October 2012 Edition - Access Press

Paralympics —Page 5

Volume 23, Number 10

Attend our Nov. 2 banquet

by Access Press staff

Registration time is ticking down for the 2012 Access Press Charlie Smith Award Banquet, Friday Nov. 2 at the Minneapolis Airport Marriott in Bloomington.

Those who attend will not only get to honor award winner Charles Van Heuveln, they will also have the chance to bid on some amazing silent auction items. For those who like to take a chance, many other items will also be offered in a raffle. All the proceeds from the silent auction and raffle support operations of Access Press. As of deadline for this issue almost 30 items had come in, with more expected for the banquet Every year there are new and wonderful treasures. One special offering this year is a 10-day stay in a fully accessible Luther, Montana cabin.

This generous donation is from Charlie Braun of Equal Access Homes.

Banquet - p. 15

www.accesspress.org

First of its kind

October 10, 2012

Gillette, United Cerebral Palsy partner to provide services

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities. MN Permit No. 4766

In a first of its kind partnership, Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare has joined United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) as its newest affiliate. Gillette now becomes the first children’s hospital to join the UCP network in the organization’s 64-year history.

The new partnership will not only help Gillette better serve its clients; it will also help those who have missed UCP of Minnesota since that organization shut down this spring. UCP’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to welcome Gillette as UCP of Minnesota during a special meeting Aug. 14.

“We are thrilled to welcome Karen Cepress, physical therapist, Gillette Children’s Specialty Gillette to the UCP family,” said Healthcare, helped Jeffrey Wright, Jr., a Gillette patient, as he worked Stephen Bennett, president and on a sit-to-stand activity.

Photo courtesy of Gillette Children’s Specialty Center chief executive officer of UCP. “The partnership with Gillette marks a new approach by UCP to expand our network in new and exciting ways. Gillette’s mission mirrors that of UCP, with a broad commitment to people with a spectrum of disabilities. Their reach, reputation, dedicated and accomplished team adds vast new resources to the UCP network, and we are excited for a strong partnership in the years to come.”

UCP has a mission to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities by supporting more than 176,000 children and adults every day. For more than 60 years, UCP has worked to ensure the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of society.

“As a national leader in specialty health care, Gillette is always looking to build partnerships with organizations who provide support to children who have disabilities and their families,” said Margaret Perryman, president and CEO of Gillette. “By becoming an affiliate of UCP, we will now be able to provide our patients with even more valuable resources.”

Gillette is internationally recognized for its work in treating children who have disabilities and complex medical conditions. Its Center for Cerebral Palsy is world-renowned for its medical treatment and rehabilitation services dedicated to reducing the effects of cerebral palsy (CP) through an interdisciplinary team. The hospital was cited by the 2012 US News & World Report as one of the country’s best children’s hospitals in the areas of orthopedics and neurology/neurosurgery. Gillette serves approximately 4,000 children each year with CP at its main campus in St. Paul, Minnesota and at clinics throughout the state.

UCP is comprised of almost 100 affiliates around the world. These partners provide services such as housing, physical therapy, assistive technology training, early intervention services, indiFirst of kind partnership - p. 11

Address Service Requested

Rides, resources are set for Election Day

by Jane McClure

Voters with disabilities who need rides to the polls Nov. 6 will be able to access services in the Twin Cities area, thanks to the Rides to the Polls Coalition. The program’s phone lines opened for business Sept. 24. Anyone needingfor a ride or wishing Rides, resources Election Day to volunteer as a driver can call 1-855-50-RIDES or 1-800-507-4337, or emailing publicaffairs@couragecenter.org The rides are free and accessible for all, including those who use wheelchairs, scooters or walkers. Drivers are trained volunteers. Rides are available from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Nov. 6 and must be scheduled in advance. Schedule early as the service is limited and may fill up quickly.

Rides to the polls are also available in some regions of Greater Minnesota. In the Rochester area, call John Jacobson at 507-251-2841. In St. Cloud and Central Minnesota, call Independent Lifestyles, A Center for Independent Living, Sauk Rapids, at 320-529-9000. Voters can call now to schedule a ride.

In other areas voters may have to rely on existing paratransit services or find rides with friends. Low participation, rising fuel costs and lack of volunteers has put an end to some ride programs.

Rides to the Polls began in the Twin Cities in 2008. The campaign was organized to provide people living in the Twin Cities metro area with free and accessible rides to and from their poll on Election Day. The campaign and its many volunteer drivers have provided almost 400 Minnesota voters with rides to their polling place since 2008. People who otherwise might not have had A voter and her driver arrived to vote in the 2008 general the opportunity to vote and make their voice heard were able to do so, to exerelection. Rides are available in several communities. cise one of the most important rights and responsibilities citizens have.

Photo courtesy of Courage Center Election day resources - p. 3

“ We all want progress, but if you’re on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive.”

— C.S. Lewis

NEWS DIGEST

Minnesota’s 2012 Direct Support Provider of the Year, Linda Evenson, is from Adams.

Page 13 Read the pro and con viewpoints of the proposed Voter Identification requirement, which is on the Nov. 6 ballot. The articles are written by members of Minnesota’s disability community.

Page 3 Readers write about State Services for the Blind, medical supply issues and beep baseball.

Page 4 Find resources and useful information in our quarterly Directory of Organizations pull-out feature.

Pages 7-10 Check out pictures of some of the Charlie Smith Award banquet silent auction goods.

Page 15

INSIDE Accessible Fun, pg 11 Events, pg 12 People & Places, pg 13 Radio Talking Book, pg 14 Regional News, pg 6

Pg 2 October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin Of course there’s only one thing to talk about in October: the upcoming elections. The two proposed amendments to the Minnesota Constitution, restricting marriage to “one man, one woman” and requiring photo IDs for voters, are getting enormous attention.

With 30 days to go, the political analysts are saying that both amendments are too close to call.

It seems like the marriage amendment should be anathema to both parties’ ideologies. The Republican Party, for instance, always wants less government in our lives. So why would Republicans favor more government involvement in this very personal area? Shouldn’t they be in favor of government staying out of personal rights and beliefs? If so, they should vote it down. And by the way, when marriage is only legal between one man and one woman, will divorce become illegal? Or does the amendment really mean that marriage is restricted to “one man and one woman at a time?”

The Democratic Party argues that government should not take away individual rights respecting marriage; two individuals committed to one another should have rights to the benefits of marriage.

Both parties are spending massive amounts of money to sway your vote on this issue, but I guess what I’m saying is that both parties should be in

agreement on personal rights and freedom from government interference, and they should have avoided spending all that campaign money by never having let this become a ballot measure.

There are also many religious entities, like the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, as well as nonprofits, that seem to be spending funds to support and oppose the marriage amendment. It seems like it should be illegal for a religious nonprofit to fund a political agenda. What about the U.S. Constitution’s required “separation of church and state?”

As far as voter ID goes, the Democratic Party wants everyone to be able to walk into a polling place, identify themselves as they always have—by their signatures—and cast their votes. Should there be some restrictions? Yes, of course. I think those restrictions are already in place. The Minnesota election laws already have appropriate restrictions and serious laws against fraud. This has been proven to me by the two recent Minnesota recounts that overwhelmingly qualified a clean and equally fair election. There were only a few instances where felons mistakenly voted when they should not have, but those few votes wouldn’t have changed the results of the election. The millions of dollars that would be spent changing our election system would be much better spent on real fraud problems that we can prove exists. (Or at least that KSTP can prove.)

The non-partisan Brennan Center at New York University School of Law has reported that “It is more likely that an individual will be struck by lightning than that he will impersonate another voter at the polls.”

It seems the Republican Party began focusing on

this voter ID issue shortly after our last presidential election, where President Barak Obama rallied lowincome voters to get out to the polls and vote. Lowincome citizens, people with disabilities and other minority voters are more likely to be affected by this law, and their votes in 2008 may have put Obama over the top on that election.

The voter ID law, if passed, will be a very expensive proposition to institute and put a lot of municipal governments in a situation where they will have to spend taxpayer money that could be used for municipal projects and services instead of on new voter regulations. They’ll have to develop voter databases and create systems for election judges to access databases for verification.

There are too many unknowns about what all the human and financial costs for this will be. I would pay anything if I thought there was enough voter fraud to justify the cost. But of all the people I’ve asked, no one I can find has been asked to vote a particular way, or been offered a payout for their vote. It’s hard for me to imagine that any candidate would risk everything to buy some votes. Considering that most major elections are won and lost by thousands of votes, it would be very difficult for a candidate to purchase enough votes to win an election without any media or opposing candidates knowing and blowing the whistle.

Voter fraud was alleged throughout the South in the Jim Crow era, and resulted in poll taxes and voterregistration literacy tests, but the real purpose was suppressing the votes of African Americans. Those injustices were corrected in the 20th century, and this is no time to create new ones.

Have a good month, stay warm, and exercise your right to vote. ■

HISTORY NOTE

Then as now, award winner spoke out for our rights

by Luther Granquist

2012 Charlie Smith Award winner Charles Van Heuveln has long been a champion of disability rights. The remarks below by Van Heuveln are excerpted from his testimony of June 21, 1972 to the Minnesota Constitutional Study Commission Bill of Rights Committee.

It’s time for all physically impaired people to stick up for their rights and be counted or and to be recognized as first-class citizens.

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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.

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First of all, we are people who want to be treated as people. As physically handicapped people we should already have the same rights as anyone else but in some areas we are denied these rights. . .We are proposing, that this committee recommend equal protection of the laws and discrimination against people with disabilities because of physical disability. This should appear as part of a provision guaranteeing equal rights to everyone no matter what race, color, creed, national origin, religious opinion, sex, physical or mental handicap. It is not only time for physically impaired people to stick up for their rights but for the state of Minnesota to recognize their rights.

The term handicap has several different meanings, but when we speak of physical disability, Rep. Charles Vanik of Ohio uses a definition which states “the handicapped are percentage of civilian population experience one or more chronic diseases or impairments over 24 month period.” He uses this definition in support of this bill to amend the 1964 Civil Rights Act to include physically disabled. Forty million Americans fit this definition. 22 million people have a physical disabling condition severe not to interfere with their major daily activity. Each year hun-

dred thousand babies are born with defects that will force them to use crutches, braces our wheelchair all their lives. . .

We want to be able to stress our abilities rather than our disabilities. However, under the present legal structure, this is seldom possible.

All that we are asking for is something very simple and that is equal access to our society.

In the area of public education . . . , Minnesota had 52,242 children with mental, physical or emotional disabilities who were between the ages of zero and 21 were not served. Because of architectural barriers, students with no mental handicap are required to be bussed to schools outside their home areas because few schools are equipped to handle wheelchairs and crutches. . .

An area that people take for granted is signatures.

For the person with a physical handicap who is unable to sign his or her name except with an “X”, there should be some type of legal stamp instead of trying to find two witnesses every time they have to sign a paper. This process makes it almost impossible for us to have anything like a checking account. . .

