January 10, 2007 This Month's Historical Figure
Inside ■ Dogs and Cabs—p. 4 ■ Telework—p. 5 ■ Directory of Organizations—p. 12
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“It is a good thing to feel you have
useful work to do. And better to be overwhelmed than to feel nobody wants you for anything.” – Fr. Tom Lumpkin Page 2 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766
Volume 19, Number 1
Minnesota’s Disability
Community Newspaper
January 10, 2007
Ritchie Targets Voting Barriers New Secretary of State Pledges to Continue His Work on Eliminating Election Day Obstacles for People with Disabilities by Mai Thor and Beth Fraser
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ver since the November elections, Mark Ritchie, the newly elected Secretary of State of Minnesota, has been anxious for his term to start on January 2nd. “I can’t wait to begin working to further improve our state’s election system,” stated Ritchie.
Secretary of State Mark Ritchie digs in during his first week in office. Even before the election, Ritchie contacted over 1500 residential facilities to inform them of new laws that affect their voting rights.
Access Press’
2006 In Review H
istory happens in small steps. Sometimes we need to take stock of these changes so that we appreciate how far we’ve come—and how far we still need to go. Inside (pp. 10 and 11) we revisit some of the top stories of 2006, as printed in Access Press. ■
Ritchie noted that although Minnesota has led the country in voter turnout for some time, there is still room for improvement. He pointed out that Minnesotans with disabilities are 20% less likely to vote than other eligible citizens. “The staff of the Secretary of State’s office will work closely with advocates within the disability community to change this,” pledged Ritchie.
“I will see to it that election judges and other poll workers understand this [new law] fully, so that people under guardianship will no longer have to worry about their right to vote needlessly being challenged.” created by a lack of information. In October, four weeks before he was even elected, Ritchie instructed his staff to contact over 1,500 residential facilities, including group homes, battered women’s
shelters, homeless shelters and nursing homes, to inform them about new laws that affected their residents’ voting rights. “We realized that a deadline for taking action was approaching, and no one had told the residential facilities about the steps they needed to take,” Ritchie explained. “Even though it meant diverting resources away from winning the campaign, we did it because it was the right thing to do. Now that I’m the Secretary of State, I can make sure that my office educates residential facilities about their options, so this won’t be an issue again.” Ritchie has spent the last 20 years working for charitable organizations and is known Ritchie - cont. on p. 15
Student Waxes Poetic St. Paul Woman Wins Metro State Award by Harvey Meyer
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childhood photo of Mary Bailey Bustos shows a happy-golucky kid with a sunny smile. But she garners no warm fuzzies when examining the picture. Fact is, as far as she is concerned, she might as well be gazing at a stranger. That’s because, for all intents and purposes, she is. Memory loss has effectively erased her childhood. Indeed, she has difficulty recollecting anything that happened to her even two weeks ago.
More on p. 10 and 11
Ritchie’s campaign focused on removing remaining barriers that keep people from voting, including obstacles
Bailey Bustos, 44, who now lives in Saint Paul’s Highland Park neighborhood, was thrown head-first through a car windshield in a 1983 accident in Yakima, Wash. When she awoke in a hospital room 18 hours later, her memory
had vanished. And her ability to remember anything from then on virtually disappeared. “I’m lucky if I remember last week,” she said. “I would not remember anything that happened last year unless I read about it right beforehand.” Despite that obstacle, Bailey Bustos has survived and even thrived. She has won two national poetry awards. And she was recently selected Fall 2006 Outstanding Student in the Metropolitan State University College of Professional Studies. “It is a humongous honor,” said Bailey Bustos, a human services major with a dual focus in chemical dependency counseling and corrections. “My daughter was in tears telling me how proud she was of me.”
Pauline Danforth, a Metropolitan State academic advisor, commends Bailey Bustos for confronting challenges and serving as a role model for other disabled, low-income and first-generation college students. Specifically, Danforth praised her thirst for knowledge and organizational and leadership skills. As evidence of that, Bailey Bustos recently spearheaded the launch of a new Metropolitan State student group. That organization aims to help students with resource referrals and through peer mentoring and tutoring. She has had to make several accommodations for her disability. She regularly jots Award - cont. on p. 15
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January 10, 2007
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Tim Benjamin, Editor
he 2007 legislative session has started, and we have many new senators and representatives who need to become aware of disability issues. The Minnesota Consortium for People with Disabilities has issued its position papers, and with the help of many of the member organizations, we have synthesized them into a publishable agenda. Check out your organizations’ priorities. We need to plan to make an appearance at the Capitol and voice our own concerns. The new legislators, as well as the longtime incumbents, need to be reminded of what is important to your quality of life. Call the organization that you’re most involved with and ask them if there’s anything you can do to help them at the Capitol or in their offices. Most of the advocacy organizations rely heavily on volunteerism, so do your part.
The new Secretary of State, Mark Ritchie, has pledged to continue to educate election officials on the rights of voters with disabilities and to make every polling site in the state of Minnesota accessible. You can remind your legislators that you, your friends and families put them in office because of their commitment to you, and that you will be voting again soon to keep them in office if they listen and act on your behalf. We have an article this month concerning guide dogs and the refusal of some Twin Cities airport taxi drivers to accommodate the service animals and their handlers. The issue seems to be that some religions have specific considerations about how believers have contact with dogs. (If you know more about these religious beliefs, please consider writing a short letter to the editor to explain.) Unfortunately for these driv-
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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 .............. Brigid Alseth, JoAnn Cardenas Enos, Mike Chevrette, Kelly Matter, Anita Schermer, Tom Squire & Kay Willshire Editor ......................................................................................................... Tim Benjamin Assistant Editor .............................................................................................. Bret Hesla Cartoonist ..................................................................................................... Scott Adams Production ...................................................... Ellen Houghton at Presentation Images Sales/Marketing ...................................................................................... Lance Hegland 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. Editorial material does not necessarily reflect the view of the editor/publisher of Access Press. 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
ers, we have civil rights laws that do not violate their religious convictions; they are required to give the dog and the handler the same consideration as someone without a dog. As the story’s author says, these dogs are extremely welltrained and create no threat of physical contact unless initiated by the taxi driver. Some of these taxi drivers are also refusing to transport any kind of alcoholic beverage. Again, this is a civil rights issue, and a taxi driver is required to render service. You’ll see in the story what is being done by the airport commission. Right now, I’m not sure that we need to do more than educate ourselves on what our civil rights are, even while we respect others’ beliefs. It might be worth thinking as well about whether an individual who is unable to fulfill their job requirements because of their
beliefs should find a differ- ism.” Today, citizen journalism is the cutting edge in ent occupation. journalism. You’ve probably The Year in Review recaps seen it in larger newspapers’ some of our more interesting opinion pages and of course articles from 2006. (Can you in blogs and online at believe it’s over? As always, YouTube.com. Access Press it’s going to take me a while to has been using citizen jourremember to write 2007.) nalists for 16 years. Do you Many of the articles in the suppose Charlie Smith, the review point out accomplish- founder of Access Press, rements; some explain threats or alized that what he was startdangers for people with dis- ing would soon be considabilities; and still others high- ered one of the successful light outstanding leaders in our ways to keep a community community. The one thing that newspaper fresh and full of most astounds me is that the news that a community throughout the year, members wants to read? of our own community have written to inform one another So let me close with thanks for all the support through of important issues. the past year, and a reminder I mentioned last month that to all of you citizen journalwe’ve got to be thinking about ists: No matter what the news new approaches to meeting the or issues, you are always welchallenges of the “new media” come to submit an article or environment. One of the new just call or write us with an approaches that a lot of main- article idea. We value your stream newspapers are con- input and so do your fellow sidering is “citizen journal- readers. ■
Letters To The Editor ... Discrimination, These are also victims of dis- Remembering With Dignity Like Lost Cemeteries, crimination, apparently not has been working for twelve Is Also Common. deserving of societal respect years to hold the state of Mineven in death. If the abandonment of cemeteries is common, then it only means a I think the reader who stated it greater number of people have is “exaggerating when you been discriminated against. view [the loss of a state cemetery] as a slight to the dis- Here in Minnesota, it was state abled,” actually does a great policy to bury people with disjob of making our case [“Lost abilities in numbered graves Cemeteries Are Common,” in cemeteries out of the public Access Press, December 10, view. And it is this institu2006]. To show how routine it tional practice of disrespect is, she cites examples of lost and neglect that has led to the cemeteries of African-Ameri- loss of the Rosemont Cemcans and Native Americans. etery in Rochester. Dear Editor,
nesota accountable for the lack of maintenance and public access to state hospital cemeteries. We are asking the state to publicly apologize, acknowledge and take responsibility for naming the thousands of state hospital residents buried in numbered and unmarked graves. We hope that more people will join us in this effort. Sincerely, Jim Fassett-Carman
Historical Figures Samuel Gridley Howe Note: Each month of 2007, Access Press will feature an important person in disability history: local, regional or national.
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r. Samuel Gridley Howe (1801-1876) was involved in many social causes in 19th century America. He was concerned about the conditions of persons with mental illness, persons with hearing and visual impairments, slaves, and groups of people who were politically oppressed throughout Europe. In 1848, Dr. Howe, director of the Perkins School for the Blind, established The Massachusetts School for Idiotic and Feeble-Minded Youth, an experimental boarding school in South Boston for youth with intellectual deficiencies. Howe firmly believed in the importance of family and community, and wanted his school to prepare children
with disabilities to live with mine human the rest of society. characteristics and functions – offered the At this time, most social re- only hope of understanding formers in America believed disabilities. ■ “idiots” could not be taught. Many believed that phrenol- [Excerpted with permission ogy – the practice of studying from Parallels in Time, the shape of the skull to deter- www.mncdd.org]
January 10, 2007
Warmth On Wheels A Memorial To Cheryl Rossi by Clarence Schadegg
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innesota has suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Cheryl Rossi. Years ago, Rabbi Harold Kurshner wrote about why bad things happen to good people; a bad thing happened to two good people the evening last month when Cheryl was accidentally struck and killed by a vehicle as she was rolling down the side of a road in her wheelchair. The driver never saw her. Cheryl’s grace and spirit touched many of us over the years since senseless tragedy struck her the first time. Twenty-five years ago, Cheryl was found in an abandoned field, the victim of a gun shot wound to her head. Cheryl somehow survived that ordeal, which involved a three-day exposure to near zero temperatures from where she lay on that cold snow-covered ground. She also dealt with the resulting amputation of her legs and one arm. I met Cheryl at that time when she came to us at Sister Kenny Institute for rehabilitation services and for instruction with independent living skills for
people with disabilities. Since then, I’ve seen Cheryl a few times at public events or on the bus. I wish now we had gone out for coffee, too. When I first heard Cheryl was killed, I called my high school friend John, who worked for Minneapolis Housing Patrol and rescued her from the snow back in 1981. He had already heard about Cheryl’s death. We shared memories of our relationships with Cheryl and
“Cheryl helped children to discover life’s possibilities, an invaluable sense of self-worth, and a more positive view of the future.”
dous spirit that was passed to us through those Old Testament words.
