August 2006 Edition - Access Press

August 10, 2006

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In This Issue: Access Press Candidate Survey – Governor and US Senate Races

“What a man can be, he must be.

This need we may call self-actualisation.”

In preparation for the fall primary and general election, Access Press invited the candidates for MN Governor and US Senate to respond to a few questions about the issues facing people with disabilities and the government’s role in addressing these issues. Read their responses beginning on page 4.

– Motivation and Personality, 1954

Page 2 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 18, Number 8

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

August 10, 2006

Record Walk For Justice Planned Annual Fundraiser Expected To Be Largest Yet

by Cynthia Moothart

T

Walkers enjoyed a beautiful afternoon last year as they collectively raised over $200,000.

he social justice movement in Minnesota will get its annual shot in the arm next month, as the Headwaters Walk for Justice takes to the streets for a day of fun and fundraising. In the last decade, the Walk has grown into the largest gathering of progressive organizations in the state. Last year, about 1,500 individuals representing 110 organizations collectively

Credentialing Direct Support Professionals First-Ever Program Will Build Skills & Status

by Tom King MINNEAPOLIS, MN. – The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) has developed and unveiled the first-ever national credentialing program for direct support professionals (DSPs) who work in community human services settings, caring and supporting people with disabilities.

“This is a national, voluntary credentialing program designed to provide recognition for the contributions and competence of direct care employees. The NADSP credential is a portable credential that represents consistency in direct support education, work-based learning and competence,” said Mark Olson, NADSP president.

Olson explained that NADSP has developed a national agenda to address conditions chronicled for 25 years that are harmful to people who rely on human services – chronic and high staff turnover of support personnel, low social status, insufficient training, lim-

ited educational and career opportunities, and poor wages.

“These serious issues undermine the commitment of the direct support professionals, and have made it very difficult to recruit and train qualified and committed individuals in direct support roles in every area of human services,” he explained. “The time has come when direct support professionals must be seen as the talented, educated, caring individuals they are,” Olson added.

The new NADSP credentialing program gives DSPs (including personal care attendants) the opportunity to commit to the profession of direct support through a three-tiered credential program. The three credentials are DSP-Registered, DSP-Certified and DSP-Specialist. Each level involves additional training and expertise and a commitment to the profession.

Upon completion of the DSPRegistered level, a DSP will then be eligible to complete

expert training in the key competencies of empowerment, communication, planning, ethical practices and advocacy to become a DSP-Certified.

The third level of the program recognizes those DSPs who have gone through specialized training and have demonstrated competence in providing specialized support to individuals with disabilities in community human services.

A common component in the requirements for all levels is a knowledge of and understanding of the NADSP Code of Ethics. DSPs, as part of this process, must sign a commitment to adhere to the NADSP Code of Ethics. The code can be found on the NADSP Web site.

In order to receive a DSP certified or specialist credential, the DSP must complete an approved training program.

Currently, the NADSP has approved two existing curricula that meet the education/ training requirements of the NADSP national credential:

Mark Olson, President of NADSP, which recently announced the creation of a credentialing program for direct support professionals.

•The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) certified apprenticeship program for the occupational title of direct support specialist.

•The College of Direct Support (CDS). The CDS is a multimedia, interactive webbased curriculum that is designed to be used in conjunction with employer-based training. Courses include: 1) Supporting healthy living, 2) Safety at home and in the community, 3) Cultural competence, 4) Positive behavior support, 5) Introduction to disabilities, 6) Maltreatment of vulnerable adults and children, 7) Supporting friendships and relationships, 8) Direct support professionalism, 9) Introduction to medication support, 10) Person centered planning and support, 11) Teaching skills, 12) Documentation, 13) CommuCredentials - cont. on p. 12

raised more than $212,000.

But with registrations already exceeding the 2006 goal of 130 groups, this year’s Walk promises to be the largest yet.

Unlike many fundraising walks that steer pledges toward one organization or a single goal, each group that participates in the Headwaters event benefits from the money they raise. The event targets grassroots nonprofits and small community groups, but organizations of any size working for social justice are invited to participate.

“The walk provides a unique opportunity for the progressive community to come together to celebrate its work, to increase visibility and to raise money for critical issues in our community and state,” says Headwaters Executive Director Steve Newcom.

“With the midterm elections this fall, it is particularly important that the grassroots community be visible, vocal and supported.”

St. Paul resident Larry Lubbers has been a dedicated walker/fundraiser for disability rights organization Advocating Change Together (ACT). “People with disabilities have it rough,” Lubbers says. “That’s why I do the Walk. It changed my attitude about people. It changed me into being a better person—to respect everybody. I see a lot of people in public who still make fun of me. That doesn’t happen at the Walk. The Walk helps me help everybody else who can’t help themselves.”

Through the Walk, ACT has raised $15,460 over ten years for programming and services.

But this year the group has set a more ambitious fundraising goal—$5,000. Lubbers is historically among the group’s top fundraisers.

Headwaters Foundation Walk for Justice.

Sunday, Sept. 17.

Boom Island Park, Northeast Minneapolis 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

612-879-0602, ext. 19 www.walkforjustice.org “If [Gov. Tim] Pawlenty is going to be in office another year, I need to raise more money,” Larry says. “We’ve got to change policies—a lot of them.”

Participating organizations span the social spectrum—in size, issue area and geographic region. Small organizations like the youth-focused Naming Project—which raised a tenth of its annual budget through the Walk last year— mingle with major groups such as NARAL and the Minnesota Environmental Fund.

Groups working for children’s safety, decent public schools, access to health care, and immigrant rights in Minnesota walk alongside organizations dedicated to eradicating poverty globally.

“Sometimes people define ‘community’ as the state or the city or the country in which they live, but where do you put a boundary when people need help?” says Mary Steiner Whelan, director of Give Us Wings, a Minneapolis-based group that funds communitydevelopment, education and health projects in Africa. “The Walk for Justice strengthens our community by strengthening our common values.”

Those values are on display in a big way each September.

“I remember looking back and seeing all the walkers—all those groups, all those people Headwaters - cont. on p. 12

August 10, 2006

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Tim Benjamin, Editor

I

n several different connections recently, I have heard speakers, with and without disabilities, talk about how fear can control how we think and act. So I’ve been thinking about fear. In the disability community there are lots of fears that put a damper on our independence; for instance, many of us do not have much

of a backup plan to cover our personal care needs. We depend on caretakers, or on provider agencies, to watch our backs and cover for us—and then, sooner or later, a personal care emergency arrives.

Even the best caretakers have unexpected needs, and provider agencies have difficulties finding replacements on short notice. So in our everyday lives, how often do we feel that we do not have control over situations related to our disabilities? And how many times does feeling out of control create a feeling of inadequacy? Living with the risks of dependency on others can create fear and what the psychologists call “learned helplessness” in us.

What one of the speakers said was that we should not allow ourselves to fall into a cycle of learned helplessness, that we

should step out of it by becoming angry: “It’s their inadequacy, not ours. Don’t take responsibility, and don’t feel guilty!” Of course, the feeling of inadequacy was the root of the independent living movement. What Ed Roberts taught us is that we are adequate and deserving and that we should not feel guilty, that it is not our fault when something in life fails. It is our responsibility to take control. Ed Roberts also talked about anger, saying that getting angry at the education system was how he got his education. He knew he was not inadequate; the system was inadequate. Also, he knew that if he directed his anger and the anger of his fellow students with disablities, it could motivate them to make changes in the education system. He said, “Anger is a powerful energy.

We don’t need to suppress or get over our anger, we need to

Secretary of State Forum

channel it into making change for the greater good. We need to make sure that we don’t turn our anger in on ourselves or our loved ones, but focus it on removing obstacles and making things happen.” People with disabilities are less likely to be highly educated than are people without disabilities, yet the disability community is one of the highest educated minorities. That’s thanks to Ed Roberts and his ability to direct his anger toward changing access in higher education. As schools and colleges open later this month, let’s be there. And if we have to, let’s get angry! Let’s fulfill our needs and desires and work for the greater good.

The front-page article on direct-support professionals is a step in the right direction. If our PCAs are viewed as professionals and are asked to

provide or develop the credentials for a professional position, their wages could increase to reflect professional status and compare with other professions carrying the same responsibility. If legislation governing personal care attendants and home health aides is strengthened, it could even help legislators themselves by the time they need PCAs. Maybe we should remind them that if they don’t want to go into a nursing home, they will want plenty of competent, appropriately compensated direct-support professionals to live in their communities.

Of course legislators, and the governor, are the subject of elections that are just around the corner. As we do for each election, Access Press recently sent out a survey asking the candidates to introduce themselves and explain their

thoughts on government’s responsibility to the disabled and aging. We delivered the survey the first week in July.

One candidate from a major party responded without a follow-up call and actually had a campaign worker hand-deliver the 700-word response.

Several others responded within the first week and were very eager to address the concerns of the disability community. In the second and third week in July, I spent time calling and asking for responses.

As you will see in their comments, some of the candidates see the disability community as a serious voting block and want our votes. The nonrespondents, on the other hand, seemed to be telling us—well, you decide for yourself what they may be telling us. Please read the responses and cast an informed vote in the September 12th primary. ■

Access Symbol

by Mai Thor

Living With Low Vision

Candidates agree on most issues except fraud

by Tom Squire

L

T

he recent candidate forum for Secretary of State revealed broad agreement among the candidates on a number of key issues relative to voters with disabilities. During the July event at St. Paul’s Wellstone Center, the candidates—Mary Kiffmeyer (R), Bruce Kennedy, Mark Ritchie (DFL), and Joel Spoonheim (I)—generally felt that the accessibility and equipment requirements of HAVA are steps in the right direction for the voting rights of people with disabilities.

Other comments regarding HAVA included the need for additional funding, more op-

Candidates for Secretary of State take turns responding to audience questions at the July 21 forum in St. Paul. tions for voting equipment and lieve there is voter fraud and continued discussions from the said systems should be in place to prevent it. Conversely, Mr. disability community.

Ritchie and Mr. Spoonheim Some disagreements surfaced did not find voter fraud to be on the issue of voter fraud. an issue and felt that the focus “Certainly, there is voter fraud should be on encouraging in Minnesota,” said Kiffmeyer. people to vote. “I’m not going Both she and Kennedy felt that to let people who aren’t eliit is not unreasonable to be- Race - cont. on p. 12

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 Editorial Assistant ......................................................................................... Bret Hesla 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. We reserve the right to edit all submissions.

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.

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

Editorial material does not necessarily reflect the view of the editor/publisher of Access Press.

arge print is helpful to low vision people.

However, certain guidelines should be observed.

First, NEVER use all capital letters to make print larger. In most fonts, the lines that make up capital letters are more complex. Printing in “all caps” makes reading harder, not easier. Second, use a font that uses strong lines to make up each letter or character. Avoid those whose lines are thin or indistinct. Third, avoid fancy or “artistic” fonts, especially script or “handwritten” typefaces. Their complexity makes reading more difficult. For general usefulness, fonts from the Helvetica family, such as Arial, work very well. Fourth, employ maximum contrast between the print (black) and the background (white). Avoid brown print on a badge background, dark blue on light blue, or dark backgrounds such as bright red or bright green. Restaurants: please take notice!

Avoid paper that has a glossy

finish. In certain lights, such a finish produces a glare effect.

Finally, create a little extra blank space between lines, such as 1.25 or 1.50. Single spaced type sometimes produces too little space between lines, but double spacing creates too much. Low vision readers will thank you for adopting these simple strategies.

rassing, is to request identification. Identify yourself first! This ends the awkwardness quickly. If a low vision person doesn’t respond to your greeting, it is probably because he or she is trying to figure out who you are—it is not a snub. Low vision people usually do not perceive facial expressions, body language or other visual cues about how the relationship is going. Such people rely almost exclusively on verbal communication. If I say something that causes you to frown, you are sending a message of displeasure. Since I don’t get that message, I proceed as if you hadn’t reacted at all. You may then think I didn’t care how you felt. Things can quickly go downhill from there. In a low vision relationship, remember that when you send visual messages, there’s nobody home at that number.

Low Vision and Human Relationships Consider this formula: 10% of a visual impairment is the impairment itself; 40% is how the low vision person adjusts to the impairment; and 50% is how the impairment affects relationships with other people. Many people suffer embarrassment because they don’t remember an acquaintance’s name upon meeting.

