November 2009 Edition - Access Press

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Inside

H i s t o r y

■ Call the FluLine–pg 3 ■ Project Lifesaver–pg 4 ■ MSCOD awards–p 9

N o t e

“Disability is a matter of perception.

If you can do just one thing well, you’re needed by someone.”

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— Martina Navratilova

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mpls. MN Permit No. 4766 Return Service Requested

Volume 20, Number 11

Minnesota’s Disability

Community Newspaper

November 10, 2009

Light rail will affect disability service businesses

by Jane McClure Construction of Central Corridor light rail on University Avenue isn’t expected until 2011, but businesses are already making plans. Groups including community development corporations, the University Avenue Business Association and others are working to pull together resources for business needs ranging from marketing to parking.

Later this year the City of St. Paul will be announcing its forgivable loan program for businesses wanting to make off-street parking improvements. Once light rail is built and begins operations in 2014, University Avenue will lose 85 percent of its on-street parking.

Craig Blakely of St. Paul Planning and Economic Development (PED) said the city has pulled together $500,000 to spend on shared off-street parking for businesses. Improvements can include lighting and landscaping, as well as space and signage for disabledonly parking improvements for access to businesses. The loans can be for up to $25,000.

The city has been studying parking issues for more than a

year, and has identified 11 critical areas or hot spots where the loss of on-street parking could create hardships for University Avenue businesses.

Those are areas where some resources may be directed first.

“We know the funds available aren’t enough to meet all of the needs but it’s a start,” Blakely said. The city’s hope is to find more funding in the future, through sources including Metropolitan Council Livable Communities funding.

But a past effort to obtain a Metropolitan Council grant fell short.

The Metropolitan Council is covering the costs of construction of the rail line itself, which is at $914 million. But the costs of streetscape improvements, parking improvements and any business-related expenses are up to city and in some cases, private funding.

The loss of on-street parking, including spots signed for persons with disabilities, will be a problem, said Blakely.

“We are aware that this does create a hardship for businesses and individuals and we’re working to address that.”

Several businesses that serve

the disability community are located along University Avenue. Light rail would provide easier access for their customers and employees, but it would take away needed on-street parking for some businesses.

Although some businesses have their own off-street parking, business owners and operators do have concerns about having to police or monitor their parking lots to keep out park-and-ride rail commuters or people who may be visiting other businesses in the area.

Handi Medical Supply, which supplies many items needed for community members, is located on University near Highway 280. The business will lose “two or three” on-street spaces due to light rail construction, said Mike Bailey of Handi Medical.

“They’re convenient spots and they are used by customers.”

But Handi Medical is fortunate because the business has ample off-street parking on three sides, he added. The business already has to watch its lots and ask people who aren’t customers or employees to not park there.

Bailey said businesses have

Handi Medical is in an area affected by light rail. been able to find out information about resources and developments in light rail plans, through the city and Metropolitan Council. He has participated in community meetings to discuss the project.

“The information provided has been helpful and kept us informed,” he said.

The Low Vision Store at University and Cretin/Vandalia shares a large parking lot with other businesses in its strip mall. Owner Susan Nelson believes the store and its neighbors will have ample parking when rail comes through.

Nelson also said she sees benefits to customers and staff

when light rail begins operations, for convenient access to the store. But she is worried most about how construction impact would be mitigated. “I think having the street torn up could hurt us.” ■

Prosecution ends but scars remain for Justin Hamilton

by Access Press staff The kidnapping and beating of Justin Hamilton, a developmentally disabled man from Lakeville, shocked Minnesotans last fall. The conviction Oct. 19 of the fifth and final suspect in the case and that suspect’s Dec. 22 sentencing date may signal an end in the criminal proceedings.

But for Hamilton, the beating and torture may never go away. Family members have indicated the 25-year-old has difficulty sleeping, working or going out alone. He continues to undergo therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder and other problems. Certain smells and situations can trigger anxiety. Hamilton has fetal alcohol syndrome and other disabilities, but had

worked hard his whole life to overcome them. The attack last fall was a serious setback to his progress.

“His world is very small,” his mother, Carolyn Hamilton, told the Star Tribune last month. “He’s very much afraid.... He has scars that are never going to go away.”

Hamilton has not been present in court, on the advice of his doctors. Family members will speak on his behalf at the sentencing hearing Dec. 22 for Jonathan M. Diepold, 22, of Northfield.

Diepold was convicted of six violent felony crimes and a misdemeanor, following a bench trial. The convictions are for two counts of felony kidnapping, two counts of

felony false imprisonment and one count each of felony aggravated robbery, felony thirddegree assault and gross misdemeanor theft. Dakota County District Judge Tim Wermager presided over the case. Diepold agreed to the proceeding last summer, in which both sides submitted written evidence. Wermager also found Diepold not guilty of one count of assault in the third degree (a felony) and two counts of assault in the fourth degree (motivated by bias— both gross misdemeanors).

Dakota County Attorney James Backstrom is seeking a minimum of eight years’ imprisonment for Diepold. “We are pleased to have now convicted all the persons involved

in the violent kidnapping and assault of this vulnerable victim. We will be seeking a significant prison term for Jonathan Diepold, one of the primary perpetrators involved in this violent attack.”

The judge spoke about Hamilton’s vulnerability and the emotional and well as physical harm that was committed after the sentencing.

The others involved in the two-night attack on Hamilton have already been sentenced.

John Maxwell Maniglia, age 20 of Northfield, pleaded guilty to kidnapping, assault in the third degree (both felonies) and theft (a gross misdemeanor), and was sentenced to eight years in prison on June 15. Diepold and Maniglia were

cited by prosecutors as the ringleaders of the attacks.

Glen Richard Ries, age 34 of Northfield, pleaded guilty to assault in the third degree (a felony) and was sentenced to three years in prison on September 28. Timothy John Ketterling, age 22 of Prior Lake, pleaded guilty to theft (a gross misdemeanor) and was sentenced to four days in jail and 80 hours of community work service on July 20.

The case against Natasha Dahn, now age 17 of Lakeville, was completed in juvenile court.

Hamilton was attacked Oct. 10 and 11, 2008, two weeks after he and Dahn became friends. She lied to the others about being hit by Hamilton.

She was dating Maniglia at the time.

The group took Hamilton to a remote area in southern Dakota Country and beat, cut and burned him. He sustained two broken ribs and many other injuries in the attack. He was also robbed, and he and his family were threatened. At one point he was tied to a tree and burned with a lighter and a heated credit card. After the second beating, Hamilton was found by a passerby and taken for medical treatment.

News of the beating last fall sparked outrage as well as an outpouring of sympathy for Hamilton, and he was flooded with cards, gifts and invitations to visit sports teams and celebrities. ■

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November 10, 2009

Tim Benjamin, Editor

The Charlie Smith award banquet will have happened by the time you read this. But I have a problem; it hasn’t happened before I’m writing this. So I can’t offer you any

solid information about how the celebration went, but I feel confident it was excellent. I know that we had more RSVPs than we’ve ever had. We had our first silent auction; and we had a new and bigger location.

I hope that by the time you read this, you joined us, and we all had a great time. Next month I’ll fill you in on all the fun details.

For decades, almost every state and national legislative session has introduced new bills to reform some portion of our health care system. But since the mid-1960s, when Medicare and Medicaid were introduced, there has been no substantial medical reform legislation approved at the federal level. During the Great Depression, with its severe challenges to our economy, we passed the Social Security Act, even with strong opposition from both liberals and conservatives. The economic situa-

tion we find ourselves in now, as difficult as it is, may be again a perfect time for some new comprehensive reform.

And wouldn’t it be something if consumers who have saved money on medical care could have cash to add to our economic recovery?

While the drumbeat of opposition to health care reform keeps sounding the note of “increasing costs and deficits,” in fact there are lots of interesting ideas floating around on how to save money on our health care. I recently read a report, “ Administrative Waste in the U.S. Health Care System in 2003, by Himmelstein, Woolhandler and Wolfe. It argued that administrative costs associated with U.S. health care are generally estimated to be 15 to 25% of total expenditures. The authors suggest that if the U.S. were to adopt a single-payer system like Canada’s, administrative

cost-savings alone would amount to nearly $300 billion per year—far more than any estimates of what it would cost to insure all uninsured people.

Even without a single-payer system, what if all the insurance companies would standardize their benefit packages, making it easier for consumers and employers to compare (and save) costs? That’s an obvious cost-reduction called for by Professor Kenneth Thorpe of Emory University.

And what if all insurance companies had standard co-pays and deductibles, and a way of equitably assuming responsibility to insure people with pre-existing conditions? What if all the companies had to agree on what tests would be pre-approved, and what medications and durable goods would be standardized for approval? Couldn’t we save a lot by cutting out unnecessary multiple visits, but adding

greater depth to the interactions among patients, doctors, hospitals and insurance companies? Of course, we all in the disability community have reason to be concerned when we hear talk about standardizing. But something has to change. We may have to consider the greater good along with what is best for each of us as individuals.

I’ll probably get in trouble from some of my doctor friends for suggesting this, but how about limiting unnecessary care and taking away the incentives for a physician to increase income by increasing the number of tests and procedures ordered? A real simple answer would be to put all physicians on a salary system; 30% of U.S. physicians are already on a salary. I know, I know what many will say: quality would erode! But would it? Or would the only casualty be greed and compe-

tition? On the physician’s side, there is no question that in any health care reform package, there will have to be some malpractice lawsuit reform as well. While we need to create a system that better serves all of us who need health care, we also need to have a system that lets physicians and nurses do their jobs to their best abilities, correctly and cost-effectively.

Our legislators have some tough decisions to make. The one thing I’m sure about is that I’m glad I’m not a politician. But I can’t be just a critical bystander, either. This may be the most important public policy debate of our lifetimes. Time to read, think, talk, write. Then do it all again.

I hope that all of our articles on the flu (H1N1) have played a part in keeping you healthy. Have a good month and let us know what you’re thinking. ■

History Note

‘Ugly laws’ were a very ugly way to discriminate

by Luther Granquist In 1881, Chicago added the infamous “ugly law” to its Municipal Code: “No person who is diseased, maimed, mutilated or in any way deformed so as to be an unsightly or disgusting object or improper person to be allowed in or on the public ways or other public places in this city, shall therein or thereon expose him-

self to public view, under a penalty of not less than one dollar nor more than fifty dollars for each offense.”

Other cities passed similar ordinances, often specifically making it illegal for such persons to beg in public.

Apparently neither Minneapolis nor St. Paul enacted such a law. A search could turn up

Access Press

no such laws here. But both cities outlawed vagrancy and begging. An 1877 Minneapolis ordinance said that persons who had “no visible means of support” or who live “idly without lawful employment” and who could not give a judge a good account of themselves could be fined up to $100 or spend 90 days in the workhouse. The City Council added persons “found begging” to the law in 1891. St. Paul’s ordinance tracked the amended Minneapolis law. These laws could be, and sometimes were, used to remove persons with visible disabilities from the streets.

Although “unsightliness” itself was not punished, some civic leaders of the day found persons with visible disabilities offensive. A committee

Co-Founder/Publisher (1990-1996) .................................................. Wm. A. Smith, Jr. Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief (1990-2001) ....................... Charles F. Smith Board of Directors . Brigid Alseth, Mike Chevrette, Kelly Matter, Christen Munn, Anita Schermer, Carrie Selberg, Tom Squire and Kay Willshire Editor ......................................................................................................... Tim Benjamin Assistant Editor ......................................................................................... Jane McClure Business Manager ................................................................................. Dawn Frederick Cartoonist ..................................................................................................... Scott Adams Production ...................................................... Ellen Houghton at Presentation Images 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.

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chairperson speaking at the State Conference of Charities and Corrections in 1894 described “the children nobody wants” as “the defective, the unattractive, the unlovely.”

