December 2007 Edition - Access Press by Access Press

www.accesspress.org History Note

Inside

“When people do not learn, they haven’t failed. We have.”

■ Upstream Arts Helps Students—p. 3 ■ Functional and Stylish Design—p. 4 ■ MSU Disabilities Services—p. 11

— Karen Green McGowan, Disability Advocate from Georgia Page 2 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 18, Number 12

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

December 10, 2007

ACT Goes To The United Nations Local organization invited to New York to lead rights training by Bret Hesla, Staff Writer

ast week, Mary Kay Kennedy and Liz Koltes of St. Paulbased Advocating Change Together (ACT), along with North Dakota activists Carla Tice and Helen Bechold, joined national and international leaders at the United Nations in New York. The purpose of the trip was to help

launch a new human rights manual and participate in United Nations ceremonies celebrating the newly adopted Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It’s been quite a journey for the disability rights group that started in Minneapolis 28 years ago. “When ACT was founded

ACT co-director Mary Kay Kennedy is interviewed by a member of the Japanese mission following International Disability Day events. Kennedy was invited to New York to lead a training on disability rights at the UN.

includes straightforward information about the Convention with lots of interactive activities. It will prove to be a great tool for bringing the content and spirit of the Convention to the minds and hearts of people all over the world.” She went on to say that people need to know about this landmark legislation in order to demand their rights and hold their govLast January, ACT was asked ernments accountable. to partner with the Harvard Project on Disability, Minne- Kennedy was invited to be the sota Human Rights Center, first to pilot the new curricuDisabled Peoples’ Interna- lum in conjunction with the tional and Blue Law Project to December 3rd United Nations develop a manual that is in- International Day of Disabled tended to serve as a major re- Persons. “It’s important that source in human rights and we roll this out at the United disability education through- Nations,” said Janet Lord, lead out the world. The manual partner in creating the manual. draws on the full body of inter- “And International Day of Disnational human rights law and abled Persons is the perfect policy with a strong focus on time to launch it.” The manual, the newly adopted UN Con- hot-off-the-press in time for vention. “The curriculum is fantastic,” said Kennedy. “It in 1979, the idea of equal rights for people with disabilities was still a radical idea,” said ACT co-director Kennedy. “As of last spring, its become a global standard.” In March a landmark treaty was adopted by the United Nations that aims to improve the lives of people with disabilities throughout the world.

2007 In Review

ACT’s Liz Koltes (second from right) took part in a round of handshakes with Spain’s vice president María Teresa Fernández (l), shortly after Fernández had officially delivered her country’s ratification of the new UN treaty on disability rights. Also shown are Janet Lord and Eli Wolf. Photo courtesy of David Corral, Government of Spain.

its UN debut, is now available for purchase in the United States. (Plans are underway for language translation to make it accessible to people worldwide.) Next year, ACT will pilot the entire training

curriculum, called Human Rights. Yes! in Minnesota, Wisconsin and North Dakota. “This has been a fantastic opportunity for ACT, said codirector Rick Cardenas. “MakUN - cont. on p. 14

Follow The Tone Minneapolis City Council approves funding for Accessible Pedestrian Signals by Clarence Schadegg

signal coming from the APS; The City Council selected it will vibrate during the eleven sites to give APS a trial. WALK interval of the traffic After installation, a group of signal. The tone generated by people from the community the APS will vary in volume to will be called on to demoncompensate for the ambient strate how well the APS work noise level; it gets louder when and tally how often the decompeting with noise from vices are used throughout the buses or cars, and adjusts to a day. This feedback will be used Don Sobania, an Engineer with quieter level when the inter- to assess the future of APS in the Department of Public section is quiet, such as in the Minneapolis. ■ Works, described the APS as middle of the night. “a device we attach to a traffic Minneapolis intersections signal. It emits a tone that’s called a locator tone.” People getting APS equipment who use white canes or dog • Olson Memorial Highway & Penn Avenue guides can safely cross the • Central Avenue & Hennepin Avenue/5th Street SE street by following the pulsat- • Central Avenue & University Avenue ing noise generated by the • Nicollet Mall & 5th Street S APS. The programmed device • 5th Street S & 3rd Avenue S will tell the person when it’s • 12th Street S & 2nd Avenue S time to walk, and give a count- • Washington Avenue/Cedar Avenue & 15th Avenue down time for when a person • Washington Avenue/19th Avenue S needs to clear the intersection. • Cedar Avenue & 5th Street S (Midblock Crossing) People who are deaf or who • East Franklin Avenue & East River Road have a hearing disability will • Hennepin Avenue S & 29th Street W be able to actually feel the leven intersections in Minneapolis will soon become accessible to people who are blind. The Minneapolis City Council met on November 27th to discuss funding for Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS).

History happens in small steps.

Sometimes we need to take stock of these changes so that we appreciate how far we’ve come—and how far we still need to go. Inside (pages 8 and 9) we revisit some of the top stories of 2007, as printed in Access Press.

December 10, 2007

chair brings into the house is my biggest headache concerning winter. Not counting the 10 minutes it takes my van to heat up enough to be somewhat comfortable. I count myself lucky. Winter heaps up the inconveniences and real barriers for many people with disabilities.

Tim Benjamin, Editor

his last weekend, we got our first snow storm—well, not really a storm, but enough snow that it made my coming into the house a real mess. Actually, the mess that my wheel-

Beyond its difficulties, this time of the year really is beautiful. We know we will be getting together with our local friends, and somehow, someone you haven’t talked to in many years always ends up calling just to say “Hello.” Oh, presents are fun, too. I like the giving much better than the receiving. I know, what a cliché, but giving someone a gift is a whole lot easier than getting a gift and not knowing how to thank the person for doing such a wonderful, personal thing. It’s easier, too, than figuring out how not to

say, “what were you thinking when you bought me this?” Hmmm. That’s all the holiday spirit (or anxiety?) that I can conjure up right now, but I truly do hope that each of you has wonderful holidays and that the person you least expect to hear from will call you just to say “Hello.” Those are the real gifts: friendships! Advocating Change Together (ACT) and our former board chair, Mary Kay Kennedy, went with Liz Koltes and a few others to New York to help launch a new United Nations training manual on rights for persons with disabilities. The curriculum was developed by ACT and several other grassroots organizations. Is that cool or what! Great job, ACT! And thanks for your outstanding work in putting Minnesota on the map at the United Nations. Too bad that the present federal administration couldn’t

I talked to Smith, the more I realized this guy was really motivated, psyched and committed. He has already put together one small training session to see about the interest for an ADAPT chapter in Minnesota. And guess what? The guy that said “yeah sure,” A young man named Galen wasn’t able to attend. But I’ll Smith came to my office a be at the next one, and the next couple weeks ago to tell me one. about his weekend in Chicago at an ADAPT training. Many I think it’s time for Minnesota’s of you have heard about political grassroots, disabilityADAPT’s tactics of nonvio- rights community to have an lent, get-in-your-face tech- ADAPT chapter. We have niques for exposing the injus- developed the Minnesota Contices faced by people with dis- sortium for Citizens with Disabilities. As progressive as abilities, a fabulous advocacy Minnesota is on disability lobby group that has done rights, we do not have a local wonderful things for our comADAPT chapter. Smith went munity. I’m sure they would to Chicago knowing that we agree that having one more didn’t have a chapter and came organizing tool in our toolbox back full of enthusiasm to start would make their lives much one. My first response to Smith easier. Also, for you youngwas, “yeah, yeah, yeah, I’ve sters—this is really fun stuff. heard it before.” But, the more Join up and protest like they see its way to be the first to sign and ratify the Disability Human Rights Convention. If you haven’t already, read the front page story. Don’t skip a word and get all the details of a story that can make us all proud!

did in the 60s and 70s—or better! Did you know that it’s thanks to ADAPT that we have accessible public transportation in the Cities and throughout the country? ADAPT’s “gang of 19” in Denver, Colorado, handcuffed themselves to city buses to force the public to recognize the need for accessible public transportation. Every time you see a lift come out of a city bus, you can thank ADAPT’s tactics of protest. (See page 3.) Here in Minnesota, there were some pretty prominent people in the disability rights community who held a sit-in in Governor Arne Carlson’s office that kept our PCA program on the books. Maybe Galen can get some of those folks to tell their stories as we build on a foundation of historical and effective activism. ■

Social Security Answers

Get Going On Your Disability Application by Rhonda Whitenack and Jim Czechowicz

f you or someone you know recently became disabled and have been thinking about applying for Social Security disability benefits, there’s something you can do to get the process off to a good start. Visit the “Disability Starter Kit” at www.socialsecurity. gov/disability. It will help you prepare for your disability interview and guide you through the application process. The starter kit takes some of the mystery out of applying for disability benefits. It gives general information about the disability programs and about the process we use to decide whether or not you qualify for disability benefits. The kit also provides guidelines about the

specific information and docu- disability claims. That includes ments we will ask you for dur- documents such as your birth certificate, latest W-2 form and ing the interview. military discharge papers, and Each disability starter kit con- information such as the names tains: a fact sheet that answers and addresses of all the doctors most questions people ask and other health professionals about filing for disability ben- who have treated you. efits; a checklist of documents and information we will re- The worksheet is designed to quest; and a worksheet to help reflect many of the most imyou gather and organize the portant questions we ask during the disability application information you will need. The fact sheet provides the interview, such as a descripSocial Security definition of tion of your impairment(s) and “disability” and explains how the date you became disabled. we decide whether your con- In addition to the information dition is severe enough to meet about your treatment sources the eligibility criteria. It also as outlined in the checklist, it gives tips on steps you can also asks you to list the meditake to speed up the decision- cations you take and the medical tests you have had. And it making process. asks for information about the The checklist provides a list of kinds of jobs you have held. the information we need for most

Access Press Co-Founder/Publisher (1990-1996) .................................................. Wm. A. Smith, Jr. Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief (1990-2001) ....................... Charles F. Smith Board of Directors ....................................................... Brigid Alseth, Mike Chevrette, Kelly Matter, Anita Schermer, Tom Squire and Kay Willshire Editor ......................................................................................................... Tim Benjamin Assistant Editor .............................................................................................. Bret Hesla Administrative Assistant ............................................................................ Jordan Selbo Cartoonist ..................................................................................................... Scott Adams Sales/Marketing ...................................................................................... Lance Hegland Production ...................................................... Ellen Houghton at Presentation Images Webmaster ...................................................................................................... Alice Oden Distribution ......................................................................................... S. C. Distribution Access Press is a monthly tabloid newspaper published for persons with disabilities by Access Press, Ltd. Circulation is 10,000, distributed the 10th of each month through more than 200 locations statewide. Approximately 650 copies are mailed directly to individuals, including political, business, institutional and civic leaders. Subscriptions are available for $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. 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

Take a look at the disability starter kit now at www. socialsecurity.gov/disability, or call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and ask

that a kit be mailed to you.

curity.gov/applyfor disability. ■

When you’re ready to apply, The authors are from the Sothe most convenient way to do cial Security Public Affairs it is online at www.socialse Office in Minneapolis.

History Note

Jessie Haskins Student with disability causes system change by Luther Granquist

n January 27, 1896, Jessie Haskins, a student with a disability at Carleton College, wrote to the editor of the Minnesota Bulletin of Corrections and Charities stating that “something should be done to provide schools for deformed and crippled children.” Later that year she presented a paper, “The Need of an Institution for Crippled and Deformed Children,” at the Fifth Minnesota Conference of Corrections and Charities. She argued that “it is best for the state that such

children should be cured whenever possible and educated so that they may be helpful, selfsustaining members of the state.” After this conference, Hastings Hart, the Executive Secretary of the Board of Corrections and Charities, suggested that Haskins meet with Dr. Arthur J. Gillette, an orthopedic surgeon in St. Paul, before the 1897 legislative session. The three worked together to get the legislature to pass a bill to establish a Minnesota Institute for Crippled and Deformed Children, which

ultimately became Gillette Hospital. The book, We Hold This Treasure, by Dr. Steven Koop, provides details of Haskins’ life and her aggressive and effective advocacy. This book is included in With an Eye to the Past on the Minnesota Developmental Disabilities Council Web site: www.mncdd.org. ■ [Photograph courtesy of Steven Koop, MD]

ACCESS IS FREEDOM! National Housing Institute, Inc.

