March 2008 Edition - Access Press by Access Press

www.accesspress.org History Note

Inside

“The freethinking of one age is the common sense of the next.”

■ Allies on the right?—p.3 ■ Feigal on depression—p.5 ■ Theater review—p.12

— Matthew Arnold (1822 - 1888) Page 2 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 19, Number 3

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

March 10, 2008

Show and sell U of M art exhibit promotes artists with developmental disabilities by Bret Hesla, staff writer

ired of the drab walls at your place of employment? Turn it into an art gallery. That’s what folks did at the Institute on Community Integration at the University of Minnesota. They even went one step farther—they’re showing art created by people with developmental disabilities, the population they’re also working to empower in their academic pursuits. Nymeh, an artist from Partnership Resources, shows off some of his paintings. His work is part of a vibrant new exhibit in Pattee Hall on the U of M Minneapolis campus.

The four-month show at Pattee Hall was kicked off with a grand opening last month. Many of the artists were on hand to show—and talk about—their work. Considering the fabulous diversity of styles and powerful images, it quickly became clear to the visitor that these folks were not recipients of charity; the reality is just the opposite. They’re making the world a better, more beautiful place— In this spring’s exhibit, the fea- and making money at the same tured artists are all from Part- time. nership Resources, Inc. (PRI).

Each of the artists featured receives art instruction and studio space at one of PRI’s facilities around the metro area. But this art is not about therapy or staying occupied. It’s serious art—and serious business. As one artist, Kirk, puts it, “I don’t get paid to do the art work, but I get paid to sell the paintings.”

Artists not only sell their original work, but also get royalties from sales of prints and greeting cards. In fact, plans are already in the works for expanding to new markets, according to CEO Norm Munk. “We have cards in many retail stores. Corporate customers are also a big piece of it; lots of our business is holiday cards for corporations.”

This is art that gets out in the immediate community: coffee As our tour guide led us shops, medical facilities, U of throughout the hallways, artM buildings, and online. ists stood by their work, ready Show/sell - cont. on p. 8

Redefining American Checks coming, but... Are you eligible for the concepts of beauty ‘economic stimulus’ payment? Local writer Tiffiny Carlson on looks, love and dating by Sherry Gray

iffiny Carlson represents an old Minnesota stereotype: blond, tall, and athletic. She has all the beauty components to attract interest from modeling agencies and TV producers, except one: she uses a wheelchair. Because of that, she represents another stereotype: woman with a disability. But Carlson is out to change stereotypes about Minnesotans, standards of beauty, and people with disabilities. She has emerged as a fresh voice for a new generation of Americans who are determined to confront mainstream society’s outmoded images of persons with disabilities and assert a more nuanced and complex view. I met Carlson at a Minneapolis coffee shop on a cold, sunny afternoon in early February. My first impression was a blur of yellow—a bright sweater and shining hair moving fast to the ramp entrance of the

coffee shop. Up close she radiated energy and passion, with the energy of a prolific writer who told me she had, “hundreds of ideas for things to write about,” and the passion of a woman out to change the world. “People with disabiliTiffiny Carlson ties are the last minority; we have a long way to go to being Augsburg College. There she treated equally.” started writing online about her disability, and her work Carlson, 28, is a successful attracted attention from Half freelance writer living in Min- theplanet.com, which asked neapolis, known around the her to write for their Web site. world for her writing on a va- Before she graduated from riety of topics, including ar- Augsburg in 2001, her career ticles for children, a blog on as a freelance writer had albeauty tips, a column about ready begun. Since then she dating, essays about consumer has supported herself with her products and travel accessi- writing, contributing articles bility, and profiles of individu- and columns to New Mobility als living with spinal cord in- and Kids on Wheels magajuries. zines, for the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, and Carlson herself lives with spi- to many internet sites, includnal cord injury (SCI), the re- ing Lovebyrd.com, Access sult of a diving accident in Life.com, Ican.com, Dis 1993. She graduated from abled.gr and Disaboom.com. White Bear Lake High School in 1997 and went on to major BeautyAbility.com is Carlin communication studies at Beauty - cont. on p. 9

by the Work Incentives Connection

n a few weeks, Congress will be sending people money as a way to help jump start the dead economy. But will you be getting a check?

ayment Stimulus P

Approximately 130 million individuals will be receiving a federal economic stimulus payment, starting in May. There is a lot of conflicting information about who is eligible for these payments, which will range from $300 to $1,200 (or more for those with children). The IRS recently clarified that people receiving Social Security Retirement and Disability Insurance benefits, as well as people receiving some forms of veteran’s assistance, may be eligible for a stimulus payment.

from the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2007 can also be considered qualifying income. Note, however, that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) does not qualify as income for this payment.

Even individuals who have no tax liability may qualify for a $300 rebate if their tax return shows $3,000 or more in qualifying income. This income can include wages, self-employment income, and/or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Veteran’s disability compensation, pensions or survivor’s benefits received

To receive the stimulus payment, you must file a 2007 tax return, even if you would not otherwise need to file one. The IRS has posted more information on their Web site. Go to www.irs.gov and click on “Rebate Questions.” The IRS Web site also has a sample version Receiving an economic stimuof IRS Form 1040A, showing lus payment will not trigger a the specific section of the form Stimulus - cont. on p. 2

you need to fill out to qualify for the stimulus payment. Your 2007 benefits can be reported on Line 14a of Form 1040A or line 20a of Form 1040. People who would not otherwise be required to file should write the words “Stimulus Payment” at the top of their tax form. Filers in this group must file a paper copy of Form 1040 or Form 1040A. The IRS will not accept these forms electronically.

March 10, 2008

he winter has seemed like a hard one, so hard that I looked it up. We had 18 inches of snow during the month of December alone! January and February had some warm days, or at least above freezing, but we had over 18 days of below freezing, some of them making it tough for even the hardiest Minnesotan. What makes hardy Minnesotans is the cold. The only time from 1891 to 2001 that the Twin Cities did not have a below-zero temperature in January was in 1990. But I’ll stop complaining soon. Now, finally, we are really beginning to feel the end of the winter’s cold.

Tim Benjamin, Editor

Alice Oden, webmaster for Access Press, graduated earlier this winter with honors in the Masters Degree program in technical communications at Metropolitan State University. “[Alice] has always shown

academic excellence, intellectual curiosity and superior research and writing skills,” said one professor. “But more than that, she has been our teacher by demonstrating that all perspectives are important.” Oden pursued this degree because she finds the profession “disability-friendly,” as it allows persons with limited physical abilities to freelance from outside locations. Congratulations, Alice! I’m very proud to be your colleague. But more than that, I’m proud to call you my friend. I’m sure that everyone who sees your work, never knowing who this “wemaster” is, congratulates you as well and thanks you for your dedication and hard work. Many district caucuses will have happened by the time you read this. As many of you may know, Paul Wellstone’s Senate seat will be contested again this election. It’s hard to be-

lieve that Senator Norm Coleman has been in the U.S. Senate for only one full term and that Paul Wellstone has been gone since that tragic day in October 2002. When his plane crashed , so many of us lost a person we knew not just as a senator, but as our friend. Some polls say that 50 percent of Democrats consider Coleman a little iffy when it comes to their vote. Wellstone served two terms, twice as long as Coleman. Has Coleman been a good replacement for our incredibly missed Paul Wellstone? In 2006, after hurricane Katrina and a failed Supreme Court nomination, Coleman stood up against the present administration, standing strong in his conviction that the current administration had a “tin ear” and they needed to reorganize. I have my own opinion, obviously, but of the other

three candidates, which would best pursue Wellstone’s legacy? As you make your own decision about which senate candidate to support, recognize that whoever does get the nod to run against Coleman will definitely be the underdog, because Coleman has raised twice as much money as the leading Democratic candidate. The cost of getting elected is another conversation entirely, but it goes without saying that the best candidate doesn’t always have the most money.

before all the candidates will recognize the size of the disability community and its voting power. Did you know that there are approximately 325,000 potential voters with disabilities in Minnesota? That’s huge! So tell your candidates what you want and then go out yourself and vote. No excuses! It’s easy to learn about the candidates and their positions, even from their flyers arriving in your mailbox. On the flyer is usually a phone number to call. If the person who answers the phone is unable to answer your questions or concerns adequately, ask the volunteer to have the candidate call you directly. You’d be surprised how many of them will make the call for just one potential vote.

I’d like to congratulate Jack Nelson-Pallmeyer for being interested enough in disability rights to come and spend an afternoon with a few of the leaders in the disability community. He came by just to listen to the concerns and the And of course that one vote— fears regarding some of the yours—is the most important upcoming federal legislation. one. ■ I wonder how long it will be

History Note

Letters requested

The Welsch Case, 1972 Law enforcement’s testimony spelled understanding of disability Expert doom for MN institutions

hat are your thoughts regarding the recent treatment of a Florida man with quadriplegia who was dumped out of his wheelchair by a cop? What about the incident last fall when a St. Paul police officer assaulted Goug Bahl, who is deaf?

STIMULUS -

Do you think law enforcement personnel sufficiently understand disability issues? What do you believe could be done to help them understand disability issues to prevent further incidents? What policies and procedures could be developed to protect individuals with disabilities, law enforce-

ment personnel, and the general public during traffic stops, suspect searches, arrests, and detentions? Please send your responses to Access Press (access @accesspress.org) and we’ll print them. Thanks. ■

Cont. from p. 1

tax bill. It will not cause you to owe taxes next year and will not impact benefits you receive from the federal government. Since state benefit programs usually follow federal guidelines in one-time situations, we do not expect these payments to impact state benefits, either. We are continu-

ing to seek confirmation from For the dates, times and locations of free tax-assistance, call state government officials. 651-297-3724 or 1-800-657From February 5th through 3989. Free tax-help can be April 15th, scores of volunteers found at: www.accountability throughout the state are avail- mn.org or www.taxes.state. able to help people with low mnus/vita/free_tax_prep.shtml. incomes fill out their tax forms. ■ These volunteers can help you apply for the stimulus rebate.

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

by Luther Granquist

hirty-five years ago this week three national experts on habilitation of persons with mental retardation reviewed conditions at Cambridge State Hospital. Gunnar Dybwad, James Clements, and David Rosen described what they saw to Federal Judge Earl R. Larson in September 1973 in the Welsch case, a class action on behalf of persons with mental retardation in Minnesota’s state hospitals. They convinced him that all persons, regardless of the severity of their disability, could grow and develop if provided needed training in an appropriate environment. Judge Larson or-

dered changes to improve conditions. Later orders in that case contributed to the closing of all the state institutions in Minnesota for persons with developmental disabilities. Gunnar Dybwad, an early leader of the National Association for Retarded Children (now the Arc), had seen institutions around the world. In Welsch and other similar cases, he taught judges the history of confining persons with mental retardation in institutions and emphasized the potential these persons had. Jim Clements, a medical doctor from Georgia, taught lawyers around the country how to try these insti-

Gunnar Dybwad tution cases. Dave Rosen, who helped develop community alternatives in Michigan for persons with mental retardation, provided down to earth direction on how to change a system. The legacy of their visit to Cambridge can be seen today—empty spaces where “cottages” once housed 1955 people. ■

The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mnddc.org or www.mncdd.org and www.partner sinpolicymaking.com.