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Never Took “NO” For An Answer Robert G. Sampson, Disability Activist, Dies at Age 81 by Jackie Rough
Cheryl also deeply touched Mary Schoelch, the coordinator of volunteers at Catholic Charities St. Joseph’s Home for Children, who said, “Cheryl helped children to discover life’s possibilities, an invaluable sense of self-worth, and a more positive view of the future. Her wisdom and warmth on wheels and will be dearly missed by all of us at St. Joe’s.” Schoelch further expressed Cheryl’s gift, saying she “was a proactive advocate as well as a beacon of hope and help for children and youth who have been abused, neglected and abandoned. She logged thousands of hours assisting St. Joe’s to serve children most in need by coaching, counseling, teaching, mentoring and providing superior leadership for kids, staff, volunteers and the community at large.”
how we each drew from her incredible strength. The lump in my throat was followed by a chill that ran down my spine when John recited Psalm 121 the way he remembered Cheryl had done as she laid in a near frozen condition those many years ago. John recalled how Thanks, Cheryl, for the light Cheryl had recited the psalm you helped us to find inside of in a calm and steady voice. He ourselves. ■ said he memorized the passage in part due to her tremen-
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orn with muscular dystrophy in 1925, Rob ert Sampson was raised in Chicago shortly before the Depression. In the financial chaos of the times, his parents lost their home and struggled to make ends meet. It took them four years to save enough to buy a wheelchair for
“…long before there was a law to protect his rights, the school told him he “couldn’t be an attorney in a wheelchair,” and revoked his scholarship.”
Sampson, who graduated at the erties for United’s Central Ditop of his high school class. vision and, in 1975, was named to the additional post of speHoping to be a lawyer, Samp- cial assistant to the chairman. son’s strong academics earned him a scholarship. But long During his career at United, before there was a law to pro- Sampson was always at the tect his rights, the school told forefront in pushing to hire the him he “couldn’t be an attor- disabled and helped the airline ney in a wheelchair,” and re- come up with ways to better voked his scholarship. Deter- serve the disabled passenger. mined to not let his disability One project he started took stop him, Sampson put him- inner city children and disself through Loyola University and DePaul Law School. “[Sampson] believed He worked nights as a hotel that if he hadn’t been clerk and switchboard opera- given a chance to do a tor for 40 cents an hour.
young Sampson. Because of his health problems, Sampson started school several years late, but his teachers at the Jesse Spaulding School for the Handicapped had a strong influence on him. They encouraged him and challenged him to succeed. “I was taught to fight back and never to accept ‘no’ for an answer,” said
After law school he worked eight years for the city of Chicago’s law department. William A. Patterson, founder and chairman of United Airlines, had heard of Sampson’s achievements and personally offered him the opportunity to join United’s law department. He moved up to become vice president of facilities and prop-
Accessible Space, Inc. ASI
job as good as or better than the “so-called ablebodied person,” he’d have spent most of his life in a nursing home.”
abled youngsters on an hour’s ride in a Boeing 727 to see the sights of Chicago from above. Each Wednesday during the summer, about 100 boys and Sampson - cont. on p. 15
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January 10, 2007
Commentary
It Makes No Economic Sense Cab Drivers Refuse Rides to Blind Dog-Guide Users by Clarence Schadegg
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og guide users have been denied cab rides with increased frequency over the past several months at our Twin Cities International Airport. I’ve experienced it myself. A year and a half ago, my wife and I—and my dog guide—were returning from Biloxi, Mississippi. The cabs were lined up at the airport, yet it took us three tries to finally find a driver who’d take us home. In another incident, to and from the home of my wife’s father, our ride was rejected by each driver, and we had to encourage both drivers to get back into the cab and take us to where we wanted to go. In each of these incidents, I merely wanted to get to my destination, without having to educate a cab driver about how illegal it is to deny me that ride because I use a service animal.
that driver paying a fine or temporarily losing their license. I do not want a driver to be denied the ability to work; I just want a ride—which is my legal right. Interestingly, the cab drivers seemed to have no trouble serving us after I made them aware of the penalties In both situations, I explained involved in not doing so. that these dogs are well trained Service animals undergo a sig“Interestingly, the cab nificant amount of training. Dog drivers seemed to have guides are trained to sit quietly on the floor, at our feet, as we no trouble serving us af- take our seats in taxi cabs or on ter I made them aware buses. The dogs are well of the penalties involved groomed to reduce the chance for their fur to cling to the upin not doing so.” holstery of the car. The dogs and they will not touch the have a single-minded focus; to driver. But this line of negotia- guide us from place to place. tion was not received as suc- Dog guides do not pose any cessfully as when I threatened problem for taxi cab drivers. them with legal action or that I’d complain to the manage- Most cab drivers don’t deny ment of their cab company, rides to those of us who use either of which may result in these well-trained animals, so What am I missing? Illegality aside, I cannot figure out why somebody would prefer to make a bad business choice— to not make money—only because of fear and prejudice against those of us who use a dog guide.
you may well wonder what’s the problem. Perhaps it’s the unpredictability that is the most difficult for me. Unlike most people, I cannot assume I’ll
“Unlike most people, I cannot assume I’ll have a ride when I flag down a taxi cab.” have a ride when I flag down a taxi cab. It is rather baffling to me why some taxi cab drivers choose, in the face of severe penalties, to make life difficult for those of us who use a service animal. In my experience, however, these are the people who don’t understand the laws and penalties. And once they do, well, we’re on our way. ■ Notify Rebecca Kragnes, at MN Guide Dog Users, if you have been denied a ride by a taxi rebeccak@tcq.net. ■
Home Access Answers
Tax Deductions For Home Modifications by Jane Hampton
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Dear Jane, My daughter was injured over the summer in a car accident and now uses a wheelchair for mobility. This past fall, we had to make many structural changes to our home to accommodate the wheelchair. The cost of modifications exceeded $75,000. Based on our income, we are not eligible for any grants or special funding programs. Are there any tax incentives we can benefit from to recoup some of the cost? George, Duluth, MN Dear George, Your question comes at a very appropriate time as we say good-bye to 2006 and begin the yearly grind of taxes! Both the federal government and the state of Minnesota offer tax incentives for individuals making accessibility modifications to their home. Federal Income Tax: Medical & Dental Expenses Costs incurred to implement accessibility modifications in your home are an eligible deduction on your federal income tax under “Medical and Dental Expenses.” You can deduct only the amount of medical and dental expenses that is more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. You can include in medical expenses amounts you pay for special equipment installed in
a home, or for improvements, kitchen cabinets and equipif their main purpose is mediment. cal care for you, your spouse, • Moving or modifying elecor a dependent. The cost of trical outlets and fixtures. • Installing porch lifts and other forms of lifts (but el“Take the cost of the improvement and reduce it evators generally add value to the house). by the increase in the • Modifying fire alarms, value of your property . . . smoke detectors and other the difference is a medi- warning systems. • Modifying stairways. cal expense.” • Adding handrails or grab permanent improvements that bars anywhere (whether or increase the value of your propnot in bathrooms). erty (such as an elevator) may • Modifying hardware on be partly included as a medidoors. cal expense. Take the cost of • Modifying areas in front of the improvement and reduce it entrance and exit doorways. by the increase in the value of • Grading the ground to proyour property…the difference vide access to the residence. is a medical expense. Only reasonable costs to make In many cases, improvements a home accessible (accommothat make your home dating a family member’s disaccesssible (accommodating a ability) are considered medidisability) will not increase the cal expenses. Additional costs value of the home; these costs for personal motives, such as can be included in full as medi- for architectural or aesthetic cal expenses. Such improve- reasons, are not eligible mediments include, but are not lim- cal expenses. ited to, the following items: • Constructing entrance or Amounts you pay for operaexit ramps for your home. tion and upkeep of a capital • Widening doorways at en- asset qualify as medical extrances or exits to your penses, as long as the main home. reason for them is medical care. • Widening or otherwise This rule applies even if none modifying hallways and in- or only part of the original cost terior doorways. of the capital asset qualified as • Installing railings, support a medical care expense. bars, or other modifications to bathrooms. Improvements to property • Lowering or modifying rented by a person with a dis-
ability are also an eligible medical expense. Amounts paid by the renter to buy and install special plumbing fixtures for a person with a disability, mainly for medical reasons, in a rented house are medical expenses. Example: John has arthritis and a heart condition. He cannot climb stairs or get into a bathtub. On his doctor’s advice, he installs a bathroom with a shower stall on the first floor of his two-
“Improvements to property rented by a person with a disability are also an eligible medical expense.” story rented house. The landlord did not pay any of the cost of buying and installing the special plumbing and did not lower the rent. On his taxes, John can include in medical expenses the entire amount he paid. Call the IRS with your federal tax questions at 1-800-8291040; TTY, 1-800-829-4059, or visit www.irs.gov. To order federal tax forms, instructions, and publications, call the IRS at 1-800-829-3676; TTY, 1800-829-4059 or visit www. irs.gov/formspubs. MN Sales Tax: Special Purchase Refund Claim In the state of Minnesota, if Deductions - cont. on p. 15
January 10, 2007
FAQ@DLL
On Mental Illness
How Do I Find Telework?
Remembering Brad
by the Disability Linkage Line Staff
by Pete Feigal
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ver the last few months Disability Linkage Line (DLL) has seen an increase in callers who are curious about how to find work from home (telework). They are coming across telework ads on the Internet and are not sure if they are legitimate. Although there are reputable on-line sources to help people explore telework, there are a lot of scams out there as well. How do I know if a telework job is a scam? Follow the old adage – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Remember that you are applying for a real job. You should expect to see all the things you would normally find in a job listing, expect to go through a similar application process, and expect comparable pay. If the ad says you only have to sign up to get the job, or promises “easy money,” it is probably a scam. Other
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Telework is probably not for everyone; it involves working alone and independently for long periods of time.
visit your local workforce center to see how they can support you in your search. Most likely, they can help you identify legitimate businesses that offer telework. The Minnesota Resource Center, 612-752-8100, recently launched Project STRIDE to assist veterans with injuries and disabilities in accessing telework opportunities. There are also valid on“If the ad says you only line resources like job boards have to sign up to get the or specialized Web sites that focus on work-at-home jobs job, or promises “easy or freelance opportunities. One money,” it is probably a example of a site that is a resource for someone thinking scam.” about telework is www. signs of a scam are if the job jobstelecommuting.com. asks for money, was an unsolicited e-mail, asks you to ship How do I explore telework packages, or requires you to with my current employer? cash checks. Before pursuing Most telework opportunities any on-line job, research the start out as a traditional on-site business. Try doing a web job and evolve into a tele-comsearch linking the company muting arrangement. Talk to name with words like “prob- your human resource rep to lems,” “complaints” or find out if your employer al“fraud.” You will then get a ready has a telework program list of Web sites (many might in place. If you think you have be blogs) that will lay out sce- the personal traits necessary narios of problems. You can and a job that would work for also read about common scams telecommuting, you may want and tips on avoiding them at to develop a well-thought-out the Better Business Bureau’s plan and propose the arrangeWeb site, www.bbb.org/alerts/ ment to your boss. In the plan, focus on the benefits to your article.asp?ID=436. employer and how you will Where do I find telework? meet your job responsibilities. Most legitimate telework opportunities take some time to find or develop. Telework is still a relatively new employment frontier that not all employers have embraced, so people need to be persistent
“Most telework opportunities start out as a traditional on-site job and evolve into a telecommuting arrangement.” when looking for or attempting to create a telework job. Some of the most common industries to support telework are customer service call centers, information technology, and health care transcription. Personal and professional networking is one of the best ways to find any job. You can also
If the reason you want to work from home is because of your disability, identify the arrangement as an accommodation. How do you know if telework is right for you? Telework is not for everybody. The following questions can help you decide if telework is right for you:
was in a day-treatment program with this guy about 15 years ago. He was about ten years younger than I was, from the Cities, and had been attending college at UCLA. He was a brilliant kid, attractive, personable, very shy and self-conscious, but kind and respectful of the other group members. He had been cruising along in life until the day his TV and radio started talking to him. He didn’t know what was happening to him or who to go to for help and lived day and night in terror of these terrible voices. He got bad enough that he couldn’t take care of himself, and was picked up by the police in a psychotic state, locked up in jail, then sent to the hospital.