The Minnesota State Board of Corrections and Charities, in its First Biennial Report in 1885, told of a woman who “could not for shame” have guests in her home for years until her child with severe disabilities was institutionalized.

Judge M. A. Mott, a longtime trustee of the Minnesota Institute for Defectives, spoke in 1888 of persons in the “custodial classes” who blight their homes and demoralize “the family and the neighborhood.”

No “ugly law” would likely be passed today, although city ordinances outlawing solicitation, lurking, or disorderly conduct could still be used against persons with visible disabilities. Few public officials today would utter statements like those made more

than a century ago. But the “ugly attitude” reflected in those statements still surfaces on occasion when persons with disabilities seek to live in ordinary neighborhoods, when persons using wheelchairs want to get around town, and when persons who need assistance eating go out to dinner. ■ The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mncdd.org and www. partnersinpolicymak ing.com

Correction The article published October 10 in Access Press on the ECT work group contained some information that was not from Pamela Hoopes, Legal Director of Minnesota Disability Law Center. Some infor-

mation was from other sources and edited into the article by Access Press. The Minnesota Disability Law Center does not release or approve the release of names or client information, according to its policies.

November 10, 2009

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New free service

FluLine to answer questions about symptoms, illness by the Minnesota Department of Health Got a question about seasonal or H1N1 flu? Wondering about your own symptoms?

The Minnesota FluLine is now open to offer support and treatment options for people with possible symptoms of influenza. Minnesotans with flu symptoms can call toll-free line at 1-866-259-4655 for information and treatment options.

Professionals will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. People with limited English skills will be connected with an interpreter.

There is no charge for the call.

“We have been concerned that this flu season could place a huge burden on our health care system,” said Dr. Sanne Magnan, Minnesota Commissioner of Health. “By providing support and treatment options to people over the phone, we hope this new service will allow our health care provid-

ers and facilities to focus on those people who most need their attention.”

Callers with flu symptoms will be connected with a participating nurse at MN FluLine, or a nurse at a triage line operated by their own provider network or health plan.

The nurses will evaluate the health concerns of callers and discuss treatment options, using consistent criteria to determine which treatment option is most appropriate for each individual.

Possible treatment options can include rest and fluids at home, a prescription for an antiviral medication, or medical evaluation in a clinic or hospital.

FluLine was developed in response to the first global influenza pandemic in more than 40 years. Officials are concerned that the pandemic could

overwhelm the health care system, and they believe that FluLine can reduce some of the demands on the system.

FluLine is also expected to help decrease the spread of the flu. By providing assistance over the phone, the new service is expected to limit the number of potentially infectious people who gather in emergency rooms, urgent care centers and clinics.

MN FluLine is the first influenza triage line in the country providing statewide reach and the option of prescribing anti-viral drugs under standing orders from a physician. It is a unique public-private partnership involving the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), the Minnesota Hospital Association, the Minnesota Council of Health Plans, health care providers, local health departments, and the

Citizens learn about Spring Lake Park foster home

by Tim Hennagir, Blaine/Spring Lake Park Life Concerned citizens who attended a recent informational meeting respectfully learned about a new Spring Lake Park adult foster home location.

Council members recently learned residents living near 7929 Jackson St. N.E. aren’t happy a four-bed adult foster care facility is coming to their neighborhood. Residents who attended a Sept. 21 council meeting asked city leaders and staff why Duluth-based At Home Living Facilities, Inc. was allowed to site the home in their neighborhood.

City Administrator Barbara Nelson and City Attorney Jeff Carson were present during the hour and 15 minute meeting Oct. 6. No council members attended.

Nelson asked the 35 to 40 residents who were present to keep their questions and comments brief. She also introduced two Anoka County representatives.

Bill Pinsonnault, Anoka County’s community social services and mental health department director, provided foster home background for residents.

Darrin Helt, Anoka County Human Services manager of mental health and chemical health services, also attended the meeting.

Pinsonnault reviewed a corporate foster care fact sheet.

He also shared information about current foster homes located in the county. Currently there are 114 corporate foster homes in Anoka County that serve persons with disabilities, Pinsonnault said. This is in addition to about 190 child and family foster care homes and another 64 adult family foster homes located within Anoka County’s communities.

In family foster care, the owner lives at the residence, he said.

According to Pinsonnault, corporate foster homes similar to the one that will be lo-

cated on Jackson Street have around the clock shift coverage. Individuals are placed in foster care because of their inability to live independently due to age, vulnerability or severity of disability, Pinsonnault said.

A recent state audit indicated Anoka County needed 15 to 20 additional adult foster homes to care for 55 individuals who were living outside the county, he said.

Anoka County social workers identify individuals with a need for corporate foster care, Pinsonnault said. Family members and professionals are often involved in that process.

When the decision is made to establish a home, a letter of interest is sent to potential, preferred foster providers describing clients’ needs, according to Pinsonnault.

“We sit down and do a review, and make sure a proHome - cont. on p. 14

Children’s Physician Network (CPN). CPN is responsible for the actual operation of FluLine.

The service was developed with input and advice from a number of other partners, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“This unprecedented collaboration means that Minnesotans with flu-like symptoms have another tool in their tool kit to fight the flu – a place to have questions answered about their illness and be evaluated for possible treatment,” said Dr. Aaron DeVries, medical epidemiologist at MDH. “We’re grateful to have the support of so many partners in making the FluLine available to the people of our state.”

The Minnesota FluLine was created specifically to meet the needs of people with possible symptoms of the flu. By definition, those symptoms include a fever of 100 degrees or more, along with a cough or sore throat. Flu symptoms can also include runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and/or fatigue. In some cases, symptoms of novel H1N1 influenza can also include gastrointestinal problems in addition to respiratory symptoms.

In its initial operations, the FluLine experienced a very high volume of callers. In the first 21

hours, the hot line was overwhelmed with 2,100 calls. Many callers encountered busy signals, while others waited hours for nurses to call them back.

As of late October adjustments were made to accommodate the service, which has 50 open lines. People who experience busy signals are urged to call back.

The call screeners triage sick patients and connect those with severe symptoms or underlying conditions to nurses for further medical help. Nurses have the ability to authorize antiviral drugs and send prescriptions to the callers’ local pharmacies.

People who need information about the flu, but do not have symptoms, are encouraged to visit the flu information page on the MDH Web site at www.mdhflu.com. The Web site offers a wide range of information and resources, including an interactive flu shot clinic finder.

In most cases, people can recover from the flu at home without needing to visit a health care provider. Those who may be at highest risk for complications from the flu include children less than two years of age, people 65 years of age or older, pregnant women, and people with underlying medical conditions.

Health officials continue to emphasize prevention measures as the first line of defense against the flu: stay home if you’re sick with a flu-like illness, cover your coughs and sneezes with a sleeve or a tissue, and wash your hands frequently.

For most people, staying home when they are sick means staying home from work or school, and avoiding other locations where they could expose others to the flu, until at least 24 hours after their fever resolves, without the aid of medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. People are being encouraged to get vaccinated now against seasonal flu, and get the H1N1 vaccine as it becomes available. The H1N1 vaccine will be an extremely valuable tool for preventing infection.

Partners of the Minnesota FluLine Project include Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Children’s Hospitals and Clinic of Minnesota, Children’s Physician Network, Fairview Health Services, HealthPartners, Mayo Clinic, Medica, Metropolitan Health Plan, OptumHealth, Park Nicollet Health Services, Prime West Health, St. Mary’s Duluth Clinics, UCare and United Way 211. ■

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November 10, 2009

New Hope Autism Center, Project Lifesaver team up

by Nancy Sopkowiak Shelly Rakhshani adores her two “amazing boys” - Brock is 10 and Landon 7. Brock has been diagnosed with a severe form of autism. Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Rakhshani dreamt for years about starting an organization to advo-

cate for families affected by autism. Rakhshani recently founded New Hope Autism Center (NHAC) to bring a message of hope, information, support and resources to the community touched by autism.

The organization actively advocates for individuals and families affected by autism.

Rakshani is now the organization’s chief executive officer and director.

NHAC is already busy in the community. One NHAC program helps families with personal care assistance.

NHAC also presents informational seminars to companies about autism awareness. In April 2010 NHAC plans to hold an autism walk.

NHAC hosted a Reason for Hope Retreat in October and unveiled its new work with Project Lifesaver. Anyone re-

Shelly Rakhshani, Tasha Tamm, Jamie Vogt, Jason Heiling, Jodi Tamm-Rajkowski

lated to or working with an individual with a disability or healthcare need could attend.

Attendees learned new strategies for coping with the needs of people with disabilities.

Rakhshani talked about her passion for being an autism advocate and shared her personal insights with the group.

“NHAC is my son’s voice and if it wasn’t for him NHAC would not exist,” she said.

Participants also discovered information about services and products available from ex-

hibitors at the Reason for Hope Retreat—Ability Fair. Audiences were engaged by the interesting speakers during the retreat. Aaron Cross spoke about Living with Abilities.

He shared fun and inspirational moments from his life. In 2004 he and his Archery Teammates shot their way to the Paralympic Bronze medal; the first team medal for the U.S. Paralympic Archery Team.

But one of the most potentially important things unveiled at the retreat is New Hope Autism Center’s efforts to help bring Project Lifesaver to the community. Bob Parrott captivated the crowd with his presentation about Project Lifesaver. The Project Lifesaver Program provides quick response to save lives and reduce potential injury for adults and children who wander due to Alzheimer’s, autism and other related cognitive conditions.

Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability and it leads to wandering behavior, according to the Autism Society of America. Two government studies indicate about 1 in 100 children have autism disorders. In a recent National Autism Association online survey, 92% of the respondents said their autistic child was at risk of wandering.

Wandering can have serious consequences. When wanderers are not found within 24 hours it can lead to significant injury or death.

In 2008 Keith Kennedy, an adult with autism, wandered off from a summer camp in Wisconsin. Thousands of people searched for him.

“Keith was missing for a solid week,” said his mother Linda Kennedy. “It was a week of utter hell—that ended in great joy, but great trepidation because he was very, very near death when he was found.”

She wishes Keith had been wearing a Project Lifesaver device at that time.

Project Lifesaver searches average less than 30 minutes to find the missing person. Cli-

Bob Parrott, with Project Lifesaver ents enrolled in the service wear a Personal Locator Unit (PLU) on their wrist or ankle.

The PLU constantly sends out a radio frequency signal, which can be tracked regardless of where the person has wandered—even into a densely wooded area or a concrete structure like a garage. As soon as a client goes missing, caregivers call locally trained agencies and they are dispatched to the wanderer’s area with handheld search and rescue receivers. Only two trained searchers are needed to locate the individual.

There have been 2,014 Project Lifesaver searches nationally, all successful. Project Lifesaver works hand in hand with local law enforcement agencies to run these programs.

Project Lifesaver is operating in 45 states, Canada and Australia. Seventeen Minnesota counties are using the technology—including Hennepin, Ramsey and Wright. Parrott is on a mission to bring Project Lifesaver to every county in Minnesota.

NHAC has committed to bring the Project Lifesaver Program to Stearns and Benton

counties. Jodi Rajkowski, NHAC President, originally learned about Project Lifesaver from her sister who is in law enforcement.Rajkowski presented the Project Lifesaver Program to the NHAC Board.

“There is a need for this program in our area and I think this is something we need to move fast on.”

That’s when NHAC started its effort to raise money and implement Project Lifesaver.

One cost analysis shows: The national average of an Alzheimer’s search is 9 hours x $1,500 per hour = $13,500.

In comparison, the basic cost to start Project Lifesaver for an entire county is $4,000.00.

Parrott most likely will provide the Project Lifesaver training for Stearns and Benton counties’ law enforcement once the funds are available.

