February 2006 Edition - Access Press by Access Press

February 10, 2006

Inside

“We shouldn’t offer assistance with suicide until we all have the assistance we need to get out of bed in the morning and live a good life.”

■ Chemical Sensitivities— p. 8 ■ Dancing With Disabilities— p. 11 ■ Service Dogs— p. 14

— Anonymous Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 18, Number 2

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

February 10, 2006

ADA Breaks Into Prison System T by Chuck Campbell

he Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to state prisons, “at least insofar as it reaches conduct that could also be challenged under the Fourteenth Amendment,” according to the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law. The petitioner’s brief in the case of Goodman v. Georgia notes:

No room to turn!

“The State has confined Goodman to a 12-foot by 3-

foot cell for twenty-three to twenty-four hours each day because of the inaccessibility of other facilities in the Georgia State Prison. The cell is too narrow to permit him to turn his wheelchair around. And because the bed in his cell is inaccessible, Goodman is often forced to sleep in his wheelchair or risk injury in transferring to his bed. “The State has not provided Goodman with accessible sanitary facilities. He has on

The Death With Dignity Act by Mark C. Siegel “Everything dies.”

hat was the first sentence of a law journal article I began writing in 1996. I was a secondyear law student, and I had chosen as my topic a critical analysis of a new law that had passed in Oregon: the Oregon Death with Dignity Act (ODDA). For the first time in the history of the United States, a state had legalized a form of physician-assisted suicide. In the decade that followed, the ODDA would be a touchstone for both sides of the debate swirling around physician-assisted suicide; a debate that continues even after a recent Supreme Court decision blocked a federal attempt to dismantle the ODDA. That decision prompted me to think about how my own views on the topic have changed over time. First, a little background on the ODDA is in order. The ODDA enables terminally-ill individuals, defined in statute as individuals with a permanent and irreversible condition that is expected to result in death in six months or less, to request a lethal dose of medication for the purposes of ending his or her life in a

“humane and dignified manner.” The statute contains safeguards to ensure that only qualified individuals can receive lethal doses of medication. A second physician must confirm the individual’s terminal diagnosis. If either physician suspects that the individual is suffering from depression or another psychiatric illness, the physician must refer the individual to appropriate counseling. No physician can actually administer the lethal dose of medication. According to a 2004 annual report from the Oregon Department of Human Services, approximately 208 individuals have committed physicianassisted suicide since the ODDA’s enactment in 1997. The ODDA has had a contentious history since voters first approved it in 1994. After a series of court injunctions, voters again approved the ODDA in a second referendum in 1997. In 2001, Attorney General John Ashcroft issued a directive stating that the federal Controlled Substances Act vested the Justice Department with the authority to suspend the license of any Oregon physician who

prescribed lethal doses of medication under the ODDA. Oregon challenged the Attorney General’s action and the case ultimately went to the Supreme Court. In a 6-3 decision issued in January 2006, the Court ruled that Ashcroft could not prohibit Oregon physicians from prescribing medication under the ODDA. The Court went on to say that only the states have the power to determine the scope of acceptable medical practice. While many media outlets reported on this decision as a victory for those who favor legalized physician-assisted suicide, the legal basis for the opinion is actually quite narrow and technical. The Court did not rule on the merits of the ODDA and drew no conclusions about the statute’s constitutionality. In fact, the Supreme Court decided in 1997 that there is no constitutionally-guaranteed right to die. When I wrote my article, I was firmly opposed to the ODDA. Like many disability activists, I believed the ODDA was the first skid on a slippery slope leading to the legalized euthanasia of people with disabilities. A society that already devalued the lives of

people with disabilities would only be too eager to offer a quick and painless death to not only terminally-ill individuals, but perhaps also to people who depend on lifesupporting technologies such as dialysis or ventilators. I mingled with supporters of Not Dead Yet and other disability organizations that opposed physician-assisted suicide. I was part of a movement. I saw my article as a means to warn readers about the perils that physician-assisted suicide presented to the disability community. But in the intervening years, my beliefs shifted. I can’t trace my change of heart to a specific moment or event. Perhaps I became suspicious of the “slippery slope” argument when I realized how few people were making use of the ODDA. Perhaps I started to question those disability activists who, in opposing physician-assisted suicide, seem to reinforce some of the more insidious stereotypes of people with disabilities: that we are weak and defenseless and incapable of rising above society’s low expectations for us. Perhaps I began to see laws like the ODDA as a senOregon - cont. on p. 22

a number of occasions experienced significant injuries (including broken bones) while attempting to transfer from his wheelchair to the toilet in his cell.” Bazelon reports: “… he was forced to sit in his own feces and urine.”

At issue was whether a state prison inmate can sue for money damages under ADA Title II. The state of Georgia did not seriously contest Goodman’s right to seek injunctive relief. An injunction is an order to stop doing something. The only cost is that engendered by the change in future behavior. Money damages, including possible punitive damages, can be enormously expensive, and they apply retroactively. The availability of money damages provides a greater incentive for compliance with ADA. An injunction by the Supreme Court would theoretically compel states to provide accessible facilities for paraplegic inmates. However, the somewhat greater cost of doing this might lead states that, for instance, provide wider cells, not to comply. They could argue that the circumstances were different, and if they lost in the courts, the only expense would be that of providing accessible facilities in the future. Should such a case go again to the Supreme Court, which takes years, the state would retain funds saved by denying accessible facilities while the suit was pending? Availability of money damages, which can amount to millions of dollars, provides the states an incentive to avoid lawsuits by complying with all ADA requirements, including those applicable to inmates with other physical and mental disabilities.

In its brief, the State of Georgia argued: “Title II of the ADA is not validly applied to allow state prisoners to bring suits for damages, as that title is not ‘appropriate legislation’ under (Section) 5 of the Fourteenth Amendment.” Georgia continued, asserting: “ … more is required before such laws of general application can be applied to permit access to a sovereign state’s treasury.” ADA Title II, Section 202. “Discrimination.” reads: “Subject to the provisions of this title, no qualified individual with a disability shall, by reason of such disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs, or activities of a public entity, or be subjected to discrimination by any such entity.” The Fourteenth Amendment prohibits a state from denying: “ … any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” Its Section 5 states: “The Congress shall have power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.” The ADA is a federal law, which the Fourteenth Amendment gives Congress the right to enforce. The State of Georgia, however, in its brief, argued that it has “sovereign immunity:” “The resolution of each of these questions should lead the Court to conclude that Congress did not validly abrogate state Eleventh Amendment immunity as applied to the class of cases where disabled inmates seek money damages ….” The Eleventh Amendment reads: “The Judicial power of the United States shall not be conADA In Prison - cont. on p. 16

February 10, 2006

abilities. I am eager to see how well ASL will be integrated into physician’s practices and how they will keep current their newly acquired skills. Also, what will be the next innovative idea to spring-board from Justin Dart is in my mind espe- this idea for medical profescially because Yoshiko Dart sionals to adapt in the everhas allowed us to print some changing healthcare field? more of Justin’s writings. I think it’s good for all of us to have Much more research is being reminders like Peter’s full spirit done to discover the amount of and Justin’s love of all human- sexual abuse occurring in the ity to keep us grounded. The disability community. The numword inspiring gets overused bers are staggering; over eight about the disability community, million incidents in the general but it’s fair to say that Justin’s population and researchers bewriting, like his life, is always lieve that the numbers per capita inspiring to those of us within are higher in the disability and the community. Don’t miss the elderly community. The abuse opportunity to read or re-read is committed by intimate partthe philosophy of one of our ners as well as by care-related true leaders—remembering abusers. Lance Hegland spoke with Dr. Dena Hassounehthat we must all be leaders. Phillips (p. 4) and she offered “Medical Students Develop some “warning signs” to idenSign Language Skills,” by tify abusers and people who are Erick Posner, is a great article being abused. The doctor also on an exciting new curriculum offers some suggestions for stopfor medical students. We’ve ping abuse before it happens. done articles on medical edu- We all need to keep an eye on cation before, but this one de- this, whether in the disability scribes a new approach to edu- community or not—physical, cating physicians to be more emotional, or sexual abuse of accessible to people with dis- any kind is unacceptable!

will, and a love of life. I’m sure that he will continue to find and be in pursuit of happiness for a long time to come. As Justin Dart would say, “Lead on, lead on,” Peter!

Tim Benjamin, Editor

he “First Lady of Civil Rights,” Coretta Scott King, died in her sleep on Jan 31, 2006. In the beginning of the civil rights movement, Mrs. King marched alongside her husband, but she will be remembered in her own right as an inspiration to millions as a lifelong political activist. Muscular Dystrophy is our “disability for definition” this month, and Peter Tacheny wrote us an outstanding piece on living with Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy. Peter’s article shows that he has a very strong spirit, a strong

On our front page, Mark Siegel has submitted a very interesting and well-thought-through article about some of the questions that continue to arise out of the U.S. Supreme Court decision on Oregon’s death with dignity act. Thanks, Mark. Continuing our focus on lifeand-death issues, we have an article by Lennard J. Davis, a professor of English, disability and human development, and medical education at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Davis teaches and writes about deafness and disability, and is editor of the Disability Studies Reader and director of Project Biocultures. Recently he authored the book, Bending Over Backwards: Disability, Dismodernism, and Other Difficult Positions. He has allowed us to print a summary of an article, “Life, Death, and Biocultural Literacy,” that was first published in the Chronicle of Higher Education (http: chronicle.com).The complete article is on Access Press’s Web site, and I hope the summary draws you to read it; Davis tackles many questions that all of us have about end-

of-life questions. Thank you very much, Professor Davis; we all appreciate your good work and advocacy. Last month I was able to test the proposed new accessible voting equipment. It’s more sophisticated than the voting machine that we are used to. It has an audio feature; a removable and optional touch pad that you can set on your leg or chair; it can enlarge the text; and it will also have an adaptable sip-andpuff component (although it wasn’t yet available for trial). It also has a paper printout for checking your votes before you finish. The printout stays with the equipment for later confirmation if necessary. Even considering recent voting problems, there is a lot of controversy surrounding this equipment, not least because of the cost. Stay tuned. February brings hearts and flowers and Black History Month. I just saw a 60 Minutes interview with Morgan Freeman where he told Mike Wallace that having a month set aside for Black history segregates African-American his-

tory from American history. Does it? Or does it bring attention to a part of our history that we should acknowledge that we haven’t integrated well into our awareness? I wonder about all these “set asides.” Do we need Valentine’s day to recognize those we love? Do we need months and days designated to highlight specific disabilities? It’s worth thinking about how we highlight and study and set aside time for what’s “special,” but then how we integrate it into our regular calendar, our minds, our lives. Learn something new this Black History Month, have a Happy Valentine’s Day, and reflect on Presidents’ Day. Let’s be aware of muscular dystrophy through the year, not just in its designated month of September. The front page story last month was about the Deficit Reduction Act; well it passed! We will have some updated news on the ramifications of the bill in next month’s paper. ■

Identity And Biotechnology Letters To The Editor ... by Lennard J. Davis Editor’s Note: This is a brief summary of the article written by Lennard J. Davis for the “The Chronicle Review.” To read this story in its entirety, please go to the Access Press Web site at www.accesspress.org

e have to take into account technological innovations that newly define what it means to be human. Liberals might argue that one’s identity ceases to exist with the loss of a certain level of consciousness, accompanied by the necessity of mechanical life support. The religious right contends that one has an identity as long as one’s heart is beat-

ing, regardless of one’s cognitive function or the need for external life support. Some people see being a “vegetable” as an insult to existence, while others see it as a variety of life. In writing our own living wills, we must attempt to define our identity and to project what our identity would and should be if we were comatose that is, permanently unconscious and unresponsive; in a persistent vegetative state that is, awake but unaware; minimally conscious; or severely disabled. By doing that, each of us is wrestling in our small corner of existence with very large questions concerning the point

at which identity meets biotechnology. The problem is that most of us are ill equipped to make those choices because we know so little about the facts of life and death. ■ Lennard J. Davis is a professor of English, disability and human development, and medical education, and director of Project Biocultures, at the University of Illinois at Chicago. He is the author, most recently, of Bending Over Backwards: Disability, Dismodernism, and Other Difficult Positions (New York University Press, 2002). http://chronicle.com Section: The Chronicle Review Volume 52, Issue 18, Page B9.

Access Press Co-Founder/Publisher (1990-1996) .................................................................. Wm. A. Smith, Jr. Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief (1990-2001) ....................................... Charles F. Smith Board of Directors ............................................ JoAnn Cardenas Enos, Mike Chevrette, Mary Kay Kennedy, Kelly Matter, Tom Squire, & Kay Willshire Editor ......................................................................................................................... Tim Benjamin Financial Manager/Editorial Assistant ........................................................................ Terri Ricci Cartoonist ..................................................................................................................... Scott Adams Production ...................................................................... Ellen Houghton at Presentation Images Office Assistant .......................................................................................................... Ekta Prakash Sales/Marketing ........................................................................................................ David Hadlich Distribution ......................................................................................................... S. C. Distribution 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 $25/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 $16 to $20.70/column inch, depending on size and frequency of run. Classified ads are $10, plus 45¢ per word over 12 words. Advertising and editorial deadlines are the last day of the month preceding publication, except for employment ads which are due by the 25th. Access Press is available on disk. Call MN State Services for the Blind, 651-642-0500 or 800-652-9000. Inquiries should be directed to: Access Press • 1821 University Ave. W. • Suite 104S • St. Paul, Minnesota 55104 • (651) 644-2133 Fax (651) 644-2136 • E-mail: access@accesspress.org • Web site: www.accesspress.org

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Dear Editor:

successes and ac- •it is good for business; complishments. Many thanks for •it is good for the environSteve Serkland’s arAt the Rochester In- ment. ticle, “Alex Kern stitute of TechnolScores!” in your ogy, we’re not only If you’ve ridden the Hiawatha Dec. 10, 2005 issue. proud of Alex, but line, you know why it is a T. Alan Hurwitz we’re proud to work resounding success, with riderThe article highclosely with so many ship far exceeding expectalights the importance of col- wonderful professionals tions. The line creates its own laboration among family, edu- throughout the world to do our market, increasing pedestrian cators and vocational rehabili- critical part in producing traffic, while leaving traffic tation counselors, and other highly educated, skilled, and flow undiminished. The Sisupport professionals to foster productive citizens. erra Club supports Light Rail a deaf or hard-of-hearing as a sound way to reduce trafstudent’s success. For this suc- Sincerely, fic congestion and the air polcessful trend to continue for T. Alan Hurwitz lution that contributes to glostudents like Alex, it is essen- CEO, National Technical In- bal warming. tial for everyone to contribute. stitute for the Deaf Vice President, Rochester In- The availability of Light Rail Families contribute to the early stitute of Technology would be particularly imporeducation and support of their tant to many of the readers of disabled children. Educators Access Press. For them, it is contribute by teaching the necthe difference between getting essary skills so people can Dear Editor: around and being stuck at communicate with each other home. and the world. Technological I am writing on behalf of our advances will continue to close campaign to secure a Light Senator James Metzen (DFL) the gap for disabled people Rail line in northern Dakota District 39 is introducing a bill both in and out of the work- County. Light Rail would ben- in the next legislative session place. As a society, we must efit our area. In particular, it to authorize a study of Light bring ourselves to continue to would be very beneficial for Rail in northern Dakota embrace differences and see those who must rely on public County. We have been workeveryone for his or her contri- transportation. ing to see the Light Rail comes bution. to our area. With the explosive growth of My hat is off to Alex’s family, Dakota County, the need for Your voice has impact on leghis educators and the Minne- public transportation is be- islators. Please contact your sota Department of Employ- coming a critical issue. As a state representative or senator ment and Economic Develop- solution to this problem, the and express your support for ment for helping this very tal- advantages of Light Rail are: Light Rail. We can make— ented young designer to sucLight Rail happen. ceed. Each small success real- • it relieves traffic congestion ized in different areas of a in a safe, convenient, reliable student’s life form the founda- and affordable way; Sincerely, tion and building blocks for Pat O’Regan creating the next one. I look • it makes the communities Member, Northern Dakota County Sierra Communities ■ forward to watching Alex’s stronger and more livable; career unfold with even more

February 10, 2006

A Doctor With MS: Lessons Learned

Disability Access Symbols

by Herb Drill

eople who are deaf or hard of hearing often use American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate. But what happens when you are deaf and use ASL and the person you are trying to communicate with does not know or understand sign language? What happens when a person who communicates using sign language goes to the

r. Alicia Conill’s first reaction was deep denial and depression, followed later by a new purpose—teaching medical students how it feels to have a debilitating illness. Dr. Conill was a vibrant, popular young doctor when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Over the years, she turned a valiant struggle with MS into a curriculum used to train medical students in a most pertinent skill: empathy, or as Dr. Conill describes it, “your pain in my heart.” A faculty member of the University of Pennsylvania (Penn) School of Medicine, Dr. Conill states, “I’d often dreamed of teaching medical students to understand the personal effects of illness.” At age 45, when she was diagnosed with MS, Dr. Conill had a thriving internal medicine practice. “I thought I understood what it was like for my patients. I never really understood until it happened to me.” After her diagnosis, Dr. Conill dug deeply inside herself and discovered a way to renew her career as physician/teacher with a prescription for empathy and personal experience. Born to Cuban refugees, Dr. Conill says, “even in kindergarten I wanted to be a doctor.” During Castro’s revolution, her parents fled from Cuba and later she moved to New York with her then-divorced mother and maternal grandparents. When she was six years old, her mother married Rafael Conill, who adopted Alicia. “When I was seven, my parents gave me a nurse’s outfit for Christmas,” she recalls, “I got incredibly mad at them. I wanted to be a doctor.” Dr. Conill graduated from Georgetown University Medical School in Washington, D.C. in 1983. In 1986, while serving as the chief resident in internal medicine at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City, Conill observed the first hint of MS. She noticed a gray area blocking the vision in her right eye. “I suspected a brain tumor and was relieved it was only optic neuritis,” she says, “I knew about half of those with optic neuritis go on to have MS, but I was much happier imagining I had a bad sinus infection.” In July 1987, with her vision cleared, Conill joined the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and began building a medical practice. In March 1988, her legs suddenly felt numb from the thighs

down. She had an MRI. Conill knew she had MS as soon as she saw the films. She regained feeling in her legs and dealt with temporary inconvenience of the “flare.” But over time, the flares occurred more often; she started using a cane, then a walker, a wheelchair, and finally a scooter. “The sicker I got, the more stubborn I became,” she admits, “I took on more responsibilities and hid my fears.”

Chronic medical conditions are the leading cause of illness, disabil- Dr. Alicia Conill ity, and death in the U.S. today, says Dr. Conill. Almost 100 million Americans have one or more chronic conditions. “Trends in health-care delivery and rising numbers of individuals living longer after being diagnosed with disabling, chronic conditions challenge the status quo. They’re evidence of the need to make curriculum changes in medical education if we’re to provide persons with the highest quality care in a compassionate, empathetic way,” she adds.

This was a difficult time for Dr. Conill. She lived in a threestory townhouse with a spiral staircase. She was romantically involved. She commuted to New York to help care for her ailing grandmother and father. By early 1995, she decided to give up her practice and sell her home. Her father died and her romantic partner left. At that point, Dr. Conill consid- What happens after medical ered suicide. students make the primum non nocere promise, meaning, in Medication and counseling Latin, to “First, do no harm?” helped lift her depression. With Dr. Conill asks, can empathy her mother’s encouragement, be taught, restored, or replenshe used the inheritance from ished? She contends that traher father to found the Conill ditional medical curriculums Institute. The Institute, an af- “use a heavily didactic apfiliate of the Department of proach for the first two years; Behavioral Health at the Uni- in the third and fourth clinical versity of Pennsylvania Health years,” is when caring for realSystem, was established in life patients begins. “When honor of her father, Rafael. students graduate and begin She resumed teaching at Penn, training, they have only viewed and took a senior post in Penn’s illness from the outside.” Health Care System. Dr. Conill also developed clinical prac- Her curriculum, Disability tice guidelines for the Ameri- Experience, has been adapted can College of Physicians. Her for all medical students at home is now built to accom- Penn, all senior-nursing stumodate her scooter. She drives dents at Villanova University a specially-equipped van. With and all graduate students in these changes in her personal psychology and in social serlife, Conill is able to live inde- vice at Penn. It has also been pendently with the help of two used by staff of service orgabeloved dogs, a maid, and a nizations including the Cerepart-time attendant. bral Palsy Association and the National Multiple Sclerosis As an individual with MS, Dr. Society as well as corporaConill learned “valuable les- tions, such as Lucent Techsons” from her patients. She nologies, as part of diversity recalled being “thrust in the training. Since 1998, approxiunfamiliar role of patient.” As mately 1,800 individuals have an educator she has a “passion participated in her disability for teaching the things” she experience. used to think could never really be taught. Dr. Conill ex- She teaches students to “talk plains that one of her “greatest to patients at eye level. People lessons in empathy” was learn- in wheelchairs can’t stand and ing that “it requires an ability shake your hand. Address pato feel, to care, and to connect tients, not care partners, [but] on an emotional level, and it’s because care partners have a a critical component of heal- Lessons - cont. on p. 16 ing.”

by Terri Ricci

doctor? How can the two of them communicate easily? Well, the University of California at San Diego has created curriculum for the medical students to learn American Sign Language as a part of their study. See the article below for more information on how this is being incorporated into the daily lives of the medical students.