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

CALL 651-639-9799

December 10, 2007

Giving Each Person AVOICE Art Opens Life’s Doors MN Region 10 revolutionizes quality assurance Upstream Arts helps students find their voice by Bree Sieplinga in services for people with disabilities by Karen M. Larson

arah is a student in the Special Education classroom of Lake Harriet Middle School. At this time last year, she was unwilling to engage with other students or join in group activities. “English is her second language. She has Down syndrome, and is unable to communicate verbally,” Sarah’s teacher explained. “She has very few social skills or ways to interact with her peers.”

ervices for people with developmental disabilities often leave a lot of room for improvement. Yet when the idea of “quality assurance” is mentioned, most people glaze over: same old bureaucratic red tape with no effect on services. That’s why VOICE, the new quality assurance (QA) tool recently developed in southeast Minnesota, is so revolutionary. It works, people are excited about it (no kidding), and other parts of the state are lining up to copy it.

Brothers Jon C. and James E. Huebner praised the new VOICE program to improve services to persons with disabilities in SE Minnesota.

Actually, when stakeholders from 11 southeast MN counties came together to develop VOICE, they came up with more than just a new tool for QA; they actually use the new tool to support a whole new way to license care providers. Their new state-approved alternative licensing system is called The Minnesota Region 10 Quality Assurance.

issue of improving quality: individuals receiving support, family, friends, providers, county staff, advocates, legislators, state staff and educators. This team, from the eleven counties in Southeastern Minnesota, met to discuss the service system for persons with developmental disabilities. The stakeholders worked with area legislators to develop and in 1997 pass legislation that In 1995, a broad base of stake- would allow counties to parholders gathered to address the ticipate in an alternative li-

THE DEEP OF THE FULL MOON Purple is the color of forget-me-not Purple is a whisper. Purple is proud, reflective like the deep, The soul of the deep sea, swimming under the full moon. Poem written by participants in the workshop at Courage Center, June 25, 2007

censing system that would focus on quality outcomes for people with disabilities and their support providers.

Upstream Arts, a Twin Cities nonprofit that provides arts Actor Jason Bohon and student Sam Hesla programming to individuals act out a scene using body language and with disabilities, began its artfacial expressions, as Frankie Brown looks on. ist residency program in Sarah’s classroom in the fall of 2006. The program uses a variety of communication skills of indi- the arts activities. She sat in art forms –including theater, viduals with disabilities. the circle with the rest of the music, poetry, and visual kids, but refused to particiarts—to develop the social and At first Sarah was resistant to pate. Yet each week Sarah showed a little more interest. By the spring semester, Sarah was a full participant in the group. She was acting, moving to music, miming and making exaggerated facial expressions to communicate her feelings to her peers. “This program is perfect for Sarah,” her teacher noted. “It brings her out of her shell and gives her ways to communicate with the other kids through miming and other non-verbal ways. This social interaction is vital for her.”

In a letter to State Senator Linda Berglin, Charlie Lakin of the University of Minnesota’s Institute on Community Integration wrote, “The Region 10 Quality Assurance Commission is a Minnesota original. It is of Minnesota, and I know it has the opportunity to bring the best of Minnesota to a process about which most people are deeply cynical—if they care enough to have any attitude at all. Most people have decided that quality assurance is essentially proforma and of minimal benefit to the vast majority of MinneAn Upstream Arts participant uses color and bold paint strokes Arts - cont. on p. 12 VOICE - cont. on p. 12 to express how the music she is listening to makes her feel.

Commentary

Receiving The Torch New recruit learns old techniques at ADAPT’s organizer training in Chicago by Galen Smith

his summer I joined ten other young disabled activists in Chicago to learn how we could carry on the traditions of ADAPT. We learned that ADAPT was started 25 years ago by a “Gang of Nineteen,” young people with disabilities in Denver who took to the streets in their fight for accessible public transportation. When endless meetings and negotiations had resulted in little progress, they barricaded one of the inaccessible city buses in order to expose the injustice of unequal access to transportation. Their overnight stay on the street led to the creation of the nationwide network of disability activists called ADAPT (American Disabled for Accessible Public Transit). ADAPT fought for accessible public transit, the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act and is now fighting for

safe, affordable, accessible, munity organizing and direct integrating housing for all action techniques that ADAPT people with disabilities. has developed over the last 25 years, we put what we learned After three days together in a into action. We decided we windowless conference room would target a Mexican reslearning about all of the com-

Adapt seeks to build Twin Cities chapter Are you looking for a chance to join with others and claim our collective power? Are there places in your neighborhood that you would like to make more accessible to more people? Would you like to do all of these things while having fun and making new friends? If you are interested in attending a local training similar to the one described here, attending an informational meeting, or receiving more information about ADAPT Twin Cities please contact the author. Would you like to support ADAPT Twin Cities while getting some of your holiday shopping done by purchasing an exclusive ADAPT 2008 wall calendar for $15? (The calendar features spectacular photos by Tom Olin of ADAPT’s 25 year history.) If you answered “YES!” to any of these questions, we would like to hear from you and join together to claim our power and Free Our People! Please e-mail us at adapttc@gmail.com or call 651-792-6395. ■

taurant, El Norte, and a nail salon, Chan’s Nails, that were right across the street from Participants at an ADAPT organizer training where we were meeting. Both call for changes to the entrance of a nail salon and businesses had a step that made Mexican restaurant in downtown Chicago last summer. their front entrance inaccessible. We handed a copy of our press hearing stories, in Spanish, release to any passerby who from disabled Latinos and We arrived at El Norte and would take one and received a Latinas and watching people Chan’s at about 11a.m. Mon- mixed reaction. Some people being turned away from his day morning with a list of de- told us they supported what business with our press release mands for each business. They we were doing, some seemed in their hands, he said that he were each to have a ramp in- shocked and confused, and realized that he was hurting stalled to their front entrance some people were very angry his own business—and signed within two weeks. When our that they couldn’t get to their our demands. demands were not immediately burritos or nail appointments. signed, we started chanting. As people yelled at us or tried After settling with El Norte we One of our favorite chants was to break through our barri- directed all of our people targeted at the nail salon, cades, we learned how being power toward Chan’s Nails. “Gimps are hot! Crips are surrounded by our community During our negotiations, we sexy! We want access too!” can help us to stand up to things learned that there was an acBefore long we broke out the we might never be able to face cessible customer entrance on chips and salsa. If we couldn’t alone. the other side of the building. eat inside the restaurant we’d Just as we were considering eat outside! Promises to send As the negotiation process pro- changing our demands, a pothe landlord to talk to us were gressed we saw the power of lice officer arrived on the scene made, but when he didn’t show organized people to make an (we had been on the sidewalk up we blocked the front en- impact. The owner of El Norte for about two hours). The cop trances to each business. started out the day blaming us flip-flopped between pretendfor hurting his business. After Torch - cont. on p. 12

December 10, 2007

Universal Design This Month’s Issue Sponsor

Axis Healthcare Axis Healthcare is a disability care coordination organization created by Sister Kenny and Courage Center to prevent the disastrous experiences and outcomes people with disabilities have had in the healthcare system. Axis focuses on delivering

services to prevent health complications and ensuring effective communication between the member, providers and caregivers. This approach has led to better healthcare outcomes for our members, such as shorter hospital and nursing home stays, decreased emer-

gency room visits and more efficient processing of medical supplies and equipment.

Living In Style by Kevin Bjorklund

n the spring of 1966 my life as I then knew it ended, and a new style of living began. I was riding with my For more information, visit two older brothers on one of www.axishealth.com, or call the family tractors. During the 651-641-0887, 651-556-0872 ride, I somehow slipped (TTY). through my brothers hands and fell beside the large rear wheel. Before the tractor could be stopped, it had rolled over the side of my head, fracturing my skull. I was rushed to the local hospital with multiple abrasions and skull fractures, yet had full use of my extremities. Three days later I stopped moving my legs. Today, I am a very much alive, active 44year-old man, who tries to live each day with gratitude and energy as a T4 paraplegic.

Who’s That Waiter?

UCP hosts celebrity waiters dinner by Michael Cohn

Row 1: Megan Ehlert & Quest; Donnel Rank, Teri Knight, Beth Jett, Becky Ringen, Brad Sattin. Row 2: Pam Lundell, Bobby Jensen, Ed Heil, Barry ZeVan, Alison Triarsi, Alicia Ramsbacher, Todd Walker, Tiffany Ogle. Row 3: Gary Lumpkin, Don Schoeller, Greg Gagne, Mr. Magic

nited Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota hosted its fourth annual Celebrity Waiters’ Dinner on Friday, November 9th at the St. Paul Hotel. Eighteen celebrities from the Twin Cities community waited tables and entertained guests to help UCPMN raise money, with emcee Todd Walker creating cerebral palsy have a difficult an entertaining and engaging time speaking or being heard and understood, and use a comevening. munication device. UCPMN UCPMN holds the annual lends communication devices event to raise funds for the for trial to potential buyers. programs administered from their St. Paul office. The funds This year, Ronna Linroth, raised help UCPMN provide manager of the Gillette Lifeaugmentative communications time Specialty Healthcare— devices, which allow people Phalen Clinic, was recognized with disabilities to have a for her efforts in improving voice. Many times, people with the quality of health care for people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. Congressman Jim Ramstad was recognized for his many years of legislative support for disability issues.

Gagne generating tips by armwresting challengers at the lectern, KSTP anchor Brad Sattin raising tips by kissing the service dogs in training, and KSTP reporter Beth Jett providing entertainment by twirling a baton. Glenn Fladeboe served as auctioneer and helped raise $3,000 in only two minutes.

Overall, the success of the auction, both live and silent, in addition to tips raised by celebrity waiters and donations, made the evening financially beneficial to UCPMN’s cause, as well as memorable and enGary Lumpkin officiates as Other highlights included tertaining for those in attenGreg Gagne and Terri Knight former pro wrestler Greg dance. ■ arm wrestle.

