July 2007 Edition - Access Press by Access Press

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July 10, 2007

History Note

“An ‘invalid’ is not one whose body doesn’t function, but one who doesn’t use what he or she has.”

■ Directory of Organizations—p. 7 ■ Mental Health Legislation—p. 3 ■ Fringe Festival Listings—p. 14

— Journalist from Uzbekistan Page 2 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 18, Number 7

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

July 10, 2007

Not Worlds Apart Uzbek Visitors See Similarities Between their Disability Newspaper and Access Press by Laurie Eckblad Anderson exchange via the visitors’ Russian interpreters. All the Uzbekistanis had connections to their disability community. Two of them had a special interest in Access Press because they publish disability newspapers of their own.

n June 11, three visitors from Uzbekistan visited Access Press to learn about the role of a disability newspaper in the U.S. They were guests of the Minnesota International

Center’s International Visitor Leadership Program, and Access Press was just one of their many stops while in Minnesota. Hosted that afternoon by Access Press editor Tim Benjamin, the group had a lively

We Want to Talk about Ourselves Benjamin met with Larisa Khodjaeva, Oibek Isakov, and Guli Abaskhanova. Khodjaeva took the lead, asking about key details related to publish-

ing Access Press. She wanted to know everything from its circulation (11,000) to the cost of a subscription ($25). She also noted that due to her interest in publishing, this meeting with Access Press was a key stop for her on the group’s overall itinerary.

Talk about Ourselves, a glossy, colorful newspaper published on behalf of children and teens with disabilities (pictured). When Benjamin noted that it would cost a lot more to print Access Press in a similar manner, Khodjaeva said they do it because that makes their paper more attractive to its target Khodjaeva then shared some group: kids. The paper’s cirmore background on herself. culation is about 1,000. She is affiliated with the Research Center for Disabled Upon viewing a sample of Children in Tashkent and is Khodjaeva’s paper, Benjamin the chief editor of We Want to was interested to see articles published in both Russian and English. When asked what disabilities are common in Uzbekistan, she responded that it is a mix of physical and mental disabilities, and that diabetes is a huge problem in her country. In fact, among the interesting list of sponsors for Khodjaeva’s paper are two companies that produce insulin: Novo Nordisk and Lilly. Novo is doing research on the prevalence of diabetes in Uzbekistan; Lilly is providing the Fair Labor Standards Act funds for a camp for kids with exempted Ms. Coke from its disabilities related to diabecoverage because she was a tes. “personal services” worker, and dismissed the case. Even with financial backing from sponsors, Khodjaeva and Coke appealed to the 2nd Cir- Benjamin agreed that it is alcuit Court of appeals, which ways a struggle to find enough overturned the district court money for their papers. And decision. They agreed with Ms. since both are always interCoke that the regulation, as ested in a good story, they interpreted by the DOL, was agreed to provide each other unenforceable. Long Island with articles via an e-mail exCare appealed the case to the change. Supreme Court. At this point, the DOL issued an “advisory Dignity memorandum” to further ex- Soon Oibek Isakov took over plain its interpretation of the the questioning. He is the chair regulation that Ms. Coke, and of the Disabled People’s Sociother personal care assistants, ety of Uzbekistan and is also were exempt from coverage affiliated with a disability by the Fair Labor Standards newspaper. The English transAct. The Supreme Court sent lation of the name of his paper the case back to the Court of is Dignity. It publishes 3,000 Appeals and asked them to copies twice a month, and its revisit their decision, taking yearly budget is about $10,000 into consideration this memo- (U.S.); this is about the same randum. The Court of Appeals cost as printing one month of found that this “interpretation Access Press. Bad Decision - cont. on p. 6

Court Underestimates Value Of Direct Support Long Island Care at Home vs. Coke: a Bad Decision and a Call to Action by Kathleen Hagen

velyn Coke immigrated to the U.S from Jamaica. For 20 years she worked for Long Island Care at Home as a personal care assistant. The agency provides personal care assistants to seniors and persons with disabilities. During that time, Coke often stayed with her customers overnight, or more than 24 hours, when another personal care assistant didn’t show up, or when a customer needed more care than their benefits would pay for. She was never paid a higher wage than $7.00 an hour, got no overtime for hours worked more than eight hours a day, and received no health insurance benefits. Then, in 2001, Ms. Coke was hit by a car and suffered injuries that precluded her from performing this work. Ms. Coke went to see a lawyer, who thought that under the Fair Labor Standards Act, she should have been paid for overtime work. She filed suit

in 2002 and now, five years later, has finally reached the end of the road—a dead end. The Supreme Court unanimously ruled to deny her the compensation she sought. Ms. Coke, at 73, has several serious disabilities, including diabetes, which has led to kidney failure and her need for dialysis three times-a-week.

to exclude from coverage only companionship service workers employed by a third party to provide services to someone in his/her home. Ms. Coke argued that this second more exclusionary amendment was unenforceable, and that Congress never meant for such domestic workers to be so excluded. Thus, Ms. Coke requested compensation for the years of unThis case had a long proce- paid overtime. dural history. The Fair Labor Standards Act was amended in Ms. Coke faced stiff opposi1974 to provide minimum wage tion. Rallying behind Long Isprotection and overtime com- land Care were various assopensation for domestic service ciations representing the inemployees. However, the terests of agencies who hire amendment exempted from and provide personal care ascoverage certain kinds of do- sistants. They argued that if mestic service employees, in- they were forced to pay overcluding workers providing time compensation, their costs “companionship services.” At would rise to billions of dolthe time, the Department of lars, either putting them out of Labor (DOL) established regu- business or preventing them lations, including some that ap- from providing assistance to peared to be contradictory to persons in their homes. the amendment’s intent. One of these regulations would seem The District Court found that

The Dignity is printed in black and white to save money. The relatively high cost of a subscription is a serious problem. The average pension for a person with a disability in Uzbekistan is 300,000 som (Uzbekistani currency) per year; a subscription to Dignity costs 10,000 som per year (3.3 % of annual income)! In comparison, Access Press is 10 times more affordable for a person on a fixed income in Minnesota; the SSI annual payment is $7476 ($623 monthly), and a subscription to Access Press costs $25 (0.33 % of annual income). Isakov’s paper is of a social and political nature, dealing with issues important to people with disabilities. However, the paper also includes articles on general criminal activity, because that is what draws readers in. Among those the paper

“Dignity also includes articles on general criminal activity, because that is what draws readers in.” hopes to attract with these crime teasers are people without disabilities; Isakov believes that the able-bodied fear disability, forgetting that it can happen to anyone. Dignity welcomes submissions from people with disabilities, who are paid if their articles are used. In general, Isakov believes that people with disabilities should participate in society as full citizens and accept the accompanying responsibility. A colleague of his in Uzbekistan says an “invalid” is not one whose body doesn’t function, but one who doesn’t use what he or she has. The two papers are remarkably similar. Like Access Press, the goal of Dignity is to Uzbekistan - cont. on p. 12

July 10, 2007

please be careful in the heat. Heat exhaustion and hyperthermia come on so fast that many of us can’t get out of the sun quickly enough to keep ourselves safe.

Tim Benjamin, Editor

he last couple of weeks, summer has really hit us hard. The heat has almost been too much. I know I don’t have to tell any of you, but I will:

The last few months, I’ve heard many unsettling stories about the taxicab situation throughout the Twin Cities. You’ve probably read some of the stories here in Access Press about the discriminatory actions that some cabdrivers have taken against people who use dog guides. Well, one of the newer twists is that certain cab companies have been charging a minimum of $20 to anyone that needs to use a wheelchair taxi (The standard minimum is $5.) The gouging has been resolved; you can see the details below.

We’ve been working for a while with Ed Lecher and several others at the State Services for the Blind to get the schedule for the Radio Talking Book (RTB) printed in our Accessible Performances section (page 14). If you haven’t heard about RTB, you’ll want to read about it on page 13. RTB provides a wonderful opportunity for everyone with a visual or physical disability to become, as they say, “wellread.” I had access to RTB back in the 70s, and I really enjoyed it; it’s a fabulous way to get the news. Some very professional volunteer readers read the local Twin Cities newspapers daily, as well as some of the other papers around the state (Fergus Falls and Mankato, for example). All the latest issues of national

news magazines, like The New Yorker, Tech Wire, Reader’s Digest, Poetic Reflections, Teensight, and many others, are available. Even more racy things (like Playboy—for the articles!) will be read to you. And of course, don’t forget Access Press. Note that you can also now listen to RTB streamed on the Internet. You’ll need a password to activate it, but the way I understand it, the staff at RTB gives you the password pretty painfree. Visit www.mnssb.org/ rtblive/. By the way, RTB is always searching for new volunteer readers. Try it—maybe you’ll like it, and help all the rest of us get cultured.

crease the wages for directsupport professionals. The legislation targets our PCAs with wage increases that would be funded by amending Title XIX of the Social Security Act (which is Medicaid). The funds would enable each state to directly increase wages to the PCAs who provide hands-on care and services to people with disabilities on Medicaid programs. The extra funds would not go to agencies. U.S. Representatives Jim Ramstad, Betty McCollum and Colin Peterson have signed on as cosponsors of this bill. But we have some serious letter writing to do. Tim Walz (DFL congressman from the 1st district) voted to increase the Cliff Poetz and Mark Olson minimum wage; he should be together authored an article on easy to convince. Keith Ellison page 3 about legislation to in- (DFL, 5th district), seems only

logical as well, given his positions on healthcare. John Kline (Republican from the 2nd district), as conservative as he is, should understand the need for people to make at least a livable wage. Michele Bachmann (R-6th district)…well, seven out of eight representatives would be excellent. Then we only have to count on people in the rest of the states to target all their representatives. I’m sure there will be plenty of other disability organizations trying to convince elected officials that this is a positive way of spending taxpayer money, and that taxpayers will know that this is the right thing to do. I hope so, anyway: for your PCAs and for you. ■

No Minimum Fare

History Note

New Wheelchair Accessible Taxicab Companies Available in the Twin Cities

Maria Montessori: Pioneer Educator Of Children With Disabilities

by the Access Press Staff

he supply of wheelchair accessible taxi cabs in Minneapolis has been dwindling over the past few years, to the point where recently there was just a single company, with questionable practices and an outrageous minimum fare for wheelchair users. Well, now there’s no more holding us hostage to overcharging and limited service! Effective June 2007, there are several new cab companies with wheelchair accessible taxicabs who want your patronage and do not charge a $20 minimum fare. A recent ordinance change in the city of Minneapolis requires new taxicab companies to have 10% of their fleet wheelchair accessible within 60 days of getting their taxi-

cab licenses; existing companies have until the end of the year to comply. As a result, four companies now have a wheelchair-accessible vehicle; over the next five months 11 more companies will be required to provide wheelchairaccessible service. If you need a wheelchair-accessible taxi-

cab, contact: Sky Bird Taxi 612-340-0124, North Star 952-888-8388, New Star Taxi 612-724-0444 or Gold Star Taxi 763-549-9999.

