Lee Perish made history - page 2
Volume 23, Number 3
Patient maltreatment sparks inquiry
The 2012 legislative session grinds on. While much attention focuses on the plight of Charles Van Heulveln and his quest for independence, many other issues are still in the mix.
by Jane McClure
In the wake of incidents of patient maltreatment, changes are being made at the Minnesota Security Hospital in St. Peter. Use of metal handcuffs, mesh face coverings, mesh blankets and seclusion are concerns. While the use of such restraints has troubled many disability rights advocates, the seclusions incidents are particularly disturbing. In one substantiated case, a vulnerable adult had his mattress taken away and had to sleep on a concrete floor for 25 nights. In a pending complaint, a person was reportedly restrained, put in seclusion and left naked and without a blanket or pillow for a time. The changes are applauded by mental health advocates and others who speak for humane, dignified treatment of people with disabilities. The allegations of maltreatment come in the wake of similar issues at Minnesota Extended Treatment Options (METO), where patients were also mistreated. The conditions at METO prompted a lawsuit and legal settlement with the state, as well as changes in how patients with developMaltreatment - p. 15
March 10, 2012
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Read more in our legislative roundup on page 3.
Best children’s album of 2012
“All About Bullies. . . Big and Small!” by Access Press staff
Bullies get attention but usually for the wrong reasons. That wasn’t the case at the 2012 Grammy Awards, when the CD “All About Bullies. . . Big and Small!” won the statuette for Best Children’s Album. The winning CD has a Minnesota connection as all proceeds from its sale go to PACER Center’s National Center for Bullying Prevention, PACER Kids Against Bullying. Learn more about the center at www.pacerkidsagainst bullying.org Steve Pullara of Philadelphia-based Cool Beans Music is one of the album’s producers. He gives credit to First Lady Michelle Obama and her national focus on anti-bullying programs. “We were happy to articulate our country’s initiative, though the First Lady’s goals of ‘Bully Awareness and Bully Prevention’ through the recording arts on a massive scale.” The producers appreciate Mrs. Obama’s efforts to put a spotlight on bullying through attention to the album. Awareness of the problems of bullying has grown in recent years. Bullying is especially problematic for children with disabilities. More than 160,000 children miss school every day out of fear of attack or intimidation by other students. Children who are bullied are
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“Talent is God given. Be humble. Fame is mangiven. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful.” —John Wooden
NEWS DIGEST The 2012 legislative session continues, with action on a number of fronts. Page 3 Read one person’s view on employment for people with disabilities. Page 4 “All About Bullies. . . Big and Small!” won the Grammy Award for Best Children’s Album. Steve Pullara, James, Cravero, Kevin Mackie and Gloria Domina accepted the award and gave kudos to PACER Center. Pat Robinson was absent.
A St. Paul woman was pleased to recover a computer that helps her communicate. Page 6.
Photo courtsey of Steve Pullara
more likely to develop depression and anxiety disorders that do not disappear at the end of the school year. The effects of bullying can last a lifetime. In some cases, bullying can even lead to suicide. Pullara also gave PACER Center a shoutout during the Grammys awards ceremony and again to the throng of international reporters Bullies - p. 14
Autism study offers ideas for future services by Jane McClure
Better serving the needs of Minnesotas with autism is the focus of a newly released legislative task force report. Photo courtesy of Autism Society of Minnesota
Minnesotans with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) would benefit from full funding for programs and services, a services guidebook, and more coordination of services. Those are among many suggestions in a report released by the Autism Spectrum Disorders Task Force. The task force was set up by the 2009 Minnesota Legislature. Its charges included studying ways to improve services provided by all state and political subdivisions. Another focus was public and private funding sources available for treatment and ways to improve efficiency in spending. The group just released its report and held its final meeting last month. The report, as well as meeting minutes and other information, can be found at www.commissions.leg.state.mn.us/asd/ asd.html Dawn Steigauf chaired the task force. She was a parent representative and represented the Autism Society of Minnesota. “We had a very good, very thorough pro-
cess,” she said. The group benefitted greatly from presentations as well as stories of shared experiences. People brought many points of view to the group and shared much useful information. State lawmakers will be the ones who make the task force recommendations become reality. Autism is a complex developmental disability that affects a person’s ability to communicate, form relationships with others, and respond appropriately to the environment. According to the report, ASD is the fastest growing developmental disorder in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control reported in 2009 that it affects one in every 110 children. Since 1993 there has been an increase of more than 1600% in the prevalence of ASD in Minnesotans between the ages of 6 and 22 years. The state’s December 2010 Child Count data indicates that there are presently 14,646 students idenAutism - p. 14
Anne Henry has won yet another honor for her service to people with disabilities. Page 7 The Arc Minnesota had representatives in Washington, D.C., to meet with top officials from President Barak Obama’s administration. Page 8
INSIDE Regional News, pg 6 People & Places, pg 7-9 Events, pg 10 Accessible Fun, pg 11 Radio Talking Book, pg 12
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EDITOR’S DESK
Tim Benjamin This morning on the news the meteorologist said that today would probably be the coldest day for the rest of the winter. He said that we may see some snow, but first we’ll see 60° or even 70° temperatures. I’m all for that, but can we believe those guys? I’ll tell you the truth, after spending a few days in the hospital last week, any weather feels good to me! Some sun on the face and air that smells fresh—it’s the best. I have a feeling a lot of you know what I mean. The 2012 legislative session has been going according to plan, with lots of stalling and always something for everyone to wait on, such as legislators who don’t want to commit. The first few weeks of the session seemed mostly positive, except for the Senate voting not to confirm the governor’s energy commissioner, Ellen Anderson, and Gov.. Mark Dayton having to say that he couldn’t trust the Republicans. Most of the hearings that I’ve attended have been positive and many legislators are on board for human services programs and disability rights legislation.
One thing we were waiting to hear was the forecast of how much the state’s budget surplus would be. Just prior to the February budget forecast, many of the mainstream media were saying that there was not going to be a surplus. Well, I’m glad they were wrong: there is a predicted surplus of $323 million, but not nearly as much as estimated in November. The February forecasted surplus is committed by state law to restocking the state budget reserve and to the schools that have taken such drastic hits with budget shifting, and the expense of loans to tide them over. I guess there hasn’t been quite the recovery that all of us Minnesotans were hoping for, but it’s sure better than the shortfalls of recent years. The state has targeted substantial savings in Health and Human Services (HHS) programs, mostly Medical Assistance, and many of those savings are to be derived through program cuts that directly impact people with disabilities in a very fiscally irresponsible way. We have to end the state’s cost shifting to K-12 schools, but we also have to continue supporting HHS programs. Many of these programs offer only shortterm help for people who will be able to become completely independent, and for many that should be the
goal. But in many of these programs we don’t calculate the true long-term savings of providing preventive services against the initial savings of kicking people off the programs. Many HHS programs involve long-term services that truly save money and resources and avoid other, more long-term and highercost expenditures. MA-EPD’s age limit of 65 is a primary example. Some people on this program will decide to continue working past age 65 and pay their medical assistance costs themselves. This is choosing poverty, usually, but on one’s own terms. It’s bound to be very costly in the long run for clients and for the state. What sense does it make, anyway, for the state to ask people to stop earning a salary and paying taxes, especially at an age when they are bound to be higher-cost clients on Medical Assistance (aging issues, needing subsidized housing, nursing home, food stamps, help with transportation and more)? In this election year, I just hope we don’t lose traction on many of these program cuts—including the 20% reduction in pay for PCAs who are relatives of the client, and the severe cuts to eligibility for Medical Assistance—just because our politicians are out campaigning. We have to find ways to keep them working at funding and improving programs, even while they’re mostly interested in politicking and funding their own campaigns. Let’s look forward to a warm summer without floods, tornadoes, droughts or other situations that will slow down our economic recovery. It’s on the way! ■
HISTORY NOTE
Lee Perish pioneered theater access, health care by Jane McClure
Interpreters at performances are commonplace today, but that wasn’t always the case. People who were deaf or hearing-impaired had to watch shows without interpretation or stay home. Going to a performance in a wheelchair was also difficult if not impossible. Spaces weren’t set aside for theatergoers. While passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990 opened doors for many who love theater and movies, it also took the dedicated work of countless individuals to get effective interpretation, closed-captioning and designated wheelchair accommodations in place.