Since that day in 1966, I have spent most of my life in home environments that were at best marginally functional for my varied needs. None of them had the overall beauty and style I longed for. I have never believed that accessibility had to be “institutional,” yet that was mostly my experience. I longed for something completely different—a home that was not only functional to meet my needs but also beautiful, inviting and stylish. With that passion in mind, I set out to create

a home that would fulfill those dreams. In June of 2005, I found a lot, got hooked up with a custom builder, and thus began a new journey. During the process of building the home, it became apparent we all had much to learn. We spent hour after hour touring homes, researching accessibility and accessible designs, and meeting with our builder. One day we had the opportunity to visit a brand new custom “accessible” home. As such homes are almost impossible to come by, I was excited to see what they had come up with. Upon arrival, I began to wonder if I had the wrong address; there were multiple steps at both the front entrance and garage entrance. There was a very long, steep ramp at the back of the garage that allowed a wheelchair user access to the home. Once inside, there were no accessible accommodations, other than an elevator in the home which allowed access to the lower level. This was not what I had in mind. Later that day I had many different emotions as I reflected on our visit; one of the strongest was my feeling of sadness for the buyer who got much

Examples of UD features Here are just a few of the many UD elements incorporated in the author’s home: •Extra space between kitchen cabinets, center island and walls •Countertop styles, heights and depths are varied •Pot-filler water faucet above cooktop •Lowered microwaves in kitchen for safer and easier access •Hallways are minimal, and where necessary are short, spacious •Doors are self-storing, pocket style or sliding •Stairways with shorter rise, longer tread, intermediate landings and no tread nosing •Each level of home has no-curb shower room with overhead and hand-held shower heads •Each level of home has front-loading washer and dryer, elevated above floor for easier use •Exterior doors with flush, no-rise sills •Garage floor level with main floor of home – no step

less than he deserved. I tell this story not to find fault or blame, but to point out the real reason for this unfortunate design—the lack of knowledge of what’s possible by both the buyer and the builder. This experience motivated me to continue my research and ultimately led me to the discovery of an exciting concept of design, called Universal Design. Universal design vs. Accessible design Universal Design (UD), simply put, is a philosophy that yields products and environments that can be directly used by people with a wide range of abilities. Its focus is not on individuals with disabilities. By contrast, the concept of accessible design dates back to World War II, when injured veterans modified their homes to adapt to disabilities, says Richard Duncan, director of Universal Design Training at the Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University. Accessible design is specific to individuals with disabilities; it follows a set of distinct rules and regulations. While UD has suggested guidelines, there are no mandated rules or regulations — the final design is up to the creative abilities of the architects, designers and consumers. On its Web site, Adaptive Environments (www.adaptive environments.org) likens universal design to the green building movement: “Universal Design and green design are comfortably two sides of the same coin. Green design focuses on environmental sustainability, universal design on social sustainability.” Universal Design has recently enjoyed an increase in attention and acceptance. Why? Design - cont. on p. 12

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.

December 10, 2007

FAQ@DLL

Tips For Buying A Van by the Disability Linkage Line Staff Disability and Q: How do I get funding to tory in print or alternate for- son with a disability and reService Organizations buy a modified van or to pay mat, call 1-888-234-1267. quire VR services to prepare for modifications to a van? Also keep in mind that modifi- for, secure, retain, or regain Contact an organization that cations made to vehicles for employment. FFI: 1-800- specializes in your disability type (the MS Society, for exIf you have not already done disability-related purposes are 328-9095. so, contact a driving evaluator often tax-deductible, so con- •Social Security Administra- ample); many of these organi(usually provided through a sult with a tax consultant on tion: If you are on Supple- zations have grant programs rehabilitation center). They any out-of-pocket expense. If mental Security Income (SSI) that might help pay for modifiwill provide a comprehensive you have private insurance, benefits, there are some work cations geared towards your evaluation and a complete list first check with your provider. incentives like the Plan to unique set of needs. Another of recommended vehicle However, most do not cover Achieve Self-Support possibility is working with a modifications. Once you know vehicle modifications. (PASS) and the Impairment local service organization such what you need, you will be Related Work Expense the Lions, Elks, Kiwanis, or able to determine how much it Government Resources (IRWE) that might make it Rotary Club to see if they will cost. •Medical Assistance Waiv- easier for you to purchase a would help raise funds to pur- To save money, consider buyers: Some waivers will cover vehicle necessary for work. chase or modify a vehicle. ing a used vehicle that might Funding strategies differ based the cost of modifications to FFI: 1-800-551-9796. meet your needs. Watch disLoans & Rebates on income, whether you are on your vehicle, but not the pur- •Department of Veterans Afability-related Web sites or any public assistance or are a chase of the vehicle. You need fairs: If you are a veteran The American Association of message boards for used-vevet, and even disability type. to qualify for Medical Assis- with a disability, there may People with Disabilities/Digi- hicle postings, or post your tance services and be on a be benefits you can access tal Federal Credit Union (DCU) own message to see if anyone A FEW HIGHLIGHTED waiver to access these funds. through the Department of can help connect you to loans has a vehicle that meets your STRATEGIES Contact your local county Veterans Affairs. FFI: 1-800- for accessible vehicle pur- needs. One option is to visit chases. FFI: 800-328-8797. human services department LinkVet. the Web site for the magazine General Resources to find out if you qualify. •Workers Compensation InNew Mobility. They have a A good place to start looking •Minnesota Vocational Re- surance: If you need a modi- Many vehicle manufacturers classified section and a mesfor funding sources is the Min- habilitation Services: If you fied vehicle due to a work offer rebate or reimbursement sage board; you can sign in for nesota STAR Program Direc- need the vehicle for a job, injury and are covered under plans up to $1000 for vehicle free at www.newmobility.com. tory of Funding Resources. An and you have been found eli- workers compensation insur- modifications paid for out-of- Other valuable Web sites to electronic version is available gible for VR services, you ance, workers comp might pocket. If you are buying a locate new and used vehicles: at www.starprogram.state.mn might be able to receive some cover the expenses. FFI: 1- new vehicle, talk to your dealer www.twincitymobility.com, to see if they offer such a pro- www.rollxvans.com, www. .us/funding_directory.htm. funds. To be eligible for VR 800-342-5354. gram. To request a copy of the direc- services, you must be a perdisableddealer.com, www.

mobilityforindependence.org. ■ If you have additional questions about community resources, or to talk more about options in your specific situation, please call the Disability Linkage Line (DLL) at 1-866333-2466. DLL provides free, disability-related information and assistance for Minnesotans. DLL does not endorse any particular Web site or provider. They assume no responsibility for transactions between the readers of this article and listed organizations.

The ‘Time Is Ripe’ For Transit Change by Carly Walden, MSCOD Intern

mproving Minnesota transit was the agenda at a forum last month sponsored by two key disability organizations. On November 7, 2007, the Minnesota State Council on Disability (MSCOD) partnered with Pathways to Employment (PTE) to present a forum entitled, “The Long Road to Work: A Transportation & Employment Dialogue.” The day was designed to facilitate discussion as well as stimulate and share innovative strategies to address the transportation needs of Minnesotans with disabilities. Particular attention was put on role of transportation in enabling people with disabilities to find and maintain employment.

The morning’s keynote speaker was Karen Hoesch, Executive Director of ACCESS Transportation Systems, operators of a paratransit brokerage system in Pittsburgh. Hoesch’s message was clear – human service agencies, community-based organizations, providers and employers must cooperate to serve more people, provide more service, and utilize existing capacity and resources effectively to meet the transportation needs of persons with disabilities. Hoesch identified opportunities for transportation improvement and provided examples from Pennsylvania. In one case, funding from federal,

county and community sources allowed for the creation of an employment-based transportation service called Work Link in Pennsylvania. The service offers local connections, links to several transit routes at multiple stops, and child care drop-off. It provides 5,000 rides each month, 80% of which are for work. Long-time advocate and transit user Lolly

Lijewski commented on what she took away from Hoesch’s message, stating, “We need to flip the paradigm. Instead of thinking of ourselves as people with disabilities who need a ride in order to work, we are workers who happen to have disabilities and who need a ride.”

Ulland and John Tschida, current and former co-chairs of the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, discussed the public policy context surrounding accessible transportation in Minnesota. They outlined a vision for Metro Mobility service, including expanding service to all of Minnesota’s 87 counties During a breakout session, Joel and increasing service hours

to a minimum of 14 hours each day, all by 2010. In the afternoon, Bob Olsgard, of North Country Independent Living, detailed his work to increase transportation services in rural Washburn County, Wisconsin. Nearly 40% of the population is comprised of persons with disabiliTransit - cont. on p. 12

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December 10, 2007

Drawing New Conclusions When arms failed, Seattle artist began painting by mouth to build a successful career by Nancy Sopkowiak “This was surely to be the big- dove right in with his usual 21gest adventure I would ever year-old zest. Unfortunately, embark upon.” the water was only five inches deep. “I sustained an injury to That’s how Seattle artist Brom my spinal cord … and became Wikstrom remembers feeling paralyzed from the shoulders when, at age 21, he lost use of down,” relates Wikstrom. his arms and legs. In the thirty years since that accident, he After seven long weeks in inhas found ways for his art to tensive care, Wikstrom began continue poring out, transform- rehabilitation. Using a hand ing both his life and that of splint, he learned to feed himothers in the process. self. However, “the attempts to draw with my hand splint Born in Seattle, Brom were utterly worthless.” Since Wikstrom recalls his youth his neck and shoulders were with enthusiasm. During his fully functional, he tried painthigh school years he painted ing with the brush in his mouth. for the school yearbook and His first mouth painting atworked as an apprentice in his tempts were discouraging, yet father’s commercial art busi- he persevered. “I came to inness. He enjoyed studying art creasingly feel that my life was in a Seattle college, and not over but had taken a drasproudly graduated with an art tic turn and that art would help degree. me to make the most of it.” In 1975 Wikstrom and a friend went to New Orleans for Mardi Gras. One afternoon, they decided to go swimming in the Mississippi River. Wikstrom

After a year in rehab Wikstrom moved home with his parents; they set up his bedroom and studio on the first floor. He spent most days painting. Soon

another artist invited Wikstrom to teach art at the Seattle Children’s hospital, and he quickly accepted. Wikstrom enjoyed getting out of the house and lifting the children’s spirits.

hands due to a disability. Their slogan is “no pity please;” it is not a charity. The artists earn their membership by demonstrating their talent. Wikstrom was not accepted right away, but he didn’t give up. He sought advice from a few AMFPA Wikstrom’s hospital work member artists who lived near hooked him up with other art- him. ists and organizations. “In 1980, I first heard about and In 1985 the AMFPA invited applied for membership to the Wikstrom to join as a student Association of Mouth and Foot member, whereby he was Painting Artists,” recalls granted a scholarship. In 1992 Wikstrom. The AMFPA is an Wikstrom was accepted as a organization for artists who full member; the association is aren’t able to paint with their owned by about 100 full mem-

Award-winning artist Brom Wikstrom puts the finishing touches on his latest work. bers, who receive a full salary for life. Even if the artist becomes unable to paint, their salary is guaranteed. “Through this magnificent association I

have found a freedom from worry and [have established] friendships globally,” says Wikstrom. Drawing - cont. on p. 12

Upcoming Events To list an event, e-mail access@accesspress.org Camp Friendship Holiday Benefit December 14 Good food, spirits and company, all for a good cause. Come join the Camp Friendship Auxiliary as its members host their Annual Holiday and Wine Tasting Event. The pub-

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

lic is invited to enjoy the festivities, which benefit Friendship Ventures programs for people with developmental disabilities. Hot hors d’oeuvres and homemade holiday goodies will be served, as well as wine for the wine tasting event. Also featured will be a bake sale, raffle and door prizes. Details: $15/person. 6-8 p.m., Friday, at the Rueben Lindh Dining Hall at Camp Friendship, in Annandale. FFI: 320274-8376 or 800-450-8376. Veteran’s Video on Twin Cities Public TV December 15 NAMI Minnesota and Twin Cities Public Television have teamed up to produce a program on mental health issues and resources aimed at families of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The program is called “Coming Home: Supporting Your Soldier” and it will air on TPT/ 17 on Dec. 15 at 8:30 p.m. Returning veterans and their

families can now find some helpful resource links and information on NAMI-MN’s Web site. FFI: www.nami.org.

