March 2007 Edition - Access Press by Access Press

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March 10, 2007

History Note

Inside

“The human brain is a most unusual instrument of elegant and as yet unknown capacity. ”

■ On Being Poor—p. 3 ■ Ziegler Magazine at 100—p. 4 ■ Free Prom Dress—p. 14

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

Volume 19, Number 3

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

March 10, 2007

Happy To Pay For Full Integration New Survey Reveals Shift in Public Attitudes; Advocates Celebrate as They Call for Continued Changes by Bret Hesla

f you think too much public money is spent on people with developmental disabilities, you’re in a huge minority. Only 6% of Minnesotans would agree with you. Disability activists celebrated a new survey by the MinnePictured above is self-advocate, Tim Moots, speaking at the sota Governor’s Council on February event marking the release of a new survey of public Developmental Disability, which shows that Minnesoattitudes toward people with developmental disabilities.

What’s Happening In Managed Care? 2007 Legislature Considers Changes for People with Disabilities

Enhancing the Role of the Ombudsman The Ombudsman Office (for state managed health care) needs to grow to meet a growing population. The office helps people enrolled in health plans to solve problems with access, service and billing. It also provides information about the grievance and appeal processes available through both the health plan and the state. As more persons with disabilities enroll in prepaid health plans, the role of the Ombudsman will become increasingly important. “We

The survey results were released February 22nd at a special event on the St. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota. After researcher Tom Pearson presented the findings, which showed, among other things, that the public believed

several organizations were invited to give their responses. Most of the speakers reacted to the new survey with a mix of celebration and determination to press onward for more change. “I’m here to celebrate Minnesotans believe that these results,” said Seamus people with developmen- O’Meara, Chairperson of tal disabilities should be MNGCDD. “Whatever the public place—you name it— there.” Minnesotans believe that vey was conducted in January people with developmental and February 2007. (see box). disabilities should be there.” O’Meara, himself a parent of Afterward, representatives of Survey - cont. on p. 11

1962/2007 Minnesota Survey of Attitudes Regarding Developmental Disabilities The following are selected survey results, showing the statement read and the numbers agreeing with the statement (either “agreeing somewhat” or “agreeing strongly”).1 • People with developmental disabilities should be cared for by the immediate family as much as possible.2 (77% agree in 2007, 20% in 1962)

by Elissa Meyer anaged-care changes are in the works at the state capital. As Minnesota legislators consider expanding enrollment in prepaid health plans for persons with disabilities, several issues have come to the forefront this session. Among several key changes, proposed legislation would strengthen the ombudsman services.

tans’ attitudes toward people people belong in the commuwith developmental disabili- nity, living with their families ties have changed markedly in as much as possible. The surthe last 45 years toward favoring full integration into the “Whatever the public community and use of public place—you name it— money to assist families.

simply need trained ombudsmen staff to assist persons with disabilities who voluntarily choose to join a managed care plan. This is an expanded population so we need an expansion of the ombudsmen’s office for managed care,” said Anne Henry, attorney with the Disability Law Center. Proposed legislation would raise enrollee’s awareness of the ombudsman’s role and their own rights. It would require local agencies to provide annual information to health plan enrollees about the role of the Ombudsman and their right to have complaints resolved. Under current law, this information is provided only once—at the time of enrollment. The bill also requests funding for increases to Ombudsman staff; the office would hire more people who are specifically trained and experienced in providing assistance to persons with disabilities.

Further, the proposal would give annual reports to legislators so they can assess how well the prepaid health plans are working. The Ombudsman Office would have to document their activities by program, age and eligibility type. This information would have to include the number of persons assisted, the types of problems encountered, and any actions taken, including appeals and outcomes for enrollees. Based on these findings, the report would make recommendations for changes to managed-care contacts, grievance and appeal processes, or other changes for general improvement of managed-care services. These enhanced reporting requirements will enable policy makers and advocates to better understand whether prepaid health plans can adequately meet the diverse and complex needs of persons with disabilities. Managed Care - cont. on p. 12

• People with developmental disabilities should be kept in an institution. (3% agree in 2007, 35% in 1962) • People with developmental disabilities are mentally ill. (15% agree in 2007, 40% in 1962) • People with developmental disabilities should be able to use public playgrounds and beaches. (98% agree in 2007, 72% in 1962) • People with developmental disabilities should be able to attend movie theaters. (96% agree in 2007, 75% in 1962) • People with developmental disabilities should be allowed to drive a car. (32% agree in 2007, 22% in 1962) • People with developmental disabilities should be allowed to drink alcohol.3 (25% agree in 2007, 9% in 1962) • People with developmental disabilities should be allowed to vote.4 (71% agree in 2007, 46% in 1962) • People with developmental disabilities should be allowed to have children just like everybody else. (47% agree in 2007, no data for 1962) Survey conducted by MarketResponse International. The survey findings were based on the responses of 806 randomly selected Minnesota heads of households, with either listed or unlisted telephone numbers, that reflects the distribution of Minnesotans in terms of age, race and income level. The survey has a 3.5 percent margin of error at a 95 percent confidence level. For complete results, go to www.mncdd.org. 1 2 3 4

Choices were “Agree strongly, agree somewhat, neutral, disagree somewhat, or disagree strongly.” 1962 wording: “… should be cared for at home.” 1962 wording: “… should be allowed to drink liquor.” 1962 wording: “… vote for president.”

March 10, 2007

arch is Brain Injury Awareness Month. The Brain Injury Association is partnering with Access Press as a sponsor of this issue. We are running an article describing what the Brain Injury Association is all about, and we are doing profiles showing how the community is integrating individuals with brain injuries.

Tim Benjamin, Editor

how we have to be very careful, as Ms. Powell says in the article, to empower our friends with developmental disabilities to make their own choices for their own independence. We can best play a role by being there in support, not by giving direction. Far too often, we speak about giving people their own independence but then our paternalism kicks in and we speak for our friends The article, “Happy to Pay,” instead of encouraging them sure gives us something to cel- to speak for themselves. ebrate. Even though the acceptance and inclusion of It’s still very irritating to me to people with developmental recognize that we are still ladisabilities is becoming more beling as we do. Granted, there obvious, boy, are these num- may be some usefulness in labers impressive. The self-ad- beling but in most cases, labelvocacy movement has played ing is also assigning a prejua big part in achieving this dice to a group. Labeling freinclusion. That’s an outcome quently is nothing more than that makes me realize again making generalizations. Over

Letters To The Editor ... Looking for the For example, I’ve broken both The second issue is about emNext “Chuck Frahm” legs (one at a time, thankfully) ployment (one aspect of which

hanks for another in sightful issue (Feb 10, 2007). Your “Ashley,” “Chuck Frahm,” and “Raymond’s Room” articles seem to reinforce my growing conviction that, with proper technology, many of us could live better lives. And it’s not that the technology isn’t available; it’s that Medicare/Medicaid refuses to pay for it—and few of us have the funds to pay for it ourselves, even with those STAR loans and other Assistive Tech programs.

during bathroom transfers. My bones broke too easily because I have developed osteopenia from lack of weight-bearing standing. How much would Medicare have saved (and future savings on more bone problems) if I’d had a stander? (I did buy one after the second break; took out a loan and found a stander that had had two previous owners.) How many others could be helped by devices to help caregivers like Ms. Johns with roll-overs in bed, with transfers, and the other myriad of tasks needed for daily living?

—wages—was addressed in this issue). AARP wrings its collective hands about babyboomer retirements and the looming loss of workers. What about looking to the disabled community for labor? Sure, we might have to stretch our rigid concepts about job structure—like more work-fromhome opportunities, more flexibility in job scheduling, willingness to accommodate parttimers in what were previously full-time positions. Guess somebody better become a “Chuck Frahm.” Sincerely, Laura Hill, Roseville

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, Carol Streasick & 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 10,000, 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.

the years the developmentally disabled have dealt over the years with a lot of labels, most of them created by external groups. I think that as a community we need to continue resisting the labels that others impose on us. Do you have some ideas or thoughts on labeling? Send in your comments. President Bush has recommended cutting funds for traumatic brain injury research, awareness, and prevention programs under the Traumatic Brain Injury Act. Can you believe it? This is our president’s serious proposal, even while the war in Iraq and Afghanistan is producing more traumatic brain injuries than our country has ever seen. As the administration stands firm on

cutting funding in many health care programs, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, in our nation’s capitol, is being investigated as an unfit place for veteran care. “To think that...all we give them is a dilapidated, rat-infested, rundown building to recover in is a disgrace,” Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., said to an Associated Press reporter. This treatment is in the news in the same week that our own governor called for an investigation into the medical neglect and mistreatment at the Minnesota Veterans Home of Minneapolis. Please contact your legislators and tell them we can’t treat our most honorable and courageous soldiers with anything less than the best medical care! Share your thoughts with them, and maybe

a copy of the article on page 3. Have you seen the Access Press Web site lately? The numbers are continuing to rise, and right now we’re getting about 7000 hits per month. Your visits should be among the 7000. Pick up the paper online—no snow to deal with, no empty racks. We’re always digitally accessible. Click “Contact Us”and tell us what you like or dislike and how the Web site can serve you. Finally, if your organization would like more information about sponsoring an issue of Access Press, please call. Be a bigger part of this vital resource. ■

History Note

Sister Kenny Bucks Medical Establishment to Treat Polio lizabeth Kenny was born in Warialda, New South Wales, Australia in 1886.

and the child recovered; the twenty additional children Kenny treated all survived without complications.

As a bush nurse, she crossed the Australian outback, treating anyone who could not get to a doctor. She did everything a physician might do, from setting bones to delivering babies. Although Kenny was never trained as a nurse, she earned the title while serving as the Australian medical corps during World War I. (Neither was Kenny a nun. Since nurses in England were traditionally nuns, all nurses were simple called “Sister.”)

Common knowledge at the time suggested that the person’s stronger muscles pulled on the weakened or paralyzed muscles and created the characteristic polio deformities. Kenny believed that the accepted treatment, which was to splint the extremities and hold them rigid, was counterproductive and actually produced both the deformities and paralysis. Instead, she used hot packs to reduce muscle spasms. She also moved the patient’s extremities as if guiding them through physical therapy. Kenny’s methods, though successful, were controversial with the medical authorities in Australia.