Most people are unfamiliar with (these issues) because the physically handicapped person has few places to turn for adequate legal assistance. Presently in the St. Paul human rights commission and the state human rights department say that they cannot handle these problems because of the enabling legislation does not include physical disabilities as one as the discriminated against categories. ■ The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mncdd.org and www.partnersinpolicy making.com

October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

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Voter ID: Our community weighs in Con

Pro People with disabilities should not be demeaned

People with disabilities could be the big losers

I believe that a voter ID amendment to the Minnesota Constitution will suppress votes, the votes of ineligible people—and I am all for it.

But wait, opponents say, what about the disabled people in Minnesota who can’t be expected to measure up to their civic duty like the rest of us? Well, I would like to address that question because I am not one of “us.”

I am one of “those” would-be voters who has had a chronic disability multiple sclerosis - since I was 16 years old. I recently spent three days in the hospital getting infusions that will allow me to get around a little bit better. I am sometimes unable to drive. So I know a little about what somebody who is handicapped and doesn’t have an ID may need to go through to obtain one: She can do it, especially with the help of the countless number of Minnesotans like those who jump up to assist me every chance they get.

Who are these politicians and political operatives spending millions of dollars to spread the view that handicapped individuals are crying out for special treatment that will exempt us from a simple burden we are proud to carry? I, and I believe the vast majority of my peers, want to be seen by others as able to meet the special challenges God has given us, and to be happy to participate along with everyone else in the great American get together—not the State Fair—the state elections.

Recently, I rented a Rug Doctor. You guessed it; I had to show my photo ID. You know what? I am just as interested in clean elections as I am in clean carpets.

I am tired of being used as a political pawn by opponents whom I never hear exPro voter ID - p. 15

People with disabilities could be the big losers in this election if Minnesota voters approve the voter ID amendment on the Nov. 6 ballot. The amendment would create unnecessary barriers and burdens that could prevent people with disabilities from exercising their right to vote.

In 2011 Gov. Mark Dayton vetoed a bill, passed by the Minnesota Legislature, to require every voter to present a photo ID before casting a ballot. However, in the 2012 legislative session proponents of the measure passed a bill to amend the Minnesota Constitution and make major changes to our system of elections and voting. The amendment restricts or limits the privilege of voting ONLY to those voters that have the appropriate ID. Requiring all voters to have a specific ID in order to exercise their right to vote becomes a significant barrier, since 10 percent of voters with disabilities do not have the ID the amendment would require, according to the League of Women Voters Minnesota. As many as 27,000 Minnesotans with disabilities would have to overcome this barrier to vote. Even if the state provides “free” IDs, getting the documentation for the ID costs time and money.

This is how the voter ID requirement becomes a barrier and financial burden: • Getting documentation, such as a birth certificate, to prove personal identity costs money for transportation and fees for copies.

• Having a copy made of one’s birth certificate costs $26 in Minnesota.

• Securing the proper ID, once a person has proof of identity, then traveling to the Con voter ID - p. 15

Election day resources - p. 1 A training program is available for those who provide rides to the polls, said Christian Knights of Courage Center. Drivers will be offered refreshments during the day. Volunteers need to be able to drive and operate cars and accessible vehicles, and to volunteer in a nonpartisan manner. Drivers four years ago gave the program high marks, saying it was well-organized and fun to participate in.

Driving shifts are 3.5 hours and may require travel throughout the metro area. Volunteers may sign up for more than one shift. For more information and to volunteer to provide rides to the polls on November 6, sign up online at: www.surveymonkey.com/s/YFJVTTV. Prospective volunteers may also call or email with questions: 763-520-0725 or publicaffairs@courage center.org Rides make a difference, said Michelle Gray of the Brain Injury Alliance. She quotes past ride participants. One voter said, “Thank you for your service today. I had a stroke and this was the only way I could vote.” Another noted, “I would not have been able to vote had it not been for this opportunity.” Another voter had tears in her eyes, telling her driver “People just aren’t this kind. Thank you.”

A Rutgers University study indicates that 14.7 million people with disabilities voted in the 2008 presidential election. The voter turnout rate for people with disabilities was 7 percent lower than the rate for people without disabilities.

One striking point in the Rutgers study is that among people who were registered to vote but did not do so, about 44 percent said that disability or illness prevented them from voting. That is compared to 9.6 percent of voters without disabilities. Of those with disabilities who didn’t vote, 7 percent said that transportation problems kept them from voting.

Other voter resources Voters with disabilities can also vote in person at county offices prior to the election, by filing an absentee ballot, or can apply for and mail in absentee ballots. The Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office has a voting and elections tab. Use it to find where to vote and how to absentee vote, at www.sos.state.mn.us or www.mnvotes.org Or call 651-201-1339 with voting questions.

Another great resource for voters, provided by a coalition of disability service organizations, is on the Minnesota Disability Law Center website, at www.my legalaid.org/mdlc Click on the “disability law” tab and find the line for “voting issues.” Click on that link for lots of useful information on voting, including news articles and a one-page sheet headlined “Helpful Info for Voters with Disabilities.” This fact sheet may be printed out and taken to the polls. It offers useful information on how to deal with guardianship questions, issues of polling place accessibility, same-day voter registration and how to vote as a registered voter.

In the August issue, Access Press published detailed information on voting, including how to seek assistance and how to vote absentee. Absentee or early voting may be a good idea for people with disabilities who don’t want to wait in long lines. That article can be found at www.accesspress.org/2012/08/ be-a-prepared-primary-election-voter/ As for guardianship questions, those can also be answered by the Minnesota Secretary of State’s office, at www.sos.state.mn.us/index.aspx?page=1612 Voters with disabilities should remember that in Minnesota, only a court may decide whether an individual is competent to vote. No one else may make this decision, including spouses, children, caregivers, doctors, or nurses, even if they personally are convinced that the individual is not competent to vote.

Individuals who are under guardianship, conservatorship or for whom someone else has power of attorney retain their right to vote unless it is specifically revoked by a court. This is explained in state statue.

All voters are entitled to assistance to cast their ballots, by a person the voter brings to the polls or with help from two election judges from different political parties. Voters should ask the head judge for assistance in having the judges assigned. The head judge can also assist with curbside voting, by having a bal-

lot brought to a motor vehicle.

Under Minnesota law, voters may receive assistance in marking their ballots by any person of their choosing—other than an agent of their employer, their union or a candidate. No person may assist more than three voters in marking their ballots. Alternatively, voters may choose use the AutoMARK ballot-marking device found in each polling place.

Persons assisting voters may not in any way try to influence the voter’s choices. Influencing a voter is a felony in Minnesota.

Persons assisting voters must not mark the ballot if the voter cannot communicate his or her intent. It is not enough to “know” how the voter wants or might want to vote. The voter must be able to express their preference and direct the person providing assistance to mark their ballot. If the voter cannot communicate his or her intent in a way in which the assistant can understand, the assistant must not mark the ballot— doing otherwise is a gross misdemeanor.

Anyone with election questions can contact the Minnesota Disability Law Center Voter Hotline at 612-334-5970 or 1-800-292-4150 or TDD/TTY: 612332-4668. Another resource is Election Protection at 1-866-OUR-VOTE (1-866-687-8683). Emails can go to mndlc@mylegalaid.org ■

Pg 4 October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

READERS WRITE

State services are’t helping Within the last three years I became legally blind, lost my job, have filed bankruptcy and lost my home to foreclosure, among other losses. After I had become blind and before all of this happened, I had searched for and found the State Services for the Blind (SSB). I was told they assisted the blind in all aspects of their lives.

At first, I resisted the idea of accepting assistance, but after meeting with one of the rehabilitation counselors from SSB, I was approved to be assisted. I was placed for assessment with a technology consultant and was told what equipment I would likely be able to acquire though SSB to help me find a job. At that point, I had also met with their placement division about finding employment. In short I was told that I would have to be “up and running better than a sighted person” to secure employment.

SSB sent a letter saying that my counselor would be transferred to a new position and a new person would be appointed. However, I could not read the letter, so I did not know this and was treated rudely when I called to see why things were not moving forward.

Several months had passed now since my initial assessment. Much of that time was spent waiting for my calls to be returned. When someone finally called me back, I was told I did not qualify to receive service at this time and was not told why or what had changed since my assessment.

After making many calls (none of them returned by the SSB), and speaking with multiple people I learned that their funds and resources were relegated only to students and employed people trying to retain their positions.

After four months of waiting, my newly appointed counselor, her boss and an assistant once again interviewed me, asked again to see my pertinent documentation from eye doctors, college degrees, etc.

The counselor said that I would have to go through “Adjustment to Blindness Training.” After hearing more about it, I informed her I did not have time for that because I needed to find work as soon as possible to try to keep my house, and wanted to receive computer equipment, software, any applicable training on the software and placement services to return to work. I had also had some past training.

About two years had passed by now since my initial assessment and the bills were piling up.

During this period, I spoke with my eye doctor and retina specialist, and they offered to call the SSB on my behalf. Though most of their calls were not returned, I was told I would have to jump through their “hoops.”

I met with the Executive Director. He listened to my concerns and said he would look into it. He also referred me to an organization called Client Assistance Project (CAP).

CAP agreed to go the next meeting and just sit and listen to what was said.

At the next meeting, the CAP representative was there along with my counselor and her new boss and an assistant. They didn’t want to hear my experience, but

again repeated their recommendation that I participate in their training and offered to send in my documentation so it “could be included” in their accounting of the experience. So again, I considered the training and asked if I would be guaranteed the technology I needed after completing the program. They told me they could not guarantee anything.

In conclusion, I did not get any services, equipment or software to help me in my blindness. After two years of dealing with SSB, I “closed my account” with nothing more than extreme frustration, wasted time, loss of my home, bankruptcy, and a severe loss of empowerment, self-esteem, independence and quality of life. I was going to “let it go” but I feel that is what most people do, and I wanted to put voice to my concerns and the treatment of the blind and visually impaired community.

As an aside, other blind or visually impaired to whom I’ve spoken and organizations associated with SSB knows that this is the way they work, have worked and will continue to work unless the state intervenes.

The state needs to do more to get necessary equipment, funding and resources to the community to allow them to become successful, empowered, active, and supportive members of society. The SSB needs to become more of a help than a hindrance. Furthermore, I have not found anyone else to help me in securing equipment, software or services to acquire active employment.

Dr. Jeffery A. Jones, Maple Grove Editor’s note: Here is the response Access Press received to this letter when a response was sought: As noted in our recent conversation, all information on persons applying for or served by Minnesota State Services for the Blind (SSB) is rehabilitation data. Rehabilitation data is classified under Minnesota law as private data. Per Minnesota Rules covering our program, any person may make a written request for review and mediation to the director of SSB if dissatisfied with any determination by SSB that affects the provision of rehabilitation services.

Richard Strong, Director, Department of Employment and Economic Development, Minnesota State Services for the Blind

Competitive bidding causing problems As a home medical equipment (HME) provider, I am concerned with the significant flaws within the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) current method for buying medical supplies and equipment, which is known as the competitive bidding program.

