April 2009 Edition - Access Press

www.accesspress.org

Inside ■ Saudi Arabian trip - pg 4 ■ Central Corridor - pg 15 ■ Dir. of Organizations - pp 7-10

H i s t o r y

N o t e

“Freedom is nothing but a chance to be better.”

—Albert Camus (1913-1960)

P 2 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766

Volume 20, Number 3

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

April 10, 2009

Minnesotans get energized at state capitol rally an enthusiastic crowd of about parents, providers, self-advo1,000 people took to the state cates, and advocates alike— capitol steps March 7. spoke passionately about the need for the supports our state Members of Advocating provides and, just as passionChange Together and Self- ately, called for reforms to Advocates Minnesota led the make the system better and crowd in song. Other self-ad- last for the long haul. The posivocates and their supporters tive energy coming from both helped lead chants; one popu- the podium and from the crowd lar call and response started was palpable. with the question, “Who Belongs?” and was answered with As expected at a rally, there “Everyone!” Parents, provid- were also plenty of signs spread ers, advocates, self-advocates throughout the crowd commuA large crowd attended the March 7 and children all together that nicating a whole host of mesRally at the State Capitol for People with Disabilities day. People came not only sages. Many signs communiand Older Minnesotans. from the Twin Cities, but from cated similar themes about across the state—be it Zum- protecting services from budby Mike Gude brota in the South, Marshall in get cuts, and some called for tate officials must sup- nesotans and work for long- the Southwest, St. Cloud in the higher taxes to help, like “Tax port people with dis- term reforms in the service state’s middle and Eveleth in Me, Not Those Most In Need.” abilities and older Min- system. That was the message the Northeast. The speakers— Other signs urged state offi-

S

cials to recognize the dignity and the contributions of those with disabilities and seniors: “Disability Matters.” “Walk in My Shoes.” “I Matter.”

“Invest in Our Brother; He Pays Taxes, Too!” A few raised other issues, like the maltreatment at the Minnesota Extended Treatment Options facility: “No More METOs” and “Don’t Handcuff Me.” And at least one sign, held up by a gentleman with Down syndrome, carried an optimistic and hopeful view: “Minnesota Cares.”

Chair Linda Berglin, and Senate Minority Leader David Senjem all shared a few words of support for those attending and their thoughts on the difficult battle ahead this legislative session. Community members hope, that as the struggle continues to maintain and enhance services, that all their colleagues from both sides of the aisle took notice of this event.

Didn’t get to the Capitol that day? See a collection of rally photos at www.flickr.com/ photos/arrm ■

It was also encouraging to see bipartisan support for the rally. Mike Gude works for The Arc Speaker of the House Marga- of Minnesota. ret Anderson Kelliher, Senate Health and Human Services

Two sisters’ story Red River Valley floods show need to plan ahead for emergencies

by Jane McClure

B

eing a caregiver for a disabled family member can be difficult, especially for those who live far from their loved ones. Add a natural disaster to the mix and it becomes all the more challenging. The story of two sisters, Diana and Cynthia, and the Red River Valley floods, is a reminder of how everyone should plan ahead.

residents and medical patients safe. But it meant logistical and care challenges as well as stress for those being moved.

Family members also felt the stress. For Cynthia, watching the flood from her home in St. Paul, the rising Red River had her worrying about Diana.

Diana, who has cerebral palsy and a developmentally disability, has been a resident of Fargo’s Bethany Homes since summer 2007. Last November Diana entered hospice care at the nursing home as her fronto-temporal dementia became more acute.

Lifelong Fargo resident Diana, 61, had maintained a high level of independence for many years. “Our mother always wanted Diana mainstreamed, before that was common,” Cynthia said. “She demanded Family members have had to a lot from Diana and held her search for resources and find ways to help Diana from afar. accountable.”

When Diana developed more Diana married and had her own serious health and mobility home. Her husband is also dis- problems several years ago, abled. Her parents helped them Cynthia and other family memfor as many years, as they bers increased their involvecould, and her siblings visited ment in her care. “One chaland checked in from afar. lenge we had was finding resources, to keep her in her When the Red River began to home for as long as she could rise in late March, officials in live there,” Cynthia said.

Fargo, Moorhead and other river valley communities made Most services for persons with the decision to evacuate nurs- cerebral palsy center on chiling homes, assisted living fa- dren, not adults. Through cilities and hospitals. That kept Gillette Cynthia was able to

find a doctor who specializes in the health care issues faced by adults with cerebral palsy.

Another search found a trust fund to help pay for a specialized wheelchair for her sister.

Other resources had mixed results. Family members were pleased to find resources to renovate a bathroom for accessibility. But the work was done for a right-handed person. Diana is left-handed, so the bathroom was difficult for her to use.

Strengthening the family’s network to look after Diana and her husband was a challenge.

Getting people to recognize when something was wrong with her was another. “I think sometimes there is an attitude toward people with disabilities to say ‘Pull yourself together’ and ‘why can’t you do this’ when a situation changes.

“I’d have to say, ‘Don’t get mad at her’ as her health issues became worse.”

When the dementia was diagnosed, Cynthia had to fight to get Diana into a nursing home.

Luckily, it was Bethany. “She had volunteered there for a long time before she became a resi-

dent, so everybody knew her The family and caregivers were and loved her,” Cynthia said. told Diana had been taken to the airport but nursing home Having that level of trust has staff decided she was too frail been a key for the family. “Be- to make a flight. So she was cause we have had such a good taken to a nursing home in relationship with the nursing Langdon, a small North Dahome, we have been able to kota town. trust the decisions they have made for Diana,” Cynthia said. “I was on it, but it took about That has become more impor- two days to find out where tant as Diana’s health wors- Diana had been taken,” Cynened and she lost her ability to thia said. speak.

She is well aware of the logisThrough email and Web cams, tics and planning it takes to as well as regular visits, Cyn- evacuate a nursing home, hosthia has been able to stay in pital or assisted living facility. almost daily contact with her “It’s amazing, what goes into sister and caregivers. The fam- that and what has to happen to ily set up a Google group and get people moved safely, with ways to monitor Diana’s care their medicine and everything and stay in touch. Family and they need. The pictures you friends regularly send cards see in the newspapers and on and pictures, which Diana has television really don’t tell the always loved. “We have to look story.” at it as we’re a community and we’re all in her care together,” “Overall, I think things were Cynthia said. handled as well as they could have been,” Cynthia said. One Then the flood came. change Cynthia would like to see in resident care and evacu“Diana’s guardian called and ation plans is to have as many told me Bethany had been family and guardian contacts evacuated but we didn’t know on hand as possible. In Diana’s where she had been taken to,” case the nursing home didn’t Cynthia said. have the guardian’s cell phone

Cynthia enjoyed a visit with her sister Diana, a resident of Bethany Homes in Fargo.

Diana was one of the residents evacuated during the recent Red River flooding. number, which delayed contact.

Another idea Cynthia raises is that of having family members and other responsible parties involved in future emergencies. If possible, she would like to have had Diana put in a nursing home closer to the Twin Cities, so she could have helped with her care. On a short-term basis in emergency situations, the family members would have been a great help.

“With her care, there are just a lot of little details that people may not realize until they’re attuned to her situation.” Her siblings know these little details.

Sisters - cont. on p. 14

April 10, 2009

2

Tim Benjamin, Editor

I

want to thank the Minne sota Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) and all of the organizations that have worked so hard over the last couple of months to successfully organize rallies

and lobbying efforts at the capitol and elsewhere. I know many of these people fairly well, and I’ve never seen before the distress I now see in their eyes, or heard the apprehension in the conversations we’ve had regarding the needs of the disability community. These friends put in long hours and do excellent work teaching and influencing our legislators and policymakers to do the best thing for the disability community. We do have many legislators at the Capitol who are huge supporters of our community and do their best to maintain the services that we need to stay independent. But things are changing, costs are going up, and many of our programs will lose some financial support. I continue to feel confident that with the Minnesota CCD, knowledgeable legislators, and all the wonderful self-advocates in our community, we will retain our programs at the highest possible levels.

in pursuing a proactive approach, has saved money for the Department of Human Services. How much money exactly, I couldn’t say—because it’s always difficult to estimate the cost of problems avoided.

But I can say that prior to becoming an Axis consumer, I was hospitalized often for various conditions, and since 2005, when I became an Axis client, I have NOT been hospitalized.

How do we estimate the cost of maintaining good health?

Sure, it costs money to stay healthy but what’s that compared to the cost of being unhealthy? That’s the dilemma right now in the health insurance industry: is it cost-effective not to treat a urinary tract infection or follow up with frequent diagnostic examinations? The only way to know is to compare those costs to the ones of a serious infection with painful symptoms, or to a resulting kidney infection that requires hospitalization and For myself, I know that Axis, creates other complications Concerning the article on Minnesota Disability Health Options (MnDHO) and Axis Healthcare on page 4, I’m not sure that the numbers the governor is using to analyze the progress of the program are the right ones. Axis Healthcare is being judged on approximately 1,200 participants, and the state Medical Assistance program is being judged on 90,000 consumers. If one of the 1,200 individuals on Axis has an episode that is very costly, it’s easy to see the catastrophic loss to the program; but if one of the 90,000 on the MA program has the same episode, that loss doesn’t look so disastrous to the overall program. Another way to think about it: if you take 2,000 folks off the Axis program, the program loses 17% of its clients, but if you take 2,000 people off the medical assistant program, you’ve cut just more than 2% of the participants.

like, say, having to remove a bladder—or death. Of course if you follow the “what’s cheapest” thinking to its logical extent, the last option is obviously the cheapest; don’t treat illness long enough, and eventually there’s no more cost to society for one less person participating in expensive healthcare programs!

The government seems to be recognizing the costs involved in smoking. Policy makers are spending lots of money to encourage people to quit and stay healthier, and so are avoiding the costs of emphysema, lung cancer, heart attacks, and all the other effects related to that bad habit. We should applaud the government for that. But they haven’t done the same in so many other areas. Let’s get them to focus clearly on the cost savings, let’s say, in keeping someone with a mental health issue on the right medications to ensure that that person remains a productive mem-

ber of the community. Let’s help educate legislators on the kinds of research in which experts show the comparative costs of prevention versus critical care. For example, a 1991 study by Staas, Cioschi, and West or another

by Lyder in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2003, illustrates how providing appropriate seating and other preventive measures might cost around $5,000 or $10,000 per sore and they compare that to estimated costs of $500 to $40,000 for treating a pressure sore once it develops. If you don’t know research like this in your area of healthcare and disability, talk to your advocate organizations, or talk to your librarian. Then talk to your legislator. Our lives depend on it. ■

History Note

Award nominations sought Let them write their friends!

D

o you know someone in the disability community who has made a positive difference in the lives of others? Do you know someone who is worthy of recognition? Better yet, do you know someone who is an unsung hero for our community? If so, that person should be nominated for the annual Charlie Smith Award. The award is given every fall at the annual Access Press banquet.

Nomination forms and a list of past winners can be found on the Access Press Web site, www.accesspress.org Or you may call the newspaper office at 651-644-2133 to request a nomination form.

by Luther Granquist

I

n the summer of 1945, the State School for the Feeble-Minded and Colony for Epileptics in Faribault transferred more than 200 children, those conAs you fill out the nomination sidered to be “educable,” to form, be prepared to state the State Public School in Charlie Smith clearly why your nominee is Owatonna. At the end of July worthy of this special recogniof that year, M. R. Vevle, the tion. Don’t be shy about listsuperintendent of the State ing your contact information The 2008 award winner was Public School, wrote to Dr. E. so you can be reached if there Pete Feigal.

J. Engberg, the superintendent The search is on now for the are questions. at Faribault: 2009 Charlie Smith Award If you have questions about winner, the Access Press Board The award is named for Charlie the award, please call the Ac- I am enclosing herewith some of Directors has announced. Smith Jr., founding editor of cess Press office and speak letters written by the children Board members would like to Access Press. Before his death with Executive Editor Tim at the State Public School to select a winner before this in 2001, Smith did much to Benjamin, 651-644-2133 or their friends at Faribault. I do year’s banquet, which is set advance the disability com- email tim@accesspress.org ■ not know if you wish to allow for Nov. 6. The board would munity and provide a source this correspondence between like to receive nominations as of information for community the children that have been members. soon as possible. transferred and those that have remained at your institution.

When you have time to consider the matter, will you let Co-Founder/Publisher (1990-1996) .................................................. Wm. A. Smith, Jr. me know what your recomCo-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief (1990-2001) ....................... Charles F. Smith mendation is.