In 1911, Kenny, drawing on her knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, treated her first polio (“infantile paralysis”) patient. She applied hot packs to spasming muscles,

Sister Kenny In 1942, Kenny established the Sister Kenny Institute in Minneapolis. In part because of the controversy surrounding her theories, the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis never supported the Institute, although they did fund both the training of Kenny therapists in at the University of Minnesota and the staffing of therapists in polio wards. Today, Sister Kenny’s methods continute to be a part of rehabilitative therapy around the world. ■ [Source:www.teachspace. org/lauren/polio/ sisterkenny.html, www.diggerhistory.info/ pages-heroes/kenny.htm]

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March 10, 2007

The Stars Are The Diamonds Of The Poor

Key TBI Programs In Jeopardy Bush Budget Would Eliminate Services that Benefit Injured Returning Soldiers

by Pete Feigal

by the National Disability Rights Network staff WASHINGTON – Reporter Bob Woodruff’s February 27th March is special documenting his expeBrain Injury rience with traumatic brain Awareness Month injury (TBI) also showed the continuing unmet need for returning soldiers to receive the “support that matches their higher proportion of casualsacrifice.” ties than in other wars, it is unconscionable that the PresiOver 23,000 soldiers have dent is recommending absobeen wounded in the war in lutely no funding for a proIraq and Afghanistan. Brain gram so essential to this popuinjuries account for approxi- lation,” said Curt Decker, exmately two-thirds of the known ecutive director of the National injuries suffered in the war, Disability Rights Network although it is estimated that at (NDRN). least 10 percent of soldiers and marines that have served The president’s recommendamay have undiagnosed brain tion also comes despite the injuries. findings of a 2006 Institute of Despite these overwhelming numbers, President Bush’s recommended budget eliminates the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) program, which includes funding for Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury (PATBI) – a program essential to so many troops returning with disabilities acquired in combat. Given the nature of brain injuries, these individuals run a high risk of falling

“Despite these overwhelming numbers, President Bush’s recommended budget eliminates the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) program …” Medicine (IOM) report calling the two programs an “overall success” and finding “there is considerable value in providing … funding.”

Along with the estimated 5.3 “Over 23,000 soldiers million Americans already living with disabilities resulting have been wounded in from TBI, these service men the war in Iraq and and women face an array of Afghanistan. Brain advocacy needs provided by injuries account for the PATBI program, includapproximately two-thirds ing assistance with returning to work; accessing needed supof the known injuries ports and services; and obtainsuffered in the war …” ing appropriate mental health, substance abuse, and rehabilithrough the cracks if advocacy tation services. programs such as PATBI are eliminated, as recommended Effective protection and adin the President’s budget. vocacy services for people with traumatic brain injury can “At a time when traumatic lead both to reduced governbrain injuries account for a ment expenditures and in-

creased productivity, independence and community integration. With limited current funds, TBI P&A advocates across the country are: • Providing direct individual advocacy for children and adults with TBI in all the states and territories, including access to appropriate health care, community living, housing, education, guardianship and employment; • Providing individuals with TBI with the knowledge and skills to help them be effective self advocates; • Challenging the failure of state hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, intermediate care facilities, and schools to provide appropriate supports and therapies to individuals with TBI who may require modifications to traditional supports in order for them to be effective; • Working to ensure appropriate discharge planning and supports for persons with TBI leaving unnecessarily segregated settings and moving into the community; • Developing advocacy and legal rights training curriculum for use by leaders of brain injury support groups, and self-advocacy guidebook for TBI consumers, family members, and advocates; and • Educating policymakers about the needs of individuals with TBI and the importance of supporting programs designed to address these needs and working on legislation to reduce the incidence of TBI, such as seat belt, helmet, and All Terrain Vehicle laws. TBI - cont. on p. 14

Part One of Three “The stars are the diamonds • Planning ahead for Metro of the poor. The rich, in their Mobility is hard. shame, hide their diamonds in • Can’t buy a good or new car, vaults because theirs can’t only junkers at best, and a compare with the heavenly ticket or tow or breakdown ones.” Italian Proverb will financially crush you. • Waiting for and taking the ne of the key issues bus is cold, time consuming, people with disabili- and flat-out dangerous. ties face on a daily • Just try figuring out where basis is being poor. We live in you’re going to want to be a society where money has three weeks in advance. It’s become “the report card” of like NASA planning a Voyadults. So I’ve begun asking ager mission. people with disabilities their •No money or clothes for fancy thoughts about what not hav- restaurants. Crummy, fattening money means to them, both ing junk food. the curses and the gifts. In this •It’s hard to date someone new three part series, I’ll report with no car for wining and what I’ve heard. First the dining. tough things: some irritating, • Always having used things. some soul-destroying. Nothing new or owned just by you. ❖❖❖❖❖❖ • No puppies or kittens, be• No extras: No cable, framing cause you can’t afford food pictures, bath salts, air condi- and vet visits. tioning. • Not being able to afford ad• You can’t buy justice. Any vanced education, classes or legal trouble and you’ve got tutors. a public defender. • Not being able to see theater • No vacations or traveling to or baseball games or live conthe beautiful places you’ve certs. dreamed about. • No money to just plain • No buying beautiful or ex- “blow.” pensive things that are always • Being ashamed to go to in the catalogs. church because of the collec• Not being able to afford to do tion plate. sports that are expensive: • Always having to budget evgolf, skiing. ery stupid little thing. • Not having expensive hob- • Can’t buy nice presents for bies or collecting nice things. loved ones, so ashamed at • Not having quality food to Christmas and birthdays. eat. No delicacies with food • Can’t pay my way to do things stamps. with friends with money. • Not having nice or new • Can’t buy musical instruclothes to wear. Marshall ments or new CDs, and get Fields, forget it. sick of the radio. • Not having the best health- • No computer or internet accare, and having to wait for it. cess. That puts you one down • No long distance, you have to in today’s world. call collect. You can lose con- • Being afraid to go off assisnections. tance. You have to give up so • Embarrassment and shame at much to get on it, and it’s being poor, saying you have your only security. no job.

• You aren’t looked at as a person of “substance.” You’re looked down on. • You don’t have the same sense of safety if something, anything, goes wrong. No backup or cushion something to fall back on. • You can’t afford children or daycare or nice things for them if you have them. • You can’t make extra money or you’ll lose your medical that you can’t live without. You get in a terrible trap. • You can’t get credit, or a credit card, so you can’t rent a car or a motel room, or borrow money to invest to make money or buy anything to establish credit. It’s the ultimate Catch-22. • It’s hard to stay positive when you’re always afraid, always under stress. • Not having a beautiful home of your own. Having to always rent a little apartment, with paper-thin walls so no privacy. Cheap doors so no sense of safety. No way to even paint it the color you like or make it “yours.” • Always having to dress like you’re racing in the Iditarod because you have to keep the heat low in the winter. • You can’t crank the stereo and dance, and no room to dance if you wanted to. • No garden of your own with flowers or tomatoes, no garage or storage for a car or gardening tools. • No nice furniture or bookshelves or books. Not even a decent, comfortable bed to sleep on. • What do you do when you wake up from a nightmare and your life is worse than the bad dream? • Sometimes hard to even love or be loved. Diamonds - cont. on p. 14

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March 10, 2007

This Month’s Issue Sponsor

Brain Injury Association Of Minnesota Bridging Minnesotans to a Better Quality of Life

hen brain injury hits, it’s often difficult for people to know how to cross the chasm of life before to life after. And too many people face this situation daily—every 23 seconds, one person in the United States sustains a brain injury. The Brain Injury Association of Minnesota has pioneered many support programs that assist individuals as they transition back into their home, community and work. Many of these services are free to all Minnesotans affected by brain injury, including:

Resource Facilitation Through partnership with the Minnesota Department of Health, this free, statewide program provides persons with brain injury, their family, friends and professionals oneon-one support over the telephone. The program assisted more than 1,500 individuals in 2006 by offering brain injury education, answering questions, solving difficult issues, and identifing and connecting individuals to appropriate community resources.

management services for individuals who are on a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) or Community Alternative for Disabled Individuals (CADI) Waiver and have a brain injury diagnosis. Relocation Service Coordination (RSC) within contracted counties is also available.

Peer/Mentor Support Connection This program offers support to individuals affected by brain injury by matching them or their family members (Peers) with trained volunteers (MenCase Management This program provides case- tors). Mentors provide confi-

dential, consistent support to meaningful volunteer opporPeers through phone and e- tunities, onetime or ongoing. mail. Opportunities include internships, leadership committees and workplace experience and Education We provide for all persons af- an opportunity to socialize for fected by brain injury, free or persons with brain injury. low-cost education opportunities, including our Brain In- For more than 20 years, our jury Basics workshop series efforts, as an association and and regional conferences. Edu- combined with partner orgacation opportunities are also nizations, are helping to create available for support profes- a true bridge of hope and a sionals, including seminars, voice for all Minnesotans afworkshops, trainings and con- fected by brain injury. Our outreach extends the bridge ferences. that allows individuals to realize and access needed support Volunteer Opportunities The Volunteer program offers services. In turn, these support

services help individuals construct bridges of their own to a better quality of life. The mission of the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota is to enhance the quality of life and bring the promise of a better tomorrow for all persons affected by brain injury. For more information, please visit www.brainin jurymn.org or call 800-6696442. ■

100 Years Of Service To Blind Readers Ziegler’s Centennial Issue Highlights Its Long History, with Congratulatory Messages from Subscribers Worldwide by Gregory Evanina

A picture is worth…

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NEW YORK—The Matilda Ziegler Magazine for the Blind, the general-interest monthly that Helen Keller called a “God send,” begins its second century of publication this month with a special anniversary issue.

derful boons in the history of mankind.” This most famous deaf and blind woman gave such high praise to the magazine because she knew how difficult it was for blind people to obtain reading matter 100 years ago.

