May 2008 Edition - Access Press

www.accesspress.org History Note

Inside

“Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in our nation.”

■ Letters—p.3 ■ Stimulus payments—p.4 ■ Global advocacy—p.8

— Mary Bono Page 2 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 19, Number 5

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

May 10, 2008

Health reform still possible?

Talks continue as session wanes

by John Tschida As this article went to press, all parties involved in negotiations believe final passage is possible.

The current debate is a culmination of many years of task forces, advisory panels and work groups that have wrestled with how to better the system and control the cost projections that all agree are unsustainable. Health costs now consume more than 25 percent of the annual state budget.

Minnesota State Capitol Rotunda. The power of many can often force changes.

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ith a May 19 endof-session deadline looming, key lawmakers and Pawlenty administration officials continue to press for a solution that would

improve Minnesota’s health tem would look like for both care system. the commercial and public sectors. Pawlenty favors the The House and Senate have House’s approach over the passed different versions of Senate’s, and in recent days what an improved health sys- has floated his own solution.

The main sticking point in the current negotiations is how to pay for fixing the current system and expand coverage to more uninsured Minnesotans.

Specifically, there is disagreement on how much should be drained from the Health Care

Access Fund, which was created by the 1992 Legislature to pay for the MinnesotaCare program. Legislators say the funds should only be used to pay for health care. Pawlenty wants to use some of it to plug the current $935 million budget hole.

People with disabilities stand to gain from elements contained in all the proposals now being debated. Recognizing that our current health system is fractured, confusing, and tough to navigate, the concept of a ‘health care home’ has been proposed. This would link an individual to a particular clinic or provider who would agree to help coordinate all of a person’s health needs. In return, the service

We’re number one!

Courage Center basketball team wins national championship by the Courage Center staff

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n March, Courage Center’s Junior Rolling Timberwolves varsity wheelchair basketball team placed first in a national tournament in Seattle. This season, the team was undefeated after 22 games, including regional tournaments and the national tournament. They outscored their opponents 1,264-735, averaging 57 points per game.

representing the USA in international competitions.

In more than 20 years of existence, Courage Center’s Junior Rolling Timberwolves have also had many coaches selected to national teams. This year, two Courage Center’s

“They outscored their opponents 1,264-735, averaging 57 points per The team of nine boys and game.” girls ages 13-18 represents communities from throughout the state of Minnesota. The national championship included 69 Junior Division teams from across the United States.

In addition to excelling in basketball, six players were also named academic all-stars.

Numerous players from previous teams have also gone on to receive college scholarships,

coaches will be traveling to Beijing, China: Mike Bauler as Paralympic team leader for the USA men’s basketball team, and Jeff Downes as team leader for the USA women’s team. Assistant coach Ian Lynch is expected to be selected to the men’s basketball team, and Coach Dan Price has been selected to lead international junior teams in the past. ■

On Monday, April 14, Courage Center’s Junior Rolling Timberwolves basketball team was honored with a proclamation and a standing ovation by the Minnesota House of Representatives. Rep. Lyndon Carlson, District 45B, introduced a resolution celebrating their success.

Pictured are, front: Rose Hollerman, Elysian. Middle: Evan Carlson, Champlin; Ben Kenyon, Minnetonka; Mark Braun, Mounds View; Luke Towle, Mounds View. Back row: Eric Scanlon, Delano; Courage Center staff member Mike Bauler, Minneapolis; Rob Wilhelm, New Brighton; Josh Scanlon, Delano. Not pictured: Connor Downes, Rosemount; Kyle Timmerman, Minneota; Chuck Aoki, Minneapolis.

provider would receive a financial benefit for doing so.

Advocates have sought to ensure that individuals with complex needs who may already have a health care home, (such as children with disabilities in the TEFRA program, or those in the Minnesota Disability Health Options program) would not have their current arrangements disrupted. Also important will be the ability to designate a mental health professional or specialist as a ‘health care home,’ not just a primary care doctor. Currently, no one is assisting many of the enrollees in the fee-for-service Medical Assistance program to ensure their health needs are being addressed and coordinated.

Additionally, the legislature wants to expand the MinnesotaCare program, which would give more individuals and working families access to affordable health care. Many current enrollees have complex medical issues or conditions, but they may not be ‘disabled enough’ to qualify for Medical Assistance. For individuals in this situation, their pre-existing conditions may price them out of the private insurance market, so MinnesotaCare may be the only option they can afford.

The governor’s most recent proposal would include no expansion of the program.

How we pay for health services—and determining what the real price is for certain services—would also be addressed in the reform package.

The buzz word is ‘transparency,’ which would give the public a better understanding of what services really cost, and which providers are best at delivering those services. Ultimately, this change would lead to the development of better consumer report cards and lists that would rank providers based on cost and quality.

Health reform - cont. on p. 12

May 10, 2008

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What are those legislators doing? John Tschida does a great job, starting on page one, of explaining some of the goingson at the Capitol. I sure hope that some of the health-care reforms he writes about come to pass. With health-care costs consuming 25 percent—an unsustainable amount—of the state’s overall budget, the “health care home” Tschida describes sounds like a very positive restructuring, rather than a patch-the-hole fix. Rewarding providers through financial incentives for preveninally, it seems, we tive practices and for deliverhave made it through ing the best products and serthe winter. This last vices sounds like a good idea. month has been a rollercoaster of weather. One Maybe after the upcoming morning, the warm bright sun elections there will be some would wake you by 6 a.m.; serious proposals to change then the next day you the whole health-care system wouldn’t even see the sun, throughout our country. I think and a wet chill would remain we have to think positively throughout the day. But this and get very involved as a comis Minnesota! And no one munity for our health-care covknows that better than legis- erage problems to become a lators. thing of the past. The only way that this can work, though, is if

Tim Benjamin, Editor

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we all start getting involved in the politics of health care for everyone. At least one way to get involved is volunteering for politicians that are likeminded. Another is getting to know the policymakers we already have. I think our leaders really do want what is best for us, but unless we tell them what that is they can only be “those politicians.” Get to know them on a first-name basis, and let them know what you need. I know I would fight much harder for someone I know than for someone I have only heard about.

Have you ever heard of Doha, Qatar? I hadn’t, until Mary Kay Kennedy from Advocating Change Together (ACT) came to our office and said that she had just been invited by the Princess of Qatar to come with one of ACT’s board members and check out their new Center for Children with Special Needs. ACT board member Roberta Blomster and Kennedy took the short trip

around the world to see how the disability rights movement is expanding in the Middle East. Don’t miss the article on page eight.

There was some concern that last month Access Press was disrespectful to our police department through the choice of words used in an article title and subtitle. Policing our communities is an honorable profession, and I can’t imagine the stress, challenges, insults, assaults, danger and even chaos that police officers face every day. I thank every police officer for the respectable work that they do and I meant absolutely no disrespect. I believe that the community and the police department should show one another the utmost respect for their human—and professional—dignity at all times. In this particular situation, we were reporting a story concerning the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), where officers are trained both to prevent and de-escalate mental health cri-

ses. I did not intend for the paper’s wording to be perceived as appalling or disrespectful. We are printing, on page three, the two letters we received on this topic. Maybe, like one of the letters said, the words we chose showed my ignorance on the topic, and I will work on correcting that.

It’s hard to always pick the right words, but where I can correct an offense, I will.

Along with those two letters we are printing two other letters that concerned other words that have multiple meanings.

for society. We can only hope that these kinds of horrendous acts are recognized in the future and that as a society we will be wise enough to acknowledge and admit wrongs, and apologize.

On page three, Clarence Schadegg fills us in on what National Crime Victims’ Week has brought to the disability community. Olegario D. Cantos, Special Counsel to the Acting Assistant Attorney General of the U.S., explains a new federally granted initiative to improve public safety and broaden public awareness, civil rights training and greater crime reporting efforts. This new initiative should help in many areas, including making available more factual information on crimes against people with disabilities.

This month our history note has been expanded. Luther Granquist reports on a topic that seems both appalling and incredible in this day and age.

The sterilization of people with cognitive disabilities at the hands of government and the scientific community can only be described as barbaric and Thank you for reading and criminal, yet at the time the supporting Access Press. ■ decision makers were sure that they were doing the right thing

History Note

The awful price of freedom

by Luther Granquist

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School for the Feeble-Minded at Faribault, stated that the “lives of feeble-minded persons should be made as satisfactory and complete as our most advanced methods can make them, but we must see that they do not propagate.”

He said that only those “feebleminded” persons who had been trained at the institution so that they could get along with supervision in the “outside world” would be considered for sterilization. By the time he spoke in 1928, 155 persons had been sterilized at Faribault with the result, in his words, that “at least 155 lines of deIn a speech in 1928 about He- scent carrying defective gene redity as a Factor in Feeble- have been cut off.”

Mindedness, Dr. J. M. Murdoch, Superintendent of the Frederick Kuhlmann, a psyn May 1975 the Minnesota legislature repealed a law authorizing sterilization of “feebleminded” persons committed to the guardianship of the Commissioner of Public Welfare and a law prohibiting a marriage if one of the persons was “imbecile, feebleminded, or insane.” The sterilization law was passed in 1925; the marriage prohibition several years before that. Both laws reflected the strong feelings of the time that mental retardation was hereditary and that “feebleminded” persons were a threat to society as a whole.

chologist who was Director of Research for the Minnesota State Board of Control, the predecessor of the Department of Human Services, agreed in a speech in 1927 that “reproduction is effectively prevented by segregation in an institution.” But he emphasized that simply having been sterilized was not a reason to discharge someone from guardianship or from the institution: “To sterilize an immoral moron and then turn her loose is unthinkable. To do so would aggravate an evil much greater than that of feeble-mindedness.” We must remember, he added, “that a sterilized moron is still a moron ….”

tion law was passed, she emphasized that the county social workers providing “outside supervision” (outside the state institution) must actually be “interested in the likes and dislikes, joys and sorrows of the ward ….” She admonished them not to speak of “the feeble-minded” in the abstract, but consider each person individually. But she accepted without apparent question the need for sterilization. With sterilization, she said, “we do not have to consider the result of a possible evasion of supervision … another illegitimate and possible feeble-minded child ….” She concluded: “Thus many a girl, and boy also, can be satisfactorily paFrom 1925 to 1945 more than roled [discharged] after such From 1925 until 1959 Mildred an operation, when it could Thomson was the person who not have been so considered ultimately exercised state previously.”

Co-Founder/Publisher (1990-1996) .................................................. Wm. A. Smith, Jr. guardianship powers. SpeakCo-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief (1990-2001) ....................... Charles F. Smith ing shortly after the steriliza- Thomson was no ogre. When 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 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

Access Press

2200 women and men were sterilized in Minnesota. Although the law required consent of a spouse or next of kin, if available, the practice was to sterilize persons before they would be discharged. Faribault’s medical and nursing staff held regular “case conferences” to discuss possible placements out of the institution. The minutes of these conferences in 1942 routinely included entries like, “…recommend sterilization and concur in the plan of the welfare board to place her in her aunt’s home.” After World War II, the number of sterilizations decreased and, as attitudes changed, sterilizations were rarely performed after 1960.

she ret i r e d , Mildred Thompson parent groups rightly praised her, in part for supporting their organizations but also for her staunch support of the interests of hundreds of persons with mental retardation. The fact remains, however, that she also supported a law that made sterilization the price of freedom for many of them. That law has been repealed, but a wrong had been done to many persons by the state, and not just by Thomson or Murdoch or Kuhlmann. Other states have apologized for similar wrongs. Minnesota has not. ■ The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the MN Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mn ddc.org or www.mncdd.org and www.partnersin policy making.com.