After the program is up and running, NHAC will play whatever role is needed to support the local Project Lifesaver Program. ■ To learn more about Project Lifesaver: www.projectlife saver.org/ For more information about NHAC www.new hopeautismcenter.org/home

November 10, 2009

5

Work, life skills and recreation program helps Wisconsin youth make the transition into community by the Wallace Group Manager Stephanie Briggs and human service technician LeAnn Mergens, the program’s primary staff members.

“These two are hard workers and do a really good job of working together,” said Stuesser. “Not any two people could make this work and they truly have.” Stuesser helped set up buildings at the stables to be used for life skills classes, meals and other recreational functions. These include indoor and outdoor riding arenas, a furnished and insulated outbuilding with a deck overlooking the riding area and a separate kitchen and family room area for meals and other programming.

A portion of the startup costs for Life Opportunities was covered by a grant from the Andersen Corporate Foundation. Support from Hudson High School has been ongo-

ing, with a great deal of input from teacher Jim Schreiber, who was involved in the planning meetings.

“I just wanted to have another option for these kids to go to,” he said. “That’s what my main intention was,” said Schreiber, who often visits the stables on his own time. As a primary teacher for many of the program participants for the past four to six years, Schreiber had an equal interest in seeing his students succeed. He works with children and young adults with cognitive disabilities.

Briggs said participants have become happier and healthier through their involvement in Life Opportunities. Some use adaptive equipment to perform everyday tasks. One individual chooses phrases on a speaking device to let others know his thoughts and needs.

At the stables in River Falls, Wis., parent and stable owner Mary Lou Stuesser, left, works with Lauren Hallbeck, center, and ProAct Case Manager Stephanie Briggs, who stands on a ramp used to board the horses.

With the encouragement of “We met weekly, planning a group of Wisconsin parents what kind of program would of young adults with disabili- benefit our daughter and Lou’s ties, ProAct has created a new (Mary Lou Stuesser) daughprogram that combines work, ter,” said Hallbeck. “We felt life skills training and recre- that ProAct had the resources ation called “Life Opportuni- to come over to St. Croix ties,” a highly active and mo- County and run it.” The disbile effort to serve recent tran- tributor of restaurant products sition program graduates from Hudson High School and others in the area.

“The most important component is that it’s all in the community and it’s based in the community,” said Carolyn Dobis, director of programs and services for Eagan-based ProAct. Horseback riding, meal preparation and housekeeping, warehouse packaging work, healthy eating and fitness activities are just a few of the program features.

The ultimate goal is to help ProAct participants and staff work together at SORSA in Hudson, Wis. From left are people with disabilities to lead Jessica Stuesser, Case Manager Stephanie Briggs, Lauren Hallbeck, Jamie Olson, more fulfilling and productive Kyle Glowe, Ben Feia, human service technician LeeAnn Mergens and Matt Harper. lives. Multiple sites in River Falls and Hudson are used to maintain a busy routine with a hopes to attract other area busigreat deal of variety for the nesses to employ people from Kent Fordyce eight individual group mem- Life Opportunities.

612-889-2959 • fordyce6@aol.com bers, aged 21 and older.

Stuesser, who operates the Fax: 952-472-1458 Jeff Hallbeck, who has a stables in River Falls, where daughter in the program, em- the participants ride horses 6371 Bartlett Blvd, Mound, MN 55364 ploys the participants in a vari- twice a week, works closely Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor ety of tasks at his restaurant alongside the animals and rides 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006 & 2005 supply business, SORSA in with a young man who uses a Hudson. After finding out how wheelchair. The activity helps limited the post-high school people with physical disabiliemployment prospects were for ties to stretch and work muscles his daughter, Lauren, he began that they might not otherwise meeting with other parents and use. teachers from Hudson High She was especially imSchool in October of 2008. pressed with ProAct Case

Kent’s Accounting Service, LLC

Full lives for people with disabilities

As part of ProAct’s new Life Opportunities program in River Falls, Wisconsin, Matt Harper enjoys therapeutic riding with help from stable owner Mary Lou Stuesser Mergens, who has 20 years work experience in the disabilities field, drives the ProAct bus across a wide area to pick up participants, and provides direct care during the day. The structure lends itself to a high energy levels and the group meshes well, the staff members explained. From meal preparation to cleaning and laundry, most of the services associated with the program are performed by the participants themselves. Students from the University of Wisconsin- River Falls may also be helping with the program soon.

As some participants sort SORSA dinnerware by size and color on workdays to earn paychecks, others run a paper

shredder to dispose of documents. Later, at the Hudson YMCA, they take part in weight training, basketball and swimming. Each function offers another opportunity for personal growth.

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November 10, 2009

Regional news in review . . .

U of M students fight for access University of Minnesota building Scott Hall has multiple stairways and lack of ramps that make it inaccessible for students with mobility disabilities, including those using walkers, canes or wheelchairs. Areas of study located in Scott Hall include American studies, American-Indian studies, AfricanAmerican and African studies and Chicano studies.

If a student with a disability has a class scheduled in Scott, an issue facilities management said has happened in the past, the University will work with facilities management and professors to move the course to an accessible building.

But this move can cause great stress for the professor and fellow students and put unnecessary pressure on the disabled student, causing the student with a mobility disability to feel targeted or excluded. The Disabled Student Cultural Center (DSCC) is lobbying the Board of Regents to put funds toward making Scott Hall accessible to all students on campus— including those with disabilities.

DSCC has approached the board with the issue of Scott Hall accessibility for the past three years, and most recently one year ago, but each time received no action. Other Scott Hall resources, such as teacher office hours, cannot be moved. The University does eventually want to make Scott Hall accessible to students with disabilities, but it would like to wait until the building undergoes a full renovation, facilities management Associate Vice President Mike Berthelsen said.

Because the building is of historic value to the University, Berthelsen said it will definitely remain a part of campus.

However, due to the building’s old age, Scott will need major renovations, a project that won’t happen for at least another six years.

One of the reasons for the delay is the more than $2 billion in facility needs over the next 10 years the University expects to incur, Berthelsen said, estimating that making Scott Hall fully accessible with “substantial” ramps and an addition for an elevator would cost around $1 to $2 million.

“When we have limited money, we need to target our biggest needs,” Berthelsen said. “The Scott Hall renovations just haven’t gotten to the top of the list yet.”

Scott Hall does have a handicap accessible ramp to the building from the street, but that ramp leads directly to stairs.

The back door, which opens to the street, leads to a room with yet another flight of stairs, allowing students with mobility disabilities to only access stairs.

“We have one of the best disability services departments in the U.S.,” said DSCC co-director of programming Alex Kaminsky, one of the authors of the letter going to the Board of Regents. “But these changes are imperative and the conditions are unfair.”

The letter presented to the Board of Regents asks the University to address inaccessibility issues before looking at renovating accessible buildings such as Folwell.

[Source: Minnesota Daily, Inclusion Daily Express]

New affirmative action plan OK’d The Minneapolis City Council approved a new Affirmative Action plan for Minneapolis City government Oct. 16. The plan will direct the city’s efforts to develop and maintain a diverse, result-driven organization that reflects the communities it serves. Development of the plan had been controversial because of concerns about budget cuts and the city’s ability to investigate and respond to complaints.

“We needed this new affirmative action plan and I’m pleased that it’s now in place,” said Mayor R.T. Rybak. “In the days of old, affirmative action plans were mostly about compliance, but here at the City of Minneapolis, we can do better than just comply, and that’s why this plan is designed to help make the City of Minneapolis better reflect the demographics of the diverse communities it serves.”

“The City of Minneapolis is an employer that strives to hire, develop and retain an excellent workforce,” said City Council Member Paul Ostrow, chair of the Ways and Means committee.

“We do that by having an environment that welcomes a diverse group of employees and city departments that are accountable to their management and hiring practices.”

The city has built diversity measurements into its business planning process and Results Minneapolis discussions. Cultural competence is now part of the City’s leadership selection

process and performance reviews and elements of diversity have been integrated into all trainings offered by the Human Resources Department.

The City’s Human Resources department led the effort to revise the existing Affirmative Action plan and worked with elected officials, department leaders and community groups over several years to ensure that a broad range of voices were included in the plan’s development.

The entire Affirmative Action Report is available on the City’s Web site at www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/council/2009meetings/20091016/docs/AffirmativeActionPlan_PLAN.pdf [Source: City of Minneapolis]

Fees granted in Target case Citing class counsel’s efforts in settling a case that established for the first time that equal access to a store’s facilities by disabled persons extends to Internet commerce, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California granted the plaintiffs’ motion for reasonable attorneys’ fees. The fee award was announced earlier this fall.

The Target case has worldwide implications for visually impaired persons who want to have better access to Internet sites. The case has wound its way through the court system for several years.

The National Federation of the Blind and individual members of a national class and a California subclass of blind persons sued Target Corp. The plaintiffs alleged that the inaccessibility of Target’s Web site for blind persons denied them full and equal access to Target stores in violation of California law and the Americans with Disabilities (ADA).

The parties reached a settlement. Target agreed to modify its Web site to meet accessibility guidelines. Target also established a $6 million settlement fund. The plaintiffs filed a motion for $2,321,050 in attorneys’ fees plus costs. The district court determined that some reduction in the fees was necessary.

The district court granted half of all hours spent litigating the plaintiffs’ unsuccessful motion for preliminary injunction because some parts of the evidentiary record were used to support In Review - cont. on p. 15

News - cont. on p. 14

November 10, 2009

7

8

November 10, 2009

People and places

News about people in our community compiled by Access Press staff

Theater troupe raising funds Fidgety Fairy Tales is a musical that re-imagines some of our most memorable children’s tales. In these versions, children with mental health disorders become the heroes of the tales.

The performances are led by Matt Jenson and Marya Hart, and involve young actors ages 9-18. Some of the actors have mental health disorders.

Fidgety Fairy Tales has been invited to perform in Washington, DC at the Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health National Conference in December. The troupe is raising funds through performances this fall and through a PayPal link at the Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health Web site at www.macmh.org Fidgety Fairy Tales combats the negative and damaging stereotypes that surround mental illness by portraying children with mental health disorders as the heroes rather than the villains. The group has performed more than 40 times throughout Minnesota.

Fidgety is the first production of Open•UpTheatre, a youth performance company formed by the MACMH to

promote positive images of children with mental health disorders.

In this retelling of the classic tales Rapunzel, Sleeping Beauty, and Little Red Riding Hood, Jenson and Hart have crafted a lively and thought-provoking production that artfully combats the negative and damaging stereotypes that surround mental illness. Their characters, all based on wellknown fairy tale characters, have mental health disorders. Through the telling of each of their stories, the audience comes to see that people with disorders such as depression and ADHD can just as readily be the heroes of the story.

Jenson (writer/director) most recently choreographed the Children’s Theatre Company’s production of “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” and University Opera’s “Seven Deadly Sins.” He teaches critical literacy, theatre, and dance at the Children’s Theatre Company, and co-ordinates arts-based public awareness projects for the Minne- sota Association for Children’s Mental Health. Marya Hart (composer/lyricist) most recently composed music for Stepping Stone Theater’s production of “Almost to Freedom” and History Theatre’s Raw Stages reading of “20 Days to Find a Wife.” She teaches music at the Children’s Theatre Company and performs throughout the Twin Cities The production has been so successful that a sequel, funded in part by the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, is set to premiere in April 2010. Fidgety Fairy Tales 2 - Another Mental Health Musical will address autism, post-traumatic stress, and explosive anger through the stories of “The Prince and the Pea,” “Gretel & Hansel,” and “The Frog Prince.”

Braille supervisor passed away

Healing garden is dedicated Fairview Multiple Sclerosis Achievement Center (MSAC) patients dedicated a new healing garden this fall at 2200 University Ave., Suite 140, St. Paul. A $10,000 grant from the University Medical Auxiliary was used to transform the space, which included installing new raised flower beds, an arbor entrance to set the tone and provide a transition into the space, a pergola for shade, a water feature to provide a calming effect and texture to stimulate the senses.