Ms. Keller made that declaration in a letter published in the magazine’s March 1907 inaugural issue, in which she also called the Ziegler, as it is known, “one of the most won-

The early 20th century was a time when neither the government nor private organizations were able to provide much support for the disabled. Of course, radios, telephones, televisions, computers and the Internet were years away. With limited prospects for entertainment and employment, intelligent blind men and women had little to do in the early 1900s. One thing they could do was read, and the fortunate ones had books in either the braille or New York Point systems of embossed print. But one big obstacle stood between the blind and the books they so enjoyed: money. A book in raised type cost 10 times or more what the same book did in print. As the mother of a blind son, Matilda Ziegler was aware of this group’s great need for reading material, and—as heiress to a baking-powder fortune—she was in a position to help. In one of history’s great acts of charity, Mrs. Ziegler decided to use her inheritance to publish a free monthly magazine for every interested blind person.

tions. Finally, in March 1907, the Matilda Ziegler Magazine for the Blind came into the hands of its eager subscribers, instantly attracting attention from the news media and praise

“With limited prospects for entertainment and employment, intelligent blind men and women had little to do in the early 1900s.” from luminaries. Dozens of newspaper articles were written about the magazine, which Mark Twain described as “one of the noblest benefactions” of his lifetime. Many others agreed with his description, including presidents Grover Cleveland and Teddy Roosevelt, who both wrote congratulatory letters that appeared in the inaugural issue. These former presidents’ letters will appear once again in the 2007 centennial issue, along with a selection of 1907 newspaper articles written

“In one of history's great acts of charity, Mrs. Ziegler decided to use her inheritance to publish a free monthly magazine for every interested blind person.”

about the founding of the publication. The 100th anniversary edition also will contain some items of interest reprinted from Volume One, Number One, of Upon hearing about plans for the Ziegler Magazine. In addithe magazine, thousands of tion to a letter from the eloblind people wrote for subscrip- Ziegler - cont. on p. 15

March 10, 2007

Home Access Answers

Inclusive Design Must Be Standard Procedure Its Five Principles Lie at the Core of Vibrant, Sustainable Communities by Susan Lasoff

n 2006, England’s Commission for Architecture & the Built Environment (CABE), a leader in accessible and universal design, published Five Principles of Inclusive Design.

possible are involved in the design; wheelchair access should not be the base level or an optional extra. 2. Inclusive design acknowledges diversity and difference. Everyone at some point will probably experience limited mobility. It is important to identify barriers to inclusion as early as possible within the de-

The way places are designed affects our ability to move, see, hear and communicate effectively. Inclusive design aims to remove barriers that create undue effort and sepa- “As our aging popularation, and thereby enable ev- tion increases, we need eryone to participate equally, to argue that inclusive confidently and independently in everyday activities. Meet- design is not a choice, ing access needs should be an but a basic essential.” integral part of what we do every day, and we should use sign process, so that good deour creativity to find innova- sign can overcome them. The tive and individual solutions. needs of wheelchair users and persons with mobility disabili1. Inclusive design places ties must be addressed, as well people at the heart of the as barriers experienced by design process. Design and people with cognitive and learndevelopment should create ing disabilities, mental illness, spaces and buildings that visual and hearing impairments. people can use to form vibrant and sustainable communities. 3. Inclusive design offers To achieve this, we must en- choice, where a single design sure that as many people as solution cannot accommo-

date all users. Considering people’s diversity can break down barriers and exclusion, and often achieve superior solutions that benefit everyone. By applying the same high design standards to meet the access requirements of all users, inclusive design embraces everyone on equal terms. An environment should exceed minimum technical specifications.

What Is “Visitability?” by Jane Hampton Dear Jane,

Although Visitability laws vary from state to state, there My husband and I are thinking are three basic design eleabout building a new home. ments: wide passage doors, at Lately I have been hearing this term “visitability.” Is this “… the benefits of insomething we need to be think- corporating these feaing about for our home? tures from the start outJulie, Edina, MN Dear Julie,

weigh the risk of needing to add them at a later date.”

Congratulations—building a new home is very exciting; unfortunately, it can also be quite challenging. The Visitability movement began in the 4. Inclusive design provides early 1990s to influence home for flexibility in use. Meeting the principles of inclusive de- “There are three basic sign requires an understand- design elements: wide ing of how the building or passage doors, at least space will be used and who will use it. Places need to be one half-bath on the designed so that they can adapt main floor, and at least to changing uses and demands. one entrance without 5. Inclusive design provides buildings and environments that are convenient and enjoyable to use for everyone. Access to a building isn’t simply a question of the physical layout. Signage, lighting, visual contrast and materials Design - cont. on p. 7

least one half-bath on the main floor, and at least one entrance without steps. Accessibility advocates in Minnesota are currently proposing adding three more features to this list: 30”x48” maneuvering space in the kitchen, lowered electrical switches and raised electrical outlets, and reinforcement behind bathroom walls for grab-bar placement (Note: Since these additional elements go above and beyond steps” the basic features of the construction practices. Its goal Visitability movement, and the was that all new homes would new Minnesota legislation be built with a few specific would use a different term.) design elements that make it easier for a person with any Here in Minnesota the type of mobility impairment— Visitability legislation only permanent or temporary—to requires the design features to enter and stay in any home. be incorporated in certain cases

where Minnesota Housing Finance Agency has provided financing for the construction (www.mhfa.state.mn.us). Please review your financing carefully to determine if you are required to apply the Visitability design features to your new home. Even if you are not required to incorporate Visitability features, after understanding how easy it is, you may determine that the benefits of incorporating these features from the start outweigh the risk of needing to add them at a later date. Here is more specific information regarding each element: Wide-Passage Doors Ideally, interior-passage doors should be 34” to 36” wide (this provides 32” to 34” of clear passage space when the door is open). The absolute minimum is 32" of clear, unobstructed width. Keep in mind that a 30" clearance might not be wide enough for many users. In tight spaces where a wider door would not fit, consider using a pocket door or adjusting the square footage of an adjoining space Visitability - cont. on p. 10

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March 10, 2007

News At A Glance . . . Most Minnesota Physicians Favor Single-Payer Journal Drops “R” Word from Name “Be the Change” Award Goes to Strand Universal Health Insurance Washington, DC —After almost five decades of being called Brain Injury Association of Minnesota (BIA-MN) volunteer Mental Retardation, this influential journal in special education changed its name to Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities under the leadership of Editor Steven J. Taylor. The journal’s name change is a microcosm of society’s ongoing struggle to find a socially acceptable way of addressing persons with an intellectual disability. The new name comes close on the heels of the name change of its publisher, the American The study, published in the February 13, 2007, issue of the Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Minnesota Medicine, found that 63 percent of state physicians formerly AAMR, the world’s oldest organization representing believe that a single-payer universal health insurance system professionals in developmental disabilities. would offer the best health care to the greatest number of people. twenty-five percent of Minnesota physicians thought For all those who ask, “What’s in a name?” Dr. Taylor says, Health Savings Account (HSA) systems were best, and 12 “The term intellectual and developmental disabilities is simply percent were in favor of managed care. The link to the article less stigmatizing than mental retardation, mental deficiency, is: www.mmaonline.net/publications/MNMed2007/Febru- feeble-mindedness, idiocy, imbecility, and other terminology ary/Clinical-Albers.cfm. we have cast aside over the years.” However, Taylor acknowledges that the crux of the issue here goes beyond language and “This study shows that the majority of physicians support a terminology into the deeper issues of inclusion and acceptance shift in our health care system,” said James Hart, M.D., co- of people with intellectual disabilities in society. He explains, author of the study and assistant professor at the University of “Anyone who believes that we have finally arrived at the Minnesota School of Public Health. “Governments have the perfect terminology will be proven wrong by history. I am sure potential to do an excellent job administering health insurance that at some future point we will find the phrase intellectual and in a way that is much more fair and affordable than our current developmental disabilities to be inadequate and demeaning.” fragmented system.” Vice-president of AAIDD, Steve Eidelman, like many other A large majority of Minnesota physicians (86 percent) believe experts, goes a step further and calls for a public education that it is society’s responsibility, via the government, to ensure campaign to foster more positive attitudes towards people with access to good medical care for all, regardless of ability to pay. intellectual disabilities. In an article published in a past issue of Fifty-nine percent rejected allowing the insurance industry to IDD, he said, “Changing the term (mental retardation) will continue playing a dominant role in the delivery of medical make many people happy. That happiness will quickly fade care. when the new term is used as a pejorative. Without a long-term effort to include everyone and to educate those with negative or In addition, 71 percent of Minnesota doctors said they would neutral attitudes toward our constituents, a change in terminolaccept a ten percent reduction in fees for a “very significant” ogy will become the new pejorative very quickly.” Eidelman’s reduction in paperwork, and 64 percent favored physician comments were made in the midst of a debate on the name payment under a salary system. [Source: Minnesota Universal change of AAMR to its current day name, AAIDD. [Source: Health Care Action Network, www.uhcan-mn.org] AAIDD, www.aaidd.org] Nearly two-thirds of Minnesota physicians believe a singlepayer universal health insurance system would provide the best value for Minnesota patients, according to research conducted by the University of Minnesota School of Public Health and the Universal Health Care Action Network-MN.

Mike Strand was recently honored with the Be the Change Award for his exemplary contributions by Hands On Twin Cities. Strand was recognized in the “Health Places” category, which honors one volunteer each year who has shown exemplary service and commitment to bettering the health for others. $250 was donated to the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota in his name. Strand, who sustained a brain injury in 1989, is known by BIAMN as a highly dedicated volunteer of all trades. In 2006 alone, he authored a column in the association’s newsletter, served as a Mentor, put on his own fundraiser, raised awareness at numerous events, lent a hand with administrative duties, and chaired the association’s Board of Director’s Governance Committee. Strand says of his passionate and enormous involvement, “If you saw a person drowning and they were reaching for your hand, of course you’d pull them out. When I see something that I can do for the Association, I always want to hold out my hand. It is all a matter of perspective.” [Source: Brain Injury Assoc of MN]

Only 28 Percent Of People With Intellectual Disabilities Use Cell Phones A new study published in the February issue of the journal Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (formerly Mental Retardation) examines why only 28 percent of people with intellectual disabilities use cell phones. The report finds that expense, lack of perceived need, and difficulty in use are the main factors limiting cell phone use among this group. By comparison, the national rate of cell phone use in the general population of the United States is 60%. [Source: AAIDD] At A Glance - cont. on p. 15

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March 10, 2007

Upcoming Events To list an event, e-mail access@accesspress.org Home & Garden Show March 17 Mark your calendars for the 16th Annual Greater Midway Home & Garden Show. The accessible event, sponsored by Sparc, a nonprofit community development corporation, encourages home owners to improve their homes through workshops, connecting with local contractors, and opportunities for project financing. Attention low-income home owners: several exhibitors have targeted home improvement financing (some may be forgivable loans) for a variety of improvements. Details: Workshops 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Exhibit Hall 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free admission/parking. Crossroads Elementary, 543 Front Ave., St. Paul. 651-488-1039. Courage Pediatric Open Houses March 17, 24 Courage Center is hosting open houses to showcase their pediatric facilities in Golden Valley and Stillwater, which serve children with disabilities. Come and play in our new sensory gyms, play games, win prizes and dance along with Radio Disney DJs. Free and open to the public. No appointment necessary. Details: 10

a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, March 17: Courage Golden Valley, 3915 Golden Valley Rd. 763-588-0811. Saturday, March 24: Courage St. Croix, 1460 Curve Crest Blvd., Stillwater. 651-439-8283.

