October 2007 Edition - Access Press by Access Press

www.accesspress.org History Note

Inside ■ Quad Rugby—p. 8 ■ Directory of Organizations—pp. 9-12 ■ Testimony on Poverty—p. 13

“Probably, no nation is rich enough to pay for both war and civilization.” — Abraham Flexner Page 2 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 18, Number 10

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

October 10, 2007

ADAPT Locks Horns With Union 120 Arrested in Chicago When ADAPT Refused to Sign Statement Supporting Institutions by ADAPT Staff had over 120 people arrested for blocking the doors, elevators and parking lot of the AFSCME building.

Roxan Perez, an ADAPT organizer from Wisconsin, being arrested last month in Chicage while protesting AFSCME’s stand in support of institutions. Photo byTim Wheat of ADAPT. Chicago—Last month, ADAPT confronted Council 31 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) on their support of reopening the state’s Lincoln Developmental Center institution, and AFSCME’s refusal to endorse

any legislation supporting home and community-based services for people with disabilities. AFSCME responded by asking ADAPT to sign a statement supporting institutions authored by AFSCME director Henry Bayer, and when that didn’t happen, Bayer

“They typed up a statement supporting institutions and asking for money, and then couldn’t understand why we didn’t want to sign it,” said Mike Oxford, Kansas ADAPT organizer. “It’s impossible to negotiate human and civil rights issues with people whose only concern is their own pockets…no matter how many people are warehoused and deprived of their liberty as a result.”

ceiving a commitment from Gerald McEntee, the union’s president, to sign on to legislation that supports home and community-based services and supports for people with disabilities and the elderly. That promise was never kept, and was one of the reasons ADAPT visited the Council 31 offices.

“For an organization that has its roots in the civil rights movement, their treatment of people with disabilities is even more despicable,” said Randy Alexander, Memphis ADAPT Organizer. “The union and its members make a lot of money by advocating to keep people ADAPT has met repeatedly with disabilities and older folks with AFSCME leadership, re- stuck in nursing homes and

other institutions instead of being able to live in their own homes like other people. It’s unconscionable that the union fights for workers’ rights at the expense of our rights. In ADAPT, we know that you can’t have one without the other.”

place to live. The forum was followed by three days of action on the streets that included gaining a commitment from Governor Blagojevich for permanent closure of the Lincoln Developmental Center, and assuring ADAPT a seat at the table as Illinois enacts its Money Follows the Person The arrests at AFSCME con- demonstration. cluded a week of ADAPT action in Chicago. The week The next ADAPT action will began with a national forum be in Washington, D.C. April on affordable, accessible, in- 26-May 2, 2008, when tegrated housing, attended by ADAPT celebrates its 25th anfederal officials who heard tes- niversary. timony from people with disabilities about the lack of ad- This article is a press release equate housing and the dis- issued by ADAPT, and crimination they have experi- is reprinted here with permisenced when trying to secure a sion. ■

Who Is Big Al? Teen with Asperger’s Syndrome is Hot, New WWE Wrestling Commentator by Alex Moshenko

y name is Alex Moshenko. I am 14 years old now. I was diagnosed with a form of autism, Asperger syndrome, when I was six. I never cared about it too much. I actually made someone laugh when I was first told about it, which is always a good start – better to laugh than cry. Ever since then, I have had sensory issues and social skills problems, but I am able to stick to something and learn all I can from it. I have been on TV multiple times and in the newspaper a few times too. I have been an advocate for autism since I was about eight years old. It was then that I first found out about wrestling.

me for a moment, but I changed the channel shortly after. I had no idea what I was missing. I became a wrestling fan in late 2003 when I was almost ten. Since then it has taken me by storm. I really enjoyed wrestling in 2004, but I was still learning about everything, and mainly coping with the fact that wrestling on TV is not real wrestling, but entertainment. After learning the basics, I was able to gather more info into my mind like a sponge. I could name half of the WWE roster and their pet holds, or as they are called today, finishers, by 2005. By the middle of 2005, I could name all the moves in a wrestling match as they happened; I was almost 12 when this happened.

I was flipping through the channels on a Monday night What always got on my nerves and something caught my eye; was that I could never go to a it was WWE Raw. It amused live wrestling event because

of my sensory issues, especially sensitivity with hearing issues. The fireworks and explosions were the main reasons for my not attending. I have to say the WWE was so generous over the years before I attended a live event. They found out that I was a huge fan and sent me a box of wrestling items, which included pictures, WWE videos, The Rock blanket, key chains, and T-shirts. It was like Christmas when the box of wrestling items arrived the next day! Then I finally was able to conquer my fear and go to a live event, which was quite fun. I was interviewed in this time period by our favorite local news station, WGRZ-TV2, an affiliate of NBC, and I told Maryalice Demler, the news reporter, that watching wrestling is like a clash of good and evil, except sometimes evil wins. I was pleasantly sur-

prised as Channel 2 had made special arrangements for me to go to a press conference for WWE’s “Smackdown PPV, The Great American Bash” which was held in Buffalo, New York, for my birthday. It was then that I got to do my first TV interview with the World Champion at the time, Batista The Animal. It was amazing! In early 2006, I wanted to have my own wrestling show—like my mom has her own disability talk show, DisAbility News & Views Radio. After a while of asking, having a Web site developed and learning how to use the broadcast system, I began hosting my own radio show in June 2006, which I loved. I was able to have some of my good friends who were fans of wrestling on my show as co-hosts and take phone calls

from fans during the live weekly show. Before I started Al’s Wrestling Talk, or AWT, a career in wrestling wasn’t the biggest thing for me. I had wanted to become a play-by-play announcer or a color commentator and utilize my vast knowledge of wrestling. There aren’t a lot of recognizable announcer names other than Jim Ross, also known as JR, and Joey Styles, but that makes the job even more prestigious for me, because that’s what I want to do as a career. After about five months of hosting my radio show, I was contacted by a few guys who thought I was amazing and wanted me to become a part of their fundraising efforts for autism called Wrestling Autism. Funds raised through Wrestling Autism are being

Alex Moshenko and his mother Nancy met Senator Hilary Clinton at a recent event sponsored by Wrestling Autism. given to the National Autism Association. After I got this call, I was in shock and awe and started to cry. I accepted their invitation, of course, and now I have a show every Wednesday as well as Saturday. I have even interviewed hall-of-famer Jimmy “Mouth of the South” Hart. Wrestling Autism is a great fundraiser for kids like me who are wrestling with autism. Even though I have already powerbombed my autism into oblivion doesn’t mean other kids have as well. Big Al - cont. on p. 8

Charlie Smith Community Awards Banquet • Friday 11/2/7 • See Page 20 for Details

October 10, 2007

he Charlie Smith Community Award annually recognizes individuals who demonstrate an exceptional degree of commitment to the disability community. This year, the award banquet will be held on Friday, November 2, and the award will be bestowed on Jim and Claudia Carlisle, founders of People Enhancing People (PEP), a PCA Choice provider organization. The Carlisles believe that all recipients of PCA services should be able to find the help needed to stay in the community in which they live. The Carlisles are both people with disabilities who know personally that the struggle to find quality PCAs is one of the key barriers to maintaining a high quality of life. In 2003, the New Freedom Initiative Act and Minne-

Tim Benjamin, Editor

sota Department of Human Services awarded PEP the funding to put its business plan into motion and provide an alternative to traditional provider organizations. Since then they have led the way in meeting the difficulties involved in hiring and retaining high quality PCAs, and maintaining excellence as a provider organization. I hope you will join us for this fifth annual award celebration. One of the great things about the event, I think, is that when we come together to celebrate outstanding achievements by someone in our community, it also brings to light all the wonderful people—right around us in the room—who have given so much of themselves to the disability community.

banquet gives me an opportunity to thank Access Press readers for their support, and to thank as well all the volunteers, the board, and the staff for their dedication to maintaining this valued communication link in our community. The banquet also gives me a chance to reflect on my own good fortune in knowing and working with Charlie Smith. I never stop running into folks who knew and respected Charlie and his work. His commitment to the community made a difference that we all still benefit from.

As much as we discourage people from stereotyping individuals with disabilities as courageous saints with superhuman qualities of resilience, The best part for me is that the there are some pretty amazing

people who are part of our community. We have some incredibly broad shoulders to stand on. Thinking about Charlie and our past and present award recipients leads me to other “big names” like Roosevelt, Dart and Roberts. But there are many others who by their advocacy—or through their victimization—have helped pave the way for a better community. Chuck Campbell, on page 8, gives us a glimpse into the emerging sport of quad rugby. I’m not a big sports fan and really not much on competitive team sports, but quad rugby has fascinated me since I saw the movie “Murderball.” What a release of energy and frustrations, and all without too much risk of injuring yourself or anyone else (the key

words are “too much risk”). When I’m watching it played, my heart drops at every other collision. It really does look brutal, and if you ask the players they will tell you it is great fun even though occasionally you will get your teeth rattled. For me, knowing how wheelchairs react, and how shocking it feels when you’re stopped dead in your tracks, I think that’s what holds my interest: how do they handle that impact? More than that, I guess, I wonder how they handle the uncontrolled momentum, when control is such a necessity in our everyday wheeling lives. Last month I said I would give you some winter weather tips. What was I thinking? The best winter weather tip I have is, “Stay out of the cold!” ■

Why Does Discrimination History Note ‘Unbelievable’ Lack Of Staff Still Exist? MinnARC’s 1964 Survey Led to Increased Minneapolis Students Invited to Enter the Care at State Hospitals 2008 Martin Luther King Essay Contest by Luther Granquist

The Minneapolis Commission on Civil Rights partners with n September 9, 1964, MinnARC presented its report the Minneapolis Civil Rights the Minnesota Asso- to the 1965 Legislature, toDepartment, the Mayor’s ofciation for Retarded gether with a picture booklet, fice and the City Council to Children (MinnARC) sur- A Major Minnesota Problem, sponsor the annual contest, veyed the staffing levels in with large maroon lettering on which is now in its fourth year. Minnesota’s state hospitals for gold paper. The booklet inHere’s a question for young persons with mental retarda- cluded photographs from the Essays must be received by tion. They counted the num- state hospitals, such as this one people out there, “Why does Oct. 31. Each essay submitted ber of persons in each building of a barefooted woman discrimination still exist toshould include the student’s and the number of direct care huddled on the floor. day?” The Minneapolis ComThis photo of a MN state hosname, teacher’s name, grade, staff persons actually on duty mission on Civil Rights wants pital resident was part of the and the name of the school. for each shift. At Faribault, MinnARC recommended 833 MinnARC’s report to the state to know. Essays should be sent to: Min- the ratios were appalling— new positions to meet national legislature in 1965. neapolis Department of Civil 1:23 in the morning, 1:32 in standards. Governor Karl Students are asked to write or Rights, Attention: Mr. Martin the afternoon and 1:82 at night. Rolvaag, who said, “The lack nevertheless, more than had type an original, one- to threepage essay in English on this Doyle; 350 Fifth St. S., Room A direct care staff person from of staff is absolutely unbeliev- ever been approved before. ■ year’s topic, using proper 239, Minneapolis, MN 55415. Building 21 at Brainerd said, able,” included 578 in his prospelling and grammar. “We barely have time for cus- posed budget. The legislature Key Question: After all of For more info, visit www.ci.min todial care.” approved only 421, which was, This Year’s Topic this, why do you think dis- neapolis.mn.us/civil-rights/ The Universal Declaration of crimination still exists to- commission/index.asp. ■ Human Rights was ratified by day? • Regarding the article “‘Artability’ Thrives” (September 10, 2007), the author was incorrectly listed as Rachel Koep. The actual author was Nancy Blake-stad, a writer and content consultant based in St. Paul. Co-Founder/Publisher (1990-1996) .................................................. Wm. A. Smith, Jr. • The date given for the 2007 Charlie Smith Awards Banquet was incorrect in last month’s Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief (1990-2001) ....................... Charles F. Smith paper. The banquet will be November 2nd, not November 9th. The location—Black Bear Board of Directors ....................................................... Brigid Alseth, Mike Chevrette, Crossing—is unchanged. See back page for more details. Kelly Matter, Anita Schermer, Tom Squire, & Kay Willshire Editor ......................................................................................................... Tim Benjamin Assistant Editor .............................................................................................. Bret Hesla Office Assistant ........................................................................................... Jordan Selbo Cartoonist ..................................................................................................... Scott Adams Sales/Marketing ...................................................................................... Lance Hegland National Housing Institute, Inc. 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 $30/yr. Low-income, student and bulk subscriptions are available at discounted rates. 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. Community Enrichment Through Housing Diversity 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 ixth, seventh, and eighth grade students in Minneapolis are encouraged to enter the 2008 Martin Luther King Essay Contest.

the United Nations in 1948. As far back as 1857 the Minnesota Constitution prohibited discrimination. Minnesota Legislators passed the Fair Employment Practices Act in 1955. Discrimination was outlawed nationally by the Civil Rights Act in 1964. Through the years these laws have been broadened and amended to give more protection. The Minnesota Department of Human Rights commissions were established in 1967, and in 1968 local human rights commissions were established throughout the state.