with disabilities will cooperatively create together in an environment that nurtures social interaction and self-expression. Details: 2-4 p.m., ages Parent Training in Transition 12-18, $85. December 18 The program title is “What is Iron Range Learn-to-Ski Transition?—What is the January 15-16 School’s Role?” Jayne Spain, This two-day, learn-to-ski a transition specialist from the event is growing every year MN Dept. of Education, will with the help of the Cleveland present a model for integrat- Cliffs Foundation and Couring transition plans in the IEP age Center Duluth. Receive a and focus on developing stu- private ski lesson with expert dent-centered plans. Included instruction. Reg. limited to Iron will be strategies for effective Range residents. Details: Sat.transition practices, identifi- Sun., $10 per session. FFI: cation of parents’ roles and Jamie Tupper, 218-726-4834, responsibilities, and info on jamie.tupper@courage.org. local adult service delivery systems. Details: 6:30-8:30 Courage Tour p.m., St. Stephens Lutheran January 17 Church, Noreen Center-lower An hour with Courage Center lvl, 1575 Charleton Ave. S, could give you a lifetime of W. St. Paul. FFI: Suzette opportunity—a connection at 651-645-2948 (x103). you won’t want to miss! Special group tours are available Art Workshops for Youth by appointment. Learn what Jan. – Feb. Courage Center is all about, Art workshops for youth with gain information that can help disabilities with Edina a family member or friend, or Parks and Recreation. just be in the know about one Use your imagination, of Minnesota’s great instituexpress yourself and tions. 9:30-10:30 a.m. FFI: have fun interacting with Jamie Tupper, 218-726-4834, your peers in this three jamie.tupper@courage.org. part program. Participants will deliberately Anxiety Support Group use the arts in a unique Ongoing social environment to The National Alliance on Menbuild their social and tal Illness of MN (NAMI-MN) communication skills. sponsors free support groups Led by Upstream Arts. for persons with anxiety disorDetails: January 27, Feb- ders. The groups help indiruary 10, February 24, viduals develop better coping 2008, 2 p.m.—4 p.m., skills and find strength through ages 16-22. FFI: Up- sharing their experiences. An stream Arts, 612-331- Open Door Anxiety and Panic 4584, www.upstream support group meets twice arts.org. monthly. Details: two groups; 6:30 p.m., second and fourth Winter Break Art Monday each month at Lenox Workshops Community Ctr, 6715 Mtka January 2-4 Blvd, Fire Place Rm 2 (lower Spend your winter break level), St. Louis Park; and 6:30 with professional artists p.m., first and third Thursday from the Twin Cities ex- each month, Gloria Del ploring theater, poetry, Church, 700 Snelling Ave. S., music and visual arts. In St Paul. FFI: Judy at 612-377this workshop at the 2467 or www.namimn.org. Courage Center, youth Events - cont. on p. 11

December 10, 2007

News At A Glance . . . Local Yoga Pioneer Recognized At age 13, Matthew Sanford from Duluth, Minn., now aged 42, was involved in a car crash that left him paralyzed from the chest down. Advice from his doctors to “forget his lower body,” however, was what really crippled Sanford, until he discovered yoga at age 25. Now a nationally recognized yoga teacher, author and renowned expert in mind-body integration, Sanford is in the running to be named “America’s Greatest Hometown Hero.” He has been identified as one of the nation’s top 40 heroes in the 6th Annual Volvo for Life Awards – an annual, nationwide search for real-life heroes across America.

Bennett and has served as an in-house attorney for the Minneapolis Public Schools.

The Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (EOAA) was founded in 1972 to ensure that all University community members uphold federal and state civil rights laws and regulations, as well as University equal Kimberly opportunity policies. It is committed to elimiHewitt Boyd nating individual and systemic barriers that inhibit individuals and groups from attaining equal access to University of Minnesota employment, education, programs The American public can visit www.volvoforlifeawards.com and services. and vote for Sanford. This democratic vote will decide the program finalists in Volvo’s hero search. Three winning heroes “The EOAA Office … has done a great job of being a resource will receive $100,000 for their charities. One winner will to the university for educational opportunities and conflict receive a new Volvo car every three years for life. resolution,” Boyd said. “I hope to capitalize on the existing good will and push even harder to increase the visibility of our In 2001, Sanford founded Mind Body Solutions, a nonprofit office so more people can look to us as a resource for diversity organization dedicated to the simple and practical notion that education, training, complaint processing and resolution. I minds and bodies work better together, offering programs in want to make the environment better for all people.” [Source: the workplace, in corporations, at the yoga studio and in the Bob San, University News Service] community at large. Sanford teaches yoga to people of all abilities at the Courage Center in Golden Valley and at studios Arc Conference Celebrates Attitude Changes throughout the country, but he is a pioneer in adapting yoga for The Arc of Minnesota and its 13 local chapters convened people living with disabilities. Sanford also shares his philoso- recently in Duluth to address how to provide continued support phy on the fundamental importance of the mind-body relation- for Minnesotans with intellectual and developmental disabiliship in his memoir Waking: A Memoir of Trauma and Tran- ties, and to celebrate the progress made during the organization’s scendence. He is currently using his personal experience to nearly 60 years of advocacy. help transform the delivery of healthcare, including an initiative for veterans. [Source: www.volvoforlifeawards.com] “Since The Arc of Minnesota’s creation in the 1950s by a small group of concerned parents, it has worked to advance the rights New Head for U of M Equal Opportunity Office of people with developmental disabilities to live, work and Kimberly Hewitt Boyd was recently named the new director of learn as active members of our community,” said The Arc of the University of Minnesota Office for Equal Opportunity and Minnesota’s Executive Director Steve Larson. “We have come Affirmative Action (EOAA). Boyd joined the university from a long way since the days of state-run institutions, and now our Hamline University Law School, where she served as assistant friends and neighbors with developmental disabilities are finddean for students and multicultural affairs. A native of Minne- ing greater acceptance and new opportunities for growth and apolis, Boyd was previously a partner in the law firm of Rider self determination.”

At the top of The Arc of Minnesota’s agenda is to discuss ways that people with developmental disabilities and their families can have more control over services such as housing or caregivers, and how the quality of those services can also be improved. “This annual conference enables us to connect, celebrate the great progress that we have made as individuals and as a state, and to listen to our members and their families so that we are providing them with the services they need most,” said Les Bauer, outgoing president of The Arc of Minnesota. The majority of conference attendees are people with developmental disabilities and their families, and others who care for them. [Source: The Arc of Minnesota, www.arcmn.org]

Breakthrough Rehab Technology Announced New technology that may help stroke and other neurological patients to regain lost hand control and improve mobility is now available at Courage Center in Golden Valley. One aspect is neuro-rehabilitation therapy for the upper extremities. The prosthesis is a soft polymer fitting that rests over the hand and forearm. Embedded in the device are surface electrodes that stimulate muscles in the hand and wrist. A microprocessor allows the therapist to program the device with a series of exercises customized for each person. Another neuro-rehabilitation system, for the lower extremities, is designed to help people experiencing foot drop to regain mobility and help “normalize” walking and gait. The L300 uses wireless communication to “talk” to its components, eliminating wires and allowing the clinician the ability to fine-tune settings while the patient is actually walking. This system is appropriate for a range of conditions, including traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and incomplete spinal cord injury. [Source: Courage Center, visit www.courage.org] ■

December 10, 2007

2007 Year in Review June

March

Local Organizations Respond to Offensive Show Title

Survey Shows Public Happy to Pay for Full Integration by Bret Hesla

f you think too much public money is spent on people with developmental disabilities, you’re in a huge minority. Only 6% of Minnesotans would agree with you. Disability activists celebrated a new survey by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disability, which shows that Minnesotans’ attitudes toward people with deSelf-advocate Tim Moots speaks velopmental disabilities have at the event marking the release changed markedly in the last of the new survey. 45 years toward favoring full integration into the community and the use of public money to assist families. The survey showed a huge majority of Minnesotans in favor of government and taxpayers providing a range of services and supports for people with developmental disabilities. Mary Powell, of The Autism Society of MN, celebrated the survey as a tool to leverage lawmakers, saying, “I’m gonna take this survey and march right up to the capitol.” The following are selected survey results, showing the statement read and the numbers agreeing with the statement (either “agreeing somewhat” or “agreeing strongly”). • People with developmental disabilities should be cared for by the immediate family as much as possible (77% agreed in 2007, 20% in 1962) • People with developmental disabilities should be kept in an institution. (3% agreed in 2007, 35% in 1962) • People with developmental disabilities should be allowed to vote (71% agreed in 2007, 46% in 1962) [www.accesspress.org/archive/ 2007/03/story_happy_to_pay.htm]

Excerpts from Access Press articles from 2007

by Sherry Gray

an it really be trendy to use the “R” word? Apparently so, at least in pop culture. Certain celebrities, their media watchers, the pop music scene, and numerous internet blogs are using the word “retard,” alone or as a suffix to other words, to mock people viewed as foolish. Last month, Minneapolisbased theater troupe Brave New Workshop (BNW) joined in, titling their show that spoofs celebrities “Rise of the Celebretards.”

April

Bill Seeks to Restore Power of ADA by Kathleen Hagen

n the years since the 1990 passage of the ADA, disability advocates have been concerned with what is perceived as a steady erosion of these rights by the Supreme Court. To repair the damage, federal lawmakers plan to introduce a bill later this session that adds language to the ADA both defining disability unambiguously and ensuring that the courts enforce the ADA as it was originally intended by Congressman James Sensenbrenner, Congress. Jr. (R- Wisconsin) Momentum for a restoration bill began building in 1999, when in the course of one day, the Supreme Court decided three cases that each undermined disability rights. The main arguments in these cases were cited in the principal case, Sutton vs. United Airlines. The court held that if a person with a disability could remedy the effects of that disability by, for example, wearing glasses to correct vision, or taking medicine to control seizures, that the person could not be defined as disabled. A person could be defined as disabled, the court said, only if corrective measures did not eliminate the disability.

Response to the offensive title came quickly; BNW was deluged by e-mails and letters from outraged individuals and groups. In a letter to the BNW, many of Minnesota’s leading disability-rights organizations weighed in: “Using the word ‘retard’ in any reference legitimizes the oppression and ridicule many people experience on a daily basis. When you attempt to ridicule [celebrities] by identifying them as ‘retarded,’ you also ridicule those who have been so labeled throughout their lives and make more difficult their struggle to be valued for their contributions and commitments ….” Among the signers of the letter was Self-Advocates Minnesota, a new statewide network of over 30 selfadvocacy groups. Many individuals and organizations are interested in doing more to combat the rising use of the “R” word in media and society. Every protestor interviewed for this article expressed hope that this controversy will lead to a positive outcome, whereby our disability community can illustrate the powerful role of language in defining and creating an accepting society. [w w w . a c c e s s p r e s s . o r g / a r c h i v e / 2 0 0 7 / 0 6 / story_sticks_and_stones.htm]

This is not the first time it has been necessary to pass restorative language to protect civil rights. In 1991, Congress passed the Civil Rights Restoration Act to restore protections to persons asserting employment discrimination because of race or sex. [www.accesspress.org/archive/2007/04/story_mending_ADA.htm]

May

US Disgrace at UN Signing Ceremony by John A. Lancaster

n March 30, 2007, 82 countries signed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The United States did not. The following excerpts are from a letter, written last month by John Lancaster, Executive Director of the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL), describing his powerful and emotional experience at the March signing ceremony. In the letter, Lancaster encourages us to take action in response to U.S. inaction and disgrace by writing our Members of Congress and Presi-

dent Bush to urge that the U.S. sign and erment of people with disabilities. UN disability-rights waiting to be signed. ratify the Convention: Instead, they were tears of shame and embarrassment in being an American. people of the world. I was ashamed of my As I sat in the observers’ area on the floor country and of myself for letting it happen. of the UN’s General Assembly Hall, del- For the past several years of UN discussion, Please join me in recommitting ourselves as egates from 80 nations and the European debate and negotiations that led to this advocates and leaders to human rights, emCommunity took their turn at the official historic day, the United States had been powerment and independent living for all signing table to commit their country to the generally not present. And then, on this peoples of the world. Write your Senators human and civil rights of people with dis- truly historic day when we could have re- and President Bush today urging that the abilities. At several points, my eyes welled sumed continued leadership for rights for U.S. sign and ratify the Convention on the with tears. They should have been tears of people with disabilities, the United States Rights of Persons with Disabilities. joy and pride as an American, as a citizen thumbed our noses in insolent arrogance at [www.accesspress.org/archive/2007/05/ in the country that had created this world- the United Nations, the signing countries, story_us_disgrace_ at_un.htm] wide movement for the rights and empow- and the six hundred fifty million disabled

December 10, 2007

July

2007 Year in Review November

Uzbek Visitors See Similarities between their Disability Newspaper and Access Press

DHS Photo Exhibit of State Hospitals Leaves Parts Untold

by Laurie Eckblad Anderson

n October 15, 2007, the Minnesota Department of Human Services celebrated the history of state hospitals and nursing homes by presenting an exhibit of photographs, videos and documents with the theme “Honor the Past, Embrace the Present, Create the Future.” While many of the historical artifacts on display were interesting, what was not shown to the public may hold greater sigThe exhibit on Minnesota’s nificance when trying to understate hospital history failed to stand this long and frequently include pictures such as this shameful chapter of Minnesota one. history. Photographs of the institutions stood out because of the sheer magnitude of the buildings. However, few pictures of the men and women who actually lived in these imposing structures were on display. A complete view of the past would have included heart-rending scenes of children from Faribault State Hospital in the mid-1960s.

by Luther Granquist and Anita Schermer

n June 11, three visitors from Uzbekistan visited Access Press to learn about the role of a disability newspaper in the U.S. They were guests of the Minnesota International Center’s International Visitor Leadership Program, and Access Press was just one of their many stops while in Minnesota. Through their Russian interpreters, the visitors had a lively exchange with Access Press editor Tim Benjamin. All the Uzbekistanis had connections to their disability community. Two of them had a special interest in Access Press because they publish disability newspapers of their own.

