July 2008 Edition - Access Press

www.accesspress.org History Note

Inside ■ Paralympics poised to open minds and doors in China—p. 5 ■ Bjerkesett honored—p. 5 ■ Directory of Organizations—p. 7

“People who say they don’t care what people think are usually desperate to have people think they don’t care what people think.”

— George Carlin (May 1937 - June 2008) Page 2 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 19, Number 7

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

July 10, 2008

Access to Central Corridor LRT stations a concern Few speak out on disabilities-related issues by staff and contributors

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s planning for the Central Corridor light rail transit line continues, questions are being raised about the issue of accessibility to the station platforms along the 11mile route. Issues of access were raised during a series of public hearings on the light rail preliminary design plans, which wrapped up this summer.

The Central Corridor would extend between downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. The Metropolitan Council will submit preliminary plans for the $892 million line to the Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) in early September.

FTA approval for the project is crucial as the federal government would pay half of the project’s construction costs.

Only a handful of people raised questions about accessibility at the recent municipal consent hearings, which were sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), Hennepin and Ramsey counties, Hennepin and Ramsey County Regional Rail Authority boards, and the cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis.

One of the issues that will affect access at stations is public art and how art is incorporated into each station design. During the hearings and at meetings of the Metropolitan Council’s Central Corridor Management Committee, much attention has been paid to public art. Elected officials have pushed hard for much

public art to be added to station plans, saying that the stations otherwise will be sterile and bland in appearance.

But Metropolitan Council Chairman Peter Bell has told the committee he isn’t inclined to change the staff recommendations. He and project staff note there is a move nationally toward standardized station design.

Stations have to be accessible to the disabled and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), said Bell.

He noted that Metropolitan Council advisory committees are pushing hard on the access issues. Members of the Central Corridor Community Advisory Council who represent

the disability community have maintained a strong and unified position regarding the importance of station accessibility and continuity. On Hiawatha Corridor, community groups and artists were extensively involved in the station design process. Bell said that has resulted in stations that have different configurations. That has raised questions about access. “Every station on Hiawatha is different and riders have to figure out how to navigate in them.”

At one of this summer’s hearings, activist Darrel Paulsen pointed out that station design can play a key role in how usable stations are for riders.

Paulsen is a wheelchair user.

LRT - cont. on p. 15

What will become of our elders?

by Mary Gallagher “What’s going to happen to our elders?” That was my first thought when I learned that some grants that helped fund Minnesota’s 43 Living-atHome/Block Nurse Programs (LAH/BNP) were not renewed during the most recent round of Department of Human Services Community Service/Services Development (CS/SD) grants.

Throughout Minnesota LAH/ BNP staff and volunteers provide assistance to elders to help them remain healthy and safe in their own homes. According to a 2008 survey conducted by the United States Department of Health and Human Services Administration on Aging, most seniors prefer to remain in their homes, which represent independence and security. Most services are offered on a sliding scale basis and no one is turned away because of inability to pay for services.

dollar invested in LAH/BNPs saves taxpayers $3.50. Elderberry Institute is the umbrella organization for LAH/BNPs. In the same report, 40 Minnesota metro and rural LAH/ BNPs were shown to have kept 1,138 people out of nursing homes for 8,238 months and saved more than $35 million, which would have been the cost of nursing home care if they had been admitted. During the 2008 legislative session Governor Tim Pawlenty and legislators expressed concern over the increasing percentage of the state budget expended for nursing home care costs.

Annual program budgets for the metro area LAH/BNPs average $110,000. Each program uses a combination of funding sources that includes grants from the state (CS/SD and other Department of Human Services funding), founKeeping elders out of nursing dation grants, donations and homes makes financial sense fees for some services proas well. According to the 2006- vided.

2007 Cost and Services report

by Elderberry Institute, every The St. Paul Payne-Phalen

Living-at-Home/Block Nurse program is larger than most programs. In fiscal year 20062007, when our program kept 89 East Side elders at home and saved more than $4 million dollars, our budget was $257,000. Two CS/SD grants that provided a majority of the funding in recent years were not renewed for the coming year. The impact of the loss will mean changes to PaynePhalen’s program including staffing and service cuts.

Many local, state and national elected representatives do appreciate the value of having LAH/BNPs available to seniors in their districts. Two newer LAH/BNPs on the East Side, North East Neighborhoods in District 2, and Dayton’s Bluff Seniors in District 4, were among 12 new Block Nurse Programs throughout Minnesota to receive $20,000 in base funding as part of a bill passed during the recent legislative session.

Payne-Phalen and other established programs also receive this base funding.

The Payne-Phalen Program is seeking new grants, donors and other sources to fill the gap so we can continue our work. But since we didn’t have a lot of notice about the grants that weren’t renewed, we’re concerned about how we’ll be able to provide for the elders who rely on us. I’m particularly worried about some of the East Side elders I’ve come to know—people like Teri, Norm, Helen and Cal.

The Payne-Phalen LAH/BNP provides five monthly Blood Pressure Clinics in the District 5 Planning area on St. Paul’s East Side. At a recent health fair at the Elders Lodge, a resident had her blood pressure taken by Maryann Chowen, right, Payne-Phalen’s Block Nurse and Healthcare Coordinator. Kari Noble, a Metopolitan State University Social Photo by Barbara La Valleur Teri, 56, was introduced to the Work intern assisted.

BNP by friends. The program Norm is an 85-year-old wid- Helen is an 82-year-old widow typically serves persons 65 and ower. His two adult children who has no children. She has older, but the age limit may be live in other states. Since the macular degeneration and is lowered when individuals have first of this year Payne-Phalen legally blind but has been able disabilities. Four years ago Teri staff and volunteers have vis- to stay in her home with the had surgery for a brain tumor. ited Norm 29 times. He has help of rides to the doctor and The effects of the tumor left her received help with medical bank from staff and a volunteer paralyzed on the left side. After forms, nursing assessments, who takes her shopping every spending six months at Cour- wound care and rides to medi- other week. At a monthly blood age Center getting rehabilita- cal appointments. We also pressure clinic the block nurse tion, Teri and her husband found someone to assist him noticed that Helen’s blood presmoved from their home in For- with cooking, housekeeping sure was dangerously low est Lake to an accessible apart- and lawn services. When he which put her at risk of a heart ment in a senior building near has questions about a health attack or a fall. Our nurse called Lake Phalen. Teri attends issue, is concerned about his her clinic to obtain a change in monthly social gatherings and ability to drive due the weather, her medications which stabihas helped as a volunteer in the or needs help with a situation lized her pulse and prevented Block Nurse office. at home, he calls us.

Elders - cont. on p. 15

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July 10, 2008

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he economy sure has become the topic of conversations at all levels—from political circles to water cooler talk. Brigette Menger-Anderson, Personal Assistant Services Manager at Metropolitan Center for Independent Living, recently discussed gas prices and their effects on seniors and people with disabilities in a conversation on Minnesota Public Radio (http://tinyurl.com/ 5m3ogs). That conversation was broadcast June 5 on National Public Radio. As we go to press, the New York Times has picked up the story (http:/ /tinyurl.com/5aptk9). Both versions cover how commuting costs are hurting the healthcare industry, especially independent living. Many of the PCA agencies reimburse for gas mileage from one client’s home to the next, but

Tim Benjamin, Editor

ral areas. Elaine Eubank, president of CareLink, a nonprofit agency that serves elderly people in Arkansas, said “We’ve had one increase from Medicaid in 11 years, but home care and Meals on Wheels keep people at home for a fraction of the cost of a nursing home.

The state pays for care once they’re in a nursing home. So our cuts may cost more than they save.” Gee whiz, have we heard this story before: cutting the funding of home care so that people end up living in nursing homes at a higher cost to the state? Most importantly, underfunding for home care results in people living where PCAs are not the only ones they don’t want to live. affected by high gas prices.

According to the New York Is drilling new oil wells the Times article, Meals on Wheels answer? Is light rail the anhas had to cut deliveries swer? Light rail seems to me to throughout the country. This be the more logical of the two. is especially felt in remote ru- Neither of these answers is a don’t pay from the PCA’s home to the first client or from the last client to home. In many occupations, this is the standard. But in the home health care industry the salaries are so low that it’s making it difficult for agencies to find PCAs willing to travel or fulfill the needs of clients needing to have two or three visits per day. If you don’t have an eighthour shift it’s hardly worth the PCA time with rising gas prices. Low salaries make it more difficult for PCAs to afford an economical car or to keep it maintained for best fuel efficiency.

quick fix by any means, but using more fossil fuels versus investing in a public transit seems like a no-brainer. So could we invest more money in two ways, first by increasing support for all levels of home care and second, by creating a larger, standardized, public transportation that everyone can use. By everyone I mean your grandmother, your neighbor who’s got vision loss, and your neighbor who is doing home care? The insurance industry sure doesn’t want the population to have no need for vehicle insurance. The oil industry definitely doesn’t want us to even become one or two percent less dependent on their products. Who else would lose profits if the country became dependent on public transit?

he’s written his first published article. Silas brings us an article on the tragedy last month about the young man with autism who became lost in the Wisconsin wilderness.

There’ve been many questions and conversations about implanting GPS in people who might find themselves lost or who are unable to communicate or navigate their way back to safety. We very much hope to bring you a more in-depth article on related topics in next month’s Access Press.

Hope everyone’s having a nice summer. And thanks to the great staff and volunteers who helped produce this July issue. ■

We have a new intern at Access Press, Silas Matthies, and

Ten best and worst states History Note William Henry Eustis for community services He gave money, land and his time Minnesota, Wisconsin do well

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innesota cracked the top ten and Wisconsin got honorable mention in ADAPT’s ranking of the 2008 Ten Best and Worst States in the delivery of home and community services to people with disabilities and older Americans.

The advocacy group recently announced the rankings in the Hall of States building in Washington, D.C. The building is home to the National Governors Association, an organization that has been very vocal in recent years about the preference of community services over nursing homes and other institutions. Yet the association hasn’t been able to inspire its own member states to improve their provision of those services.

Speakers representing states in both the best and worst categories spoke at the press conference about the horrors of nursing home life and the joys of living in the community in states that provide good community services. Randy Alexander from Tennessee ADAPT and LaTonya Reeves from Colorado ADAPT spoke of the disability“underground railroad” that assists people in states without community services to move to states where they can live quality lives in their own homes with the supports and services they need.

The grouping of states into the top and bottom 10 was based on publicly available data from highly respected researchers, supplemented by the results of an informal survey widely distributed across the country by

ADAPT. Few surprises emerged in the survey. Many of the 10 states doing the poorest job of providing services that allow citizens to receive long term care in their own homes in the community have been on the “worst” list over and over.

States are listed alphabetically, not ranked numerically: Ten best states: Alaska, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont.

Honorable Mention: Kansas, New York, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

Ten worst states: Arkansas, Georgia, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana Mississippi, North Dakota, Tennessee, Texas.

Dishonorable mention: Alabama, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania. ■

Access Press Co-Founder/Publisher (1990-1996) .................................................. Wm. A. Smith, Jr. Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief (1990-2001) ....................... Charles F. Smith Board of Directors ....................................................... Brigid Alseth, Mike Chevrette, Kelly Matter, Anita Schermer, Tom Squire and Kay Willshire Editor ......................................................................................................... Tim Benjamin Editorial Assistant .................................................................................... Jane McClure Administrative Assistant ............................................................................ Jordan Selbo Cartoonist ..................................................................................................... Scott Adams Production ...................................................... Ellen Houghton at Presentation Images Webmaster ...................................................................................................... Alice Oden Intern ......................................................................................................... Silas Matthies 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 Email: access@accesspress.org • Web site: www.accesspress.org

by Luther Granquist

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fortune as an entrepreneur and investor in various Twin Cities businesses. In 1923, he gave the Minneapolis School Board land for the Michael Dowling School, which is now an urban environmental magnet school. He also gave the University of Minnesota more than a million dollars for a “Minnesota Hospital for William Henry Eustis Crippled Children.” This is now part of the University of Eustis praised the city fathers Minnesota Hospitals complex. too much. The community he extolled failed to provide chilAt a dinner in his honor on his dren with disabilities the opIn his autobiography he says 80th birthday he praised Min- portunities for schooling and little about his physical dis- neapolis and its founding fa- failed to provide them adability, only that when he thers. He urged them to pass equate medical care. He could chose to move West he wanted on to the next generation “the have called these community a city both “on the level” and ardor and lofty purpose of these leaders to task rather than “alive.” He chose Minneapo- founders.” Only in passing smother them with fulsome lis, after rejecting St. Paul, did he refer to the purpose of praise. Nevertheless, Eustis Omaha, and Kansas City be- his gift. The city, he said, should not be faulted for his cause of their hills. Eustis “abounds in works of human- decision to spend his accumuserved as Mayor of Minne- ity, not the least of which is to lated fortune as he did. His apolis from 1893-1895, ran help those little folks, who actions spoke louder than his unsuccessfully for Governor without fault on their part, suf- words. ■ and Congress, and amassed a fer from physical limitations.”

The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mnddc.org or www.mncdd.org and www.partnersinpolicymaking.com. n December 1860, when he was fifteen years old, William Henry Eustis fell at his home in northern New York State while carrying a pail of water. He hurt his hip, was kept at home for the next five years, and got no adequate medical care. Because one leg became shorter than the other, he used crutches and later a cane. Eustis went on to college, got a law degree from Columbia, and practiced law in upstate New York.

