snoopi Botten, a musician with don for more details at (763) cerebral palsy who writes and 427-0633 or (763) 458-7785. performs inspirational songs using a synthetic speech sysMISCELLANEOUS tem. To order, call (612) 872Summer Work. $14.25 7233 or visit Snoopi’s website Base—appt. No exp. Nec. PT/ at http://hometown.aol.com/ FT. Scholarships Avbl. Con- d e c t a l k / m y h o m e p a g e / ditions exist. Customer Sales/ index.html. service. No telemarketing, No multi-level. Apply Now. Call FOR RENT 651-268-0562. www.workfor Room for rent West Bank students.com or www.earnpart Condo: Private Bath $450.00/ time.com Month - Cable/Utilities Included Earn $720.00/Month Gary Reyzer’s Lawn Ser- Doing Personal Care For vice. Fall and Spring cleanup. Owner. 763-505-0089.

Mowing of yards through summer. (763) 755-2613.

1995 Chevy 20 White conversion van, sport, short wheel base. Full power. LOW MILES 25 M. Full Ricon List.

Automatic. EZ locks, power lock for wheelchair, Transfer seat—6 way power. $14,000 firm. (612)379-2629.

Holmes-Greenway Housing One and two bedroom apartments designed for physically handicapped persons. Convenient SE Minneapolis location.

Call (612) 378-0331 for availability information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Seward Square Apartments: We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list at Seward Square Apartments in Minneapolis. Seward Square is barrier-free housing and is federally subsidized. For an application, please call (612) 338-2680. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Lewis Park Apartments: Barrier free housing with wheelchair user in mind. Section 8 subsidized. One- and two bedroom units. For more information on availability call (651) 488-9923. St. Paul, MN Equal Opportunity Housing.

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 Carlyn Bryngelson Robert J. Geldert 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 ------------------------------------Lynda Adams Mary Andresen Marisa Bennett Mike & Karen Bjorgan Susan Blaylock Maynard Bostrom Bob Brick Wendy Brower Susan Bulger Deah Cain Lynne Corneli Stephanie Cunningham Marty Cushing Justin & Yoshiko Dart Jolene Davis LeRoy deBoom Barbara Droher Neil Doughty Craig Dunn Mel Duncan Lee Ann Erickson Candace/David Gislason Tom Gode Rep. Kevin Goodno Nadine & Andy Groven John Hoffman Bradley J. Holmes Ellen & Skip Houghton Judy Hunt Cindy & Gregory Johnson Ericka Johnson Linnea Johnson Hoff Barb Kane Mary Kay Kennedy Diah Kinion Beth Knutson-Kolodzne Eugene Kook Sherry Lampman Sue Lasoff Bruce Larson David Larson Linda Larson John Marty Dorothy McCoy Kathy Moran Paul Mueller Jim and Cindy Musselman Richard Peterson Margery Pilhofer Dwight & Chris Porter Barbara Proehl Virginia Puzak Julee Quarve-Peterson Kelly Rathcke Kim Rezek Fern Rogstad Stuart Rosen Ginger Rudberg Patricia Rydeen Arthur Sauter Elizabeth Smith Adele Spavin Diane Sprague Gerry and Barb Tollakson Caryl Wattman Mary Frank-Wawokiyawin Teri Welcher Curt Wiehle David Wood Accommodating Care, Inc. Accord Health Care Services All Temporaries, Inc Alliance for the Mentally Ill of MNArc of Anoka/Ramsey Cty Arc Suburban Arc Minnesota Axis Healthcare 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 Developmental Achievement Ctr Assoc. (MnDACA) MN Bio Brain Assoc.

NAMI New Dimensions Northeast Contemporary Services Resource S.M.I.L.E.S. ------------------------------------- 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 Ruth Riggs by Corbin Kidder Bill & Renee Smith by Helen Thompson Bill Smith by Kathy & Paul West Linda Wolford in memory of Tony Lebahn

*

------------------------------------- BRONZE SPONSOR ------------------------------------Sue Abderholden Steve Alarik Anonymous Susan Asplund David Baldwin Kathleen Ball Jeff Bangsberg Jill Bedow Janet Berndt Bill Blom Anita Boucher Tom Brick Deb Bryan Rick Cardenas Michael and Janice Chevrett Margot Imdieke Cross Robert Gregory Luther Granquist Doris Groven Lori Guzman Martha Hage Roger A. Hoffman Dianna Krogstad Linda Lattin LoRene Leikind Lolly Lijewski Joel McGuiggan Christopher Meyer Cliff Miller Jim Morse Bill Niederloh William O’Dowd Manley Olson Louise Pattridge David & Marilyn Phillips Catherine Reid & Liddy Rich Ann Roscoe Rick Ryan Barb Smith John Smith Peter & Pamela Stanfiel Mary Jane Steinhagen Erica Stern Eric & Carline Stevens J. Quinn Tierney Helen Thompson Candace Warne Linda Wolford Jerrold Wood Joe & JoAnn Zwack Dept. of Occupat’l Therapy-U of MDiv. MN Rehab. Assoc Job Placement & Dvlpmt FastServ Minnesota Work Incentives Connection Merrick Companies Pat Siebert, MN Dis. Law Ctr. National Results Council New Ways United Cerebral Palsy of MN ------------------------------------- SILVER SPONSOR ------------------------------------Jamie Becker Robert E. Buuck LeAnne & Larry Dahl Chris Duff Catherine Eilers M. Therese Gockenbach Paula Goldberg Judy Haaversen David and Susan Houghton Lynn Noren Michael Otubushin RISE Inc. Dean Doering & Lisa Scribner Kevin Sullivan Kathy West Kay Willshire Arc Hennepin County Help Yourself Job Placement and Development Division, MN Rehab Assn Mental Health Consumer/Survivor Network Mpls. Advisory Committee Pacer Center St. Paul Mayors Advisory Committee on People with Disabilities Twin City Transportation Vinland Center ------------------------------------- GOLD SPONSOR ------------------------------------Scott Beers Shirley Larson Ronna Linroth Margaret Perryman Bridget & Diane SmithIn Home Personal Care, Inc. MILS ------------------------------------- DIAMOND SPONSOR ------------------------------------Case Management Systems, Inc. Rapit Print ------------------------------------- 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 U of M Occupational Therapy Education Program by Erica Stern ------------------------------------- BENEFACTOR SPONSOR ------------------------------------Medtronic Foundation

*