May 10, 2008

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Letters To The Editor ... ❊ ❊ CARE NOT CUFFS ❊ ❊ Shocked and appalled.

I am shocked and appalled.

When I found out that you put out an article about CIT and the issues people with mental illness have within their community and in the criminal justice system, I immediately looked up the article [“Care, not cuffs,” April 10, 2008]. I just could not get past the words “to prevent police abuse.” I had communication with Sue Abderholden of NAMI, someone I have worked with many times in the past, and she let me know that she would never use such words. I know Sue and I believe her 100%. That leaves your staff writer and you. I had to read the article 4 times to get past those words and finally realized that it was a good article. Well written and accurate. Why the abuse? Where did that come from? Are you

purposefully trying to throw gas on a flame? I work hard to train many officers in how to better respond to mental health crisis and often find many people with the same focus.

Articles like this are only meant to do harm to our profession.

I’m wondering if you are just trying to join the likes of some other press writes and “blame the cops”. I’m sorry; I thought more of your organization.

Sgt. Steve Wickelgren MA Minneapolis Police Depart.

President MN CIT Officers Association; steven.wickel gren@ci.minneapolis.mn.us

Sensationalizing?

I was informed that the following article was in your publication Access Press and that your staff decided to edit the title of the article, I am not sure why you did this. Was it to

sensationalize the issue, due to your opinion of the police or your lack of knowledge about the issue in the article?

[Care, not cuffs; Advocating mental health awareness to prevent police abuse, by Sue Abderholden.]

I am frustrated with your representation of the police. As a retired police sergeant and a mental health professional working in this area of how to get the best services to persons struggling with mental illness, I and my colleagues are working hard to encourage the police and when this type of representation comes out it sets that effort back.

Police officers have a very difficult job balancing the needs and safety of the individual, the needs and safety of the community and their own personal needs and safety. Most

officers work very hard to handle each person they come in contact with with dignity, respect and compassion, while controlling the crisis incident.

profession and medical model has had for me. It is not that I have any affinity for the word “consumer” but it does sound and feel better then the word “patient”! I think we must idenI would hope that you could tify ourselves as we choose. give the officers the dignity, respect and compassion they I crushed my spinal cord and also deserve. am paralyzed from the chest Michael R. Peterson MA and arms down as a result of a LAMFT, Executive Direc- car accident many years ago. tor, MN CIT Officer’s Asso- As a result of that event I necciation, 612-220-6038, execu essarily became dependent on the medical profession for pertive.director @mncit.org mission to exist. A “patient” is what I was! Not because that is what I defined myself as, but ❊ ❊ C ONSUMER? ❊ ❊ because it is what I allowed others to define me as. With How about ‘Participant’?

“Patient” has become a four- the word “patient” comes the letter word! [“Don’t call me a concept of the term “be pa‘consumer’!” April 10, 2008] tient.” Over time and discusIt is not a four-letter word just sion with other cohorts, I befor persons with depression. I came aware of another perproudly disdain the word ever spective that allowed me to since I felt the disrespect and identify myself differently. superiority that the medical This new awareness helped identify “patient” as a four letter word for me and for many other people with various disabilities and illnesses because th the word implies inaction, which is NOT what many persons with disabilities want to be. INACTIVE!

Victimization ‘must not stand’

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week begins April 13

by Clarence Schadegg

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federal initiative is now in place to improve public safety for people with disabilities; grants will go for greater reporting efforts, rights training, and broader public awareness about the public safety needs of this fifteen percent of the population.

Olegario D. Cantos, Special Counsel to the Acting Assistant Attorney General, has spoken extensively on the need for a nationwide public safety initiative for people with disabilities. In a recent letter, Cantos wrote that “all too often and in silence, people with disabilities are victimized by physical, psychological, financial, and sexual abuse or are otherwise victims of neglect. In the worst of circumstances, they lose their very lives by the hands of perpetrators of crime.

Crime - cont. on p. 4

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, 2008 A proclamation by President Bush

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tional Sex Offender Registry, increase Federal penalties for crimes against children, and protect our children while on the Internet. I also support a Crime Victims’ Rights Amendment to the Constitution.

My Administration is commit- Through these and other efted to providing services and forts, we can better protect our resources for victims of crime citizens and our communities. so that they can find justice, hope, and healing in their lives. During National Crime VicTo assist victims of domestic tims’ Rights Week, we recogviolence and their children, my nize the advocates, counseFamily Justice Center Initia- lors, and others who assist victive established comprehen- tims in their time of need, and sive support centers in com- the law enforcement personmunities across the country. nel who work to bring offendThrough the Justice for All ers to justice. To learn more Act of 2004, we expanded about victims’ rights, AmeriDNA testing and enhanced the cans can visit www.crime scope and enforceability of victims.gov. crime victims’ rights. In 2006, I signed into law the Adam By working together, we can Walsh Child Protection and help protect crime victims and Safety Act to expand the Na- build a society that respects the uring National Crime Victims’ Rights Week we highlight our dedication to protecting and strengthening the rights of crime victims and their families.

life and value of every person.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 13 through April 19, 2008, as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. I encourage all Americans to promote awareness of victims’ rights and advance this important cause.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eleventh day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtysecond.

GEORGE W. BUSH

more control. By calling ourselves “consumers,” we were in the driver’s seat. We were the ones controlling our services. Consumers get to decide what they want and don’t want. Patients and Clients don’t. We don’t use the word “consumer” anymore. We use the word “self-advocate.”

People like this word better.

I’m surprised to hear the word again because I have not heard if for a long time. And, I’m sorry that it makes you feel bad being called a consumer. I can understand what you are saying. I think everyone should get to decide what they want to be called. If you don’t like the word consumer you are doing the right thing to speak out and make it known that you don’t like it.

As a person with developmental disabilities, I’m not sick, I’m not broken and I’m tired of people trying to fix me so that I will fit in better to society. Self-advocates say we are just fine the way we are and society needs to change, not us! For people with developmental disabilities the word “consumer” probably has a The word “patient” becomes a whole different meaning than problem because “I” as a per- for people with other kinds of son want to “participate” in disabilities. any health or medical decisions about me. Call me a “par- This is what I know about the ticipant!” background on the word “conRick Cardenas, St. Paul sumer.”

Melvin Haagenson, Mpls

Or self-advocate?

I want to respond to LeRee Etter’s letter “Don’t call me a ‘consumer’!” [April 10, 2008] I’ve been involved with selfadvocacy from way back. I started with Advocating Change Together in St. Paul in 1989. Back then, we decided to call ourselves “consumers” because we were sick of being called “patients” and “clients.”

These words boxed us in and made us feel like we were always the ones getting stuff done to us. We wanted to have

❊ ❊ DEPRESSION ❊ ❊ Wider audience I just have to tell you that I love the article on depression (“Open letter to a friend with depression,” by Pete Feigal.

March 10th, 2008). It’s one of the best I’ve seen. I’m a senior citizen; not handicapped, but retired. Yes, depression is hard.

I just happened to pick up the Access Press at one of the stores. This is a good article for everyone. Thanks.

Lorraine A. Prince, St. Paul ■

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May 10, 2008

This Month’s Issue Sponsor

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AXIS Healthcare’s approach 1. Minnesota Disability to disability care has led to Health Options (MnDHO) better health outcomes for our MnDHO is a partnership bemembers, including shorter tween the MN Department hospital and nursing home of Human Services, UCare stays, decreased emergency and AXIS and is available at room visits and more efficient no cost to people who are on processing of medical supplies Medical Assistance, have a and equipment. We work to physical disability, live in the 7-county metro area, and ensure effective communicaare age 18-65. tion between our members, their families and care2. AccessAbility givers, and providers.

AccessAbility is a partnership between Medica and You can receive care coordiAXIS and is available at no nation from AXIS in three difcost to people who are on ferent ways.

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FAQ@DLL

Economic stimulus payments by the Disability Linkage Line staff

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ill the economic stimulus payments I receive affect my medical, cash or food benefits?

Starting May of 2008 people will begin receiving economic stimulus payments.

The payment you receive will not be counted as income the month you receive it and the

following two months when determining benefits. So Payments received in May will not be seen as income in May, June or July, but come August if you still have the

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money it will be seen as in- Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), come.

Department of Veterans AfWhat do I have to do to re- fairs benefits and certain Railroad Retirement benefits. If ceive a payment?

To receive a payment, taxpay- the Internal Revenue Service ers must have a valid Social (IRS) does not receive this tax Security number, at least return by October 15, 2008, $3,000 of income and file a no economic stimulus payment can be made. Once the tax 2007 federal tax return. return has been filed, the IRS I didn’t file a tax return in will calculate the amount of 2007. Does that mean I will the economic stimulus payment due and issue the paynot get the rebate?

The only way to get this rebate ment by check or direct deis to file a federal tax return for posit.

2007. Even if you don’t usually file a tax return because Can I still get help filing my you don’t earn enough, you taxes? will still need to file a 2007 tax Yes. Even though April 15th return in order to receive the has passed, there is still time economic stimulus check. This for people who do not norincludes people who are low mally do so to file their taxes income and receive Social to qualify for the payment. The

CRIME -

IRS has set up a free service to help. You can find companies who have agreed to help you file at no cost by going online at www.IRS.gov and click on Free File. If you do not have internet access, feel free to call Disability Linkage Line (DLL) at 1-866-333-2466 and they will help you find free help. ■ If you have additional questions about community resources, please call DLL at 1866-333-2466. DLL provides free, disability-related information and assistance for Minnesotans. Disability Linkage Line does not endorse any particular Web site or provider. They assume no responsibility for transactions between the readers of this article and listed organizations.

Cont. from p. 3

This state of affairs cannot tion and ensure that crime vicand must not stand ….” tims with disabilities receive comprehensive and accessible John Gillis, Director of the services and are afforded funOffice for Victims of Crime of damental rights. The awards the Office for Justice Pro- to Disabled Persons Protecgrams, announced the $2.5 tion Commission (Quincy, million award to address vic- Montana) and SafePlace (Austimization of persons with dis- tin, Texas), each $700,000, also include work to expand abilities. access to the criminal justice The largest grants will go to system in the aftermath of programs designed to “in- criminal victimization. crease reporting of victimiza-

Other programs receiving significant support are those that will coordinate, develop and administer “state-of-the-art” multi-disciplinary training at a national conference. Washburn University of Topeka, Kansas Joint Center on Violence and Victim Studies and the National Center for Victims of Crime, NCVC, Washington, D.C. will receive $550,000 each. ■

To learn more about programs protecting the rights of people with disabilities, visit the following Web sites: •www.ovw.usdoj.gov/WomenwithDisabilitiesBrief2002.htm: “Education, Training and Enhanced Services to End Violence Against and Abuse of Women with Disabilities” •www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovc/ncvrw/2008/2008bios.htm: “2008 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Award Recipients” •www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovc: “Office for Victims of Crime: Putting Victims First” •www.ojp.usdoj.gov/newsroom/pressreleases/2008/ovc08013.htm: “Department of Justice Recognizes Service to Crime Victims.”