July 10, 2008

A more open election

Major changes proposed

Changes will make Minnesota elections more accessible to disabled voters

Goodbye Full Accessibility

by Mai Thor

n 1990, the disability community, Congress, state officials and businesses made numerous compromises to pass the ADA. Despite compromises, then-President George H.W. Bush, disability leaders and Congress trumpeted eventual full accessibility of public and private facilities. Sometime in the future, people with disabilities would achieve equal opportunity with non-disabled and full accessibility would be achieved.

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aking the election Here are some highlights: Other election legislation that process more open • The agent delivery process passed includes: to Minnesotans is is expanded to cover all indi- • Military and overseas votthe intent of changes Minneviduals with disabilities and ing-military personnel and sota state lawmakers enacted those who have incapacitatothers who are overseas are in time for the 2008 election. ing health reasons for castable to receive absentee balVoting rights advocates, the ing an absentee ballot. The lots electronically Secretary of State, leadership agent must have a pre-existin the Senate and House and ing relationship with the • Automatic address update is the governor worked hard on voter. Or, designation of an made for voters who move. compromise language that agent can begin seven days Voters no longer have to regeveryone could live with and prior to the election. ister to vote each time they was ensured passage. move. The Secretary of State • Individuals who register to will automatically update Since most of the legwork was vote using the voter registravoter rolls with new address done during the 2007 session, tion application can use any change information from the passage of these bills went off of the methods for a signapostal service almost without a hitch. There ture as defined in §645.44, were some bumps in the road including asking someone • Nonpartisan election judges as the process pushed toward else to sign their name. can serve. People who are its ultimate goal, most of which not affiliated with a major dealt with legislative process • County auditors must make political party in Minnesota rather than the content of the AutoMarks (voting macan also sign up to be elecbills. The result was the lumpchines for disabled voters) tion judges. Previously ing of several bills into one available during the in-perjudges had to declare party large compromise bill son absentee period, except affiliation when they regisauthored by election legislain township elections. tered. tion champion, Rep. Bill Hilty, DFL-Finlayson. The election • A township holding local • Challengers will be required this year will no doubt bring elections is exempt from to show the same identificaout many new voters and cremaking accessible voting tion that voters do for sameate long lines at the polls. It’s systems available if the town day registration. Challengvery good news for all Minnehas fewer than 500 regisers previously were not resota voters that these new laws tered voters and if the cost of quired to show identification. will help protect them as they compliance is more than participate in the voting pro$150. The Secretary of State If you have questions about cess this year. and other interested parties other election laws adopted by shall review cost and equip- the 2008 Minnesota LegislaRep. Hilty also took the lead ment options beginning in ture, contact the Office of the on a bill that included some 2009 and end in 2016 in or- Secretary of State at 651-215key housekeeping provisions. der to achieve full township 1440 or www.sos.state.mn.us compliance.

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Effective July 1

Minnesota campaign ads get captioning makeover

by Jamie Taylor

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n the Internet, on TV, on the radio – candidates running for state office have for years competed for as many ears as possible. Now they will have to compete for eyes as well. During the 2008 legislative session, Minnesota became the fourth state to pass a captioning law for campaign ads.

Effective July 1, all candidates running for state-level office in Minnesota must include closed captioning on their television and website ads. Transcripts of website ads must be placed on a campaign’s website. The law also requires written transcripts of radio ads on campaign websites.

on. Other people simply understand things better if they can see information in text form.

But you might not see captions on ads for Minnesota’s United States Senate race this year – because the captioning law doesn’t apply to them.

Captioning of campaign ads remains voluntary for countyand federal-level Minnesota candidates. It also doesn’t apply to presidential candidates, who are covered by a separate federal law.

is ready to educate prospective viewers and voters. CDs will be ready and waiting for all candidates to watch and learn what to do. Presentations on how to caption their ads will be made. For candidates who like to get hands-on experience will be provided on how to caption political ads.

With all of the available resources there simply will be no excuse not to caption their campaign ads. But for candidates who don’t want to caption their ads, an opt-out option remains. Candidates can file a statement for each ad aired with Minnesota regulators explaining why the captions are missing. ■

Rhode Island, California, and Florida have had their state campaign ads captioned for years. Their example shows that it is easy to do and is not This law benefits everyone, rocket science. It just takes a Jamie Taylor is Civic Access and Technology Specialist for not just the 10% of Minneso- little education. the Commission of Deaf, tans who are deaf, hard of hearThe law took effect July 1, and DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing, and/or deafblind. Many the Commission of Deaf, ing Minnesotans (MCDHH) people find themselves in DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearplaces like gyms where the sound is turned off but a TV is ing Minnesotans (MCDHH)

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by Steve Gold

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Since 1990, we have seen some progress—curb cuts are now more the norm; ramps provide access to some stores and businesses (definitely not in every one), some public swimming pools, playgrounds, and governmental buildings provide a degree of accessibility (often begrudgingly); sports venues are more accessible.

However, by and large, neither the governmental entities (Title II of the ADA), nor private business entities (aka, public accommodations) (Title III) have taken the initiative on their own and said “oh, Congress has made disability a civil right, and we will do the right thing and make our facilities and programs accessible.”

Rather, progress has been slow, often requiring disability advocates to take the initiative and demand governmental and business entities to comply with the 1990 law and not make more compromises. The process is slow because disability advocates may not exist in a community, or they get frustrated that change is so difficult.

Title II. The current “program accessibility” regulation requires a public entity’s programs and services be accessible, when they are “viewed in their entirety.”

Re: the proposed rule “Existing play areas and recreation facilities.” If a public entity has “multiple play areas as part of its program,” for program accessibility “only a reasonable number but at least one of such play areas would be required to undertake structural modifications to provide access for individuals [i.e., children] with disabilities.” The “reasonable number but at least one” rule applies also to swimming pools and state parks.

On June 17 the federal Department of Justice (DOJ) issued proposed rules to the ADA’s federal regulations which, if adopted, will significantly undercut the original 1990 compromises and will impose numerous regressive restrictions.

Many of the proposed rules will ensure that full accessibility will be, at best, postponed indefinitely.

Did the DOJ forget that “program access” for the past 18 The proposal rules, together years already implicitly rewith all the background infor- quired “at least one” accesmation, cost estimates, com- sible facility, or the program mentaries etc., total about in its entirely would not be 1000 pages. Here, we will ad- accessible? With the proposed dress only the Title II require- rule, wouldn’t public entities ment of “program accessibil- shoot for the minimum—one, ity ... when viewed in entirety” regardless of the changes that and the Title III requirement might make many or all of the for removal of “readily achiev- play areas accessible? able” barriers from existing facilities.

DOJ asks if the “reasonable number, but at least one” is Here are two proposed changes: No full access - cont. on p. 11

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July 10, 2008

Women are winners Changing face of sports highlights more opportunities as well as challenges

by Carrie Salberg

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an a quadriplegic woman sail solo across the English Channel? Can a woman in a wheelchair be a hockey player?

In both cases, the answer is a resounding yes.

third of all athletes participating in the 2004 games in Athens were women. This was up from a mere 23 percent in the 1992 games in Barcelona. But it still illustrates the significant gap between disabled men and women athletes.

Jen Onsum and Hilary Lister are great examples of women with disabilities choosing to stay active in competitive and recreational sports. Historically, women generally have lagged behind men in the area of athletics. This disparity is even more pronounced between men and women with disabilities.

When Hilary Lister was a child she aspired to become a biochemist. She was an active child who participated in many sports in school in England.

Lister’s plans changed when in her 20s she was diagnosed with a rare disorder called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. The muscle-wasting disease left her a quadriplegic, According to the Women’s only able to move her head, Sports Foundation, disabled eyes and mouth. women are not getting as many opportunities as men are in all Lister was housebound for four levels of sport. In 2002 the long years. On her web site, International Wheelchair Fed- she describes those years as eration reported that only 12 her darkest days. When a friend percent of all wheelchair bas- convinced her to go sailing ketball players in the world with him in 2003, Lister’s life were female. International was transformed. She instantly Paralympic Committee statis- fell in love with the sport and tics show that less than one- felt a life-altering sense of free-

dom. She described sailing as tance more than twice that of being “the nearest thing to fly- the English Channel. ing.”

This summer, 36-year-old Tired of always being a pas- Lister faces her biggest chalsenger, Lister was determined lenge to date. On June 16 she to devise a way to sail inde- set out on what will be a threependently. A chance encoun- month journey around Britter with a famous sailor at a ain. If all goes according to London boat show brought her plan she will be sailing every dream of a solo sail closer to day, stopping to rest at various reality. She secured a sponsor ports around the British Isles. to design a boat that she could About her amazing sailing acoperate herself. By puffing air complishments, Lister says, into two straws, she was able “It’s about showing that anyto steer the boat and control one can live an active life.” the sail.

St. Paul athlete Jen Onsum, Lister then set her sights even 27, is also leading an active, higher. Her next goal was to sport-filled life. Onsum, who sail solo across the English has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Channel. In August of 2005, has been playing Powerwith a support boat following Hockey since the Minnesota a half mile behind, she accom- PowerHockey League was plished this goal and became formed in 1997. She describes the first quadriplegic to cross PowerHockey as being very the English Channel solo. In similar to ice hockey: “We 2007, Lister pushed herself have simply replaced the ice further, setting another record with a gym floor and the puck by becoming the first female with a wiffle ball. Our skates quadriplegic to circumnavi- are our wheels.” She adds that gate the Isle of Wight—a dis- “the determination, competi-

Book Review

Minnesota Self-Advocacy Conference

A Showcase of Ability, Athlete First A History of the Paralympic Movement Sports (CISS), established during the first World Games for the Deaf, held in Paris in 1924. Now known as the International Committee for Deaf Sports, it still uses the CISS acronym. Though a founding member of International Paralympic Committee (IPC), CISS withdrew from that group in 1995. It now operates the Summer and Winter Silent Games, also known as the Deaflympics, writes Bailey.

Though many people think the “para” in Paralympics refers to paraplegia, Bailey explains that it actually derives from Greek and Latin words meaning “next to” or “alongside” and “similar” or “the same” respectively. Use of the word “Olympic” began with German neurosurgeon Sir Ludwig Guttmann in 1949. At first that use was opposed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) which saw the word as its copyright. There have been a variety of names over the years, but Paralympics has been the official name since 1988.

Bailey credits Guttmann for his leadership in establishing organized sports for people with disabilities. The Stoke Mandeville games opened the same day as the 1948 London Olympics. Guttmann, who established the Stoke Mandeville Spinal Injuries Unit in England in 1944, had utilized sports in the rehabilitation process. He saw the benefits of competition between people with similar injuries.

He was also involved in the creation of the International Sports Organization for the Disabled, which provided competitive opportunities for people with disabilities other than spinal injuries.

Sporting competitions for the disabled date back for almost a century, according to the book. The first international sports federation for people with disabilities was the International Committee of Silent

For some time there were many separate organizations for people with different disabilities. This created problems as the various groups competed for assistance from the IOC. Bailey writes that the IOC was

“instrumental in prompting confederacy among disability sports organizations.” Encouragement by the IOC led to the establishment of the International Coordinating Committee of World Sports Organizations for the Disabled (ICC) in 1982, with the goal of “speaking with one voice.” The ICC managed consolidation of individual organizations into what became the Paralympic Games.

Special Benefit Concert Rick DellaRatta & Jazz for Peace to perform

Sunday, October 5, 2008 • 3:00p.m. at The Artists’ Quarter

written by Steve Bailey; reviewed by Chuck Campbell A Showcase of Ability, Athlete First traces the development of the Paralympic Movement from the establishment of the first organized sports for people with disabilities through the 2004 Paralympics.

Bailey notes that early development of organized sports for people with disabilities was impeded by the misperception that these sports were about rehabilitation rather than world championship competition between elite athletes. The Paralympic Movement is helping to dispel that myth.

tiveness and intensity are just vious health benefits but can as strong [as in ice hockey].” also raise self-esteem and improve body image in girls.

Onsum began playing adaptive sports in middle school, In the case of Hilary Lister, the seeing it as a great opportunity recreational sport of sailing to be an athlete like her able- gives her a sense of freedom bodied peers. With her limited and puts her on equal footing upper body strength, she found with other sailors. She says, her niche in defense and has “If I’m on the water, I’m as been voted MN PowerHockey able as the person in the boat Defender of the Year four next to me.” times. PowerHockey is a predominantly male sport; Onsum Jen Onsum sums up the benis one of fewer than 10 fe- efits of competitive sports: males playing in Minnesota. “Playing sports teaches people to have greater self-confiWhen asked what she likes dence, to be more out-going best about competitive sports, and how to really be a ‘team’ Onsum said that she loves the player, all of which can benadrenaline and the rush of play- efit you in all aspects of life.” ing. “I love playing as rough ■ and tough as the guys and showing them that girls can To follow Hilary Lister’s jourkick some butt, too,” she said. ney around Britain, visit: The Women’s Sports Founda- www.hilarylister.com. For tion asserts that women and more info on MN Power girls with disabilities need to Hockey: www.powerhockey. be given the same encourage- com/minnesota ment as their male counterparts in the area of athletics.

Involvement in sports has ob-

cial Olympics, Inc., and International Blind Sports Association, though not affiliated with IPC, also provide sports opportunities for people with disabilities.