by the Access Press Staff

aria Montessori, after becoming the Report any concerns regardfirst Italian woman ing taxicab service in the city to earn a degree of doctor of of Minneapolis to the 311 sysmedicine in 1896, became intem. ■ terested in education for special needs children while stationed at the University of Rome’s psychiatric clinic. Montessori (1870-1952) believed the focus in working with children who have intelcan lectual disabilities should be

TRIVIA

Wh e r e organizations most effectively reach “influential” people? (Answer on page 16)

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 Office Assistant ........................................................................................... Jordan Selbo Cartoonist ..................................................................................................... Scott Adams Sales/Marketing ...................................................................................... Lance Hegland Production ...................................................... Ellen Houghton at Presentation Images Webmaster ...................................................................................................... Alice Oden 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 individuals, including 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 $12 to $28 per column inch, depending on size and frequency of run. Classified ads are $13, plus 60 cents 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

educational, not medical. Eventually, the Italian government began an institution to train teachers for this very purpose. After opening numerous schools based on her teachings, Montessori was eventually nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1949, 1950 and 1951. [Source: Museum of disABILITY History; www. museumofdisa bility.org]. ■

Correction

HHS Bill: Mixed Results by Anne Henry

n our June issue, the article HHS Bill: Mixed Results, under the subheading, SSI Penalty for Low-Income Families Removed (top of page 15), incorrectly states,

“Low-income families affected by disability will no longer be subjected to this penalty, effective July 1, 2007.” The correct date is February 1st, 2008. The author sends her

apologies for the error, and writes, “I am really sorry for the families who have to live with the financial hardship for another seven months.” ■

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Affordable/Accessible Housing For Persons With Mobility Impairments Community Enrichment Through Housing Diversity

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July 10, 2007

Getting Serious About Mental Health

Commentary

Higher Pay Slows Turnover

New Federal Bill Would Be an Important Step New State Funding and Programs Mean to Address Crisis in Direct Support Care. Improved Outlook for Mental Health Care by Cliff Poetz and Mark Olson by Patricia Siebert

he 2007 legislative session resulted in promising changes in mental health. The new funding may be Minnesota’s largestever increase for mental health ($34 million for FY08-09, $46 million for FY2010-11, excluding COLAs). In addition, several important changes proposed by a broad coalition of mental health stakeholders are beginning to take hold.

islature extended all MA mental health benefits to General Assistance Medical Care (GAMC) and Minnesota Care. The expanded benefits include services such as crisis intervention, case management, and adult and children’s in-home aides. (Changes are effective January 1, 2008, or in some cases January 1, 2009.)

New projects will integrate physical and mental health care. A crucial goal of the mental health community has been to create a system of care that recognizes mental illnesses as illnesses and treats the whole person. Those with severe mental illnesses have a disproportionate rate of other Mental Health - cont. on p. 13

GAMC and Minnesota Care adopt “model” benefit set. The Minnesota Mental Health Action Group (MMHAG), a collaboration of consumers, mental health advocacy organizations, providers, government, and private and public mental health care entities, has developed a “model benefit set” that would provide adequate treatment and crucial supports throughout one’s illness. A number of these benefits have been added to Medical Assistance (MA). This year, MMHAG’s influence spread further, as the 2007 leg-

n March of 2007 legislation was introduced in the United States House of The NADSP is a coalition of organizations and individuals Representatives to help states committed to strengthening the quality of human service increase wages for the direct support by strengthening the direct support workforce. The support workforce. The bill group believes conditions of low social status, insufficient hopes to reduce the staggering training, limited educational and career opportunities, and rates of turnover in this group. poor wages undermine the commitment of the direct supIndeed, many people needing port professionals, and have made it very difficult to recruit direct support service wake up and train qualified and committed individuals in direct each day and wonder who—if support roles in every area of human services. The NADSP anyone—will be available to mission is to promote the development of a highly compemeet their most basic needs. tent human services workforce which supports individuals Forget about life goals. It is in achieving their life goals. For more information, visit very difficult to pursue larger their Web site at www.nadsp.org. ■ goals when you are in a constant cycle of retraining new ing workforce turnover rates. of direct support professionpeople just to meet your daily With turnover rates as high as als is $8.86 an hour—not needs. 86% in some services and with nearly enough to support ourthe highest turnover happen- selves and our families. Many Perhaps some help is on the ing within the first three months of us are women and are our way. The Direct Support Pro- of employment, is it any won- family’s sole breadwinner. fessionals Fairness and Secu- der that people with disabili- Ironically, some of us qualify rity Act of 2007 (H.R. 1279), ties are stressed? for the same low-income supintroduced by Lois Capps (Dport services that people whose CA) and Lee Terry (R-NE), Although there are many dedi- lives we impact receive. If we gives states the opportunity to cated direct support profes- support a family of four, we secure additional federal med- sionals (DSPs) working daily don’t even make enough to icaid dollars to increase wages to meet the needs of people all meet federal poverty guidefor the direct support work- over the nation, turnover in the lines. force. These dollars represent industry is a major problem. a critical step towards reduc- Nationally, the average wage Wages - cont. on p. 11

About NADSP

Commentary

Institutions Live On Liability Trumps Dignity and Common Sense for People Dealing with Disability Bureaucracy by Lee Ann Erickson

he institutions are back; they are four bed waiver houses, only now, the walls are invisible. My sons, (pictured on p. 15) own their own home. They are making monthly mortgage payments, and their names are on the contract. However, the provider that serves them feels that it is in their best interests to be known by a number instead of a name. If their record book goes to the doctor’s office, it has a number on it, not

a name. Ted is 018B and Jim is How’s this for institutional 018G. déjà vu? Back in the 50s, people living in institutions Minnesota has done a good were numbered. Your grave job in closing down large in- marker was a number. You stitutions, but we haven’t been always knew when you were nearly as successful in closing looking at pictures of people down institutional attitudes. with disabilities in the media; Indeed, institutional behaviors they were the ones who had and attitudes are lingering in the black bars obliterating their large part because of liability faces. No name, no face, no issues, especially the many identity. Recently I received interpretations of HIPAA (the an e-mail regarding my son’s data privacy law). annual meeting. He was referred to as 018B. Well guess

what? 018B has a name: Ted Erickson. And his brother is Jim. It is not OK to reduce them to numbers to appease a HIPAA rule. Here’s another example. About 1995, Arc Southwest and a few service providers participated in a grant to expand community involvement for people with disabilities. The goal was to support people in joining a service organization. Recently we participated

program, it was people helping people. Nowadays, we require signed consent forms, background checks and proof of insurance coverage before our neighbor can even offer to give us a ride to church. Heaven forbid that you ever become friends with someone from another agency. You would not be allowed to ride in their company vehicle, and they When did people with disabili- couldn’t ride in yours. Liabilties lose their right to free ity, you know. speech? When we started this Institutions - cont. on p. 15 in a follow-up survey. Naturally, we wanted to interview the two people who continue to be involved with the organizations they joined. To our surprise, one provider agency would not let us talk to a woman regarding her involvement unless there was a signed consent form on file from her guardian.

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July 10, 2007

FAQ@DLL

Help With Your Heating Bill by Disability Linkage Line Staff

any Minnesotans are having financial trouble this summer for a surprising reason: paying their heating bills. Though it is illegal for the gas and electric companies to shut off service between October 15 and April 15 due to the state’s Cold Weather Rule, the gas companies generally are allowed to shut off service once the calendar reaches April 16. And due to the high cost of gas this past winter, an unusually high number of people are not able to pay off their past-due bills. Because of this, the Disability Linkage Line (DLL) has been getting an increased number of calls from people looking for help to prevent their shut off. Q: I received a shut-off notice. What do I do? A: Don’t ignore it! If you are having problems paying, it is always best to first contact your energy company. Ask them if they have any programs to help reduce your utility costs. Also try to establish some sort of payment plan to avoid reconnection fees. In most cases, companies will accept

partial payment to prevent abilities and the elderly. FFI: shutoff rather than requiring www.heatshare-mn.org, the balance in full. If you have 1-800-842-7279. a pending application with one of the energy assistance •The Gas Affordability Proprograms, let the company gram is a new pilot program know. Most utility compa- from CenterPoint Energy. nies will hold shut off if they The plan, which began in know. May, is designed to help qualifying customers lower Also let your utility company their monthly natural gas bills know if you need utilities for and pay past-due balances. It medical reasons. If your health credits a customer’s account and safety is jeopardized by a for gas charges that are greater shut off, you may qualify for than six percent of the up to three medical emergency customer’s annual income. In holds within a 12-month pe- addition, the program helps riod. To meet eligibility, you customers pay their past-due will need to provide a balances by offering matchphysician’s medical certificate ing credit to the amount paid verifying medical needs. You by the customer in monthly will also need to enter into a installments. According to the reasonable payment arrange- plan, CenterPoint Energy will ment. not shut off participating customers’ natural gas service Here are a few of the programs during the program year, even that help with utility costs for if a past-due balance exists, customers who meet guide- provided the customers make lines. agreed-upon payments. FFI: CenterPoint Energy, 612•The Energy Assistance Pro- 372-4727, 800-245-2377 or gram (EAP) helps pay home- (TDD) 888-321-4997 heating costs. FFI: Minnesota residents call 1-800-657- If you have additional ques3710. tions about community resources, please call DLL at 1•The Salvation Army’s 866-333-2466. DLL provides HeatShare Program pro- free, disability-related inforvides emergency assistance mation and assistance for Minwith heating and utility bills nesotans. Disability Linkage on a year-round basis. Funds Line does not endorse any may be used for natural gas, particular web site or provider. oil, propane, wood, electric- They assume no responsibility and emergency furnace ity for transactions between repairs. Special consideration the readers of this article and is given to people with dis- listed organizations. ■

Target Marketing at its finest! Advertise in Access Press and reach thousands in the disability community every month.