Estimates for the full construction of the garden were more than $75,000, far exceeding funds provided by the grant.

Neighboring RockTenn packaging company donated wood, landscape block and other supplies for the garden. RockTenn employees also volunteered to clean and repair the fence and construct the arbor, pergola and the raised flower beds.

Experts at Fairview MSAC say a well-designed garden that includes water features and special plantings can promote health and healing and reduce stress. Sights, sounds, smells and textures stimulate the senses, and sunshine helps with Vitamin D production. Fairview’s MSAC is a specialized therapeutic rehabilitation and chronic disease management program offering outpatient rehabilitation therapies and an adult day program for people with MS.

Eames, service dog pioneer, has died Ed Eames, Ph.D. died on Oct. 25. He was co-founder and president of the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP). IAADP began in 1993 in St. Louis by Ed, his wife Tony, and with Joan Froling. IAADP works to improve public awareness about the use of dog guides. The organization empowers persons with disabilities with guide, hearing and service dogs to work together; fosters the assistance dog movement through global network, provides information in many formats about dog guides, and offers advocacy, education and peer support.

The organization has grown from a small number of advocates to more than 2,500. IAADP is led by an all volunteer board of dog partners who are elected into their leadership positions. IAADP is a membership organization.

The Eames often traveled across country and around the world with their dog guides. Ed and Tony were tireless advocates and public speakers on a variety of issues concerning equal access to dog guides among other things.

“Ed will surely be missed,” said Access Press contributor Clarence Schadegg. “We lost a leader in the area of public education about service animals.”

A memorial has been set up for Eames. Contact IAADP at info@iaadp.org, www.iaadp.org or 586-826-3938

Mary Archer, supervisor of the Braille Unit, at the State Services for the Blind Communication Center, died Sept. 15 at age 70. She had worked for the center for more than 20 years.

Trained as a math teacher, Archer turned her attention to Braille in 1975. Always a tireless advocate, volunteer Braille transcriber of literature and mathematics, and then instructor, she became a supervisor at the Communication Center while holding various board positions on the National Braille Association and the Braille Authority of North America. In August, she was diagnosed with a rare form of very fast-moving cancer. But in typical fashion for her, Archer left her Braille Unit with clear instructions and fully capable of carrying on without her.

Services were held Sept. 22. Memorials are preferred to the Health care providers visit UCare National Braille Association, St. Matthew Lutheran Church in A senior-level delegation of health care executives and People and Places - cont. on p. 10 Columbia Heights, or Caringbridge.

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November 10, 2009

9

MSCOD Awards luncheon in Duluth honors small town cafe for hiring teens with disabilities Keynote speaker Martinez says Obama administration really is seeking “good jobs for all�

by Joe Kimball Peggy Sue’s Cafe in Willow River didn’t have a dishwasher last winter, meaning owners Peggy and Al Villa had to take turns cleaning the pots and pans and dishes and silverware. The family-run cafe in a 112-yearold building on Hwy. 61—just south of Moose Lake—can’t afford to keep many employees.

So the Villas were more than thrilled to take on two high school students with disabilities looking for starter jobs as part of a work program coordinated by the Northern Lights Special Education Cooperative.

It was a win-win, Peggy Villa said: the cafe got dependable dishwashers at lunch each day, with the salaries paid through Northern Lights. The students got work experience and earned some money. Both— who have now graduated and left the program—were a big help at the cafe, she said.

On Oct. 12, the Villas got a bonus for their participation in the hiring program: they received the Small Employer of the Year Award at the annual Minnesota State Council on Disability’s annual awards luncheon. Al had to stay home and cook, but Peggy Villa was there and accepted with a wide smile and thanks for the program that had worked so well for all involved.

Including disability in the diversity spectrum The luncheon, held this year in Duluth, featured keynote speaker Kathy Martinez, an assistant secretary in the U.S. Labor Department’s Office of Disability Employment Policy.

Before being nominated for the federal position by President Obama, Martinez, who is blind, had been executive director of the World Institute on Disability and specialized in employment, asset building, independent living, international development, and diversity and gender issues.

The crowd of more than 100 laughed when she told stories about being in airports and teasing people who apparently are surprised to learn she’s an Obama administration official traveling for work: “I tell them I’m Michele Obama’s makeup artists, or her driver, or that I’m the White House photographer.�

Using braille notes on the podium, she told the council members, award winners and guests that the president – who is receiving much credit for focusing much more attention on disability issues than previous administrations—is serious about improving job opportunities for people with disabilities, particularly in this

• Large Employer of the Year to MnDOT Seeds program, which provides jobs for high school and college students. • Minnesota Award to Chuck Hamilton, recently retired director of the State Services for the Blind.

tough economic environment.

The White House has issued this guiding principle: “The President will work to nurture a society that values the contributions of all of our citizens and residents, including the 54 million people in this country living with disabilities. While people with disabilities are integrated into society as never before, we must do more.�

And Martinez said her boss, Labor Secretary Hilda L. Solis, has made it clear that the goal is “good jobs for all,� and that includes women, minorities, veterans and ALL people with disabilities.

Martinez said she’s impressed with the work in Minnesota that helps people with disabilities find work. The Pathways to Employment project—run by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and the Minnesota State Council on Disability—is a great example of people working together.

The Pathways mission: to increase competitive employment of people with disabilities and meet Minnesota’s workforce needs by bringing together people with disabilities, employers, businesses, government and providers. “Collaboration is the only way to make progress,�

Martinez said.

She said the nation’s aging population means we will see more people with disabilities,

Many people were honored at the MSCOD Banquet.

Network on Employment. employee who’s an expert at and they will continue to work setting up computers techand demand improvements in • Access Award (Organization or Business) to Imnology for those with hearaccessibility and accommodamaculate Conception Cathoing loss. tions. “The Baby Boomer Genlic Church, Pine City, for • Above & Beyond Veterans eration does not take no for an incorporating excellent acEmployment Award to the answer,â€? she noted. cessibility into a $1.75 milDisabled American Veterans Ultimately, as people live lion church addition. for helping disabled veterlonger and more people live ans find new jobs or adjust to with disabilities, the country • Access Award (Individual) to Rich Diedrichsen, a state their old jobs. will “make disability a part of the entire diversity agenda,â€? she said.

In a morning session before the awards luncheon, MSCOD sponsored a “Green Jobs Town Hall Forum,� focusing on job opportunities for those with disabilities.

About 100 people heard about the increasing opportunities for employment as builders turn to green building techniques.

Panelists were: Bonnie Elsey, director of the Workforce Development Division in the state Department of Employment and Economic Development; Bill Owens, construction company president; Patrick Cokley, a policy advisor in the U.S. Labor Department’s Office of Disability Employment Policy; and Ester Ames, a vocational rehabilitation technician for White Earth Vocational Rehabilitation. â–

Other award winners Other honors given at the MSCOD Awards Luncheon were: • Mentorship Award to Wally Waranka, employment specialist at Lifetrack Resources. • Legislative Advocacy Award to Minnesota APSE, The

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10

November 10, 2009

PEOPLE AND PLACES -

Cont. from p. 8

practitioners from Caucasus region and Western Eurasia (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine) visiting the Twin Cities in late August met with UCare and its leadership team as part of a tour of health care businesses across the United States. Nancy Feldman, UCare’s President and CEO, welcomed 18 international delegates and two Russian interpreters to UCare on Aug. 24. The delegation included senior physicians, medical directors, government health care advisors, and hospital administrators from the five independent nations formerly part of the Soviet Union.

The visit was requested and arranged by the U.S. Department of Commerce and its International Trade Association as part of its Special American Business Internship Training (SABIT) program. SABIT is a Department of Commerce initiative designed to familiarize participants with U.S. industry standards and trends in hospital administration through visits with hospitals, clinics, U.S. government agencies, associations, and private companies.

Justyna Kottke, International Trade Specialist, SABIT, says UCare was selected as a host site because it is a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO). This is the third visit by a SABIT delegation to Minnesota, which Kottke says is regarded as a leading site of medical industry activity. While in the Twin Cities, the delegation met with several medical organizations, including Medronic, LifeLink III, Hennepin County Medical Center, Regions Hospital, and the Amplatz Children’s Hospital at the University of Minnesota.

Gillette plans hospital expansion Gillette Children’s Hospital plans a $42 million expansion of its current home in St. Paul, with a new 52,000-square-foot building at 205 University Ave. The new glass-faced building will be connected to Regions Hospital via a skyway over University Avenue. The new facility will host surgery, pediatric intensivecare units and outpatient services. Existing Gillette areas within Regions will be renovated. Gillette Children’s Specialty Health Care treats children and teens with special conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida and brain and spinal cord injuries, as well as adults with disabilities that began during childhood.

The expansion is meant to help Gillette be ready for future increases in its patient population. About $6 million will be provided through donors and $36 million in bonds from the City of St. Paul. The conduit revenue bonds are issued by the city for Gillette but represent no legal encumbrance or debt for the city taxpayers. The expansion will be built in 2011.

Beepball athlete has passed away Joel R. Reinbold, age 29, of Mankato died Oct. 25 at Immanuel-St. Joseph’s Hospital, Mankato from complications of pneumonia. Services were held Oct. 29, with burial in Calvary Cemetery, Mankato. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Vision Loss Resources, American Cancer Society, or the donor’s choice.

Reinbold was active in Minnesota beepball circles and was a graduate of Vision Loss Resources in Minneapolis. He was born on June 28, 1980 to Jerry and Judy (Frost) Reinbold in Mankato. He graduated from Loyola Catholic School in 1998.

He attended South Central College where he earned a degree in

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Automotive Technology. He also attended Minneapolis Community and Technical College and earned an Associate of Arts degree. He had been employed by Autotronics and Mankato Oil and Tire. He enjoyed listening to sports on television, NASCAR racing, and Twins baseball. He enjoyed music and going to concerts. He played various instruments including the guitar, drums, and saxophone.

Reinbold’s friends described him as an amazing person who loved his family and friends. He always had a smile and the ultimate attitude. He is survived by his parents, brother, sister, grandmother, uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

New AAC, autism center opens The new Center for AAC & Autism, newly launched online at www.aacandautism.com, is dedicated to helping children with autism learn to communicate through the power of alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) devices. The center is based in Wooster, OH. “More than half of the thousands of children diagnosed with autism every year are unable to communicate verbally,” said Director Cindy Halloran, who has worked extensively with children with autism during more than 20 years as an occupational therapist. “Our own experience and published research show that AAC offers many of these children a viable method of independently and spontaneously expressing themselves.”

Focusing attention on the promise of AAC for nonverbal communicators is a key mission of the center. “A voice output AAC device gives a nonverbal child a way to communicate, which can improve social engagement, decrease frustration and aberrant behavior, and help others to see the child’s true potential,” Halloran said.

Staffed by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and assistive technology experts, the center offers Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP) training workshops nationwide to teach professionals and family members AAC strategies for promoting language development in those with autism.

The center also serves as an online destination for AAC information, tools, and additional resources; supports clinical research aimed at the effective implementation of AAC within the autism arena; and facilitates sharing of best practices and success stories among clinicians and families.