•www.ada.gov/lawenfcomm.htm: “Communicating with People who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing: ADA Guide for Law Enforcement Officers.”

•www.ada.gov/lawenfmod policy.htm: “Model Policy for Law Enforcement on Communicating with People who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.”

May 10, 2008

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One size does not fit all

Why pay more?

Medicare competitive bidding should not include complex rehab needs

Foundation launches free online screen-reader for blind

by Leisa Lang (with contributions from NCART)

by Clarence Schadegg

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ive Minnesotans joined almost 200 other rehabilitation professionals from across the nation to go to Washington and advocate for people with complex rehab needs. They met with elected officials to present concerns about exempting the complex rehab durable medical equipment needs from the Medicare competitive bidding process.

The concern is that limiting options for those with complex medical needs (spinal cord injuries, MS, MD, ALS, CP, etc) would greatly limit function, mobility and access to technology.

assembled, fitted, and programmed to accommodate each person’s individual medical needs and requirements.

Moreover, there is a need for ongoing service, adjustments and monitoring of these products to ensure that they continue to meet the medical needs of the person. Competitive bidding does not work in situations like this. The person will be limited to choices and access to current technology, leaving her or him less independent, and at high risk for medical complications (such as pressure ulcers and contractures).

Several Minnesotans recently travelled to Washington DC to advocate for people who need complex rehab. Pictured are Alicia Truebenbach, ATS, CRRTS; Marcia Margolis, PT, ATP; Leisa Lang, OTA, ATS; Bobbi Mackedanz, ATS, COTA

Here’s the issue. Medicare is requiring competitive bidding on equipment needed for rehab. While this may seem like a good cost-saving policy, it will be a disaster for people with complex medical equipment needs such as specialized wheelchairs, seating, and alternative drive controls, etc.

Here’s why. For this group of people, rehab and assistive technology products are highly individualized and must be

The Minnesota delegation met with the legislative aids for Rep. Bachmann, Rep. Ellison, Rep. Peterson, Rep. Ramstad, Sen. Klobuchar, and Sen. Coleman. The group was seeking support on House Bill HR 2231 that was introduced in the House of Representatives last year by Reps. Tom Allen (D-ME) and Ron Lewis (RKY). Rep. Peterson has signed onto the bill already. Rep. Ramstad has been verbally

very supportive but has not yet signed on. The advocates called for a companion bill in the Senate and have met with both MN Senate offices concerning this. According to Sen. Klobuchar’s health legislative aide, this was a relatively new topic to them, but they were supportive of the issues. Sen. Coleman’s legislative aide is very knowledgeable on the topic and expressed verbal support.

any in the disability community are working to increase computer accessibility.

For blind and visually impaired users, that goal recently got a big boost. The Accessibility Is a Right (AIR) foundation has launched a new program, called System Access To Go (SATOGO). Free and online, it is a newly developed screenreader program for people who are blind and visually impaired.

Following the advocates visit, on April 29, a bipartisan companion bill was introduced in the Senate, S 2931 to HR 2231, these bills both exempt complex rehab from national competitive bidding. The National Coalition for Assis-tive and Rehab Technology (NCART) is encouraging everyone to contact their Senators and Representatives and urge them to cosponsor S. 2931 and HR. 2231. ■

Building bridges Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities receives grant for advocacy and systems change efforts

by Steve Larson & Mike Gude

O

n April 21, 2008, the Minneapolis Foundation announced that it had awarded the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) a one-time grant of $150,000 from the B.C. Gamble and P.W. Skogmo Fund. The grant will support CCD’s The Bridge to Independence proposal.

Bridge to Independence is a coordinated campaign to improve the lives of all Minnesota adults and children with disabilities through effective grassroots community organizing, policy advocacy, civic engagement and systems change.

CCD is a statewide, cross-disability coalition of 112 disability advocacy and provider organizations that has worked for the past twelve years to ensure that state programs and services positively impact the lives of Minnesotans with disabilities.

The grant period is from May 1, 2008 through April 30, 2009.

Grant activities will start immediately, and with the support of the grant, a Consortium Coordinator will be hired to manage the grant work plan. A job description for this position is being developed; indi-

viduals interested in getting more information should contact Steve Larson, CCD CoChair, at SteveL@arcmn.org.

The Minneapolis Foundation is the oldest foundation in Minnesota and one of the nation’s largest community foundations. It distributes an average of $40 million in grants each year, shares its philanthropic expertise with other foundations, and sponsors public information campaigns and conferences on critical social issues. The foun-

dation administers more than 850 charitable funds and partners with a variety of communities and institutions to im-

prove the quality of life in our region. For more information, visit www.MinneapolisFoun dation.org. ■

Art Schreiber, Executive Director of the AIR Foundation, recently explained some of the details of the new system. The two major benefits to SATAGO for users are that it is free to all, anytime they want to use it, and, it is available anywhere, with few restrictions (it currently it only works with Windows XP and Vista products). Serotek also provides technical answers free of charge. In addition, SATOGO offers nine voices—four male and five female. Voices from Naturally Speaking and others are not available with this product, mainly because SATOGO is free and cannot offer product where the vendor requires a payment. However, a full range of voices is available from Serotek with its System Access Mobile product line.

Formerly Freedom Box, System Access (SA) was designed and used for the past seven years. The brainchild of Michael Calvo, founder and CEO of Serotek Corporation, SA will give blind and visually impaired people around the world free access to the SATOGO screen reader. Access to SATAGO is as easy as visiting their web site www. For more information, contact satogo.com with an open Web the AIR Foundation at info@ accessibilityisaright.org. ■ browser.

About the director Mr. Schreiber, Executive Director of the AIR Foundation, credits the National Federation of the Blind for helping him to change his life. He has an impressive and extensive set of professional experiences, including spending more than fifty years in broadcasting as a reporter, news director, radio and television anchor and bureau chief, as well as founding Commuter Computer, a ride-sharing organization, in Los Angeles in 1972 and being its president from 1977 to 1980.

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Regions Hospital celebrates disability awareness Regions Hospital is committed to a diverse work environment that respects and values differences.

Regions Hospital is a Level I Trauma Center and teaching hospital serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin for more than 130 years. We are proud of the many partnerships within our community designed to improve the health of those we serve. We also consider it a privilege to provide more than $41 million a year in charitable care to those who need it.

Regions is well positioned for the future with a new $179 million expansion project scheduled to open in 2009. At the center of the expansion project is an 11-story tower that will provide private patient rooms, 20 new operating rooms, a renovated emergency department and convenient, underground patient parking.

Regions Hospital celebrates the diverse talents and backgrounds of our employees. You will discover a respectful, values-driven environment that will energize your career and enhance your personal growth. For a list of our current openings and to apply, please visit us online at: www.RegionsHospital.com. EOE

Part of the HealthPartners family of care.

6

May 10, 2008

News at a glance . . .

Lawsuit alleges poor treatment of passengers with disabliities

director. “We are grateful for the help and suggestions from our consumers, advisory committee members and other agencies According to a lawsuit filed recently, Detroit Metro Airport and individuals who contributed to the content, design and and Northwest Airlines (NWA) dropped disabled passengers layout of the Web pages.” to the floor, denied them accessible parking, damaged wheelchairs by tossing them in baggage storage and failed to provide Hodek asks that users review the Web pages and share their an area for guide dogs to relieve themselves. The suit seeks no impressions in the following survey: http://survey.dhs. monetary damages, but asks the court to require the airport and state.mn.us/surveylogin.asp?k=120638938775. [Source: MN Northwest to follow federal disability and transportation laws. Department of Human Services] “What’s good for the disabled is good for everyone, and by improving air travel for the disabled, it will make things better for everybody,” said Farmington Hills lawyer Richard Bernstein, who filed the suit on behalf of five passengers. Bernstein is blind and travels weekly out of Metro.

New guide for emergency situations The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) is pleased to announce the release of a new online publication: “Emergency Management Research and People With Disabilities: A Resource Guide.” This resource is the culmination of cooperative efforts by NIDRR, the Department of Education, and other government committees. The guide provides a listing and description of research projects funded by the federal government and nonfederal entities, research recommendations that have come out of conferences on emergency management and disability, and a bibliography of relevant research publications.

The suit alleges NWA and the Wayne County Airport Authority, which runs Metro, discriminate against people with disabilities by denying them equal access to air travel as well as the terminals, parking and van shuttle service, also alleging that they have forced people with disabilities who cannot stand or walk for long periods of time to wait in long lines and have provided improper boarding assistance, among other charges.

[Source: Detroit Free Press, www.freep.com] The authors hope that this guide will facilitate a nationwide research agenda on emergency management and people with disabilities, so that a strong evidence base about the best ways Web site improved for deaf, deafblind users New Web pages, with enhanced features for deaf, hard of to ensure the safety and security of people with disabilities in hearing and deafblind users, have been launched at emergency and disaster situations can be developed. www.dhhsd.org, part of the Minnesota Department of Human This report is available on the U.S. Department of Education’s Services Web site.

Web site at: www.ed.gov/rschstat/research/pubs. [Source: The new design features more links with visual qualities that www.adagreatlakes.org] make it easier for users to find information. Photographs, for example, contain links to information about the subject of the U of M disabled student center honored photographs.

The University of Minnesota Disabled Student Cultural Center (DSCC) has received the Tony Diggs Excellence Awards for “We believe the new design will make these pages a more Outstanding Undergraduate Registered Student Organization useful tool for those who are deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind,” of the Year 2007. said Bruce Hodek, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division

U of M Disabled Student Cultural Center president Rachel Garaghty and co-chair Tien Dang accept the Outstanding Undergraduate Student Organization of the Year award from U of M administrators Tom Sullivan (far left) and Jerry Rinehart (far right).

The award recognizes student groups for innovation, philanthropic efforts, outstanding events and overall achievements.

Students with disabilities often report they feel isolated on campus and find it difficult to meet other students who have disabilities and share similar issues. As a result, the DSCC strives to help students overcome this barrier by ensuring traditional student programs, activities, and campus structures are accessible and welcoming to students with disabilities.

DSCC’s goals include fostering the culture of individuals with disabilities; providing learning opportunities for all students; ensuring a completely accessible campus; and increasing the level of disability awareness on campus.

DSCC sponsors a monthly lunch-and-learn event to discuss disability issues. Its members also speak to new students at orientation as a way of welcoming the students to campus. DSCC also hosts many annual events, such as the wheelchair basketball exhibition last November at Williams Arena. [Source: DSCC] Glance - cont. on p. 14

May 10, 2008

7

Upcoming events To list an event, e-mail access@accesspress.org International Art Show Through May 16 Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute is hosting the 45th annual International Art Show

by Artists with Disabilities.

The show runs through May 16. Details: Sister Kenny Rehab Institute, Second floor, Sister Kenny Building, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, 800 E. 28th Street, Minneapolis. Free.