Back From Australia Interact Theater Returns with Tales from the Other Side of the World by Sandy Moore Editor’s Note: Last December, we printed an article on this theater collaboration and their work in Minnesota. This article reports what happened when they traveled to Australia to continue their co-creations. “Sometimes big theatre collaborations can be unwieldy giants, but this magnificent coproduction is a towering lesson in how to bring the best out of people.” (Matt Byrne, Adelaidenow, April 2007) That’s what one reviewer said about Northern Lights/Southern Cross: Tales from the Other Side of the World when Interact Center of Minneapolis and Tutti Ensemble of Adelaide, Australia, premiered this epic new work in Australia this past spring. Both of these groundbreaking theater companies are made up of artists with disabilities who have reached across the world to tell their stories. It all got started a year ago when Tutti Ensemble spent a month in Minnesota learning about winter cold and North Country Native traditions. Then last March, Interact’s artistic director Jeanne Calvit left winter behind and stepped into the blazing Australian summer twenty-four hours later. Her traveling companions and fellow artists were Al Baker, Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe drummer and pipe carrier; Larry Yazzie, Meskwaki fancy dancer; Interact actor and visual artist Sindibad O’Dell, part Creek; and Kevin Kling, a nationally-acclaimed playwright and storyteller. Jeanne Calvit laughs when she recalls thinking, “There’s no way this can work! We’ve got too many ingredients for anybody’s stew.” And more to be added—the entire Tutti en-

semble, along with Aboriginal artist Stephen Gadlabarti Goldsmith, yidaki (didgeridoo) player, dancer, storyteller and cultural educator of Narrunga, Kaurna and Ngarrendjeri descent.

becoming one.” Oki’s spirit had traveled completely to the other side of the world, to see if he could put the pieces of his life back together, a story borrowed from Ojibwe Winneboujou tales of the Great Spirit who was sent to the other side Today, Northern Lights/ of the world to heal people and Southern Cross stands out as to put things right. one of the most deeply spiritual, personally satisfying, and Oki comes to feel at home in outlandishly humor-filled the company of the heyokes, works any of these artists have trickster spirits, who do everyever done. The jumping-off thing backwards. These spirpoint was Kling’s uncanny its have deep resonance in the ability to share stories of his world of the disabled, as do own personal healing from a their Australian cousins, the motorcycle accident that re- larrikins. They are wrong, consulted in disability, and to un- trary, annoying. They elicit derstand how those stories anger – or laughter – and they resonate on a cultural and glo- reflect our prejudices right bal level. This is a work about back at us. In Native traditrauma and healing—cultural tions, these trickster clowns trauma as people struggle to are healers, the sacred, honre-learn and restore traditional ored spirit of “otherness.” And values; global trauma as wars they are darned funny. persist and ecosystems disappear; and personal trauma, Seeing these traditional stosuch as living with a disability ries come together, and underin a world that often sees only standing the parallels in the deficits and misses the tal- Kling’s mythic perceptions ents and possibilities. and fantastical memories while in a coma, were the elements No preachy downer, Kling, with that brought this piece to life. both arms in slings, says, “I was Just like in real life, every born with a disability, and then single artist was critical to the I added to it. While I was in process. And every single artthe hospital after the accident, ist had an authentic story to 9/11 happened. I thought the tell, including the vivid comwhole country was going pany of Tutti actors who played through the same thing I was. the heyokes, the pranksters, the And the idea struck me that clamoring conscience of anywhile you can’t cure trauma, one who tries to get out of you can heal from trauma.” He owning up. begins the telling, “This is my story. The doctors will tell you Al Baker brought the hearta different story, but this is what beat of the Native drum, cenREALLY happened.” tering and calming, guiding and soothing. O’Dell’s imposOur friend Oki (Kling), a regu- ing, quiet presence reflects this lar Minnesota guy, goes boots visual artist’s genius for creatover helmet on his motorcycle ing non-verbal moments of and winds up in a coma, or so deep impact, since brain damthe doctors say. Oki himself age has affected his ability to hooks up with some pretty in- memorize lines. Yazzie’s viteresting characters who tell sually stunning fancy dance, him, “Mate, you’re as close to emerging both from Native trathe stars as you can get without Interact - cont. on p. 15

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

July 10, 2007

News At A Glance . . . Web Site Offers Easy Starting Point for State Government Disability Resources

Text4Deaf allows users to send and receive messages to individuals and groups, while enabling recipients to respond Minnesotans have a single source on the Internet— directly to the originating PC, Mac, PDA or mobile phone and www.mndisability.gov—for quick and easy access to state to group member mobile phones. “Communications should be government-agency programs, products and services dedi- a two-way street, with everyone being able to reach each other, regardless of their hearing capacity, texting plans or availabilcated to disability issues. ity,” stated Kerry Thompson, Text4Deaf spokesperson. “This is the ‘blue pages’ for state government disability resources,” said Dan McElroy, Commissioner of the Department In addition to signed video blogs with transcripts, there is an of Employment and Economic Development and the project’s event listing and other resources on the site. Anyone in the sponsor. “Our goal is to empower people with disabilities, their world can send and receive text messages to U.S. and Canadian family members and friends, and anyone looking for an easy- cell phones. [Source: www.Text4Deaf.com] to-access, easy-to-understand starting point on the Internet for Partners in Policymaking Seeks Recruits state government resources.” Claudia from Dakota County believes that Partners in Site users can locate resources in any of four ways: by topic – Policymaking made her confident enough to go out into the such as education, employment, housing or transportation; by world and make changes. Brian from Meeker County credits state agency; by an A-Z index; or by a search. The site currently his ability to live independently to the Partners program. Tom has more than 220 links, each with a brief description of a from Carver County, an advocate for his son Nick, liked that program, product or service offered by various state agencies. Partners offered not only information about systems and serThe site will be updated on a regular basis and is compliant with vices, but also emotional support from other parents. the Americans with Disabilities Act as well as generally accepted accessibility standards. [Source: www.mndisability. These individuals are just three of over 600 graduates of the gov] Partners in Policymaking leadership training program, created in 1987 by the MN Governor’s Council on Developmental New Text Messaging Site for Deaf Community Disabilities (GCDD). The program is for adults with disabiliText4Deaf.Com is a new communications-based Web site for ties and parents of young children with developmental disabilithe deaf community and the people with whom they interact. ties, and is currently seeking recruits for a monthly workshop Text4Deaf enables real-time text messaging with a Web inter- starting in September. face to cell phones, regardless of the carrier. Through a nine-month series of eight weekend sessions, class Jolene Mancini, AuD candidate in Audiology at Gallaudet Univer- members learn about such topics as the history of the selfsity, stated, “Texting is very important on this campus, and the advocacy and independent living movements; the values and concept of sending and receiving text messages from the Internet benefits of inclusive education; Minnesota’s case management is appealing because of its convenience, affordability and extra system and available county services; how to meet and discuss features. This is a practical technology that I would recommend to policy with various government officials; and how bills beanyone, regardless of hearing status.” The popularity of texting come law at the state and federal levels. There is no charge to continues to grow; a billion text messages were sent last year in the attend, as fees are covered by a federal grant to the GCDD. U.S. alone, up 95% from the previous year.

Partners is about systems change, explained Colleen Wieck, Executive Director of the GCDD, and combines education and training of class members about best practices in the field of disability and the competencies of communicating with policy makers. To learn more, contact Government Training Services at cschoeneck@mngts.org or 651-222-7409. [Source: Partners in Policymaking]

ADA Bus Tour to Visit Minnesota The Road to Freedom Bus Tour, a year-long, cross-country educational and promotional bus tour to inform and inspire America about the compelling history of disability rights, will stop at two Minnesota locations in mid-August. First, the tour will be in downtown Minneapolis on Friday, August 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free exhibit will be parked between the Mill City Museum and the Guthrie Theater at 704 South Second St., Minneapolis. Then on Saturday the 18th, Road to Freedom will be in St Peter; first at the Minnesota Square Park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and then the State Hospital On-Campus Cemetery from 2 to 3 p.m. The public is invited all of these stops. (See ads, p. 15) The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law in 1990 with overwhelming bipartisan support, promising freedom, equality and inclusion for people with disabilities. Congress passed the ADA to open doors to employment, public services and accommodations and to give people with disabilities the freedom to live fully in the community. Today, the dream of full civil rights protections for people with disabilities is not yet fully realized. The Road to Freedom bus tour features a multi-media display and presentation that guides viewers through the civil rights struggle for people with disabilities. Jim Ward, president of ADA Watch and the National Coalition for Disability Rights, will be on hand to talk about the ADA, the challenges still faced by people with disabilities and the need to keep the promise of the ADA. [Source: ADA Minnesota] ■

July 10, 2007

BAD DECISION memorandum” was not due the deference of a DOL regulation, and affirmed its original decision. The Supreme Court then took up the case and issued its decision on June 11, 2007. The Supreme Court ruled against Ms. Coke. They held, by unanimous vote, that the DOL’s regulations were not inconsistent with each other, and that agency interpretation was to be given deference. The High Court pointed out that the DOL had, on three separate occasions, sought public comment to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act to provide such workers coverage, but on all three occasions they withdrew the proposed amendments. Thus, the court reasoned, the DOL had carefully considered the issue and still held to the original amendments set forth in 1974. ■ ❖❖❖❖ Hope on the Horizon The problem, back in 1974 and still today, seems to be that the government has generally held the services of personal care attendants in low regard. Defining these workers as providing “companionship services” is a complete misnomer, as anyone with disabilities who needs the services of such assistants to remain independent at home will attest.

Cont. from p. 1

Thankfully, others have been hard at work to change the dim public perception of such work. A coalition of organizations called National Alliance of Direct Support Professionals, NADSP, is one such group. “We started by coming up with a better name that more accurately described the work performed by personal care assistants; this name is “Direct Support Professionals,” said Mark Olson, president of NADSP. “It is our goal to make this a career that people will seek, and which will provide a living wage and promote lifelong learning for people who go into this profession.” Readers can learn more about this alliance, or join it as an individual or organization, by going to their Web site: www.nadsp.org. A review of the Web site shows that NADSP has engaged in four very essential tasks to bring about their mission. First, they have worked with the Department of Labor, both to have the DOL include “Direct Support Professional” as a job title in its Dictionary of Occupational Titles, and also to provide certified state apprenticeship programs. Second, they’ve worked to establish a degree program. Third, the NADSP has proposed Rules

Upcoming Events To list an event, e-mail access@accesspress.org Career Camp July 16-26, August 6-16 Opportunity Partners, a Twin Cities nonprofit, still has space remaining in its summer Career Camp for students with disabilities. The summer day camp, geared for ages 16-21, covers many work preparation activities such as exploring careers, enhancing work skills, gaining knowledge of resources and boosting social development. It also includes field trips to companies. Sessions run M-Th for two weeks and will be based out of Opportunity Partners in Minnetonka. Two sessions are planned. FFI: Julie McGinley at 952-930-4277 or jmcginley @opportunities.org. of Ethics for their organization. Finally, NADSP is educating Congress on the need of persons with disabilities to live independently at home, and the need for persons who care for them to have pride in their work and to make a living wage. (See article by Poetz and Olson, p. 3) Kathleen Hagen is a staff attorney at the Minnesota Disability Law Center

