May 2007 Edition - Access Press

www.accesspress.org

May 10, 2007

1

History Note

Inside

“You just keep pushing. You just keep pushing. I made every mistake that could be made. But I just kept pushing.”

■ Disabled and GLBT—p. 5 ■ Charlie Award Nominations—p. 9 ■ Remembering Graduation Day—p. 10

— Rene Descartes (1596-1650) Page 4 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 18, Number 5

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

May 10, 2007

Commentary

U.S. Disgrace At UN Signing Ceremony Representatives from U.S. Skip the Landmark Launching of the UN Convention on th Rights of Persons with Disabilities

by John A Lancaster

O

n March 30, 2007, 82 countries signed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The United States did not. The following letter, written last month by John Lancaster, Executive Director of the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL), describes his powerful and emotional experience at the March signing ceremony. In the letter, Lancaster encourages us to

take action in response to U.S. inaction and disgrace by writing our Members of Congress and President Bush to urge that the U.S. sign and ratify the Convention.

New York–[On March 30th,] as President of the United States International Council on Disability (USICD) and Executive Director of NCIL, I had the honor to represent both organizations at the United Nations as a witness to the

initial signing of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. As I sat in the observers’ area on the floor of the UN’s General Assembly Hall, delegates from 80 nations and the European Community took their turn at the official signing table to commit their country to the human and civil rights of people with disabilities. At several points, my eyes welled with tears. They should have been tears of joy and pride as

an American, as a citizen in the country that had created this world-wide movement for the rights and empowerment of people with disabilities. Instead, they were tears of shame and embarrassment in being an American.

I do not relate these feelings to you, my friends and colleagues in the Independent Living Movement, lightly or as a passive observer. Almost 40 years ago, I acquired my spinal cord

Treaties waiting to be signed, of the new United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The United States Government has not signed the treaty. Location: United Nations, New York injury as a Marine Platoon had become a Marine out of a Commander in combat just Kennedy-era-inspired desire east of Hue City, Viet Nam. I to defend my country and the principles for which we stand “that all men are created equal with certain unalienable rights; Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” Following law school, I dedicated my career to these principles as they pertain to people with disabilifrom day to day and living with ties. I was proud to work with a disability. More often than many great Americans, many not, they are on fixed incomes with disabilities, as part of a so their quality of life suffers great movement for the rights, and their financial situations empowerment and indepenbecome bleak. Living costs dent living for all. The United have increased yet income does States for many years took the not balance out.” Congressman world-wide lead with passage Ellison said he hopes people of Title V of the Rehabilitawith disabilities will come share tion Act of 1973 and then the their stories so that he can “take Americans with Disabilities those stories back to Washing- Act and many other great laws ton and encourage my col- ensuring the rights and incluleagues to support possible new sion of people with disabililegislation and funding of these ties. From 1995 to 2004, I traveled many times to and then issues.” lived for four years in Viet In closing, Ellison praised Nam. There, I assisted VietMinnesota and called for vigi- namese with disabilities and lance in maintaining what services the state already has. “Our country did not “Minnesota is a very progres- even have the courage to sive state when it comes to the seat a representative . . . disability programs that we at our country table or . . . offer. In many ways we are comment . . . as to why fortunate to have the programs that we have. I am very proud the country of the ADA of the fact that we can provide was not signing on to the these services and programs. Convention. I was not But I also know that we have proud to be an American.” work to do to make sure that the programs that we have in their government in establishplace stay in place and any ing similar principles, laws and further cuts are avoided.” ■ policies within the context of their political system. I had

Underfunded And Underenforced Ellison Hopes to Up Funding for Disability Services, Enforcement for ADA

by Michael Cohn

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eople with disabilities have been working with Keith Ellison since before he began serving in Washington. “Everybody has a voice that counts, even if someone needs to use an interpreter or assistive technology to help them communicate,” said Congressman Ellison. He made the comment last week in an interview with Access Press, where he talked about disability issues at the federal level.

which “originally authorized Congress to contribute up to 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditure (APPE) for each special education student.” In reality, he noted, “schools are currently receiving roughly 17 percent,” which leaves huge additional costs for local districts to make up. “Unfortunately,” he said, “our president is not in favor of increasing the funding for education.” Ellison also observed that there are other “under-funded” parts Ellison said he strongly sup- within IDEA, such as Part C, ports full funding of IDEA, “which is designed to meet the

developmental needs of infants Ellison, he said he will work to and toddlers and their families maintain funding for H.A.V.A. in order to prevent later disEllison indicated that he would abilities.” like to be kept informed by the Ellison said he will support Minnesota disability commuthe ADA Restoration Bill. nity as to what areas need im“The ADA of 1990 was never fully enforced,” he said. “The “Regarding Social ADA Restoration Bill broad- Security reform, Ellison ens the scope as well deepens noted that “Currently how disability is defined and who is affected by the ADA.” there are not enough Regarding Social Security reform, Ellison noted that “Currently there are not enough attorneys and judges working on the cases.” He said he wants to increase the number of people that work with SSI and SSDI cases. He also supports “increases in V.A. funding, especially because many soldiers are coming home with some form of disability.”

attorneys and judges working on the cases.”

provement to allow better independent living. “By providing funds for programs that allow people with disabilities to own or rent a place of their own,” he said, “we can reduce the costs of having a person with a disability living in a nursing or group home.” However, Ellison indicated that he supports group home situaWhile serving in the Minne- tions for those individuals who sota House of Representatives, cannot live on their own.

Ellison supported H.A.V.A. (Help America Vote Act). This This July, Ellison intends to bill now helps people with dis- host a forum where topics will Representative Keith Ellison speaking at a bipartisan press abilities vote independently focus on finances and people conference in Washington unveiling a report about hearings because of the new voting with disabilities. “There are on Mental Health Parity Legislation, with Representatives machines that came out last too many people trying to make Patrick Kennedy (RI), and Jim Ramstad (MN). year. Now Congressman ends meet,” he said, “living

UN Treaty - cont. on p. 11

May 10, 2007

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Tim Benjamin, Editor

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was always able to teach through his actions. I never heard Charlie get loud with his own opinion. He did get loud giving voice to all of us in the disability community. That is who Charlie was: the guy giving voice to those of us who did not have the knowledge, strength, or the motivation to speak out for ourselves. He was a true leader, although I do not think Charlie ever thought of himself as a leader.

I know that his goal was to make life easier for people with disabilities. Maybe he also knew that if it was easier for others, it would be easier for him—but his interest was in others.

his time of year, when the sun returns fullstrength, I always remember my friend Charlie Smith; he was a sun lover, and like most quadriplegics, he said the warmth comforted Charlie Smith was energized his bones. by politics; he looked forward to the legislative session, and I remember Charlie Smith as to the opportunity to talk to a kind, intelligent man who people who could change his

life and the life of every per- his fearlessness to force the son with a disability. Charlie discussion into the mainstream was there on the hill, educat- of our community. ing and convincing public officials about so many of the He recognized the need for rights that we have today. people in the disability comCharlie was there when public munity to hold their heads high transportation became acces- with dignity and pride and sible. Charlie was there when through dignity and pride, create a community the PCA prothat was proud gram began.

Charles F. Smith He was there Born June 23th 1953 of who they to fight a gov- Died April 24th 2001 were. Proud people, he ernor when it looked as though the PCA pro- knew, aren’t ashamed or afraid gram was going to be elimi- to demand their rights or to nated. Charlie created Access demand equality among all Press to keep the disability people. community informed of what was happening at the capitol As a journalist, Charlie did not and to give the entire disabil- hesitate to ask the difficult quesity community a forum for topi- tions, and he knew when to cal discussion of any kind per- back off to give an interviewee taining to any disability. There enough room, in the true Charlie are many topics out there right style, to let them hang themnow that could use Charlie’s selves with their own words. passion for open dialogue and He was never afraid of dia-

logue and often would take the opposing position while maintaining his own integrity and values, just to get a good dialogue started. Charlie knew the value of getting people talking about uncomfortable issues. He intuitively knew that, no matter how “off the wall” someone’s opinion might be, it was worth it to push for that discussion.

As soon as the dialogue began, Charlie became the listener. If things got too heated, Charlie was the one who could break the tension with a joke and a smile. His jokes and smiles often did break the tension, from the governor’s office to someone’s smoke-filled basement card room.

There was a time when it seemed you could not go anywhere with Charlie without running into someone that knew him. His network of friends,

colleagues and admirers covered the disability community from coast-to-coast.

If it sounds like I have described a superhero—well, in a way, Charlie was one. And now, Access Press, Charlie Smith’s creation, is asking you to look around the community and nominate another person who exemplifies these same powerful traits. Every November for the last four years, we have honored an individual or group for their achievements. Charlie would be very proud to be grouped with these folks but more importantly Charlie Smith would be the guy first in line to honor them for their successes and contributions. Perhaps in November we will recognize your nominee for the fifth annual Charlie Smith Award. (See page 9) ■

Letters To The Editor ...

Attitudes Still Changing Thank you for reviewing the survey recently completed by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities showing improved public attitudes towards this group (“Happy to Pay for Full Integration,” Access Press, March 10, 2007). Congratulations to the advocates and selfadvocates whose words, actions and lives made this shift happen.

I was especially interested in the comments of JoAnn Erbes 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’.”

I agree with JoAnn. At the same time, I see this unfortunate attitude changing, and changing a lot. Increasingly, people with intellectual, physical, and emo-

tional disabilities are realizing we all have many things in common. We now work alongside each other to make sure public attitudes continue to become more positive toward us all, toward all people with disabilities. I, and I think many others, are not offended and do not feel putdown if associated with people who have other types of disabilities.

When people mistake me as having exactly the same characteristics and support needs as a person with intellectual, or any other type of disability that is not my own, I don’t see it as a putdown but a misunderstanding that I may need to correct. As I hold bad feelings toward other people with disabilities, I’m putting myself down. I am confident that many, if not most, people with disabilities feel this way too.

John Smith

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No “Good” In True Poverty You can sugar coat it if you wish, but poverty is still a bitter pill to swallow. [“Stars are the Diamonds of the Poor; Part II,” Access Press, April 10, 2007] It’s nice that some people find good in everything, even poverty, but the truth is that poverty equals fear. Fear of losing more. Fear of not being able to afford medical or dental care. Fear of not being able to buy medications.

Fear of being alone and forgotten by those who don’t like you being a burden.

Poverty makes holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter less of a celebration and more of a financial crisis.

It saps the life out of its victims, and the agencies who are supposed to help you only

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 Sales/Marketing ...................................................................................... Lance Hegland Production ...................................................... Ellen Houghton at Presentation Images 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.

Inquiries should be directed to: Access Press • 1821 University Ave. W. • Suite 104S St. Paul, Minnesota 55104 • 651-644-2133 • Fax 651-644-2136 E-mail: access@accesspress.org • Web site: www.accesspress.org

compound the problem by trying to destroy any self-esteem you might have left. Say what you will; there’s very little good about it.

struck in the face by a young man as I walked down the Nicollet Mall. Still another time, we arrived home from a shopping trip to find a man standing outside of our front I like what Pearl Bailey said door. He had followed us from about it: “I’ve been rich and the bus stop, and his only quesI’ve been poor, and I like rich tion for me as I stepped fora whole lot better!” ward to confront him was “Does your dog bite?”