March 10, 2008

Commentary

Being dumped in Florida Across the aisle Thoughts on police officer’s horrific act toward man with quadriplegia

Respect for life is also a disability issue

by Ben Waggoner

t’s pretty clear that in many disability organizations the D-word is thumbs up and the R-word is the opposite. In other words, the Democratic Party is held up with esteem and the Republican Party receives little in the way of respect, contributions or the hope for effective governance.

ost Americans expect our police to represent all that is finest and best about our nation. We assume they will protect us when we cannot protect ourselves. This is why many of us found ourselves horrified and outraged when we were confronted by the video of Hillsborough County (Florida) Deputy Charlette MarshallJones dumping Brian Sterner from his wheelchair. We want to believe that we are good— both individually and as a nation. We want to believe that our neighbors are good. We teach children to view police officers as people that they can approach and trust. We hope against hope for the day when, at least within our borders if nowhere else, brutality will be supplanted by compassion. For those unfamiliar with the January 29th incident, Brian Sterner, a quadriplegic man, was arrested on a traffic violation warrant. Video from the jail shows Mr. Sterner being wheeled into the booking area. There is no sound, but apparently at the deputy’s request, Mr. Sterner removed his shoes. In a later interview, Mr. Sterner stated that Ms. Marshall-Jones then instructed him to stand, to make it easier for her to search him. He explained that he could not stand and told her several

higher standard than the street punk who has never earned nor sought our trust. They should be exemplary among all the other “good” people of our great nation. Instead, they have sullied us. All the individuals who were within earshot of this occurrence not only violated Brian Sterner’s rights, they also violated the trust that we placed in them–all of us who believe that the reason This sort of incident is incred- that we have police at all is to ibly frightening. If Brian protect us from brutality like Sterner had been attacked and this. dumped from his wheelchair in a park, a mall, or on a neigh- In Florida we have a death borhood street, he could have penalty. Those who take a life cried for help and dozens of can expect to pay with their people would have responded own. These officers did not immediately. They would have cause this man’s paralysis, but restrained his attackers, helped they did break two of his ribs. him back into his chair, gath- Whatever other punishment ered his belongings that were they have earned, they should strewn about, and called the feel fortunate that Florida law police. But he was in a police does not allow us to break their station. Who can you call when ribs in repayment for their bruthis happens in a police sta- tality. But they certainly detion? The video shows mul- serve it, along with enough tiple officers, some of them years of confinement to a supervisors, either observing wheelchair that they will gain the event and doing nothing to a full understanding of the prevent it, or stepping around importance we must give to Mr. Sterner as he lay on the protecting those among us who cannot protect themselves. Our floor. greatness depends on it. ■ The attackers–and those who did nothing to prevent the at- Editor’s note: Ben Waggoner, tack–were not criminals or born in central Texas, was dithugs who might be expected agnosed with MS seven days to do such a thing, but officers before his 25th birthday over who have sworn to uphold the 21 years ago. He now resides law, to protect and to serve. As in Florida, where he was able such, they should be held to a to continue working as an IT manager of a small manufacturing firm until mid-2005. Waggoner’s interests are reading, writing, surfing (web), and photography – all of them “amateur.” To hear Waggoner’s eloquent speech on the Brian Sterner incident, visit www.youtube.com/ watch?v=VSIw7gM4sIY. times that he is quadriplegic. The video shows her stepping behind the wheel chair, grasping the handles, and dumping him like dirt from a wheelbarrow. Mr. Sterner hit the concrete floor face-first. He has no sensation from the chest down, so it was not until afterward that he discovered that two of his ribs were broken in the fall.

by Alice Oden

After reading the articles, “Down syndrome organization has concerns about new parental testing policy” and “Bagh-dad atrocities on people with disabilities condemned,” along with other political commentary in the February edition of Access Press, it seems to be an appropriate time for people with disabilities and their advocates to consider what exactly the GOP is fighting for in this year’s political standoff. One of the issues the GOP fights for is RESPECT for LIFE from conception to natural death. That is, most in the party seek to let pre-born

people live and protect vul- were aborted. With that one nerable, born people from simple appalling statistic, we begin see the plight of fetuses euthanized death. with Down syndrome and other It’s often thought that the pre-born human beings that Democratic Party values life don’t quite meet many in our by promoting government- society’s perception of a life funded programs for people worth living. who are disabled. That’s why so many disability organiza- Like so many people with distions support Democratic can- abilities throughout history, didates. The problem with this fetuses identified as being deargument is: you must first be fective through prenatal testBORN to get their support, ing are targets for exterminaand many Democrats support tion. That’s nothing new. In a women’s right to choose, ancient Greek and Roman sowhich opens up the option of cieties, babies were birthed, but then those with disabilities abortion. were abandoned and left to die. Across the aisle, isn’t the Republican Party the party that As far back as Plato and will truly support the National Aristotle, discourse about huDown Syndrome Congress’ mans with deformities had alposition that “individuals with ready begun. Aristotle, 380Down syndrome have innate 327 B.C., contemplated the worth and should be treated concept of a perfect body and with dignity and respect”? Yes, an imperfect one. He described the imperfect body as being it is. deformed, mutilated, monThe sorry fact is that by 2006, strous, and deviant; in modern 80% of babies diagnosed in terms, disabled. utero with Down syndrome Respect - cont. on p. 11

Abortion call decried Below is the National Down Syndrome Congress’ response to comments made by Professor Albert Harris, as reported by several media outlets.

ccording to a Raleigh News and Observer report, biology professor Albert Harris of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, has stated, “In my opinion, the moral thing for older mothers to do is to have amniocentesis, as soon during pregnancy as is safe for the fetus, test whether placental cells have a third chromosome #21, and abort the fetus if it does.” While Professor Harris qualified his statement as his “opinion,” the National Down Syn-

for it to be, in fact, ruinous by any definition. The contrary is more often the case. Far from ruining lives, our families consistently report that their sons, daughters or siblings with Down syndrome enhance their Reports suggest that Harris did lives and bring them great joy. so to spark discussion and debate. The NDSC would wel- We question how any of that come that; however, we find can be termed “ruinous.” Harris adds nothing to a debate which has been ongoing We therefore ask Professor for sometime. He cites the fact Harris to retract his statement. that his opinion is based on the In doing so, we also request that experience of one acquain- the professor make an appropritance whose life was, accord- ate apology to his students, exing to him, “ruined” by a child plain clearly that his statement with Down syndrome. was a personal opinion and has no scientific basis and make Down syndrome impacts every effort to convey to them people across an extremely current, accurate facts regardwide range; however, it is rare ing Down syndrome. ■ drome Congress (NDSC) finds the professor has violated basic academic standards by expressing an opinion based on personal, anecdotal experience in a classroom setting.

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March 10, 2008

This Month’s Issue Sponsor

UCare UCare Connect serves people with disabilities

dults in Greater Minnesota who have physical or developmental disabilities, and/or mental illness, now have a health plan designed just for them: UCare Connect. UCare Connect is a new, Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plan that debuted January 1, 2008. UCare created it with input from UCare’s Disability Advisory Committee members, disability community advocates and health care providers, among others. UCare also drew on experience gained through its two Minnesota Disability Health Options (MnDHO) plans for people with disabilities: UCare Complete for people with physical disabilities, and Partners Choice Network for adults with developmental disabilities. “UCare Connect offers choices to a population that

has not had the opportunity to choose many aspects of their health care,” said UCare’s Archie Eliason, who enrolls and guides new members through this voluntary plan and the two MnDHO offerings. “With UCare Connect, we are extending our expertise and coverage to people who have historically gone without timely medical care that addresses all their health needs. “This plan places members at the center of their care,” Eliason continued. “It treats every member as a whole person. Its coordinated care approach helps adults with physical, developmental, and/or mental health disabilities take control of their health and improve their quality of life. Because it connects community resources with health care providers, members will get needed care and support.”

As a nonprofit, independent health plan, UCare is committed to developing innovative ways to help underserved populations receive quality health care. UCare Connect follows that edict – and Eliason said several principles guided its development. “UCare Connect is a very intentional plan,” he explained. “We believe people with disabilities should have access to the same medical and dental treatments as people without disabilities. So we developed the plan to promote, nurture, and honor relationships that support members’ health.” The plan strives to involve members in decisions about their own care. It offers care coordination, member involvement in health decisions, and clear information to ensure that members can evaluate services. “It also offers tremendous flexibility, values

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culturally relevant communi- which can be held aboard cation, and provides appropri- UCare Tooth Care, UCare’s ate health and safety protec- mobile dental unit, when it’s tions for members,” Eliason nearby. • Focused health services to said. address prevention, disease Members of this plan enjoy: management and chronic care • Dedicated providers who needs understand and know how to • No co-pays for office visits treat unique needs. Members • Prescription drug covercan receive care from the age. Members with Medicare same comprehensive, state- receive Medicare prescripwide network of physicians, tion drug coverage (known clinics, care systems and spe- as Medicare Part D). Memcialists that serves UCare’s bers without Medicare also UCare for Seniors Medicare receive prescription drug covAdvantage plan. erage through UCare Con• Round-the-clock access to nect. Health Connection nurses • Coordinated care that helps • Dental care. Members can members stay connected with take advantage of UCare’s community resources and unique See-A-Dentist Guar- health care providers who antee to schedule appoint- help them get needed care ments. They receive a rou- and support. tine dental appointment within 30 days, or UCare UCare Connect is available to sends them a dental care kit at Minnesotans who have a certino cost. And UCare contin- fied disability or developmenues to work with members to tal disability; are eligible for schedule their dental session, Medical Assistance without

Medicare, or with both Medicare Parts A and B; and are at least 18 years old and under age 65. These individuals also must reside in the 34county UCare Connect service area in Greater Minnesota.* ■ For more info, visit www. ucare.org/visitorshealth plans/ucareconnect.html. Archie Eliason can be reached at aeliason@ucare.org or by calling 612-676-3542. *Counties in the UCare service area: Benton, Blue Earth, Carlton, Chippewa, Chisago, Cottonwood, Faribault, Fillmore, Houston, Isanti, Jackson, Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle, Le Sueur, Lincoln, Lyon, Martin, Mille Lacs, Mower, Murray, Nicollet, Nobles, Olmsted, Pine, Redwood, Rice, Rock, Sherburne, Stearns, St. Louis, Watonwan, Winona, Wright, or Yellow Medicine counties.

10 things to keep in mind Healthy intimate relationships for people with developmental disabilities by John Agosta 1. Just like everyone else, 6. It is too often assumed that people with developmenpeople with developmental disabilities are sexual tal disabilities cannot parbeings ent well, due to their disability. Some have trouble 2. Not all people with or withparenting, even with supout developmental disabiliport. Others make excelties express themselves lent parents. sexually. Some do. Some do not. 7. The service system has ways of denying people 3. Sometimes simply having with disabilities their sexu“someone special” in one’s ality. Many service providlife is enough. Relationers unnecessarily impose ships may or may not be rules on people to curb their sexual in nature. sexuality or reduce opportunity for them to develop 4. It is not all about being meaningful, even intimate, sexual with others. People romantic relationships. with and without developmental disabilities some- 8. People with developmental disabilities are vulnertimes seek to explore their able to sexual abuse and own bodies. too often fall victim to such abuse. Sometimes people 5. When it comes to romance, do not report abuse because people with and without they are afraid that the developmental disabilities privileges they have will are capable of making good be taken away “for their or poor choices. own safety.”