Corrections

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October 10, 2007

Difficult Homecoming

Commentary

Local Collaborative Raises Awareness for Vets Who Have Invisible Disabilities

Curb Cuts Cut

by Amy Blumenshine

he concept “wounded war veteran” generally suggests an obvious physical injury. Yet it may surprise readers to learn that, by far, the most common war injuries—both today and in past wars—are the invisible wounds. Somewhere between a fifth to a third of all Vietnam veterans developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many suffered for years before learning the cause of their symptoms and getting treatment and/or disability compensation. Three times more Vietnam veterans have killed themselves after returning home than were killed in Vietnam. Currently, 44% of Gulf War I veterans are receiving disability payments for a variety of conditions. No one knows how high the disability rate for the current wars will be, but emerging numbers are quite alarming. Already one-third of returning soldiers are receiving psychiatric diagnoses, and that rate is likely to increase with time. One of the local efforts to address this crisis with returning vets (and their families) is the Coming Home Collaborative (CHC). CHC is an open and growing volunteer association

tionships, jobs, homes, and sobriety. In its work within faith communities, the CHC hopes to help people recover from the invisible wounds of war, especially the spiritual aspects of post-war responses. Since this year’s Veteran’s Day is a Sunday (11/11./07), the CHC is urging churches to observe the traditional 11 a.m. two minutes of silence in prayer for the health and healing of our military. Says Mark Smith, LICSW of CHC, “A small percentage of our citizenry—military personnel serving in Iraq and Afghanistan and their families—are making great sacrifices. Many soldiers are returning from the Middle East with combat stress syndrome that has the potential to impair them for life. We hope that local churches can use Veterans Day as a way to get involved in the healing journey for these sisters and brothers.” Invisible Wounds, Unseen Disabilities The Combat Stress Unit officers based at Ft. Snelling say that currently every soldier returns from deployment with combat operational stress reaction (see the accompanying box for signs and symptoms.) It is not known what percentage of those with combat operational stress—without intervention—will end up with a long-term disability.

“Since this year’s Veteran’s Day is a Sunday (11/11/07), the CHC is urging churches to observe the traditional Post-deployment depression 11 a.m. two minutes of and anxiety are common for military personnel. Less comsilence . . .” monly understood is PTSD. of people who are concerned with the needs of veterans, especially those currently re-integrating with their families and communities. The collaborative seeks to stimulate early intervention to prevent the secondary losses that often occur to people with undiagnosed disabilities, like loss of rela-

People with PTSD suffer clinically significant distress or long-term loss of functioning after a trauma such as assault, or rape (experienced by a quarter of women soldiers). Sufferers typically re-experience the trauma sensations. Veterans may experience flashbacks

Recent Stillwater Construction Projects Have Ignored ADA

in which they believe themselves to be in combat. They by Ken Moses may be troubled by memories, feel numbed to emotions, avoid wo recent major build situations that might trigger ing projects by the city painful memories and feelings, of Stillwater have eiand anger or startle easily. ther violated or initially ignored the Americans with DisabiliInvisible wounding also in- ties Act. In both the Lift Bridge cludes Traumatic Brain Injury renovation and the Washing(TBI), which has been called ton Park reconstruction, curb the “signature injury” of this cuts (or legal curb cuts) were war because of the prevalence not included in certain areas. of Improvised Explosive De- These apparent violations have vice (IED) injuries. Shock not resulted in fines. waves from an explosion can cause damage without the vic- The city of Stillwater, Minnetim even knowing it. sota, twenty miles east of the Twin Cities, is typical of many Toxins can also cause invis- cities with building codes deible wounds. The military has rived from the ADA, cities with an unfortunate pattern from the an implied ongoing commitVietnam and Gulf wars of de- ment to full accessibility. But nying the impact of war-remany of Stillwater’s curb cuts lated toxins (such as Agent Orange and Gulf War syn- “NO ACCESSIBLE AHEAD— drome) for years before award- RAMP ing healthcare and disability DEAD END SIDEbenefits. Many soldiers were WALK IN 40 FEET.” exposed to the aftermath of the explosion of the armory at and sidewalks were built bethe Baghdad-area Camp Fal- fore the ADA came into effect con on October 10, 2006. So and are difficult for wheelfar, the military has provided chair-users to use. Until reno information about what tox- cently, most wheelchair-users ins may have been released. had to travel in the streets or depend on paratransit for loThe VA now recognizes four- cal trips. The city’s ongoing teen medical conditions (in- project of adding or replacing cluding diabetes and testicular curb cuts, along with the new cancer) as having been caused paved “trail” to a major shopby the toxins of Agent Orange- ping center, have vastly imtype substances. Many widows proved local accessibility. of Vietnam veterans may be entitled to benefits if their de- Nevertheless, the people in ceased spouse had one of these charge of two recent major conditions, since some soldiers projects chose to ignore ADA in Vietnam had been given milk requirements for accessible unknowingly reconstituted with curb cuts. The first, the $5dioxin-laced water. Veterans million renovation of the should document their expo- Stillwater Lift Bridge over the sure to toxins and traumas while St. Croix River, originally had they still have the memory and plans to upgrade the bridge’s before they lose contact with pedestrian walkway without witnesses. replacing its old, stepped curb cut to the street. Getting Help “The dilemma,” says Gary When the state agency overSchoener, director of Walk-In seeing the project was reminded of the ADA requirement, they War - cont. on p. 16

agreed (after some resistance) to replace the old curb cut. The new one, however, does not meet legal requirements; it has a slope of 1-in-7 (a 7-inch rise in The new curb cut coming off the walka 50-inch run), nearly way from the Stillwater Lift Bridge. The twice as steep as the cut is steeper than ADA regulations ADA’s minimum re- would appear to allow. Photo by Ken Moses. quirement of 1-in-12. What’s worse, the 13 feet of the park also features a serpentine sidewalk beyond the curb cut brick walkway through the was replaced at the same time, park which allows wheelchair so there was plenty of room for access to every gazebo and pavilion and bench. a properly-sloped ramp. The second project is the reconstruction of Washington Square Park. The new park includes a parking lot with one marked, accessible parking space with a curb cut. The

Unfortunately, the new park also includes an apparent ADA violation. On the side of the park where the new parking lot is, there’s a brand-new city Curb Cuts - cont. on p. 18

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October 10, 2007

This Month’s Issue Sponsor

Minnesota State Council On Disability Your Technical Assistance and Training Resource

he Minnesota State Council on Disabilities (MSCOD) has been serving Minnesota since 1973; it is one of five minority councils that serve the residents of Minnesota. Minnesota statutes charge the council with giving attention to the needs of persons who have a disability and with advocating plans, programs and policies which serve the needs of people with disabilities. Within this broad mandate, the council has focused its purpose by identifying four strategies that span all council ac-

tivities: information and referral services; advisory recommendations; customer focus and quality improvement; and research and data collection. Mission The Minnesota State Council on Disabilities is an agency that collaborates, advocates, advises and provides information to expand opportunities, increase the quality of life and empower all persons with disabilities. Core Functions The MSCOD links people with

disabilities to those who are statutorily responsible for planning and delivering services to them, and supplements the efforts of disability advocacy groups in the private sector. Its core functions are: • providing advisory services on disability-related public policy; • providing information and referral services on all disability-related services and programs; • providing technical assistance on laws, regulations and codes; • researching, formulating

Fall 2007 Events from the Minnesota State Council on Disability Town Hall Meeting October 23rd A town hall meeting on youth and transition will be held on Tuesday, October, 23, 2007, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the MN Dept of Human Services (444 Lafayette Rd, St. Paul) and also throughout MN via Web streaming and video conference. The meeting will focus around Project C3 (Connecting Youth with Communities and Careers), which aligns state youth development resources to better serve youth with disabilities, and demonstrates how innovative partnerships with community intermediary organizations can use evidence-based best practices to improve local transition services.

tensive work with our returning veterans and the psychological issues that face our soldiers when they reintegrate to civilian life. Dr. Cantrell will showcase her new book, “Once a Warrior: Wired for Life.”

Session on Returning Vets October 25th In response to interest of the community, we have added a special session the morning of the Annual Awards Luncheon on October 25, 2007 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (also at RiverCentre in St. Paul). The topic will be: REINTEGRATION: From Warrior to Citizen-Soldier. Local speakers will discuss the reintegration issues that Minnesota employers and veterans are experiencing now that we have solAnnual Awards Luncheon diers returning from Iraq. October 25th Transportation and We will be holding our AnEmployment Forum nual Awards Luncheon on November 7th Thursday, October 25, 2007 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m MSCOD on November 7, (RiverCentre in St. Paul). The 2007, will host “The Long keynote speaker, Bridget Road to Work: A TransportaCantrell, Ph.D, has done ex- tion and Employment Dia-

logue” at the Minnesota Department of Health Building (1645 Energy Park Drive, St. Paul). The day-long event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 pm. The focus of this open forum will be to discuss the transportation and employment needs of people with disabilities. ✦✦✦✦ The Minnesota State Council on Disability (MSCOD) is working hard at providing the information to legislators and the governor on issues that are important to the disability community. MSCOD will continue to focus on the issues that are at the forefront of the minds of people with disabilities, such as transportation, poverty, education, housing, access and employment. MSCOD is your comprehensive resource for disability information. For more information, please call 651-3617800, e-mail council.dis ability@state.mn.us or visit our Web site www.disability. state.mn.us. ■

and advocating plans, programs, and policies serving Advisory services are provided the needs of people with dis- formally, and informally, to public officials and state abilities. agency personnel. Direct disability-related information and Operations People with disabilities and their referral services are provided families are the primary custom- via telephone, e-mail, fax and ersandbenefactorsofthecouncil’s participation in public and priservices. The MSCOD also vate events to approximately provides services to public of- 9,000 contacts each year. Disficials, state agency person- ability-related information, nel, local governments, em- such as MSCOD’s publicaployers, community organizations, frequently asked questions, disability-related orga- tions and answers (FAQs), fact nizations, institutions, archi- sheets, and links are also availtects, builders, neighborhood able through MSCOD’s Web groups and the broader public. site. Approximately 45 cus-

tomized trainings are provided each year on disability issues to a wide array of audiences. MSCOD also provides information services, via two e-mail distribution lists, to approximately 200 disability-related organizations throughout the state. For more information about the Minnesota State Council on Disability, call 651-3617804 V/TTY or 1-800-9458913 V/TTY, e-mail council .disability@state.mn.us or visit our Web site at www. disability.state.mn.us. ■

Quick Determination Decision Will Accelerate Social Security Benefits to Those Deemed Clearly Disabled

he waiting lines for social security disability benefits are about to get shorter. The Commissioner of Social Security announced last month that Social Security will extend the quick disability determination (QDD) process to all states. Under QDD, a computer analyzes certain parts of all new claims to identify those where there is a high potential that the claimant is disabled and where evidence of the person’s allegations can be quickly and easily obtained. “In essence what QDD does is look at the condition of the individual application,” said Mark Lassiter, Press Officer of Social Security. “The QDD takes certain factors into account, and if the application matches our requirements, then this person is immediately approved for benefits. This is not temporary, but permanent approval.”