Board of Directors . Brigid Alseth, Mike Chevrette, Kelly Matter, Christen Munn, Anita Schermer, Carrie Selberg, Tom Squire and Kay Willshire Editor ......................................................................................................... Tim Benjamin Editorial Assistant .................................................................................... Jane McClure Business Manager ................................................................................. Dawn Frederick Cartoonist ..................................................................................................... Scott Adams Production ...................................................... Ellen Houghton at Presentation Images Webmaster ...................................................................................................... Alice Oden Distribution ......................................................................................... S. C. Distribution Advertising Sales Manager ................................................................... Raymond Yates 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 $14, plus 65 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

Access Press

Superintendent Engberg responded on August 3, 1945: We received your letter and also the correspondence from our former patients to their friends and relatives here. We believe that it would be satisfactory for your children to write once a month, particularly if they write such fine letters as they have been doing. As you know many of them have other members of their families here or do not have any relatives who are particularly interested in them.

Yeah! Times have changed.

“in any situation where one person is responsible for making the day-by-day decisions regarding the comfort and welfare of other persons.”

Anyone who has ever attended Two decades later, Dr. David an interdisciplinary team meetVail, the Medical Director of ing or a care conference should the Minnesota Department of agree. ■ Public Welfare, decried such actions and attitudes. The “to- The History Note is a monthly tal institution” dehumanizes, column sponsored by the Minhe wrote, by severely limiting nesota Governor's Council on the capacity for self-determi- Developmental Disabilities, nation of the people there. Vail www.mnddc.org or www. also emphasized that dehu- mncdd.org and www.part manization can be a problem nersinpolicymaking.com.

April 10, 2009

3

Analysis

Summit brings together people and MnDHO targeted by governor ideas, future gives hope

by John Tschida

by Steve Larson

N

othing focuses your attention like a crisis that stares you in the face or looms on the horizon.

We certainly know this from dealing with Minnesota’s state budget crises in recent years.

The disability community has worked valiantly to preserve disability supports. But add changes in demographics and future health care spending on top of our current problems and everyone is forced to really think about doing business differently.

Our current system providing services is not sustainable, effective or efficient. This is true of both disability supports and supports for older Minnesotans. That’s why a number of us came from across the state to St. Paul on March 5-6, for the “Creating a 21st Century Plan for Disability & Aging” summit.

By the end of the summit, no final plan was created and approved. However, elements of agreement are already out there and can be part of a common plan. People in both the disability and aging community who attended were glad for the chance to gather together – some of them for the first time.

One of our challenges is a communications problem. Disability spending is often addressed as an afterthought in larger discussions of health care reform. Most the energy, words, and ink are spent on discussing acute care needs. We must make sure long-term care is on the table at any forum where health care reform is debated.

Many other challenges are ahead. LaRhae Knatterud from Minnesota’s Department of Human Services described the “Age Wave”—the demographics of an aging Minnesota. The number of those 65 and older and those 85 and older will more than double over the next 30 years, increasing the demand for future services and worries about the health care older Minnesotans will face in the future.

Barbara Coulter Edwards from Columbus, Ohio-based Health Management Associates talked about a different set of numbers, linked to health care dollars being spent on Medicaid and long-term supports.

She also described the state budgetary challenges facing Medicaid in the face of a recessionary economy and the growth in Medicaid spending that is outpacing state revenues. That growth is tied not only to the increased need for services among a growing

population of older citizens and people with disabilities, but to increasing numbers of people who have been uninsured or have been dropped from employer-sponsored health plans.

The federal economic stimulus money will provide states relief in balancing their budgets in the short-term but longterm challenges will still loom.

Medicare and Medicaid will be among the main drivers of future state and federal spending. Growth in Medicaid costs will double in actual spending, and over the 25-year period of 1985-2010, it is expected to triple as a percentage of total state spending.

But the challenges aren’t just demographic and budgetary.

We are also talking about people’s lives and the pain and frustration they experience on a daily basis. This is reflected in the 5,000 Minnesotans with developmental disabilities who wait for home and community-based waivered services. It’s also reflected in the services that some currently receive. We need to create a system that is both sustainable AND is better at meeting people’s needs.

Les Bauer, past president of The Arc of Minnesota and parent of an adult child with Down syndrome, said a number of the facilities that his son has lived in amounted to miniinstitutions, with little opportunity for choice or having his son’s needs understood and met. “We must build a political philosophy that puts humanity first,” he said.

Others echoed his call for greater consumer control over their lives and services and highlighted examples where the services didn’t reflect changing expectations and needs. Another concern raised centers on regulations and paperwork that unnecessarily waste money and prevent service innovation.

Summit panelists discussed what a sustainable, effective system would look like. Services focused in the community and away from institutional biases in funding and models were common themes.

As one of the panelists, I strongly pushed for more services that are consumer-directed. I was happy to hear a variety of other panelists also emphasize this. Consumer direction has worked well earlier in this decade for many families, and it offers hope for the future.

People from diverse backgrounds were able to make many suggestions to improve the situation, including: • Realize the importance of family in providing supports and the need to target more resources to them in the future. Families provide support in a most cost-effective manner – plus those they care for often express greater satisfaction with their lives, are more included in the community and have more social contacts.

• Give families and other caregivers more support, through means including caregiver tax credits and greater access to information and advice. Direct support professionals deserve the proper supports and wages to encourage them to stay in the profession.

• Reduce unnecessary regulations and paperwork, which diverts valuable resources away from good services and stifle innovation.

• Technology can provide cost-effective, person-centered services in some cases, improving heath and increasing independence.

• Redefine work and retirement so baby boomers can still work past traditional retirement age to help pay for care.

• Create incentives to purchase long-term care insurance to make sure people get the services they need and relieve pressure on the Medicaid system.

• Adopt a single-payer health care plan.

• Provide better preventive care to delay need for long-term care.

• Increase the use of health information technology.

• Improve integration of various health care services.

• Pay health care providers for performance.

• Create government human service agencies structures and policies that cross disability and aging boundaries.

Alex Bartolic and Jean Wood from the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) talked about a common vision, common values, and common goals for both aging and disability. They highlighted work on common assessment tools (e.g., a long-term care profile for use by both populations) and cross-departmental structures—like a newly formed home and community-based service panel to address common problems and issues.

A

new cut proposed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty would adversely impact an innovative managed care plan for people with disabilities.

The cut, slotted to save $7 million in the next biennium, but $27 million during the following state spending cycle, targets the Minnesota Disability Health Options (MnDHO) program. MnDHO is a voluntary program offering intensive care coordination services for about 1,220 adults with physical disabilities or complex and chronic medical conditions living within the sevencounty metro area that are eligible for Medical Assistance (MA).

Program supporters are questioning a new method of financing the MnDHO program that was just implemented beginning Jan. 1, 2009. “We’re working closely with DHS to understand how they arrived at the numbers suggesting that cuts to the program are needed,” said Joel Ulland, public policy manager for UCare, at an April 1 House Human Services Finance Division meeting.

As policymakers are struggling to cut spending in the human services area to fill a large budget hole, accelerating health reform efforts begun last session is one strategy they are employing. Bills are advancing in both the House and Senate that would mandate that people with disabilities select a clinic as a health care home as a way to better manage and coordinate the medical needs of those with disabilities and multiple chronic conditions.

The program is administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS), in strong partnership with the health plan UCare and a care coordination organization, AXIS There is no silver bullet to Healthcare, co-owned by solve all the challenges of Courage Center and Sister “We strongly believe the MnDHO program is an exsustainability and effective- Kenny Institute. ample of where you want to go ness, so all suggestions need to be explored. One difficult State officials testifying at a with health reform,” Jan question raised is, what, if any- recent legislative hearing say Malcolm, CEO of Courage thing, are we willing to give up the problem is that spending Center told lawmakers at the on current MnDHO enrollees, April 1 hearing. “We need to for the larger good? on a per person basis, is in move cautiously to understand We also need to ensure that some cases more than MA re- what these proposed cuts could any future system addresses cipients who choose not to do to this innovative program.”

Lawmakers will be assembling disparities between the minor- enroll in the program. their budgets in the first part of ity and majority cultures in access and quality of services. “We see this as a compliance April. Votes are expected to A quality health care and long- issue,” said Brian Osberg, as- be taken on the issue by April term system, said Roger Banks sistant commissioner of health 16. of the Council on Black Min- care for DHS in testimony benesotans, “needs to include fore the Senate Health and John Tschida is vice president Human Services Finance Di- for public affairs and research equity and accountability.” vision on March 24. at Courage Center.

Analysis - cont. on p. 14

Full lives for people with disabilities Vinland provides specialized chemical dependency treatment for adults living with brain injuries and other cognitive disabilities, vocational services and supportive housing.

Phone/TDD 763.479.3555 www.vinlandcenter.org

4

April 10, 2009

Traveler’s notebook

Find our way on board

by Clarence Schadegg

ACT promotes self-advocacy conference

I

awoke at 5:30 a.m. My wife, Nancy was still asleep. This was the day we’d board the Star Princess. I had lots of questions, including: How will my dog guide do on board the ship? I put Telly’s harness and leash on him and took him outside him to relieve himself. Once outside, Telly sniffed around until he found his spot. It was an easier routine for him today then I expected. Once done, he slipped back into his harness and we walked back to our hotel room. He was fed his morning breakfast. It seemed like the food disappeared as quickly as it was poured into his bowl. Breakfast for us humans was at the International House of Pancakes (IHOP).

Translation: Nothing about us without us

by Bret Hesla

F The Star Princess was the travelers’ destination.

trolley car about to pass on our right stopped. The conductor got off and asked if we needed help. Beads of sweat trickled down my face. My wrist hurt.

My right hand was sore and raw from the cloth handle of my suitcase. I had to readjust my suitcase which often tipped to one side or the other because of an uneven surface.

After we returned to the Now I was hot, cranky and Radisson Hotel, we made a testy. final check around the room.

We pulled our heavy tightly YES, I answered. How far to packed suitcases out the door, Pier 39? It was close she said, along carpeted hallways to the and it would be safer to use the elevator. We checked out at sidewalk. What sidewalk? the front desk at about noon. Since both of us are blind, we The day was a warm 70 de- didn’t there was a sidewalk it was behind a three-foot high grees. Nice start to the day. hill that ran parallel to where Our hotel was on Pier 35 and we walked along the Embarcwe had to walk six blocks to adero. We had only to walk Pier 39. Folks we talked with over that long island hill that along the way could see the separated the traffic flow and area around the pier was across another cobblestone blocked off with barriers and street to safe passage. warned us about getting We pulled our suitcases over through the crowd. the hill that seemed higher then To get to the ship, we walked three feet. That wasn’t easy. along the Embarcadero. The After we got to the smooth street was made of cobblestone surface walkway, we found a and my suitcase bounced as bench and sit. What a relief. the wheels rolled over them. Once rested, we continued our The gaps between the bricks journey to the ship, only to made the suitcase wheels find out the ship was a few sound like a smaller version of hours late arriving. car wheels repeatedly rolling over highway rumble strips. The crowd was huge. It was a chaotic mixture of people exTelly guided me on my left iting and preparing to board side. He performed beautifully. the ship. We found our way to Who’d know this was his first what we thought was a line to go through immigration. We visit to San Francisco? didn’t know which was a line The cars were getting too close, and which was just a crowd. the tracks were too close. The Irene found us in the crowd,

she stayed with us as we went through immigration. An immigration worker took us to the front of the line. He told us we’d have to show our credit cards and to keep our passports open so our pictures could be easily seen. Our answers to questions were copied onto a form, that we both signed. Telly’s health certificate was checked as well. Our suitcases and backpacks were lifted onto a table and searched.

We were patted down by Immigration officers.

Once through immigration, Irene carried my backpack and collapsible white cane for me to our next destination. We followed her up a series of ramps. We’d have to wait again for about an hour. She took us to a couple of chairs lined up against a wall inside of a large room. A few minutes later, she brought us some cold bottles of water. Telly pressed his nose into my suitcase that was on the floor next to him, as he smelled his food. I gave him some water. We all relaxed for a moment.

Two men greeted us. Colin and Daniel introduced themselves to us as part of the Star Princess crew. Nice dog, they said. Will he follow us? We were escorted to our stateroom.

Telly followed them to the elevator and through the narrow hallways of the ship. Our cabin was on the eleventh deck.

More about the cruise in the next issue of Access Press. ■

rom Minnesota to Saudi Arabia, Advocating Change Together (ACT) is spreading the word about self-advocacy and involving people with developmental disabilities. The St. Paul-based organization’s latest stop in the global disability rights movement was Riyahd, Saudi Arabia as ACT member Kelly Lee and Co-Director Mary Kay Kennedy were among 230 international speakers presenting at the 3rd Annual Disability Conference.