tending the Hopkins noontime Lions Club’s spaghetti dinner. Proceeds to benefit Opportunity Partners, a nonprofit serving people with disabilities. 4:00-7:30 p.m., at Opportunity Partners, 5500 Opportunity Ct, Mntka. adults $6 , chilKnow Your Rights dren under 12 are $4, families March 20 and group homes $20. Free Discrimination because of dis- parking. Tixs at the door. ability is illegal. Learn how RSVPs: events@opportuni you are protected under the ties. org or 952-912-2492. MN Human Rights Act. Join Velma Korbel, the CommisGamelan Music of Java sioner of MN Dept of Human March 26 Rights, and a panel of experts Arts Access at Hennepin Cty as they discuss the different Library, a performance series protections under the Act, as designed to connect teens and well as how the complaint pro- adults of all mental and physicess works. cal abilities to the arts, presents “Gamelan Music of Details: Brooklyn Park City Java.” The Indonesian PerHall, 5200 85th Ave, from 5:30 forming Arts Assoc. of MN - 7:00 p.m. Free and open to will introduce you to the magithe public. Request accommo- cal percussion sounds of an dations by Monday, March 12. orchestra like no other—a FFI: Denise Romero-Zasada, gamelan. Joko and Tri 651-297-2824/TTY 651-296- Sutrisno, master performers 1283, denise.romero- from Java, direct a unique assemblage of bronze gongs and zasada@state.mn.us. metallophones from the IndoHopkins Noontime Lions nesian islands and involve the audience in all aspects of their Spaghetti Dinner performance. Free. 7 p.m. at March 22 Take a night off from cooking Eden Prairie Library, 565 Praiand help support people with rie Ctr Dr. FFI: 952-847-5375. disabilities living and working in the community by at-

Navigators Program for Youth with Disabilities April 4, 5 and 6 Navigating the transition between school and adulthood can be difficult for students with disabilities as well as their parents. Opportunity Partners is partnering with Edina Adaptive Recreation to offer this three-day program for youth in transition (ages 16-21). Each day will feature a balanced curriculum and a wide variety of activities, like touring worksites to experience types of employment, learning about safety, transportation options and community recreation. Parents welcome on the last day from 1-4 p.m. Details:

DESIGN -

Cont. from p. 5

must be considered. Oppor- tailed design, and on to contunity to use all elements struction, occupation, manwithin the site is crucial. agement and operation. Inclusive design must be considered at the outset of the design process, and remain integral throughout. The principles relate as much to the design process as to the final product, and apply equally to management, operation and information. Users should be involved during all parts of the design process from the planning phase, through de-

Arneson Acres Park, 4711 West 70th Street, Edina. Daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. $200. Registration: Susie Miller, Edina Park & Rec, 952-826-

As our aging population increases, we need to argue that inclusive design is not a choice, but a basic essential. The way buildings and spaces are designed should reflect these five principles. ■ (Information taken from guide published by CABE, London, England 2006)

0433 or smiller@ci.edina. mn.us. FFI: Jennie Egner, Opportunity Partners, 952930-7688 or jegner@oppor tunities.org.

March 10, 2007

Crossing Barriers To Employment Employees with Developmental Disabilities Play Key Role at Animal Hospital by Katie Dolan

n bright afternoons, light streams through the expansive, floorto-ceiling windows at Pet Crossing Animal Hospital & Dental Clinic in Bloomington, transforming the veterinary facilityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waiting area into a warm, sun-drenched atrium.

Steve Barghusen. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the employees â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including the people employed through Partnership Resources, Inc. (PRI), a program that provides support for people with developmental disabilities.

Scattergood, Jeff Chelman, Joe Harm and Anne Slover wash floors and windows, do laundry, vacuum and perform general cleaning. They also fit in plenty of time to give hugs and kisses to the four-leggeds.

ize that people with disabilities have a lot to offer a workplace â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that they are an asset to a company,â&#x20AC;? Bauernfeind said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This realization is leading to more opportunities and options for those with disabilities.â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hire people with disabilities for a number of reasons,â&#x20AC;? If possible, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an element Barghusen said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For one at the animal hospital that thing, they do a very good job, which means itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good for busiâ&#x20AC;&#x153;I like seeing the dogs ness.â&#x20AC;?

Scattergood, Chelman, Harm â&#x20AC;&#x153;The most rewarding and Slover have all found part of my job is seeing meaningful work at Pet Crossing. Scattergood, 25, is the more and more business most recent hire, having bemanagers realize that gun work there this past Januand cats, and I like people with [develop- ary. She and Slover job share, The animal hospital has emearning a paycheck!â&#x20AC;? mental] disabilities have taking turns at laundry and light ployed people with disabilia lot to offer a workplace cleaning. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I like to help my makes the place even sunnier, ties through PRI for a number coworkers,â&#x20AC;? Scattergood said. according to co-owner Dr. of years. Employees Jamie . . .â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I like seeing the dogs and cats, and I like earning a payFunded by the State of Minne- check!â&#x20AC;? sota and Hennepin County, PRI serves over 200 people Slover, 29, on the other hand, with disabilities through work, has worked at Pet Crossing for leisure and art programs. The four years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You name it, I organization annually supports clean it!â&#x20AC;? she declares proudly. up to 150 individuals at 35 job Slover agrees with Scattergood sites. According to Terri that one of the best things about Bauernfeind, one of the pro- working is getting paid. gram directors, there are currently 18-20 PRI clients wait- For Chelman, 26, the best part ing to find jobs. She believes of being employed at Pet the wait will not be a long one. Crossing has to do with the animals. He has worked there â&#x20AC;&#x153;The most rewarding part of for the past two years and loves Employee Anne Slover works with pets my job is seeing more and to walk the three office dogs who are being housed temporarily at Pet Crossing. more business managers real- (Annie, Gretta and Collin). With the help of other staff members, Chelman also feeds and brushes the dogsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; teeth. He is usually the first to know if one of the resident dogs or cats is not feeling well. Your choiceâ&#x20AC;Ś Earn AND Save a PILE OF FRANKLINS with: 6 Months Mortgage Free or Zero Down or 2/1 Buy Down Financing* Harm, 49, has the most work at Main Street Village Condominiums in New Brighton. experience of the group. He is Other First time home buyer programs available with Zero Down! in charge of cleaning floors 1 Bedroom, 2 Bedroom and 2 Story w/Private Entry Available Now. and the lunchroom, and taking Take advantage of these special offers now and own a special condominium home, in the desirable neighborhood of New Brighton. out the garbage and recycling. He is also responsible for cutAMENITIES & UPGRADES: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s All Here, What You See ting down the number of is What You Getâ&#x20AC;Ś sniffles and other contagious diseases that the staff and the clients encounter by keeping ___ VM_JZQOP\WVKWVLW[ KWU the door handles and the phones virus-free.

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These four employees all work with an on-site job coach. This is one feature that makes the programs so successful in a

Employee Jeff Chelman enjoys time outside on his daily walk with Gretta, one of Pet Crossingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family pets. business setting. Job coaches, which are supplied at no cost to every employer that hires three to five employees with disabilities, provide on-site training to help employees with decision-making skills and make sure that employer expectations are met.

staff, customers and vendors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They help break down barriers that might otherwise exist,â&#x20AC;? says Barghusen.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the barriersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;those preconceived notions that people with disabilities wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do a good jobâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;that present the most significant challenges in Perhaps the most important placing individuals for emfunction that a job coach can ployment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Company owners or human resource executives â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the barriersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;those who make a business decision to hire individuals with dispreconceived notions abilities get the most benefit,â&#x20AC;? that people with disabili- Bauernfeind said.

ties wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do a good jobâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;that present the most significant challenges in placing individuals for employmentâ&#x20AC;?

Barghusen couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t agree more. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jamie, Jeff, Joe and Anne are dependable, loyal workers who help contribute to the bottom line,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x2013;

perform is that of facilitating and maintaining open communication among the supported employees, the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

FFI: Partnership Resources, partnershipresources.org, Pet Crossing Animal Hospital, www.petcrossing.com.

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March 10, 2007

Brain Injury Profiles Finding The Right Fit

The Power Of A Smile

A Change in Living Situation Sets Woman on Having the Right Support Makes the Difference Path to Success. Between Just Surviving and Thriving by Shauna Sheffer

by Shauna Sheffer

smile is one of the few forms of nonverbal communication that can transcend culture boundaries. A smile indicates life, happiness and hope. But is it possible to keep smiling when tragedy strikes?

ichole Tappe is a spunky young woman with many stories to share with the world. The most interesting is of her life. A complicated birth left Nichole with a brain injury and cerebral palsy. “I have trouble with my memory, temper, outbursts, and depression,” stated 28-year-old Nichole.

Brandon Fairchild was a happy-go-lucky 12-year-old, ready to lift your spirit with a joke or one of his signature smiles. One afternoon, he came home with flu-like symptoms and a massive headache. His mother, Shelly Woltjer, took Brandon to a doctor three times before a CAT scan revealed that he had a brain tumor. Brandon immediately went through a seven-hour surgery to remove the tumor.