Larisa Khodjaeva, the chief editor of We Want to Talk about Ourselves, a glossy, colorful newspaper published on behalf of We Want to Talk About Ourselves, children and teens with disabilities, shared her paper publishing a Uzbek newspaper for children and teens with disabilities experience. Upon viewing a sample of Khodjaeva’s paper, Benjamin was interested to see articles published in both Russian October and English. When asked what disabilities are common in Uzbekistan, Khodjaeva responded by ADAPT Staff that it is a mix of physical and mental disabilities, and that diaast month in Chicago, ADAPT probetes is a huge problem in her testers confronted Council 31 of country. In fact, among the interthe American Federation of State, esting list of sponsors for County and Municipal Employees Khodjaeva’s paper are two com(AFSCME) on their support of reopening the panies that produce insulin: Novo Illinois’ Lincoln Developmental Center inNordisk and Lilly. stitution, and AFSCME’s refusal to endorse any legislation supporting home and commuEveryone got a tour of the Access nity-based services for people with disabiliPress office and a look at the ties. AFSCME responded by asking ADAPT layout of the next paper. HowADAPT protestor arrested in Chicago to sign a statement supporting institutions ever, the highlight seemed to be authored by AFSCME director Henry Bayer. When that didn’t happen, Bayer had over 120 Benjamin’s computer and headpeople arrested for blocking the doors, elevators and parking lot of the AFSCME building. mouse, a pointing device which he uses in place of a hand-oper“They typed up a statement supporting institutions and asking for money, and then couldn’t ated mouse. Although their harunderstand why we didn’t want to sign it,” said Mike Oxford, Kansas ADAPT organizer. “It’s ried driver was impatiently waitimpossible to negotiate human and civil rights issues with people whose only concern is their ing to take them to their next stop, own pockets … no matter how many people are warehoused and deprived of their liberty as the group stalled him until they a result.” learned more about this technology that they had never seen beADAPT has met repeatedly with AFSCME leadership, receiving a commitment from Gerald fore. McEntee, the union’s president, to sign on to legislation that supports home and community[http://www.accesspress.org/ based services and supports for people with disabilities and the elderly. That promise was archive/2007/07/story_%20not_ never kept, and was one of the reasons ADAPT visited the Council 31 offices. The arrests at worlds_apart.htm] AFSCME concluded a week of ADAPT action in Chicago, which began with a national forum on affordable, accessible, integrated housing, and ended with three days of action on the streets that included gaining a commitment from Governor Blagojevich for permanent closure of the Lincoln Developmental Center. [www.accesspress.org/archive/2007/10/story_adapt_locks_horns.htm]

ADAPT Locks Horns with Union

The Department did not display photographs of rows of numbered graves in state hospital cemeteries, or the overgrown knoll north of the Fergus Falls State Hospital without any markers at all. Nor did they include the ongoing efforts of Remembering with Dignity to correct this dehumanizing practice. A complete and honest history of the institutions would recognize how the people who lived in them were numbered even after death. The institutions for persons with mental retardation have closed. Other state institutions have closed or changed. While it is appropriate to respect and to honor the efforts made by people who administered and worked in those institutions, we should not “Honor the Past.” Rather, we should “Remember the Past” to create a better future for the persons the state serves. [www.accesspress.org/archive/2007/11/ story_to_change_future_remember_past.htm]

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December 10, 2007

Commentary

Open Letter Present, Unaccounted For From Pain Central Hidden disabilities call for as much empathy as those easily apparent

by LA Reed

oodness gracious. What am I going to do about this body. here is something I Rights, this category includes avascular necrosis, also called Ouch! It hurts!! notice every time my poor hearing, poor vision, dia- osteonecrosis, of the hips more wife pulls into a dis- betes, epilepsy, heart disease, than 10 years ago. Well, this may not be my best abled-parking space—an icon mental or emotional illness, day to write but they wanted allergies, learning disabilities, The word “necrosis” means me to explain this—chronic of a person in a wheelchair. ulcers, and kidney or liver dis- “bone death.” In the case of pain, that is. While I understand the need ease. It can also include bone avascular necrosis of the hips, to have universal signage for disorders, pain disorders, the the hip bones degenerate due Ouch! Do I really want to write the illiterate and non-English early stages of multiple scle- to lack of blood circulation. about this? Do YOU want to speakers, this little icon does rosis and amyotrophic lateral After she was diagnosed, and read about this? Maybe not, endured much pain, my wife but let me try. its part in contributing to the sclerosis, and HIV. had core-decompression surmyth that people with disabilities have to “look disabled.” Granted, not all of these con- gery on both hips. This is a First of all, there is a myth out The fact is that there are a ditions require a person to have procedure where a hole is there about this condition benumber of people in the United disabled parking, but they do drilled in the bone to promote ing my fault. This is not my States with hidden disabilities. pose a problem when the af- bone-tissue growth. It is meant fault. End of discussion, sort A hidden disability is a condi- flicted person tries to gain aid to delay or prevent hip-replace- of. I’m not going to stop there. tion that has chronic symp- and empathy from those who ment surgery. There was a long The causes can be many: traftoms that cannot be seen by are unfamiliar with his or her recovery, with my wife being fic accidents, work accidents, bedbound for a few weeks af- sometimes wars and other viothe naked eye. According to condition. ter. the U.S. Department of lence, illnesses—even not beEducation’s Office for Civil My wife was diagnosed with Present - cont. on p. 15 ing treated well by other people. And sometimes— sometimes—we honestly do Accessible Space, Inc. make mistakes with our bodOUSING ITH ARE ASI ies with what we eat, how we our lives, things that often Accessible, affordable housing & supportive living options live can harm us; and yes, can cause for adults with qualifying disabilities or seniors 62 & older us illnesses, disabilities, and pain. Ouch!

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Public Comment Session Minnesota State Council on Disability The Minnesota State Council on Disability will hold a public comment session as follows: WHEN: 1 p.m. Thursday, December 13th

I have fibromyalgia. This is a chronic (meaning constant and on-going) pain condition that involves all the muscles and connective tissues of my body. Ouch! This means that my muscles are very stiff, can get weak, hurt a lot and are prone to pulling or tearing easily. This means I get hurt more easily than others. For instance, if the vehicle I’m being driven in bumps a lot, makes sharp turns or sudden stops, it may injury me. In the cold weather I can’t go outside when it’s

below forty degrees or so without it causing severe pain. In temperatures below freezing, my body can collapse. Oops! Not good.

“What do you call a group of rabbits walking backwards...a receding HARE line.” Ouch! The first person who made me laugh about disability was Kathy Buckley, in a PBS performance she did a few years ago, called “No Labels; No Limits.” She’s the first hearing-impaired comic in the United States and she’s great!

Did I say I have spinal damage? Lots. From my neck down through my lower back; some spinal injuries are from long ago, and some have developed over the last thirty years. I also have arthritis in parts of my spine, hips and other joints. It also helps to do things that are FUN. So all this limits my life a bit. Yep. And I don’t like it. In Micheline Mason, an inclufact, wanting to or not, I get sion activist in Britain, says mean sometimes. I get impa- that one of the best things we tient with people, even when disabled people can do for they’re trying to help me. ourselves is to be gentle with ourselves in public spaces. Sometimes I want others to understand that it is not my Find friends who are willing to fault that I get impatient. Or go to the plushest, most pleasthat they get very impatient ant and caring atmospheres with me. It’s just that I have to possible, with the healthiest take a lot of time and do things food to eat. My favorite coffee slowly so I don’t hurt myself, house is the Fireroast Moundon’t exhaust myself. It’s tain Café on 38th Street in south amazing how other people are Minneapolis. They have a so impatient. Especially be- large cushy couch, and unless I have to share, I make myself hind the wheel. and my cane at home on it. It’s So what helps? What has kept pleasant to share time and food me growing, changing, striv- or tea with someone and not be ing and hoping over the years? in lots of pain by sitting on hardback wooden chairs. Look It helps to laugh. Really laugh. for the places that care about When I was first diagnosed comfort and softness, and your with fibromyalgia, and started health! And places that treat acknowledging how much pain you like you and what you deal I was in … anyway, when I with matters. started dealing with it, I started looking up Joke Web sites. I’ve learned how to do that Good jokes now, not the ones more in recent years. I grew up that make fun of others, but very serious, very poor workinstead make fun of life. Some ing class, and didn’t know how of them are children’s jokes. to change my life to learn how Pain - cont. on p. 12 You want to hear one?

Offering Organizations Working throughout Minnesota's Aging and Disability Community a Variety of TOOLS AND ASSISTANCE with STRATEGIC PLANNING AND MARKETING That ENHANCE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES.

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If you have comments or concerns to publicly address about expanding opportunities, improving the quality of life, or empowering persons with disabilities, you are strongly encouraged to participate in this public comment session. Minnesota State Council on Disability 651-361-7800 V/TTY or 800-945-8913 V/TTY council.disability@state.mn.us or visit www.disability.state.mn.us

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December 10, 2007

Support Measured In Degrees Metropolitan State Disabilities Services helps achieve higher-ed goals

Hope OUTLOUD students Benefit A Success by Terri Bruns and Michael Cohn

by Harvey Meyer

n a scale of one to 10, Eve Nichols figures the United States is about at five when it comes to furnishing persons with disabilities all they need to equally compete with the able-bodied.

want to be treated differently by students and faculty or anybody else. Some mistakenly think that if they have a disability or use our services, it will be entered into their educational record and viewed by future employers. That’s defi“We’ve got a lot more to do,” nitely not true.” said Nichols, disabilities services coordinator for Metro- One of the most common MSU politan State University services is interpreting for the (MSU) for the past year. “In- deaf. About 30 contract interdividuals with disabilities preters provided this service should have the same chance during the past year. The numof receiving an education, ber of deaf students is going training, employment, and up, said Nichols, because transportation and other ser- “word has gotten around that vices that enhance quality of we offer good service here.” life as able-bodied persons.” John Lee Clark, a blind and Metropolitan State, she noted, deaf student pursuing an indiplays an instrumental role in vidualized bachelor’s degree helping those with disabilities in deaf/blind studies, uses dispursue their higher-education abilities services for transcripgoals. The university’s dis- tion of course materials into abilities services served about Braille. The office also pro150 students in the past year. vides American Sign LanThat’s up considerably from guage interpreters so Clark can the early 1990s, when the of- “hear” classroom instructors. fice first opened. “It is impossible to overstate For many students, their dis- the office’s value, because it abilities are apparent; perhaps would be impossible for me to they’re using a wheelchair or study at the university at all white cane. But for about 60 without its services,” said percent, disabilities are invis- Clark, who has attended ible. Indeed, many who are Gallaudet University. “MSU eligible for MSU services is my best educational experidon’t even seek them, some- ence, and more than anything times because of shame or fear. else, disability services is to They hide their disability, said be thanked for that.” Nichols, because “they don’t

Eve Nichols leads a workshop on disability rights at Metro State University. MSU disability services also provides a wide range of supports, from note-takers for those who have difficulty jotting down notes in class, to lecture notes in an alternative print format, to audio assistance devices, to distraction-free environments for those who need quiet space and/or extended time to take tests, to job searching.