New England,” said Commissioner Michael J. Astrue, “and I am happy to say it will help people filing for disability benefits anywhere in the United States. This is a very important step we are taking at Social Security to improve our disability programs. I also am proud of our improvements with pending disability cases that have reached 1,000 days waiting for an appeal hearing. We have aggressively worked on these cases and now have fewer than 600 pending, down from more than 63,000 cases in October of last year.”

Social Security currently receives more than 2.5 million new Social Security disability cases and more than 2.3 million Supplemental Security Income cases each year. In New England, where QDD began on a test basis, cases constituted slightly less than three percent (3%) of all new cases. Of those, 97 percent of “The quick disability deter- the cases identified have been mination has been very suc- decided within 21 days and cessful and efficient so far in the average decision time is 11

Accessible Space, Inc. ASI

days. Since the model does not yet incorporate as many diseases as it can, Commissioner Astrue has committed to expanding the number of cases that can be identified while maintaining the same level of accuracy. “The length of time many people wait for a disability decision is unacceptable,” Commissioner Astrue said. “I am committed to a process that is as fair and speedy as possible. While there is no single magic bullet, with better systems, better business processes and better ways of fast-tracking targeted cases, we can greatly improve the service we provide this vulnerable population.” The final regulation is effective as of Sept. 5, 2007, and will be gradually implemented over the next several months. For more information about Social Security’s disability programs, go to www.social security.gov. [Source: Social Security Administration] ■

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October 10, 2007

Unionization of PCAs?

Commentary

Addressing Concerns Raised in Last Month’s Article Commentary

Bring Back Unions For PCAs

More Concerns

by Rick Cardenas

by David Hancox

found last month’s article “Is Unionization Of PCAs The Answer?” very interesting and thought provoking. However, unlike the author, I would celebrate PCAs being unionized. I encourage Service Employees International Union (SEIU) to begin organizing personal care assistants (PCAs) employed in the home health care service industry now. But I have not seen any evidence that this organizing is happening. Since the author states, “I’m unsure how historical union activities and models, plus union visions and goals, will be able to ensure quality and stability for workers and consumers,” I thought I’d provide some responses. These observations are not from a union organizer, but from a social justice worker who also has personal experience with PCAs. First, a little history of PCAs. When I first started receiving assistance from Ramsey County in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, the county provided me with a monthly check to hire and pay someone to provide me with the services I needed. In the late‘70s privatization began and as a result pay dropped for PCAs to between $5 and $6 dollars an hour, as did the control I had over the hiring process. However, before (and during the transition to) total privatization, there were PCAs with

full benefits, health insurance, paid vacations, good wages and overtime pay. Why? Because they were hired by the county and served on a public health nursing team and belonged to a union. Not long into the 80s the full privatization of PCAs took place, and those county jobs disappeared; wages dropped, the benefits disappeared and the unionized PCAs also disappeared. Most of the women that worked for me were very well trained through the county system and supervised regularly by a Public Heath Nurse. In my experience, unionization created a much more efficient and happier worker with fewer worries about their quality of life. Thus, better service for me. Oh, and did I mention that this profession was 99% women in the union days? Today, the PCAs in a typical agency in the metro area are probably 85% women, and 50% African-American. These are populations that historically make up low-paying jobs and could greatly benefit from union bargaining power. Now, on to my responses. How does a union model work in a consumer-directed residential environment? When a union carpenter gets hired by a company, the boss on the job directs the carpenter to do carpentry. Likewise, when a company hires a union PCA, the consumer OKs them to work

in their home and asks the PCA sumer cite nothing. With union to do what they are supposed workers, there would be anto do. other layer of consumer protection and empowerment. Will union practices jeopardize consumer freedom, direc- Who will be responsible for tion, choice, privacy, quality, providing individual conand safety? Will a union model sumer advocacy and managemake it difficult to avoid inap- ment training? As always, the propriate workers who may consumer must be a self-advopose risk to consumers’ physi- cate. However, I do not see cal and emotional health and any advocacy organization dissafety? These two questions appearing simply because incorrectly assume that a com- PCAs are unionized. Managepany that hires a PCA is no ment training would probably longer involved and has given be jointly performed by the up its responsibility to the con- hiring agency and the union. sumer and that somehow federal HIPA and state vulner- Who will be responsible for ability laws are no longer ap- collectively bargaining with plicable. Oh, and speaking of unions: consumers, personal inappropriate workers, with care provider agencies the current consumer-directed (PCPOs), or the Department system, there is extreme chance of Human Services (DHS), of consumer abuse due not only which controls resources availto lack of supervision by the able for compensation and benhiring agency but also to the efits? PCPOs will be the barconsumer’s inability to physi- gaining agent with the union. If cally be in charge. company X gets a government contract to build a bridge, and Who will be responsible for their workers go on strike, the documenting behaviors that bargaining is between the union negatively impact quality-of- and Company X, not between life? Once again the hiring the union and the Department agency (whether under the of Transportation. Similarly, current system or a unionized the PCPO gets the authority system) would be mandated to from the state to provide PCA make reports. Hopefully ad- services (and receive reimvocacy organizations would bursement). So, if PCAs don’t not disappear. like their working conditions, they would negotiate with their Will poor-performing work- employer, the PCPO. ers shirk their responsibilities citing union protection? Will consumers and PCPOs Shirking happens under the become strategic negotiation current, consumer-directed pawns? Yes! As will the govmodel—the PCA and the con- ernor, legislature and DHS.

was pleased to see the reprint of the letter from NCIL (National Council for Independent Living) Executive Director John Lancaster and Board Chair Kelly Buckland in your September edition of Access Press. What your readers may not know is that this correspondence was sent to numerous Centers for Independent Living in response to concerns expressed by myself and other directors with regard to the recent collaboration between NCIL and SEIU (Service Employees International Union). I think it is important to be clear about the concerns expressed by myself and other CIL directors. I am fully supportive of improving wages, benefits and working conditions for PCAs. Over the past several years, Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) has put new practices into place that have allowed us to improve wages and working conditions for PCAs. I believe MCIL ranks among the top agencies in terms of hourly wage. However, I am not in favor of taking dues from hourly wage employees simply in exchange for good intentions. That is my first concern.

When the independent living movement first began in the early 1970s, Ed Roberts and his colleagues had a very simple philosophy (one that I heard him express on several occasions), “Don’t make people with disabilities dependent on you.” MCIL has always been dedicated to providing a PAS program that is consumer directed, with consumers directing their cares on a day-to-day basis. MCIL provides administrative support and payroll services, and strives to support the relationship between the individual with the disability and his/her PCA. I am fearful that unionization of PCAs completely disrupts and redirects this very important and intimate relationship between the individual and the PCA. That is my second concern. Again, thanks to Access Press for making the larger community aware of this issue. We will be watching closely to see how this situation evolves. ■ David Hancox is executive director of the St. Paul-based Metropolitan Center for Independent Living.

Will strikes, walkouts, and for Independent Living, Dipicketing be used? Yes! rect Support Professional Association of Minnesota, MinWhere will picket lines be nesota HomeCare Associadrawn? At DHS, PCPO offices, tion, and their national counor consumers homes? Prob- terparts to begin examining ably at PCPO offices, and for these issues and working topublic awareness at DHS of- ward alternative solutions to fices and the governor’s office. rebuild and maintain community-based support systems Who will be responsible for protecting consumer-direcfunding these additional ad- tion as well as providing comministrative tasks? This issue petitive and livable wages and is a contract concern. benefits. This is a great idea, but the Consortium for CitiWill gains in PCA wages be zens with Disabilities is not consumed by mandatory union the vehicle, because the CCD dues? I’m not sure why this is has a make-up of individual a consumer concern, but …. representatives of organizaWorkers in many industries tions that represent mostly prowhich pay $30.00 an hour have fessional advocacy groups, union dues of $90.00 a month. private for-profit and not-forIf the worker is receiving profit companies with very $15.00 an hour with benefits, little input from those that are union dues are at most $35.00 directly affected—direct supa month. Does that rate seem port professionals and conunfair? sumers. I think an efficient answer is NOT unionization, but rather a unified public awareness and advocacy campaign by consumers, families, PCAs, and provider agencies targeting elected state and federal officials plus mainstream media. I strongly encourage the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, Minnesota Association of Centers

As for the writer’s last sentence … However, if these stakeholders do not act, then I would support unionization for the advantages it may provide. LET’S GET ON WITH IT! ■ Rick Cardenas is executive director of Advocating Change Together.

October 10, 2007

Upcoming Events To list an event, e-mail access@accesspress.org Jacobson Memorial Award Luncheon Oct 16 Named for the late MN business leader Judd Jacobson, who became quadriplegic after a diving accident, the award is given each year to a person with a physical disability or sensory impairment who is pursuing and achieving a business endeavor. Please join Courage Center in honoring this year’s recipient, with a lunch and award presentation. Details: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Golden Valley Country Club. FFI: Kristin Hansen at 763-520-0439 or kristin. hansen@courage.org.

Exploring Possibilities-2007 Oct 20 A workshop for persons with spinal cord injuries, their families and rehab professionals, this event features four learning sessions and a keynote address by Jennifer Peterson entitled “Patience + Perspective + Persistence = Success.” Session topics include par-enting following a spinal cord injury and “Ask the Experts,” featuring a panel of specialists. Details: 9:30 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. Terrance Mall, 3500 France Ave. N, Robbinsdale, MN. FFI: call Twyla Misselhorn at 763-520-1449.

MCIL Annual Meeting & Celebration Dinner Oct 24 (see display ad on this page) MSCOD’s Annual Awards Luncheon Oct 25 (see ad on page 9) Reason for Hope Retreat Oct 26-27 This is a weekend retreat for parents and caregivers of loved ones living with a long-term health care need, or suspected or diagnosed disability. Workshops offered include “Marriage, Parenting and Commu-

nication” and “Support for NonDisabled Siblings.” Participants will learn new skills for coping with particular needs, develop enhanced communication skills, and discover ways to reduce stress. Details: Reg. by 10/22, online at www. ReasonForHopeRetreat.org, or call 320-393-4906. Americanna Inn Hotel, St Cloud, MN.

and more! Guests of all ages and abilities welcome. Proceeds will support our Ticket to Ride transportation program for people with disabilities. Details: 6:30-9:00 p.m., Brooklyn Park Community Center, 5600 85th Ave. N. in Brooklyn Park. Cost: $8 individuals or $6 each for groups of four or more. Refreshments sold all evening. FFI: 952-988-4177 or e-mail cbade@reachforresources.

Ghostly Gala Halloween Bash Oct 27 Get those Halloween costumes ‘Realize Your Power’ ready and join REACH for Workshops Resources for a fun evening Oct 29, Nov 5 & 12 of dancing, costume contests If you or someone you care about has an intellectual or developmental disability, you know that public policy at all levels of government can create opportunities—or challenges—for people with disabilities. Learn how to create opportunities at this three-part workshop. Topics include: “What Is Civic Engagement/ Voting Your Values,” “Telling Your Story to Policy-makers,” and “Engaging Your Neighbors and Friends,” respectively. Details: Arc 24, 2007 er b o ct O y, a Greater Twin Cities, New d es n ed our celebration: W Brighton Family Services Cene ill ev os R el ter, 803 Old Highway 8 NW, ot H n Radisso 3 11 55 N M e, New Brighton. 6:30-8:30 p.m. ill ev os R Ave, 2540 North Cleveland –Front of Hotel, by canopy There is no charge, but particirking Salons C, D, E • Pa pants are encouraged to regise . • Cash bar availabl m p. 00 5: – ter in advance. FFI: call Arc at r ou H al Soci ailable) ited Scholarships Av im (L 5 $1 952-920-0855. t os C • p.m. 00 p.m.