The competitive bidding program was implemented in nine metropolitan areas across the country last year and is expected to expand to 91 areas in 2013. The program is a type of auction designed to improve the efficiency of Medicare’s system, which has potential to save hundreds of millions of dollars. However, many experts have pointed out fundamental flaws in the program’s design.

With that said, I would like to bring to your attention a recent study by Caltech researchers. The Caltech study is based on a series of experiments testing the auction structure, and states that this method for buying medical supplies and equipment is “doomed to face severe difficulties.”

You can read the full article here: www.pasadenanow.com/main/caltech-research-shows-medicare-auction-will-face-severe-difficulties Another article recently published in McKnight’s Long Term Care News also shows support of the Caltech study mentioned above. You can read the full article here:www.mcknights.com/competitive-bidding-program-is-doomed-researchersassert/article/248970/ I also wanted to bring you to the attention of an additional article that was found in the Waterloo Courier. In it, VGM chief financial officer Mike Mallaro discusses the affects of the DMEPOS competitive bidding program to providers across the country and the patients they serve. The full article can be read at: wcfcourier.com/business/local/article_ea53fdf7-49e7-5e47-9a228ed79ef3556d.html Hundreds of patients and providers are already experiencing access problems in Round One areas. Since the program’s implementation on January 1, 2011, patients and providers are reporting problems and complaints in regards to getting physician-prescribed home medical equipment and services. Unless stopped, this program will affect more patients and providers across the country as it expands virtually nationwide. But CMS and our legislators are not listening to the warnings and concerns from top economists.

This is an issue that will impact our local community, and something of which we should all be aware.

Jeff Anderson, RRT-NPS, Buffalo (Editor’s note: Reliable Medical Supply is Anderson’s employer.)

Team offers its thanks The Minnesota Fighting Lions Blind Baseball Team have just ended their ninth season, and we wish to thank the following: Cretin-Derham Hall High School for letting us use their fields all spring and summer; Cub Foods at 1440 University Ave. for supplying us with a box lunch for our picnic on Sept. 15th; and finally to Scott Ja Mama’s Barbecue for assistance at Sept. 15th event. The team has been supported for many years by the St. Paul Midway Lions. The sport is called Beep Ball because the ball beeps and the bases buzz.

The game gives hope, fun and fitness to the sight impaired in St. Paul, Minneapolis and suburbs. For more information on next season, please contact Dennis Stern at dennisstern@hotmail.com or see our website at www.beepball.webs.com Dennis Stern, Mendota Heights

October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

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Minnesotans win seven medals at the 2012 Paralympics HEALTH NOTE

What is “boosting” in athletes with high-level spinal cord injury?

by Dayna L. Wolfe, M.D. (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation specialist)

Bronze medal wheelchair rugby team member Chuck Aoki Photo courtesy of Courage Center

Minnesotans brought home medals and memories from the 2102 Paralympics in London. The games ended Sept. 9. More than 4,200 athletes from 166 countries competed.

Eagan resident Mallory Weggemann won her first Paralympics women’s swimming gold medal, setting a meet and American record in the 50-meter freestyle.

Weggemann, 22, won the S8 event in 31.13 seconds.

(S8 refers to the ability classification level of the athlete. Athletes compete against athletes of similar abilities. To learn about the classifications, go to www.london2012.com/paralympics/sports/) “I’ve been dreaming of being on that podium and hearing the anthem for 4½ years,” she said. “I didn’t expect it but I wanted it.”

Weggemann was paralyzed from the waist down four years ago, after a routine surgical procedure went awry. She is a University of Minnesota student and motivational speaker. Weggemann won an ESPY last year for best female athlete with a disability and holds many world and American records.

Weggemann was reclassified just before the game and lost an appeal when she was moved from one classification to another. But not only did she win gold, Weggemann also won the bronze as a member of the 4 X 100 medley relay. She swam in one relay and five individual events total.

Anna Eames, another first-time Paralympics swimmer, won a silver medal as part of the S10 women’s 4X 100 medley relay. Eames, 22, of Golden Valley, swam in individual, freestyle and butterfly events but didn’t medal. She is a student at Gustavus Adolphus College.

Returning swimmer Justin Zook of Plymouth also won gold in the S10 100 m backstroke. He competed in freestyle and relay events but finished out of the running for medals. Zook, 26, won his first Paralympics gold medal in the 100-meter backstroke in Athens eight years ago and defended his S10 title in Beijing in 2008. He holds a degree in sports management from Springfield, MA College.

Another Team USA member with Minnesota ties was back for his fifth Paralympics. Paul Nitz, formerly of Edina and now of Connecticut, won bronze in the men’s T52 100-meter dash. The three-time

Many of us enjoyed the 2012 London Paralympics. The spots also drew attention to “boosting.” The practice of boosting is when an individual with a high spinal cord injury (T6 and above), intentionally elicits autonomic dysreflexia in order to enhance their athletic performance. AD is an acute hypertensive syndrome due to noxious stimuli to the central nervous system, which results in reflex dysregulation due to the spinal cord injury.

How can someone intentionally cause autonomic dysreflexia? By not emptying the bowel or bladder, or intentionally causing intense skin pressure somewhere in the wheelchair seating system. The physiological advantage of inducing hypertension during athletic competition is that there can be an increase in cardiac output. The increase in cardiac output can compensate for the limited physiologic potential for improvements in cardiac output (therefore, oxygen uptake) in athletes with a higher level spinal cord injury.

Although the practice of boosting can lead to significant improvements in performance, especially in endurance sports, it can be very dangerous. An acute hypertensive syndrome will elevate the blood pressure to very high levels and can cause a stroke. Boosting was deemed a prohibited method by the International Paralympic Committee in 1994, but this was later changed to being classed as a health risk and prohibits athletes from competing in a dysreflexia state whether intentional or not.

There is a need for educational programs directed toward enhancing the autonomic dysreflexia knowledge of rehabilitation professionals, coaches and trainers working with individuals with spinal cord injury. ■ Reference: Boosting in athletes with high-level spinal cord injury: knowledge, incidence and attitudes of athletes in Paralympic sport. (Disability and Rehabilitation, 2010; 32(26): 2172-2190, Y. Bhambhani, et. al) Dr. Wolfe is a physiatrist who is licensed to practice medicine and surgery in Minnesota. She is a Board Certified Independent Medical Examiner (disability medicine expert). daynawolfemd@yahoo.com Paralympics Games gold medalist made the finals in both the T52 men’s 200 and 400 meters but didn’t place in the top three.

Nitz is considered one of Team USA’s all-time great runners. He won gold in the 100 meters in Barcelona in 1992, Atlanta in 1996 and Sydney in 2000. He competed in Athens and but not in Beijing in 2008 due to illness.

Minnesotans also won medals in team sports.

Brooklyn Park’s Ian Lynch scored two points as the American men’s wheelchair basketball team beat host Great Britain 61-46 for the bronze medal. Lynch, 28, also was on the U.S. team four years ago in Beijing.

This was his first Paralympics medal. Lynch played on the bronze medal team in the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation Gold Cup in Birmingham, England, two years ago, and won a gold medal in the Parapan American Games in Guadalajara in 2011.

Another Minnesotan who brought home a bronze medal in team competition is Minneapolis’ Chuck Aoki. He was part of the bronze medal-winning wheelchair rugby team, which defeated Japan by a 5343 score. He played strong throughout the games, including 12 goals in the bronze medal game.

He began participating in Courage Center sports camps as a child and plays wheelchair rugby and wheelchair basketball for the University of Arizona.

Aoki was named the 2011 U.S. Quad Rugby Association’s Athlete of the Year. This was his first Paralympics.

Two Minnesotans, Rose Hollermann and Sarah

Binsfield, were on the women’s wheelchair basketball team. The women, who had won the gold four years ago, lost the bronze medal match to the Netherlands.

Binsfield, 24, is a Vadnais Heights residents and a University of Wisconsin-Whitewater senior. She has two gold medals from the U25 World Wheelchair Basketball Championships and the Parapan American Games.

Hollermann, 16, is from Elysian and is a junior at Waterville-Elysian-Morristown High School. She is a state title-winning athlete in track and field, and is the youngest person to be selected for the U.S. national wheelchair basketball team.

Other Minnesotans competed but didn’t win medals. Jon Rydberg, 34, of Oakdale played in both singles and doubles’ men’s wheelchair tennis competition. He is a high school tennis coach and participated in the 2004 and 2008 Paralympics Games. Park Rapids’ Aaron Pike, a University of Illinois student, competed in four individual and relay wheelchair track events. ■

Pg 6 October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

REGIONAL NEWS Woodbury may gain apartments A 45-unit apartment building is being proposed for people with disabilities and seniors in Woodbury. The rent-subsidized units would be built at City Walk, an urban-style apartment complex that already has about 490 units.

The project, called View at City Walk, has been approved by the Planning Commission and City Council. Planners say it will fill a big gap in the city’s housing supply. The project is managed by housing owner/development nonprofit CommonBond. Andrew Michaelson, CommonBond’s senior housing development manager, said 12 of the units would be built for households that include at least one person who has a physical disability. The others will be designed for senior citizens. Units will be affordable for those with a household income of less than 60 percent of the metro area median. According to CommonBond’s formula, that means rent of about $400 per month for a one-bedroom unit and $850 for a two-bedroom.

The building is planned for the east end of the City Walk complex, which is south of Hudson Road and east of Woodbury Drive. It will be the final building in the complex, which was started in 2001. ■ (Source: Pioneer Press, Woodbury Bulletin)

Braille sign pioneer killed

Parents restart support group

One of the people killed in a Sept. 27 shooting at a Minneapolis sign-making business was a pioneer in the creation of Braille indoor signs Reuven Rahamim, 61, was shot to death in “a senseless act of violence” at Accent Signage Systems Inc., son-in-law Chad Blumenfield said in a statement.

Rahamim was one of five people killed. Those killed also included a UPS driver. Four others were injured. The gunman, a former Accent Signage Systems employee, took his own life.

Rahamim started Accent Signage Systems, Inc. in the basement of his Minneapolis home in the early 1980s, according to the business publication Finance & Commerce. Rahamim said he chose that name because he wanted it to be the first sign company listed in the Yellow Pages.

The interior signage company specializes in American with Disabilities Act-compliant signs after developing a patented method to create Braille signs for the blind. U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce Francisco Sanchez praised the company for its innovation during a visit to the facility in August.

Rahamim was born and raised in Israel and served as a soldier in the Israeli army before coming to the U.S., Blumenfield said.

The Rahamim family has received an outpouring of support since the tragedy. Gov. Mark Dayton and Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak also offered condolences. ■ (Sources: Star Tribune, Associated Press, KSTP-TV)

Parents in the Fairmont area have restarted a support group for families with special needs children.

The parents pool their talent to support others learning to raise a child with challenges, and educate each other on navigating the maze of services offered to them. The group offers support for parents of children with any disability—ranging from physical, mental or emotional disorders. The members have children ranging from babies to adults.