She added, “We can provide accommodations so they can get equal access to information, but there is always an extra step, some extra work, that students with disabilities have to take.” “Students with disabilities enhance the university because they bring the value of their experiences and perspectives to the classroom,” said Nichols. “When they’re in class, they help break down stereotypes about people and they also help prepare students for the diverse employees they will meet in the workplace.”■

Hope’s Hope acquired a guitar and had it signed by country stars Big & Rich. The event also featured a few surprise auction items; both Tim Mahoney and Chris Hawkey donated in-home concerts. A variety of different companies as well as individuals generously donated many items that helped make this event the success that it was. Two local radio stations, KFAN and FM 107.1, added to the event’s success with their promotion. In the past, Hope’s Hope has hosted several events in North Carolina, but this is the first event held in MN.

Anticipation is already high as bands prepare for next years’ Hope OUTLOUD. For more info about Hope’s Hope, and Chris Hawkey (from KFAN to see pictures from the event, Radio) and the Chris Hawkey visit the Web site at www. Band made the live auction hopes-hope.org. ■ very energetic. In addition,

Adding to MSU’s conducive environment, Nichols often conducts workshops educating faculty and staff on the makeup of the university’s disabled students, their rights under federal law and the services her office offers. Harvey Meyer is a writer for Metropolitan State University’s Even with the many services office of publication and news and technologies available, services. Nichols wants to be clear; higher education is a difficult journey for many disabled students.

EVENTS -

The author, Michael Cohn, with musician Tim Mahoney.

Cont. from p. 6 Art & Healing: Mind Fields Exhibit Ongoing Explore the many dimensions of the invisible and make psychological realities tangible. Art & Healing: Mind Fields is a unique opportunity to see the mind from the inside out. This new exhibit from Intermedia Arts takes a frank and creative look at neurological and mental health—inviting local artists and health care practitioners to address the ways in which artistic expression can be used as a tool for healing. Details: Monday—Saturday, 12-5 p.m. 2822 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis. FFI: www. intermediaarts.org or 612871-4444 ■

n November 16, the national organization Hope’s Hope held the Hope OUTLOUD Benefit Concert at Trocadero’s in Minneapolis. Highlights included Tim Mahoney, who was featured in November’s Rolling Stone magazine, performing a solo act. He was followed by Rockfist and the Chris Hawkey Band. The artists donated their time and talent for the nonprofit organization, which raises awareness and provides assistance to families of children afflicted with debilitating, terminal illnesses, such as giant axonal neuropathy, infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy, pantothenate kinase associated neurodegeneration and other neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation disorders.

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December 10, 2007

ARTS -

Cont. from p. 3

Upstream Arts is dedicated to helping individuals become more socially independent through interaction with the arts. “Self-expression and social interaction are a challenge for many people with disabilities,” says executive director Julie Guidry. “The arts provide a powerful avenue for self expression and can develop vital social skills like recognizing and using facial expressions and body language, and expressing emotion. For those who cannot communicate using verbal language, the arts provide nonverbal, physical, and visual forms of communication.” Each class is led by local professional artists—including actors, dancers, poets, visual artists, musicians, and writers—who have been trained to provide programming to groups with a range of abilities. Its programs are inclusive of all individuals with disabilities—including those with cognitive, physical and developmental disabilities. “It’s a real equalizer for all of the kids,” a special education teacher said about the program at her school. “We have a huge range of abilities in the classroom, and all of the activities, whether they are theatrical, visual or involve movement, are all so inclusive. And it’s not just creative. It’s very so-

DESIGN -

cial. In the programs students are learning to wait their turn, encourage others, and cooperate.” Julie and her husband Matt formed the arts organization in 2006 after watching their son Caleb, who is non-verbal and has physical and cognitive disabilities, begin to use movement and theater-based activities to communicate with those around him. “My husband Matt is an actor here in the Twin Cities,” Julie explains. “Caleb sometimes attended rehearsals with Matt. In that environment, he began to pick up on the movements and facial expressions of the actors, and began to use these tools to reach out and communicate. Theater opened doors for him, gave him a way to interact with his peers. We believe the arts can open doors for other kids and adults with disabilities to participate more fully in school and everyday life.” ■ In addition to its school residency program Upstream Arts offers arts workshops and programs in conjunction with other disability-focused organizations in a number of metro areas on school vacation days. For more information visit the organization’s Web site at www.upstreamarts.org, or call their office at 612-3314584.

Cont. from p. 4

Because it not only makes sense, but also looks great. Universal Design features can be “invisible” in a home when done right. I have had many people tour my home, marveling at the unique design and beauty of the layout. Only when I make an effort to point out the UD features do individuals notice that anything “special” was done to accommodate universal useability (see box, p. 4).

survey by the American Society of Interior Designers. When done correctly, UD takes into account all demographics and allows for future flexibility as the homeowner’s needs evolve.

Universal Design represents the possibility to change the way we think about designing, living in and using our homes. It’s about empowering individuals in ways that they never knew were possible by openCreating homes with ing up homes, neighborhoods unlimited possibilities and communities through the Today’s homes are fundamen- creation of environments that tally designed for one style of welcome us all, regardless of user: the “military male”— physical ability, size or age. healthy, strong and six feet tall. You and I know that is not In April of this year, our 2+ reality. Up to 20% of the U.S. year project was completed population has some form of and I am now living in a beaudisability and 80% live past tiful new home built with the the age of 65. In addition, a guiding principles of Univerwhopping 82 percent of U.S. sal Design. I welcome anyone home owners say they want to who wishes more information remain in their homes as they or has questions on our project age, even if they require assis- to contact me at 612-859-4990. tance and care, according to a ■

VOICE -

Cont. from p. 3

sotans with developmental disabilities. I think we are as a state extremely fortunate to have a group of citizens who have stood up to say we shouldn’t accept that. We shouldn’t accept that for people with disabilities, and we shouldn’t accept that as a use of public resources.”

Quality Circle members. One way I can show you that VOICE helped me is that I led my own ‘triple iiiP’ IEP meeting with my twin brother. I believe in myself more and I became braver to try things that are difficult for me, because I know that not only will my family support me, but my quality circle will support me too. Indeed the VOICE review How VOICE Works VOICE stands for “Value of is for the whole country and Individual Choices and Expe- even the whole world.” riences”. The new QA tool is entirely based on the persons For the past ten years Minnereceiving services—-their sota Region 10 Quality Assurneeds, their wishes and mak- ance has been doing Licensing ing sure that they are getting and Quality Assurance using the support necessary to live the following principles: Perlife on their own terms. The son Driven, Comprehensive, process starts by the quality Integrated, Value Based, Conassurance manager, LeAnn tinuous Review Process, and Bieber, randomly selecting a Continuous Improvement. person with a disability to participate in a VOICE review. Ultimately, the goal is better (The process is person-first, service. “The purpose of the so the QA manager contacts Minnesota Region 10 Quality the individual first.) The par- Assurance System,” says ticipant, along with a number LeAnn Bieber of Region 10 of people close to them (their staff, “is to continually imQuality Circle), is interviewed prove the quality of services at length. Interviewers take provided to individuals with notes, sort the results into cat- developmental disabilities. We egories, and put together a do this by assessing the value Learning Portrait, which is in- people experience through the tended to engage the partici- support and services received pant and his or her Quality at home, at work or school and Circle in a non-threatening and throughout the community. By constructive manner. Finally, combining results from an oninformation generated from the going series of these assessVOICE reviews is used by the ments, we are able to develop Quality Assurance Review an accurate sense of the patCouncil to recommend licens- terns of support in our coming actions. The county then munity. We are also able to recommends final licensing identify ‘best practices,’ which decisions to the MN Depart- could be shared throughout the system, and change areas ment of Human Services. where improvement is Participants speak highly of needed.” the VOICE process. Jon C. Huebner says: “My VOICE What speaks most to the power review made my life better. of VOICE is that the system is The two people who inter- spreading. “When stakeholdviewed me and talked with me ers in other areas learn about were so patient even when I our efforts around quality and perseverated. They understood licensing through the VOICE my autism and if they didn’t process, they naturally want understand something about MN Region 10 Quality Assurme, they were respectful and ance in their community,” says asked me and then I explained Dan Zimmer of Region 10 so they could understand what staff. “Three areas of the state I meant. That felt good. My are now using VOICE as a amazing VOICE review Quality Improvement Process. helped me become stronger Through these efforts we hope and braver.” that VOICE will eventually grow to a statewide alternative Jon’s brother James E. Hueb- licensing process.” ■ ner was equally enthusiastic, “It’s hard for me to put into Karen Larson is Conference words how fantastic my and Outreach Coordinator for VOICE review was for me, Minnesota Region 10 Quality but I will try. When I had my Assurance. If you would like VOICE review and I put to- more info visit our Web site at gether a group of people, with www.mn-voice.org or conmy family, who are important tact Dan Zimmer at 507-287to me too, and they are my 2032 or danz@mn-voice.org.

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TRANSIT -

Cont. from p. 5

ties and those 65 years and older. In 2005, Olsgard and his colleagues conducted community assessments; from 1900 surveys they found that sufficient seat capacity existed, but that much of that capacity was only available to “eligible” consumers. The group also found inconsistent driver training programs and qualification checks, and that most services were limited to weekday hours between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m.

the dialogue to serve as a springboard for creative problem-solving, collaboration, and action, and will follow up with additional communication to move forward on improving transportation for persons with disabilities. As Lijewski states, “The time is ripe for change in the area of transit. An aging population, a shrinking workforce and increasing employment of people with disabilities are going to be drivers in making MSCOD and PTE intend for change happen.” ■

TORCH -

Cont. from p. 3

ing to be our buddy (when he agreed with our decisions) and threatening to arrest us (when we exercised our power). We allowed the officer to enter the nail salon and speak with the owner, and after some further discussion we decided to change our demand for a ramp to a demand for a sign on the front door directing people to the accessible entrance. The salon posted a handwritten sign before we left and agreed to ask the landlord to post a more permanent sign. While this result did not meet our initial demand, we decided that we could live with it. We made the decision to end our action and marched back across the street chanting, “The people united will never be defeated!” After arriving back in our familiar conference room, we spent some time reflecting on what worked and what didn’t work, and on what we learned from the action. Then we learned about another ADAPT

DRAWING -

tradition … CELEBRATION! We partied, we laughed, we cried, we debated, and we stayed up late because we knew that we’d all be parting ways the next morning. In the weeks since this action, our learning has not stopped. We’ve kept in contact through e-mail and worked together to make sure that the demands that were agreed to were met. Even though there was a lot of finger pointing between the businesses, the landlord, and even the city; four weeks after the action we received an email with pictures of a new cement ramp drying in front of El Norte! Did we change the world? Not yet. But we did make a change. I’ve got a picture of that ramp hanging right over my desk. Every time I get discouraged and doubtful that things will ever change, I can look at that ramp and say: “We did that. Together.” ■

Cont. from p. 6

Wikstrom’s work has been shown around the world, including the United Kingdom, Belgium, Australia, and Canada. He won first prize for a watercolor painting in 2003 at the Sister Kenny International Art Show in Minneapolis.

and remember to never give up on your dreams.”