MCIL Annual Meeting & Celebration dinner October 24, 2007

Join us for

6:45 Dinner – 6: e Representative – at St N M e, or ad M p.m. Speaker, Shelley losing Remarks - 8:15 C • m p. 15 7: – ds egetarian) Awar le Cheese Ravioli (V en; Vegetab la; Rosemary Chick icken Fingers Children’s Menu – Ch

Parma Marsa Meal selections: Pork

15, 2007 : Monday, October by e nc da en tt A 3-2001 d n an n.org or TTY 651-60 l-m RSVP Meal Selectio ci m c@ tty be l ai 1-646-8342 or e-m by calling Betty at 65

From numbers…. to names…. Remembering With Dignity Honoring state hospital residents who have been forgotten by placing grave markers with names

Hastings State Hospital Cemetery Dedication Ceremony Saturday, October 13, 2007 11 AM to 12:30 PM Everyone Welcome Refreshments Served

Walk in: Park at Thomas Dr. and Tuttle Ave. Drive in: (Limited parking) Enter gate at 31st St. beyond Meghan Ave.

For event information and directions call (651) 641-0297 Remembering With Dignity … Advocating Change Together … www.selfadvocacy.org Sponsored by the State of Minnesota

2007 Charlie Smith Awards Banquet Nov 2 Join us for the Access Press Annual Awards Banquet, featuring a reception, buffet dinner and jazz musician Larry McDonough. This year’s awards ceremony will honor Community Award recipients Jim and Claudia Carlisle. Details: Please RSVP by Wed., Oct 24, although registrations will be accepted at the door. 5 p.m. at Como Lake Pavillion, Black Bear Crossings, 1360 N. Lexington Pkwy, St Paul. FFI: www.access press.org. Literary Reading Nov 3 Art St. Croix, a community group whose purpose is to increase opportunities in the arts for adults with disabilities in the St. Croix Valley, announces a call for writers and readers for the next “In Your Words or Theirs” literary reading event. Participants are invited to submit original poetry or short prose pieces, or original self-accompanied songs, related to the autumn or holiday theme. Details: Boutwells Landing in Oak Park Heights, MN, 1:00-3:00 p.m. Deadline for submissions is Oct 23. All work must be submitted in advance. Send hand-written, typed, or photocopied work to Ken at PO Box 623, Stillwater, MN 55082; or e-mail to Art St. Croix, 102225.141@compu

serve.com. FFI: Judy at 651251-5109 or Nancy at 651351-3125. Self-Advocacy Singers Nov 6 New choir for adults with developmental disabilities and allies who love to sing. Social change songs, pop songs, folk songs, all kinds. All welcome. Join us at the next rehearsal. Details, Location, Time: Call Advocating Change Together, 651-641-0297. 2007 MS Annual Convention Nov 16-18 The National MS Society MN Chapter is holding their annual convention, which will feature guest speakers Jonathon Katz, Dr. Ian Duncan and Joyce Nelson, as well as product exhibits and various learning sessions. Goals include motivating people to join the movement to end MS, educating people about current research and resources, and providing hope to people who care for a person with MS. Details: Hyatt Regency Hotel, Minneapolis. FFI: visit http://mnm. natioalmssociety.org to register. Santa Run to Benefit Legal Aid Dec 1 Run, walk, or stroll a mile and a quarter to support free civil legal services for poor and disadvantaged Minnesotans. On run day you’ll get your red Santa suit and white beard. Kids under 12 get a Santa hat. There’s music and hot chocolate and more fun than anyone has ever had in a Santa suit! You can pick up your Santa suit beginning at 2 p.m., and don’t forget to bring a toy for the Toys for Tots collection. Details: 4 p.m., run begins and ends at downtown YWCA, 1130 Nicollet Mall. FFI: www. active.com/event_detail.cfm? event_id= 1487207 to register. Adaptive Ski Clinic Dec 9-15 Two Colorado organizations will offer a week-long program of adaptive ski instruction for people with disabilities or impairments that have left them unable to continue to pursue their favorite sport (Over the Hill Gang International and Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center). One BOEC instructor and one BOEC volunteer will work with each student, using the latest adaptive techniques and equipment. OTHGI guests will stay six nights in Breckenridge and enjoy features such as a daily buffet breakfast and five days of lift tickets. Details: Membership to OTHGI is open to anyone over 50. Breckenridge, Colorado. FFI: http:/ /othgi.com. ■

October 10, 2007

News At A Glance . . . Two MN Artists Honored in National Exhibit “Driven,” an art exhibition by 15 emerging artists with disabilities, is running at the Smithsonian Institution’s S. Dillon Ripley Center until December 31. The D.C. exhibition illustrates the motivational force behind the artists’ personal visions—what moves them to create. “Faun.” E. Brooke Lanier, 23, of Rochester, Minn., received the 2nd prize in the exhibit. Lanier was awarded $6,000 for her entry, “Staring,” an archival inkjet print on photo rag paper. Another Minnesota artist, Holly Schuh, 21, of Altura, Minnesota, received an award for excellence and $2000. The $20,000 grand prize went to Jacolby Satterwhite, 21, a student at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, for an oil-on-canvas titled, “Remission & Resilience.” The jury awarded Laurel Ebenal, of Ellensburg, Wash., 1st prize of $10,000 for her digital photograph. “Driven” is the largest awards program for emerging artists with disabilities ages 16-25. [Source: VSA arts]

Special Ed Victory for New York Parents In 2005, the U.S. Supreme Court held that parents have the burden of proof in cases brought under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Prior to this ruling, the school had to prove that the placement was appropriate. This ruling has put an unreasonable burden on parents. If you request a due process hearing because you disagree with the school’s proposed placement of your child, you have to prove that the placement they propose is inappropriate. Now, however, parents in New York state have scored a huge victory in getting legislation passed and signed that shifts the burden of proof back to school districts in most cases. This new law once again puts the burden on the school district to prove that it is satisfying its legal obligation to provide an appropriate individualized education program for a student with a disability. At the same time, the law strikes a balance between parents’ desires for private placements and a school district’s obligation to pay for costly out-of-district services by requiring parents to prove that a private placement outside of the school district is more appropriate for their child. Under the federal IDEA, every child with a disability is entitled to receive a “free appropriate public education.” IDEA protects children’s rights by giving parents and school districts the right to an administrative hearing if they cannot agree on which services the child needs. [Source: NDSC]

High Court Hears Case on Limits of FAPE Earlier this month, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments on whether all children with disabilities, including those who are enrolled in private programs, are entitled to a free appropriate public education. The case New York City Board of Education v. Tom F., on Behalf of Gilbert F., a Minor Child, is an effort to decide whether all children with disabilities, including those who are enrolled in private programs, are entitled to a free appropriate public education . The decision will have significant implications for parents, school districts, and children with disabilities who receive special education services. The case came before the Supreme Court after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit vacated and remanded the decision by the District Court. The Second Circuit held that the

IDEA was not meant to deny reimbursement to students who have never been enrolled in public school. To rule otherwise would require parents to enroll their children in inappropriate public school programs before they could be eligible for tuition reimbursement.

integrate them into already scheduled routes in Ann Arbor, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Detroit, Indianapolis, Kansas City, St. Louis and Toledo by January 2008.

Over the past ten years, VSA arts of Minnesota has recognized 34 artists, educators and individuals, and 15 organizations. Each has received an original work of art called the Jaehny, after co-founder and performing artist Jaehn Clare, who traveled from her current job at VSA arts of Georgia to attend this year’s ceremony. The creator of this year’s Jaehny is Mankato artist Marlene Olson.

The program is open to individuals in all art disciplines, whether visual, performing, written, media or other. Grant recipients from 2005-06 and persons whose artwork was prepared for educational credit are not eligible.

The 79-passenger double-decker buses are 13 feet high and are equipped with seat belts for every passenger and two wheelIf the Supreme Court affirms the decision by the Second chair spaces. The buses have two doors; the low ground-level Circuit, parents will have the right to obtain reimbursement entry allows passengers in wheelchairs to enter curbside at the from the school district, even if their child was never enrolled second door. in a public school special education program. If the Supreme Court reverses the Second Circuit, parents will have two The megabus.com double-decker bus trips will always have $1 choices: they can place their child in an appropriate private tickets available for a limited number of seats. Passengers are program and forfeit any chance to obtain reimbursement; or encouraged to book early to receive these low fares. After all they can place their child into an inappropriate public school $1 tickets have sold, prices increase incrementally. program so they can later remove the child from that program and seek reimbursement. Purchase tickets and check schedules at www.megabus.com. [Source: Megabus.com] For a summary of the NYC v. Tom F., go to: www.wrights law.com/news/07/nyc.tomf.htm. [Source: wrightslaw.com] Grants Available to Artists with Disabilities VSA arts of Minnesota will award six $1,000 grants to MinneVSA arts of MN Presents Annual Awards sota artists with disabilities through its Artist Recognition Five Minnesotans have received Arts Access Awards from Grant Program, funded for the 12th straight year by the Jerome VSA arts of Minnesota. These statewide awards are funded by Foundation. The program’s goals are to: recognize excellence VSA arts to recognize outstanding accomplishments that help in arts produced by persons with disabilities; provide financial make the arts more accessible to people with disabilities. The awards and tangible encouragement to artists with disabilities tenth annual awards were presented in Minneapolis on Sunday, so their work in the arts might continue; and identify Minnesota Sept. 23 at Macy’s Sky Room, which hosted the presentation artists with disabilities who are dedicated to making arts during VSA’s Autumn Auction & Cabaret. production and/or presentation a central part of their lives.

The 2007 VSA arts Access Award recipients are: Most Active and Visible Minnesota Artist with a Disability – Alissa Hullett, Faribault artist; Outstanding Arts Educators of Students and Adults with Disabilities – Danelle Griner, St. Paul, art teacher and facilitator for Rise and Courage Center; Jeff Tornquist, Eden Prairie, co-advisor to the Y’s Act social inclusion drama club at Eden Prairie High School; Outstanding Individuals Actively Promoting Access to the Arts for People with Disabilities – Gail Burke, Woodbury, Executive Aide, Human Resources Manager/Accessibility Coordinator, for the Minnesota State Arts Board; Jon Skaalen, Stillwater, board member for the Minnesota Association of Community Theatres, Interact Center for Visual & Performing Arts; volunteer accessibility coordinator for the Minnesota Fringe Festival; Access to Performing Arts Coordinator for VSA arts of Minnesota. [Source: VSA Arts]

Since the program’s inception, 65 grants have been awarded to 27 visual artists, 17 writers, 13 performers or composers, four sculptors/ceramicists, two photographers, one mask maker and one computer graphics designer. Nine artists have received two grants. Applications must be postmarked by Friday, Nov. 9, 2007. For an application go to www.vsaartsmn.org, call 612332-3888 or 800-801-3883, or e-mail jon@vsaartsmn.org. Please specify if you need a format other than print or e-mail (PC diskette, audiotape, Braille or large print). [Source: VSA arts]

Volunteers Needed for Social Event

Guild Incorporated is asking for help in organizing a variety of events for those who would enjoy social get-togethers. Host a birthday/bingo bash, coffee club, travelogue, arts and crafts activity or any other event that a group of adults would enjoy. Your group can volunteer one time or on a regular basis. In addition, the event calendar is established at least one month in advance so your group can plan ahead. Youth groups (ages 16 and up) can help when accompanied by a chaperone. A variety Megabus Adds Accessible Double-Decker Buses of volunteer positions are available for individuals, too. Guild Megabus.com, a daily, express bus company that offers $1 Incorporated is a nonprofit organization which helps people fares, recently began service of the first wheelchair-accessible, with mental illness lead quality lives in Ramsey and Dakota double-decker buses to carry passengers intercity in the United counties, but we welcome volunteers from the entire area! States. The inaugural trip from Chicago to Minneapolis was on September 7. Learn more by contacting the Volunteer Coordinator at Guild Incorporated at 651-450-2220 ext. 18, e-mail at volunteer Megabus.com purchased seventeen wheelchair-accessible @guildincorporated.org, or visit www.guild incorporated.org. double-decker buses and will [Source: Guild Incorporated] ■

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.