If you have an interesting article of how innovative products or innovative ideas are being used to help a person with a disability, please send them to access@ accesspress. org. Thank you SIGNews for allowing us to reprint this article. ■

Medical Students Develop Sign Language Skills by Erick Posner

n innovative program is gaining nationwide recognition in the medical and scientific community for giving medical students American Sign Language (ASL) skills. Since June 2003, the National Cancer Institute has funded a program called “American Sign Language, Deaf Culture and Cancer Control Program for Medical Students” at the Rebecca and John Moores University of California at San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center. According to Melanie C. Nakaji, the program’s project coordinator and ASL instructor, the program has several goals: “to produce physicians who are informed about cancer prevention and control; to respect the deaf community’s cultural beliefs, values, and traditions; to comfortably work with the deaf community; to have a solid working proficiency in ASL; to have ability to improve the deaf community’s access to health information and care; to serve as clinical leaders and role models in advancing the health of the deaf community.”

community’s needs. “Lack of easy access to information was the biggest problem,” said Nakaji. Other issues included doctors’ lack of knowledge in utilizing interpreters, deaf culture, and ASL skills. The first class of seven students, who enrolled in 2003, will graduate from UCSD School of Medicine in 2007. A special certificate will be given to all ASL fellows who complete the two-year training program. There are currently 21 medical students enrolled in the program.

Before entering medical school, the students receive reading materials and videotapes about Deaf culture. During their first and second years in medical school, the students are enrolled in ASL courses. They also participate in an immersion program at Gallaudet University during the summer after the first year of medical school. Part of the curriculum is to conduct a required research project on a subject that should advance the health of the deaf community. They are also expected to take at least one fourth-year elective where they will interThe Deaf Community Service act with members of the deaf (DCS) in San Diego envi- community. sioned the program in 1997, when they identified the deaf

The main motivation for participation in the program stems from the students’ desire to “work with people in underserved communities, said Nakaji. In addition, the program gives them a chance to learn an entirely new language and culture.” Nakaji suggests that the program does have some challenges, “the biggest of them is to try to figure out how to make it possible for students to add all these learning activities on top of their already full-time academic schedule.” However, even with challenges to overcome, the program was recognized as the “2004 Education Partner of the Year by Deaf President Now.” UCSD has several future goals for the medical student - ASL program. Nakaji states that the “the most important future goals are to: encourage medical schools to recruit medical students who are already culturally sensitive and have ASL skills; show other schools how to replicate the program and to encourage medical schools to create programs to train deaf medical students.” This article appeared in SIGNews’ December 2005 issue. Reprinted with permission. ■

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February 10, 2006

Abusive Relationships and People Experiencing Disability

Catholic Charities Helps Homeless

by Lance H. Hegland

by Clarence Schadegg

Historically, little has been known about the unique effects of abuse on women with physical disabilities. In recent years, work by various advocates, health care profession-

Dr. Hassouneh-Phillips shared several findings with us during a recent exchange of emails. She said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Women with physical disabilities experience violence at similar or higher rates than women in the general population. Women with physical disabilities are also more likely to be abused by multiple perpetrators than non-disabled women. Although women with physical disabilities experience the same types of abuse that nondisabled women experience, they also suffer from care-related and disability-related forms of abuse. Care-related abuse and disability-related abuse are intentional harmful or potentially harmful acts that are related in some way to disability-status. Care-related abuse is always perpetrated by a care provider. Funded by the Paralyzed Veterans of America, I am conducting an ongoing study with individuals with spinal cord injury and dysfunction. Based on these findings, women with physical disabilities who experience abuse have an increased risk for the onset of secondary conditions such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Currently abused women are also less likely to engage in healthy behaviors such as eating well, exercising, and accessing preventative health care.â&#x20AC;?

Dr. Phillips also indicated that individuals surviving previous abuse and individuals physically relying on others for personal assistance are at greater risk for abuse. In addition, she identified a few â&#x20AC;&#x153;warning signsâ&#x20AC;? of abusers, such as â&#x20AC;&#x153;controlling behavior, jealousy, alcohol and drug use, and past history of violent behavior.â&#x20AC;? Regarding identifying individuals who have experienced or are experiencing abuse, she said some signs are â&#x20AC;&#x153;increased social isolation, onset or increased use of alcohol or drugs, psychological distress and depressed mood, and physical injury.â&#x20AC;?

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or would like more information about abusive relationships and potential assistance, please feel free to contact either the National Domestic Violence Hotline or the Communication Service for the Deaf of Minnesota. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached via telephone at 1-800-799-7233 or at www. ndvh.org. Individuals experiencing deafness or difficulty hearing can contact the Communication Service for the Deaf of Minnesota at 1-800759-8331 or at www.c-s-d.org. Links to additional sources of information can also be found Finally, Phillips said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Women on our Web site: www.access with physical disabilities who press.org. â&#x2013; use wheelchairs often have limited options for fleeing their EDITORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOTE: We would abusers for a number of rea- like to thank Dr. Dena sons. First, many women rely Hassouneh-Phillips for her on their abusers for essential valuable contributions and personal care. Second, many tremendous guidance develwomen have accessible home oping this article. She has environments set up to maxi- worked as an advocate, health mize their functional status. care provider, and researcher For this reason, when a woman in the field of intimate partner has to suddenly leave her home violence since 1991. Curshe may also lose some or much rently, Dr. Hassouneh-Phillips of her functional ability. Third, is an assistant professor with some women with physical the Oregon Health & Science disabilities cannot physically Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Nursflee from their abusers. Fourth, ing. Her research primarily many local shelters are not focuses on violence against physically accessible. [Some women from often-understrategies that could be em- served and often-neglected ployed in local communities, populations. which would help women with physical disabilities stay safe, are: checking the physical accessibility of local domestic violence shelters, organizing systems to provide emergency back-up care, and finding ways to remove abusers from w o m e n â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s homes.]â&#x20AC;?

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ather John Estrem, Executive Director of Catholic Charities, granted me an interview with him on September 28, 2005. We talked about the accommodation of disabled people who seek shelter as well as those with a disability who work for Catholic Charities. Some of the people whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve received help through either the shelters or social services wind up working for Catholic Charities. Father John stated, this organization â&#x20AC;&#x153;relies on the skill and talent of college educated social workers as well as former clients who have the knowledge of this and other agencies.â&#x20AC;? My interview turned out to be a far more complex project than what I expected it to be. There are so many important parts to this story. And I cannot do justice to all of them in one article. I believe the complexity has to do with changes in funding sources, and the work load has stretched the energy level of the staff to their limits. The ratio of staff to resident varies from place to place. The level of support service(s) is partly based on internal and/or external resources by personnel or access and accommodation. Catholic Charities operates under a budget of thirty-three million dollars which may seem like a lot of money. But I was impressed with staff commitment to such a heavy work load with insufficient funds. The struggle, I believe, is between the good will and hard work of the staff; the need for accommodation that will allow for total access at every level for disabled staff and residents, and the transition away from a traditional model to one that is all inclusive to a diverse population of people. I think it is ironic that a program, like that of Catholic Charities, which provides such an important function in our

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention define domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, as physical, sexual, or psychological harm by a current or former partner or spouse. It also includes threats. According to the Center, approximately 8.5 million incidents of intimate partner violence occur each year among people 18 years of age and older. Although anyone can experience abuse, studies generally focus on women as they encounter and report abuse more often than men. One study discovered that at least one out of four women and one out of five men had experienced some sort of physical, sexual, or psychological abuse during their lifetime. Common injuries range from scratches, bruises, and welts to more serious and long-term conditions such as central nervous system abnormalities, gastrointestinal difficulties, heart problems, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder.

als, and researchers have been uncovering new information. Dr. Dena Hassouneh-Phillips is one such person examining and raising awareness of this very important issue. Her most recent paper, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Thought I was Less Worthy: Low Sexual and Body Esteem and Increased Vulnerability to Intimate Partner Abuse in Women with Physical Disabilities,â&#x20AC;? was published in the December issue of Sexuality & Disability.

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ccasionally, we hear public service announcements highlighting the facts, dangers, and signs of domestic violence. But, seldom is it a topic of daily, weekly, or even monthly discussion among family and friends unless they or someone they know is impacted by it. Similarly, disability is rarely approached by individuals outside of the aging and disability community. Dialogue involving violence encountered by individuals with disability during health care, dating, romantic, and sexual relationships is virtually silent.

city, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get more financial support. According to Father John, Catholic Charities does accommodate disabled residents of the shelter as well as disabled employees because it is â&#x20AC;&#x153;required by law, and alsoâ&#x20AC;? because we think it is the right thing to do. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a Faith Based Social Service Organization . . . weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re related to the Catholic Church,â&#x20AC;? but â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our mission says we serve those who are most in need. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really provide religious services. We provide Social Services,â&#x20AC;? said Father John. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are faith-based in the sense that our mission is based on the principles of Catholic Social Teaching and we are affiliated with the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. This does not mean that we proselytize others or overtly display our spiritual and religious beliefs in all of our services. If clients do ask for spiritual guidance, we respond and we have a pastoral care program that does that. With respect to the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faith based initiative, we have seen very little impact from that initiative. We have always received government funds to help support our services and we anticipate continuing to do so.â&#x20AC;?(Ron Krietemeyer, Director for Mission Integration, Catholic Charities, Minneapolis/St. Paul). I wondered how Catholic Charities would meet the accommodation needs of people in the midst of dwindling governmental financial support. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The cost of the reasonable accommodation would be a factor in the choice of the accommodation,â&#x20AC;? said Father John. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There have been cuts at every levelâ&#x20AC;Śthe federal level, state level and county level.â&#x20AC;? We deliver most of our services through counties. So if somebody with a disability needed some form of accommodation, then it appears the county would assign a person to work with that disabled homeless person. Father John told me that few blind people and people who use wheelchairs seek shelter in any of the housing programs administered by Catholic Charities. If a homeless blind person or a homeless person in a wheelchair request shelter at a Catholic Charities designated shelter, that person would be referred to the county which is in a better position to find them housing and services that accommodate their needs. Most of the people who receive services through Catholic Charities are people with a wide range of mental health issues. Homeless - cont. on p. 22

February 10, 2006

What Is Muscular Dystrophy?

uscular dystrophy (MD) is a group of genetic diseases that cause weakness and muscle wasting, primarily in the skeletal or voluntary muscles. These are the muscles we are normally able to control, such as the muscles in our arms and legs. Most people with MD experience some degree of muscle weakness during their lifetime. Each of the various types of the disorder affects different muscle groups and may have different symptoms. Because muscle weakness usually progresses over time with muscular dystrophy, lifestyle changes along with assistive devices and Occupational Therapy may be needed to help a person adapt to new situations. All the forms of MD are inherited; that is, they are caused by mutations in a person’s genes. Our genes are made of DNA and reside in our chromosomes. Each gene contains the “recipe” for a different protein, and these proteins are necessary for our bodies to

function correctly. When a gene has a mutation, it may make a defective protein or no protein at all. Most commonly, missing or defective proteins in the muscles will prevent muscle cells from working properly. The lack of proper muscle function leads to symptoms of MD, including muscle weakness and muscle wasting over time. Most forms of MD are progressive, meaning they tend to worsen with time. The age of onset and rate of progression can vary widely with different types of MD. Some types of MD can affect life expectancy. In many cases today, advancing medical knowledge offers treatment for symptoms that are most likely to decrease life expectancy. In most cases of muscular dystrophy, muscle mass in the affected regions may become visibly wasted or decrease in size. Eventually, the arms, legs or trunk may become so weak they cannot move. Some forms of MD are accompanied by con-tractures, which is stiffness in the joints,

and scoliosis, which is a curve the heart, and if so, special in the spine. precautions must be taken to monitor heart function. In Other forms of MD have effects short, each type of MD has its on the respiratory muscles. In own special areas of concern. Duchenne muscular dystrophy, the diaphragm and other muscles There are currently no cures that operate the lungs may for any form of muscular dysweaken, making the lungs less trophy, but there are many effective in breathing. If breath- therapies designed to help deal ing abilities decline, a coughing with common symptoms. For machine can be used to assist instance, contractures may be the patient in clearing lung se- helped by physical therapy cretions. Many individuals with and/or tendon-release surgery. MD use a bi-pap machine, which Scoliosis may respond to bracprovides non-invasive, assisted ing or surgery. Heart condiventilation to improve the ease tions may respond to medicaof breathing during sleep. If res- tion and/or a pacemaker. With piratory symptoms progress advances in medicine today, over time, assisted ventilation many people with MD live very helps provide sufficient airflow full lives. in and out of the lungs. But Where Did It Come From? MD that affects the swallow- When people are told they have ing muscles may require the a genetic disorder such as individual to take precautions muscular dystrophy, bewilwhen eating or drinking so that dered patients often ask, “But food is not aspirated into the it doesn’t run in the family, so lungs. Although most types of how could it be genetic?” MD MD do not affect the brain, can run in a family, even if several types do produce brain only one person in the biologichanges that may cause slight- cal family has it. Because of to-severe learning disabilities. the manner in which genetic Some forms of MD also affect diseases are inherited, they

may be a subtle part of family no idea they are carriers of a medical history. disease until they have a child who has the disease. In rare Each form of MD follows one cases, MD actually can occur of three patterns of inherit- “out of the blue” when a new ance: recessive, dominant or mutation occurs with a baby’s X-linked. If the disease is conception, even if neither caused by a recessive pattern, parent carries the gene flaw. two copies of the defective These cases of MD are called gene, one from each parent, spontaneous mutations. After are required to produce the a mutation occurs, the gene disease. Each parent will be a flaw can be passed on to the carrier of the gene flaw, but next generation, thereby introneither parent will usually have ducing the genetic pattern for the disease. If a disease is a specific MD into a family. caused by a dominant pattern, then only one copy of the geHow Does the Muscular netic defect is needed to cause Dystrophy Association Help? the disease. Anyone with the Anyone diagnosed with one of gene flaw will have disease the 43 types of muscular dyssymptoms and can pass the trophy/neuromuscular disease disorder to their children. If a that the Muscular Dystrophy disease is caused by an X- Association (MDA) covers is linked pattern, it is passed from eligible to receive services. mother to son. Daughters who Services available through the inherit the X-linked pattern can MDA nationwide are as folbe MD carriers but they gener- lows: ally do not get the disease. • The MDA sponsors clinics at Many times MD appears to Fairview University Medical occur “out of the blue,” but in Center and the Mayo clinic. reality, one or both parents The MDA provides third may be carriers of the genetic party payment for selected mutation. Many parents have What Is MD - cont. on p. 16

Living With Muscular Dystrophy Takes Determination by Peter Tacheny

along the way. I remember one time when I fell. My younger brother, who has quite a sense of humor, jokingly said, “So how was your trip?” From then on we did try to add humor to dealing with the MD. At age 10, I started using an electric wheelchair permanently. Regardless of the wheelchair, I tried to go along with the saying, “Boys will be boys.” One day some of my friends and I decided to test strength of machine versus boys. So as I had my wheelchair in reverse, they were pushing forward to see who was stronger. Well I am not sure who won, but we made burn marks on the classroom carpet, and we all had to clean the classroom for a week. There were a lot of bumps One thing my mom made sure was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (MD) when I was five years old. My first memory of that time was of the sadness that my family seemed to have in finding out this news. I had my first surgery to help me walk better when I was eight years old. It was from then on that everyone said that I was a person with a lot of determination. The first surgery was to straighten my feet. And from then on I also wore leg braces. Doctors told my family this surgery would help me walk for maybe six months to a year. Well, I showed them—I continued to walk until I was 10 years old.

of — is that if I got in trouble, My determination helped me I would be treated the same as along physically and mentally. I always prided myself in doall the other students. ing my best. I could never Each year as a new school year figure out why kids who had began, my mom would come no physical disabilities could into my classroom to tell the go through life just not caring teachers and students some or doing their best. I always information about my muscu- gave my school work 100%. lar dystrophy. I think people My determination paid off in seem to accept things better the end. I graduated in the top when they know what is wrong 10% of my class. with you. However, that wasn’t always true. When I started to Having a good attitude and fall more, there were kids who lots of determination helped would still push me down be- me get where I am today. That cause they thought it was funny does not mean there were not watching me struggle to get some struggles and disappointup. But for the most part, ments along the way. I really teachers and students just wanted to go to college. I even treated me the same as every- got accepted to computer one else. school. By the time it was time to start school, I realized I was getting a lot weaker. I figured

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plans for a vacation, we call and double check to see that the accommodations are accessible. Everything takes extra time. It takes time to get in the van, time to find a place to park, and then time to get unloaded from the van. In the winter it is rough because sometimes if we have to unload the wheelchair on a sidewalk, the sidewalk might not be shoveled enough to get my Probably one of the hardest lift open. things about having muscular dystrophy is that everything We all should be considerate takes a lot of additional plan- of others no matter what their ning. In just going to a movie, ability or disability because we always try to arrive early so we never know when we may we can be sure to get a spot be sitting in that wheelchair. with handicap seating. Going When I was in school, there on vacation or even just trips were times when other parents to the mall can take planning. would park in the handicap Whenever my family makes Life with MD - cont. on p. 16 by the time I finished college, my arms would be too weak to work at a full-time job. So I did the next best thing, I bought a computer. With what I learned in high school and from just using the computer everyday, I learned to make cards and photo DVD’s. So that is what I am doing now. This way, depending on how I feel, I can work my own hours.

February 10, 2006

The Challenges Of Emergency Disability Technology Making It Work Management Planning by Jenni Mundl

by Danielle Engle

his is the final article in the investigative series on Emergency Management Planning (EMP). The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), from an administrative level, provides a very efficient and cost effective procedure guide and resource directory for local governments. However, our investigations, coupled with recent natural disasters, suggest that something is amiss. Dana Alexon is Fire Chief and Emergency Management Coordinator for the West Metro Fire-Rescue District. Formed in 1998, through a joint agreement between Crystal and New Hope, the District has the additional responsibility of Emergency Management Planning (EMP). In an interview, Alexon discusses the challenges of EMP for a diverse population which includes people with disabilities. Q: What are some of the responsibilities and challenges of your position? A: Rarely is Emergency Management a person’s sole job. My primary job is fire chief for two municipalities. I also function as the Emergency Management Coordinator for both cities. We, in emergency management, feel that there should be a higher focus on staffing—funding for more people to do the work that’s needed. There are competing interests for government funds at a municipal and county level. Taxation is one option, but people are writing to their legislators saying, “This is enough. No more tax increases.” We need funding alternatives. People on fixed incomes—I think in many

cases the disability community is in that boat—do not have the opportunities to grow their income to be able to support tax increases. Clearly, there is a whole lot more demand than there is supply when it comes to funding. Q: What do you consider the responsibility of citizens in emergency management planning? A: Citizens have an obligation to prepare themselves. In a regional disaster we [emergency responders] cannot call on mutual aid networks to assist us. This means we have to be totally self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Under these circumstances, we cannot get to everybody in the community. This is where it’s important for citizens to be prepared. Q: What can citizens do to be prepared? A: People need to get back into being prepared to help each other’s out. This can ease the burden on emergency responders, especially during a regional disaster. It takes about three days for state and federal authorities to get resources to an area. People need to have a 72-hour supply of food, water, batteries, first aid and medical supplies, hygiene supplies, a fire extinguisher, and other essentials.

munity for seniors.] In this vice animal would be transexercise we focused on identi- ported to another shelter where fying what some of the chal- they are accepted. lenges are going to be. Q: You mentioned transportaAlso, some of the information tion. Who provides this? we discuss in these exercises is highly sensitive. Take, for A: In localized emergencies example, designated shelters. we are connected with the We can’t risk making them a school districts and Metro target. [If the location of des- Transit. There again, we have ignated shelters became pub- to rely upon them to follow lic information, it increases the regulations and to have the risk of those shelters being at- knowledge and expertise to do their jobs. tacked by terrorists.] Q: How do you communicate emergency preparedness planning to people with disabilities in general and for those with hearing, vision, cognitive A: I agree with you that it is and other communications important for emergency re- challenges? sponders to have an idea of how we are going to handle a A: One thing we haven’t situation. We need to know thought about is using media what challenges may be pre- that is specially geared, such sented. In these situations, we as Access Press, to reach the depend a lot on the staff at disability community. This is these facilities to be a tremen- an avenue we need to consider dous assistance to responders. from the emergency manageWe simply do not have the ment side. We also need to get funding or staff for this level fire safety and crime safety information to this group. of expertise. Q: With these limitations, how can you respond to the special needs of people with disabilities?

Q: What about shelters and transportation? Are the workers assigned to these sites knowledgeable about disabilities?

A: Municipal staff relies on the Red Cross to staff and operate shelters. There, too, they have the expertise and experiQ: Have you conducted a table ence to run and manage these topic exercise or simulation shelters. Most municipalities involving people with disabili- do not. ties or a representative thereof? Q: What happens if a person A: When we put together a who is blind arrives at a shelter table topic exercise, we typi- with a guide dog? Will they be cally have to limit what it is allowed to enter? that we’re testing in any given exercise. The focus, as well as A: Red Cross determines who the funding, tends to be more can or cannot enter a particuglobal. In 2003 we had a table lar shelter. They may desigtopic exercise for Minnesota nate one shelter for people who Masonic Home North Ridge. are allergic to animals. In this [This is an assistive living com- situation, a person with a ser-

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he Americans with Disabilities Act is a Federal law enacted in the 1980s. One goal of this legislative document is to ensure that reasonable accommodations are provided on-the-job when needed. Reasonable accommodations can mean the difference between being able to work or not. A reasonable accommodation is any type of accommodation that the potential employee needs to do the job, including items such as computer equipment, auditory material, or closed captioning. Accommodations also can be no-cost modifications such as allowing extra time to complete a project or moving office equipment to a lower spot for easier reach. Work Accommodations Both persons with disabilities who are working and those who are not working state a need for similar types of accommodations. One-third of non-working persons with disabilities report the need for some type of accommodation. The other two-thirds of persons with disabilities who are not working report that they could work without accommodations or are unaware of specific accommodations that might make working possible. The most commonly cited accommodations were:

• Adapted work stations - 15% • Special work arrangements (reduced or part-time hours or job redesign) - 12% • Handrails or ramps - 10.4% • Job coaches - 5.6% • Specific office supplies 4.5% • Personal assistants - 4.0% • Braille, enlarged print, special lighting or audio tapes 2.5% • Voice synthesizers, TTY, infrared systems, or other technical devices - 1.8% • Readers, oral, or sign language interpreters - 1.8% Meeting Accommodation and Access Needs of Applicants Listed in the table below are the 11 areas of accommodations and five access areas outlined in a study conducted by Cornell University. The table also shows the percentage of employers who state they have made accommodations in specific areas.