He went through the gamut of tests and was diagnosed with schizophrenia. He wouldn’t stay on his medications, had trouble with street drugs and went from program to pro• Do you have space in your gram. We met at a day treathome and a computer to use ment center and became for work? friends. The combination of • Can you work independently his natural shyness, his meds, without supervision? and his shame of being “crazy” • Can you work alone for periods of time without feeling isolated?
made Brad very quiet and withdrawn, but we both liked motorcycles and tennis, and after I left the program, we stayed in contact, getting together to play tennis or go to a movie. He loved cruising on the back of my Harley around the Lakes, simply “riding the breeze.” We learned that he was a wonderful musician when at a talent show the program put on, Brad got up, borrowed someone’s guitar and softly sang Neil Young’s ode to addiction, “The Needle and the Damage Done,” a memory that haunts me even now.
1988. He’d put on about 150 pounds and had a beard down to his chest, but he still had that spark when I told him about my new bike. Another old friend from the program told me she had heard that Brad had finally lost his battle with mental illness. He had tried going back to L.A., retracing his steps to where he had once been healthy and happy. He had been in dozens of programs without finding or accepting the help he needed and had been abandoned by his family and friends. He was homeless, hunted by his voices and alone. He had tried, but the systems and aid he needed simply weren’t there, or weren’t right for him. He walked to the top of a car ramp and jumped. And though he did it voluntarily, I can’t help but feel sometimes when I’m down that in some ways, he was pushed. ■
He had trouble staying on his anti-psychotics and told me once that by taking the meds, he was “giving in” to his illness, and that if he could just “get everything going in the right direction, and get on the right path,” that he’d come “out of it” and be just like he was before, back at college. I tried for a while to keep tabs on him, but life and time sepa- Pete Feigal send this article rated us. “In memory of Brad and Lisa, angels too soon.” Reprinted I saw him one more time in the from Access Press, 1999. waiting room at HCMC, about
If you answered “Yes” to these questions, then telework may be an option you want to explore. ■ If you have additional questions about telework, please call the Disability Linkage Line at 1-866-333-2466. The DLL provides free, disabilityrelated information and assistance for Minnesotans. DLL does not endorse any particular Web site or provider. They assume no responsibility for transactions between the readers of this article and listed organizations.
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1.866.333.2466 Minnesota’s connection to disability-related information and assistance Housing Personal care assistance Transportation Employment Disability benefits Assistive technology and much more! Call today for a free info kit.
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January 10, 2007
News At A Glance . . . New CMS Restraint Rules Put People with Mental Illnesses at Risk The following is a statement by Robert Bernstein, Ph.D., Executive Director of Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law. We are deeply concerned about the rules governing use of restraint and seclusion in hospital settings recently released by the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare (CMS). These “final” regulations greatly weaken the protections for people with mental illnesses in earlier versions, developed with input from professionals, advocates and hospital administrators. Most notable among the standards diluted in the new rules is the “one-hour” requirement, which calls for a face-to-face patient evaluation by a physician or independent licensed practitioner within one hour of restraint and seclusion use. This rule was considered the hallmark of patient protections, ensuring physical and psychological safety.
AAMR Becomes AAIDD Effective January 1, 2007, the American Association on Mental Retardation (AAMR) officially became the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD). The name change was approved by AAMR members this last year; AAIDD is currently working to develop a new look for the organization that matches the new name. With this change, AAIDD joins other similar organizations who have made the decision to move away from the term “mental retardation” (MR) in the organization name, and to replace it with the term “Intellectual Disability” (ID). One thing that has not changed is the organization’s mission statement, which has used the term intellectual disability for several years now. Other associations that have made this change include the former President’s Committee on Mental Retardation, now the Presidents Committee on Intellectual Disability, and the International Association for the scientific Study of Intellectual Disability (IASSID). [Source: AAIDD]
The “one-hour” rule was itself a compromise. The very use of California Ruling Confirms Minnesota Can restraint and seclusion is a “Code Blue” situation that should Protect Medical Marijuana Patients provoke immediate face-to-face evaluation by a physician. The lack of such a critical response has led to the injury and death Last month’s ruling rejecting a challenge to California’s medical marijuana law removes all doubt that Minnesota has the of thousands of institutionalized children and adults. right to pass similar legislation, according to Rep. Tom Huntley At a time when mental health advocates have been working with (DFL-Duluth). Huntley has been the lead sponsor of legislation the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administra- in the Minnesota House of Representatives that would allow tion toward further reducing the use of restraint and seclusion, we Minnesota patients suffering from terminal and chronic illsee these new CMS rules as a marked departure from the reforms nesses to use marijuana if their physician has certified that the taking place nationwide. Changes to this rule will detrimentally patient would benefit. alter the progress made over recent years in reducing physical “This ruling removes any doubt that our state can act to protect harm to people who need emergency psychiatric care. medical marijuana patients from arrest under state law, regardThese new standards add convenience and subtract account- less of federal policy, and there is no reason not to pass this bill ability. Coupled with the severe reduction in monitoring and promptly,” Huntley said. Rep. Huntley will be chairman of the assessment, they dramatically heighten the risk of injury to Health and Human Services Finance Committee in the 2007 Legislature. A Ph.D. biochemist, Rep. Huntley has helped train people with mental illnesses. [Source: www.bazelon.org] a generation of Minnesota physicians as a member of the medical school faculty at the University of Minnesota - Duluth.
In the California case, San Diego County sought to overturn the state’s medical marijuana law and a program under which counties were required to issue ID cards identifying legally qualified medical marijuana patients, claiming that federal law bars the state from enacting such a program. Superior Court Judge William R. Nevitt Jr. flatly rejected the argument, writing, “Requiring the counties to issue identification cards for the purpose of identifying those whom California chooses not to arrest and prosecute for certain activities involving marijuana use does not create a ‘positive conflict’” with federal law. Nevitt had already issued a tentative ruling in November rejecting the county’s argument. [Source: www. MarijuanaPolicy.org.]
Minneapolis Launches New Web Site The City of Minneapolis’ new Web site went live last month. The site not only makes it easier for Web visitors to get information, but the new site also better reflects the beauty, creativity, and energy of Minneapolis with vibrant photographs and an enhanced design. New features on the Web site include: • Improved accessibility for visually-impaired visitors, and those who cannot use a traditional computer mouse. The new Web site is accessible to people who use a screen-reader program like JAWS. • Content organized from the user’s perspective, not based on city departments and divisions. In other words, you will be able to find service and information listings even if you don’t know the department where the information is housed. • Dynamic menus that allow users to easily drill down into content categories. • Prominently placed information in Spanish, Somali and Hmong. • Dynamic photographs that promote the beauty and vibrancy of Minneapolis, and that reflect changes in season and subject matter. The new site is now up and running at www.ci.minneapolis. mn.us, but because the City’s Web site contains more than 15,000 individual pages, it will take several months for the transition to be completed. [Source: City of Minneapolis] ■
Introducing
REHABILITATION MEDICINE ASSOCIATES AT COURAGE CENTER Jackie Kawiecki, MD • Patricia Stewart, DO • Bonnie Warhol, MD A team of experienced physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians trained to treat people with: • Spinal cord injury • Acquired brain injury • Stroke • Congenital disabilities • Health concerns that are barriers to health and independence Patient services include: • Patient evaluations and management of rehab issues • Neuro and musculoskeletal rehabilitation • Comprehensive spasticity evaluation and management including: therapy, oral medication, splinting, injections with Botox and Phenol, and intrathecal Baclofen pump management refills Rehabilitation Medicine Associates is conveniently located at Courage Center in Golden Valley. We are seeing patients now.
Rehabilitation Medicine Associates 3915 Golden Valley Road, Minneapolis, MN 55422
To make an appointment, call 763.520.0453 courage.org
Jackie Kawiecki, MD, Bonnie Warhol, MD, Patricia Stewart, DO
January 10, 2007
GetSet! Parent Training Jan. 16 – Feb 6 Arc Greater Twin Cities and South Washington County School-Age Family Education (SAFE) are joining forces to offer training to parents of school-age children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The four-part series—GetSet! Training for Special Education Success— will be held at Woodbury United Methodist Church, 7465 Steepleview Road, Woodbury. The GetSet! schedule is January 16 (Evaluation Process), January 23 (IEP development), January 30 (IEP implementation) and February 6 (Review). Free for Arc members, $20 per session for nonmembers. ($50 for the series. Scholarships available.) FFI: 952-920-0855. Red-Lining Forum Jan. 23 Red-lining is a subjective process of denial and exclusion. All community members and Mpls residents that have been or may feel they have been denied fair and equal treatment in housing, by the police or city services should attend this forum. Presenters include Mpls Dept of Civil Rights, the Mpls Civilian Police Review Authority and the Mpls Com-
Upcoming Events
open bike. Each participant is encouraged to raise money for workshop from Arc Greater the miles pedaled. Twin Cities. Guest Jim Czechowicz, a public affairs People of all abilities are welspecialist with the SSA, will come. There will be a track for explain disability programs adaptive bikes and wheelsuch as SSI, SSDI, and RSDI. chairs. FFI, registration: 651Location: Apple Valley Com- 646-7588, ucpmn@cpinter munity Center, 14603 Hayes net.com. Road. 2 – 4 p.m. Free for Arc Mental Illness Support members; $20 for nonmemGroup for Mpls Families bers. Registration deadline: First and Third Fridays January 15. FFI: 952-920The National Alliance on Men0855, www.arcgreatertwin tal Illness of Minnesota cities.org. (NAMI-MN) sponsors free support groups for families The Great Minnesota who have a relative with a Stationary Bike Race mental illness. NAMI-MN’s March 10 It might not seem that a bunch mission is to champion jusof people on stationary bikes tice, dignity, and respect for could get very far, but actu- all Minnesotans affected by ally, those people seemingly mental illness (brain disorriding nowhere have an im- ders). portant destination. Last year, the participants of The Great Led by trained facilitators who Minnesota Stationary Bike also have a family member Race rode “nowhere” to raise with mental illness, the supmore than $30,000 for United port groups help families deCerebral Palsy of Minnesota. velop better coping skills and find strength through sharing This year’s goal is $50,000. their experiences. A family The 2007 event will take place support group meets in Min9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the St. Paul neapolis, at 6:30 p.m., on the RiverCentre. Teams and indi- first and third Fridays of the viduals are invited to partici- month. FFI: Laurie at 952pate. Teams of 10 people ride 894-9109. ■ in 25 minute shifts throughout the day. Individuals can join an existing team or ride an
To list an event, e-mail access@accesspress.org mission on Civil Rights. 6:308:30 p.m., Farview Park Community Room, 29 th and Lyndale Ave. N. Mpls. FFI or for accommodation: 612-6732339 before Jan 16th. ASL Classes Jan 22, Feb 5 A basic American Sign Language (ASL) class will meet in MCIL’s small conference room every other Mon. at 1600 University Ave W, Suite #16 from 2-3 p.m. FFI: 651-646-8342. GLBT Support Group Feb 6th Gay,Lesbian,BisexualandTransgender (GLBT) w/disability support group will meet on every first Tue. of the month at 1919 University Ave W. in the basement level confr room from 67:30 p.m. FFI: 651-646-8342. “Learn the Bus” Transit Training Feb. 2 This free all-day travel training for MCIL consumers will begin and end at MCIL’s main office: 1600 University Ave West, Suite 16. (9:00 a.m.– 3:30 p.m.) Topics include safety, awareness of surroundings, bus schedules and paying bus fares. Participants who have never taken the bus will
learn how to ride, how to signal stops, how to use the lift, where to pay, etc. The group will also discuss the advantages of using fixed-route vs. Metro Mobility. FFI, RSVP and what to bring: 651-646-8342. Adapted Swim Lessons Feb 22 – March 29 Swim lessons provide an opportunity for children & adults with developmental disabilities to develop basic swim skills and refine the skills they already possess. Lessons are taught on a one-to-one basis with volunteer instructors under the direction of an Adapted Aquatics Instructor. Thursdays, Arlington HS, 6:45 – 7:30 p.m., $25. FFI: Mary at 651-266-6366. Adapted Open Swim Jan 9 – Feb 27 Designed for persons whose primary disability is a physical/ ambulatory disability. Open swimming offers a therapeutic pool (water temperature of 90 degrees or higher) with a maximum depth of five feet and a ramped entrance. Life jackets, inner tubes and various water games are also available. Tue.s, Como Elem. School, 7 - 7:45 p.m., $24. FFI: Mary at 651266-6366.
