January 2013 Edition - Access Press

Legislative session starts Jan. 8 preview on page 3

Volume 24, Number 1

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Family caregivers win legal victory

Mothers know best

by Access Press staff

Three women, regarded as among The Arc Minnesota’s earliest and most effective lobbyists, were honored last month at the organization’s Second Annual Heroes Luncheon.

In the 1960s, the three mothers of children with disabilities began to make their presence known at the state capitol. Jane Donnelly Birks, Sally Swallen Helmerichs, and Molly Woehrlin are credited with helping to bring people with developmental disabilities and their families out of the shadows and into Jane Donnelly Birks, Sally Swallen Helmerichs and Molly Woehrlin are the consciousness of three of the Heroes honored by The Arc Minnesota.

Minnesota’s citizens and Courtsey of The Arc Minnesota elected officials.

The three were recognized not just for their work but as inspiration and a model to face current challenges and stay committed. As Birks said, “Although at times, it seemed like nobody was listening, in the hearts of parents, the pull of their children’s condition was stronger than the force of despair.”

It was uncommon for women or parent volunteers to be lobbyists in the 1960s. In drawing attention to their cause, the women were as creative as they were groundbreaking. Birks once organized a petition drive to urge legislators to raise revenues for more funding for disability services. Nearly 2,000 signatures were collected. She pasted the petitions into one large scroll and dropped it from the second floor into the capitol rotunda. Helmerichs unraveled it until it spilled out the front door.

All Twin Cities news media covered the dramatic event.

“When I started working with The Arc, Sally directed the Community Health Education Network, an impressive library of resources to help people with disabilities develop independent living skills,” said Mike Gude, communications director for The Arc Minnesota. “She spoke frequently to parents about their grieving process when raising a child with disabilities. I quickly realized Sally was a Mothers know best - p. 3

Paying family members who care for loved ones less than non-family member caregivers is “arbitrary” and in violation of the equal protection clause of the state constitution, the Minnesota Court of Appeals has ruled.

The court ruling also questions the rationale of state officials in assuming that family members who provide personal care attendant (PCA) services are morally compelled to do so. The Dec. 17 appeals ruling was cheered by families whose caregivers sustained a 20 percent pay cut in 2011.

State officials have until mid-January to appeal the decision. The 2012 Minnesota Legislature was able to postpone the cut until July 2013 thanks to dollars repaid to the state by health care plans.

The legal fight isn’t finished on other fronts. The appeals court sent the issue back to Ramsey County District Court to settle the issue of attorneys’ fees for the PCA agencies and individuPCA 20% - p. 15

Three women are honored for decades of advocacy

Courage Center, Sister Kenny merger will bring changes

by Access Press staff

It’s the end of an era for two of the Twin Cities’ largest and most prominent disability service organizations and the beginning of something new. Courage Center and Allina Health’s Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute announced Dec. 14 that they will merge. The merger, which is to be completed in spring 2013, will allow the merged program to draw on the two organizations’ strengths. It will also provide more integrated care for people with disabilities who currently use both organizations.

Courage Center’s clinical programs will combine with those of Sister Kenny, and the two organizations will look for opportunities to integrate clinical care, community-based services, research, innovation, public policy and advocacy. The merger will produce a uniquely comprehensive continuum of care including inpatient, outpatient and community-based rehabilitation services designed to keep people healthy and independent.

While many questions, including the name, leadership and how to best utilize both bricks and mortar locations of the new organization, have to be worked out, staff and board members of the organizations have expressed confidence in what lies ahead.

But it’s also seen as a part of a trend in a changing health care world, where service providers must find the best ways to provide care while balancing costs at a time when reimbursements have been cut and donations and other revenues are dropping.

“As an advocate on behalf Photos courtesy of Eric White of people with disabilities, we recognize that one of the challenges our clients face is a fragmented system of rehabilitation services that is hard for both clients and providers to navigate. By partnering to create a more seamless experience, we will make it easier for our clients to get the care they need, which is key to improving outcomes,” said Jan Malcolm, chief executive officer of Courage Center.

“We are thrilled about what the coordinated strengths of our organizations will mean to the community,” said Penny Wheeler, MD, chief clinical officer of Allina Health. “By combining the two, we blend the clinical care expertise of Sister Kenny with the exceptional programming, advocacy and community programs of Courage Center. In doing so, we can coordinate care, improve health and positively affect the lives of people with disabilities.”

The overarching objective of this partnership is to succeed in meeting the “triple aim” challenge of health reform: improving the experience of care, improving the health of people with a Merger- p. 15

January 10, 2013 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities. MN Permit No. 4766 Address Service Requested

“It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.”

— Harry S. Truman

NEWS DIGEST

Read our look back at 2012 in The Year in Review and see what made a difference.

Page 5

Veterans with disabilities received little serviced until dedicated women stepped forward and provided them with hospitals and hope.