When poverty has you in its grips, life becomes focused on Given this history, I’ve been money. Life should be focused struggling with the issue of elsewhere. Money should not public safety for those of us command greater attention with a disability. It isn’t that than simply enjoying life, but I’m just concerned for my own it does. When Hamburger safety and security when I’m Helper becomes a luxury meal, walking down a sidewalk beit does indeed! tween appointments or when Thomas St. James I’m boarding, riding or exiting public transportation, or even ❖❖❖ when I’m working on a project in the yard outside my home.

myself in unsafe situations. I will not, however, be a prisoner inside my home either.

Likewise, I’m not going to do anything crazy like fight off an attacker unless I’m certain I will not come out worse after such an unwanted situation.

Am I More Vulnerable To Assault?

Let me know by submitting a letter to the editor in the next issue of Access Press, or by emailing me.

Seeking Discussion on Public Safety My wife and I have experienced our share of assault in recent years. She was once mugged at a bus shelter. I was

Of course I’m more concerned about the safety of my spouse, friends and co-workers. To have said that, I’m not even worried how I would react in a situation if I were assaulted or the target of a robbery attempt again. I don’t deliberately put

But I’m more concerned with the attitude of the person who might carry out such an attack.

Would I have been identified because of my disability or because of my perceived vulnerability?

Our neighborhood has experienced a rise in assaults recently.

I wonder if other people with disabilities struggle with the same fear as I have. And if you do, what are you doing about it?

Thanks, Clarence Schadegg clarence.schadegg@comcast. net

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May 10, 2007

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“Fair Housing Is A Right” No Right Of Refusal HUD Chief Makes Commitments to ADAPT MAC Puts Teeth Behind a Revised Taxi Cab Washington, D.C.— This the “protected class” of dis- would provide housing Ordinance—Rebecca Kragnes Interviewed time around ADAPT didn’t ability. This number sur- vouchers to persons with dishave to shut down HUD head- passes, for the first time in abilities in nursing homes and By Clarence Schadegg quarters, because, as HUD history, the percentage of ICFMRs that, combined with Secretary Alphonso Jackson complaints filed on the basis Money Follows the Person he issue of cab drivers stated, “I came to you.” Jack- of race (39%). and previously existing iniwho deny rides to son and three members of his •Promising to facilitate a meet- tiatives in the states, will get people who use dog staff recently met with 500 ing between ADAPT and people out of nursing homes members of ADAPT in their Reps. Barney Frank (D-MA) and into affordable, acces- guides comes and goes. RebecWashington, D.C., hotel. By and Maxine Waters (D-CA). sible, integrated housing in ca Kragnes, former president of MN Guide Dog Users, has the end of the morning, Jack- Frank is Chair of the House their own communities. son had stated unequivocally Committee on Financial Ser- •Promising to meet with been involved in the recent that “Fair Housing is a right.” vices, and Waters is Chair of ADAPT three times a year, public hearings of the MetroAnd he made a number of com- the Financial Services with the next meeting most politan Airports Commission mitments to ADAPT, includ- Committee’s Sub-committee likely occurring in Chicago (MAC) to address this issue. ing; on Housing and Community during the next ADAPT ac- The resulting action taken by MAC is intended to put a stop vouchers and credit cards, will •Agreeing to inform ADAPT, Opportunity. This committee tion, September 8-13. to the use of religion, or any not be options for cab drivers. before the September and sub-committee are reADAPT action in Chicago, sponsible for legislation af- “ADAPT is pleased that Sec. other excuse, as a reason to If they refuse for any reason on how many housing vouch- fecting changes to the Sec- Jackson came to us, and we deny dog guide users their civil other than safety, they will be ers for persons with disabili- tion 811 program. ADAPT is are cautiously optimistic at this rights to public transportation suspended for thirty days as a ties he has recovered from calling for a restructuring of point,” said Cassie James, by taxi cab drivers. Last month, first offense. If they are found the 58% loss in vouchers that the Sec. 811 housing program Philadelphia ADAPT Orga- Kragnes took time to answer a refusing a second time, they the disability community suf- to provide affordable, acces- nizer. “His own personal ex- few questions on the status of won’t be a licensed cab driver fered in recent years. The loss sible, integrated housing, as perience with discrimination the hearings, and the new ordi- at the airport for two years. is due to a combination of well as increase the number gives him a window into the nance that takes effect May 11. Because there are cab starters — people watching and helpfederal budget cuts and mis- of vouchers available to per- unconscionable discrimination appropriation of vouchers by sons with disabilities, both of in obtaining affordable, acces- How will MAC’s rewrite the ing travelers get to cabs, the local entities that administer which will require action by sible, integrated housing that taxi cab ordinance ensure drivers aren’t as likely to refuse the voucher program in com- Congress. Sec. 811 is the seg- is experienced by people with that users of dog guides will us there with these severe conmunities across the country. regated housing program for disabilities all over America. no longer be denied rides by sequences described above. I think with most guide dogs •Vowing to eliminate the “out- persons with disabilities. The We look forward to the Secre- cab drivers? standing placidly by their ownrageous” level of discrimina- segregated housing program tary keeping his commitments tion in housing against per- for older persons is Sec. 202. and partnering with us to im- When the new regulations go ers’ sides, it’s going to be hard sons with disabilities. HUD •Committing to work with prove the current sad state of into effect May 11, the only to use the safety refusal. reason a driver can refuse recently reported that 40% of ADAPT on implementing affairs.” ■ someone is if they feel threat- Describe the way the curthe Fair Housing complaints ADAPT’s Access Across ened or unsafe. The other re- rent MAC taxi cab ordinance filed with HUD are based on America Program, which [Source: www.adapt.org] fusal reasons, like alcohol, will benefit cab drivers as

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well as users of dog guides in future taxi cab rides.

I think the rules are going to be more black and white. The current refusals are gray areas — not exactly wrong but not exactly right. Right now, a refusal gets the cab driver sent to the back of the line which is essentially a slap on the wrist.

Sometime soon they will be signing contracts in which they are agreeing to follow the new rules. They will know the consequences of an invalid refusal, and I believe there will be much less conflict about cab service.

The line will hopefully move faster, and both cab drivers and customers can get down to business.

Taxis- cont. on p. 13

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May 10, 2007

4

History Note

Living Independently

Judy Heumann

Wanted: Smooth Life Transitions

Key Player in Disability Rights Movement

J

udy Heumann (b. 1947) has had a hand in most of the major advances in the disability rights movement in this country.

At eighteen months she contracted polio, leaving her in a wheelchair. Heumann faced many prejudices while growing up disabled. The school refused to allow her to attend, calling her a fire hazard. It wasn’t until the fourth grade, after Heumann’s mother had fought a hard battle, that she was allowed to go to school.

Heumann’s early struggles prepared her for bigger ones ahead. When the New York City Board of Education refused to allow her to teach, based solely on the fact that she was disabled, Heumann sued and won. She went on to teach elementary school for three years. It was due to this incident that in 1970 Heumann, with several other dis-

abled friends, founded Disabled in Action. Its goal was to secure protection for the disabled under civil rights laws.

Heumann became a legislative assistant to the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare in 1974. While there she helped develop legislation that became the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Along with her colleagues, Ed Roberts and Joan Leon, Heumann helped create and develop the first public policy research think tank devoted to disability issues, known as the World Institute on Disability.

She also shaped and co-directed the nation’s first Center on Independent Living in Berkeley, California.

by Lisa Schmidtke

T Judy Heumann tions for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. She helped design federal and state legislation that led to the creation of more than 200 independent living centers nationwide. She is also the co-founder of the American Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities.

Today Heumann is head of her own consulting firm, Heumann In 1990 Heumann helped draft & Associates. ■ the landmark piece of legislation, The Americans with Dis- [Sources: www.chelseaforum. abilities Act. She has also as- com, www.ilusa.com, www. sisted in developing regula- disabilityhistory.org]

This Month’s Issue Sponsor

Courage Center A Legacy of Independence, Innovation and Advocacy

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ince 1928, Minneapolis-based Courage Center, a nonprofit rehabilitation and resource center, has had a legacy of improving independence and quality of life for people with disabilities.

Live. Work. Learn. Play.

These words are part of our mission and vision. Each of them is important to good health and quality of life. The breadth of our services is part of what distinguishes Courage Center in the field of medical rehabilitation. Our full continuum of care includes rehabilitation therapies, transitional rehabilitation through Courage Residence, pain management, behavioral and family support programs, vocational and community-based services, and camping and sports and recreation programs for people of all ages and abilities.

But, at Courage Center, we understand that what matters most to people is not just improving their function. It’s also learning what they can do that is the real measure of success: theirs and ours. It’s why we offer such a wide range of programs: Courage Camps, adaptive sports and recreation, independent living skills, vocational services, and HandiHams, are an important part of our mission. Each of our programs helps build confi-

dence, connections and community participation, putting the benefits of rehabilitation to work (and play) for people of all ages and abilities.

We also have a history of advocating for the needs of people with disabilities. Physical and program access. Education. Transportation. Housing. Voting Rights. Healthcare reform. These are just a few of the issues we’ve advocated for in Minnesota since our beginnings in 1928. Today, Courage Center is an active member of the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) which is helping shape the future for people with disabilities in Minnesota.

Innovation is one of our values. We continue to look for new ways to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Some of our new programs and services include:

sage, stretching and dance with the deeply relaxing effects of warm water movements and point work. This complementary therapy is appropriate for many people, including those with brain or spinal cord injuries, stroke, arthritis, fibro-myalgia, cerebral palsy, anxiety and chronic pain.

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Outpatient chronic pain services will be offered soon.

Fitness Centers. Courage Center is one of the first rehabilitation centers in the nation to offer fully accessible fitness facilities for people with disabilities. Our three metro area centers are located in Golden Valley, Still- Outpatient chemical health water and Burnsville. services. Courage Center in Golden Valley is a new metro Watsu. This innovative pro- area site for the programs ofgram, available in Golden fered by Vinland National Valley and Stillwater, is a Center. ■ gentle form of bodywork performed in warm water. Watsu For more about the Courage combines elements of mas- Center, visit courage.org.

wo weeks ago, I lost my beloved grandmother. In my sadness on the long ride back from the funeral in Iowa, I got to thinking about transitions. I first thought of the many geographical transitions she endured going from her home to a hospital, nursing home, back to home, back to hospital, then hospice in just six weeks. My grandpa transitioned with her from bedside to bedside. She endured a physical transition of living self-sufficiently for 81 years then, one day, a doctor told her she couldn’t go home unless she could walk to the bathroom. Emotional transitions came next with everyone trying to decide what would be “best” and eventually having to let go so that her suffering would end. And now, my family and I are transitioning to a life without our grandma, mom, wife and friend, Bonnie Howard.

As with most things in life, good preparation is the key to success. Not all transitions occur so quickly or even tragically. Moving from ones home to a care facility or senior residence usually involves financial planning, de-cluttering, packing, moving and adjusting. For estate planning, longterm care insurance and Social Security information, Life Management’s NextSteps program is, as their tagline states, “the Resource for Life Transitions.” Their Flying Solo program for divorce transition includes a free Separation and Divorce guidebook with resources on taxation and asset protection. Finding a care facility or senior residence isn’t as easy as hiring a realtor.

CareLinkUSA will help you determine the care needs of you or your loved one and provide you with a starting point for your search for ser-

vices with the Provider QuickSearch tool on their Web site. Assisted Living INFO contains an online guide for selecting an assisted living facility, retirement community, or other personal care facility anywhere in the United States. For assistance locating housing to fit your budget, evaluating and applying for financial programs, assistance with Reverse Mortgages, longterm care insurance and Medicare, call Health Esteem Services.