Often, low vision people can’t identify the person at all. If I meet someone on the street who greets me, my only recourse, no matter how embar- Symbol - cont. on p. 14

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August 10, 2006

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Melody Martin: An Interview With A Local Author

by David Hancox

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elody Martin, a close friend and colleague, is a former board member and employee of St.Paul-based Metro Center for Independent Living (MCIL). She recently published a book of life experiences and inspirational thoughts titled, “Lessons on the Journey.” I sat down with Mel recently to ask her a few questions about the book, and how she went about the process of writing it.

going to write this book, I better do it now ….” I decided I could write and reflect on my life experiences and share some of the wisdom I have gained. And, hopefully I would provide a venue that would allow people to reflect on their own life experiences and come to their own wisdom.

Secondly, and maybe this will tap into [the value] which is my favorite…. I hope that from reading the book, people will get in touch with their own magnificence.

DH: Tell me more about what you mean by ”their own magnificence.”

DH: I like that…“come to MM: Well, Dave, let me ask their own wisdom.” you a question, “Do you think you are magnificent?”

MM: Yeah. We all have our own wisdom, and hopefully this DH: No, I couldn’t say that I DH: Melody, your book is an book is a vehicle to [find it]. am magnificent. intimate and thought provoking read. What brought you to DH: The stories and inspira- MM: How do you react when write this book? tional messages relate to or I say, “Dave you are awetouch on what must be strong some!”

MM: I want to answer in two personal values. Is there a parways. I had been wanting to ticular story or a reflection that DH: My first reaction would write a book for a long time, is included in the book that be to decline, and say, “Well I but I didn’t quite know the stands out as your favorite? think I am a nice guy, but I topic. People kept saying, wouldn’t say I am awesome.”

“Well, you should write about MM: A couple things. To get your life. Your life has some in touch with their own MM: Right! Right! Most pretty dramatic experiences in wisdom…I believe at the core people would say that, because it.” I kind of thought of a couple of each person is a core of we have not been taught to be of things in writing about my wisdom. And I think that all in touch with or recognize [our] life. First, who would be inter- we need to do is be quiet personal sense of magnifiested? [She laughs.] And [sec- enough [to] go deep within cence. So, hopefully my book ond,] how does one go about [and] tap into it. And I hope will help people identify with capturing this on paper. I that when people read the book this part of themselves. wasn’t working at the time… they will be able to experience and I thought, “If I am ever that [process].

One of my pieces is called, “I

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Am Totally Awesome.” Now, growing up with a disability, it has taken [me] more than 40 years to be able to exclaim, “I am totally awesome!”

Let me try to explain it this way. Our personal sense of magnificence is a combination of [three] things. First, our physical being. Our bodies are amazing things. We can cut our finger, and usually it heals pretty quickly…. Sometimes [our bodies] need a little help, but there is a physical need or drive to survive.

Next is our emotional being.

As a person with cerebral palsy, I have been wounded by people’s comments, perceptions and expectations throughout my life. And some of these wounds have been deep. But my emotional need to survive [has] enabled me to get beyond these comments and perceptions….

And finally there is our spiritual being. And, it doesn’t matter what religion—if any— you belong to. This is different than a religious sense of spirituality. It is our inner core.

This is a spiritual need that

lives in each one of us. And it is this spiritual being, along with the physical and emotional being in each of us, that, consciously or subconsciously …creates this essence or sense of magnificence. It is the genuine, fully conscious awareness of these three forces that enables us as individuals to identify or be aware of our sense of magnificence.

I mean, I was [literally] hit by truck! It was an amazing experience. My body was injured in some dramatic ways, and it wiped me out in completely— emotionally, physically and spiritually. I was in a coma for two weeks, but I continued to live. People ask me, “Did you choose to live?” And, I tell them, “I don’t know, I was unconscious for two weeks!”

[She chuckles.] But, something inside me did choose…and it is about choice. My spirit chose not to give up, my body chose to heal, and my emotions chose to survive. So, it really is about choice…consciously [making] a choice. You have to choose to believe that you are totally awesome.

DH: Was it difficult to write the book? Revisiting some of these past experiences must have been challenging for you.

MM: No, it wasn’t [difficult to write the book.] I was very disciplined about setting aside time to write. And, once I started writing, this force would take over …and when I would reread what I had written, I thought, “Wow, who wrote that?” I think in writing this I was tapping into my own core of wisdom, and it just flowed.

DH: How or where can people get a copy of this book?

MM: People interested in a copy can go to www.singin griverpublications.com to get more information about how to order a copy. It is not available in major book stores yet.

■ The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living will host a reading and book signing with Martin on Thursday, September 6, 2006, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at 1600 University Avenue West, Suite 16, St. Paul.

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August 10, 2006

THE ACCESS PRESS

The Issues:

The results of the 2006 election could have huge implications for voters with disabilities. Recent budget cuts aimed at deficit reduction have reduced critical funding for a variety of services, programs, and initiatives serving people with disabilities. Areas of concern include potentially harmful changes

The Responses: For Governor MIKE HATCH (DFL endorsed)

I have spent my career fighting discrimination on many fronts, including discrimination against our citizens with disabilities. In 2004 I received an award from the National Association of Protection in Advocacy Systems for the filing of “friend of the court” briefs that advocated for the rights of the disabled in several U.S. Supreme Court cases. The Association represents the interests of disabled people in courts, administrative agencies and before Congress.

dent mental health court that reviews, within 24 hours, all HMO denials of coverage. As governor, I will continue my advocacy and implementation of health care reforms that will make health care more accessible and affordable for everyone. I am also very sensitive to the funding issues regarding services to the disabled including PCA assistance and medical and transportation services. In a Hatch administration, the funding for such essential services will be a priority. I will not balance the state budget on the backs of people who are in need of these services. I will also appoint a Commissioner of Human Rights who is not only very knowledgeable about disability discrimination, but is a true advocate for the rights of the disabled.

My husband and I adopted eight children with special needs. Our family has supported each other through challenges and accomplishments, and I am proud of everything our children have achieved.

My commitment to improving the lives of those with disabilities has been a driving motivation not only in my personal life, but extending to my professional life.

In the 16 years since our country created the Americans with Disabilities Act, it has been a continuous struggle on many fronts to make a reality of its promise. With a strong advocate in the governor’s office, we can reach out to fulfill the ADA’s promise.

My public record speaks to that promise. As Senator, I have authored and passed numerous It is simply a matter of funda- bills to improve the lives of mental fairness that people persons with disabilities. with disabilities be provided the opportunity, to the fullest I have authored legislation to: extent possible, to participate • allow working people with in the affairs of the community disabilities to keep their mediand be a productive member cal assistance (MAEPD) of our society. Protecting the • delay rapid expansion of rights of the disabled, creating managed care for persons an environment that will allow with disabilities, especially people with disabilities to for home and community wathrive and develop their tal- vered services ents, will enrich and benefit all • keep managed care voluntary of us. for persons with disabilities ❖❖❖ who use MA BECKY LOUREY • improve and expand trans(DFL) portation options • increase salaries to keep welltrained staff in long-term care facilities • de-stigmatize mental illness and prevent suicide • fill the gaps between federal and state programs • expand services to the deaf and blind • increase access to Day Training and Habilitation opportunities, and • expand the definition of autism so more families can tap into available resources for their children

One example of the cases in which I advocated on behalf of the disabled is Tennessee v.

Lain. That case involved a paraplegic man who could not access an upper-floor court in which his case was being heard without getting out of his chair and pulling himself up the stairs. I led nine other attorneys general in advocating its state government to provide reasonable access to the court under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The friend of the court brief argued that the humiliation of crawling or being carried by officers into the court room was a violation of the First, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution. The Supreme Court issued a decision favorable to the disabled, requiring that state government I have devoted my life to helpprovide accessible facilities ing those with disabilities, both to people with disabilities. personally and professionally.

Currently, I serve as chair of My work in the health care the Minnesota Senate Health area has similarly benefited and Family Security Committhe disabled. For instance, my tee where so many of the policy office forged a precedent set- decisions affecting disabled ting agreement with all 125 persons are reviewed. My life Minnesota hospitals that they experiences have been exwill not charge the uninsured tremely valuable in providing more than the insured. In ad- me with the passion and undition, we were the first in the derstanding necessary for wise nation to establish an indepen- policy-making.

Throughout my career, I have always advocated for the notion that policymakers, program staff and the communities served should avoid “silo” thinking. We need to look for creative, inclusive solutions.

As an example, in 2005, I carried a bill sponsored by a broad coalition of groups to improve the relationship between those utilizing state programs and counties. The bill underwent many changes as it progressed,

to the CA program, increased premiums and copays for medical services covered by Medicaid (Medical Assistance/MA), and significant confusion and increased cost sharing for prescriptions for Medicare Part D beneficiaries.

(Alphabetical, by party)

but I made sure to schedule enough meetings where we could all work together to make the legislation better. When the bill passed, it wasn’t what everyone wanted, but I am proud to say that not only did we pass meaningful legislation, but we fostered the capacity to work together in the future.

As governor, that high level of widespread involvement is also how I will do my best to address the needs of the disability community. Just as importantly, I will pursue a comprehensive policy agenda that treats all Minnesotans with fairness and respect, including a fairer tax policy, broader educational opportunities, and greater investment in our transportation with an emphasis on alternatives that expand mobility. Too often candidates wrongly assume that the disability community is interested only in the narrowest of issues addressing disabilities rather than the broad array of challenges facing our entire society.

Finally, I want to express my appreciation to the Access Press not only for offering this particular forum for the candidates, but also for the tremendous ongoing service provided to the readers of this publication and Web site. As governor, I will keep the channels of communication open to the disability community and look forward to working with Access Press to achieve that goal.

communities. This campaign’s goals are to promote policies that reward local economies in energy, agriculture and other sectors of the economy, so hundreds of millions of dollars are recycled back into our communities rather than the stress of money pouring out of the region. Then, it will be easier to fund: full-housing, healthcare, understand the importance of education, transportation and community-based supports. living wage jobs for all.

Notably, I would finance needed improvements in edu- To achieve these goals we will cation and health care without need to get big money out of raising taxes or incorporating politics (In 2004 MN was #4 fees. Instead, I plan to fund in the county in lobby money these improvements in part by spent.). We also need Instant getting oil companies to refund Run-off Voting and Propornearly $2 billion of their record tional Representation in our profits plus generate another electoral system. This will $2 billion by innovatively bol- more honestly reflect the valstering the state’s tourism, art, ues of Minnesota voters. and entertainment industry. In Through these improvements addition, I would explore regu- in the democracy we will betlating the pharmaceutical and ter translate, through our govhealth insurance industries to ernment, what is the common control health-care costs by good rather than the existing ensuring they are not exploit- system which is creating ing Americans to reap record greater ecological, social and profits or outrageous salaries economic stress. My campaign and benefits, such as those of is about healing the earth and William McGuire, the CEO of our communities.

UnitedHealth Group. I feel that many in the oil, pharma- One of my main goals is to have ceutical and insurance indus- a mandate from Minnesotans tries have been greedy and self- for single-payer universal healhcare coverage. The people ish. want this coverage but the po❖❖❖ litical system will not allow it.

KEN PENTEL It’s time we end the dysfunc(Green endorsed) tion in the political system and have coverage for all.

Electing a Lourey administration in 2006 will make a difference in the lives of those who so often are not heard in the halls of the State Capitol. With your help, I am ready to lead Minnesota. Please remember to vote in the Tuesday, Sept. 12 primary election. For more information about me, please come to my Web site at As governor of Minnesota I www.BeckyLourey .org. will listen to the needs of the disability community. I have ❖❖❖ been a strong advocate and OLE SAVIOR worker for justice the last 27 (DFL) years. The goals of the Ken Pentel and Danene Provencher I support protecting the Ameri- campaign for Governor/Lt. cans with Disabilities Act, So- Governor are to invest in the cial Security, and Medicare. health of our natural resources Although the budget has been and the needs of people so we balanced, too often it has been can live dignified lives. done at the expense of individuals truly in need. I support As governor I’m focused on the adoption of universal health establishing an honest democcare. Since I was a caregiver racy and honest economy that for my parents for 15 years, I leads to healing our planet and

A society that invests in the needs of the disabled will be a stronger community. I will fight for the full funding from the federal government for the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). If the federal government will not cover fully the ADA, the state will attempt to pick-up the short-fall. I will advocate and support legislation that reverses the cuts to personal care assistants. I support in-home community based approach to assisted living.

Programs will be designed in such a way that families will not have to go broke to provide for their loved ones.