Andrea Miller recently began facilitating the group and is revitalizing it after years of working under a now defunct grant. Her son, now 6, was born with Down syndrome.

When she first learned of his diagnosis, Miller was overwhelmed and busy taking care of her newborn and his older sister. For support, she organized a group for parents of children with Down syndrome in Mankato, but it only lasted for a year or so. By then, her son was enrolled in services through the county and school district. She became involved in the local parent support group, and when its facilitator left this summer, she stepped into the role.

Miller said topics for discussion each month will come from the needs of the group. She envisions a psychologist discussing the path of acceptance, how to talk to siblings about a child’s disability, and information on nutritional needs. The group meets 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month at Southern Plains Education Cooperative office, 201 E. Third St., in Fairmont. ■ (Source: Fairmont Sentinel)

Project Life Saver helps find boy Project Life Saver helped a Hollandale family be reunited with an 11-year-old boy with disabilities in September. Through the Project Life Saver program, started three years ago in Freeborn County, deputies found the boy in a cornfield less than 25 minutes after he was first reported missing. A deputy used a device known as a LoJack receiver to track a transmitter bracelet worn by the boy, according to a Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office news release. This was the first successful track utilizing the system in Freeborn

County. Patrol Sgt. Ryan Shea said the program is used by families who have children with autism or Down syndrome and also by adults with Alzheimer’s disease. The families come into the Law Enforcement Center once a month to have the batteries changed in the bracelets.

Hollandale firefighters coordinated a search with the family, neighbors, on- and off-duty deputies, and the Clarks Grove and Geneva Fire Departments. An off-duty deputy brought the receiver to assist in the search. ■ (Source: Albert Lea Tribune)

Students benefit from new school When Intermediate School District 287 decided to construct its own school in New Hope, it had a lengthy wish list of “green” features and cutting-edge education designs. The district—which serves 4,675 special-education students among its total student body of 10,098—considering remodeling an existing building. But district officials decided to start afresh Regional News - p. 12

October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

Pg 7

ADVOCACY Advocating Change Together (ACT)

V-651-641-0297

TF-800-641-0059

www.selfadvocacy.org

Amputee Coalition

V-888-267-5669-

F-865-525-7917

www.amputee-coalition.org

Arc Greater Twin Cities

V-952-920-0855

F-952-920-1480

www.arcgreatertwincities.org

Arc of Minnesota

V-651-523-0823x115

TF-800-582-5256

www.thearcofminnesota.org

Association of Residential Resources in MN

V-651-291-1086

TTY-800-551-2211

www.arrm.org

Courage Center

V-763-520-0725

TTY-763-520-0245

www.CourageCenter.org

Hearing Loss Assoc. of America (HLAATC)

V-763-537-7558

MN Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities

V-651-523-0829x112

F-651-523-0829

www.mnccd.org

www.hlaatc.org

MN Developmental Achievement-Center Assoc

V-651-647-9200

F-651-647-9353

www.mndaca.org

PACER Center, Inc.

V-952-838-9000

TTY-952-838-0190

www.pacer.org

Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI)

V-651-645-7271

TTY-800-466-7722

www.accessiblespace.org

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

TTY-651-695-5802

www.dungarvin.com

Mary T. Inc. Catered Living

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

Brain Injury Association of Minnesota

V-612-378-2742

TTY-800-669-6442

www.braininjurymn.org www.CourageCenter.org

ASSISTED-LIVING PROGRAMS

BRAIN INJURY Courage Center

V-763-520-0312

TTY-763-520-0245

Mary T. Inc. Human Service Programs

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

Tandem Residential

V-651-641-0491x315

F-651-645-2780

www.tandemresidential.com

TBI Metro Services - Richfield & W. St. Paul

V-612-869-3995

V-651-457-4756

www.opportunitypartners.org

V/TTY-763-479-3555

F-763-479-2605

www.vinlandcenter.org

CCP - The Cooperating Community Programs (CCP) V-651-917-8322

F-651-917-8322

www.theccpinc.com

DeafBlind Services Minnesota (DBSM)

V-612-362-8454

TTY-612-362-8422

www.dbsm.llc.org

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

TTY-651-695-5802

www.dungarvin.co

www.marytinc.com

CHEMICAL HEALTH Vinland National Center

COMMUNITY LIVING

Howry Residential Services

V-651-917-9111

F-651-917-1018

www.howryinc.com

Mary T. Inc. Human Service Programs

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

Metro Work Center, Inc

V/TTY-612-729-7381

F-612-729-7382

www.metroworkcenter.org

Opportunity Partners

V-952-938-5511

TTY-952-930-4293

Reach for Resources

V-952-988-4177

F-952-988-6728

www.reachforresources.org www.remminnesota.org

REM Minnesota

V-952-945-4952

F-952-922-6885

S. MN Independent Living Enterprises & Services

V/TTY-507-345-7139

TF-888-676-6498

www.opportunitypartners.org

www.smilescil.org

CONSUMER-DIRECTED COMMUNITY SUPPORTS Community Involvement Programs (CIP)

V-612-362-4437

www.cipmn.org

Lifeworks Services, Inc.

TF-866-454-2732

TTY-651-365-3736

Community Education Network on Disabilities

V-651-748-7436

V-507-494-0950

V-320-529-6500 x6271

Institute on Community Integration

V-612-624-6300

F-612-624-8279

www.ici.umn.edu

MRC - Minnesota Resource Center

V-612-752-8100

TTY-612-752-8019

Upstream Arts

V-612-331-4584

F-612-353-6638

www.lifeworks.org

EDUCATION

www.mrc-mn.org www.upstreamarts.org

CONTINUED

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

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

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

We are accepting applications for our large number of mobility impaired accessible units.

Please call us for more information.

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

Pg 8 October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

EMPLOYMENT/VOCATION Assistive Technology of MN - DBA Equip A Life

V-763-479-8239

TF-866-535-8239

www.equipalife.org

CCP Works! - Cooperating Community Programs

V-651-379-9744

Chrestomathy, Inc.

V-952-974-0339

www.theccpinc.com/employment_support.aspx

Community Connections Partnership (CCP)

V-763-540-6833x302

Community Involvement Programs (CIP)

V-612-353-4595x101

V-612-353-4595x102

Cooperating Community Programs (CCP)

V-651-503-8618

F-651-641-8623

Courage Center

V-763-520-0564

TTY-763-520-0245

East Suburban Resources, Inc.

V-651-351-0190

F-952-974-0307

www.chrestomathyinc.org www.communityconnectionspartnership.org www.cipmn.org www.theccpinc.com www.CourageCenter.org www.esrworks.org

Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota

V-651-379-5800

F-651-379-5803

www.goodwilleasterseals.org

Kaposia Inc.

V/TTY-651-224-6974

F-651-224-7249

www.kaposia.com

Lifetrack Resources - Minneapolis

V-612-788-8855

F-612-788-8577

www.lifetrackresources.org

Lifetrack Resources - St. Paul

V-651-227-8471

TTY-651-227-3779

www.lifetrackresources.org

Lifeworks Services, Inc.

TF-866-454-2732

TTY-651-365-3736

www.lifeworks.org

Merrick, Inc.

V-651-789-6231

F-651-789-9960

www.merrickinc.org

Metro Work Center, Inc.

V/TTY-612-729-7381

F-612-729-7382

www.metroworkcenter.org

Midway Training Services

V-651-641-0709

F-651-641-0976

www.midwaytraining.org

Midwest Special Services, Inc.

V-651-778-1000

F-651-772-4352

www.mwsservices.org

Minnesota Diversified Industries (MDI)

V-651-999-8200

F-651-999-8242

www.mdi.org

MRC - Minnesota Resource Center

V-612-752-8100

TTY-612-752-8019

www.mrc-mn.org

Opportunity Partners

V-952-938-5511

TTY-952-930-4293

www.opportunitypartners.org

Partnership Resources, Inc.

V-952-925-1404

F-952-925-6055

www.partnershipresources.org

Partnership Resources, Inc. - Minneapolis

V-612-331-2075

F-612-331-2887

www.partnershipresources.org

Partnership Resources, Inc. - Older Adults Program

V-952-746-6206

F-952-746-6209

www.partnershipresources.org

ProAct Inc.

V-651-686-0405

F-651-686-0312

www.proactinc.org

Rise, Inc.

V/TTY-763-786-8334

F-763-786-0008

www.rise.org

TBI Metro Services - Richfield & W. St. Paul

V-612-869-3995

V-651-457-4756

www.opportunitypartners.org

TSE, Inc.

V-651-489-2595

F-651-489-0410

www.tse-inc.org

University of Minnesota Disability Services

V-612-626-1333

F-612-625-5572

Work Incentives Connection

V-651-632-5113

TF-800-976-6728

http://ds.umn.edu

Minnesota State Council on Disability

V/TTY-651-361-7800

TTY-800-945-8913

MN Gov. Council on Developmental Disabilities

V-651-296-4018

TF-800-627-3529

V-651-556-0887

F-651-556-0880

Cornerstone Solutions

TF-866-601-8962

TTY-800-627-3529

www.cornerstone-solutions.org

Medica

V-800-266-2157

TTY-800-855-2880

www.medica.com

UCare

V-800-707-1711

TTY-800-688-2534

www.ucare.org

Break-Thru Home Care, Inc.

V—763-502-1505

F-763-502-6777

www.breakthrucare.com

In Home Personal Care

V-763-546-1000

F-763-546-1018

www.inhomepersonalcare.com

Mary T. Inc. Home Health Care

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.mnworkincentives.com

GOVERNMENT www.disability.state.mn.us www.mncdd.org

HEALTH CARE COORDINATION AXIS Healthcare

www.axishealth.com

HEALTH CARE PLANS

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES

www.marytinc.com

HOUSING-CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING AccessAbility Options, Inc.

V-763-571-6789

F-800-632-0798

www.accessoptionsmn.com

Accessibility Design

V-952-925-0301

F-952-926-7712

www.accessibilitydesign.com

Accessible Homes, LLC.

V-612-978-1054

F-651-554-3085

www.accessiblehomesllc.net

Equal Access Homes, Inc.

V-651-249-7751

F-651-450-1330

www.EqualAccessHomes.com

McCarthy Builders & Remodelers, Inc.

V-612-250-0816

www.McCarthyBuildersandRemodelers.com

SRR Construction, LLC

V-612-419-5787

www.SRRConstruction.com

HOUSING-RENTAL Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI)

V-651-645-7271

TTY-800-466-7722

Ebenezer Park Apartments

V-612-879-2233

F-612-879-8889

www.accessiblespace.org www.fairviewebenezer.org/minneapolis

HousingLink

V-612-522-2500

F-612-521-1577

www.housinglink.org

National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc

V-651-639-9799

F-651-639-9699

www.nhhiaccessiblehousing.com

Villas and Townhomes by Mary T. Inc.

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

CONTINUED

Your home, your independence . . . 763-546-1000 At In Home Personal Care, we pride ourselves not only on the help we provide, but also on our ability to listen. We understand that each of our clients has different needs at different times. Our quality home care services are formed around a plan that works for you and your individual situation.