Music/Movies at Loring Park July 16-August 20 Summer Music/Movies at Loring Park returns for its 31st year of free Monday night entertainment under the stars. Music begins at 7 p.m. followed by the films at dusk (approx. 8:45 p.m.). This year’s series showcases 1950s Hollywood films of director Douglas Sirk, who documented the growing discontent with the stifling rules of proper society, and musical acts such as Black Blondie and Metronomy. Public Meeting on Central Corridor LRT Project July 17 This last of the Metropolitan Council’s public informational meetings is designed to get comments and inform the public. Comments will help the Met Council determine the scope of the work on the line that will link downtown St. Paul and downtown Minneapolis via University and Washington Avenues. Details: S. St. Anthony Park Rec. Center, 6-8 p.m. FFI: www.metro council.org/transportation/ ccorridor/CCcalendar.htm. ‘Focus on Housing’ Group Meeting July 17 If you’re struggling to find safe, affordable housing for yourself or a family member with an intellectual or developmental disability, you can meet other parents, caregivers and self-advocates who share your interest in housing at the new Focus on Housing networking group from Arc Greater Twin Cities. Share ideas, brainstorm for new solutions, and meet potential roommates and hous-

ing partners. Details: Tuesday, noon-1:30 p.m. at Arc Greater Twin Cities, 2446 University Ave. W., Suite 110, St. Paul. Free, but please RSVP. FFI: Arc at 952-920-0855. Coffee/Caregivers Meeting July 19 Parents and caregivers of adults who have intellectual and developmental disabilities are invited to Coffee & Caregivers, co-hosted by Arc Greater Twin Cities and Merrick, Inc. It’s a great opportunity to network with others (over coffee and doughnuts) and discuss issues that matter to you and the person you care for. There’s no formal agenda. Details: 10:00-11:30 a.m. Merrick, Inc., 3210 Labore Rd, Vadnais Heights. RSVP by July 17. FFI: Arc at 952-920-0855.

Powderhorn, Loring Park Art Festivals August 4-5 Over 320 artists from around the country will showcase their talents at the Powderhorn Art Fair and Loring Park Art Festival. From traditional to abstract, artistic media includes painting, photography, printmaking, handmade paper, wood, jewelry, sculpture, fiber, mixed media and glass. Eloise Butler Wildflower These family-friendly multicultural events provide someGarden Events thing for everyone. Details: Through July The Eloise Butler Wildflower Free. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Garden and Bird Sanctuary is and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. in full bloom with grand disFifth Annual Brainerd plays of mid-summer treaLakes Fishing Event sures. Free programs offered August 24-25 in July by Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board natural- For the past four years, volunists include: Wildflower teers for the Brainerd Lakes Walks, Saturday Morning Bird Chapter of Fishing Has No Walks, as well the popular Full Boundaries (FHNB) have proand New Moon Walks. De- vided lots of fish, food, fun tails: to register, call 612-370- and friendliness for everyone 4903. Located ½ mile north of involved with the annual event. I-394 on Theodore Wirth Park- Now in its fifth year, the event way. Metro Transit Bus Route promises to do more of the 9 stops at Glenwood Ave. and same for more than 120 participants with physical and Theodore Wirth Parkway. developmental disabilities. 5K Run-Walk-Roll-Stroll Volunteers include fishing guides and local celebrities. August 4 The Courage Center is spon- Location: Confidence Learnsoring 5K Your Way, which ing Center. FFI: www. will occur in Theodore Wirth BrainerdLakesFHNB.org.

Of fense Tak en

Join us for this Courage Center pledge event

PLEASE JOIN US. WE NEED YOUR VOICE AND VIEWS.

A Community Discussion about Using the “R” Word

Saturday, August 4 Registration begins at 7 am Race begins at 8:30 am

Stereotypes, Language Oppression and Artistic Freedom

Courage Center 3915 Golden Valley Road, Minneapolis, Minn.

Ever since a local theater troupe used “retard” in their current comedy’s title, local disability advocates have been up in arms.

Verifiable nonprofit, community and church group teams have the opportunity to raise money for their own organization as they are raising money for Courage Center! Qualified organizations will receive 20% of funds raised by their team.

You are invited to join a community discussion of the slang use of terms such as “retard,” “celebretard,” and “debutard” and the meaning of this usage for our community. This public meeting will be filmed for an educational video, which will be used to encourage discussion about this issue in other community settings, including schools and churches.

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Park in Minneapolis and will support Courage Center in its efforts to help children and adults with disabilities increase their independence and quality of life. There will be food, entertainment and fun all morning. Registration is open for volunteers and race participants. FFI: www.courage. org, call 763-520-0561, or e-mail 5KYourWay@courage.org.

Music for Social Change September 8 The 7th annual singing and song-writing workshop gathers together self-advocates and allies, who will take inspiration from past social justice movements and create songs for the disability rights movement today. Details: 10 a.m.3 p.m., Duluth. FFI: contact ACT at 651-641-0297 or Arc Northland at 218-726-4725.

But should they be?

ss c ro

it.

WHEN:

Wednesday, July 25th

TIME:

5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

WHERE:

Interact Center 212 3rd Avenue North, Suite 140 Minneapolis, Minnesota

Courage Center

Questions regarding the community discussion, please contact:

To register or for more information, visit courage.org

Phone: (651) 641-0297 Email: cardenas@selfadvocacy.org

Rick Cardenas at Advocating Change Together (ACT)

Questions regarding directions ONLY, please call (612) 339-5145

2007 MS Annual Convention November 16-17 This year’s MS Society convention will focus on improving health care for people with MS and their families. Specific focus will be on improving health care for people with MS as well as encouraging growing participation in the overall movement. Keynote speakers include comedian Jonathan Katts and Dr. Ian Duncan of UW-Madison. Details: Hyatt Regency in Minneapolis. FFI: National MS Society, MN Chapter at 612-3357900 or www.MSsociety.org. ■

July 10, 2007

Access Press Directory of Organizations Minnesota’s Disability Community Newspaper VOICE LINE

SECOND LINE

E-MAIL/WEB SITE

Want to be seen on potential clients' tables for 3 months at a time?

ADVOCACY Advocating Change Together (ACT) ......................... 651-641-0297 ..... TF-800-641-0059 .............. www.selfadvocacy.org Arc–Greater Twin Cities ............................................ 952-920-0855 ...................................... www.arcgreatertwincities.org The Arc of Minnesota ................................................ 651-523-0823 .. TTY-651-523-0823 .... www.thearcofminnesota.org Arthritis Foundation, North Central Chapter ............. 651-644-4108 ..... TF-800-333-1380 ..................... www.arthritis.org Assoc. of Residential Resources in MN (ARRM) ..... 651-291-1086 ........... 800-551-2211 .......................... www.arrm.org MN Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities .............. 763-520-0439 ........ F-763-520-0562 ... kristin.hansen@courage.org Mental Health Association of MN ............................. 612-331-6840 ........ F-612-331-1630 ....... www.mentalhealthmn.org MN Developmental Achievement Center Assoc. ...... 651-647-9200 ........ F-651-647-9353 ..................... www.mndaca.org National Alliance on Mental Illness of MN (NAMI-MN) 651-645-2948 TF-888-NAMIHELPS ..................... www.namimn.org PACER Center, Inc. ................................................... 952-838-9000 .. TTY-952-838-0190 ......................... www.pacer.org

BRAIN INJURY Brain Injury Assoc. of MN ....................................... 612-378-2742 ..... TF-800-669-6442 .......... www.braininjurymn.org Courage Center .......................................................... 763-588-0811 .. TTY-763-520-0245 .................... www.courage.org Cristo Vive International ........................................... 763-263-1526 ........................................................ www.cristovive.net Dungarvin Minnesota ................................................. 651-699-6050 .................................................... www.dungarvin.com Howry Residential Services ............................... 651-917-9111x204 ........ F-651-917-1018 .................. www.howryinc.com Opportunity Partners .................................................. 952-938-5511 .. TTY-952-930-4293 ............. www.opportunities.org People Incorporated Epilepsy Services ..................... 612-338-9035 ........ F-612-338-1160 ... www.peopleincorporated.org RESTART, Inc. ......................................................... 763-588-7633 ........ F-763-588-7613 .............. www.restartincmn.org Rise, Inc. ....................................................... V/TTY-763-786-8334 ........ F-763-786-0008 ............................. www.rise.org TBI Metro Services ................................................... 612-869-3995 ....... V-651-457-4756 ............. www.opportunities.org

651644-2133 or

access@accesspress.org

CHEMICAL HEALTH Vinland Center .............................................. V/TTY-763-479-3555 ........ F-763-479-2605 ........... www.vinlandcenter.org COMMUNITY-LIVING The Cooperating Community Programs (CCP) . V-651-917-8322 x11 ......................... jrentschler@menwetherventures.com Community Involvement Program (CIP) ................... 612-362-4400 ........ F-612-362-4479 ....................... www.cipmn.org CIP - Bloomington ................................................. 952-854-4007 ............................................................ www.cipmn.org CIP - Crystal ........................................................... 763-504-1008 ............................................................ www.cipmn.org Courage Center .......................................................... 763-588-0811 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ..................... www.courage.org Dungarvin Minnesota ................................................. 651-699-6050 ................................................... www.dungarvin.com Hennepin County Library - Outreach Services (HCL) .. 952-847-8850 ......................... www.hclib.org/pub/info/disabled.cfm Opportunity Partners .................................................. 952-938-5511 . TTY–952-930-4293 ............. www.opportunities.org People Incorporated Epilepsy Services ..................... 612-338-9035 ........ F-612-338-1160 .. www.peopleincorporated.org Reach for Resources .................................................. 952-988-4177 ........ F-952-988-4020 .... www.reachforresources.org RESTART, Inc. ......................................................... 763-588-7633 ........ F-763-588-7613 ............. www.restartincmn.org Southern Minnesota Independent Living Enterprises & Services (SMILES) ......................... 507-345-7139 ..... TF-888-676-6478 ................... www.smilescil.org EDUCATION Adult Basic Ed/Special Needs ................................... 651-290-4729 .. TTY-651-290-4852 ................ www.hubbs.spps.org Arthritis Foundation North Central Chapter .............. 651-644-4108 .. TF-1-800-333-1380 .................... www.arthritis.org Community Ed—Programs for Adults with Disabilities . 651-748-7436 ........ F-651-748-7497 ............. psvendsen@isd622.org Family Institute for Creative Well-Being .................. 651-639-2527 Minnesota Resource Center ...................................... 612-752-8102 .. TTY-612-752-8019 .................... www.mrc-mn.org PACER Center, Inc. ................................................... 952-838-9000 .. TTY-952-838-0190 ........................ www.pacer.org EMPLOYMENT Lifetrack Resources ................................................... 651-227-8471 .. TTY-651-227-3779 .... www.lifetrackresources.org Opportunity Partners .................................................. 952-938-5511 .. TTY-952-930-4293 ............ www.opportunities.org Rise, Inc. ....................................................... V/TTY-763-786-8334 ........ F-763-786-0008 ........................... www.rise.org Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

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July 10, 2007

Dir ector y of Or ganiza tions Director ectory Org anizations www.accesspress.org VOICE LINE

Computerized Desktop Publishing: Advertisements Brochures Catalogs Flyers Logos Newsletters Newspapers and More!