ACT was invited to co-facilitate a half-day session on the United Nations Convention the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The presentation focused on how to involve self-advocates in efforts to promote human rights. The conference was organized by the Sultan Charity Foundation and the Prince Salman Center for Disability.

The session on CRPD was attended by Saudi direct support workers, teachers, physical therapists and others who work directly with people with disabilities.

The invitation to ACT stemmed from its prior work on making the CRPD accessible to people with developmental disabilities. ACT has not only authored a handbook on the convention, but also led several trainings on CWPD for self-advocates. “Valerie Karr is a woman we met through her work on CRPD at the United Nations,” said Kennedy. “She was actually the person invited to present in Saudi. She made the request for ACT to accompany her.

We made a good team—Val provided facts, figures and direct UN experiences balanced with ACT’s interactive approach.”

Saudi heath worker discussed the convention with Mary Kay Kennedy Cultural difference in Saudi Arabia presented some challenges to ACT participatory style. “The biggest challenge I found with this group,” said Kennedy, “is that we could not see the faces of the women.

Most wore a full abya so we could only read expression through their eyes. The session was also microphoned for language interpretation so we were pretty much tied to our microphones and were not able to move around much for group exercises. The microphones (for language interpreting) amplified voices and it was difficult to identity who was speaking because of the abyas.

The challenges with language coupled with restricted interaction between men and women made for a very interesting session.”

“The group was slow to warmup, but by the second half of the session the 40 participants were actively engaged and participating,” said Kennedy.

A Saudi woman was asked to read a statement about disability rights. She was hesitant to participate but agreed to give it a try. She worked with the language interpreter to understand the specific right. She then read the right and went on to give her opinions and thoughts about what it meant.

Following her example, three

other Saudi women read a human right statement and talked about what it meant to them.

All of this was being translated from Arabic to English.

“This is what I will remember about the session,” said Karr.

“It was so powerful to see these women taking a leadership role during the session and working to understand what this new Convention means.”

The main question from the participants had to do with the gap between what the UN treaty says and practical application. Saudi Arabia ratified the CRPD last June along with its Optional Protocol. (The protocol allows for external monitoring by the United Nations.) Like people from many other countries, the Saudi people point out that the proof with be in action, not words.

The trip left a powerful impression on the ACT presenters. “It’s really something,” said Lee. “I never thought I would be going to Saudi Arabia. I never thought I would meet so many people from all around the world. The highlight, according to Lee, was the people. “That’s the best part—meeting people. They were all really nice to me. I learned a lot from them—and they learned a lot from me, too.” ■

SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2009 HELPING PAWS INVITES YOU TO THE

2009 wag walk & Run SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2009 1MILE 12 and Under Kids Run starts at 9 a.m.

5K Six-Legged Run/Walk starts at 9:30 a.m.

All events start and finish at Purgatory Creek Recreation Area 13001 Technology Drive Eden Prairie, Minnesota Proceeds support service dog training for individuals with physical disabilities.

For more information or to register, go to helpingpaws.org or call 952-988-9359.

RUN & K L A WAG W NG HELPI

P AW S

2009

PRESENTED BY

Kelly Lee and Mary Kay Kennedy attended an international disability conference in Riyadh Saudi Arabia

April 10, 2009

5

Disability can pose challenges to exercise regime

by Amanda Boerboom

E

xercise and fitness are mainstream words in the daily vocabulary of many Americans. But because of increased portion sizes at our favorite restaurants, decreased physical activity and a culture that integrates food into every aspect of our lives, Americans continue to increase in size.

Although exercise and fitness are not new concepts, the prevalence of obesity in Americans is. According to a 2000 Centers for Disease Con-

trol and Prevention (CDC) study, the number of obese adult Americans increased more than 50 percent between 1980 and 2000. In 2007, Minnesota’s prevalence of obesity was 25.6 percent. The lowest ranked state, Colorado, was at 18.7 percent.

Individuals with disabilities often report difficulty in gaining the ability and means to take part in physical activity.

Limited use of arms and legs can decrease the ability to perform activity that promotes

weight loss and builds strength.

The lack of proper accessible facilities, equipment and knowledgeable staff at exercise facilities are also barriers.

The Department of Disability and Human Development at the University of Illinois found that 54 million people report some type of disability. The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System found that 37 percent of individuals who have disabilities report themselves as having poor health, whereas only 8 percent of in-

dividuals without disabilities report their health as poor.

Obesity often creates many secondary health conditions that can have a significant impact on an individual’s primary disability. Decreased function and independence, in relation to weight gain, become substantial concerns.

Although there are limited numbers of accessible, public fitness options for people who have disabilities, it doesn’t mean that individuals with disabilities cannot participate in

A first-person perspective on a different kind of fitness

by Nikki Villavicencio

I

wake up in the morning and the first thing on my mind is, “What am I going to have for breakfast?”

Eggs, bacon and a mocha latte sound great. Instead I settle for a bowl of Special K with strawberries and a cup of regular coffee. About 10 years ago, I would not have blinked at a high-calorie meal. Today not only do I try not to eat whatever is in front of me, I must think about how to increase my physical activity level.

car burn approximately 16 calories. I do not have the privilege of burning numerous calories throughout the day. Instead, I have to try to keep my calorie intake down and increase my exercise on a regular basis.

Most of my strength is in my lower extremities. I have invented different stretches and bends to keep myself limber, but I also keep it fast-paced enough to create a cardiovascular workout. Swimming, by My disability prevents me from far, is the greatest exercise for burning calories as easily as me. My body is free to move others. Arthrogryposis multi- around and there is no impact plex congenita (AMC) is a rare birth disorder that causes most of my joints to be fixed. I am unable to walk and use my feet for almost everything.

on my joints. Unfortunately, it sistant (PCA) time and deis inconvenient to go swim- crease independence. I am a person with a full social and ming on a regular basis. work schedule. Staying fit inIt is apparent that regular exer- creases my energy and stamina. cise is important in anyone’s It is always good to have life. I believe it is even more enough energy to keep up in a important for a person with world that makes little excepphysical limitations. Not stay- tion for those who have dising fit will cause problems. abilities. ■ Independence is very important to me. As of now, I am able to do all my own transfers. If I can keep my weight down and stay flexible, I will be able to stay independent. If I lose strength and/or increase weight, however, it will require more personal care as-

Because it is such a rare disability, there is not much information regarding fitness for people with the condition.

Able-bodied people who walk through the parking lot to their

Diamond Hill Townhomes We are currently accepting applications for our waiting list at Diamond Hill Townhomes, a great property located near the Minneapolis International Airport.

We have two and three bedroom townhomes that are HUD subsidized and rent is 30% of the total household's adjusted gross income.

We have a large number of mobility impaired accessible units and we are scheduling appointments for persons in need of a mobility impaired accessible unit immediately.

To schedule an appointment please call (612) 726-9341.

physical activity. The first step is to find out which physical activities increase your heart rate. Keep in mind that what works for some may not work for others.

staff before the staff trains you.

A Web site directory of specialized personal trainers is at www.ncpad.org/trainers/ index.php Or ask if your outpatient clinic has recommenChoose activities that can be dations for exercise ideas or done within the home. Al- therapists. though it is important to participate in some community Other resources that can help activities, realistically, for you work toward increasing many individuals with a dis- physical activity in your life ability, getting outside in bad include: weather isn’t an option. Finding physical activities to do at • www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/dh/ home will allow people to stay default.htm active. Some people have • www.ncpad.org found chair exercise videos, • www.paralysis.org therapy bands and small hand • www.specialolympics.org weights to work well.

In one day, there are 1,440 If you need assistance to par- minutes. Try to set aside at ticipate in physical activities, least 30 minutes to move your find someone who is knowl- body in any way you can. As edgeable or willing to learn basketball player Julius Erving about your abilities and your said, “If you don’t do what’s primary medical diagnosis. good for your body, you’re the Many personal trainers and one who comes out on the short exercise staff have limited end.” ■ knowledge of exercising with a disability. If you choose to Amanda Boerboom is a Certiparticipate in physical activity fied Therapeutic Recreation at a community center or a Specialist at Gillette Childhealth and fitness club, know ren’s Specialty Healthcare. that you may have to train the

6

April 10, 2009

People and places

News about people who are involved in our community Compiled by Access Press staff

T

he Minnesota Jr. Rolling Timberwolves and the Rolling Rowdies, two wheelchair basketball teams from Courage Center, won national titles in March at the National Wheelchair Basketball Championships. The tournament was held in Lakewood, Colorado and featured more than 1,000 athletes playing in six divisions.

The Rolling Timberwolves team won its second straight national title in the varsity division. The Minnesotans defeated the San Diego Hammer, 51-50, in the division finals.

The Rolling Rowdies won the national prep division by defeating Sterling Heights, Illinois, 27-26 in the championship game. This division is for athletes age 6-12.

The Rolling Timberwolves team entered the varsity tournament as the team to beat, with a number one ranking.

The team was led by tri-captains Chuck Aoki, Minneapolis South High School; Connor Downes, Rosemount High School and Ben Kenyon,

Minnetonka High School. All three are standout athletes and have previously won Academic All-American honors.

“I could not be prouder of our Courage Center wheelchair basketball teams. To win one national championship is amazing, but to come home with two championship teams is unimaginable,” said coach Mike Bauler of the Rolling Timberwolves. “I am happy Josh Scanlan, a member of Courage Center’s Rolling for the seniors on the Rolling Timberwolves team, is shown at a regular season game.

Timberwolves. They deserve The team just won its second national title. everything that has happened to them. Winning back-to-back Kenyon was the Rolling the all-tournament second championships is evidence of Timberwolves Most Valuable team. the time they put in every day Player in 2008. to be their best.”

The three captains were to be Downes is one of the big men honored April 9, after this isAoki was recently accepted at in wheelchair basketball in the sue of Access Press went to the University of Arizona. He United States. He is also a press, at a college signing ceralso has been named to the high school senior. Downes’ emony at Courage Center.

Wheelchair Rugby National dedication to the team was Aoki, Downes and Kenyon Team. He was offered many shown when his family moved have been heavily recruited by academic and athletic schol- to Texas in 2007. He chose to national wheelchair basketball arships before making his stay in Minnesota and com- college teams. school choice. pete with his Courage Center teammates.

Other team members include Kenyon also competes in Derrick Bisnett, Bismark, swimming, and track and field. At the national tournament, N.D., a student at Century High Nationally, he is a top-ranked Downes was named player of School; Lucas Braun, Mounds wheelchair basketball player the game in the championship. View, a freshman at Irondale and recently played in Beijing Kenyon was named MVP. High School; Mark Braun, at the Paralympic Academy. Downes and Aoki were named Mounds View, a freshman at

Irondale High School; Rose Hollerman, Elysian, a seventh grader at Elysian Middle School; Guthrie Lindquist, Lake City, a freshman at Lincoln High School; Josh Scanlan, Delano, a sophomore at Watertown-Mayer High School; and Robbie Wilhelm, New Brighton, a junior at Irondale High School.

The Rolling Rowdies team also includes Hollerman as a member. She was named MVP female in the prep division. Other team members include Kyle Anderson, New Prague, a fifth grader at New Prague; Josie Aslakson, Jordan, a seventh grader at Jordan Middle School; Abby Donkers, Faribault, a sixth grader at Kenyon-Wanamingo Middle School; Collin Evans, Mondovi, Wisc., a fifth grade at Mondovi Public School; Jayson Gorton, Montrose, a fourth grader at Montrose Elementary School; Emilee Gustafson, Howard Lake, a second grader; Elizabeth Kimmes, Hastings, a sixth grader at Hastings Middle School; Dan Kosanda, Maple Grove, a sixth grader at Fernbrook Elementary School; Jon-

athan Laing, Lakeville, a fifth grader at Cherry View Elementary School; Erik Marschel, Maplewood, a tenth grader at North St. Paul High School; Janet Scanlon, Wayzata, a fifth grader; JoLynn Super, Blaine, a seventh grader at Westwood Middle School; Shane Swanson, Bloomington, a second grader at Westwood Elementary School; and Zsolt Vincze, Lauderdale, a fifth grader.

(School information was not available for all team members.)

The Rolling Rowdies team is coached by Jeff Gustafson, a Courage Center volunteer, and wheelchair basketball athlete. ✦✦✦✦✦

D

akota United Hawks and Robbinsdale/ Hopkins/Mound Westonka Robins are the 2009 Minnesota State High School League champions in adapted floor hockey. The state tournament was held March 20-21 at Bloomington Jefferson High School.