Once the transition is underway, there’s plenty of help available. I remember stating, in stress, to my husband be-

tering and organizing, At Home Solutions will coordinate and manage these tasks.

Finally, don’t forget help for the rest of family. Transitions in life can cause stress, uncertainty and even depression.

Even a planned, welcomed move to an Arizona retirement community can bring separation anxiety and resistance to downsizing. When a loved one is hospitalized, it’s a transition for the family, who must visit, help with decisions and maintain their home. When my grandpa had open-heart surgery, I remember telling him not to worry. He said, “I have the easy part, I’ll be asleep!”

RESOURCES Agapë Transition Services: 612-849-8811 Alzheimers Assoc.: www.alzmndak.org/gethelpandinfo/ Assisted Living Info: www.assistedlivinginfo.com/ At Home Solutions: www.athomesolutionsllc.com CareLinkUSA: www.carelinkusa.com Eldercare Partners: www.eldercarepartners.org Empowering Caregivers: www.care-givers.com/ Family Means: www.familymeans.org/index.asp Gentle Transitions: www.gentletransitions.com Health Esteem Services: www.healthesteemservices.com/ Life Management: www.lifemanagement.com/ Senior Moves: 651-646-5785 fore our last move, “We need to pack up everything in this house and move it across town!” Now, imagine having to do that while limited physically. Agapë Transition Services, Gentle Transitions and Senior Moves focuses specifically on moving services for seniors and the disabled community. They go beyond the moving truck to help with downsizing, unpacking/settling, preparing a home for sale, estate settling, home repair and upkeep. Agapë also provides home repair and upkeep services before, during and after the move. To decrease the stress involved with daily living activities such as running errands, downsizing/declut-

Eldercare Partners offers caregivers coaching and counseling, geriatric assessments, Twin City caregiver support groups and caregiver education and training seminars.

Empowering Caregivers provides support tools to help provide assistance and education to caregivers with a special section on alternative healing.

Family Means can help with credit counseling and youth and family development.

Alzheimers disease can be especially hard on the family.

The Alzheimers Association has Family and Professional Care Consultations for problem solving and identification of resources to persons with Transitions - cont. on p. 13

What Do You Do After a Stroke?

Come to Courage Center–a rehabilitation center of excellence that provides comprehensive brain injury services. Our specialists work with people of all ages and levels of brain injury to remove barriers to independence, offering: • Transitional rehabilitation in the Courage Center Residence • Outpatient therapy (PT, OT, Speech) • Assistive technology • Community Reintegration Program • Mental health and family support services • Community behavioral services

• • • • • • •

Driver assessment and training Home and community based rehab Independent living skills Support groups Sports and recreation Vocational services Wellness and fitness programs

Courage Center services are available at our sites in Golden Valley, Stillwater, Burnsville and Forest Lake.

763.520.0312 courage.org

May 10, 2007

5

Commentary

Commentary

Double Discrimination

1,600 Down . . . 8,400 To Go

Disability and GLBT

Social Security Reform Petition for the Chronically Disabled Gathers Momentun

by Ingrid Hofmann and Bob Barr

W

e are two friends who met at a support group for disabled gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered (GLBT) individuals. Through our experiences as identifying as both disabled and GLBT, we have often encountered discrimination and even hatred. We are writing this article so that you can begin to understand the double-edged sword of being both disabled and GLBT in a society which many times shows a preference for the able-bodied heterosexual. Statistically, however, the disabled GLBT population is larger than most people expect, especially since most people do not like to think of disabled people as being sexual, let alone GLBT. In fact, 10% of the general population identifies as GLBT (Kinsey, 1948) and at least 20% consider themselves to be disabled (U.S. Census Bureau, 2000).

Before we go further, let us introduce ourselves.

My name is Ingrid Hofmann and I am Deaf, disabled and gay. I identify as disabled primarily because I have a complete vestibular loss, leading to a loss of balance, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder.

For mobility, I use a wheelchair, a walker, or my service dog, Bright. After having grown up as a global nomad in several European countries, I moved to Minnesota to study child psychology at the University of Minnesota, where I am currently a Ph.D. student.

And I am Bob Barr. I first became disabled in an automobile accident, over 19 years ago, caused by driving under the influence. Following that, I spent six months in a coma and ten months in three different hospitals, after which I had paralysis of the right side of my body. Following substance-abuse treatment and physical rehabilitation, I received a graduate degree in counseling, as well as a Chemical Dependency Certificate. I currently have 19 years of continuous sobriety and am a Ph.D. candidate in addiction psychology.

From our experiences and research, it is clear that many people in society are uncomfortable with both disabled and GLBT individuals. Discrimination toward both groups of people happens on a daily basis. This discrimination can take the form of barriers, which can be blatant or very subtle. Some of the barriers disabled GLBT individuals face are physical, some are informational, and some are attitudinal.

Physical barriers tend to be the most obvious because they involve physical access. In medical settings, GLBT individuals are often kept from visiting their partners because they are not considered family members. There is current legislative action being proposed at the Minnesota capitol that would eliminate this problem.

GLBT venues are often found to be inaccessible for individuals using various mobility devices, such as walkers, wheelchairs or canes. Altering building structure to increase accessibility is a particular hardship for small businesses (which GLBT venues tend to be) because of the finances involved.

The financial hardships for smaller organizations can also lead to informational barriers.

For example, providing audiodescription, interpretation, large-print, and Braille is often not financially feasible for all GLBT venues, thus not allowing many Deaf and blind individuals to access information and other kinds of content. As disabled individuals within any given disability have unique and individuals needs, their requests for accommodations can vary greatly. For example, not all deaf individuals use the same type of language for communication. Some may prefer American Sign Language, some may use Cued Speech, whereas others may need captioning, and still others may use amplification systems.

Although each accommodation may indeed be expensive, the accommodations are important for the individuals needing them. Oftentimes there is financial assistance available to help in providing accommodations. There are organizations, such as VSA arts, that assist arts organizations in making art venues accessible. ³+RZ FDQ , JR WR ZRUN DQG NHHS P\ KHDOWK LQVXUDQFH"´ ´+RZ GR , UHDOO\ NQRZ ZKLFK EHQHILW ,¡P RQ"¾

Attitudinal barriers, which may not be immediately visible, can be difficult to detect and counteract. They can take on many different forms, ranging from people being unaware about the needs of disabled GLBT individuals to blatant discrimination. The latter may lead to verbal or even physical harassment.

All of these barriers can, of course, lead to exclusion from mainstream society. When disabled GLBT individuals desire to participate in events or organizations primarily focused on able-bodied heterosexuals, they may be confronted with lack of access and lack of acceptance at the same time. Domains in which the double-minority status may be extremely visible are employment, religious institutions, and medical care. Able-bodied individuals may use noninclusive language or even be outright hostile.

Ironically, because of a double minority identity, disabled GLBT individuals often face exclusion from the minority groups they are a part of. For instance, GLBT organizations often don’t accommodate disability, and disability organizations often don’t welcome or accept GLBT individuals.

Indeed, it is unlikely that disabled individuals are automatically more attuned to or accepting of GLBT individuals than mainstream society.

Therefore, as a minority group within a minority group, many disabled GLBT individuals are likely to seek out other disabled GLBT individuals.

Some disability organizations provide space and time for GLBT community members to meet, such as at the Courage Center or the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living. In addition, disabled GLBT - cont. on p. 15 ´,V WKHUH D OLPLW WR KRZ PXFK , FDQ HDUQ RQ 66',"¾

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by Bob Guidara

A

little more than two months ago, I initiated a new petition drive designed to change the way social security works for people with MS and other chronically disabling illnesses.

In addressing the current difficulties in qualifying for permanent disability benefits, the petition requests that temporary benefits be granted during times when theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re actually needed. Along with the Accelerated Cure Project and the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, several other organizations and individuals have begun to rally in support of this important effort. As of May 1, 2007, the petition has been endorsed by more than 1,600 individuals, including individuals living with chronic illness, physicians, employees of hospitals and pharmaceutical companies, television actors, chronic illness advocacy organizations and innumerable concerned citizens.

When you read through the comments being made daily by those signing the online petition (see link below), it becomes apparent that there is a common thread: the desire

among those living with MS and other serious chronic disorders to continue to work and contribute to society as theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ableâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;while gaining the recognition of our lawmakers that the unpredictable nature of chronic illness needs to be more adequately addressed.

It goes on to say... â&#x20AC;&#x153;Processing delays, mounting since 2000, have left more than one million applicants languishing without help, some for years.â&#x20AC;?

Last week, I asked the Social Security Administration to document disability benefits approval rates comparing MS patients with the entire applicant population. While the initial allowance rate for MS patients who applied for SSDI and/or SSI in 2006 was higher than the percentage for all impairments combined (48.1% and 34.9%, respectively), over half of the more than 13,000 MS patients were denied upon initial application.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The most acute bottlenecks are at the appeals level, where the average processing time is now 515 daysâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;compared with 274 days in 2000. Such delays are especially pernicious because slightly more than one-quarter of all approved claims are awarded after an appeal hearing, and nearly two-thirds of people who appeal will ultimately prevail. Without the benefits they are entitled to, far too many applicants get sicker and experience severe economic hardship, including foreclosures and even homelessness.

Some applicants die before their appeals are heard.â&#x20AC;?

These staggering statistics have brought this critical issue to the attention of the mainstream media. On May 1, 2007, the New York Times published an editorial entitled, â&#x20AC;&#x153;To The Temporarily AbleBodied.â&#x20AC;? The editorial states that our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social security disability programs are â&#x20AC;&#x153;unacceptable and inhumane.â&#x20AC;?

Here are a few additional excerpts worth noting from that same editorial...

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Disability claims have risen to 2.5 million in 2006 from 1.3 million in 2000, driven in part by the aging of the population.â&#x20AC;?

SS - cont. on p. 15

The Stars Are The Diamonds Of The Poor onth M t Nex 3 g n i Com Par t 3 of

by Pete Feigal

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: The last of the three part series, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Stars are the Diamonds of the Poor,â&#x20AC;? will appear in next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue. Pete wrote in to say heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the road, trying

to make a little money himself, and wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to send in the last installment till later this month. Stay tuned.

comes readers to send in letters in response to Parts One and Two, which appeared in the March 2007 and April 2007 issues (www.access In the meantime, Pete wel- press.org).

6

May 10, 2007

News At A Glance . . .

New Spanish-Language Web Site for Hispanics with Paralysis Washington—More than 37 percent of Hispanics have a personal connection to paralysis, yet more than half are unaware of the resources available in their community, according to a study conducted by the Paralysis Resource Center (PRC), a service of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation (CDRF). To break down these information barriers, the PRC today launched the first Spanish-language online paralysis resource, www.paralisis.org.

The Web site is designed to help Hispanics living with paralysis and their families to improve their health and quality of life, connecting Spanish-speaking individuals with services in their community and making information about paralysis available around the clock. The site will also create the unique opportunity for Hispanics living with paralysis to build relationships with others sharing similar experiences. Through an online paralysis community, users can make friends and create national and international networks of support. The site also contains a searchable lending library where users can find and check out books and videos in their native language.

“The PRC supported our family at a time when we needed it most. The information they shared allowed us to make the right decisions and overcome the odds,” said Joseph Briseno, whose son Jay lives with paralysis after being critically injured in the Iraq war. “The word impossible is no longer in our vocabulary and our hope is that this Spanish site can make the same true for other families.”