Through funding mentoring programs and vocational institutions we can provide education for the disabled and care providers. I will also reward students with free college tuition as an incentive to fill needs as care providers, health care workers and other supResponses - cont. on p. 5

August 10, 2006

5

CANDIDATE SURVEY The Questions:

We’re inviting you to address our readers — people with disabilities, professionals, and their family and friends — regarding issues related to disability rights and services. In particular, what have you done — and what will you do — to safeguard and expand the rights and participation of people with

The Responses: For Governor port needs for the disabled.

I will need to listen and learn from the people and families that have insight and wisdom of the disability community. I do not have all the answers, and any candidate that says or acts like they do should be looked upon with suspicion.

I want a healthy, strong and enduring Minnesota. Your vote and help are needed to make this happen.

Thank you. ❖❖❖ PAM ELLISON (Independence Party)

We will attempt to offer some ideas that will particularly assist those with disabilities, and these areas are embedded in our platform on our Web site pamforgov.com.

The top issue of reform for myself as a candidate for governor pertains to reforming the current health care system to the extent that it affords all Minnesotans access and affordability. The United States is the only nation in the industrialized complex that does not provide comprehensive health care for all of its citizens, and yet even though over 43 million are not yet covered we pay double what the most magnanimous country pays per capita for health insurance. In my opinion this is deplorable. It is estimated that if we converted to a single payer system nationwide, we would be able to not only cover everyone, but could save over a trillion dollars yearly and improve the care we provide substantially for all. This would include everyone—seniors, those on disability as well as the rest of the population.

sota Care as the vehicle for all for their insurance, and by diverting money from programs that are questionable for the state to be providing as well as other streams of revenue the state could greatly improve the health care delivery system as well as detach medical care from employment, which would spur economic growth in the private sector. By detaching the health care coverage from employment, those that are laid off or unemployed for a time due to medical or other types of leave would not risk having no coverage.

There would be no need for a COBRA plan, which in most cases is cost prohibitive. The large corporations that are sending jobs overseas to avoid paying such benefits might reconsider bringing those jobs back to Minnesota, and would be able to provide pensions that are guaranteed to lifelong employees without fear of corporate raiding.

Small businesses would start up with no fear they would not be able to sustain the costs of healthcare for their employees or themselves.

Secondly, my running mate, Kari Johnson, has been a part of the housing industry for many years, specializing in transitional, affordable and multi-use housing. In our housing platform we believe we need to provide more assisted living apartments and affordable housing for those that are custom-made to the specifications of their particular disability. This is something that can make a huge difference in the lives of families with disabled adults that need to live independently, but have the ability to have assistance with medical and social needs that arise. These housing complexes would be beautiful and welcoming and would have all the necessary services needed in-house, with social workers and medical staff on hand to assist the tenants with needs as they arise.

In addition, we would like to set up a more comprehensive network of employment opportunities and focus on telemarketing, data entry, and transcription services to allow people with disabilities more opportunity to work either at a workplace or from In Minnesota this could be ac- their own home if desired. We complished by using Minne- would be remiss if we did not

mention the need for more access to excellent transportation options, and we are concerned that our transportation platform include more options available to the disabled. We need more accessible transportation for social and shopping outings as well as provide a greater network of support for transportation to and from the clinic for health appointments.

In addition to the above, we would also like to make certain that educational opportunities are also extended through online learning or through learning at the postsecondary level. We would like to provide the option that best suits each individual, which could include learning through video conferencing, distance online learning, and classroom experience with appropriate transportation tailored to the needs of the people that wish to learn in the classroom setting.

We would like to establish one agency that would be able to match employers with would be employees. Right now, we are looking for fundraisers for my campaign and we would love to get in touch with those who would like to do some telephone calling from their homes and earn a 20% commission of all they raise for our campaign. We are not certain where to go to hire those who would like the opportunity and need to be able to work from home. If we could have a state Web site that would accomplish this, this would greatly help employers who have work of this nature that can be set up in ones home, and it would help those folks that would rather be able to work from their homes.

We are certain there are other pressing needs that can be looked into further, however, these are the concerns that we think can be addressed to assist people comprehensively.

If we can provide affordable healthcare, unattached to employment, and also provide affordable, customized housing that meets the needs of those with disabilities, along with post-secondary educational opportunities as well as jobs that can be done in one’s home, we can comprehensively build on this to make the quality of life better for the

disabilities in Minnesota? Beyond this, what are your beliefs surrounding society’s responsibility to people with disabilities and the elderly, and what role (if any) should government play in fulfilling that responsibility?

(Alphabetical, by party) - Cont. from p. 4

future. The ability to get in sota students getting a coltouch with those who need lege degree (and being able these jobs, and that can ben- to afford it); efit from doing these jobs from • World class health for Minhome, only makes the possi- nesotans at the nation’s lowbilities more exciting. est cost per person – a system that delivers better health, Thank you for the opportunity better care at better price for to allow me to send you my every Minnesotan; platform.

• Investing reliably in reliable ❖❖❖ transportation/transit so that PETER HUTCHINSON rising congestion (and wast(Independence Partying more of our time) is not endorsed candidate) our only choice; • Reducing Minnesota’s dependence on oil, repairing damage to the environment, reinforcing economic competitiveness, and reversing the pollution of our lakes and streams; and, • Challenging “the way we’ve always done it” to get more value from every dollar that government spends today rather than sticking future generations with our debts.

My name is Peter Hutchinson, and I’m the Independence Party-endorsed candidate for governor and a member of Team Minnesota. My teammate, Joel Spoonheim, IP-endorsed candidate for Secretary of State, recently was a part of the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities’ Candidate Forum for Secretary of State. He let the rest of us know the forum was a great beginning of the necessary discussion about Minnesota government’s responsibility to people with disabilities.

I believe government, in partnership with every citizen, is responsible for ensuring the state’s prosperity. As I visit with people from across the state, we hear a lot about how Minnesotans want to move forward on education, health care, transportation and the environment. Minnesotans also want more value every year for the price we pay for government.

Team Minnesota (also including Maureen Reed—Lt. Governor, John James—Attorney General and Lucy Gerold— State Auditor) has responded by forging an agenda for which we will be held accountable.

We will harness the resources of all five executive offices to get results Minnesotans want by focusing on: • Doubling the odds of Minne-

Minnesota’s ability to compete in a regional, national and global economy depends on all employees’ ability to be productive, not tied up in traffic. We should manage our system better, not necessarily build a bigger system. And, we should ensure everyone can use the transportation infrastructure we build.

Minnesota’s dependence on oil and traditional energy sources makes us vulnerable and damages the environment. Reducing that dependence can increase our economic competitiveness while preserving the natural resources we all value.

Minnesota can and should lead the nation in both transforming its energy future from a competitive risk to a competitive advantage and preserving our natural resources. All of us need to be a part of the effort, or none of us will enjoy Education is the driving force the natural resources that make behind Minnesota’s success – Minnesota special. the engine of our economy.

We need early learning in ev- Greater learning, better health, ery family, standards that mean more reliable transportation, something, high school gradu- and enhanced energy and enviates who are ready for college ronmental conditions are the or work, evidence of learning main things that Minnesotans gains, and effective teachers want. We invite you and all for every student. Schools, Minnesotans to join the team. students and families must Bring your knowledge, talents share responsibility for suc- and perspectives to bear as we cess. The government is re- move Minnesota forward. Tosponsible for making sure all gether, when we get this done, Minnesotans, including you, we will see the direct benefits have the tools you need to do to people with disabilities. your part. ❖❖❖ SUE JEFFERS If education is the engine of (Republican) our success, health care is the brake holding us back.

We must make sure every Minnesotan has access to and uses affordable, quality health care services, and that we buy good quality care at reasonable costs for the services that matter most to health. We should use existing evidence and information to be better buyers of health services. Minnesota government should align incentives for citizens, care providers, insurers and employers to get better results at a better price. Public health services, primary care and insur- My name is Sue Jeffers. I am ance must be available to ev- running for governor of the eryone, particularly people great state of Minnesota. As with disabilities. governor my prime responsibility will be to preserve and Sustainable economic growth protect the rights of the resiand mobility for every Minne- dents of Minnesota. All resisotan depends on a reliable dents deserve equal treatment transportation system; and, a and respect, regardless of chalreliable system requires reli- lenges or ability. Facing our able funding sources. Responses - cont. on p. 6

6

August 10, 2006

The Responses: Sue Jeffers - continued challenges, accepting, adapting to, and overcoming them is an exercise for each and every one of us every day.

My family has been blessed with good health. That is not to say those who have physical or mental challenges of one form or another have not touched my life. In my experience, a can-do attitude can overcome most challenges. In some cases, however disabilities can be so profound that a person cannot function, or even survive without intensive ongoing assistance. Many people fall somewhere in between, and with their own determination and a little help, can achieve their goals.

As a student, I worked at Mt. Olivet Rolling Acres. It was one of the best experiences in my life. I became friends with a young man named Dean, who had severe autism. It took a year for him to learn to brush his teeth, but he succeeded. A significant increase in the number of people affected by autism in recent years is definitely on my radar screen. There are some suspected causes, which I intend to immediately address as governor. I, too cheered for Jason McElwain’s terrific basketball game not because he was autistic, but because it was an amazing feat by a young athlete.

My youngest daughter was born deaf, although now at age 16 she seems to hear everyone but her mother. I did not want to have to send my daughter away to a special school so we moved to the Mounds View school district because of the programs in place to mainstream deaf children. It amazed me that as recently as the 1980’s people confused people’s physical limitations with intelligence.

Later, coaching my daughter’s softball team, I was the only coach who would let a deaf girl play on our team. The other coaches did not want the “hassle.” She wasn't a hassle.

She was a valuable member of the team. She didn’t require hearing to run, hit, catch or throw. We kicked butt!

There are many services available to people in need of help to overcome or cope with their challenges. As anyone who’s been tangled up in the system knows, most government programs are fat with waste, red tape and bureaucracy. Wellintentioned people often find it difficult to do their jobs in an overbearing system bogged down with excessive regulations. People in need can find the system they turn to as difficult to negotiate as their own disabilities. The current system, set up to help, in many cases does not. Effective and efficient programs should be

rewarded, others will be eliminated, streamlined, or merged into programs that do work.

Some people underestimate what I can accomplish. Many call me an underdog, foolishly believe I can not succeed, or ignore me. Sound familiar? I will succeed in spite of what others think.

(Alphabetical, by office, then party) - Cont. from p. 5

US SENATE AMY KLOBUCHAR (DFL endorsed candidate)

Will I let that kind of negative attitude stop me? Nope, here I am challenging a sitting governor from within our own party because I believe the taxpayers in Minnesota deserve better. I so strongly believe in my principles that I am willing to stand up, speak out and actually represent the forgotten voices of I have spent my life helping the people of Minnesota. people and standing up for I will not pretend to know or what’s right. As a prosecutor, understand many of the issues I serve the more than 1.1 milassociated with being disabled. lion residents of Minnesota’s I know some who seem to beat largest county. My job is to all odds, while others struggle even the playing field and to their entire life. I have a lot to treat people the same, wherlearn and I am willing to learn ever they come from or whoit. Facing our challenges, ac- ever they know. We even put cepting, adapting and over- a Minnesota Court of Appeals coming these challenges is the judge in prison for stealing undeniable, universal human more than $400,000 from the condition. Because we all face trust fund of a woman with difficulty at some time, it is disabilities, who he was supalso our nature to give our posed to protect. fellows a hand up when they In 2000, I created a special are in need. team of prosecutors and invesPlease take the time to look at tigators to ensure more effecmy Web site, or give me a call tive investigation and prosecuto talk about issues important tion of crimes committed to you. www.suejeffers.org. against seniors and vulnerable The primary is September 12. adults. I also drafted and advocated for legislation enhancing protections of vulnerable adults ❖❖❖ using public transit services.

No Responses

From:

GOVERNOR TIM PAWLENTY (Republican) ❖❖❖ US SENATE BEN POWERS (Constitution Party) ❖❖❖ MICHAEL CAVLAN (Green Party) ❖❖❖ ROBERT FITZGERALD (Independence) ❖❖❖ MARK KENNEDY (Republican) ❖❖❖ HAROLD SHUDLICK (Republican) ❖❖❖ JOHN ULDRICH (Republican) ❖❖❖

until 2007, simply because they couldn’t navigate Part D’s complex enrollment procedures. Congress should acknowledge Part D’s bureaucratic failures, immediately pass legislation to extend the enrollment deadline and eliminate financial penalties.

Fifty-four million Americans suffer from mental illnesses.

Today, HMOs continue to discriminate in providing health coverage to individuals seeking treatment for mental illnesses.

We must end the disparity in health coverage for Americans afflicted with mental health issues. Twenty three states, including Minnesota, have already taken steps to do so.