Dakota United won the CI title, People/Places - cont. on p. 14

April 10, 2009

7

Access Press Directory of Organizations Minnesota’s Disability Community Newspaper VOICE LINE ADVOCACY Advocating Change Together (ACT) --------------- V-651-641-0297 Arc Greater Twin Cities ------------------------------ V-952-920-0855 Arc of Minnesota -------------------------------- V-651-523-0823x115 Assoc. of Residential Resources in MN ------------ V-651-291-1086 Courage Center ---------------------------------------- V-763-588-0811 MN Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities V-651-523-0829x112 MN Developmental Achievement-Center Assoc -- V-651-647-9200 Telephone Equipment Distribution Program ------ V-651-297-1507 (MN Dept. of Human Services) ----- TF-800-657-3663

•

www.accesspress.org

SECOND LINE

----TF-800-641-0059 ----- F-952-920-1480 ----TF-800-582-5256 - TTY-800-551-2211 - TTY-763-520-0245 ----- F-651-523-0829 ----- F-651-647-9353 ----- F-651-251-6388 - TTY-866-206-6555

E-MAIL/WEB SITE

---------- www.selfadvocacy.org -- www.arcgreatertwincities.org --- www.thearcofminnesota.org -------------------- www.arrm.org ------- www.CourageCenter.org ----------------- www.mnccd.org ---------------- www.mndaca.org ------------ www.tedprogram.org -------------------------------------

ASSISTED-LIVING PROGRAMS Dungarvin, Inc. — Minnesota ----------------------- V-651-699-6050 - TTY-651-695-5802 ------------ www.dungarvin.com BRAIN INJURY Brain Injury Association of Minnesota ------------- V-612-378-2742 Courage Center ---------------------------------------- V-763-588-0811 Tandem Residential ----------------------------------- V-651-641-0491 TBI Metro Services — Richfield & W. St. Paul -- V-612-869-3995

- TTY-800-669-6442 - TTY-763-520-0245 ----- F-651-645-2780 ----- V-651-457-4756

-------- www.braininjurymn.org ------- www.CourageCenter.org --- www.tandemresidential.com -- www.opportunitypartners.org

CHEMICAL HEALTH Vinland National Center ----------------------- V/TTY-763-479-3555 ----- F-763-479-2605 --------- www.vinlandcenter.org COMMUNITY LIVING Cooperating Community Programs ----------------- V-651-917-8322 DeafBlind Services Minnesota ---------------------- V-612-362-8454 Dungarvin, Inc. — Minnesota ----------------------- V-651-699-6050 Howry Residential Services -------------------- V-651-917-9111x204 Mary T. Inc. -------------------------------------------- V-763-754-2505 Metro Work Center, Inc. ---------------------- V/TTY-612-729-7381 Opportunity Partners ---------------------------------- V-952-938-5511 Reach for Resources ---------------------------------- V-952-988-4177 S MN Independ. Living Enterprises/Services - V/TTY-507-345-7139

----- F-651-917-8311 - TTY-612-362-8422 - TTY-651-695-5802 ----- F-651-917-1018 ----TF-888-255-6400 ----- F-612-729-7382 - TTY-952-930-4293 ----- F-952-988-6728 ----TF-888-676-6498

Target Marketing At Its Finest!

------------- www.theccpinc.com ------------------- www.dbsm.org ------------ www.dungarvin.com ------------- www.howryinc.com -------------- www.marytinc.com ----- www.metroworkcenter.org -- www.opportunitypartners.org ---- www.reachforresources.org --------------- www.smilescil.org

Advertise in Access Press and reach thousands in the disability community every month.

Call Access Press at 651-644-2133

CONSUMER-DIRECTED COMMUNITY SUPPORTS CCP Self Directed Services -------------------------- V-651-209-3350 ----- F-651-641-8623 --------------- www.ccpcdcs.com Community Involvement Programs ----------------- V-612-362-4437 --------------------------------------------- www.cipmn.org EDUCATION Community Education Network on Disabilities --- V-651-748-7436 Minnesota Resource Center -------------------------- V-612-752-8100 Minnesota Resource Center - Duluth --------------- V-218-722-9700 Minnesota Resource Center – St. Cloud ------------ V-320-259-5717 Upstream Arts ----------------------------------------- V-612-331-4584

----- V-507-494-0905 --------- V-320-529-6500x6271 - TTY-612-752-8019 ---------------- www.mrc-mn.org ------------------------------------------- www.mrc-mn.org ------------------------------------------- www.mrc-mn.org ----- F-480-393-5587 ---------- www.upstreamarts.org

EMPLOYMENT/VOCATION Assistive Technology of Minnesota ----------------- V-763-479-8239 CCP Works! (Cooperating Community Prog.) -- V-763-540-6833x305 Community Connections Partnership --------- V-763-540-6833x302 Community Involvement Programs ----------------- V-952-851-6181 Cooperating Community Programs ----------------- V-651-917-8322

----TF-866-535-8239 ------------------- www.atmn.org ----- F-651-917-8311 ------------- www.theccpinc.com ----------- www.communityconnectionspartnership.org ----- V-952-851-6193 ------------------ www.cipmn.org ----- F-651-641-8623 ------------- www.theccpinc.com

Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

BDC Management Co. is now accepting applications for our waiting lists at the following affordable communities Albright Townhomes Buffalo Court Apartments Elliot Park Apartments Evergreen Apartments Franklin Lane Apartments Hanover Townhomes Lincoln Place Apartments Olson Towne Homes Prairie Meadows Talmage Green Trinity Apartments Unity Place Vadnais Highlands Willow Apartments Woodland Court Apartments

Minneapolis Buffalo Minneapolis Hutchinson Anoka St. Paul Mahtomedi Minneapolis Eden Prairie Minneapolis Minneapolis Brooklyn Center Vadnais Heights Little Falls Park Rapids

(612) 824-6665 (763) 684-1907 (612) 338-3106 1-800-661-2501 (763) 427-7650 (651) 292-8497 (651) 653-0640 (612) 377-9015 (952) 941-5544 (612) 623-0247 (612) 721-2252 (763) 560-7563 (651) 653-0640 (320) 632-0980 1-888-332-9312

1 BR 2 BR 2 BR 1 BR 1 & 2 BR 1 BR 2 BR 1 BR 2 & 3 BR 2 BR 1 BR (sr) 2 BR 3 BR 1 & 2 BR 1 BR

(Please call each individual site for specific building information.

All listings are accessible.)

8

April 10, 2009

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

EMPLOYMENT/VOCATION (continued) Courage Center ---------------------------------------- V-763-588-0811 East Suburban Resources ----------------------------- V-651-351-0190 Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota ------------------- V-651-379-5800 Kaposia Inc. ------------------------------------- V/TTY-651-224-6974 Lifetrack Resources — Minneapolis ---------------- V-612-788-8855 Lifetrack Resources — St. Paul --------------------- V-651-227-8471 Lifeworks Services, Inc. ----------------------------- TF-866-454-2732 Merrick, Inc. ------------------------------------------- V-651-789-6231 Metro Work Center, Inc. ---------------------- V/TTY-612-729-7381 Midway Training Services --------------------------- V-651-641-0709 Midwest Special Services, Inc. ---------------------- V-651-778-1000 Minnesota Diversified Industries -------------------- V-651-999-8200 Minnesota Resource Center -------------------------- V-612-752-8102 Minnesota Work Incentives Connection ----------- V-651-632-5113 Opportunity Partners ---------------------------------- V-952-938-5511 ProAct Inc. --------------------------------------------- V-651-686-0405 ProAct – Red Wing ----------------------------------- V-651-388-7108 Rise, Inc. ----------------------------------------- V/TTY-763-786-8334 TBI Metro Services — Richfield & W. St. Paul -- V-612-869-3995 TSE, Inc. ----------------------------------------------- V-651-489-2595 University of Minnesota Disability Services ------- V-612-626-1333

- TTY-763-520-0245 ------- www.CourageCenter.org ------------------------------------------ www.esrworks.org ----- F-651-379-5803 -- www.goodwilleasterseals.org ----- F-651-224-7249 --------------- www.kaposia.com ----- F-612-788-8577 ---- www.lifetrackresources.org - TTY-651-227-3779 ---- www.lifetrackresources.org - TTY-651-365-3736 -------------- www.lifeworks.org ----- F-651-789-9960 ------------ www.merrickinc.org ----- F-612-729-7382 ----- www.metroworkcenter.org ----- F-651-641-0976 ------- www.midwaytraining.org ------------------------------------- www.mwsservices.org ----- F-651-999-8242 --------------------- www.mdi.org - TTY-612-752-8019 ---------------- www.mrc-mn.org ----TF-800-976-6728 -- www.mnworkincentives.com - TTY-952-930-4293 -- www.opportunitypartners.org ----- F-651-686-0312 -------------- www.proactinc.org ----- F-651-388-9223 -------------- www.proactinc.org ----- F-763-786-0008 --------------------- www.rise.org ----- V-651-457-4756 -- www.opportunitypartners.org ----- F-651-489-0410 ----------------- www.tse-inc.org ----- F-612-625-5572 ---------------- http://ds.umn.edu

GOVERNMENT MN Gov. Council on Developmental Disabilities V-651-296-4018 Minnesota State Council on Disability ------ V/TTY-651-361-7800 Social Security Admin. & St. Paul PASS Cadre -- V-651-290-0054 Telephone Equipment Distribution Program ------ V-651-297-1507 (MN Dept. of Human Services) ------------------- TF-800-657-3663

----TF-877-348-0505 - TTY-800-945-8913 ----- F-651-290-3811 ----- F-651-251-6388 - TTY-866-206-6555

----------------- www.mncdd.org ----- www.disability.state.mn.us --------- www.socialsecurity.gov ------------ www.tedprogram.org

HEALTH CARE PLANS Cornerstone Solutions ------------------------------- TF-866-601-8962 - TTY-800-627-3529 - www.cornerstone-solutions.org UCare --------------------------------------------------- V-800-707-1711 - TTY-800-688-2534 ------------------- www.ucare.org Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

Computerized Desktop Publishing: Advertisements Brochures Catalogs Flyers Logos Newsletters Newspapers and More!

Ellen Houghton • 952-404-9981 presentationimages@comcast.net

Would you like to be included in The Directory Of Organizations?

For an annual fee of only $60, your organization will be listed in our quarterly Directory of Organizations.

We will also list your homepage link on our Web directory with a 35-word description of your services.

Contact us TODAY! 651-644-2133 advertising@accesspress.org

April 10, 2009

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

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES Dungarvin, Inc. — Minnesota ----------------------- V-651-699-6050 - TTY-651-695-5802 ------------ www.dungarvin.com 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 HOUSING— CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING Accessibility Design ---------------------------------- V-952-925-0301 Accessible Homes, LLC. ----------------------------- V-612-978-1054 Equal Access Homes, Inc. ---------------------------- V-651-249-7751 Susan Lasoff & Associates --------------------------- V-612-872-7520

----- F-952-926-7712 ----- F-651-554-3085 ----- F-651-450-1330 ------ F-612.338.2801

-- www.accessibilitydesign.com --- www.accessiblehomesllc.net www.EqualAccessHomes.com -------------------------------------

HOUSING — RENTAL Accessible Space, Inc. -------------------------------- V-651-645-7271 HousingLink ------------------------------------------- V-612-522-2500 Mary T. Inc. -------------------------------------------- V-763-754-2505 National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc ---------- V-651-639-9799

- TTY-800-466-7722 ----- F-612-521-1577 ----TF-888-255-6400 ------ F-651-639-9699

------- www.accessiblespace.org ----------- www.housinglink.org -------------- www.marytinc.com www.nhhiaccessiblehousing.com

INFORMATION AND REFERRAL RESOURCES Arc Greater Twin Cities ------------------------------ V-952-920-0855 Assistive Technology of Minnesota ----------------- V-763-479-8239 Minnesota State Council on Disability ------ V/TTY-651-361-7800 PACER Center, Inc. ----------------------------------- V-952-838-9000 United Cerebral Palsy of MN ------------------------ V-651-646-7588

----- F-952-920-1480 ----TF-866-535-8239 - TTY-800-945-8913 - TTY-952-838-0190 ----TF-877-528-5678

-- www.arcgreatertwincities.org ------------------- www.atmn.org ----- www.disability.state.mn.us ------------------- www.pacer.org ----------------- www.ucpmn.org

Want to be seen on potential clients' tables for 3 months at a time?

Contact us TODAY to reserve this space!