Pickin’ ‘N’ Grinnin’ Jan. 8 & 22, Feb. 12 & 26 Music program designed to let individuals participate in as many ways as possible. We sing requests and old favorites, have rhythm instruments and encourage participants to dance the “Hokey Pokey”, or other dances they might like. Year-round, 2nd and 4th Mondays, Webster Magnet School, 7 - 8 p.m. $1.00 per person. FFI: Mary at 651-266-6366. Scent-Free Spaces Jan 25 Learn about Scent-Free Spaces, who needs Scent-Free space, and how can you be Scent-Free on a SSI budget while avoiding all fragrances, scented soaps/ shampoos/lotions, essential oils, “natural” fragrances, scented dryer sheets, and other scented products. This workshop, 6-7 p.m., will be ScentSafer space at 1919 University Ave W. in the basement level conference. FFI: Jay at 651603-2036 to RSVP. Understanding Social Security Jan 18 Social Security is a crucial government benefit program that is often confusing and hard to navigate. Get help at this
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.
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550 County Road D New Brighton, MN 55112 www.gillettechildrens.org
January 10, 2007
8
Transportation, Health Care Top CCD’s 2007 Agenda by MN-CCD Staff
A
s the 2007 legislative session begins, the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) is set to propose a number of bills addressing key issues apparent in the lives of Minnesotans with disabilities.
Changes are needed. MNCCD heard this over and over at last summer’s town hall forums. We also heard it at the polls in November. We heard that prescription drug costs have skyrocketed under Medicare Part D. We heard that seven counties in Minnesota
do not offer accessible transportation and, since recent decreases in operating hours, it is difficult for people with disabilities to attend jobs or evening events. We heard that people with disabilities struggle to live off a meager income that is below the fed-
Minnesota Consortium for Citizens With Disabilities January Town Hall Forums Brooklyn Center Wednesday, January 17th 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Brookdale Library 6125 Shingle Creek Pkwy Host: The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living Contact: Mike Chevrette, mikec@mcil-mn.org 651-603-2005 Eden Prairie Thursday, January 18th 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Eden Prairie City Council Chambers 8080 Mitchell Road Host: Arc Greater Twin Cities Contact: Gene Martinez, gene martinez@arcgreatertwin cities.org 952-920-0855
St. Paul Tuesday, January 23rd 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Bethesda Hospital 7th Floor Conference Room 559 Capitol Blvd. Host: The Bethesda Brain Injury Support Group, Advocating Change Together & the Brain Injury Assoc of MN Contact: Jeff Nachbar, jeffn@braininjurymn.org 612-238-3233
Golden Valley Thursday, January 25th 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Courage Center 3915 Golden Valley Road Host: The Courage Center Contact: Christian Knights, christian.knights@courage. org 763-520-0725
Minneapolis Monday, January 29th 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Sabathani Community Center White Bear Lake 310 E 38th Street th Wednesday, January 24 Host: Southside Community 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Health Services & the Brain Dellwood Hills Golf Club Injury Association of MN 29 Highway 96 East Contact: Jeff Nachbar, Host: The Multiple Sclerosis jeffn@braininjurymn.org Society, Minnesota Chapter 612-238-3233 Contact: Jessica Herrgott, jherrgott@mssociety.org 612-335-7966
eral poverty guideline in order • Medicare—Seek state assisto qualify for Medical Assistance for people enrolled in tance Medicare Part D who pay large out-of-pocket preMN-CCD is geared to act as a scription drug costs. unified voice and use its resources to make changes pos- • Medical Assistance—Insible. A broad-based coalition crease the income and asset of 100 organizations of perlimits for Minnesotans ensons with disabilities, providrolled in Medical Assisers and advocates, MN-CCD tance. is dedicated to addressing public policy issues that affect • Employment—Ensure adpeople with disabilities. equate funding for vocational rehabilitation services In order to strategize and corfor people with disabilities rectly identify the key issues who may need to change to propose in the 2007 legislacareers. tive session, the MN-CCD developed a number of com- • Family Caregivers—Demittees. Each committee prevelop training and support sented position papers coverprograms for family ing its major topic area. From caregivers and create a famthese position papers, the coaily caregiver tax credit for lition collaborated on which families who provide a large proposals to push to the agenda portion of the care needs for for the 2007 session. Five key people with disabilities. proposals emerged for the 2007 Legislative Session: The first two issues the MNCCD will push in 2007 are • Transportation—Develop a transportation and Medicare transit plan to ensure ser- Part D. vices for people with disabilities for at least 14 hours Transportation per day in all 87 counties by Transit opportunities are very 2010. limited for many people in greater Minnesota. Seven
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Public transit service in many communities ends by 5:00 p.m., preventing people with disabilities from attending evening functions or jobs. counties lack any type of public transit system accessible for people with disabilities. Other counties have service but the hours of operation are limited. For example, service ends in many communities by 5:00 p.m., preventing people with disabilities from attending evening functions or jobs. In the Twin Cities, service hours are based on the geographic proximity to Minneapolis and St. Paul. In these core cities, Metro Mobility is available 24 hours a day. Generally, service hours become more limited the farther away CCD Agenda - cont. on p. 9
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CCD AGENDA -
Cont. from p. 8
people live from the Twin Cities. A new 2006 Minnesota law locks in the current Metro Mobility service area but does not establish a state guide for minimum hours of service.
the Medicare and Medical Assistance programs (“dualeligibles�), the $12/month cap on co-pays cap was eliminated Jan. 1, 2006. The MN-CCD has heard a number of stories of people having to pay $40 to Medicare Part D $50 in drug co-pays while atSince the program began in tempting to live on approxiJanuary 2006, a common com- mately $600 per month. plaint has been the high cost of prescription drugs for people Another challenge is out-ofenrolled in the plan. The com- pocket prescription drug costs for Medicare enrollees with “We heard that people MS who don’t qualify for the low-income subsidy. The MNwith disabilities struggle CCD has heard from many
to live off a meager income that is below the federal poverty guideline in order to qualify for Medical Assistance.�
plaints are related to two aspects of the Medicare Part D plan: problems for those who are dual-eligible and problems for people not qualifying for low-income subsidy.
were left with less money at the end of the year than people who did qualify for the subsidy, simply because the high
“Seven counties lack any type of public transit system accessible for people with disabilities.â€? out-of-pocket costs. For example, if someone in this group is prescribed a disease-modifying prescription drug, they could pay more than $4,000 per year if they are enrolled in Medicare. â–
“If someone in this group is prescribed a disease-modifying prescription drug, they could pay more than $4,000 per year if they are enrolled in Medicare.�
To learn more about Medicaid/MA issue, attend any of the MN-CCD Town Hall Forums in January (see box below). Individuals and families will be able to tell their personal stories, and both legislators and the community will be able to discuss challenges and solutions for the future of Medicaid and other issues affecting the disability community. FFI: Jessica Herrgott, 612-335-7966, jherrgott @mssociety.org.
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January 10, 2007
2006: Year In Review Excerpts from Access Press Articles from 2006 JANUARY Federal Cuts to Medicaid Benefits
MARCH Screen Reader Advocates Zero In
MAY New Hurdles for PCA Approval
On December 21, 2005, the United States Senate passed an agreement with the United States House of Representatives in relation to the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005. The Act could have significant negative implications for individuals with a disability. The agreement succeeded by a very slim margin: 50 Senators voting “Yes,” 50 voting “No,” and the Vice President casting the deciding “Yes” vote.
In February a grassroots group of blind people filed a class action lawsuit against the Target Corporation. The lawsuit is about alleged problems blind people have with a Web site that is not totally compatible with screen reading programs.
In an effort to make the state and federally funded Personal Care Assistant (PCA) program more accountable, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has implemented a new registration process to track PCAs and home health aides who perform services in the community.