9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. FFI: 612-8634872, or www.sisterkennyinsti tute.com.

Artful Live art exhibit May-December A new exhibit organized by Partnership Resources Inc. (PRI) entitled “Artful Lives” features art by people with developmental disabilities.

PRI hopes the artwork will be used to educate the community about the abilities of artists with disabilities, as well as promote self expression in breaking down stereotypes and myths, create business opportunities and add beauty to the world. Details: Family Justice Center, 110 S. Fourth Street, Minneapolis.

Fitness and MS May 15 Fitness and MS is a program for people with MS to learn about the importance of physical and emotional fitness.

Sponsored by the National MS Society, Minnesota Chapter.

Details: Marshall, MN. FFI: Timothy Holtz, 612-3357930, 800-582-5296 or tholtz @mssociety.org.

Gillette’s various patients. For example, by using special sound, video and lighting to create a soothing environment, our positive-distraction technology will help patients relax. You are invited to experience the Advanced Imaging Center firsthand at an open house. Details: 5-8 p.m. FFI: www.gillettechildrens.org.

Legal planning workshop May 22 PACER Center is offering “Life Planning for Persons with Disabilities,” a free workshop for people with disabilities and their families. Topics will include health care power of attorney, health care living wills, long-term-care issues, probate, revocable living trusts, supplemental needs trusts, and wills. Each family that attends is invited to receive a free, two-hour consultation from Life Planning for Persons with Disabilities to discuss how a comprehensive life plan could work in their situation. Advance registration requested.

Details: 7-9 p.m., PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington. FFI: 952838-9000 or 952-838-0190 (TTY), or www.PACER.org.

N. (corner of 26th & Newton Ave N), Minneapolis.

FFI: Cynthia Fernandez, 612522-0942.

Par Excellence golf tournament June 2 Rise, Inc. is proud to sponsor this fundraising golf tournament, which features a pretournament clinic, a great lunch, and shot-gun tournament play. In addition, there will be silent and live auctions, social hour, tournament mementos, and an awards dinner. Details: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Mpls Golf Club, 2001 Flag Avenue North, Golden Valley. FFI: Trudi Meloche, 763-792-2415, 763-786-8334 or tmeloche@rise.org, or www.rise.org/golf_ frm.php

Bike MS: Larkin Hoffman MS 150 Ride June 6-8 This is a two-day, 150-mile ride from Proctor to the Twin Cities with an overnight at Grand Casino Hinckley. This is the best-supported weekend ride in Minnesota, attracting more than 3,000 riders and 800 volunteers each year. The Minnesota Chapter of the MS Society coordinates three bike tours for riders of all levels and ages. Each tour offers stocked rest stops, bicycle mechanics, rider assistance along the route, a t-shirt and a finish line meal. FFI: Voice: 612-335-7900 or 800-5825296.

Northside Neighborhood Link-Up May 31 The One Stop Family Support Center, serving families and individuals with developmental disabilities, and the Jordan neighborhood of Minneapolis are having a fun-filled info fair together. Bring the kids, have WISE benefits and fun and get information about Family & friends CPR course working conference June 17 their various programs, serMay 21 vices and activities. Free re- Gillette Children’s Specialty The Work Incentives Connec- freshments and activities. De- Healthcare is offering a free tion is hosting a day of two tails: 2-5 p.m., 1922 25th Ave cardiopulmonary resuscitation unique activities. In the morning, a Social Security Work Incentives Seminar Event (WISE training) will occur. It Watery Dwelling will address how working afby Steven Jacobson fects disability benefits and more. In the afternoon there storm subsides leaving will be an Employment Suptraces of electrical activity port Resources Fair, featuring and distant rolling booms. a wide range of employment resources for people with distall legged black and white abilities. Details: 10 a.m.egret strides watery shallows noon, 1-3 p.m. Wilder Center, trekking homeward bound.

451 Lexington Pkwy N, St. Paul. Free. Registration rewater laps against shore quired for WISE training: 877beaver drags felled timber 743-8237 (voice or TTY) or back to submerged lair. www.socialsecurity.gov/work /wise.html. FFI: Kris, 651-632loon calling mate 5119, or 800-976-6728 ext. under star gazed night 5119, or TTY 651-632-5110. moon overhead serenading.

Advanced Imaging Center mottled osprey nestles young open house staring down at sheer heights May 21 atop abandoned wooded pylon.

Gillette’s new Advanced Imaging Center on their St. Paul dawn arrives percolating campus will begin welcoming perchance rainbow appears patients later this spring. The sun rears head with splendor. new center is designed to meet the complex medical needs of

(CPR) course St. Paul campus. The class provides training in basic CPR skills and information about relieving choking. Details: 5:30-8:30 p.m. FFI: John Wulfing, 651229-3958(x.2028), or jwulfing@gillettechildrens.com.

Disability courses at U of M Summer 2008 Two summer courses on disability will be offered by the University of Minnesota’s Institute on Community Integration and Department of Educational Policy and Administration. Disability Policy & Changing the Look of Services (3 credits) is offered Autism conference June 9-20, 8–noon, and will June 26 examine current policy, reFraser presents a full-day con- search, and practices related ference for professionals and to services that support indiparents of early childhood and viduals with intellectual, deschool-age children with autism spectrum disorders. This conference will help to build a knowledge base and skills related to autism spectrum disorders. There will be a variety of conference sessions covering: education techniques and strategies, assessment information, intervention strategies and much more. Details: 88:30 a.m. registration; 8:309:45 a.m. opening session; 9:45 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. workshop sessions. Holiday Inn Select, Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport, 3 Appletree Square (I-494 & 34th Ave. So.) Bloomington. FFI: Mary Trierweiler, 612-7988349 or maryt@fraser.org.

velopmental, and other disabilities and their families across the lifespan. PersonCentered Thinking & Planning for Persons with Disabilities (3 credits) is offered July 718, 8–noon. It will provide an overview of person-centered thinking, and in-depth examination of contemporary applications. FFI: Marijo McBride, ICI, 612-624-6830 or mcbri 001@umn.edu, or visit www. cehd.umn.edu. ■

Driver Assessment and Training – Specific programming for seniors and people with disabilities – Recognized leader with certified professional staff – More than 30 years experience – Confidential; no doctor referral necessary Available in these convenient locations Burnsville – Duluth – Forest Lake Golden Valley – Monticello Rochester – Spring Lake Park St. Cloud – Stillwater For information or an appointment: 1.888.846.8253 763.520.0425 courage.org

May 10, 2008

8

‘Small world after all’

Global self-advocacy efforts

by Access Press staff writer

Zambian delegation visits MN disability orgs

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oberta Blomster and Mary Kay Kennedy of St. Paul-based Advocating Change Together (ACT) joined 250 leaders from around the world in Doha, Qatar to attend the Third Annual International Forum on Disability. The forum was sponsored by the Shafallah Center for Children with Special Needs. “We met people from India, Africa, Lebanon, Russia, and more,” says Blomster.

by Vicki Gaylord and Pam Carlson

Qatar’s Shafallah Center for Children with Special Needs “The Qatari people I met are provides a range of services, both medical and educational. very proud of their newly established Center for Children medical all the way: the teach- what most disability rights with Special Needs. It’s a ers even wore lab coats.” actives would want, the Censchool for kids with disabiliter still represents a positive ties and the first of its kind in Kennedy reflects that while the change. The director of the the region,” says Kennedy. segregated, medical-model Center, Dr. Saif al-Hajri is “The model for the school was services are not in line with quoted as saying, “People in Qatar are finally starting to behave right, the family attitude is changing. Now they take the handicapped child to public malls and parks. This was not happening six or seven years ago.”

Katie and Scott Thuleen welcomed the delegation to their home to see how it’s been made accessible for their son Zach.

A

delegation of nine government officials, missionaries, educators, and advocates from Zambia in southern Africa was in the Twin Cities from March 28 to April 13 for an advanced disability leadership learning program sponsored by five local disability organizations.

Arc Greater Twin Cities, the Institute on Community Integration at the University of Minnesota, Fraser, St. David’s Child Development and Family Services, and Opportunity Partners are collaborating on a project titled “Twin Cities and Zambia Disability Connection,” which began with the two-week intensive learning residency and will continue this summer when trainers from the Twin Cities travel to Zambia.

Shafallah International Forums (this being the third) are helping Doha put itself of the disability map. “They definitely have a strong interest in being Enjoying a break from the conference in Qatar are Roberta leaders in disability and in Blomster, ACT board member, Marci Roth, National Spinal playing a central role in bringCord Injury Association (USA), and Lina Kashyap, Center ing people together to address for Disability Studies and Action (India). global issues,” says Kennedy.

The focus of the conference changes from year to year; each annual gathering focuses on one aspect of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

This year’s focus was on Ar- The goal of this partnership is ticle 30 which talks about participation in sports, culture and recreational activities for all.

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

CONSUMER-DIRECTED SUPPORTS AND SERVICES MissionStatement:

“To work with people with disabilities in fulfilling their desire to lead productive, self-determined lives.”

MCIL provides Nursing Home Relocation, Personal Assistant Services (PCA), Transitional & Independent Living Services to individuals through Medical Assistance, Vocational Rehabilitation, County Waivers (CADI, CDCS, EW, TBI) and private pay.

Individuals and their support networks can also utilize the Disability Linkage Line, Individual Advocates, the ADA, and our computer resource lab at no additional cost.

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

to support the Zambian delegation to be change agents in further improving supports and services to meet the needs

Street Kids project; Alice Kaunda, a parent advocate; Sister Joyce Phiri, a Missionary Sister of St. Francis of

The delegation sang and danced during their visit to Interact Center for Visual and Performing Arts, where they experienced an inclusive arts community. of people with disabilities and their families in Zambia. The delegation includes Grace Banda from the Zambia Ministry of Education; Mikala Mukongolw from the Bauleni

Assisi; Sister Agnes Daka, a Little Sister of St. Francis; Sister Namangolw Liamunga, a Sister of Charity; and friars Joseph Ntumbila, Patrick Chisanga and Deodatus Mbebe, all from The Zambia Province of Franciscan Conventuals.

ACT members were invited to participate in the forum by a Shafalla representative that they met at the United Nations last December. “One thing leads to the next,” says Kennedy. “This experience in Doha has opened ACT up to even more opportunities to be part of a global network of human rights workers. I guess Sister Joyce and Father Patrick engaged in discussion with it really is a small world after a class member in the Disability Policy and Services course at the University of Minnesota. all.” ■

“In Zambia, there is need for people with disabilities together with their parents to collaborate with other organizations to find means to help people with disabilities achieve independence and learn special skills to sustain themselves,” observes Brother Joseph. “The church, the medical personnel, and other nongovernmental organizations need to come together in that work,” he adds. Mrs. Kaunda notes, “The most difficult part of having a child with special needs is the lack of general information and advice on the best way to help my child achieve her full potential despite her disabilities. I came here looking forward to learning all we possibly can about advocacy with disabilities and special needs populations.”

The delegation’s intensive two-week experience in the Twin Cities focused on best practices in advocacy, policies, and services. They spent mornings in classroom sessions at Arc Greater Twin Cities addressing topics such as Zambia visit - cont. on p. 15

May 10, 2008

‘Nonstop party cruise’ A floating—and accessible—music festival

by Carrie Salberg

New specialty clinic in Maple Grove Northwest suburbs gets new Gillette facility

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ant to know what I did in January?