The Cornell University study shows that much accommodation still needs to be done to help bring the unemployment rate for persons with disabiliWe would have to depend on ties in line with the unemployone of the organizations that ment rate of the general pubwork in the areas of disabililic. Progress is being made. ties to take some of our publiMore work needs to be done cations and translate them into by persons with disabilities, formats that would be readily educators, and rehabilitation usable for people with vision counselors, in conjunction with and other types of impairments. public and private employment Ideally, this would occur at a • Accessible parking or ac- communities to achieve full higher government level so as cessible, nearby public tran- integration of persons with disto reach more people with dissit stops - 19% abilities into employment. ■ abilities. • Elevators - 17% Q: In closing, is there anything people with disabilities can do to improve the disability access or funding? A: Working with your elected representatives at all levels is important to making this happen. There is a community of committed people at the local and the state level. Some of these people are highly specialized—security professionals, industrial professionals.

Accommodation

Private Sector

Public Sector

Made facilities accessible

82%

93%

Had flexible human resource policy

79%

93%

Restructured jobs/work hours

69%

87%

Made transportation accommodations

67%

86%

Provided written job instructions

64%

69%

Modified work environment

62%

93%

Modified equipment

59%

90%

Made reassignment to vacant position

46%

58%

Provided readers and interpreters

36%

79%

35% 55% At a local level, we can only Changed supervisory methods Modified training material 31% 49% do as much as we have funding to do. The more citizens are prepared and involved in Emergency Management Planning, the better it is for every- Local governments can apply response for people with disone. for federal funding to cover abilities, change takes time. the cost of table topic exer- The recent scope of failures in In closing this series on EMP, cises, critical incident simula- regional disasters suggests certain facts are ominously tions, and emergency response major failures in responding clear. equipment. However, some to citizens in general. Beyond municipalities must rely on this, studies are being conLocal emergency management already burdened staff to com- ducted on disaster mortality coordinators have other re- plete grant applications. These rates for people with disabilisponsibilities that require time, applications are lengthy and ties relative to the overall popuresources and planning. Vol- require professionals who lation in a disaster area. unteer fire fighters staff fire know the correct terminology departments in some munici- to apply. In the event of a disaster ocpalities. Positions may be partcurring here, self-help initiatime or full-time with multiple Although efforts are being tives seem the best option for responsibilities. made to improve emergency ensuring one’s safety. ■

February 10, 2006

Individualized Empowerment by Justin Dart

ou have the power and the responsibility to defend democracy and to create a society of individualized empowerment for all. Society is not a magical super god that can give or withhold quality of life. Society is nothing more than what you do and think everyday. You are the society. When you speak, society speaks. When you change, society changes. When you expose, turn off the ads, and boycott the interests that support the far right, they are weakened instantly. When enough people do it, their power is gone. They have little money except what we give them. Individualized empowerment leads to the empowerment society. However, this will not occur through advocacy as usual. It is not enough for us to meet the President of the USA or the Mayor of the city in which we live; we must also vote, all of us. We must not only vote and petition govern-

ment, we must become the government, through official positions, and through 365days a year citizen advocacy. We must create a social environment in which no person who requires public support (elected officials, business owners in our communities, the media) could afford to overlook individualized empowerment for all.

erment. No money can buy that. Your truth in action will change the part of society that you are to empowerment society. The intensity of your loving truthful action will be a powerful influence on others.

loving praise for the distinct 6. Become a media person— positives that everybody has. write letters to the editors, They will be glad to see you participate in radio and TV coming and be far more talk shows, become friends likely to internalize your with media employees, message of individualized businesses, and political Justin Dart, 1930-2002 empowerment. staff. Become a media pro4. Recruit your family memfessional. 9. If there is no cross disabilHere are ten ways to make this bers and friends first. 7. Use electronic technology to ity action group in your democratic dream live: People from age one to a send out brief talking points area, form one. Empower1. Change life as usual. Turn hundred can be good adon the issues. Make sure they ment happens when people off escapist television and vocates. Severely disabled are 100% accurate. Most come together. game shows. Stop time conpeople living in nursing political advocacy is obvi- 10.Send your message of love We need aggressive leadersuming and expensive travel homes can be good advoous exaggeration. Individuand truth with action. You ship to increase our passion and recreation. Instead, decates. Small babies and alized empowerment is acwill be surprised how small and our tiny empowerment vote the time to passionate dogs can carry buttons and curate and truthful. demonstrations at political, society, one hundred fold. We advocacy for individualized signs with great effect. 8. Be an aggressive particimedia, or business offices need leaders who are ready to empowerment. 5. Become a politician, propant in your local and nacan change attitudes. live, and if necessary to die, 2. Give up politically and somoting individualized and tional advocacy organizafor democracy. cially correct conversasocietal empowerment evtions from AAPD, LCCR, We have the ultimate powers tions and become a single eryday through all political CCD, NCIL, ADAPT, to change the flow of society: You can lead. Unlike some minded, repetitious comprocesses. Volunteer and DREDF, People First, Psy- we have people, truth, and love. leaders, you will not be able to municator of the message contribute money to the chiatric Survivors, and Together with our own indibuy multimillion-dollar ad of individualized empowcampaigns of politicians People for the American vidualized empowerment, we campaigns. But if you reach erment. Your message who speak and act with inWay to your local inde- can move society, be society, out constantly, repetitively must be so powerful and so dividualized empowerpendent living centers, dis- and legitimize democracy for with love and truth, spoken repeated that it registers in ment. Get into politics as if ability and civil rights coa- the people and by the people. and lived, to everyone in your people’s minds even your life depended on it, litions. If you support them, ■ personal universe, you can be though you say nothing. because it does. The lives they will support your ada walking, rolling, and talking 3. Speak to people with words of your children’s children vocacy for individualized Reprinted with permission from ad for individualized empowof love, giving them sincere, depend upon it too. empowerment. Yoshiko Dart, Justin's widow.

Smoking Can Lead To Vision Loss Or Blindness

he rate of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) among smokers is significantly greater than that of non smokers. AMD, an eye disease that affects more than 1.65 million Americans over the age of 50, has no cure. Although several new promising medications are currently being tested, those who have been diagnosed can only treat the symptoms.

almost double their risk of de- health,” said Daniel D. Garrett, senior vice president of Preveloping AMD. vent Blindness America. “But Fortunately, the research also some people may not know showed that former smokers that besides causing cancers, who had quit for over 20 years smoking can also cause vision had the same risk level of those loss and eventually lead to who had never smoked. Smok- blindness!” ing impairs the effects of antioxidants, which then damage Prevent Blindness America, the nation’s leading volunteer the retina. eye health and safety organiIn a recent survey commis- zation, has designated the sioned by AMD Alliance In- month of February as Ageternational, only 32% of re- related Macular Degeneration spondents who had heard of Awareness Month in an effort AMD were aware of the link to educate the public on the between AMD and smoking. disease and what steps can be In addition to AMD, smoking taken to avoid it. Because of has been linked to increases in the large aging population, the the cases of cataracts, glau- number of AMD cases is esticoma and diabetic retinopa- mated to balloon to almost thy. three million in the year 2020.

However, recent studies have shown that one way to reduce the risk of developing AMD is by not smoking. A study published in the British Medical Journal from the University of Manchester found that smokers were three to four times more likely to develop AMD than non smokers. And, non “We’ve all known for years “We also want to remind evsmokers living with smokers that smoking is bad for our eryone, whether they are smokers or not, that the most effective way to fight the effects of AMD is through early detection and treatment,” added Smoking - cont. on p. 16 Celebrating 33 Yrs Of RENTAL • SALES SERVICE • REPAIR

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Prescription Drug Help Available For Mental Health Consumers

any people with mental illness are among the 700,000 Minnesota Medicare beneficiaries who need to consider their options now that the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit is available. These individuals, and family members and friends who care for them, should take note of some key points between now and May 15, 2006, when the first period of Medicare Part D open enrollment ends.

The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid were expected to select plans for dual beneficiaries by Jan. 1, 2006, if the beneficiaries had not enrolled in a plan on their own. Because the plan chosen for them may not be the best for these individuals, they are encouraged to compare plans and consider their best option.

family and friends can receive impartial assistance from the state Linkage Line at 1-800333-2433. This service is available from 8 am to 7 pm Monday through Friday and from 8 am to noon on Saturday. Help also is available by calling 1-800-MEDICARE or referring to www.medicare. gov.

The Minnesota Prescription Drug Program ended Dec. 31, 2005. Participants in that program have no prescription drug coverage as of Jan. 1, 2006, unless they enrolled in a Part D plan. While efforts have been made to personally notify each of these participants, those individuals and people who care about them are encouraged to be proactive about making the Part D choice that is best for them.

Before calling, gather the following information for reference: The individual’s Medicare card; a list of the prescription medications the individual is taking, including names and dosages; and the name and address of a preferred pharmacy.

It is estimated that up to 40% of people with serious mental illness in the state are eligible for both Medicare and Medical Assistance. Beginning Jan. The National Mental Health 1, 2006, Medicare, rather than Association also offers a free Medical Assistance, began Medicare Rx Coverage Workpaying for all of their prescripbook for Mental Health Contion drugs except benzodiazsumers, available on its Web epines and/or barbiturates. site at www.nmha.org/mediMA will continue to pay for those drugs because they are Help is available. Beneficia- care or by calling 1-800-969not covered by Part D. ries, county case managers, NMHA. ■

February 10, 2006

Medicare Part D Rollout: A Mold Exposure Hazardous Story of Challenges/Success To Chemically Sensitive by Dave Strait

by Mary Tellers

n Buffalo, Minnesota an initiative is underway between various community organizations which may serve as a template for many communities to ease barriers to Part D information access and assist Medicare eligible people make an informed choice. Overlooked in the rollout are the underutilized resources in most communities that are available through Community Education or County and State Extension Services. The many resources such as: school computer labs with internet access; volunteers to operate computers; and a responsive contact staff could serve 60% to 80% of the eligible population effectively and economically. All of this could make the sixweek enrollment period at the end of 2006 to be successful. Medicareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s uneven Part D rollout combined with vendor influenced â&#x20AC;&#x153;informationâ&#x20AC;? sessions and a five-plus day response times from SHIP authorized healthcare insurance consultants is preventing many people from enrolling. Another challenge to the roll-out is that there are fewer than 500 consultants to serve Minnesotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 700,000 eligible people. In order to help the participants in Buffalo we created a project that we are calling â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Seniorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Friendâ&#x20AC;? as a volunteer support network we continue to look for ways to support older adults living independently and safely. With assistance from congressional district staff to bring key people together, Community Education, Technical Center (alternative high school), assisted living, Senior Linkage Line (SHIP authorized health insurance consultants), Ministerial Association, Community Center (senior center), local pharmacists, community

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service organizations and vol- information their pharmacy unteers met to find ways to will need in a day or so while help people with Part D. they wait for their benefit plan card to arrive by mail several Creating points of human con- weeks following enrollment. tact, avoiding voicemail and Participants may also take phone trees, developing reli- printed details for study and able sources of transportation return at a future session for to provide a degree of sponta- assistance with enrollment. neity for those lacking trans- Individuals with complex portation or who shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t needs are referred to a condrive, developing home safety sultant and financial assistance review/resolution with fall pre- applications are provided as vention, and expanding out- needed. reach and access to existing beneficial programs are among It may be possible to recreate the areas we are working to this initiative in other commuimprove in Wright County nities in a very short time and Minnesota. assist many people in getting their Part D information. It In less than three weeks, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A may also be possible to estabSeniorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Friendâ&#x20AC;? announced lish ongoing Community Eduavailability of hundreds of free cation programs to assist seats at the Technical Center people with Part D annually as computer lab where volunteers well as access and utilize the will provide online navigation Benefits Check-Up Web tool, so that an eligible person can perhaps on a quarterly basis get plan comparisons based consistent with their programon their medications. The vol- ming. Programs like this can unteers are supported by Se- help the Community Educanior Linkage Line consultants, tion or State and County Expharmacists and experienced tension Services fulfill their people. mission. Community programs create the possibility for disLocal media, community ser- covering or rediscovering the vice organizations and affinity that exists across age churches are helping announce and interest groups in appealthe availability. Community ing and enjoyable ways. â&#x2013; Education is managing the sign-ups and confirming pro- Dave Strait, of Buffalo, MN cess including offering to ar- can be reached at 612-245range transportation. 1268 or by e-mail at dave@ 1man.org. Your comments, A training guide on how to insights and support for this operate the online service was community program are welcreated and reviewed by Se- comed and appreciated. nior Linkage Line and is being used to train volunteers. The first public session was held Thursday, January 26, 2006 and will continue through May 15, 2006 alternating morning and afternoon/evening sessions each week. Participants are given an opportunity to enroll if they choose to and informed on how to get the claim submission

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eanne, a volunteer for the Chemical Injury Resource Association (CIRA) helpline has counseled over 300 CIRA helpline callers annually. So she was more prepared than the average homeowner when she had to deal with a mold removal process in her own home.

a brain injury: rage, crying, irritability, confusion and disorientation.

In early 2002, when the spring thaws created moisture spots on the ceiling, Deanne realized there was a problem. She knew from talking to CIRA helpline callers that this meant Mary Tellers the conditions were right for After being diagnosed as mold growth in the house. was enclosed individually as it chemically hypersensitive in was gutted. Contaminated 2001, and upon the advice of Trial and Error: materials were bagged for disher doctor to avoid exposure Learning how to Safely posal and then thrown out the to chemicals, Deanne decided Renovate a Moldy Home window of the room. Fans to stay in her house. She were put in the window, to thought it was a safe place to Once a home evaluation was create a negative air pressure be. Unfortunately, she was done, Deanne interviewed sev- by pulling out the moldy air. trapped, much like the mold eral general contractors. None that encased the inside of her of them seemed to understand In Deanneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s case, her basebasement walls. She says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;Ś enough about chemical sensi- ment was re-built twice bewhat I had done was to trade tivities and non-toxic alterna- cause six months after the inithe chemical exposures in [re- tive solutions. Deanne said, tial work was done, condensatail] stores for the exposures â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;Śthe contractors would tion collected behind the vaof mold in my home.â&#x20AC;? come in and quote $100,000 por barrier and the walls were and tell me, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to again saturated with water. Deanneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story: Coping With have to move out of your home Although the walls werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Extreme Mold in Her Home for 3-4 months.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? They didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t moldy yet, it was Deanneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s realize that a chemically sen- sign the mold growth cycle Health effects of exposure to sitive person canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tolerate liv- would just start over again. extremely moldy conditions ing in a hotel, or even in a can vary depending upon an friend or relativeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home that The second time around, the individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s immune system isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t environmentally safe. remodeling didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t result in a and how much exposure octypical Minnesota finished curs. Prolonged exposure to To assure her safety while the basement. To create a finished molds has the potential to dam- basement was fixed, Deanne look on the block walls, they age the immune system. It also and her husband took control traded insulation from the can cause allergies, skin, neu- of the project with the help of ground level and down for a rological, and endocrine dis- a handyman. The timing of skim coat of mortar mix (Porteases, birth defects, cancer, the removal of building mate- land cement, lime and sand) to gastrointestinal, pulmonary, rials and household posses- give the walls a stucco look. renal, hepatic, and general sions as well as the re-installa- Four feet and up, the walls were metabolic disorders. In tion process was critical. Gut- sheetrock because they Deanneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s case, she was af- ting and remodeling needed to wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t condensate like a fected neurologically. Her be done when the heat or air- block wall. A ceramic tile floor symptoms mimicked those of conditioning didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be was laid to prevent the ambient on, so that contaminated air moisture from coming up from was not blown throughout the the clay soil and cement slab. house. Through her work on the Gutting a home involves not helpline, Deanne had already only the removal of personal researched other materials, possessions, but also includes such as paints, caulks, and removing all the sheet rock stains. Before actually using and plaster walls and ceilings, them in the basement, her seas well as the wood lath be- lected materials went through hind the plaster or sheet rock, a rigorous series of steps inand the non-structural wood volving personal exposure to studs and joists, wood floor- the products for tolerability. ing, sub-flooring, cabinetry and trims, vinyl flooring, winSharing Knowledge and dows, and duct work. Gutting Experiences might also require removing So Others May Benefit water-damaged air handlers, electrical wiring and outlets, Deanne feels safe housing is fixtures and other equipment, so critical for the chemically such as computers, micro- sensitive individual to have in waves, window A/C units, and order to heal that she jumped other electronics/appliances at the chance to be involved containing fans that had been with the Environmentally Safe housed in the moldy rooms. Housing Initiative (ESHI). TVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, stereo equipment and Describing the helpline callother electronics without fans ers who are looking for housmay be saved with proper ing as â&#x20AC;&#x153;desperate,â&#x20AC;? she says, GPS NP cleaning. For more informa- â&#x20AC;&#x153;In traditional housing, I SF JO N GPSNBUJPO WJTJU P tion, go to www.mold-help. worked with people that had D I U org. looked at hundreds of units M X X X B Y J T I F B and not found anything that The areas worked on were was either tolerable from an sealed off to prevent the mold anti-microbial or chemical 5FMFQIPOF 55: from spreading throughout the standpoint from the previous home during the abatement tenants.â&#x20AC;? process. Each basement room Mold - cont. on p. 9

February 10, 2006

Birth Pains Of Inclusion by Nicolai Ordahl

he house I grew up in stands five blocks from a notorious state institution in Cambridge, Minnesota. Riding my Huffy through that place was like entering a strange cartoon land—grand buildings forming rows into the distance, rolling expanses of green grass, a curious stillness in the air. Occasionally, I would see someone walking around, looking lost. I always wondered what went on inside those buildings. Thankfully, I didn’t hear the story until years later.

Of course it was a good idea! A network of localized, yet connected Web sites where people could march under the banner of community inclusion while finding local information and connecting with each other—clearly a progressive way to approach the problem. People with disabilities needed more diversity in their leisure experiences, more selfdirection, more opportunities to connect with each other and the community—everybody was high five-ing over that one. But did I, a starry-eyed tenderfoot with a college education burning a hole in my pocket, have any idea of the kinds of things these professionals were up against? There was red tape. There were incidents. There were dismal finance meetings in which heads sunk into hands, burned coffee was glumly sipped, and the mere mention of investing real money in a community inclusion network was met with a prompt discussion of American Idol.

One day a man came out of nowhere as I rode through. “Hey!” He said. “Hey, I’m looking for a friend!” I didn’t know what to think—words like “retarded” and “dangerous” had been put into my mind by the well-meaning townsfolk. So when this man yelled at me, I turned up the heat and left a streak of fire in my wake. I felt sad looking back, watching him give up and turn away. I realized that he wasn’t looking for a particular friend. The guy was Hope dwindled. The data looking for anybody. seemed to indicate that while institutions were out, self-diSerendipity brought me to Life rection had not exactly seized Pages, a community inclusion the tiller. The federal governproject funded by Administra- ment thought Life Pages was a tion on Developmental Dis- solid concept, but everyone abilities (ADD) fifteen years has their own impression of later. The point of my position Uncle Sam’s slugging percentat Life Pages, was to facilitate age. We did enjoy brief courta greater diversity of life expe- ships with a handful of organiriences for people with dis- zations, but in the end we were abilities. As the Life Pages’ always disapproved of by the Web site matured into a mega- parents—the people in charge lith of accessible community of the money, or vice versa. happenings, I ventured out into Disability advocates from New the Twin Cities to promote the York to California sang the work: standing at exhibits, pre- praises of this original idea, senting at conferences, and but nobody was willing to ante meeting the people for whom I up. This isn’t anybody’s fault had been toiling. It became —it takes a lot of faith and clear to me that to some, I was momentum to put resources the rookie reporter whistling into an instrument of systems through an office full of disen- change. Everybody knows that chanted veterans—they were dying to see me trip. Forging ahead, we developed interactive Web site features that addressed vulnerability concerns, while creating personal connections between users. But it became clear that in the real world, improving community inclusion was no cakewalk. Many bright-eyed exchanges of business cards resulted in silence, unreturned messages, even dropped telephones and mysterious disconnections. I could have sworn a man from Houston, panicked by the prospect of being solicited by a community inclusion project, used his voice to imitate a dial tone. Other talks with disability professionals yielded clearer results; the phrase “no way in hell” was indeed spoken.

the disability world is not characterized by people lighting cigars with hundred dollar bills. In the meantime, the project marches on and waits, much like those individuals with few connections to the community around them. Drawing the curtains on the state institution in Cambridge was a laudable step for the State of Minnesota. The next step, not only for Minnesota but for the country, is drawing the curtains on monotony, one individual at a time. Using fast, user-friendly technology to explore the community, facilitate friendships, and nurture the interests of individuals is a reasonable place to start. Partners in Community Supports (PICS) was founded by some of Minnesota’s most respected non-profits to promote inter-agency cooperation, improve legislation, develop best practices and change the system to put people first. Our Partner Agencies: Life Pages - www.LifePages. org This site was developed to help you find information about recreation and leisure activities, services, advocacy, and other useful things about life in Minnesota. Life Pages offers information for Minnesotans of all ages and abilities who want to enrich their leisure lifestyle as well as their connections to the greater community. The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is the U.S. Government organization responsible for implementation of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000, known as the DD Act. ■

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Electronic Voting System Demonstrated by Mai Thor

he electronic voting system, the Accuvote TS(x) by Diebold, was used in a demonstration at ACT on January 27, 2006. This demonstration is another attempt by the four Minnesota counties that are currently using Diebold machines (Anoka, Dakota, Ramsey and Washington) to find an alternative from using the AutoMark in order to comply with the federal Help America Vote Act (HAVA). The Accuvote TS(x), or simply referred to as the TS(x), is similar to the AutoMark in the sense that it is an electronic voting machine with touch screen and audio capability. It comes with standard features such as large print, a write-in option, and can be programmed in other languages. It also has a movable keypad that resembles the dials of a telephone. According to Rachel Smith from Anoka County, the TS(x) will also allow undervotes but not overvotes. The controversy with this machine is that it is considered a Direct Recording Electronic (DRE). The TS(x) does not create a ballot for the voter to verify. Instead, it prints out a receipt with a summary of the votes that the voter can look over to make sure the machine recorded every choice correctly. The machine can also audibly read back this summary. Once votes have been verified based on this paper, the voter can confirm on the machine that everything is correct, thus “casting” the ballot, or return back to a specific race(s) to make changes. This element is seen as positive to Rachel and other election officials from the Diebold counties since the voter will never have to physically take a ballot to a precinct counter, which is a criticism of the AutoMark.