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Editorial submissions and news releases on topics of interest to persons with disabilities, or persons serving those with disabilities, are welcomed. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Editorial material does not necessarily reflect the view of the editor/publisher of Access Press. Paid advertising is available at rates ranging from $12 to $28 per column inch, depending on size and frequency of run. Classified ads are $14, plus 65 cents per word over 12 words. Advertising and editorial deadlines are the last day of the month preceding publication, except for employment ads, which are due by the 25th. Access Press is a monthly tabloid newspaper published for persons with disabilities by Access Press, Ltd. Circulation is 11,000, distributed the 10th of each month through more than 200 locations statewide. Approximately 450 copies are mailed directly to individuals, including political, business, institutional and civic leaders. Subscriptions are available for $30/yr. Lowincome, student and bulk subscriptions are available at discounted rates. Application to mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at the St. Paul, MN 55121 facility. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Access Press at 161 St. Anthony Ave, Suite 901, St. Paul, MN 55103. Inquiries and address changes should be directed to: Access Press care of The Kelly Inn Offices; 161 St. Anthony Ave; #910; St. Paul, MN 55103; 651-644-2133 Fax: 651-644-2136 email: access@accesspress.org www.accesspress.org
Although not all Twin Cities area theatergoers with disabilities knew Lee Perish, they owe her many thanks. The disability community advocate died Feb. 22 at the age of 60. Perish was one of the pioneers of Twin Cities American Sign Language or ASL-interpreted shows. As a deaf woman who used a wheelchair due to her osteogenis imperfecta, Perish advocated for and attended hundreds of ASL-interpreted or captioned shows over the years. She worked tirelessly to make sure many area theaters made shows accessible to people with hearing loss and other disabilities, a tribute to her from VSA Minnesota stated. She was very involved in the design of the new Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, to make sure it accommodated all theatergoers with disabilities. Because of Perish and other activists, the Twin Cities have more arts opportunities interpreted, described or captioned than anywhere else in the world. Perish also generously shared her appreciation of theater with countless people, including science fiction writer Kelly McCullough. He is married to her niece Laura. In a blog tribute to Perish, he wrote: “My wife Laura’s Aunt Lee was smart and tough and sarcastic and funny and fierce. That last most of all. . . . When Laura went to college, Lee got into the habit of taking her to every Shakespeare play that came along at the Guthrie Theatre. We would pick up Lee and I
would drop them both off and pick them up afterward. That lasted two or three years until Lee suggested that I really ought to come with them. For nearly 20 years after that Lee was our regular date for Guthrie shows, mostly Shakespeare, two or three a season. It was always wonderful to see Lee and have dinner and chat, and it’s going to be very hard to go back to the Guthrie without her, though she wouldn’t want us to stay away, which means we won’t.” Tributes also poured in on her Legacy.com pages. Jon Skaalen of VSA Minnesota wrote, “What can one say or sign about this tiny yet immense bundle of wit sparked by actors and friends and interpreters. Even getting the ‘evil eye’ from Lee was a treat because she did it with such relish. Anyone who treasures the arts owes a debt to Lee for advocating for access for people with hearing loss and other disabilities. That front row space will always be yours, Lee.” But Perish’s impact wasn’t limited to the theater. In 2002 she took on Abbott-Northwestern Hospital, in a landmark case set off by what she saw as discrimination based on her disabilities. She waged and won a year-long legal battle. The case was a first in Minnesota and ensured that the hospital would change its policies when dealing with deaf and hearing-impaired patients. The hospital assigned staff to assure that an interpreter would be made available to any deaf person entering the hospital within two hours of entering the hospital. This case served as a model for other hospitals. She volunHistory Note - p. 4
March 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3
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Legislative session pace is picking up, deadlines loom by Access Press staff The pace is picking up at the state capitol. First committee deadlines for bills, redistricting, the release of the February forecast and continued debate on high-profile issues have kept disability community activists hopping. The first deadline for bills to have had an initial hearing is March 16. But the whirl of activity was overshadowed by the death of Sen. Gary Kubly. The Granite Falls DFLer lost his battle amyotropic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease. His funeral was March 7 in Granite Falls. The 68-year-old retired Lutheran minister had hoped to finish his term but was hospitalized Feb. 29 and died March 2 at Regions Hospital in St. Paul. He had served in both the House and Senate. “Gary was a dedicated public servant and an outstanding leader. He lived his life with quiet strength and principled dignity, as evidenced by the remarkable courage with which he faced his final illness. He is an inspiration to all of us, who knew and worked with him,” said Gov. Mark Dayton. Here’s a look at a few other issues: State surplus eyed A positive February forecast and what it means for the state’s economic recovery was tempered by the reality that the dollars are already spoken for. The forecast showed $323 million to the good, which follows a November 2011 forecast that showed a surplus of $876 million. Growing employment in Minnesota and savings in various state departments aided the surplus. But the money is already going to be needed to refill state budget reserves and start the plus-$2.4 billion task of paying back what was borrowed from schools to balance past budgets. Both Courage Center and Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) noted that the good forecast news is tempered by a forecast $1.1 billion budget deficit in the next biennium, as well as uncertainties about economic recovery. The Arc Minnesota urged state legislators and the Governor to use the projected state budget surplus to reverse 2011 state budget cuts in direct care staff wages and services that help people with disabilities live in the community. In 2011, state officials agreed to a budget that included cuts to supports that help people with disabilities live in and participate in their communities. This included a 20% cut in the wages paid to direct care staff (officially called “personal care assistants,” or “PCAs”) and a 10 perent cut in funding to services provided in the community for about 2,600 Minnesotans with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and other disabling conditions. Restoring the cut in PCA wages would cost $24 million; restoring the 10% funding cut would cost $14 million. MA-EPD reforms sought In light of issues raised by St. Paul resident Charles
Van Heuveln and others, Sen. Kathy Sheran, DFLMankato, continues to push ahead on her bill to reform a state medical insurance program for working people with disabilities. Sheran has been working on the bill for four years but it has gained new momentum since Van Heuveln’s plight became known. Van Heuveln has cerebral palsy. He works for St. Paul Public Schools and owns a condo, but would be forced to retire in May and go on state Medical Assistance when he turns 65. He would also have to give up many assets. MA-EPD has an age limit of 16 to 65 years old. In MA-EPD, people can keep up to $20,000 in income earnings to help them stay in their homes, and receive services. But the bill that would make changes to help him and others faces questions about program costs and changes. Guardianship issues raised Individuals under guardianship could face changes to their voter eligibility status under a bill brought forward by Rep. Mary Kiffmeyer (R-Big Lake). Her bill would clarify voting rights with regard to those under guardianship. She said the goal is to ensure that individuals who are not competent to vote are denied eligibility, while competent individuals aren’t denied. The impetus for the bill stems from a 2010 incident in Crow Wing County in which a group of developmentally disabled adults were alleged to have been manipulated into voting by their caregivers. One family member claims his son isn’t mentally competent to vote and shouldn’t have been allowed to do so. According to Session Weekly, Kiffmeyer said the bill is needed to clarify current law and to protect vulnerable adults from those who would use them to commit voter fraud. Opponents argue it’s unfair to presume people under guardianship to be incompetent, and said the burden should be on the courts to determine when they’re ineligible. “Persons with disabilities, even when within the court process and under court supervision, should be presumptively thought to possess the right to vote,” said Bob McLeod, an attorney who was involved in drafting the current state law on voting. Individuals under guardianship are presumed to be eligible to vote unless a court rules otherwise. Kiffmeyer’s bill would reverse this by delineating between individuals under “limited guardianship,” who would be presumed to be eligible, and those under regular guardianship, who would be presumed to be ineligible. The bill is going through the House committee process and has a Senate companion. Advocacy days continue MN-CCD sponsors Tuesdays at the Capitol. Attend these sessions every Tuesday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and learn how to be an effective advocate for yourself or for a family member. MN-CCD will help people share their stories about the importance of disability ser-
Advocates from ARRM filled the capitol rotunda March 1. Photo courtesy of ARRM
vices with legislators and to ensure there is a disability community presence at the capitol. Contact asimons@arcmn.org or at 651-523-0823, ext. 112. No session is held April 10 because state lawmakers will be on spring break. Assistance will be available for locating legislative offices and or accompanying advocates to meetings with legislators. Help is also available if advocates haven’t prepared their personal stories in advance. It is best to set up meetings with state lawmakers well in advance. Call 1-800-657-3550, or go to www. gis.leg.mn/OpenLayers/districts to find contact information. MN-CCD and other groups typically end their training at 10:30 a.m. so set up meetings after 10:45 a.m. There are options for lunch. Either bring food or purchase food in the accessible cafeteria of the Transportation Building (connected to capitol and State Office Building by accessible underground tunnel). Check for parking information at www.leg.state.mn.us /leg/capitolcmplx.asp Several Metro Transit buses stop near the capitol and State Office Building. The largest of the advocacy events is the annual Disability Day at the Capitol, set for 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, April 4. Register in the capitol great hall starting at 10 a.m., then go to briefings at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. A rally will be held in the capitol rotunda at noon. This event is sponsored by several advocacy groups. Preregistration is due by Monday, March 26. For a flyer on this event, go to tinyurl.com/86ede9c or call 1-800-669-6442 or info@braininjurymn.org Advocating Change Together, Brain Injury Association of Minnesota, People First of Minnesota, SelfAdvocates Minnesota and The Arc Minnesota are sponsors. Another upcoming advocacy days is MCIL/ DSPAM Day, Thursday, March 15, web link www.mcil-mn.org Join DSPAM, Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL), Minnesota State Council on Disability (MSCoD), Southeastern Minnesota Center for Independent Living Inc., Independent Lifestyles, Inc. to advocate for consumer-directed independent-living and meet with state lawmakers. ■
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Guest commentary
When it comes to employment, do the right thing by John Wayne Barker
For the past few decades, a tremendous amount of time and money has been spent on integrating people with disabilities into the non-disabled community. As part of this process, how employment integration is defined continues to evolve and there is a small group advocating for “Employment First” legislation that would embody the following definition: “Expecting, encouraging, providing,
creating, and rewarding regular integrated employment in the workforce at minimum or competitive wages and benefits as the first and preferred outcome for working-age youth and adults with disabilities especially for those with complex and significant disabilities, for whom job placement in the past has been limited, or has not traditionally occurred” (MN Employment First Report—September 30, 2011). According to this same report, “The employment rate for individuals with disabilities reported by the Office of Disability Employment Policy, is less than one-third that of people without disabilities (21 percent compared to 70 percent respectively)”. I do not consider this statement accurate. Based on reports that I cite in my editorial posted at www.merrickinc.org/barksbytes.html, I conclude that there are approximately 106,000 people in the state with a developmental or intellectual disability (D/ID, formerly referred to as mental retardation) and DHS reports that 27,750 citizens receive related services, meaning 78,250 with D/ID are not “in the system”. The state demographer reports that 84 percent of the population is of working age which means that 65,730 people with D/ID outside the system are between the ages of 16 and 64. Therefore it could be argued that 74 percent of people with D/ ID of working age are in the workforce at minimum or competitive wages and
benefits since they are living in their communities without any public support—not the 21 percent cited in the MN Employment First Report. This leads to the second part of this issue concerning the definition of “integration” and it seems unlikely that the stake-holders supporting the D/ID population will soon come to a consensus definition. Moreover, in a very real way integration is a choice. For example, a retired couple that chooses to live in an assisted living complex with their same-aged peers would not think of themselves as being segregated. So, if integration is defined and chosen by the individual, perhaps defining segregation would be helpful in this discussion and I offer the following: “Segregation is the forcible separation of a group or class from the rest of society”. From my view this term does not apply to the 27,750 people with D/ID served by group homes and DT&H programs in Minnesota because their placement was chosen by an interdisciplinary team that included themselves, their guardian/family, and an independent case manager. Therefore, if people with D/ID are not segregated, they must be integrated. Beyond the reality of integration as an individual choice, as Martin Luther King, Junior said— “True integration will be achieved by true neighbors who are willingly obedient to unenforceable obligations.” This quote suggests to me that if we genuinely listen to the person with D/ID to identify their preferences, determine and build on their skills, and actively search for connections in their neighborhoods—businesses will hire them
History Note - from p. 2 teered for many groups. She was a volunteer for Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota, now Can Do Canines, for more than 25 years. She was employed by the organization for more than 11 years. Perish served on many committees and boards and was a member of the Minneapolis Advisory Committee on People with Disabilities for more than 21 years. She was known not only as a strong, spirited, passionate advocate who not only knew the issues impacting the deaf and hard of hearing commu-
and communities accept them because they add value, not out of charity or because of some government mandate. It all comes down to doing the right thing, at the right time, one person at a time, without all the hyperbole coming from the ivory tower. Is working in a facility-based DT&H program a good choice for people with D/ID? Yes if that is the individual’s preferred choice. Moreover, having state legislation that makes “minimum or competitive wages and benefits the first and preferred outcome” is contrary to person-centered planning. Legislators need to hear the thoughts of their constituents on this issue. Can more people currently served by DT&H programs be competitively employed? If that is their choice, yes, and better progress will be made if we stop setting goals that are based on statewide statistics. For instance, the MN Employment First Report references the Fourth Summit of the Employment First Coalition that was held on September 30, 2011, around the question, “What will it take to double employment of Minnesotans with disabilities by 2015?” The answer is we cannot double the 74 percent employment rate of the statewide D/ID population, how-ever, we can work on increasing the number of DT&H clients of working age in the work-force at minimum or competitive wages if that is the individual’s preferred choice. ■ Barker is executive director Merrick, Inc., a St. Paul-based social services agency. He has many years experience in human services and has been an active member of many state task forces and committees. nity, she could also convincingly argue the issues. She advised on ADA compliance issues involving access for deaf and hard of hearing people to citywide programs and services. In a statement, the commission said, “Lee was a force to be reckoned with and her death leaves a huge void in the disability community.” ■ The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mncdd.org and www.partnersinpolicymaking.com
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March 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3
FIRST PERSON Honoring a woman with a great love of life by Alan Peters, Executive Director Can-Do Canines
Editor’s note: This is excerpted from a eulogy given at disability rights advocate Lee Perish’s memorial service March 1. Read more about Perish in this month’s History Note on page 2. Lee brought a sharp wit, always a smile and a steady flow of laughter around our office at Can Do Canines. Because she couldn’t hear, she couldn’t modulate her voice and sometimes spoke or laughed loudly. This caused her infectious belly laugh to be heard near and far. Lee was a friendly, social person. In fact, I sometime thought she held a job largely because she liked interacting with others and this was a good way to do so. When it came time to pass out paychecks, Lee loved to roll around and personally hand the envelope to everyone she could, always with a joke or a smile. We will all miss her at Can Do Canines. Lee befriended me in about 1986 or so, a short time after she lost her hearing. She took pity on my feeble attempts to communicate using sign language at the Hearing Societies’ Wednesday evening practice session called Silent Night. We quickly became friends and we spent every Wednesday practicing sign with the group. If our new relationship stood a chance of succeed-
God’s love matters, not the sight in eyes by Clarence Schadegg
During his final days, my brother Larry repeatedly tried to get all of us to rally not just around him but each other. He did this from his recliner and hospital bed. Did we hear Larry? Are we doing what he asked? Did my niece, nephew and I really hear the final request of their father, my brother? Because I am blind, I was not allowed to be a pallbearer of my brother Larry. Two of my brother’s children organized his funeral. During the only family planning meeting, I asked, “Who would be pallbearer?” I asked for that honor. My niece said that choice had already been made. She told me the funeral home recommended to not have somebody who is blind be pallbearer. . . Pallbearers have already been chosen. My nephew stated it was church policy that a blind person not be pallbearer. I called a church representative and asked her if it was indeed true, the church policy excluded a blind person as pallbearer. That representative called me back. She had contacted, on her own initiative, the funeral home and the lead minister of the church. She called me back within 15 minutes of my phone call. No, she said, there was no such policy. The funeral home and the church have no problem with a blind person as pallbearer. I asked, did my brother Larry request me to not be pallbearer? No, said my niece, he had not. My older brother was asked to be pallbearer, but not me. I felt such pain around this as to not be allowed to walk with my brother to carry the body of our beloved Larry through the people in the pews of that holy hall before God. During that same family meeting, my response was blunt—I was wounded to have been rejected as pallbearer. Regardless, I’d do my part during the funeral to the best of my ability. I did not walk as a pallbearer with another brother to carry the body of our brother Larry on that final journey. I delivered the recited prayers I was asked to give and I believe that was done perfectly. Was there a much deeper reason why I was not chosen as pallbearer? Some members of my family did not allow me to carry the casket of my beloved brother because of their perception that I am imperfect because of my blindness.