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9. People with developmental disabilities can be sexually abusive of themselves or others. Some may act inappropriately simply because they do not know how to act. 10.Parents, staff, and other disability advocates often feel awkward talking about sex and intimacy. So they often shy away from providing the mentoring and supports people with developmental disabilities need to grow into strong men and women capable of having healthy intimate relationships. ■ John M. Agosta, Ph. D. is a vice president at the Human Services Research Institute (www.hsri.org). He helped found The Riot!, a national enewsletter for self-advocates (www.theriotrocks.org), and is involved with several projects to explore application issues related to self-directed supports. [Reprinted with permission from Oregon Perspectives, Winter 2008, Issue 3]

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March 10, 2008

Open letter to a friend with depression by Pete Feigal

Dear Friend, I got a message that you were struggling and I wanted to let you know that I’m holding you in my thoughts and prayers. Like so many others, I have also struggled with terrible depression. And I’m still here to tell the tale! Not only have I survived, but my depression has turned out to be, strange as it sounds, one of the best things that has ever happened to me. Sounds crazy, but I’ll try to explain. I got hit as a young teenager, back in ’71, and almost overnight my grades went from A’s to F’s, I stopped going to football practice, I broke up with my girlfriend, I couldn’t sleep, night after night, couldn’t eat, the food tasted like ash and iron in my mouth. I couldn’t concentrate, couldn’t retain any info from my textbooks. Didn’t want to see my friends, felt like I was jumping out of my skin, felt guilty, useless, worthless, felt like getting in a fight but wasn’t angry, a constant lump in my throat, ache in my chest, pain in my stomach. I ended up not even being able to go to school. I believed that I didn’t belong anywhere. Not with my friends or teammates, not with my girlfriend or family, not even at church or with God. I cried what millions of people with these illnesses cry: “My God! My God! Why have you forsaken me?” It was the start of a ten-year chronic battle with

depression. I wasn’t able to finish high school, missed juvenile detention by a fraction, ended up being hospitalized numerous times, day treatment centers, halfway houses. I even went about a year living out of a knapsack. I couldn’t tell day from night, or winter from summer. I physically hurt so bad I couldn’t hear music. I think we hear music with our hearts not our ears. You can crank a stereo up so loud that your eardrums bleed, but if your heart is in that much pain you can’t hear anything but some meaningless sounds. I couldn’t see color. You see color with your heart not your eyes. I couldn’t hold a job, couldn’t make a friend, couldn’t date a girl, couldn’t feel the presence of a higher power in my life, and even if I did I wouldn’t have felt worthy of it. When you truly believe that you don’t belong with your family, friends, even God, no one can stand that kind of loneliness. It’s no wonder to me why kids turn to gangs, or booze or drugs or sex or anything to distract them from their pain. When you feel you don’t belong, you will grab ANYTHING that’s offered, even if it makes you more lost. The question that defined my life was “why?” Why did this happen? Why me? I wanted somebody to blame, somebody to strike at in retribution. But I couldn’t find anyone to blame so I blamed myself, and saw myself as a broken, loser kid.

And with this pain and loneliness comes fear. I think that if grief is the response to pain in the past, then maybe fear is the response to pain in the future. With depression you don’t want to be awake, you don’t want to be in the present. Your ‘now’ is so full of pain and loneliness and feelings of worthlessness that it feels like death. You don’t want to be in “the now.” You want to be in the past or the future, or in a fantasy world. You want to be zapped out on drugs or booze or sex or anything to distract you from the pain you feel. But all we have is “the now.” We don’t have next week or next year or even two minutes from now. I was actually doing pretty well with “the now,” even with my depression, but I didn’t stay there. I was always looking to the future, to when the bell rang and I had to walk in the hall with the rest of the kids, or eat alone in the lunchroom. I thought, “Man, if this is what I have now, I won’t be able to handle what I’ll be given in the future when I’m a grownup, because that’s surely going to be worse.” So what I did was I consciously, on purpose, hardened my heart and soul so that I was as hard as a rock. Peter the Rock. And you didn’t look at me sideways. But it wasn’t because I was tough; those kids aren’t tough, they’re hurt. Their tender hearts have been slashed so many times they pull back inside themselves; they build a fortress to protect their injured hearts. The problem is that if you stay in that fortress

too long, it starts to turn into a prison that’s hard to get out of. And that’s what happened to me. And I spent many years in that damned dirty prison. What turned things around for me was a combination of many things. I had been feeling physically poorly for some time, and good ‘ol German/ Norwegian/Lutheran that I am, I said, “I’m not gonna see the doctor until I’m bleeding from

“I needed to focus my life not on my illnesses, but on what I loved. That’s how I got my sense of dignity back, where I stopped feeling that I was broken, toxic, damaged goods.” an artery!” Then came the day when I thought I had the flu and told my family I was going to lie down for a while. It wasn’t the flu; it was multiple sclerosis. I was on the couch or in bed for the next 18 months. I went to the doctor and asked him the question that was my life: why? I’ve been battling depression for years, so why did I get MS too? I didn’t feel like I needed another character builder. And the doctor answered my question: he said I didn’t do anything wrong. I just got MS. And that simple but profound answer turned my life around. If I didn’t do anything wrong to get the MS, and with what I was hearing every night on the TV that mental illnesses like depression are really biochemical, hereditary diseases, then

News and comment

Nelson-Pallmeyer seeks disability input DFL candidate for US Senate hosts listening session roundtable

Jack Nelson-Pallmeyer

by the Access Press staff

s delegates prepare to gather at Senate district conventions, at least one candidate is making disability issues a priority. Jack Nelson-Pallmeyer, DFL candidate for US Senate, reached out to the local disability community last month by requesting and attending a listening session on disability issues. The meeting was a chance for community members to inform Nelson-Pallmeyer on difficulties they face in their lives and work, and how federal policy affects them, for good or ill.

the University of St. Thomas. “I’m here to learn how, as a U.S. Senator, I can work to make policies that make your lives better.” In true student fashion, Nelson-Pallmeyer took several pages of notes as those gathered took turns telling him how their lives, or lives of people they work with, are constrained by health-care red tape, low-payed and under-trained for PCAs, poorly funded special education, income limits to qualify for federal programs, and a host of other issues. “The cost of providing health insurance for our “You are my teachers,” said employees is out of control, Nelson-Pallmeyer, a professor said one leader of a small nonof peace and justice studies at profit.” Said one parent of two

children with disabilities, “I have to keep taking pay cuts to stay eligible for Minnesota Care.” Nelson-Pallmeyer is locked in a tight race for the DFL endorsement, along with Mike Ciresi and Al Franken. In the next six weeks, delegates to the party’s senate district conventions will be meeting to evaluate the three candidates and caucus for one of the three. Having a candidate who reaches out to the disability community is a good sign that “our” issues are being taken seriously. Hats off to NelsonPallmeyer. ■

maybe that poor teenager didn’t do anything wrong either. He just simply got the disease of depression. I started to forgive myself for having it, and in that doctor’s office, getting the diagnosis of MS was one of the best days of my life. Because that was the day that my heart started to soften, and break open and begin to heal and forgive. I worked with a psychiatrist to find the right medication for me, something that actually took quite a while because of my terrible sensitivity to drugs. But we did find it, and it made a huge difference. I started doing cognitive therapy to learn how to use those terrible times as a stepping stone of knowledge, wisdom and experience. I started to see myself not as a helpless victim but as a soldier, actively working for my recovery. I began to see that the work with the doctors was only one piece of the puzzle. Human dignity, I believe, is based on there being some significance for our lives. You can have all the doctors, pills and therapy groups in the world but if you don’t have a reason to get up in the morning, you won’t. I didn’t. I

needed to focus my life not on my illnesses, but on what I loved. That’s how I got my sense of dignity back, where I stopped feeling that I was broken, toxic, damaged goods. I lost my shame of having the illness, and started to understand that simply living through it was a tremendous thing. I found I had insights into depression that the doctors don’t have, a ‘street credibility’ that could potentially help others. I learned that if you can come through these illnesses without your heart being hardened like mine was, you’ve got a map through Hell that you can’t learn in any medical textbook, a map that may help others through their Hell. Who better than me to help others with this illness? Who better than my family, who also suffered, to comfort other suffering families? I found that my creativity was enhanced and my writing and drawing were tools to help express and speak about something so terrible it often doesn’t have words. I discovered my spirituality was enhanced. There are many things in my control as I fight these illnesses, but there are also many things Open Letter - cont. on p. 15

March 10, 2008

Upcoming events To list an event, e-mail access@accesspress.org Waivers explained March 14 The elderly and people who are disabled may be eligible for waiver programs, which fund community-based services for people who would otherwise receive care in hospitals or nursing facilities. Four waiver programs will be explained at a free event hosted by Hennepin County called “Long-Term Care Waiver Overview.” Details: 10:30 a.m.—12:30 p.m., Linden Hills Library, 2900 W. 43rd Street, Minneapolis. To register: www.co.hennepin.mn.us/ forms/cfasd/DDcontact.htm or 612-596-6631. Guardianship info March 14 When disabled children become adults, their parents or legal representatives may want to consider filing a petition for guardianship or limited guardianship. Guardianship is a legal process used when a per-

son can not make or communicate safe or sound decisions about his or her person or property. Details: Free. 1—3 p.m., Linden Hills Library, 2900 W. 43rd St, Minneapolis. To register: www.co.hennepin.mn.us/ forms/cfasd/DDcontact.htm or 612-596-6631. Game day March 24 Be social, have fun, meet new people. Host MCIL provides games such as Cribbage, Trivial Pursuit, Uno, social skills games and more. Bring your favorites! Details: Last Monday of the month, 1 to 3 p.m. at MCIL, 1600 University Ave W, Suite 16, St. Paul. FFI: Julie at 651.603.2002 or juliew@mcil-mn.org.

from her book Swallow the Ocean, a true story of what it’s like to experience a parent’s schizophrenia through the lens of a child who has no language for mental illness. Panel discussion to follow. Details: 5:30 p.m., Sheraton Four Points, 1330 Industrial Blvd., Minneapolis. Registration required: 651-645-2948 or 1-888NAMI-HELPS.

Disability Day at the Capitol March 12 People with disabilities, their families, advocates, and allies will gather in St Paul to learn about policies and legislation affecting them in 2008 and to meet with their state legislators. Presentations in the morning; legislative visits in the afternoon. Attendees pay a fee for lunch and event expenses. “Growing Up in a Home Details: 9:00 a.m.—3:30 p.m., with Mental Illness” March 26 MN History Center, 345 W. NAMI-MN will hold an edu- Kellogg Blvd, St. Paul. FFI: cational program featuring Mike Gude, 800-582-5256113 author Laura Flynn reading or mikeg@arcmn.org.

Estate planning workshop March 15 Come learn the basics of estate planning and its advantages for people with MS. Topics will include: powers of attorney, health care directives, wills, special needs/pooled trusts. Featured speakers Frances Long & Laurie Hanson of Long, Reher & Hanson, P.A. Details: 9:30 a.m.—2:30 p.m., Four Points by Sheraton, 1330 Industrial Blvd, Minneapolis. FFI: Steve Korngable, 612-335-7900, 800-582-5296 or skorngable @mssociety.org. Home & Garden Show March 29 The 17th Annual Greater Midway Home & Garden Show features workshops on ecofriendly gardens, reducing your carbon footprint, container gardening, and more. Exhibits on local home improvement, garden/landscaping experts, senior resources, and “green” re-modeling. Free children’s bird feeder building project. Sponsored by Sparc, a nonprofit community development corporation. Details: Crossroads Elementary, 543 Front Ave. (Front & Dale), St. Paul. Workshops: 9 a.m.—2:30 p.m., Exhibit Hall: 10 a.m.—3 p.m. Free. FFI: 651-488-1039. “Living Creatively” art show Through March 30 Art St. Croix announces the third annual “Living Creatively” show, featuring creative work by visual artists, writers, music composers and performers. Open Wednesday through Sunday— fully wheelchair-accessible. Details: Free. Lake Elmo Regional Art Cen-

ter, 3585 Laverne Ave. N., Lake Elmo, MN. FFI: Judy, 651-251-5109 or ArtStCroix @usfamily.net.

trainer for 25 minutes. Each person is encouraged to raise a minimum of $100. In addition, people who use wheelchairs or adapted bikes are encouraged to ride around a track created for them. Each rider receives a t-shirt. Details: 9:00 a.m.—3:00 p.m., Saint Paul RiverCentre, 175 West Kellogg Blvd., Saint Paul. FFI: Jo Ann Erbes, 651646-7588 or ucpmn@cp internet.com.