CBM Home Health Services PROVIDING YOU CARE BEYOND MEASURE!

PCAs Paid up to $11.00/Hour Health Insurance Offered PCA Referral Bonuses ¾ MA/PCA Provider ¾ PCA Choice Provider ¾ PCAs Available 24 Hour Each Day 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

October 10, 2007

Minnesota Murderball Quad Rugby Arrives in the Twin Cities by Chuck Campbell

printing toward the end zone, muscles straining for that last ounce of speed, deftly juking around a defender before blasting triumphantly across the goal line to score. If you think those days are over for people who use wheelchairs, you haven’t seen quad rugby! The players use specially built chairs, with sheet metal disks covering their spokes, bumpers made of welded tubing, and metal plates that keep the wheels from hooking together. These modifications are essential because quad rugby isn’t a contact sport—it’s a collision sport! At last month’s Abilities Expo in the Minneapolis Convention Center, I watched the Minnesota North Stars of the United States Quad Rugby Association (USQRA) as they crashed chairs with demolition derby intensity— and this was only an intersquad exhibition. “You can tell by the look on their face the first time they get hit if they’re gonna wash out,” said North Stars’ Coach Jody Mines, a former Rolling Gopher and 13-year veteran of wheelchair sports. Mines pan-

tomimed wide-eyed fear, then a menacing grin that said, “I got your number and I’m gonna get some payback!” When Mines sees that expression, he knows a new player is hooked.

a tendency to put people with C-level spinal injuries in power chairs to avoid shoulder injuries. “I’ve seen many guys go from electric to manual chairs,” said Kemery, who encourages anyone who can Matthew Serfling is one such push a chair to do so. newcomer. “I live at the Courage Center and went to see a Kemery spoke of seeing Wednesday night practice—I people’s depression lift as they just went there and they [im- get into wheelchair sports. mediately] put me in a chair,” “They come alive,” said said the young rookie. “This is Kemery. “The Rolling Goonly my 2nd or 3rd time out,” phers turned into the MinneSerfling added, “This is a great sota Ice. This is our 1st year as group of guys. They help you North Stars,” Kemery exget set up and teach you how to plained. The North Stars have play.” Serfling pointed out a developed from three players lanky, 40ish para-athlete trans- last year to ten this year. Pointferring from his game chair to ing out a handsome, ravenhis street chair, saying, haired kid whose speed and “There’s the guy you want to agility made him an obvious talk to.” star, Kemery said proudly, “Chuck is sixteen and he’s go“The guy” turned out to be ing to the Paralympics.The Todd Kemery, another former southern teams will be recruitRolling Gopher with 14 years ing him; they’re the Division I of competition experience. guys, and they’ve got more “These chairs have a very low resources,” said Kemery. center of gravity,” he said. “If “They’ll set you up with a you do get knocked over you roommate and a job.” Kemery just tuck your arms in and has no resentment about posweeble-wobble until they flip sibly losing Chuck to a Diviyou back over.” Kemery, who sion I team, saying, “I want to is also the Sports Director for see him go as far as he can.” the Minnesota Paralyzed Veterans of America, says there is Rugby- cont. on p. 16

BIG AL-

Cont. from p. 1

I have reason to be grateful to the four people who gave me a wider scale audience than before, so let me personally thank Niko, Yeti, Big Joe, and JT. I owe them, not just because of my second talk show, but also because I was able to go to the Super Bowl of all wrestling— Wrestlemania 23. It was a wonderful experience. Last year my mother and I decided that we wanted to take our radio shows cross-country in an RV, so we rented one to travel from Buffalo, New York, to Detroit, Michigan, and boy was it fun. I was able to bring along one of my cohosts, Captain Obvious—my brother David, and we loved every second of it. When we arrived in Detroit for Wrestlemania23, we put up a huge banner that said Al’s Wrestling Talk and we parked a few blocks from Ford Field. I was interviewed on another wrestling talk show while I was in Detroit and had a great time with everything there. I stood outside of Ford Field surrounded by thousands of wrestling fans from all over the country and broadcast my live radio show there. It was a huge thrill!

tlers came out and greeted the fans. Rob Van Dam, Batista, Ron Simmons, The Brooklyn Brawler, Triple H, and Stephanie McMahon were all within 15 feet of us. When the doors opened and the show began, we were amazed at how many people were there—over 80,000! The whole experience was amazing. There were two streakers as well, one before the doors opened, the other during the main event! We witnessed history in the making: the pile-driver was done on the stairs (a feat not seen in years), the eight-man “money in the bank ladder match,” The Undertaker winning his fifth world title in five years, and the ECW originals first-ever Wrestlemania. My mother was actually able to meet Tommy Dreamer and several other ECW originals when she went to the snack bar! I hope to be one of the best ringside announcers, like Jim Ross (JR), who was inducted in the WWE Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2007.

All together, my life of wrestling has been more than a blessing to me, and I thank God for that. I’ve loved every day I get to watch my favorite When everyone got outside the wrestlers, past and present, stadium and waited for the entertain me, and then my voice doors to open, several wres- gets heard when I comment

Big Al meets one of his heroes, Batista, the 2005 WWE World Heavyweight Champion, at an event in Buffalo, New York. about it. I love to do what I do, but this wouldn’t be possible without my wonderful mother. She’s guided me, taught me, and helped me find what I wanted to be. I love her more than anyone could ever know. She’s the one who helped give me my voice, and now I do what I do best every week: speak. Remember, “Big Al knows and that’s how it goes!” ■ Hear Big Al live online every Saturday at 7 p.m. (ET) at www.alswrestlingtalk.com and Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Contact Big Al at 866-3698058 or e-mail bigal@als wrestlingtalk.com. Reprinted by permission from The Autism Perspective – TAP magazine (Volume 3: Issue 3). For more information, visit www.theautismperspective.org or call 877-3-AUTISM.

October 10, 2007

Access Press Directory of Organizations Minnesota’s Disability Community Newspaper VOICE LINE SECOND LINE E-MAIL/WEB SITE 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 ........................ www.mnccd.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 Mary T. Inc ................................................................ 763-754-2505 ........... 888-255-6400 ................... www.marytinc.com 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 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 Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) 651-646-8342 .. TTY-651-603-2001 .................... www.mcil-mn.org Mary T. Inc ................................................................ 763-754-2505 ........... 888-255-6400 ................... www.marytinc.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 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 East Suburban Resources ........................................... 651-351-0190 ........................................................ www.esrworks.org 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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October 10, 2007

Dir ector y of Or ganiza tions Director ectory Org anizations www.accesspress.org VOICE LINE SECOND LINE E-MAIL/WEB SITE GOVERNMENT MN Governor’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 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 Children’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 UCare ......................................................................... 800-707-1711 .. TTY-800-688-2534 ........................ www.ucare.org 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

INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS TRANSITION SERVICES HOUSING NEEDS PEER MENTORING RAMP PROJECT NURSING HOME RELOCATION DISABILITY LINKAGE LINE www.mcil-mn.org ADVOCACY Phone: 651.646.8342 ACCESSIBILITY Fax: 651.603.2006 ADA INFORMATION TTY: 651.603.2001 TECHNOLOGY PERSONAL ASSISTANCE

CONSUMER-DIRECTED SUPPORTS AND SERVICES MissionStatement:

“To work with people with disabilities in fulfilling their desire to lead productive, self-determined lives.” MCIL provides Nursing Home Relocation, Personal Assistant Services (PCA), 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.

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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 Mary T. Inc ................................................................ 763-754-2505 ........... 888-255-6400 ................... www.marytinc.com 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 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 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 Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

October 10, 2007

Dir ector y of Or ganiza tions Director ectory Org anizations Minnesotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disability Community Newspaper VOICE LINE SECOND LINE E-MAIL/WEB SITE RECREATIONAL (continued) Friendship Ventures ................................................... 952-852-0101 ..... TF-800-450-8376 .... www.friendshipventures.org 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

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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

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

RESIDENTIAL The Cooperating Community Programsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 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 In Home Personal Care .............................................. 763-546-1000 ........ F-763-546-1018 www.inhomepersonalcare.com Mary T. Inc ................................................................ 763-754-2505 ........... 888-255-6400 ................... www.marytinc.com Opportunity Partners .................................................. 952-938-5511 . TTYâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;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 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 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

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October 10, 2007

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

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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

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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 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 . TTYâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;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

5FMFQIPOF 55:

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October 10, 2007

Disability Employment Awareness Month

Where’s The Job? by Jeffrey A. Nurick (Author’s note: On September 5, 2007, I was invited to St. Paul to testify on behalf of the disability community in front of the Legislative Commission on Eliminating Poverty by the year 2020. I was asked to speak about my education and frustration in obtaining gainful employment. Below is my actual testimony. Members of the Commission on Poverty: My name is Jeffrey Nurick and I have Cerebral Palsy. As a member of the larger disability community, I consider it an honor to speak to you today. I graduated 4th in my high school class, received my Bachelors degree with a 3.3 GPA, was inducted into the National Social Science Honor Society and completed an internship at the White House during the Clinton administration. I also completed two years of service in an AmeriCorps program in Minneapolis. Like you, I’m proud of my accomplishments, but now I just want to obtain full-time and meaningful employment. I have invested a lot of time, money and energy in my future, and right now I’m feeling that it is all in vain. Unfortunately, the unemployment rate among people with disabilities is overwhelming. Most of us are collecting Social Security and other government benefits just to survive. However, employment is about much more than just money. If that’s all it’s about, we can all go home and resume life as normal. The truth of it is that employment is about being accepted, being respected, making a contribution and waking up in the morning looking forward to going to work. My whole life I was told that I needed to get a good education in order to be a productive person. Sure, it is easier to open up a mailbox every month and collect your wel-

fare check, but I’m here to tell you, that’s not what most people with disabilities want to do. I don’t know about you, but we would rather earn our pay. That is one of my most important values. I have the education, the experience, the drive and the motivation. I’ve applied for numerous jobs but have not as yet secured one. I’ve been rejected by the private sector, not-for-profits, and government agencies. Let me tell you, this is one area where there is no discrimination. My county vocational counselor suggested that I become a greeter at a supermarket or discount chain. I know what I can accomplish and what my capabilities are, but employers and even many well-meaning advocates for the disabled can’t seem to get past my wheelchair and speech impediment. Now very briefly, let me mention employment in the nonprofit and government agencies whose mission it is to help people with disabilities. Some are better than others, but believe it or not, the great majority of their workers in meaningful jobs are able-bodied and most disabled workers, with few exceptions, have relatively minor disabilities. Fulfilling their mission with INTEGRITY means HIRING people like me— and not just in their sheltered workshops either. I’ve met and surpassed many challenges in my life, and I am determined to find a meaningful, fulfilling job where I can help my employer meet their

organization’s goals and objectives. On a daily basis I am constantly searching Web sites, networking, going to meetings, volunteering and speaking to people. As an educated and experienced person with a physical disability, I am uniquely qualified to connect with a diverse population. I am constantly being told by colleagues, clients and managers that I motivate and inspire others to excel. I would like a chance to do this in a paid setting now. The late Justin Dart Jr., known as the father of the Americans with Disabilities Act, had a famous quote that I would like to share. “Get off your ass and play God.” Furthermore, futurist Joel Barker once said, “Vision without action is just daydreaming. Action without vision is merely biding time. But vision plus action can change the world!” I feel the presence of these two fine gentlemen here today, shaking their heads in disappointment at our society. I, too, have a dream, similar to Martin Luther King. I see the day when all people, able-bodied and disabled, work together, live together and are happy together. If in any way I inspired you today, I leave you with one question. When you leave today’s meeting, what are you going to do to ensure you are giving everyone, of all abilities, a chance to show their true merits, who they really are, and what they truly can do? ■

Assistive Technology @ Your Library FREE Internet and word processing services are available to persons with vision, mobility, and special learning needs at three Saint Paul Public Library locations: Hayden Heights Library, Highland Park Library and Rondo Outreach Library. For additional details, or to make an appointment, call a library listed below: Hayden Heights (651) 793-3934 1456 White Bear Ave. Highland Park (651) 695-3700 1974 Ford Pkwy. Rondo Outreach (651) 266-7400 461 N. Dale St.