SECOND LINE

E-MAIL/WEB SITE

GOVERNMENT MN Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Council On Developmental Disabilities 651-296-4018 ................... TTY-711 ...................... www.mncdd.org www.partnersinpolicymaking.com MN State Council On Disability (MSCOD) .... V/TTY-651-296-6785 TF/TTY-800-945-8913 ....... www.disability.state.mn.us Social Security Admin & the St. Paul PASS Cadre ... 651-290-0054 ........ F-651-290-3811 ........... www.socialsecurity.gov

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HEALTH Arthritis Foundation North Central Chapter .............. 651-644-4108 ..... TF-800-333-1380 ..................... www.arthritis.org Dungarvin Minnesota ................................................. 651-699-6050 .................................................... www.dungarvin.com Family Institute for Creative Well-Being .................. 651-639-2527 ....................................... www.familyinstitute-cwb.org Gillette Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital Specialty Healthcare ..... 651-291-2848 ..... TF-900-719-4040 ....... www.gillettechildrens.org Healthy Life Coaching (HLC) ............................ V/F-320-963-5976 ....... C-612-998-6452 .......... www.healthsangels.com Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute ......................... 612-863-4466 ........ F-612-863-8942 www.sisterkennyinstitute.com HEARING IMPAIRMENT DeafBlind Services MN ............................................. 612-362-8454 .. TTY-612-362-8422 ......................... www.dbsm.org Hearing Loss Assoc. of America TC Chapter ................................... V/TTY-763-537-7558 ........................ www.hlaatc.org Telephone Equipment Distribution Program ............. 651-297-1507 .. TTY-800-657-3513 .............. www.tedprogram.org HOUSING Accessibility Design .................................................. 952-925-0301 ........ F-952-926-7712 .. www.accessibilitydesign.com Accessible Homes, LLC ............................................ 612-978-1054 ........................................ www.accessiblehomesllc.net Accessible Space, Inc. ............................................... 651-645-7271 .. TTY-800-627-3529 ........ www.accessiblespace.org The Cooperating Community Programs: ............. 651-917-8322x11 ..................................................... www.ccpcdcs.com or Residential Services (CCP) ....................................................................................... jrentschler@menwetherventures.com Community Involvement Programs (CIP) Broadway ..... 612-362-4400 ........ F-612-362-4476 ....................... www.cipmn.org CIP - Bloomington ................................................. 952-854-4007 ............................................................ www.cipmn.org CIP - Crystal ........................................................... 763-504-1008 ............................................................ www.cipmn.org HousingLink .............................................................. 612-522-2500 ........ F-612-521-1577 .............. www.housinglink.org National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc. ................. 651-639-9799 ................................ www.nhhiaccessiblehousing.com RESTART, Inc. ......................................................... 763-588-7633 ................................................. www.restartincmn.org Rise, Inc. ....................................................... V/TTY-763-786-8334 ........ F-763-786-0008 ............................. www.rise.org Susan Lasoff & Associates ........................................ 612-872-7520 LEGAL Legal Aid Society of Mpls .................... 612-334-5970 (new clients) .. TTY-612-375-4668 .............. www.midmnlegal.org Minnesota Disability Law Center ......... 612-334-5970 (new clients) ..... TF-800-292-4150 ...................... www.mndlc.org Southern MN Regional Legal Services, Inc (SMRLS) 651-222-5863 . TTY-651-222-5863 .......................... www.smrls.org MENTAL HEALTH Community Involvement Programs (CIP) Broadway 612-362-4400 ........ F-612-362-4476 ....................... www.cipmn.org CIP - Bloomington ................................................. 952-854-4007 ........................................................... www.cipmn.org CIP - Crystal ........................................................... 763-504-1008 ........................................................... www.cipmn.org Courage Center .......................................................... 763-588-0811 .. TTY-763-520-0245 .................... www.courage.org Cristo Vive International ........................................... 763-263-1526 ....................................................... www.cristovive.net Family Institute for Creative Well-Being .................. 651-639-2527 ....................................... www.familyinstitute-cwb.org Howry Residential Services ............................... 651-917-9111x204 ........ F-651-917-1018 .................. www.howryinc.com Lifetrack Resources ................................................... 651-227-8471 .. TTY-651-227-3779 .... www.lifetrackresources.org Mental Health Assoc. of Minnesota ........................... 612-331-6840 ..... TF-800-862-1799 ....... www.mentalhealthmn.org People Incorporated ................................................... 651-774-0011 .. TTY-651-774-6535 .. www.peopleincorporated.org Rise, Inc. ....................................................... V/TTY-763-786-8334 ........ F-763-786-0008 ............................ www.rise.org Tasks Unlimited ......................................................... 612-871-3320 ........ F-612-871-0432 ........... www.tasksunlimited.org

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PHYSICAL THERAPY Courage Center .......................................................... 763-588-0811 .. TTY-763-520-0245 .................... www.courage.org Lifetrack Resources ................................................... 651-227-8471 .. TTY-651-227-3779 .... www.lifetrackresources.org

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RECREATION Camp Winnebago ...................................................... 507-724-2351 ............................................ www.campwinnebago.org Courage Center .......................................................... 763-588-0811 .. TTY-763-520-0245 .................... www.courage.org Cristo Vive International ........................................... 763-263-1526 ........................................................ www.cristovive.net Friendship Ventures ................................................... 952-852-0101 ..... TF-800-450-8376 .... www.friendshipventures.org Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

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Dir ector y of Or ganiza tions Director ectory Org anizations Minnesota’s Disability Community Newspaper VOICE LINE SECOND LINE E-MAIL/WEB SITE RECREATIONAL (continued) Ventures Travel LLC ................................................. 952-852-0107 ..... TF-866-692-7400 ........... www.venturestravel.org Wilderness Inquiry ..................................................... 612-676-9400 .. TTY-612-676-9475 .... www.wildernessinquiry.org REHABILITATION CENTERS Courage Center .......................................................... 763-588-0811 .. TTY-763-520-0245 .................... www.courage.org Courage Center Burnsville ......................................... 952-898-5700 Courage Center St. Croix ........................................... 651-439-8283 Courage Center Forest Lake ...................................... 651-439-8283 DeafBlind Services MN ............................................. 612-362-8454 .. TTY-612-362-8422 ......................... www.dbsm.org Fairview M.S. Achievement Center ........................... 612-672-2815 ................................................ www.fairview.org/msac Lifetrack Resources ................................................... 651-227-8471 .. TTY-651-227-3779 .... www.lifetrackresources.org Midwest Special Services .......................................... 651-778-1000 .. TTY-651-772-8592 ............. www.mwsservices.org Rehabilitation Centers (MRCI) .......................................................................................................................... www.mrci.org Burnsville ............................................................... 952-894-4680 Carver/Scott ............................................................ 952-445-6811 Chaska .................................................................... 952-448-2234 Fairmont ................................................................. 507-386-5600 .. TTY-800-627-3529 Industrial Operations .............................................. 507-386-5600 Lakeville ................................................................. 952-898-5025 New Ulm ................................................................ 507-233-2700 North Memorial Rehab Services ................................ 763-520-5690 ........ F-763-520-5697 ....... www.northmemorial.com Opportunity Partners .................................................. 952-938-5511 .. TTY-952-930-4293 ............ www.opportunities.org ProAct, Inc. ................................................................ 651-686-0405 ........ F-651-686-0312 ................... www.proactinc.org Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute ......................... 612-863-4466 ........ F-612-863-8942 www.sisterkennyinstitute.com RESIDENTIAL The Cooperating Community Programs— Residential Services (CCP) .............................. 651-917-8322x11 ......................... jrentschler@menwetherventures.com Community Involvement Programs (CIP) Broadway ............................................................... 612-362-4400 ........ F-612-362-4476 ....................... www.cipmn.org CIP - Bloomington ................................................. 952-854-4007 ............................................................ www.cipmn.org CIP - Crystal ........................................................... 763-504-1008 ............................................................ www.cipmn.org The Cooperating Community Programs (CCP) .. 651-917-8322 x11 ........................................................ www.ccpcdcs.com Courage Center .......................................................... 763-588-0811 .. TTY-763-520-0245 .................... www.courage.org Dungarvin Minnesota ................................................. 651-699-6050 .................................................... www.dungarvin.com Howry Residential Services ............................... 651-917-9111x204 ........ F-651-917-1018 .................. www.howryinc.com Fraser ......................................................................... 612-861-1688 .. TTY-800-627-3527 ........................ www.fraser.org Opportunity Partners .................................................. 952-938-5511 . TTY–952-930-4293 ............. www.opportunities.org The Phoenix Residence .............................................. 651-227-7657 .......................................... www.phoenixresidence.org RESTART, Inc. ......................................................... 763-588-7633 .................................................. www.restartincmn.org RESOURCE CENTERS Family Institute for Creative Well-Being .................. 651-639-2527 Center for Inclusive Child Care ................................. 651-603-6265 ..... TF-800-333-4705 .... www.inclusivechildcare.org Disability Linkage Line .......................................... 1-866-333-2466 . www.mcil-mn.org/modules/DLL/DLLFactSheet.pdf Parents as Teachers/MELD ....................................... 612-332-7563 ........ F-612-455-2058 .. www.ParentsasTeachers.org United Cerebral Palsy (MN) ...................................... 651-646-7588 ............................................... ucpmn@cpinternet.com SERVICE DOGS Hearing & Service Dogs of Minnesota ...................... 612-729-5986 .. TTY-612-729-5914 ......................... www.hsdm.org Helping Paws, Inc. ..................................................... 952-988-9359 .................................................. www.helpingpaws.org SOCIAL SERVICES The Cooperating Community Programs (CCP) ......... 651-641-0041 Metro Work Center, Inc. ............................................ 612-729-7381 ........ F-612-729-7382 .......................... www.mwc.org Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) 651-646-8342 .. TTY-651-603-2001 .................... www.mcil-mn.org Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

Save the Date Minnesota State Council on Disability

2007 Awards Luncheon Thursday October 25, 2007 St. Paul RiverCentre Featuring Bridget Cantrell, Ph.D., a nationally-recognized author on the psychological experiences of combat veterans

Seeking nominations for a variety of award categories Nomination forms available at www.disability.state.mn.us, or by contacting: Kelly Schroepfer at kellys@mscod.state.mn.us Carly Waldon at carlyw@mscod.state.mn.us 121 E. 7th Place, Suite 107 St. Paul, MN 55101 651-296-6785 V/TTY 1-800-945-8913 V/TTY

INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS TRANSITION SERVICES HOUSING NEEDS PEER MENTORING RAMP PROJECT NURSING HOME RELOCATION DISABILITY LINKAGE LINE ADVOCACY ACCESSIBILITY ADA INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PERSONAL ASSISTANCE Web: www.mcil-mn.org Phone: 651.646.8342 Fax: 651.603.2006 TTY: 651.603.2001 1600 University Ave West, Suite 16 Saint Paul, MN. 55104

Mission Statement: To work with people with disabilities in fulfilling their desire to lead productive, self-determined lives.