Four years after President Bush endorsed mental health parity and pledged to work with Congressional leaders to end restrictions on mental health related coverage, no progress has been made. It is time to end the unjust bias preventing coverage for Americans seeking mental health care by passing the Senator Paul Wellstone Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2003, which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits.

Coming from a state that is home to the Mayo Clinic and the University of Minnesota, I believe in science and the promise of stem cell research — the pathway for the next generation of life-saving cures.

I also support setting rules for how this research can be done.

By investing in cures and prevention, we have the possibility of reducing the costs of millions of dollars in care. I support bi-partisan legislation, recently vetoed by President Bush, which expands federal funding of stem cell research.

I have served as a member of the PACER (Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights) Advisory Committee, an organization whose mission is to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life of children and young adults with In the last five years, we’ve disabilities and their families. gone from surplus to deficit, from priorities for people to Minnesotans with disabilities giveaways to big corporations know all too well that the de- and special interests. My opbate on health care in Wash- ponent has consistently supington has been dominated by ported fiscal irresponsibility the drug companies and the and misplaced priorities. I will insurance companies for way fight for federal laws and budtoo long. I experienced the gets that put people first again. result of an industry-driven Last year’s budget bill inhealth care policy first-hand creased the costs of health care when our daughter was born for Minnesotans with disabiliand she was very sick. The ties. We should cut the deficit insurance company kicked me by rolling back the tax breaks out of the hospital after 24 for the wealthiest among us hours even though our daugh- and by closing corporate tax ter was in intensive care. I went loopholes, instead of balancto the legislature and got one ing the budget on the backs of of the first laws passed in the those who need it most. country guaranteeing new moms and their babies a 48- As your U.S. Senator, I will do hour hospital stay. my job without fear or favor just as I’ve done as a prosecutor. I When our health care policies will bring Minnesota values of are written for the drug com- hard work, fair play and responpanies instead of America’s sibility to Washington. Together, families, we get things like we will make a difference.

Medicare Part D. Over 230,000 Minnesotans have ❖❖❖ been denied Part D benefits

PETER IDUSOGIE (no party affiliation)

guide all our interactions with people with special needs. This will ensure that all states, regardless of whether you live in Minnesota or Mississippi, will all abide by the same set of standards and expected conduct by staff taking care of people with disabilities. In a nutshell, we will avoid budget shortfalls in the state from cutting corners and benefits that are extended to Americans with disabilities. We know that not all states and local governments are created equal.

As a candidate for the United States Senate, it gives me great pleasure in being given the opportunity to address the concerns of your Access Press readers. Many of my reasons for running for this office are because of my concerns of your welfare, which closely parallel the concerns of the vast majority of Americans today.

We must make it easier for personal care assistant programs to recruit caregivers, train them, and provide a wage commensurate with the quality work they provide. Essential support services must be readily accessible and delivered competently. We must ensure that Americans with disabilities enjoy the same freedom that others enjoy and they are given the same opportunities to plan their own lives rather than participate in a cookie-cutter program. We must also ensure that the people supporting people with disabilities are adequately trained or certified before hiring them into the noble service of assisting people with special needs. Society can empower individuals experiencing effects of aging and/or disability by ensuring that essential support systems demonstrate some of the following criteria.

Esteem: obtaining respect of and recognition from others (e.g. attention, social status, reputation and self (e.g. selfrespect, self-esteem and achievement)). Other things are providing essential support—resources and personnel–both informally and informall–that will assist an individual to live in an environment rich in community association and the acceptance of a valued role in a person’s community through competitive employment, organizational affiliations, spiritual development and general caring for others.

As a first generation American, I deeply appreciate all the help this country has given me to achieve my dreams— dreams which we now find becoming increasingly unattainable to many because of recent decisions in Washington D.C. I, Peter Idusogie, want Americans and residents of this country to continue to receive the help that they need because we as a country have always had a social contract with our own citizens as well as our immigrant population.

Unfortunately, we bear witness these days to a government who but for a few righteous men and women in the corridors of power in Washington have chosen in some cases to balance our budget on the backs of those who can barely afford to stay above the water.

The reduction in services for the disabled also makes it exceedingly difficult for family caregivers to keep a job because of the time involved in assisting their disabled family members. If family members cannot provide the time to help, the service organizations increasingly rely on volunteers who already give much of their time. Subsequently, service organizations by receiving fewer government funds and grants must then use valuable help and time in just raising the money needed to continue operating. My view is that it is the government’s responsibility to see that all its citizens are given equal opportunity to live a life that is fair and just. I believe we can start by working to implement the following initiatives that will go a long way to provide a better living environment for people with disabilities in America.

We must continue to relocate individuals from nursing homes and group homes to more community-integrated environments, whenever appropriate. We must expand and maintain accessible, affordable, and timely metropolitan and rural transportation options. We should not let our country shrink from its duties to help those in need, especially at the time when we will be seeing more and more people with disabilities because the baby boomers will be reaching an age where more and more Americans will need help because of disabilities from advancing age. Also we First, we must have a uniform must never abandon those who code of ethics and standards at are serving our country in the the federal level that should Responses - cont. on p. 12

August 10, 2006

7

Daily Inspection May Prevent Serious Injury

by Angela Lindell “When you can’t feel your legs, you don’t ever really think about them,” says Joe Mueller.

“It’s like they’re not even there.”

nor injuries can be dangerous.

That’s because the pain sensation—which usually alerts the body to injuries immediately, before they become more serious—is not always felt or recLike many who have spina ognized as an injury. bifida, Mueller finds that remembering to check his skin “Someone who can’t feel their for injuries each day is chal- feet might not detect a wound lenging. As a teen, Mueller until there’s infected drainage even required surgery for a wound that had gone unno- “For people who have ticed. But it was the experi- … disabilities that affect ence of another person that sensation, even minor prompted Mueller to make some changes. “My foster sis- injuries can be dangerter lost a leg because of a ous . . . because pain…is wound that became infected,” not always felt...”

Mueller remembers. “That was a big wake-up call for or odor,” says Jill Gettings, me.”

M.D., a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist at New Today, with help from his wife Brighton-based Gillette LifeBarb, Mueller checks his skin time Specialty Healthcare. daily for any sign of injury. “I “Some wounds become so sehaven’t had any issues so far vere that they require surgery as an adult,” he says. “I’ve or amputation once identified.” started taking better care of myself.”

Lack of protective sensation also places people at greater Low Sensation Equals risk of experiencing injuries in High Risks the first place. Anything from For people who have spina scalding hot bath water to bifida, spinal-cord injuries, braces that have been outdiabetes and other disabilities grown might go unnoticed, that affect sensation, even mi- leading to burns, sores and in-

fections. Edema (swelling) can couraging lower-body awarealso cause pressure in an oth- ness was an important part of erwise properly fitting brace encouraging self-care.” or pair of shoes.

Prevention Begins at Home Experience Leads to Change Because providers only see After witnessing such injuries patients periodically, diligent first-hand, physical therapist self-care by patients of all ages Laura Pizer Gueron says she and their caregivers is vital. thought health-care providers “Daily skin inspections and could do more to educate and prompt medical attention care for patients with sensa- could virtually eliminate the tion problems. “I saw people more severe wounds and inin their 20s who needed ampu- fections we see in patients with tations because of injuries that sensation problems,” Dr. they might have prevented or, Gettings says. at least, noticed sooner,” she says.

That’s a message the Muellers — who have three adopted After months of research, sons with special needs — take Gueron and a team of provid- seriously. “Skin checks hapers developed new education pen every day at our house,” practices aimed at preventing Joe says. “We’ve also taught wounds in at-risk patients. The the boys different ways to prestrategies target patients from vent injuries. I’ve seen how birth through adulthood. dangerous it can be if you don’t take good care of yourself.”■ For babies and children, education involves parents and For more information about focuses on helping children lower-body skin care, or to develop awareness of their make an appointment, contact lower limbs. “We learned of Gillette Lifetime Specialty research showing that when Healthcare, 651-636-9443 or children with spina bifida visit www.gillettechildrens. draw themselves, they often org. leave out their legs,” Gueron says. “We realized that en-

Wound Prevention Tips Serious wounds and infections are preventable with careful hygiene and daily skin inspections. Gillette staff offer the following prevention tips.

Daily Skin Checks Every day, you should: Inspect your thighs, buttocks, the tops and bottoms of your feet, and the areas between your toes (use a mirror to look at the places that you can’t see on your own) Look for redness, blisters, sores, cracks, peeling and swelling Feel your skin for hot areas Report any problems to your doctor immediately

Careful Hygiene Keep your feet clean and healthy by: Washing daily using a mild soap and warm (not hot) water Drying thoroughly with a soft towel Trimming toenails straight across and smoothing them with an emery board or file Treating calluses, corns and other problems only after consulting with a foot-care specialist

Good-Quality Shoes When selecting shoes, consider the: Fit: Shoes that fit properly offer cushioned support and never need “breaking in” Material: Leather shoes breathe better and offer more protection than shoes made of vinyl or plastic, which don’t stretch and can trap moisture and odor Type and Shape: Shoes with high heels or pointed toes can cause skin to break down. Open-toed shoes or sandals don’t offer protection from injuries Brand: Custom shoes with deep toe boxes help if you have such problems as hammertoes or bunions If you’re unable to examine or care for your feet by yourself, ask someone else to help you.

Understanding Your Needs Working Toward Your Goals Gillette Lifetime Specialty Healthcare offers a coordinated team of specialty-care providers for adolescents and adults who have disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, traumatic brain injuries, and neuromuscular conditions.

Physician Specialists ■ Cardiology ■ Family practice ■ Internal medicine/ pediatrics ■ Neurology ■ Neurosurgery ■ Orthopaedics ■ Physical medicine and rehabilitation ■ Urology

Assistive Technology Services ■ Alternative and augmentative communication ■ Computer access and environmental controls ■ Customized seating and mobility devices ■ Rehabilitation engineering ■ Upper-limb, lower-limb and spine orthotics

Rehabilitation Services ■ Occupational therapy ■ Physical therapy ■ Speech and language therapy Social Services ■ Psychiatry ■ Psychology ■ Social work

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 651-229-3944.

550 County Road D New Brighton, MN 55112 www.gillettechildrens.org

August 10, 2006

8

Living Independently

A

Home Access Answers

Gadgets That Support Independence

Cabin Design For A Flexible Future

by Lisa Schmidtke

by Jane Hampton

s a follow up to June’s column on aids for daily living, I’ve decided to highlight different technologies that can help people who have a disability or are elderly live full, independent lives. And, of course, they can all be used and delivered right to your home.

and over, teach classes on the latest software. Wow your family with your knowledge of the latest software updates!

Adaptive technology has become so prevalent in the disability community that nonprofits have been formed just to help people understand and select the right solution for them. At Assistive Technology of Minnesota, they provide access to life changing equipment for people with disabilities by creating a lifeline to financial assistance, education, information and resources throughout Minnesota. Abil-

on more than 29,000 assistive technology products from emergency alert systems to adaptive office equipment.

These nonprofits do not sell any products directly, but they can help you locate the companies that do. So, what kind of companies are out there selling products?

The most obvious technology Infogrip, Inc. was founded in is computers. From the pri1986 with a mission to devacy of one’s home (and posvelop and market products that sibly in their pajamas) a perprovide people with a healthier son can run a business, do their and more productive way to banking and stay in touch with interact with computers such loved ones, all because of the as ergonomic product and internet and personal computtraining. They can completely ers. But what adapt a work enhappens when vironment with Resource Contact Information that lifeline Chips Computer Services: www.chipscs.com adjustable known as the Geek Squad: www.geeksquad.com desks, touchc o m p u t e r Enablemart: www.enablemart.com free switches breaks down? Gladys Green SeniorNet: www.seniornet-mpls.org and large trackMost of us have The Computer Specialist that Comes to You: balls. If either arseen the black thritis or Parkin952-200-0921 and white Assistive Technology of Minnesota: www.atmn.org son’s disease beetles driven AbleData: www.abledata.com limits your dexby the Geek Ability Hub: www.abilityhub.com terity, Chester Squad. They are Chester Creek Technologies: www.chestercreektech.com Creek Techa computer re- Infogrip: www.infogrip.com nologies has depair service that Just Two Bikes: www.justtwobikes.com veloped numermakes house Fishing Has No Boundaries: www.fhnbinc.org ous versions of calls. Other opthe mouse and tions are Chips Computer Ser- ity Hub will direct you to adap- keyboard. Their VisionBoard vices and The Computer Spe- tive equipment and alternative keyboard has oversized keys, cialist that Comes to You. Be methods available for access- large-print letters and highproactive and call one of them ing computers such as speech contrast lettering. They have a to give your computer a “tune- recognition software and great selection of colorful keyup” and install virus protec- mouse alternatives. ABLE- boards and a tiny mouse for tion software. To prevent your DATA is a federally funded kids with little hands. computer from becoming an- project whose primary mission EnableMart started out by deother knick-knack, hone your is to provide information on veloping educational software skills at Gladys Green assistive technology and reha- and is now an all inclusive SeniorNet. These learning cen- bilitation equipment. Their source for assistive technolters, designed for adults 50 database contains information ogy and assistive living devices. To keep people outside and active, Just Two Bikes, based in Hugo, MN, developed a side-by-side tandem bike, and Fishing Has No Boundaries, with chapters in Bemidji and the Brainerd Lakes area, was created to open up the great outdoors through fishing for people with disabilities. Whatever your limiGadgets - cont. on p. 15

A picture is worth…

Full service remodeling and space modifications for the entire home.