Bailey cites the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) as, “the principal force for the Paralympic Movement, identifying as its vision: ‘To enable paralympic athletes to achieve sporting excellence and inspire and excite the Bailey presents an overview world.’” In 2003, IPC introof the many groups that have duced the new Paralympic served disabled athletes over motto: “Spirit in motion.” the years. In 2004 the International Stoke Mandeville Among the challenges IPC Games Federation merged faces is classification of athwith the International Sports letes to ensure meaningful Organization for the Disabled. competition. The idea is that This latter group was founded athletes with similar disabiliin 1964 to offer sporting op- ties should compete against portunities for amputees and each other. Classification has other people with disabilities been an issue since Ludwig who were then ineligible for Guttmann organized sports for the Stoke Mandeville Games. former spinal patients because The 2004 merger formed the it excludes people who don’t International Wheelchair and fit a category.

Amputee Sports Federation.

Discussing the nature of disCerebral Palsy-International ability, Bailey writes, “indiSports and Recreation Asso- viduals’ impairment becomes ciation (CP-ISRA), created in a disability when the organi1978, also serves people zation of society prevents them who’ve had strokes and trau- from participating fully.” Conmatic brain injuries. Bailey tinuing, “Effectively, society writes CP-ISRA is “very ac- causes the disablement of those tively involved” with IPC. individuals who are impaired in some way. Inflexibility in International Association for organizational policies can be Sport for Persons with Mental a barrier to enabling normal Handicap, International Spe- Paralympics - cont. on p. 15

408 St. Peter Street, St. Paul, MN

Rick DellaRatta is an international jazz pianist, vocalist and composer, who has won numerous awards through his talent. Most recently, he has been honored in Jazz Singers, a book by Scott Yanow, as one of the 500 greatest jazz vocalists of all-time.

“Excellent Jazz Pianist and vocalist...Superb Band” ~ Washington Post

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About Jazz for Peace Rick DellaRatta and Jazz for Peace performed at the United Nations in New York on September 25, 2002. He led a band consisting of Israeli, Middle Eastern, European, Asian and American musicians in concert for an international audience in what is now considered “one of the most significant cultural events of our time! “This U.N. Concert has led to a benefit concert series that has gone on to raise funds, publicity and awareness for over 500 nonprofit organizations as well as an Educational Program to bring jazz back into the schools and donate musical instruments to underprivileged children.

July 10, 2008

5

Thoughts from my recent visit Paralympics poised to open minds and doors in China

by Sherry Gray

W

hen I lived in Shenyang 25 years ago, it was the early years of paramount leader Deng Xiaoping’s Open Door Policy (kƗifàng zhèngcè ㆏㟍㟎䷥ ), an ambitious plan to remake China to be modern and more open, including for citizens with disabilities. Deng was influenced by his son Pufang, a wheelchair user. In 1988, Deng Pufang established the China Disabled Persons Federation, www.cdpf.org.cn/ home/home.htm, the organization which represents China’s 83 million people living with disabilities.

China is richer today, but the disability community has not modernized at the same pace.

Twenty-five years ago few people had regular access to electricity. Today millions live in modern apartments furnished with advanced electronics and appliances. With the exception of such model indi-

viduals as Paralympics athletes or China Disabled People’s Performing Art Troupe performers (see the YouTube video: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=16Dsd9H1wTE), Chinese with disabilities beg in public as they have for centuries, their stories of woe written in large characters on a piece of cardboard as they demonstrate their disability to passersby.

the continuing challenges facing Chinese with disabilities.

There are two key issues: accessible facilities and especially the cultural attitudes. In a June 19 article, The Economist Magazine “Limbering up for the games” described the measures being taken to increase security before and during the events in Bejing. The article states, “But other measures smack of overkill. Beggars and disabled people have been ordered, and in some cases forced, off the streets.

Those from outside Beijing have been threatened with detention unless they go home until the games are over.” Read the complete article at: www.economist.com/world/ asia/displaystory.cfm? story_id=11591389.

The coming of the Paralympics is changing China, as was evident on my visit in June. In preparation, Beijing has been making accessible accommodations, tourist attractions, and transportation facilities. A recent media blitz highlighted adaptations at the Forbidden City while the Beijing Paralympic Games website highlights other improvements China is still a developing http://en.paralympic.beijing country and most people live in rural villages and small cit2008.cn/index.shtml. ies. As television footage from But behind this publicity lies the Sichuan earthquake

showed, building construction standards need upgrading for all sectors of the country. Few streets have traffic controls, let alone signals or sidewalks designed to help persons with difficulty seeing, hearing, or walking. Elevators in most buildings are small and unreliable, when they are even available. For travelers, only the most expensive hotels will have the necessary facilities.

Nonetheless, intrepid travelers like Rosemary Ciotti of Arlington Virginia, who documented her 2004 trip in “Wheelchair Nomad: Beijing, China,” www.geocities.com/ globalaccess_99/beijing 04.htm, are demanding changes in the tourism industry that hopefully will inspire modifications throughout China.

The Paralympics are expected to accelerate change. Jeff Burley, Adaptive Manager for

Stairs at the Forbidden City Utah’s Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation and the Intermountain region manager of Professional Ski Instructors of America/Adaptive, wrote from his visits to Barcelona, Sydney, Athens and Beijing that accessibility improves dramatically in countries after they have hosted the Paralympics: “We have really enjoyed the trend of countries improving access following the Paralympic Games.” (“Travel and the Paralympic Movement,” www.disaboom. com/Living/ travel/travel-and-theparalympic-movement.aspx)

plex. Many Chinese, especially successful urbanites, see disability as shameful. In contrast, though, people from impoverished rural areas see disability as a normal feature of human existence. When I show middle-class Chinese photos of my sister—she has cerebral palsy—they often pull a grave face and say to me, “A tragedy for your family,” then change the subject quickly. Their discomfort rests in traditional views of disability as an embarrassment: someone with cerebral palsy (and that person’s siblings) would find it difficult to marry, as few Chinese cultural attitudes to- would be willing to marry into ward disability can be com- Paralympics - cont. on p. 15

Bjerkesett honored Years of helping are recognized by friends and peers

by Nancy Sopkowiak

D

was named All Conference and All State as a defensive tackle for the Fridley Tigers football team.

arms are not paralyzed so he is confident of being able to operate a wheelchair when his spine is healed.

After Bjerkesett finished his rehabilitation at North Memorial Hospital, he attended Southwest Minnesota State College. “There were a lot of disabled [at Southwest] who had been in chairs a lot longer than myself. They helped me a lot,” said Bjerkesett.

Back in the 1960’s Bjerkesett made a name for himself in Minnesota sports history. He played football, baseball, and hockey at Fridley High School.

His feats were often covered in the local news. Bjerkesett

During college Bjerkesett found himself in the newspaper yet again: A momentary dozing at the wheel by the driver of a car he was in brought permanent paralysis to Mike from his shoulders to his toes. The car went off the road June 8 and rolled over, causing back injuries that required a spinal fusion. Mike had just finished his second year at Bemidji State College… The elder Bjerkesett reports his son’s morale is high, partly due to a host of friends that visit with him and send him plenty of mail. His

uring a long career as a champion for the disability community, Michael Bjerkesett has worked to improve the lives of others.

Friends, family and colleagues surprised Bjerkesett at the Brooklyn Park Northland Inn June 19, in an event with plenty of roasting and toasting.

Watching the video made about his life and accomplishments was a highlight of the evening for Bjerkesett and those who know him

Bjerkesett graduated with a degree in Business Administration and Psychology. In his first full-time job, Bjerkesett counseled others in the rehabilitation program at North Memorial Medical Center.

“All the babes in the place were hanging around him…He was a studly dude,” said a former hospital co-worker.

In 1973 Bjerkesett left North Memorial to form the United Handicapped Federation (UHF), a social action organization which linked together 19 disability groups in Minnesota. He served as the UHF’s first executive director. “Our first priority was to educate the public. We wanted people to know that the issues of the disabled were immediate and urgent… The issues included accessible transportation, building accessibility, employment, healthcare, and aging,” said a former UHF staff member.

Photo of Michael Bjerkesett from an 1980s eligible bachelors book

UHF became a highly regarded organization under Bjerkesett’s leadership. “I can’t

praise enough the work of the United Handicapped Federation; because of their effort, opportunities have opened up to all the disabled. How nice to drive up to the entryway of a shopping center and see a sign Greg Cornish, Karen, Michael Bjerkesett and Julee in the closest parking area, ReQuarve-Peterson at the June 19 event served for Handicapped,” said Doris Nelson from Min- said a colleague and former ability community),” said his nesota in her book Through a tenant. The non-profit organi- nominator. Bjerkesett’s sister zation has developed more wasn’t able to attend his June Looking Glass. than 2,000 accessible apart- 19 surprise party, so she wrote him a note: I’m happy to know Bjerkesett began a new en- ments. you are being acknowledged. deavor in 1975, the National Handicap Housing Institute. In 2006 Bjerkesett was nomi- All of this energy directed toHe wanted to develop acces- nated for the National Spinal wards you is well deserved… sible affordable housing for Cord Injury Association Hall You are a quiet and humble low-income adults with physi- of Fame Award as a corporate man as you go about the work cal disabilities. “He was able executive. “While I feel you do- competently, thorto find government funding to Bjerkesett hasn’t achieved the oughly, and beautifully …leavstart his business and become acclaim he deserves, few ing behind quality homes for successful while giving people people have had more influ- the handicapped and elderly. with disabilities an opportu- ence in directly changing the ■ nity for independent living,” lives of so many (in the dis-

6

July 10, 2008

Lost & found . . . a search St. Paul releases report Equal access for women, minorities and for Keith Kennedy maybe even people with disabilities Man with autism survives week in wilderness

by Silas Matthies

I

t is always frightening to have a loved one missing in the wilderness, especially when days go by and hundreds of searchers find nothing. What if the lost one doesn’t have the cognitive ability to find his way home, can not respond to his name, can not call out for help, and is without their life-saving medicine?

Lake Camp for Kennedy, with no success. One complication in the search was that he could be frightened by loud noises and run away from the searchers.

Such was the case at Trade Lake Camp, a camp for autistic adults near Grantsburg, Wis., from June 15 to June 22.

Keith Kennedy, a 25-year-old camper from Shoreview, wandered off of the campgrounds.

Kennedy’s autism limits his vocabulary to four words, and he must take anti-rejection medication due to a kidney transplant. Bruce Kennedy, his father, donated a kidney to his son in 1995.

Kennedy was found alive at about 7 p.m. on June 22 by two St. Paul firefighters. He was lying near a stream in an area that had been searched three times before. He was covered in dirt, bug bites and ticks, dehydrated and hypothermic, with a body temperature below 90 degrees. He could not stand or speak, but he was conscious and responsive. According to St. Paul firefighter Gary Ruiz, who first spotted him, at that time he could only respond to his name with a moan. But “to have him make that noise was one of the happiest days of my life,” Ruiz said.

For a week, hundreds of volunteers as well as firefighters from St. Paul and Maple Grove searched an estimated 40 square miles around Trade

On the evening of the seventh day of the search, his mother Linda was beginning to feel “the reality” that her son may have died. The search was close to being called off.

Kennedy was transported via helicopter to the University of Minnesota Medical CenterFairview. His parents only saw him briefly before he was airlifted away. He was initially reported to be in intensive care but was stable and doing amazingly well for having been lost in the wilderness for a week without his medication. His condition has continued to improve.

Why Kennedy wandered away from the camp, where he went, and how he survived will probably not be known due to his limited vocabulary. Linda Kennedy has said in media interviews, “From about age three he’s been a runner, and our house, really, truly, was like Fort Knox. We had so many systems set up to make sure that he was safe and not going to escape.” It is theorized that Kennedy sneaked into the cafeteria to eat some popcorn in the evening he disappeared, and then went into the woods out of fear of being Lost/Found - cont. on p. 11

by Carol Rydell

I

mproving equal access to St. Paul’s economic opportunities for women, minorities and people with disabilities is the intent of a plan announced June 5 by St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman. The plan is in response to an independent audit on inclusion completed in November 2007 after more than four years of pressure by community organizations to change city practices. Those changes would not have included individuals with disabilities without the participation of Kaposia, Inc., a national leader in employment services for persons with disabilities. While the city has fallen short on its participation goals for women and minorities in employment and contracting, most of those goals do not even exist for individuals with disabilities.

In 2003, the Equal Access Working Group was formed by the St. Paul City Council in response to heated testimony at a public hearing about the lack of access to economic opportunities. Kaposia was

the only organization representing individuals with disabilities to participate in the public hearing and to work collaboratively with community organizations representing women and minorities throughout this process. For four years, beginning with Mayor Randy Kelly’s administration, the Equal Access Working Group pushed for an independent audit to determine whether the City of St. Paul’s employment and contracting opportunities were providing access for women, minorities and people with disabilities.

for even considering participation goals for individuals with disabilities. In short, St. Paul was a leader because it was doing something in an area in which most cities were doing nothing.

St. Paul’s demonstration of leadership was that it had adopted an employment goal of 10% for people with disabilities in 2006 for the affirmative action plans of contractors doing business with the city and also for the city’s own workforce after ongoing pressure from Kaposia. That goal is 2% higher than adopted In November of 2007, four by the City of Minneapolis. years after the city council hearing, the long-awaited au- After the release of the Hall dit report was completed by Group Report, Kaposia chalthe Milwaukee-based Hall lenged Coleman to demonLegal Group. This report iden- strate true leadership in distified significant shortcom- ability rights by following ings by the city in accountabil- through on recommendations ity, coordination and commu- made by Kaposia in 2003 and nication between departments the Hall Report in 2007 by: and in resources.