U of M Offers Summer Courses in Person-Centered Planning, Disability Services

Bus Route From Courage Center To Change

Person-Centered Thinking and Planning for Persons with Disabilities is a 3-credit course for which CEUs are also available; it’s held July 9–20, from 8–noon, Monday through Friday. This course will draw on the expertise of University faculty and researchers, as well as individuals with disabilities, family members, and community professionals, to provide an overview of person-centered thinking and planning in relation to persons with disabilities, with an emphasis on individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. It will include a focus on the evolution of person-centered thinking, and indepth examination of contemporary applications. Among topics discussed are self-determination, community inclusion, self-advocacy, rights/choice, person-centeredness, dignity/respect, cultural sensitivity and collaboration.

Metro Transit has yet to decide on the final details for this route.

Watch for more information on their Web site, www.metrotransit.org, or call 612-374-3333 for more information. [Source: Courage Center] ■

Metro transit bus service to Courage Center will be changing This summer the courses Person-Centered Thinking and Plan- June 2, 2007. Route #19 will no longer be coming out Golden ning for Persons with Disabilities (EdPA 5080) and Disability Valley Road. Route #14 will be the new service.

Policy and Services (EdPA 5356) will be offered by the Institute on Community Integration and the Department of Educational The new Route 14 will leave Courage Center bus stop on Policy and Administration at the University of Minnesota. Both Golden Valley road to Morgan Avenue. North on Morgan one courses are designed for practicing community professionals, as block to Broadway, then go east on Broadway to Washington Ave and south on Washington to get downtown. well as University students and others who are interested.

Disability Policy and Services is a 3-credit course offered June 11– 22, from 8–noon, Monday through Friday. It will examine current policy, research and practices related to services that support individuals with disabilities and their families across the lifespan, emphasizing policy development and implementation, and collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches to services. Its priThe Web site complements an existing toll-free number that mary focus will be on individuals with intellectual and/or developconnects Spanish-speaking paralysis resource information spe- mental disabilities in life domains such as education, employment, cialists to those living with paralysis and their families. These health, recreation, community living and family supports. specialists are available from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. [Source: For more info about course content contact Marijo McBride at the www.paralysis.org, www.paralisis.org] Institute on Community Integration, 612/624-6830 or mcbri001@umn.edu. [Source: Institute on Community Integration]

TRIVIA How many Minnesotans between the ages of 5 and 64 experience the effects of disability?

(Answer on page 16)

May 10, 2007

Upcoming Events Your Mama!

May 13 Madre, Mor, Hooyo, Niam, or Mama: Whatever you call her, sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exceptional. This Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, Twin Cities families can put Mom on a pedestal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; literally! â&#x20AC;&#x201C; during a free celebration of mothers and motherhood at the Lake Harriet Bandshell. Radio host Nanci Olesen and friends will honor moms with an hour of music, prose, poetry and puppetry.

Details: 2 p.m., rain or shine.

All readings and songs will be interpreted in American Sign Language (ASL). Free. Everyone is welcome. FFI: Susan Maas, 612-722-4739, info@ mombo.org Americorp Recruitment Fair May 14 Are you looking for a national service opportunity in MN? Come learn about AmeriCorps opportunities in MN at the

first-ever National AmeriCorps Week Recruitment Fair!! Earn a living allowance and an education scholarship while serving your community!

AmeriCorps programs are committed to the inclusion of all individuals without regard to age, race, religion, or disability! Details: 9:00 a.m.1:00 p.m., Augsburg College Christensen Center, 720 22nd Ave S, Mpls. FFI and accommodations: 612-333-7743, ryank @serveminnesota.org

COURAGE CENTER HOSTS 5K YOUR WAY New & Improved Fund-Raiser Set for Saturday, Aug. 4 Courage Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 5K Your Way is set for Saturday, August 4, 2007, at Courage Center in Golden Valley. This pledge-based event, with opportunities for individual and team-based fundraising, is just one way you can support Courage Center.

age sports and recreation sporting clay shoots, a gourstaff and athletes. met food and wine event, and a fall gala at which the annual The 5K route starts at Courage National Courage Award and Center, 3915 Golden Valley Jay & Rose Phillips Awards Road, Golden Valley, and are announced. takes participants along beautiful Theodore Wirth Parkway, The 5K Your Way is also a returning to Courage Center great way for community for fun and festivities. Regis- groups and nonprofits to raise Formerly known as the Cour- tration begins at 7:30 a.m., with money for their own organiage Walk N Roll, the 5K Your the 5K starting at 8:30 a.m., zations. Group teams can Way is new and improved, with other activities lasting receive 20 percent of the with: until noon. pledges they raise. â&#x20AC;˘ a new location, starting and ending at Courage Center in Golden Valley; â&#x20AC;˘ a 5K run along Theodore Wirth Parkway; â&#x20AC;˘ family-friendly activities like kiddie races, music, games, face painting and vendors; â&#x20AC;˘ tours and information about Courage Center programs and services; and â&#x20AC;˘ demonstrations by Cour-

As a nonprofit organization, Courage Center relies on the generosity of donors, volunteers and community support to operate its programs and continue to grow to meet the needs of the community. More than 30 percent of Courage Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s operating budget comes from charitable efforts, including fund-raising events like the 5K Your Way. We also sponsor golf tournaments,

Courage Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 5K Your Way is sponsored by Medtronic, KARE 11, WCCO AM, General Mills, Renewal By Anderson, Wells Fargo and Life Time Fitness.

Online registration will be available on June 1 through courage.org. FFI: Cara Gosse, 763-520-0561 or cara.gosse@courage.org.

To list an event, e-mail access@accesspress.org

Art of Recovery Through June 29 Art of Recovery is a special exhibition of visual, literary and performing art that commemorates Minnesota Crime Victimsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Rights Week. It features artwork by Minnesotans who have been victims of crime and have used art as a means to respond, explore, express or heal.

Details: Free and open to the public. Regular exhibition hours: 8:30a.m. - 4:30p.m.

Monday through Friday until June 29. Minnesota Arts Board, Park Square Court, Suite 200, 400 Sibley Street, St. Paul. FFI: Sue Gens, 651-215-1600, www.arts. state.mn.us Ceremony to Remember May 29 Resurrection Cemetery is the site of the first cemetery for residents of the St. Peter State Hospital. 1000 residents are buried anonymously in graves numbered or unmarked. The Power Up Clubhouse and Remembering With Dignity will be holding a ceremony to remember and honor these people with disabilities who lived out their lives in the Min-

Target Marketing at its finest!

Advertise in Access Press and reach thousands in the disability community every month.

nesota state institutional system. Details: 1p.m., Resurrection Cemetery, St. Peter, MN, on Hwy 99, 1 mile west of Hwy 169. Refreshments afterwards at the Power-Up Clubhouse, 123 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter . FFI: Remembering With Dignity 651-641-0297

foundation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know that everyone has differences,â&#x20AC;? says Gaffney, â&#x20AC;&#x153;But most people can hide their differences better than people like me. I am trying to help myself, and others too, overcome challenges so that some day, our differences wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter as much.â&#x20AC;? Details: Metropolitan Event CenWheel-a-thon ter, 5418 Wayzata Boulevard, June 9 Golden Valley. Open to the Wings, a ministry of and for public. FFI, reservations: adults with physical disabili- Cindy Green, 952-912-2492, ties, is having its nineteenth cgreen@opportunities.org Wheel-a-thon this June at Lake Harriet, followed by a picnic Cemetery Celebration lunch for everyone who August 18 wheeled, walked, biked or Remembering With Dignity skateboarded. Details: 10:00 (RWD) has been working to a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2:00 p.m. Free picnic place named headstones on lunch. Everyone invited. FFI, numbered and unmarked RSVP: Katy, 612-866-0462 graves of St. Peter State Hosp. residents. Join RWD for this â&#x20AC;&#x153;Imagine the Possibilitiesâ&#x20AC;? celebration and headstone Luncheon placement ceremony. Over June 15 440 named headstones will be National speaker Karen installed. Ceremony will inGaffney will be the featured clude a performance by the speaker next month at a lun- Mankato/New Ulm Self-Adcheon sponsored by Opportu- vocate Theater Group. Everynity Partners. Gaffney was one welcome. Details: 2 p.m., born with Down syndrome, but St. Peter Regional Treatment that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop her from swim- Center Cemetery, St. Peter, ming the English Channel at MN. FFI: RWD, 651-641age 23, graduating from Port- 0297. â&#x2013; land Community College with honors, or starting her own

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Imagine the possibilities Navigating Life's Currents and the English Channel Join us as we celebrate the achievements of people with disabilities and honor businesses for providing employment opportunities and support.

Hosted by 12 Noon luncheon

OpportunityPartners opportunitypartners.org

Friday, June 15 Metropolitan Event Center 5418 Wayzata Boulevard Golden Valley

Featuring Karen Gaffney,

an inspirational young

woman who has overcome limitations to achieve incredible goals.

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$250 Table Sponsor (table for 10 with corporate logo signage) $30 Individual tickets For reservations, contact Cindy Green at

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952.912.2492 or cgreen@opportunities.org.

May 10, 2007

8

Driven: One Man’s Dream Wilderness Inquiry Helps Of Riding Motorcycle Again Scouts To Be More Inclusive

by Michelle Lyon

by Dawn Short

D

t seems like a perfect match. Between the Girl Scout’s goal to reach every girl everywhere and Wilderness Inquiry’s (WI) goal to bring the great outdoors to everyone, opportunities for partnership abound.

I

udley Hansen loves driving motorcycle.

“It’s nice to feel the wind whistle past ya,” he said.

But for over 25 years, after a farm accident took the use of his legs, it was an experience he could only live in memory.

Since he could no longer depend on his legs to provide balance, Hansen relinquished his two-wheeled freedom for the confinement of a car. But he couldn’t ignore his desire to get back on a motorcycle.

“You’re right out there in the open, you’re looking right at the ground. It’s a big sense of mobility and freedom,” he said.

Dudley Hansen on the very first model of the Liberator threewheeled motorcycle. There have been many upgrades and design changes since then.

He saw the trike’s value for riders of all abilities. Indeed, before Hansen’s trike was even complete, Kallhoff was pursuing the idea of marketing them to the public. That idea is slowly becoming reality. He recently launched www.liber atortrikes.com, a Web site through which he hopes to begin answering questions and, eventually, taking orders.

“It was important to both Dudley and I that the bike gave you the feel that you were riding a conventional motorcycle,” said Kallhoff. “With this design you’re right up there just like you would be with the conventional handle bars.”

Among the collaborations between these two groups, the most prominent is Beyond Special Populations, which focuses on “helping to increase and improve the inclusion and integration of girls who bring a wide range of abilities and backgrounds to Girl Scouting activities,” said Brian Steines, associate program director with WI. That includes all girls, of all cultures and economic backgrounds, as well as all physical, cognitive and mental abilities.

Girl Scouting fully accessible to all girls.” She plans to share her newly obtained knowledge with her troop. Attention All Abilities provides hands-on, interactive training that gives volunteers the knowledge, skills, activities and tools to help girls of all abilities.

WI also provides training through the Discovery Seminar series, which gives volunteers and the council staff opportunities to learn how to adapt activities to include all girls, understand different types of disabilities, and help others increase their comfort level.

“For the remainder of 2007, WI hopes to expand these trainings to other councils around the U.S. while working with the Girl Scout Council of the St. Croix Valley to improve the overall model and its effectiveness,” said Steines.