Serving Adults and Children with Long-Term Needs since 1991

8441 Wayzata Blvd; Suite 130 Golden Valley, MN 55426

“ I have been an In Home client for at least 20 years. During that time I have received excellent, reliable, consistent care from PCAs and HHA’s trained and supervised by In Home.” - Jean T (Client)

October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

INFORMATION AND REFERRAL RESOURCES Assistive Technology of Minnesota

V-763-479-8239

TF-866-535-8239

Minnesota State Council on Disability

V/TTY-651-361-7800

TTY-800-945-8913

www.atmn.org

The Natl Multiple Sclerosis Society - MN Chapter

V-612-335-7900

TF-800-582-5296

PACER Center, Inc.

V-952-838-9000

TTY-952-838-0190

www.pacer.org

V-651-294-0710

TF-800-886-7201

F-651-644-9137

V-612-334-5970

TF-800-292-4150

www.mndlc.org

www.disability.state.mn.us www.mssociety.org

INSURANCE Lee F. Murphy Insurance Group

LEGAL MN Disability Law Center

MEDICAL SUPPLIES/EQUIPMENT Handi Medical Supply

V-651-644-9770

F-651-644-0602

www.handimedical.com

HME Medical Shop

V-800-258-6313

F-800-258-6313

www.hmemedicalshop.com

Key Medical Supply

V-651-792-3860

F—651-792-3867

www.keymedicalsupply.com

Liberty Oxygen & Medical Equipment

V-952-920-0460

F-952-920-0480

www.libertyoxygen.com

Phoenix Medical Services Inc.

V-651-636-0848

F-651-636-5746

www.PhoenixMedical.org

Tamarack Habilitation Technologies, Inc.

V-763-795-0057

TF-866-795-0057

Community Involvement Programs (CIP)

V-612-362-4434

V-612-362-4452

Courage Center

V-763-520-0312

TTY-763-520-0245

Fraser

V-612-861-1688

F-612-861-6050

www.fraser.org

Howry Residential Services

V-651-917-9111

F-651-917-1018

www.howryinc.com

www.tamarackhti.com

MENTAL HEALTH www.cipmn.org www.CourageCenter.org

Lifetrack Resources - St. Paul

V-651-227-8471

TTY-651-227-3779

National Alliance on Mental Illness of MN

V-651-645-2948

TF-888-NAMI-Helps

www.lifetrackresources.org

People Incorporated Mental Health Services

V-651-774-0011

TTY-651-774-6535

Vinland National Center

V/TTY-763-479-3555

F-763-479-2605

Courage Center

V-763-520-0453

TTY-763-520-0245

www.CourageCenter.org

Wound Healing Center

V-715-268-0175

TTY-715-268-0177

www.AmeryMedicalCenter.org

www.namihelps.org www.PeopleIncorporated.org www.vinlandcenter.org

PHYSICIANS

RECREATION-ADAPTIVE HOBBY/EXERCISE/SPORTS/ARTS Capable Partners Inc.

V-763-439-1038

Courage Center

V-763-520-0537

www.capablepartners.org TTY-763-520-0245

www.CourageCenter.org

Mind Body Solutions

V-952-473-3700

Upstream Arts

V-612-331-4584

F-612-353-6638

www.mindbodysolutions.org www.upstreamarts.org

V-507-724-2351

F-507-724-3786

www.campwinnebago.org

RECREATION-TRAVEL/CAMPING Camp Winnebago Friendship Ventures

V-952-852-0101

TF-800-450-8376

www.friendshipventures.org

Hammer Travel

V-952-277-2458

TF-877-345-8599

www.HammerTravel.org

Margaret’s Missions

V-651-583-4471

www.margaretmission.com

Ventures Travel, LLC

V-952-852-0107

TF-866-692-7400

www.venturestravel.org

Wilderness Inquiry

V-612-676-9400

TF-800-728-0719

www.wildernessinquiry.org

REHABILITATION (PHYSICAL, OCCUPATIONAL, SPEECH, AUDIOLOGY THERAPISTS) Courage Center

V-763-588-0811

TTY-763-520-0245

www.CourageCenter.org

Courage Center - Burnsville

V-952-898-5700

F-952-898-5757

www.CourageCenter.org

Courage Center - Forest Lake

V-651-464-5235

F-651-464-3547

www.CourageCenter.org www.CourageCenter.org

Courage Ceter - St. Croix

V-651-439-8283

F-651-439-0576

DeafBlind Services Minnesota (DBSM)

V-612-362-8454

TTY-612-362-8422

CONTINUED

www.dbsm.org

Pg 9

Pg 10 October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

REHABILITATION (PHYSICAL, OCCUPATIONAL, SPEECH, AUDIOLOGY THERAPISTS) CONT. Fraser

V-612-861-1688

F-612-861-6050

Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare

V-651-291-2848

TF-800-719-4040

www.fraser.org www.gillettechildrens.org

In Home Personal Care

V-763-546-1000

F-763-546-1018

Lifetrack Resources - St. Paul

V-651-227-8471

TTY-651-227-3779

www.inhomepersonalcare.com www.lifetrackresources.org

RESIDENTIAL/GROUP HOME PROGRAMS Capstone Services, LLC

F-651-645-2780

www.capstoneservices.net

CCP-The Cooperating Community Programs - Residential Services

V-651-641-0042 x211

V-651-503-8618

www.theccpinc.com

Community Involvement Programs (CIP)

V-612-362-4403

V-612-362-4417

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

TTY-651-695-5802

www.cipmn.org

Fraser

V-612-861-1688

F-612-861-6050

www.fraser.org

Howry Residential Services

V-651-917-9111

F-651-917-1018

www.howryinc.com

Mary T. Inc. Human Services Programs

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

www.dungarvin.com

Mt. Olivet Rolling Acres

V-952-474-5974

F-952-474-3652

www.mtolivetrollingacres.org

Opportunity Partners

V-952-938-5511

TTY-952-930-4293

www.opportunitypartners.org

Phoenix Residence

V-651-227-7655

F-651-227-6847

www.phoenixresidence.org

Restart, Inc.

V-952-767-3350

F-952-767-3351

www.restartincmn.org

Can Do Canines

V-763-331-3000

F-763-331-3009

www.can-do-canines.org

Helping Paws, Inc.

V-952-988-9359

F-952-988-9296

www.helpingpaws.org

V-952-226-2063

www.PawPADS.org

SERVICE ANIMALS

Pawsitive Perspectives Assistance Dogs (PawPADs)

SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES Ebenezer Care Center

V-612-879-2262

www.fairviewebenezer.org/minneapolis

SOCIAL SERVICES Metro Meals On Wheels

V-612-623-3363

F-612-331-9401

www.meals-on-wheels.com

Restart, Inc.

V-952-767-3350

F-952-767-3351

www.restartincmn.org

V-763-479-8239

TF-866-535-8239

www.equipalife.org

TECHNOLOGY Assistive Technology of MN - DBA Equip A Life Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare

V-651-291-2848

TF-800-719-4040

www.gillettechildrens.org

Marbesoft - Simtech

V-763-755-1402

TF-888-755-1402

www.marblesoft.com

PACER Center, Inc.

V-952-838-9000

TTY-952-838-0190

STAR Program

V-651-201-2640

TF-888-234-1267

www.starprogram.state.mn.us

www.pacer.org

Tamarack Habilitation Technologies, Inc.

V-763-795-0057

TF-866-795-0057

www.tamarackhti.com

TRANSPORTATION RENTAL/SALES/MODIFICATION IMED Mobility

V-651-635-0655

TF-800-788-7479

www.imedmobility.com

VISION IMPAIRMENT Vision Loss Resources

V-612-871-2222

F-612-872-0189

www.visionlossresources.org

Volunteer Braille Services

V-763-544-2880

F-763-544-3612

www.vbsmn.org

V-651-556-0887

F-651-556-0880

www.axishealth.com

WAIVER CASE MANAGEMENT AXIS Healthcare

October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10 Pg 11

Struggles with mental illness are play’s focus

ACCESSIBLE FUN Welcome to the Access Press Accessible Fun listings. Readers looking for additional opportunities to enjoy the arts and special events have these options: For information on galleries and theater performances around the state, join the Access to Performing Arts email list at access@vsamn.org or call VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or statewide 800-801-3883 (voice/TTY).

To hear a weekly listing of accessible performances, call 612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883. On the web accessible performance listings are found at www.vsamn.org/ calendar.html, or www.mrid.org,www.accesspress.org, or http://c2net.org (c2: caption coalition, inc.), which does most of the captioned shows in Minnesota and across the country.

Connect with performances on Facebook. Sign up to connect with Audio Description Across Minnesota on Facebook (www.facebook.com/pages/Audio-DescriptionAcross-Minnesota/202035772468). Sign up to connect with ASL Interpreted and Captioned Performances Across Minnesota on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ pages/ASL-Interpreted-and-Captioned-PerformancesAcross-Minnesota/257263087700814.

Merrick gala planned Merrick Inc., which provides people with disabilities with vocational and social opportunities, hosts its gala Fri, Oct. 12 at Prom Center, Oakdale. The event theme is Celebrating Our Past Since 1964 and has a 1960s flavor. Enjoy appetizers, a delicious meal, entertainment and a silent auction. Tickets start at $75. Preregister.

FFI: www.merrick.org

Opening at Mixed Blood Theatre’s 37th season is the winner of the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for drama, Next to Normal, a breathtaking production that reveals one family’s struggle with mental illness. Artistic Director Jack Reuler directs the musical, which opened Oct. 5 and runs through Nov. 11 at Mixed Blood’s historic firehouse theatre on the West Bank, 1501 S. Fourth St., Mpls.

Next to Normal tells the story of Diana Goodman, a mother battling bipolar disorder, and the effect the illness has on her family. Her kaleidoscope of feelings— anger, yearning, sorrow, loss and guilt—coexist in every note in this contemporary musical of muscular grace and operatic force. Unflinchingly honest yet still hopeful, Next to Normal is a feel-everything musical that packs a seismic emotional punch with the electric momentum of a heavy metal concert, the lyricism of a music box and the twanging heartbreak of a country ballad.

“In my pursuit of the best plays in the land that highlight the intersection of disability, theatre, class and race, I have sought permission to produce Next to Normal since 2008. As the script evolved from New York City’s Second Stage to D.C.’s Arena Stage to Broadway, my enthusiasm for this musical as a voice for the unheard millions who have or are influenced by mental illness has magnified. Great theatre that can be a vehicle for artistry, entertainment, education and affecting change in attitude, behavior and policy is a rarity. Next To Normal is

one of those uncommon jewels,” said Reuler.

Performances are Wednesdays-Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. with 3 p.m. matinees on Sundays. “Radical Hospitality, now firmly in the company’s DNA, returns for a second year,” said Reuler.

Radical Hospitality, Mixed Blood’s TransPhoto by Rich Ryan portation Fund allows for anyone with a disability to receive free taxi service to and from the theatre via Red & White Cab. Those interested should contact the Mixed Blood Box Office at 612.338.6131 to utilize the service.