• Establishing employment goals for individuals with disSurprisingly, the Hall Report abilities on city-funded conidentified the City of St. Paul struction projects to open up as a leader in disability rights Equal Access - cont. on p. 14

July 10, 2008

7

Access Press Directory of Organizations Minnesota’s Disability Community Newspaper

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VOICE LINE SECOND LINE E-MAIL/WEB SITE ADVOCACY Advocating Change Together (ACT) ..................... V-651-641-0297 ..... TF-800-641-0059 .............. www.selfadvocacy.org Arc – Greater Twin Cities ...................................... V-952-920-0855 ........ F-952-920-1480 ... www.arcgreatertwincities.org Arc of Minnesota ........................................... V-651-523-0823x115 ..... TF-800-582-5256 ..... www.thearcofminnesota.org Arthritis Foundation — North Central Chapter ..... V-651-644-4108 .. TTY-800-333-1380 ...................... www.arthritis.org Assoc. of Residential Resources in MN (ARRM) . V-651-291-1086 .. TTY-800-551-2211 ........................... www.arrm.org Courage Center ...................................................... V-763-520-0312 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ..................... www.courage.org/ Mental Health Association of MN ......................... V-612-331-6840 ........ F-612-331-1630 ......... www.mentalhealthmn.org Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) ... V-651-646-8342 .. TTY-651-603-2001 ..................... www.mcil-mn.org MN Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities ...... V-763-520-0439 ........ F-763-520-0562 ........................ www.mnccd.org MN Developmental Achievement Center Association (MnDACA) ......................... V-651-647-9200 ........ F-651-647-9353 ...................... www.mndaca.org

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ASSISTIVE AND COMPANION ANIMALS Hearing and Service Dogs of MN .......................... V-612-729-5986 F/TTY-612-729-5914 .......................... www.hsdm.org Helping Paws, Inc. ................................................. V-952-988-9359 ........ F-952-988-9296 .............. www.helpingpaws.org ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn*) ...... V-763-479-8239 ..... TF-866-535-8239 ........................... www.atmn.org Courage Center ...................................................... V-763-520-0312 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ...................... www.courage.org Fairview Assistive Technology Program ............... V-612-273-6830 ........ F-612-273-7360 ........... www.fairview.org/rehab Fairview Seating and Wheeled Mobility ............... V-612-273-5560 ........ F-612-273-7360 ........... www.fairview.org/rehab Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare ................ V-651-291-2848 ..... TF-800-719-4040 ......... www.gillettechildrens.org PACER Center, Inc. ............................................... V-952-838-9000 .. TTY-952-838-0190 .......................... www.pacer.org Telephone Equipment Distribution Program ......... V-651-297-1507 .. TTY-888-206-6555 ................ www.tedprogram.org EDUCATION Minnesota Community Education Network on Disabilities (CEND) ...................................... V-651-748-7436 ........ F-651-748-7497 ............. psvendsen@isd622.org Ronald M. Hubbs Center ....................................... V-651-290-4729 .. TTY-651-290-4852 ................. www.hubbs.spps.org EMPLOYMENT/VOCATION Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn*) ...... V-763-479-8239 ..... TF-866-535-8239 ........................... www.atmn.org CCP Works! ................................................... V-763-540-6833x305 ...................................................... www.theccpinc.com Community Connections Partnership (CCP) . V-763-540-6833x302 ................ www.communityconnectionspartnership.org Cooperating Community Programs (CCP) ............ V-651-917-8322 ........................................................ www.ccpcdcs.com Courage Center ...................................................... V-763-520-0564 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ...................... www.courage.org East Suburban Resources ....................................... V-651-351-0190 ........................................................ www.esrworks.org Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota .......................... V-651-379-5800 ........ F-651-379-5803 ... www.goodwilleasterseals.org Kaposia Inc ................................................... V/TTY-651-224-6974 ........ F-651-224-7249 ..................... www.kaposia.com Lifetrack Resources — St. Paul ............................. V-651-227-8471 .. TTY-651-227-3779 ...... www.lifetrackresources.org Lifeworks Services, Inc. ...................................... TF-866-454-2732 .. TTY-651-365-3736 ....................www.lifeworks.org Merrick, Inc. .......................................................... V-651-789-6231 ........ F-651-789-9960 ................. www.merrickinc.org Metro Work Center, Inc. ............................... V/TTY-612-729-7381 ........ F-612-729-7382 ....... www.metroworkcenter.org Midway Training Services ..................................... V-651-641-0709 ........ F-651-641-0976 .......... www.midwaytraining.org Midwest Special Services, Inc. .............................. V-651-778-1000 .. TTY-651-772-8592 .............. www.mwsservices.org Minnesota Resource Center ................................... V-612-752-8102 .. TTY-612-752-8019 ...................... www.mrc-mn.org Minnesota Work Incentives Connection ................ V-651-632-5113 ..... TF-800-976-6728 .... www.mnworkincentives.com MRCI WorkSource ....................................... V/TTY-507-386-5600 ........ F-507-345-5991 ......... www.mrciworksource.org MRCI WorkSource — Carver/Scott ...................... V-952-403-7660 MRCI WorkSource — Chaska .............................. V-952-448-2234 MRCI WorkSource — Fairmont ........................... V-507-238-4388 ........ F-507-238-4389 MRCI WorkSource — New Ulm .......................... V-507-233-2700 ........ F-507-354-8146 MRCI WorkSource — Rosemount ........................ V-651-423-8900 Opportunity Partners .............................................. V-952-938-5511 .. TTY-952-930-4293 ............. www.opportunities.org ProAct Inc. ............................................................. V-651-686-0405 ........ F-651-686-0312 .................... www.proactinc.org Rise, Inc. ....................................................... V/TTY-763-786-8334 ........ F-763-786-0008 ............................. www.rise.org Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

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8

July 10, 2008

Dir ector y of Or ganiza tions Director ectory Org anizations Minnesota’s Disability Community Newspaper

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

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EMPLOYMENT/VOCATION (CONTINUED) TBI Metro Services — Richfield ........................... V-612-869-3995 .. TTY-952-930-4293 ............. www.opportunities.org TBI Metro Services — W. St Paul ........................ V-651-457-4756 .. TTY-952-930-4293 ............. www.opportunities.org TSE, Inc. ................................................................ V-651-489-2595 ........ F-651-489-0410 ........................ www.tse-inc.org Vinland National Center ............................... V/TTY-763-479-3555 ........ F-763-479-2605 ............. www.vinlandcenter.org GOVERNMENT/PUBLIC PROGRAMS Social Security Administration and the St. Paul PASS Cadre (SSA) ......................... V-651-290-0054 ........ F-651-290-3811 ............ www.socialsecurity.gov MN Governor’s Council on Developmental DisabilitiesV-651-296-4018TF-877-348-0505 ........................ www.mncdd.org HEALTH CARE PLANS UCare ..................................................................... V-800-707-1711 .. TTY-800-688-2534 .......................... www.ucare.org HOUSING/REAL ESTATE — RENTAL Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI) ................................. V-651-645-7271 .. TTY-800-627-3529 ......... www.accessiblespace.org Community Involvement Programs (CIP) — Bloomington ....................................................... V-952-854-4007 ............................................................. www.cipmn.org CIP — Crystal ........................................................ V-763-504-1008 ............................................................. www.cipmn.org CIP — Minneapolis ............................................... V-612-362-4400 ........ F-612-362-4476 ......................... www.cipmn.org Cooperating Community Programs (CCP) — Residential Services ........................................... V-651-917-8322 ........................................................ www.ccpcdcs.com HousingLink .......................................................... V-612-522-2500 ........ F-612-521-1577 ................ www.housinglink.org Mary T. Inc. ........................................................... V-763-754-2505 ..... TF-888-255-6400 ................... www.marytinc.com National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc (NHHI) .. V-651-639-9799 ................................. www.nhhiaccessiblehousing.com Rise, Inc. ....................................................... V/TTY-763-786-8334 ........ F-763-786-0008 ............................. www.rise.org HOUSING/REAL ESTATE — CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING Accessibility Design .............................................. V-952-925-0301 ........ F-952-926-7712 ... www.accessibilitydesign.com Accessible Homes, LLC ........................................ V-612-978-1054 ........................................ www.accessiblehomesllc.net Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn*) ...... V-763-479-8239 ..... TF-866-535-8239 ........................... www.atmn.org Susan Lasoff & Associates .................................... V-612-872-7520 INDEPENDENT/COMMUNITY LIVING SKILLS TRAINING Community Involvement Programs (CIP) - BloomingtonV-952-854-4007 .................................................... www.cipmn.org Community Involvement Programs (CIP) — CrystalV-763-504-1008 ........................................................... www.cipmn.org Community Involvement Programs (CIP) — MinneapolisV-612-362-4400F-612-362-4479 ........................ www.cipmn.org Cooperating Community Programs (CCP) ............ V-651-917-8322 ........................................................ www.ccpcdcs.com Courage Center ...................................................... V-763-520-0312 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ...................... www.courage.org DeafBlind Services Minnesota (DBSM) ............... V-612-362-8454 .. TTY-612-362-8422 .......................... www.dbsm.org Dungarvin, Inc. — Minnesota................................ V-651-699-6050 .. TTY-651-695-5802 ................. www.dungarvin.com Howry Residential Services ........................... V-651-917-9111x204 ........ F-651-917-1018 .................. www.howryinc.com Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

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July 10, 2008

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INDEPENDENT/COMMUNITY LIVING SKILLS TRAINING (CONTINUED) Metro Work Center, Inc. ........................................ V-612-729-7381 ........ F-612-729-7382 ....... www.metroworkcenter.org Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL)V-651-646-8342 TTY-651-603-2001 ..................... www.mcil-mn.org Opportunity Partners .............................................. V-952-938-5511 .. TTY-952-930-4293 ............. www.opportunities.org People Incorporated Epilepsy Services ..................................................................................... www.peopleincorporated.org Reach for Resources .............................................. V-952-988-4177 ........ F-952-988-6728 ...... www.reachforresources.org RESTART, Inc. ..................................................... V-763-588-7633 ........ F-763-588-7613 ............... www.restartincmn.org Southern MN Independent Living Enterprises and Services (SMILES) ............................. V/TTY-507-345-7139 ..... TF-888-676-6498 .................... www.smilescil.org TBI Metro Services — Richfield ........................... V-612-869-3995 .. TTY-952-930-4293 ............. www.opportunities.org TBI Metro Services — W. St Paul ........................ V-651-457-4756 .. TTY-952-930-4293 ............. www.opportunities.org Vinland National Center ............................... V/TTY-763-479-3555 ........ F-763-479-2605 ............. www.vinlandcenter.org Vision Loss Resources ........................................... V-612-871-2222 ........ F-612-872-0189 ... www.visionlossresources.org INFORMATION AND REFERRAL RESOURCES/HOTLINES Arc – Greater Twin Cities ...................................... V-952-920-0855 ........ F-952-920-1480 ... www.arcgreatertwincities.org Arthritis Foundation — North Central ChapterV/TTY-651-644-4108TF/TTY-800-333-1380 .................. www.arthritis.org Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn*) ...... V-763-479-8239 ..... TF-866-535-8239 ........................... www.atmn.org Brain Injury Association of Minnesota .................. V-612-378-2742 .. TTY-800-669-6442 ............ www.braininjurymn.org Center for Inclusive Child Care (CICC) ................ V-651-603-6265 .......................................... www.inclusivechildcare.org Disability Linkage Line ....................................... TF-866-333-2466 .............................................. www.minnesotahelp.info Hearing Loss Association of America — Twin Cities Chapter (HLAA TC) .............. V/TTY-763-537-7558 ............................................................. www.hlaatc.org Institute on Community Integration ....................... V-612-624-6300 ........ F-612-624-9344 ............................. ici@umn.edu Minnesota State Council on Disability ......... V/TTY-651-361-7800..TF/TTY-800-945-8913 ... www.disability.state.mn.us National Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota (NAMI-MN)V-651-645-2948..F-651-645-7379 .......... www.namimn.org PACER Center, Inc. ............................................... V-952-838-9000 .. TTY-952-838-0190 .......................... www.pacer.org Parents as Teachers/MELD ................................... V-612-332-7563 ........ F-612-455-2058 ....... www.parentsasteachers.org United Cerebral Palsy of MN (UCPMN) .............. V-651-646-7588 ..... TF-877-528-5678 ........................ www.ucpmn.org