WI has also developed a Girl Scout page on their Web site to educate groups about specific disabilities and supply regional and national information resources.

and Girl Scouts took girls from GSC’s special initiatives groups—Beta Gamma Girl Scouts (BGGS), Hmong Women’s Circle (HWC), and Latina Unidas—canoeing and camping on the Namekagon River in Wisconsin. For a majority of the girls, it was their first camping experience.

“The Namekagon River trip was the best adventure ever,” said a Latinas Unidas Girl Scout. “I experienced new things, got to meet new people, and learned about new cultures. The trip was really fun because we played games, cooked our own food, [learned how to] steer the canoe, [made new] friends and, most importantly, had fun.”

Every girl in Girl Scouts wants to participate, to achieve her With a little bit of creative best, and to have fun. Wilderengineering on the front end, ness Inquiry helps open doors they found the stability they Since 2005, the Girl Scout to make that happen for all were looking for, but not at the Council of St. Croix Valley girls. Through GSC’s relation“Currently, we are set up to expense of maneuverability. (GSC) and WI have served “. . . the Liberator, comes manufacture five trikes at a hundreds of girls, Girl Scout ship with WI, more girls will from humble begin- time,” Kallhoff said. be able experience the great “If you really wanted to pull a leaders, staff and volunteers through workshops, trainings, outdoors and everything that wheelie with it you could,” nings. ‘Basically, to be and multi-day trips throughGirl Scouts has to offer. ■ As with any new endeavor, the Kallhoff said. quite honest with you, out Minnesota and the U.S. trike, aptly named the Liberawe backed Dudley up on tor, comes from humble be- Stability and integrity would Dawn M. Short is Communia chair . . . in front of the ginnings. cations Specialist for the Girl be useless, however, if they Wanda Rice, a Girl Scout volengine and chalked it out couldn’t get the bike started. unteer who recently attended With the foundation and train- Scout Council of St. Croix Valon the floor,’ Kallhoff “Basically, to be quite honest They had taken the engine for the Attention All Abilities train- ing for adults in place, the next ley. with you, we backed Dudley the prototype from a 2000 ing seminar, said that it “taught step was to incorporate the said.” up on a chair . . . in front of the Pontiac Grand Prix and en- us how to make all we do in girls. In summer of 2006, WI contacted his friend and owner engine and chalked it out on countered a problem they of K & K Motor Sports, Mark the floor,” Kallhoff said. weren’t prepared for.

Kallhoff, to help him pound out the kinks.

That’s where the real chal- “The computer [in the engine] lenges started. The engine was thought you were trying to steal “[Mark is] a pretty good me- in the back. the car because you didn’t have chanic and all, so if we put our a key. So, the computer had to heads together we can pretty “We’re certainly not the first be reprogrammed.” much do anything we need to one to come up with the idea of do,” he said. a rear-engine trike,” Kallhoff With experience building spesaid. “Volkswagon had this cialized vehicles and fabricatKallhoff agreed, and as he concept, but they often had ing racecars, Kallhoff has seen worked through the design and problems with front end bal- a lot, but trial and error took on fabrication of the unique ve- ance—they were too light in a whole new meaning as they hicle, he began to see its po- the front end.” tried to find the way around tential. the computer’s configuration.

While both men saw this as a “It offered to the public a mo- significant issue, moving the “There was a certain learning torcycle trike that had options engine to the front was not an curve on that,” he admitted. that did not exist on other option.

Motorcycle - cont. on p. 12 Junior Girl Scout Troop 611 marching in the 2005 Grand Old Days parade. styles,” he said.

That quarter century of desire eventually gave birth to a plan.

With the rough idea of a threewheeled trike in mind, Hansen

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9

Book Review

Seeing Beyond Sight: Photographs By Blind Teenagers

by Nancy Sopkowiak

Author Tony Deifell t seemed like a misguided idea: teaching photography to students with severe visual impairments. Indeed, author and educator Tony Deifell had a hard time convincing the Morehead School for the Blind to try the photo project. At first they thought his idea was a prank.

Then when he started teaching the class, only three students signed up. One blind student even asked, “What are you Self-portrait by Melody Heath, age 15, who had some sight in thinking, teaching photograher left eye. phy to blind students?” ing of those with vision chal- One girl named Leuwynda Whatever he was thinking, it lenges. “Seeing Beyond Sight took pictures of cracks in the was right on track. The photo is a rare book of visual art and school sidewalk. She then sent class became very popular and an educational resource that the photos to the school superturned into an empowering speaks with inspirational intendent with a letter explainexperience for the students. power, not only the visually ing her concerns, “Since you They learned organizational impaired community, but to are sighted, you may not noskills while planning photo anyone who has ever consid- tice these cracks. They are a shoots. Team projects taught ered what it means to see.” big problem since my white them to collaborate and com- (www.chroniclebooks.com). cane gets stuck.” Leuwynda’s request was granted; the sidemunicate. They explored new places, met new people and Deifell wasn’t sure how to walk cracks were fixed. gathered new experiences in teach the subject. He started their search for a great shot. by giving his students techni- Deifell followed up with some During one photography class, cal tips like, “Hold the camera students ten years after the a student said, “We can show level.” He soon discovered the class ended. He found other people that there is more teens’ greatest challenge was Luewynda, despite her imto being blind or visually im- deciding where to point the paired vision and cerebral paired than you think. We can camera. The young photogra- palsy, living in her own apartdo more than what you think phers felt around, asked logis- ment and working at a grocery tical questions, and listened store. we can do.” intently for subjects. To The resulting book, according Deifell’s surprise, the students The book has drawn positive to publisher Chronicle Books, took their best pictures when reviews in a variety of places. is being used as an educational they ignored his technical in- Blind author Kathy Knox read tool, helping the general popu- structions and just took a shot the text while sighted people described the pictures to her. lation have a better understand- that they really wanted.

“Overwhelmingly, [my readers] were impressed by the images and the words of the student photographers,” says Knox. A New York Times reviewer raved, “You see feelings in ways that you can’t with sighted photographers.”

A Minneapolis artist said the blind students get us “looking at the world in a different way.”

I

Deifell, observing that the One student named Leuwynda took pictures of sidewalk cracks project has empowered the near the school that were causing problems for her. She sent participants, said, “The students are excited to be pubthe photos to the superintendent and the cracks were fixed. lished … feeling like they are

APRIL SHOWERS,

heard and seen by the world.”

One reader, Della Baldwin of Lake Forest, Ill., observed that the pictures are beautiful, and they show the students “as real people like you and me.”

Baldwin, who worked for years in special education for visually impaired students, notes, “We relate to each photographer as a person, not a handicap person.”

Ironically, the book itself has a few accessibility issues. “Not every picture has a caption,” says Knox, “but all of them should—for this is where we see the students beyond themselves.” Deifell relates that the blind students often labeled their pictures with Braille, which helped them to show off their photos. Printing in Braille or using bigger and darker type

would make the book more accessible to the visually challenged reader. For example, Dee Dee Witt, a PCA from Maple Lake, Minn., enjoyed the pictures. However, she couldn’t read the small print,

“To Deifell’s surprise, the students took their best pictures when they ignored his technical instructions and just took a shot that they really wanted.” because she has dyslexia and impaired vision. Perhaps including an editor who is visually impaired could have been beneficial.

MORE MONEY IN YOUR PAYCHECK!

For more info: seeingbeyond sight.org, chroniclebooks. com, benetech.com. For an accessible version of the book, go to www.bookshare.org/ web/SingleTitle.html? submittitleid=43362 <www. bookshare.org/web/Single Title. html?submittitleid= 43362>

SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR THE 2007 CHARLIE SMITH AWARD In honor of founding editor Charlie Smith’s accomplishments, Access Press presents this annual award to recognize individuals or groups that demonstrate an exceptional degree of commitment to the disability community.

2007 Nomination Criteria Networking: Achieving, promoting and increasing communication among groups.

Achievement: Enriching the personal, social and economic lives of persons with disabilities in order to overcome barriers and build healthier communities.

Leadership: Improving the lives of others by helping lead the effort to eliminate attitudinal, social, economic and/or physical barriers for persons with disabilities.

Nomination forms are on the Access Press Web site at www.accesspress.org or by calling Access Press at 651-644-2133

Charlie Smith made a difference…

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May 10, 2007

Home Access Answers

Graduation Means A Lot

Remodeling?

Check Contract Carefully

by Pedie Pederson

by Jane Hampton

I

was born in 1960, in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota.

And, when I was born, I could not breathe because the umbilical cord was wrapped around my neck. As a result, the part of my brain that controls motor skills was damaged. That’s what caused my disability. I didn’t know this until I was researching my book.

I would like to tell you about a big day in my life: the day I graduated from high school.

me and said that they were proud of me. As soon as I got home, I got ready. Then someone walked with me to school. It was really warm out.

When we got to school I went to the room to get my robe and cap on. After everyone was ready, we all lined up. Then we all went to the gym, went up to the stage and sat down in our seats. When I got to my seat and sat down, it hit me that this was the last time that I would be in school. I started to think about my time in school and all the fun that I had experienced, like the

When I was living in a children’s home in 1980, there were high school kids that worked at the home. That “As they handed [the spring some of them graduated diploma] to me, I saw all from high school. When I of the people stand up asked them what it was like to and clap for me. It was graduate, they told me that it one of the happiest days was one of the best days of of my life.” their lives. I sometimes wondered if I would ever get dances and the football games to graduate. In the spring of and other games that I had 1981 my dream came true. gone to. I started to feel sad but I knew that it was time for I could not believe when I me to move on. woke up that morning. It was the day that I had dreamt of all When it was my turn, I went of my life: the day that I was up and got my diploma. As going to graduate. It was a they handed it to me, I saw all Sunday, and I went to church of the people stand up and in the morning. After that was clap for me. It was one of the done and I was on my way out, happiest days of my life. ■ some of my friends came up to

Dear Jane, My husband and I are in the beginning of a large remodeling project to our home. We have received three bids from different construction companies. We are surprised at how different the bids look. One contractor, the highest bidder, has a lot of paperwork (material lists, legal sounding forms and contracts for us to sign), while the lowest bidder has submitted a bid on one page.

When we ask the latter if something is included, he says “yes” and that his “word is his bond.” They all seem trustworthy, but I’m not sure I’m comfortable conducting business on some-body’s word. Can you help me?

written, and yes, some contractors are more detailed than others. Beware of contracts that are brief; too little information leaves a lot to be interpreted . . . or misinterpreted.

Before signing any contract, it is recommended you check with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry to see if your contractor is licensed by the State of Minnesota. Contractors and remodelers doing work in Minnesota are required to be licensed, though there are some exceptions to this rule. If you hire an unlicensed contractor, even one who is not required to be licensed, you may have less protection if something goes wrong. Unlicensed contractors may not carry liability Mandy, Hastings, Minn. or property insurance that licensed contractors are reDear Mandy, quired to have…and you may not have access to the ConYour instincts are correct— tractors Recovery Fund if you good for you! When it comes need to file a claim against the to hiring a contractor and sign- contractor. ing a contract, it is important to make sure your home and A contract should be written finances are protected. Each using simple language to avoid contractor presents their bid in any confusion. Characteristics a different manner, indicating and specific information recwhat they will be doing and ommended to be included in how much it will cost. There is any remodeling contract are much variability in what is in- as follows: cluded and how the contract is Project Scope and Specifications

With so many PCA providers, how do you choose a service that is right for you?

Metropolitan Center for Independent Living offers a consumerdirected PCA service that stands out among other agencies.

Are you ready to choose who will provide your supports, decide how and when your needs will be met?