MCIL provides Personal Assistant Services (PCA), Nursing Home Relocation, Transitional & Independent Living Services to individuals through Medical Assistance, Vocational Rehabilitation, County Waivers (CADI, CDCS, EW, TBI) and private pay. Individuals and their support networks can also utilize the Disability Linkage Line, Individual Advocates, The ADA, and our computer resource lab at no additional cost. Disability Linkage Line: 1-866-333-2466 CONSUMER-DIRECTED SUPPORTS AND SERVICES PROMOTING INDEPENDENT LIVING

Accessible Space, Inc. ASI

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GREATER MINNESOTA LOCATIONS

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Serving All Ages throughout Minnesota Office: 763-785-7079 Ƈ Fax: 763-571-9624 Website: www.cbmhomehealthservices.com 7362 University Avenue, Suite 205 Ƈ Fridley, MN 55432

Austin • Brainerd • Champlin • Duluth • Grand Rapids • Hibbing Marshall • Rogers • Rochester • St. Cloud • Stillwater • Willmar

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

July 10, 2007

Dir ector y of Or ganiza tions Director ectory Org anizations www.accesspress.org

Would You Like To Be Included In The Directory Of Organizations? For an annual fee of only $55 your organization will be listed in our quarterly Directory of Organizations. We will also list your homepage link on our Web directory, www.accesspress.org/ organizations_main.htm, along with a 25-word description of the services you provide.

651-644-2133 access@accesspress.org

VOICE LINE

SECOND LINE

E-MAIL/WEB SITE

TECHNOLOGY Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn*) .......... 763-479-8239 ..... TF-866-535-8239 ......................... www.atmn.org Courage Center .......................................................... 763-588-0811 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ..................... www.courage.org Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare .................... 651-291-2848 ..... TF-800-719-4040 ....... www.gillettechildrens.org PACER Center, Inc. ................................................... 952-838-9000 .. TTY-952-838-0190 ........................ www.pacer.org TRANSPORTATION IMED Mobility .......................................................... 651-635-0655 ..... TF-800-788-7479 ........ www.IMEDmobility.com Wheelchair Getaways of MN, Inc. ............................ 888-256-5807 ........ F-320-685-5346 www.wheelchairgetaways.com U OF M AFFILIATED PROGRAMS Institute on Community Integration ........................... 612-624-6300 ........ F-612-624-9344 ..................... http://ici.umn.edu VISION IMPAIRMENT BLIND, Inc. ............................................................... 612-872-0100 ..... TF-800-597-9558 ..................... www.blindinc.org Cristo Vive International ........................................... 763-263-1526 ........................................................ www.cristovive.net DeafBlind Services MN ............................................. 612-362-8454 .. TTY-612-362-8422 ......................... www.dbsm.org Vision Loss Resources ............................................... 612-871-2222 ........ F-612-872-0189 ... www.visionlossresources.org VISUAL/PERFORMING ARTS Upstream Arts ............................................................ 612-331-4584 ........ F-480-393-5587 ............. www.upstreamarts.org VSA arts of MN ............................................ V/TTY-612-332-3888 ........ F-612-305-0132 .................. www.vsaartsmn.org VOCATIONAL The Cooperating Community Programs (CCP) ....... 651-917-8322 x11 ......................................................... www.ccpcdcs.com Community Connections Partnership .............. 763-540-6833 x 302 .............................................. marya@comconpar.com Courage Center .......................................................... 763-588-0811 .. TTY-763-520-0245 .................... www.courage.org East Suburban Resources ........................................... 651-351-0190 .......................................................... www.eac-mn.org Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota .............................. 651-379-5800 ........ F-651-379-5803 ... www.goodwilleasterseals.org Kaposia inc ................................................... V/TTY-651-224-6974 ........ F-651-379-5803 .................... www.kaposia.com Lifeworks Services ............................................... TF-866-454-2732 .. TTY-651-365-3736 ................... www.lifeworks.org Merrick, Inc. .............................................................. 651-789-6200 ................................................... www.merrickinc.com Metro Work Center, Inc. ............................................ 612-729-7381 ........ F-612-729-7382 .......................... www.mwc.org Midway Training Services ......................................... 651-641-0709 .. TTY-651-641-0976 ........ www.midwaytraining.org Midwest Special Services .......................................... 651-778-1000 .. TTY-651-772-8592 ............. www.mwsservices.org MN Resource Center ................................................. 612-752-8102 .. TTY-612-752-8019 .................... www.mrc-mn.org MN Work Incentives Connection .............................. 651-632-5113 .. TTY-651-632-5110 .. www.mnworkincentives.com Opportunity Partners .................................................. 952-938-5511 . TTY–952-930-4293 ............ www.opportunities.org Rise, Inc. ....................................................... V/TTY-763-786-8334 ........ F-763-786-0008 ............................. www.rise.org TSE, Inc. .................................................................... 651-489-2595 ........ F-651-489-0410 ....................... www.tse-inc.org Vinland Center .............................................. V/TTY-763-479-3555 ........ F-763-479-2605 ........... www.vinlandcenter.org

Minneapolis Minnesota • September 7-9, 2007 Minneapolis Convention Center REAL PEOPLE REAL CHALLENGES REAL SOLUTIONS • • • • •

For complete details about 2007 Abilities Expo, please visit www.abilitiesexpo.com

Independent and Assisted Living Products & Services Professional & Consumer Workshops & Seminars Hundreds of Companies & Equipment Demonstrations Non-Profit and Community Organizations Incredibly Motivational People and Leaders of All Ages

Bring this coupon to Abilities Expo for FREE admission and save the $5 on-site registration fee. Coupon must be filled out to be valid and may be photocopied for additional registrants. NAME: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY: ________________________STATE: ________________ZIP: ______TEL:_______________________________________________ EMAIL: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Questex Media Group provides certain customer contact data (such as names, addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses) to third parties who wish to promote relevant products, services and other opportunities which may be of interest to you. If you do not want Questex Media Group to make your contact informationavailable to third parties for marketing purposes, simply call 800-385-3085 between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm (EST) and follow the instructions to remove your name from Questex lists. © 2007 Questex Media Group. All rights reserved.

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All events are wheelchair accessible.

AcessP

July 10, 2007

Sports Update

Home Access Answers

Midway Lions Top Celebrities

Beepball

by Clarence Schadegg

n Friday, June 22nd, the St. Paul Midway Lions beepball team defeated a team of local celebrities 7-6 at Midway Stadium. Marilyn Highland scored the winning run by hitting a ball over the pitcher’s mound that rolled between the legs of U.S. Senate candidate Bob Olson. By the time Olson got to the ball, Highland had gotten to first base. Olson wasn’t the only celebrity player to miss a play. Later in the game, Greg Lutowsky stepped up to the plate and hit the ball. When racing down the first base line, however, he missed the base “by 20 feet. By the time he ran back to the first base, Jennifer Dubbin picked up the ball for the out,” said coach Dennis Stern. Celebrity player Tom Heinl had better luck than Olson in the field. Standing even with third base, Heinl waited for the sound of the bat driving the ball in his direction. The spotter shouted out, “Three!” Heinl took that cue and dove to his left, with his body stretched out on the ground, on his side, to stop the ball rolling towards him. “Got it!” Heinl shouted. Just in time, the umpire called, “Out!” Heinl’s defense prevented two points from scoring! (See How Beepball Works, below.) Besides winning the game, Lions players were excited just to play at the home field of the St. Paul Saints. “All of our players got to bat at the home plate where Jack Morris pitched over a few years ago,” said Stern. Even though these are exhibition games, the excitement and intensity is high. In fact, most of the games this season have been decided by two runs or less. The next celebrity donor game will be on July 28th at the Rice Street Festival (11:00 a.m.). Kevin Moldenhauer, a beepball celebrity of previous World Series games and an original beepball player from the 1970s, continues to celebrate and promote the sport. “Now I play mainly to get out and run a little,” he said. “I also believe that beepball is a fun game and that we can keep it going in the Twin Cities. The teacher in me also believes that my experiences in playing the game might be something that I can give back to the game that was so great for me to play.”

Legal Rights To Modify Rental Housing by Jane Hampton

ity to hit the ball under sleep shades is a skill that takes concentration and perseverance. With practice, players may improve not only their ability to consistently hit the ball, but also field it. Unlike traditional baseball, the beepball pitcher is on the same team as the batter. Standing at a distance of 20 feet, the pitcher throws the ball where he knows the batter will make a connection. The success rate between pitcher and batter is contingent upon the consistency of the pitch and the swing of the bat. Part of the skill of the game is to become as comfortable as possible playing a sport once thought impossible for somebody who’s blind. Like any

Beepball World Series The Beepball World Series will be in Rochester, Minnesota, August 1 - 4, 2007. Beepball teams from around the world will play ball on the fields around town. Motivational speaker Pete Feigal will speak at the Rochester Civic Center from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on August 1st. sport, friendly competition helps to draw out the talent in people who may not otherwise realize their full potential. Nancy Schadegg, long-time beepball player, stated, “It’s a great summer sport for blind people. It’s a way for blind people to play baseball, a game they’d otherwise not be able to play.” According to Suzanne Glidden, Beepball volunteer, “The thing that I find most compelling is the enthusiasm.

WAGES -

There’s so much positive en- Dear Jane, ergy at the games. It’s fun to I live in a two-bedroom apartwatch.” ■ ment and need a wider bathroom door and grab bars inTo learn more about beepball, stalled at the toilet and bathand/or to become a celebrity tub. My landlord has not redonor, contact Coach Dennis sponded to my request, and I Stern, 1837 Victoria Rd., Men- am concerned that I will need dota Hts., MN 55118, 651- to move. I have lived in this 452-5324, Dennisstern@com apartment for seven years and cast.net. Our next practice is have developed strong relaSaturday, July 7 at 10:00 a.m. tionships in this community. Do you have any suggestions? Cathy, Rochester, MN

How Beepball Works All players wear sleep shades to block out any vision. The batter stands at home plate and waits for the pitch of a beeping ball. Swinging his arm back, the pitcher calls out, “Go, Set, Ready, Pitch.” On the pitch, the batter swings. After three strikes, the batter is allowed to hit off a tee. When the ball is hit, the batter runs to the beeping base set one hundred feet from home plate. Meanwhile, the beeping ball flies through the air, and the fielders race to where they hear the sound. The spotter helps the fielders by telling the direction the ball is going (e.g. “Six” is straight toward center field) and how far it its hit (Loud high voice means a long ball, soft low voice means a short ball). If the fielder reaches the ball and holds it up over their head before the batter reaches the base, the batter is out. If the batter reaches the base first, points are scored. It’s two points if the ball is pitched and hit, and one point if hit off a tee.