To learn more about the Center for AAC & Autism, go to www.aacandautism.com or call toll-free (866) 998-1726. ■

Contact Bryan Swartz: bswartz@jmm-cpa.com

Visit our website: www.jmm-cpa.com 33 10th Avenue South, Suite 200 Hopkins, MN 55343 952-935-6868 fax: 952-935-7940

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

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11

Upcoming events To list an event, email access@accesspress.org Disability, employment conference The First Disability and Employment Conference is Dec. 1-2 at the Earle Brown Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center, sponsored by the Minnesota Employment Training and Technical Assistance Center and the Minnesota Employment Policy Initiative through funding by Pathways to Employment. The conference will focus on innovative practices in the employment of individuals with disabilities and a call to action for policy changes to double the employment rate by 2015. The conference is free but space is limited. Registration required. FFI: www. mntat.org Help with raising children Grandparents who are raising grandchildren with intellectual and developmental disabilities can join a new free networking group from Arc Greater Twin Cities and Nokomis Healthy Seniors. The Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Net-

working Group meets on the fourth Monday of each month from 4 – 5:30 p.m. at Nokomis Presbyterian Church, 1620 E. 46th St., Mpls. Get information and support, and connect with other grandparents. Dates are Nov. 23, Jan. 25, Feb. 22, Mar. 22, Apr. 26 and May 24.

Childcare is available with one week’s notice prior to meeting date. Arc also offers a group in St. Paul for grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles and other relatives who are raising a family member’s child with an intellectual or developmental disability. The Relatives Raising Children with Disabilities Networking Group meets on the second Tue of each month from 1 – 2:30 p.m. at Java Train Café, 1341 Pascal St., St. Paul.

Meeting dates are Nov. 10, Dec. 8, Jan. 12, Feb. 9, Mar. 9, Apr. 13 and May 11. Please pre-register for either group.

FFI: Arc, 952-920-0855, www.arcgreatertwincities.org

More parenting help The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Minnesota offers a free, fun and interactive workshop for families with a child with a disability. The workshop is 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tue Nov. 17 at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 1575 Charleton St., West St. Paul. Participants will enjoy a light supper. Registration requested. FFI: Suzette, 651645-2948 x102

grant?” “What types of services may I buy?” “How do I receive this grant?” and “What is my responsibility?” Sessions are 2-4 p.m. Thu Nov. 12, Jordan New Life Church, 1922 25th Ave. N., Mpls or 6-8 p.m.

Mon Nov. 23, Hennepin County Library—Golden Valley, 830 Winnetka Ave. N., Golden Valley. Registration required. FFI: 612-596-6631, www.hennepin.us (type “adsinfo” in the search box)

Gain control, flexibility If you are person with a disability wanting more control, flexibility and responsibility for your care, there are free information sessions that explain the Consumer Support Grant. To be eligible for the CSG, you cannot be on a Medical Assistance waiver. Sponsored by Hennepin County’s Human Services and Public Health Department, the information sessions, “Consumer Support Grant,” will answer questions such as “How do I receive funding through this

A Friend Indeed A free showing of the film A Friend Indeed: The Bill Sackter Story is 7 p.m. Thu Dec. 3 at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, 8260 4th Street N., Oakdale. Special guests, includes Dr. Thomas Walz and others featured in the documentary of the life of Sackter. Sackter, who was developmentally disabled, was abandoned at Faribault State Hospital for 44 years by his mother. His life changed through the help and friendship of a young college stu-

Radio Talking Book • November Sampling Books Available Through Faribault Books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault, MN. Their phone is 1-800722-0550 and hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Their catalog is also online, and you can access it by going to the main website, http://education.state.mn.us, and then clicking on the link. 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 Minnesota 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.

Access Press is among the publications featured in the program It Makes A Difference, heard at 9 p.m. Sunday.

coolies, and convicts – Indians and Westerners. Its goal is to cross the Indian Ocean to fight in the Opium Wars. Read by Scott Ford. 23 broadcasts. Began Nov. 2.

PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

Payback, Nonfiction by Margaret Atwood, 2008. Debt is an ancient and central motif in religion, literature, and the structure of human societies. The idea of what we owe one another is built into the human imagination and is one of its most dynamic metaphors. Read by Marylyn Burridge. Seven broadcasts. Begins Nov. 10.

Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

Honestly Dearest, You’re Dead, Fiction by Jack Frederickson, 2009. Private Investigator Dek Elstrom has been asked to execute a will for a little cash. When he arrives to do that, he Chautauqua • Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m. finds blood, evidence of a shattered life, and links to the darkest Against Medical Advice, Nonfiction by James Patterson, 2008. parts of his own past. L - Read by John Mandeville. 11 When he was five years old, Cory Friedman began having broadcasts. Begins Nov. 23. symptoms of Tourette’s syndrome – movement and sound that was involuntary. As he was given medications that were supOff the Shelf • Monday – Friday 10 p.m. posed to help, his symptoms got worse. L - Read by Ira Brooker. The Secret Speech, Fiction by Tom Rob Smith, 2009. In 1956, Six broadcasts. Begins Nov. 24.

Khrushchev distributed a message to all of the USSR admitting that Stalin was a tyrant and that the country would change. But Past is Prologue • Monday – Friday 9 a.m. now former state officers need to face the truth, too; Leo The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher, Nonfiction by Kate Demidov’s past makes him a target for vengeance. L - Read by Summerscale, 2008. In 1860, a child was killed and left at the Dan Sadoff. 15 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 25. bottom of a privy. The horror of the crime aroused fear and excitement across England, leading Scotland Yard to send its Evening Odyssey • Monday – Friday 11 p.m. best man to investigate. Never able to prove his suspicions, he Jeff in Venice, Death in Varanasi, Fiction by Geoff Dyer, 2009. became the object of national scorn. Read by Judy McGuigan. Jeff Atman is a dissolute journalist who meets Laura while in 14 broadcasts. Began Nov. 3.

Venice. Their romance blossoms quickly. Then in Varanasi, there is a man who may be Atman, who ends up renouncing Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m. pleasure. Are they two stories of one person? L,S - Read by Jack Entertaining Disasters, Fiction by Nancy Spiller, 2009. FW is Rossman. 12 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 19. a food journalist who writes about her wonderful dinner parties.

But it is a sham. Her social paralysis prevents her from having Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnight any guests in her home. Then a new editor in town wants an The Turtle Catcher, Fiction by Nicole Helget, 2009. Herman invitation to one of these parties. L - Read by Jenny O’Brien. Richter returned from war to find his sister involved with a man from a rival family. Her decisions will become a tragedy that Eight broadcasts. Begins Nov. 18 will haunt the town for generations. V,L,S - Read by Isla Hejny.

10 Br. Begins Nov. 23.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 2 p.m.

Good Guys & Bad Guys, Nonfiction by Joe Nocera, 2008. The After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m. giants of the business world have lives as interesting as any in Shakespeare. Pride, ego, and revenge are sometimes prime A Good Woman, Fiction by Danielle Steele, 2008. Annabelle’s motivators. But sometimes they act for purely business rea- life changed when the Titanic sank. Working in a field hospital in France, she forgets her past until a meeting opens her heart. sons. Read by Alvin Apple. 16 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 16.

S - Read by Jeanette Schuh. 10 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 30.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

Sea of Poppies, Fiction by Amitav Ghosh, 2008. The old slave Abbreviations: V: violence, L: offensive language, S: sexual situations ship, the Ibis, is the current home of sailors, stowaways,

dent, Barry Morrow (who went on to direct “Rainman”), Barry’s professor, Dr. Walz (dean of the School of Social Work at the University of Iowa) and other caring individuals. The documentary is a testimony to the deinstitutionalization movement that was taking place in Minnesota and the power of befriending.

Following the documentary, there will be a facilitated discussion by Walz and others.

Copies of the documentary and an accompanying book, The Unlikely Celebrity will be for sale, with the proceeds benefiting the Extend the Dream Foundation, a program to provide persons with disabilities with opportunities to develop businesses and be otherwise gainfully employed. FFI: Bob Walz, 651-789-3181, email bwalz@guardian-angels.org Fall banquet set Attend Wings annual fall banquet, 5:30-9 p.m. Sun Nov. 15 at Bethlehem Baptist Church, 72013th Ave. S. Mpls. Cost is $10. RSVP. Enjoy food, music and fun at Lars: ‘How Swede it Is’. FFI: Maynard,

507-252-8553, Dale, 651-4026277 Simon Center open house PACER’s Simon Technology Center presents its 22nd annual open house, with a focus on current trends in assistive technology for people with disabilities. The free event is for parents, children, and professionals, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat Nov. 14 at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington.. Advance registration requested. Learn about new technology, enjoy accessible art projects, and see a magic show and more. FFI: PACER, 952-838-9000, 952838-0190 (TTY), 800-5372237 (toll free), PACER.org Focus on transition PACER Center offers Focus on Transition, a free workshop for parents of transition-age youth with disabilities. It is Thu Nov. 12 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Monticello Community Center, 505 Walnut St., Monticello. Advance registration requested. This workshop will help parents understand Events - cont. on p. 13

November 10, 2009

12

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 Postponed until 2010 I Never Slept w/Helen Keller Deaf Blender Theatre at Charles Thompson Memorial Hall and Paul/Sheila Wellstone Center, 179 Robie St. E., St. Paul; Email: andrew.oehrlein@deaf blender.org Web: www.deaf blender.org/ or www.handtype. com/helen keller/about.html The Nerd Nov. 6-29 Starting Gate Productions at Mounds Theatre, 1029 Hudson Rd, St. Paul. AD: Sun., Nov. 22, 2 p.m. Tix: Disc to $10 (reg. $18, $16student/senior/Fringebutton); Phone: 651-645-3503. Web: www.startinggate.org

for the Bridge Productions at Dreamland Arts, 677 Hamline Ave. N., St. Paul. AD: Sat., Nov. 21, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $12 (reg. $12-15). Phone: 651645-5506 E-mail: plays@ bridgeproductions.info Web: www.bridgeproductions.info or www.dreamlandarts.com Peter Pan Nov. 13-29 Moorhead High School Theater, 2300 4th Ave. S., Moorhead. ASL: Thurs., Nov. 19, 7 p.m. Tix: $10, $6 student, Phone: 218-284-2345

The Seafarer Nov. 13 - Dec. 20 Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Cinderella Ave. S., Mpls. AD: Thurs., Nov. 10 - Jan. 2 Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. Tix: ReChildren’s Theatre Co., 2400 duced to $10 (reg. $24-36); Third Ave. S., Mpls. AD/ASL: Phone: 612-822-7063 Web: Fri., Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. Tix: www.jungletheater.com special price rates for ASL/ AD patrons (reg. $27-39); Casanova’s Homecoming Phone: 612-874-0400; E-mail: Nov. 14-22 tickets@childrenstheatre. org Minnesota Opera at the Web:www.childrenstheatre.org Ordway Center, 345 Washington St., St. Paul. Sung in EnTwo Bowls of Cereal and glish with English captions Some Bacon projected above stage. AD: Nov. 12-21 Sun., Nov. 22, 2 p.m. Tix: Mahmoud Hakima performs Reduced to half-price (reg.

$20-200); Phone: 612-333Queer Voices Reading 6669; TTY 651-282-3099.

Nov. 18 Web: www.mnopera.org Authors Raymond Luczak (Deaf) and James Cihlar read Chemical Imbalance: A at Hamline University, Kay Fredericks Ballroom, Klas Jekyll and Hyde Play Center, 1535 Taylor Ave., St. Through Nov. 15 Theatre Unbound at the Lowry Paul. ASL: Wed., Nov. 18, Lab Theatre, 350 St. Peter St., 7:00 p.m. Tix: free. Phone: St. Paul. AD: Fri., Nov. 13, 651-523-2047 7:30 p.m. Tix: $12-24; Phone: Grease 612-721-1186 E-mail: info@ Nov. 18-22 theatreunbound.com Web: Touring company at Historic www.theatreunbound.com/ Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. ASL: Housed and Homeless (From the Very Same Cup) Sun., Nov. 22, 1 p.m. AD: request in advance. Tix: $31 to Nov. 15-22 Zamya Theater Project at Bed- $76; Phone: 612-373-5639 or lam Theatre, 1501 S 6th St., 5609; hotline 612-373-5650; Mpls. ASL: Sun., Nov. 22, 4 TTY 612-373-5655; E-mail: p.m. Tix: free. Web: www. accessible@orpheum.com.