651-644-2133 or

advertising@accesspress.org

LEGAL MN Disability Law Center --------------------------- V-612-334-5970 ----TF-800-292-4150 ------------------ www.mndlc.org MENTAL HEALTH Community Involvement Programs ----------------- V-612-362-4434 Courage Center ---------------------------------------- V-763-588-0811 Healthy Life Coaching (HLC) --------------------- V/F-320-963-5976 Howry Residential Services -------------------- V-651-917-9111x204 Lifetrack Resources — St. Paul --------------------- V-651-227-8471 People Inc. Epilepsy & Mental Health Services --- V-651-338-9035

----- V-612-362-4452 - TTY-763-520-0245 ---- M-612-998-6452 ----- F-651-917-1018 - TTY-651-227-3779 - TTY-651-338-1160

------------------ www.cipmn.org ------- www.CourageCenter.org -------- www.healthsangels.com ------------- www.howryinc.com ---- www.lifetrackresources.org -- www.peopleincorporated.org

PHYSICIANS Courage Center ---------------------------------------- V-763-588-0811 - TTY-763-520-0245 ------- www.CourageCenter.org RECREATION — ADAPTIVE HOBBY/EXERCISE/SPORTS/ARTS Courage Center ---------------------------------------- V-763-588-0811 - TTY-763-520-0245 ------- www.CourageCenter.org Miss You Can Do It Pageant ------------------------- V-651-389-9312 ----- F-651-639-1088 --- www.2008msyoucandoit.org VSA arts of Minnesota ------------------------ V/TTY-612-332-3888 ----TF-800-801-3883 ------------- www.vsaartsmn.org RECREATION — TRAVEL/CAMPING Camp Winnebago ------------------------------------- V-507-724-2351 Friendship Ventures ----------------------------------- V-952-852-0101 Ventures Travel, LLC --------------------------------- V-952-852-0107 Wilderness Inquiry ------------------------------------ V-612-676-9400

----- F-507-724-3786 ----TF-800-450-8376 ----TF-866-692-7400 ----TF-800-728-0719

------ www.campwinnebago.org --- www.friendshipventures.org --------- www.venturestravel.org ---- www.wildernessinquiry.org

REHABILITATION (PHYSICAL, OCCUPATIONAL, SPEECH, AUDIOLOGY THERAPISTS) Courage Center ---------------------------------------- V-763-588-0811 - TTY-763-520-0245 ------- www.CourageCenter.org Courage Center – Burnsville ------------------------- V-952-898-5700 ---------------------------------------------------------------Courage Center – Forest Lake ----------------------- V-651-464-5235 ---------------------------------------------------------------Courage Center – St. Croix -------------------------- V-651-439-8283 ---------------------------------------------------------------DeafBlind Services Minnesota ---------------------- V-612-362-8454 - TTY-612-362-8422 ------------------- www.dbsm.org Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare ----------- V-651-291-2848 ----TF-800-719-4040 ------ www.gillettechildrens.org In Home Personal Care ------------------------------- V-763-546-1000 ----- F-763-546-1018 www.inhomepersonalcare.com Lifetrack Resources — St. Paul --------------------- V-651-227-8471 - TTY-651-227-3779 ---- www.lifetrackresources.org Telephone Equipment Distribution Program ------ V-651-297-1507 ----- F-651-251-6388 ------------ www.tedprogram.org (MN Dept. of Human Services) ------------------- TF-800-657-3663 - TTY-866-206-6555 ------------------------------------Directory of Organizations - cont. on next page

Serving Adults and Children with Long-Term Needs since 1991 Services: Personal Care Assistants (PCA)  Home Health Aides (HHA)  Live-ins  PCA and PCA Choice Provider We accept:  Medical Assistance  AXIS/UCare  Waivered Services  Private Insurance 

IN HOME

PERSONAL CARE

8441 Wayzata Boulevard, Suite 130 Golden Valley, MN 55426

763-546-1000

www.inhomepersonalcare.com

A GREA T RESOURCE! GREAT

Dir ectAbility.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.

9

10

April 10, 2009

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

Link up with us Join in on discussions Donate to Minnesota’s disability community newspaper www.facebook.com

•

www.accesspress.org

VOICE LINE SECOND LINE E-MAIL/WEB SITE RESIDENTIAL/GROUP HOME PROGRAMS Capstone Services, LLC ------------------------------ V-651-645-0042 ----- F-651-645-2780 ------ www.capstoneservices.net Community Involvement Programs ----------------- V-612-362-4403 ----- V-612-362-4417 ------------------ www.cipmn.org CCP – Home Based Support ------------------------- V-651-917-8322 ----- F-651-641-8623 ------------- www.theccpinc.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.opportunitypartners.org People Inc. Epilepsy & Mental Health Services --- V-651-338-9035 - TTY-651-338-1160 -- www.peopleincorporated.org Phoenix Residence ------------------------------------ V-651-227-7655 ----- F-651-227-6847 ---- www.phoenixresidence.org Restart Inc. --------------------------------------------- V-763-588-7633 ----- F-763-588-7613 ----------- www.restartincmn.org SERVICE DOGS 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 SOCIAL SERVICES Restart Inc. --------------------------------------------- V-763-588-7633 ----- F-763-588-7613 ----------- www.restartincmn.org

Facebook is a free social networking Web site that allows people to connect with friends, share ideas and support issues and causes. Sign up and search for Access Press

TECHNOLOGY Assistive Technology of Minnesota ----------------- V-763-479-8239 Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare ----------- V-651-291-2848 PACER Center, Inc. ----------------------------------- V-952-838-9000 STAR Program ---------------------------------------- V-651-201-2640 Telephone Equipment Distribution Program ------ V-651-297-1507

----TF-866-535-8239 ----TF-800-719-4040 - TTY-952-838-0190 ----TF-888-234-1267 - TTY-866-206-6555

------------------- www.atmn.org ------ www.gillettechildrens.org ------------------- www.pacer.org -- www.starprogram.state.mn.us ------------ www.tedprogram.org

TRANSPORTATION — RENTAL/SALES/MODIFICATION IMED Mobility ---------------------------------------- V-651-635-0655 ----TF-800-788-7479 -------- www.imedmobility.com VISION IMPAIRMENT Vision Loss Resources -------------------------------- V-612-871-2222 ----- F-612-872-0189 -- www.visionlossresources.org

Target Marketing At Its Finest!

Kent’s Accounting Service, LLC Kent Fordyce Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor for: 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 612-889-2959 fordyce6@aol.com

6371 Bartlett Blvd Mound, MN 55364 Fax: Call me

Advertise in Access Press and reach thousands in the disability community every month.

Call Access Press at 651-644-2133

April 10, 2009

11

12

April 10, 2009

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 Film: Hunger April 10 - 26 2008 film by Steve McQueen at Walker Art Center Cinema, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.

AD: Sat. April 25, 7:30 p.m.

Tix: $8 ($6 Walker member), Phone: 612-375-7600, Email: Melissa.schedler@ walkerart.org Web: www. walkerart.org The Barber of Seville April 11 - 19 MN Opera at Ordway Center for Performing Arts, 345 Washington St., St. Paul. Sung in Italian with English captions projected above stage.

AD: Sun., April 19, 2 p.m.; pre-opera discussion at 1 p.m.

Tix: Reduced to half-price for AD patrons, Phone: 612-3336669, TTY: 651-282-3099, Web: www.mnopera.org

The Circus of Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow and other Pieces.

April 16 - 26 Flying Foot Forum at the Southern Theater, 1420 Washington Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: TBA, Tix: $22 Phone: 612340-1725, Web: www.south erntheater.org Sister Kenny 46th International Art Show and Sale

by Artists with Disabilities April 16 - May 22 Opening reception on April 16 will have audio description available; 6 p.m. awards program will be interpreted; Exhibit hours are M-F 9 a.m. 5 p.m., weekends 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, second floor of Abbott Northwestern Hospital, 800 E. 28th St., Mpls. AD, ASL: Thurs., April 16, 5-8 p.m., Tix: Free, Phone: 612-863-4463, Web: www.allina.com/ahs/ ski.nsf/

The Devil’s Disciple Through April 12 Theatre in the Round, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., April 12, 2 p.m., tactile tour at Hedda Gabler 1 p.m. Tix: $20, senior/stuApril 16 - June 12 dent discount, Phone: 612- Commonweal Theatre, 208 333-3010, Web: www.theatre Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro.

ASL: Sun., May 3, 1:30 p.m. intheround.org Tix: Half price (reg. $25, stu-

dent $12), Phone: 507-467The Trip to Bountiful 2525, 800-657-7025, E-mail: April 17 - May 3 tickets@commonwealtheatre. Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, org Web: www.common 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL: wealtheatre.org Sat., April 18, 7:30 p.m. (If requested at least week before Pinocchio opening) Tix: Reduced to $13 April 17 - 26 (reg. $16, $14 student/senior), Fred Moore Middle School $18 box seats Phone: 763-422Center for the Arts, 1523 5th Ave. 1838, Web: www.lyricarts.org S., Anoka. ASL: Fri., April 24, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $8, senior/stuThe Paper Bag Princess dent $4, Phone: 763-506April 17 - May 17 3667, Web: www.anoka.k12. Stages Theatre at Hopkins mn.us/FMMStheater Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. ASL: Oliver!

Sun., May 3, 2 p.m.; Wed., April 17 - May 2 May 6, 10 a.m., AD: Audio Morris Park Players at Folwell Description on request, Tix: Middle School, 3611 20th Ave $15, $11 child (age 2-17) and S., Mpls. AD: Sun., April 26, senior (age 60+) plus $1.50 2 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $10 fee per ticket, Phone: 952(AD patrons, student, senior; 979-1111, Web: www.stages reg. $15), Phone: 612-724- theatre.org 8373, Web: www.morrispark players.org 2.5 Minute Ride April 18 - May 10 God’s Ear Minnesota Jewish Theatre at April 17 - May 3 Hillcrest Center Theater, 1978 Red Eye Theater, 15 W. 14th Ford Parkway, St. Paul. AD: Street, Mpls. AD: Fri., April Sun., April 26, 2 p.m. Tix: 17, 8 p.m. Tix: Pay-as-able Reduced to $15 (reg. Sun. show (reg. $18, $8 student with matinee $22), Phone: 651valid ID), Phone: 612-870- 647-4315, Web: www.mn 0309, Web: www.redeye jewishtheatre.org theater.org Caroline, or Change: A Musical April 18 - June 21 Guthrie Theater, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD: Fri., May 15, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., May 16, 1 p.m.; Sensory Tour 10:30 am, ASL: Fri., May 22, 7:30 p.m.; Thurs., May 28, 7:30 p.m., Cap-tioning: Fri., June 19, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for captioning users ($20 subscribers) (reg. $29-75), Phone: 612-377-2224, TTY: 612-377-6626 Web: www.guth rietheater.org/accessibility Hello, Dolly!

Through April 19 Rochester Civic Theatre, 20 Civic Center Drive SE. ASL: Sat., April 18, 8 p.m. Tix: $22, senior $19, student $12, Phone: 507-282-8481, Web: www.rochestercivictheatre.org/ A Bright Room Called Day April 19 - 25 U of M Theatre and Dance at Rarig Center, 330 21st Ave. S, Mpls. ASL, AD: Sun., April 19, 2 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $10 (use code ASLAD; reg. $15 advance/$17 door; $2 discount for seniors or UMAA members), Phone: 612-625-4001, Web: http://theatre.umn.edu/ utheatredance/mainstage shows/BrightRoom.php Blue Collar Diaries Through April 19 History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. AD, ASL: Sun., April 12, 2 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $15, Phone: 651-292-4323, Web:

420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL: Sat., April 25, 11 a.m. (If requested a week before openRamona Quimby ing) Tix: $10, $12 box seats, April 21 - June 7 Children’s Theatre Company, Phone: 763-422-1838, Web: 2400 - 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD, www.lyricarts.org ASL: Fri., May 22, 7:30 p.m.

Tix: Mention VSA offer for Circoluna (Circus Moon) Through April 26 $14 tickets (reg. $14-27), Phone: 612-874-0400, Web: Children’s Theatre, 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD, ASL: Sat., www.childrenstheatre.org April 25, 1 p.m. Tix: Mention VSA offer for $14 tickets (reg.