Access Night, with ASL interpreting, audio description and captioning for the hearing impaired, is 7:30 p.m. Sat, Oct. 20. All performances will be captioned in English with projected supertitles. An Industry Night, with an insider talk-back following the show, is 7:30 p.m. Mon, Nov. 5.

Radical Hospitality offers admission at no-cost, by registering in the lobby prior to the show, or paying $20 online at www.mixedblood.com or calling 612-338-6131.

and women in the 5k and 10k runs. Participants are invited to dress up and run in the attire of their favorite superhero. Raise pledges and help the ALS Association, Fees and other information are available online FFI: Kristina Hedberg, 1-888)-672-0484 or kristina@alsmn.org; www.alssuperherodash.com

rector of PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center based in Minneapolis, Minn. “Many students do not feel adults are adequately addressing this issue. We’re hoping that communities across the county will take action and respond to that concern this October, so students who are bullied know there’s support and help in their town.”

Community members can use the free online resources from PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center tailored to elementary and middle school kids, teens, parents, teachers and other adults and take a pledge to put an end to bullying (PACER.org/Bullying, PACERTeens AgainstBullying.org or PACERKids AgainstBullying.org) Send a united message of support by wearing orange on Unity Day, Wednesday, Oct. 10 to “Make It Orange and Make It End.” Become a “partner or “champion” during National Bullying Prevention Month at PACER.org/bullying/nbpm to actively spread the word and get others involved. Help a student create a bullying prevention plan available at PACER.org/bullying/resources/publications/plan ■

Benefit for Wabun playground

Accessible playground fundraiser

Join People for Parks’ Falls 4 All Committee for a concert featuring Regional Emmy Award-winning Minnesota musical artist Michael Monroe 6-9 p.m. Sat, Oct. 27, 2720 W 43rd St, Mpls (above the Wild Rumpus Bookstore). Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and beverages while shopping at the silent and live auctions, including items such as a 4-night stay at a Lutsen Resort townhome, an original work of art by Ray Meifert, theater tickets and more.

Admission: $80 single, $150 a couple. Proceeds benefit the universal access playground being planned for Minnehaha Park’s Wabun Picnic Area, specially designed for children with disabilities to ensure that everyone, with and without disabilities, can play together.

Seating limited, preregistration required. FFI: Peggy Halvorson, 952-270-6620 or halvop2000@yahoo.com; www.falls4all.com or mail checks to People for Parks Fall Concert, PO Box 24901, Minneapolis, MN 55424

The Madison Claire Foundation, which raises funding for accessible play areas, hosts a fundraiser Sat, Oct. 20, at the Fine Line Music Café, 318 First Ave. N., Mpls.

Events start at 6 p.m. with a reception live auction and dancing to the music of Boogie Wonderland. Show off those dance moves in a disco dance contest. Tickets are $75 per person or $150 per couple; group rate available.

FFI: www.madisonclairefoundation.org/disco

Northland 300 marks 25 years This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Northland 300 and its work to support Special Olympics Minnesota.

Thousands have enjoyed this North Shore snowmobile ride and fundraiser. Organizers are preparing for the next big event Jan. 23-27, 2013 and have posted information about the event history on the event website. The event has raised more than $3.6 million over the years.

Information on registration and pledges is also available.

FFI: Kathy Karkula, 612-789-2081 or karkulak@hotmail.com; www.northland300.org or www.specialolympicsminnesota.org

Do the SuperHero Dash The ALS Association, MN/ND/SD Chapter holds its SuperHero 5k/10k Dash at 9 a.m. Sat, Oct, 13th at Phalen Regional Park, St. Paul. Participants will enjoy a picturesque run/walk on certified 5k and 10k courses around Lake Phalen. Awards will be given to the first place winners in various age categories for both men

Mark Anti-Bulling Month Nearly one-third of all school-aged children are bullied each year—upwards of 13 million students. During National Bullying Prevention Month in October, communities are urged to come together and take action to send a message that bullying will not be accepted in their town or school.

Founded by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center in October 2006, National Bullying Prevention Month is now a nationwide event recognized in schools and communities and supported by the National Education Association, the American Federation for Teachers and the National PTA among others.

“We all know what the research shows—that bullying can erode self-esteem, impact learning at school, cause anxiety and depression, and even lead to suicide,” said Julie Hertzog, di-

First of kind partnership - from p. 1 vidual and family support, social and recreational programs, community living, state and local referrals, employment, employment assistance and advocacy.

Gillette joins UCP as the first hospital center and points to UCP’s efforts to expand its reach through creative partnerships with organizations that provide excellence in service to people with disabilities.

“This is an important day for UCP,” Bennett said. “Just as parents in the 1940s founded UCP as a response to wanting better for their children, UCP is excited to announce a partnership that expands its reach to help even more people under the UCP banner.”

The announcement is welcome news for those who have depended on UCP-MN, which had operated since 1953. Dwindling finances and a tough fundraising climate forced the group to shut down. The organization officially filed its Notice of Intent to Dissolve with the State of Minnesota in late May and closed its office in St. Paul’s in June.

One question that remains centers on the Minnesota Assistive Technology Lending Network or MATLN Program, which UCP-MN offered for years. A Gillette spokesperson said that the services Gillette will provide are still being explored. More information about MATLN will be available in the future. ■

Pg 12 October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

UPCOMING EVENTS AdvocacyAdvocacy Voter education offered Minnesota’s general election is Nov. 6. The Secretary of State Voter Education and Outreach staff and Disability Law Center are eager to connect with groups with disabilities that are interested in free voter education workshops and training – which can be catered specifically to the groups’ request. Information is also available at www.mnvotes.org. FFI: Pamela Hoopes, Minnesota Disability Law Center, 612-746-3711, phoopes@mylegalaid. org; Claire Wilson, Minnesota Office of the Secretary of State , 651-201-1339, claire.wilson@state.mn.us

Conferences NAMI state conference National Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota (NAMIMN) hosts its state conference 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat, Nov. 3, at St. Paul RiverCentre, 175 W. Kellogg Blvd. “Breaking Down Barriers” features The Chemistry of Joy author Dr. Henry Emmons and 15 workshops on current mental health issues. NAMI provides education and support for children and adults with mental illnesses and their families, and advocates for better mental health services and treatment. FFI: 651-645-2948, www.namihelps.org Attend Arc conference “A New Vision in Action” is the theme for The Arc Minnesota State Conference, Nov. 16-17 at Crowne Plaza Suites Airport, Mall of America, Bloomington. This annual conference can help provide a new way of looking at disability supports and services in the years ahead.

Hear about successes and best practices from parents, self-advocates, and people employed in the field who are creating visions of what is possible and how to get there. Hear from prominent leaders who are advancing disability rights and new futures for people with disabilities, including Judge Donovan Frank of the U.S. District Court in St. Paul, and Deputy Commissioner of Human Services Anne Barry. Hotel rooms are $99/night. Reduced conference fees for members of The Arc. Register

by Sept. 29, and save $20 more. FFI: 1-800-582-5256, ext. 113, www.arcmn.org

Adult classes 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, unless specified.

Have Halloween fun 1-4 p.m. Wed., Oct. 31 at the fall social. Wear a Halloween costume and get a prize. Join the fun in the kitchen 1-6 p.m. Tue, Oct. 30 for cooking and social night.

A series of classes continues 10 a.m.-noon Tue, Oct. 16 with Time Management. Budgeting class is offered 10 a.m.-noon Thu, Oct. 18.. Farmers’ market trip including lunch is 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thu, Oct. 18. 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, Sept. 24. Wii fun is back 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Thu, Oct. 25. 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 encour-

aged. Dine Sat, Oct. 20 at Modern Café. Please bring spending money for events. 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, 651-603-2028, corbettl@mcil-mn.org, Cindy, 651-603-2037, cindyl@mcil-mn.org, 651-603-2037

Youth and families Housing resource and information fair PACER Center hosts its Ninth Annual Housing Resource and Information Fair, a free event for families of teens and young adults with disabilities. It is on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012, from 9 a.m. to noon, at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington. Advance registration requested. Parents of teens and young adults with disabilities can learn about available housing options and supports. FFI: FFI: 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237 (toll free), www.PACER.org Children’s challenging behavior Learn to cope with child and adolescent behaviors. Learn the five essential tasks to build confidence in your skills, improve the relationship with your child and create balance in your life. Free. This two-part workshop is for parents and caregivers of school-age children, and is approved for two hours training for foster care families. Presented by NAMIMN, the Children’s Challenging Behaviors class will be held 5:30-8P.m. Oct. 10 and 17 in at St. Paul Children’s Hospital, 354 North Smith St. FFI: 651-645-2948 PACER offers workshops PACER Center offers useful free or low-cost workshops and other resources for families of children with disabilities. Workshops are at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, unless specified. IFSPs and IEPs: The Building Blocks of Early Childhood Special Education is 6:30-8:30 p.m. Mon, Oct. 15. Advance registration requested. This workshop will help parents of young children understand the essential components of the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) and the Individualized Education Program (IEP). FFI: 952-8389000, 800-537-2237 (toll free), www.PACER.org Parents with disabilities group MCIL offers a support group for parents with disabilities, 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 group meets 5-7 pm. Mon, Oct. 29 at MCIL, 1600 University Ave. W., St. Paul. Pre-registration requested.

RSVP: Corbett, 651-603-2028, corbettl@mcil-mn.org Progression course for teens NAMI-MN hosts free, six-session course designed to empower young people to take charge of their lives and deal with issues they are facing in a healthy and effective way. Teens learn to maintain good mental health; how to recognize signs of stress, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder; how to help friends, siblings and parents understand what they are going through and different types of treatment options. One series starts 6-8 p.m. Wed, Oct. 10 at Safe Zone, 308 Prince St, St. Paul.

A second starts 7-9 p.m. Thu, Oct. 11 at Northwest Youth and Family YWCA, 3490 Lexington Ave. #205, Shoreview. Pizza and pop provided. Registration required. FFI: 651-645-2948.

Information and support UCare meetings UCare hosts informational meetings about its UCare for

Seniors Medicare Advantage plan. Meetings are held all over the region. UCare for Seniors has more than 75,000 members across Minnesota and western Wisconsin. UCare serves Medicare-eligible individuals and families enrolled in income-based Minnesota Health Care Programs, such as Minnesota Care and Prepaid Medical Assistance Program; adults with disabilities and Medicare beneficiaries with chronic health conditions and Minnesotans dually eligible for Medical Assistance and Medicare FFI: 1-877-523-1518 (toll free), www.ucare.org Mental Illness support groups NAMI-MN sponsors many support groups. NAMI has about two dozen family support groups, over 20 support groups for people living with a mental illness, anxiety support groups, groups for veterans and other groups.