Specializing in modifications for the disability and aging-in-place communities.

651-454-5899 www.axisremodeling.com

Dear Jane, Thank you so much for responding to our last question (“Getting from the Cabin to the Lake,” Access Press, July 10, 2006). This got us thinking further. We have always known that when we permanently move up to our lake property, we will need to remodel and update our cabin to provide the “comforts of home” versus “a cabin escape.”

As we begin the planning process, how can we ensure that remodeling completed today will allow installation of accessibility features if needed in the future?

Tom and Judy, Stillwater, MN

member to also provide a minimum five feet by five feet on the interior side of the door so as to have ample floor space to enter and exit your home. Winter elements of Minnesota also make it a good idea to have this primary entrance covered by an exterior awning or roof.

One Level. Eliminate the need to rely on steps Incorporate an on-grade, covered enwhen planning the in- trance or construct stoop so the landing terior space. Having is level with the threshold of the door. one bedroom and bathroom on shower to provide a proper the same level as the kitchen surface for future installation and living area is ideal. These of grab bars. The preferred rooms should be located on the method would be installing Dear Tom and Judy, I am so glad you found our same level as the accessible plywood over the wall studs response to your question en- entrance. You may also want to extending the full height and lightening. Recognizing that consider having an accessible width of walls surrounding you are going to be remodel- “egress route,” disguised as a these fixtures. ing anyway, now is the time to deck off the bedroom. incorporate basic design conIf you are considering replaccepts that allow future “fine Doors. Doors that are relocated ing the toilet, install a toilet tuning” to address mobility or replaced should be widened with a taller seat surface. All to 36 inches (or install French of the major plumbing manuand/or aging issues. doors that can both be opened facturers offer a residential Primary Entrance. Start by to create a wider opening). model that provides a higher designating one entrance as a toilet seat but looks like a stanprimary, future accessible en- Bathroom. When reconfigur- dard residential toilet. trance. If you have a stoop or ing bathroom (and kitchen) deck, construct a level landing areas, provide a minimum Avoid luxury-sized whirlpool at the door so it is the same 30"x48" clear floor space cen- tubs; they are difficult to get in height as the threshold. The tered in front of toilets, sinks, and out of. A standard bathtub size of this platform should be tub/showers and appliances. If is easier to get in and out of, and a minimum five feet by five you would rather wait on this if needed it can accommodate a feet that would allow future access feature, at least install bench seat and hand-held shower sprayer (for use when getting into the tub becomes difficult and reach-ranges become limited). The most flexible solution is a shower unit without a “curb,” but we suggest installing them into a bathroom with a tile floor instead of vinyl. Avoid shower units with doors, as they are typically too narrow to get into easily if you have any mobility restrictions.

Instead use a weighted shower curtain at the entrance. Install the curtain rod a few inches inside the shower to ensure that Kitchen counter with open space below counter to allow the curtain drips inside the use of a stool when preparing meals. shower. installation of a ramp. Re- the floor material under the entire vanity so you Kitchen. If you can, incorpodon’t have to replace rate a pantry. When ordering the flooring later when new kitchen cabinets, ask for modifying the vanity. pull-out shelves in base cabiInstalling a sink and nets. Pull out cutting boards are countertop over a base also useful; they let you sit while cabinet which could be preparing a meal. Otherwise, removed at a later date provide open knee space beis also another option. low one section of counter.

Providing a large mirror that extends to the Select “D” shaped cabinet backsplash—allowing pulls for cabinet doors and use when standing or drawers. Any new faucet or sitting—can be done door hardware should allow now with little addi- lever operation, especially if tional expense. you have limited strength or grasping ability.

Before installing drywall or wall tile in bath- Floors. Firm floor surfaces rooms, reinforce all such as laminate, low-pile carwalls surrounding the pet, tile and hardwood are toilet, bathtub and/or Cabin - cont. on p. 15

August 10, 2006

9

Ecumenical Group Works To Build Inclusive Community

by Clarence Schadegg

P

eople with disabilities continue to struggle with less-than-total inclusiveness by faith-based groups. Certainly, some places of worship invest in elevators to move people from one floor to the next. While this is a praiseworthy effort, it’s not the most important [accommodation], according to Ron Cottone of Judson Memorial Baptist Church in Minneapolis. “What is interesting,” says Cottone, “is that the physical

barriers are the [accommodations] that faith communities focus on first, and they’re always the most expensive thing, like putting in an elevator or ramp or redesigning the architecture of a building…. Attitudes are the least expensive to address. In fact, all that is needed is a little time for people to hear a lecture or read a book about disability awareness. It is attitude that poses the biggest and most effective barrier. Even if people can get

into a building, they can sense that they are not welcome. If they’re not welcome, it doesn’t matter if there is a nice elevator or ramp. They’re not going to come back.”

Cottone is Executive Director of Twin Cities based Disability Awareness Ministries Incorporated (DAMI). DAMI does not provide direct support services to people with disabilities. Rather, it supports congregations to be more wel-

A Story of Longing

coming, accessible and inclusive. It is instrumental in setting up inclusion teams in faithbased communities that take on the work of inclusion within the congregation. Cottone, who came to DAMI in 2002, stresses the ecumenical aspect of his vision, “I don’t want to just focus on [my] church, because we’re an interfaith organization. So we have the potential of working with synagogues, temples and mosques as well as churches.” Through

one of its board members, DAMI has a connection with the National Association for Mental Illness (NAMI) and other consciousness-raising ecumenical groups that work to reform negative discrimination against people with disRon Cottone, Exec. Dir. of abilities in faith communities.

Disability Awareness Ministries, says new elevators do not Cottone believes that many faith address the biggest of the barcommunities are committing riers that people with disabilifundamental “sins of omission” ties face in faith communities. regarding access. To bring a person who uses a wheelchair person into a sanctuary of worto the church’s second floor is ship is not good enough if that not good enough if he or she is person cannot fully participate not a welcomed participant in in all church activities and folall the programs of that faith low along with the worship celcommunity. To bring a blind DAMI - cont. on p. 10

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n April, Minneapolisbased Medtronic an nounced its first-ever formal mentoring program for college students with disabilities. The launch of the ABLED mentoring program (Awareness Benefiting Leadership and Employees about Disabilities) follows a very successful pilot program last year.

ABLED is actively involved in the workplace inclusion goals at the company, and is sponsored by the Office of Workplace Inclusion, which sets the group’s charter and provides support and guidance. Two of the focus areas for ABLED are recruitment and retention; and the mentoring program presents an opportunity to work on both goals.

Company founder Earl Bakken recently met with participants in Medtronic’s new mentoring program for college students with disabilities.

Harris, a graduate student in the Human Resources Development program at the U of M. “The Aloha spirit is alive and well in Minneapolis when Earl Bakken pays a visit!

[Bakken lives in Hawaii.] Earl honored our group with his visit and we hung off every word as he told stories of moFifteen college students are ments from his youth leading currently participating in the to his founding of Medtronic program, which kicked-off in and inventions in pacing.”

April with a keynote address

by Dr. Roy Grizzard, Assis- Harris also stressed the value tant Secretary to the Office of of the ABLED mentorDisability Employment Policy, ing program. “I expected topU.S. Department of Labor. Dr. notch advice and information Grizzard spoke with both the from the program,” said HarMedtronic mentors and stu- ris, “but meeting Earl Bakken dent mentees about the posi- and touring the Bakken Mutive impact mentoring can have seum far exceeded all of my on a person’s life, explaining expectations. You could literthat skills learned will last a ally hear a pin drop between lifetime. Dr. Grizzard also Earl’s words because no one emphasized that mentoring is wanted to miss any of his poa two-way learning opportu- tentially life-changing ideas.” nity, benefiting both the men- Bakken shared his career path tor and the mentee. as an example of what is possible and challenged the stuMentoring pairs have agreed dents to identify their own cato meet once a month and will reer path. “This mild-manalso have opportunity to par- nered, humble man shared his ticipate in additional Med- experience, encouraged us and tronic events. The most recent advised us on the tools we need such event was a trip to the to succeed,” said Harris. ■ Bakken Museum, which included the chance to meet Earl The Medtronic ABLED menBakken, co-founder of Med- toring program runs through tronic. “As if being mentored April 2007. Medtronic is the by a Director in Human Re- world’s leading medical desources wasn’t enough, the trip vice technology company, to the Bakken Museum proved headquartered in Minneapoabsolutely moving,” said Craig lis, Minnesota

10

August 10, 2006

DAMI -

Gratitude Feels Great

Cont. from p. 9

ebration. Cottone says these situations “sins of omission” are not intentional. It’s as if a faith community, with all good intentions, invests in one form of accessibility and stops there.

To “come to the table” means much more. It means that all people, regardless of their form of disability, have complete access to all levels of church life.”

I am a person who comes to faith communities with tough questions. I’ve been legally blind for at least fifty years; I’ve experienced many harmful actions by self-proclaimed Biblical practitioners who were less than compassionate people. And I’ve wondered how such people could be so arrogant. The congregational care person and the funeral home team that coordinated the funeral of my wife’s mother, for example, pushed and pulled me through the line of people as we gathered to receive the host at the funeral service. At one point they even grabbed my hand that held the harness of my dog guide as I was dragged back to my seat— two pews behind my wife. Her other sisters and brothers-inlaw were seated together by this same team of people, but my wife and I were not. Consequently I could not console her at this tragic time when she

needed me at her side.

Here’s an example of another congregation’s attitude. Before one Sunday morning worship, my wife and I were sitting on a sidewalk in front of a church, where I held my bloodsoaked foot. I had received an injury from a tumble I took when my sandal caught the edge of a curb. The folks entering the church walked around us as they traveled the twenty-five feet to the front entrance of the church. One person commented that I had a nice dog. Nobody stopped to ask me if I needed help. Nobody mentioned to the church administrator, who sat at a table next to the front door, that there was an injured man on the sidewalk. I’m not invisible—or am I? In both of these scenarios, I felt the pain of insensitive acts.

Although I brought my concerns to church leaders of these two faith communities, neither group followed through on their pledge to educate themselves or their congregation.

These church people seemed to miss completely the point that Jesus once made: all are welcome at God’s table.

Ron Cottone met my questions head-on, lifting up the importance of values. “Attitudes are

based on, and reflect, values.

Values are formed to help us deal with our fears; and to help us feel safe both socially and psychologically in our communities. As we grow up, our communities and our families teach us values that make us think that we’re safer if we follow those values…. Unfortunately there’s a lot of teaching about difference that ends up creating [negative] values…. For example, ... ‘Don’t trust anybody who looks different, or acts differently or thinks differently than you.’ That kind of value system often gets put into people as they grow up….

When they become adults, [people] don’t examine these values…. And they don’t see how [these] attitudes can get reinforced in a whole community of people with similar attitudes, [pushing the group] to exclude instead of include.“

by Nancy Sopkawiak

I

had my first run-in with gratitude as a child; my parents would insist I say “Thank you” for EVERYTHING. At that time I looked on gratitude the way I viewed brushing my teeth: it was one of those things that grown-ups made you do. I didn’t realize it then, but the act of thanking people taught me to appreciate the good things in life.

taught him that no matter what happens, human beings can choose their attitude. He called this the only freedom which cannot be taken away from us.

After reading his book, I began to look at my own life in a new light. If prisoners of war could look on the bright side, I surely could find something in my life to feel good about.