The Accuvote TS(x) voting system Minnesota is known as one of the few states that will not allow DRE machines to be used in polling places, and because the TS(x) falls under this category, it will be a struggle for the counties to get approval for its use. It is not certified by the Secretary of State and there is little chance that it will be. However, Rachel stated that the TS(x) is ideal for the counties that are currently using Diebold tabulators. The main reason for this is because it would be more compatible with the programming of the existing Diebold tabulators they own. Using the AutoMark would cause election officials to put in time that they do not have on tight election schedules to make sure the equipment works properly together. “Programming ballots and voting systems is a highly technical and detail-oriented task and we are concerned about the increased level of making major mistakes with double programming,” Rachel said. The TS(x) would also be a less expensive purchase for the counties than the AutoMark. The TS(x) costs about $3,450, whereas the AutoMark has a price tag of about $5,000. Because the Secretary of State will not approve the

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TS(x), Washington County plans to submit an application to the State Auditor in order to waive the requirements of accessible voting equipment that have been set forth by the Minnesota legislature. Specifically, the application would waive the following provisions from MN § 206.80 subpart b: b) An electronic voting system purchased on or after June 4, 2005, may not be employed unless it: (1) accepts and tabulates, in the polling place or at a counting center, a marked optical scan ballot; (2) creates a marked optical scan ballot that can be tabulated in the polling place or at a counting center by automatic tabulating equipment certified for use in this state; or Voting Sys - cont. on p. 13

MOLD Cont. from p. 8 “Those who have known health impairments should have awareness or knowledge that exposure (to mold) is damaging to everyone whether they can feel the effects of it or not. Everyone can benefit from a non-toxic safe home.” The members of ESHI feel the same way and they invite you to join them in creating safe housing. Contact them through Paul Halvorson at Third Way Network at 612332-1311, ext 22. For support if you are chemically injured, contact the CIRA helpline at 651-647-0944. ■ Mary Tellers, a member of ESHI, has dealt with environmental illness for over 20 years. She has done copyediting and proofreading for Access Press since April 2005.

February 10, 2006

Fibromyalgia: Alternative Therapies/Personal Stories by Danielle Engle

n a March 2005 publication, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)—www.niams.nih. gov—reported that Fibromyalgia (FM) affects 1 in 50 Americans. The disorder affects predominantly women; however, men and children can also have FM. If a woman has a family member with FM, she is more likely to have it. Diagnosis usually occurs during middle age. Although the cause(s) is unknown, the disorder has been linked to other factors. Frequently, FM seems to be triggered by stressful or traumatic events, repetitive injuries, illness, and certain diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and spinal arthritis. Chronic pain and fatigue are hallmarks of FM. Other symptoms include sleeping difficulties, morning stiffness, headaches, painful menstrual periods, tingling or numbness in hands and feet, increased sensitivity to pain, and problems with thinking and memory. FM can be very difficult to diagnose and treat. The NIAMS recommends finding a doctor who is familiar with the disorder and its treatment. This decreases the chances of an unnecessary delay in diagnosing and treating the disorder. Treatment often requires a team of professionals that may include a doctor, physical therapist, occupational therapist and other health care providers.

people with FM have increased sensitivity to pain; 2) the role of stress hormones in the body; 3) medicines and behavioral treatments; and 4) whether a gene(s) is involved.

therapy called healing touch. This technique focuses on the energy field surrounding each person’s body. After the presentation, Cramer led the group in practicing the technique.

Self-help and Alternative Therapies FM support groups offer benefits for people with FM, as well as their friends and family members. People often times encounter a number of obstacles before receiving a diagnosis. The validation and acceptance from a support group may help people recover from the long ordeal of searching for an answer.

In February, Dr. John Nash from Behavioral Medicine Associates will discuss the use of biofeedback. This is a safe, nondrug technique for managing pain and other conditions.

Groups differ in makeup and design. Courage Center in Golden Valley offers a FM support group that meets each month (except December). It is facilitated by Wendy Lonn, a mental health therapist at the center. According to Lonn, the group is unique in its focus and format. In addition to providing a support network, the group also teaches attendees about FM, its treatment, traditional and alternative therapies and self-help measures. A library with an assortment of books, magazines and handouts is also available.

As her symptoms worsened and additional problems developed, Dahlgren had to quit working. Several years passed before a neurologist diagnosed the FM in 1998. In addition to FM, she has a host of other problems, including myo-fascial pain, repetitive motion injury, a herniated disc, stress, The April meeting includes a and depression. She also has presentation on soletherapy nerve damage and arthritis in with speakers Carol Muller and her right hand. Jocelyne Walberg. Soletherapy is a method of relax- The additional problems ing the mind and body through coupled with FM caused diffisound, oxygen, light and en- culties for Dahlgren. At first ergy therapy. her husband couldn’t understand the changes taking place In May, Valerie Vigdahl, a in his wife. To assist him, she group member who is also a made a list of her symptoms belly dancer, will introduce and corresponding difficulties. belly dancing. She will also After reading this, he develdemonstrate how to find relief oped a new understanding of from FM symptoms in the FM and its impact on her life. smooth, low impact movement Before the diagnosis, neither of this dance. one of them understood what was happening. In addition to the topics and speaker’s sessions, one group One of the things she regrets session is held in a more inti- most is the loss of friends durmate setting. Members use this ing this time. Some could not time to share their personal understand why she cancelled stories of triumphs, success social engagements or didn’t and celebrations. It also serves attend social functions. to reinforce their bond as group Homebound for reasons she members with a common chal- could not change, she felt inlenge. creasingly isolated and alone.

In March, the group will be treated to an excerpt from Laura Littleford’s one-woman show, “Wails Wales Whales.” A writer and performer, Littleford developed FM in 1991. The show is an inspirational story about how she transformed a chronic disorder into opportunities for personal growth and deeper connections to her family and community. After the performance, Littleford is conducting a workshop about using writing as a tool of healing.

When asked to describe the group, Lonn said, “The group is very positive, not a bunch of people sitting around moaning and complaining about how bad it is.” Although this maybe an acceptable form for some support groups, focusing on the negative as opposed to the positive is counter to many of To date, no medicines have the methods used in helping been approved for the treat- people with FM manage ment of FM; however, some chronic pain. doctors treat it with medicines approved for other conditions. Lonn schedules the group calExercise, stress reduction, and endar according to member uninterrupted sleep are some requests and interests. The of the self-help measures that 2006 Winter/Spring schedule health care providers typically features a topic and presenter recommend. each month. In January, Jill Cramer, an occupational thera- The mailing list includes 200 Current research in FM is fo- pist, taught the group about a people. In addition to the core cused on determining: 1) why non-invasive alternative group of people who attend, regularly, other members attend meetings occasionally. The choice to attend may be based on the topic or on their mobility on a given day. The group is free and is open to

new members. For additional information contact Wendy Lonn at 763-520-0327 or wendy.lonn @ courage.org. TwoWomenShareTheirStory Louise Dahlgren’s Story: Louise Dahlgren began having symptoms of FM after a car accident in 1969. After recovery, she wore a back brace and continued working. She continued experiencing pain and fatigue. As time progressed, she experienced chronic pain and fatigue throughout her body. She was prone to having accidents with some causing additional injuries.

Despite the losses, Dahlgren developed a team of health care providers and a social network. Her team includes a doctor, a physical therapist, an occupational therapist and alternative healers. Since going on disability benefits 4 years ago, Dahlgren relies on Medi-

care for her health care coverage. She reports that treatments provided under private insurance are not always covered under Medicare.

nant hand fractured in three places. Her hand was dislocated and her arm was twisted in an awkward position. Friends gathered around her to wait for the ambulance to In addition to treatment, transport her to the hospital. Dahlgren engages in other activities. Recently, she pur- In another odd turn of events, chased a rocking chair and the hospital intake staff misplaced it in a special area. Each placed Lewis’ chart. While she day she finds time to sit in the lay unattended in the emerchair, rocking and listening to gency room, her wrist and hand relaxing music. Gradually, she became very swollen and painenters a meditative state where ful. With surgery and several her mind drifts onto happy months of rehabilitation, her memories. She finds this ac- wrist healed. tivity both healing and restful. This injury triggered the onset For exercise, Dahlgren uses a of FM. There were points of therapeutic swimming pool severe pain all over her body. and takes long walks. She also It interrupted her sleep, proattends a FM support group. ducing chronic fatigue. She During her spare time, she is had difficulty with work and engaged in a number of spe- activities of daily living. In cial causes. With the advent of describing this time, Lewis global communications, she said, “To roll over in bed, I sends e-mail correspondence had to lift my hips with my to people from many areas and hands…there were days when walks of life. It helps her feel I didn’t know if I could get off connected to society. In de- the bed.” scribing her outreach work, Dahlgren smiled and said, “I She sought help from a variety want to live my life as much as of specialists. When she was I can.” With a little assistance, diagnosed with FM, she knew she’s found many ways of do- that a change of career and ing so. lifestyle was needed. “I was terrified of going on disability, Claire Lewis’ Story: even for a short time,” she exUpon meeting Claire Lewis, plained. “I couldn’t imagine not or reading her monthly edito- working. I love working.” rial overview in “Today’s Health & Wellness” magazine, With the passion in her voice it is difficult to imagine her matching the words she spoke, struggles with FM. A success- Lewis shared her love of readful magazine editor, wife, ing and writing. Based on this, mother and volunteer, Lewis she accepted a position with a developed FM 14 years ago. book publisher. This marked the beginning of a new career. At the time, she was a graphic It culminated with her current artist with plans to open her position as a magazine editor. own business. She was also a single mother with an 8-year- Lewis tried a number of treatold daughter. A very active ments and self-help activities person, she practiced yoga over the years. During the early and went rollerblading with stages, her rheumatologist prefriends. One day while scribed Ibuprofen for the pain. rollerblading around Lake It upset her stomach so much Calhoun, she veered onto the that she had to discontinue it. wrong path. When he suggested exercise, she tried yoga again. UnfortuWithin seconds, this relaxing nately, her movements were so activity turned into a harrow- limited that she couldn’t enjoy ing plummet down a steep hill. the benefits it once provided. Accelerating at a speed too fast He suggested a support group. to control, she focused on main- She attended one that utilized taining her balance and shout- peer counseling. This setting ing warnings to people in her proved counter productive for path. Despite her efforts to pre- her. Laughing with the signavent an accident, she lost her ture humor evidenced throughbalance and tumbled forward. out our interview, she explained, “I didn’t need to be reminded of She instinctively placed her how miserable I was!” arms in front of her to brace for the fall. Absent a wrist or As with work, she decided to kneepad, the wrist in her domi- FM - cont. on p. 21

February 10, 2006

Scanlon Attending Paralympics

Sandstrom Named Executive Director

by Patricia Goodwin

by Sharon Rolenc

he U.S. Paralympics, a division of the U.S. Olympic Committee, has selected 10 student athletes, ages 12-18, with physical disabilities to attend the International Paralympic Academy at the 2006 Paralympic Games in Torino, Italy, March 8-13, 2006.

zard Track and Field team, the Courage Junior Rolling Timberwolves wheelchair basketball team and swimming. Scanlon, an eighth grader at Watertown-Mayer Middle School, was injured in a 2004 gymnastics accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Josh Scanlon

Coordinated by the U.S. Paralympics, participants in the Academy will have the opportunity to meet U.S. Paralympic team members, in addition to attending ceremonies and competitions, and gaining an insider’s perspective on the games. Student athletes were chosen based on essay entries they submitted on the theme, “What Ability Means to Me.”

“I have planned to go to the Olympics since I began gymnastics at 5 years old,” said Scanlon in his essay. “Many people thought my dream was over after my accident but this dream and my ‘ability’ to go has not changed. Before my accident, my focus was in gymnastics, skiing, wrestling and wake boarding. Since my accident, my ability has carried over into sports like track and field, mono skiing, wheelchair Josh Scanlon, 13, of Delano, basketball and swimming.” Minnesota, who participates in a variety of sports at the The Paralympic Academy is a Courage Center’s Sports and three-tier program with state, Recreation Program, was se- national and international comlected to attend the 2006 Int’l ponents. State Paralympic Paralympic Academy. Josh is Academies, including one active in the Courage Alpine sponsored by the Courage Skiing, the Minnesota Bliz- Center, are hosted in each state

by sports organizations that specialize in Paralympic programs. The National Paralympic Academy is held in odd-numbered years at the U.S. Olympic Training Center, while the International Paralympic Academy is held at the Paralympic Games in the even-numbered years. For more information about the U.S. Paralympics, visit www. usparalympics.org.

he Brain Injury Association of Minnesota Board of Directors voted unanimously to name Ardis Sandstrom, MS, LICSW, CRC, as its new Executive Director, ending an extensive national search. She succeeds Thomas C. Gode who previously held the position for eleven years. Sandstrom is the third executive director in the Association’s 21 year history. “It’s an exceptional privilege to have someone with the hands-on experience and personal knowledge of our organization. She’s prepared to step in with an immediate understanding of how we operate,” said Russ Philstrom, board chair. The Association has seen an explosion of growth in the past three years and the board expressed a desire for continuity in leadership to assure the organization’s continued success.

About Courage Center Courage Center provides services to more than 16,000 For the past seven years, people with disabilities each Sandstrom served as Associyear. For more information, ate Director or deputy to the visit www.courage.org. ■ Executive Director. In that role, she developed several

programs that have served as national models for success in the traumatic brain injury (TBI) field including Resource Facilitation and Multicultural Outreach. She also introduced two fee-for-service programs, the Education Department and waiver Case Management. Previous to her tenure at the Association she served as Director of Residential Programs at Mary T. Inc, Program Supervisor at Courage Center, and Program Coordinator for Direct Connections TBI program in St. Cloud. Sandstrom was recently appointed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty to the Minnesota State Rehabilitation Council. She has spoken nationally on topics related to brain injury. A passionate advocate for disability services, Sandstrom knows first hand what life is like for persons with disabilities. An injury as a small child severed part of all her fingers on both hands. “In the grand scheme of things, the challenges I face with my disability are fairly small. But some of the stories I could share about how

Ardis Sandstrom I was treated growing up are pretty horrific. What I experienced opened my eyes, not only to the need for systemic change, but the critical need for community awareness and understanding. From the time I was very young, I knew I would have to do something to impact change,” she said. Celebrating over 20 years of service, The Brain Injury Association of Minnesota is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the 94,000 Minnesotans who live with brain injury, their loved ones, and the professionals who work with them. The mission of the Association is to enhance the quality of life and bring the promise of a better tomorrow for all people affected by brain injury. For more information about The Brain Injury Association, call 1-800669-6442, e-mail info@ braininjurymn.org or visit the Web site: www.braininjury mn.org. ■

Dancing With Disabilities by Hennepin County Library Communications’ staff

bout 150 adults and teens, many with mental and/or physical disabilities, enjoyed and participated in a performance by Kairos Dance Theatre as part

of the “Arts Access at Hennepin County Library” program series on Monday, Jan. 30, 2006 at the Brookdale Library, 6125 Shingle Creek Parkway in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota.

Teens and adults participated at whatever level they could. One level living! No stairs! Good square footage! New, neutral carpet in lr/dr/hall and freshly painted, new garage door. Eat-in kitchen plus formal dining/office. 2 bedrooms, master with walk-in closet & ½ bath w/shower rough-in. Includes an outside door that opens to a nice patio. Nice unit—hurry!

The series’ mission is to connect teens and adults of all mental and physical abilities to the arts, and to reinforce that they are valued library customers who are welcome at HCL.

could go to the library, enjoy a performance specially designed for them, and not worry about being accepted.

Kairos Dance Theatre in their “Arts Access” dance production held at the Ridgedale Library in Minnetonka.

He also noted that there were many “repeat customers” from other resources, go to www. “Everyone was dancing and last season’s “Arts Access” hclib.org. moving, including severely series. Almost 2 million books, magadisabled people who performed at the level they could,” The next “Arts Access” per- zines, newspapers, CDs, and other materials, plus more than said John Sugimura, HCL pro- formances are: gram manager. He said one Monday, Feb. 27, 2006, 7 pm 1,000 computer workstations, woman was completely para- at the Ridgedale Library, are available to you free of lyzed and could move her 12601 Ridgedale Dr., Minne- charge at the libraries. Liwheelchair only by blowing tonka. This night will feature into a mouthpiece. She moved the Zenon Dance Company. her wheelchair in circles to ‘dance.’ Monday, March 27, 2006, 7 pm at the Eden Prairie Library. Kairos Dance Theatre, This night will feature the Minnesota’s only intergenera- Jawaahir Dance Company. tional dance theatre, celebrates people of all ages, abilities, Lifelong Learning Via and experiences in its artistic Hennepin County Library creativity. For information about upcoming activities and current serSugimura said family mem- vices as well as access to the bers attending with children or library’s catalog, electronic siblings appreciated that they data bases, the Internet, and

brary cards are free. Apply at any of the 26 suburban Hennepin County libraries (bring a form of identification) or fill out your application online at www.hclib.org. Wireless Internet access is available at all 26 libraries. ■

Very well maintained end unit Townhome. New windows and siding in '03 and a new deck in '05. Newer carpet throughout the upstairs and freshly painted. Blinds from Marshall Fields’s home store. Mature trees for privacy. Southern sun exposure. Hurry!!! For more info on these properties contact Jennifer Bowman – 612-202-2545

“Arts Access” dance production, Jan. 30, 2006.

Kairos Dance Theatre performed and involved members of the audience.

February 10, 2006

Living Independently

Finding a â&#x20AC;&#x153;House Callâ&#x20AC;? In The Twin Cities by Lisa Schmidtke

revious â&#x20AC;&#x153;House Callâ&#x20AC;? columns on grocery delivery and cleaning services might benefit an audience far beyond the disability community. This month weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll narrow the focus and talk about how people with disabilities can live more independently. There are some basic needs that must be met for a person with physical limitations to live in his or her own home. Family members and neighbors often help with household tasks, such as shoveling snow or picking up prescriptions. For private needs, such as bathing and dressing, a trained professional might be a good option. People who need help with day-today assistance to meet their personal care needs should consider hiring a personal care attendant (PCA).

at my co-workerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s frustration when her ailing mother-in-law called to â&#x20AC;&#x153;tellâ&#x20AC;? her to bring her some bananas. This may seem like a simple request, or a demand in this case, but sometimes the help needed by people with limited mobility isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t so simple. Hygiene assistance, wound care and medication distribution can potentially harm the recipient, if not performed by a trained or careful person.

to perform light housekeeping, try HomeWatch or Comfort Keepers. For companion care and help with household duties, contact Home Instead Senior Care. Maybe just having someone from Visiting Angels or City Zen Concierge check on you will provide the companionship you need. The Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association has an extensive list of specialized home companions for individuals afflicted with the disease.

If it is important to take your vital signs or monitor your oxygen use, make sure that these tasks are performed by a registered nurse. In-Home Personal Care offers home health aides (HHA) and supervision by registered nurses (RN). Some people may choose to have a live-in PCA from A+ Home Care, while others may be comfortable with on-call Personal Care Attendants One day at work, I had to laugh If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for someone 24/7 emergency help from If you consider hiring a PCA, first determine what level of care is needed. It might be helpful to review your needs through discussions with involved family members. When necessary, consult your physician(s), social worker, hospital, or nursing-home staff. Personal care attendant services vary widely.

HomeWatch Caregivers of Minnesota. In all cases, make sure that a background check has been done on helpers coming into your home. Your relationship with your personal care attendant should be comfortable and trusting. Most companies offer a free home assessment, but you should also consider it an interview. Once you find a PCA to help with daily activities, you may also have found a friend. Lisa Schmidtke is the President and Founder of Housecalls Network. She can be reached by email at lisa@ housecalls-network.com or by phone at 952-221-0722. Housecalls Network does not endorse any particular provider. They assume no responsibility for transactions between the readers of this article and listed organizations.