Dear Cathy, First of all, I want to assure you that you do not have to move. In 1988, Congress expanded Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (which prohibits housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin) to include protections for people with disabilities. This amendment is called the Fair Housing Amendments Act, and the intent of this law is to: • end segregation of the housing available to people with disabilities, • give people with disabilities the right to choose where they wish to live; and • require reasonable accommodation to their needs in securing and enjoying appropriate housing. This means a landlord cannot prevent a renter from making reasonable accommodations in rules, policies and services to allow a person with a disability equal opportunity to occupy and enjoy full use of their housing unit. For example: • A building with a “No Pets” policy must allow a tenant with a visual impairment to keep a guide dog. • An apartment complex that offers tenants ample unassigned parking must honor a request from a tenant with a mobility-impairment for a

Cont. from p. 3

The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP), which includes DSPs and their allies, wishes to state that the Direct Support Professionals Fairness and Security Act of 2007 (H.R. 1279) is long overdue. Direct support professionals are the very definition of “the underpaid and overworked” that society—and even we at NADSP— joke about at times. It is time for us to be recognized as the backbone of community-based human services programs across the nation, since, currently, we are as disAll players wear sleep shades, enfranchised as the people we covers over the eyes that block serve. With this statement we any residual vision. The abil- voice our concern and join with

other stakeholders in reminding Congress that poor wage reimbursements jeopardize the quality of life for people with disabilities, direct support professionals and their families.

want a consistent, qualified direct support professional in your life? We want the entire Congress to know that for many, many Americans, having that consistent support is key to achieving their dreams. We ask Congress to value the work we do by supporting the Direct Support Professionals Fairness and Security Act of 2007 (H.R. 1279) and making the lives of those we support the best lives possible. ■

We ask Congress to think about someone in their life who relies on the services of a primary “professional” caregiver. It may be a family member, the man bagging their groceries or the woman processing their mortgage payment. It may be someone in their office, in their faith community or living down the block. We further The above is a statement by ask each member of Congress The National Alliance for Dito imagine living in that rect Support Professionals. person’s shoes. Wouldn’t you

reserved space near their apartment, if necessary, to assure that they can have access to their apartment.

the blocking be removed, since the reinforced wall would not interfere with the next resident’s use and enjoyment of the dwelling unit.

In response to your situation, your landlord cannot refuse • In regards to widening the doorway to the bathroom, it you, a person with a disability, is not considered reasonable permission to make reasonfor the doorway to be “narable modifications to your unit rowed” at the end of your if such modifications are nectenancy, because the wider essary to allow full use of your doorway will not interfere housing unit. with the next resident’s use of the bathroom. The cost of modifications would be at your expense, and the landlord can require that Finally, be aware that your the modifications be com- landlord can require you to set pleted in a professional man- up an escrow fund to restore ner that complies with appli- your unit back to its original condition or to finance any cable building codes. repairs which may need to take Your landlord may also re- place. quire that you agree to restore your unit to the condition that I hope this helps! ■ existed before the modification when you terminate your Do you have a question for tenancy (with reasonable Jane? We’ll cover all of your wear and tear expected) but questions in future issues of cannot require you to remove Home Access Answers. Please modifications if such removal contact us at 952-925-0301, would be considered “unrea- www.accessibilitydesign.com, sonable.” For instance: or info@accessibilitydesign. com. Jane Hampton, CID, • In order to install grab bars, Access Specialist and presiyou will need to have the dent of Accessibility Design, walls reinforced with block- founded the company in 1992 ing between studs so grab to enhance lives through debars can be securely sign and project management. mounted. When you end They provide design, consulyour tenancy, it would be tation, project management, reasonable to require that and product recommendation you remove the grab bars. services specializing in home However, it would be un- access for individuals with disreasonable to require that abilities at all stages of life.

July 10, 2007

UZBEKISTAN improve the understanding of disability in the greater society. Each paper is produced by a small staff, including a person with a disability as editorin-chief. Each paper is a nonprofit and started up in the 90s; Access Press in 1990 and Dignity in 1998. Both papers will pay for articles, but Access Press pays a lump sum per article while Dignity pays by the letter.

about how Benjamin’s disability had occurred; however, they questioned me instead of him—even though I told them he would not be offended by their questions. Instead, I told Benjamin about their interest and he addressed the subject in front of the whole group. While discussing it later, I said it was interesting that people who worked with people with disabilities would worry about openly discussing this topic. By and For Benjamin, on the other hand, People with Disabilities was surprised that it even matEven when the interview was tered to them; he thought the technically over, the sharing more important point is how of information did not stop. we live with our disabilities. Between meetings, two of the Uzbekistanis had questions Beyond that, I was able to con-

nect Khodjaeva with a Russian speaker on staff at the International Diabetes Center at Park Nicollet. She was pleased to make that connection for the future. Everyone got a tour of the Access Press office and a look at the layout of the next paper. However, the highlight seemed to be Benjamin’s computer and head-mouse, a pointing device which he uses in place of a hand-operated mouse. Although their harried driver was impatiently waiting to take them to their next stop, the group stalled him until they learned more about this technology that they had never seen before. ■

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Noted Individuals Have Experienced Homelessness

Cont. from p. 1

• Medical Records, and more…

by Pete Feigal ever reason. Most of the folks day.” Twenty years later, he in the arts went through hard learned that his mother had times trying to make it in show actually been institutionalized business. For instance, Cary for 25 years and was still alive Grant (real name Archibald and in a mental hospital. Cary Leach...I wonder why he ever himself struggled with depreshis is a (short) list of changed it?) lived in a park for sion later in life. celebrities and other a couple of months after being prominent and famous expelled from grammar school Day by day we chip away judgindividuals who have experi- in 1918. His home life was ment and prejudice and the enced being homeless for a hard; he had a distant father, wall of stigma is slowly combrief or extended period at one and his mother, as his father ing down. time in their lives, for what- told him, was “on a long holi❖❖❖❖ • Lionel Aldridge: American football player; • Lil’ Kim: Grammy Award-winning rap singer. television sportscaster-analyst; played in two • Harry Edmund Martinson: Nobel Prize-winwinning Super Bowl games. ning Swedish author. • Drew Carey: Emmy Award-nominated ac- • Jim Morrison: singer-songwriter; poet; lead tor-writer-producer-comedian. singer and lyricist for the 1960s rock band • Jim Carrey: actor-writer-producer-comedian. “The Doors“ Rock and Roll Hall of Fame • Sir Charlie Chaplin: Oscar-winning actor- inductee. writer-director-producer. • John Muir: early American naturalist; advo• Kelly Clarkson: Grammy Award-winning cate for the creation of U.S. national parks; singer; American Idol television talent show founder of the Sierra Club. 1st-season winner. • George Orwell: British author of “Animal • Kurt Cobain: Grammy Award-winning singer- Farm” and “1984.” songwriter; lead vocalist of the band “Nirvana.” • Gordon Parks: film director; best-selling • Daniel Craig: actor; newest James Bond in American author. the 007 movies. • Charles Sanders Peirce: Harvard University• George Eads: actor; one of the stars of the educated genius scientist; mathematician; lotelevision series CSI: Crime Scene Investiga- gician; philosopher; American author; first tion. psychologist elected to the National Acad• Ella Fitzgerald: Grammy Award-winning emy of Sciences. singer; U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom • Sally Jessy Raphael: Emmy Award-winning recipient. television talk-show host. • Chris Gardner: Multimillionaire stockbro- • Debbie Reynolds: Oscar-nominated and ker; American author; his life is the basis for Emmy Award-winning actress-singer. the 2006 movie “The Pursuit of Happyness” • Joan Rivers: Emmy Award-winning televistarring Wil Smith. sion talk-show host; comedienne. • John Garfield: Oscar-nominated actor. • “Colonel” Harland Sanders: businessman; • Marvin Gaye: Motown Recording Artist and founder of the “Kentucky Fried Chicken” Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member. fast-food restaurant chain. • Kelsey Grammer: Emmy Award-winning • Tupac Shakur: actor; rap music star. actor; star of the television series Frasier. • William Shatner: Emmy Award-winning ac• Cary Grant: Oscar-nominated actor. tor of the television and movie series “Star • Woody Guthrie: folk singer-songwriter. Trek.” • Harry Houdini: magician; escape artist. • Martin Sheen: Emmy Award-winning actor• Don Imus: ex- radio-talk show host; best- director-producer. selling American author. • William Smith: British geologist/cartogra• Burl Ives: Oscar-winning actor; Grammy pher; “The Father of English Geology.” Award-winning folk singer. • Hilary Swank: double Oscar-winning actress • Jesus of Nazareth: religious leader; source (for “Boys Don’t Cry,” and “Million Dollar for Christianity; the Christ; God and Savior in Baby.”) the Christian religion. • Rob Thomas: Grammy Award-winning • Jewel: Grammy Award-nominated singer- singer-songwriter for group “Matchbox 20.” songwriter. • Shania Twain: Grammy Award-winning coun• David Letterman: Emmy Award-winning tele- try singer. vision writer-comedian; talk-show host. • John Woo: Hong-Kong action film director. “The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” Matthew 8:20

❖❖❖❖ Now that Pete’s eyesight is failing, he has discovered new careers as a national speaker and writer. Pete’s art is actually selling better now than ever. He says jokingly, when he dies, like all artists his art will become even more popular. “That’s when I’ll REALLY clean up!” ■ Pete’s amazing aviation and motorcycle fine art prints and t-shirts can now be seen on Pete’s fledgling Web site at www.art-that-moves.com.

July 10, 2007

Reading Over The Airwaves Minnesota Radio Talking Book has Been Bringing News and Literature to Minnesotans since 1969. by Ed Lecher

innesota Radio Talking Book (RTB) is a closed circuit, radio broadcasting network. The network is designed to offer blind, visually impaired and physically impaired people a wide selection of reading material in an audio format. Some refer to the station as a radio reading service. Although itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s described as a radio service, listeners must have a special receiver in order to get the signal. To receive a RTB receiver, a person would need to submit an application certifying their need for this service. Anyone who is unable to read written material due to a physical or visual impairment qualifies. There is no cost for the service. The application must be signed by a certifying authority, such as a doctor, nurse, activity director, home health aid, librarian or administrator.

result, listeners can expect a very high quality product. Subscribers may even recognize some of the more prominent readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; names listed in their monthly newsletter. Radio Talking Book is housed within the Communication Center, which is a department within State Services for the Blind. The agency offers programs for blind and visually impaired individuals that include rehabilitation counseling, job training, braille transcription, taped textbook transcription, technology assistance and independent living services for seniors. It is funded by a mix of public and private sources.