I love to read; my view of the world has been influenced by some great books. I remember years ago reading Dr. Victor Frankl’s “Man’s Search for Meaning.” Dr. Frankl, a psychiatrist who survived the Nazi prison camps, wrote about fellow prisoners who behaved with grace and dignity in the camps. He witnessed amazing examples of human compassion, such as men who walked Cottone believes faith-based through the camp comforting groups need to expand their others and giving away their group identity. “Faith-based bread. Dr. Frankl said this communities are really set up well to be welcoming and in- group identity. Exclusionary clusive. But transcending dif- group identity attitudes are chalference, transcending group lenged by Hebrew Scripture identity, is always a challenge. when it talks about welcoming And it is a challenge that is easy the stranger, welcoming the to ignore because the power alien, welcoming the traveler, group that runs the community welcoming whoever comes to has the authority to reinforce you. A relationship with a perand reward the privilege of son, who is made in the image maintaining the status quo and of God, starts with hospitality not inviting the expansion of and respect. So, in respect, you

“Dr. Frankl said . . . that no matter what happens, human beings can choose their attitude. He called this the only freedom which cannot be taken away from us.”

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My favorite book about gratitude is M.J. Ryan’s “Attitudes of Gratitude.” She talks about the benefits of living gratefully and how to practice gratitude in our lives. In the section titled “Gratitude Promotes

Today is a good example of welcome that person into your my relationship with gratitude.

I have had a nasty flu bug, and midst.” this morning I woke up feeling Cottone’s strength is in orga- pretty sick. My mind naturally nization development; he has drifts to the negative, so I was worked with inclusion pro- thinking “Why me?” and “It’s grams at the Basilica of St. not fair.” (There were some Mary, Minneapolis and other thoughts as well, but you Rosemount United Methodist probably get the idea.) At some Church. Thanks to Cottone’s point it occurred to me that my efforts, the Minnesota Annual crummy attitude was making Conference of the United me feel worse. That’s when I Methodist Church has resolved decided to work on this arthat all United Methodist ticle, hoping to improve my Churches in Minnesota hold point of view. I started by readan Inclusion Awareness Day ing my notes and books about on the second Sunday of Octo- gratitude. Magically my outber and that they all perform look began to improve. This an accessibility audit in their afternoon, as my thoughts became hopeful, it occurred to places of worship. ■ me that “maybe I will get over For help from DAMI, contact the flu someday.” Then my Ron Cottone at ron.cottone@ friend Stef called, which served disability-awareness.org, or at to remind me that I have won612-230-3264. DAMI is sup- derful friends and family to be ported mostly by individuals and grateful for. local congregations including the Basilica of St. Mary Catho- My step-son Ken says “Gratilic Church, Pax Christi Catho- tude is very important, because lic Community, Wayzata Com- without gratitude you can’t be munity Church and the MN content.” As of now I still have Annual Conference of the a stomach ache, but I don’t mind so much.

United Methodist Church.

Save the Date!

The Minnesota State Council on Disability 2006 Annual Awards Luncheon in Honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month Thursday, October 19, 11:30 – 1:30 Radisson Hotel Roseville Featuring Keynote speaker John Kemp, a nationally recognized disability advocate.

Nomination are now open for all awards go to: www.disability.state.mn.us or call 651-296-3478 Minnesota State Council on Disability 7th 121 East Place Suite 107, St. Paul, MN 55101 651-296-6785 V/TTY or 1-800-945-8913 V/TTY

Health,” Ryan tells of a woman named Josephine who healed a malignant brain tumor by feeling thankful about her life.

The theory behind this story is that “scientific research has begun to indicate that positive emotions, such as gratitude and love, have beneficial effects on health. They do so by strengthening and enhancing the immune system [by releasing endorphins, which enable] the body to resist disease and recover more quickly from illness.” Endorphins have other positive effects, like killing pain. On the flip side, “negative emotions such as worry, anger, and hopelessness” increase adrenaline and slow down the healing process. I have found this to be true in my own experience, especially dealing with chronic illness.

The more I focus on being grateful, the better I feel – emotionally and physically.

You are invited to the September 6, 2006 fall kick-off of the Bethesda Hospital

Navigators Spinal Cord Injury Support Group The Spinal Cord Injury Support Group is for people with high spinal cord injury resulting in quadriplegia.

The group also welcomes family and caregivers.

Date:

First Wednesday of each month, next meeting September 6 Time: 6 to 8 pm Location: 559 Capital Blvd., St. Paul, MN For more information, call 651-232-2128.

First 20 people to RSVP receive a picnic supper.

Supported by a grant from the Christopher Reeve Foundation

In closing, I would like to suggest an experiment that I found in “Attitudes of Gratitude.”

Tomorrow morning pay attention to everything that goes wrong or you don’t like: you run out of milk, traffic is bad, you hate your boss, the weather is too hot. Then in the afternoon focus on what is going well that you appreciate: you get a fun e-mail, you have a nice lunch with friends, your dog is cute, your house doesn’t burn down. You may want to write down your gratitude list.

At bedtime, think about your day—did you feel better in the morning or in the afternoon? I would love to hear your observations. My e-mail address is NancyLifeCoach@msn.com.

■

August 10, 2006

11

30 Years And Still Dancing Property Tax Savings

by Patrick K. Oden

by Jan Snook

S

quare dancing in wheel chairs has been a longstanding passion for many of us from the disability community. Our club,“Perfect Squares,” came about in 1975 when a caller started calling voluntarily at a rehab care facility. Many local residents with physical disabilities came to participate. However, they were pushed through the dance calls by abled-bodied people A couple of individuals felt they could maneuver their own wheelchairs and launched Perfect Squares. A short time later, our newly formed club appeared at a “Singles Convention” in downtown Minneapolis. The very first national convention we attended was in Atlantic City!

days on “The S.S. Constitution!” We even square danced on the ship! We all have so many fond memories!

Warren Berquam was our original caller and mentor until around the year of 2000, when he became quite ill and passed away. Warren was very talented, calling for many other square dance clubs as well. He also had his own “Callers Lab,” where he taught others to be callers. One of his students, Karen Novak, we chose as his successor.

in Access Press: Perfect Squares is looking for adult wheelchair users to square dance. No experience? We will teach you. Participants must be able to push (or control) their own wheelchair – manual or power – safely. Please see Our club has changed quite a the schedule in the box (bebit over time. We no longer low) and join us. We also hope travel to state conventions nor you can catch our club perto any of the nationals. We do, forming sometime. Call Sheila Through the to find out the Fall 2006 Square Dance Schedule years, mem- Perfect Squares meet to square dance on the 1st and 3rd exact dates bers would Mondays: Aug. 21, Sept. 18, Oct. 2, 16, Nov. 6, 20, from and times of leave and new 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at 3030 E. 53rd St., Mpls. Join us to our State Fair dancers join. learn something new, make new friends, and have fun. performances.

We traveled Happy square to some fantastic places to however, participate in local dancing! ■ participate in state and national parades and at our own MN square dance conventions. The State Fair! We also perform Before you come on any date, Hawaiian State Convention for numerous special events please double check if dancheld in Honolulu back in 1983 around the Twin Cities. (For ing is happening. Contact: will truly remain our favorite. booking, use contacts below.) Sheila Nelson, 612-379-4721 or Jan Snook jsnook1234 After we participated in their three-day event, we all cruised You probably have seen pre- @yahoo.com. around the islands for eight vious announcements from us

I

f you are a Minnesota homeowner and have a disability, or a relative with a disability lives with you, then you may be eligible for Special Homestead Classification based on disability. If you qualify, your home will be taxed using special rules, reducing your taxes by $176.

All property located within Minnesota is subjected to taxation—unless specifically exempted. Determining the amount of tax depends on two factors: 1) property classification; and 2) property value assessment.

While property value assessment is subjective—and therefore difficult to dispute—classification should be objective, based on the statutory guidelines.

Benefits of Disability Classification Homes with the most common classification pay from 1% to 1.25 % of market value. The 2006 tax code states that, for residential property of class 1a, “[t]he first $500,000 of market value of class 1a property has a [tax] rate of one percent of its market value.”

An assessor determines mar-

ket value, or how much the owner could expect to sell the property for at the time of assessment. Property value in excess of $500,000 has that excess taxed at 1.25 percent.

How to Apply To have your property’s classification changed under the disability qualification, you must apply using a Minnesota Revenue form PE12. You may complete this form yourself, or contact an attorney for help with preparation. Once completed, the application should be mailed to the Minnesota Department of Revenue at the address provided on the form.

The Department of Revenue notes that decisions may take four to six weeks.

Under the Special Homestead classification, class 1b, the first $32,000 of a home’s market value is taxed at only 0.45 percent. The remaining market value is taxed at normal rates. Qualified homeowners will save $176 on their tax bill (the difference between 1% of $32,000 and 0.45% of If your classification is $32,000). changed, your home will remain in the program for as Who Qualifies long as you own your home or for Reclassification To qualify for class 1b, the the disabled relative lives with owner or related resident must you. However, if you move to be permanently and totally a new home, then you will disabled. Individuals with par- have to reapply for a new spetial or temporary disability will cial homestead classification. not qualify. Proof of disability must be provided in the form The application deadline for of a letter or other document 2007 is October 1, 2006. If you from a qualified agency that do not file your application by has already determined that this deadline, your homestead you are permanently and to- classification may not be tally disabled. The Department changed for the next year. ■ of Revenue suggests using the copy of the initial letter from Patrick K. Oden is a licensed the agency that approved your Minnesota attorney. You can benefits. Affidavits from your- reach him at: patrick@ self, family members, or phy- pkodenlaw.com or phone 651-210-9409. sicians are not accepted.

12

August 10, 2006

News At A Glance . . .

Group to Promote Wheelchair-Accessible Taxi Roseville Couple Honored with Advocacy Award Service Nationwide Joe and JoAnn Zwack of Roseville received an advocacy New York, NY––To mark the anniversary of the passage of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), United Spinal Association has launched Taxis For All–North America (TFANA), a new initiative designed to inform individuals with disabilities about the benefits of wheelchair-accessible taxi service and to provide advocacy tools to help start such service in any community.

The project was developed in response to the lack of accessible transportation services, which is contributing to keeping persons with disabilities out of the labor force and isolated in their homes. As the ADA proved to be landmark legislation, protecting the basic civil rights of over 43 million Americans with disabilities, it is envisioned that TFANA will help eliminate some of the mobility and transportations issues that are not addressed in the ADA. Paul J. Tobin, Executive Director of United Spinal Association, noted, “We have learned a great deal through our leadership in New York City’s Taxis For All Campaign coalition, and we are just beginning to see the fruits of our labor here. By spreading information about our accessible taxi advocacy experience, United Spinal Association can make an important contribution toward improving accessible transportation services for all persons with disabilities.�

award from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at its national convention, held in Washington, DC, June 28-July 2. The Zwacks are founders of the NAMI-MN Forensic Network, which works to advocate for persons with mental illness who are in prisons or jails and support family members through monthly educational meetings.

The Zwacks have been active in advocating for such things as improved psychiatric treatment for prisoners, discharge planning and mental health courts, which can redirect persons with mental illness to treatment programs rather than jails.

NAMI is the leading advocacy organization in America for persons with mental illness and their families, and has over 230,000 members active in all 50 states. â–

HEADWATERS -

Cont. from p. 1

standing together,� says Mary Beaudoin, executive director with Women Against Military Madness, which has participated in the Walk every year. “Seeing it visually and participating in it is a statement—and an inspiration. It’s nice to know other organizations are working on similar issues—justice—because we all need to work for that.�

by cheering their group on at the finish line.

This year’s Walk for Justice runs from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17. The three-mile route begins and ends at Boom Island Park in Northeast Minneapolis, but individuals who don’t feel they can complete the loop still can raise money for their organizations and participate

The Headwaters Foundation for Justice has been supporting Minnesota-based grassroots organizations through its grant-making and organization assistance programs since its founding in 1984. Go to www.headwatersfoundation. org to learn more. â–

To register your organization and begin raising money or to sign up as a volunteer, call 612-879-0602, ext. 19. To support a group, go to the Walk Web site—www.walkforjus tice.org—and scroll through the organization list to make an online donation, or contact the organization directly.

CREDENTIALS -

nity inclusion, 14) Individual terested in direct support isrights and choice, and 15) sues who provide NADSP with Personal and self care. information on what’s important to DSPs in their area.