To receive the level of personal care she needs, Nichole started living at a group home. Unfortunately, the environment was not a fit and she began displaying disruptive behaviors, like running over staffs’ feet with her electric wheel chair. Nichole’s mother, Pam, constantly received upsetting calls from Nichole and the group home staff; she was Nichole Tappe proudly displays her calendar with the reward Due to the sensitive location stickers that she has earned every week for the past six weeks. of the tumor, the doctors could beside herself. only remove 80 percent of it. At this point, management of propriate services. Pam found the new home for just six However, a still-smiling BranNichole’s health case was an immediate connection with months and has already started don was cleared to go back to transferred to the Brain Injury Jennifer. “It was great to find turning her disruptive behav- school and even join swimsomeone who understood iors around. The staff works ming. Two months after being “Nichole is now able to where I was coming from,” with Nichole to set goals and a home, Brandon collapsed at reward system that is effective school with a brain aneurysm. put her energy into said Pam. Following a surgery to repair for her. enjoying her favorite the aneurysm, Brandon and his Together, Jennifer and Pam activities, like boy determined that that group Because of the support from family returned home just bewatching and shopping, home did not provide the right friends and family, consistent fore Christmas. and she’s thankful for environment for Nichole. Jen- group home staff and the Brain her first job and the new nifer worked with Pam to find Injury Association of Minne- The first thing he wanted to do independence it brings.” Nichole a different group home sota, Nichole is now able to was see his best friend, but he where staff really understands put her energy into enjoying only took a few steps into his Association of Minnesota and brain injury and effective ac- her favorite activities, like boy friend’s house before collapsJennifer Taylor, a case man- commodation strategies. watching and shopping, and ing again due to another aneuager at the Association, began she’s thankful for her first job managing her care to make Today, the difference is as- and the new independence it sure she was receiving the ap- tounding. Nichole has been in brings. ■

rysm. “He was a trooper,” are dealing with brain injury. Shelly said. “He never asked “We greatly appreciate all the ‘Why me?’.” professionals and individuals we have met along the way After the third surgery, Shelly and acknowledge how valucontacted the Brain Injury able those encounters have Association of Minnesota’s been,” says Shelly. Shelly is Resource Facilitation program also a Mentor as part of the for support. “The Resource Peer/Mentor Support ConnecFacilitator helped answer my tion program at the Brain Inquestions, gave me advice on jury Association of Minnesota. finances, and helped connect “Coping with a brain injury is my family to the services we hard for everyone,” said needed,” said Shelly. Shelly. “It’s easy to feel like you are the only one with this Shelly has noticed some situation. I wanted to be a changes with Brandon’s be- Mentor to show people they havior since the incidents, such are not alone and provide hope as impulsiveness and inability for the future.” to understand his limitations.. “But he still has his great sense After all of the ups and downs, of humor!” laughed Shelly. Shelly, Brandon, and their family have a gained a lot. “You really learn how important “It’s easy to feel like you family and friends are when are the only one with this you go through something like this,” said Brandon. Shelly situation. I wanted to be agrees. “If you can keep your a Mentor to show people family strong, you can get they are not alone . . .” though it.” Out of all the hardship, pain and loss, what is Today, Shelly is participating most interesting is what Branwith local professionals to ini- don has managed to keep— tiate a support group for oth- his smile. ■ ers in Kandiyohi County who

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FAQ@DLL

Work Impacts Your Benefits by the Disability Linkage Line Staff Q: I want to go back to work but am afraid of being worse off. Where can I find out how work will affect my government benefits? A: The Minnesota Work Incentives Connection offers free services that can help. Different benefit programs have different rules. The Minnesota Work Incentives Connection can help you determine the bottom line, in terms of how much money you will have relying solely on government benefits versus how much you would have if you worked and perhaps gave up some of those benefits. They can also help

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you understand work incentives â&#x20AC;˘Will I have to move out of my which might apply to help you subsidized housing if my intransition back to work. come goes up? â&#x20AC;˘Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard about special rules The Connection is a central called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trial Work Period,â&#x20AC;? place where you can get an- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Extended Period of Eligiswers to questions, such as: bility,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;PASS,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Subsidyâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘Will I really be better off and â&#x20AC;&#x153;IRWE.â&#x20AC;? Which of these taking a job, working more apply to my situation? hours or accepting a promo- â&#x20AC;˘How much would I have to tion than limiting my earn- earn to make up for the benings or not working at all? efits I give up? â&#x20AC;˘What are the safety nets if I â&#x20AC;˘What are my options for keep- move off benefits, but need ing the health coverage I need them again later if my abilidue to my disability? ties change? â&#x20AC;˘Which rules apply to the specific benefits I receive? Which benefits â&#x20AC;˘How will my work affect my can they tell me about? childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s benefits? They can help you understand how work affects: â&#x20AC;˘SSI: Supplemental Security Income â&#x20AC;˘SSDI: Social Security Disability Insurance â&#x20AC;˘Health Insurance: Medical Assistance, Medicare, MinnesotaCare, and other health insurance. â&#x20AC;˘Food Support â&#x20AC;˘Subsidized housing â&#x20AC;˘Group Residential Housing â&#x20AC;˘Other Government benefits

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Will they tell me if I am better off working? The Connection will not tell you how much you should work; they will simply give you the information you need to make an informed choice about benefits and working. The Connectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to provide you with clear, accurate, individualized and confidential assistance so you can make that choice. Although the rules can be complicated, most people with disabilities are better off working than not working. How do they provide services? Services are offered to Minnesotans with all types of disabilities and include: A Telephone Hotline to answer questions about work and

benefits; solve benefits problems; and help you advocate for yourself with Social Security, the county or housing representatives. The Hotline is answered on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between 8:30 and 4:30. If these times are not convenient, you can leave a message with other times when someone can call you back. (see number below) Benefits Analysisâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an individualized, written plan, detailing: how work affects each of your benefits; work incentives that apply to you; health care options; and your overall financial situation before and after working. Benefits Analysis also includes assistance in tracking wages and benefits, along with ongoing follow up and support. How do I find out more? One way to make sure you have up-to-date information on work and benefits is to get on their mailing list, - just give them a call to sign up. You can also look on their Web site www.mnworkincentives.com. To reach the Minnesota Work Incentives Connection, call: â&#x20AC;˘ In the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area: 651-632-5113 â&#x20AC;˘ From Greater Minnesota: 1-800-976-6728 â&#x20AC;˘ Via TTY: 651-632-5110 or MN Relay â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 711 â&#x2013; If you have additional questions about community resources, please call the Disability Linkage Line (DLL) at 1866-333-2466. DLL provides free, disability-related 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.

VISITABILITY -

Cont. from p. 5

in order to accommodate a approximately $300-$600 for wider door. homes with crawl spaces or basements. In some cases there Half-Bath on the Main Level may be no additional cost at Visitability requirements state all. Finally, incorporating a half that there must be at least one- bath on the main floor of a half bathroom on the main level home is simply a matter of and ideally it should provide a planning. Worst case scenario, minimum clear floor space of a Visitable home might cost 30â&#x20AC;?x 48â&#x20AC;? for maneuvering. you $150-$650 more when You can always go above and planned from the beginning. beyond the minimum and pro- When compared to an estivide a fully accessible, full mated $3,000 to add a safe bathroom on the main level of zero-step entrance to a home a home. This improvement later, and $500 to widen each would provide additional com- door, and tens of thousands of fort for overnight guests, as dollars it could take to add an well as the comfort of know- accessible bathroom to the ing that if you or anyone else main floor, building a home living in the home ever has a with basic access features is a mobility impairment you will smart financial decision not have to move or drasti- (www.concretechange.org). cally remodel your home. Much of this information may One Zero-Step Entrance seem overwhelming as you There are several options for face the seemingly endless achieving this feature. The decisions to be made when zero-step entrance can be at building a home. Nevertheless, the front, back or side of the with a little planning, you can home or from inside an at- have peace of mind from tached garage. The lot can be knowing that you can welcome graded so that no ramp, or a any guest into your home, as very short concrete ramp, is well as live in your home yourneeded. If a longer ramp is self, comfortably and indepennecessary there are many ways dently, for the rest of your life. to â&#x20AC;&#x153;disguiseâ&#x20AC;? one, and even â&#x2013; make it an attractive design feature of the home. Do you have a question for Jane? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll cover all of your Those opposed to Visitability questions in future issues of legislation often argue that Home Access Answers. Please these features are cost prohibi- contact us at 952-925-0301, tive. The truth is that if planned w w w . a c c e s s i b i l i t y from the beginning, these fea- design.com, or inf@acces tures add little, if any cost to sibilitydesign. com. Jane the project. For example; a Hampton, president of Acces2006 survey of wholesale door sibility Design, founded the companies found that the company in 1992 to enhance added cost of a 34â&#x20AC;? door over lives through design and a 32â&#x20AC;? door was less than $1.50 project management. They per door. In the average home provide design, consultation, it might cost around $50 to project management, and add wider passage doors. De- product recommendation serpending on site conditions, vices specializing in home aczero-step entrances average cess for individuals with disapproximately $100 or less for abilities at all stages of life. slab on grade construction and

The Minnesota State Council on Disability

Town Hall Forum on Transportation Issues Monday, April 2, 1:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3:30 p.m. Available via videoconferencing and web streaming This is YOUR opportunity to share your experience with non-emergency transportation services. *Overview: Current Transportation Systems in Minnesota *Discuss: Current brokerage system - Metro area. Register by contacting the Minnesota State Council on Disability. For more information, visit our website 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 Your Technical Assistance and Training Resource

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March 10, 2007

SURVEY -

Cont. from p. 1

child with a disability, cited the work of countless families to achieve these shifts in public attitude, saying, “We owe those who came before us our deepest gratitude and thanks.” Tim Moots, a self-advocate and member of a local self-

“People with disabilities can be employed. People with disabilities want to be employed. People with disabilities are the best employees you can have.” advocacy group, also offered his gratitude for the pioneering self-advocates of the past. “I would like to inspire future self-advocates, just as people before me inspired me.” The power of committed parents and professionals to make life better for people with developmental was especially evident at the event. Three parents of children with developmental disabilities also spoke, all of whom have worked for years to promote inclusion and new understandings of people with disabilities, and all of whom now represent key organizations: Les Bauer (The Arc of MN), Mary Powell (The Autism Society

of MN), and Jo Erbes (United ties. “People with disabilities Cerebral Palsy of MN). can be employed. People with disabilities want to be emIntegration in the employment ployed. People with disabilisector was strongly endorsed ties are the best employees you in the 2007 survey, with 91 can have. … We need to put percent agreeing (“agreeing into practice what we say we strongly” or “agreeing some- believe.” what”) that with the right training people with developmen- Bauer, president of the Arc of tal disabilities could be very Minnesota, said the Arc was productive workers. Compa- “delighted to see these nies offering jobs were seen in changes” in public attitudes. a positive light, with 85 per- At the same time, he cautioned cent of 2007 respondents say- that there is still much work to ing they have a lot of respect do. Bauer, in noting that this is for companies that employ the first generation of people people with developmental with developmental disabilidisabilities. Moots highlighted ties that will outlive their parthe critical issues—beyond ents, called for improved suppublic acceptance—that port services from birth people with developmental through all of life. disabilities still face. “I would The survey showed a huge “. . . the struggle that majority of Minnesotans in brought about these favor of government and taxpayers providing a range of changes has been an services and supports for “arduous journey” people with developmental disabilities. Powell celebrated like to have a good job. What’s the survey as a tool to leverage really important is friends and, lawmakers, saying, “I’m gonna CHCHING, money.” Like take this survey and march Moots, Erbes stressed results right up to the capitol.” as the best measure of the public’s new, inclusive atti- When asked whether people tudes. In particular, she called with developmental disabilifor channeling these new atti- ties should be kept in an institudes toward building competi- tution, just 3 percent agreed tive employment opportuni- strongly or somewhat, as com-

pared to a total of 35 percent agreeing strongly or agreeing somewhat in 1962, when state institutions were common. Powell, a parent of a child with autism spectrum disorder, noted that the struggle that brought about these changes has been an “arduous journey.” In the 60s, 95 percent of people with autism were in institutions. Noting the continued journey ahead, she called on parents and professionals to further let go of control of people with developmental

“No matter who we are, or what we are or where we come from, we are one. We’re all cut from the same cloth.” disabilities, and give them the opportunity to develop selfdetermination through living it, mistakes and all. In particular, she cautioned that amidst the struggle for inclusion and opportunity for people with disabilities, parents and professionals need to be careful to make sure that the goals represent “their dream, not our dream.” Erbes opened her remarks by questioning a one-size-fits-all label like developmental dis-

ability. She noted that people with cerebral palsy are not happy being lumped with people who have intellectual disabilities under the label “developmental disability” and see it as “a putdown.”