The Personal Assistant Services (PAS) program gives consumers the opportunity to hire, negotiate wages, train, schedule and supervise their Personal Care Attendants.

scope of work should be very specific as to the remodeling you want done. It should include drawings and dimensions, the kinds of materials to be used, brand names, colors, grades, styles and model numbers. A brief bid leaves too much room for interpretation, and you have nothing with which to protect yourself in the event the contractor does not construct what you had in mind.

Names of Sub-Contractors and Suppliers The contract should include the names of all sub-contractors and material suppliers so you can obtain lien waivers indicating all sub-contractors and material suppliers have been paid before you issue final payment to the contractor.

This will protect you from any action against you by the contractor, sub-contractors or suppliers.

Building Permits Schedule of Payments Whoever obtains the permits is required to ensure that the work meets all building codes.

The contractor should be the one to obtain the permits so that they are responsible for the work.

Avoid any contractor who requires a large percentage of the payment up front. It is customary to make a “good faith” down payment of a small percentage of the total job and set up a payment schedule based on completed stages of the project. The total project price or how the price will be calculated should also be clearly defined in the contract.

Starting and Completion Date Construction delays are to be expected; however, they should be limited. A general statement establishing a starting and completion date while allowing for “reasonable” deHoldback Clause lays should be included in any contract…as well as the con- This states that final payment sequences. will be withheld until sometime after job completion. This Change Order Clause will allow you time to inspect the work, provide an incentive A change order clause requires for the contractor to remedy that all changes be in writing any problems, and obtain lien to protect all parties involved. waivers from the contractor Any changes made to the con- indicating all sub-contractors tract must be approved and and suppliers have been paid.

Ensure that all contractors bid- signed by both you and your ding on your job are bidding contractor.

Cleanup off the same information. The Construction and remodeling projects make a huge mess! Be sure to establish who will do the cleaning, how often, and to what level of cleanliness.

Home Warranties

Are you ready to choose an agency that respects your workers and offers livable wages?

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• We will design a training program that is specific to your needs and care plan.

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PAS Management has a combined 28 years of experience as PCAs and managers of nonprofits. In addition to the interviewing, scheduling, and administrative supports provided by our manager and assistant manager, we also have the following in place to support you: • Metro-wide list of available on-call PCAs. • Friday eve-Monday a.m. on-call emergency staffing line to assist you with staffing.

• We offer customized job postings, specific to your disability, scheduling needs and PCA preferences.

• We will assist you with screening and interviewing until you find the right match for your needs.

• PAS staff network with the Disability Linkage Line, ADA of MN, IL, Deaf IL & Transition Services, Nursing Home Relocation, Ramp Program and more!

If you are thinking of switching to a new agency, we can process your PCAs while you are at your current provider, to ensure that your services and supports are not interrupted.

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Minnesota law requires that contracts for new-home construction and home improvement projects include warranties against defects. These warranties are in addition to other warranties the parties Contracts - cont. on p. 12

May 10, 2007

U.N. TREATY -

Cont. from p. 1

Vivian Fernadez de Torrijos, Panama's First Lady, signs the new United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at the United Nations in New York. The treaty, signed by 82 nations, aims to secure the rights of some 650 million persons with disabilities around the world. always been proud of my efforts in this movement and especially of my country’s world leadership. For the last six years, that national pride has given way to shame, embarrassment and anger; it culminated for me emotionally last Friday during the Convention Signing Ceremony.

one in alphabetical order, the delegations from the various signing nations filed to the ceremonial table to sign the treaty books. In some cases, it was that country’s ambassador to the UN. In the case of Ecuador, Vice President Lenin Moreno Garces, a wheelchair user, signed. Even the countries who were not signing at least had representatives from their UN Mission present and sitting at their country table out of respect for the UN processes and the historic importance of the occasion—all but the United States.

The UN General Assembly Hall was full; the observer galleries were packed with disabled advocates from around the world; and delegations from UN member nations huddled behind their respective desks and country signs.

After initial speeches, one by For the past several years of

UN discussion, debate and negotiations that led to this historic day, the United States had been generally not present.

When towards the end we did begin to participate, it was generally contrary and negative in nature. And then, on this truly historic day when we could have resumed continued leadership for rights for people with disabilities, the United States thumbed our noses in insolent arrogance at the United Nations, the signing countries, and the six hundred fifty million disabled people of the world. Our country did not even have the courage to seat a representative from our Mission to the UN at our country table or to make any sort of official comment or explanation as to why the country of the ADA was not signing on to the Convention. I was not proud to be an American. I was ashamed of my country and of myself for letting it happen. Please join me in recommitting ourselves as advocates and leaders to human rights, empowerment and independent living for all peoples of the world. Write your Senators and President Bush today urging that the U.S. sign and ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. ■

Organizing To Achieve The American Dream

Are You Aware Of Yourself?

Disabled Immigrant Association Seeks Better Life for Disabled Somalis

by Jean Jacobson

by Clarence Schadegg

I

racism, job discrimination and prejudice in housing. Moreover, according to one DIA member, “Large families are broken up when they come to the country because accessible housing large enough to accommodate the entire family is not available.” In 2001, some Somalis were arrested here in the Twin Cities for sending money to family members overseas. And others fear that what happened to Japanese Americans—the forced removal from homes and businesses—will In pursuit of a better life, the also happen to them.

DIA members have the right idea. Like immigrants before As people with disabilities, them, they’ve learned that in Somali immigrants with disorder to get ahead, it is neces- abilities face even more diffisary to be organized and to cult hurdles. Since people with disabilities are expected to work work together. twice as hard as nondisabled Past waves of immigrants, from people if they want to be acIrish to Jewish to German, cepted as capable, disabled struggled with life in slum ten- immigrants have to work even ements, low-paying jobs and harder to get out of the slum cruel treatment by the people conditions that befell so many who would later embrace them immigrants in our history. as “one of our own.”

DIA was recently formed as a Likewise, today’s Somali im- 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporamigrants face many hurdles. tion to help fellow Somali imMost who resettle in urban and migrants. Their goals include: rural Minnesota towns and cit- •Establish a center where all ies experience some degree of disabled immigrants can meet. n a recent town hall meet ing, Disabled Immigrant Association (DIA) members met with a representative from the U.S. Immigration Service to discuss such things as the establishment of a disability community-center where Somali, and other immigrants, can go to “learn,” “practice” and “exercise.” But the feeling expressed by some people at this meeting was that “Not much is expected of the disabled.”

11

•Have equal access to education and information.

•Develop health and advocacy groups to connect up with a variety of agencies.

M

y name is Jean. I am a 47-year-old woman. I have cerebral palsy. I’ve looked at some people and tried to understand them. I know I don’t have a high IQ but come on.

When I was younger, I didn’t know much of anything. As I got mature and got some intelligence, I became aware of myself and my surroundings. For instance:

I’m aware of: the fact that some people out in this world of ours think that disabled people are ignorant, that we don’t know how to take care of ourselves. I had a incident 9/ 25/05 at a store where I fell.

My crutch tips were so worn they had tears in them. The manager came to see me, to see if I was all right. I said I was fine. She proceded to tell me—and show me—that my tips were bad. She was talking I’m aware of: my addictions. at me, not to me.

DIA members want jobs, housing where their families can live together, better access to transportation, and education that will help each disabled immigrant develop better independence and employment I’m aware of: the mistakes skills.

I’ve made, and I try not to do them again.

Minneapolis is the defacto capital for Somali immigrants. I’m aware of: my not having Between fifty to eighty thou- children. I learned at a somesand Somalis live in Minne- what reasonable age I didn’t sota cities and towns. Some, want kids. I don’t have the paapproximately fourteen to tience. I wouldn’t have been a twenty percent of the total good parent, so I had my tubes population, live with physical tied. I haven’t regretted it. and/or mental disabilities. If Somali immigrants with dis- I’m aware of: when I try to abilities cannot get jobs, then explain something, I don’t do we’ll have relegated this popu- it very well. That’s why I have lation of people to welfare someone with to help me. I can roles, which are not a good use do it when it’s simple and short of their talents and skills. ■ term, and try to find the right words.

To learn more about the Disabled Immigrant Association, I’m aware of: the way I walk contact Mahad Abdi, DIA Sec- (STIFF). I’m trying to loosen retary, 612-824-7075, di_asso up; my muscles are getting @yahoo.com. tighter.

I’m aware of: my trying to help too much when I meet someone who needs help.

Sometimes they like to overdo it. You don’t want to offend them either.

I’m aware of: when a serious situation comes up, I have this defect that comes up that I do not like. I start to laugh. I don’t particularly like this trait, but it’s a part of me.

I’m aware of: when I’m talking to someone, I don’t look straight at them. I look anywhere else. I don’t particularly like this trait either, but I’m doing the best I can.

I’m aware of: my voice. The tone has a strong but weak sound. When I get tired it starts to sound weak and that’s O.K. When I am talking to someone, I try to have a firm sound- And with that I’ll close.

Who are you? ■ ing tone.

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12

May 10, 2007

MOTORCYCLE Once they conquered the engine, there were many details the men had to consider if they were going to make the trike accessible.

“It had to work for Dudley in terms of heights and where he wanted to place his chair, and the ability to fuel up, get on and off of it with the amount of ease you could expect,” said Kallhoff.

Hansen knew he couldn’t travel without his wheelchair, so having a way to transport it was essential. And he found that the design of the bike didn’t limit his options.

“There were different ideas about where to put the wheelchair. There are different options a guy can go with on that,” he said.

Eventually, the decision was made to extend the frame slightly so his collapsible wheelchair fits neatly behind the driver’s seat. When someone wants to ride with him, the wheelchair space is replaced by a platform seat.

CONTRACTS -

Cont. from p. 8

“That’s a big thing on a bike you straddle; you can’t really sit on a Roho [wheelchair cushion] or anything,” Hansen said.

Since he is a practical man, as well as one who understands the importance of details and appearance, Kallhoff said, “The entire profile has been That dilemma was solved when lowered for component accesKallhoff employed his knowl- sibility and chrome polishing.” edge of racecars. A racecar seat provides full upper body Kallhoff is driven by the support, and frame rails on the knowledge that he is filling a floor ensure that the driver’s need. feet will stay in place. The design is ideal, as far as Hansen “To date, to the best of my is concerned. knowledge, we are the only ones making a trike that spe“It’s basically like you’re sit- cifically addresses the needs of a [mobility impaired] rider.”

“‘If you really wanted to pull a wheelie with it you could,’ Kallhoff said.” ting in your wheelchair.”

Kallhoff learned a lot while working to customize Hansen’s trike, and has carried accessibility options even further as he continues to tweak the design. The most recent versions have available options to make transfers and wheelchair storage easier, with a few new features that come standard.

“The seat moves forward and Another crucial element to back, but also locks at 45 deconsider in the design was seat- grees and 90 degrees from the ing. forward angle,” he said.

That makes it a worthwhile pursuit in Kallhoff’s mind.

“Being able to help bring a quality of life to someone makes you forget the challenges.”

When all is said and done, both men are satisfied to have been involved in creating the first Liberator.