Romeo and Juliet $14-27), Phone: 612-874April 22 - 25 Normandale Community Col- 0400, Web: www.childrens lege Theatre, Fine Arts Build- theatre.org ing, 9700 France Ave. S., Bloomington. ASL: Thurs., Legally Blonde: The Musical April 29 - May 10 April 23, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $5-8, Phone: 952-487-7462, Web: Touring company at Ordway http://faculty.normandale. Center, 345 Washington, St. Paul. AD, ASL: Sat., May 9, 2 edu/~theatre/Season.htm p.m. Tix/Phone: 651-2244222, TTY: 651-282-3099, Red Ink Web: www.ordway.org/serApril 23 - May 17 Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S. vices/access.asp 4th St., Mpls. AD, ASL, Captioning: Thurs., May 7, 7:30 Gilly Hopkins – The Musical April 29 - May 17 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $12 (reg. $22, student/senior $18, group Youth Performance Company $14) Phone: 612-338-6131, at Howard Conn Fine Arts Web: www.mixedblood.com Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave., Mpls. AD, ASL: Sat., May 9, 7:30 p.m., Tix: Reduced to I Have Before Me a Remarkable Document half-price (reg. $12, student/ senior $10); advance reservaGiven to Me by a Young tion required for Audio DeLady From Rwanda scription, Phone: 612-623April 24 - May 17 Park Square Theatre, 408 St. 9080, Web: www.youth Peter St. (20 W. 7th Place), St. performanceco.com Paul. AD, ASL: Sat., May 9, Art in Bloom 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to halfApril 30 - May 3 price ($18.50), Phone: 651291-7005, Web: www.parks Mpls. Institute of Arts, 2400 Third Ave. S. ASL: Thurs., quaretheatre.org April 30, 7 p.m. and Sun., May 3, 1 p.m. Free ASL-interpreted The Price public tour begins by informaApril 24 - May 17 Theatre in the Round, 245 Ce- tion desk in museum lobby. dar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., May Tix/Phone: 612-870-3131, 17, 2 p.m., tactile tour 1p.m. TTY: 612-870-3132, E-mail: Tix: $20, sr/student discount, dhegstrom@artsmia.org Phone: 612-333-3010, Web: Web: www.artsmia.org www.theatreintheround.org Arsenic & Old Lace April 30 - May 17 Anything Goes Bloomington Art Center’s April 24 - May 24 Lakeshore Players, 4820 Gallery Theater at BloomStewart Ave., White Bear ington Center for the Arts, Lake. ASL: Sun., May 3, 2 Black Box Theater, 1800 W. p.m. Tix: Half-price for ASL Old Shakopee Road. AD, ASL: patron and companion (reg. Sun., May 10, 2 p.m. Tix: $17, $20, $18 student/senior), senior/student $15, Phone: Phone: 651-429-5674, Web: 952-563-8575, Web: www. www.lakeshoreplayers.com/ bloomingtonartcenter.com www.historytheatre.com

Quilters Through April 25 Theatre Unbound at Neighborhood House/Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center, 179 Robie St. E., St. Paul. ASL: Fri., April 17, 7:30 p.m., AD: Sat., April 25, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $12-28 (online $28), Phone: 612-721-1186, E-mail: info@ theatreunbound.com Web: www.theatreunbound.com/

20 Days to Find a Wife April 30 - May 31 History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. AD, ASL: Sun., May 17, 2 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $15, Phone: 651-292-4323, Web: www.historytheatre. com

Crime and Punishment Through May 3 Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Thurs., April 16, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $10 (reg. $24-36), Rapunzel Uncut Phone: 612-822-7063, Web: April 25 - May 8 Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, www.jungletheater.com/

April 10, 2009

13

Upcoming events To list an event, email access@accesspress.org Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons are featured at the PACER Benefit at Sat., May 2 at Mpls.

Convention Center, 1301 Second Ave. S. Silent auction is at 6 p.m. and the show is at 8 p.m.

ASL is available and guests can request audio description.

Tickets start at $55. FFI: 952838-9000, www.pacer.org Self-advocacy conference The 2009 Minnesota Self-Advocacy Conference, Moving Self-Advocacy Forward conference is April 17-18 at Crowne Plaza St. Paul Riverfront Hotel, 11 E. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. Advocating Change Together, Arc Greater Twin Cities, Dakota Communities, Hammer Residences, Lifeworks, Mains’l Services, Merrick Inc., Metro Center for Independent Living and People First Minnesota are sponsors. FFI: Kathy Sanders, ACT, 651-641-0297, act@selfadvocacy.org

Home maintenance help Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is now accepting applications for the 2009 Summer/Fall season of their A Brush with Kindness program.

The program pairs homeowners who do not have the means to repair their homes with the supplies and volunteers to do the work. While many services are performed free of charge, some homeowners may be asked to make a small monetary contribution. Applications are accepted on a revolving basis, with scheduling preference given to those received by April 30. FFI: 612788-8169, www.abrushwith kindness.org Kaposia Benefit Kaposia’s Third Annual Benefit is 5:30-9 p.m. Sat., May 2 at Wildwood Lodge in Lake Elmo. Enjoy a wine tasting, gourmet cooking demonstration and meals, and the music of singer/songwriter Keri Noble. Cost is $65 per person or $500 for a table of eight.

Corporate sponsorships are available. FFI: Gary Benedict,

Magic magnifying program. In addition to classes there are often volunteers available to introduce patrons to the equipment and software available.

Volunteer hours vary, so it’s best to call ahead. The Blind and Low Vision Computer User group meets in Room N402 1-3 p.m. the second Saturday of each month. Attend a meeting and network with othMental health event Attend the Minnesota Asso- ers. FFI: 612-630-6469, www. ciation for Children’s Mental hclib.org Health Conference April 26Volunteers sought 28 at the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center. Pro- Cafesjian’s Carousel—the hisfessionals and families will toric and treasured merry-gobenefit from the many infor- round that has delighted riders mation and training sessions. for nine seasons at St. Paul’s A variety of cost options are Como Park—is seeking addiavailable. FFI: 651-644-7333, tional volunteers for its tenth info@macmh.org season, which begins May 1.Volunteers operate the carAdaptive technology classes ousel, sell tickets, and sell Free adaptive technology merchandise at the gift shop. classes are offered by Hen- They work 3- or 4-hour shifts, nepin County Library, at the two or more times each month. downtown Minneapolis li- Training is provided for all brary, 300 Nicollet Mall. positions, and free parking is Classes are free but you must available. FFI: 651-489-4628, pre-register. Upcoming classes volunteer@ourfaircarousel.org, include job searches, Internet www.ourfaircarousel.org use, use of JAWS and the Long-Term Care Waiver Overview program sponsored

by Hennepin County Human Services and Public Health, 24 p.m. Thursday, April 16 at Hennepin County LibraryNokomis, 5100 34th Av., Mpls.

Pre-registration is required.

FFI: 612-596-6631, www.hen nepin.us, search for adsinfo

Grey Gardens, a play about Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ eccentric aunt and cousin, is playing at the Ordway Theater for the Performing Arts through May 17. The two women went from high society to living in squalor in an East Hamptons mansion. Details on accessible performances are listed in the calendar on page 12.

651-789-2820, www.kaposia. com Learn about waivers Waivered-services programs provide community-based services for persons with disabilities and the elderly. Learn about these programs at a

Help others manage finances RSVP/Volunteers of America of Minnesota and AARP Foundation need volunteers with good budgeting and organizational skills to help manage finances of older or disabled low-income individuals. Have a few hours a month to volunteer? Money Management Program staff will train and match you with someone in the community. FFI: Money Management Program Coordinator, 612-617-7821.

Be a literacy volunteer Last year, Minnesota Literacy Council volunteers helped more than 24,000 adults achieve their learning goals. Tutor immigrants, refugees and life-long Minnesotans in reading, writing and English. Tutor one-to-one, in a small group or as a classroom assistant. Training, ongoing support provided. Opportunities are available throughout Minnesota. FFI: Allison at volunteer@the MLC.org or 651-645-2277, Ext 219. ■

Radio Talking Book • April 2009 DVD release party April 18 in Duluth Forty years ago, the Minnesota Radio Talking Book began its broadcasts in St. Paul. As part of our commemoration of that event, the Communication Center contracted with Twin Cities Public Television (TPT) to film a documentary. The documentary has also been made into a DVD so it can be shown to friends and contributors of the Radio Talking Book, and to raise awareness among communities that should know of its existence. Throughout 2009, the Communication Center will be hosting DVD release parties around the state. The first of those is in Duluth. 1-3 p.m. Saturday, April 18 at the First United Methodist Church, 230 East Skyline Parkway. There will be light refreshments and a short program, as well as a viewing of the DVD. All are welcome, but please RSVP to Ed Lecher, 651-642-0887 or 1-800-652-9000.

Access Press is one of the publications read at 9 p.m. Sundays on the program It Makes a Difference.

Chautauqua • Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m. • Loneliness Nonfiction by John T. Cacioppo and William Patrick, 2008.

Physiological tests show that we are more intertwined and interdependent than we have acknowledged. A persistent sense of isolation impairs our immune response and limits our ability to regulate our emotions.

Read by June Prange. 10 broadcasts. Begins April 28.

place, one word at a time.

Read by Kim Miller. 10 broadcasts. Begins April 13.

bed. He and his family and friends take solace in the things that have sustained them: gossip, laughter, and stories. V,L,S; Read by Dan Sadoff; 25 broadcasts. Began April 1.

The Daily Coyote Nonfiction by Shreve Stockton, 2008. Shreve Stockton decided to move back to New York, driving from San Francisco. When she reached Wyoming, she was captivated and changed her plans. After moving there, she adopted a ten-day-old coyote pup.

Read by Susan Niefeld. Eight broadcasts. Begins April 27.

Evening Odyssey • Monday – Friday 11 p.m. • Out of Denial Nonfiction by Robert K. Anderson, 2008. Anderson married his college sweetheart, expecting a conventional life. But as a closeted gay man, his struggle took a toll on him and those he loved. When he was finally able to reconcile all parts of his life, he recovered his lost boyhood and submerged self. L,S Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m. • Ancient Highway Read by John Schmidt; Seven broadcasts. Begins April 16.

Fiction by Bret Lott, 2008. Three generations of a family reconcile who they are and who they might have been. The Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnight • Wolf Totem grandfather left his Texas farm to become a Hollywood actor; Fiction by Jiang Rong, 2008. Seeking spirituality, Beijing his daughter wanted a normal home-life; her son looks for the intellectual Chen Zhen travels to Inner Mongolia to live with truths his family has never told. the nomadic Mongols. They revere the wolf. Chen adopts a Read by John Marsicano. 10 broadcasts. Began April 7. wolf cub of his own, and he begins to understand that reverence.

Read by Ray Christensen; 21 broadcasts. Begins April 13.

Undiscovered Country Fiction by Lin Enger, 2008. When Jesse’s dad dies on a deer After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m. • Shadowplay hunt, Jesse delves into family secrets, wrestles with questions Fiction by Tad Williams, 2007. The twins Barrick and Briony of justice and retribution, and confronts the nature of his own are the only members of the royal family left. But Barrick is responsibility. L captured in battle and Briony needs to flee for her life. They Read by John Ward. 10 broadcasts. Begins April 21. need to do the impossible, reclaim their home and rescue their people from their enemies. V,L PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m. • This Land Is Their Land Read by David Tofteland; 30 broadcasts. Began April 1.

Nonfiction by Barbara Ehrenreich, 2008. We have a nation *Abbreviations: L- offensive language, scarred by inequality. The elite buy congressmen, while many V- violence, S- sexual situations working-class can barely buy lunch. L Read by June Prange. Six broadcasts. Begins April 13.

Past is Prologue • Monday – Friday 9 a.m.

Everything They Had Nonfiction by David Halberstam, 2008. Journalist Halberstam, though best known for writing on politics, also wrote on sports.

Strictly Right Fellow writer Glenn Stout has collected representation from five decades of writing that includes portraits of some of the Nonfiction by Linda Bridges and John R. Coyne, Jr., 2008.

When William F. Buckley Jr. began National Review in 1955, most compelling sports figures of our time. his goal was to break the liberal stranglehold on America with Read by Ray Christensen. 14 broadcasts. Begins April 22. a wide-ranging alliance.

Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m. • Change of Heart Read by Art Nyhus. 16 Broadcasts Begins April 21.

Fiction by Jodi Picoult, 2008. Three people find a different view on life than they had ever imagined for themselves. June, Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m. • Last Rituals who was happy before, is now feeling empty; Shay, who Fiction by Yrsa Sigurdardóttir, 2008. Thóra is hired to look into thought he had nothing to offer, sees someone who needs him; the murder and mutilation of a student. The student had been and Father Michael, who now questions what he knows about obsessed with Iceland’s history of torture, execution, and witch religion. L - Read by Isla Hejny. 15 broadcasts. Began April 1. hunts – of men. V,L Read by Judith Johannessen. 12 broadcasts. Begins April 16.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 2 p.m. • The Man Who Made Lists Nonfiction by Joshua Kendall, 2008. Peter Mark Roget longed Off the Shelf • Monday – Friday 10 p.m. • The Hakawati for order in his chaotic world. At the age of eight, he started Fiction by Rabih Alamadine, 2008. In 2003, Osama almaking lists, beginning his quest to put everything in its rightful Kharrat returns to Beirut to stand vigil at his father’s death-

RTB Books Available Through Faribault

All books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault. Their phone number is 1800-722-0550 and hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Their catalog is also online and you can access it at the main website, http://education.state.mn.us then click on the link, or go to http://education.state.mn.us/mde/Learning_ Support/MN_Braille_Talking_Book_Library/index.html. If you live outside of Minnesota, you may obtain copies of books by contacting your own state's Network Library for the National Library Service.