Miracle League registration Through April 1 The Miracle League of Blaine, Minnesota provides opportunities for children between the ages of 3-19 with disabilities to play baseball, regardless of ability. Opening ceremonies are May 3rd with the games to begin on May 5th. To register for summer 2008 baseball, go Celebrate Rise to www.miracleleaguemn. April 6 com and select the Blaine site. All are welcome to join in on this special evening dedicated Newly diagnosed MS group to celebrating the accomplishWednesdays in March ments of Rise program particiThis group helps people re- pants and honor community cently diagnosed with MS supporters. Rise, Inc. is comnavigate their new, sometimes mitted to inclusion, employfrightening surroundings. De- ment, housing, and self-suffitails: 6:30—8 p.m., National ciency for people who have MS Society, MN Chapter, significant disabilities and Woodbury, MN. FFI: Jeff other barriers to employment. Fisher, 612-335-7951, 800- The event includes a social 582-5296, or jfisher@ms hour, a terrific dinner and an societyorg. awards program. Visit www. rise.org/celebrateRise.php to Spinal Cord Support Group register. Details: 4-7 p.m., April 2 Earle Brown Heritage Center, North Memorial Medical Cen- 6155 Earle Brown Drive, ter invites you to find support, Brooklyn Center, MN. FFI: encouragement, educational Beth DePoint, 763-783-2822 and community resources at or badepoint@rise.org. this group. Open to anyone who has a spinal cord injury, Arc’s rose sale their family, caregivers, and Ongoing interested professionals. No Arc of Minnesota’s Annual fee. Details: 7—8:30 p.m., Rose Sale is back! From FebCourage Center—Education ruary 25 through April 11, you Center #1, 3915 Golden Val- can buy beautiful longley Road, Golden Valley, MN. stemmed roses for just $17 a dozen and support the work of Great Minnesota Arc, serving people with intelStationary Bike Race lectual and developmental disApril 5 abilities and their families. United Cerebral Palsy of Min- Check out locations throughnesota invites you to raise out the Twin Cities at money by exercising with www.rosesale.org. FFI: 651friends. Teams of ten people 523-0823 x109 or monicas each ride a bike mounted on a @arcmn.org. ■

Minnesota State Council on Disability

Town Hall Meeting on Transportation Issues Tuesday, April 8, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Available via videoconferencing and Web streaming

We want to hear about your transportation experiences. Communicate with key legislators: Sen. Steve Murphy (Dist. 28) Sen. Scott Dibble (Dist. 60) Rep. Shelley Madore (Dist. 37A) Register by contacting the Minnesota State Council on Disability or for more information, visit our website at www.disability.state.mn.us *Reasonable accommodation requests should be made during registration.

council.disability@state.mn.us 121 East 7th Place Suite 107, St. Paul, MN 55101 651-361.7800 V/TTY or 1-800-945-8913 V/TTY

March 10, 2008

News at a glance . . . Volunteer sought for citizen advisory board The Hennepin County Board of Commissioners is seeking applicants from the community to fill vacancies on the Hennepin County Adult Mental Health Advisory Council advisor board. The 32-member council advises the County Board and monitors, studies and comments on mental health issues at federal, state and local levels. Members serve three-year terms and meet monthly on the third Thursday of the month from 2 –4:30 p.m. at Plymouth Congregational Church in downtown Minneapolis. There is one vacancy in the category of consumer. For more information about this open appointment or to receive an application or information booklet, contact Yolanda McCrary by phone at 612-348-3257 or get an application via the Internet at www.hennepin.us under the Web page title, “Your county government/ Commissioners/Advisory boards.” [Source: Hennepin County News]

Deaf access at Library of Congress

of our deaf colleagues to conduct their daily business and underscores the Library of Congress’ commitment to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. We hope other agencies will see our partnership with private industry, follow our example and take advantage of this federally funded service.” [Source: Library of Congress]

Wanted: Direct support professional input for survey Direct support professionals (DSPs) working in Minnesota are invited to participate in a survey being conducted by Direct Support Professional Association of Minnesota (DSPAM). DSPs include personal care assistants, personal care providers, individual service staff, home health aides, residential assistants, community living specialists, habilitation training specialists, certified/registered nursing assistants, and others providing support services for consumers experiencing effects of disability. DSPAM’s recently appointed board of directors is conducting the survey to gather input from DSPs to help set the direction and purpose of the organization. For example, the survey provides an opportunity for DSPs across the state to discuss the type of work they perform, training they received, wages and benefits offered, characteristics of the job they enjoy, concerns or frustrations they may have, and more. DSPAM hopes to take the results and begin working to improve training, compensation, and perception of the profession. Your participation is crucial! Surveys must be returned no later than April 1, 2008. Please visit www.nadsp.org/ dspam for an electronic copy of the survey. For hardcopy or alternate versions of the survey or for more information, please contact Bridget at 612-272-0281 or Kelly at 507-696-8442. [Source: DSPAM]

The Library of Congress has become one of the first federal agencies to implement an agency-wide “videophone” system that enables its deaf staff members who use American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate with both hearing and deaf individuals. Using the videophones, deaf staff members can place Video Relay Service (VRS) calls, which are “relayed” through an ASL interpreter at a call center, to hearing individuals. Likewise, using the videophones, deaf individuals can place point-to-point calls with other deaf people who use ASL. Video relay calls are placed over a high-speed Internet connection through a videophone connected to a television or computer monitor with RCA inputs. The deaf user connects to an ASL interpreter and, over the videophone and visual display, signs to the interpreter, who then contacts the hearing user via a standard phone line and relays the conversation in ASL and English between the two parties. Youth with disabilities fall through foster care cracks Doug Meick, program manager in Information Technology The National Council on Disability (NCD) recently released a Services for the Library’s Assistive Technology Demonstra- report on the unique challenges older youth with disabilities tion Center, said, “This technology greatly improves the ability face as they negotiate the foster care system.

NCD Chairperson John R. Vaughn notes that “foster care is … both a child welfare issue and a disability issue. This is due to the alarmingly high numbers of foster youth with mental, developmental, emotional, learning, and physical disabilities.” He hopes the report sheds light on “the prevalence of disability among foster youth,” and the question of “who should be held accountable for this uniquely challenged and often underserved population,” [Source: National Council on Disability, 2008 Foster Care System_Report]

More judges for SS disability cases Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, recently announced that the agency has begun making offers to 144 of the 175 new Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) it will hire this fiscal year. Due to litigation and budget cuts, the agency has about 10% fewer ALJs than it did a decade ago. During that same time, the number of cases waiting for a hearing decision has more than doubled. “The hiring of these new ALJs is a critical step in our plan to reduce the backlog of disability cases,” Commissioner Astrue said. “They represent one of the largest investments in ALJs this agency has ever made. When these ALJs are fully-trained, and combined with the other steps we are taking, we will be able for the first time in this decade to reduce the number of cases waiting for a disability hearing. I can hardly wait for them to start.” Hiring of additional ALJs is only one component of the plan the agency has put in place to reduce the backlog of disability cases. The agency is also claiming to make progress in many other areas, including opening the National Hearing Center, completing the nationwide roll-out of the Quick Disability Determination process, attempting to implement compassionate allowances and eliminating aged cases. [Source: Social Security Administration, www.socialsecurity.gov/disability under the heading What’s New.] ■

March 10, 2008

SHOW & SELL -

Cont. from p. 1 on a greeting card. “When they first showed me the card with my picture on it,” she said, “I was really happy, and really surprised. Wow, this is my painting.” She also remembered how impressed her father was when he saw the card. “I sent one to my dad when he was sick. He called me up and said, ‘you did this painting?’ I said ‘yeah.’”

Artists who work in the studios of PRI not only sell their originals, but have their paintings made into cards and prints, which are sold widely throughout the region and on the Web. Photo by Shawn Lawler to answer questions or just chat. Artist Wi Wasté Wia Day (“good day woman,” in Lakota) said she came to PRI about a year ago. But she’s no beginner to art. “I’ve been drawing since I was five,” she says. “Now I’m 23. I draw from my emotions. I just have to see something one time; I can draw it a half hour later, no problem. What I really love is animé—animation from Japan.”

“I also draw cultural pictures,” said Day. “I’m Native American—Anishinabe. Full blooded—from Mille Lacs. I like to paint on one of the four sacred colors for Native Americans as my background color: white, red, black and yellow. Black is probably my favorite.” Another artist, Mona, recalled the feeling she had when she first saw one of her paintings

create some powerful—and highly sought after—artwork. He was recently offered $600 for a painting. (He said, “No thanks.”) Munk remembers being surprised at the results when PRI first offered artist training. “Many of these folks had no opportunity,” he said, “and when we did this for the first time—allowed them space and materials to create art—we were totally blown away.” Munk notes that visitors to PRI have the same reaction and “are transformed” when they walk through the door.

After the tour, our guide Nathan Perry directed us to a reception room, where we watched a video and heard from the artists themselves. One young man, Alex, reflected the thoughts of many of the artists, saying “This com- “Transformed” would be a pany [PRI] has been tremen- good way to describe the feeldously incredible.” ing a visitor gets after touring three floors of Pattee Hall that Many of the artists spoke of are bursting with color, crethe desire to give back to the ativity, and humanity. community. Richard, a selfdescribed “old hippie,” said In the stairwell was a banner he spends about two hours a that summed up this body of week doing art. He was quick artwork: “Art is Genius.” The to point out that painting is same word would well deonly one of the many things he scribe a few other details belikes to do. He especially likes hind this art show: the artist to do fundraising for people training and creativity program “who are truly needy.” Still, of PRI, the scheme that is that two hours per week is spreading this joyful bloomenough time for Richard to ing of art in places throughout

PRI artist Kathy proudly shows off one of her latest pieces, now on display in the basement of the U of M’s Pattee Hall. Photo by Shawn Lawler the community, and the revolving art gallery concept that has transformed the hallways of Pattee Hall from drab academe to vibrant, empowered community involvement. “Art means that I can be expressive and free,” said Dionne. “Not always trapped. And it’s just an extension of me.” ■ The exhibit will be on display until next month. Pattee Hall is located at 150 Pillsbury Drive SE, Minneapolis, MN. For more information on the PRI artist Richard talks about artists, or to learn more about his Hawaiian landscape PRI, visit www.partnership painting. resources.org. Photo by Shawn Lawler

Artist Wi Wasté Wia Day (r) talks to gallery visitors about one of her paintings, with PRI art teacher Laura Hansen standing by. Photo by Shawn Lawler

MILS CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

ICI’s Cliff Poetz guided visitors through the hallways of Pattee Hall during the art exhibit’s grand opening last month. Photo by Shawn Lawler INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS TRANSITION SERVICES HOUSING NEEDS PEER MENTORING RAMP PROJECT NURSING HOME RELOCATION DISABILITY LINKAGE LINE www.mcil-mn.org ADVOCACY Phone: 651.646.8342 ACCESSIBILITY Fax: 651.603.2006 ADA INFORMATION TTY: 651.603.2001 TECHNOLOGY PERSONAL ASSISTANCE

CONSUMER-DIRECTED SUPPORTS AND SERVICES MissionStatement:

Front Left to Right: Mike, Shelia, Nancy, Wendy; Back Left to Right: David, Amy, Eloise, Chad, Linda

We Gladly Accept Medicaid, Medicare, Blue Cross, UCare, DME, Private Pay

MINNESOTA INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES (MILS) 2010 East Hennepin Avenue; Minneapolis, MN 55413 Telephone: 612-379-4027 Ƈ Facsimile: 612-379-3489

“To work with people with disabilities in fulfilling their desire to lead productive, self-determined lives.” MCIL provides Nursing Home Relocation, Personal Assistant Services (PCA), Transitional & Independent Living Services to individuals through Medical Assistance, Vocational Rehabilitation, County Waivers (CADI, CDCS, EW, TBI) and private pay. Individuals and their support networks can also utilize the Disability Linkage Line, Individual Advocates, the ADA, and our computer resource lab at no additional cost.