ing, it was only because it was not dependant on us communicating only with our hands. When each session was finished, we could then use our voices AND sign AND write—whatever worked—to communicate. Early on I spent hours on the phone using my trusty antique Teletype machine, burning up the airwaves with my new friend using her TTY device. Lee taught me about Twin Cities deaf culture and tradition, and clued me in on ways I could reach out to the deaf community while getting ready to start the Hearing Dog Program of Minnesota. She thought it was a good idea and wanted to help. Because Lee was born with osteogenis imperfecta she was expected to have a short life span, probably a maximum of 40 years. In 1992, at age 40, it did not appear that she was going anywhere, so we had a surprise birthday party for her to celebrate her outliving that improperly predicted life span. I learned about her life. And the more I learned, the more I was amazed that she could exude such a positive attitude and show such a love for life. Life had been hard on her. Having O.I. meant so many broken bones throughout her childhood, so many months in the hospital. Growing up in a small town and being so different was hard. And then to lose your hearing in your early thirties. I think I would have given up. But not Lee. She not only did not give up, she thrived in the face of it all. Lee was a physically small person with the big heart and even bigger personality. She made friends wherever she went. Lee looked harmless enough, a little woman using a wheel chair, but she was a force to be reckoned with. Who among us is perfect? Is that not up to God to decide? The hurt is deep in me from the actions of some members of my family. Regardless, I recited the four prayers before the funeral mass. I made the pauses where the tears welled up inside of me. I let my voice pour forth and not my tears. My poem below is a reminder to all of us to put aside petty perceptions of the holierthan-thou mentality. All of us have a Godgiven responsibility to encourage and to allow each unique individual to share any gift of tribute through love, unrestricted, regardless of physical condition. I am blind. Even with my God-given disability, I am perfect as far as God is concerned. Ultimately, all of us are here to do God’s work the best way we can. Let’s pull together and let the beauty in each person shine–to not be dimmed by negative prejudice and perception. Pull Together: Walk The Talk My brother Larry, from the comfort of his recliner Told us all “we got to pull together” These, the words of a man dying from cancer. There is not a struggle and desire much finer Then to share that love, while in the throngs of a stormy death, with one another And to carry the torch by all who will continue, to answer. To affirm that wish to unite from our dear oldest brother Whose dying wish we need to make come true Did not Christ state in Biblical pages? Let go the petty and support each other From Larry’s lofty place with Jesus in heaven do That divine decree to follow in all our life stages. Pull Together - p. 9
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Lee was stubborn. You would not want to be on the wrong side of an important issue with her. If Lee saw an injustice, she would do her best to fix it. When it came time to take a personal stand and fight the system in a big way, she was not afraid to do just that. In 1991 I nominated Lee Perish Lee for the Twin City Volunteer Hall of Fame, and she was selected for this special honor by Minneapolis St Paul Magazine. It was an honor well deserved, and recognized her volunteering at St. Joseph’s Home for Children, the Association of Late Deafened Adults, and the Hearing Dog Program, the Advisory Committee, FIND, and DE-A-F. In the magazine article about her, Lee was asked about her goal in life. She said, with a laugh, that her goal was “to be the world’s number one pest. Not just for me. But as an advocate for all people with disabilities.” Job well done, Lee. Rest well. ■ (Editor’s note: Lee Perish’s memorial service, which was ASL-interpreted, took place March 1 at Bread of Life Deaf Lutheran Church, Minneapolis. She was preceded in death by her father, Ed Perish. She is survived by her mother, Ione; six brothers and sisters, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.)
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A woman with traumatic brain injury and her family got an early Valentine Feb. 13 with the recovery of her $7,800 computer. The computer was taken off of the Swenson family’s doorstep the week before. A neighbor found it about four blocks away. He returned it to the family. Vicki Swenson called the recovery “a miracle.” Her 38-year-old daughter, Lynda Swenson, uses the device to communicate because she is unable to speak. Lynda Swenson was seriously injured in a 1979 auto
accident. She was only six years old at the time. She can walk short distances with a transfer belt. She uses a wheelchair to travel longer distances. Because she cannot speak, the computer does the talking for her. The man who found the computer turned it on after finding it, causing the machine to state “My name is Lynda Swenson.” The family’s address then appeared. Just before a bus came to their home Feb. 10 to take Lynda Swenson to Midwest Special Services in St. Paul, her mother set down a bag containing the computer outside the house. The computer is heavy and hard to manage when the mother is helping her daughter. The computer sat outside unattended for a brief time and was stolen. St. Paul Police are still looking for the thief or thieves. ■ [Source: Pioneer Press, KSTP-TV]
Staff member blamed in death
Hockey player is back in school
A Brooklyn Park group home’s lone overnight staff member slept while a resident wandered away and was found dead in a nearby pond. A report released Feb. 28 by the Minnesota Department of Health makes a finding of neglect against Evensong Manor. Virginia Glauber, 72, was found face down in the pond July 14. The Minneapolis native had schizophrenia and depression. The state report indicated Glauber would attempt to leave the home and was required to have 24-hour supervision. Evensong’s owner told state officials that Glauber wasn’t making as many attempts to leave, so staff could sleep. She had spent the day before her death reading on the home’s deck and had previously gone for unsupervised walks. The lone staffer, an unlicensed care giver, slept on the couch while Glauber left the home between 1 and 7 a.m. July 13, according to the report. Two state licensing orders were issued against the home involving supervision and the assessment that Glauber was a good fit for a group home setting rather than being institutionalized. The facility owner has challenged the findings. But the six-bed home has stopped accepting residents who require 24-hour supervision. ■ [Source: Star Tribune]
Injured St. Croix Lutheran High School hockey player Jenna Privette, one of two Minnesota teens injured this season in hockey accidents, has been released from the hospital and was expected to return to school in late February. Her CaringBridge website shared the news. Privette suffered a serious spinal cord injury in a game in January. She and Jake Jablonski were injured within several days of each other. Jablonski’s injuries are more serious and he continues with rehabilitation. Privette left Gillette Children’s Hospital in St. Paul Feb. 24. She has regained feeling in her thighs and can walk on her knees. She was able to wheel herself around and use a walker to walk out and get into a motor vehicle. The senior athlete had been receiving inpatient physical therapy and rehabilitative care since the Jan. 6 injury, which left her paralyzed from the waist down. She will continue physical therapy on an outpatient basis. Her injury has been described as a “spinal concussion.” A pancake breakfast for Privette will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. March 31 at the Applebee’s restaurants in Eagan and Inver Grove Heights. Tickets are $15, and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will match up to $1,000 collected. ■ [Source: Pioneer Press]
REGIONAL NEWS Talking computer is recovered
Did Bank of America discriminate? The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced that it is charging Bank of America with discriminating against homebuyers with disabilities. HUD alleges that Bank of America imposed unnecessary and burdensome requirements on borrowers who relied on disability income to qualify for their home loans and required some disabled borrowers to provide physician statements to qualify for home mortgage loans. The federal Fair Housing Act makes it illegal to discriminate in the terms and conditions of a loan to an individual based on a disability, including imposing different application or qualification criteria, and makes it illegal to inquire about the nature or severity of a disability except in limited circumstances not applicable here. “Holding homebuyers with disabilities to a higher standard just because they rely on disability payments as a source of income is against the law,” said John Trasviña, HUD Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “Mortgage companies may verify income and have eligibility standards but they may not single out homebuyers with disabilities to delay or deny financing when they are otherwise eligible.” HUD’s charge is based on a “secretary-initiated investigation,” and the investigation of complaints filed by two individual borrowers in Michigan and one borrower in Wisconsin who claimed that Bank of America required them to provide personal medical information and documentation regarding their disability and proof of continuance of their Social Security payment in order to qualify for a home mortgage loan. The charge is also being issued as part of the work being conducted by the Federal Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force’s non-discrimination working group. According to HUD’s charge, Bank of America allegedly asked some borrowers for proof of their disabilities and sought evidence of the continuation of their Social Security income before approving loans, Regional News - p. 13
March 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3
PEOPLE & PLACES Anne Henry among Hennepin County Bar award winners Anne L. Henry, a longtime disability advocate and expert on Minnesota disability law, is among the winners of this year’s Hennepin County Bar Association (HCBA) Pro Bono Publica awards. She and the other winners were honored at the 2012 awards banquet on March 8. Henry is one of three attorneys recognized for making a significant contribution through pro bono service. The Pro Bono Publica awards are presented in recognition of the time, knowledge and devotion given utilizing legal skills for the good of the community. The recipients were honored at the 32nd annual Bar Benefit, where family, friends and colleagues gathered to celebrate, honor, and support the high ideals represented by these individuals. Three distinct award categories honor the dedication of volunteer services. The Distinguished Service Award recognizes an individual for career-long volunteer work on behalf of the community and the two Excellence Awards recognize
Hegland Joins DHS advisory council Minneapolis resident Lance Hegland joined the Minnesota Department of Human Services Health Services Advisory Council (HSAC) as the public/consumer member of HSAC. His role is to represent consumers, families, and citizens throughout Minnesota. The 13-member council, made up of physicians, other Lance Hegland health care providers, and a public representative, provides leadership to design health care benefit and coverage policies for Minnesota’s public health care programs. A particular focus of HSAC is evidence-based coverage policy, in which decisions regarding health care services paid for by public programs are made using the best available research on their effectiveness. At 18 months of age, Hegland was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy, a genetic neuromuscular disease that causes significant muscle weakness that slowly worsens over time. He relies on assistance from direct support professionals for help with daily activities. He is a longtime community activist, starting in 2001 when he was a resident at the Cuyuna Regional Care Center in Crosby. He holds a master’s degree in business administration program from the University of St. Thomas, focused on healthcare and nonprofit leadership. He has worked in marketing, including work at Access Press,
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current or recent excellence in service by individuals– one from the private sector and one from the public/ judicial sector. Henry, recipient of The Distinguished Service Award, works for Mid Minnesota Legal Aid. For more than 30 years, Henry has been a leader in advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities in Minnesota. In 1978, she joined Legal Aid’s litigation team in the federal class action Welsch v. Likins. She played a key role in that landmark case, which challenged conditions in state hospitals and put Minnesota in the national vanguard of disability rights. Henry is widely acknowledged as one of the top experts in the state on health care issues affecting people with disabilities and as a highly skilled policy advocate. She has trained thousands of attorneys, individuals with disabilities, family members and disability advocates on health care funding, disability services, and the legal rights of individuals with disabilities. Henry is also a past recipient of the Charlie Smith Award, given annually by Access Press to recognize outstanding service to Minnesota’s disability community. Kate DeVries Smith was recognized with the Private Sector Pro Bono Excellence Award. DeVries Smith, of Pauly, DeVries Smith, and Deffner, began volunteering for Volunteer Lawyers Network (VLN) in 1998. Since then she has volunteered regularly at
their Housing Court Project Clinic, providing representation to low-income clients dealing with serious housing issues, in danger of being homeless, or living in unsafe conditions. DeVries Smith has donated more than 600 hours in this time period and represented almost 100 clients. Drew P. Schaffer received the Public/Judicial Sector Pro Bono Excellence Award. Schaffer has been a staff at- Anne Henry torney at the Legal Aid Society of Minneapolis since 2005 specializing in tenant rights. After a tornado ripped through North Minneapolis in May 2011, Schaffer assumed the role of coordinator for the development and distribution of legal education materials designed to meet tornado victims’ needs. Representation and service was provided to 110 storm-affected households; Schaffer himself represented ten of these households in eviction cases in housing courts, where each was expunged after a favorable result of dismissal or settlement. ■