Ed Lecher is Senior Outreach Coordinator at the State Services for the Blind. Contact him at 651-642-0883. Inquiries about using the Radio Talking Book service may be directed to Chris Schmiesser at When Radio Talking Book 651-642-0885. â&#x2013; went on the air in 1969, no Target other radio reading service existed. Since then RTB has Marketing become a model for similar at its Finest! programs in many other countries and communities across Advertise in the United States. Access Press and Variety is the key word in programming. The broadcasting schedule at RTB reflects the biggest possible range of current information that is available to persons without a visual or physical disability. A random sample of programming may include readings of magazines, best selling novels (in serial form), sports news, hobby periodicals, and texts on a range of topics from politics and history to fashion, finance and philosophy. There are even programs that convey information to encourage vocational rehabilitation. Programs may include panel discussions or interviews. Other shows draw on readings that offer advice on household repairs, mechanical skills, cooking and personal health care.

reach thousands in the disability community every month.

A Tuesday in July on Radio Talking Book (A sampling): 6:15 a.m. Religion Update â&#x20AC;&#x201C; From Christianity Today, Christian Century, Reform Judaism, Bible Review, The Lutheran, National Catholic Reporter, Regeneration Quarterly, U.S. Catholic, The Witness and more. 7:00 a.m. Morning Newspapers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Live broadcast of the Star Tribune and St. Paul Pioneer Press 11:00 a.m. Bookworm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Falling Boy, Fiction by Allison McGhee, 2007 Joseph, in a wheelchair, has two new people in his life: Zak, a teen who works in the bakery with him, and the girl Enzo. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve spread the idea that Joseph is a superhero. L â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Read by Pat Kovel-Jarvoe. Six broadcasts, began June 27. 1:00 PM The New Yorker - Featuring The New Yorker magazine. 5:00 p.m. Commentary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The latest issues of national news magazines 9:00 p.m. Night Journey â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Snow Blind, Fiction by P.J. Tracy, 2006 Minneapolis sponsors a snowman-building contest but inside two of the snowmen are dead police officers. When another similar body is found, Monkeewrench is brought in. L â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Read by Diane Ladenson, Eight broadcasts, begins July 18 1:00 a.m. After Midnight â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Twelve Sharp, Fiction by Janet Evanovich, 2006 Stephanie Plum is being stalked by a crazy woman. In spite of that, she needs to search for a murder, while working with Ranger, a man with a dangerous reputation. L â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Read by Barbara Morison. Eight broadcasts, begins July 12 Abbreviations: L â&#x20AC;&#x201C; offensive language Radio Talking Book broadcasts programs 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year. The above listings are snapshots from a Tuesday in July, 2007

MENTAL HEALTH -

health problems that go untreated; their lives, on average, are 25 years shorter. Not surprisingly, when mental and physical health care are coordinated, peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health improves greatly. Impressed by these realities, the legislature authorized up to three MA projects to better integrate physical and mental health care. Consumer participation in the new integrated care networks will be voluntary. The legislation also authorizes DHS to undertake reforms in financing and delivering services. (The integrated care Top-of-the-line readers make projects will be implemented the difference. Written mate- in January 2009.) rial is read by RTBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s professional broadcasting team and Mental health peer specialby volunteers. A listener will ists. Minnesota will be one of hear broadcasters reading the first state governments to newspapers, magazine articles, sponsor a peer specialist trainconducting interviews and pro- ing and certification program. viding updates on news and This milestone legislation was weather. The broadcasters also spearheaded by the Consumer provide periodic programming Survivor Network. Peer serreminders. Volunteers are vices will include nonclinical given reading assignments and peer counseling to promote record their materials on to socialization, recovery, selftape to be broadcast at the ap- sufficiency and self-advocacy, propriate time. All of RTBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and development of natural professional and volunteer supports. (The effective date readers have been thoroughly is July 1, 2007, subject to fedscreened and are constantly eral approval.) monitored for quality. As a

Cont. from p. 3

Medical Assistance eligibility while in jail suspended rather than terminated. Previously, MA eligibility was terminated for an individual in jail or a correctional facility. The new provision allows suspension instead, which will facilitate reinstatement when released. (Effective July 1, 2007)

tation Services (AMHRS) and Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Transitional Services and Supports (CTSS), and increased childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and adult mental health grants to counties/providers. Also, CTSS and AMHRS services were added to the critical access provider increase that passed in 2006. (These changes take effect, variously, between October 1, 2007 and Other Medical Assistance July 1, 2008.) changes include: â&#x20AC;˘Intensive outpatient treatment Regional childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mental using dialectical behavioral health initiative. A two-year therapy was added to the ben- pilot project in southeast Minefit set for all state health nesota will focus on developprograms (to start in January ing childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mental health 2008 if federally approved). services, improving service â&#x20AC;˘Coverage for childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s treat- coordination, streamlining serment foster care is still await- vice delivery and operations, ing federal approval. (Effec- and establishing a regional tive date moved to July 1, 2009) network for out-of-home â&#x20AC;˘Early intervention behavioral placement services. $1 million therapy for autism, which has is allocated for the biennium. seen repeated delays in ap- (Effective July 1, 2007) proval and implementation, has unfortunately been re- Voluntary placement in pealed as a benefit. childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residential treatment. Counties must use a Cost of living adjustments. placement agreement when Many providers have badly placing a child in mental health needed rate increases in order residential treatment. Under to keep programs operating new legislation, the agreement and retain staff. The 2007 leg- gives the county physical care, islature increased rates for custody and control but must Adult Mental Health Rehabili- not require parents or guard-

Access To Employment Employment ads are $16-$17 per col. inch. July 31 is the deadline for the August 10 issue. Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 â&#x20AC;˘ FAX 651-644-2136 â&#x20AC;˘ E-mail: access@accesspress.org ATTORNEY OR ADVOCATE MN Disability Law Ctr seeks FT or PT atty or legal advocate in Mankato to assist persons w/ physical or mental health disabilities. Disability law, service system or prof exp. preferred. Start salary up to $43,145 DOE & % of time. Ltr & resume by 8/1: Pam Cunningham, ad #231, MDLC, 430 1st Ave. N., #300, Mpls, MN 55401-1780. No calls. EOE.

Classifieds Reach 11,000 Active, Interested Readers with Access Press Classifieds. $10 up to 12 words, 45Â˘/word thereafter. Must be prepaid. Mail with check to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave W, #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 â&#x20AC;˘ 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 information on availability call 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Oak Park Village: One-bedroom wheelchair-accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient St. Louis Park location. Call 952-9359125 for availability information. Equal Opportunity Housing. Seward Square Apartments: We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list for barrier-free housing, in Minneapolis, that is federally subsidized. For an application, please call 612-3382680. Equal Opportunity Housing.

For Rent: One-level Apple Valley townhome. One bedroom. 1549 sq. ft. For more information, call 612-715-9280.

Future Legislative Sessions There were a number of important proposals that did not pass but will come up in future sessions. These include mental-health assessment and treatment in the correctional setting, mental-health screening in schools, and alternatives and funding for housing. We can expect more proposals related to the restructuring of the mental-health delivery system, including the respective roles of health plans and counties and the means by which services are accessed, delivered and monitored. â&#x2013; ians to transfer legal custody. state.mn.us or at the MN Legal Advocacy Project â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (Effective July 1, 2007) Newâ&#x20AC;? at www.lsapmn.org. â&#x2013; Many other significant pieces of mental health legislation Patricia M. Siebert is a staff were passed this session. You attorney at the Minnesota Discan find a more detailed legis- ability Law Center. lative summary at www.dhs. Âł+RZ FDQ , JR WR ZRUN DQG NHHS P\ KHDOWK LQVXUDQFH"Â´ Â´+RZ GR , UHDOO\ NQRZ ZKLFK EHQHILW ,ÂˇP RQ"Âľ

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July 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. 1776 June 23 - Aug. 26 Guthrie Theater, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD: Sat., July 14, 1:00 p.m. (sensory tour 10:30); also Fri., July 20, 7:30 p.m.; Thurs., Aug. 16, 7:30 p.m. ASL: Fri., July 27, 7:30 p.m.; Thurs., Aug. 16, 7:30 p.m. Captioned: Thurs., Aug. 16, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $17 (reg. $27$57) Phone: 612-377-2224, TTY 612-377-6626, Web: www.guthrietheater.org

Cityscapes, Landscapes, and Escapes Aug. 5 Minneapolis Institute of Arts, 2400 Third Ave. S. Free ASLinterpreted public tour. Sun., Aug. 5, 1:00 p.m. begins by Info Desk in the lobby. Phone: 612-870-3131, TTY: 612-8703132. dhegstrom@artsmia. org Web: www.artsmia.org

N O W P L AY I N G

FAME: The Musical July 12 - 29 Applause Community Theatre, Cherchez la Femme: Burnsville H. S. Mraz Center, Women in Art 600 E Hwy 13, Burnsville. Sept 9 ASL: TBA Tix: $13, $10 stuMinneapolis Institute of Arts, dent/sr, $8 member/grp, Phone: 2400 Third Ave. S. Free ASL- 952-895-1234, Web: www.ap interpreted public tour, Sun., plausecommunitytheatre.com Sept. 9, 1:00 p.m. (no tour Sept. 2) begins by the Info Fools Desk in the lobby. Phone: 612July 13 - Aug. 12 870-3131, TTY: 612-870- Theatre in the Round, 245 3132, dhegstrom@artsmia. Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., org Web: www.artsmia.org Aug. 12, 2:00 p.m. Tix: $20, senior/student discount, Chicago Phone: 612-333-3010, Web: July 10 - 15 www.theatreintheround.org Ordway Center for the Performing Arts - Main Hall, 345 Honk! Washington, St. Paul; ASL: June 29 - Aug. 2 Wed., July 11, 8:00 p.m. AD: Stages Theatre Co. at Hopkins Sat., July 14, 7:30 p.m. Tix/ Center for the Arts, 1111 Phone: 651-224-4222, TTY Mainstreet, Hopkins. ASL: 651-282-3100, www.ordway. Sun., July 22, 2:00 p.m., and org/services/access.asp Wed., July 25, 10:00 a.m. Tix:

N O W P L AY I N G

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE: Friday, July 27 at 7:30 p.m.

N O W P L AY I N G

Thursday, August 16 at 7:30 p.m.

PERFORMANCES

AUDIO DESCRIBED: Saturday, July 7 at 7:30 p.m. (Sensory tour at 5 p.m.)

Saturday, July 14 at 1 p.m. (Sensory tour 10:30 a.m.)

Friday, July 20 at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, August 16 at 7:30 p.m.