If you are interested in becoming an MFPA artist, placing an order, or just looking for more information, visit AMFPA (www.amfpa.com); North American Branch (www. mfpausa.com); Wikstrom’s In the words of Brom Web site (www.bromwik Wikstrom: “I encourage you strom.com). ■ to do the best with your life

PAIN -

Cont. from p. 10

to relax more and not hurt myself. Now I do art when I can manage it physically. I like to listen to music and to sing. I’m still learning to be gentle with myself. When I can, I go to performances of art and music. I like calming things; noises that are raucously loud or abrasive can actually activate the nervous system, and make me hurt more. And one more good thing. Here in Minnesota, it’s really not always OK, from a cultural point of view, to have feelings. Yet, I have anger, fear and grief about this pain. Sometimes the anger itself can cause

me pain. I know when I’m angry. I know when I’m scared. I do best with people who know I am good, who know that I matter, who know that crying, laughing, or healthy anger make for less pain. And who allow me and support me doing this. I have sobbed myself to sleep with this pain, avoided hitting or yelling at others by beating out my pillows (my poor pillows). It’s hard—but important—to remember that sensitivity is a human quality, and emotions are a response to pain, joy, grief or happiness. And we are certainly human. Ouch. ■

December 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. The Art of Building: An Architectural History of the MIA Jan. 6 Mpls. Institute of Arts, 2400 Third Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: Sun., Jan. 6, 1:00 pm; Free tour begins at Info Desk in lobby, Tix/Phone: 612-8703131, TTY: 612-870-3132, Email: dhegstrom@artsmia. org, Web: www.artsmia.org Ave Q Jan. 1 - 13 State Theatre, 805 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: Sun., Jan. 6, 1:00 pm Tix: $27-67, AD: req in ad, Phone: 612-3735639 or 5609, Hotline: 612373-5650, TTY: 612-3735655, E-mail: accessible @orpheum.com, Web: www. hennepintheatredistrict.org/ guestservices/aslad/

Performing Arts at Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S. 4th St., Mpls. AD, ASL, Captioning: Sat., Dec. 15, 3:00, Tix: $16 (Disc to $10 for AD/ASL patrons), Phone: 612-338-6131, FMI: 612-339-5145, Web: www.interactcenter.com or www.mixedblood.com Black Nativity: Twenty Years of Holiday Cheer Nov. 29 - Dec. 30 Penumbra Theatre, Martin Luther King Ctr, 270 N. Kent St., St. Paul. AD: Sun., Dec. 23, 2:00 pm, Tix: Disc to $8$28 (reg. $15 student - $35), Phone: 651-224-3180 (specify ASL/AD), E-mail: boxoffice @penumbratheatre.org, Web: www.penumbratheatre.org A Christmas Carol Nov. 20 - Dec. 29 Guthrie Theater, Whitney Proscenium, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. ASL, AD: Tues., Dec. 11, 7:30 pm, Tix: Disc to $18; reg. $27-$57, Phone: 612377-2224, TTY: 612-3776626, Web: www.guthrie theater.org/visit/the_building /access_services

Babes in Toyland Nov. 30 - Dec. 18 Youth Performance Co. at Howard Conn Fine Arts Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave., Mpls. AD & ASL: Fri., Dec. 14, 7:30 pm, Tix: Disc to ½ price; reg. $10, student 14 & under or sr $8; adv reserv. req. for AD, Phone: 612-623-9080, Web: www.youthperformanceco.com A Christmas Carole Petersen Dec. 7 - 29 Between the Worlds Theater Latte Da at Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Nov. 24 - Dec. 21 Interact Center for Visual & McKnight Theatre, 345 Wash-

Dec. Sampling of Radio Talking Book • 4:00 a.m. Chautauqua– Adult education and culture for the whole community • 9:00 a.m. Past is Prologue– Readings of historical nonfiction • 11:00 a.m. Bookworm– Novels and nonfiction books for daytime reading. This month: The Good Husband of Zebra Drive, Fiction by Alexander McCall Smith, 2007. Precious Ramotswe has staffing problems at the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency. Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni asked to be put in charge of a case she thinks should be handled by a woman, and her assistant Mma Makutsi, has decided to leave the agency. Read by Marylen Burridge. 7 broadcasts. Begins December 24. • 2:00 p.m. Potpourri– A wide variety of books, both fiction and nonfiction, for afternoon reading • 4:00 p.m. Choice Reading– Critically acclaimed books on a wide variety of subjects • 5:00 p.m. Commentary– The latest issues of national news magazines • 6:00 p.m. Evening Newspapers– Live broadcast of NY Times • 7:55 p.m. Radio Talking Book schedule for the rest of the broadcast day • 8:00 p.m. PM Report– Books discussing critical, contemporary and controversial issues • 9:00 p.m. Night Journey– Books of intrigue and suspense • 10:00 p.m. Off the Shelf– Mostly best sellers This month: Breakpoint, Fiction by Richard A. Clarke, 2007. A network of technology binds together the world’s economies, governments, and communications in a global village. Now, a sophisticated band of unconventional terrorists seeks to disconnect the globe, destroying cable centers, computer grids, and communication satellites. L- Read by Ray Christensen. 9 broadcasts. Begins December 17. • 12:00 a.m. Good Night Owl– A wide-ranging assortment • 1:00 a.m. After Midnight– 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

ington, St. Paul. AD/ASL: Thurs., Dec. 13, 8:00 pm, Tix/ Phone: 651-224-4222, TTY: 651-282-3100, Web: www. ordway.org/services/access. asp or www.theaterlatteda.org Church Basement Ladies Through March 2 Plymouth Playhouse at the Best Western Kelly Inn, 2705 Annapolis Lane (I-494 & Hwy 55), Plymouth. ASL: Sat., Dec. 29, 8:00 pm, Tix: Disc to $30 (code ASL; reg. $34, sr, $32, student $17), Phone: 763-5581600 ext. 1, E-mail: bompp@ plymouthplayhouse.com, Web: www.plymouthplay house.com

$16-21 general admission, Phone: 612-721-2535, Email: info@hobt.org, Web: www.hobt.org Madeline’s Christmas Nov. 16 - Dec. 30 Stages Theatre Co. at Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. ASL: Sun., Dec. 16, 2:00 pm, Wed., Dec. 19, 10 am, Tix: $15, $11 child (age 2-17) & sr (age 60+) plus $1.50 service fee per tix for phone/web orders, Phone: 952-979-1111, Web: www. stagestheatre.org

The Meeting Jan. 21 - Feb. 9 History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., Frog & Toad St. Paul. AD & ASL: Mon., Nov. 13 - Jan. 5 Jan. 21, 7:30 pm, Tix: Disc to Children’s Theatre Co., Cargill $15, Phone: 651-292-4323, Stage, 2400 - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. www.historytheatre.com AD/ASL: Fri., Dec. 14, 7:30 pm; student matinees avail. upon My Three Angels req, Tix: Mention VSA offer Nov. 16 - Dec. 16 for $13 tix, Phone: 612-874- Theatre in the Round Players, 0400,www.childrenstheatre.org 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., Dec. 16, 2:00 pm Tix: $20, sr/student discount, The Holiday Pageant Phone: 612-333-3010, Web: Dec. 17 Open Eye Figure Theatre with www.theatreintheround.org Kevin Kling at Pantages Theater, 710 Hennepin Ave. S., The Nutcracker According to Mother Goose Mpls. ASL/AD: Mon., Dec. Dec. 15, 22 17, 7:30 pm pre-show music 7:00 pm, Tix: $7 disc (reg. $25, Zenon Dance Co. at Southern student $18) or ½ price child Theater, 1420 Washington 12 & under (reg. $10) or rear Ave. S., Mpls. AD/ASL: Sat., balcony (reg. $12, $8 child); www.ticketmaster.com (fees), State Theatre Box Office or (access tixs only) Phone: 612874-6338, E-mail: openeye@ bitstream.net, Web: www. opeeyetheatre. org Inspecting Carol Nov. 17 - Dec. 23 Commonwealth Theatre, 208 Pkwy Ave. N., Lanesboro. ASL: Sun., Dec. 16, 2:00 pm, Tix: ½ price (reg. $25. student $12), Phone: 507-467-2525, Toll Free: 800-657-7025, Email: tickets@common wealtheatre.org, Web: www. commonwealtheatre.org

La Natividad Dec. 14 - 22 In the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre at Avalon Theater, 1500 E. Lake St., Mpls. AD: Sun., Dec. 16, 6:30 pm, ASL: Call the theatre, Tix:

4th St., Mpls. AD, ASL and Captioning: Fri., Jan. 25, 7:30 pm, Tix: Access tix $12, Phone: 612-338-6131, E-mail: boxoffice@mixedblood.com Web: www.mixedblood.com

The Odd Couple Jan. 10 - 27 Tin Roof Theatre Co. at Main Ave Theatre, 716 Main Ave., Fargo, ND. AD: Sat., Jan. 12, 7:30 pm, Tix: Disc to $8 (reg. $15, student/sr $10), Phone: 701-306-5843, Web: www.tin rooftheatre.org

Sleeping Beauty Dec. 5 - 21 Lyric Arts Co of Anoka, Main St Stage, 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL: Sat., Dec. 8, 11:00 am; (req at least one week in adv), Tix: $10, $12 box seats; separate school performances, Phone: 763-4221838, Web: www.lyricarts.org

Of Mice & Men Nov. 29 - Dec. 16 Park Square Theatre, 408 Saint Peter St. (20 W. 7th Place), St. Paul. AD & ASL: Sat., Dec. 15, 7:30 pm, Tix: Disc to ½ price, Phone: 651-291-7005, www.parksquaretheatre.org Over the River & Through the Woods Jan. 11 - 27 Lyric Arts Co. at Lyric Arts Main St Stage, 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL: Sat., Jan. 12, 7:30 pm if a req is made at least one week in adv Tix: $14, $12 students/srs, $16 box seats, Phone: 763-422-1838 Web: www.lyricarts.org The Poetry of Pizza Jan. 18 - Feb. 10 Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S.

The Sound of Music Dec. 11 - 30 Ordway Ctr for Performing Arts Main Hall, 345 Washington, St. Paul. ASL: Wed., Dec. 19, 8:00 pm, AD: Sat., Dec. 22, 8:00 pm, Tix/Phone: 651224-4222, TTY: 651-2823100, Web: www.ordway.org/ services/access. asp Special Trade Nov. 6 - Jan. 6 Children’s Theatre Co., Cargill Stage, 2400 - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD & ASL: Thurs., Dec. 20, noon; Fri., Dec. 21, 7:00 pm; student matinee times available upon req, Tix: $12 ($8 child), Phone: 612-8740400, Web: www.child renstheatre.org. ■

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Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat thru March 15 Chan. Dinner Theatre, 501 W. 78th St., Chanhassen. ASL: Tues., 12/11, 8:00 pm curtain, dinner seating 6:00; Fri., 12/ 28, 1:00 pm curtain, lunch seating 11:00 am, Tix: 12/11: $49 dinner + show ($15 disc); 12/ 28: $40 lunch + show, Specify accom. needed, Phone: 952934-1525 or 800-362-3515, Email: information@chanhas sendt.com Web: www.chan hassentheatres.com/

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The Secret Fall of Constance Wilde McGuire Proscenium Stage

The Government Inspector Wurtele Thrust Stage

Friday, February 15, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, February 21, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 21, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 27, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, May 16, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, July 4, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, August 8, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, August 14, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.

AUDIO DESCRIBED: Saturday, February 2, 2008 at 1 p.m. Sensory Tour at 10:30 a.m.