In closing, Moots appealed to our common humanity as stronger than our differences. “No matter who we are, or what we are or where we come from, we are one. We’re all cut from the same cloth.” ■

Using Taxpayers’ Money? Yes! In 2007, over 80% of Minnesotans agreed that it’s important for government to use taxpayers’ money to provide these services: • Centers where people with developmental disabilities can learn job skills • Special [sic] classes to educate and train people with developmental disabilities • Assurance of access to quality health care services • Protection services to prevent abuse of people with developmental disabilities • Research to learn about the causes of developmental disabilities • Specialized training for people with developmental disabilities, and/or their advocates, on how to exercise rights and speak up for oneself • Provision of personal care attendants, who assist people with developmental disabilities, to enable them to live more independently, or as they choose • On the job assistance, so people with developmental disabilities can work in regular businesses • Subsidies to families to pay for extra costs of caring for children with developmental disabilities • Individual teaching assistants who would enable children with developmental disabilities to attend regular public school classes Selected Results of the 1962/2007 Minnesota Survey of Attitudes Regarding Developmental Disabilities.

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

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

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

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

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

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

March 10, 2007

Peace Through Meditation

MANAGED CARE -

A Path to Self-Awareness for Those with Disabilities

Delaying the Expansion of Minnesota Disability Health Options

by Clarence Schadegg

t is hard to write about, let alone make time for, peace and meditation while constantly hearing news of war, violence, hate, and sectarian killing done in the name of God? Not to mention the social, medical and moral debates over practices like the

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A number of participants report enjoying the quiet and the peace which they feel from the meditation we offer.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ashley Treatment.â&#x20AC;? Recently, however, I had the opportunity to attend a meditation session led by Cal Appleby, a teacher of Buddhist meditation. Appleby facilitates pro-

grams that bring peace to the soul through spiritual connectedness. Along with volunteers, he leads such sessions at prisons, high rises and skilled-care facilities.

this experience. The process was continued with a deep breathing exercise followed by a time of meditation. The participants shared more about themselves as they practiced more of the intermittent healThe session, for residents of a ing through deep breathing and skilled-care facility, was held meditation. in a large meeting room. Some folks arrived by themselves I was allowed to bring both of and some came with the help my dogs along with me to this of staff, to participate in one of session. Frisco, my retired these once-a-month, two-hour guide, found a place next to sessions. The 20 people who and at time under the wheelparticipate in these monthly, chair of one of the participants one-hour sessions start by of this group; and that is where he stayed for the entire time. forming a circle. That person didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want him To begin, the participants to go, she petted him and he shared something about themselves: why they came and/or â&#x20AC;&#x153;We encourage resiwhat they hoped to gain from

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soaked it up. (Dogs bring a sense of healing to people, regardless of ability. Would people with disabilities who live in high rises, veteran hospitals, treatment centers, nursing homes, among others, also benefit from the effects of meditation and touch?) Following the session, Appleby responded to some of my questions about the meditation process.

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dents to be present with any discomfort, physical or mental, that they might experience.â&#x20AC;?

How do the meditation sessions you lead help residents of a skilled-care facility move to a higher level of consciousness? A number of participants report enjoying the quiet and the peace which they feel from the meditation we offer. How do you evaluate each residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s level of preparedness for the meditation sessions you lead? Residents self-select whether they wish to attend the sessions; we have a number of

participants who have come to the first Sunday meeting for several years--some who come decide for one reason or another not to return. Some participants [have intellectual disabilities], and some are mute. It is difficult to determine what brings them to the group, and what causes them to stick with it.

Cont. from p. 1

other social service needs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;AXIS has made my life so much better. My nurse knows all of my health concerns. Since joining AXIS, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been healthier, happier and more independent,â&#x20AC;? David Adank, MnDHO member.

Under the new legislation, the Minnesota Disability Health Options (MnDHO) would not expand beyond the sevencounty metro till 2009. The purpose of the delay is to al- The MnDHO program as it low the Minnesota Department exists now will continue to of Human Services, with input operate in Hennepin, Ramsey, from consumers, advocates, Anoka, Dakota, Scott, Carver, and health plans, time to fur- Washington counties despite ther develop an expansion plan the delay. and more clearly define the All of the folks in the group requirements for quality disNew Options for you led at the skilled-care ability care coordination. Basic Services facility have a disability. How do your meditation ex- MnDHO is a voluntary man- Beginning in January 2008, ercises help these people bet- aged-care option for Medic- persons with disabilities would ter deal with pain. aid-eligible adults (age 18-64) also have new options for rewho have a certified primary ceiving basic health-care serWe encourage residents to be physical disability. MnDHO vices through a prepaid health present with any discomfort, operates through a partnership plan. Basic services do not physical or mental, that they between UCare Minnesota, a include any long-term or home might experience. Hopefully, health plan, and AXIS and community-based serthis practice will help them be Healthcare, a disability care vices. As additional choices present with awareness with coordination organization. become available, it is impordaily pain and challenges MnDHO covers the full range tant to be aware of the differwhich they encounter. of Medicaid, Medicare and ences among plans and types home and community-based of services offered. These new Do you lead these sessions services benefits. AXIS programs remain voluntary; merely to help people with Healthcare provides each Medicaid fee-for-service will disabilities? Or do you have MnDHO enrollee with a team continue to be an option for a plan to educate the staff as of disability specialists to help healthcare service delivery for well? coordinate their health-care, persons with disabilities. â&#x2013; housing, transportation and We see our group contributing to everyone...to see the value in everyone they meet, and especially to raise each participantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recognizing his or her inherent wisdom, beauty and incalculable value. If you feel strongly about health care for people with disabilities in Minnesota, now is the time to get involved. How do you bridge the distance between people with â&#x20AC;˘ Find out who represents you: Go to www.leg.state. different spiritual beliefs and mn.us and click on â&#x20AC;&#x153;Who Represents Me.â&#x20AC;? You can also world views? call 651-296-2146, TTY-651-296-9896, for help in identifying your representative and senator. We (myself and volunteers) offer a simple generic nonsecâ&#x20AC;˘ Talk to your legislators: It is important that they hear tarian practice that is univerfrom you. Your stories, input, and experiences are the sal in all spiritual traditions. It most valuable pieces of information legislators can have is a self-awareness practice before making decisions that impact your health-care using the breath--it is training options. in attention and mindfulness. â&#x2013; â&#x20AC;˘ Participate in Advocacy Day: Tuesday April 3, 2007. Visit www.courage.org for more information. Cal Appleby has been a student and practitioner of Yoga â&#x20AC;˘ Join the disability community for a rally at the capiand Zen since 1972. He tol: The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disteaches in the chemical deabilities Rally at the Rotunda, Thursday April 12, 2007. pendency field. Two major For more information visit www.mnccd.org emphases in his groups, classes and community workshops are: how to learn to see difficult people and situations, including illness, as precious spiritual teachers; and how to We would like to acknowledge the choose to be happy no matter GENEROUS donations what. Appleby is the founder of these 2007 Issue Sponsors: and co-coordinator of the Beverly White Outreach Project, which offers meditation and yoga in prisons and other places where residents are facing difficult life challenges. He is a recipient of the 2003 Virginia McKnight Binger Award in Human Services. Contact Cal Appleby for answers to your questions on Please consider joining as an the subject of meditation and Issue Sponsor group development in instituCall: 651-644-2133 tions. LAFSCAL@aol.com, 612-929-0901.

Take Action!

March 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. An American Vision: Henry Francis du Pont’s Winterthur Museum Feb. 18 - May 6 Mpls. Inst. of Arts, Target Gallery, 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: Sun., Mar. 4, 2:00 p.m. Interpreted exhibit tour begins by museum lobby info desk. Tix: spc. exhibition admn; interpreted tour is free; 612-8703131; TTY: 612-870-3132; Email: dhegstro@artsmia.org; Web: www.artsmia. org

Mar. 28 - Apr. 15 Apr. 5-7: MN Opera Ctr, 620 N. 1st St., Mpls; Apr. 13-15: Open Book, Ten Thousand Things Theater, 1011 Washington Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Fri., Apr. 13, 8:00 p.m. Tix: $13, Reg. $20, 612-203-9502; www.tenthousandthings.org

Don Juan Giovanni Mar. 3 - June 24 Theatre de la Jeune Lune, 105 N. First St., Mpls. AD: Sun., Mar. 18, 7:00 p.m. ASL: TBA. Tix: Reduced to $13; reg. $20; TicketWorks 612-333-6200 or 612-332-3968x100; Web: www.jeunelune.org

Camelot (Touring Show) Mar. 6 - 17 Ordway Ctr for the Performing Arts, 345 Washington, St. Paul. AD: Sat., Mar. 10, 2:00 The Anastasia Trials in the p.m. ASL: Fri., Mar. 16, 8:00 p.m. Tix: 651-224-4222, Ct of Women TTY: 651-282-3100; www. Mar. 17 - 31 Theatre Unbound at Play- ordwayorg/services/access.asp wrights’ Ctr, 2301 Franklin The Chosen Ave. E., Mpls. AD: Fri., Mar. 30, 7:30 p.m. ASL: Sat., Mar. Mar. 9 - Apr. 1 31, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $8, reg. Pk Sq Theatre, 408 St Peter St. $16; 612-721-1186; E-mail: (20 W. 7th Place), St. Paul. AD/ info@theatreunbound.com; ASL: Sat., Mar. 24, 7:30 p.m. Web: www.theatreunbound. Tix: ½ price; 651-291-7005; com www.parksquaretheatre.org

The Glass Menagerie Jan. 20 - Mar. 25 Guthrie Theater, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD: Fri., Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 17, 1:00 p.m. (sensory tour 10:30). ASL: Fri., Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m.; Thurs., Mar. 1, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $17, reg. $22-$52; 612-3772224, TTY: 612-377-6626; www.guthrietheater.org

Arsenic and Old Lace Mar. 22 - Apr. 7 Tin Roof Theatre Co. at Main Ave Theatre, 716 Main Ave., Fargo. AD: Sat., Mar. 24, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $8, reg $15, student/ sr $10); 701-306-5843; Web: www.tinroo ftheatre.com

C C L

K2 Apr. 6 - May 20 Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave S, Mpls. AD: Thurs., Apr. 26, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $8 (reduced) reg. $24-36; 612-822-7063; www.jungletheater.com

omedy. ontroversy.