A c c e s s for S u c c e s s Assistive technologies are provided by a grant from Minnesota Library Services and School Technology

Ending Poverty By 2020 Legislative Commission Collects Testimony Statewide to Build Plan by Carly Walden and Kelly Schroepfer

n 2006 the Minnesota Legislature created the Legislative Commission to End Poverty in Minnesota by 2020. The committee, made up of nine members from the Senate and nine members from the House of Representatives, and co-chaired by Rep. Carlos Mariani and Senator John Marty, is responsible for developing guidelines and preparing recommendations on how to end poverty in Minnesota by the year 2020. The commission has met three times over the summer, taking two days to hear testimony from various government agencies, nonprofit organizations and citizens on the issue of poverty and the plight of the impoverished.

deeper into poverty. Individuals over the age of 75 experience some of the highest rates of poverty. As baby boomers age, the population over age 65 will more than double by 2035. This demographic shift could lead to a greater number and percentage of people living in poverty if high poverty rates for the elderly continue.

derstanding of how poverty is affecting different areas, the commissioners will continue to engage in local dialogues around the state (see box).

The commission will report its recommendations to the legislature by December 15, 2008. For more information on the commission or the upcoming meetings, contact director GreNot surprising to those in the gory Gray at 651-296-6397. disability community is the fact ■ that 38% of poor Minnesotans have a disability and that 19% of Minnesotans with a disabil- Upcoming Statewide ity live in poverty. Still, these Dialogues on Poverty poverty statistics under-represent people with disabilities; •NW MN: Bemidji & Moorindividuals living in group head (Oct. 25-26, 2007) homes or institutions, many of •Metro Area: Minneapolis whom have disabilities, are not & St. Paul (Nov. 8, 2007) counted. •Central MN: Willmar, Long Prairie & Granite On Sept. 5, 2007, Joan Falls (Nov. 14, 2007) Willshire, Executive Director of the Minnesota State Coun- •Central MN: St. Cloud & cil on Disability, gave comBrainerd (Nov. 29, 2007) pelling testimony before the •Metro Area: Twin Cities commission on the factors that Suburbs (Dec. 6, 2007) not only lead people with disabilities into poverty but those •SW MN: Worthington & Mankato (Jan. 10, 2008) that keep them there.

On August 2, 2007, Tom Gillaspy and Tom Stinson, Minnesota’s state demographer and state economist, respectively, provided expert testimony describing how poverty is affecting Minnesotans today. While Minnesota’s poverty rate of 9.2% is among the lowest in the country, changing demographics may bring To engage Minnesotans statealready vulnerable populations wide and to gain a greater un-

•SE MN: Winona & Rochester (Jan. 2008 TBA)

October 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. 8392, www.uniquetouchart. Neighborhood House at the com/brsegaltheater or www. Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center, 179 Robie St. E., St. c4ia.org Paul. ASL: Fri., Nov. 16, 7:30 The Best Haunted House Ever pm, AD: Sat., Nov. 17, 7:30 pm. Tix: Reduced (reg. $18, Oct. 12 - 28 Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, $15 student/sr/Fringe button, Barbie Seguy 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL: $12 grps of 8+ or veterans), Nov. 3 Sat., Oct. 13, 7:30 pm. Tix: Phone: 612-721-1186, EBackstage Pass Barry R. Segal at Center for $14; $12 students/seniors; $16 mail: info@theatreunbound. Oct. 27 Independent Artists, 4137 box seats, Phone: 763-422- com Web: www.theatreun Stephen B. Humphrey The- Bloomington Ave. S., Mpls. 1838, www.lyricarts.org bound.com ater, St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University, Col- ASL: Sat., Nov. 3, 8:00 pm. Georgia Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Keeffe: Circling legeville. Songwriters Tony Tix: $10, Phone: 612-724Cherry Docs Around Abstraction Oct. 13 - Nov. 4 Nov. 3 Minnesota Jewish Theatre Co. Â³+RZ FDQ , JR WR Â´,V WKHUH D OLPLW WR KRZ ZRUN DQG NHHS P\ Mpls. Institute of Arts, 2400 at Hillcrest Center Theater, PXFK , FDQ HDUQ RQ 66',"Âµ KHDOWK LQVXUDQFH"Â´ 1978 Ford Parkway, St. Paul. 3rd Ave. S. ASL: Sun., Nov. 3, Â´,5:( " " " AD: Sun., Oct. 21, 2:00 pm. 1:00 pm. Tix: special exhibi :KDW GRHV WKDW Â´+RZ GR , Tix: Reduced by $7 (reg. $17- tion charged, Phone: 612-870 PHDQ"Â´ UHDOO\ NQRZ 24), Phone: 651-647-4315, 3131, TTY: 612-870-3132, EZKLFK EHQHILW www.mnjewishtheatre.org mail: dhegstrom@artsmia. " & ,Â·P RQ"Âµ org Web: www.artsmia.org % 0 : % The Clean House Oct. 19 - Nov. 18 HOME Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S. Oct. 5 - Nov. 3 4th St., Mpls. AD, ASL and Pillsbury House Theatre, 3501 Captioning: Fri., Nov. 2, 7:30 Chicago Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: pm. Tix: Access Season Pass Wed., Oct. 24, 7:30 pm. AD: $52; Single Access tickets $12, Sat., Oct. 27, 7:30 pm (plus Phone: 612-338-6131, E-mail: post-show discussion). Tix: boxoffice@mixedblood. com Reduced to $11 (reg. $18), ! Web: www.mixedblood.com Phone: 612-825-0459, www. ""# ! $ pillsburyhousetheatre.org "%&& ' !($$!)* ! * ( Frankenstein Incarnate: The +++,/ +% 0 2 , %/ The Hollow Passions of Mary Shelley 4 &5 6 5 %5& + 8 & 6 8 0 % +% 0 + & Oct. 12 - Nov. 4 Oct. 26 Nov. 17

9 % / % 8%9 % +% 0 % 8 , Theatre Unbound at The Gallery Players at Bloomington Center for the Arts Black Box Theater, 1800 W. Old

Agnes of God Oct. 19 - Nov. 11 Park Square Theatre, 408 Saint Peter St. (20 W. 7th Place), St. Paul. AD and ASL: Sat., Nov. 3, 7:30 pm. Tix: Â½price, Phone: 651-291-7005, www. parksquaretheatre.org

Haselden, Maia Sharp and Georgia Middleman. ASL: Sat., Oct. 27, 9:00 pm. Tix: $22; sr/youth $19; CSB/SJU ID $11, Phone: 320-363-5700, www.csbsju.edu/finearts

*(7 $16:(56

NOW PLAYING

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES

W U R T E L E T H R U S T S TAG E

INTERPRETED IN

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE: Jane Eyre Â&#x2DC; Friday, October 19 at 7:30 p.m. Â&#x2DC; Thursday, November 1 at 7:30 p.m. The Home Place Â&#x2DC; Friday, October 26 at 7:30 p.m. Â&#x2DC; Thursday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m.

AUDIO DESCRIBED:

NOW PLAYING

NOW â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NOVEMBER 10, 2007 M c G U I R E P R O S C E N I U M S TAG E

Jane Eyre Â&#x2DC; Friday, October 26 at 7:30 p.m. Â&#x2DC; Saturday, October 27 at 1 p.m. (sensory tour at 10:30 a.m.)

The Home Place Â&#x2DC; Saturday, October 13 at 1 p.m. (sensory tour at 10:30 a.m.)

Â&#x2DC; Friday, October 19 at 7:30 p.m.

OPEN CAPTIONED: Jane Eyre Â&#x2DC; Saturday, November 10 at 1 p.m. The Home Place Â&#x2DC; Thursday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $17 for patrons who use the ASL or AD service and 50% off for the OC service ($17â&#x20AC;&#x201C;$27), plus one companion.

NOW â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NOVEMBER 25, 2007

Access programs at the Guthrie are sponsored by Xcel Energy Foundation with additional support by Allianz Life Insureance

612.377.2224 > TTY 612.377.6626 > GUTHRIETHEATER.ORG

Oct Sampling of

Shakopee Rd. ASL: Sun., Oct. La BohÃ¨me 28, 2:00 pm. Tix: Disc to $10; Oct. 27 - Nov. 18 reg. $17; $14 senior/student, Theater Latte Da at Southern Phone: 952-563-8587, www. Theater, 1420 Washington bloomingtonartcenter.com Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Thurs., Nov. 1, 7:30 pm. Tix: $35, The Italian Girl in Algiers Phone: 612-340-1725, www. Nov. 10, 13, 15, 17, 18 theaterlatteda.org or www. MN Opera Co. at the Ordway southerntheater.org Center, 345 Washington St., St. Paul. AD: Sun., Nov. 18, The Lion King 2:00 pm; pre-opera discussion Oct. 25 - Nov. 25 at 1:00. Tix: Reduced to Historic Orpheum Theatre, Â½price for AD patrons, Phone: 910 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. 612-333-6669, TTY: 612- AD: Sun., Nov. 4, 1:00 pm, ASL: 729-6023, www.mnopera.org Sun., Nov. 4, 1:00 pm, Sat., Nov. 10, 2:00 pm. Tix: $26-13350, Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Wonderful Life Phone: 612-373-5639 or 5609, Nov. 16 - Dec. 23 5650 (Hotline), TTY: 612Lyric Arts Company of Anoka, 373-5655, E-mail: accessible 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL: @orpheum.com Web: www. Sat., Nov. 17, 7:30 pm. Tix: hennepintheatredistrict.org/ $15, $13 student/senior, $17 guestservices/aslad/ box seats, Phone: 763-4221838, www.lyricarts.org Pen Nov. 3 - 25 James Sewell Ballet Guthrie Theater, Dowling StuOct. 26 - 28 dio, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. ASL Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Shaughnessy Auditorium , and AD: Sat., Nov. 17, 1:00 College of St. Catherine, 2400 pm. Tix: Disc to $18; reg. $27Randolph Ave., St. Paul. ASL: $57, Phone: 612-377-2224, Sat., Oct. 27, 8:00 pm, and: 30 TTY: 612-377-6626, www. pm ALS-interpreted 25 minute guthrietheater.org/visit/ pre-performance talk. Tix: the_building/access_services $32; student $16, Phone: 651690-6700, phone charge $5 Simpatico per order, www.jsballet.org, Oct. 12 - Nov. 4 www.theoshaughnessy.com Theatre in the Round, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., Nov. 4, 2:00 pm. Tix: $20, sr/student disc, Phone: 612-333-3010, Radio Talking Book www.theatreintheround.org