Resource Contact Information â&#x20AC;˘ A+ Home Care: www.aplushomecare.org/index.html; 952-854-7760 â&#x20AC;˘ Comfort Keepers: www.comfortkeepers.com; 1-800-387-2415 â&#x20AC;˘ Common Sense Services for Seniors: www.commonsense4seniors.net; 651-552-0288 â&#x20AC;˘ Home Companions: www.alzmndak.org/2familyservices/twincities â&#x20AC;˘ Home Instead Senior Care: www.homeinstead.com; 1-888-484-5759 â&#x20AC;˘ HomeWatch Caregivers of Minnesota: www.homewatch-intl.com/Minnesota; 763-546-8899 â&#x20AC;˘ In-Home Personal Care: www.inhomepersonalcare.com; 763-546-1000 â&#x20AC;˘ Visiting Angels: www.visitingangels.com; 1-800-365-4189 â&#x20AC;˘ City Zen Concierge: www.cityzenconcierge.com; 612-605-1624 â&#x20AC;˘ The Housecalls Network Web site, www.housecallsnetwork.com, contains a directory of resources that can help the growing population of seniors, disabled people and their caregivers. Housecalls Network also sells aids for daily living, lifting cushions and adaptive clothing.

Home Access Answers

Ramp â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hide and Seekâ&#x20AC;? by Jane Hampton, CID, Access Specialist Dear Jane, We need a ramp installed at our home. My husband can no longer climb stairs. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re over 68 years old and are concerned about safety, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to advertise to those who pass by that we are vulnerable. Do you have any suggestions?

are concerned about safety. They do not want to become â&#x20AC;&#x153;targetsâ&#x20AC;? for crime. There are two ramp-building locations we recommended instead of placing the ramp at the frontentrance door to the house.

longevity of the ramp. The difficult part of a garage-ramp installation is that the space needed for the ramp may take up one entire parking stall, if not more. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford to lose parking space and the garage is your preferred location for home access, a vertical platform lift may be an alternative to a ramp. Platform lifts take up less square footage.

If you have an attached garage, a ramp can be installed in the Eileen, Minneapolis, MN garage. This option provides safety from crime and protecDear Eileen, tion from rain, snow and ice. Many seniors with disabilities This option can also extend the The second suggested rampbuilding location is at the back of the house with access through an existing patio or back door. If you do not have an existing back door, a new door can easily be added, possibly where a window currently exists. By placing the ramp at the back of the home, it is hidden from the street.

A picture is worthâ&#x20AC;Ś

Keep in mind you will need a

connecting sidewalk between the vehicle drop-off area and the ramp. Connecting the ramp with the drop-off area may be an opportunity to create an This ramp is designed to accommodate an accessible exterior patio or deck, providpicnic table and provides the bench for this purpose. ing â&#x20AC;&#x153;useable outdoorâ&#x20AC;? wheelchair space. construct a ramp is at the front Access Answers. Please conentrance, there are ways to tact us: phone at 952-925Be aware of water drainage â&#x20AC;&#x153;disguiseâ&#x20AC;? it. You can visually 0301; or by e-mail at info@ from the roof. The new side- connect or blend the ramp to accessibilitydesign.com. Our walk and ramp should not be the home using similar archi- Web site is www.accessibility built on a â&#x20AC;&#x153;poolingâ&#x20AC;? site for tectural elements and appro- design.com. water drainage. Water drain- priate landscaping, making the age can be routed under the ramp â&#x20AC;&#x153;disappear,â&#x20AC;? and in some Jane Hampton, president of sidewalk by providing a cases, actually adding â&#x20AC;&#x153;curb Accessibility Design, founded â&#x20AC;&#x153;sleeveâ&#x20AC;? for the downspout. appeal.â&#x20AC;? the company in 1992 to enhance lives through design and You may also want to consider Good luck with the construc- project management. Accesadditional lighting for the side- tion of your ramp! Thank you sibility Design provides dewalk, ramp and door-landing for your question. â&#x2013; sign, consultation, project area. Motion-sensor lights management, and product recoffer a convenient, security- Do you have a question for ommendation services speenhancing lighting option. Jane and Accessibility Design? cializing in home access for Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll cover all of your ques- individuals with disabilities at If you decide the only place to tions in future issues of Home all stages of life.

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February 10, 2006

â&#x20AC;&#x153;How Toâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sâ&#x20AC;? on Purchasing A Ramp by Steve Gildersleeve

o you need a ramp? Do you need to replace an existing ramp? Before you make that purchase, use these tips and questions below as a backdrop in your discussions with the different dealers and contractors. First, you must decide on which type of ramp to choose from. You have four main choices: a portable platform or suitcase ramp, a modular aluminum ramp, a modular steel ramp, or a wooden ramp. When considering which type of ramp, keep in mind the following four questions: What is the â&#x20AC;&#x153;riseâ&#x20AC;? of the ramp? To figure the â&#x20AC;&#x153;rise,â&#x20AC;? you need to measure the distance between the entry level and the ground. Using the standard ADA rule of thumb, which is one inch of rise per foot of run, the number of inches from door to ground equals the length of the ramp in feet, you may find that with some power chairs and scooters, you could increase the slope of the ramp. But be careful you should let safety and ease determine the length of your ramp, not price.

Also, make sure to look into the types of support and footings for the various ramps. You want a ramp that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sink into the ground over

VOTING SYSTEM - Cont. from p. 9

time. A rectangular base the width of the ramp is much better than a single post on a brick. What do you want the ramp to look like? Steel ramps end up looking much like the black, metal porch and stair railings many houses already have. Aluminum ramps are bright and modern looking. Wooden ramps blend in nicely with some architectural styles. Jenny Sanders tries out the Accuvote TS(x) voting system

What time of year is it when you need to construct the ramp? In winter and spring, your choices of ramps are more limited than during the summer and fall. Some types of ramps may require concrete footings, making it costly to sink a footing in frozen ground. Certain dealers donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t install ramps in the cold weather. The next important step in purchasing a ramp is where to get your ramp. You have three main choices: medical equipment supply firms, a building contractor, or a company that specializes in designing and building ramps. Who you choose depends on four factors:

In most cities, you will need a building permit, and potenHow quickly tially an inspection and redo you need the ramp? evaluation for ramps that approach a certain size (over 30" Certain ramp providers can of rise and/or 400 sq. ft, for install a ramp within a couple example). days of your initial call. Others operate on much longer If you need less than 10 feet of time frames. If your need is ramp, a standard-sized por- urgent, be sure to get installatable or platform ramp might tion deadlines in writing. be the least expensive, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sacrifice safety just to How long get it cheap. The portable or will you need the ramp? platform types of ramps become too steep and dangerous If you expect the need to be if you need more than 10 feet permanent, any source might of ramp. work. If you just want the ramp for a day, a few weeks, or Do you need an outdoor or a few months, your choices indoor ramp? Certain ramp surfaces get slippery when wet. Others allow ice to form and snow to build up on the surface. Even though each type of ramp material claims it has features to improve traction, certain ramp materials deal with rain and snow more effectively.

â&#x20AC;˘ Full time nurse on staff â&#x20AC;˘ Live in PCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;˘ PCA services â&#x20AC;˘ Serve adults, children, seniors â&#x20AC;˘ State wide coverage â&#x20AC;˘ Competitive salary â&#x20AC;˘ Health insurance â&#x20AC;˘ PCA Choice, PCA Traditional, PCA Alternative â&#x20AC;˘ Independent living skills training

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cific drawings from several are more limited. You can ask sources that have good referthe organizations you call if ences and then make your dethey rent ramps for short-term cision based on the total packneeds. age. The price of ramps range anywhere from $55 to $120 Also, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to consider per foot of ramp. Make sure what happens when the ramp labor, freight, materials, and is no longer needed or if you sales tax are all included in move. Wooden and concrete each quote. ramps require the most money and time to remove and leavOnce you research the inforing them in place may make mation provided above, you the home more difficult to sell. can make a clear decision on Modular aluminum and steel the many choices for constructramps are easy to move to a ing a ramp. You can also connew home and you can add or sult some of the resources subtract parts to fit the new listed below: situation. How much of the design and construction work can you, your family, or friends do? If you know people who will help design and build your ramp, you can certainly save money. Some local grant-supported organizations offer advice on building wooden ramps, and you can order other types of ramps over the Internet. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your budget? If you can get someone to donate the time and/or the materials, it might cut your costs and help you make a decision. If not, get firm quotes and spe-

â&#x20AC;˘ Call United Way 211â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s referral service. Dial 2-1-1 or 800-543-7709. â&#x20AC;˘ Call the Metro Center for Independent Living Ramp Project 651-646-8342. â&#x20AC;˘ Call the Senior Linkage Line at 800-333-2433. â&#x20AC;˘ Visit www.directability. com for resources. â&#x20AC;˘ Conduct your own Internet search. Try www.google. com. â&#x20AC;˘ Contact your favorite contractor or handyman service. â&#x20AC;˘ Consult the Yellow Pages under Medical Equipment and Supplies. â&#x20AC;˘ Ask your therapist, or your social worker or case manager for suggestions. â&#x2013;

(3) securely transmits a ballot electronically to automatic tabulating equipment in the polling place while creating an individual, discrete, permanent paper record of each vote on the ballot. The waiver, which would expire in 2007, would allow Washington County (and possibly any other county that may follow suit) to use the TS(x) temporarily until a perma-

nent solution can be found. In the meantime, Washington County expects to persuade the legislature and the Secretary of State to approve this equipment. According to Kevin Corbid, Director of Assessment, Taxpayer Services and Elections Department, the decision to waive the current requirements in statute is made by the State Auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office and would not need approval from the Secretary of State. â&#x2013;

!CCESS0RESS PDF 0-

Jamie Taylor using the Accuvote TS(x) voting system

February 10, 2006

Bicycling: Travel The Roller Derby Is Back! & Fitness Expo by David Hadlich

by David Hadlich

t used to be that going on a bike ride was only for the non-disabled. Fast forward to now, and there are many adaptations available for everyone. The first annual Bicycling, Travel and Fitness Expo will be held in the Minneapolis Convention Center on Saturday, March 4, 2006 and Sunday, March 5, 2006. There promises to be a multitude of exhibitors and activities for all ages, including a separate test track for individuals to try out special needs bikes. All of this is being produced by Minnesota Cyclist magazine, and Mike Fredericks. He has taken an inclusive approach to not only this expo, but to his magazine, as well. Now published two times a year, and available free at newsstands all around the Twin Cities, he plans to focus a story in each issue on the disability community and biking. Mike has a great attitude when it comes to his business. “Everyone should be included. After I stumbled upon a business that sells special needs bikes, I realized that this was some-

thing I wanted to include in the magazine, as well as the expo,” said Fredericks. For individuals and families with special needs, there is not only the separate test track, but a number of vendors, local and international, specializing in special needs bikes will be there to allow people to try out the different types of equipment.

n what is becoming a national resurgence, the TC Rollers all female roller derby league is calling Cheap Skate of Coon Rapids home. Craig Gordon, league director, states that the most recent edition of roller derby is much less violent and much more family friendly than what many of us remember form the 1970s. Leagues are popping up all over the country. States like Texas, North Carolina and Wisconsin all have active leagues.

recruiting potential skaters, and in the summer of 2005, practice had begun. In November of 2005, an exhibition bout was held in Princeton, MN, with over 400 people attending. Bouts are expected to run approximately 2 ½ hours, with a 30 minute halftime. He also plans that after each match, there will be a post-bout party, so the fans and skaters can meet.

On Saturday, January 28, the doors opened at Cheap Skate to an overflow crowd. Old and One of the largest fundraisers Gordon began planning for this young, men and women, they for the MS Society is the MS back in November of 2004. filled up the seats and then 150, a 150 mile bike ride. By January of 2005, he began some. According to attendees, Fredericks has noticed an increase in the number of people riding in this event who are utilizing specialized equipment. As technology and society move forward, more and more people with disabilities will begin to engage in activities that were historically unavailable to them. Biking is a growing sport, and it is promising to see the disability community being included in its future. For more information about the Travel and Fitness Expo, please contact Mike Fredericks at 651-765-8838, or Sally Brown at 651-429-6323. ■

TC Rollers’ inaugural bout.

Roller derby participants it was a blast! “Something for everyone,” “Family entertainment,” and a great night of fun,” were just some of the comments overheard.

Why is Access Press writing about this? Because after expenses are paid, the proceeds of the bouts will go to local charities. “It is a chance to give something back to the community, and for people to get out and have a great time. The skaters are mostly married with children and they practice on Sunday, Monday and Wednesday evenings.” “We are all volunteering our time,” says Gordon. Gordon has committed to setting aside a seating area for people with mobility issues, and has stated that with the security and staff on-site being linked with radios, assistance is not far away. With tickets prices at $8 in advance, and $10 at the door, it is a great opportunity for people of all ages to get out for the evening. ■

Service Dogs Available! by Laurie Carlson

unique situation is making a number of highly trained Service Dogs available immediately for Minnesota residents with serious disabilities. You, or someone you know, might be a perfect match for one of these special helpers if you can act quickly. Service Dogs are custom trained to help people with mobility challenges by retrieving dropped objects, opening doors, pulling wheel chairs, fetching an emergency cordless

phone and providing countless other specially trained tasks. The dogs are custom trained for each applicant and then carefully taught to work with their new human partner.

vided by donations from individuals, foundations and service groups like the Lions. This Minneapolis based organization usually has a long waiting list for its highly valued dogs. However, the pool of puppies raised by program volunteers this year has produced a larger-than-normal group of dogs needing to be paired with just the right person in order to be successful.

These special dogs cost more than $20,000 to train, but they are available free of charge to qualified applicants through a nonprofit organization called Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota. The dogs are free to those who need them because the cost of providing The ideal person would be a these tireless workers is pro- fairly strong leader who has a

“Dogs like these trainees are now available from Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota without a long wait .” clear voice and probably works outside the home. These dogs need to be part of an active lifestyle that creates many opportunities for them to do their work each day. “This is the first time this has happened during our 18 years of operation,” said Executive Director Alan Peters, “While this group of dogs will not be

a good fit for every single person with a disability, they will If you might be the right perchange the lives of people who son for one of these helpers, please call V-612-729-5986 or are a good match.” TTY-612-729-5914 to request Peters went on to say, “If we an application or for more indo not make the proper place- formation. ■ ments for these dogs, some may be “career changed” into Laurie Carlson is Volunteer pet homes, as they cannot wait Coordinator for Hearing and for a permanent home forever. Service Dogs of MN. That would be a real loss.”

February 10, 2006

ADHD And The Keys To Motivation by Lisa Simmons

otivation! What an abstract concept. Most of us struggle to motivate ourselves through our own daily “to do” list.

“I know it feels like the teachers don’t care, but the reality may be that they are in survival mode. When you know you can’t make a situation better, human nature tells you to, “get out of the situation as quickly as possible with as few scars as possible.” For teachers this may translate into withdrawing. Seeing your son every day will hurt if they feel like they are failing him. But if they label your son as a behavior problem or trouble maker who is choosing to fail, then they don’t have to feel like they failed as a teacher.”

signment, but at least the other kids won’t call me “stupid.” •If I act up and don’t try, then I don’t have to admit (to myself or anyone else) that I tried and failed.

Even as I wrote that paragraph I thought, “I bet her son would understand that feeling.” How many kids with ADHD are in survival mode; just trying to So how do we turn this around make it through the constant and understand the core of mo- struggle of school with as few tivating kids who are struggling scars as possible. with ADHD, before their self esteem ends up in a nose-dive? Can you hear their thought process? Just this past week I was talk- •If I don’t make eye contact, ing with a Mom who was frus- maybe the teacher won’t call trated with her son’s teachers on me. because none of them seemed •If I don’t turn in the assignto care and they weren’t “moment, I won’t get back a pativated” to help him. Here’s per full of big red check marks the explanation I offered for that make me feel bad. her consideration: •If I don’t ask extra questions I may not understand the as-

Kids with ADHD tend to be experiential learners. So far they have experienced frustration, failure, and defeat. What they have learned is that “trying harder” doesn’t help. It just makes failure more painful. The point? Don’t expect success in an environment built for failure.

But when the teacher starts telling you, “your child’s so smart—she could get better grades if only she’d try” or “he has a real attitude problem” . . . it seems like our responsibility as parents to “motivate” our kids too. Unfortunately, our best efforts at motivating others often come out simply as “nagging.” And no one wants a child who is angry, depressed or dissolved in tears with cries of “I’m just too stupid” or “it’s too boring.”

Your child with ADHD wants to succeed just as much as you want him/her too. They just don’t believe it’s possible, and sometimes physically, it’s not— without some help. But there are some keys that can unlock this problem. MOTIVATION KEY #1 Set Up a Success System

You and your child’s teacher have to actively work at creating a classroom where he/she can learn successfully. The two most common motivation problems in the classroom for kids with ADHD tend to be boredom or overwhelm. Look at the situations where your

child is withdrawing into sul- motivation, encourage her len silence or active rebellion. teacher to spend a few minutes each day just talking to your Once you have identified the child about anything but problem, it’s much easier to school. Not only will their solve. Either by reducing en- relationship improve, but your vironmental distractions or child’s desire to please them working with your child’s should increase and the teacher teacher to incorporate more will gain insights into your challenging or more interac- child and his interests that will tive learning tasks. help them interact more successfully and plan lessons more For practical classroom ac- individualized to your child. commodation ideas, check out: www.additudemag.com. MOTIVATION KEY #3 Find an Island MOTIVATION KEY #2 Stand in Their Shoes No, not for you to run away to; this paradise is for your child If you want your child to be- to experience. have and respond differently then you need to understand T. Berry Brazelton, M.D. puts and respect their feelings and it this way, “One of the most INVOLVE them in finding or helpful things you can do is to creating solutions that they appreciate your child for exaren’t embarrassed to use and actly who he is. If he’s shy, that they truly believe will don’t push him to be outgoing. make a difference. If she’s active, don’t insist that she sit quietly. Reinforce your For a little insight into your child for the things she CAN child’s thinking, I recommend do rather than emphasizing the article, “12 Things High those he can’t. Look for “isSchool Students with ADD/ lands of excellence”, pursuits ADHD Would Like Their your child enjoys and is good Teachers (and parents) To at and then let her know how Know” proud you are.”

passion: Art, Karate, Dance, Computers? Remember that experiential learner I talked about—your child needs to experience success. A child who recognizes his own unique gifts and has “tasted success” will have the self esteem to work harder at things that are more of a struggle. Things at school aren’t likely to turn around over night. It will take persistence and some trial and error to get “your system of support” just right. In the meantime, these activities can be the key to offering your child joy, increased self esteem, and the chance to see increased effort result in real success. All of which builds that internal motivation both of you are searching for! ■

Lisa Simmons is the director of the Ideal Lives Project, “Connecting Advocates with Answers” at www.idealLives. com, a Web site that provides information on advocacy and inclusion written specifically for parents. Subscribe to her free E-zine, The Ideal Lives Express, for more great tips like these To make a long term impact That is your child’s “island of and empower yourself! on your child’s classroom excellence.” What is their

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Medtronic. Careers with a passion for life. At Medtronic, we provide lifelong solutions to people with chronic disease, impacting a life every 6 seconds. Recognized for seven out of the last nine years as one of Fortune magazine’s “Best 100 Companies to Work For in America,” we are also committed to the mind, body and spirit of our employees. We are looking for top talent at all levels in: • Engineering – Electrical, Software, Firmware, IC Design, Product, Test, Quality, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Biomedical, Biomaterials; Six Sigma certifications a plus • Information Technology – Managers, Business Systems Project Leaders, Analyst, Programmer/Analyst • Clinical Studies/Regulatory Affairs • Finance • Sales/Marketing Review openings at www.medtronic.com/employment and select “Apply to this Job” or “Add to Cart” to route your resume directly to the hiring department. With people like you, who have purpose, potential and passion, we’ll supply physicians and their patients around the world with the means to extend life, restore health and alleviate pain. Join Medtronic today...and experience your career with a Passion for Life.

Medtronic is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

February 10, 2006

ADA IN PRISON- Cont. from p. 1

LESSONS - Cont. from p. 3

strued to extend to any suit in law or equity, commenced or prosecuted against one of the United States by Citizens of another State, or by Citizens or Subjects of any Foreign State.”

different perspective, they can provide additional information that you might miss in talking [only] to patients. Does your office have wheelchair ramps? Do your doors swing out so patients in wheelchairs don’t have to navigate around them? Can someone in a wheelchair use your bathroom? Evaluate the whole patient, and care, even if you can’t cure.”

The Supreme Court disagreed. Justice Scalia, writing for the unanimous court: “This enforcement power includes the power to abrogate state sovereign immunity by authorizing private suits for damages against the states. … Thus, insofar as Title II creates a private cause of action for damages against the States for conduct that actually violates the Fourteenth Amendment, Title II validly abrogates state sovereign immunity.” Bazelon calls the ruling “a narrow decision that leaves many questions unanswered.” But while leaving many questions unanswered, the Court’s decision leaves a door open— the door to money damages. This applies to any potential

“I feel blessed,” Dr. Conill asserts. “Two-thirds of those with disabilities aren’t working, and two-thirds of those who aren’t working would like to work. When people feel productive, they feel whole. Companies need to understand this,

Writer’s Footnotes Dr. Conill speaks fluent Spanish. She is a trustee of the National MS Society and has published several articles. For her work, she won the 1997 National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Achievement Award.

Herb Drill writes and edits www.notaccessible.com. Drill is the principal of Able Me & Associates!, providing marketing consultations to the overlooked disabled community. He is a charter member of the now international, Society of American Business The Conill Institute is a 501(c) Editors and Writers. His e(3) tax-exempt, educational mail address is herbdrill@ and charitable organization ableme.com. ■

Stairs create inaccessible situations for inmates. suit brought under ADA. For more information see:

www.bazelon.org/issues/ disabilityrights/resources/ goodman.htm. ■

Cont. from p. 5 •The MDA locally manages an equipment pool of donated equipment, which is loaned out to MDA clients. •The MDA hosts 9 local support groups. •The MDA locally hosts an annual conference, free of charge, to MDA clients and health professionals in the community.

spot without a handicap parking permit. When this happened, my mom would go and ask the other drivers if they could move because she needed to use the spot. Sometimes, they would just say, “So what.” But most of the time, people have been nice to me. I actually like it when they come and ask what is wrong with For more information, contact me. I would rather people talk the local MDA office in Edina to me instead of staring at me. by phone: 952-841-0533 or email: minneapolisservices The scariest part of having @mdausa.org. ■ Duchenne muscular dystrophy is that many of the people I have known who have MD have died even before reaching my age. I am 20 years old

that develops educational programs to help patients, families, care partners, and employers “deal more effectively with chronic illness and disability.” The Institute can be contacted at 215-746-7267 or contact@ conillinst.org.