Imagine a Caribbean cruise sailing from Miami to Jamaica. Now add twenty to thirty rock bands, countless hours of live music, and a boat full of people having the time of their lives. This cruise actually exists. It is called The Rock Boat (TRB), and is billed as “The World’s Greatest Floating Music Festival.”

I learned of TRB five years ago and it sounded like my dream vacation. At the time, however, traveling was impossible for me due to breathing difficulties associated with muscular dystrophy. That changed three years ago when I had a tracheotomy and began using a ventilator full time.

For the first time in over a decade, traveling was possible.

So, last year I decided to try and make my dream vacation a reality.

9

by Cate Dobyns

G

illette Children’s Specialty Healthcare welcomed visitors to its Maple Grove Clinic last Thursday with a fun, family-friendly open house. Turnout was high despite the return of winter weather. Kids and families gathered ‘round a makeshift campfire in the waiting area and lined up for freshly-made s’mores in the assistive-technology lab.

Carrie, Linda and Shawn enjoying the warm weather from the pier in Jamaica.

planning. Oftentimes, medical equipment needs “approval” from the airline in order to be used in-flight. Three days before we were set to leave, we contacted NWA to make sure the vent was on my passenger record. It was not. This led to a tedious hour-and-a-half There were some initial hesi- phone call, during which the tations. Would it be logisti- vent was finally approved. cally possible to travel with all my medical equipment? As things started to fall into Would we be able to find ac- place, most of my fears were cessible transportation in Mi- eased. We were going to ship ami? Would I get seasick? some of my heavier supplies Most importantly, could my to the hotel beforehand. Getbody handle the lack of sleep ting around Miami was going on this nonstop party cruise? to be fairly simple, since many cab companies offered accesFirst I had to find an acces- sible taxis. My list of things to sible cabin. I was shocked at do was dwindling. With the how few accessible rooms logistics worked out, I was now cruise ships have. Our ship focusing on The Rock Boat

in fact, make it to the Miami dock on time.

Although I was a little nervous, getting on the boat turned out to be quite easy. The TRB staff brought us through the VIP area, avoiding the maze of lines. Once onboard the ship, our stateroom was small but I could maneuver around pretty easily; the bathroom was tiny but workable. There were a few areas of the ship that were inaccessible, but all in all, it was easy to get around.

Assistive technology specialists were on hand to demonstrate the clinic’s equipment and services, including orthotic, prosthetic and seating capabilities. The clinic’s nature theme was reflected in colorful leaves, flowers and artwork throughout waiting areas, patient rooms and hallways.

Nolan and Nick Mazza relax in the Maple Grove Clinic’s waiting area with parents Greg and Sandy.

The clinic, which opened in and orthotist at the clinic.

January 2008, is Gillette’s first “We’re excited to spread the in the Northwest metro. “The word about the clinic to this Maple Grove Clinic is a tre- rapidly-expanding area.” ■ mendous resource to Gillette patients and families in the The author is public relations northwest suburbs,” says specialist for Gillette.

Kristine Nolin, a prosthetist

With the hardest part of the trip over, I was ready to experience The Rock Boat. Happily, the artists onboard do not hide away in their cabins; they roam the ship like regular passengers. It is not uncommon to run into your favorite singer while getting ice cream (as I did), or to play blackjack in the casino with the band you Orthotist Georgia Lallas demonstrates scanner technology at the open house for the Maple saw onstage the night before. Grove Clinic last month.

This level of artist/fan interaction is what really makes TRB unique and is what lead to my most memorable moment of the trip – my favorite musician (singer-songwriter Matt Nathanson) coming to our Computerized cabin to sing a song just for Desktop Publishing: me. Matt’s presence on the boat was a big reason why I Advertisements Brochures finally took the leap to go on this crazy adventure in the first Catalogs Carrie gets one-on-one attention from singer-songwriter place.

I could not have imagFlyers Matt Nathanson. ined a more perfect moment.

Newsletters had only twenty-four modified itself. My biggest goal was to Newspapers cabins out of roughly 1060 stay healthy, so I was prepar- People warned me ahead of Project Mgmt rooms. By the time I asked, ing myself to miss a lot of great time that cruises, especially Scanning ... there was only one left. Luck- shows so that I could get at The Rock Boat, were addic& More! ily, I got it. least a little sleep. With bands tive; after experiencing my first Ellen Houghton playing from the afternoon one, I know what they meant.

952-404-9981 After securing a cabin, I went until the wee hours of the morn- I am hoping that my first Rock presentationimages@ ■ Boat will not be my last. into full research mode. The ing, this was going to be my comcast.net key for anyone planning a trip, biggest challenge. I took the especially those with a dis- concert schedule, noted what I ability, is to be as organized as definitely didn’t want to miss, possible. I became a list-mak- and decided to play the rest by ing machine: things to do, ear. people to contact, things that needed to confirmed (and re- Finally, after eleven months of confirmed). This process preparation, this January I left proved to be necessary when on my dream vacation. The dealing with Northwest Air- worst part of any vacation is lines (NWA). Flying with a getting there. I’ll spare you the ventilator requires additional details, and only say that I did,

10

May 10, 2008

News and comment

Ellison seeks disability action

by Debra L. Burke

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n April 25th US Congressmen Keith Ellison held an informal meeting at his campaign office, seeking input and involvement from the disability community in his 2008 re-election campaign. There were fifteen members of the Twin Cities disability community in attendance. Ellison expressed a vision of inclusion and diversity in his campaign, seeking to focus on all community members to step up and take action to the best of their abilities.

“I would like to see folks in wheelchairs, with white canes, and with a wide range of disabilities helping out as volunteers on this campaign,” said Ellison. “I am also hoping to hire someone from the disability community on to the campaign staff to reach out to the community.”

It was not the usual political “tell us what we can do for you?” brand of rhetoric, where one by one you hear problem after problem, followed by mostly empty promises from the candidates.

Ellison’s approach is refreshing because he is inviting all

Peer mentoring: win-win MCIL’s peer mentoring program is on the go

by Nancy Sopkowiak

H

ave you heard about the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) Peer Mentoring Program? MCIL matches a mentee with a disability to a mentor with a disability. Pairs are chosen based on the mentee’s goals. For example, if a mentee wants to start riding the Metro Transit buses, they could be matched with a mentor who is familiar with the local transit system.

Burke and Rep. Ellison at the campaign office Matching prospects can be people with disabilities to not about “us” complaining to time consuming, but definitely make changes to better the “them”—it was the grass roots worth the effort. lives of all people with dis- of a beautiful plan for our fuabilities, by coming aboard and ture. It brings to mind a quote Corbett Laubignat, Peer becoming active members of from JFK: “Ask not what your Mentoring Coordinator, dethe process. Not just for this country can do for you; ask scribes the mentor-mentee reupcoming election, but for what you can do for your coun- lationship as generally a winongoing involvement to make try.” It has been too long that win situation. Mentors enjoy a permanent change for the people with disabilities have giving back to their commuwaited for the change to come. nity, and mentees reach their better.

We must make change happen dreams. Peer mentoring has The gathering was positive and for the community and for our- helped MCIL mentees to enfilled with a commitment from selves. Overall, the message joy social functions, improve Ellison to stand solid on all from Ellison was that the size computer skills, communicate human rights issues; believing of your contribution to posi- clearly, and attain more indein the politics of generosity tive change is relatively unim- pendence. and inclusion—that no one portant. What matters the most should be “cut out of the is that you contribute in the Both mentees and mentors reAmerican dream: not [people first place. ■ ceive training about Peer with disabilities], not immiMentoring. The last mentor grants, not gays, not poor To contact the Ellison cam- training was on April 8th, held people, not even a Muslim paign, go to www.keith at a Minnesota State Council committed to [serving] this ellison.org, or call 612-522- on Disability Town Hall Meetnation.” This gathering was 4416.

ing. Ms. Laubignat testified about her experiences with Minnesota transport systems.

The mentors learned about self-advocacy by watching the testimonies of Ms. Laubignat and others. The next mentee training will be held in May. Many mentees work on social goals. MCIL provides social activities to help create a strong network, and anyone is welcome to attend. The next MCIL Social Night will be on Tuesday, May 27th. Party goers can

pick from activities like watching a movie, eating pizza, or playing on a computer. Attending an event could be a great way to discover more about MCIL. ■ The Peer Mentoring Program has room for new mentees and mentors. For more information about the program, go to www.mcil-mn.org or contact Corbett Laubignat: corbettl @mcil-mn.org.

Larry Tegtmeier (mentee) & Jon Lounberg (mentor) are working on transportation goals including learning how to use Metro transit.

May 10, 2008

11

Choosing a group home How to find information on service providers

by Sherry Gray “Someday my son with Down syndrome will leave home.

How do I find out about the various group home providers and assess which is the best for him?”

sessments. In 2007 the DHS convened a Quality Assurance Stakeholder Advisory Group to help develop a “quality management, assurance and improvement system designed to meet the federal requirements under home and communitybased services waiver programs for persons with disabilities.” The Advisory Group plans to “field test” an annual survey that will be used to evaluate Minnesota waiver services. According to Jason Flint, DHS Disability Services Division, a random sample of five to ten per cent of all Minnesotans participating in the waiver program will be surveyed annually. Information would then be available to the public.

That’s a good question—and one that a lot of us have. Like the father quoted above, consumers and family members seeking waiver or intermediate care facility (ICF/MR) group home placements need accurate, quality of care information about service providers. Many who have already chosen a group home complain that their only source of information about their current house came from “asking around” or “word-of-mouth” recommendations. Others based their decision solely on Since these official assesslocation or availability. ments are not yet available, But getting back to the ques- what follows are suggestions tion, how can consumers for where consumers can look evaluate and compare one as they make their own assesshouse with another? Or get ments. accurate, unbiased information about a provider’s staff turn- DHS information on mediover and accident rates, health cal facilities. Information on violations, and the resources nursing homes, hospitals, available for recreation, so- Medicare-certified home cial, education and fitness pro- health care agencies, health plans and other medical faciligrams? ties is available through the The MN Department of Hu- Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is in the man Services (DHS www. process of doing quality as- health.state.mn.us/nhreport

card) or the US Department of Supported living services.

Human Services (www.med Waiver group homes and other icare.gov/default.asp). supported living services are licensed by the DHS, whose Nonprofit service providers. Licensing Division (651-296GuideStar (www.guidestar. 3971) can provide informaorg) provides information tion from licensing reviews about nonprofit organizations. (held on average every two A free “GuideStar Basic” years) and any violation corsearch will generate an or- rection orders. A DHS repreganization’s IRS Form 990, sentative cautioned that it showing their year-end finan- might “take a couple of days” cial situation. Note: a provider to compile the information, as whose expenditures match staff members are “often in the government payments will not field doing reviews.” The Dihave funds to support extra vision hopes to have current staff development or client data (from January 1, 2008) activities. Conversely, an or- available online “within the ganization successful at next couple of months.” fundraising will be better able to afford quality programs.