1600 University Ave. West Suite 16, Saint Paul, MN 55104 Located on the first floor in the Spruce Tree Building

March 10, 2008

Frustrated? Start a business Medical supplier a fountain of great service, satisfied employees by the Access Press staff

tudying to be a nurse and supporting herself as a PCA, Mary Benhardus was frustrated. She was spending way too much time calling different medical supply vendors to get the things her clients needed. She was also uncomfortable with vendors’ lack of knowledge, which translated into poor customer service. Benhardus saw a need for a ‘one-stop’ vendor that would carry most everything a person with medical needs would require for day-to-day living—run by informed, friendly staff.

Preparations are complete and the Handi Medical staff is ready for the long day. cessful entrepreneur in his own The young entrepreneur’s goal right, lent her the money to get was always to be a customergoing. In 1988, Benhardus quit and employee-driven business. school and opened Handi Benhardus’s dedication to the Medical Supply. Its first loca- customer is famous. In the late So, Benhardus started a busi- tion was in a Golden Valley 1990s, reimbursement for ostomy supplies was slashed by ness. Her grandfather, a suc- strip mall. Medicare. When most of the other home medical suppliers and equipment companies exited the ostomy business, Handi and Benhardus stayed with it. Benhardus believed that her customers (who she considers her friends) deserved an organization that would do its best to take care of each of them. She intended to be there for her customer friends, many of whom have been with her from the beginning. Let the conference begin!

BEAUTY -

She knows how to build worker loyalty. “Mary lets me take work time to attend my continuing education functions,” said one employee. “She is very supportive of people’s professional responsibilities.” There are several employees who have been with the company for fifteen years, at which point they are given an all expenses paid trip for themselves and their families. When asked if Handi Medical will continue to grow, Founder Mary Benhardus ready to host Benhardus put its size in perHandi Medical’s 11th annual conference. spective. She says that if customer service suffers, “then that is too big.” If they lose sight of why they are in the business, “then that is too big” as well. Handi just hosted its 11th annual conference. The event provides educational seminars for health-care professionals who want to gain further knowledge on the medical supply industry. The happy hour— complete with a chocolate fountain fondue—might also be part of the draw. This year’s event was the largest yet. ■

Jerry Madsen and David Adank represented Axis Healthcare.

Cont. from p. 1

son’s own blog on beauty, fashion, sex, music, dating and consumer products. She describes the blog as her favorite writing project because, “I can say what I want to; I don’t filter.” Readers obviously enjoy reading her blogs too. A

“. . . you might even be thinking my injury should have taught me beauty-related materialistic things don’t matter in the big picture, but I’m no dummy. Looking good matters.” visit to the message board reveals correspondents from around the world. Carlson says her readers are mostly young men and women living with SCI, Spina Bifida or Multiple Sclerosis. Readers to the Web site also can order her selfpublished e-book Wheelchair Fashion 101. In all her writing, Carlson is straightforward in her objective to shake up old stereotypes about people with disabilities. As she wrote recently on her blog, “you might even be thinking my injury should have taught me beauty-related materialistic things don’t matter in the big picture, but I’m no dummy. Looking good matters. When we like how we look, we feel better about everything in life. It’s a proven fact.”

Carlson’s fame is growing in large part due to her writing about the dating and singles scene for people with disabilities. Besides the dating forum and message board on her blog, she writes the “Tiff’s Corner” column on lovebyrd.com, dispensing advice and stories from her own dating adventures and those of her wide array of friends, acquaintances and fans. She commented about her work last year: “Over the years as a dating columnist, I’ve pretty much figured out one solid thing: The problems people with disabilities face versus the dating problems people without disabilities face are not that different. We all experience loss, jealousy and betrayal no matter how good-looking we are.” Carlson has also taken on sex, a taboo subject for many in our society when it concerns a person with a disability. As Carlson wrote on her blog, “I don’t care how ‘blue’ your city or state is, most people—no matter how liberal—are never fully-aware of the disabled individual’s ‘Yes it’s existent!’ sexuality.” Several of her articles on this topic have generated attention for their explicit and honest depiction of the joys, struggles and possibilities for sexually active adults with disabilities. Her deeply personal essay on Nerve.com entitled “Getting Around: How I Discovered My Wheelchair wasn’t a Chastity Belt” gener-

ated discussion around the internet on sex and the single person with a disability. An article on sexual issues for men living with SCI in ThisAbled. com presented sensitive issues in a clear and straightforward manner, mixing practical advice with commentary from men around the country.

writing recently that “one of the most ridiculous things I’ve come across is the way some paras and quads polarize their para or quadness, and form little…gangs where they exalt the characteristics of their injuries….So let’s stop the gimp-on-gimp hate, OK?”

In the future Carlson aspires to write “harder news stories” while continuing to push the mainstream media—including magazines like Vanity Fair and Entertainment Weekly—to publish more and better stories for and about Americans with disabilities. But she knows she has a long way to go to break these stereotypes, writing with characteristic humor that “just when you think society as a whole is begin“When we like how we ning to see the person and not the disability, your hopes get look, we feel better about shot down like a fake rabbit in everything in life.” a carnival shooting range.” Yet with writers like Carlson conof the labels put on them by tinuing the cause, the promise mainstream society. And she of progress looks even more does not shy away from cri- assured. ■ tiquing her own community, Generating discussion and encouraging readers to confront their unspoken biases about themselves and others is Carlson’s object. Through her writing she promotes a vision to the larger society of persons with disabilities having the same complicated fears, problems and desires as everyone else. She also wants readers with disabilities to break out

Computerized Desktop Publishing: Advertisements Brochures Catalogs Flyers Logos Newsletters Newspapers and More! Ellen Houghton • 952-404-9981 presentationimages@comcast.net

March 10, 2008

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month Understanding the causes and effects of brain injury by Phil Gonzales

or twenty-four years, the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota has worked to enhance the lives of those living with the effects of brain injury through advocacy, support and empowerment. When the brain is injured, an individual can undergo a seemingly infinite variety of changes: physical, cognitive, emotional and functional. Each brain injury is unique to the person living with it and affects not only the person who sustained the

injury but everyone that person comes in contact with throughout their daily life. Whether family, friends, employees, customers or professionals, brain injury touches everyone. Because of this, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty has proclaimed March as Brain Injury Awareness Month. Understanding the causes and effects of brain injury helps build bridges of awareness between the estimated 100,000 Minnesotans living with brain injury

and the community at large. This awareness allows for smoother transitioning of people with a brain injury back into public life.

tor vehicle accidents taking a injury can be so widespread, a close second. support network is a must for all people affected. The Brain Brain injury can result in a Injury Association of Minnewide variety of physical and sota exists to help build that cognitive changes including support network. The Assoreduced memory skills, an al- ciation reaches out to individuteration of self-perception and als as soon as they leave the a decrease in judgment. Hear- hospital, providing them and ing, vision or speech may be their loved ones with one-onimpaired. Fatigue may also one support through resource increase, as well as anxiety, an facilitation and educational inability to suppress impulses, opportunities, and helps them decreased self-esteem and dif- develop the skills to become ficulty relating to others. self-advocates.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs when an outside force results in a disruption of the brain’s normal functioning. This can be the result of a sudden starting or stopping, as in whiplash, the head being struck, as in a fall, or an object piercing the brain. Today, falls are the leading cause of brain injury in Minnesota, with mo- Because the results of a brain The brain, unlike a bone or a

muscle, cannot grow new cells to replace damaged tissue. In some cases, however, it can be rehabilitated or taught to relearn functions lost from the injury. The Association works to cultivate a world where people with brain injury are able to realize their full potential. For more info, please contact the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota at 800669-6442 or online at info @braininjurymn.org. ■

Seniors and TBI

An artist’s experience In one second, artist Jean Zera’s world was altered by Phil Gonzales

ean Zera’s life changed “I would get up, maybe brush in January of 2005. my teeth, maybe have a meal and have to go lie back down. “It was dark and I was reach- It was just severe pain.” ing for the light at the top of the stairs,” she says, “and as Zera’s son, a surgeon at I reached out, I just kept on Hennepin County Medical going. Head first.” Center (HCMC), encouraged her to make an appointment at Zera is one of the 11 million HCMC’s Mild to Moderate seniors who fall every year Traumatic Brain Injury Clinic. and one of the Brain Injury There, she met with Dr. Sarah Association of Minnesota’s Rockswold and was given the many senior consumers. Ac- proper tests to determine the cording to the Centers for extent and severity of her inDisease Control, only 1.6 jury. million of those seniors will go to the emergency room. “They asked me questions that Almost 13,000 will die. any [ordinary person] should know. But, I didn’t know them. Zera had hit her head above And that is how they discover her right eyebrow on one of what part of your brain is inthe wooden posts of her stair- jured. But, I didn’t know that well, but because she wasn’t then. I was too ashamed to go showing any outward signs back for more tests ….” of impairment, brain injury wasn’t considered. It wasn’t It is this reluctance for treatuntil a couple of months later ment, coupled with the embarthat she developed head rassment of potentially dispains that impaired her func- playing vulnerability that Zera tioning. credits for many people in her

generation not seeking proper rounding her, with professional medical care. knowledge and ready support. She notes that many people “In my generation, you had to don’t have those family rebe half dead to call an ambu- sources and that is where the lance or go to the emergency Resource Facilitation service room,” she says, “We are more is so important. aware of injuries now than we were, but not as much as older Zera now lives with a noticepeople need to be.” able short-term memory loss, frequent headaches and hand HCMC referred Zera to the tremors. The tremors have kept Brain Injury Association of Zera from pursuing one of her Minnesota’s Resource Facili- greatest passions: painting. tation service in April of 2005. According to Zera, contact For the past thirty years, Zera with her facilitator has been has studied acrylic, oil and watercolor painting. The fruits “CDC studies indicate that of her efforts are on display seniors who . . . do not receive throughout her home. Beautihelp in the first six hours have fully vibrant flowers, painted a ninety percent chance of in extreme close-up, adorn the walls of the living room. entering a nursing home.” very positive. “It was nice to get a call every now and then to [be asked] how I was doing and if I needed anything. It was very personal to me,” she says. Zera counts herself lucky to have a large family sur-

Her hand tremor went away for a while but it has recently returned, making painting difficult. “If I ever get back to painting, I’m never going to move!” she says.

Zera uses several techniques to counter the effects of her short-term memory loss. She writes everything down and makes sure to read something several times over, until the information sinks in. “I can remember the words to every song I grew up with, but I can’t remember what I ate last night.”