Check us out: accesspress.org ❖❖❖❖ Please patronize your Access Press advertisers — and tell them where you heard about them. They bring you your paper.

WHAT IS MD - Cont. from p. 5 LIFE WITH MD medical expenses at these clinics. Physical and Occupational Therapy can be arranged through your child’s school or through your MDA clinic. •The MDA provides up to $2,000 every 3 years for children under 18 years old and $2,000 every 5 years for adults to use for the purchase of a wheelchair, scooter or leg braces. •The MDA provides up to $500 every year for repairs to a wheelchair, scooter or leg braces. •The MDA provides up to $2,000 once in a lifetime towards the purchase of an augmentative-communication device.

and I hope to work with more of them. After all, any one of us could become disabled at a moment’s notice.” As Abraham Lincoln said, “It’s not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.”

SMOKING - Cont. from p. 7

Garrett. “Prevent Blindness America strongly encourages now, and recently I have had regular eye examinations from set backs with my health. For qualified eye care professionpeople with my disease, get- als.” ting a simple cold could actually end their lives. It is be- AMD begins as a loss of cencause of this fact that I try to tral vision which results in difmake the best of each day. ficulty to read a book and see Even when I am in pain or just fine details. Over time, the tired out, I challenge myself to vision loss increases signifiaccomplish something that cantly. Of the two forms of day. You can usually find me AMD, “dry” and “wet,” dry in my office, drawing or mak- AMD is the most common ing cards, working on a photo form of the disease. It inproject for someone else, or volves the presence of drusen just surfing the web on the —fatty deposits that form uncomputer. In conclusion, I der the light-sensing cells in feel that although living with the retina. Vision loss in dry MD has had its ups and downs, AMD usually progresses I have always managed to keep slowly. Wet AMD is less commy spirits up. ■ mon, but more rapidly threatening to vision. Wet AMD causes tiny blood vessels un-

der the retina to leak or break open. This distorts vision and causes scar tissue to form. Healthy habits can lead to healthy eyes. The risk of eye disease and vision loss can be lowered if you: quit smoking; eat healthy foods (including green leafy vegetables and foods high in zinc, vitamins C and E, and beta carotene); control blood pressure and cholesterol; stay active; and, visit your eye care professional on a regular basis. For free information on AMD, please visit Prevent Blindness America at www.preventblind ness.org or call 1-800-3312020. ■

February 10, 2006

News At A Glance . . . Talking Books Program

Mankato Area Adaptive Sit-Ski Program

Talking Books is a free library service available to eligible people of any age whose low vision, blindness, or physical handicap make reading a standard print page difficult. The National Library Service (NLS) mails books and magazines on cassette and in Braille, as well as audio equipment, directly to enrollees at no cost.

ACCESS, SMILES CIL, and volunteers from the community work together to provide adults and youth with disabilities an opportunity to experience the “thrill of the hill.” Do you have a physical disability? Have you considered skiing, but haven’t followed through with the desire? We have adaptive equipment and instructors to teach you to ski. To pre-register for a lesson or to volunteer contact Dalaine Remes at 507-345-5222 The Talking Books catalog has more than 400,000 titles. Books or Joanne Hovey McBride at 345-7139, or check out our Web are selected based on their appeal to people with a wide range site at www.smilescil.org. of interest. Some of the most popular items include bestsellers, biographies, fiction, and how-to books. PACER Launches Exciting, New,

First-of-a Kind Bullying Prevention Web Site Every library within the NLS network has access to the entire Children in second through sixth grades now have an entertaincollection and the resources of cooperating institutions. ing, safe way to learn how to respond to bullying. PACER’s new Kids Against Bullying Web site includes a cast of 12 Enrollment information is available online at www.loc.gov/nls animated characters, celebrity videos, kid videos, Webisodes, or by calling 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323). games, contests, stories, artwork, poems, information, and much more. The site is for all children. Children with disabilities are integrated throughout the Web site. Visit Chain of Hearts Campaign South Metro Federal Credit union invites the public to stop by www.pacerkidsagainstbullying.org and then let us know what their main branch in the Dakota Mall, across from Mystic Lake you think. Please send comments to bullying411@pacer.org. Casino Hotel to make a donation. This annual fundraiser benefits Gillette Childrens’ Specialty Healthcare. Creative Kidstuff Selects PACER The campaign encourages members, local residents, and area businesses to contribute by purchasing paper links. The campaign runs through February 18, 2006. For more information contact Don Crofut at 952-445-0888, ext. 16 or visit www.southmet.com.

Minnesota Diversified Industries Awarded United States Postal Service Contract Minnesota Diversified Industries, Inc. (MDI) has been awarded contracts for the production of six million bulk mail trays and four million letter mail trays for the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) mail handling operations. The contracts, valued at over $35 million, represent a 40% increase over last year’s contracts. Last year MDI’s trays enabled the world’s largest mail handler to deliver more than 212 billion pieces of mail to over 134 million delivery addresses. MDI extrudes plastic for production of the trays at its newly-expanded facility in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, and assembles the finished products at operations in Hibbing, Minnesota. MDI has produced over 60 million trays for the USPS since 1993. For more information on MDI, visit www.mdi.org or contact Jenny Peters, Communications Manager, Minnesota Diversified Industries, 651.999.8409 jenny.peters@mdi.org

Lifelong Learning Via Hennepin County Library Almost 2 million books, magazines, newspapers, CDs, and other materials, plus more than 1,000 computer workstations, are available to you free of charge at the libraries. Library cards are free. Apply at any of the 26 suburban Hennepin County libraries (bring a form of identification) or fill out your application online at www.hclib.org. For information about upcoming activities and current services as well as access to the library’s catalog, electronic data bases, the Internet, and other resources, go to www.hclib.org. Wireless Internet access is available at all 26 libraries.

Recreation and Volunteer Opportunities SMILES Miracle League Baseball program is available to youth with disabilities between the ages of 7-18, or upon graduation of high school. The season runs from April 22-June 24. Practices and games are generally scheduled Saturday mornings from 10 am to 12 pm at Wallyn Field in Lower North Mankato.

PCA Stakeholder Focus Group Meetings The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) needs your help to identify key issues to improve the quality of the Personal Care Assistance (PCA) program. We are holding three focus groups to gather input on what is working and not working in our current system. The groups will consist of: 1. PCA providers—either traditional or PCA Choice 2. PCA consumers—adult consumers who direct their own care 3. PCAs—who work full-time or part-time Please pass this information on to others in the above categories who might be interested. Since space is limited, please RSVP as soon as possible. If you need a disability accommodation, please specify that with your RSVP. You need to register at least one week prior to the focus group. Each focus group will be limited to 20 participants. Participation by telephone is also an option.

Focus Groups: PCA Consumers: Thursday, February 16 from 1:30 - 3:30 pm; RSVP by February 9 PCAs: Wednesday, February 22 from 1:30 - 3:30 pm; RSVP by February 15 as its Charity Partner Creative Kidstuff, the award-winning children’s store that PCA Providers: Monday, February 27 from 1:30 - 3:30 pm; RSVP by February 20 caters to parents, teachers, daycare providers and children will be selling coupon books at each of their six Twin Cities store locations to benefit PACER Center. Each book contains dis- All meetings held at: DHS, 444 Lafayette Rd, Conference Rm 1A counts on a variety of Creative Kidstuff toys, gifts, and services. Coupon books are $5 and can be used throughout 2006. PCA consumers and PCAs are eligible for reimbursement of expenses. This includes travel, child care, and $25 for time and Customers may purchase multiple coupon books. expertise. DHS staff will provide forms and assistance after the The February proceeds will be directly donated to PACER. In focus groups for requesting this reimbursement. turn, these funds will help PACER continue providing services and resources to parents of children with disabilities at no We look forward to working with our community partners in charge. Learn more about how Creative Kidstuff and PACER making quality improvements to this very crucial program. Thank you very much for your interest. are working together.

Children with Disabilities in America: A Historical Handbook and Guide Images of disabled children are found throughout well-known works of literature, film, and even opera. Their characters range from sweet, to brave, to tragic. Disabled children are also a part of the reality of life either in personal ways or as poster girls and boys for drives and causes. Behind these images is a historical presence that has been created by the societies in which these children live and have lived. This work examines current knowledge about children’s experience of physical, cognitive, and emotional/behavioral impairments from the Colonial period to the present, while revealing the social constructions of both disability and childhood throughout American history. Just as disability has been advanced as an essential consideration in other historical inquiries, such as that of gender, this is a work intended to demonstrate the critical role of disability with respect to the history of childhood.

To RSVP or for more information contact: Linda Wolford at 651-431-2377 or e-mail linda.wolford@state.mn.us

Northwest Youth & Family Services: PREP Program and Youth Run Business/Penny Pinchers Thrift Store Program Overview: The main purpose of the Youth Run Business/Penny Pinchers Program is to prepare hard-to-employ youth ages 13-17 for employment. The Youth Run Business program utilizes an experiential learning design where youth develop skills through structured activities and on-the-job coaching while performing retail operations at Penny Pinchers Thrift Store. Within this framework NYFS operates a smaller, more focused program called the PREP program.

Purpose: To help youth develop skills necessary to transition into post ISBN: 0-313-33146-4, Greenwood Publishing Group, 88 Post Rd W., high school employment opportunities. Westport, CT 06881, 203-226-3571 ext. 3379, Fax 203-222-1502 Features: ADHD Research Study Opportunity • Occurs during the school year in conjunction with High The Behavioral Health Department at Regions is conducting a School Practical Readiness Education Programs research study of an investigational medication for Attention • Involves youth in grades 10-12 Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). They are looking for • Youth participate on location at Penny Pinchers Tuesdaypatients age 6-17 with ADHD. No previous diagnosis of Friday, 12pm-1:30pm ADHD is necessary. There is no cost for study medication, • Program operates during two sessions: Session I: Septemdoctor’s visits or procedures. Study participation period is ber-December, Session II: January-June about 8 weeks, with the opportunity to continue until the FDA • Students who successfully complete the program earn a reaches a decision as to whether this medication will be $300.00 stipend per session available for the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents. Participation is voluntary. If you are interested in Desired Outcomes: learning more about this research opportunity, please contact As a result of their experience youth develop: Positive work Brian, study coordinator, at 651-254-1587. habits; Job seeking skills; Leadership and teamwork skills; and Experience in retail operations.

The philosophy of our program is to provide the framework for every young person to experience a structured athletic activity uniquely adapted to his or her ability. Each child is provided National Alliance on Mental Illness: Support Groups the opportunity to build upon their individual skill levels. The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota (NAMIAlong with teaching skills, we focus on teamwork, building MN) sponsors free support groups for families who have a self-esteem, and having a lot of fun. relative with mental illness. Led by trained facilitators who also have a family member with mental illness, the support groups The Registration deadline is March 1, 2006. Players, coaches, help families develop better coping skills and find strength and buddies must be pre-registered. Limited scholarships are through sharing their experiences. A family support group available. To request a registration packet or for more informa- meets in Roseville, at 6:30 pm on the second Wednesday of the tion contact Joanne at 507-345-7139 or via e-mail at month. For more information, call Anna Mae at 651-730-8434 jhovey@smilescil.org. or Sue at 651-736-2291.

Registration Process: Ideal candidates are identified by high school staff. Prior to involvement, school personnel (and preferably the student) must meet with the Program Coordinator at Penny Pinchers Thrift Store to identify learning goals, and determine the appropriateness of the program and program setting. Parental permission to participate in the program is the responsibility of the host school. For more information on this program contact: Sunnie Kaufmann at 763-783-3626. News At A Glance - cont. on p. 18

February 10, 2006

News At A Glance . . .

Cont. from p. 17

Waiver for Mental Retardation/ Related Conditions Explained

Program Helps People With Disabilities Gain Control, Flexibility

Is Your Disabled Child ‘Transitioning’ To Adulthood?

People who are developmentally disabled, their families and service providers may want to attend free information sessions that explain services and programs for people enrolled in the Mental Retardation/Related Conditions (MR/RC) waiver. The waiver provides funds to teach life skills in the home and community.

If you are eligible for Medical Assistance (MA) or MA Home Care and want more control, flexibility and responsibility for your care, there are free information sessions that explain the Consumer Support Grant (CSG). To be eligible for the CSG, you cannot be on an MA waiver.

People who are disabled and between the ages of 16 and 21 and their parents or legal guardians may want to attend free information sessions that explain “Changes at Transition: Ages 16 to 21.”

Sponsored by Hennepin County’s Human Services and Public Health Department, the sessions will review the menu of services and discuss the similarities and differences between services. To register, call 612-596-6631 or go to www.hennepin.us and type in “adsinfo” in the search box, click on the link and follow directions. When and where? Mon., Feb. 13, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Maple Grove Library, 8351 Elm Creek Blvd. N., Maple Grove. Call 952-847-5550 for directions.

Sponsored by Hennepin County’s Human Services and Public Health Department, the information sessions will outline deciSupported by Hennepin County’s Human Services and Public sions that need to be made, including guardianship, graduation, Health Department, the information sessions, “Consumer exploring future work and vocational plans, residential opSupport Grant,” will answer questions such as “How do I tions, Social Security and more. receive funding through this grant?” “What types of services may I buy?” “How do I receive this grant?” and “What is my To register, call 612-596-6631 or go to www.hennepin.us and responsibility?” type in “adsinfo” in the search box, click on the link and follow directions. To attend, you must register. Call 612-596-6631 or go to www.hennepin.us, type “adsinfo” in the search box, click on When and where? the link and follow directions. Thurs., Feb. 16, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Jordan New Life Community Church, 1922 – 25th Avenue N., Minneapolis. Call 612-522When and Where? 8624 for directions. Tues., Feb. 14, 2006, 10:00 am to noon, Golden Valley Library, 830 Winnetka Avenue N., Golden Valley. Call 952- Wed., Mar. 1, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Plymouth Library, 15700 – 36th 847-5475 for directions. Avenue N., Plymouth. Call 952-847-5825 for directions.

Thurs., Feb. 23, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Arc Hennepin-Carver, 4301 Highway 7, Suite 140, Minneapolis. Call 952-920-0855 for Thurs., March 2, 2006, 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, Arc Hennepindirections. Carver, 4301 Highway 7, Suite 140, Minneapolis. Call 952920-0855 for directions. Wed., Mar. 8, 1:00 to 3:00 pm, Linden Hills Center, 3100 W. 43rd St., Minneapolis. Call 612-370-4913 for directions. Tues., Apr. 25, 2006, noon to 2:00 pm, Jordan New Life Church, 1922 – 25th Ave. N., Minneapolis. Call 612-522-8624 Tues., Apr. 18, 10:00 am to noon, Golden Valley Library, 830 for directions. Winnetka Ave. N., Golden Valley. Call 952-847-5475 for directions. MURDERBALL Nominated for 2005 best documentary Feature Academy Free Tax Assistance For Seniors, Low-Income People Award® What: If you’re a senior or person with low income, you can receive FREE assistance filling out your income tax forms “TWO THUMBS WAY UP.” (including electronic filing —faster and more accurate!) through -Ebert & Roeper the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Tax Aide Volunteer Program. Be sure to bring all your W2 forms “GRIPPING. FAST-PACED AND FLUID. UNUSUALLY and other necessary papers, including photo ID and Social DEEP.” Security cards for you and your dependents. -New York Times Where: Hennepin County Government Center, A Level, 300 The critically acclaimed Murderball, from independent disS. Sixth St. and Minneapolis City Hall, Room 11, 350 S. Fifth tributor THINKFilm, has been nominated for a Best DocumenSt. (use 4th Street entrance)—both in downtown Minneapolis tary Feature Academy Award® by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Murderball features fierce rivalry, When: Now through April 15 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday stopwatch suspense, and larger-than-life personalities while through Friday, except holidays smashing every stereotype associated with the disabled in this in-depth look at a group of tough, highly competitive quadMore: Every year, Hennepin County Taxpayer Services and riplegic rugby players. The film is currently available on DVD. the City of Minneapolis participate in AARP’s Tax Aide Volunteer Program, offering space in which AARP volunteers Synopsis: help seniors and low-income people with their tax returns. From the gyms of middle-America to the Olympic arena in Athens, Greece, Murderball tells the story of a group of worldAARP’s Tax Aide Volunteer Program is the nation’s largest, class athletes unlike any ever shown on screen—they are forced free, volunteer-run tax counseling and preparation service. to live life sitting down. In their own version of full-contact Last year volunteers at the Government Center and City Hall rugby, these athletes smash the hell out of each other in customsites helped more than 5,000 people file their tax forms. The made gladiator-like wheelchairs. The film demolishes every sites together are the largest AARP income-tax assistance stereotype about the disabled. It is a film about family, revenge, center in Minnesota and believed to be the largest in the honor, sex and the triumph of love over loss. But most of all, it country. Tax assistance is available year-round (at the Minne- is a film about standing up, even after your spirit—and your apolis City Hall location only), but most customers come spine—has been crushed. during tax season. More information about THINKFilm can be found online at www.thinkfilmcompany.com.

United Cerebral Palsy Of Minnesota 10th Annual Great Minnesota Stationary Bike Race Saturday, March 11, 2006 St. Paul RiverCentre, 175 West Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN Register • Pledge • Ride! Call 651-646-8085, or e-mail ucpmn@cpinternet.com, for more information.

Mon., Apr. 10, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Eden Prairie Library, 565 Prairie Center Drive, Eden Prairie. Call 952-847-5375 for directions.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory: Current Volunteer & Internship Opportunities More than 1,300 adult and youth volunteers support programs at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Volunteers enhance the experiences of every visitor. You can help do this by getting involved. Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age if working independently. Youth under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. We do have a special summer volunteer program for youth age 13-17 called nature walk. With some exceptions, volunteers commit to a regular schedule usually one three-hour shift once per week or twice per month for six months. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is open 365 days a year. Volunteers join us every day. The following are volunteering opportunities: Camp assistant Ed. Program assistant Intern-Education Intern-Government Relations Interpreter in Conservatory Interpreter in Zoo Japanese Garden Interpreter Outdoor Gardener Aide Visitor Greeter Youth, Nature Walk Interpreter Many benefits are offered to our volunteers and interns. As a Como volunteer or intern you will: • be invited to attend free classes on a variety of Zoological and Botanical topics, • learn more about the relationships between plants, animal and humans, • gain access to select non-public areas of the zoo and conservatory, • enjoy volunteer appreciation events, • meet new friends, • develop resume building skills and gain valuable experience, and • make a difference in your community. For more information and registration contact Como Volunteer Services at 651-487-8247, or download an application off the Web at: www.comozooconservatory.org/jobsvolunteer. ■

February 10, 2006

Upcoming Events Feb 15, 2006 Wails, Wales, Whales This presentation is a poetic narrative about living with fibromyalgia, a chronic pain illness. Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain illness characterized by widespread muscular pain and extreme fatigue and insomnia. Fibromyalgia afflicts three to six percent of the U. S. population—or an estimated 300,000 Minnesotans. Presenter: Laura Littleford will perform her one-woman show which is an inspirational story about transforming a chronic pain illness into opportunities for personal growth and deeper connections to family and community. It is hosted by the Friends of the St. Paul Public Library. Cost: Free; Day/Time: Wed, 7:00 pm; Location: Highland Park Library, 1974 Ford Pkwy, St. Paul. For more information contact Laura Littleford at 651-6444941, or by e-mail at lauralittleford@yahoo.com. Or visit the Friends of the St. Paul Public Library at www.the friends.org/calendar.htm or by phone at 651-222-3242.

Feb 15 and 22, 2006 Chemical Dependency With Disability MCIL also encourages people to join the Support Groups Day/Time: Meets every other Wed, 6:30 pm-8:00 pm; Location: 1600 University Ave W, Suite #16, St. Paul. RSVP to: Laura Borton at 651-6032028 or laurb@mcil-mn.org. Feb 16 and 23, 2006 Traumatic Brain Injury – Support Group MCIL also encourages people to join the Support Groups Day/Time: Meets every other Thur, 6-7 pm; Location: 1600 University Ave W, Suite #16, St. Paul. RSVP to: Laura Borton at 651-603-2028 or laurb@mcil-mn.org. Feb 17, 2006 “Beyond Silence” - Film Metropolitan Ctr for Independent Living encourages individuals to come meet new people, gain new knowledge, experience, and skills! Day/ Time: Fri, 1:00pm-3:00pm, Location: 1919 University Ave, St. Paul, MN TRANS-

PORTATION to 1919 University Centre: Using Metro Mobility? Go to Charles Ave and turn into Parking Lot A. Using Metro Transit? Bus stop at: University and Prior Ave. Driving yourself? Go to Charles Ave and turn into North Parking lot—Parking is FREE! RSVP to: Laura Borton at 651-603-2028 or laurb@ mcil-mn.org. Feb 21, 2006 Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Support Metropolitan Ctr for Independent Living encourages individuals to come meet new people, gain new knowledge, experience, and skills! Day/ Time: Tue, 6:00pm-7:30pm, Location: 1919 University Ave, St. Paul, MN TRANSPORTATION to 1919 University Centre: Using Metro Mobility? Go to Charles Ave and turn into Parking Lot A. Using Metro Transit? Bus stop at: University and Prior Ave. Driving yourself? Go to Charles Ave and turn into North Parking lot – Parking is FREE! RSVP to: Laura Borton at 651-603-2028 or laurb@mcil-mn.org.