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LEGAL Legal Aid Society of Minneapolis (LASM) .......... V-612-334-5970 .. TTY-612-375-4668 ................ www.midmnlegal.org MN Disability Law Center (MDLC) ..................... V-612-334-5970 ..... TF-800-292-4150 ......................... www.mndlc.org Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services, Inc. (SMRLS)V/TTY-651-222-5863F-651-297-6457 ........... www.smrls.org MEDICAL — MENTAL HEALTH PRACTITIONERS Community Involvement Programs (CIP) — BloomingtonV-952-854-4007 ................................................. www.cipmn.org Community Involvement Programs (CIP) — CrystalV-763-504-1008 ........................................................... www.cipmn.org Community Involvement Programs (CIP) — MinneapolisV-612-362-4400F-612-362-4476 ........................ www.cipmn.org Courage Center ...................................................... V-763-520-0312 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ...................... www.courage.org Cristo Vive International (CVI) ............................. V-763-263-1526 ........ F-763-263-5966 ................... www.cristovive.net Healthy Life Coaching (HLC) ............................ V/F-320-963-5976 ...... M-612-998-6452 ............ www.healthsangels.com Howry Residential Services ........................... V-651-917-9111x204 ........ F-651-917-1018 .................. www.howryinc.com Lifetrack Resources ............................................... V-651-227-8471 .. TTY-651-227-3779 ...... www.lifetrackresources.org People Incorporated ............................................... V-651-774-0011 .. TTY-651-774-6535 ... www.peopleincorporated.org Rise, Inc. ....................................................... V/TTY-763-786-8334 ........ F-763-786-0008 ............................. www.rise.org Tasks Unlimited ..................................................... V-612-871-3320 ........ F-612-871-0432 ........... www.tasksunlimited.org MEDICAL — PHYSICIANS Courage Center ...................................................... V-763-520-0453 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ...................... www.courage.org MEDICAL — REHABILITATION (Physical, Occupational, Speech, Audiology Therapists) Courage Center ...................................................... V-763-520-0312 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ...................... www.courage.org DeafBlind Services Minnesota (DBSM) ............... V-612-362-8454 .. TTY-612-362-8422 .......................... www.dbsm.org Fairview Acute Rehabilitation Center .................... V-612-273-4277 ........ F-612-273-4706 ............... www.fairview.org/arc Fairview Balance Center ........................................ V-612-273-6521 ........ F-612-273-3869 ........ www.fairview.org/balance Fairview M.S. Achievement Center (MSAC) ........ V-612-672-2815 ........ F-651-645-2254 ............ www.fairview.org/msac Fairview Rehabilitation Services ........................... V-612-672-2100 ..... TF-800-824-1953 ........... www.fairview.org/rehab Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare ................ V-651-291-2848 ..... TF-800-719-4040 ......... www.gillettechildrens.org Lifetrack Resources ............................................... V-651-227-8471 .. TTY-651-227-3779 ...... www.lifetrackresources.org North Memorial Rehab Services ............................ V-763-520-5690 ........ F-763-520-5697 ......... www.northmemorial.com Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute ..................... V-612-863-4466 .. TTY-612-863-5486 ... www.sisterkennyinstitute.com MEDICAL SUPPLIES/EQUIPMENT Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn*) ...... V-763-479-8239 ..... TF-866-535-8239 ........................... www.atmn.org RECREATION — ADAPTIVE HOBBY/EXERCISE/SPORTS/ARTS Arthritis Foundation — North Central ChapterV/TTY-651-644-4108TF/TTY-800-333-1380 .................. www.arthritis.org Courage Center ...................................................... V-763-520-0537 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ...................... www.courage.org Reach for Resources .............................................. V-952-988-4177 ....... V-952-988-6728 ...... www.reachforresources.org Special Olympics Minnesota ................................. V-612-604-1264TF-800-783-7732x264 ...................................................................................................................................... www.specialolympicsminnesota.org Upstream Arts ........................................................ V-612-331-4584 ........ F-480-393-5587 .............. www.upstreamarts.org VSA arts of Minnesota ................................. V/TTY-612-332-3888 ..... TF-800-801-3883 .................. www.vsaartsmn.org Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

Established in 1991 Nurses z Live-ins z Home Health Aides z Personal Care Assistants z Serving Adults & Children with Long-Term Needs z PCA CHOICE Option

CONSUMER-DIRECTED SUPPORTS AND SERVICES

z

Also a Provider for: UCare & Axis

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

IN HOME

PERSONAL CARE

763-546-1000

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

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July 10, 2008

Dir ector y of Or ganiza tions Director ectory Org anizations Minnesota’s Disability Community Newspaper VOICE LINE

•

www.accesspress.org

SECOND LINE

E-MAIL/WEB SITE

RECREATION — TRAVEL/CAMPING Camp Winnebago .................................................. V-507-724-2351 ........ F-507-724-3786 ........ www.campwinnebago.org Courage Center ...................................................... V-763-520-0504 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ...................... www.courage.org Cristo Vive International (CVI) ............................. V-763-263-1526 ........ F-763-263-5966 ................... www.cristovive.net Friendship Ventures ............................................... V-952-852-0101 ..... TF-800-450-8376 ..... www.friendshipventures.org Ventures Travel Service ......................................... V-952-852-0107 ..... TF-866-692-7400 ............ www.venturestravel.org Wilderness Inquiry ................................................. V-612-676-9400 ..... TF-800-728-0719 ...... www.wildernessinquiry.org RECREATION — OTHER Hennepin County Library - Homebound Services Hennepin Co. ERCI Minneapolis ....................... V-952-847-8850 ........... www.hclib.org/pub/info/outreach/at_home.cfm SUPPORT SERVICES — ASSISTED-LIVING PROGRAMS Dungarvin, Inc. — Minnesota................................ V-651-699-6050 .. TTY-651-695-5802 ................. www.dungarvin.com People Incorporated Epilepsy Services ................. V-612-338-9035 ........ F-612-338-1160 ... www.peopleincorporated.org RESTART, Inc. ..................................................... V-763-588-7633 ........ F-763-588-7613 ............... www.restartincmn.org SUPPORT SERVICES — HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES Dungarvin, Inc. — Minnesota.................................................................................................................. www.dungarvin.com Fairview Home Care and Hospice ......................... V-612-728-2468 ..... TF-866-827-5039 ........... www.fairview.org/home Fairview Lifeline .................................................... V-612-728-2468 ..... TF-866-827-5039 ......... www.fairview.org/lifeline In Home Personal Care .......................................... V-763-546-1000 ........ F-763-546-1018 ... www.inhomepersonalcare.com Mary T. Inc. ........................................................... V-763-754-2505 ..... TF-888-255-6400 ................... www.marytinc.com MCIL Personal Assistant Services (PAS) ProgramV/F-651-603-2013 TTY-651-603-2001 ..................... www.mcil-mn.org SUPPORT SERVICES — RESIDENTIAL/GROUP HOME PROGRAMS Community Involvement Programs (CIP)—Bloomington ........................ V-952-854-4007 Community Involvement Programs (CIP)—Crystal .................................. V-763-504-1008 Community Involvement Programs (CIP)—Mpls . V-612-362-4400 ........ F-612-362-4476 ......................... www.cipmn.org Cooperating Community Programs (CCP)—Home Based Support ............ V-651-917-8322 .................... www.ccpcdcs.com Cooperating Community Programs (CCP)—Residential Services ............ V-651-917-8322 .................... www.ccpcdcs.com Dungarvin, Inc. — Minnesota................................ V-651-699-6050 .. TTY-651-695-5802 ................. www.dungarvin.com Fraser ..................................................................... V-612-861-1688 ........ F-612-861-6050 ......................... www.fraser.org Howry Residential Services ........................... V-651-917-9111x204 ........ F-651-917-1018 .................. www.howryinc.com Mary T. Inc. ........................................................... V-763-754-2505 ..... TF-888-255-6400 ................... www.marytinc.com Opportunity Partners .............................................. V-952-938-5511 .. TTY-952-930-4293 ............. www.opportunities.org Phoenix Residence ................................................. V-651-227-7655 ........................................... www.phoenixresidence.org Target Marketing At Its Finest!

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SUPPORT SERVICES — SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES Courage Center ...................................................... V-763-520-0307 .. TTY-763-520-0245 ...................... www.courage.org TRANSPORTATION — RENTAL/SALES/MODIFICATION Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn*) ...... V-763-479-8239 ..... TF-866-535-8239 ........................... www.atmn.org IMED Mobility ...................................................... V-651-635-0655 ..... TF-800-788-7479 ............ www.imedmobility.com Wheelchair Getaways of MN, Inc. ............... V/TTY-888-256-5807 ........ F-320-685-5346 ... www.wheelchairgetaways.com

The 2008 Charlie Smith Community Award ——————Nomination Form—————— I am nominating the following person/group for the Charlie Smith Community Award: Nominee: _______________________________________________________________ Individual or Organization Name: ___________________________________________ Contact Person (if applicable): _______________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip: _________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________ e-mail: ___________________________________ Please answer some/all of the following questions. Use additional paper if needed.

1. What kind of voluntary/community work is the nominee involved with?

2. Why do you think the nominee deserves recognition?

3. What overall relevance/importance has the nominee’s work/ activity had to the community?

4. Please explain why these activities would not have happened if the nominee had not been involved?

Charlie Smith

5. Are there any other reasons why you believe this nominee should win the award?

Nominator: ___________________________________________________________ Name: ________________________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip: _________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________ e-mail: ___________________________________ I confirm that all information given on this form is correct to the best of my knowledge.

Nominator Sigature/Dated ________________________________________________

——————How To Submit This Form—————— E-mail: access@accesspress.org, Fax: 651-644-2136 Mail: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. W. #104S, St. Paul MN 55104

July 10, 2008

News at a glance . . .

Courage Center named as Eleven Who Care agency of distinction

Local rehab addresses intimacy for physically challenged couples

Carrie Shogren is a senior occupational therapist at Courage Center who works with people with an array of physical conditions. “Sexuality is an aspect of daily life that should be addressed as a part of a person’s rehab process after a traumatic injury or illness,” she said. In fact, one of the most-asked questions after a spinal cord injury deals with the issue of sexuality. “Every client with a spinal cord injury has questions about enhancing their sex life. Will I ever be able to have children or how can I make the sexual experience better for my partners are common questions asked during a person’s rehab process,” said Shogren. The IntimateRider by Minnesotabased HealthPostures is a product designed to enhance sexual mobility for couples working to overcome physical obstacles in their personal life. Now information about the IntimateRider is a part of the rehab process at the Courage Center. “People are most curious to know how it works,” said Shogren. “When they first sit in it they are amazed by the freedom of movement. For people with spinal cord injuries, mobility, sensation and function are the biggest concern in their sexual experience and the IntimateRider can help a couple return to a more normal life.”

Ms. Shogren says the onset of a traumatic injury or illness greatly affects able-bodied partners too. “Their lives are changed Committee for People with Disabilities because their loved ones do not have the same movement or looking for new members The St Paul Mayor’s Advisory Committee for People with function as they used to. It is important to provide options that Disabilities is looking for interested people to serve as mem- will improve the experience for both partners.” [Source: bers. There is no deadline to apply. This committee serves as www.courage.org] an advocate for people with disabilities. The committee works to make St. Paul a completely barrier-free community with equal opportunity for all citizens with disabilities by working to increase awareness of the needs in the disabled community.

The 18th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act will be It is an exciting time in St. Paul with the Republican National held on Friday, July 25 from 1–2 p.m. Exciting Convention coming to town in September and the Central updates on the ADA Restoration Act will be given by Peter Corridor light rail being developed. The disability community needs to be involved in these projects and many more. This Berg, Project Coordinator of Technical Assistance & Emcommittee plays a part in all St. Paul projects. The committee ployer Outreach DBTAC Great Lakes ADA Center, Chimay have up to 18 members. At least 50% of the membership cago, Illinois. Entertainment will be provided by Jim Hanson shall be people with disabilities. The meetings are held on the on harmonica and Kip Shane on guitar. Light refreshments third Tuesday of the month. If you are interested, please go to will be served. www.stpaul.gov and click on the “I want to” button at the top, then scroll down to “join a committee” and download an The celebration will be held at the MN Department of Health, application. Or call 651-642-0520 and an application will be 1645 Energy Park Drive, Saint Paul, MN 55108. This event is free to the public, but reservations are requested. Please sent to you. [Source: www.stpaul.gov] RSVP to MCIL at 651-646-8342 or bettyc@mcil-mn.org. If you require accommodations please make your request by AXIS seeks understanding of local July 18.

Hmong community’s health care directives AXIS Healthcare is reaching out to the Twin Cities Hmong community by speaking with local elders about health care The sponsors for this event are: Access Press, ADA Minnedirectives, which are instructions individuals give as a course sota, Arc Greater Twin Cities, the Epilepsy Foundation of of action if they become unable to make decisions for them- Minnesota, Metropolitan Center for Independent Living, selves. All agencies providing Medicare and/or Medicaid Minnesota Department of Finance & Employee Relations, services must provide a written description of Minnesota state Minnesota State Council on Disability, Pathways to Employlaw regarding heath care directives to members. AXIS ment—DHS, DEED, MSCOD, United Cerebral Palsy of Healthcare wanted to find a way to address this subject in an Minnesota and VSA arts of Minnesota. appropriate manner and conducted a focus group at Peb Moob, a St. Paul Hmong senior day care center.

KARE 11 TV recently announced Courage Center as its 2008 Eleven Who Care Agency of Distinction. In the 25-year history of the Eleven Who Care awards, Courage Center has had more winners than any other nonprofit agency. Eleven Who Care honors the contributions of grassroots volunteers and promotes the spirit of volunteerism in our community. Since 1983, the Eleven Who Care Program has recognized the outstanding efforts of 275 community volunteers. Since the awards began, 12 Courage Center volunteers have been honored with Eleven Who Care awards. The Agency of Distinction was created in 1990 to highlight a Twin Cities nonprofit organization. The Agency of Distinction, in addition to being honored, also receives the proceeds from that year’s dinner and live telecast.

The 25th Year of Eleven Who Care will host a 90-minute telecast on Wednesday, Sept. 10. In addition to recognizing the efforts of 11 new volunteers, KARE TV will also look back at the previous 25 years and the impact volunteerism has had on this community. Courage Center encourages everyone in the community to tune in and help celebrate this terrific honor.

[Source: Courage Center]

ADA Celebration

Aided by University of Minnesota nursing students and several interpreters, a group of 17 Hmong elders were asked their opinions regarding their “last breath” or “120th year” (terms many Hmong people use to describe their end of life). Questions included topics such as preferences between Western and traditional medicine and whom they would like to make health care decisions if they were unable. The responses were as unique as the individuals questioned, and suggested that this is a topic they thought needed to be discussed.