Jean Zera

CDC studies indicate that seniors who receive medical attention in the first hour after a fall have a ninety percent chance of returning home, while those who do not receive help in the first Today, Zera is very conscious six hours have a ninety perof the possibility of further cent chance of entering a accidents. “You have to turn nursing home. the lights on. Even if you think you know what’s in a room, “We ought to be educated you have to turn the lights on on what to do. Don’t be and see what’s in your path. I ashamed to ask somebody turn on three lights on the way to help you,” Zera pleads, up and down the steps now.” “even if you’re not sure what you’ve done to yourself. She also implores seniors to [Brain injury is] dangerous. seek immediate medical atten- It’s fatal sometimes. It lasts tion for falls, even if they don’t an awfully long time. I’m immediately think something going on my fourth year and is wrong, and to not be embar- I don’t feel that I’m really rassed if it turns out nothing is finished with it. If I dwelt on it I’d be miserable. I try to wrong. get along with what I’ve got left to use.” ■

Special supplement paid for by the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota

March 10, 2008

Perseverance pays off Marshall High grads set up U of M scholarship endowment for students with disabilities by Tom Daly, editor of the John Marshall High School Alumni Newsletter reunion committee met and discovered that they had nearly $300 left over. They discussed what to do with the money. Johnson suggested that they start a scholarship fund for students with disabilities. The committee agreed and the Marshall Alumni Endowment Fund (MAEF) was born.

MAEF’s $25,000, bringing the fund’s total to $50,000.

At age 88, Johnson is an extraordinary person, with a keen mind and sharp wit. He is very happy to see the efforts of the Marshall alumni come to fruition. His concern for students with disabilities and his perseverance will provide benefits Led by Johnson, the alumni for many years to come. ■ solicited funds through the mail and by word of mouth. Over the next 10 years, the fund grew to nearly $9,000. Harvey Johnson and Ruth Stone Stewart

arvey Johnson is a man of many virtues, the least of which is perseverance. It is because of the perseverance of Johnson and his fellow Marshall High graduates that a scholarship program for students with disabilities has been recently endowed at the University of Minnesota-after almost 20 years of hard work. The Marshall Access and Education Fund is expected to award its first scholarships to U of M students this fall.

Johnson was not able to participate in athletics or extra curricular activities when he attended Marshall High. Nevertheless the 1939 Marshall graduate has many fond memories of his years at the Dinkytown school. In its day, Marshall High was a school that serviced a large percentage of metro students with disabilities. The school has since been closed and the building is now an office building. In 1959, Johnson chaired the Class of 1939’s reunion committee and he has chaired the committee every five years since. In 1989, Johnson and his classmates celebrated their 50th anniversary.

Johnson was in the fifth grade at Minneapolis’ Tuttle Elementary School when he suffered his first seizure. He remembers that he was playing ball with his friend Bill Anderson when the seizure struck. The event was a big success. More than 100 people turned As a result of his disability, out. When the dust settled the

Ruth Stone Stewart, a member of the 1989 reunion committee, was instrumental in bringing together MAEF and the U of M Office of Disability Service in January 2003. Johnson, Stone Stewart and the committee turned over the MAEF money to the U. MAEF was renamed the Marshall Access and Education Fund. Since 2003 the fund has grown more rapidly. In May 2007, the fund reached $22,000, just $3,000 shy of the $25,000 mark at which it will become an endowed scholarship fund. At that point scholarships may be awarded from the interest generated by investing the money in the fund. Great news arrived in June 2007 when MAEF reached $25,000. In addition, the U of M Foundation matches

FAQ@DLL

Online housing solutions by the Disability Linkage Line staff

innesotans with disabilities can now use a new online matching service called Roommates Minnesota. Roommates Minnesota matches people with disabilities to other people with disabilities who are either: seeking one or more roommates interested in getting together to buy or to rent an apartment or house, or to share a house or apartment a person already has. Launched at the beginning of this year, Roommates Minnesota is provided through The ArcLink Incorporated, with funding from the Minnesota Department of Human Services, along with other supports through DHS and The Arc of Minnesota. How can Roommates help my housing search? If you are looking for one or

more roommates to partner with in renting an apartment or buying a house, then this service can help in two ways: 1)You can search the postings (want ads) that others have placed; or 2)You can place a want ad on this service for others to see and find you.

identifying information is shared online and only preapproved individuals can use this service. Only after people have expressed an interest in learning more is contact information shared. It is then up to the interested parties to connect with each other. It is highly recommended when meeting anyone for the first time that How do I use Roommates? you set up your meeting in a You must be registered to use safe public space and bring a Roommates. To sign up, go to friend or relative with you. http://roommates.thearc link.org/ If you have additional questions about community reInformation and training is sources, please call DLL at 1available for Roommates us- 866-333-2466. DLL provides ers through online bi-weekly free, disability-related inforWebinars. To sign up, go to mation and assistance for Minhttp://roommates.thearc nesotans. DLL does not endorse any particular Web site link.org/webinars/. or provider. They assume no responsibility for transactions Is it safe? Roommates strives to provide between the readers of this ara safe method to find others ticle and listed organizations. seeking a housing solution. No ■

RESPECT -

Cont. from p. 3

Exterminating people, one way or another, simply because they are perceived as imperfect, and thus worthless, has been around for a long time. Sadly, the exploitation of the individuals with Down syndrome used as human drones in Iraq is a deplorable, current-day example of it. But deplorable too, in my opinion, is the termination of preborn human life; an extermination made possible because technology has given ill-in-

formed or misguided individuals an easy opportunity to quietly rid the world of “their problem.” So as this political season heats up, don’t take a narrow perspective. Think outside your own disability box. Please consider all the issues relevant to people with disabilities. Look across the aisle and consider what both political parties are doing for the well-being of ALL people with disabilities. ■

March 10, 2008

Web sightings

From the front row

Thea t revie er w

Sports and leisure

Peer Gynt

Five Web favorites from the editor

Guthrie Theater; Seen February 15th by Raymond Luczak

his month, editor Tim Benjamin contributes videos that display some of the ferocious and balletic ways people are using their wheelchairs, not just to get from point A to B, but for thrills and spills as well! In addition, the last clip suggests that the use of a wheelchair is

no hindrance to even the most strenuous feats of endurance. So once again, flex your ‘access’ and enjoy!

items. Each month, we ask a different Web-savvy member of the local disability community to contribute some of their favorite recent online finds. P.S. Send us your favorites! Send your top five (with comThis column features a hand- ments) to access@access ful of informative or enter- press.org. ■ taining disability-related Web sites, video clips and news

“EXTREME WHEELCHAIR TRICKS” www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0slMHXbUUI Aaron Fotheringham, a young extreme sports athlete shows off the purported first ever backflip performed by a person in a wheelchair (as well as the many gaffes he suffered through to get to such heights). [Forward to: your X-games loving nephew] “EXTREME WHEELCHAIR SKATEBOARDING AND ROLLERBLADING” www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaBiXvOsZ1E Despite some shaky camera work (weak-stomached audience members beware), this clip effectively exhibits a novel way in which some folks combine a love of motion with their available ‘tools.’ With the gentleman in the wheelchair acting as the motor (and cruising at a rapid speed himself), his two companions swerve in and out of his ‘wake,’ pulled on a rope down a wide residential street. A fun variation on the game “follow the leader”! [Forward to: bored friends on a sunny day] “WHEELCHAIR DANCE 2006” www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWcSkMHY80g If you’ve never heard of wheelchair ballroom dancing, here’s a great introduction. Enjoy the choreography and glitz as wheelchair users dance with able-bodied partners, with each other, and solo, rivaling their able-bodied peers in both grace and skill. [Forward to: folks looking for a fun new activity to share with a loved one] “ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR HOCKEY” www.youtube.com/watch?v=zidEUd_s98c Check out this footage from a tournament held in the Czech Republic recently and you’ll see why electric wheelchair hockey is joining the ranks of such popular sports as wheelchair basketball and rugby. Watch the exciting kinetic action and camaraderie on display here, and try not to be more than a little jealous. [Forward to: a friend who thinks wheelchair users aren’t athletic] “PARAPALEGIC CANOES MISSISSIPPI RIVER” www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GXRw8vsPDA&feature=related This clip chronicles a British paraplegic canoeist as he finishes an unsupported expedition, canoeing down the Mississippi River with two able bodied friends. Featuring both footage of the trek itself as well as some news coverage devoted to the formidable feat, it will leave you impressed and inspired. [Forward to: your outdoorsy uncle] ■

f the many plays in Henrik Ibsen’s canon, Peer Gynt is an odd creature. Ibsen had originally written it as a novel in 1867, exploring various Norwegian fairy tales as a way to poke fun at the then-novel idea of returning to nature and simplicity. He never thought of it as a performable work, but when the book became a huge success, he eventually adapted it for the stage in 1876. The problem was that Ibsen didn’t trim a whole lot from the book in his adaptation. Ever since then many directors and producers have wrestled with the play’s very long running time of over five hours, and there have been numerous translations and adaptations over the years. Robert Bly, the unofficial poet laureate of Minnesota, has created a three-hour translation and adaptation, a lot of which is in rhymed verse, that makes the title character quite joyful and yet far more selfish on his journey to find his “true self.” The play begins with a quick jolt of exposition: we are at Peer Gynt’s surprise 50th birthday party, and we are asked to practice our “surprise!” for the moment when Peer arrives. The party soon segues into a flashback that explores how Peer began his journey away from his homeland, escaping because he had run off with someone else’s bride, a crime punishable by death. He constantly reinvents himself to suit the occasion, and along the way he appears to have devel-

oped no sense of responsibility whatsoever. In that sense, he is a true antihero who, on paper, sounds rather repulsive and unworthy of our time in the theater. But with his insouciant bearing and light feet, Mark Rylance manages to infuse Peer Gynt with a likeable, satyr-like glee. The fluidity of his performance, and Tim Carroll’s nimble direction, manage to leaven a story that at times still feels a bit lugubrious.

So what’s so “modernist” about Peer Gynt, and why should we care? While I’m not intimately familiar with the works of all the major latenineteenth-century playwrights, as a character, Peer Gynt must be the first modernist slacker. He doesn’t really have evil aspirations, he just wants everything handed to him on a silver platter without having to earn it. If Peer were online right now, he’d be considered a get-rich-quick “game player.” If nothing else, Ibsen There are some standout mo- was remarkably prescient ments. When Peer and Solveig, about the human condition. played by the lovely Miriam Silverman, dance together for If there is anything in this play the first time, everyone around that is relevant to the disability them slowly freezes as these community, the way Peer’s two lock arms and eyes; the unconventional behavior aflighting design by Stan fects his social standing paralPressner is most keenly felt lels our feelings as outsiders. here, framed by the barn We simply do not accommoevoked by Laura Hopkins’ set date what the larger able-bodand costume design. In a play ied society expects of us. But that’s essentially a one-man the story of finding one’s true show with many supporting self—whatever that may turn characters, Solveig—as a ma- out to be—is a never-ending jor character has very few tale for many of us in the dislines—proves herself to be an ability community. It is so difactive listener. She isn’t just ficult to feel true to oneself listening; she is truly listening while enduring the many sociwith her subtle facial reactions. etal pressures to conform. We And she acquits herself beau- know deep down that it is usutifully when she sings with her ally next to impossible to be tender voice. The other accepted in the same way that standout performance is able-bodied people accept Isabell Monk O’Connor, who each other. Still, the huge difplays Peer’s mother. After a ference between Peer Gynt and number of years, Peer returns ourselves is that he had a home and reveals just how choice to change his behavior much of a Peter Pan he is in the every step of the way. He just most poignant scene in the didn’t care. entire play, in which his mother dies. The Guthrie Theater has long Peer Gynt - cont. on p. 15

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March 10, 2008

Accessible performances The following performances will be Audio Described (AD) for people who are blind or have low vision, or Interpreted in American Sign Language (ASL) for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Selected performances offer reduced admission prices for the patron and one companion. When calling a box office, confirm the service (ASL or AD), date, time, ticket price and anything else needed, e.g. length of performance, etc. If you attend a show, please share your feedback with the performing organization, interpreter, and VSA arts of Minnesota. Accessible performance information is compiled by VSA arts of Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or www.vsaartsmn.org.