and recently has been exploring new models and tools for delivering better direct support services. One of his recent projects is IndependencePartners. IndependencePartners will bring individuals with disabilities, families, professionals, community leaders, and entrepreneurs together to build new independentliving tools. The first tool they are working on is DSPMatch. DSPMatch offers quick, safe, and individualized job matching and relationship-building tools for direct support consumers, families, and highquality professionals. The tool includes web-based job board and self-help resources For the past several years, Hegland has been a patient advisor with Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC). In December 2011, he joined the HCMC Healthcare Reform Steering Team along with another patient advisor and senior leaders. The team is explore ways to empower healthcare reform at HCMC and surrounding communities. He also has served since 2010 as a member of the Citizens League Health and Medical Advancement Group. The group spent seven months researching health care reform occurring at the national and state level. Group members have been sharing ideas to raise public understanding of health insurance exchanges. Hegland received the Direct Support Professional (DSP) Advocate of the Year Award from the Direct Support Professional Association of Minnesota (DSPAM) during its annual celebration in September 2011 to honor Minnesota’s DSPs. He earned the award for his work with individuals and families impacted by chronic illness, disability, and aging in addition to professionals directly providing independent-living assistance. ■
Hockey summit promotes safety Representatives from some of the nation’s most influential bodies in hockey met in St. Paul March 8 for a Player Safety Summit on how to make their game as safe as possible while being true to the game. The summit was held in the wake of injuries to two prep hockey players. “Our goal is not to change the game, but rather to enhance it by creating a safer environment,” said John McClellan, executive director of Herb Brooks Foundation, which hosted the event at the Xcel Energy Center. The event coincided with the boys’ state hockey tournaments being played that weekend. While player safety at all levels has been an ongoing concern, including in recent years in the prevention of concussions, the paralyzing check put on teenager Jack Jablonski during a junior varsity hockey game on Dec. 30 has intensified interest in keeping the players as healthy as possible while they pursue the game they love. “Bringing all these hockey entities together to try and shape a vision that improves hockey for players is the essence my father stood for,” said Dan Brooks, the son of 1980 “Miracle” coach Herb Brooks, who died in 2003. Mike Jablonski, Jack’s father; Gov. Mark Dayton and representatives of Minnesota Hockey, the Minnesota State High School League, Western Conference Hockey Association, Minnesota Gophers, USU Hockey and event sponsor Sanford Orthopedics Health & Sports Medicine are among the participants. ■ People & Places - p. 9
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PEOPLE & PLACES The Arc Minnesota gives feedback to Obama administration
Four of the five members from the Minnesota delegation gathered outside the White House Conference Center Feb. 10, where breakout sessions were held on special education, Medicaid, community living, and family support. From left to right are Kurt Rutzen, The Arc Minnesota public policy advocate; Steve Larson, The Arc Minnesota senior policy director ; Debbi Harris, Chair of The Arc Greater Twin Cities Board, and Mike Gude, communications director for The Arc Minnesota.
Representatives from The Arc Minnesota had a rare opportunity to hear directly from senior Obama administration officials on disabilities. The five Minnesotans were among 150 invited guests from The Arc groups across the nation. They took part in the White House Community Leaders Briefing on disability issues, held on Feb. 10.
“This briefing reminded me how important it is for all of us in the disability community to share our stories and be at the table when decisions are made,” said Steve Larson, Senior Policy Director for The Arc Minnesota. “President Obama himself said that personal stories do make a difference. Larson relayed the president’s thoughts. “Last summer, you shared your stories about why Medicaid matters, and you helped shape the debate,” he told us. “You can do it again.” Members of the Minnesota delegation were Larson, Kurt Rutzen, The Arc Minnesota Public Policy Advocate; Debbi Harris, Chair of The Arc Greater Twin Cities Board; Kim Keprios, CEO of The Arc Greater Twin Cities; and Mike Gude, who is the organization’s communications director. In morning briefings, senior administration officials shared information about federal initiatives to provide more housing for people in the community, to enforce the Olmstead decision and to protect Medicaid from block grants. Arc representatives had ample time to ask questions and provide feedback. Before lunch, the group was greeted by President Barak Obama. Afternoon breakout sessions provided more face time with senior officials to discuss specific issues in detail – including community living, education, health care and family support. The event was hosted by the White House Office of Public Engagement. The Minnesota delegation was part of a group of about 150 of The ARC’s leaders, members, advocates and staff. The ARC is one of the largest national community-based organizations advocating for and serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. That’s why the organization was chosen for the briefing day. The White House Community Leaders Briefing Series is a weekly program that began in the summer of 2011. It is a unique opportunity for grassroots leaders
Kitty Care benefits cats, caregivers Confetti, an affectionate tortoiseshell cat, snuggles contentedly in the crook of Jesse Bromaghim’s arm emitting a lawn-mower loud purr. “This is a cute kitty,” said Bromaghim, a Lifeworks client participating in the Kitty Care program at Petco. Who benefits most from the project, Confetti or Bromaghim—or the bigger question, the cats or the clients—is impossible to determine. Teams of four people with disabilities travel from Lifeworks in North Mankato to Petco twice a week to clean the six cages housing cats up for adoption. The cats are from three local animal rescues. The Mankato Free Press ran a feature recently about the project. Kitty Care started almost a year ago when Emily Britz, service facilitator, noticed a flier at Petco requesting volunteers to clean cat cages. This is a project that Britz realized fit Lifeworks’ goal: to help
President Barak Obama addressed the attendees of the White House event. Disability advocates from around the nation gathered to discuss issues with Obama administration officials. Photos courtesy of The Arc Minnesota
to start a two-way dialogue with the White House about issues that are affecting their communities. The sessions help advocates become better informed about government policies and programs and how they can use or maximize these resources. “The ARC, as one of the largest organizations working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, brings a wealth of experience and insight to discuss today’s most important concerns facing persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, said Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement Jon Carson. Many of those taking part in the session were able to share their stories about issues including the need for support services to allow Arc members to live independently in their communities. ■ This article was compiled with information from The Arc Minnesota and the White House Communications Office. people with disabilities live fuller, more meaningful lives by integrating them into the flow of community experience. Britz had no problem finding clients to volunteer. Terry Aspelund, manager of Petco’s dog and cat department, said the store is very grateful for Lifeworks. “It helps to socialize the cats by being handled,” she said. “They love the attention.” The Petco job is divided into four stations: bag holder, scooper, cage cleaner and cat lover. In addition to scooping out litter, the volunteers clean each cage, wipe down the walls and shelf, change the kitty blankets and refill the food and water dishes. “They get an understanding of what kind of work and responsibility it is to have and take care of a pet,” Britz said “We laugh and remind each other to breathe through our mouths during the scooping part!” joked Maude Luskey, a Lifeworks service facilitator. ■
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March 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3
Limb loss prevention a focus
PEOPLE & PLACES PEOPLE FOR PARKS has announced that it has received a $5,000 Quality of Life grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. The award was one of 76 grants totaling almost $450,000 awarded by the Reeve Foundation to nonprofit organizations nationwide that aid in providing more opportunities, access, and daily quality of life for individuals living with paralysis, their families, and caregivers. Since the program was developed in 1999 by the late Dana Reeve, almost 2,000 grants have been awarded, totaling over $15.2 million. This grant was made to the People for Parks with the “enthusiastic recommendation of the merit External Review Panel and the Reeve Foundation Quality of Life Committee.” PEOPLE FOR PARKS will use the grant for a Universal Access playground where children and adults, with or without disabilities, can challenge themselves to explore, interact and play on universally accessible playground facilities with independence and dignity. The playground is planned for Wabun Picnic area, east of Minnehaha Regional Park. A universal playground is a playground that incorporates special features to make it accessible to people with disabilities, while also supporting the activities of people without disabilities. “We’re honored to receive this national grant and grateful to the Reeve Foundation for their support,” said Peggy Halvorson, Falls 4 All committee chair. ■
Approximately 507 amputations occur in the U.S. per day and this number can be significantly reduced. Healthcare leaders from across Medical experts and disability adthe nation met in vocates participated in the limb Potomac, Md. Feb. loss summit in Boston. The Univer9-11 at the Amputee sity of Minnesota Medical School Coalition Limb Loss and Amputee Coalition, which has Summit to review an office in Minneapolis, were the U.S. Department among the participants. Photo courtesy of the of Veterans Affairs Amputee Coalition. (VA) System of Care Preservation Amputation Care and Treatment program (PACT), which has shown compelling outcomes in limb loss prevention. This group of distinguished physicians, nurses, psychologists, prosthetists and healthcare policy leaders from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Veterans Administration, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research and civilian hospitals and healthcare systems examined elements of the VA program to develop a plan for limb loss prevention for the private sector healthcare system. The VA’s initiative, which began in 1992, has demonstrated a dramatic reduction in rates of foot ulcers from diabetes and peripheral vascular disease, which are the leading causes of amputation. For example, the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Nashville has demonstrated a 40 percent decrease in the number of lower-limb amputations over the past five years, a re-
South Metro making a move
Pull Together - from p. 5
Falls 4 All gets grant
South Metro Human Services will be relocating its 16-bed transitional housing program from St. Paul’s to Maplewood. The nonprofit agency wants to redevelop a long-vacant Ethan Allen furniture store into a showcase facility for private mental health treatment. The agency is in the midst of a $2.8 million capital campaign and hopes to relocate toward the end of the year. The program recently received grant funding from Ramsey County and assistance from the Federal Home Loan Bank cooperative, to help with the move. South Metro provides a wide range of human service programs. The St. Paul facility it will replace is an intensive residential treatment facility for adults with serious mental illnesses. Many clients also suffer from substance addiction. Clients stay for up to 90 days while they prepare to move into more stable housing. While telling the Pioneer Press that he would love to have stayed in St. Paul, South Metro President Tom Paul said a move is needed. South Metro has been in its St. Paul Capital heights facility for 25 years. Paul expects the new Maplewood facility at 1111 E. Viking Drive to be fully handicapped accessible and to offer elevator service, lounges and other amenities in a suburban environment. Paul said because of public perception of mental illness, relocating treatment facilities can be a challenge. But a series of public meetings in Maplewood went relatively smoothly and the city issued the nonprofit a conditional use permit in July 2011. Construction could begin in the spring. ■
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As stated in a Christian prayer “Let us pray to the Lord that individuality will be respected” Peel back the onion of discontent, layer by layer Pick up the plow put down the sword And live out all the days of our lives as a family connected. We children of God must not let familial dysfunction Form, frame and mold us while we are on this earth Violent winds and stormy seas may push and pull, but there Is also the choice for peace, love and harmony at every junction To walk that talk from birth to death and death to birth. We come from the womb and go to our grave with hands and words of care. God’s love matters, not the sight in eyes, not the wealth within our pockets. The true legacy to leave behind is to heed God’s call As we end our nights and start our days Remove the gold rings, diamond necklaces and expensive lockets. When pallbearers carry me through holy halls Let all recall that tribute to Jesus we recite together and pray. ■ Clarence Schadegg is an Access Press contributing writer.