PRISM facility seeks to aid criminal offenders with mental illness

The PRISM (Providing Resources and Integrating Services to the Mentally Ill) Center opened in Hennepin County in early 2008. Offenders under Criminal Mental Health Court supervision are now reporting there are up to five days each week to receive and take proper medications. The usual barriers to obtaining medication, such as a lack of medical insurance or copays, have been removed. Social workers and probation officers also meet with offenders at the center, arranging for onsite access to needed social services such as housing, economic Most want to be surrounded by their families at home during assistance and chemical dependency treatment. their final moments; regarding whether they prefer Western or traditional medicine, nine prefer a combination of the two “We see a lot of people whose crime is sleeping in a hallway,” methods, with seven preferring Western medicine exclusively said Judge Richard Hopper, who oversees the Criminal Mental and one preferring to be treated with only traditional Hmong Health Court. “This isn’t a crime that requires a police officer medicine. The eldest son or daughter was the most common with a gun, an arrest and a weekend in the county jail. Most answer when they were asked whom they would want to make often, people who are sleeping in hallways are mentally decisions for them if they couldn’t speak for themselves. The ill…These offenders aren’t a danger to themselves or anyone Hmong elders made a point of saying we may get different else. We need to pursue mental illness from a medical and answers from other Hmong people as everyone has his or her social service vantage point. In many cases, if we are able to own unique beliefs. The general feeling was that this is some- treat their mental illness and ensure that they are taking their thing that needs to be talked about, even if it’s an unpleasant medications and receiving regular medical care, these indisubject. One thing is clear: there’s no way to know someone’s viduals are far less likely to re-offend. There are plenty of wishes about health care directives, regardless of their cultural services available. PRISM helps coordinate those services and background, until the issue is discussed with them personally. uses a non-law-enforcement response that addresses the mental illness first. It’s cost-effective and humane, and it keeps our [AXIS Healthcare] streets safer.” [Source: Hennepin County News] ■

LOST/FOUND -

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Cont. from p. 6

caught. He was reported miss- help people with disabilities. ing at about 8 p.m., and the search began.

Bruce Kennedy is reportedly researching the idea of GPS His mother has resolved to chips that can be implanted help out the next time she under the skin to track a perhears of a missing person. She son that’s wandered away. has also stated that she hopes However, that kind of use of a the incident doesn’t turn tracking device has long people off to these kinds of prompted debate in the discamps that she says truly do ability community. ■

NO FULL ACCESS - Cont. from p. 3 workable, or should DOJ provide a list of factors that a public could use to determine how many of the existing play areas or swimming pools to make accessible? Folks— these are our children with disabilities!

DOJ asks if play areas should have a “safe harbor” from compliance with the applicable requirements in the 2004 Americans with DisabilityAccessible Guidelines (ADAAG). This means that some play areas that might be in compliance with local standards could be exempt from ADA-AG standards that presumably require greater accessibility.

Does anyone think DOJ would have proposed a “safe harbor” to end discrimination based on race or gender?

“readily achievable” to do so.

It is important to remember that the existing federal regulations require removal of barriers only when it is “readily achievable”—which on a case by case basis ensures that only reasonable modifications will occur. “Safe harbors” will exempt from barrier removal even those situations that are “readily achievable” to be made accessible.

A small business will receive a “safe harbor” if it spends in a given year one percent of its gross revenues on barrier removals. Advocates who have been frustrated since 1990 asking businesses to “remove barriers” by building a ramp or making a bathroom accessible, now will have the fun of arguing about a business’s “gross revenues” in a given year and the costs of any alleged barrier removal the business claims it has made. Should advocates ask if the business took a tax deduction or received a tax credit for the barrier removal?

If it claims it did, should the advocate take their word or request to read their 1040s?

Then, the advocates come back the next year and start the entire process again on another inaccessible element? And we thought it was difficult to get a ramp with the existing regulations.

Related to the problem of a “safe harbor” is the DOJ question “what is the tipping point” at which the costs of compliance “... would be so burdensome that the entity would simply shut down the playground?” The ADA is a civil rights statute that is supposed to ensure for disabled folks the equal opportunity and the same benefits as non-disabled people. But let’s get real! Does anyone know of any public entity in the entire country that has closed down any public playground or swimming pool The proposed regulations also because of inaccessibility? question whether to fully enforce the Access Board’s DOJ wants to hear if “existing guidelines for stages, auditoplay areas less than 1,000 riums, witness stands, assistive square feet should be exempt” listening systems, golf courses, from accessibility require- service animals, golf cars, moments. This size was chosen bility devices, auxiliary aids, because of an assumption that captioning, video interpreting such small areas represented services and other areas.

20% of the play areas located in public schools. Great! Dis- You have 60 days to submit abled children in those schools comments. All comments must could be effectively kept off be sent by 8/18/2008. Refer to the play areas, presumably like Documents ID DOJ_FRDOC they are being kept out of main- 0001-0025 (Title III, Public stream classrooms. Every Accommodations) and DOJ_ small neighborhood tot lot FRDOC-0001-0026 (Title II, would be exempted. The Governmental Programs). rulemaking asks if 50% of You can find these documents monkey bars, sliding boards, at the following web address, and other “elevated play com- as well as submit your components” in playgrounds ments on-line by going to should be exempt from acces- www.regulations.gov. ■ sibility. DOJ asks if “additional ground level play com- Back issues of other Informaponents” should be substituted tion Bulletins are available for the “elevated play” com- online at www.stevegold ponents. ada.com with a searchable archive at this site divided into Title III - Section 36.304. The different subjects. To contact current regulation requires re- Steve Gold directly, write to moval of barriers in public stevegoldada@cs.com or call accommodations when it is 215-627-7100.

12

July 10, 2008

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

Accessible performance information is compiled by VSA arts of Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or www.vsaartsmn.org.

See www.accesspress.org for complete listing and for Accessible Movie Theaters ADA Celebration – 18th Anniversary July 25 MN disability organizations celebrate the signing of the Americans w/Disabilities Act at the MN Dept of Hlth, 1645 Energy Pk Dr, St Paul. Peter Berg will speak on the ADA Restoration Act; Jim Hanson and Kip Shane will provide music. ASL: Fri., July 25, 1-3 p.m. (req by 7/18); Tix: Free, RSVP w/MCIL; Phone: 651646-834; E-mail: bettyc@ mcil-mn.org; Web: www.ada minnesota.org The Boy Friend July 11 - 27 Lyric Arts Co. of Anoka at Main St Stage, 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL: Sat., July 12, 7:30 p.m. (1wk+ in adv); Tix: $15, $13 student/sr, $17 box seats; Phone: 763-4221838; Web: www.lyricarts.org Cityscapes, Landscapes & Escapes: Fun in the Sun July 13 Mpls. Institute of Arts, 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: Sun., July 13, 1 p.m.; Sensory tour begins by info desk; Tix: Free; Phone: 612-870-3131; TTY:

612-870-3132; E-mail: dheg The Gin Game strom@artsmia. org; Web: May 30 - June 29 Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale www.artsmia.org Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Thurs., The Count of Monte Cristo June 19, 7:30 p.m.; Tix: $10 June 13 - Aug. 23 (reg. $26-36); Phone: 612U of M Centennial Showboat 822-7063; E-mail: boxof Players at Harriet Island Reg. fice@jungletheater.com; Pk; Showboat Landing E gate, Web: www.jungletheater.com St. Paul. ASL/AD: Sat., Aug 2, 2:30 p.m.; Tix: $20; Padelford The Government Inspector July 5 - Aug. 24 Packet Boat Co; Phone: 651-2271100; E-mail: showboat@ Guthrie Theater, Wurtele Thrust umn.edu; Web: www.riverrides. Stage, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. comor www.showboat.umn.edu AD: Sat., July 26, 1 p.m.; 10:30 a.m. sensory tour; Fri., Aug. 1, Disney’s Beauty and the BE 7:30 p.m.; ASL: Fri., Aug. 8, July 11 - 27 7:30 p.m.; Thurs., Aug. 14, Mounds View Comm. The- 7:30 p.m.; Captioning: Sat., atre at Irondale HS, 2425 Long Aug. 16, 1 p.m.; Tix: $18 (reg.

Lake Rd, New Brighton. ASL: $24-69); captioning users Sat., July 19, 2 p.m. (if req at ½off; Phone: 612-377-2224; least 2 wk in adv); Tix: $9 TTY: 612-377-6626; Web: (reg. $16, $12 sr, student, $8 www.guth rietheater.org/acchild); Phone: 651-638-2139; cessibility E-mail: goseemvct@ aol.com; Web: www.mvct.org Harvey May 31 - Oct. 25 If You Give a Mouse a Cookie Commonweal Theatre, 208 July 8 - 20 Pkwy Ave. N., Lanesboro. ASL: Children’s Theatre Co., 2400 Sun., June 29, 1:30 p.m.; Tix: - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD/ASL: ½price (reg. $25, student $12); Sat., July 19, 2 p.m.; Tix: VSA Phone: 507-467-2525 or 800Offer: $13 tixs; reg disc is $20; 657-7025; E-mail: tixs@com Phone: 612-874-0400; Web: monwealtheatre.org; Web: www.commonwealtheatre.org www. childrenstheatre.org

Hedwig and the Angry Inch July 18 - Aug. 31 Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Thurs., Aug. 7, 7:30 p.m.; Tix: $10 (reg. $26-36); Phone: 612822-7063; E-mail: boxoffice @jungletheater.com; Web: www.jungletheater.com Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat July 17 - Aug. 3 Trollwood Performing Arts School amphitheater, 200 Kandi Lane, Fargo, ND. AD: Fri., July 18, 8:15 p.m.; ASL: Fri., July 25, 8:15 p.m. – special seating req'd; Tix: $10 (reg. $16.50-18.50); Phone: 701-241-6041 or 701-2414799; Web: www.trollwood. org or www.fargostuff.com

MN State Fair Aug. 21 - Sept. 1 State Fairgrounds, 1265 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul. Reqs for ASL/AD for Grandstand Shows make 2 wk in adv. ASL also avail to assist guests from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, and will interpret some events daily. ASL: Jonny Lang/Buddy Guy w/special guest Big Head Todd and The Monsters; Sun., Aug. 24, 7 p.m., $35; ASL: Toby Keith w/special guests Carter’s Chord, Trailer Choir and Mica Roberts; Mon., Sept. 1, 7:30 p.m., $50; Other Grandstand shows avail to req AD/ASL; Tix: Online, at State Fair box office, TixMaster or by phone: Gen admn tix to Fairgrounds: $11 (ages 13-64), $9 (65 and over), $8 (ages 512), free under 5. Pre-fair disc admn tixs avail until Aug. 20 at Cub Foods; Phone: 651288-4400 or 288-4448; TTY: 651-642-2372; Tixmaster: 651-989-5151 (+fee); E-mail: tixs@mnstatefair.org or guestservices@mnstatefair.org; Web: www.mnstatefair.org or www.tixmaster.com

Little House on the Prairie July 26 - Oct. 5 Guthrie Theater, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD: Sat., Aug. 30, 1 p.m.; sensory tour 10:30 a.m.; Fri., Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m.; ASL: Fri., Sept. 19, 7:30 p.m.; Thurs., Sept. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Captioning: Fri., Sept. 26, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Sept. 27, 1 p.m.; Tix: $20 AD/ASL disc, $25 for capMurder Is Announced tioning users (reg. $29-75); July 11 - Aug. 10 Phone: 612-377-2224; TTY: Theatre in the Round, 245 Cedar 612-377-6626; Web: www. Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., July 27, 2 guthrietheater.org/accessibility p.m.; Tix: $20, sr/student disc; Phone: 612-333-3010; Web: The Magic of Myth www.theatreintheround.org Aug. 3 Mpls. Institute of Arts, 2400 Oklahoma!

3rd Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: Sun., July 24 - Aug. 9 Aug. 3, 1 p.m.; Sensory tour Off Broadway Musical Thebegins by lobby info desk; Tix: atre at New Hope Outdoor Free; Phone: 612-870-3131; Theatre, 4401 Xylon Ave. N., TTY: 612-870-3132; E-mail: New Hope. ASL: Fri., Aug. 8, dhegstrom@artsmia.org; 9 p.m. (Aug. 9 rain make-up); Web: www.artsmia.org Tix: Free; Phone: 763-5315151; TTY: 763-531-5109; EThe Merchant of Venice mail: srader@ci.new-hope.

June 27 - July 27 mn.us; Web: www.ci.newGreat River Shakespeare Fes- hope.mn.us tival at Winona State University Performing Arts Center at Open Eye Figure Theatre Johnson and 10th (Howard) Puppet Shows Sts. ASL: Sun., July 20, 4:30 July 11 - 25, 2008 p.m. (1 pre-show conversation Michael Sommers and Co. perwith William Cope Moyers form 35-min shows followed available in ASL upon req); by ice cream/music at 506 E. Tix: Disc to $10 (reg. $20); 24th St., Mpls. ASL: The AdFront Porch Conversation disc ventures of Katie Tomatie: Fri., to $5; Phone: 507-474-7900; July 11, 7:30 p.m. The AdvenWeb: www.grsf.org tures of Juan Bobo: Fri., July 18. 7:30 p.m. Little Grandpa’s MN Renaissance Festival Big City Adventure: Fri., July Aug. 16 - Sept. 28 25, 7:30 p.m.; Tix: Free; donaOff Hwy 169 at 145th St. 20 tions accepted; Phone: 612miles S of Twin Cities, 3 miles 874-6338; E-mail: openeye@ S of Shakopee. Sign Language bitstream.net; Web: www.