FINAL PRODUCTION ON VINELAND PLACE

Feb 24, 2006 Epilepsy Foundation of MN – Workshop Metropolitan Ctr for Independent Living encourages individuals to come meet new people, gain new knowledge, experience, and skills! Day/ Time: Fri, 1:00pm-3:30pm; Location: 1919 University Ave, St. Paul, MN TRANSPORTATION to 1919 University Centre: Using Metro Mobility? Go to Charles Ave and turn into Parking Lot A. Using Metro Transit? Bus stop at: University and Prior Ave. Driving yourself? Go to Charles Ave and turn into North Parking lot—Parking is FREE! RSVP to: Laura Borton at 651-603-2028 or laurb@ mcil-mn.org. Feb 25, 2006 Twin Cities American Heart Walk The American Heart Association (AHA) Twin Cities American Heart Walk 2006 is a non-competitive walk through the Mall of America that raises money to fight heart disease and stroke. Day/Time: Sat, 7:00 am - 9:30 am; Location: Mall of America (60 East Broadway; Bloomington, MN; Donations are used to help fund lifesaving research and community education programs for adults and children. Annually, over 12,000 walkers participate in this event. The AHA Heart & Stroke Initiatives team will be sharing our educational programs and resources. We need your help in two areas: 1) Fun Family Fitness Area and 2) You’re the Cure. We are looking for 40 volunteers. Please contact Sueling Schardin at 952-278-3605 or sueling.schardin@heart.org if you would like to help or if you have more specific questions. We will send you more details about the location and other important information when you commit to volunteering for the event. If you are interested in forming a team, please contact Sarah Quick at 952-278-3662 or sarah.quick@heart.org

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE JOE DOWLING

D I REC TED BY

MARCH 4–MAY 7, 2006

Photo: Santino Fontana (Keri Pickett)

Performances interpreted in American Sign Language: Friday, April 7 at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 11 at 10:30 a.m. and Friday, April 14 at 7:30 p.m. Performances Audio Described: Saturday, April 1 at 1 p.m. (sensory tour is available at 11 a.m.) and Friday, April 7 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $16 for patrons who use the ASL or AD service and for one companion SPONSORED BY

612.377.2224 | TTY: 612.377.6626 | WWW.GUTHRIETHEATER.ORG

Feb 27, 2006 Arts Access at Henn. Cty Features the Zenon Dance Co. A highly energetic and inventive dance repertoire of modern and jazz works designed to appeal to an all-inclusive audience, including the deaf and hard-of-hearing community and special needs students to teach, involve and bring excitement to a performance art that offers endless opportunities for self-expression and interpretation. Arts Access @ Henn. County Library connects teens and adults of all mental and physical abilities

to the arts. Day/Time: Mon, 7:00 pm, Location: Ridgedale Library, 12601 Ridgedale Dr., Mntka; Sponsors: the Library Foundation of Henn. County in collaboration with the Association of Residential Resources in MN (ARRM), Homeward Bound, Inc., and Star Services. If you would like to request a sign language interpreter, require special assistance, or need more information, call John Sugimura at 952-8478661. Lifelong Learning Via Hennepin County Library. For information about upcoming activities and current services as well as access to the library’s catalog, electronic data bases, the Internet, and other resources, go to www. hclib.org. Feb 27, 2006 Arts Access at Hennepin County Library Featuring Zenon Dance Co. A highly energetic and inventive dance repertoire of modern and jazz works designed to appeal to an all-inclusive audience, including the deaf and hard-of-hearing community and special needs students to teach, involve and bring excitement to a performance art that offers endless opportunities for self-expression and interpretation. Arts Access at Hennepin County Library connects teens and adults of all mental and physical abilities to the arts. Day/Time: Mon, 7 pm; Location: Ridgedale Library; Sponsors: Library Foundation of Henn. County in collaboration with the Association of Residential Resources in MN (ARRM), Homeward Bound, Inc., and Star Services. Feb 28 & March 1, 2006. Treating Challenging Disorders: Professional Development Opportunities for Every Schedule Session I: Effective Strategies for Dealing with Hard to Reach Youth—L. Read Sulik Session II: Beyond Rewards and Consequences—Sheila Merzer Session III: Preventing and Intervening: Body Image, Eating, and Weight Concerns— Kathy Kater Session IV: Self-Injurious Behavior in Adolescents: Review of Etiology and Treatment— Nicole Larson Attend 1, 2, 3, or all 4! Day/ Time: Tue and Wed, Cost: 1 Session is $60, 2 Sessions is $100, 3 Sessions is $140, 4 Sessions is $160. Register by Feb 24 for any or all of the four sessions. Location: Monticello Community Ctr, 505 Walnut St, Monticello, MN 55362. For information go to www.macmh.org.

MACMH reserves the right to substitute presenters and/or reschedule due to unforeseen circumstances. March 4, 2006 Service Animals This workshop will include a demonstration of service dogs followed by a question and answer session. Presenters: Hearing and Service Dogs of MN and Helping Paws. Day/ Time: Sat, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm; Location: Keewaydin Community Ctr, 3030 E. 53rd St, Mpls, MN 55410, 612370-4956: Sponsors/Contact: People Enhancing People 651-450-5960, PEPeople@ msn.com, and United Cerebral Palsy of MN 651-6167588, ucpmn@cpinternet. com. March 4 & 5, 2006 Bicycling, Travel And Fitness Expo Presented by: MN Cyclist Magazine. Special Test riding area for adaptive cycling products, pedal and Hand Cycles available for test rides, seminars geared to special needs cyclists and their families. Day/Time: Sat 9 am to 8 pm, Sun, 9 am to 5 pm, Location: Mpls Convention Ctr, Admission: Adults $7, Children 918 $4, Under 9 – free. Over 200 Exhibitors of Bicycling, Travel and Fitness-Related Products and Services; Bicycling and Bicycle Products; Travel Destinations; Bicycling-Friendly Communities; Physical Fitness and Exercise Clubs, Stores and Services; World-Wide Bicycling Tours; Local Community Tours; Trail Associations; Bicycle Shops; Local and National Advocacy Groups; Financial Planning and Advising Institutions; Health Care and Food Items; Clothing. For more information see www. BicyclingTravel.com. March 11, 2006 Alternative & Augmentative Communication Explore the many devices to aid communication and find out the differences among the more popular ones. Day/ Time: Sat, 9 am to Noon; Location: PACER Ctr, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, MN; Cost: There is no cost, but registration is required. For more information or to register call 952-8389000, TTY-952-838-0190, or TF 800-537-2237 or visit www.pacer.org. March 11, 2006 UCP – BIKE-A-THON See the ad on page 18 for more information. Events - cont. on p. 22

February 10, 2006

Accessible Performances The following performances will be Audio Described (AD) for people who are blind or have low vision, or Interpreted in American Sign Language (ASL) for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Compiled by VSA arts of MN, 612-332-3888 or http://mn.vsarts.org. Amerika, or The Disappearance ASL: Sun., January 29, 7:00 pm; AD: Sun., February 12, 7:00 pm; Run Dates: January 21 - March 5, 2006; Performed by: Theatre de la Jeune Lune, 105 N. First St., Mpls.; Tix: Reduced to $13; reg. $20; TicketWorks 612-333-6200 or 612-332-3968 x100; www. jeunelune.org

Company of Anoka at Main Street Stage, 420 E. Main St., Anoka; Tix: $12, $10 students/ seniors, $14 box seats, 763422-1838; www.lyricarts.org

Performed by: Theater Mu at Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S. 4th St., Mpls.; Tix: Reduced to $9, 612-338-6131; www.mu performingarts.org

Ave. S.; Tix: Admission may be charged; interpreted tour is free; 612-870-3131 or TTY 612-870-3132, or dhegstro@ artsmia.org; www.artsmia.org

Women Who Drink AD & ASL: Sat., February 18, 7:30 pm; Run Dates: February 17-18, 2006; Performed by: Leslye Orr at Northern Vineyards Winery, 223 N. Main Street, Stillwater; Tix: Reduced to $12 (reg. $15); Theatre Associates of Stillwater, 651-439-0993 or info@StillwaterTheatre.org; www.stillwatertheatre.org

Beauty & the Beast ASL: Sun., February 26, 2:00 pm; Run Dates: February 24 - March 5, 2006; Performed by: Rochester Civic Theatre, 20 Civic Center Drive; Tix: $10; $8 ages 12 & under; 507-282-8481; www. rochester civictheatre.org

Twelfth Night AD: Sun., March 5, 2:00 pm; Run Dates: February 10 March 5, 2006; Performed by: Theatre in the Round Players, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls.; Boychik Tix: $20; 612-333-3010; www.theatreintheround.org AD: Sun., March 12, 2:00 pm; Run Dates: March 4-26, 2006; Gotama: Performed by: Minnesota A Journey to the Buddha Jewish Theatre Co. at Hillcrest AD: Sun., March 5, 2:00 pm; Center Theater, 1978 Ford ASL: Fri., March 24, 10:30 Parkway, St. Paul; Tix: Ream & 7:30 pm; Run Dates: duced to $13 (reg. $20), 651February 24 – March 26, 2006; 647-4315; www.mnjewish Performed by: In the Heart of theatre.org the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre, 1500 E. Lake St., Mpls.; The Adventures of Hanuman, Tix: 612-721-2535, or info@ King of the Monkeys hobt.org; www.hobt.org ASL: Sun., March 12, 2:00 pm; AD: Tues., March 14, 11:00 Pure as the Driven Snow ... am; March 3-19, 2006; Peror a Working Girl’s Secret formed by: SteppingStone ASL: Sun., March 5, 2:00 pm; Theatre for Youth DevelopRun Dates: February 16 – ment at Landmark Center, 75 March 6, 2006; Performed W. 5th St., St. Paul; Tix: $9; by: Bloomington Art Center 651-225-9265; www.stepping Gallery Theater Co. at stonetheatre.org Bloomington Center for the Convenience Arts Black Box Theater, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd.; Tix: AD & ASL: Sun., March 12, $12, $10 senior/student; 952- 7:30 pm; Run Dates: Febru563-8587; www.bloomington ary 24 – March 19, 2006; Performed by: Minneapolis Muartcenter.com sical Theatre at Hennepin Stages, 824 Hennepin Ave., Prom AD & ASL: Wed., March 8, Mpls.; Tix: $17 (reg. $24); 10:30 am; Fri., March 10, 8pm; 612-673-0404; ASL/AD HotRun Dates: February 14 – line: 612-373-5650; www. March 19, 2006; Performed aboutmmt.org on: Cargill Stage at Children’s Anna in the Tropics Theatre Co., 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls.; Tix: 612-874-0400; AD & ASL: Sat., March 18, 7:30 pm; Run Dates: March www.childrenstheatre.org 3-26, 2006; Performed by: Park Square Theatre, 408 St. PeStuart Little AD: Sat., March 11, 7pm; ASL: ter St. (20 W. 7th Place), St. Paul; upon request in advance; Run Tix: half-price; 651-291-7005; Dates: March 9-26, 2006; Per- www.parksquaretheatre.org formed by: Fargo-Moorhead Cat on a Hot Tin Roof Community Theatre, 333 4th St. S., Fargo; Tix: Reduced to AD: Sat., March 18, 7:30 pm; $7.50, $6 sr, $4.50 student, $3 Run Dates: March 16 - April ages 3-12; 701-235-6778, 877- 1, 2006; Performed by: Tin 687-7469; www.fmct.org Roof Theatre Co. at Main Ave

The Story of Hope ASL: Sun., February 12, 2:00 pm; AD: Tues., February 14, 11:00 am; Run Dates: February 3-26, 2006; Performed by: SteppingStone Theatre for Youth Development at LandSex Diary of an Infidel mark Center, 75 W. 5th St., St. ASL: Sat., February 18, 8:00 Paul, Tix: $9; 651-225-9265; pm; Run Dates: February 10 www.steppingstonetheatre.org March 5, 2006; Performed by: Penumbra Theatre Co. at March to Freedom: Martin Luther King Center, The Children’s Crusade 270 N. Kent St., St. Paul; Tix: AD & ASL: Sun., February 651-224-3180 (specify ASL); 12, 2:00 pm; Run Dates: Feb- www.penumbratheatre.org ruary 3-19, 2006; Performed by: Youth Performance ComOli and Mele: pany at 1900 Nicollet Ave., Retracing the Path of Mpls; Tix: Reduced to halfEarly Vocal Traditions price; 612-623-9080; www. AD: Sun., February 19, 7:00 pm; youthperformanceco.com Run Dates: February 17-19, 2006; Performed by: The Reeling Rose Ensemble at St. Joan of AD & ASL: Fri., February 17, Arc Catholic Church; Per7:30 pm; Run Dates: January formed at: Sundin Music Hall 17 - March 4, 2006; Performed at Hamline University, 1531 by: Children’s Theatre Co., Hewitt Avenue, St. Paul; Tix: 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. Tix: $15, 651-225-4340 or info@ Reduced; 612-874-0400; roseensemble.org; or www. www.childrenstheatre.org roseensemble.org Jesus Christ Superstar ASL: Fri., February 17, 7:30 pm; AD: Sat., February 18, 2:00 pm; Run Dates: February 3-26, 2006; Performed by: Bloomington Civic Theatre at Bloomington Center for the Arts, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd. Tix: Reduced to $17; 952-563-8575; www. bloomingtoncivictheatre.org Fiddler on the Roof ASL: Fri.-Sat., February 1718, 7:30 pm; Run Dates: February 17 – March 26, 2006; Performed by: Lyric Arts

Little Women – The Musical ASL: Sun., February 19, 1:00 pm; Run Dates: February 14-19, 2006; Touring show at the Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls.; Tix: $26.70-$68; 612373-5639 or 5609; hotline 612-373-5650; TTY 612-3735655; accessible@orpheum. com; www. hennepintheatre district.com/servicesd.asp

Pinocchio ASL: Fri., March 3, 7:00 pm; & Sun., March 5, 2:00 pm; Run Dates: February 17 – March 12, 2006; Performed by: The Phipps Children’s Theater at Phipps Center for the Arts, 109 Locust St., Hudson, WI; Tix: reserve seats in the interpreted seating section before Feb. 24; Reduced to $16, student/senior $14, child 4-12 $11; 715-386-2305; www.the phipps.org Late Nite Catechism 2 ASL: Fri., March 3, 8:00 pm; AD: Sat., March 4, 2:00 pm; Run Dates: February 22 – May 21, 2006; Performed at: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts McKnight Theatre, 345 Washington, St. Paul; Tix: $20-$30; 651-224-4222, TTY 651-282-3100; www.ord way.org Las Meninas ASL: Sat., March 4, 8:00 pm; Run Dates: February 24 – March 5, 2006; Performed by: University of Minnesota Theatre at Kilburn Arena Theatre at Rarig Center, 330 21st Ave. S., Mpls. Tix: $8-14, 612624-2345 or utheatre@umn. edu; http://theatre.umn.edu

Ruth Duckworth, Modernist Sculptor ASL: Sun., March 5, 2:00 pm; Cowboy Versus Samurai ASL-interpreted public tour AD & ASL: Sat., February begins at the round bench in 25, 7:30 pm; Run Dates: Feb- the lobby of the Minneapolis ruary 17 – March 5, 2006; Institute of Art, 2400 Third

Don Giovanni AD: Sun., March 12, 2:00 pm; pre-opera discussion at 1:00; Run Dates: March 4-12, 2006; Performed by: Minnesota Opera Co. at the Ordway Center for Performing Arts, 345 Washington St., St. Paul; Tix: half-price for AD patrons (discount code “R”); 612-3336669; www.mnopera.org

Theatre, 716 Main Ave., Fargo, ND; Tix: $8 (reg. $15, student/ senior $10); 701-306-5843; www.tinrooftheatre.com Snapshots: Life in the City AD: Sun., March 19, 2pm; ASL: Sun., April 2, 2pm; Run Dates: March 11 – April 9, 2006; Performed by: Great American History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul; Tix: $15; 651-2924323; www.history theatre.com Golda’s Balcony ASL: Fri., March 24, 8:00 pm; AD: Sat., March 25, 2:00 pm; Run Dates: March 14-26, 2006; Performed at: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Main Hall, 345 Washington, St. Paul; Tix: $33-$48; 651224-4222, TTY 651-282-3100; www.ordway.org The Madwoman of Chaillot ASL: Sat., March 25, 7:30 pm; Run Dates: March 23-26 & 29 – April 1, 2006; Performed by: College of St Benedict/St John’s University Theater Dept. at Benedicta Arts Center, College of Saint Benedict, St. Joseph; Tix: $12; 320-3635700; subsidy for companion; dwolford@csbsju.edu; www. csbsju.edu/finearts Annie ASL: Sun., March 26, 1:00 pm; Run Dates: March 2126, 2006; Touring show at Historic Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls.; Tix: $23-68; 612-373-5639 or 5609; hotline 612-373-5650; TTY 612-373-5655; or acces sible@orpheum.com; www. hennepintheatredistrict.com/ servicesd.asp Mefistofele ASL: Sun., March 26, 7:00 pm; AD: Sun., April 23, 2:00 pm; Run Dates: March 31 May 21, 2006; Performed by: Theatre de la Jeune Lune, 105 N. First St., Mpls.; Tix: $13; reg. $20; TicketWorks 612333-6200 or 612-332-3968 x100; www.jeunelune.org ■

BDC Management Co. is now accepting applications for our waiting lists at the following affordable communities Albright Townhomes Buffalo Court Apartments Elliot Park Apartments Evergreen Apartments Franklin Lane Apartments Hanover Townhomes Lincoln Place Apartments Olson Towne Homes Prairie Meadows Raspberry Ridge Talmage Green Trinity Apartments Unity Place Vadnais Highlands Willow Apartments Woodland Court Apartments

Minneapolis Buffalo Minneapolis Hutchinson Anoka St. Paul Mahtomedi Minneapolis Eden Prairie Hopkins Minneapolis Minneapolis Brooklyn Center Vadnais Heights Little Falls Park Rapids

(612) 824-6665 (763) 684-1907 (612) 338-3106 1-800-661-2501 (763) 427-7650 (651) 292-8497 (651) 653-0640 (612) 377-9015 (952) 941-5544 (952) 933-3260 (612) 623-0247 (612) 721-2252 (763) 560-7563 (651) 653-0640 (320) 632-0980 1-888-332-9312

1 BR 2 BR 2 BR 1 BR 1 & 2 BR 1 BR 2 BR 1 BR 2 & 3 BR 2 BR 2 BR 1 BR (sr) 2 BR 3 BR 1 & 2 BR 1 BR

(Please call each individual site for specific building information. All listings are accessible.)

February 10, 2006

My Life, My Words

FM - Cont. from p. 10

by T. Alan Hurwitz

review her options. She decided to invest some time and money in her personal care. “It was that or go on disability,” she explained. “I knew I’d be making a whole lot less if I quit work.” A personal trainer seemed the logical solution.

ust a few generations ago, deaf people only dreamed of going to college. I know, because I was one of those dreamers. But unlike many of my friends, I had an indomitable mother who stood ready to make that dream come true. Juliette Ruth Kahn was born in 1916 in Kansas City, Mo. She was deaf, too. I remember her telling me that Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women opened her imagination to the wonder of books when she first read it at the age of 18. Our home was filled with books and, as an only child; I had the luxury of having my mother read to me every day. Once I mastered reading, she still made sure that I read on my own—an hour a day before I could play with friends. Her enthusiasm for learning was contagious. She was an excellent seamstress and gardener and loved to travel. She loved to tell stories from the books she read to her friends.

absence so that she could be home with me. Each time it was denied. So my mother would quit that job and find a new one in the fall. Ten jobs in 10 years—amazing! All so that she could stay home with me. Her last job was a radio assembler and tester, which she kept for 25 years until her retirement. She encouraged me to get a job, so at 14 I began delivering newspapers. I also worked as a restaurant busboy and a furniture upholsterer. I spent summers chasing turkeys on a farm and washing cars. My mother showed me what the “real world” was like for deaf people, introducing me to local bakers, seamstresses, assembly workers, farmers and mechanics who were deaf. She took me to picnics, sporting events and deaf social club meetings to talk with other deaf people.