Tickets go on sale Fri., Oct. 2 zamyatheater.org at 9 a.m. at the State Theatre Box Office (no service fees) Of Mice and Men and 10 a.m. thru Ticketmaster.

Nov. 17 - Dec. 18 Park Square Theatre, 408 St. Web: www.hennepintheatre Peter St., St. Paul. AD, ASL: district.orgguestservices/ Sat., Dec. 5, 2 p.m.; school aslad/ matinee (ASL) Thurs., Dec. 3, Some Girl(s) 10 a.m. Tix: Reduced to halfNov. 20 – Dec. 5 price ($18.50); Phone: 651291-7005 Web: www.park Walking Shadow Theatre Co. at Pillsbury House Theater, squaretheatre.org 3501 Chicago Ave. S., Mpls.

ASL, AD: Sat., Nov. 28, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $7 (reg. $16, $14 student/senior); Phone: 612-375-0300; E-mail: info@walkingshadowcom pany.org Web: www.walking shadowcompany.org/

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES McGUIRE PROSCENIUM STAGE

WURTELE THRUST STAGE

Going to See the Elephant Nov. 20 - Dec. 12 Rochester Repertory Theatre, 103 7th St. NE. ASL: Sat., Nov. 21, 8 p.m. Tix: $22; student/ senior discount; Phone: 507289-1737; E-mail: BoxOffice @RochesterRep.org, Web: www.RochesterRep.org The 1940’s Radio Hour Nov. 20 – Dec. 20 Commonweal Theatre, 208 Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro.

ASL: Sun., Dec. 6, 1:30 p.m.

Tix: Half price (reg. $25, student $12), Phone: 507-4672525, 800-657-7025 E-mail: tickets@commonwealtheatre. org Web: www.commonwealt heatre.org Beauty and the Beast Through Nov. 21 Morris Park Players at Folwell Middle School, 3611 20th Ave S., Mpls. AD: Sun., Nov. 15, 2 p.m. Tix: $10 (reg. $15); Phone: 612-724-8373 Web: www.morrisparkplay ers.org

starring

ASL and AD performances: &$ OC performances: $25 Prices valid for patron plus one companion.

Access programs at the Guthrie are sponsored by Xcel Energy Foundation with additional support by Think Community Foundation

*%&"'++"&&&( HHM *%&"'++"**&* ;IH<F=9H<95H9F"CF;

Landscape of the Body Through Nov. 21 Prufrock Theater Co. at Mpls.

Theatre Garage, 711 W. Franklin Ave. (at Lyndale).

AD: Thurs., Nov. 19, 7:30 p.m.

ASL: Fri., Nov. 20, 7:30 p.m.

Tix: Reduced to $8 (reg. $8-

18); Phone: 1-800-838-3006 Faith Healer (BrownPaperTickets.com); Through Dec. 6 E-mail: info@prufrock Guthrie Theater, 818 2nd St. S., theatre.org Web: www.pru Mpls. AD: Fri., Nov. 13, 7:30 frocktheatre.org p.m.; Sat., Nov. 14, 1 p.m.; Sensory tour 10:30 a.m. ASL: The Great American Thurs.-Fri., Dec. 3-4, 7:30 p.m.

Captioning: Sat., Dec. 5, 7:30 Trailer Park Musical p.m. Tix: Reduced to $20 for Through Nov. 22 Mpls. Musical Theatre at Illu- AD/ASL, $25 for captioning sion Theatre, Hennepin Center (reg. $24-60); Phone: 612for the Arts, 528 Hennepin Ave., 377-2224, TTY 612-377Mpls. AD, ASL: Sun., Nov. 15, 6626. Web: www.guthrie 7:30 p.m. Tix: $18 (reg. $25); theater.org/accessibility Phone: 612-339-4944 Web: Sisters of Swing www.aboutmmt.org Nov. 21 – Dec. 20 A Path Home: A Story of History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. ASL, AD: Sun., Dec. Thich Nhat Hanh 6, 2 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $15 Through Nov. 22 In the Heart of the Beast Pup- (reg. $32); Phone: 651-292pet & Mask Theatre at Avalon 4323; E-mail: boxofc@history Theater, 1500 E. Lake St., theatre.com Web: www.

Mpls. AD: Sun., Nov. 15, 2 historytheatre.com. p.m. ASL: Fri., Nov. 20, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $10 (reg. Wonder: Celebrating the $12-17); Phone: 612-721- Wonder of Our Inner Child Dec. 11-13 2535, ext. 23; E-mail: info@ hobt.org Web: www. hobt.org Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus at Ted Mann Concert Hall, 2128 4th St. S., Mpls. ASL: Holiday Traditions Fri., Dec. 11, 8 p.m. Tix: ReNov. 27 – Jan. 3 Mpls Institute of Arts, 2400 3rd duced to half-price: $16.50, Ave. S. ASL tour: Sun., Dec. 6, $12 & $9 mention code TERP 1 p.m. in the Period Rooms (reg. $23-38, children half(tour begins in the Bell Deco- price); Phone: 612-624-2345 rative Arts Court, 3rd floor); Web: www.tcgmc.org or 2:30 p.m. at Purcell-Cutts www.northrop.umn.edu House (shuttle bus available).

ASL tour: Thurs., Dec. 10, 7 Indian Blood p.m. Holiday Traditions in the Nov. 20 – Dec. 13 Period Rooms (tour begins on Theatre in the Round, 245 third floor). Phone: 612-870- Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD: Sun., 3131 or TTY 612-870-3132; Dec. 13, 2 p.m. Tix: $20, seE-mail: dhegstrom@artsmia. nior $18, student $10; Phone: org Web: www.artsmia.org 612-333-3010. Web: www. theatreintheround.org The Nerd Through Nov. 29 Junior Claus Starting Gate Productions at Dec. 10-27 Mounds Theatre, 1029 Hud- Beyond Broadway at Burnsson Rd. St. Paul. AD: Sun., ville Performing Arts Center, Nov. 22, 2 p.m. Tix: $10 (reg. 12600 Nicollet Ave. ASL: $18, $16 student/senior/Fringe Thurs., Dec. 17, 7 p.m.; Sun., button); Phone: 651-645-3503 Dec. 27, 2 p.m. Tix: $21.50 Web: www. startinggate.org $32; Phone: 952-895-4680 or 612-746-1374. E-mail: Jun In the Heights iorClaus@BurnsvillePAC.com.

Dec. 1-6 Web: www.burnsvillepac.com.

Touring company at Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave. Stuart Little S., Mpls. ASL: Sun., Dec. 6, 1 Dec. 11-20 p.m. AD: request in advance. Lakeshore Players Theatre, Tix: Reduced to $31 for ASL 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear (reg. to $78); Phone: 612-373- Lake. ASL: Sat., Dec. 19, 7 5639 or 5609; hotline 612- p.m. Tix: Reduced to $6 (reg.

373-5650; TTY 612-373- $10-12); Phone: 651-4295655; E-mail: accessible@ 5674; E-mail: tickets@lake orpheum.com Web: www.hen shoreplayers.com Web: nepintheatredistrict.org/ www.lakeshoreplayers.com guestservices/aslad/ Beauty and the Beast Anton in Show Business Dec. 15 – Jan. 3 Dec. 2-5 Ordway Center for the PerNormandale Community Col- forming Arts, Main Hall, 345 lege Theatre, Fine Arts Build- Washington, St. Paul. ASL, ing, 9700 France Ave. S., AD: Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m. & Sat., Bloomington. ASL: Fri., Dec. Jan. 2, 2 p.m. Tix: $27-75; 4, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $10 ($5 NCC Phone: 651-224-4222, TTY student/staff/senior); Phone: 651-282-3099. Web www.ord 952-487-7462. Web: www. way.org/accessibility ■ normandaletheatre.org

November 10, 2009

13

Holiday shows can be jolly fun if you plan ahead

by Jane McClure For many families, attending a play or musical is a holiday tradition. Seeing The Nutcracker, A Christmas Carol or the Nativity with family members may be a child’s first experience seeing a live performance. Staff members at area children’s theaters note that with planning, children with disabilities and their families should enjoy what may be a child’s initial theater experiences.

Audience and customer service managers at area theaters agree that with planning, a child’s first theater experience can be a positive one. But they

EVENTS -

also point out that anyone considering taking family members to a holiday show should start making plans right away.

By early December many of the more popular shows may be sold out. Getting tickets during a school break can be especially difficult if a family doesn’t plan ahead. It can be especially challenging if a show’s American Sign Language or Audio-Described shows fill up quickly.

“Any family should call sooner rather than later and people should be comfortable asking about any accommodations their family may need,”

said Nicki Pretzer, audience services manager at Stages Theater Company in Hopkins. “The more questions you ask, the better your experience will be.”

Families shouldn’t hesitate to call a theater and ask questions about accommodations, according to area theater staff.

“It’s always helpful to know, as soon as possible, what a family’s needs are and how we can accommodate those needs,” said Christine Shyne, audience services manager for Steppingstone Theater for Youth Development in St. Paul.

If a family has never been to the particular theater before,

Shyne suggests asking to visit the theater in advance. That’s a good way to get an understanding of how a theater is laid out.

Scope out where entrances, exits and the restrooms are. Does a theater have a quiet room or place where children can be taken if they become fussy?

If one or more family members use a wheelchair, find out where your family will be seated and how the family can sit together. At Steppingstone, seating is by general admission. That theater has space for six to eight people in wheelchairs to sit, so getting seats as early as possible will make it

Steppingstone Theater presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever this holiday season. easier for families to be together. Shyne suggested that with general admission, as Steppingstone uses for its per-

formances, families needing to sit together should ask to be seated as soon as possible.

Holiday - cont. on p. 14

tration requested. This funding will mean an estimated increase of $205 million for special education. FFI: PACER, 952-838-9000, 952-838-0190 (TTY). 800-537-2237 (toll free), PACER.org

ment 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, with a different speaker. David Tanner, Minnesota State Services for the Blind Technology Center, portable media player and netbooks, is featured Nov. 14, and a Christmas party is Dec. 12. Funding for Adaptive Technology classes is provided by a generous grant from the Hudson Family Foundation. FFI: 612-630-6469, www.hclib.org ■

Cont. from p. 11

the importance of planning for their young adult’s future employment and independent living. FFI:PACER,952-838-9000, 800-537-2237, 952-838-0190 (TTY), PACER.org Anxiety support group The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota (NAMI-MN) sponsors free support groups for persons with anxiety disorders. The groups help individuals develop better coping skills and find strength through sharing their experiences. An Open Door Anxiety and Panic support group meets in St. Paul at 6:30 p.m., first and third Thu, at Gloria Dei Church, 700 Snelling Ave. S. St. Paul. FFI: NAMI at 651-645-2948, www. namimn.org.

partners. Groups will feature weekly topics by followed by peer group discussions in a safe environment for learning and sharing. Sessions are 10 a.m.-noon, Wednesdays through Dec. 16 at Wilder Center, 451 Lexington Parkway N., St. Paul. Cost is free but donations are appreciated.