Employers and post-secondary programs that do not have The NADSP believes that seran existing DOL-approved vice participants and DSPs are apprenticeship program or do partners in the move towards a not use the CDS can apply to self-determined life, and in the NADSP to have their pro- complimenting and facilitatgrams reviewed and accred- ing growth of natural supports. ited so their graduates can ap- “We recognize that people ply for the national credential. needing support are more likely to fulfill their life dreams Although the NADSP creden- if they have well-trained, extialing program is new, the perienced and motivated NADSP is an organization that people at their side in longhas been around for many term, stable, compatible supyears. It is a coalition of orga- port relationships. We also nizations and individuals com- recognize that well-planned mitted to strengthening the workforce development stratquality of human service sup- egies, such as NADSP’s naport by training and educating tional credentialing program, the direct support workforce. are needed to strengthen our The group has representatives workforce,� Olson said. ■from the fields of mental health, developmental disabili- For details and applications ties, child welfare, education for the new credentialing and many others in the human program, or to inquire about services community. Cur- accreditation of an existing rently, there are 28 NADSP program, visit the NADSP affiliates in 19 states across Web site, www.nadsp.org/ the U.S. NADSP state affili- credentialing, or contact ates are direct support advo- Mark Olson, 952-920-0855. cacy groups or individuals in-

RACE -

Cont. from p. 2

gible vote, but I’m going to spend my time trying to rebuild our faith and trust in our system,� said Ritchie.

A question from the audience raised a very simple but important question: why should people vote? The candidates responded that voting creates accountability within our government, that it is our process of choosing our leaders, and that it is an expression of our beliefs.

RESPONSES -

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The forum was moderated by David Hancox from the Metropolitan Center Independent Center. Co-sponsors for the event included Arc Greater Twin Cities, the Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities, Courage Center, Merrick, the Minnesota Disability Law Center and the Minnesota Participation Project. The Minnesota State Council on Disability provided ASL interpreter services. â&#x2013;

Cont. from p. 6

military. We do not yet know the human toll that will be paid, but we do know that there are already thousands of veterans who are facing a lifetime of disabilities and illness. If they are fighting for liberty and justice, they must never be forgotten. I will see to it that they receive what we owe them.

the major parties adequately addressing the issues of the disabled. I will be a voice for you in Washington D.C. and here at home who will challenge the status quo without wavering to the pressures of conforming to the whims of a party and becoming an ineffectual voice. I, Peter Idusogie, look forward to serving you in It is for this reason that I am the United States Senate from running outside all the politi- the state I have grown to love, cal partiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;completely inde- Minnesota. pendent for U.S. Senate. I could have assumed party af- May God bless you and, yes!, filiations, but I find neither of may God bless America. â&#x2013;

Computerized Desktop publishing: Advertiments Brochures Catalogs Flyers Logos Newsletters Newspapers Scanning and more!

Ellen Houghton â&#x20AC;˘ 952-404-9981 presentationimages@mn.rr.com

August 10, 2006

MN State Fair Aug 24 – Sept 4 The MN State Fair is committed to providing equal access and a pleasant experience for all its guests. The fair’s Accessibility Guide provides detailed info on a range of accessibility options including parking, park and ride, metro transit, wheelchair battery recharging, entertainment venues, sign language interpreters, TTYs and ALDs. To receive a copy, send your name/address to: Access Mail List, MN State Fair, 1265 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul, MN 55108; or call 651-288-4448, 651-642-2372 (TTY).

UMBIDA Support Group Starting in Sept.

UMBIDA (Upper Midwest Branch of the International Dyslexia Association) is sponsoring an 8 week adult support group for persons with dyslexia. Facilitated by adult dyslexics for adult dyslexics.

Starting in September in Saint Paul. For further details: UMBIDA 651-450-7589 or RunLrnMchn@aol.com Family to Family Course on Mental Illness Starting Sept 5 Families of persons with a mental illness are invited to attend a free educational course that provides a greater understanding of mental illness, helps them cope better, worry less and feel empowered to advocate for better treatment for their relative.

The 12-week Family-to-Family course, sponsored by the

Upcoming Events To list an event, e-mail access@accesspress.org National Alliance on Mental Creative Options Illness (NAMI) of Minnesota, Conference will be held in St. Paul starting Sept 25 Tuesday, Sept. 5. FFI or to Creative Options, a one-day register, call Anna Mae Hogan, energizing conference for 651-730-8434. people with disabilities and the families and staff who support St. Louis County Health them, will be held on Monday, and Human Service Conf. Sept 25 from 8a.m. to 4p.m. at Oct 12-13 the Eagan Community Center.

Thurs - Fri., Oct 12-13, 2006, This year’s conference will be in Duluth, MN at the DECC, kicked off by Kathie Snow, a the St. Louis County Health nationally-known advocate for and Human Service Confer- people with disabilities and the ence will draw together more publisher of the Disability is than 1,400 health and human Natural Free Press. Registraservice practitioners from the tion/more info, please contact public and private sectors for Susal Hilden at 651-365-3731 two days of training and net- or shilden@lifeworks.org. working. The conference provides a forum in which to share 2007 Minnesota innovative ideas and programs, Self-Advocacy Conference stretch our perspectives, May 18 and 19, 2007 strengthen community health Mark your calendars now for and human services, and ad- the 2007 MN Self-Advocacy dress common issues and con- Conference. The two-day event, cerns. The keynote, “What’s “Lead. Change. Empower.” will Happening To Our Village,” be held at the Crowne Plaza St. will be presented by Paul Paul Riverfront Hotel (formerly Rogat Loeb. To view/print our Radisson Riverfront Hotel) on brochure online go to www.co. May 18 and 19, 2007. For more st-louis.mn.us. Look under the info, or for future mailings, “what’s new” column to view contact Kathy Sanders at 651the “2006 Health & Human 641-0297, or e-mail act@self Service Conference.” Regis- advocacy.org. tration: $40 [students & srs $30]. 100 workshops, 100 exHennepin County hibits. MN Board of Social AutoMARK demonstrations Work CEHs will be available.

Aug 2006 Some CEHs may also fulfill Voters get a chance to try out MN Board of Nursing require- AutoMARK, the new ballotments. FFI: Mary Bridget marking device, from 1 to Lawson, lawsonm@co.st- 4p.m. at the following louis.mn.us, 218-726-2140. Hennepin County facilities: Mon, Aug. 14—Eden Prairie

Library, 565 Prairie Center Drive; Thurs, Aug. 17 and Aug. 31—Hennepin County Government Center, Public Service Level, 300 S. Sixth St., downtown Minneapolis; Wed, Aug. 16—Southdale Library, 7001 York Ave. S., Edina; Mon, Aug. 21— Ridgedale Library, 12601 Ridgedale Dr., Minnetonka; Mon, Aug. 28—Maple Grove Library, 8351 Elm Creek Blvd.; Wed, Aug. 30— Brookdale Service Center, 6125 Shingle Creek Parkway, Brooklyn Center.

60 this year, more and more people are beginning to look at the big questions, such as “What is death?” and “What happens after I die?”

The Benedictine Center is offering a four-day opportunity in November that is back by popular demand. The leaders, a social worker-hospice volunteer, chaplain-spiritual director and nurse-psychologist, describe themselves as “women interested in exploring consciousness, especially as it relates to death.” This retreat is geared to professionLiving With Dying als who care for the dying, Nov 16-19 those who care for a terminally With Baby Boomers turning ill loved one and those who are

13

just plain curious about death itself. Participants will explore their ideas and feelings about death and learn new skills that will help them live a more peaceful life, thus experiencing a more peaceful death.

As one of the leaders says, “With Lamaze, we’ve mastered the natural birthing process; now we’re ready to find a natural deathing process.”

Incidentally, the nurse-psychologist leading the event coedited a book called “Kiss Me Goodnight,” which was nominated for this year’s Minnesota Book Award and includes poems and stories of women who lost their mothers at a young age. FFI: Kathleen Lindstrom; 952-829-1386. ■

Many Minnesota programs are still actively recruiting full and part-time members to start this fall. For more information go to Many Minnesota programs are still actively recruiting full and part-time members to start this fall. For more information go to www.serveminnesota.org contactthe thefollowing following programs programs directly: directly: www.serveminnesota.orgororcontact AmeriCorps AmeriCorpsREADS READSInitiative Initiative(Southern (SouthernMN) MN) Contact: Contact:Barbara BarbaraGunderson; Gunderson;barbarag@smifoundation.org barbarag@smifoundation.org Focus: Focus:Increasing Increasing literacy literacyand andlearning learningreadiness readinessfor foryoung young children. children.

Community CommunityTechnology TechnologyEmpowerment EmpowermentProject Project (MpIs/St. (Mpls/St. Paul) Paul) Contact: Contact: Jeff JeffStriker; Streier; jeff@technologypower.org jeff@technologypower.org Focus: Focus: Bridging Bridging the thedigital digitaldivide. divide.

Minnesota soconnor@theMLC.org Focus: MinnesotaReading ReadingCorps Corps(Multiple (Multiplelocations locations statewide) statewide) Contact: Contact: Sadie Sadie O’Connor; O’Connor; soconnor@theMLC.org Focus: Increase Increase literacy literacyofofat-risk at-riskchildren childrenage age33to to grade grade 3.

3.

MN Burwell; burwell@faribault.k12.mn.us Focus: and community MNPromise PromiseFellows Fellows(Statewide) (Statewide)Contact: Contact:Melissa Melissa Burwell;Melissa Melissa_burwell@faribault.k12.mn.us Focus:Youth Youth and community development. development.

Multicultural MulticulturalCommunities CommunitiesininAction Action(St. (St. Paul) Paul) Contact: Contact: Jessie JessieHendel; Hendel;hendel@commonbond.org hendel@commonbond.org Focus: Focus: Education Educationsupport support through program. throughteaching/tutoring teaching/tutoringininschools schoolsand and after after school school program.

St.St.Cloud CloudCorps Corps(St. (St.Cloud Cloudarea) area) Contact: Contact:Jennifer JenniferHeyne; Heyne;americorps@stcloudstate.edu americorps@stcloudstate.edu Focus: Focus:Addressing Addressingcritical criticalneeds needs in in the the area. area.

True TrueNorth NorthAmeriCorps AmeriCorps(Northeastern (NortheasternMN) MN)Contact: Contact:Blair BlairGagne; Gagne;bgagne@duluthymca.org bgagne@duluthymca.orgFocus: Focus:Increasing Increasingthe thenumber numberofof positive positiveadults adultsininthe thelives livesofofat-risk at-risk children. children.

Work WorkininProgress Progress(Mpls/St. (Mpls/St.Paul/St. Paul/St.Cloud/Chisago Cloud/Chisago County) County) Contact: Contact: Sonja SonjaNyberg; Nyberg;snyberg@rise.org snyberg@rise.org Focus: Focus:Job Jobmentoring mentoring support disabilities. supportand andcommunity communityintegration integrationfor for immigrants, immigrants,refugees refugees and and people people with with disabilities.

14

August 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 mn.vsarts.org.

Candida May 27 - Aug. 27, 2006 Commonweal Theatre, 206 Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro.

ASL: Sun., July 23, 2p.m.; Tix: $10 (Reduced) 507-467-2525, 800-657-7025 or tickets @commonwealtheatre.org; www.commonwealtheatre.org Forty-Five Minutes from Broadway June 16 - Aug. 26, 2006 University of Minnesota Centennial Showboat Players at Harriet Island Regional Park, St. Paul. ASL: Fri., July 14, 8:00 p.m.; Tix: $20; Paddelford Packet Boat Company, 651-227-1100 or www.

ShowboatTheater.comâ&#x20AC;?

To Fool the Eye July 1 - October 29, 2006 Commonweal Theatre, 206 Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro.

The Real Thing ASL: Sun., Sept. 24, 2p.m. Tix: $10 (Reduced) 507-467-2525, August 5 - September 24, 2006 800-657-7025 or tickets Guthrie Theater, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD: Sat., Aug. 26, 1p.m. @commonwealtheatre.org (sensory tour 11:00); Fri., Sept.

1, 7:30 p.m. ASL: Fri., Sept. 8, H.M.S. Pinafore 7:30 p.m. Tix: $16 (Reduced); July 14 - Aug. 13, 2006 Theatre in the Round Players, reg. $22-$52; 612-377-2224, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: TTY 612-377-6626; www.