Most agree that the Deficit Reduction Act proposal contains several valuable items, including the Family Opportunity Act and the Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration. However, opponents assert that the benefits of the widely agreed upon portions do not outweigh the cuts to programs depended upon by families and individuals in need. Supporters of the budget agreement stress the immediate need to slow government spending in order to control our nation’s deficit. Nearly all opponents agree federal spending must be controlled, and they support reducing the deficit, but feel spending cuts should not cause harm, or abandon those in need. Furthermore, opponents cite their belief that tax cuts benefiting wealthy families, individuals and corporations will be proposed this spring. [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/01/story_federal_cuts.htm]
The NFB charges “that Target’s Web site, www.target.com, is inaccessible to the blind, violating the California Unruh Civil Rights Act and the California Disabled Persons Act.” (NFB Web site – Target Corporation Sued for Discrimination Against the Blind, February 7, 2006). But according to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Bob Ulrich, “Target has always been committed to respecting diversity. Our definition is broad, inclusive and focused on recognizing and appreciating the individuality of every team member, guest and community member. As one of our core values, our commitment to diversity is not something we simply talk about; it is something—we act on…”
As of April 30th, 2006, approximately 21,000 PCAs will have been assigned a new identification number. As a part of this process, DHS has found over 230 people unfit to be providing services. The reason individuals are denied a PCA identification number is either that they haven’t passed the criminal background check or they have outstanding debts to the government, such as unpaid student loans or back taxes. The Department of Human Services believes that as such people have been removed from the work pool, the integrity of the PCA service program is enhanced. [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/05/story_new_ hurdles_pca_approval.htm]
The NFB “sued Target Corp. in Alameda County Superior Court claiming that the giant retail chain discriminates because its Web site is inaccessible to blind customers… Target thus JUNE excludes the blind from full and equal participation in the Local Leader Receives Award growing Internet economy that is increasingly a fundamental part of daily life….” On May 11th, Barb Smith of the Minnesota Work Incentives [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/03/story_screen_ Connection received the Skip Kruse Memorial Return-toFEBRUARY reader_advocates.htm] The Death with Dignity Act Work Award for “tireless energy, compassion and vision, demonstrated in promoting the use of Social Security AdminFirst, a little background on the Oregon Death with Dignity Act istration (SSA) employment support programs for people with APRIL (ODDA) is in order. The ODDA enables terminally-ill individudisabilities.” Barb is only the second non-SSA staff member to Disability Community Protests als, defined in statute as individuals with a permanent and irreversreceive such an award. ible condition that is expected to result in death in six months or less, to request a lethal dose of medication for the purposes of On Thursday, March 23, 2006, members and allies of the Smith noted, “Skip Kruse possessed the qualities of a great ending his or her life in a “humane and dignified manner.” disability community gathered in front of the Ted Mann Con- advocate. To be put in the same category with him is a tremencert Hall to protest philosopher Peter Singer. It was the first dous honor. A driving motivation for me is the experience I have The statute contains safeguards to ensure that only qualified disability-related protest on campus in over ten years. had with people with disabilities in both my personal and individuals can receive lethal doses of medication. A second professional lives. I am inspired by the many people with physician must confirm the individual’s terminal diagnosis. If Although the focus of Singer’s lecture was on factory farming disabilities who have triumphed over significant barriers to either physician suspects that the individual is suffering from and vegetarianism, he has been challenged by people with employment. To accomplish what they have takes courage, depression or another psychiatric illness, the physician must disabilities for his controversial views advocating the right to persistence, optimism and likely a good sense of humor.” refer the individual to appropriate counseling. No physician euthanize babies with severe disabilities and in some cases can actually administer the lethal dose of medication. adults, grounding his work in an understanding of disability as The Kruse award is a well-deserved recognition of Smith’s negative and deserving of pity. We protesters did not intend to local, regional and national leadership on work incentives According to a 2004 annual report from the Oregon Dept of discourage people from listening to Singer’s lecture; rather, our issues. In 1993, Smith initiated the Minnesota Work Incentives Human Services, approximately 208 individuals have committed goal was to show attendees that they cannot glorify Singer’s Coalition, which sponsored training on a variety of Social physician-assisted suicide since the ODDA’s enactment in 1997. views on animal ethics, as many in attendance of his talk shows Security, Medical Assistance and other work incentive topics. clearly do, without recognizing that this support is for a scholar Smith was also the Coalition’s liaison to the Minnesota ConsorThe issue of physician-assisted suicide is fraught with ques- who is extremely discriminatory against people with disabili- tium for Citizens with Disabilities. She served on the tions that force us to explore our own beliefs on life and death. ties. With over fifty people present, persevering in the cold Consortium’s Work Incentives Committee, which promoted The disability community is a diverse one with a range of weather while holding signs with slogans such as “Your Atti- legislative changes leading to the creation of Minnesota’s opinions on the matter, despite the proclamations of some tude Is Our Only Handicap,” “Everyone Belongs,” and “Dis- Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities activists. My exploration of the implications of physician- abled Lives Have Value Too,” our message to Peter Singer was (MA-EPD) program. [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/ assisted suicide led to a reexamination of my views, but each clear: his presence in our community is not welcome. 06/story_local_ leader_award.htm] one of us must grapple with the subject according to the dictates [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/04/story_disability_ 2006 In Review - cont. on p. 11 of our own conscience. community_protests.htm] [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/02/story_death_with_ dignity.htm]
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Town Hall Forum on Personal Care Assistant (PCA) Services and Care Coordination vs. Case Management Monday, February 5th, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Available via videoconferencing and web streaming We want to hear from you about your experience with personal care assistant (PCA) services; please come and let your voice be heard and learn more about the differences between care coordination and case management. Register by contacting the Minnesota State Council on Disability; or, for more information, visit our Web site at www.disability.state.mn.us Reasonable accommodation requests should be made during registration.
council.disability@state.mn.us 121 East 7th Place, Suite 107, St. Paul, MN 55101 651-296-6785 V/TTY or 1-800-945-8913 V/TTY
January 10, 2007
2006 IN REVIEW -
11
Cont. from p. 10
JULY Voting Machine Gets High Marks
SEPTEMBER Access Denied at U of Houston
NOVEMBER Coalition Seeks Lost Cemetery
The buzz in the disability community for the upcoming elections is the debut of the AutoMARK voting machine. People with disabilities all over the state are extremely excited to have this ballot marking machine available to enable disabled voters to finally have the opportunity to vote independently and privately. As a ballot marking machine, the AutoMARK performs as sort of an “electronic pen.� The ballot is inserted into the machine, and the voter can choose the candidates by either touching the screen of the machine or using the keypad.
Disputes over accommodations for students with disabilities have become commonplace. Institutions, students and lawyers fight over whether students are in fact eligible, what changes they are entitled to and plenty more.
How well do you know the city of Rochester? If you used to live there and have some knowledge of the way things used to be, Remembering With Dignity would like to talk with you. You see, the Rosemont Cemetery, where the earliest residents of the Rochester State Hospital are buried, is completely missing. A plat map exists, showing the location of graves and names of each of the 75 people buried in Rosemont Cemetery. “How could a cemetery be lost?� you ask. We don’t have the answer, but it speaks to the disregard for people with disabilities and neglect of state hospital cemeteries.
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 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.
results they achieved. The August 2006 meetings, one held in each congressional district, also featured personal stories of the effects of Medicaid, and skills training on how to effectively work with state legislators.
But a lawsuit filed recently against the University of Houston involves a student with an undisputed disability who says he was turned down by a professor, without explanation, for his requests for accommodations. Not only is the suit challenging the treatment of the student, but the litigation is demanding that The machine has audio instructions to guide the voter through the university abandon a policy in which professors have wide each race. After voting is completed, the AutoMARK will leeway to decide whether to comply with requests from stu- Over 12,500 people were buried without a named marker in verify the votes that have been made on the ballot with the voter. dents with disabilities. Minnesota state hospital cemeteries in the last century. ReAfter verification, the voter can instruct the AutoMARK to membering With Dignity (RWD), a coalition of Minnesota “mark� the ballot by printing it. The ballot is ejected and can “This policy allows professors complete discretion, and that’s disability groups, has so far facilitated the marking of over then be taken to the ballot counter. illegal,� said Ernest Saadiq Morris, a lawyer for the Texas Civil 2500 of these with proper, named headstones. In May of this Rights Project who is handling the case. It’s as if, Morris said, year, RWD received a grant from the State of Minnesota to “This is an exciting breakthrough for blind Minnesotans and for a public university announced that it was going to let individual continue their work at state cemeteries in Hastings, Rochester other people with disabilities. For the first time, blind people professors decide whether to follow laws that bar discrimina- and St. Peter. By August 2007, approximately 1500 more will be able to vote without any assistance from another human tion on the basis of race or gender. named grave markers will be installed, along with other physibeing,� said Steve Jacobson, a member of the National Federa- [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/09/story_access_ cal cemetery improvements, such as signage, fencing and tion of the Blind of Minnesota. denied.htm] landscaping. [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/07/story_voting_ machine_marks.htm] A second cemetery connected to the Rochester State Hospital came to life October 1st, when close to 200 people gathered OCTOBER there for a ceremony, organized by the Rochester State HospiMedicaid . . . Meetings Tap Chord tal Cemetery Recognition Group and RWD, to recognize the AUGUST Record Walk for Justice Planned After a whirlwind tour of Minnesota to educate people with 2019 people buried in numbered graves. disabilities and their families on state and federal health care [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/11/story_coalitian_ The social justice movement in Minnesota will get its annual policy changes, leading disability advocates are excited by the seeks_cementery.htm]
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.� [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/08/story_record_ walk_planned.htm]
“We reached hundreds of families, particularly in rural Minnesota,� said Joel Ulland, cochair of the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD), the coalition of more than 50 statewide disability provider and advocacy organizations that sponsored the Medicaid Town Hall meetings. “People are hungry for this kind of information and eager to know how they can get involved to preserve these critical health services.� The meetings are part of a broad coalition strategy that is attempting to leverage the strength of the grass-roots efforts of many disability organizations. “The 2007 legislative session will set the state budget for the next two years,� said Ulland. “We need all the help we can get from as many people as possible.� [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/10/story_medicaid_ top_priority.htm]
Check us out at accesspress.org â?–â?–â?–â?– Please patronize your Access Press advertisers.
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Heather Breitbach, Amelia Boos, Ashley Antonelli, Craig Roering and Charles Schumacher are all high school students in St. Cloud who are at the age when they want to start driving a car. They are also deaf. When they called private driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education schools in the St. Cloud area to sign up for classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training, they asked the schools to provide a sign language interpreter so that they could fully participate in classes. All of the schools refused to do this. The students and their parents promptly contacted the Minnesota Disability Law Center (MDLC) for help, which turned out to be the best step they could have taken. Attorneys from MDLC told the students and parents that the schools were clearly violating the Minnesota Human Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act by refusing to provide an interpreter for classes. Both laws require private businesses to provide interpreters when necessary to make their programs fully available to deaf customers. MDLC filed a lawsuit against the schools on behalf of the students; the schools then agreed to settle the case and to provide interpreters for these particular students and for other deaf students who will take driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education in the future. The schools will not only provide qualified interpreters for classroom and behindthe-wheel training without charge to the students, but will also notify all customers in promotional brochures and notices posted in schools that interpreters are available. [www.accesspress.org/archive/2006/12/story_roadblock_ removed.htm] â&#x2013;
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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.