â&#x20AC;¢4:00 a.m. Chautauquaâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Adult education and culture for the whole community â&#x20AC;¢9:00 a.m. Past is Prologueâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Readings of historical nonfiction â&#x20AC;¢11:00 a.m. Bookwormâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Novels and nonfiction books for daytime reading. This month: Cross Country, Nonfiction by Robert Sullivan, 2007. Robert Sullivan spent fifteen years driving across the country; his family makes an annual summer migration from Oregon to New York. He tells the tales of all those crossings, along with the ponderings of the historical context of our roads. Read by Art Nyhus. 17 broadcasts. Begins October 16. â&#x20AC;¢2:00 p.m. Potpourriâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; A wide variety of books, both fiction and nonfiction, for afternoon reading â&#x20AC;¢4:00 p.m. Choice Readingâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Critically acclaimed books on a wide variety of subjects â&#x20AC;¢5:00 p.m. Commentaryâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; The latest issues of national news magazines â&#x20AC;¢6:00 p.m. Evening Newspapersâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Live broadcast of the New York Times â&#x20AC;¢7:55 p.m. Radio Talking Book schedule for the rest of the broadcast day â&#x20AC;¢8:00 p.m. PM Reportâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Books discussing critical, contemporary and controversial issues â&#x20AC;¢9:00 p.m. Night Journeyâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Books of intrigue and suspense â&#x20AC;¢10:00 p.m. Off the Shelfâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mostly best sellers This month: What the Dead Know, Fiction by Laura Lippman, 2007. A woman claims to be one of two sisters who disappeared thirty years before. But her admission deepens the mystery of what happened. L â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Read by Judy Woodward. 11 broadcasts. Begins October 24. â&#x20AC;¢12:00 a.m. Good Night Owlâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; A wide-ranging assortment of books â&#x20AC;¢1:00 a.m. After Midnightâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Adventures of the heart and body *Abbreviations: L- Language

RTB Books Available Through Faribault All books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault. Their phone is 800-7220550 and hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Their catalog is also online, and you can access it at www.klas.com/mnbph.

Shining City Nov. 9 - Dec. 23 Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Thurs., Nov. 29, 7:30 pm. Tix: $8 (reg $2436), Phone: 612-822-7063, www.jungletheater.com Top Secret: The Battle for the Pentagon Papers Oct. 20 - 21 L.A. Theatre Works performs at Stephen B. Humphrey Theater, St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s U, Collegeville. ASL: Sun., Oct. 21, 2:00 pm. Tix: $26; sr/youth $23; CSB/SJU ID $13, Phone: 320-363-5700, www. csbsju.edu/finearts Uncle Vanya Sept. 8 - Nov. 11 Commonweal Theatre, 208 Pkwy Ave. N., Lanesboro. ASL: Sun., Nov. 4, 2:00 pm. Tix: Â½ price (reg. $25. student $12), Phone: 507-467-2525, 800657-7025, E-mail: tickets@ commonwealtheatre.org Web: www.commonweal theatre.org Urinetown: The Musical Oct. 19 - Nov. 17 Bloomington Civic Theatre, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd. AD: Fri., Nov. 2, 7:30 pm, ASL: Sat., Nov. 3, 7:30 pm. Tix: $18 (reg. $25, sr $22, student $19), Phone: 952-563-8575, www. bloomingtoncivictheatreorg. â&#x2013;

October 10, 2007

TAILORING MEDICARE INFORMATION FOR YOU After enrolling in her plan, Muriel had some questions about her Medicare coverage. That’s when she called Medica. Medica service representatives know that Medicare information is only good if it’s useful. Medica made Medicare easy by cutting through the clutter and tailoring the information that allowed her to make a confident decision. “I would have expected nothing less,” Muriel said. Raise your Medicare expectations. Call 1.800.906.5432 today or contact your broker.

©2007 Medica. “Medica®” refers to the family of health plan businesses that include but are not limited to Medica Health Plans and Medica Insurance Company, which contract with the Federal Government. TTY 1.800.234.8819. Our hours are 8 AM to 8 PM, CT, seven days a week. Please note that access to a representative is limited on the weekends/holidays during certain times of the year.

October 10, 2007

RUGBY-

Cont.

November 2

from p. 8 Kemery explained the playoff system for Division I and II teams, with 38 to 45 teams nationwide competing in the regionals and sectionals leading to the nationals. “Women are welcome to play too,” he added with a smile. Nor are wheelchair sports limited to those who use manual chairs, Kemery was quick to point out. There is also power soccer. “Those guys hit,” said Kemery. Power soccer chairs are equipped with either plastic guards or tubular metal bumpers mounted in front of the footrests so players can push the oversized soccer ball. The metal tubes are gaining popularity because they’re better for hitting. “People in electric chairs have aggression to work off, too,” said Kemery with a knowing grin. The power soccer exhibition featured players from perhaps 10 to 60 years old competing

WAR-

Charlie Banquet To Feature Local Jazz Pianist Members of the MN North Stars rugby team, which played an exhibition match at the Sept. Abilities Expo in Mpls. wheel-to-wheel. Some of the spite the fact that the Convenpower chairs zipping around tion Center had the Vikings seemed faster than typical game on a gigantic TV screen street chairs; the top-speed behind the rugby court, the head-on crash makes most audience only checked the people wince. screen during breaks in the rugby action. For more information, see the United States Quad Rugby From courtside a viewer can Association or go straight to see the expressions on playusqra.com. This great Web ers’ faces and practically feel site covers the sport’s history the chairs collide. Ever envied (“Murderball” was a original a quad? Check out the Web name of the sport and is the site and you’ll see what I’m name of the award-winning talking about. If you’re a sports movie), includes links, con- fan you’ll want go to a game— tact info and lots of action and you won’t have to shellshots. The USQRA’s motto is, out half a week’s pay for nose“Smashing stereotypes one hit bleed seats at the Dome either! at a time.” Excitement? De- ■

Cont. from p. 3

Counseling Center and founding member of CHC, “is how to get help to those who need it without stereotyping all veterans as ‘troubled’ This is particularly challenging since much of the invisible wounding is complicated by denial, anger, self-isolation, forgetfulness and distrust.”

The Government Accountability Office is investigating reports that some soldiers who have symptoms of PTSD or TBI have been offered lump sum payments if they will sign a form admitting to a different diagnosis, such as personality disorder, which is not servicerelated. While the settlement is tempting, it is small change Once source of help, of course, to the amount they may be is the Veterans Affairs admin- entitled to over a lifetime of istration—a massive bureau- disability. cracy that is charged with providing health care and benefits Beyond advocacy for governto veterans and their families. mental support, however, CHC Veteran’s Service Officers for is researching how veterans each county can help people can heal from trauma. Orgareceive the benefits to which nizers believe that faith comthey are entitled. munities can play a significant role in promoting best outAn experienced veteran’s ser- comes for veterans. They hope vice officer recommends that that many groups will use this those who send in a disability year’s Sunday Veterans Day claim limit themselves to a one as a springboard for organizpage description. He says that ing their members and reachsince the employees must pro- ing out to the returning vetercess a certain number of claims ans and their families in their per day, they tend to complete midst, offering support for the the thin files first! difficult journey of coming home from war. ■

The friendly corner drugstore is not a thing of the past!

SCHNEIDER DRUG We accept all insurance, including Health Partners. Free prescription delivery. Specialty gift items and greeting cards.

3400 University Ave. SE, Mpls. 612-379-7232 • M-F 8-7 Sat. 8-6 ¼ mile west of Hwy. 280 Across from KSTP

Amy Blumenshine, MSW, convened the CHC in 2005. For more info about CHC, e-mail ListenToVets@comcast.net. For Veteran’s Day ideas, visit www.mpls-synod.org/resources/vets_resources. html.

ianist Larry McDonough will entertain at this year’s Charlie Smith Awards Banquet, November 2 at BlackBear Crossing (see back page for details). McDonough is a jazz pianist, singer, composer and a former high school band director. He received his bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Minnesota in 1978. He has performed with legendary saxophonist and composer Benny Golson, trombonist Fred Wesley, and trumpeter Duane Eubanks. Each year McDonough also premiers compositions and arrangements for school orchestra and jazz ensembles in Minnesota and around the country He also regularly performs at Unitarian Universalist churches around the country, integrating jazz with issues of faith. In April 2007 he was inducted into the Minnesota Rock Country Hall of Fame for his work in the

group Danny’s Reasons. In addition to music, McDonough works as an attorney at the Legal Aid Society of Minneapolis, representing low-income persons with housing and consumer problems, and teaches at three local law schools. McDonough’s latest CD “Simple Gifts,” recorded with the Larry McDonough Quartet, is receiving praise from critics and fans alike. “Larry McDonough’s long-awaited new recording serves up divergent delights, from a reconstructed holiday chestnut to inside-out renditions of jazz standards, from harmonically and rhythmically altered traditional melodies to a trio of original tunes. With a feathery touch that recalls Bill Evans but with more fingers and a unique approach to time that makes the most worn carol or standard a new adventure, Simple Gifts proves to be anything but ‘simple’—but, for

Pianist Larry McDonough those fortunate enough to hear this music, it is indeed a gift.” —Andrea Canter, Jazz Police. McDonough has dedicated his recent solo piano CD, “Tuscarora: Short Stories for Jazz Piano,” to departed friends Senator Paul and Sheila Wellstone, with benefits going to Wellstone Action. The CD will be available at the banquet. For more information, visit McDonough’s Web site, www. larrymcdonoughjazz. homestead.com. ■

Combat Operational Stess Signs and Symptoms •Sleep problems •Memory Problems/Forgetfulness •Nightmares •Difficulty Concentrating •Anger •Heightened “Startle” response •Irritability •Flashbacks •Excessive Alcohol & Drug Use

• Guilt • Self criticism • Pounding Heart • Intrusive thoughts • Confused about Religion • Loss of Objectivity • Anger at God • Depression • Feeling Overwhelmed

Interpersonal Reactions • Difficulty talking about deployment experiences • Difficulty readjusting to family routines • Difficulty reconnecting with children & spouse • Discomfort being around other people From handout at National Guard community workshop

Touch Tours Make Art Accessible to All The Minneapolis Institute of Arts offers FREE guided touch tours for individuals with low vision or who are blind. • Experience sculptures and decorative arts through “white glove” touch tours. • Explore paintings by touching a raised physical “map” in front of the artwork while hearing a vivid verbal description. Tuesday, October 16, 2 p.m. Thursday, October 25, 2 p.m. To register, or to schedule another tour time, call (612) 870-3140. Special offer during October: Free Quick Stops Audio Tours 2400 Third Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55404 www.artsmia.org

October 10, 2007

Getting A Good Haircut Customers and Stylists Speak Out on Using PCAs at the Salon by Sherry Gray

awn Kreutz of Eden Prairie still remembers the bad experience she had several years ago and how it made her feel. “Angry!” she typed on her communicator. She had gone to her regular salon for a trim. A new stylist “grabbed handfuls of hair and just cut.” Kreutz could not stop the stylist. Her mother Marilyn had stepped out for a few minutes and Kreutz hadn’t brought her communicator. When Marilyn returned and saw what was

happening, she confronted the stylist, but the damage had been done. Two repair attempts left Kreutz with shorter hair than she wanted and a style that took months to grow out. Learning from the experience, Marilyn and Joanne Musick, Kreutz’s personal care attendant, now monitor salon visits carefully. This author interviewed hair stylists and their customers with disabilities at salons around the Twin Cities and

A partner with the community, Regions Hospital celebrates

Disability Employment Awareness Month. Regions Hospital has served the Twin Cities and surrounding region for more than 125 years. We are genuinely dedicated to fostering an environment that provides our patients, and staff, with the Best Care, Best Experience.