PERFORMANCES INTERPRETED IN

ove...

Life is a Dream Mar. 8 - 25 U of M Duluth Theatre at Marshall Performing Arts Ctr, UMD Campus, 1215 Ordean Ct, Duluth. ASL: Sun., Mar. 25, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $13, $10 sr/ student, $6 UMD student/ child, 218-726-8561; Web: www.d.umn.edu/theatre

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE: • Friday, April 13 at 7:30 p.m.

AUDIO DESCRIBED

The Light in the Piazza Mar. 20 - 25 Orpheum Theatre features a touring show, 910 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: Sun., Mar. 25, 1:00 p.m. Tix: $27-72; AD by requested in adv.: 612-3735639 or 5609; Hotline: 612373-5650; TTY: 612-3735655; E-mail: accessible@ orpheum.com; Web: www. hennepintheatredistrict.org/ guestservices/aslad/

PERFORMANCES:

• Saturday, March 31 at 1 p.m. (sensory tour is available at 10:30 a.m.)

• Friday, April 6 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $17 for patrons who use the ASL or AD service and for one companion.

PHOTO: MATT GRAY

N O W P L AY I N G

Blood Wedding

Heaven on Earth: Arts of Islam Apr. 1 Mpls. Institute of Arts, 2400 Third Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: Sun., Apr. 1, 2:00 p.m. Exhibit tour begins by the Information Circle Around the Island Desk in the museum lobby. Tix: 612-870-3131, TTY: Mar. 3 - 18 Mu Performing Arts at Guthrie 612-870-3132 or E-mail: Theater – Dowling Studio, 818 dhegstro@artsmia.org; Web: 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD: Sat., Mar. www.artsmia.org 10, 7:30 p.m. ASL: TBA. Tix: Huck Finn $18?, 612-377-2224; Web: Mar. 6 - Apr. 7 www.muperformingarts.org Children’s Theatre Co., 2400 or www.guthrietheater.org - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD and

ASL: Wed., Mar. 28, 10:30 for $13 tix (reg. Disc is $20); a.m.; Fri., Mar. 30, 7:30 p.m. 612-874-0400; Web: www. Tix: Mention VSA Offer for childrenstheatre.org $13 tix; regular Disc is $20; 612-874-0400; www.child Love, Janis renstheatre.org Feb. 6 - Apr. 15 Ordway Ctr for Performing Arts Invigorate the Common Main Hall, 345 Washington, Well: When Water is Frozen St. Paul. Touring show. ASL: Mar. 2 - 25 Fri., Feb. 23, 8:00 p.m. AD: In the Heart of the Beast Pup- Sat., Feb. 24, 2:00 p.m. Tix: pet/Mask Theatre with the 651-224-4222, TTY: 651-282Tomales Bay Institute at 1500 3100; www.ordway.org/serE. Lake St., Mpls. AD: Sun., vices/access.asp Mar. 18, 2:30 p.m.; tactile tour 2:00; please register. ASL: MACT Fest Fri., Mar. 23, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Mar. 29 - Apr. 1 $20 ($15 sr, student, child un- MN Assoc. of Community Theder 12, groups). 612-721- atres Festival at the Barn The2535; E-mail: info@hobt.org; atre, 321 SW 4th St., Willmar. Web: www.hobt.org 14 plays, wkshps, opening reception, closing party, awards Iron Kisses brunch; AD/ASL Req. by Mar. Mar. 30 - Apr. 21 1. Play sessions: Thurs. Mar. Illusion Theater, Hennepin Ctr 29, 7:00 p.m.; Fri. Mar. 30, 12:30 for the Arts, 8th floor, 528 and 7:00 p.m.; Sat. Mar. 31, Hennepin Ave., Mpls. AD: 9:00 a.m., 1:30 and 7:00 p.m.; Fri., Apr. 6, 8:00 p.m. Tix: Awards: Sun. Apr. 1, 10:30 a.m. Reduced to $10 for AD patron at Holiday Inn, 2100 Hwy 12 E; and companion (reg. $20); Wrkshps: Thurs. Mar. 29, 10:00 612-339-4944; www.illusion a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and Fri. Mar. theater.org 30, 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. Tix: $10 per session or $90 for FesJourney of the Drum: tival. 952-884-9676 or MACT A Taiko Fable Hotline, 612-706-1456 or 800Mar. 2 - 22 290-2428; www.mact.net or SteppingStone Theatre and www.TheBarnTheatre.com Theater Mu at Landmark Ctr, 75 W. 5th St., St. Paul. ASL: The Merchant of Venice Mar. 10 - May 6 Sun., Mar. 11, 2:00 p.m. AD: Tues., Mar. 13, 11:00 a.m. Tix: Guthrie Theater, Wurtele $11, student/sr $9; 651-225- Thrust, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. 9265; www.steppingstone AD: Sat., Mar. 31, 1:00 p.m. theatre.org

Now – May , 

sponsored by

Wurtele Thrust Stage

612.377.2224 | TTY 612.377.6626 | WWW.GUTHRIETHEATER.ORG

The Lost Boys of the Sudan Mar. 27 - Apr. 22 Children’s Theatre Co., Cargill Stage, 2400 - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD/ASL: Fri., Apr. 13, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Mention VSA Offer

(sensory tour 10:30); Fri., Apr. 6, 7:30 p.m. ASL: Fri., Apr. 13, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $17, reg. $22-$52; 612-377-2224; TTY: 612-377-6626; Web: www.guthrietheater.org The Mikado, or the Town of Titipu Mar. 8 - Apr. 1 Gilbert and Sullivan Very Light Opera Co. at Howard Conn Fine Arts Ctr, 1900 Nicollet Ave. S., Mpls.; AD: Sat., Mar. 24, 3:00 p.m.; 2:15 p.m. tactile. Bathrm accessibility renovation in-progress. Tix: $15; children under 12: $8, GSVLOC Tix, 1412 W. 47th St., Mpls. 55419; after Mar. 1: 651-2556947 M-F 11:00-2:00 p.m.; www.gsvloc.org Orphan Train, the Musical Feb. 24 - Apr. 1 History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. AD: Sun., Mar. 4, 2:00 p.m. ASL: Sun., Mar. 18, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $15 reduced; 651-292-4323; Web: www. historytheatre.com The Pajama Game Mar. 9 - 25 Mixed Blood Theatre at Sabathani Theater, 310 E. 38th St, Mpls. AD, ASL and Captioning: Fri., Mar. 23, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $5, reg. $24; 612-338-6131 or E-mail: box office@mixedblood.com; Web: www.mixedblood.com Perform - cont. on p. 14

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.mnoc films.org/movies.html or Rear Window Captioned Film, 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 is in Theatre 12, request head- Lakes 10 Theatre, 4351 set with Letter G. Stebner Rd., Hermantown. 12 Accessible Parking spaces AMC Eden Prairie Mall 18 near theater. Movie Line: Theatres, 4000 Flying Cloud 218-729-0335; Emergency: Dr at Eden Prairie Shopping 218-729-0334; Fax: 218Center, Hwy 212 and 494, 729-0334; E-mail: Sfen 952-656-0010. Park in upper nessey@cectheatres.com. ■

March 10, 2007

Yes, I’d Love To Go To The Prom Local Group Provides Free Prom Dresses to Girls who Can’t Afford One by Operation Glass Slipper staff

f the Minnesotans recently surveyed, 97% believe people with developmental disabilities should be included in public places and social events. The high school prom is a classic example on an event that should be, and increasingly is, integrated and accessible for all students with disabilities. For many girls, however, just buying the dress is a barrier to big to overcome.

for this year’s event through March 15.

day event, girls will be come able to try on to the dresses, Open as well House as choose to get from a their dress. variety They may bring one of shoes, female companion clutch bags, (no dates or boyshawls, and other acfriends, and no cessories. Hours are 10 children) and are Good news. Operation Glass a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, asked not to wear makeup (it Slipper, a project of Gender April 14, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. soils the necklines of dresses Equity in Leadership and on Sunday, April 15. that are tried on). Learning at St. Paul Academy, is making proms more acces- High school girls who won’t Donations Welcome sible by providing dresses at be able to attend prom be- Operation Glass Slipper asks no charge to any girl who can- cause they can’t afford a dress, women and girls in the Twin not afford one. “Any person, should tell their guidance coun- Cities to go through their closregardless of disability, should selor or teacher at school, a ets and donate their prom gowns be able to attend their prom,” community leader who knows and formal, bridesmaid, and says Pam Phillip of Operation them, or a member of the clergy cocktail dresses (new or gently Glass Slipper. “And any of at their church, and have them used), shawls, and clutch bags. these girls who need a dress get in touch with Operation These items are being cleaned, should come to us. We’ll be Glass Slipper. The project re- repaired, and stored until April, happy to help them.” lies on these professionals to when the group will hold an make sure that dresses go to open house at which girls for How to Get a Dress students in financial need. whom prom dresses are proHigh school girls will be able hibitively expensive can select to select a dress during the Eligible girls will be able to one at no charge. In order to Open House the weekend of get a dress at no charge, but have all the dresses ready in April 14-15 at Southdale Cen- must present a current, valid time for the giveaway event, ter in Edina. During this two- high school ID, when they they will be accepting dresses