Southeastern Minnesota resources. Consumers who live Intermediate care facilities. in Fillmore, Houston, Mower, All ICF/MRs are licensed and Olmsted and Winona counties inspected annually by the Min- of Region 10 Quality Assurnesota Department of Health ance (QA) can contact LeAnn (MDH). Consumers can call Bieber, QA Manager, for the MDH (651-201-4101) for in- licensing recommendations for spection results.

ICF/MR, employment and day training, and supported living Consumers can also call MDH providers. These recommenabout complaint investigations dations “focus on quality outdone on specific group homes. comes of support providers.”

MDH’s Office of Health Fa- Visit the QA Web page: cility Complaints Web site www.mn-voice.org. Contact (www.health.state.mn.us/divs Bieber at 507-328-6607 or /fpc/directory/surveyapp/ bieber.lean@co.olmsted.mn.us. provcompselect.cfm) keeps a list of complaint investigations, U of M consumer guide. which be searched by county, Knowing what to ask can help city or service provider.

Web sightings Five web favorites from ICI’s Jerry Smith

W

hat are your favori t e video clips about disability?

Each month, we showcase a handful of disability-related Web sites, video clips or news

items, as picked by someone Community Integration. Enin the community. joy the surfing!

May’s picks were sent in by Ps. Join in. Send your top five Jerry Smith, a media producer (with comments) to access at the U of M’s Institute on @accesspress.org.

“Disability means possibility” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhKMouRaWcY Jerry commented that, “you gotta love Radiohead!” especially as part of this well-shot public service announcement from Scope. It reminds us all that the initial differences we notice about other people may not be so severe after all—we’re all human. [Forward to: the music fan in your life] “No body’s perfect” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkM8ICaJioM Check out this PSA on school inclusion, featuring a bunch of cute kids doing artwork, and see how creative expression can lead to greater understanding and interaction between people of all abilities. [Forward to: anyone involved with children] “In my language” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnylM1hI2jc Brilliance can poke its head out of some pretty unconventional places. As a statement about what gets considered thought, intelligence, personhood, language, and communication, and more importantly, what does not, this video’s worth a viewing. It could even spark your own expression. [Forward to: artists, public speakers, or any one else interested in the various ways we communicate] “Interact Center” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_40z0Sxrag This is a profile of the Interact Center’s Matt Dahlstrom, who Jerry says is “a comic genius.”

See for yourself! [Forward to: a fan of the theater or show tunes] “Higher ground” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_aXprAHxD8 From a documentary about direct support professionals and those they helped during Hurricane Katrina, this clip shows how assisting others can be even more valuable in times of crisis. [Forward to: those in need of inspiration or hope]

consumers organize their search. The University of Minnesota has a free publication, Through Asking the Right Questions You Can Reach Your Destination: Questions to Ask Providers When Making Decisions about Residential Supports for Family Members with Disabilities, available at www.rtc.umn.edu/ questions.

For employees, professional associations include the National Association of QMRPs (NAQ), which provides resources and networking for Qualified Mental Retardation Professionals (and case managers), the Minneapolis-based National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) and the Washington DC-based American Association on Intellectual and Provider professional asso- Developmental Disabilities ciations. Consumers should (AAIDD). ask whether a provider or its staff are members of a profes- More information. PHI Nasional association. These as- tional Clearinghouse on the sociations help providers and Direct Care Workforce at their employees improve ser- www.directcareclearing vice quality by making avail- house.org lists service providable training, advocacy and ers who follow “best practices” networking opportunities and in personnel management. materials and promoting service standards.

Care Providers of Minnesota is a trade association based in Recognized associations in- Bloomington that hosts clude ARRM, an association CareLinkUSA, a useful proof more than 150 Minnesota vider search engine, at www.

ICF/MR and waiver housing carelinkusa.com/Psearch. providers, and the American asp. Use “Facility Detail Network of Community Search” option to sort services Options and Resources and amenities for Minnesota (ANCOR), a national associa- providers. tion based in Washington, DC, which represents “private pro- Send your suggestions. If you viders who provide supports have found a strategy for evaluand services to people with ating housing service providdisabilities.” ers, Access Press would like to hear from you. ■

12

May 10, 2008

From the front row

Tokounou all-abilities dance/music ensemble Hopkins High School Auditorium

by Raymond Luczak; seen May 3, 2008

H

ow’s this for a recipe for exuberance?

HEALTH REFORM Lawmakers and the governor also want to reward the health providers who do a good job by paying them more, and indicate more clearly to the public who isn’t performing at a level to justify higher reimbursement for services.

Making sure that we’re looking at the entire continuum of health care services—from hospital stays to PCA and other in-home services—has been a concern of disability advocates and a focus of the Bridging the Continuum workgroup of the Health Care Access Commis-

Cont. from p. 1

sion. Many people with disabilities and chronic conditions rely on non-medical services to live independently in the community. Many of these services (such as case management or independent living skills) are now only offered through the Medical Assistance waiver programs and are designed to save money on the acute care, or medical service, side of the state ledger. Preserving these services, and focusing on health promotion and prevention of secondary disabilities for those already living with chronic con-

ditions or disabilities, has been an important part of the ongoing dialogue.

Whether a bill is passed and signed by the governor or not, the issue of improving both access to services and better defining the quality of those services utilized by individuals with disabilities, will be a continued public policy focus.

The ongoing challenge will primarily be financial, with the budget deficit expected to grow, not shrink, in the coming months and years. ■

Imagine a concert where there are no computerized lightworks and a dance production where the dancers are not synchronized. Then toss in some amazing West African musicians to spice up the salad.

Sprinkle with the charisma of Sidiki Conde, a brilliant drummer and vocalist who happens to be disabled. That was quite a meal.

Student dancers lent a “heartwarming exuberance” to the recent West African music performance at Hopkins High.

At first the bare stage (save for photographer Bill Lipkin a row of African drums and xylophones) didn’t seem all five men played a traditional best Marx Brothers, who were that appetizing, but soon the drum call, which made it abun- always about controlled anarmusicians, decked out in their dantly clear that drums could chy in their films; here, eye-dazzling native garb, took be used to create a melody of onstage, their anarchy equaled command with their instru- sorts beyond its obvious func- joy. The musicians simply kept the show moving forward ments, which included a 21- tion of rhythm. with their propulsions. string traditional West African harp. The ensemble of From this point on, the first Behind all this was Sidiki Conde. Having lost the mobility of his legs due to polio at the age of fourteen in Guinea, West Africa, Sidiki had to learn how to get around on his hands.

He became so adept that he traveled to Guinea’s capital city and recruited an orchestra of artists with disabilities from the city’s streets. From there he’s become an international phenomenon, even more so when he’s onstage. When he danced on his hands and moved around, he truly challenged the Guinean Sidiki Conde invited students from three area schools notion of dance being confined to perform West African dances with him at the May 3rd show. to the ability of feet moving. photographer Bill Lipkin Of course, many outside the disability community are dishalf of the show was turned abled in their way of viewing over to students, both disabled dancers as limited to their feet’s and not, who had only five ability to move to music. But hours of training over a two- Conde easily demonstrated week period to learn more that there were other ways of about West African music and dancing as powerful, if not experience some choreogra- more, as traditional able-bodphy. The three groups of stu- ied dancing. He seemed like a dents came from Transition whirling dervish, joyous and Plus (Hopkins), Marion W. pleading at the same time, parSavage Elementary School ticularly when he sang (Savage), and Folwell Middle “Dounougna,” which was School (Minneapolis). Each about how “disabled people group had studied their dance are truly fine,” and “N’na,” a movements. Given the fact tribute to his mother who carthat they had only five hours to ried him twice—first as a baby learn, one couldn’t expect them and then when he couldn’t to be professional but their walk. Gretchen Toay ably ingenuine attempts to follow the terpreted the spoken English choreography lent a heart- portions of the show into ASL. warming exuberance to the show, particularly near the end Finally, the fact that the musiof the first half. The Folwell cians onstage were constantly students were clearly in love watching each other while with the music surging around playing made their rapport them, and it was a thrill to warm and inviting. It was not watch them match their move- about how cool they looked ments to the intensity and but how much fun they were rhythms emanating from be- having together. That is what hind them. At times, as with made this particular event a most first-time efforts, the stu- joyous family meal, a true dents’ performance felt truly dance of life. ■ anarchic, bringing to mind the

May 10, 2008

13

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. Also see Accessible Movie Theaters on page 15.

See www.accesspress.org for complete listing After a Hundred Years June 7 - 29 Guthrie Theater, Dowling Studio, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. ASL & AD: Sat., June 28, 1:00 pm; sensory tour: 10:30 am, Tix: Disc to $18 (reg. $27-$57), Phone: 612377-2224, TTY: 612-377-6626, www.guthrie theater.org/visit/ the_ building/access_services The American Pilot May 2 - 24 WalkingShadowTheatreatMpls.

Theatre Garage, 711 W. Franklin Ave. AD: Fri, May 16, 7:30 pm, ASL: Sat., May 17, 7:30 pm, Tix: Disc to $7 (reg. $14-16), Phone: 612-375-0300, www.walking shadowcompany.org/ Anansi, The Trickster Spider May 9 - June 1 SteppingStone Theatre, 55 Victoria St. N., St. Paul. AD: Fri., May 16, 7:00 pm, ASL: Sun., May 18, 2:00 pm, Tix: $11, student/Sr $9, Phone: 651-225-9265, www.stepping stonetheatre.org Cabaret May 6 - 18 Ordway Center for Performing Arts, 345 Washington, St. Paul. ASL: Wed., May 14, 8:00 pm, AD: Sat., May 17, 8:00 pm, Tix/ Phone: 651224-4222, TTY: 651-2823100, Web: www.ordway.org/ services/access.asp

Finding Claire May 2 - 24 Rochester Repertory Theatre, 103 - 7th St. NE, Rochester.