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duction in the cost of pharmaceuticals by 48 percent, lab studies by 32 percent and inpatient bed days by 44 percent. The potential for savings in our private healthcare system is significant, given the fact that the projected lifetime healthcare costs for a person with an amputation exceed $500,000. “We agree that the VA system offers much promise if translated to the private sector healthcare system,” said Terrence Sheehan MD, Amputee Coalition medical director and chief medical officer at Adventist Rehabilitation Hospital in Rockville, Maryland. “The next step is to create a demonstration project to test these limb-saving and cost-saving measures. If we can save one person from having an amputation, that is a savings of $500,000—imagine the savings to our healthcare system if we could achieve the approximately 50 percent reduction that the VA has realized. The impact of saving a single limb of someone at risk is immeasurable from a quality of life standpoint.” Among the many organizations represented at the meeting were Allina Health System and University of Minnesota School of Medicine and the Amputee Coalition, which is based in Tennessee and Minnesota. ■
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UPCOMING EVENTS Get help Free house painting Metro Paint-A-Thon helps low-income seniors and people with disabilities continue to live independently in their own homes. Thousands of volunteers scrape, prime and paint their homes at no cost to the homeowner. Volunteers from companies, congregations, civic groups, and schools paint homes the weekend of Aug. 4-5. To qualify for Paint-A-Thon, homeowners must own and occupy a single-family home, in need of paint, but not in need of major repairs; live in Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott or Washington counties; be 60 years of age or older, or have a permanent physical disability if under age 60 and meet monthly income guidelines. Deadline is May 4. FFI: 612-276-1579; paintathon.gmcc.org
Adult classes Free financial planning seminar A free financial planning seminars for parents of children with special needs is offered 6:30-8 p.m. Thu, March 15 at Opportunity Partners-Koch Campus, 5500 Opportunity Court, Minnetonka. Beyond One Day at a Time, presented by Opportunity Partners, Kukla Law and Northwestern Mutual, will take families through the necessary steps to plan the future and lifetime of those with special needs. Learn a five-step planning process, how to build a strong foundation for a child and strategies specific to families with special needs. Preregister. FFI: Sue Hayes, 952-930-4202, shayes@opportunities.org Independent living classes offered The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) offers free and accessible classes on living independently for people with disabilities. Most classes are held at 1600 University Ave., #16, the green tile building at University and Snelling, St. Paul. Workplace Relationship Building is 10 a.m.-noon Mon, March 12. Learn to develop and maintain relationships with co-workers.
Knitting circle: Learn simple techniques, patterns and designs of knitting. Adaptive knitting equipment available; for all levels of knitters. Other crafts are welcome, 1-3 p.m. Mon, March 26. Learn to cook healthy and simple side dishes Tue, March 27. The Weekenders outings are for those who are tired of sitting home all weekend. Meet other people who share similar interests and want to meet new people. Guests are welcome and encouraged. Outings recently have included museums, bowling and dinner out. Ask about upcoming outings. Events are free (with the exception of Weekenders outings), accessible and mostly scent-free. Please RSVP and give two weeks’ notice of needed accommodations. FFI: Corbett Laubignat, corbettl@mcil-mn.org 651-603-2028.
Workshops, conferences Special Needs BasicCare forum Minnesota’s 2011 Health and Human Services Omnibus bill requires people with disabilities who are on Medical Assistance to be automatically enrolled in a managed care plan called Special Needs BasicCare (SNBC) unless they specifically opt out. To help people with disabilities and their families better understand this change and make an informed decision, The Arc Greater Twin Cities and the Minnesota Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities will offer a free Special Needs BasicCare Forum 6-8 p.m. Tue, April 10 at the Goodwill Easter Seals Main Office, 553 Fairview Ave., St. Paul. The Special Needs BasicCare Forum will feature information from a number of key organizations involved in SNBC. The Minnesota Department of Human Services will explain the legislative change and its implications. The Disability Linkage Line will discuss assistance they can provide to help individuals determine their best option. Representatives from the three SNBC managed care providers in the metropolitan area will outline their programs. They are Medica, UCARE and Metropolitan Health Plan. Space is limited. To RSVP, email denafelper@arcgreatertwincities.org or call 952-9200855 no later than April 9. The Disability Linkage Line at 651-646-8342 can also answer questions as people receive enrollment materials. Child and adolescent mental health conference The Minnesota Association for Children’s’ Mental Health (MACMH) conference is April 22 – 24 in Duluth. Early deadlines are approaching. Register by Jan. 31 for a $50 savings. Also, exhibitors, sponsors and marketers need to sign on by April 2 for the April 2324 exhibit days. New offerings this year include a sponsors’ row for event sponsors, a “friend” discount for longtime exhibitors and the ability to select an exhibit space through online registration. Ask about exhibit and conference attendee rates or check the organization website. FFI: info@macmh.org, or www.macmh.org
Youth and families Sibshop Super Saturday Children in the Twin Cities east metro area who have brothers and sisters with intellectual or developmental disabilities can have fun and make friends at Sibshop Super Saturday from The Arc Greater Twin Cities, 2:306:30 p.m. Sat, March 31 at the White Bear Area YMCA Teen Center, 2100 Orchard Lane, White Bear Lake. Sibshop Super Saturday has all the fun, activities, discussion and friendship of The Arc’s monthly Sibshops, packed into a single half-day session. If you don’t want the commitment of a monthly Sibshop or there isn’t one in your area, Sibshop Super Saturdays are a great alternative. Sibshop Super Saturday is free for members of The Arc Greater Twin Cities and $15 per child for nonmembers. The cost includes a meal. Another event for children throughout the Twin Cities area is Sat, April 21 at Homeward Hills Barn in Eden Prairie. Monthly Sibshops are offered in Anoka, Apple Valley, Hastings, Hopkins, St. Paul and Stillwater. FFI: 952-920-0855, www.arcgreatertwincities.org Parents with Disabilities group Parents with Disabilities is a new group offered by Metro Center for Independent Living. This group is for people who have disabilities and have children. Learn from and grow with others who are dealing with the intricacies of disability and parenting responsibilities. Everyone’s experience is valuable and questions are important. The next four meetings are at MCIL 1600 University Ave W, St. Paul, 5-7 p.m. Mondays March 19 and April 23. Pre-registration requested. FFI: Corbett, 651 603 2028, corbettl@mcil-mn.org PACER offers workshops PACER Center offers useful free or low-cost workshops for families of children with disabilities. Register in advance. All workshops are at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, unless specified. Academic Success: Helping Children with Disabilities Learn What All Children Learn, is 7-9 p.m. Tue, March 13. There is a renewed focus on helping students with disabilities learn what all children are learning. This workshop will help parents of students with disabilities in grades K-12 understand the following concepts so they can participate more effectively in Individualized Education Program (IEP) planning. PACER is working with the Minnesota Statewide Family Network to present Finding Hope, Getting Help: Support for Your Child with Mental Health Needs in the Community, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Mon, March 12 at Apple Valley Community Center, 14603 Hayes Rd., Apple Valley. This workshop will familiarize parents and others with the Minnesota Comprehensive Children’s Mental Health Act. Preregistration required. FFI: 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237 (toll free), www.PACER.org Fraser offers groups Fraser offers a wide variety of classes and programs for families dealing with disabilities. Classes, which typically cost $30 per person or $50 per couple, are held throughout the region. Preregistration required. Fraser offers a wide variety of classes and programs for families dealing with disabilities. Classes, which typically cost $30 per person or $50 per couple, are held throughout the region. Preregistration required. FFI: 612-798-8331 or workshops@fraser.org ■
March 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3
Pg 11
Play explores themes of disability, gender
ACCESSIBLE FUN Welcome to the Access Press Accessible Fun listings. Get further information on things to do around Minnesota at www.access minnesota.org and click on the calendar. For info on galleries and theater performances around the state, visit www.vsamn.org or call 612-332-3888 or 1-800-8013883 (voice/tty). Or check c2 (caption coalition) inc., which does most of the captioned shows in Minnesota, also captions shows across the country: http://c2net.org\
Kaposia, Inc. hosts benefit Kaposia, Inc. a St. Paul based private, nonprofit organization announces. Its annual benefit at 5:30 p.m. Sat, March 24 at St. Catherine’s University, St. Paul. Brian “BT” Turner of Cities 97 will emcee the event, which also features local jazz artist Zacc Harris and his band Vital Organ, and Dave “The Packer Guy” Sinykin of KFAN. Taste locally produced beers and wines, enjoy a silent auction and gourmet cooking demonstration, and share a delicious meal. The evening is topped with entertainment. Cost is $70 per individual or $650 for a table of 10. Since 1963, Kaposia has been a leader in innovative and inclusive services for persons with developmental disabilities, providing customized employment and retirement services. The company currently serves approximately 325 adults at more than 200 businesses and community organizations throughout the Twin Cities. Proceeds from this event benefit Kaposia. FFI: www.kaposia.com
Fabulous ’50s set Mark your calendars for the Opportunity Partners 2012 gala. Step back in time to the Fabulous ’50s benefit gala Fri, April 27 at the Hotel Sofitel Mpls, 5601 W. 78th St., Bloomington. This year’s theme celebrates the 1953 founding of Opportunity Partners, a Twin Cities nonprofit organization that for nearly 60 years has been helping people with disabilities live, learn and work more independently. Festivities start at 5:30 p.m. and include a silent auction, interactive games, updated ’50s comfort food, and live auction featuring professional auctioneer Karen Sorbo. The night will conclude with dancing to the 1950s tunes of The Rockin’ Hollywoods. Ian and Margery Punnett of myTalk 107.1 radio are emcees. Wear formal attire or 1950s garb. Tickets are $90; a variety of sponsorship opportunities are available starting at $250. FFI: www.fabulous50s.eventbrite.com