12
January 10, 2007
Directory of Organizations for Persons with Disabilities LEGAL SERVICES
ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS Advocating Change Together (ACT), V-651-641-0297, TF-800-651-0059, www.selfadvocacy.org Arc–Greater TC, V-952-920-0855, www.arcgreatertwincities.org The Arc of Minnesota, V-651-523-0823, www.thearcofminnesota.org Arthritis Foundation, North Central Chapter, V-651-644-4108, TF-800-333-1380, www.arthritis.org Association of Residential Resources in MN (ARRM), V-651291-1086, 800-551-2211, www.arrm.org MN Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, Kristin V-763520-0439, kristin.hansen@courage.org Mental Health Association of MN, V-612-331-6840, F-612331-1630, www.mentalhealthmn.org MN Developmental Achievement Center Association V- 651647-9200, www.mndaca.org National Alliance on Mental Illness of MN (NAMI-MN), V-651-645-2948, www.nami.org/namimn PACER Center, Inc., V-952-838-9000, TTY-952-838-0190, www.pacer.org BRAIN INJURY SERVICES Brain Injury Assoc. of MN, V-612-378-2742, TF-800-6696442, www.braininjurymn.org Courage Center, V-763-588-0811, TTY-763-520-0245, www.courage.org Cristo Vive International, V-763-263-1526, www.cristovive.net Opportunity Partners, V-952-938-5511, TTY-952-930-4293, www.opportunities.org RESTART, Inc., V-763-588-7633, www.restartincmn.org Rise, Inc., V/TTY-763-786-8334, F-763-786-0008, www.rise.org CHEMICAL HEALTH Vinland Center, V/TTY-763-479-3555, www.vinlandcenter.org COMMUNITY-LIVING SERVICES Community Involvement Program (CIP), V-612-362-4400, www.cipmn.org CIP - Bloomington, V-952-854-4007, www.cipmn.org CIP - Crystal, V-763-504-1008, www.cipmn.org Courage Center, V-763-588-0811, TTY-763-520-0245, www.courage.org Dungarvin, Inc. Minnesota, V-651-699-6050, www.dungarvin.com Hennepin Cty Library - Homebound Srvs Hen. Cty. ERCI Mpls, V-952-847-8850, www.hclib.org/pub/info/disabled.cfm HousingLink, V-612-522-2500, www.housinglink.org Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL), V-651646-8342, TTY-651-603-2001, www.mcil-mn.org Opportunity Partners, V-952-938-5511, TTY–952-930-4293, www.opportunities.org RESTART, Inc., V-763-588-7633, www.restartincmn.org Southern MN Independent Living Enterprises & Services (SMILES), V-507-345-7139, TF-888-676-6498, www.smilescil.org EDUCATION ORGANIZATIONS Adult Basic Ed/Special Needs, V-651-290-4729, TTY-651-290-4852, www.hubbs.spps.org Arthritis Foundation North Central Chapter, V-651-644-4108, TF-1-800-333-1380, www.arthritis.org Community Education—Programs for Adults with Disabilities, V-651-748-7436, F-651-748-7497, psvendsen@isd622.org Family Institute for Creative Well-Being, V-651-639-2527 Fraser Child and Family Center, V-612-331-9413/ 612-861-1688, TTY-800-627-3527, www.fraser.org MN Resource Center, V-612-752-8102, TTY-612-752-8019, www.mrc-mn.org PACER Center, Inc., V-952-838-9000, TTY-952-838-0190, www.pacer.org Reach for Resources, V-952-988-4177, www.reachforresources.org Wilderness Inquiry, V-612-676-9400, TTY-612-676-9475, www.wildernessinquiry.org
Legal Aid Society of St. Paul, V-651-222-5863, www.mnlegalservices.org EMPLOYMENT MN Disability Law Center, V-612-332-1441, TTY-612-375-4668, www.mndlc.org Lifetrack Resources, V-651-227-8471, TTY-651-227-3779, www.lifetrackresources.org MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES Opportunity Partners, V-952-938-5511, TTY-952-930-4293, www.opportunities.org Rise, Inc., V/TTY-763-786-8334, F-763-786-0008, www.rise.org Community Involvement Programs (CIP) Broadway, V-612362-4400, F-612-362-4476, www.cipmn.org CIP - Bloomington, V-952-854-4007, www.cipmn.org GOVERNMENT SERVICES CIP - Crystal, V-763-504-1008, www.cipmn.org Courage Center, V-763-588-0811, TTY-763-520-0245, MN Governor’s Council On Developmental Disabilities, www.courage.org V-651-296-4018, TF-877-348-0505, TTY-711, Cristo Vive International, V-763-263-1526, www.cristovive.net www.mncdd.org, or www.partnersinpolicymaking.com Fraser Child and Family Center, V-612-331-9413, www.fraser.org MSCOD, V-651-296-6785, F-651-296-5935, Mental Health Assoc. of MN, V-612-331-6840, www.disability.state.mn.us TF-800-862-1799, www.mentalhealthmn.org Social Security Admin & the St. Paul PASS Cadre, V-651-290People Incorporated, V-651-774-0011, TTY-651-774-6535, 0054, F-651-290-3811, www.socialsecurity.gov www.peopleincorporated.org Rise, Inc., V/TTY-763-786-8334, F-763-786-0008, www.rise.org HEALTH SERVICES Tasks Unlimited, V-612-871-3320, F-612-871-0432, www.tasksunlimited.org Arthritis Foundation North Central Chapter, V-651-644-4108, TF-800-333-1380, www.arthritis.org PHYSICAL THERAPY Family Institute for Creative Well-Being, V-651-639-2527, www.familyinstitute-cwb.org Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, V-612-863-4466, TTYFraser Child and Family Center, V-612-331-9413, 612-863-5486, www.sisterkennyinstitute.com TTY-800-627-3527, www.fraser.org Courage Center, V-763-588-0811, TTY-763-520-0245, www.courage.org
Would You Like To Be Included In The Directory Of Organizations? Call 651-644-2133 or e-mail to access@accesspress.org. For an annual fee of $55, your organization will be listed in our quarterly Directory of Organizations and receive a complimentary subscription to Access Press. We will also list your homepage link on our Web site,
RECREATIONAL SERVICES Camp Winnebago, V-507-724-2351, www.campwinnebago.org Courage Center, V-763-588-0811, TTY-763-520-0245, www.courage.org Cristo Vive International, V-763-263-1526, www.cristovive.net Friendship Ventures, V-952-852-0101, www.friendshipventures.org Reach for Resources, V-952-988-4177, www.reachforresources.org Special Olympics MN, V-612-604-1264, F-612-333-8782, www.specialolympicsminnesota.org Ventures Travel LLC, V-952-852-0107, www.venturestravel.org Wilderness Inquiry, V-612-676-9400, TTY-612-676-9475, www.wildernessinquiry.org
Gillette Children’s Hospital, V-651-291-2848, TTY-651-229REHABILITATION CENTERS 3928, www.gillettechildrens.org People Incorporated, Epilepsy Services, V-612-338-9035, BLIND, Inc., V-612-872-0100, www.blindinc.org www.peopleincorporated.org Courage Center, V-763-588-0811, TTY-763-520-0245, Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, V-612-863-4466, www.courage.org; Burnsville: 952-898-5700; St. Croix: F-612-863-8942, www.sisterkennyinstitute.com 651-439-8283; Forest Lake, V-651-439-8283 DeafBlind Services MN, V-612-362-8454, TTY-612-362HEARING IMPAIRMENT SERVICES 8422, www.dbsm.org Fraser Child and Family Center, V-612-331-9413, DeafBlind Services MN, V-612-362-8454, www.fraser.org TTY-612-362-8422, www.dbsm.org Lifetrack Resources, V-651-227-8471, TTY-651-227-3779, Hearing Loss Association of America Twin Cities Chapter, V/ www.lifetrackresources.org TTY-763-537-7558, www.hlaatc.org Telephone Equipment Distribution Program, V-651-297-1507, Merrick, Inc., V-651-789-6200, www.merrickinc.com Midwest Special Services, V-651-778-1000, TTY-800-657-3513, www.tedprogram.org TTY-651-772-8592, www.mwsservices.org MRCI Rehabilitation Centers, www.mrci.org HOUSING SERVICES MRCI: Burnsville, V-952-894-4680 MRCI: Carver/Scott, V-952-445-6811 Accessibility Design, V-952-925-0301, F-952-926-7712, MRCI: Chaska, V-952-448-2234 www.accessibilitydesign.com MRCI: Fairmont, V-507-386-5600, TTY-800-627-3529 Accessible Space, Inc., V-651-645-7271, TTY-800-627-3529, MRCI: Industrial Operations, V-507-386-5600 www.accessiblespace.org MRCI: Lakeville, V-952-898-5025 CCP–The Cooperating Community Programs, V-651-641-0041 MRCI: New Ulm, V-507-233-2700 Community Involvement Programs (CIP) Broadway, North Memorial Rehab Services, V-763-520-5690, V-612-362-4400, F-612-362-4476, www.cipmn.org F-763-520-5697, www.northmemorial.com CIP - Bloomington, V-952-854-4007, www.cipmn.org Opportunity Partners, V-952-938-5511, TTY-952-930-4293, CIP - Crystal, V-763-504-1008, www.cipmn.org www.opportunities.org HousingLink, V-612-522-2500, www.housinglink.org National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc., V-651-639-9799, ProAct, Inc. V-651-686-0405, F-651-686-0312, www.proactinc.org www.nhhiaccessiblehousing.com Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, V-612-863-4466, TTYRESTART, Inc., V-763-588-7633, www.restartincmn.org 612-863-5486, www.sisterkennyinstitute.com Rise, Inc., V/TTY-763-786-8334, F-763-786-0008, www.rise.org Directory of Organizations - cont. on p. 13
January 10, 2007
13
DIRECTORY OF ORGANIZATIONS - Cont. from p. 12 RESIDENTIAL SERVICES CCP–The Cooperating Community Programs, V-651-641-0041 CIP - Bloomington, V-952-854-4007, www.cipmn.org CIP - Crystal, V-763-504-1008, www.cipmn.org Community Involvement Programs (CIP) Broadway, V-612-362-4400, F-612-362-4476, www.cipmn.org Courage Center, V-763-588-0811, TTY-763-520-0245, www.courage.org Dungarvin, Inc. MN, V-651-699-6050, www.dungarvin.com Fraser, V-612-861-1688, TTY-800-627-3527, www.fraser.org Opportunity Partners, V-952-938-5511, TTY–952-930-4293, www.opportunities.org RESTART, Inc., V-763-588-7633, www.restartincmn.org ThePhoenixResidence,V-651-227-7657, www.phoenixresidence.org
SOCIAL SERVICES
VISUAL/PERFORMING ARTS
CCP – The Cooperating Community Programs, V-651-641-0041 VSA arts of MN, V/TTY-612-332-3888, www.vsaartsmn.org Metro Work Center, Inc., V-612-729-7381, F-612-729-7382, VOCATIONAL SERVICES www.mwc.org TECHNOLOGY Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn*), V-763-4798239, www.atmn.org Courage Center, V-763-588-0811, TTY-763-520-0245 www.courage.org PACER Center, Inc., V-952-838-9000, TTY-952-838-0190, www.pacer.org TRANSPORTATION
RESOURCE CENTERS IMED Mobility, V-651-635-0655, TF-800-788-7479, Family Institute for Creative Well-Being, V-651-639-2527 www.IMEDmobility.com Center for Inclusive Child Care, V-651-603-6265, Wheelchair Getaways of MN, Inc., V-888-256-5807, F-320www.inclusivechildcare.org 685-5346, www.wheelchairgetaways.com Disability Linkage Line, 1-866-333-2466, www.mcil-mn.org/ modules/DLL/DLLFactSheet.pdf U of M AFFILIATED PROGRAMS MELD - Parents as Teachers, V-612-435-0293, www.ParentsasTeachers.org Institute on Community Integration, V-612-624-6300, MELD-MNEarlyLearningDesign,V-612-332-7563,www.meld.org www.ici.umn.edu PACER Center, Inc., V-952-838-9000, TTY-952-838-0190, www.pacer.org VISION IMPAIRMENT SERVICES People, Inc. Epilepsy Services, V-612-338-9035, www.orgsites. com/mn/epilepsy BLIND, Inc., V-612-872-0100, TF-800-597-9558, UnitedCerebralPalsy(MN),V-651-646-7588,ucpmn@cpinternet.com www.blindinc.org Cristo Vive International, V-763-263-1526, www.cristovive.net SERVICE DOGS DeafBlind Services MN, V-612-362-8454, TTY-612-3628422, www.dbsm.org Hearing & Service Dogs of MN, V-612-729-5986, TTY-612-729-5914, www.hsdm.org Helping Paws, Inc., V-952-988-9359, www.helpingpaws.org
BLIND,Inc.,V-612-872-0100,TF-800-597-9558, www.blindinc.org Courage Center, V-763-588-0811, TTY-763-520-0245, www.courage.org East Suburban Resources, V-651-351-0190, www.eac-mn.org Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota, V-651-379-5800, www.goodwilleasterseals.org Kaposia inc, V/TTY-651-224-6974, www.kaposia.com Lifetrack Resources, V-651-227-8471, TTY-651-227-3779, www.lifetrackresources.org Lifeworks Services, TF-866-454-2732, TTY-651-365-3736, www.lifeworks.org Merrick, Inc., V-651-789-6200, www.merrickinc.com Metro Work Center, Inc., V-612-729-7381, F-612-729-7382, www.mwc.org Midway Training Services, V-651-641-0709, TTY-651-6410976, www.midwaytraining.org Midwest Special Services, V-651-778-1000, TTY-651-772-8592, www.mwsservices.org MN Resource Center, V-612-752-8102, TTY-612-752-8019, www.mrc-mn.org MN Work Incentives Connection, V-651-632-5113, TTY-651-632-5110, www.mnworkincentives.com Opportunity Partners, V-952-938-5511, TTY–952-930-4293, www.opportunities.org Rise, Inc., V/TTY-763-786-8334, F-763-786-0008, www.rise.org TSE, Inc., V-651-489-2595, F-651-489-0410, www.tse-inc.org Vinland Center, V/TTY-763-479-3555, www.vinlandcenter.org