Led by trained facilitators, the various groups provide help and support. FFI: 651-645-2948, www.namihelps.org Family support group meets in Roseville at 6:30 p.m., at Centennial United Methodist Church, 1524 Co. Rd. C-2 West, on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. FFI: Anne Mae. 651-730-8434. Open Door Anxiety and Panic support, meets at 6:30 p.m. the first and third Thu at Woodland Hills Church, 1740 Van Dyke St., St. Paul. It meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Thu. It also meets 6:30-6 p.m. on the second and fourth Thu at Goodwill-Easter Seals, 553 Fairview Ave. N., St. Paul.

FFI: 651-645-2948. Partners and Spouses support group meets 6:45 p.m. the first Tue of each month at Falcon Heights United Church of Christ, 1795 Holton St. FFI: Lois, 651-788-1920, or Donna, 651-645-2948 ext. 101.

NAMI Connection peer support group for adults are led by trained facilitators who are also in recovery lead NAMI Connection groups. One group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tue, at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 285 Dale St. N., St. Paul. FFI: Shelley, 651-228-1645.

Bi-weekly adult recovery groups meet at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Wed at Centennial Methodist Church, 1524 Co. Rd. C-2 West, Roseville. FFFI: Will, 651-5783364.

Chronic pain support group MCIL offers a peer support group for people who live with chronic pain. The group will start meeting 6:30 the first and third Thursday at MCIL, 1600 University Ave. #16, St. Paul. Group members will discuss what chronic pain is and how it affects people. FFI: Cindy Langr, 651603-2037, cindyl@mcil-mn.org

Volunteer, Donate Open the Door to Education Help adults reach their educational goals and earn their GED. Tutor, teach or assist in a classroom with the Minnesota Literacy Council. Give just 2-3 hours a week and help people expand their opportunities and change their lives through education. The literacy council provides training and support. Accommodations for volunteers with disabilities. FFI: Allison, 651-251-9110, volunteer@mnliteracy.org, www.mnliteracy.org/volunteers/opportunities/adults.

Volunteer with RSVP Volunteers age 55 and older are eligible to receive free supplemental insurance, mileage reimbursement and other benefits through the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) sponsored by Volunteers of America of Minnesota. RSVP/Volunteers of America of Minnesota and AARP Foundation need volunteers with good budgeting and organizational skills to help manage finances of older or disabled low-income individuals. Have a few hours a month to volunteer? Money Management Program staff will train and match you with someone in the community. FFI: 612-617-7821 ■

Regional News - from p. 6 Computerized Desktop Publishing: Advertisements Brochures Catalogs Flyers Newsletters Newspapers Project Mgmt Scanning ... & More!

Ellen Houghton 952-404-9981

presentationimages@ comcast.net

with the new $30 million North Education Center, which opened this school year sporting myriad innovative design and energy efficient features.

The effort has caught the attention of education facility planners, builders and managers across the state and was featured at last month’s Impact 2012 conference put on by the U.S. Green Building Council’s Minnesota chapter.

The building is praised for its adaptability and accommodating spaces for special needs students, including removable (or “demountable”) walls, which allow educators to adjust the size of classrooms to suit the changing needs of the students. Window design, lighting, heating and cooling design accommodate the walls. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10 Pg 13

PEOPLE & PLACES

Lisa Evenson, Minnesota’s Direct Support Provider of the Year, shows her award to her supervisor, Rhonda Larson Photo courtesy of Lutheran Social Services

Evenson honored as Minnesota’s Direct Support Professional of the Year Lisa Evenson believes that the most powerful tool she has is her voice. For 10 years, she has used her voice and dedicated herself to advocating for the rights and freedoms of people with disabilities as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) for Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota.

During DSP Week Sept. 9-15, Evenson received the DSP of the Year Award. She was honored at a Sept. 15 event in Edina.

The award is granted each year to one outstanding Minnesota service professional by the Direct Support Professionals Association of Minnesota (DSPAM), a coalition of DSPs, self-advocates and their families who work together to promote the development of the highest quality services that support individuals with disabilities in achieving their life goals.

The award spotlights people who have demonstrated exemplary service and commitment to helping people with disabilities lead full lives as valued members of their communities.

“Lisa Evenson was a clear choice for DSP of the Year because of her long tenure and dedication to supporting individuals to grow, reach their potential, and fulfill their dreams,” said Bridget Siljander, CoChair of DSPAM. “It is clear that Ms. Evenson is a team player and thoughtful advocate who goes out of her way for others. She is an excellent role model for direct support professionals.”

“We are really proud to have Lisa as our colleague,” said Rhonda Larson, Supervisor for Personal Support Services at Lutheran Social Service. “Lisa is highly dedicated and her mission is always to ensure that the people with disabilities we support have full opportunities to make their contributions in our community.”

Through Lutheran Social Service, Evenson has served as a mentor, guiding individuals she supports in the southern Minnesota community of Adams as they learn to advocate for themselves at the state capitol. She works hard to help people adapt successfully to new environments and is a strong encourager of people with disabilities—offering words of support to help them reach their personal goals in life, including graduating high school and attending college.

Kent’s Accounting Service, LLC Kent Fordyce 612-889-2959 • fordyce6@aol.com Fax: 952-472-1458 6371 Bartlett Blvd, Mound, MN 55364 Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor 2012 & 2005-2011

“It’s an honor to receive this award,” Evenson said. “I feel incredibly blessed to work for an organization that is so committed to ensuring that people with disabilities have opportunities to live full lives in our community.”

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota serves 1,400 people with disabilities through supervised community homes, in-home support and respite care.

The first full season for the Duluth Area Special and Sled Hockey athletes will include approximately two sessions per month at the Heritage Center during the winter, Koelling told the Duluth News-Tribune.

The group has 30-40 participants.

Grants announced for Minnesota groups

After years in the “wishing” phase, months in the planning phase, and weeks in the construction phase, the second program site of Merrick, Inc., housing Adult Day Services and the new Memory Care Services is open in North St. Paul. The program includes a first of its kind program for people with memory loss issues.

The new space is outfitted with color choices and enhancements suggested by staff and clients. Design strategies uniquely suited for people with intellectual or development disabilities and care of people with stage 1 or 2 Alzheimer’s/dementia were utilized to create a functional and welcoming environment that also meets licensing requirements. 27 clients and six staff members moved from Merrick’s main program site in Vadnais Heights to their new location.

“I am absolutely thrilled with the new space in North St. Paul and excited for the adult day services clients to engage in relationship-building with the dynamic community of downtown North St. Paul. I look forward to the program finding a variety of ways to explore, expand, and strengthen the valued roles they will assume in local community life,” said Merrick Program Director Colleen Timbers.

At full capacity, the new site will serve 40 clients, 31 in the adult day services program and nine in the newly formed memory care services program. The daily routine will not change much for clients. They will still participate in on- and off-site social/leisure activities; therapies; self-advocacy activities; health and fitness monitoring, and current events. An advantage to being part of the community in North St. Paul is the proximity to other businesses and the ease of interacting with others.

The new memory care services program is unique.

People with Down syndrome are more at risk for developing dementia than the general population. In the past year, the rate of new Alzheimer’s/dementia cases among clients at Merrick has tripled to one new case every six weeks, or approximately eight to nine new cases a year. The program will focus on enabling clients to maintain life skills, decelerating the progression of Alzheimer’s/dementia, participating in community life, and engaging in proactive and satisfying activities of their choosing. ■

The American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) has announced the recipients of grants totaling $25,000 to two Twin Cities-area organizations whose work is consistent with the mission of the ABTA. The grants were awarded in conjunction with the ninth annual Humor the Fight the Tumor gala at The Depot in Minneapolis Sept. 24. They were funded through proceeds generated at last year’s event. The gala is held annually to benefit the American Brain Tumor Association.

The Angel Foundation received $10,000 to provide emergency financial support for non-medical basic needs such as food, transportation, housing and utility payments for adults in treatment for brain tumors.

The Sister Kenny Foundation received $15,000 to study the ways in which patient and family rehabilitation priorities change over time, in order to improve the quality of life of brain tumor survivors.

Humor to Fight the Tumor began in 2004 and is among the premier fundraising events benefiting the ABTA on behalf of those living with brain tumors and those researching more effective treatments. To date, the event—stories of determination and courage by brain tumor survivors, along with live comedy, dinner and silent and live auctions—has raised more than $1million.

Duluth area gets sled hockey team The fledgling Duluth Area Special and Sled Hockey organization got an assist in September from the University of Minnesota- Duluth men’s team, thanks to a free exhibition benefit game at the Duluth Heritage Sports Center. The group provides hockey opportunities for those in the Duluth area with physical and developmental disabilities. It began in January with the help of Christian Koelling, UMD’s director of hockey operations, and Kelly Erickson, assistant professor in occupational therapy at St. Scholastica.

The benefit game included photo sessions with UMD players, exhibits, an on-site silent auction and a game with UMD players. The game gave the new group its first experience as a sled hockey team.

New adult day services site opens

Pg 14 October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

Radio Talking Book 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.

Weekend Program Books Your Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing The Prosperous Heart, by Julia Cameron and Idea-Links, by Jim Link; For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing Wolf Storm, by Dee Garretson; Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing That Said, by Jane Shore; The U.S. and Us (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing The Assassination of Hole-in-the-Day, by Anton Treuer.

Across the Pond Radio Talking Book Supervisor Stuart Holland visited to Glasgow, Scotland this summer and stopped in to visit at Insight Radio. It is Glasgow’s radio for the blind, run by the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB). Insight Radio was Europe’s first radio for the blind, but the approach is a bit different from what listeners to the Radio Talking Book hear. It is a main channel radio and much of the programming is not reading. Anyone wanting to hear Insight Radio can tune in via the Internet at www.insightradio.co.uk/listen-live.html Chautauqua • Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m.

Revelations, Nonfiction by Elaine Pagels, 2012. Why was the Book of Revelation included in the New Testament when other books of revelation were discarded?

Read by Esmé Evans. Six broadcasts. Begins Oct. 26.

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

The Tigress of Forli, Nonfiction by Elizabeth Lev, 2011.

Strategist, warrior, wife, and mother, Caterina Riario Sforza de Medici was a true Renaissance celebrity, beloved and vilified in equal measure. Read by Bonita Sindelir. 13 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 22.

Bookworm• Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

On Canaan’s Side, Fiction by Sebastian Barry, 2011.

Lilly Bere fled Ireland at the end of the First World War. In America, she found both hope and danger, tasting the sweetness of love and the bitterness of betrayal. She tells her story of seven decades. Read by Judy Woodward. Nine broadcasts. Begins Oct. 22.

The Writer’s Voice• Monday – Friday 2 p.m.

A Good Man, Nonfiction by Mark K. Shriver, 2012. When Sargent Shriver died after a long fight with Alzheimer’s, Mark knew it was time to search for the source of his father’s joy, devotion, and sense of purpose. Read by Jim Gregorich. Eight broadcasts. Begins Oct. 22.

Choice Reading• Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

Turn of Mind, Fiction by Alice LaPlante, 2011. Dr. Jennifer White, recently widowed, a newly retired orthopedic surgeon, and in the early stages of dementia, is the prime suspect in the murder of her neighbor and life-long friend, Amanda.