See www.accesspress.org for complete listing 12 Angry Men / 12 Angry Women Apr. 4 - 13 Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre, 333 4th St. S., Fargo. AD: Sat., Apr. 12, 7:30 pm ASL: upon request in advance. Tix: Reduced to $12.50, $10 senior 65+, $7.50 student (reg. $15, $12, $9), Phone: 701235-6778, 877-687-7469, www.fmct.org Blues in the Night Mar. 11 - May 18 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts McKnight Theatre, 345 Washington, St. Paul. ASL: Wed., Apr. 2, 8:00 pm AD: Sat., Apr. 5, 8:00 pm, Tix/Phone: 651-224-4222, TTY: 651-282-3100, www. orway.org/services/access. asp The Broken Brain Summit Apr. 3 - 26 Interact Center for Visual & Performing Arts at Old Arizona Studio, 2821 Nicollet Ave., Mpls. ASL: Thurs., April 10, 7:30 pm (pay what you can) & Sat., April 26, 7:30 pm AD: Fri., April 25, 7:30 pm & Sat., April 26, 3:00 pm Captioning: on request. Tix: Reduced to $10 (reg. $16); Phone: 612-339-5145. www. inteactcenter.com or www. oldarizona.com The Drowsy Chaperone Mar. 18 - 30 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Main Hall, 345 Washington, St. Paul. ASL: Wed., Mar. 26, 8:00 pm, AD: Sat., Mar. 29, 8:00 pm, Tix/ Phone: 651-224-4222, TTY: 651-282-3100, www.ordway. org/services/access.asp Earth, Wind and Fire – PACER Benefit Apr. 26 26th annual PACER Benefit at Mpls. Convention Center, 1301 2nd Ave. S. ASL: Sat., Apr. 26, Silent Auction 6:00 pm; Show 8:00 pm; To request AD, call PACER, Tix: start at $55, Phone: 952-8389000, www.pacer.org Esperando La Carroza (Waiting for the Hearse) Apr. 18 - 27 Mixed Blood Theatre at SteppingStone Theatre, 55 No. Victoria St., St. Paul. AD, ASL and Captioning: Thurs., Apr. 24, 7:30 pm, Tix: Access tickets $12, Phone: 612-3386131, E-mail: boxoffice@ mixeblood.com Web: www. mixedblood.com

pm, Tix: Reduced to $13; reg. $20, $15 senior; $9 age 25 or under; other nights up to $30, Phone: TicketWorks: 612333-6200 or 612-332-3968 x100, www.jeunelune.org For a Time Such As This Mar. 21 - 30 Bridge Productions at Intermedia Arts, 2822 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. AD/ASL: Sat., Mar. 22 and Fri., Mar. 28, 8:00 pm (reserv. required 3 days before for ASL/AD), Tix: disc to $12 AD/ASL patron, student, sr, preview, Fringe button (reg. $15, $10 groups, theater industry), Phone: 651501-9273, E-mail: tickets@ bridgeproductions.info Web: www.bridgeproductions.info or www.intermediaarts.org Friends Are Benefits Mar. 29 - 30 Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus at Ted Mann Concert Hall, 2128 - 4th St. S., Mpls. ASL: Sun., Mar. 30, 2:00 pm, Tix: $23-43 (includes fees), child half-price, Phone: 612-6242345, Web: www.tcgmc.org or www.northrop.umn.edu

Mainstage, 2400 - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD/ASL: Fri., Mar. 28, 7:30 pm, Tix: Mention VSA Offer for $13 tixs; reg disc is $20, Phone: 612-874-0400, www.childrenstheatre.org

4th St., Mpls. (Performed in English, Sanskrit, ASL and projected email), ASL: every performance is interpreted: Feb. 28-29, Mar. 1-2, 6-9, 1216, 19-22, AD/Captioning: Fri., Mar. 7, 7:30 pm, Tix: Invigorate the Common Access tickets $12, Phone: Well: Beneath the Surface: 612-338-6131, E-mail: box When Life Stirs Again office@mixedblood.com Feb. 19 - Mar. 16 Web: www.mixedblood.com In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre in colModernism! laboration with the Tomales Apr. 6 Bay Institute at the Avalon Mpls. Institute of Arts, 2400 Theater, 1500 E. Lake St., 3rd Ave. S. ASL: Sun., Apr. 6, Mpls. AD: Sun., Mar. 16, 2:00 1:00 pm; Free public tour begins pm; tactile tour available at at Info Desk, museum lobby, 1:30 pm (register with the the- Tix/Phone: 612-870-3131, atre); school performance, Fri., TTY: 612-870-3132, E-mail: Mar. 14, 10:30 am, ASL: Call dhegstrom@ artsmia.org the theatre, Tix: $17, $12 for Web: www.artsmia.org child, student, senior or group; weekday matinees $5 for Mrs. Mannerly groups and $10 for individuMar. 14 - Apr. 12 als, Phone: 612-721-2535, E- Illusion Theater, 528 mail: info@hobt.org Web: Hennepin Ave., Mpls. AD: www.hobt.org Sun., Mar. 30, 7:00 pm, Tix: Reduced to $10 for AD paThe King and I trons and one companion; reg. Apr. 18 - May 3 $15-25, Phone: 612-339Morris Park Players at Folwell 4944, www.illusiontheater. Middle School, 3611 20th Ave org S., Mpls. AD: Sun., Apr. 27, 2:00 pm, Tix: disc to $12 (AD patrons, student, senior; reg. $15), Phone: 612-724-8373, www.morrisparkplayers.org

Frozen Mar. 7 - 30 Park Square Theatre, 408 Saint Peter St. (20 W. 7th Place), St. Paul. AD/ASL: Sat., Mar. 22, Lady Day at Emerson’s 7:30 pm, Tix: ½-price, Phone: Bar and Grill 651-291-7005, www.park Apr. 11 - May 4 squaretheatre.org Park Square Theatre, 408 Saint Peter St. (20 W. 7th Place), St. A Funny Thing Happened Paul. AD/ASL: Sat., Apr. 26, on the Way to the Forum 7:30 pm, Tix: Reduced to ½Apr. 11 - May 4 price, Phone: 651-291-7005, Rochester Civic Theatre, 20 www.parksquaretheatre.org Civic Center Drive SE. ASL: Sun., Apr. 20, 2:00 pm, Tix: The Lady with All the $22, senior $17, student $12, Answers Phone: 507-282-8481, Web: Apr. 3 - 20 www.rochestercivictheatre.org History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. AD/ASL: Sun., Apr. The Giver 13, 2:00 pm, Tix: Reduced to Mar. 7 - 30 $15, Phone: 651-292-4323, Stages Theatre Co. at Hopkins www.historytheatre.com Center for the Arts Mainstage, 1111 Mainstreet. ASL: Wed., The Lilies of the Field Mar. 12, 12:30 pm, Wed., Mar. Apr. 11 - 27 19, 9:30 am, and Sun., Mar. Lyric Arts Company at Lyric 30, 2:00 pm, Tix: $15, $11 Arts Main St. Stage, 420 E. child (age 2-17) and senior Main St., Anoka. ASL: Sat., (age 60+) plus $1.50 fee per Apr. 12, 7:30 pm (request at ticket for phone/web orders, least one week in advance), Phone: 952-979-1111 (AD Tix: $14, $12 student/senior, available upon request), Web: $16 box seats, Phone: 763www.stagestheatre.org 422-1838, www.lyricarts.org Heartbeat of the Drum Mar. 14 - 30 SteppingStone Theatre, 55 Victoria St. N., St. Paul. ASL: Sun., Mar. 16, 2:00 pm, AD: Fri., Mar. 21, 7:00 pm, Tix: $11, student/sr $9, Phone: 651-225-9265, www.stepping stonetheatre.org

The Piano Lesson Feb. 21 - Mar. 16 Penumbra Theatre at Martin Luther King Center, 270 N. Kent St., St. Paul. AD: Sun., Mar. 16, 2:00 pm, Tix: disc to $8-$28 (reg. $35, $15 student), Phone: 651-224-3180 (specify ASL/AD), E-mail: boxoffice @penumbratheatre.org Web: www.penumbratheatre.org Rabbit Hole Mar. 28 - May 11 Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Thurs., Apr. 17, 7:30 pm, Tix: disc to $10 (reg. $26-36), Phone: 612822-7063, E-mail: boxoffice @jungletheater.com Web: www.jungletheater.com Rusalka Apr. 12, 15, 17, 19, 20 MN Opera Co at Ordway Center for Performing Arts, 345 Washington St., St. Paul. Sung in Czech with English captions projected above stage. AD: Sun., Apr. 20, 2:00 pm, pre-opera discussion 1:00 pm, Tix: Reduced to ½-price for AD patrons, Phone: 612-3336669, TTY: 612-729-6023, Web: www.mnopera.org

Summer of ‘42 Mar. 7 - 30 Mpls. Musical Theatre at Hennepin Stages, 824 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. AD/ ASL: Sun., Mar. 16, 7:30 pm, Tix: disc to $18 (reg. $25), Phone: 612-673-0404; 612373-5639 or 5609, TTY: 612373-5655; ASL/AD Hotline: 612-373-5650, E-mail: accessible@orpheum.com Web: www.aboutmmt.org or www.hennepintheatredistrict. org/guestservices/aslad/ The Wiz Apr. 11 - 19 U of M Theatre at Rarig Center’s Stoll Thrust Theatre, 330 - 21st Ave. S., Mpls. AD and ASL: Sat., Apr. 19, 8:00 pm, Tix: $17-19, Phone: 612624-2345, E-mail: utheatre @umn.edu Web: http:// theatre.umn.edu. ■

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES

M c G U I R E P R O S C E N I U M S TAG E

INTERPRETED IN

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE: Third - McGuire Proscenium Stage Friday, March 21, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 27, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. 9 Parts of Desire - Dowling Studio Saturday, March 22, 2008 at 1 p.m. Jane Eyre - Wurtele Thrust Stage Friday, March 28, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.

DOWLING STUDIO

AUDIO DESCRIBED: Third - McGuire Proscenium Stage Saturday, March 8, 2008 at 1 p.m. Sensory Tour at 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 14, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. 9 Parts of Desire - Dowling Studio Saturday, March 22, 2008 at 1 p.m. Sensory Tour at 10:30 a.m. Jane Eyre - Wurtele Thrust Stage Saturday, March 29, 2008 at 1 p.m. Sensory Tour at 10:30 a.m.