As Hansen enjoys his bike and looks toward the impact his idea could have on others, he only has one regret, “I should’ve done it 20 years ago.” ■

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Cont. from p. 10

agree to, and are in place even until you are absolutely comif no written warranty is pro- fortable with the contractor and vided to the homeowner. that the terms of the contract are meeting your needs. ■ This is a list of the basics that should be included in a con- Questions for Jane? We’ll tract; there are many other cover them s in future issues of items that can be included, Home Access Answers. Please depending on the type and size contact us at 952-925-0301, of job. If your contractor is not www.accessibilitydesign.com, incorporating these items, you or info@accessibilitydesign. may want to take it upon your- com. Jane Hampton, CID, self to ensure the following Access Specialist and presiissues are documented and dent of Accessibility Design, signed by both parties. And if founded the company in 1992 you have any questions regard- to enhance lives through deing your interest, you may want sign and project management. to have an attorney review the They provide design, consulcontract before you sign any- tation, project management, thing. and product recommendation services specializing in home Remember, ultimately the con- access for individuals with distractor works for you, you are abilities at all stages of life. the boss! Do not sign anything

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TRANSITIONS -

Lisa Schmidtke is president and founder of Housecalls Network, a directory of resources to help seniors, people

Check us out: accesspress.org â?&#x2013;â?&#x2013;â?&#x2013;â?&#x2013; Please patronize your Access Press advertisers â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and tell them where you heard about them.

They bring you your paper.

One woman actually took the discriminatory driver to court and won. Others simply called the company and stopped there. What they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realize is that the company wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t report such instances to the licensing people, because the company will get fined along with the driver for such disIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had several experiences criminatory action.

GLBT -

Cont. from p. 5

GLBT individuals may also choose to set up their own organizations or groups. For example, the Deaf community has organized the Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf with chapters in many different states.

We would like to emphasize the need to increase the visibility of and the accessibility for disabled GLBT individuals in society today. The responsibility lies within all of us: the able-bodied, the disabled, the GLBT, and of course the disabled GLBT communiMost people do not fit into ties. â&#x2013; boxes. All of us transcend labels. People can fit into many A support group for disabled groups at one time. People can GLBT individuals, sponsored have multiple disabilities, be by the Multiple Sclerosis Soboth disabled and GLBT, be ciety of Minnesota and the members of several minority Metropolitan Center for Indecultures. As a society, we can pendent Living, meets the first only break down barriers when Tuesday of the month from we see people as people and 6:00-7:30 p.m. in the basesee diversity as enrichment. ment of 1919 University Ave. Everyone can learn from the diverse experiences of others.

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Cont. from p. 4

with disabilities and their caregivers live independently.

Housecalls Network does not endorse any particular provider. They assume no responsibility for transactions between readers and listed organizations. FFI: lisa@house calls-network.com, 952-2210722, www.housecalls-net work.com.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always important for people with dog guides who have been refused to talk to the entity that licenses the cab driver who discriminated against them. Taking them to court is also a fantastic idea. I admire the persistence of the woman who took the driver to court, and based on her action, now I would probably do the same thing. She told me that it takes a lot of patience and jumping through hoops, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth it in the end.

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memory loss and their family and professional care partners.

In your next life transition, make sure you manage every aspect of change. Beyond the geographical move, there are often physical and emotional aspects to consider. The clichĂŠ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re never preparedâ&#x20AC;? certainly applies to the death of a loved one, but now you have resources to help from a practical perspective. After 63 years of marriage, my grandpa helped my grandma hang on with dignity â&#x20AC;&#x153;till death do us part.â&#x20AC;? â&#x2013;

What are some of the experiences youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re aware of in which users of dog guides were denied taxi cab rides and what did these people do about it?

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with guide dogs during a state convention of the National Federation of the Blind and this summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national convention of the American Council of the Blind. [Cab driver] groups are also approaching If we are still talking about the blindness-related organizaFebruary 27 hearings, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tions to dialog on these imporrecall that any drivers ever said tant issues. such a thing. In fact, they argued that they never refuse blind How will these efforts repeople with guide dogs and duce discrimination against wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t in the future. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll users of dog guides? see how true the latter is when these new rules come down. Obviously, there are no guarMost of the arguments for hav- antees that we wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t experiing refusals stem from not want- ence refusals. After all, this is ing to transport alcohol. one subgroup of cab drivers at the airport. There are compaWhat position has the Na- nies all over the city who are tional Organization of Guide not participating in this camDog Users taken with regard paign. But I do think it shows to the MAC ordinance? that they are willing to proveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; in the best way they know Guide Dog Users Incorporated howâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;that this subgroup of cab is supportive of the ordinance. drivers wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t discriminate. I Even though, technically, it can only hope that the peer doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change the current pressure this subgroup puts on regulations for guide dog re- the rest of the cab driver comfusal, the ordinance does close munity, plus the new ordinance loopholes drivers can currently itself, will lessen refusals siguse to refuse a person with a nificantly. guide dog. Right now, they can say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t refuse her What are schools that train dog because of her dog. I refused guides doing to educate cab her because she has to use a drivers about the rights to equal credit card, a voucher, or be- access and use of transportacause she is carrying alcohol.â&#x20AC;? tion by users of dog guides?

Those excuses will not be availI know Guide Dogs for the able to them after May 11.

Blind has a video called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Taxi What have taxi cab drivers Please,â&#x20AC;? and Seeing Eye has a done to diffuse the tension poster on this topic. Most imbetween some taxi cab driv- portantly, they are letting their ers who discriminate against students know how to deal with guide dog users and those access issues when they do occur. Schools have very little who need dog guides? influence on cab drivers, but A group of cab drivers pub- they can equip students with licly stated that they are will- the tools to advocate for theming to give free rides to people selves.

,1)250$7,21 5()(55$/

Why did some drivers at the MAC meeting in March state they wanted the MAC to allow them to continue denying rides to blind customers who use dog guides?

6833257 *52836

TAXIS -

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of my dog and I being refused, both when alone and with my husband and his dog. When there are two dogs, sometimes the drivers really have a tizzy.

I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as educated back then

about procedures as I am now, and all I can say is that it would not be very smart if they refused to take me today. I know my rights! â&#x2013;

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14

May 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.org. See also Accessible Movie Theaters below.

All Shook Up May 8 - 13 Touring show at Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: Sun., May 13, 1:00 p.m. Tix: $22-72; AD if requested in advance: Phone: 612-373-5639 or 5609 Hotline: 612-373-5650 TTY: 612-373-5655 E-Mail: acces sible@orpheum. com Web: www.hennepintheatredistrict. org/guestservices/aslad/

See www.accesspress.org for complete listing.

ASL: Sun., June 10, 2:00 p.m.

Tix: Half price (reg. $25. student $12) Phone: 507-4672525 Toll Free: 800-657-7025 E-mail: tickets@common wealtheatre.org Web: www. commonwealtheatre.org

N O W P L AY I N G

Don Juan Giovanni Mar. 3 - June 24 Theatre de la Jeune Lune, 105 N. 1st St., Mpls. AD: Sun., Mar. 18, 7p.m. ASL: TBA Tix: Autistic License $13 (reg. $20) TicketWorks May 4 - 20 Illusion Theater, Hennepin 612-333-6200 or 612-332-3968 Center for the Arts, 8th floor, x100 www.jeunelune.org 528 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. AD: Fat Pig Fri., May 18, 8:00 p.m. Tix: June 15 - 30 Reduced to $10 for AD patron + companion; reg. $20 Phone: Walking Shadow Theatre Co. 612-339-4944 www.illusion at Playwrights’ Center, 2301 E. Franklin Ave., Mpls. AD theater.org and ASL: Fri., June 22, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $7 (reg.

Boats on a River $16, $14 student/senior) May 19 - June 10 Guthrie Theater, Dowling Stu- Phone: 612-375-0300 www. dio, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD walkingshadowcompany.org and ASL: TBA Tix: Reduced Flint Hills International to $12; reg. $19-$29 Phone: Children’s Festival 612-377-2224 TTY: 612-377June 2 - 3 6626 www.guthrietheater.org Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, 345 WashingCrimes of the Heart ton, St. Paul. Most indoor April 7 - July 1 Commonweal Theatre, 206 events will be ASL-interpreted Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro. and Audio Described, as well

as some world stage events in Generations ROCK! Rice Park. Tix: Phone: 651June 17 224-4222 TTY: 651-282- One Voice Mixed Chorus with special guests Teens Rock the 3100 www.ordway.org Mic at the History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. AD and Funny Girl Apr. 27 - May 20 ASL: Sun., June 17, 3:30 p.m.

Bloomington Civic Theatre at Tix: Reduced to $15-21 in seatBloomington Center for the ing area near interpreter (reg.

Arts Schneider Theater, 1800 $18-25) Phone: 612-332W. Old Shakopee Rd. AD: 1302 www.ovmc.org Sat., May 5, 7:30 p.m. ASL: Sat., May 12, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Get Ready Reduced to $18 (reg. $25, seJune 7 - July 1 nior $22, student $19) Phone: Penumbra Theatre, Martin 952-563-8575 www.bloom Luther King Center, 270 N. ingtoncivictheatre.org Kent St., St. Paul. ASL: Sat., June 16, 8p.m. Tix: $15-40 Future Perfect: Phone: 651-224-3180 (specify A Genetically Modified ASL) E-mail: boxoffice@ Musical penumbratheatre.org Web: April 19 - May 19 www.penumbratheatre.org Interact Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 212 - 3rd Glitter and Be Gay Ave. N., #140, Mpls. AD: Sat., June 22 - 23 April 28, 3:00 p.m., and Fri., Twin Cities Gay Men’s ChoMay 4, 7:30 p.m. ASL: Sat., rus at Ted Mann Concert Hall, May 12, 3:00 and 7:30 p.m. 2128 - 4th St. S., Mpls. ASL: Tix: Reduced to $10 (reg. $15) Sat., June 23, 8:00 p.m. Tix: Ticketworks: 651-209-6689 $19-39, children ½ price Phone: 612-339-5145 www. Phone: 612-624-2345 www. interactcenter.com or www. tcgmc.org ticketworks.com Grease June 15 - 24 Cross Community Players at Osseo Sr H. S., 317 2nd Ave. NW, Osseo. ASL: Sat., June 16, 7:30 p.m. AD: Sat., June 23, 7:30 p.m. Tix: ½price (reg. $14, $12 student/sr, $10 child) Phone: 763-391-2787 E-mail: mail@crossplayers.org Web: www.crossplayers.org

N O W P L AY I N G

N O W P L AY I N G

Illustration by Terry Allen

N O W P L AY I N G

N O W P L AY I N G

The Green Sheep May 8 - June 3 Windmill Performing Arts from Adelaide, Australia at the Children’s Theatre Co., Cargill Stage, 2400 - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls.

AD and ASL: Thurs., May 24, noon, and Fri., May 25, 7:00 p.m. Tix: $12 ($8 children) Phone: 612-874-0400 www. childrenstheatre.org

The price of salvation just went up.

PERFORMANCE INTERPRETED IN

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE:

• Friday, June 8 at 7:30 p.m.

PERFORMANCES

AUDIO DESCRIBED: • Saturday, May 26 at 1:00 p.m. (sensory tour is available at 10:30 a.m.)

• Friday, June 1 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $17 for patrons who use the ASL or AD service and for one companion.

612.377.2224 | TTY 612.377.6626 | WWW.GUTHRIETHEATER.ORG

Highlights of the Museum 1600-1900 June 3 Mpls. Institute of Arts, 2400 Third Ave. S. ASL-interpreted public tour of exhibit begins at 2:00 p.m. by the lobby Info Desk. Tix: Admission charged to exhibition; interpreted tour is free Phone: 612-870-3131 TTY: 612-870-3132 E-mail: dhegstro@artsmia.org Web: www.artsmia.org Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat May 2 - 20 Youth Performance Co. at Howard Conn Fine Arts Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave., Mpls.