Saturday offers interpreters at openeyetheatre.org most performances during the day, incl 2 p.m. parade in front Petite Rouge: of Bakery Stage. ASL: Sat., A Cajun Red Riding Hood July 11 - Aug. 3 Sept. 6, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.;Tix: adult $19.95, sr (60+) $17.95; SteppingStone Theatre for child (6-12) $10.95; adv tixs Youth Dvlpmt, 55 Victoria St. $16.95 adults, $8.50 kids; N., St. Paul. AD: Fri., July 18, Phone: 800-966-8215; E- 7 p.m.; ASL: Sun., July 20, 2 mail: info@renaissancefest. p.m.; Tix: $11, student/sr $9; com; Web: www.renaissance Phone: 651-225-9265; Web: fest. com www.steppingstonetheatre.org

Return to Forbidden Planet July 18 - Aug. 3 Rochester Civic Theatre, 20 Civic Center Dr SE. ASL: Sat., July 19, 8 p.m.; Tix: $22, $19 sr, $12 student; Phone: 507-282-8481; Web: www.rochestercivic theatre.org The Secret Fall of Constance Wilde May 31 - July 11 Guthrie Theater, McGuire Proscenium, 818 - 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD: Sat., June 21, 1 p.m.; 10:30 a.m.sensory tour; Fri., June 27, 7:30 p.m.; ASL: Thurs. and Fri., July 10-11, 7:30 p.m.; Captioning: Sun., June 22, 1 p.m.; Tix: AD/ASL $18 (reg. $24-69); captioning users ½off; Phone: 612-377-2224; TTY: 612-377-6626; Web: www. guthrietheater.org/visit/ the_building/access_services The Sound of Music July 17- 20 Stillwater Commu. Theatre at Stillwater HS, 5701 Stillwater Blvd N. ASL: Sat., July 19, 2 p.m.; Tix: $10; sr/student/child $5; Phone: 651-351-8109; Web: http://ce.stillwater.k12. mn.us/Form.html or http:// ce.stillwater.k12.mn.us/ Community_Theatre.html The Taming of the Shrew June 27 - July 27 Great River Shakespeare Festival at Winona State U Performing Arts Ctr at Johnson and 10th (Howard) Sts. ASL: Sun., July 13, 4:30 p.m. (ASL 1pre-show talk w/Martin Moran avail upon req); Tix: $10; reg. $20; Front Porch Conversation disc to $5; Phone: 507-474-7900; Web: www. grsf.org Thoroughly Modern Millie July 18 - 27 Cross Comm. Players at Osseo Sr HS auditorium, 317 2nd Ave. NW, Osseo. ASL: Fri., July 25, 7:30 p.m.; AD: Sat., July 26, 7:30 p.m.; Tix: ½-price (reg. $14, $12 student/sr, $8 child); Phone: 763-391-2787; E-mail: mail@cross players.org; nonperishable food items reqed for Food Shelf. Note: Those using the AD services can receive 2 comp. tixs for July 26 (call the messageline by Mon, July 14); Web: www.cross players.org You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown!

June 27 - Aug. 3 Stages Theatre Co. at Hopkins Ctr for the Arts, 1111 Main St. ASL: Sun., July 13, 2 p.m.; Wed., July 23, 10 a.m.; AD: upon req; Tix: $15, $11 child (age 2-17) and sr (age 60+) plus $150 fee per tix for phone/ web orders; Phone: 952-9791111; Web: www.stages theatre.org. ■

July 10, 2008

Web sightings

Upcoming events

Five web favorites from Silas F. Matthies

To list an event, email access@accesspress.org

What are your favorite video clips about disability? Each month, we showcase a handful of disability-related Web sites, video clips or news items, as picked by someone in the community.

Bright Gardens for Fraser tour July’s picks were chosen by Silas F. Matthies, a recent graduate of Minneapolis’s Augsburg July 19 College and summer intern at Access Press. He enjoys reading, writing (mostly fiction), The 3rd annual Bright Gardens spending time with animals and talking to friends online. He writes and maintains several story for Fraser Tour will feature series with other writers from across the country. Enjoy! eight breathtaking Twin Cities gardens and benefits chilP.S. Join in. Send your top five (with comments) to access@accesspress.org. dren/adults with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other disabilities. The tour is “Scary Movie 2 Basketball Scene” an opportunity to learn from www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRYMLAMud8A Hennepin County master garA short scene from the 2001 spoof movie “Scary Movie 2” in which the main characters deners who will be on hand at perform basketball tricks, a parody of a Nike ad. Even a character’s stunt double in a wheelchair busts some moves. [Forward to: someone who likes parody and the Globetrotters.] each garden. Informal gardening classes will also be offered at select locations. The tour “Extreme Wheelchair Stunts” will feature the work of local www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6QFyYH-65A artists at some of the gardens.

A collection of clips in the fine American tradition of extreme sports, this time involving Details: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tickpeople who are always on wheels. [Forward to: your local skater dude.] ets are $20. FFI: www.fraser. org/calendar, or Rose at 612“Pit Bull service dog tricks and tasks (Tauri)” 789-8343 or roser@fraser.org. www.youtube.com/watch?v=fz_zdxVlBbA Not many people would consider a pit bull a possible service dog. Let this convince them Bike MS: otherwise. [Forward to: someone with a service dog or who loves pit bulls.]

Star Tribune TRAM July 20 “Funny Japanese Pranks” The Ride Across Minnesota www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2syxXPR7xY (TRAM) is the ultimate MinYou don’t need to spend hours setting up a prank: even something as simple as jumping nesota road trip: small town out of a box can work wonders. [Forward to: anyone who appreciates a good prank.] hospitality, Midwest cooking and the five best days of cy“Two-legged Dominic” cling the Iron Range and North www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXPJJeISuXo You may have heard of Faith the two-legged dog. Now meet Dominic. [Forward to: a dog lover.] Shore have to offer. Enjoy more than 250 miles from Grand Rapids to Chisholm, Biwabik, “Quadriplegic Woman to Sail Around Britain Using Only Her Breath” and Two Harbors, with a finish www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/2138555/Quadriplegic-woman-to-sail-around-Britin Duluth. FFI: 612-335-7900 ain-using-only-her-breath.html A non-Youtube video about a woman only able to move her eyes, mouth, and head making or 800-582-5296. a record-breaking voyage. [Forward to: someone in need of an uplifting story.]

Camp Courage Open golf event July 21 The 13th annual Camp Courage Open will be held at the St. Cloud Country Club. Golfers will help raise money for a great cause—Courage Center’s Camp Courage. Reg/lunch

by Raymond Luczak begin at 11 a.m., with a shotvery year at the Min- abilities Association (AWDA) many different talents that are gun start at 1 p.m. Cost is $150 nesota Fringe Festival, for the past two years, which showcased in it. Second, I hope each or $600 for a foursome. there are always a involves an incredible oppor- audiences will see the cast as a All proceeds from the tournanumber of shows with intrigu- tunity to network and work reflection of the community as ment benefit Courage Center’s ing titles and premises. This with other artists. AWDA has they translate this ancient story camping programs. Registraone, The Virginity of Astro- been also kind enough to pro- to a modern audience. As with tion deadline is July 11. The nauts, attracted my attention, vide me with a small grant to ancient Greek drama, the play round of golf is followed by a because some of its perform- help finance the production. is a theater of humankind, in- delicious dinner and short proers have disabilities. Naturally, voking ancient rituals and im- gram. FFI: Jacob Johnson at I had to ask the show’s direc- AP: The Virginity of Astro- aging futuristic fantasies to 763-520-0365 or jacob. tor and writer Daniel P. Reiva nauts is an odd title. Can you express deeply held beliefs johnson@CourageCenter.org. some questions. tell me what it’s about? What about what aspects of identity prompted you to write it? and consciousness can survive Access Press: How did you Reiva: The title is from a book in the universe. More inforget involved with the disabil- about NASA policies on as- mation about the show can be ity community, at least enough tronaut sexuality. I applied this found at the Minnesota Fringe to hire four disabled perform- title to the play Ion by Festival’s website (fringe ers in your show?

Euripedes, a 21st Century up- festival.org).

Daniel P. Reiva: All the per- date on the story. The Greek

by Diane Whitcraft formers in my show are volun- name “Ion” is the same word AP: Any last words on disabilhave had multiple scleroteers. I have been working with we use for sub-atomic particles ity, theater, or whatever’s close sis for 28 years. I also performers who have disabili- (ion). But in Greek mythol- to your heart? have an incredibly loving ties since college. When I cast ogy, Ion was the result of Reiva: My cast members, with family! Family members united plays, I cast a wide net for Apollo’s rape of Ion’s mother. or without disability, comprise in teams with friends, coast to auditions and I seek the best Other ancient myths are a reflection of society and give coast, to walk and raise money performer for a part. Over the wrapped around this story. In the performance a cultural to find a cure for MS in this years, I happen to have had addition to poetry, drama and credibility. It is a play about spring’s 2008 MS WALK. many actors who have disabili- comedy, original music has both the ancient Greek my- This effort extended over four ties, but they have been se- been developed by various art- thology and the mythologies states and five events, and took lected because of their talent. ists for the show. being created today by mod- place in April and May. Also, I have been fortunate to ern civilization. be able to do workshops with AP: What do you hope that My daughter Courtney in St. Anodyne Arts and often con- audiences seeing the show AP: Thank you for your time, Paul and my sister Chris in San duct my rehearsals at their lo- would get out of it? and good luck with your show! Diego, CA decided to form cation. I have also been in- Reiva: First, I hope that audi- ■ teams on my behalf. Then my volved with Artists With Dis- ences enjoy the show and the daughter Erin in New York

From the front row

Theater Review:

On The Virginity Of Astronauts

E

13

UCP-MN Golf Tournament July 21 This is a golf tournament with hole-in-one opportunities and a silent auction. Sponsorships are available, and individual golfers are also encouraged to participate. Details: 11:00 a.m.

- 8:00 p.m., Oak Marsh Golf Course, 526 Inwood Ave N, Oakdale. FFI: Jo Ann Erbes at 651-646-7588 or ucpmn@ cpinternet.com.

blocks in Minneapolis alone.

National Night Out brings neighbors together as nothing else does and simply sharing a potluck, some conversation and a few games builds community and safety, block by block. There’s still plenty of time to “Join the Celebration,” as July 22 is the deadline for applying to close your street for free on NNO. FYI: 612673-3000 or www.ci.minne apolis.mn.us/nno.

Celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act July 25 Save the date and honor the legislation that provides us with access to pretty much every place we go. Celebrate the 18th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Details: St Paul, Midway Area. FFI: ADA Minnesota at 651-603-2015(v) or 651-603-2001(tty).

North American PowerHockey Cup 2008 August 8-12 Minnesota’s most exciting sports event of the summer is the North American PowerHockey Cup 2008. The best power wheelchair hockey athletes from North America will compete for the coveted PowerHockey Cup. PowerHockey adapts from ice hockey. Many of the rules are the same. They have simply replaced the ice with a gym floor and the puck with a whiffle ball. Their skates are their wheels. The determination, competitiveness and intensity are just as strong. Will the Minnesota Stars reclaim the Cup? Details: www.power hockey.com.

Wheelchair Games for U.S. veterans July 25-29 More than 500 disabled American veterans from around the country will converge on Omaha, Nebraska to test their agility, athleticism and strength of spirit in the 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games, the largest annual wheelchair sports event in the world. Veterans from the recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq will again join veterans from the previous conflicts in 17 competitive events. Presented by the Department of Veterans Affairs and Paralyzed Veterans of America, the games are open to all U.S. military veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition. FFI: www.wheelchair games.va.gov.

25th Annual National Night Out August 5 The 25 th Annual National Night Out will take place on Tuesday, August 5th in more than 140 communities in Minnesota and on more than 1100

Symposium for Children’s Mental Health and Learning Disabilities August 13 The third annual symposium from the Ted and Roberta Mann Foundation, cosponsored by PACER Center, will feature breakout sessions as well as a number of keynote speakers. Speakers include Adolph “Doc” Brown, a professor who’s been in education for over 35 years, Jonathan Mooney, an activist and writer with dyslexia who didn’t learn to read until age 12, and Richard Pimentel, a leading expert on attitude change, overcoming barriers, and ADA issues. Details: Registration closed. FFI: PACER Center at 952-838-9000. ■

Coast to coast MS walk Family members, friends raise money/spirits

I

The DI-NAMOS trek through the South Dakota Badlands.

City and my niece Shelby in a nod to my first name and my Santa Rosa, CA, joined the bi- husband Lee’s company School Technology Solutions coastal and Midwest effort. outfitted us in bright yellow tErin named us DI-NAMOS in MS walk - cont. on p. 14

14

July 10, 2008

MS WALK -

Cont. from p. 13

shirts. Erin and my son-in-law, Brian, walked 10 miles in New York City on April 13. They crossed the Brooklyn Bridge twice and raised $600.

On May 4th three teams of DINAMOS hit the pavement.

Well, two teams hit pavement… one hit the dusty trails of the South Dakota Badlands.

On April 26th, my sister Chris, her husband Marv, daughter Devan and friends walked in San Diego. The San Diego DI-NAMOS were sponsored by my brother-in-law’s employer, Otis Elevator. The company donated t-shirts for the walkers, many of whom were Otis employees. Thanks to Otis, the team raised more than $1,700.