Screening and pre-registration required. FFI: Kathryn Ringham, LICSW, 651-280-2295

Funding resources PACER Center offers Who Pays? Taking the Maze Out of Funding, a free workshop for parents whose children have special health care needs or disabilities. 6:30-9 p.m. Thu Nov. 19 at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, Minn. Advance registration requested. FFI: ESR Night of Dreams PACER, 952-838-9000, 952East Suburban Resources 838-0190 (TTY), 800-537(ESR) hosts its annual 2237 (toll free), PACER.org fundraiser, Night of Dreams, 6 Town hall forums set p.m. Fri., Nov. 13 at Dellwood Hill Country Club, Dellwood. At the Minnesota Consortium Tickets are $45. Enjoy live for Citizens with Disabilities and silent auctions and enter- (Mn-CCD) town hall forums, tainment by Jazzfly and Dor- learn how the 2009 legislative othy Doring. Featured on the session impacted Minnesotans auction are a four-hour yacht with disabilities. Help shape cruise on the St. Croix River future policies that promote including chef-prepared and innovative, economical, perserved food for up to 14 people; son-centered programs; and golf outings at the White Bear speak directly to legislators Lake Yacht Club, TPC in about your challenges and sucBlaine, the Edina Country Club cesses. Forum dates are 6-8 and other high-end golf p.m. Thu, Nov. 12 at ABC courses; a three-day/four-night (Ability Building Center), fishing trip on the Canadian 1911 - 14th St NW, Rochesside of Rainy Lake for four; ter; 6:30-8:30 p.m., Thu, Nov. and a catered dinner for 12 at 12 at Bloomington Civic McHattie’s Victorian Times Plaza-Council Chambers, Bed and Breakfast served by 1800 West Old Shakopee ESR’s Board of Directors. Road, Bloomington; 1-3 p.m.

There will also be gift baskets. Tue, Nov. 17 at Residential ESR provides employment and Services of NE MN, 1309 Rice community integration oppor- Lake Road, Duluth (next to tunities for adults with devel- Sylvan Learning Center); 6-8 opmental disabilities. FFI: p.m. Tue, Dec. 1 at Courage 651-351-0190 ext. 10 St. Croix, 1460 Curve Crest Blvd West, Stillwater; 6-8 p.m.

Education, support for Thu, Dec. 3 at Kingsley Commemory loss mons, 4550 Humboldt Ave The Amherst H. Wilder Foun- North, Mpls; 6-8 p.m. Thu, dation Community Services Dec. 10 at Powderhorn Park for the Elderly is pleased to Recreation Center, 3400 - 15th offer “Memory Club,” an 11- Ave S., Mpls. FFI: Anni, 651week long educational support 523-0823, ext. 112 or ASim group for persons recently di- ons@arcmn.org to register. agnosed with early stage Walk-ins also welcomed. ASL memory changes and their care interpreters will be available

at each event. www.mnccd.org their experiences. Family support groups meet weekly in the Arc launches sibshops St. Paul area, either on ThursKids who have a brother or day evenings or on the second sister with autism can make and fourth Wednesdays. FFI: friends and have fun at a new Karin, 651-489-4160 (ThursSibshop group in Roseville days) or Anne Mae, 651-730from Arc Greater Twin Cit- 8434 (Wednesdays) ies. The group meets 6-7:30 p.m. the second Thursday of Federal stimulus explored the month at Fairview Com- PACER Center offers The munity Center, 1910 County Federal Stimulus: What It Road B West, Room 143, Means for Your Child in SpeRoseville. Sibshops use games cial Education, a free workand recreation to help kids ages shop for parents of children 6 -12 expresses their thoughts with disabilities, 6:30-8:30 and feelings about having a p.m. Tue Nov. 17at Minnesibling with a disability. Par- tonka Community Center, ticipants explore common sib- 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., ling issues such as teasing and Minnetonka. Advance regisproblem-solving through activities and discussion.

Sibshops are also an opportunity for participants to connect with other siblings. Dates for the Fall 2009/Spring 2010 session are Nov. 12, Dec. 10, Jan. 14, Feb. 11, Mar. 11, Apr. 15 (note date change) and May 13. Sibshops are free for Arc members and $10 per child (each meeting) for others. Arc also offers 13 additional Sibshops at locations throughout the metro area, including two more locations in Ramsey County. FFI: 952-920-0855 Cancer benefit A benefit for Amie Redmond, who is battling stage 4 metastic cancer, is 6 p.m. until close Sun Nov. 15 at Roberts Off 10 Sports Bar, 2400 County Road H2, Mounds View. Redmond has been a cancer survivor since 2004, when she battled breast cancer. She and her husband are expecting their first child.

Cost: is $15. Live entertainment featuring Boogie Wonderland and karaoke is featured, along with appetizers, prizes and a silent auction.

Support groups offered The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Minnesota sponsors free support groups for families who have a relative with a mental illness.

Led by trained facilitators who also have a family member with mental illness, the support groups help families develop better coping skills and find strength through sharing

Adaptive technology classes Free adaptive technology classes are offered by Hennepin County Library, at the downtown Mpls library, 300 Nicollet Mall. Classes are free but you must pre-register for these classes for persons who are blind or have low vision.

In addition to classes there are often volunteers available to introduce patrons to the equip-

14

November 10, 2009

HOME -

Cont. from p. 3

vider is a good match,” Pinsonnault said. “The county does the placement but stays out of the site location selection.”

The federal Fair Housing Act prevents the county or a city from interfering with that process. Once a provider purchases a home, the licensing process can start.

Homes similar to the one that will be located on Jackson Street are limited to four beds but are allowed a fifth bed on an emergency basis for respite care, Pinsonnault said.

Five days before the foster home is scheduled to open, Pinsonnault said local police and city officials are notified a group home will be coming to the community. “[Again], local governments don’t have any role in the site selection or approval,” he said.

“If they interfere, they can be sued for violating the Fair Housing Act.” According to Pinsonnault, the county can’t publish any information about where adult foster homes are located because that would also violate the 1988 law.

Pinsonnault said the law clearly states local government can’t impose special restrictions or requirements or ordinances preventing an adult foster home.

“Persons with mental health disabilities are no different

than you or I,” he said. “There is an 85 to 90 percent recovery rate with proper treatment and medication” Pinsonnault said there will not be mentally ill and dangerous residents or sex offenders of any level or kind moving into the Jackson Street foster care home.

The home will not be a correctional facility, he said, nor will the four-bed facility become a sober house or a chemical dependency treatment facility. If there are problems in a neighborhood, Anoka County is called to work with the foster home provider. Typically, the No. 1 problem is parking, Pinsonnault said.

The county can issue a corrective action, he said. The county can issue a provisional license and if all else fails; the county can revoke the license.

Residents asked what would happen if an adult foster home was closed down. Pinsonnault said the home would be placed on the market and sold.

During the meeting, residents asked about two existing foster homes near the Jackson Street location, one at the corner of 81st Avenue and one at 7701 Able St. Pinsonnault said any complaints filed about those homes would be public data. “But personal health information about a resident can’t be shared,” he said.

Maria Runyan, At Home Living’s administrator, spoke next with residents. She began her comments by stating At Home Living wanted open dialogue. “We are being upfront with you,” Runyan, said.

“That’s a difficult choice for us. We don’t want you to judge these people [residents] before you meet them.”

Runyan said the Jackson Street foster home would most likely have female residents, but homes can have a mixedgender population in certain circumstances.

She added that Spring Lake Park residents’ attendance at the meeting was a positive and that overcomingafearoftheunknown was an important first step.

Runyan also confirmed there would be no more than four residents in the home and there would be 24-hour staff on hand, with two staff scheduled during the day.

Barry Schull is At Home Living Facilities Anoka County program director.

Schull recently moved from Duluth and is responsible for the provider’s five homes.

Schull told residents the Jackson Street foster care home staff would work eighthour shifts. Shift change times would be shared with the public, he said.

“We are getting a lot of applications,” Schull said. “Can-

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.

didates who aren’t a certified nursing assistant (CNA) are moved to the bottom of the applications pile.”

One woman with young children who attended the public information meeting said she was upset by misinformation being spread about the foster home. “It’s the fear of the unknown,” Runyan said.

There are 10 to 12 corporate homes in the Spring Lake Park area that are licensed with the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Runyan and Pinsonnault said.

Several residents asked if At Home Living had received any citations or complaints at its Duluth or Anoka Count foster homes. “We don’t get that many complaints,” Runyan said. “When we do, it’s mostly about parking.

“We did have an issue when a resident urinated in the wooded area of a group home backyard when he went out-

HOLIDAY -

side to smoke. That problem was quickly resolved when neighborhood residents called.

It never happened again.”

City Administrator Barbara Nelson said the Jackson Street foster home would pay residential property taxes and utilities and would be required to observe all city parking regulations.

One woman who had recently moved back to Spring Lake Park said she previously lived in Blaine next to a foster home. She mentioned shift changes and yard maintenance as primary concerns.

However, a man who lives near the foster home on 7701 Able St. said he was moving because of an altercation with a home resident. “It’s been terrible,” the man said. “The police have been there one to two times a week.” The man did thank At Home Living for being open about its foster home.

Pinsonnault said the county

would investigate residents’ complaints about the other foster homes.

He also answered a question about property values. “Studies show they never go down when a home comes to a neighborhood,” Pinsonnault said.

Another resident wanted to know what to do if a home resident assaulted a worker.

Pinsonnault told residents to call the Anoka County adult protection number (763-4227070) listed on the fact sheet handed out during the meeting.

Runyan told residents an opening date for the 7929 Jackson St. foster home has not been determined by At Home Living Services. ■ This article reprinted with permission of ABC Newspapers and Blaine/Spring Lake Park Life. Tim Hennagir is Editor of the Blaine/Spring Lake Park Life

Cont. from p. 13

With theaters that offer reserved seating, theater staff suggest families make their seating needs clear when purchasing tickets. Wheelchairs aren’t the only issue to consider. Pretzer said families who want to be close to aisles should ask the box office. “We also have seen families with children with disabilities wanting to sit closer to the stage,” she said. “Their children are more engaged in the production.”

Other questions to ask when planning your theater trip: • Ask about parking accessibility.

• Ask about the length of a show. Some children have difficult sitting for more than an hour, so plan accordingly.

• If your child is startled by loud noises, flashes of light or other stimuli, ask about that before buying tickets.

• Some theaters offer discounted tickets for certain performances, such as a weeknight or matinee.

• Ask about service dogs.

While service dogs must legally be allowed into a theater, ask when buying tickets if special seating is needed.

Some children rely on service dogs; others may be frightened of them. Make sure there is adequate space so that every creature in your party is comfortable.

• Some theaters offer a limited number of AD/ASL performances. Others have interpreters on request. Also, ask about sensory tours before a production. Those can be fun and memorable for children.

Steppingstone Theater is presenting The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Dec. 4-22.

STAGES presents Twas the Night Before Christmas Nov. 10-Dec. 28. For details, go to www.steppingstonetheatre.org or call 651-225-9265 for Step-

ping-stone or www.stages theatre.org or call 952-9791123 for Stages.

Here is information on other holiday performances children and young people might enjoy.

Cinderella Nov. 10 - Jan. 2 Children’s Theatre Co., 2400 Third Ave. S., Mpls. AD & ASL: Fri., Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m.

Tix: special price rates for ASL/AD patrons (reg. $2739); Phone: 612-874-0400; Email: tickets@childrens theatre.org Web: www.child renstheatre.org

A Tuna Christmas Nov. 20 —Dec. 20 Bloomington Art Center’s Gallery Theater Company at Schneider Theater, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington. ASL: Thurs., Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m. AD: Fri., Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $11 for (reg. $18, senior $16, student $14); Phone: 952-563-8575.

Web:www.bloomingtonart center.com

J. Marley’s Christmas Carol Dec. 3-20 Park Square Theatre, 408 Saint Peter St., St. Paul. AD & ASL: Sat., Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to half-price ($1850); Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Phone: 651-291-7005. Web: www.parksquare theatre.org Magi’s Gold Nov. 18 - Dec. 27 Junior Claus Ordway Center for the PerDec. 10-27 forming Arts, McKnight Theatre, 345 Washington, St. Paul. Beyond Broadway at BurnsAD & ASL: Sat., Dec. 5, 2 ville Performing Arts Center, p.m. Tix/Phone: 651-224- 12600 Nicollet Ave. ASL: 4222, TTY 651-282-3099. Thurs., Dec. 17, 7 p.m.; Sun., Web: www. ordway.org/ac- Dec. 27, 2 p.m. Tix: $21.50 $32; Phone: 952-895-4680 or cessibility/ 612-746-1374. E-mail: Jun iorClaus@BurnsvillePAC.com.