ASL: Sat., May 17, 8:00 pm, Tix: $18; student/Sr disc, Phone: 507-289-1737, E-mail: BoxOffice@RochesterRep.org Web: www.RochesterRep.org Flint Hills International Children’s Festival May 31 - June 1 Ordway Center for Performing Arts, 345 Washington, St. Paul. Sat., May 31. Jason & the Argonauts–ASL: 10:00 am, Drake Rm; Drum! (from Nova Scotia)–ASL: 11:00 am AD: 2:00 pm, McKnight Theatre; The Circus (puppet theatre)–ASL: 2:30 pm, McKnight Theatre; Tokounou (West African All-Abilities Dance/Music Ensemble)– AD: Noon, McKnight Theatre; Andes Manta (music of the Andes)–AD: 4:30 pm, Drake Rm; World Stage–ASL: Sunday, June 1; &Andes Manta –ASL: 10:30 am, Drake Rm; Tokounou–ASL: 2:30 pm, McKnight Theatre; The Circus–AD: 12:30 pm, McKnight Theatre; Jason & the Argonauts–AD: 4:30 pm, Drake Rm; World Stage–ASL: (ArtMoves Parade 1:00) Tix: $5 (World Stage outdoors free); 651-224-4222, TTY: 651-282-3100, www.ordway.org

French Twist May 8 - 17 Joe Chvala’s Flying Foot Forum at the Guthrie Theater, Dowling Studio, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. ASL/AD: Sat., May 17, 7:30 pm, Tix: Disc to $18 (reg. $30), Phone: 612-3772224, TTY: 612-377-6626, www.guthrietheater.org/visit/ the_building/access_services The Gin Game May 30 - June 29 Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Thurs., June 19, 7:30 pm, Tix: $10 (reg. $26-36), Phone: 612822-7063, E-mail: boxoffice @jungletheater.com Web: www.jungletheater.com The Girls in 509 June 6 - 22 Bloomington Art Center Gallery Theater Co. at Bloomington Civic Plaza Black Box Theater, 1800 W Old Shakopee Rd. AD/ASL: Sun., June 22, 2:00 pm, Tix: $17, $14 Sr/ student, Phone: 952-563-8575, www.bloomingtonartcenter.com Go for Baroque: Arts of 17th & 18th Century Europe June 1 Mpls. Institute of Arts, 2400 3rd Ave. S. ASL: Sun., June 1, 1:00 pm tour (Info Desk, museum lobby). Tix/ Phone: 612870-3131, TTY: 612-870-3132, E-mail: dhegstrom@artsmia. org Web: www.arts mia. org

Radio Talking Book schedule Radio Talking Book (RTB) is a closed-circuit reading network broadcasting twenty-four hours daily to more than 7,500 handicapped persons (with a potential of 35,000) in Minnesota and South Dakota. Receivers are available on loan without charge to those who are eligible and who want to keep up to date with the latest word in newspapers, magazines and bestsellers. FFI: www.mnssb.org/allages/commcenter/rtb • 4:00 a.m. Chautauqua– Adult education and culture for the whole community This month: On Royalty, Nonfiction by Jeremy Paxman, 2007. How have kings and queens come to exercise their hold on our imagination? In an era when divine right no longer prevails, this ancient institution struggles for meaning in a modern world. Read by Wally Peters. 13 broadcasts. Begins May 15.

• 9:00 a.m. Past is Prologue– Readings of historical nonfiction • 11:00 a.m. Bookworm– Novels and nonfiction books for daytime reading. This month: Beware of Cat, Fiction by Vincent Wyckoff, 2007. Letter carriers are sometimes the common thread connecting neighbors. On Wyckoff’s mail route, he sees the neighborhood change to a more diverse group of families. Read by Hugh Jones. 5 broadcasts. Begins May 19.

• 2:00 p.m. Potpourri– A wide variety of books, both fiction and nonfiction, for afternoon reading • 4:00 p.m. Choice Reading– Critically acclaimed books on a wide variety of subjects • 5:00 p.m. Commentary– The latest issues of national news magazines • 6:00 p.m. Evening Newspapers– Live broadcast of the New York Times • 7:55 p.m. Radio Talking Book schedule for the rest of the broadcast day • 8:00 p.m. PM Report– Books discussing critical, contemporary and controversial issues • 9:00 p.m. Night Journey– Books of intrigue and suspense • 10:00 p.m. Off the Shelf– Mostly best sellers This month: Angelica, Fiction by Arthur Phillips, 2007. In the Barton household in the 1880s, a sexual spectre is appearing— hovering over the daughter in her sleep and terrorizing the mother. A spiritualist is summoned to cleanse the house, but the complexities only multiply. L -Read by Mary Davies. 13 broadcasts. Begins May 21.

• 12:00 a.m. Good Night Owl– A wide-ranging assortment of books • 1:00 a.m. After Midnight– Adventures of the heart and body *Abbreviations: L- offensive language

RTB books available through Faribault All books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault. 800-722-0550 and hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Online at www.klas.com/mnbph

Harvey May 30 - June 29 Theatre in the Round, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., June 29, 2:00 pm. Tix: $20, Sr/student disc, Phone: 612-333-3010, www.theatreintheround.org Harvey May 31 - Oct. 25 Commonweal Theatre, 208 Pkwy Ave. N., Lanesboro.

ASL: Sun., June 29, 1:30 pm.

Tix: ½ price (reg. $25, student $12), Phone: 507-467-2525, 800-657-7025, E-mail: tick ets@commonwealtheatre.org Web: www.commonweal theatre.org The Hollow May 9 - June 1 Starting Gate Productions at Mounds Theatre, 1029 Hudson Rd, St. Paul. AD: Sun., May 25, 2:00 pm, Tix: $10 (reg. $18, $16 student/Sr), Phone: 651-6453503, www.startinggate.org Honk!

Apr. 30 - May 18 Youth Performance Co. at Howard Conn Fine Arts Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave., Mpls.

AD & ASL: Sat., May 17,

7:30 pm, Tix: Disc to ½ price (reg. $10, student/Sr $8); adv resv req for AD, Phone: 612623-9080, www.youthper formanceco.com

A Midsummer Night’s Dream Apr. 12 - June 22 Guthrie Theater, Wurtele Thrust Stage, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. Tix: $18 (reg. $24-$69), Phone: 612-377-2224, TTY: Laughing Stock 612-377-6626, www.guthrie June 6 - 15 theater.org/visit/the_build Rochester Civic Theatre, 20 ing/access_services Civic Center Drive SE. ASL: Sat., June 14, 8:00 pm, Tix: Pirates of the Great Lakes $17, $14 Sr, $12 student, May 30 - June 22 Phone: 507-282-8481, www. Lyric Arts Co., 420 E. Main rochestercivictheatre.org St., Anoka. ASL: Sat., May 31, 7:30 pm (req at least 1 wk Love Is a Manyin adv), Tix: $14, $12 student/ Splendored Thing Sr, $16 box seats, Phone: 763June 27 - 28 422-1838, www.lyricarts.org Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus at Ted Mann Concert Hall, Q&A 2128 - 4th St. S., Mpls. ASL: May 22 - June 8 Fri., June 27, 8:00 pm, Tix: Mu Performing Arts at Mixed $23-43 (incl fees), child ½ Blood Theatre, 1501 S. 4th St., price, Phone: 612-624-2345, Mpls. AD: Sat., May 31, 8:00 www.tcgmc.org or www.nor pm, ASL: Sat., June 7, 8:00 throp.umn.edu pm, Tix: $18, $16 student/Sr, Phone: 612-338-6131, www.

Magic Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle muperformingarts.org or Apr. 22 - June 15 www.mixedblood.com Children’s Theatre Co., 2400 - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD/ASL: Queer Music Consortium Fri., May 30, 7:30 pm; student Pride Concert matinees avail. on req, Tix: June 2 VSA Offer: $13 tix, Phone: 612- One Voice Mixed Chorus, Cal874-0400, www.childrens liope Women’s Chorus, Twin Perform. - cont. on p. 14 theatre.org

14

May 10, 2008

PERFORM. -

Cont. from p. 13

Cities Gay Men’s Chorus, MN Freedom B&, TransVoices, MN Philharmonic Orchestra at Como Pavilion, 1360 Lexington Pkwy N., St. Paul. ASL: Mon., June 2, 7:00 pm, Tix: free, www.ovmc. org, www.calliopewomens chorus.org, www.tcgmc.org

Real Women Have Curves May 9 - 29 Teatro del Pueblo at Paul & Sheila Wellstone Ctr, 179 Robie St. E., St. Paul. ASL: Sat., May 24, 7:30 pm, Tix: $14 (reg. $18 Fri.-Sat., $16 Thurs./Sun., $14 Student/Sr/Fringe), Phone: 651-

Disability Viewpoints schedule Channel 15, third Mondays, 7:30 p.m. hosted by Mark Hughes co-produced by United Cerebral Palsy of MN “Disability Viewpoints” is an award-winning cable television show for people with disabilities that features topics pertaining to community services, programs and supports.

May: South Minneapolis Workforce Center, the Zones Program, and PACER Center’s C3 Transition Program June: Teri Knight (WLTE-FM 102.9 FM Traffic Reporter) on disability gardening, and James Grimm, author of the recent book The Heart's Alphabet July: Matt Sanford on yoga for people with disabilities.

Sanford is an author of a book on this subject.

The show airs the third Monday of every month at 7:30 p.m. on CTV 15 and Channel 15 in Arden Hills, Falcon Heights, Lauderdale, Little Canada, Mounds View, New Brighton, North Oaks, Roseville, Saint Anthony and Shoreview. A monthly topics schedule can be found at ucpmn@ cpinternet.com or the show can be viewed at the same site though video casting.

225-8106, E-mail: info@tea Fri., June 27, 7:30 pm, ASL: trodelpueblo.org Web: www. Thurs. & Fri., July 10-11, 7:30 teatrodel pueblo.org pm, Captioning: Sun., June 22, 1:00 pm, Tix: $18 for AD/ Rent ASL (reg. $24-69); captioning June 17 - 22 users ½ off, Phone: 612-377Ordway Ctr for Perform. Arts, 2224, TTY: 612-377-6626, 345 Washington, St. Paul. www.guthrietheater.org/visit/ ASL: Fri., June 20, 8:00 pm, the_building/access_services AD: Sat., June 21 - 2:00 pm, Tix/ Phone: 651-224-4222, Sherlock Holmes: The TTY: 651-282-3100, www.or Final Adventure dway.org/services/access.asp May 30 - June 22 Park Square Theatre, 408 St The Robber Bridegroom Peter St. (20 W. 7th Place), St. June 6 - 29 Paul. AD/ASL: Sat., June 14, Mpls. Musical Theatre at Hen- 7:30 pm, Tix: Disc to ½ price, nepin Stages, 824 Hennepin Phone: 651-291-7005, www.

Ave., Mpls. AD/ASL: Sun., parksquaretheatre.org June 15, 7:30 pm, Tix: $18 (reg. $25), Phone: 612-673-0404; These Shining Lives 612-373-5639 or 5609, TTY: May 8 - June 1 612-373-5655, E-mail: acces History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., sible@orpheum.com ASL/Au- St. Paul. AD/ASL: Sun., May dio Des. Hot-line: 612-373- 25, 2:00 pm, Tix: $15, Phone: 5650; www. aboutmmt.org 651-292-4323, www.history or www.hennepintheatredis theatre.com trict.org/guestservices/aslad/ The Triangle Factory Fire The Secret Fall of May 3 - 25 Constance Wilde MN Jewish Theatre Co. at HillMay 31 - July 11 crest Center Theater, 1978 Ford Guthrie Theater, McGuire Pkwy, St. Paul. AD: Sun., May Proscenium, 818 - 2nd St. S., 18, 2:00 pm, Tix: $7 (reg. $17Mpls. AD: Sat., June 21, 1:00 24), Phone: 651-647-4315, pm; sensory tour: 10:30 am; www.mnjewishtheatre.org ■

News at a glance . . .

Local author looks at caregiver burnout Grant Watkins of Golden Valley has written a book to help a growing number of people who find themselves in the role of caregiver, entitled “CPR for Caregivers.” It is a resources guide to help caregivers achieve life balance and reduce stress.

Watkins says the book is a guide for caregivers who need to care for themselves while caring for a loved one. The title is an acronym that stands for, “Connect, Project and Reflect.” He says the book explores topics for mind, body and spirit.