Listen to the MN Radio Talking Book, either live or archived programs from the last week, on the Internet at www.mnssb.org/ rtb. Call the staff for your password to the site. ■

14

April 10, 2009

Emergency preparations tips

R

ecent Midwestern floods have many of us thinking about emergency preparations.

Spring brings the start of severe weather season, so be ready before a thunderstorm, tornado or flood hits. Every type of home and workplace needs to plan in the event of a disaster, so takes steps now to be ready.

The Minnesota State Council on Disabilities has an excellent list of resources, including a detailed checklist, to help everyone prepare for disasters; at www.state.mn.us/portal/ mn/jsp/home.do?agency= mscod Look on the home page for the heading “everybody needs a plan.”

The American Red Cross also reminds people with disabilities to take extra steps to be prepared before unforeseen problems. The Web site www.redcross.org has emergency preparedness information, and more detailed information for every type of disaster. The list ranges from power blackouts to winter storms.

It’s also time to plan ahead for situations that may keep you in a basement or safe area of your home. Put an emergency kit there now. This could include a supply of food and water, first aid kit, blankets, flashlights, battery or crank radios and a battery-operated television. Make sure you know where medications are so you can quickly grab them. If your home doesn’t have a basement

ANALYSIS -

or if it is difficult to get into the basement, know which windowless ground floor room you can take shelter.

Some items to remember for your emergency kit include: •If you are blind or visually impaired, it’s good to have a Braille clock, talking clock or large-print timepiece available in your emergency kit.

Make sure these items have new batteries installed.

•Keep an extra battery or batteries on hand for your wheelchair or other devices that need power.

•If you rely on a medical device or life support device that in turn relies on electricity, make sure your local power company knows that. Many power companies do keep information on file on persons whose health would be at risk due to a power outage. Contact the utility company’s customer service to see if it has such a program.

•If you are deaf or hearingimpaired, keep a portable, battery-operated television on hand. Use this to follow weather alerts through captioning.

Every household should have a NOAA weather radio. The radios can be programmed to alert you to severe weather in your area. The radios can be equipped to shake or vibrate a bed or pillow, or trigger a strobe light, to alert persons who cannot hear the radio. Ask at your local electronics retailer. ■

Cont. from p. 3

What is needed to move forward? Leadership. Kevin Goodno, former DHS Commissioner, reminded us that “everyone can be a leader”— we don’t need to wait for one person to make a difference.

Those leaders, according to Mark Peterson, need to be constantly looking ways to change the service system for the better, and to push their colleagues and organizations to do the same. We can’t get too comfortable with the way we do things, he said.

Charlie Lakin of the University of Minnesota Institute on Community Integration stressed that all of us, no matter what our position and what organization we work for, need to work together. “We can’t fall back into our ‘tribes’ in tough times.”

Different work groups will continue the summit conversations and the dialogue between the senior and disability communities. Even in the face

of threats now and down the road, people came out of the event hopeful. ■

PEOPLE/PLACES -

Cont. from p. 6

which is for athletes with cognitive impairments. Robbinsdale/Hopkins/Mound Westonka is the PI champion, which is for athletes with physical impairments. The Hawks’ last state title was won in 2006, while the Robins won their sixth title since 1994. Teams are co-ed.

ists for Minnesota Teacher of the Year honors. The award is presented annually by Education Minnesota, the state teachers union.

In the PI division, the Robins defeated Minneapolis South Tigers, Brainerd/Pillager Warriors and then Dakota United Hawks in the championship game. The Robins won the state title on a score of 8-2.

Mary Ellen Wade is a special education teacher at A.I. Jedlicka Middle School in Proctor.

The Robins were the team to beat this year as they outscored opponents during the regular season 119-20. Senior Jesse Klein, who scored 29 goals and 27 assists during the regular season, is the program’s all-time leader in assists and total goals.

The Anoka-Hennepin Mustangs team was the defending champion and finished third this year, defeating Brainerd/ Pillager. The tournament featured an eight-team field. Other teams playing were Rochester Area Raiders, Wayzata/Minnetonka Lakers and South Suburban Flyers.

Dakota United defeated defending state champion Maple Grove Crimson, 6-1, for the 2009 CI title. The Hawks stopped Mounds View/Irondale/Roseville Rams and Anoka-Hennepin Mustangs in the first two rounds of play.

South Suburban Jets defeated Anoka-Hennepin for third place. Other teams in the CI tournament were Owatonna Huskies, Burnsville/Farmington/Lakeville Blazing Cats and Wayzata/Minnetonka Lakers and the South Suburban Jets.

In adapted floor hockey, each team has six players on the floor at a time. A center can move the full length of the floor, while forwards, defensive players and goalies are restricted. In the PI division, each team must field at least two wheelchair players. A game consists of three 15minute periods. Rules do allow for overtime play.

Steve Larson is Public Policy Director for The Arc of Minnesota, one of the March 5-6 Summit’s hosts. Other host agencies were ARRM, Brain Injury Association of Minnesota, Courage Center, Hammer, Mains’l Services, Metropolitan Center for Independent Living, Mount Olivet In adaptive hockey, the puck Rolling Acres, and REM MN. may be moved the best way for each participant, be it with a stick or feet. Intentional trapping of the puck beneath a wheelchair is prohibited. RunCont. from p. 1 ning is also prohibited.

The Langdon nursing home has no hospice unit but is small Adaptive hockey is one of four enough that one-to-one care is sports the MSHSL offers for provided. At last report Diana athletes with disabilities. Youth was smiling and had settled teams play adapted soccer evinto her temporary home. Famery fall, with adapted bowling ily members expected her to and softball every spring. move back to Fargo April 3.

As Access Press went to press, ✦✦✦✦✦ Cynthia was planning a trip to see her sister. That was despecial education layed by blizzard conditions teacher from Proctor in the Red River Valley. ■ is one of the 11 final-

SISTERS -

A

The 11 were chosen out of 101 candidates. The winner will be announced May 3 at an awards banquet.

✦✦✦✦✦

P

eople with disabilities are four times more likely to experience abuse and violence than people without disabilities. A new book, Combating Violence and Abuse of People with Disabilities: A Call to Action, explores these difficult issues and offers advice.

The book is by Nancy M. Fitzsimons, MSW, PhD. She is Master’s of Social Work Program director and associate professor in the Department of Social Work at Minnesota State University, Mankato. She has an extensive background in teaching, social work and investigative work.

The book is very timely because of the number of cases of financial exploitation and physical abuse which have been in the news lately. It is published by Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company, a Baltimore-based firm.

The book is designed to help self-advocates, professionals and family members to stop abuse before it starts and to empower persons with disabilities. Fitzsimons gives advice on how to learn ways to defend themselves against abuse and violence and to identify situations that might make a person more vulnerable to violence or abuse. The book also describes how to recognize the indicators of various forms of abuse and exploitation, and how to take action.

One helpful feature of the book is an appendix that allows selfadvocates to compile their own information on his or her own safety resources network. The book also contains exercises that would be helpful to a wide range of readers.

The book is 248 pages long and costs $35. For more information contact www.brookes publishing.com ✦✦✦✦✦

F

rom Spain to Georgia, France to Minnesota, Ron Lykins has traveled the world coaching and training wheelchair basketball teams. Now, after 29 years of experience, Lykins is proud to

And we are backing up those words with real action at the White House,” said Biden.

“This is our first step to ensure that we have a strong advocate for people with disabilities at “I couldn’t think of anywhere the highest levels of our adbetter to coach than Mizzou,” ministration.” said Lykins. “It has great academics, sports, cultural activi- Dale, who is partially blind, ties and fantastic facilities. will have direct access to the This position was very appeal- president in this role and he ing not just to me, but to lots of will coordinate the administration’s efforts to ensure that people.” people with disabilities are on A former coach of the USA a level playing field with all Women’s Paralympic Wheel- Americans. chair Basketball Team, Lykins has led his teams to win gold Originally from Chicago, Illimedals at both the 2004 and nois, Dale previously served 2008 Paralympic Games. In as the National Disability Di2007, Lykins’ team won the rector for the Obama for gold medal at the Para Pan- America campaign. He also American Games in Rio de served on the Arts Policy ComJaneiro, Brazil, where Mizzou mittee and the Disability Policy TWB player John Gilbert com- Committee for then—Senator peted on the men’s team. Obama. Dale graduated from the University of Illinois at Lykins received his bachelor’s Urbana-Champaign with a degree in community recre- Bachelor’s degree in Advertisation and his master’s degree ing in May 1995. He received in education from the Univer- his JD/MBA in May 1999 from sity of Kentucky, where he the University of Illinois at began his coaching career as a Urbana-Champaign, graduatvolunteer coach for the ing Cum Laude. While attenduniversity’s wheelchair bas- ing law school, Dale was also ketball team. After college, he active in community service. spent nearly 10 years as the ✦✦✦✦✦ head coach of the wheelchair basketball team at the Univereven Minnesota artists sity of Wisconsin-Whitewater. have been awarded VSA arts of Minnesota “The Tiger Wheelchair Basketball program has grown Career Advancement Grants. considerably over the past five This is the 13th year for the years,” said Diane Dahlmann, competitive grants, which are director of Mizzou Recreation funded by the Jerome FoundaServices and Facilities. “The tion. The grants honor exceladdition of Ron Lykins will lence by Minnesota artists with allow the program to evolve disabilities. The winners were and flourish. These are excit- chosen from a field of 54 aping times for our athletes and plicants. They are: Laurel Cazin, St. Paul, visual arts— this important program.” photography; Deb Costandine, St. Paul, visual arts—ceram✦✦✦✦✦ ics, sculpture; Nancy Donoval, t’s a federal first— Minneapolis, performance— Kareem Dale has been storytelling; Delia Jurek, Cennamed as Special Assis- ter City, visual arts— tant to the President for Dis- printmaking; Amy Mattson, ability Policy. The appoint- Buffalo, visual arts—video; ment was announced by Vice Roald Molberg, Duluth, visual President Biden while he was arts—pottery and Nicole leading a presidential delega- Zapko, Bloomington, perfortion at the 2009 Special Olym- mance—theater/mime. pics World Winter Games in Boise, Idaho.

The grants were awarded by a 10-member panel, whose “The commitment that the members have extensive backpresident and I have to Special grounds in written, visual and Olympics and people with dis- performing arts. The grants are abilities is deep and abiding. $1,250 per award. ■ call Mizzou his new home and the Tiger Wheelchair Basketball Team (TWB) his new team. Lykins was named the new coach of TWB recently.

S

I

Access Press Helps You Market Your Organization Access Press provides unique opportunities to reach a targeted and interested audience. Using our niche publication, you can reach more adults throughout the MN, and especially the Twin Cities, disability community than with other any other media alternative.

Contact us today for a copy of our 2008 Participation Information Kit! V: 651-644-2133 ✦ F: 651-644-2136 advertising@accesspress.org

April 10, 2009

Central Corridor

Classifieds

by Jane McClure St. Paul city leaders, business owners and community members are trying to find ways to pay for streetscape improvements when construction starts on the Central Corridor light rail transit line next year. It will cost more than $20 million to bring new street lights, street trees and other amenities they say are needed along University Avenue and in locations in downtown St. Paul.

However, one person’s amenity could be another person’s obstacle. Members of the Metropolitan Council’s Transportation Accessibility Advisory Committee (TAAC) want to meet with St. Paul Public Works officials soon to discuss streetscape improvements sought by the city. TAAC members are concerned that some of the ideas under consideration could create problems. The streetscape concerns were discussed April 1.

St. Paul officials were unhappy to learn that the $914 million light rail project budget doesn’t cover the improvements that long have been promised to businesses along the light rail route. The city is trying to raise funds through tax increment financing, requests to the Minnesota Legislature and the city’s Long-Range Capital Improvement Budget (CIB) process.

City officials would like lantern-style lighting, new street

Reach 11,000 Active, Interested Readers with Access Press Classifieds. $13 up to 12 words, 60¢/word thereafter.