Sun., Aug. 13, 2:00 p.m.; Tix: guthrietheater.org $20, senior/student discounts; 612-333-3010; www.theatrein MN Renaissance Festival August 19 - October 1, 2006 theround.org Weekends, Labor Day and Festival Friday, Sept. 29, ReThe Great Gatsby naissance Festival, 20 miles July 15 - Sept. 10, 2006 Guthrie Theater, 818 2nd St. S., south of the Twin Cities, 3 Mpls. ASL: Fri., Aug. 18 and miles south of Shakopee off Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m.; AD: Sat., Highway 169 at 145th St ASL: Aug. 5, 1:00 p.m. (free tactile Signing Sat, Sept. 9, 9a.m. to tour 11); Fri., Aug. 11, 7:30 7p.m. Tix: Adult $18.95, Sr p.m.; Tix: Reduced to $16; 612- (60+) $16.95; Child (6-12) 377-2224, TTY 612-377-6626; $9.95; $3 off in adv at Superwww.guthrietheater.org America; 800-966-8215 or info@renaissancefest.com

Minnesota State Fair Aug. 24 - Sept. 4, 2006 State Fair, 1265 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul. Grandstand performers will include Rascal Flatts, Flaming Lips, Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor, Bonnie Raitt, Steve Miller Band, Alan Jackson, Brooks Dunn, Amateur Talent Contest, and more. Interpreters or Audio Describers for Grandstand Shows must be requested at least two weeks in advance. Call 651-642-2262 or 651-642-2442 (TTY); tickets@mnstate fair.org or guestservices@mn statefair. org; www.mnstate fair.org ASL: Fri., Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m. $40-$67. Rascal Flatts with Gary Allan ASL: Sat., Sept. 2, 6:30 p.m. $25. BoDeans and Gear Daddies, with The Nadas

ASL: Mon., Sept. 4, 7p.m. $40 Brooks & Dunn w/Sugarland ASL: roving interpreters will be available to assist guests at daily events from 10 a.m. to 8p.m. daily.

SYMBOL -

The Last of the Boys August 25 - October 1, 2006 Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Thurs., Sept. 7, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $8, 612-822-7063; www.jungletheater.com. â&#x2013;

Cont. from p. 2

Low vision people are constantly endangered by isolation and loneliness because the world around them is full of secret messages that they know exist but canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t receive. Finally, many â&#x20AC;&#x153;normalâ&#x20AC;? people are afraid of low vision people, because they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what the rules of contact are. If in doubt, ask. Always! â&#x2013;

for large print is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Large Printâ&#x20AC;? printed in 18 pt. or larger text.

In addition to indicating that large print versions of books, pamphlets, museum guides and theater programs are available, you may use the symbol on conference or membership forms to indicate that print materials may be provided in large print. (www. gag.org/resources/das.php)

According to the Graphic Artists Guild Web site, the symbol

â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039; â&#x2014;&#x2039;

MN Fringe Festival â&#x20AC;˘ Aug. 3 - 13, 2006 ASL and AD: Performances to be announced at various venues in Minneapolis Tix: www. fringefestival.org or www.uptowntix.com FRIDAY, AUGUST 11 The Afterlife Project, or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Just Sleepingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and Other Lies Your Mother Told You About Death John had a heart attack. Spot got hit by a truck. Jane suffocated during autoerotic asphyxiation while listening to Rod Stewart. Come see what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re up to now! Death â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; it. Performed by Upright Egg Theatre Company. AD: 5:30 p.m., Rarig Center Thrust, 330 21st Ave. S., Mpls. Describer: Cynthia Hamre Circumference The Ghosts of Gym Teachers Past commingle with the Fear of Fitness Centers Present and the Longing for Weight Loss Future as an aerobi-phobic â&#x20AC;&#x153;floating headâ&#x20AC;? struggles to become a real, kinetic person. Lycra encouraged! Performed by Amy Salloway. AD: 7p.m., Rarig Ctr Thrust, 330 21st Ave. S., Mpls.

Describer: Cynthia Hamre

Monsters in America: Puppets of Mass Destruction The Corporation accidentally unleashes a rampaging horror and their wiliest spin-doctors make scapegoats of the cutest and cuddliest â&#x20AC;&#x153;cereal killersâ&#x20AC;? in America. Fingers are pointed. Allegories are veiled.

Worlds are rocked. (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Death Penalty Puppetryâ&#x20AC;? gang.). Performed by the Chameleon Theatre Circle. AD: 8:30 p.m., Rarig Center Proscenium, 330 21st Ave. S., Mpls. Describer: Cynthia Hamre SATURDAY, AUG 12 In Hope of Claudia Beatrice lead Dante from dis to purgatorio to paradiso. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In Hopes of Claudiaâ&#x20AC;? leads poet Kevin Kling and Simone Perrin on a musical triptych to the stars. Performed by Kevin Kling. ASL: 1:00 p.m., Mpls.

Theatre Garage, 711 W. Franklin Ave., Mpls. Interpreter: TBA

Dancing Rats and Vampire Moms Dangerous mothers come out to play in three tales told with wit, heart, and a touch of horror: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Oprah Meets Snow White,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mama Goneâ&#x20AC;? & â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Dancing Rat of Paris.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donoval has mastered the art of telling stories that are funny and heartwrenching.â&#x20AC;? - Chicago Reader, criticâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice. Performed by Hardcover Theater and Nancy Donoval. AD: 1:00 p.m., the Playwrightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Center, 2301 Franklin Ave. E., Mpls. Describer: Cynthia Hamre SUNDAY, AUG 13 Japonesque What would happen to Mr. Rogers if he got trapped on Sesame Street in a dark backalley of Japan? Japonesque will realize this scenario through funny, eerie, sexy improvisations using five boxes and infinite possibilities.

Dancer/choreographer Kats D

Fukasawa and multi-disciplinary artist Masanari Kawahara will present unpredictable dance-theater performance using improvised movements, mask theater, puppetry, vocalization and basic course in Japanese culture. Performed

by Paneer Project. ASL: 1:00 p.m., Southern Theater, 1420 Washington Ave. S., Mpls.

Interpreter: TBA Vive Venezuela Acclaimed artistic director Judith Perez, and an ensemble cast, present through dance, live percussion, song, and costumes, the diversity, mystery, textures and colors of Venezuela. Performed by Sentir Venezolano. Captioning 1:00 p.m., Rarig Center Proscenium, 330 21st Ave. S., Mpls.

Captioner: Robin Gillette. â&#x2013;

A GREA T RESOURCE! GREAT

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

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Cont. from p. 8

tation, these companies will Lisa Schmidtke is the Presifind a solution. dent and Founder of Housecalls Network. Their Web site, Even if you’ve never “surfed www.housecalls-network. the Web,” been a gadget per- com, contains a directory of son or even learned how to resources that can help the work your VCR, don’t be growing population of seniors, afraid to try a technologically disabled people and their advanced solution to your daily caregivers live independently. living issue. There are many Housecalls Network also sells resources to help! ■ aids for daily lving and adaptive clothing.

Lisa Schmidtke can be reached by e-mail at lisa@housecallsnetwork.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.

MEMORIAM In the loving memory of Milo D. Lane, Jr. From Becky “Markie” and Terrance Franzen.

Diamond Hill Townhomes We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list at Diamond Hill Townhomes, a great property located near the Minneapolis International Airport.

We have two and three bedroom townhomes that are HUD subsidized and rent is 30% of the total household's adjusted gross income.

We have a large number of mobility impaired accessible units and we are scheduling appointments for persons in need of a mobility impaired accessible unit immediately.

To schedule an appointment please call (612) 726-9341.

Fairview Health Services

I am the care I give.

I am Fairview.

easier to maneuver over and more durable. The transition from one floor surface to another should be level with no abrupt rise. This will eliminate eliminate tripping issues.

Do you have a question for Jane and Accessibility Design? We’ll cover all of your questions in future issues of Home Access Answers. Please contact us: 952-925-0301, www.accessibilitydesign.com, These tips should give you a info@accessibilitydesign.com starting point in assessing your remodeling options. During Jane Hampton, president of your planning stage, visit a va- Accessibility Design, founded riety of manufacturer show- the company in 1992 to enrooms to see the assortment of hance lives through design and choices that can help make your project management. The comcabin “home sweet home.” ■ pany provides design, consultation, project management,

and product recommendation services, specializing in home access for individuals with disabilities at all stages of life.

CORRECTION The Brookdale Library, site of the August 17th Medicaid/ MA Town Hall Forum, is in Brooklyn Center, not Brooklyn Park as we printed last month. The address, however, is correct: 6125 Shingle Creek Parkway.

Access To Employment

Employment ads are $16-$17 per col. inch. July 31 is the deadline for the August 10 issue.

Mail to: ACCESS PRESS, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 FAX 651-644-2136 • E-mail: access@accesspress.org Attorney or Advocate MN Disability Law Ctr seeks atty or adv in Duluth to assist persons w/developmental & other disabilities. 12 mo position. Disability law or prof exp preferred. Atty $38,776$42,340; Adv $26,916$41,916. DOE & benes. Ltr & resume by 9/1: Pam Cunningham, Ad #095, MDLC, 430 1st Ave N, #300, Mpls, MN 55401-1780.

No calls. EOE. Manager-Energy The Metropolitan Council is seeking an individual to develop and maintain a comprehensive energy management program for the Environment Services Division. Qualifications include BA engineering, finance, business or energyrelated field with a Certified Energy Procurement Professional Certification or equivalent; and five years of experience in an energy industry. To be considered, complete Metropolitan Council Employment Application and Resume must be submitted. For position information and application instructions please refer to: www.metrocounicil.org

Resident Services Coordinator Central Community Housing Trust (CCHT), a nonprofit leader in providing high-quality affordable housing, seeks a Resident Services Coordinator to join our team.

Responsibilities: Assist individuals residing in CCHT properties in maintaining their housing and strengthening their lives. Responsibilities include program development, implementation and evaluation. The specific goals of this position are defined by issues and needs of residents combined with the strategic direction of CCHT. Qualification: At least 2 years successful experience developing, implementing and evaluating programs, initiatives or services. At least 2 years successful experience working with diverse groups/ communities. At least 1 year recent successful experience developing partnerships in community/neighborhood setting and event planning and implementation. Knowledge of Minneapolis community and governmental resources and issues effecting the homeless population is essential.

CCHT offers a professional, mission-driven environment with competitive comprehensive benefit package. CCHT values a diverse work environment. People of color and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. EOE. Send your resume and cover letter to: Central Community Housing Trust Human Resources - Employment 1625 Park Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55404-1634 e-mail: ccht@ccht.org Fax: 612-341-4208 Visit us at www.ccht.org

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

YO U R P L A C E F O R A R E W A R D I N G C A R E E R I N H E A LT H C A R E

Join my team at fairview.org/divjobs Build your career where breakthrough medical care and a progressive work environment are parts of everyday life. At Fairview, we believe the only way to deliver our promise of exceptional care to our patients is by supporting the health and well-being of our employees. Join us, and you join a close-knit network of professionals whose shared values of dignity, integrity, service and compassion guide everything we do to improve the health of our communities.

Learn more about opportunities in:

fairview.org/divjobs • TTY 612-672-7300 EEO/AA Employer

Cont. from p. 8

Classifieds

Razim Laboratory Care Technician 8 years

• Nursing • Imaging • Lab • Respiratory • Pharmacy

15

• Physical Therapy • Operations • Administration • Medical Records, and more...

MISCELLANEOUS Volunteer from Home, Help Others Stay Independent!

STORE TO DOOR is a nonprofit grocery/prescription delivery service for seniors and disabled individuals in the Twin Cities. We welcome new volunteers to help us serve our clients! Volunteer Order Takers call clients from home for their grocery orders days, nights or weekends, and input orders online. Please contact Karen Liu, Volunteer Coordinator, at 651-641-4047 or karen@storetodoor.org

Transtech Mobility Pride V.I.P provider Power Chairs, Power Scooters and Lift Chairs. Open 7 days a week.

Call at 952-935-1515 or www. transtechmobility.com FOR RENT Oak Park Village: One Bedroom wheelchair-accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient St. Louis Park location. Call 952-935-9125 for availability information.

Equal Opportunity Housing.

Holmes-Greenway Housing: One and two bedroom wheelchair-accessible apartments.

Section 8 subsidized. Convenient SE Minneapolis location.

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

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

Lewis Park Apartments: Equal Opportunity Housing.

Barrier-free housing with FOR SALE wheelchair users in mind. SecTotally Accessible Home See tion 8 subsidized. One- and page 14 for more details on two- bedroom units. For more this home or call Ability Solu- information on availability call tions at 612-253-5438.

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

16

August 10, 2006

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------------------------------------ IN KIND (time & services)---------------------------------Earl Bakken • Ron Cottone • Jane Hampton • David Hancox • Tom King • Angela Lindell Cynthia Moothart • Patrick K. Oden • Mark Olson • Karen Quammen • Clarence Schadegg Lisa Schmidtke • Jan Snook • Nancy Sopkawiak • Tom Squire • Mai Thor

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