AD and ASL: Sun., May 20, 2:00 p.m. Tix: ½ price (reg. $10, students or sr $8); advance reservation required for AD Phone: 612-623-9080 wwwyouthperformanceco.com

King Lear May 18 - June 10 Starting Gate Productions at Mounds Theatre, 1029 Hudson Rd, St. Paul. AD: Sun., June 3, 2:00 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $10 (Reg. $18, $16 student/senior) Phone: 651645-3503 www.startinggate. org Kiss of the Spider Woman June 1 - 24 Mpls. Musical Theatre at Hennepin Stages, 824 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. AD and ASL: Sat., June 9, 7:30 p.m.

Tix: $17 (reg. $24) Phone: 612-673-0404 ASL/AD Hotline: 612-373-5650 TTY: 612373-5655 E-mail: accessible @orpheum.com Web: www. aboutmmt.org or www.hen nepintheatredistrict.org/ guestservices/aslad/ A Lion’s Tale-Somali Folktales May 4 - 20 SteppingStone Theatre at Landmark Center, 75 W. 5th St., St. Paul. AD: Tues., May 15, 11:00 a.m. ASL: Sun., May 20, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $11, student/sr $9 Phone: 651-2259265 www.steppingstone theatre.org

Thurs., June 14, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $11 (reg. $18) 612-825-0459 www.pillsburyhousetheatre.org The Madwoman of Chaillot April 27 - May 20 Theatre in the Round Players, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., May 20, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $20, senior/student discount Phone: 612-333-3010 Web: www.theatreintheround.org Major Barbara May 5 - June 17 Guthrie Theater, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD: Sat., May 26, 1:00 p.m. (sensory 10:30); also Fri., June 1, 7:30 p.m. ASL: Fri., June 8, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $17 (reg. $22-$52) Phone: 612-377-2224 TTY: 612-3776626 www.guthrietheater.org The Marriage of Figaro May 5 - 13 MN Opera Co. at Ordway Center for Performing Arts, 345 Washington St., St. Paul.

In Italian with English captions. AD: Sun., May 13, 2:00 p.m.; pre-opera discussion at 1:00 p.m. Tix: Reduced to halfprice for AD patrons Phone: 612-333-6669 TTY: 612-7296023 www.mnopera.org

Messy Utopia Apr. 20 - May 13 LOW Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S. May 30 - June 16 4th St., Mpls. AD and ASL and Pillsbury House Theatre, 3501 Captioning: Fri., Apr. 27, 7:30 Chicago Ave. S., Mpls. AD: p.m. Tix: Reduced by $5 Fri., June 8, 7:30 p.m. ASL: Perform - cont. on p. 15

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. ■

May 10, 2007

SS -

Cont. from p. 5

“When it comes to helping disabled workers – as with so many other duties of government—recent Congresses have not been willing to pay for service that is prompt, professional and compassionate.”

Even though the Social Security Administration recognizes MS as a potentially qualifying disability, the current guidelines that direct case workers how to recognize the oftenhidden effects of the disease haven’t been revised in decades. As a result, many individuals who should have been approved in a timely manner have had to endure lengthy and often-costly appeals and court hearings before they eventually gain approval, if at all.

To help overcome these burdens, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society recently published an article in their newsletter, InsideMS, entitled “Loosening the SSDI Knots.”

This article summarizes the Society’s many recent efforts to revise and expedite approval guidelines and to educate SSA field offices on how to better recognize hidden disabilities.

Anyone who is in the process of, or contemplating, an application for permanent disability status will find the article quite educational and useful (www.nationalmssociety.org/ site/PageServer?pagename= HOM_LIB_imsapr07_loosening ssdi)

the work force and re-contribute to the ongoing solvency of the program. Many people on permanent disability would welcome the opportunity to return to work if they knew they wouldn’t have to go through the several-year approval process all over again the next time they got seriously ill. While expedited reinstatement of benefits is available within the first five years of resuming employment, an individual who suffers a debilitating relapse after the fiveyear period must reapply for benefits. For those with totally unpredictable chronic disorders, such as MS, that fiveyear limitation is unfairly restrictive.

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

Section 8 subsidized. Convenient SE Minneapolis location.

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

Lewis Park Apartments: Barrier-free housing with wheelchair users in mind. Section 8 subsidized. One- and two-bedroom units. For more To judge the likely impact of information on availability call a large number of people reen- 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. tering the workforce, I am cur- Equal Opportunity Housing. rently analyzing data provided by the SSA relevant to those on permanent disability who rehire retired employees, and participate in the Ticket to allow them to retain their penWork Program. I’m curious if sion and draw a full salary. Is that program, as limited as it it not far more radical that these may be, results in a savings of former federal employees federal expenditures in ben- would be allowed to work up efits payouts, and reduces fed- to half as many hours as they erally sponsored health care did before they retired without costs. If so, then a strong case having their pension income can be made that “temporary” reduced by one cent? disability benefits are not only sorely needed, but would re- So, while our lawmakers consult in long-term savings and tinue to consider and pass legfiscal responsibility. And that islation that ensures their own is the focus of my petition ef- financial well-being and secufort. rity, we, who have paid into a social security system that was If the concept of temporary, supposed to be there for us if as-needed disability benefits and when we needed it, find seems too much of a radical ourselves forgotten and often idea to be considered, con- abandoned. sider this. As reported in the Washington Post on April 17, The beauty of this country is 2007, the Office of Personnel that we, as American citizens, Management recently sent pro- have the ability to band toposals to Congress that would gether and effect necessary and authorize federal agencies to positive change.

15

Access To Employment

Employment ads are $16-$17 per col. inch. May 31 is the deadline for the June 10 issue. Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 • FAX 651-644-2136 • E-mail: access@accesspress.org Oak Park Village: One-bedroom wheelchair-accessible Healthcare Employment Opportunities apartments. Section 8 subsiWalker Methodist dized. Convenient St. Louis Park location. Call 952-935- Walker Methodist, a leading provider of services for seniors, 9125 for availability informa- has a variety of employment opportunities available at either tion. Equal Opportunity Hous- their Health Center or one of their Housing sites. Some of the ing. opportunities include: Seward Square Apartments: Nurses — LPNs or RNs Housekeepers We are currently accepting Certified Nursing Assistants Cooks and Waitstaff applications for our waiting Dietary Production Aides Maintenance Technicians list for barrier-free housing, in Minneapolis, that is federally For a full list of openings, please visit our Web site at subsidized. For an applica- www.walkermeth.org or contact our Human Resources detion, please call 612-338-2680. partment at 612-827-8362. EOE/AA Equal Opportunity Housing.

PERFORM -

Cont. from p. 14

I’ll end this article with insight from one of the individuals Phone: 612-338-6131 E-mail: Rocket Man who signed the petition last boxoffice@mixedblood.com May 4 - 26 month.

Web: www.mixedblood.com Rochester Repertory Theatre, 314 ½ S. Broadway. ASL: Fri., “The measure of any civilizaModern Orthodox May 11, 8:00 p.m. Tix: $15; tion is how it cares for their Apr. 22 - May 13 Phone: 507-289-1737 E-mail: needy and infirm; it’s time for Minnesota Jewish Theatre BoxOffice@RochesterRep.org Congress to step up to the plate Company at Hillcrest Center Web: www.RochesterRep.org and reflect the great heart of Theater, 1978 Ford Parkway, this country’s people.”

St. Paul. AD: Sun., Apr. 29, Sound Spectrum Featuring 2:00 p.m. Tix: $13 (reg. $17OutLoud!

You can read hundreds of 24) Phone: 651-647-4315 May 12 moving comments like this, www.mnjewishtheatre.org Ted Mann Concert Hall, 2128 and sign the petition by visit- 4th St. S., Mpls. ASL: Sat., ing the Web site www.accel Molecules of Music May 12, 8:00 p.m. Tix: $19eratedcure.org/petition.

May 17 - 19 39, children ½ price Phone: Young Dance at Barbara 612-624-2345 www.tcgmc.org In advance, thank you for join- Barker Center for Dance, U of Yet, streamlining the process ing the cause. Please sign the M, 500 - 21st Ave. S., Mpls.

Seussical for disability benefits approval petition today! ■ ASL: Thurs. May 17, 11:30 Apr. 24 - June 17 represents only part of the a.m. ($3); Sat., May 19 2:00 Children’s Theatre Co., 2400 problem, since permanent disBob Guidara, the petition au- p.m. Tix: $12, student/senior - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD and ability status in its current form thor, was diagnosed with $6 Phone: 612-423-3064 ASL: Wed., May 23, 10:30 offers inadequate incentives RRMS in 2003 at age 45. He www.youngdance.org a.m.; Fri., June 1, 7:30 p.m. for chronic illness patients who can be reached at ddremote@ Tix: Mention the VSA Offer are in remission to return to aol.com.

Monkey Magic: for $13 tix (reg. discount is Chinese Story Theatre $20) Phone: 612-874-0400 May 11 - 20 www.childrenstheatre.org Nine Mile Creek Theater at RE OU OOKING FOR Bloomington Center for the Taking Steps Arts Black Box Theater, 1800 June 1 - 24 A ATIONAL ERVICE W. Old Shakopee Rd. ASL: Park Square Theatre, 408 Saint Sun., May 20, 2:00 p.m. Tix: Peter St., St. Paul. AD and PPORTUNITY IN $8 Phone: 952-563-8587 www. ASL: Sat., June 16, 7:30 p.m. bloomingtonartcenter.com Tix: Reduced to half-price INNESOTA Phone: 651-291-7005 www. parksquaretheatre.org Once Upon a Mattress June 6 - 17 Uncle Vanya Silver Follies of FargoJune 1 - 24 Moorhead Community Theatre, 333 Fourth St. S., Fargo. Theatre in the Round, 245 AD: Thurs., June 7, 7:30 p.m. Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., ASL: upon request in advance June 24, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $20, Tix: Reduced to $7.50 Phone: senior/student discount EARN A LIVING ALLOWANCE AND AN EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP WHILE SERVING YOUR COMMUNITY! 701-235-6778 or 877-687- Phone: 612-333-3010 www. th theatreintheround.org 7469 www.fmct.org Monday, May 14 , 2007 ʊ 9:00am – 1:00pm

A

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N O

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Come Learn about Americorps Opportunities in Minnesota at the First Ever National Americorps Week Recruitment Fair!!!

Augsburg College Christensen Center 720 22nd Avenue South Minneapolis, MN AmeriCorps Programs are committed to the inclusion of all individuals without regard to age, race, religion, or disability!

Call 612-333-7743 or e-mail: ryank@serveminnesota.org for questions or reasonable accommodation requests.

The Prince and the Pauper April 20 - May 20 Stages Theatre Co. at Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. ASL: Sun., May 6, 2:00 p.m.; Wed., May 9 and Thurs., May 10 at 10:00 a.m. Tix: $14, $11 child (age 2-17)/sr Phone: 952-9791111 www.stagestheatre.org

You Can’t Take It with You June 7 - 24 Bloomington Art Center Gallery Players at Bloomington Center for the Arts Black Box Theater, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd. ASL: Sat., June 23, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $6 (reg. $15, $12 sr/student) Phone: 952-563-8587 www. bloomingtonartcenter.com.

■

16

May 10, 2007

May Issue Sponsor:

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Trivia

ANSWER (Q on pg 6): Over 381,000 Minnesotans between the ages of 5 and 64 experience the effects of disability.

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FOR $25

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Voice: 651.644.2133 Fax: 651.644.2136 E-mail: advertising@accesspress.org