My niece Shelby has participated in the MS WALK since she was an infant pushed in a stroller by her parents. She was determined to walk even though she was in her freshman year at Sonoma State and 550 miles from her San Diego home. Shelby led the DINAMOS in the MS WALK in Santa Rosa, the closest site to her school. Her team included

19 sorority sisters. In their St. Paul/Minneapolis team first year walking these young raised $6,200. women raised more than $500.

Hooray, Gamma Phi Beta!

My husband Lee hiked for MS in the Badlands on May 4th.

My daughter Courtney enthu- He challenged his buddies, the siastically led the 20-member Badland Boys, on their annual St. Paul/Minneapolis team hiking trip to donate and walk which included my sister, long- for MS, even though this walk time supporter and walker wasn’t an official MS site. As Laurie, plus my sister-in-law a result, seven wonderful guys Faith and niece Brianne. hiked eight miles in the BadBrianne also biked in the 60- lands in their DI-NAMOS tmile and 150-mile MS events shirts. this spring. Some very dear friends, including top money- From coast to coast, the DIraiser ($2,200) Father Tim NAMOS raised $9,000 and Power, my amazing high still counting. school buddies Judy & John Saboe, friends of Courtney and I am indeed blessed. The DISan Diego sister, Chris, also NAMOS will return in 2009! ■ walked the 6-mile course. This

EQUAL ACCESS more opportunities like the Rondo Community Outreach Library and housing project in which three individuals with developmental disabilities earned union-level wages, a first in the region and possibly in the nation.

• Creating a category for business owners with disabilities in the city’s Vendor Outreach Project, a category which was eliminated by the city in 1995.

• And most importantly, achieving (or even exceeding) the 10% employment goal for individuals with dis-

Fairview Health Services Exceptional care starts with me.

I am Fairview.

YO U R P L AC E F O R A R E WA R D I N G C A R E E R I N H E A LT H C A R E

Join my team at fairview.org/divjobs Build your career where breakthrough medical care and a progressive work environment are parts of everyday life. At Fairview, we believe the only way to deliver our promise of exceptional care to our patients is by supporting the health and well-being of our employees. Join us, and you join a close-knit network of professionals whose shared values of dignity, integrity, service and compassion guide everything we do to improve the health of our communities.

Learn more about opportunities in: • Respiratory • Pharmacy • Rehabilitation

• IS • Administration

• Medical Records, and more…

Explore our current job opportunities and apply online or call toll-free 1-866-871-JOBS (5627).

fairview.org/divjobs TTY 612-672-7300 EEO/AA Employer

abilities in the city’s workforce and for contractors doing business with the City of St. Paul. The city reported 4.6% employment for persons with disabilities in March of 2008.

The city’s implementation plan does include the recommendation to create goals for individuals with disabilities. But the true measure of change will be when organizations like Kaposia no longer need to remind anyone that economic opportunities to correct injustices to women and minorities also need to correct injustices to people with disabilities and when every workplace in the Twin Cities reflects equal access for women, minorities and people with disabilities.

The report and a press release are available at www.ci.stpaul. mn.us/index.asp?NID=2566.

■ Carol Rydell is the Service Development Coordinator for Kaposia, a St. Paul-based nonprofit corporation. Kaposia has been a national leader in providing opportunities for thousands of individuals with developmental disabilities and

Christopher, MRI Technologist 15 years

• Nursing • Imaging • Lab

Cont. from p. 6

Classifieds

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Must be prepaid. Mail with check to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave W, #104S, FOR SALE Lewis Park Apartments: Cpat, was $1300 4 months ago. Barrier-free housing with $300 OBO. 612-331-9279. wheelchair users in mind. Section 8 subsidized. One- and Accessible 2006 Chevy Ex- two-bedroom units. For more press—excellent condition, information on availability call AWD. Brawn Crow River Lift 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. (Van Gator 2); remote lift, start Equal Opportunity Housing. and entry; hand controls left of wheel; 6-way swivel driver Oak Park Village: One-bedcaptains seat; tow package; room wheelchair-accessible double doors in back and both apartments. Section 8 subsisides; dual batteries (1 for van, dized. Convenient St. Louis 1 for lift); 60,000 miles; Park location. Call 952-935$30,000. Call 763-494-4441. 9125 for availability information. Equal Opportunity HousFOR RENT ing.

Holmes-Greenway Housing: One- and two-bedroom wheel- Seward Square Apartments: chair-accessible apartments. We are currently accepting Section 8 subsidized. Conve- applications for our waiting nient SE Minneapolis loca- list for barrier-free housing, in tion. Call 612-378-0331 for Minneapolis, that is federally availability information. subsidized. For an applicaEqual Opportunity Housing. tion, please call 612-338-2680.

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Access To Employment Employment ads are $20-$22 per col. inch. July 31 is the deadline for the Aug 10 issue. Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 FAX 651-644-2136 • Email: access@accesspress.org Arts–Coordinator of Education Programs for state-wide art org. to meet educ. needs of students w/ disabilities. Req. degree in arts educ., spec. ed. or arts-related field; presentation, writing, computer skills; pref. exp. in classroom and vis. arts field. Some travel, personal transp. req. Send cover letter, resume by July 31 to VSA arts of Minnesota, 528 Hennepin, #305, Mpls 55403. For full job desc. go to www.vsaartsmn.org. other challenges to access employment. To learn more about Kaposia, go to www. kaposia.com

July 10, 2008

Elders -

Cont. from p. 1

Beijing -

Cont. from p. 5

a family like mine. But when I meet workers from rural areas, their reaction is pragmatic and straight-forward and I often find myself answering questions about the practical, even intimate, details of my sister’s life, and hearing expressions of admiration for the high quality of her assistive technology devices.

Fermina, a Latino elder who has received services from the Payne-Phalen LAH/BNP for more than five years, breaks down when speaking with Tom Scheck, Minnesota Public Radio recently. She counts on the program for many services including the weekly gathering for Latino elders with memory loss. Fermina is shown with her daughter Connie, Health Outreach Advocate Artemio Alvarado (standing), Ana Diaz (back to camera) and Scheck, at right.

Photo by Barbara La Valleur

medical complications. Helen also enjoys visits from nursing students and attends the PaynePhalen program’s monthly social gatherings.

Cal is 80 and has outlived three wives. He is a Korean War veteran and has health issues including diabetes, hypertension, and vision problems that require regular visits to the VA Medical Center. A block nurse staff person picks him up and accompanies him to visits and helps him navigate the halls of the clinic. After each visit he says, “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Our staff also helps educate Cal about his diabetes. He has his blood pressure checked at a free monthly blood pressure clinic that the block nurse program conducts in his building.

Lack of funding to sustain LAH/BNPs should be of grave concern for any elder, their caregivers, relatives, neighbors, and anyone in the community who hopes to be an elder one day. The repercussions of cuts to our program could be noticeable soon, and in some cases they might be serious, not to mention costly in the long term. Pawlenty and the legislature have expressed increased share that nursing homes have taken up in recent state budgets.

Employers could see a rise in absenteeism as adult children need time off work to care for

15

Another issue is that in traditional culture independence and privacy are not valued highly. To be independent and private seems like a lonely way to live for many Chinese. Society is organized around the family, nicely illustrated for Americans through Amy Tan’s novel The Joy Luck Club. This emphasis on the close-knit, nurturing family has implications for the development of disability rights and means that the movement in China will not mirror the evolution of the movement elsewhere. For example, Rosemary Ciotti’s daughter (a student in China

when she visited) was dismayed at being publicly rebuked for not pushing her mother’s wheelchair around Beijing. Her mother’s desire to be independent was not understood by Beijing people, who saw only an unfilial daughter forcing her mother to struggle.

The recent controversy over the Beijing Paralympics volunteers’ guide suggests that the Paralympics are challenging Chinese assumptions about people with disabilities. International groups reacted with outrage at wording that described persons with disabilities as “isolated, unsocial, and introspective…stubborn and controlling … defensive and having a strong sense of inferiority” (Ashling O’Connor, “Disabled Groups Outraged by Beijing Snub,” The Times, May 27, 2008, www.timeson line.co.uk/tol/sport/olympics/ article4009610.ece). Embarrassed at the gaffe, the Chi-

elderly relatives, since block nurse staff and volunteers won’t be available to provide visits and rides to doctor appointments. If we have to discontinue blood pressure clinics and are unavailable to notice elders whose symptoms indicate health conditions so Cont. from p. we can refer them to their primary clinics to get treatment, there may be an increase in the “We want people with disabilinumber who suffer falls, ties to feel safe and comfortstrokes, or heart attacks. able in stations,” he said.

“When stations are laid out in • What’s going to happen to our different manners and fixtures elders? I’m afraid of finding are designed differently from out what the answer will be. ■ station to station, it can be very difficult for transit riders Mary Gallagher is manager with disabilities to use them.” of elder/volunteer services for the Payne-Phalen Living-at- Anne White, chair of the Dis- • Home/Block Nurse Program trict Councils Collaborative in St. Paul. FII: 651-774-7078 (DCC), said neighborhood www.blocknurse. org/payne groups along the light rail line also have concerns that staEditor’s note: As the popula- tions be accessible as well as • tion of Minnesota and the attractive. One red flag the United States continues to age, DCC is raising is that at some the demand for services like platforms, rail riders have to the Living at Home/Block travel down a sidewalk in the Nurse Program will only in- middle of the street. The DCC crease. The programs provide wants more marked mid-block a vital service in keeping eld- crossings, saying those would erly and disabled person safe be safer. in their homes and involved • with their communities. Most Here are the key issues tied to St. Paul neighborhoods have light rail transit access issues Living at Home/Block Nurse during station design and conPrograms. There are also pro- struction: grams in parts of Minneapolis and in the rest of the state. For • Continuity is extremely ima list of programs or to learn portant and each station has about issues affecting these to have similarities in reprograms, visit www.elder gard to location of ticket berry.org machines, benches, boarding areas and emergency help buttons should be in the same location on all platforms and easily accessible for everyone.

LRT -

• Benches and accessible seating need to be provided at each station and need to be located both inside and outside of the sheltered areas.

The Payne-Phalen Living at Home/Block Nurse Program • All routes leading to the station need to be fully accesBoard of Directors met June 26th to discuss future funding sible. If the station is eland what services will be reduced by recent funding cuts. evated, or on a hill, consider From left: Jeane Pearson, Keith Turnquist, Lois Rayburne, all routes of access to the Kerry Stone, Board Chair; Mike Schak, Finance Manager station. What is the safest and Dave Theisen (right foreground) route for everyone, includPhoto by Barbara La Valleur

nese Paralympic task force quickly revised the guide.

Since then the newly-sensitized Beijing Organizing Committee, XXIX Olympiad Games (BOCOG) has increased publicity stressing China’s openness to the disability community.

In May when the country’s attention focused on earthquake rescues as the Olympic torch traversed China, Chinese Paralympic athletes became instant media stars. While Paralympians are not representative of the average person with a disability, it was a new idea for the Chinese public to connect images of persons seriously injured in the earthquake with the heroic images of athletes with disabilities being paraded by the BOCOG as an inspiration to the people of Sichuan.

as greater sensitivity to the needs of China’s own disability community. Isao Hokugo, president of Japan’s Paralympic Committee and chairman of the Japan Sports Association for the Disabled whose experience with the Games dates to 1994 remarked to reporters on his recent visit to Beijing that, “According to our experience the Paralympic Games produced a huge boost for the welfare of people with disabilities in the host country….It is not just the Games itself that creates an impact, but the years after the Games.”

If so, we can expect more doors to open in China, fulfilling early visions of a modern society inclusive of all. ■

Cui Xiaohuo, “Learning a Lesson from Japan’s Paralympians,” China Daily, June 6, The Paralympics will likely 2008, www.chinadaily.com. result in better facilities for cn/olympics/2008-06/06/ international visitors as well content_6742615.htm

Paralympics

1

- Cont. from p. 4

ing persons with disabilities?

Additional space needs to be provided for the pay machines. People should not be standing on top of each other, waiting in line to use the machine.

The gap between the station platform and car should be as narrow as possible, but measuring no wider then 2.5 inches at the widest point.

Provide more efficient heaters at the stations that are accessible to people with disabilities and are powerful enough and designed so that the heat flow actually reaches the people in the shelters.

Make sure art work does not obstruct the view on the platforms, not only up and down the track, but at the sides of the platform. It is also im-

portant that the shelter walls and other dividers have some markings on them, so that individuals with low vision will be able to see them and move around them accordingly. People need to see the connecting LRT and buses traffic. ■ • Make sure that connecting intersections have accessible pedestrian signals which will warn people with low vision or no vision when to safely access the platforms and train.

functioning of persons with a disability in society, as can cultural representations that patronize or dehumanize.”

Bailey believes it is these barriers that should be disabled, and sports help to accomplish that. “The high profile Paralympic Movement has served to force communities to address questions of accessibility and inclusion for persons with a disability.” He also cites the role of sports in creating community, which I’ve seen myself watching the Minnesota North Stars quad rugby team. The player’s camaraderie afterward was obvious, and asking for interviews gave me an opportunity to meet some great guys. Google United States Quad Rugby Association, then follow the links to our home team’s site. ■

The list was developed by Rozanne Severance, Ken Rodgers and Margot Imdieke Cross who serve on the LRT Central Corridor Community Advisory Council and the Transportation Accessibility Advisory Committee (TAAC).

Information was also provided Athlete First, copyright 2008,

by Access Press Assistant Edi- is published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. of Chichester, West tor Jane McClure.

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16

July 10, 2008

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