Friday, February 8, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 8, 2008 at 1 p.m. Sensory Tour at 10:30 a.m.

Friday, March 14, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 3, 2008 at 1 p.m. Sensory Tour at 10:30 a.m.

Friday, May 9, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 1 p.m. Sensory Tour at 10:30 a.m.

Friday, June 27, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2008 at 1 p.m. Sensory Tour at 10:30 a.m.

Friday, August 1, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.

Add to your subscription these shows in the Dowling Studio: Blue Door, Warm Beer Cold Women, 9 Parts of Desire, Flying Foot Forum and After a Hundred Years. Tickets $18 Access programs at the Guthrie are sponsored by Xcel Energy Foundation with additional support by Allianz Life Insurance

UN -

December 10, 2007 Cont. from p. 1

lem with the individual person. This UN treaty has the potential to radically shift perception of disability from ‘something is wrong with the person’ to ‘something is wrong with society’ if all people are not allowed to fully enjoy the right to live, work, and participate in their communities.” She commented on the treaty’s mandate for governments to work to teach all people about issues facing people with disabilities, about harmful attitudes, and about what people with disabilities can do. This At ACT's December 2nd workshop, participants from many countries created this human public education mandate in rights tree. (Symbols: branch = right, leaf = government action, fruit = benefit) the treaty “will help set the ing connections between dis- watched a ceremony where based Shafalla Center in cel- foundation from which real ability rights and human rights Spain’s vice-president María ebration of the new manual social change can happen.” is what ACT is all about. I’m Teresa Fernández deposited and its potential to educate and not going to New York, but Spain’s ratification instrument inform people about the treaty. The trip made quite an impact I’m already making plans to in the UN treaty room. After- U.S. mission staffer Peggy on the travelers. “Hobnobbing take this on the road in the ward, as Koltes shook Kerry (sister of Senator John with all of these high level Midwest.” Fernández’s hand, she wiped Kerry) spoke on the U.S. posi- global leaders is a bit intimitears from her face, saying, tion on the treaty. The recep- dating,” said Carla Tice, “but Workshop participant Harvey “These are tears of joy and tion gave people the opportu- when I see how passionate Patch of New York State Self- happiness. Being here to wit- nity to network, share stories people are about disability Advocacy Association was ness Spain sign the treaty and and celebrate the 2007 his- rights, it really gives me enenthusiastic about the pilot. hear Spain’s vice president toric treaty. “Some people ergy to continue the work on a “This UN treaty is new and talk about protecting people’s were surprised that we still local level. Being part of the people don’t know about it rights is very emotional to me. have a lot of people in the UN happenings is very cool, yet. I think there is a huge This really means a lot to United States living in institu- but the reality is that the real power in the idea that we people with people with dis- tions” said Bechold. I told my difference we make is in our Americans are using the same abilities.” story and I learned about what own backyards.” Said Koltes, resource to understand the UN is happening in other coun- “It’s a great to feel part of a world-wide movement. One Convention as people will be After lunch in the UN staff tries.” thing I learned is that our counusing in Mexico, Qatar and cafeteria, the group sat in on a France. Just the idea of people program in observance of the Bechold’s life story includes try has not even signed the all over the world talking about 2007 International Day of Dis- being institutionalized at age treaty. I’m going to go back disability as a human rights abled Persons. The program three in North Dakota, and a and urge people to call the issue is very exciting to me.” took place in the same room in clear threat of reinstitution- president. The U.S should be a which the treaty was negoti- alization during the Red River leader in this treaty and I’m Thirty five disability rights ated. Bechold was impressed Flood of 1996. She knows how sad that they we are not. ” activists participated in the with language translation important it is to have the Human Rights. Yes! day-long methods at the UN. “You turn power of the law behind you pilot on December 2nd and a little dial, the language you when advocating for rights. joined Kennedy and others for speak, and everything the “There’s a lot of discrimination that goes on everywhere. a full day of United Nations speaker says is translated.” I like it that people are finally events on December 3rd. Later, sixty people attended a putting their heads together to by Clarence Schadegg To start the day, the group reception hosted by Qatar- figure out how to stop it.” She ext time you’re in New is optimistic that the new treaty York City and lookwill make a difference for Computerized Desktop Publishing: ing for a great accespeople with disabilities but Advertisements sible tour, check out the UN noted that “we are all going to Brochures (and NOT the Empire State have to work hard to make Catalogs Building). sure it happens.” Flyers

ACT’s participation at the UN level is yet another of a long list of accomplishments by this small, grassroots organization. “It’s pretty impressive,” said Kris Jacobs, Executive Director of Jobs Now Coalition. “We’ve always known that ACT was a strong local leader, and it’s fun to see them be players on the national and international scenes.” ACT was recently awarded the Working Class Hero’s award by the Jobs Now Coalition, and Jacobs said she is one of their biggest fans. “We are especially proud of ACT for

their tenacity in promoting disability as a human rights issue. They have helped me and countless others change our views about what disability means. When I heard that ACT was going to the UN, I thought ‘that’s just were they are supposed to be.’” ■ To order a copy of Human Rights. Yes!, the new UN training manual on disability rights, contact the University of Minnesota’s Human Rights Center: call 888-HREDUC8 or e-mail humanrts@umn. edu.

North Dakota activist Helen Bechold (center) and self-advocates from New York enjoying the scene outside of the United Nations in New York City.

Malasian Hospitality UN tour features superb access

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At the reception, Kennedy remarked on the values base from which human rights action must stem. “For thousands for years, disability has been viewed by societies as a prob-

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the United Nations, a globe partially covered with gold. For my wife and I, both of whom have a visual disability, to touch these statues at the UN was a real treat.

My wife and I got a one-onone tour of the United Nations last month. I expected a quick half hour tour, but it lasted an hour. Our tour guide, Jacky Tang from Malaysia, led us through all but one building of the UN complex.

Tang also made the rooms and architecture accessible. He showed us the security council chambers where representatives of the 192 countries that form the UN meet. The security council meetings are no longer open to the public during regular sessions. He walked down to the bottom of one extremely large Security Council chamber, and I assume he stood facing us with his back to the stage. It seemed like a long time before I heard him call back, can you hear me now? Clearly, he was a long way away. We were then allowed to walk down to where he stood as he continued to This year the UN passed the describe the layout of the treaty on rights for persons with disabilities. If my tour chamber. experience is any indication, With my dog guide at my side, they clearly intend to practice I listened as Tang carefully, what they preach. I wholeclearly and respectfully talked heartedly recommend taking me through the layout of the the UN tour next time you get a chance. The ESB, on the United Nations. other hand, has some more Perhaps the tour guide at the work to do. ■

Tang was an expert at the accessible tour. He encouraged me to touch the sculptures and mosaics that dotted the floors of the United Nation buildings. He took my hand and showed me where to feel the texture of a statue or set of tiles. One such object was a vertically standing mosaic made of small tiles that represented all the people of the world. Another figure, a statue, stood in a Catholic Church in Nagasaki, Japan. The statue was found face down 600 meters from ground zero. The back of the statue was burned and rough, the undamaged front was smooth. Tang guided my hand to feel the emblem of

Empire State Building (ESB), a tour we took the day before, could have taken a lesson from Tang. I was made to feel unwelcome at the ESB. No sooner had I walked my dog guide into the lobby than I heard the words, “No pets allowed. No dogs allowed.” Surely this wasn’t the first dog guide to walk onto the floor of the Empire State Building, I thought. I informed the guard that she was in violation of federal law, as my dog was not a pet but a dog guide. She asked somebody, who I assumed was her superior, if I’d be allowed in with the dog and he told her to let me pass. The rest of our extremely short ESB tour felt as if we were passed along by kind but firm voices on an assembly line, handed off from one hand to the next.

December 10, 2007

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PRESENT -

Cont. from p. 10

Today, her right hip is near 100 percent, while her left is about 70 percent. The surgeon said she would likely need hip-replacement surgery after 10 years, but thanks to my wife’s resiliency and the grace of God, that has not happened yet.

his cart could have a herniated disc, or might have had two heart attacks. And if someone parks in a disabled space, with a disabled tag hanging from the car’s mirror, but then walks to the store without the aid of crutches or a walker, think twice before you give the person the Due to the condition of her left evil eye and suspect fraud. hip, my wife often has pain and limps on the bad days. She That person could be fighting is not supposed to do too many stairs and is not supposed to walk too far (hence the disabled-parking tag). We have a dehumidifier that runs whenever we are home to keep the humidity out of the air to lessen pain in the hip joints.

Access To Employment Employment ads are $20-$22 per col. inch. December 30 is the deadline for the January 10 issue. Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 FAX 651-644-2136 • E-mail: access@accesspress.org Minnesota State Rehabilitation Council Members The Minnesota State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) assists the Department of Employment and Economic Development make decisions about Minnesota’s Vocational Rehabilitation program. Vocational Rehabilitation serves thousands of persons with severe disabilities throughout the state, helping them reach their vocational goals. This year, the Council is seeking applications representing: • business, labor or unions; • recipients of vocational rehabilitation services, • transition-aged youth; either a youth between the ages of 16 to 21, or their parent For more information, please call Gail Lundeen at 651-2597364 (TTY-651-296-3900).

SCHNEIDER DRUG

I remember being on jury duty for a medical-malpractice case. The woman who was suing had a rare disorder in which her brain sent signals to her body to feel extreme pain in random places. One of the doctors testifying said that pain is the hardest symptom to treat because only the patient knows what they are feeling. I guess it’s the same with other hidden disabilities. But would it be so hard for all of us to have just a little more trust, a little more empathy in our daily lives? The next seemingly healthy guy who asks you to lift a case of bottled water into

Community Work Incentive Coordinator Statewide nonprofit seeks affable, energetic individual to join team of Community Work Incentive Coordinators (CWIC). Unique full-time opportunity. Provide answers about the impact of work on public benefits, so that people with disabilities can see their choices & take advantage of life’s opportunities. The individual who is most successful as a CWIC believes in: putting people with disabilities more in charge of their lives; the power of work; learning and maintaining in-depth knowledge of public benefits; & being a tenacious advocate. Knowledge of gov’t benefits as well as VR essential. Strong verbal skills; persistence & patience; & team attitude necessary. 2 yrs exp. working with individuals with disabilities and B.A. or equiv. Must pass SSA security screening & training. $36-39K. Deadline 12-21. EOE/AA Send resume with cover letter: Barb Smith, Minnesota Work Incentives Connection 2200 University Avenue W. Suite 240, St. Paul, MN 55114 Disability Services - Testing Services Manager The University of Minnesota - Office for Disability Services is seeking a Testing Manager to supervise one full time staff, and provide training and daily direction to several part-time student access assistants who serve as testing center receptionists, proctors and provide additional accommodations to students. The manager ensures test security, adherence to academic integrity, and maintains regular communication with instructors, faculty and staff. The manager consults with DS student's services staff, recommends testing procedures to meet student and staff needs, and implements all administration, processing and reporting procedures. The Testing Services Manager provides outreach and information to students, faculty and community members and acts as a liaison to University departments. For more information about this position, log on to http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/employment/ and search for Req#151992.

pain each step of the way, or, like my wife, he or she could be doing all they can to avoid ending up in a wheelchair — a mirror image of the icon on the The University of Minnesota is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access disabled-parking sign. ■ to its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, Chuck Pizar (cpizar@gan national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, or nett.com) writes for Home sexual orientation. News Tribune Online. Reprinted with permission.

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

My wife is also supposed to avoid carrying too much weight. There have been times when she is running errands where store employees have been reluctant to help her lift things. Sometimes even saying she is disabled is not enough; she has to show her disabled card and, on rare occasions, if the employee is female, my wife has even revealed the surgical scars on her legs. Inevitably, after she finally gets the employee to believe her, the person says, “Oh, but you look so good. You don’t look disabled.”

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