Watkins began his twenty plus year career helping people after his father became legally blind; Watkins was seventeen at the time. He says he learned to have powerful moments of experiencing love and living a full life in the midst of caregiver fatigue. He now works for a nonprofit organization promoting independent living and providing low-income housing. He will be giving speeches related to care giving around the area this spring. [Source: www.grantwatkins.com]

Who should get Low Income Housing Tax Credits?

Progress is slow but steady in ensuring that Federal Housing Tax Credits are being used by the people who can use them most effectively. In recent years, the Low Income Housing Tax Credits were typically not being targeted to people with the lowest incomes, even though the 2006 data shows some small progress. Once again, there are tremendous discrepancies among the states.

As background, every year each State’s Housing Finance Agency receives a per capita amount of housing tax credits from the IRS that a state can award. Then, each state must publish a “Qualified Allocation Plan” in which “points” are awarded to developers of rental properties who bid to receive the Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC).

Please remember that the “demand” for LIHTCs exceeds the supply, by as much as three to one. Therefore, each state could (if they wanted to) award “points” for projects that “target” units to persons whose incomes are either at the social security income (SSI) level (Pennsylvania, for example, does that), or at less than 30% of their average median income (AMI).

Clearly, developers seek out these LIHTC, and are so competitive that they will agree to target to the lowest income people only if the State Housing Finance Agency provides an incentive to target the lowest income people. (Keeping in mind that SSI is at about 18% of the AMI, it is clear that we really need to target at the SSI level first.)

Advocates: whether a State Housing Finance Agency awards points depends on your advocacy skills! If your State’s QAP does not award extra points to developers who agree to target a percentage of the units to the lowest income (and agree to make those units fully accessible), then developers will not do it.

Currently, data from the 2006 NCSHA Annual Survey Results shows that 30% of the units targeted in Minnesota were at levels lower than 30% of the AMI. This is higher than all states except Vermont and New Jersey, but there is still plenty of work to do.

[Source: Housing & Disability Issues e-newsletter]

Accessible movie theaters The movie complexes listed below offer MoPix-equipped captioning or description services. For show times, call the theatre; sign up to receive their email list; contact Minnesota Open Captioned Films, www.mnocfilms.org/ movies.html or Rear Window Captioned Film http:// ncam.wgbh.org/mopix/ nowshowing.html#mn Kerasotes Block E Stadium 15, 600 Hennepin Ave., third floor, Mpls. 612-338-1466, bloc@kerasotes.com Accessible films in Auditoriums 2 & 12. (Note: DVS patrons: If your show is in Theatre 2, req headset with Letter C. If your show is in Theatre 12, req headset with Letter G.) Enter parking ramp on 7th St next to the Hard Rock Café. www.kerasotes.com/ (Scroll down the lower right-h& column every Friday morning to see what two films will have rear view captioning or DVS that week at Block E.)

Drive at Eden Prairie Shopping Center, Hwy 212 & 494, 952-656-0010. Park in upper level lot between Sears & Kohl’s. Accessible films in Auditorium 4.

Science Museum of Minnesota Omnitheater, 120 Kellogg Blvd. W., St. Paul.

Rear view captioning & DVS for most films in the Omnitheater or the 3D Cinema. Show times vary but are approximately hourly during regular museum hours: MonWed 9:30 am-5:00 pm, ThurSat. 9:30 am - 9:00 pm, Sun. 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm, TTY: 651-221-4585, Email: info@ smm.org Web: www.smm. org/visitorinfo/hours/ showtimes_dynamic.php or www.smm.org/info/ accessibility.php.

Lakes 10 Theatre, 4351 Stebner Rd., Hermantown. 12 H&icapped Parking spaces near theater. Movie Line: 218-729-0335, Emergency Line: 218-729-0334, Fax: AMC Eden Prairie Mall 18 218-729-0334, Email: Sfen Theatres, 4000 Flying Cloud nessey@cectheatres.com

Cont. from p. 6 a sustainable culture, we’ll need the medical industry to join the general “greening” of our world.”

Historically, patients have been advised to flush medications down toilets or wash down the sink to prevent accidental poisonings or overdoses. These disposal methods result in millions of pounds of drugs being emptied, full strength, into the water supply each year. Trash disposal also represents a threat, since drugs end up in landfills and eventually leech into the ground water. [Source: www.teleosis.org/]

Two bills make progress in congress; further Environmental consequences of medical treatments support needed considered among professionals and patients Two bills in Congress could significantly improve the future of Medical professionals and patients must understand that the choices they make for treating illness have lasting consequences for our environment and take responsibility, according to Dr. Joel Kreisberg, DC, MA, founder and executive director of the Teleosis Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to sustainable medicine and a healthy environment.

children and adults with Down syndrome in the United States. They are the Prenatally Diagnosed Condition Awareness Act, and the Financial Security Accounts for Individuals with Disabilities (FSAID) Act. The former bill increases the amount of scientifically sound information and support services to patients receiving a positive test diagnosis for Down syndrome or other prenatally and postnatally diagnosed conditions. In addition, the bill would fund grants, contracts and cooperative agreements to collect, synthesize, and disseminate current scientific information, as well as coordinating and providing access to supportive services for patients.

Kreisberg recently announced the results of the Teleosis Institute’s Green Pharmacy program for 2007. Data on returned medicines was recorded at 12 “take-back” sites, which operate in partnership between Teleosis Institute and area pharmacies, health care offices, public and private associations and local communities. To date, Teleosis has diverted over The latter act, in tandem with its companion bill (Financial 1000 pounds of unused medicines from waterways.

Security Accounts for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 2008 [S 2743]) would establish tax-exempt financial security acData from the program shows that, on average, 40-50% of a counts for individuals with intellectual disabilities and not prescription goes unused. Based on this finding, Kreisberg jeopardize benefits. Funds in the accounts will pay for imporbelieves physicians should consider prescribing smaller vol- tant expenses such as education, medical care and transportaumes initially to see if a medication is tolerated and successful tion. The purpose of these accounts is to establish a savings before prescribing larger volumes for long-term use. instrument for individuals with disabilities and their families to provide them with the same flexibility, portability, and tax More sustainable medical practices include placing a greater advantages that are available to all other Americans and their emphasis on stress reduction, wellness and disease prevention, families. The legislation is built on the premise that persons and using alternative medicines and methods where practical or with disabilities should be encouraged and supported in their in combination with conventional treatments. efforts to save in order to create an independent and meaningful life just as other Americans strive to do.

“Because nearly 25% of preventable illnesses are environmentally related, as estimated by the World Health Organization, If these bills are something you’d like to see, contact your improving the environment is one of the most important sus- Representatives and Senators today. Ask them to cosponsor tainable medicine practices we can advocate,” Kreisberg said. H.R. 3112 and S. 1810, as well as H.R. 2370 and S. 2743.

“We cannot afford to wait until we see devastating conse- [Source: National Down Syndrome Society]. ■ quence to human health before we act. If we’re going to create

May 10, 2008

ZAMBIA VISIT

- Cont. from p. 8 the history of services and supports to people with disabilities in Western countries, person-centered planning, early intervention, family support, faith-based initiatives, special education, residential services, special health care needs, and employment of persons with disabilities. In the afternoons and evenings, they visited a variety of community agencies and programs including Opportunity Partners’ vocational training programs, St. David’s early childhood and family support programs, Fraser’s group home and autism program, Interact Center for Visual and Performing Arts, Wilderness Inquiry, Fraser, Gillette Lifetime Specialty HealthCare, Metropolitan Center for Independent Living, and more.

“Services in Zambia are certainly not as widespread or complex as those in the United States,” says Amy Hewitt, Training Director at the Institute on Community Integration, which designed the training based on the University’s Certificate in Disability Policy and Services. “Issues of poverty, nutrition, malaria and

Father Deo has the hope that as he returns to Zambia he can help “… to eliminate the mentality the people have which states ‘people with disabilities are the way they are because of bad omens.’”

HIV/AIDS are daily considerations for most Zambians. Yet there is great interest, enthusiasm and emerging expertise in relation to people with disabilities in Zambia. The time is right for a social justice agenda to bring greater attention to people with disabilities and their rights.”

Sandy Beddor, an advocate and Arc member whose family is supportive of many Twin Cities organizations serving people with disabilities, has long-standing contacts with religious organizations in Zambia and helped initiate the project, along with Amy Hewitt. Reflecting on the visit and the work ahead, she observes, “I hope we can open more possibilities for people with special needs and disabilities in Zambia, and demonstrate how just a few people with passion and heart can change long-standing attitudes of shame and blame.” She adds, “Experiencing a different approach that is empowering, and concentrating on what people can accomplish rather than on what they cannot accomplish, changes life for people with disabilities.” Father Deo has the hope that as he returns to Zambia he can

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Assistant Education Specialist The Assistant Education Specialist provides or arranges for reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities to ensure access to courses, employment, programs, facilities, services and activities on campus. The Assistant Education Specialist monitors and maintains student information including disability documentation and case file information. The Assistant Education Specialist also participates in on-going training and outreach activities at the University and in the community both as a spokesperson for the area/unit and as a participant in professional development activities.

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

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Call 612-378-0331 for availEssential Qualifications •Masters degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, Social Work, Student Personnel, Counseling, ability information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Psychology or a related field •Two years experience working with people with disabilities Lewis Park Apartments: •Knowledge of federal and state laws regarding access for people with disabilities Barrier-free housing with •Demonstrated knowledge of community resources for people with disabilities wheelchair users in mind. Sec•Experience in providing consultation on disability issues tion 8 subsidized. One- and •Strong communication and organizational skills two-bedroom units. For more information on availability call For further information please see the posting at: 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/employment/index.html Equal Opportunity Housing.

Job requesition #155214.

15

Oak Park Village: One-bedroom wheelchair-accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient St. Louis Park location. Call 952-9359125 for availability information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Seward Square Apartments: We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list for barrier-free housing, in Minneapolis, that is federally subsidized. For an application, please call 612-338-2680.

Equal Opportunity Housing.

The University of Minnesota is committed to the policy that all persons shall have access to its Townhomes programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national rd 924 3 Ave. NE. Establishing a waiting list for 2- and 3origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, or sexual bedroom townhomes.

Applicants must be mobility impaired orientation. and must meet income qualifications. Amenities include: all Healthcare Employment Opportunities utilities paid, private entrance, full basement, attached garage, Regina Medical Center is a comprehensive healthcare facility located 20 minutes SE of the patio, appliances, carpeting, and blinds. Laundry facilities on metro area. For employment opportunities, visit our website at www.reginamedical.org or call site. Section 8 rental assistance to those who qualify. Call 612our application request line at 651.480.4226. REGINA MEDICAL CENTER, 1175 Nininger 378-1868 for more information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Road, Hastings, MN 55033. AA/EOE help “to change the attitude of our parishioners towards people with special needs, especially to eliminate the mentality the people have which states ‘people with disabilities are the way they are because of bad omens.’” And Father Patrick adds that he hopes to “use the pulpit to advocate for a more Christ-like attitude to-

ward people with special needs and disabilities.”

For more information about the Twin Cities and Zambia Disability Connection visit the project’s blog at http:// twincitieszambiadisability connection.blogspot.com, or contact Arc Greater Twin Cities, 952-920-0855. ■

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May 10, 2008

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