TBI -

Cont. from p. 3

Drop-off sites for donations, and other information on the project, can be found on the group’s Web site: www.opera tionglassslipper.org. The group can be contacted via email at: info@operation glassslipper.org. ■

DIAMONDS -

“In his State of the Union ad- abled, and poor children.’ How dress, the President assured much more do we owe our the nation that ‘we will meet returning service men and women returning with disabili“In his State of the ties acquired in the line of Union address, the duty?” said Decker. ■

President assured the nation that ‘we will meet [the] responsibilities of [caring] for the elderly, the disabled, and poor children.”

and the Client Assistance Programs (CAP) for individuals with disabilities. Collectively, the Network is the largest provider of legally based advocacy services to people with disabilities in the United States. For further information, a TBI Fact Sheet can be found online at: www.ndrn. org/issues/TIB/TBI_fs.pdf

The Institute of Medicine report can be found at http:// www.nap.edu/catalog/ 11600.html. The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) is the nonprofit mem- [Source: National Disability bership organization for the Rights Network] [the] responsibilities of [car- federally mandated Protection ing] for the elderly, the dis- and Advocacy (P&A) Systems

Accessible Space, Inc. ASI

Over the last few months Operation Glass Slipper has received hundreds of donated dresses, gowns, and accessories from many generous individuals around Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as from bridal shops and department stores. However, they are still short of dresses in the smaller (0-2) and larger (14+) sizes, so at this time they are asking for monetary donations that will be used to purchase discounted dresses in these sizes from their bridal and department store sponsors. They are still in need of supplies such as a professional clothing steamer, rolling clothing racks (the racks they have are bulging with gowns), and bottled water, soft drinks and food for the volunteers at the Open House.

HOUSING WITH CARE

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(651) 645-7271 or (800) 466-7722 ~ TTY/TDD (800) 627-3529 Housing Info: ext. 295 ~ Employment Info: ext. 297 (EOE/AA) Apply for housing or employment on-line: www.accessiblespace.org *Eligibility or selection of ASI services is not required to qualify for housing ASI services are not available in all locations

Cont. from p. 3 •It takes so much time and energy and thought and fear just getting by day to day, every day, that it’s hard to have dreams for yourself, hard to read a book, or think about your life or plan for the future. ❖❖❖❖❖❖ Hang in there. Next month is Part Two, the wonderful gifts that can come. ■ Pete can be contacted at PFeigal@aol.com.

PERFORM -

Cont. from p. 13

St. Paul Public Library Deaf Storytime Apr. 7, May 5 Merriam Prk Library, 1831 Marshall Ave. St. Paul. Deaf storyteller Estella Bustamante FM listening assist. avail. Tix: free; 651-642-0385; TTY: 651-298-4184; www.stpaul. lib.mn.us/programs/aslstorytimes.html Trix Bruce: The Hearing World Around Me Mar. 16 CLS Signers host ASL performer Trix Bruce at Cntrl Lks College Chalberg Theatre, 501 W. College Dr, Brainerd; Fri, Mar. 16, 7:00 p.m. ASL/Voice Interpreter: Tix: $5: Julie at 218-851-9315 (voice); Email: clcsigners@yahoo.com; Web: www.TrixBruce.com or www.clcmn.edu Trix Bruce Workshop: “Face-Painting” with NonManual Signals Mar. 17 Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake, 11000 Cragun’s Dr, Brainerd. ASL: Sat., Mar. 17, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Register by Mar. 1, $45; $55 at the door. 6 clock hours RID CEU. Send fee to Trix Bruce, 1429 D Ave PMB 362, Snohomish, WA 98290; RSVP: info@trixbruce.com. True West Mar. 23 - Apr. 15 Starting Gate Productions at Mounds Theatre, 1029 Hudson Road, St. Paul. AD: Sun., Apr. 1, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $10; reg. $18, $16 student/sr; 651-6453503; www.startinggate.org Two One-Act Plays: Cheers and Tears for the Ears and Helen of Boyd Mar. 23 - 25 Prime Time Players/Theatre Assoc. of Stillwater at Art Rageous Pottery, 321 S. Main St, Stillwater (above Alfresco Casual Living). AD/ASL: If req. by Mar. 9 for Sun., Mar. 25, 3:00 p.m.; Tix: $15, $10 students ($10 for AD/ASL patron/companion); 651-4390993; E-mail: info@Stillwater

Theatre.org; Web: www. stillwatertheatre.org Underneath the Lintel Feb. 23 - Mar. 17 Pillsbury House Theatre, 3501 Chicago Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Fri., Mar. 2, 7:30 p.m., with post-show discussion; Tix: Reduced to $11 (reg. $18), Wed. (pay what you can); 612825-0459; Web: www. pillsburyhousetheatre.org The Voice of the Prairie Feb. 16 - Mar. 11 Theatre in Round Players, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., Mar. 11, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $20, sr/student disc; 612-333-3010; www.theatreintheround.org You Never Can Tell Mar. 23 - Apr. 15 Theatre in the Round Players, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., Apr. 15, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $20, sr/student Disc; 612-3333010; Web: www.theatre intheround.org Where the Girls Are: A Musical Celebration of American Women Mar. 29 - Apr. 7 Blue Umbrella Productions at Lowry Lab Theater, Lowry Building, 16 West Fifth St., downtown St. Paul; entrances on both Wabasha and St. Peter. ASL: Fri., Mar. 30, 7:30 p.m. AD: Sat., Apr. 7, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $8 (reg. $15); 651-646-2943; Web: www.blueumbrella productions.net or www. theaterspaceproject.org Zombie Prom Mar. 2 - 25 Mpls. Musical Theatre at Hennepin Stages, 824 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. AD and ASL: Sun., Mar. 11, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $17 (reg. $24); 612-673-0404; 612-3735639 or 5609; TTY: 612-3735655; E-mail: accessible @orpheum.com; Web: www. aboutmmt.org or wwwhen nepintheatredistrict.org/ guestservices/aslad/. ■

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

March 10, 2007

AT A GLANCE -

Cont. from p. 6 Canada Doubtful as Early Signer of New UN Treaty TORONTO, ONTARIO—The following five paragraphs are excerpts from a column by Toronto Star disability and aging issues writer Helen Henderson: Poverty and disability go hand in hand. This is true whether you live in the heart of one of the world’s richest, most-developed countries or the hinterlands of an impoverished emerging nation.

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

When it comes to government strategies to reduce poverty, Holmes-Greenway Housing: [people with disabilities] are forgotten. Not even a blip on the one and two bedroom wheelradar screen. chair-accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. ConveThis year, the United Nations wants to start changing that with nient SE Minneapolis location. a landmark agreement protecting the rights of people with Call 612-378-0331 for availdisabilities. Many Canadians hoped this country would be in ability information. Equal the vanguard in implementing the agreement, scheduled to be Opportunity Housing. signed March 30 in New York. Lewis Park Apartments: “We want Canada to be one of the first countries to sign...to Barrier-free housing with show some leadership,” says Anna MacQuarrie, policy analyst wheelchair users in mind. Secon government and legal affairs at the Canadian Association for tion 8 subsidized. One- and Community Living, which helps people with intellectual dis- two-bedroom units. For more abilities. information on availability call 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. But it looks as if MacQuarrie and others will be disappointed, Equal Opportunity Housing. as Canadian approval is likely facing years in bureaucratic red tape. [Source: Inclusion Daily Express]

ZIEGLER -

Oak Park Village: One bedroom wheelchair-accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient St. Louis Park location. Call 952-9359125 for availability information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Every issue of the Ziegler features a Readers Forum, which usually covers a variety of topics. But the March 2007, Read-

ers Forum letters are about just one thing: appreciation for the magazine from its subscribers throughout the world. (Today the Ziegler goes to 91 countries.)

ness field, having touched the lives of tens of thousands of blind and visually impaired people. Thanks to the foresight and kindness of Mrs. William Ziegler, who established and endowed a foundaIn the years since its founding, tion before her death in 1932, the Ziegler Magazine has be- any legally blind person can come an institution in the blind- receive—at no charge—the

Access To Employment Employment ads are $16-$17 per col. inch. March 30 is the deadline for the April 10 issue. Mail to: ACCESS PRESS, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 • FAX 651-644-2136 • E-mail: access@accesspress.org

HOME VISITOR Waseca County Healthy Start Program has a 20 hour-a-week home visitor position that involves providing services to firsttime parents. Services will focus on parent/child interactions, child development and family support. Flexible nontraditional work hours, minimum qualifications include bachelor’s degree in human services or home visitor experience. Send resume to Human Resources, 610 Florence Ave, Owatonna, MN 55060 EOE/AA Seward Square Apartments: We are currently accepting Computerized Desktop publishing: applications for our waiting list for barrier-free housing, in Advertiments Brochures Minneapolis, that is federally Catalogs subsidized. For an applicaFlyers tion, please call 612-338-2680. Logos Equal Opportunity Housing. Rent an accessible 3 br. pool home near Disney World. About $100/night. www. AccessibleOrlando.com

Cont. from p. 4

quent Ms. Keller, there will be “current” events from 1907, and a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, “This, Too, Shall Pass.”

Newsletters Newspapers Scanning and more! Ellen Houghton • 952-404-9981 presentationimages@mn.rr.com

Matilda Ziegler Magazine for the Blind, published in contracted braille, on four-track/ half-speed cassette, by e-mail, and online at www.matilda ziegler.org. ■ Gregory Evanina.is the editor of the Ziegler Magazine.

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Learn more about opportunities in: • Nursing • Imaging • Lab

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If unable to apply online, call toll-free 1-866-871-JOBS (5627). Visit www.co.scott.mn.us or call (952) 496-8598 to learn more about what we have to offer. TTY/TTD: (952) 496-8170 EOE

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March 10, 2007

March Issue Sponsor Established in 1991 Nurses z Live-ins z Home Health Aides z Personal Care Assistants z Serving Adults & Children with Long Term Needs z

The mission of the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota is to enhance the quality of life and bring the promise of a better tomorrow for all people affected by brain injury.

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---------------------------- IN KIND (time & services for this issue)-------------------------Katie Dolan • Pete Feigal • Jane Hampton • Susan Lasoff • Elissa Meyer • Shauna Sheffer Disability Linkage Line • Operation Glass Slipper • National Disability Rights Network Ziegler Magazine

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