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January 10, 2007
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. Selected performances offer reduced admission prices for the patron and one companion. When calling a box office, confirm the service (ASL or AD), date, time, ticket price and anything else needed, e.g. length of performance, etc. If you attend a show, please share your feedback with the performing organization, interpreter, and VSA arts of Minnesota. Accessible performance information is compiled by VSA arts of Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or www.vsaartsmn.com. Also see section of Accessible Movie Theaters. Disney’s H.S. Musical Jan. 3 - Mar. 11, 2007 Children’s Theatre Co., 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD/ASL: Fri., Feb. 2, 8:00 p.m. Tix: Mention VSA Offer for $13 tix; reg disc. is $20; 612-874-0400; www. childrenstheatre.org The Miracle Worker Jan. 5 - 27, 2007 Torch Theater at Mpls. Theatre Garage, 711 W. Franklin. ASL: All shows except Jan. 7 AD: Fri., Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Jan. 21, 3:00 p.m.; Thurs. - Sat. 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 3:00 p.m. Tix: Disc. to $11 for AD/ ASL patrons (reg. $15-20); 952-929-9097; info@torch theater.com; www.torch theater.com Loot Jan. 5 - 28, 2007 Theatre in the Rnd, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sat., Jan.27, 8:00 p.m.; Sun., Jan. 28, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $20, disc. for srs/ students; 612-333-3010; www.theatreintheround.org The Belle of Amherst Jan. 10 - 14, 2007 Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre, 333 4th St. S., Fargo. AD: Sat., Jan. 13, 8:00 p.m. ASL: upon req in adv. Tix: Disc. to $12.50, $10 srs 65+, $7.50 students; 701-235-6778, 877-687-7469; www.fmct.org Buried Child Jan. 11 - 27, 2006 Tin Roof Theatre Co. at Main Ave Theatre, 716 Main Ave., Fargo, ND. AD: Sat., Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Disc. to $8 (reg. $15, student/sr $10); 701-3065843; www.tinrooftheatre. com Woman Before a Glass Jan. 13 - Feb. 4, 2007 MN Jewish Theatre Co. at Hillcrest Center Theater, 1978 Ford Pkwy, St. Paul. AD: Sun., Jan. 21, 2:00 p.m. Tix: Disc: $13 (reg. $17-24), 651-647-4315; www.mnjewishtheatre.org
MN Literature Reading Jan. 14, 2007 Micawber’s Bookstore, 2238 Carter Ave in St. Anthony Pk ASL: Sun, Jan. 14, 1:00 p.m.. Tix: Free; 612-827-0432 or editor@ minnesotaliterature .org or 651-646-5506 (Micawber’s); www.minnesota literature.org Chicago Jan. 16 - 21, 2007 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Main Hall, 345 Washington, St. Paul. ASL: Fri., Jan. 19, 8:00 p.m. AD: Sat., Jan. 20, 2:00 p.m. Tix: 651-224-4222, TTY 651-2823100; www.ordway.org/services/access.asp
Democracy Jan. 19 - Feb. 11, 2007 Park Square Theatre, 408 Saint Peter St. (20 W. 7th Place), St. Paul. AD/ASL: Sat., Feb. 3, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Disc. to ½-price; 651-291-7005; www.park squaretheatre.org Reclaiming Faith: In the Spirit of Justice Jan. 20 - 28, 2007 One Voice Mixed Chorus at Temple Israel, 2324 Emerson Ave. S., Mpls. AD/ASL: Sun., Jan. 21, 3:30 p.m. Tix: Disc. to $15-21, reg. $18-25; 612-3321302; www.ovmc.org
100 Men’s Wife Jan. 20 - Feb. 10, 2007 History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. AD: Sun., Jan. 28, Tale of a West Texas 2:00 p.m. ASL: Sun., Feb. 4, Marsupial Girl 2:00 p.m. Tix: Disc. to $15; Jan. 16 - Feb. 25, 2007 Children’s Theatre Co., 2400 651-292-4323; www.history - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD/ASL: theatre.com Fri., Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Mention VSA Offer for $13 The Glass Menagerie tix; reg disc. $20; 612-874-0400; Jan. 20 - Mar. 25, 2007 www.childrenstheatre.org Guthrie Theater, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD: Fri., Feb. 16, Carousel 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 17, 1:00 Jan. 18 - Feb. 4, 2007 p.m. (sensory tour 10:30). ASL: Nautilus Music-Theater at Fri., Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m.; Thurs., Southern Theater, 1420 Wash- Mar. 1, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Disc. to ington Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Fri., $17; reg. $22-$52; 612-377Jan. 26, 8:00 p.m. ASL: Upon 2224, TTY 612-377-6626; req ASAP. Tix: Disc. to $33 www.guthrietheater.org for AD/ASL patrons; $35 Mon./Wed./Thurs./Sun.; $40 TC Storyfest: Joining Voices Fri.; $45 Sat.; Jan. 24; under the Winter Moon www.southerntheater.org Jan. 21, 2007 Storytelling Workshop at Holy Invigorate the Common Trinity Lutheran Church, 2730 Well: When Water is Frozen East 31st St., Mpls. ASL: 2:30 Jan. 19 - Feb. 4, 2007 p.m.; Storytelling Concert for In the Heart of the Beast Pup- all ages featuring Deaf storypet and Mask Theatre, 1500 E. teller Nic Zapko at 4:30 p.m. Lake St., Mpls. AD: Sun., Feb. Tix: donation; 612-724-7074. 4, 2:00 p.m.; tactile tour available half-hour before show; SASE GLBT Reading Series register with the theater. Tix: Jan. 24, 2007 $20 ($15 sr, student, child); By: SASE: The Write Place. 612-721-2535 E-mail: info@ Intermedia Arts, 2822 Lyndale hobt.org www.hobt.org Ave. S., Mpls ASL: Wed., Jan. 24, 7:00 p.m.. Tix: Free; 612871-4444;www.inter mediaarts.org, www.saseon line.org or www.raymond luczak.com/events/
FOR SALE!
Come to see 4110 Upland Lane, Plymouth. Spacious one-level living townhouse includes two bedrooms, bath with separate shower, main floor laundry, eat-in kitchen, three-season porch, patio and large loft with 3/4 bath and loads of storage. $279,900. Call Muggs Lerberg at 612-308-0316 for a showing.
Island of the Blue Dolphins Jan. 31 - Feb. 18, 2007 Youth Performance Co. at Howard Conn Fine Arts Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave., Mpls. AD and ASL: Sun., Feb. 11, 2:00 p.m. Tix: Disc. to ½price; reg. $10-8; adv res. req. for AD; 612-623-9080; confirm avail. of accessible bathroom (under construction); www.youthperformanceco.com Fringe Encore at the Guthrie Feb. 1 - 4, 2007 Dowling Studio of the new Guthrie Theater, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. 4 hits from the 2006 MN Fringe Festival. Each last 1 hour; will be perform 3 times during the 4-day series. Tix: ASL/AD: call Guthrie for times. 612-377-2224, TTY 612-377-6626. Performances incl: Love in a Time of Rinderpest by Bedlam Theatre; Google: The Musical by The Imbecile Domicile; African Rds, American Sts by Universal Dance Destiny; & Wonderland by La Vie Theatre. www.guthrietheater. org or www.fringefestival.org Susannah Feb. 1 - Mar. 4, 2007 Theater Latte Da at Loring Playhouse, 1633 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. ASL and AD: Thurs., Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m.Tix: Disc. to $8 (reg. $15 that night); 651-209-6689 TicketWorks; www.latteda.org or www.ticketworks.com Command Performance: A Musical Review Feb. 2 - 25, 2007 Blmngtn Civic Theatre at Bloomington Center for the Arts, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd. AD: Sat., Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m. ASL: Sat., Feb. 24, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Disc. to $18 (reg. $1925); 952-563-8575; www. bloomingtoncivictheatre.org
Young MLK And a Child Shall Lead Feb. 2 - 25, 2007 SteppingStone Theatre at Landmark Center, 75 W. 5th Amadeus St., St. Paul. ASL: Sun., Feb. Jan. 26 - Feb. 18, 2007 11, 2:00 p.m. AD: Tue, Feb. Starting Gate Productions at 13, 11:00 a.m. Tix: $11, stuMounds Theatre, 1029 Hud- dent/sr $9; 651-225-9265; son Rd, St. Paul. AD: Sun., www.steppingstonetheatre.org Feb. 11, 2:00 p.m. Tix: Disc. to $10; Reg. $18, $16 student/ The Swan sr; 651-645-3503; www. Feb. 2 - Mar. 11, 2007 startinggate.org or www. Jungle Theater 2951 Lyndale moundstheatre.org Ave S, Mpls. AD: Thurs., Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Disc. to $8 One Flew Over the (reg. $24-36); 612-822-7063; Cuckoo’s Nest www.jungletheater.com Jan. 31 - Feb. 11, 2007 MN State U, Mankato Performing Arts Center, ASL: Sat., Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $9-13; 507-389-6661; www. MSUTheatre.com
St. Paul Public Library Deaf Storytime Feb. 3, Mar. 3, Apr. 7, May 5, 2007 Merriam Park Branch Library, 1831 Marshall Ave. St. Paul. Deaf storyteller Estella Bustamante ASL: Sat., Feb. 3, 10:30 a.m.; FM listening assist. avail. Tix: free; 651-6420385, TTY 651-298-4184; www.stpaul.lib.mn.us/pro grams/asl-storytimes.html
Sun., Feb. 11, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $13, $10 sr/student, $6 UMD student/child, 218-726-8561; www.d.umn.edu/theatre
20th Century Art Since 1950 Feb. 4, 2007 Mpls. Institute of Arts, 2400 Third Ave. S. Interpreted exhibit tour begins in Target Wing, third floor atrium. ASL: Sun., Feb. 4, 2:00 p.m.; Tix: 612-870-3131 or TTY 612870-3132, www.artsmia.org
Blue Feb. 15 - Mar. 11, 2007 Penumbra Theatre, Hallie Q. Brown / Martin Luther King Center, 270 N. Kent St., St. Paul. ASL: Sat., Feb. 24, 8:00 p.m. Tix: $15-40; 651-2243180 (specify ASL); www. penumbratheatre.org
Oklahoma! Feb. 14 - 25, 2007 Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre, 333 4th St. S., Fargo. AD: Sat., Feb. 24, 7:00 p.m. ASL: upon req in adv. Tix: Disc. to $7.50; 701-235-6778, 877-687-7469; www.fmct.org
GLBT Theatre for Mainstream Audiences Feb. 18, 2007 Mayflower United Church of Christ, 106 E Diamond Lake Rd (at I-35W), Mpls. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) panel discussion on GLBT-themed theater intended for mainstream audiences. Panel inHanding Down the Names cludes actors, directors, producers, drama critics, and other Feb. 8 - 11, 2007 U of M Duluth Theatre, Mar- Twin Cities theater people. shall Performing Arts Ctr, 1215 ASL: Sun., Feb. 18, 2:00 p.m. Ordean Court, Duluth. ASL: Tix: donation. ■ Love, Janis Feb. 6 - Apr. 15, 2007 Ordway Ctr for Performing Arts Main Hall, 345 Washington, St. Paul. Touring show. ASL: Fri., Feb. 23, 8:00 p.m. AD: Sat., Feb. 24, 2:00 p.m. Tix: 651-224-4222, TTY 651282-3100; www.ordway.org/ services/access.asp
ACCESSIBLE MOVIE THEATERS Accessible Movie Theaters The movie complexes listed below offer MoPix-equipped captioning or description services. For show times, call the theater; sign up to receive their e-mail list; contact MN Open Captioned Films, www.mnocfilms.org/ movies.html or Rear Window Captioned Film, Web: http:/ /ncam.wgbh.org/mopix/ nowshowing. html#mn
level lot between Sears and Kohl’s. Accessible films in Auditorium 4. Science Museum of MN Omnitheater, 120 Kellogg Blvd. W., St. Paul. Rear view captioning and DVS for most films in the Omnitheater or the 3D Cinema. Showtimes vary but are approximately hourly during regular museum hours: Mon-Wed 9:30 a.m.- 5:00 p.m., Thur-Sat. 9:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. , Sun. 12:00 noon - 5:00 p.m. TTY 651-221-4585; E-mail: info@smm.org ; Web: www.smm.org/visitorinfo/ hours/showtimes_dynamic. php or www.smm.org/info/ accessibility.php.