She showed me newspaper articles about successful deaf people—a rarity back then— who were chemists and acDuring the school year, I at- countants. She told me, “If they tended a residential school for can do it, you can, too.” deaf students 500 miles from home. When I went home each I decided that education insummer, my mother would ask deed was my ticket to success. her employer for a leave of I worked hard during high

school, without interpreters, tutors or notetakers. I did the best I could in class and then spent hours at home studying every subject and rereading my textbooks. I left high school with a clear idea of what I wanted to do. I earned a bachelor and masters degrees in electrical engineering and worked at McDonnell Douglas Corp. before joining the National Technical Institute for the Deaf in 1970. When I received my doctorate, Mom was in the audience cheering me on. I’ve since been a teacher, an administrator, a dean and president of many of the same deaf organizations to which my mother exposed me years ago. One of my most humbling moments was having my father attend the ceremony during which I became a college dean in 1998. My mother had passed away in 1991, and she would have been so proud. It’s been 40 years since I graduated from college, but it seems like yesterday that my mother and I sat together at the dining room table, talking about everything from first-grade jitters to longball hitters. I will never forget her belief in the power of education and how she inspired me to become who I am today.

increased her tolerance level for more strenuous exercise. Within a short time period, she enjoyed tremendous gains in strength and self-confidence. Now she is learning the balance between over-protecting herself and pushing herself too hard. She also continShe found one at the YMCA. ues seeing her physical theraExperienced in working with pist once a week. elite athletes, the trainer started Lewis on low-intensity exer- About six years ago, Lewis cises. Over time, he gradually learned another careful balancing act—differentiating T. Alan Hurwitz of Pittsford is between FM and other condivice president of Rochester tions. When she began experiInstitute of Technology and encing severe headaches and dean of the National Techni- neck pain, she ascribed all the cal Institute for the Deaf. He symptoms to FM. With her has a bachelor’s degree from determination to not miss Washington University in St. work, she tried to forge her Louis and a master’s from St. way through the pain. EventuLouis University, both in elec- ally, she realized that she had trical engineering, and a doc- to be examined. To her surtorate in teaching and cur- prise the doctor diagnosed and riculum from the University of treated a sinus infection. He Rochester. He and his wife, also diagnosed arthritis in her Vicki, have two children, Ber- neck and referred her to a renard of Rochester and habilitation center. Stephanie of Maryland, and two grandchildren. He has At the rehab center, she was lived in the Rochester area for assigned a team consisting of a 35 years. nurse, occupational therapist and physical therapist. The Reprinted with permission from therapy combined with a the Democrat & Chronicle: My muscle relaxant for her neck life, my words: T. Alan Hurwitz improved her condition. The www.democratandchronicle. team recommended a modificom/apps/pbcs.dll/article? cation of her work station to AID=/200, 11/28/2005. accommodate the arthritis in

her neck. She learned to maintain good posture while sitting, walking, and performing other activities. Lewis possesses a calm selfassurance and a striking ability to put others at ease. When asked if she’d always been this way, she credited a former supervisor. “When a deadline was looming and we (staff) felt panicked, she would smile and tell us, ‘Don’t worry. Everything will come out alright.’ Eventually, I learned that it did.” When something happens now, Lewis manages the change by reminding herself it will eventually get better. The positive energy glows around her like an aura. To function effectively, Lewis knows that she must make herself a priority. She organizes her life, makes plans and follows through with them. Her attitude, self-confidence and determination, coupled with her humor, make Lewis a very personable and effective communicator. In an editorial overview of the magazine’s topics one month, she wrote, “...tips that let you take charge of your life.” This statement characterizes Claire Lewis as she is now, 14 years after the traumatic event that triggered FM. ■

February 10, 2006

EVENTS - Cont. from p. 19 March 13-14, 2006 Putting the Pieces Together: Third Annual Care and Treatment Education Conference Sponsored by the MN Department of Education; Day/ Time: Mon, 10 am to 7 pm, Tue, 7:30 am to 1:30 pm. Preconference Workshop on Sun. Location: Treasure Island Resort and Casino; Red Wing, MN. For more information contact Nikki Walker at 763-245-0464 or nikki walker@mac.com or visit the Access Press Web site at www.accesspress.org and download the registration form. March 14, 2006 Panel on Voting with a Disability The panel is a part of a conference for the MN Clerks & Finance Officers Association. As you know, city clerks are the ones who run elections for their respective regions (in most cases). The purpose of this panel is to discuss the issue of voters with disabilities and how poll workers, city clerks, etc. can best provide assistance to them. Day/ Time: Tue, 2:00 pm, Location: Kelly Inn Convention Center/Civic Center, St. Cloud, MN. It will start off with voting for 3-5 minutes. If you don’t particularly have any specific experiences at the

polls, then discuss what kind of assistance or accommodations would be most useful to you if you were to vote. Then there will be a video called “The Ten Commandments of Communicating with People with Disabilities.” Finally, if there is time, we’ll do some Q&A.

If you would like to request a sign language interpreter, require special assistance, or need more information, call John Sugimura at 952-847-8661. Lifelong Learning Via Henn. County Library. For information about upcoming activities and current services as well as access to the library’s catalog, electronic data bases, the For more information contact Internet, and other resources, Mai Thor at 612-746-3799, or go to www.hclib.org. by e-ail at mthor@midmn legal.org. April 15, 2006 Using IntelliTools March 27, 2006 Classroom Suite with Arts Access at Young Children Hennepin County Library Learn how the integration of Featuring Jawaahir Dance Co. IntelliPics Studio 3, IntelliAudience of all abilities and mathics 3, and IntelliTalk 3 heritage can experience the can enhance K-8 curriculum beauty of Middle Eastern cul- activities in math, language ture through dances that elo- arts, social studies, and sciquently convey the heritage ence. Participants will receive and authentic dance forms a free 45-day trial version of from Egypt, Lebanon, Mo- the software. Day/Time: Sat, rocco, Persia, Saudi Arabia 9 am to Noon; Location: and Tunisia. Arts Access at PACER Ctr, 8161 NormanHennepin County Library con- dale Blvd., Bloomington, MN; nects teens and adults of all Cost: There is no cost, but mental and physical abilities registration is required. For to the arts. Day/Time: Mon, 7 more information or to regispm.; Location: Eden Prairie ter call 952-838-9000, TTYLibrary; Sponsors: Library 952-838-0190, or TF 800-537Foundation of Henn. County 2237 or visit www.pacer.org. in collaboration with the Association of Residential ReMay 1, 2006 sources in MN (ARRM), One Stop Shopping for Homeward Bound, Inc., and Persons with Disabilities and Star Services. Their Support Network Participants will be able to do

“one stop shopping” on information related to county services, health/wellness, relationships, jobs and job training, leisure/recreation options, guardianship, community inclusion, vacation planning, school transition, social security, home and daily living ideas, residential services, selfadvocacy, day program options, augmentative communication devices, respite providers, aging, etc. Day/Time: Mon, 4:30 to 7:00 pm. Location: Merrick, Inc., 3210 Labore Rd, Vadnais Heights, MN; Cost: Free. There will be exhibits from 4:30 – 6:00 pm and breakout sessions from 6:00 – 7:00 pm. A light dinner will be served from 5:30 – 6:00 pm. Sponsors: Merrick, Inc., PACER Ctr, Arc Greater Twin Cities, and the White Bear Lake Area Schools.

Noon; Location: PACER Ctr, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, MN; Cost: There is no cost, but registration is required. For more information or to register call 952-838-9000, TTY-952838-0190, or TF 800-5372237 or visit www.pacer.org.

May 19-21, 2006 Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away! A weekend retreat for persons with disabilities. Theme: Hallowed by thy name! The retreat will contain conference breakout sessions as well as time to reflect on your spiritual journey. People of all faiths are encouraged to attend. Day/Time: Fri, 7:30 pm thru Sun, 2:30 pm, Location: 16385 St. Francis Lane, Prior Lake, MN, For more info, contact 952-447-2182, Director@ FranciscanRetreats.net or at For more information, contact www.FranciscanRetreats.net. Colleen Timbers at (651) 789- Or Contact Jo Lambert at 6516230 or by e-mail at colleent@ 488-5862 or by e-mail at lambe0217@umn.edu. merrickinc.org. May 13, 2005 Being Creative with BuildAbility and Clicker 5 Gain hands-on experience with two early childhood multimedia software programs that allow children to customize their own slide shows and write with whole words, phrases, or pictures. Day/Time: Sat, 9 am to

The person who needs the support may not have read nor had the time to read everything pertinent to his or her disability. Some disabled shelter residents may not be fully aware of his or her rights and need for such accommodation. Some shelter residents work even though they may not have a permanent residence. In order to get from one place to the next, most of us use the Metropolitan bus service. It is realistic to believe any loss in bus service, temporary or long term, will have a profound effect on those of us who are disabled or who are disabled

and homeless. Our elected officials do not always demonstrate the sensitivity and/or awareness of the value behind public transportation. For example, in 2004, Governor Pawlenty stated the only people who use buses are poor people and the disabled. So if another strike occurs, then homeless people who don’t have a license or employed disabled people who don’t drive would have to walk a potentially long distance, regardless of the extreme heat or cold for the duration of such a Metropolitan wide transportation strike. Catholic Charities does not keep track of homeless people, disabled or otherwise, once that person is no longer on campus. “When our clients leave our program sites, they are no longer our responsibility. In the same way that a person who leaves a hardware store or a public building is no longer the responsibility of the site, so too, when our clients step outside on the sidewalk, they are no longer our responsibility. Nor do we have the staff to assist clients outside of our program sites.” (Ron Krietemeyer, Director for Mission Integration, Catholic Charities, Minneapolis/St. Paul).

tor for Minneapolis and Saint units for homeless men and Paul, sent me the following women. details which illustrate some of the ways the budget is spread • The Glenwood: 80 units of around. permanent housing for men who are chronic alcoholics. There are approximately 500 shelter beds: In St. Paul:

•Secure Waiting in Minneapo- Mary Hall provides 155 units lis services 251 men, of housing for single adults. There are three different pro•Dorothy Day Center (DDC) grams within the building. A in St. Paul serves anywhere 40 bed transitional program from 150 - 220 men and serves the severely mentally women, ill who are discharged from inpatient programs, or who •Mary Hall has 20 shelter beds may be staying at the Dorothy for men, the Family Service Day Extended Hours Program. Center has 55 beds for fami- We have another 40 unit tranlies and single women and sitional program for homeless Hope Street Shelter has 17 men and women who are lowbeds for youth. income and may have mental health and chemical depenIn addition we have 600 units dency issues. of housing. In Minneapolis there are four housing pro- • The Single Room Occupancy grams: Program provides 75 units of permanent housing for single •Residential Structured adults. Housing has 49 transitional units for homeless singles • St. Anthony provides 55 units who have mental health and of permanent housing for chemical dependency is- chronic alcoholic men. sues. • St. Christopher Place pro•The Evergreen: 88 units of vides 70 units of permanent permanent supportive hous- housing for low-income men ing for homeless men and and women. women. Tracy Bergland, Catholic • Visitation Place provides 15 Charities Housing Administra- •Exodus Hotel: 93 transitional units of permanent housing

August 5, 2006 The 3rd Annual Canoeing Event (SMILES-CIL) Folks of all ages and abilities are welcome! Bring the whole family! Events that day will include: Adaptive Canoeing, Kayaking and a Hot Dog roast. Day/Time: Sat; Location: Gomsrud Park, Fairmont. To receive a registration form and more information on upcoming events, contact Joanne at 507-345-7139.

September 16, 2006 The 2nd Annual SMILES CIL and Wheelin’ Sportsmen NWTF Fishing event Folks of all ages and abilities are welcome! Bring the whole family! Day/Time: Sat; Location: Fairmont. To receive a registration form and more July 22, 2006 information on upcoming The2nd AnnualGreatOutdoors events, contact Joanne at 507Event (SMILES-CIL) 345-7139. ■ Folks of all ages and abilities are welcome! Bring the whole family! Events that day will include: Adaptive Canoeing, Kayaking, Archery, Trapshooting, ATV/Off Rd Vehicles, a Hog Roast, Bingo and

HOMELESS - Cont. from p. 4 It may seem obvious that a decision for accommodation will be made by or for a disabled homeless person or a disabled employee. And when such a decision is made, it is based on who needs the accommodation. That individual’s decision is based on the availability of finances, resources and his or her knowledge of an appropriate accommodation to fit a particular need. But a disability can change over time. And the type of medication somebody takes can also change over time. Both of these factors need to be added to the changes in financial resources, changes in adaptive equipment for a wide range of disabilities, as well as changes in staff and staff support.

More! Day/Time: Sat; Location: Nicollet Conservation Club, Nicollet, MN. To receive a registration form and more information on upcoming events, contact Joanne at 507-345-7139.

to low-income families. If you know of somebody who is disabled, homeless and who is looking for shelter, contact one of the resources stated below. Volunteers are also needed to assist with these programs.

OREGON - Cont. from p. 1 sible option for those individuals who are in the final chapter of life and wish to exercise some control over how the last page is written. For these reasons and others, I thought the Court’s decision in the Oregon case was the right one.

Resources Catholic Charities, 612-6648500, 1200 Second Avenue The issue of physician-assisted South, Minneapolis, MN suicide is fraught with ques55403 tions that force us to explore our own beliefs on life and Hennepin County Human Ser- death. The disability commuvices, Century Plaza, 330 nity is a diverse one with a South 12th Street. Call 612- range of opinions on the mat596-1300 between 9:00 am ter, despite the proclamations and 4:00 pm, or call 612-348- of some activists. But I have 3007. Leave your name, So- every confidence in our ability cial Security number, case to engage in a free and open number, and somebody will discussion on the topic. My call you back. exploration of the implications of physician-assisted suicide StreetWorks, 2222 Park Ave led to a reexamination of my S, Minneapolis, MN 55404, views, but each one of us must Street-based outreach to home- grapple with the subject acless youth, 612-252-2735. cording to the dictates of our own conscience. Wesley United Methodist Church, 612-871-3585. Wes- Mark Siegel is an attorney who ley United Methodist Church lives in Minneapolis. His perprovides a Saturday Meals pro- sonal blog can be found on the gram. There are a variety of Web at www.the19thfloor.net. Twelve-step programs through- ■ out the week. The address is 101 E Grant St, Minneapolis, MN 55403. Wesley Church is next to the Minneapolis Convention Center. ■

February 10, 2006

Classifieds

Reach 11,000 Active, Interested Readers with Access Press Classifieds. $10 up to 12 words, 45¢/word thereafter. Must be prepaid. Mail with check to: ACCESS PRESS, 1821 University Ave W, #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 (651) 644-2133 FOR SALE

FOR RENT

Power Wheelchair: Invacare Pronto M71. Never used. Only $2,500. Call Denn at 612-220-6788.

Oak Park Village: One Bedroom wheelchair accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient St. Louis Park location. Call Permobil: Standing/Reclin- 952-935-9125 for availabiling power wheelchair. Multi - ity information. Equal Oppositioning system. Never portunity Housing. used. $8,500. (new $15,200). Manual wheelchair with Lewis Park Apartments: slight tilt. Roho cushion, Barrier-free housing with tray. Used 1-month. $550. wheelchair users in mind. SecCall 651-644-0435 or 651- tion 8 subsidized. One- and 269-5514. two- bedroom units. For more information on availability call Minnesota Mobility: We 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. specialize in affordable Equal Opportunity Housing. wheelchair vans. Contact us at 952-746-1800. Holmes-Greenway Housing: One and two bedroom wheel2004 Ranger 4 wheel drive chair accessible apartments. heavy duty solo scooter. Section 8 subsidized. ConveNever used. Price $2,500. Call nient SE Minneapolis location. 651-225-8956 on Sat and Sun Call 612-378-0331 for availonly. ability information. Equal Opportunity Housing. Wheelchair Lift Van 1999 Ford E 150 V6, 95K Miles Seward Square Apartments: Ricon - Side Door Lift De- We are currently accepting luxe Tie Downs AM-FM Cas- applications for our waiting sette Stereo 2 Wheelchair Se- list for barrier-free housing, in curement (if rear bench re- Minneapolis, that is federally moved) New Tires and Bat- subsidized. For an applicatery AC, PS, PB, DOT Cert. tion, please call 612-338-2680. Good condition! FYI Call Equal Opportunity Housing. Bill at Midway transportation 651-641-0709 ext. 106. Room For Rent: $300 all utilities, includes phone, but not Property for Sale long-distance, Private Bed2 bedroom, 1 bath home in room, shared bath and kitchen. South Minneapolis (Lake Located in Eagan, contact Dale Nokomis area) with some nice at 651-686-8742. accessibility features, such as a ramp at the front door and Franklyn Park Apartments: main level laundry. Call me to We are currently accepting see this home with beautiful applications for 1 & 2 BR, wood floors, a built-in buffet, Section 8 apts. at Franklyn Park built-in cabinets and a wood Apts. in North St. Paul, a buildburning fireplace. Doug ing designed for seniors and Haugen, Lakes Area Realty. persons with disabilities. 651-238-0456. Please call 651-770-1504 for an application. Townhome for Sale One level townhome with 2 Ideal Family Home bedrooms and one full bath Wheelchair accessible, 5BR, in Coon Rapids. The Master 2BA, Rambler 3+ Car attached Bedroom has a half bath. garage. 1.5 acre corner lot. This bathroom is roughed in Large family room plus ofand ready for roll-in shower. fice. Ham Lake area. Close to NorthTown and $424,900. Call Charlie at freeway. Contact Terri Ricci 651-982-1256. ERA Muske at 763-438-3692. Co. Real Estate. Townhome For Sale Sharp 2BR 1BA single level townhome for sale in nice Brooklyn Center neighborhood with oversize 2 car garage, fenced courtyard. $149,000 FSBO Call 612554-3992 or 763-478-8352.

MISCELLANEOUS Send Out Greeting Cards from home using your computer. Make someone smile. Send a card today! www.jansfreecard 4u.com.

Access To Employment Employment ads are $16-$17 per col. inch. February 28 is the deadline for the March 10 issue. Mail to: ACCESS PRESS, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 FAX 651-644-2136 • E-mail: access@accesspress.org Administrative Assistant AXIS Healthcare, a partnership of Courage Center and Sister Kenny Institute, is seeking a PT Administrative Assistant. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years administrative exper., strong MS-Office skills, must be able to take direction from multiple sources in a positive and timely manner, have the ability to prioritize work flow and manage time effectively. Responsibilities include scheduling meetings, preparing mailings, special projects, and various administrative duties. People with disabilities encouraged to apply. EOE. Contact Diana MacLennan 651-556-9320 or dmaclennan@axishealth.com. Visit us at www.axishealth.com.

Receptionist AXIS Healthcare, a partnership of Courage Center and Sister Kenny Institute, is seeking a FT receptionist.

Resident Services Supervisor Central Community Housing Trust (CCHT), a nonprofit leader in providing high-quality affordable housing, is seeking a bright, experienced, flexible professional to join our team. Responsibilities: Direct the implementation of the Resident Services program in accordance with the strategic direction of CCHT. Develop and lead a team of Resident Services Coordinators who assist individuals and families in CCHT housing to maintain their housing and strengthen their lives. Develop community program/agency collaborations to support resident needs.

Contact Diana MacLennan 651-556-9320 or dmaclennan@axishealth.com. Visit us at www.axishealth.com.

Project Manager Summary: Work with senior development staff to implement and manage CCHT housing developments.

Qualifications: A minimum of 2 years of successful, professional real estate development experience preferred. Demonstrated familiarity with the real estate development process: market and feasibility analysis, legal contracts, affordable housing financing programs, and basic understanding of financing and pro forma development. Understanding and successful participation in: governmental approval processes, environmental analysis and hazardous waste remediation, real estate closings and related due diligence coordination, procurement of architectural, general contracting and other services, coordination of financing applications, etc. Knowledge of architectural design process, construction means and methods, and an understanding of construction management processes. Strong relationship- building skills and experience with Qualifications: At least 5 years of successful demonstrable successes as well as excellent verbal and written experience developing, imple- communication skills. Educational Experience: BA or greater menting and evaluating new preferred. programs, initiatives or serSenior Developer vices. At least 3 years of successful experience working with diverse groups, supervis- Summary: Lead internal and external project development ing and/or volunteer manage- team to effectively and efficiently develop CCHT housing ment. At least 2 years of suc- developments. cessful experience developing partnership in community/ Qualifications: A minimum of 8 years of successful, profesneighborhood setting and sional real estate development experience desired. An underevent planning and implemen- standing of options for controlling real estate property with an in-depth knowledge of related legal contracts. Comprehensive tation. knowledge of financial risk, liability mitigation, and real estate CCHT offers a professional, financing analysis: including affordable housing finance. mission-driven environment Awareness of the overall development process including; real with a competitive package. estate markets, feasibility analysis, political environment, architectural design and the construction process. Strong relaCCHT values a diverse work tionship building skills with experience of demonstrable sucenvironment. People of color cess, as well as excellent verbal and written communication and people with disabilities are skills. Educational Experience: BA or greater preferred. strongly encouraged to apply. CCHT offers a professional, mission-driven environment with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefit package. EOE

Responsibilities include answering and directing incoming calls, greeting guests and various clerical tasks. The qualified candidate will have knowledge of phone etiquette and principles of customer service, excellent communication skills, and good problem solv- Send your resume and cover letter to: ing skills. People with disabilities encouraged to apply. EOE.

CENTRAL COMMUNITY HOUSING TRUST (CCHT), a leading non-profit developer of high-quality affordable housing is seeking experienced, creative, and motivated individuals to join our Housing Development team. CCHT is beginning its 20th year with exciting goals that include an annual housing production average of 250 units developed throughout the Twin Cities area.

Central Community Housing Trust 1625 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55404 Fax: 612-341-4208 E-mail: ccht@ccht.org Visit us at www.ccht.org

CCHT values a diverse work environment. People of color and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. EOE Please submit cover letter and resume to: Central Community Housing Trust 1625 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55404-1634 E-Mail: ccht@ccht.org Fax: 612-341-4208 Visit us at www.ccht.org.

WANTED Dedicated Lawyer/Paralegal to aid frustrated, dedicated disabled female veteran seeking retroactive benefits. Please help me to get justice! Only CMLS Staff Attorneys • St. Cloud and Willmar Offices the sincere and persistent need apply. Please contact Celeste Central Minnesota Legal Services seeks two staff attorneys; Pearson at ksimms_04@ one full-time attorney specializing in family law and other poverty law for its St. Cloud office, and one full-or part-time hotmail.com. attorney specializing in family law and other poverty law for its Willmar office. Licensed in MN. Post-law school poverty law experience a plus. Spanish a plus. Salary up to $41,145 D.O.E. Ex. Benefits. Send resume, references, and writing sample to: Sarah Shella-Stevens, Managing Attorney, CMLS, 830 W. St. Germain, #309, P.O. box 1598, St. Cloud, MN 56302. Appl. Deadline: 2/15/06 or until filled. EOE

Computerized Desktop publishing: Brochures Catalogs Direct Mailings Flyers Newsletters Newspapers Resumes and more! Ellen Houghton • 952-404-9981 presentationimages@mn.rr.com

February 10, 2006

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