At Regions Hospital, we are committed to providing state-of-the-art care in a comfortable, healing environment. Part of that care includes fostering a respectful environment that embraces the many different people that make up our community.

found that when communication between them breaks down, experiences like Kreutz’s are common. Getting a good haircut can be a challenge for anyone, but for customers with disabilities, it can be a traumatic experience.

bers returned to the salon, Quist-Knox asked them to help him, but they declined. An argument ensued. Quist-Knox ended up with a haircut she didn’t like and a bad memory. “It was scary,” she later told her father Larry Quist.

A traumatic experience for everyone. Laura Quist-Knox of Newport and stylist Jesse Campbell of West Saint Paul had an unhappy encounter last month. Quist-Knox, who uses a DynaVox communicator but does not take it to salons, was accidentally taken to the wrong salon on Robert Street in West Saint Paul. Her group home staff dropped her at Campbell’s salon, Cost Cutters, instead of Great Clips, where she is a regular customer. The staff member told Campbell to cut Quist-Knox’s hair “short, but not like a boy’s” and then left to get dinner. Quist-Knox expressed her agitation but could not make Campbell understand her. Campbell saw Quist-Knox getting upset and feared hurting her. When the staff mem-

The experience was traumatic for Campbell too. He called the group home several times to complain to the manager but felt that he wasn’t being taken seriously. The staff who answered his first calls refused to give him the manager’s number. His colleague Brenda Devereaux said Campbell’s experience was common at their salon. “Group homes often bring people here and dump them. The PCAs go out shopping or run personal errands. I had one client in who could walk but she couldn’t tell me how to cut her hair. The man who brought her left for an hour. I was very angry. He was the supervisor of her group home so I never did anything about it. What’s the point [of complaining] if the supervisor does it?”

How can customers and stylists communicate better with one another? Several stylists agreed that a good haircut requires effective communication. Stylist Dawn Wade at River Front Hair Cutters in Oak Park Heights told of one customer who has trouble sitting for a long time and cannot easily communicate. In order to ease his anxiety and give him a good cut, she says “I cut as quickly as I can. I make sure he is comfortable and I tell him what

I’m doing. It helps that his mother is there holding him.”

end, saying, “NO ACCESSIBLE RAMP AHEAD— DEAD END SIDE-WALK IN 40 FEET.” The sign sums up the situation perfectly; the sidewalk exists but wheelchair users are not welcome to use it— much like other signs of segregation in civil-rights history. Both the dead-end sidewalk and The new sidewalk at the northeast corner of Washington its sign are an embarrassment; Square Park hits an abrupt dead end. The lack of a curb-cut the city should never have alat this location is an apparent violation of ADA regulations. lowed this dead-end to happen Photos by Ken Moses. in the first place. ■ sidewalk. Unfortunately, the This seems to be a violation of last stretch of this sidewalk the ADA, which requires side- Ken Moses, though retired, has simply dead-ends at a ridge of walks to be ramped at each been an active advocate for grass at the neighboring pri- end and at all intersections. disability-rights matters for vate property, such that a pedecades, and was the recipidestrian using a wheelchair (or Instead of building in the curb ent of the city of Stillwater’s a parent pushing a stroller) cut while the park was still un- 2006 Human Rights Award for must either struggle across the der construction, as requested, his achievements. He’s also ridge of grass or backtrack to the city chose to put up a small an audio describers for Twin the curb cut in the parking lot. sign near the sidewalk’s dead Cities theatergoers.

Sean Cooley at Great Clips in Saint Paul’s Highland Park neighborhood said stylists keep detailed notes on customers’ preferred haircuts in their computer profiles, a practice that is helpful for those who cannot easily communicate. But the system is not foolproof. Cooley remembered once when a regular customer was brought in by a new aide. The aide told her to “cut all his hair off.” Cooley knew this was not the man’s regular cut. She asked the customer but was unable to understand his response. Then she showed the aide her notes indicating that this was not the man’s regular cut. The aide insisted and she complied, but she worried that her customer would not be happy with the result.

CURB CUTS -

As a Level I Trauma Center and one of the area’s most respected healthcare providers, Regions Hospital celebrates diverse talents and backgrounds. Through acceptance and diversity, we can succeed in our mission to be a healing presence in the lives of the patients and families we serve. Our passion for excellence is evident throughout our organization. As our partner, you’ll be rewarded for your talents with a wealth of opportunity and one of the area’s most attractive compensation and beneﬁts packages. At Regions Hospital, you’ll discover a respectful, value-driven environment that can energize your career and personal growth. For a list of current openings and to apply, please visit us online at www.regionshospital.com. EOE

Part of the HealthPartners family of care.

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Hennepin County encourages and supports people with all types of abilities to reach economic independence and self-sufﬁciency. The 8,000 employees of Hennepin County government serve over 1.1 million people in 46 communities. If you seek a career that enhances the world around you, we now have opportunities available in social services, community health, transportation, recycling, libraries and other key service areas.

Laura Quist-Knox gets a trim from stylist Raeanne Curtis at Great Clips in West St Paul, with Father Larry Quist giving instructions on how she wants her hair cut. Katrina Jackson, a direct care professional who works with Quist-Knox, looks on.

Cont. from p. 3

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Braylock has one regular she worries about. “His mom talks for him, but we can tell from his face he doesn’t want the haircut mom wants.” Do stylists discriminate against customers with disabilities? Cathy Patnode of New Hope thinks so. “Some places give you a crummy cut because you are handicapped. They don’t care what you look like.”

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Heidi Braylock, a stylist at Fantastic Sams in Roseville, said that having a care attendant or family member stay and assist the stylist is important. “Most group home attendants let us know what to do and help us, but often family members simply drop off a person and leave them with us. Sometimes we don’t know what to do and we try to stop the family member if they are going to leave.”

Rosedale

Colleen Kirby, cosmetology instructor at Saint Paul College, disagrees. She said that although there is “no specialized training” in styling hair for persons with disabilities, “we have a lot of persons with Haircut- cont. on p. 19

October 10, 2007

HAIRCUT-

Access To Employment

Cont. from p. 18

disabilities who come for free haircuts. Students learn to take more time with them. Students like doing things to help everyone look good.” Braylock also disagrees that stylists discriminate. “I want customers with a disability to get what everyone gets, a good cut.” Jill Hocking, Campus Director of the Minnesota School of Cosmetology in Oakdale, says her school does not give students any “extra training,” as people with disabilities are “treated like any client.” Still she emphasizes to her students that they should see themselves as caregivers to all their clients. “They are in a field that is a ‘helpingpeople profession’ and that makes them caregivers.” How to get a better haircut? Develop a relationship with a favorite hair cutter. Being a regular at a salon helps, say many stylists and customers. Brenda Devereaux says, “We have regulars we know well. We know what kind of cuts to do for them.” John Schatzlein has been going to the same salon in Savage for more than twenty years. “They always pull a chair for me [to make space for his wheelchair]. No problems all these years.

They know me and everything works fine.” Michele Nickerson, Information and Referral Coordinator at UCP of Minnesota, agrees: “My hair stylist has known me for more than ten years. Even after moving from Roseville to Golden Valley, I still go to my salon in Shoreview because they give all their clients the respect and assistance they might need.” Becky Mansaurakos has been cutting hair at Cost Cutters, 26th and Lake in Minneapolis, for seventeen years and says there are rarely complaints. She says that they have “quite a few” customers with disabilities. “I know most people who come here by name. I have one regular customer who uses a wheelchair and communicates with a machine. No problems.”

Employment ads are $20-$22 per col. inch. Oct. 30 is the deadline for the Nov 10 issue. Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 • FAX 651-644-2136 • E-mail: access@accesspress.org ATTORNEY LEGAL ASSISTANT Legal Aid Society of Mpls Legal Aid Society of Mpls seeks a FT atty for 2-yr posi- seeks FT legal assistant for a tion in its Consumer Unit at So temp 1-yr+ pos in its immigraMpls Office. Exp or trng in tion unit. Up to $29,733 DOE. consumer law pref. $40,776 Exp with immigration pref. to $45,536 DOE. Ltr resume Cover ltr, resume and refs by & refs to: Chris Lord, LASM, 10/20: Pam Cunningham, Ad 2929 4th Ave S, #201, Mpls, #058, LASM, 430 1st Ave No, MN 55408. EOE. No calls. #300, Minneapolis, MN 55401 No calls. EOE.

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Reach 11,000 Active, Interested Readers with Access Press Classifieds. $13 up to 12 words, 60¢/word thereafter. Must be prepaid. Mail with check to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave W, #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 • 651-644-2133 FOR RENT Oak Park Village: One-bedHolmes-Greenway Housing: room wheelchair-accessible One- and two-bedroom wheel- apartments. Section 8 subsichair-accessible apartments. dized. Convenient St. Louis Section 8 subsidized. Conve- Park location. Call 952-935nient SE Minneapolis location. 9125 for availability informaCall 612-378-0331 for avail- tion. Equal Opportunity ability information. Equal Housing. Opportunity Housing. Seward Square ApartLewis Park Apartments: ments: We are currently acBarrier-free housing with cepting applications for our wheelchair users in mind. Sec- waiting list for barrier-free tion 8 subsidized. One- and housing, in Minneapolis, that two-bedroom units. For more is federally subsidized. For information on availability call an application, please call 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. 612-338-2680. Equal OpporEqual Opportunity Housing. tunity Housing.

LEGAL SECRETARY Legal Aid Society of Mpls seeks legal sec. 5 yrs exp pref. Must have WORD exp & type min 65 wpm. Sal: $27,066 to $47,486 DOE, family hlth ins, generous vac/sick. Casual/friendly work envir. Resume, refs, & cover ltr by 10/22 specifying interest & MISCELLANEOUS skills to: Pam Cunningham, Ad #256, MMLA, 430 lst Ave N, Greeting Cards: Check out www.sendoutcards.com/3721 #300, Mpls, MN 55401-1780. EOE. No Calls. You will see...You can send three Greeting Cards — Free...On Are salons adapted to the needs of customers with dis- have lifts for wheelchairs.” but they can’t get it all. The Me! Jan Snook 612-378-2610 abilities? main issue for me is that shamStylists and customers both Amy Sharp, a volunteer at poo basins are hard to get up Is a good haircut important? Have a customer complaint? agree that salons are not ideally Courage Center in Golden to. I barely get up there, hav- Consuella Mackey thinks so. First try the salon manager. equipped to handle customers Valley summed it up for many ing to stretch. My chair tilts “Looking good helps one be Marilyn Kreutz did this for her in wheelchairs. Braylock customers. “I’m OK with get- and that helps; otherwise it successful in the business daughter Dawn and the staff summed up the problem for ting my hair cut in my chair, would be very difficult for me.” world.” A hair stylist and fash- apologized and offered a “remany stylists. “It would be great but the person who does it ion designer based in Los An- pair free of charge.” You can if salons were better equipped. usually asks if it is OK for me Cooley adds that customers geles, Mackey founded Op- also contact the Minnesota We need sinks that raise up or to transfer. I like to get my hair who use wheelchairs might eration Confidence, a beauty Board of Barber and Cosmedown. And its hard to cut hair cut in their chairs because its want to compare facilities at industry organization, “to tologist Examiners for statutes for people in wheelchairs be- hard to get the hair off my salons. “Newer Great Clips bring awareness and include and rules violations. Informacause they are so low. Kills chair later. They use the blow salons have shampoo bowls people with disabilities into tion on statutes and rules and your back. Would be great to dryer to get hair off my chair, that move, so it’s easier to the beauty and fashion indus- how to make a complaint can shampoo people in wheel- try” (www.operationconfi be found at: www.bceboard. state.mn.us/Complaints/ chairs. Older salons don’t have dence.org). tabid/1131/Default.aspx. ■ those, and it can be difficult.”

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