Enter Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota Applications are being sought for Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota 2012. The pageant, which recognizes the accomplishments of Minnesota women who use wheelchairs, is April 2. Entry forms are now available. The pageant is open to the public. Jenni Taylor is the reigning Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota. The group has a Ms. Minnesota Wheelchair Facebook page for those who want to compete in, help with or be guests at the pageant. FFI: 952-388-0500, www.mswheelchairamerica.org, www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Ms-Wheelchair-Minnesota/ 174180105949729
Earth, Wind & Fire to perform Earth, Wind & Fire—one of America’s top-selling musical groups of all time—is bringing its soul-funk fusion to PACER Center’s 30th Annual Benefit Sat, May 5, at the Mpls Convention Center. Tickets are available now. Inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, Earth, Wind & Fire has earned six Grammy Awards and four American Music Awards alongside numerous other accolades. The band recently received the prestigious Legend Award at the 2011 Soul Train awards on Nov. 27, 2011. In addition to the Earth, Wind & Fire concert, PACER’s benefit includes silent and live auctions. Proceeds from the Benefit support PACER Center programs for children with disabilities and their families and PACER’s Bullying Prevention Center. FFI: 952-838-9000,PACER.org
Seven This compelling documentary play brings to life the stories of seven courageous and diverse women, portraying their tireless work to fight injustice in their home countries of Guatemala, Nigeria, Russia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Northern Ireland and Cambodia. Each woman bravely combats oppression, thus inspiring hope and reaffirming the belief that one person can indeed make a difference. ASL & AD interpretations 7 p.m. Thu, March 15 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 2742 15th Ave. S., Mpls. Tickets pay as you can; suggested donation $15 at the door. Please make reservations at least 48 hours in advance; FFI: admin@chainreactiontp.com, www.ChainReactionTP.com
Pangea World Theater, Teatro del Pueblo and Intermedia Arts present Outside the Circle, a funny and heart-breaking experimental play about the trials of love and limits of social constructs. The play by Andrea Assaf and Samuel Valdez will be staged at Intermedia Arts in Minneapolis, March 15-17. A straight man with cerebral palsy and a woman who is a lesbian recount their adventures, and share their woes of unrequited love and unsuccessful attempts to seduce straight women. Their lives intersect when they meet at a Tijuana bar and become entwined in each other’s stories. Their interweaving tales reveal the illusions of normalcy and the liberation possible when choosing life outside the circle. The play offers a rare and extraordinary opportunity to bring people together across identities and communities. “We are excited to commission Outside the Circle, this new piece of powerful thought-provoking theater by Andrea Assaf and Samuel Valdez,” said Dipankar Mukherjee, artistic director of Pangea World Theater. This performance is a part of Intermedia Arts’ Catalyst Series. This activity is made possible in part by a grant provided by the Minnesota State Arts Board, through an appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature from the Minnesota arts and cultural heritage fund The Catalyst Series showcases the heart of Intermedia Arts’ mission: sparking dialogue and social change with new performing arts, visual arts and film presentations. Through this new series, Intermedia Arts provides quality exhibition, performance, screening, meeting and
The Musical Tale of Peter Rabbit Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre presents, in giant puppet form, the story of young Peter Rabbit. Because he believes he knows better than Mama Rabbit, he ignores her warnings and goes to Farmer McGregor’s forbidden garden. This original production is filled with singing, dancing and giant nine-foot-tall puppets. ASL interpretation 11:15 a.m. Fri, March 16 at Stephen B. Humphrey Theater, St. John’s University, Collegeville. Tickets $17, senior $14, faculty/staff $12, student/youth $10. FFI: 320-363-5777; sjubox@csbsju.edu, www.csbsju.edu/ fine-arts
The Story of My Life Minneapolis Musical Theatre presents the area premiere of the story of two childhood friends and how their relationship profoundly defined their lives. This richly melodic musical is a soaring tribute to the power of friendship and the people who change our lives forever. AD & ASL interpretation 7:30 p.m. Sun, March 18 at Illusion Theater, Hennepin Center for the Arts, 528 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. Tickets reduced to $18 (regular $25); FFI: 612-339-4944, www.aboutmmt.org
Hay Fever Noël Coward’s Hay Fever, a delightful comedy of manners, is performed by the Guthrie Theater, at the theater’s Wurtele Thrust Stage, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. Captioning is 1 p.m. Wed., March 21, and 7:30 p.m. Fri, April 20 by c2 inc. AD interpretation 1 p.m. Sat, March 31, sensory tour 10:30 a.m. or 7:30 p.m. Fri., April 6. ASL interpretation 7:30 p.m. Fri, April 13 or Thu, April 19. Tickets reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for captioning (regular $24-68). FFI: 612-377-2224, TTY 612-377-6626, www.guthrietheater.org
Medea University of Minnesota Duluth Theatre presents the classical tale of betrayal, passion and unbridled revenge, which probes the darkest recesses of the caves of jealously. When Jason leaves Medea for a younger wife, how far will
Andrea Assaf and Samuel Valdez star in the play, Outside the Circle. Photo by Barb Campbell
workshop space to independent artists, arts organizations, youth groups, community groups and individuals who are dedicated to using art as a tool for social change. Performances are 7:30 p.m., March 15 – 17 at Intermedia Arts, 2822 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis. Tickets are 15 or $12 for Students/Seniors/Groups of 10 or more. Ask about accommodations. FFI: 612.871.4444, intermediaarts.org, pangeaworldtheater. org/performances/outside-the-circle/ she go to find her personal justice? This compelling psychological tragedy is timeless in its themes, and forces us to confront our own darker side. (Recommended for ages 14+). ASL interpretation 2 p.m. Sun, March 25 at Marshall Performing Arts Center, Dudley Experimental Theatre, UMD Campus, 1215 Ordean Court, Duluth. Tickets are:$18, $13 senior 62+/student, $6 UMD student, $8 child to age 12. FFI: 218-726-8561, www.umn.edu/theatre or www.tickets.umn.edu
Contemporary Journeys Enjoy an exhibit of contemporary art and see how it can be used for community building, self-expression and appreciation of the present at Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. Contemporary Journeys is a part-
Accessible Fun - p. 12
Pg 12 March 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3
Radio Talking Book March sampling Digital radio roll-out continues Additional areas of the state are still receiving digital radios. Recently, the Hibbing-Chisholm area began getting the radio Talking Book digital signal and Duluth is currently in process. The next area is Ely. This springsummer, the Twin Cities area will be converted to a digital signal. This is the area with the largest number of users. More information on digital service will be announced in the future.
Leisure reading services available Radio Talking Book has encountered a lull in textbook materials that are needed, so volunteers are available to record casual reading materials for patrons. Anyone who has a book that they would like to have recorded can contact Dan at 651-649-5903 or 800-652-9000.
Weekend program books Your Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing Passages in Caregiving, by Gail Sheehy; For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing Across the Great Barrier, by Patricia C. Wrede, and Tyger Tyger, by Kersten Hamilton; Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing Midnight Lantern, by Tess Gallagher; The U.S. and Us (Sunday 4 p.m.) is airing North Country, by Mary Lethert Wingerd.
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. Phone is 1-800-722-0550 and hours are 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The catalog is online and can be accessed by going to the main website, http://education. state.mn.us, and then clicking on the link. Persons living outside of Minnesota may obtain copies of books by contacting their home 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. See more information about events on the Facebook site for the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network. Facebook is a fee social networking web site. Register at www.facebook.com
Access Press is one of the publications featured at 9 p.m. Sundays on the program It Makes a Difference.
Chautauqua • Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m. The Social Animal, Nonfiction by David Brooks, 2011. The unconscious mind is most of the mind, the realm of emotions, intuitions, biases, longings, genetic predispositions, personality traits, and social norms. It is where our most important life decisions are made. L - Read by Sally Browne. 20 broadcasts. Begins March 22. Past is Prologue • Monday – Friday 9 a.m. The Warmth of Other Suns, Nonfiction by Isabel Wilkerson, 2010. From 1915 to 1970, the decades-long migration of black citizens fleeing the South for a better life changed the face of America. Read by Judy Woodward. 23 broadcasts. Begins March 12. Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m. The Endless Forest, Fiction by Sara Donati, 2010. The spring of 1824 is challenging for Paradise, New York, when a flood devastates the village. But for Nathaniel and Elizabeth Bonner, it’s a time of reunion as their children return home. Another who arrives is their ward’s long-absent mother, bringing anger and secrets. Read by Jenny O’Brien. 21 broadcasts. Begins March 14. The Writer’s Voice • Monday – Friday 2 p.m. In the Neighborhood, Nonfiction by Peter Lovenheim, 2010. Having lived on the same street most of his life, Lovenheim thought he knew his neighbors. Then a brutal murder-suicide rocked the community and he realized no one really knew anyone else. Read by John Ward. Nine broadcasts. Begins March 20. Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m. Once upon a River, Fiction by Bonnie Jo Campbell, 2011. After her father dies a violent death, sixteen-yearold Margo Crane takes off in her grandfather’s rowboat in search of her mother. But the river is a dangerous place for a young woman traveling alone. She must be strong to survive. L,S - Read by Pat Lelich. 11 broadcasts. Begins March 19.
Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m. Death of the Mantis, Fiction by Michael Stanley, 2011. In the southern Kalahari, a ranger named Monzo is found dying, surrounded by three Bushmen. Detective David “Kubu” Bengu is on the case. When a second and a third murder point to the Bushmen, Kubu must travel into the Kalahari. L,S - Read by John Mandeville. 13 broadcasts. Begins March 26. Off the Shelf • Monday – Friday 10 p.m. I Thought You Were Dead, Fiction by Pete Nelson, 2010. In Paul’s life, there are many obstacles; his life seems to be a minefield of mistakes. The one bright spot is his dog Stella, who listens with compassion to his complaints about the injustices of life. Read by Hugh Jones. Nine broadcasts. Begins March 20. Potpourri • Monday – Friday 11 p.m. Scorecasting, Nonfiction by Tobias J. Moskowitz and L. Jon Wertheim, 2011. Moskowitz and Wertheim overturn some of the most cherished truisms of sports and reveal the hidden forces that shape how basketball, baseball, football and hockey games are played, won, and lost. Read by Phil Rosenbaum. 10 broadcasts. Begins March 19. Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnight The Sisters from Hardscrabble Bay, Fiction by Beverly Jensen, 2010. Idella and Avis live in chilly New Brunswick. Over the next seven decades, they go through trials, adventures, loves and losses. Read by Colleen Matz. 14 broadcasts. Begins March 20. After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m. Dead in the Family, Fiction by Charlaine Harris, 2010. Sookie is reeling after the Fae War and the torture by her enemies. But she is in love with vampire Eric Northman. V,L,S - Read by Kara Greshwalk. 11 broadcasts. Begins March 28.
Abbreviations: V - violence • L – offensive language • S – sexual situations
Accessible Fun - from p. 11 nership program of the Walker Art Center and the Alzheimer’s Association of Minnesota-North Dakota. The event for those with Alzheimer’s and their families is 10-11:30 a.m. Wed, March 28. Tour fee is $10, senior 65+ $8. Care partners and additional family/friends are free. Pay in advance by credit card (by phone) or cash/ check on the day of the program. Exact change is appreciated. Pre-registration is required at least one week in advance of the program date. FFI: 612-375-7609, education.resources@walkerart.org
Re: Generations Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus says, if we don’t tell our stories, who will? In the tradition of its past commission works, the chorus proudly presents the world premiere of a new commissioned work by Michael Shaieb (who also composed Through a Glass, Darkly and The
Kushner Trilogy). This unconventional look at the generational dynamics in our community tells a story that is relevant not just to the members of the Chorus but to everyone. It is a reminder that age is a state of mind, Junior High is still awful and that life does indeed “get better.” Large-print and Braille programs available on request. ASL interpretation 8 p.m. Fri, March 30 at Ted Mann Concert Hall, 2128 4th St. S., Mpls. Tickets reduced to half-price for ASL patrons (regular $18-35, Sat. $21-40, includes box office & facility fees) FFI: 612-6242345, nto@umn.edu, www.tcgmc.org or https:// www.tickets.umn.edu/Online/
Enjoy a movie tonight Several theaters around the state offer accommodations for movie-goers, such as captioning or descriptive services. www.captionfish.com lists cinemas with access (AD/CC) features. Find theaters in your area by typing in your zip code. MoPix-equipped Rear Window Captioned Films are listed at cam.wgbh.org/mopix/nowshowing. html#mn.
VSA calendar seeks support For more than a decade, the VSA Minnesota Accessible Performance Calendar (part of which is used by Access Press) has publicized arts events that offer ASL interpreting, captioning, audio description, or other accommodations. Major cuts to the national VSA program which paid for this outreach means VSA Minnesota is looking for ideas, sponsors, volunteers or other means to continue this service. Anyone with suggestions, or who wants to say how this service and VSA’s accessibility advocacy is important to the community, should email ideas and comments to access@vsamn.org or call 612332-3888 or 800-801-3883, voice/tty. The current arts calendar can be seen at www.vsamn.org/calendar. ■
We would like to acknowledge and thank The Arc™ Minnesota and UCare for their generous Issue Sponsorship.
Please consider joining as an Issue Sponsor. Call: 651-644-2133
March 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3
Regional News -
from p. 6
after first denying them. The matter will now be handled by the Department of Justice. FHEO and its partners in the Fair Housing Assistance Program investigate approximately 10,000 housing discrimination complaints annually. People who believe they are the victims of housing discrimination should contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777 (voice), (800) 927-9275 (TTY). ■ [Source: HUD]
Veterans with disabilities helped The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has issued two revised publications addressing veterans with disabilities and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Both documents are available on the agency’s website at www.eeoc.gov The revised guides reflect changes to the law stemming from the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, which make it easier for veterans with a wide range of impairments—including those that are often not well understood—such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), to get needed reasonable accommodations that will enable them to work successfully. Prior to the ADA Amendments Act, the ADA’s definition of the term “disability” had been construed narrowly, significantly limiting the law’s protections. The revised documents are also an outgrowth of a public meeting the EEOC held on Nov. 16, 2011, entitled “Overcoming Barriers to the Employment of Veterans with Disabilities.” In that meeting, the commission heard testimony from a panel of experts on the unique needs of veterans with disabilities transitioning to civilian employment. The particular challenges faced by veterans with disabilities in obtaining employment has been the subject of increased attention in recent months, as large numbers of veterans return from service in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Guide for Employers explains how protections for veterans with service-connected disabilities differ under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), and how employers can prevent disability-based discrimination and provide reasonable accommodations. The Guide for Wounded Veterans answers questions that veterans with service-related disabilities may have about the protections they are entitled to when they seek to return to their former jobs or look for civilian jobs. The publication also explains the kinds of accommodations that may be necessary to help veterans with disabilities obtain and successfully maintain employment. “We want veterans with disabilities to know that the EEOC has resources to assist them as they transition to, or move within the civilian workforce,” said EEOC Chair Jacqueline A. Berrien. “The release of these publications demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that veterans with disabilities receive the full protection of the laws we enforce, and that employers understand how to comply with those laws.” [Source: EEOC]
Pg 13
Radio segment is criticized
Seniors protest loss of pool
A segment on a syndicated radio show aired in Duluth is being decried by some residents as insensitive and offensive to people with cognitive disabilities. The segment, part of the Dallas-based “Lex and Terry Show,” involves asking a panel of “contestants” questions to determine which one is “mentally challenged.” JoAnn Bauers, who said she doesn’t ordinarily listen to the program or the station, KZIO 94.1, happened upon it as she was driving to work recently. “I really feel like a line was crossed,” said Bauers, who was unimpressed by the argument that the bit was a parody. “Sure, ‘Saturday Night Live’ would do a parody about Sarah Palin, but would they do a parody on her disabled child? I found it extremely offensive.” Bauers told co-worker Kathy Anderson about the segment. It touched a nerve with Anderson, whose 21year-old daughter is afflicted with San Fillipo syndrome, a rare disease that is characterized by progressive intellectual decline, among other symptoms. “To me this is so insensitive and so offensive to say, ‘Pick the mentally challenged person in this group’ by the way they talk,” Anderson said. The show’s content is particularly disturbing in light of the current Un-Fair Campaign in Duluth against racial discrimination, Anderson said. Mocking people with cognitive disabilities is just as offensive as racism, she said, and it disparages people who often don’t have a voice to speak for themselves. “It’s really unfortunate that people will listen to that,” said Roberta Cich, director of the Duluth branch of the Center for Independent Living of Northeastern Minnesota and a member of the Duluth Commission on Disabilities. “It’s all funny until it hits home.” Calls to Red Rock Radio Corp., which owns KZIO 94.1—known as 94X—weren’t returned on Wednesday. An e-mail sent to the Lex and Terry Show wasn’t answered. [Source: Duluth News-Tribune]
Senior citizens in the Edina area are protesting the possible loss of a shallow pool at the Edinborough Park pool complex. The shallow pool, which is used for exercise, is threatened by a possible redesign of the city-owned indoor water park. A consultant has proposed filling in the shallow pool space and reusing the area for children’s activities. The suggestion has outraged people who use the pool for lap swimming and aerobics and stretching classes run by Edina Community Education. Many are seniors. They’ve flooded City Council members with letters of objection, and they’re vowing to keep up the campaign—and perhaps show up at a council meeting with their towels around their necks—until a decision on the pool’s future is made. The park is unique in Edina and unusual for any city park, with its junior Olympic-sized pool, a running track lined by exercise equipment, multi-story play areas for kids, a 250-seat amphitheater and winding trails with little bridges that lead through grottoes shaded by more than 6,000 trees and plants. But its facilities are aging. In 2012 the park is expected to generate less than $1.2 million in revenue while costing $1.6 million to operate. At a joint City Council-Park Board meeting in January, consultant Jeff King of Ballard King & Associates said that less than 4 percent of the park’s admissions were for fitness activities. King said that there’s a YMCA with a pool near the park. He said if the city wants to keep the Edinborough pool, it needs to be “multifunctional,” with slides and other attractions. But seniors disagree, saying the pool meets their needs. Another discussion about the park’s future is planned for a council work session on March 20. [Source: Star Tribune]
Claim is dismissed by court Melanie Michael’s claim that Argosy University in Eagan failed to accommodate her learning disability was dismissed in district court last year. The Minnesota Court of Appeals weighed in in February and upheld the lower court decision. Michael has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. She argued that the school did not give her extra time during lab exams. But Dakota County District Court Judge Patrice Sutherland dismissed claims in 2011 that Argosy violated the Minnesota Human Rights Acts by failing to accommodate Michael’s attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The district court found that the school’s policy is to simulate real-world lab scenarios, which do not allow for accommodations. The court also ruled that Michael failed to prove that time constraints were the reason she failed the exams. A three-judge panel of the appeals court then upheld that decision. Michael was enrolled in the sonography program at Argosy. The school offers a variety of degrees and professional certificates at its campus in Eagan. [Source: Pioneer Press]
Family accused of neglecting son A Lakeville mother and father await sentencing on charges they neglected their developmentally disabled 7-year-old son. Police found the boy in January 2011 in squalid conditions, after a search warrant was executed at the family home. The boy was wearing a soiled diaper and had sores on his head and body. The father, Andrew David Worcester, 32, pleaded guilty in late February to gross misdemeanor child neglect. The boy’s mother, Delilah Dawn Worcester, 31, entered an Alford plea, admitting there was sufficient evidence to find her guilty of an identical charge. The couple is scheduled for sentencing April 18. Each faces up to a year in jail for child neglect. While searching the couple’s townhome, police reported a strong smell of urine. The couple’s three daughters, who were ages 3, 4 and 11 at the time, also were living in the residence. The children were placed in foster care, court records showed. The family also had 12 animals living in the home. The mother reportedly overmedicated the boy with laxatives and sought out an unneeded abdominal surgery for him, the petition said. ■ [Source: Pioneer Press]
Pg 14 March 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3
Bullies - from p. 1 gathered for the event. “This is incredible!” said Pullara as he accepted the Grammy on behalf of more than 20 artists who participated in the project. “We created this out of love. We have a lot of people here who all volunteered their time and all of the money is going to PACERKidsAgainst Bullying.org.” “I have worked on some excellent CDs,” said Pullara, who wrote 18 of the tracks. “But this one here is the zenith. Not bragging, it just flows so well. The poems and songs are about things we’ve all been through.” “The CD creatively speaks to all children through music and poetry,” said Julie Hertzog, director of PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center. “It offers a beautiful way to educate children about the universal theme of treating one another with kindness.” “We did this to bring attention to bullying and here we are. It’s unbelievable,” said
Autism
- from p. 1
tified with ASD as their primary disability. This number includes Minnesotans from infants to 21 years of age, who are receiving special education and related services in the schools. One recommendation of the task force is that more be done to determine the actual number of Minnesotans with ASD.