Crown Theater Block E Movie Complex, 600 Hennepin Ave., third floor, Mpls. Enter parking ramp on 7th St next to the Hard Rock Café. 612-338-1466. Accessible films in Auditoriums 2 and 12. Note: DVS patrons: If show is in Theatre 2, request headset with Letter C. If show Lakes 10 Theatre, 4351 is in Theatre 12, request head- Stebner Rd., Hermantown. set with Letter G. 12 Accessible Parking spaces near theater. Movie AMC Eden Prairie Mall 18 Line: 218-729-0335; EmerTheatres, 4000 Flying Cloud gency: 218-729-0334; Fax: Dr at Eden Prairie Shopping 218-729-0334; E-mail: Sfen Center, Hwy 212 and 494, nessey@cectheatres.com. ■ 952-656-0010. Park in upper
January 10, 2007
RITCHIE Cont. from p.1 for his collaborative work style. “The key is getting input from all of the stakeholders when making changes. Just because I’ll be the chief elections official in the state, doesn’t mean that I’m the expert on the challenges facing special populations or the procedures used at the local level. I need to hear from these groups about what’s needed and what will work,” Ritchie stated. In addition to the Secretary of State’s office, county, city, school board, and township officials are all involved in running elections in Minnesota.
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Employment ads are $16-$17 per col. inch. Jan 31 is the FOR RENT deadline for the February 10 issue. Mail to: ACCESS Holmes-Greenway Housing: PRESS, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 one and two bedroom wheel• FAX 651-644-2136 • E-mail: access@accesspress.org chair-accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. ConveRegistered Nurse The Registered Nurse will function as a clinical member of a nient SE Minneapolis location. multidisciplinary Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Call 612-378-0331 for availTeam, a community-based mobile mental health treatment, ability information. Equal rehabilitation, and support team serving up to 50 adults with Opportunity Housing. serious mental illnesses living in Steele, Waseca, and Dodge Counties. Individuals served by the ACT team are typically Lewis Park Apartments: those for whom traditional mental health services have been Barrier-free housing with ineffective or inadequate. Work hours are mainly normal wheelchair users in mind. Secbusiness hours, but flexible evening. weekend, and holiday tion 8 subsidized. One- and hours are required to address specific client needs. Rotating on- two-bedroom units. For more call phone coverage.Qualifies as a Registered Nurse in Minne- information on availability call sota. Valid Minnesota driver’s license. Experience working 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. with serious mental illness preferred. Questions or resumes to: Equal Opportunity Housing. Personnel Director; South Central Human Relations Center; 610 Florence Avenue; Owatonna, MN 55060; 507-451-2630 EOE/AA
Ritchie plans to examine current election procedures to see what needs to be changed. One focus will be reviewing how the AutoMarks worked; these new, accessible ballot- so that people under guardmarking machines were used ianship retain their right to for the first time in last fall’s vote, unless a court has specifically revoked it. Never“I need to hear from theless, some election judges these groups about were not aware of the change and prevented people under what’s needed and what guardianship from voting. will work” Ritchie promised, “I will see to it that election judges and elections. One study group other poll workers understand found that there were issues this [new law] fully, so that with the reliability of the ma- people under guardianship chines, the slow speed at will no longer have to worry which they operated, and the about their right to vote needelection judges’ lack of fa- lessly being challenged.” miliarity with the machines. “It seems clear that we will Ritchie has a lot that he wants need to work with the manu- to accomplish in the next four facturer and programmers to years, but instead of oversee what can be done about whelming him, he seems to be how these machines work, and energized by it. “I’m excited. to bolster the training on how Ensuring that people have a to use the machines for many say in how their government election judges,” explained is run is critical to a wellRitchie. functioning democracy. I’m looking forward to getting into “We also need to improve office and digging in.” ■ training for local elections officials and election judges about the voting rights of people under guardianship,” Ritchie stated. In recent years, Minnesota state law changed
SAMPSON -
15
Cont. from p. 3
girls got aboard United Flight was especially proud of re001 for a trip unlike any they ceiving United Airline’s highest honor, the William A. had ever had before. Patterson award. Sampson served as a member of the President’s Commission When asked about his Horatio on Employment of the Handi- Alger Award, Sampson said, “It capped during five adminis- is an honor to be a part of this organization. The work the As“During his career at sociation is doing to help our nation’s youth with their colUnited, Sampson was al- lege educations is outstanding. I ways at the forefront in am proud to be a part of that.”
pushing to hire the disabled and helped the airline come up with ways to better serve the disabled passenger.” trations. He was also a board member of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and has participated in numerous Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethons. He received the Distinguished Alumnus award from DePaul University Law School and received the FAA’s Distinguished Service award for promoting the accessibility of aircrafts for the disabled. He
Rent an accessible 3 br. pool home near Disney World. About $100/night. www. AccessibleOrlando.com
Oak Park Village: One bedroom wheelchair-accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenience St. Louis Park location. Call 952-935924 3rd AVE NE Establishing 9125 for availability informaa waiting list for 2 & 3BR tion. Equal Opportunity Houstownhomes. Applicants must ing. be mobility impaired and must meet income qualifications. Seward Square Apartments: Amenities include: all utilities We are currently accepting paid, private entrance, full applications for our waiting basement, attached garage, list for barrier-free housing, in patio, appliances, carpeting, Minneapolis, that is federally and blinds. Laundry facilities subsidized. For an applicaon site. Section 8 rental assis- tion, please call 612-338-2680. tance to those who qualify. Equal Opportunity Housing. Call 612-378-1868 for more information. Equal Opportunity Housing.
DEDUCTIONS -
Cont. from p. 4
you purchase a stair lift, ramp or elevator for installation at a disabled person’s principal residence, you may request a refund of the sales tax paid if the item purchased is authorized by a physician. This refund also applies to building materials used to install or construct these items.
Note: The information contained in this article, extracted from federal and state Web sites, is for general guidance only. You should get appropriate professional advice on your particular circumstances, because tax laws and regulations undergo frequent change.
In order to claim the refund, you must fill out Minnesota Revenue Form ST11P and attach a physician’s prescription for the items purchased, along with a copy of invoices showing sales tax paid.
Do you have a question for Jane? We’ll cover all of your questions in future issues of Home Access Answers. Please contact us at 952-925-0301, www.accessibilitydesign.com, info@accessibilitydesign.com.
For more information on the State of Minnesota “Special Purchase Refund Claim” go to www.taxes.state.mn.us/taxes/ forms/st11p.pdf or call the Minnesota Department of Revenue at 651-296-6181; or TTY Reprinted with permission from at 711 Minnesota Relay. the Web site of the Horatio Alger Assoc., copyright 2005. I hope this information is ben[www.horatioalger.org/ eficial to you. ■ members/member_info. cfm?memberid= sam80 ]
Jane Hampton, president of Accessibility Design, founded the company in 1992 to enhance lives through design and project management. They provide design, consultation, project management, and product recommendation services specializing in home access for individuals with disabilities at all stages of life.
served three years (1994– 1997) at the state’s women’s correctional facility in Shakopee for a conspiracy conviction.
Her disability, she said, has actually benefited her in some ways. “It’s given me the ability to empathize with others who have disadvantages.”
Bustos, who hopes to land a job in corrections, plans to pursue another bachelor’s degree and, eventually, a master’s degree.
While the 1983 car accident upended her life, it has not defined her. Her poetry has assisted through rough patches, helping her access emotions and frame ongoing challenges. She’s won two major national awards from Poetry.com for poems that were included in published anthologies. She crafted one of those poems, “Good Night My Children,” during a particularly low period, while being detained in jail. Her goal is to eventually publish her own book of poems.
The Long Beach, Calif. native credits her pursuit of a college degree with inspiring two of her three children to finish high school. One is now attending college and another is planning to enroll next year. Bailey
Sampson said his life had been blessed by having loving parents and a supportive wife and three children. He believed that if he hadn’t been given a chance to do a job as good as or better than the “so-called able-bodied person,” he’d have spent most of his life in a nursing home. He said, “You have to believe in yourself and your abilities.” ■
Cont. from p.1 in work settings. The Metropolitan State Disabilities Services Office has also assisted, allowing her extended time to take tests; her recollection often improves with more time. Moreover, internships and in-
“Bailey Bustos . . . was thrown head-first through a car windshield in a 1983. And her ability to remember anything Mary Bailey Bustos was re- from then on virtually cently selected Fall 2006 Outdisappeared. “I’m lucky standing Student at Metroif I remember last week.” politan State University. down notes to help in navigating her day and keeps her schedule in four separate daily planners, one that she carries with, another at home and two
full-time resident assistant at the Salvation Army Booth Brown House Foyer Program, Saint Paul, which assists 16– 22 year-olds transition out of homelessness. She offers group workshops and one-onone sessions, counseling clients on life and study skills, resume writing, and identifying college scholarships (she’s won several herself). She essentially provides the same services as a part-time peer mentor in Metropolitan State’s TRIO/Student Support Services Office.
Previously, Bailey Bustos was dependent studies have proven a shift supervisor and case valuable, enabling her to work manager for a Saint Paul cormore at her own pace. rectional halfway house. Earlier, she was a client at that Bailey Bustos is working as a same facility, after having
“I am the first in my family to attend college,” she said, “so it’s really a big deal to graduate. A huge deal. I’m really looking forward to it.” ■ Harvey Meyer is a writer for Metro State University.
16
January 10, 2007
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