A Christmas Carol Web: www.burnsvillepac.com Nov. 19 – Dec. 31 Guthrie Theater, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. Captioning: Sat., Dec. 5, A Christmas Carol 1 p.m. AD: Sat., Dec. 12, 1 p.m.; Dec. 11-20 Sensory Tour 10:30 a.m.; Tues., Fargo-Moorhead Community Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m. ASL: Sat., Theatre, 333 4th St. S., Fargo.

Dec. 12, 1 p.m.; Tues., Dec. 15, AD: Fri. & Sat., Dec. 11-12, 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $20 7:30 p.m. Tix: Reduced to $8 for AD/ASL, $25 for caption- (reg. $20, senior/student $14, ing (reg. $29-70); Phone: 612- child $8); Phone: 701-235377-2224, TTY 612-377- 6778 Web: www.fmct.org 6626. Web: www.guthrie theater.org/accessibility La Natividad Dec. 10-20 A Christmas Carol In the Heart of the Beast PupNov. 20 – Dec. 20 pet & Mask Theatre at Avalon Lyric Arts Co. of Anoka at Theater, 1500 E. Lake St., Main St. Stage, 420 E. Main Mpls. ASL: Fri., Dec. 11, 6:30 St., Anoka. ASL: Sat., Nov. p.m. AD: Sun., Dec. 20, 6:30 21, 7:30 p.m. Tix: $13 (reg. p.m. Tix: $20.50 (reg. $27.50, $18, $16 student/senior), $20 $20 youth, senior, groups of box seats; Phone: 763-422- 10+); Phone: 612-721-2535, 1838. Web: www.lyricarts.org ext. 23; E-mail: info@hobt. org Web: www.hobt.org ■

November 10, 2009

IN REVIEW -

15

Cont. from p. 6

the motion for class certification. The district court determined that an award of half of the hours spent on counsel’s media work was appropriate. Although press conferences and public relations work publicized the case and helped identify additional class members, the media work enhanced class counsel’s reputation considerably.

The plaintiffs’ efforts resulted in a damages fund and prompted Target to make substantial changes to its Web site. Other retailers immediately revised their Web sites following the plaintiffs’ lawsuit. Most significantly, the case established that equal access to Internet commerce is guaranteed under California law and partially protected by the ADA. The nonprofit law firm Disability Rights Advocates filed the suit on behalf of blind UC Berkeley student Bruce Sexton, Jr. and the National Federation of the Blind of California.

Specifically, the plaintiffs said the website lacked “alt text” tags, which are words that can be written into Web page code along with graphic images so that computerized screen readers can describe those images out loud to blind web surfers. The Web site also lacked image maps, which allow blind users to move to different places on the site, and required users to use a mouse to complete any transaction, which means that they must have a sighted person help them.

Target’s lawyers had asked the court to dismiss the case, arguing that the federal and state civil rights laws only apply to physical premises and not the Internet.

The suit asked the court to force Target to stop violating the laws, to declare that Target was operating its Web site in a

Employment Employment ads are $22-$25 per col. inch.

Oct 30 is the deadline for the November 10 issue.

Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 FAX 651-644-2136 • Email: access@accesspress.org 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. The Dean provides vision and leadership for the college in the following ways: directs academic and administrative planning and budgeting; recruits, develops and evaluates faculty; provides oversight for extensive public programming; mentors department chairpersons and faculty; provides oversight for procurement and maintenance of college equipment and facilities; administers collective bargaining agreements; implements college and university policies; maintains positive student relations; oversees academic program reviews and maintains external accreditations; fundraises and procures grants; maintains and develops external connections, collaborations and partnerships; promotes, develops and encourages diversity initiatives. Application review will begin November 30, 2009. For a complete description and application information visit http://agency.governmentjobs.com/ mankato/default.cfm.

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manner that discriminated against users who are blind or have pharmacies from being reimbursed at below cost for prescripvision-related disabilities, and to pay damages to the plaintiffs. tion drugs under state Medicaid programs. Pharmacy reim[Source: Inclusion Daily Express, allbusiness.com] bursement at below cost may result in pharmacies leaving the Medicaid program to maintain their business’ viability, reducSandford free from treatments ing hours and services, or closing altogether, thereby threatenSupporters of Ray Sandford, a Columbia Heights man forced ing Medicaid beneficiary care and access. The AWP reducto undergo electroshock treatments, was awarded a change in tions arise from the settlements coming out of the First DataBank guardianship in October. That officially means the end of his and Medi-Span fraud and conspiracy lawsuits. forced electroshock treatments.

In addition to violating the Social Security Act, the pharmacy Sandford’s new guardians support his right to say “no” to organizations also maintain that states must obtain approval by intrusive procedures such as electroshock. the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for changes to “I’m a bit overwhelmed. This is wonderful! I’m very thank- reimbursement, and that the cuts resulting from the AWP ful. Without your help I probably would still be sitting some- reductions were not approved as required. Also, these cuts run where getting more forced electroshock. So thanks a lot to and contrary to the states’ certifications that current reimbursement your group. Praise and thank the Lord, amen!” said Sandford. is the states’ best estimate of actual acquisition cost, as required David Oaks, Director of MindFreedom International, said, by federal law. The plaintiffs also raised some state-specific “Ray’s courage and laser focus led to a campaign that proves claims. the ‘mad movement’ is alive and well. The sheer level of people “Pharmacies provide vital medications and services to Medpower had to break through.” icaid patients that improve and save lives, and help prevent On Oct. 27, 2008, Sandford first contacted the MindFreedom higher long-term healthcare costs. Some private payers and office. He had asked his local library about organizations that some states already have taken action to adjust reimbursements support human rights in mental health. The reference librarian appropriately, to maintain the quality and accessibility of gave him MindFreedom’s phone number. pharmacy patient care and its benefits. Federal Medicaid law He said that every Wednesday morning he was escorted from obligates the states, including Minnesota, to do the same,” said his group home to a hospital for another involuntary forced NACDS President and Chief Executive Officer, Steven C. electroshock, under court order.

Anderson.

MindFreedom International investigated and kicked off a “The failure to act by Minnesota has produced a perverse public campaign that became global. Issuing 21 alerts, outcome whereby underserved patients who need access to MindFreedom’s campaign activated thousands of people who health care the most, will get it the least,” said NCPA Executive peacefully but passionately contacted elected officials, held Vice President and CEO, Bruce T. Roberts, RPh. “Independent protests, mailed Sandford stationery supplies, won extensive community pharmacies frequently serve urban or rural areas media coverage, visited him, and much, much more. At least where a disproportionate share of Medicaid beneficiaries live. one elected official said they felt “inundated.”

In some of these communities, the pharmacy is the only health But MindFreedom also found that his oppression was sys- care provider for miles around. Left unchecked, these unfair temic and deep. MindFreedom volunteers identified and listed cuts could push some community pharmacies to the breaking on the MFI Web site more than 30 agencies and individuals point. Even in tough budget times, the reductions are shortreceiving taxpayer money to supposedly help Standford. Only sighted. Faced with diminished pharmacy access, Medicaid a few agencies helped Sandford, and most actually opposed his patients will turn to more expensive doctor’s offices or emerrights. gency rooms–driving up costs to the state.”

Sanford’s last forced electroshock was April 15. A May “MPhA is deeply disappointed in the decision of the Departtreatment was canceled. His psychiatrist quit because he said ment of Human Services to not exercise its authority and his insurance company was concerned about all the public responsibility to assist pharmacies in what will be a devastating attention. MindFreedom helped Standford find a new psychia- blow to their ability to provide services to their patients,” said trist supportive of his human rights. The Sandford family made Julie K. Johnson, Pharm.D., Executive Vice President and a YouTube video explaining his plight and hired a new attor- CEO, Minnesota Pharmacists Association. ney. Several concerned Minnesota agencies formed an “ECT “The pharmacy members of the Minnesota Retailers AssociaWork Group” to change the law in Minnesota. The history of the tion have had a long and positive working relationship with the successful campaign is at www.mindfreedom.org/ray Department of Human Services. Our Association joins this law[Source: MindFreedom] suit not as a first option but as our only option,” said Bruce W. “Buzz” Anderson, President, Minnesota Retailers Association.

Medicaid cuts at center of lawsuit [Source: National Association of Chain Drug Stores] The state of Minnesota has not met its legal requirements to assure Medicaid patients receive access and quality of care at Charges filed in assault on dog least equal to patients in the general public, according to a A 46-year-old Minneapolis woman was cited for animal lawsuit filed in federal courts last month by the National cruelty after intentionally kicking a six-year-old dog guide in the Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS), the National jaw, according to Minneapolis Police. The incident happened in Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), the Minnesota late September inside of the Target store on Nicollet Mall.

Pharmacists Association, the Minnesota Retailers Association Lynnette Lijewski and her service dog, Brook, were making and numerous businesses. a routine trip to the store when the incident happened. “It goes When First DataBank and Medi-Span reduced the published beyond cruelty to the animal,” said Sgt. Jesse Garcia, a police drug-cost benchmark known as “average wholesale price” spokesman. “It’s cruelty to the owner. ... It takes cruelty to a (AWP) in September, the Social Security Act required states to new level.” adjust reimbursement as a result of these reductions. The Lijewski said she had walked through one set of doors at the lawsuits challenge the states’ failure to take action to prevent Target, 900 Nicollet Mall, when she felt Brook’s legs go out from under her. Blind since birth, Lijewski said she could tell Brook righted herself, and she began to check the dog when a girl came up and told her a woman with gray hair just kicked Reach 11,000 Active, Interested Readers with Brook.

Access Press Classifieds. $13 up to 12 words, 60¢/word “The woman went out of her way to do it. We weren’t in her thereafter. Must be prepaid. Mail with check to: path,” Lijewski said. They alerted store staff and security, who Access Press, 1821 University Ave W, #104S, called police. They reviewed video from the store and found the St. Paul, MN 55104 • 651-644-2133 suspect, who was still in the area.

FOR RENT Lijewski took Brook to a vet to be checked. “This dog is my Holmes-Greenway Housing: Oak Park Village: One-bed- eyes,” said Lijewski, who said Brook is her fifth service dog in One- and two-bedroom wheel- room wheelchair-accessible 25 years. “Her job is to keep me safe, but it’s my job to keep her chair-accessible apartments. apartments. Section 8 subsi- safe.”

Section 8 subsidized. Conve- dized. Convenient St. Louis She also credited the Target staff and Minneapolis police. nient SE Minneapolis loca- Park location. Call 952-935- “Everything that could be done right was done right,” she said. tion. Call 612-378-0331 for 9125 for availability informa- “And they took it seriously, which is so important.” availability information. Equal tion. Equal Opportunity Hous- [Source: Star Tribune] Opportunity Housing. ing.

Classifieds

Scopes: demolition, earth-work, utilities, paving, concrete, precast concrete, masonry, structural steel, waterproofing, roofing, caulking/sealants, doors & windows, metal wall panels, finishes, specialties, equipment, elevators, escalators, Lewis Park Apartments: moving walkways, HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, electri- Barrier-free housing with cal and telecommunications. wheelchair users in mind. Section 8 subsidized. One- and PCL Construction Services, Inc.; Attn: Mike Breyer 12200 Nicollet Avenue South; Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 two-bedroom units. For more information on availability call 952-882-9600; FAX: 952-882-9900 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. An Equal Opportunity Employer • M/F/V/H 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.

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November 10, 2009

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