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producer Gloria Domina. “It really sends a message and the message is not just for kids.” “All About Bullies . . . Big and Small!” topped a field of five nominees. The other children’s albums were “Are We There Yet?” by the Papa Hugs Band; “Fitness Rock & Roll” by Miss Amy; “Gulf Alive” by The Banana Plant; and “I Love: Tom T. Hall’s Songs of Fox Hollow” by various artists, Red Beet Records. The album’s website states, “Bullying can happen to anyone, but together we can change that by bringing awareness to the community. We can all be instrumental in helping create a safe school environment and community for our children. These artists understand the emotions connected to bullying. Enjoy listening to their helpful hints and reflections of life’s lessons in this amazing collection. ‘All About Bullies . . . Big and Small’ is designed to put an interesting and heartfelt twist on the sub-
ject that can be discussed at the dinner table, on the playground, and in school. Always keep in mind, we have another tomorrow and that bullying shouldn’t be a part of childhood.”
Tracks from the album can be sampled at www.allbout bulliesbigandsmall.com The winning album was produced by Pullara, Jim Cravero, Gloria Domina, Kevin Mackie and Patrick Robinson. It was the first Grammy Award for the group, which was also nominated in 2011 for “Healthy Food for Thought: Good Enough to Eat.”
The winning album featured 37 stories, poems and songs by a diverse list of national and local artists. The musicians, performers and poets featured on the CD include Steve Van Zandt, Eric Bazilian, Heidi Swedberg, Peter Alsop, Blue October, May Pang, Vini “Maddog” Lopez, Keith Grimwood, Barry Louis Polisar, Frances England, Steve Pullara and His Cool Beans Band, Debbie and Friends, Sugar Free Allstars & Secret Agent 23 Skidoo, Eric Ode, The Battersby Duo, Oran Etkin, Judy Pancoast, Dave Kinnoin, Helen Bruner & Terry Jones of Philerzy, John Flynn, Giorgio Aquilani, Jonathan Sprout, Marla Lewis, Pat Robinson, Ken Cowle, Les Julian, Bill Pere, Miss Amy, Bob Miles, Whitney Peyton with Only Human, Grover Silcox, Debbi Calton, Jim Cravero, Cyndy Drue, Skip Denenberg and Paula Lizzi. Blue October’s topical uplifting song about growing up
entitled “Jump Rope” leads the all star line-up. The selections weave a story in a unique mix of stories and songs at a playground everyone has played. Listeners will be quick to notice that the recording has one interesting twist. Each child finds a way to act differently or to accept other children for who they are. It teaches with humor without being preachy. Funny tales and tunes about team work, bus rides, multiculturalism, diversity, new friends, being too tall or too small abound. PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center provides creative and interactive resources that are designed to benefit all students, including students with disabilities. It offers educators, students, families, and individuals the tools they need to address bullying in schools, recreational programs, or community organizations. FFI: 952-838-9000, www.PACER.org/bullying ■
Task force members worked with advocates, community organizations, and the state departments of education, health and human services, and employment and economic development. While much attention to autism focuses on children and teens, the task force also looked at ways to help people with ASD pursue independent living and higher education. Methods to improve coordination in the delivery of service between public and private agencies, health providers, and schools, and to address any geographic discrepancies in the delivery of services were topics studied by the task force, as was increasing the availability of and the training for medical providers and educators who identify and provide services to individuals with autism. The task force also studied treatment options supported by peer-reviewed, established scientific research. The task force recommends
developing and implementing a statewide autism early identification and information awareness campaign. Every Minnesota county would have a standard screening and follow-up program for all preschool-aged children. Because early identification and intervention is critical, an identification campaign would teach community members the signs to look for and where to go for an assessment and evaluation. While there is already a universal preschool
from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Because public schools provide legal access to services for all children with autism the task force recommends Individual Family Service Plans and Individual Education Plans address a specific set of criteria for early intervention. Another request is that a Minnesota guidebook for ASD be developed. “Navigating through the system to find the appropriate services and treatments for individuals with
Increased training for doctors to help children receive an earlier diagnosis, establishing a standard practice for diagnosis, and physician screening are also suggested. One recommendation is that every child in Minnesota has access to a primary health care professional for establishing a medical home. Within this relationship, it is recommended that each child receive developmental surveillance and screening throughout early childhood for all developmental domains, including autism spectrum conditions based on American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines. The task force also supports an ASD teacher license. One concern the group raised is that special education teachers can graduate from Minnesota colleges and universities with very little information about ASD. Another school-related recommendation is to enforce existing policies and create strong policies where none exist to protect students from bullying. Another idea is decrease disparity for minority and immigrant children with ASD by assuring that all state agencies train staff to follow federal guidelines and provide services and resources in a manner that is culturally and linguistically appropriate. ■
Navigating through the system to find the appropriate services and treatments for individuals with ASD can be daunting. screening program for children ages 3-5, not all counties currently have Follow Along screening for children ages birth to three years. The task force recommends that early intervention in Minnesota follow the guidelines
ASD can be daunting,” the report stated. The guidebook would be available electronically and in print form. It would be reviewed and updated every three years. The task force recommends implementation and funding of an autism service coordinator for at least one year for children ages 3 to 5 and for school age children as deemed appropriate. While service coordination for children ages birth to 3 is already mandated in federal law, expanding this service would provide families with more resources.
March 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3
Maltreatment - from p. 1 mental disabilities are treated. Gov. Mark Dayton and DHS Commissioner Lucinda Jesson recently visited the security hospital and promised changes. There is enthusiasm and support for the changes among hospital staff, said Deputy DHS Commissioner Anne Barry. “People want to be part of a high-quality environment.” But does more need to be done at St. Peter? If problems continue, the facility could be steps away from losing its license and being taken over by the U.S. Department of Justice. The security hospital, which is part of a larger campus at St. Peter, has had to answer three separate allegations of patient mistreatment over the past several months. Barry said that two incidents of maltreatment were substantiated after 18 months’ investigation. The DHS licensing division looked into the incidents, which were related to use of restraints and seclusion. A $2,200 fine, the maximum allowed, was ordered by DHS. The hospital’s license was then put on conditional probation for two years. A third complaint has since been filed and is being looked into. Conditional license status means the hospital is very closely monitored. Reports are made every 30 days, to the DHS licensing divisions, about actions taken to correct problems there. “This is a very serious action by the Department of Human Services, against one of its own facilities,” Barry said. Almost 400 people are at the Minnesota Security Hospital, which houses people deemed mentally ill and dangerous by the court system. Some patients are held there for assessment. Others are committed for a longer time, to undergo therapy and receive other help. FRIEND SPONSOR ($50 and above) Ellen Boucher Martha Brown Leo & Susan Bulger Teresa Dock Dawn Doering Robert Engstrom Steve & JoAnn Erbes Skip Finn Thomas & Mimi Fogarty Lael Gatewood Marjorie Goldberg Patty Hoy Marjorie Huebner Barb Kane Elin Ohlsson William & Joen Overby Annette Pantel Linda Paulson Kelly Rathcke Virginia Schwartzbauer John Sherman Jobs Foundation IN KIND (For this issue) Soctt Adams John Wayne Buckner Alan Peters Clarence Schadegg
Patients there typically are those who have committed an aggressive crime, said Dr. Stephen Pratt. Pratt is overseeing the hospital operations. Patients may have a psychotic illness or delusional thinking. Some patients may have been found not guilty by reason of mental illness in a court proceeding. Over the years there have been concerns about the care and treatment of hospital patients, as well as concerns about violations of their rights, said Roberta Opheim. She is state ombudsman for the mentally ill and developmentally disabled. She drew parallels to the past situation at METO when describing the state hospital’s issues, including a lack of centralized leadership and lack of training appropriate to the patient population. Improper use of restrains was also a key issue in the allegations against METO. “Restraints are traumatic,” Opheim said, not just to patients but to those who have to witness a person being restrained. Others said practices at the state hospital need to change. “There were clearly massive problems,” said NAMI Minnesota Executive Director Sue Abderholden. She said that use of restraints and seclusion reflect failures in treatment, and that such measures shouldn’t be done merely for the conve-
nience of hospital staff. Worker turnover and highprofile staff departures have roiled the facility. State officials are looking into whether current hospital director David Proffit has created a hostile work environment and made inappropriate comments to staff. An exodus of top psychiatrists has raised more red flags. Attention has focused on Proffit, who took over leadership of the facility in August 2011. Although he pledged to improve patient care and reduce restraint use, use of restraints has more than doubled. Many staff members have left; others have complained about a lack of training. Legislators have concerns Members of the House Health and Human Services Finance Committee heard an update on the changes Feb. 20. Several committee members said that while they are pleased that corrective action is being taken, they still have concerns. “I’m worried more generally about the quality of care,” said Rep. Erin Murphy, DFL-St. Paul. She asked what types of restraints would be considered acceptable. Metal handcuffs, mesh blankets and the face coverings or “spit bags” are out. Spit bags are so named because they are meant to prevent patients from spitting on others. Instead, staff is being trained to de-escalate situations and use using soft
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Velcro and fabric handcuffs only in very serious situations. Barry said there may situations in which use of some form of restraint has to take place. Pratt and Barry said the restraint methods used at the hospital will be similar to those used at other facilities. Changes in staffing and staff assignments are also being made. “We’re working on a number of things to address problems,” said Barry, including stepped-up training on nonviolent communication skills. “We are on a path toward correcting this.” Upcoming actions include development and approval of new policies and procedures on use of restraints. Metal handcuffs and other forms of restraints deemed not appropriate will be removed from the facility. A look at the numbers Minnesota Public Radio has analyzed the data from the state hospital. There were 310 reports of injuries to patients in 2011, ranging from a punch
Pg 15
in the head to another with bloody knuckles after he was physically contained. One in five injuries was caused by a patient-on-patient assault. Patients were restrained 225 times last year, hitting a twoyear high in September 2011. Patients were restrained 49 times that month. Patients spent a collective 1,772 hours—nearly 75 days— in seclusion. Hospital policy allows employees to use restraints and seclusion only when a patient poses an immediate threat to himself or others. Employees were assaulted by patients at times, according to the MPR analysis. In 2010, employees suffered 97 injuries serious enough to require a report to federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) officials. Nearly two-thirds of the injuries were caused by a patient assault. In 2011 staff injuries dropped to 65 serious incidents, with half being due to patient assaults. ■
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