OPEN CAPTIONED:

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

The Little Foxes Mar. 20 - Apr. 6 Tin Roof Theatre Co. at Main Avenue Theatre, 716 Main Ave., Fargo. AD: Sat., Mar. 29, 7:30 pm, Tix: Reduced to $8 (reg. $15, student/senior $10), Phone: 701-306-5843, Web: www.tinrooftheatre.org

Fishtank Feb. 16 - Mar. 22 Love Person Theatre de la Jeune Lune, 105 If You Give a Mouse a Cookie N. First St., Mpls. AD and Feb. 26 - Apr. 6 Feb. 29 - Mar. 22 ASL: Thurs., Mar. 13, 8:00 Children’s Theatre Co., Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S.

Sabrina Fair Mar. 14 - Apr. 6 Theatre in the Round, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., Mar. 30, 2:00 pm, Tix: $20, senior/student discount, Phone: 612-333-3010, Web: www.theatreintheround.org

Third - McGuire Proscenium Stage Friday, March 21, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. 9 Parts of Desire - Dowling Studio Sunday, March 23, 2008 at 1 p.m.

ASL and AD performances: $18 OC performances: $19.50 or $26.50 (prices valid for patron plus one companion) Access programs at the Guthrie are sponsored by Xcel Energy Foundation with additional support by Allianz Life Insurance

Adapted for the stage by

612.377.2224 > TTY 612.377.6626 > GUTHRIETHEATER.ORG

March 10, 2008

What does a signmaster do? by Raymond Luczak

hen talking about my involvement with Aditi Brennan Kapil’s new show Love Person, which features “two couples, three cultures, and four languages,” people inevitably ask me what I do as an ASL signmaster. Simply put, my job is to look at each performer’s American Sign Language (ASL) translation of the English text and make sure that the translation fits the character’s signing and edu-

cational background. Sometimes I will examine the meaning of a certain line and provide a clearer translation. Or I may correct a performer’s choice of sign for a certain word; for instance, in ASL, there are at least three signs for the word “apply.” We must not look to the English word itself but to the ultimate meaning of the word for the correct sign.

misunderstandings about ASL itself. First off, it is not “English on the hands,” but a truly bona fide language unto itself, with its own syntax, grammar, vocabulary, idioms, and so on. While many hearing people see ASL as a particularly expressive language, which it is so in the hands of those particularly gifted in the nuances of fluency, it is a far more complex language than what most people realize. Once There have been a great many hearing people get beyond the novelty of fingerspelling, they often find themselves lost while learning signs and syntax because it is so not simply “English on the hands.” Furthermore, ASL has many dialects and “accents.” Someone well-versed in ASL can detect the regional influences in a Deaf acquaintance’s signing, in the same way that a hearing person might hear a Boston

accent or a Texan twang in a person’s voice. Because the story of Love Person takes place in Minneapolis, I had to clarify some of the Minnesotan signs for Alexandria Wailes, a Deaf actress from New York, who plays the Deaf character Free. Yet ASL translation is not the only thing I do as a signmaster. I must think about how hearing and Deaf characters might typically interact “in real life.” Because Risa Brainin, the director of Love Person, and Aditi Brennan Kapil, the writer of the show, are both hearing, they wanted the show to be Deaf-accurate in terms of how other hearing characters onstage would behave towards Free. People who use ASL as a primary means of communication also have what’s called “Deaf culture.” A few ex-

amples of Deaf culture would include flipping the light switch in a room or stamping a foot on the floor to get a Deaf person’s attention as opposed to yelling the person’s name. Hearing characters onstage must look at the Deaf character in the face rather than walking and turning away while talking. Sometimes when a hearing character looks away while Free is signing, Free may repeat her line so that the hearing character truly knows what Alexandria Wailes she said. This is a subtle thing, but it happens a lot among non-signing characters, we Deaf people. must think about how to make interactions between Deaf and However subtle, all of these hearing people onstage realisthings seem so obvious to us tic. Language alone does not a Deaf people that we often take play make; believable human them for granted. But for any interaction does. And that’s production that integrates both what an ASL signmaster does. ASL and English, and hearing ■

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March 10, 2008

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Reach 11,000 Active, Interested Readers with Access Press Classifieds. $13 up to 12 words, 60¢/word thereafter. Must be prepaid. Mail with check to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave W, #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 • 651-644-2133 FOR RENT Holmes-Greenway Housing: One- and two-bedroom wheelchair-accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient SE Minneapolis location. Call 612-378-0331 for availability information. Equal Opportunity Housing. Lewis Park Apartments: Barrier-free housing with wheelchair users in mind. Section 8 subsidized. One- and two-bedroom units. For more information on availability call 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. Equal Opportunity Housing.

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OPEN LETTER not in my control. That’s where my spirituality came in. Volunteering became important because it’s easy to isolate in depression. Easy to feel that you don’t have enough of anything just for yourself. But I learned that helping others actually replenished my own inner resources. I learned that to come through these tough times (and nothing you ever do will be harder), you need to get your team together: friends, family, spiritual advisors, doctors, therapists, mentors, a whole team to help you get through the long tough recovery period that you face. I will never be the same as I was before I got the depression, but I truly believe that I’m better for it. I’ve learned so much, and my wisdom has come at a terrible price. But I know what’s important to me and what isn’t, I see money and appearance for what they are; empty. I know that I am incredibly powerful: everything I do and say has the power to make someone else’s life a little bit better or a little bit worse. I’ve learned to count my blessings and see how lucky I am, and how blessed. Even the MS and the depression were gifts—teachers and meditations, wanted or not— and I believe I’m a better friend and a better man because of it. It takes a leap of faith to believe that anything good can come from such terrible pain and loneliness. But it can and does. When you get closest to what breaks you down, that’s where you get closest to what breaks you open, revealing your true gifts. Friend, you’re going through the Hell of the illness right now. Your job is to heal, to take time for yourself, to be kind to yourself, to ask for

Cont. from p. 5

help, to show mercy to your wounded body and spirit. I would be honored if you’d let me be one of your team, someone to share ideas and thoughts with, even share the darkness with. Your job is to focus on you and to: • Work with your medical professionals and explore medication and cognitive therapy. • To grab with both hands the things you used to love to do, even if you don’t feel like doing them right now. They will be life savers. • To get your team together, friends, mentors, family, professionals, spiritual advisors, teachers. It’s too hard and lonely doing this on your own. • To not isolate. Find a place to share your talents, even if it feels empty. Volunteer even a few hours a month. Keep a list, and everyday do something kind and healing for someone else, and something for yourself, no matter how small it seems. • Be kind to everyone you meet. There is a “kindness high,” just like a runner’s high. • Journal, keep a diary, paint, draw, scrapbook, do something creative. It brings order to disordered thoughts. And give away any little things you do. • Practice positive affirmations, or prayers. It seems silly at first, but it truly works to feel better. • Focus your life, not on your wounds, but on what you love. Take care, my friend. Let’s be in contact—both for you, but also for me, as I still fight my own moments of Hell. ■ Pete Feigal, 612-588-6455

Access To Employment Employment ads are $20-$22 per col. inch. March 31 is the deadline for the April 10 issue. Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 FAX 651-644-2136 • E-mail: access@accesspress.org Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Utility Financial Analyst 2 The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission seeks candidates for Financial Analyst 2 who have the skills and knowledge to analyze information and conduct investigations of financial matters involving electric and natural gas utility companies. Financial analysts examine and interpret complex utility company financial statements and prepare reports regarding the appropriateness of rate base, income statements, and revenue requirements. The incumbent would be responsible for evaluating regulatory matters, clarifying record evidence to ensure completeness, preparing reports based on record information to assist Commission decision-making, as well as monitoring and, at times, participating in regional and national forums on energy issues. Candidates should hold a degree in accounting; additional professional certification and/or experience in utility-related matters would be significant. Candidates must apply online at www.doer.state.mn.us (click on “Employment Information”; “Search for a job” (left margin); under “Dept” choose “Public Utilities Comm”). Please submit information by March 28, 2008. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the ADA.

PEER GYNT prided itself on providing topnotch ASL interpretation, and this production was no exception. The company provided a lovely ASL-interpreted show program that included photographs of the performers, descriptions of their name signs, and which of the two interpreters would be signing for which character, as well as brief bios about the interpreters. A concise two-paragraph summary is also included to help Deaf audience members follow this sprawling story of one man’s journey and the multitude of characters he meets along the way, which can be particularly confusing if there are only two interpreters handling the entire cast. Cathy Mosher ably interpreted all the characters except Peer Gynt, which Carrie Wilbert handled with a lot of gusto, not always matching the tempo of Mark Rylance’s work onstage. It is my belief that ASL interpreters shouldn’t “overact” or monopolize attention away from the actors, but instead they should provide just enough information to enable Deaf audience members to absorb both the information from the interpreter and the action onstage, rather than pay full attention only to the interpreters. That said, both Mosher and Wilbert’s ASL translations were very fine. A peculiar but telling detail about the difficulty of theatrical interpreting came to my attention: Because the floor in front of the stage had no carpeting, the interpreters stood on a pair of soft mats to help ease the strain of standing in one place. In spite of Bly’s wonderful writing, Peer Gynt would have benefited from even more streamlining in a way that

Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Utility Rates Analyst 2 The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission seeks Utility Rates Analyst 2 candidates with the skills and knowledge to conduct investigations of rate matters involving the electric and natural gas industries. Rates analysts evaluate utility company proposed rate structures, allocations of revenue requirements to classes of customers, class cost studies, rate of return and cost of capital studies, and delivery of service proposals. The incumbent would be responsible for evaluating regulatory matters, clarifying record evidence to ensure completeness, preparing reports based on record information to assist Commission decision-making, as well as monitoring and, at times, participating in regional and national forums on energy issues. Candidates should hold a graduate degree in business, economics, finance, statistics, or energy public policy, or an undergraduate degree in those fields plus some utility regulatory experience, or a law degree. Candidates must apply online at www.doer.state.mn.us (click on “Employment Information”; “Search for a job” (left margin); under “Dept” choose “Public Utilities Comm”). Please submit information by March 28, 2008. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the ADA.

Cont. from p. 12

Don't Worry, Be Happy

would still honor Ibsen’s original vision, in the same way that many productions of Shakespeare’s plays use condensed versions of his work for greater clarity onstage. Still, Mark Rylance is the main reason to see this production; he is Peer Gynt himself. ■

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Waiting to Cross

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---------------------------------- BRONZE SPONSOR (continued) ---------------------Paul Mueller Chris Meyer Donn Poll & Eric Nelson Mark Sherman Patricia Siebert John G. Smith Eric & Caroline Stevens Peter Vaill Joani Werner MCIL Merrick, Inc. MNDACA MN Work Incentives Connection Northwestern College The Phoenix Residence, Inc. TSE, Inc. --------------------------------- SILVER SPONSOR ($150 and above) ----------------------Michael Bjerkesett Jeff Bangsberg & Anita Boucher Robert & Gail Buuck Mike & Jan Chevrette Robert Gregory Doris & John Groven Ronna Linroth John & Shelia Maier Manley and Ann Olson Opportunity Partners Patricia L. Rogers Erica Stern Kevin & Kathy Sullivan Kathy & Paul West William O’Dowd & George Zilligen Focus Beyond Programs Fraser MN Rehab Association MN Work Incentives Connection NAMI-MN Rehabilitation Services Ryan Companies US, Inc. SWCIL ------------------------------- GOLD SPONSOR ($500 and above) ------------------------------Phyllis A. Benjamin (in memoriam) Mary Lou Burdick Wilber Frink Advocating Change Together, Inc. Amerimed Home Care, Inc. Celia Wirth & Associates Cheri McClellon of CBM Home Health Services Inc. Duff-Westman Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Freedom Health Care, Inc. Mary T, Inc. Rapit Print Tamarack Habilitation Tech., Inc. WE DO CARE

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