Must be prepaid. Mail with check to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave W, #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 651-644-2133

trees, benches, public art and other amenities. They’d also like to make the sidewalks more visually appealing.

FOR RENT

Decorative pavers or concrete scored and shaped to look like cobblestones may be considered attractive. But for someone in a wheelchair, the uneven surfaces provide a painful, spine-rattling experience.

In a worst-case scenario, someone can sustain injuries talking over such rough surfaces.

Guiding a wheeled walker over the surfaces can also be problematic. People who are visually impaired and use canes jab themselves or lose their canes when the tips get caught in surface cracks and they must stop short.

sibility and user-friendliness along Central Corridor. But TAAC members believe more must be done to emphasize disability community concerns TAAC Member Rozanne to city and Metropolitan CounSeverence has been active in cil officials involved with light community advisory commit- rail design. tee discussions of Central Corridor. She is also monitoring “It’s like people aren’t comthe discussions of public art at municating,” said TAAC each transit station. At some Chairman Ron Biss. of the Hiawatha Corridor light rail stations, there were com- However, the discussion raises plaints that public art installa- another problem. Both St. Paul tions were in fact obstacles to and Minneapolis have made cuts and changes in staff memstation access. bers that work with Ameri“We need to reinforce what cans with Disabilities Act our expectations are for acces- (ADA) compliance. Margot sibility,” said Severance, a Imdieke Cross of the Minnesota State Council on Disabilwheelchair user. ity also serves on the TAAC. Recently the TAAC prepared She said “finding compliance a letter stating what its expec- staff is difficult in light of the tations are for light rail acces- cuts and changes.”

Regional news in review . . .

Electroshock treatments opposed Ray Sandford is a 55-year-old Minnesota resident who is regularly receiving “involuntary outpatient maintenance electroshock.” He has had more than 40 treatments. MindFreedom International, an independent nonprofit coalition of groups working for human rights in mental health, is planning peaceful protests for Ray in Minneapolis/St. Paul area from 1 May to 3 May. Currently Sandford is receiving these involuntary electroshocks every three weeks. Early on these Wednesday mornings, Ray is awakened in his room in his small group home, Victory House, in Columbia Heights. He is escorted the 15 miles to Mercy Hospital. There he is put under anesthesia, electrodes are placed on his head, and he receives Electroconvulsive Therapy or ECT, also known as electroshock.

Like all other states, Minnesota has loopholes allowing citizens to receive electroshock over their expressed wishes. Sandford said the regular forced electroshock is “scary as hell.” He absolutely opposes having the procedure. He says it’s causing poor memory for names such as of friends and his favorite niece. “What am I supposed to do, run away?” he said.

Sandford has been in and out of the mental health system for more than 30 years, with a diagnosis of “bipolar.” He has had severe and overwhelming mental and emotional problems. But he says the shock is making him worse, and causing him great pain and suffering. After months of forced electroshock, Ray got desperate and contacted MindFreedom International. One main reason Sandford is electroshocked is because of the current mental health system tends not to offer many alternatives to the old-fashioned “medical model” of drugs and shock.

MindFreedom’s position on extremely intrusive and potentially irreversible procedures is that, “No always means no,” whatever the circumstance.

15

No date has been set for the TAAC to meet with St. Paul officials. Find out about upcoming meetings at www.met council.gov ■

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

Section 8 subsidized. Convenient SE Minneapolis location. Call 612-378-0331 for availability information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

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

Lewis Park Apartments: Barrier-free housing with wheelchair users in mind. Section 8 subsidized. One- and two-bedroom units. For more information on availability call 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. Equal Opportunity Housing.

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

Equal Opportunity Housing.

Access To Employment Employment ads are $20-$22 per col. inch. April 30 is the deadline for the May 10 issue. Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 • FAX 651-644-2136 • Email: access@accesspress.org PCL CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC.

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO

Blue Lake WWTP • Phase 1 Liquids Improvements Bid Date: April 22, 2009 at 2:00 PM CST Bid Amount: $70,000,000.00 Owner – Metropolitan Council Design – Black & Veatch Design Team PCL encourages all MBE/WBE subcontractors and suppliers to submit bids for this project. We also expect that all bidding subcontractors expend every good faith effort to achieve maximum participation by MBE/WBE’s.

Plans are available for viewing at: Minneapolis Builders Exchange, St. Paul Builders Exchange, Reed Construction Data, NAMC-UM Plan Room, FW Dodge Division McGraw Hill, Meda Minority Contractors/AGC of MN Plan Room.

Minnesota State University, Mankato seeks a leader for the position of Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities.

The Dean serves as the chief administrator and executive officer for the college, reporting directly to the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs. Review of applications will begin 20 April 2009. The position begins 1 July 2009, or as soon thereafter as possible.

For a complete description and application information visit: http://www.mnsu.edu/ humanres/employment

Scopes: demolition, earthwork, utilities, paving, landscaping, precast, masonry, structural steel, waterproofing, roofing, caulking/sealants, doors & windows, aluminum, finishes, elevators, equipment, fire According to MindFreedom, protection, HVAC, plumbing and piping.

A member of the Minnesota

there is no good reason to forcState Colleges and UniversiPCL Construction Services, Inc. ibly electroshock anyone, at ties System.

Attn: Chris Hauck any time. It is inherently intru12200 Nicollet Avenue South sive, traumatic and brain damMinnesota State Mankato is Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 aging. Krista Erickson, chair an Affirmative Action/Equal 952-882-9600 • FAX: 952-882-9900 of MindFreedom’s Shield Opportunity University Campaign, says. “This is terAn Equal Opportunity Employer • M/F/V/H rible. This is a serious human rights violation that should stop. I hope MindFreedom mem- more than a mile south of where LeVasseur was hit. Rechtzigel bers and supporters speak out. Even if Minnesota is following said the people who live at the home where the vehicle was the letter of the current law, the law ought to be changed. And found are not talking to police and have secured an attorney. He Ray has not had the legal power to appeal to higher courts.” said the vehicle and the residents are “closely associated,” but he declined to elaborate. He said a tip from the public led police The Ray Campaign has a web site that includes a five-minute to the car. online video pleading for the electroshock to end, and a nine- [Source: Star Tribune, Dakota County Tribune] minute interview on Minnesota Public Radio, along with freMan sentenced for laptop theft quently asked questions about the Ray campaign, and ways that people can help. Go to www.mindfreedom.org/ray. Or contact A St. Paul man who stole a specialized Braille laptop computer MindFreedom at office@mindfreedom.org or phone 541- was sentenced March 16 to more than four months in jail as punishment. John Harold Richardson, 40, was sentenced for 345-9106.

[Source: David W. Oaks, Director, MindFreedom International] the theft which occurred on a Metro Transit bus in Minneapolis in November 2008. Richardson entered a guilty plea in Hennepin County District Court in February, confessing that he saw the Charges pending in death Charges are anticipated in connection with an accident last laptop in a bag beneath Emily Zitek’s bus seat and stole it. month in which a hearing-impaired Apple Valley woman was Richardson was filmed by bus security cameras during the struck and fatally injured by a motor vehicle. Joan LeVasseur, theft. He was later arrested by Metro Transit Police when he 26, was taken off of life support after the accident, which was seen boarding a bus. Richardson told police that he later occurred on Cedar Avenue March 6. LeVasseur passed away threw the laptop away.

March 13. LeVasseur was crossing the street when she was hit.

Apple Valley Police later found the suspected hit-and-run Zitek, who is blind, used the laptop in her work. The device cost vehicle at an Apple Valley home. The vehicle, a 2003 Ford several thousand dollars. After the laptop was stolen several Focus, was found in a resident’s garage in Lakeville with people and corporations offered to replace the device and the “front-end damage consistent with a pedestrian accident,” said software needed to operate it.

Apple Valley Police Capt. Jon Rechtzigel. The home is a little [Source: Star Tribune] ■

16

April 10, 2009

We would like to acknowledge the GENEROUS donations of these Issue Sponsors:

Introducing Medica AccessAbility Solution,

SM

a Special Needs Basic Care product for those with Medical Assistance.

N

Care coordination

N

Fitness program and a free health club membership

N

Free transportation to health care appointments

Call us to learn more: 1-800-266-2157

Medica. Everyone Benefits®.

Please consider joining as an Issue Sponsor Call: 651-644-2133

s s e r P s s e c c Access Press A g t in r rt o p p su r fo Suppo g in w Thanks to the follo ------------------------------ FRIEND SPONSOR ($50 and above) -----------------------------Dave & Lynda Adams Brigid Alseth Bebe Baldwin Kathleen Ball Vicki & Fred Benjamin Sandi Lane & Monte Blair Susan Bulger Mary & Paul Choiniere Teresa Dock Dawn Doering Neil Doughty Lee & Beverly Ekola Mary & Will Englund Sean & Jeanne Fogarty Leigh A. Gleason Marge Goldberg Ellie Heller Skip & Ellen Houghton Paula Knutzen Jeff Nygaard & Marjorie Huebner Laura Joyce Barb Kane Mary Kay Kennedy Barbara Lemke Russell Lindquist Connie & John Marty Kristi MichaelsonBrian T. Musselman James & Cynthia Musselman Lee Ohnesorge William & Joen Overby Linda Paulson Ann Roscoe Mai Thor Ron Shelby Diane Sprague Cathleen Urbain Michael Wilson Cannon Valley Printing Equity Services of St. Paul, Inc. Guild Incorporated Mental Health Assoc. of MN Nemer, Fieger & Associates, Inc. Reach for Resources Southern MN Regional Legal Services, Inc. United Cerebral Palsy of MN, Inc Ventures Travel, LLC --------------------------- BRONZE SPONSOR ($75 and above) --------------------------Nancy Eustis Martha Hage Kathleen Hagen Craig Dunn & Candace Hart Richard J & Kelly J Matter Donna McNamara & Paul Monroe Paul Mueller Donn Poll & Eric Nelson Mark & Mary Payette Julee Quarve-Peterson Luther Granquist & Anita Schermer Patricia Siebert John G. Smith Peter Vaill Joani Werner IMED Mobility Merrick, Inc. MNDACA The Phoenix Residence, Inc TSE, Inc.

------------------------------ SILVER SPONSOR ($150 and above) above)------------------------------Michael Bjerkesett Jeff Bangsberg & Anita Boucher Robert & Gail Buuck Robert Gregory Doris & John Groven Ronna Linroth Manley and Ann Olson Patricia L. Rogers Robert & Lynda Zimmerman East Suburban Resources Focus Beyond Programs Fraser MN Work Incentives Connection Midwest Special Services NAMI-MN Opportunity Partners Rehabilitation Services Rise, Inc. Ryan Companies US, Inc. SECIL ---------------------------- GOLD SPONSOR ($500 and above) -------------------------Phyllis A. Benjamin (in memoriam) Mary Lou Burdick Advocating Change Together, Inc. Amerimed Home Care, Inc. Around the Cloud Healthcare

Cheri McClellon of CBM Home Health Services Inc Axis Healthcare.

Duff-Westman Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Freedom Health Care, Inc. Tamarack Habilitation Tech., Inc. WE DO CARE ------------------------- BENEFACTOR SPONSOR ($1000 and above) -----------------------Bremer Foundation Catharine C. Reid Fund of Headwaters Foundation for Justice Headwaters Fund MCIL Lynda Milne The Medtronic Foundation SEMCIL Thomas & Lassiter Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation UCare

----------------------- IN KIND (time & services for this issue) issue)---------------------Scott Adams • Amanda Boerboom • Luther Granquist • Mike Gude • Bret Hesla Mary Kay Kennedy • Steve Larson • Clarence Schadegg • John Tschida Nikki Villavicieno

I would like to…

Subscribe & Support Access Press

     

Subscriber $30 Friend $50+ Bronze $75+ Silver $150+ Gold $500+ Benefactor $1000+

SUB

SCR FOR IBE $30 *

Donate at your work place through Community Shares at: www.communitysharesmn.org/

*Receive 12 issues per year in the mail

Please mail your sponsorship/subscription to to: Access Press, Date:_______________ Amt. Enclosed $____________ Name_______________________________________________ 1821 University Ave. W, Address____________________________________________________________________________________________ Suite 104-S, Phone______________________________________ email________________________________________________ St. Paul, MN 55104.

Thank You! In addition to receiving your one-year subscription, all support over $30 per year is tax-deductible.

Reduced subscription rates available upon request for individuals with fixed incomes.

ce ss Pr es s to Ac r fo l ca iti cr is t or pp su r You w ith di sa bi lit ie s le op pe r fo e ic vo e th g in co nt in ue be