Dr. White doesn’t know herself whether or not she did it. L Read by Mary Hall. Nine broadcasts. Begins Oct. 30.

PM Report• Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

The Last Great Senate, Nonfiction by Ira Shapiro, 2012.

Our Senate allows a minority to use filibuster and rules to place a stranglehold on action, but it has not always been so. Read by Art Nyhus. 19 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 16.

Night Journey• Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

The Mozart Conspiracy, Fiction by Scott Mariani, 2011.

Enlisted by opera star Leigh Llewellyn to investigate her brother’s mysterious death, former British Special Air Service officer Ben Hope finds himself caught up in a puzzle dating back to the 1700s. V,L - Read by Esmé Evans. 11 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 22.

Off the Shelf• Monday – Friday 10 p.m.

The Newlyweds, Fiction by Nell Freudenberger, 2012.

Amina Mazid, age 24 and from Bangladesh, meets George Stillman online and they arrange their marriage in Rochester, NY. But each of them is hiding something from the past. It is not until she returns home to Bangladesh that they find out if their secrets will tear them apart, or if they can build a future together. Read

by Holly Sylvester. 13 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 24.

Good Night Owl• Monday – Friday midnight Delirious, Fiction by Daniel Palmer, 2011. Charlie Giles is an electronics superstar. Then one day, everything goes wrong. His job and inventions are wrenched away.

His family is targeted and former employees are being murdered. And all evidence points to him as the killer. L – Read by Dave Schliep. 14 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 16.

After Midnight• Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.

Bloodlines, Fiction by Richelle Mead, 2011. Sydney’s blood is special because she is an alchemist, one of a group of humans who serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. But the last encounter she had with vampires got her in deep trouble with other alchemists. V,L,S – Read

by Laura Rohlik. 14 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 17. ■

Abbreviations: V= violence, L=offensive language, S=sexual situations

Enjoying the magic of photography

by Jennifer Mundl, MS, ATP

Summer was full of activity: family and friends gather at cabins, beaches and at events around town.

Through pictures and videos, everyone likes to document time spent together. Photo books, picture albums, digital pictures and interactive videos are easy for people with disabilities to manage with just few simple to advanced adaptations. A good imagination and a little spare time will make the perfect photograph and project to share.

Today’s digital cameras are small as are their control buttons. This might make the camera more difficult for some people to operate. However, the advanced commands and customization options allow users to change how a device works for greater control and capabilities. In most cases, camera settings allow users to set reaction time, voice output, saving options, face control and lighting.

With modern cameras, it’s easy to locate adaptations for switches and mounting that can be used by photographers with a range of disabilities. Here are a few options in devices and adapted cameras.

Great photos are a snap with the right equipment Photo courtesy of the Galles Family

The gentLED IR Remote Control is a shutter release extension that uses infrared wireless control found on many newer cameras to trigger the shutter.

Wireless camera controllers are available with a stereo 2.5mm jack that plugs into specific cameras. They Photography - p. 15

Thanks to all of you for supporting Access Press FRIEND SPONSOR ($50 and above) Monte Blair Ellen Boucher Martha Brown Leo & Susan Bulger Teresa Dock Mel & Georgia Duncan Robert Engstrom Steve & JoAnn Erbes Nancy Eustis Thomas & Mimi Fogarty Claudia Fuglie Lael Gatewood Marjorie Goldberg Patty Hoy Marjorie Huebner Barb Kane Gene Martinez Christopher Meyer Elin Ohlsson Lee Ohnesorge Henn. Cty Commissioner Mike Opat William & Joen Overby Annette Pantel Kelly Rathcke Virginia Schwartzbauer John Sherman Equity Services of St. Paul

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October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10 Pg 15

Banquet - from p. 1 Another great and fun auction item is a gift basket from celebrity chef Andrew Zimmern, whose work include everything from the Bizarre Foods television show to ongoing campaigns about eating right.

An iPad from Care Planners is another item many people will be bidding on. Friends of Access Press founding editor Charlie Smith won’t be able to resist bidding on cribbage boards with Charlie’s picture, donated by Access Press and The Cribbage Guy. Gift cards from Hell’s Kitchen, Buca di Beppo, Breadsmith, the Wedge, Mississippi Market , Panera Bread and more are available, as are handcrafted items and specially designed gift baskets. Services are also offered for bid.

Bid on tickets for events ranging from the Elko Speedway to the Buckwheat Zydeco show at the Ordway to the Lyric Arts Main Street Stage.

Bidding can start before the banquet, and raffle tickets are also available. Call 651-644-2133 with questions or go online to www.accesspress.org/the-charlie-smithaward/silent-auction for the latest updates on silent auction and raffle items, and information on bidding.

The Charlie Smith Award is named in honor of the

late Charlie Smith, founding editor of Access Press.

This annual awards ceremony has been held since 2003, offering an opportunity to bring many individuals and organizations together celebrate accomplishments within Minnesota’s disability community.

There are still tickets available for the banquet, which is at the Minneapolis Airport Marriott, 2020 East American Blvd., Bloomington. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with the start of the silent auction and raffle.

The sit-down dinner and award ceremony are at 7 p.m.

Cost is $45 per person or $325 for an 8-person table (save $35) in advance. The cost at the door is

$50 per person. Register online and go to the Charlie Smith Award tab on the newspaper website, www.access press.org Or banquet attendees can mail checks to Access Press, Attn: Dawn, 161 St. Anthony Ave., # 910, St. Paul, MN 55103. A third option is to call the office and make the transaction over the phone, at 651-644-2133.

Banquet sponsorships are also still available, at levels ranging from $200 to $400. Contact the newspaper office at 651-644-2133 or dawn@accesspress.org Details about sponsorship are available on the newspaper website, www.accesspress.org ■

Photography - from p. 14

Pro voter ID- from p. 3

Con voter ID- from p. 3

can also be used with the gentLED- TRIGGER to activate IR capable cameras.

Timers are also available with a stereo 2.5mm jack designed to plug into specific cameras. They can also be used with gentLED-TRIGGER to also activate IR capable cameras. IR signals can be set up to work through some wheelchairs and communication devices. Other IR devices such as an X. 10 connects to the camera.

Some cameras have a built-in Bluetooth option which can be set up for operation through different switches. This is more cumbersome and may need to be set up by an outside wheelchair dealer or someone who can program an electric wheelchair.

A mouth or tongue switch from Conceptus Inc is also an option. The device is available in both stereo and mono 2.5mm shutter release plug options. gentLED-TRIGGER has an internal link for sending single pulses or bursts of pulses to simulate continuous triggering.

Conceptus makes switches for skydiving photographers. Its Bite Switch is perfect for people with limited arm/hand mobility. Users bite down on it to operate the camera shutter.

A Kodak EasyShare C530 digital camera is adapted for use with a single switch. The point-and-shoot simple design has more than five megapixel resolution and many accessories, including a docking station that makes transferring photographs easier. A zoom and video option is also available, as are articulated arms with mini-clamps that can be easily attached to a table for wheelchair for camera positioning.

A variable friction arm with superclamp is a good option with the adapted Kodak EasyShare C530 camera, as well as camcorders and pan and tilt controllers.

Numerous models are available. These clamps are easy to install on a table or wheelchair for appropriate positioning of the camera. The variable friction arm is sturdier and is recommended for heavier camera equipment and in situations where the photographer needs to frequently move equipment.

The Bescor Motorized Pan and Tilt Wired Controller works with digital cameras, camcorders or any camera with a standard mounting receptacle. It can be mounted on the variable friction arm with superclamp mounting system for camera positioning. The unadapted Bescor Motorized Pan and Tilt Control uses a hand-held controller to move the camera left, right, up and down.

A great resource for photographers with disabilities is a worldwide group, The Disabled Photographers Group. Get inspiration for pictures, view galleries and learn about resources at www.disabledphotographers.co.uk Once photos are taken, it’s time to put them to good use in some attractive and useful items. Next column will cover ways to make those photo projects look professionally designed. ■ Jennifer Mundl, MS, ATP, is Lead Assistive Technology Specialist, Courage Center

press any concern over the integrity of our elections.

They don’t care about that. They say there is no problem even though Minnesota leads the nation in voter fraud convictions. Most of the illegal votes that helped elect Al Franken in 2008 were cast by ineligible felons who would have been stopped if the state had in place a system for checking election day registrants to see if they are felons whose voting rights have not been restored. Showing a photo ID would allow election judges to check databases to identify such ineligible voters on the spot, before they cast their ballots.

If opponents truly cared about those who might have a hard time getting an ID, they would be gathering those people up and helping them day and night to get one. Are they doing that? No. Instead, they are spending millions of dollars on lawsuits and advertising and activism to thwart the will of 80% of Minnesotans. Other states have ID laws and don’t have any problem. Provisional ballots are used in more than 45 states and they take care of the situations where someone doesn’t have their ID on election day. Their ballots are held in envelopes for a few days until they identify themselves and then the ballots are counted.

It is sickening that voter ID opponents are exaggerating and misleading in order to further their political ends. And I am tired of being demeaned by them.

Elizabeth Mansfield, Isanti Minnesota Voters Alliance volunteer

appropriate county or state office results in more travel costs • Registering to vote on election day would require using a provisional ballot that wouldn’t be counted until the voter comes back after the election to prove his/her identity.

• Vouching for your neighbor at the election site would not be allowed.

Setting up the new process for voter IDs could cost cities and counties and the state. A University of Minnesota study estimated that the first-year costs of the amendment would be $32.9 million, and that local governments would pay 85 percent of those costs. The amendment creates an unfunded mandate for local governments that already face severe cuts.

Now people with disabilities, seniors, students, absentee voters and military personnel can depend on neighbors who vouch for them or absentee ballots to make it easy to vote. Voter restriction laws hinder their ability to have a voice in deciding who our leaders will be and can silence their voice in decisions that affect them.

This amendment is not about fraud prevention, which is one of the reasons proponents are pushing for passage. This proposed amendment is more about preventing access to voting for thousands of people with disabilities, seniors, students and others.

Kay Willshire, St. Paul Disability community volunteer

Park Square Theater tickets, Andrew Zimmern’s Bizarre Foods and a Charlie Smith embossed cribbage board are among the silent auction items.

Access Press photos

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Oak Park Village: We are accepting applications for the waiting list for one-bedroom wheelchair accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient St. Louis Park location. Call 952-9359125 for information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Calvary Center Apts: 7650 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley, MN. A Section 8 building now accepting applications for our waiting list. Call 9 am to 4 pm, Mon – Fri 763-546-4988 for an application. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Holmes-Greenway Housing: One- and two-bedroom wheelchair-accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient SE Minneapolis location.

Call 612-378-0331 for availability information.

Equal Opportunity Housing.

Pg 16 October 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 10

Diamond Hill Townhomes Diamond Hill Townhomes is a great property located near the Minneapolis International Airport. Our waiting list is currently closed. Call for updated openings as this can change from time to time.

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

We have a large number of mobility impaired accessible units.

To c hec k ffor or futur e w aiting list openings chec heck future waiting please call (612) 726-9341.