Page 2

A preview of the 2013 legislative session is offered, with input from a number of key players. Page 3

Use our Directory of Organizations to locate a number of helpful services.

Pages 7-10

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

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EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin After last month’s editor’s column and our article concerning the Olmstead decision, I’ve been asked what “least restricted environment or setting” means, and what “most integrated setting” means. They should be easy questions to answer but they’re not.

The United States Supreme Court has struggled with them as much as you and I. The Olmstead decision sets the higher standard with its language requiring the “most integrated setting,” so it’s the most important one to understand. That definition, according to the US Department of Justice, is: “a setting that enables individuals with disabilities to interact with non-disabled persons to the fullest extent possible.”

Integrated settings are those that provide individuals with disabilities opportunities to live, work, and receive services in the greater community, like individuals without disabilities. Integrated settings are located in mainstream society; offer access to community activities and opportunities at times, frequencies and with persons of an individual’s choosing; afford individuals choice in their daily life activities; and, provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to interact with non-disabled persons to the fullest extent possible. Evidence-based practices that provide scattered-site housing with supportive services are examples of integrated settings. By contrast, seg-

regated settings often have qualities of an institutional nature.

Even now there’s discussion about adding different verbiage to “most integrated setting” so that it applies more easily to educational settings, and housing and community living plans. But we hope any such changes will not water down the definition or make the determination more subjective.

The fiscal cliff dilemma has been resolved for now, without much damage to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security, all long-standing programs that people with disabilities depend upon. Initially, the opposition argument was that there should be “shared sacrifice,” or service cuts equal to any tax increases. It seems to me, though, that over the last eight to 10 years, essential services for the disability community have already taken on more than their fair share of sacrifice. The government has been cutting programs every way they could to save money, with decreased reimbursement rates to all service providers, changed eligibility requirements for many programs and deep cuts on most waivered services.

One provision of the Affordable Care Act that was repealed in the new Jan. 1 “fiscal cliff” legislation was the Community Living Assistance Service and Support program. CLASS had been championed by the late Sen. Ted Kennedy as a voluntary public longterm insurance care option that would have addressed a number of issues, including many related to personal care attendants. What we got instead was a bipartisan commission. Its charge is to establish highquality systems that ensure the availability of longterm services and supports for the elderly, individuals

with substantial cognitive and functional needs and for those who require assistance to perform activities of daily living. The commission will be 15 people appointed by the White House and leaders from both parties in both Houses of Congress. With any luck, a couple appointees will be from Minnesota. Issues addressed will include fostering personal responsibility, ensuring flexibility in choice of long-term services, providing supports for the healthcare workforce and for family caregivers, and expanding communitybased services for our senior citizens. The commission is to be formed within the first month of enacting the law, and must present their findings within six months to the White House and Congress.

It’s discouraging that the administration decided that they could not, as Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said, “see a viable path forward for CLASS implementation at this time,” and kicked the ball down the road to a not-yet-existent commission. My first reaction was, “Really? Another commission, again?” and I’m not alone in being concerned that a commission’s findings will just end up on some shelf never visited. Still, I hope that the commission will resist institutional bias, and that soon some part of the billions of dollars spent in state and corporate nursing homes will go into communitybased services where our smaller independent medical provider businesses can prosper off these shifts in government spending. We should probably write members of the commission to make sure they know that “most integrated setting” definition.

I hope to see you at the capitol during the 2013 Legislative session. Remember, our future depends on our involvement and self-advocacy there and in Washington DC. Send those emails and letters, and come on down to the halls of power. ■

HISTORY NOTE

Women’s efforts aided veterans with disabilities

by Jane McClure

In the United States, the history of providing benefits for veterans with disabilities dates back to 1636, when the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony were at war with the Pequot Indians. The Pilgrims passed legislation that stated that disabled veteran soldiers would be supported by their colony.

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Revolutionary War veterans with disabilities obtained a pension provided by the Continental Congress of 1776. But the care of ill and disabled veterans was largely left in the hands of states and a few federal agencies, with a standardized system not going into place until the Veterans’ Administration was established in 1930.

In Minnesota, the first veterans’ hospitals were created by the American Legion Auxiliary. In his book Legion 50, author Ben Gimmestad describes how women stepped forward after World War I to help the veterans. After the Auxiliary formed in Minnesota in 1919, hospital visitation became its first major program.

Conditions for many disabled and ill veterans were grim. Gimmestad wrote: “These men had been housed wherever room could be found, in the basements of city hospitals, in jails, in county poor houses, even in insane asylums. Many were destitute, and were bowed down with a feeling of depression and disgust. They had been forgotten by their government and everyone else, they reasoned.

Many were without a change of clothing, and were in dire need of such items as pajamas, socks, bathrobes, slippers and handkerchiefs. Many were without fund to buy personal needs such as shaving cream, razors, tooth brushes and tooth paste, stationery, stamps or carfare.”

The women sprang into action to meet these needs, to raise the veterans’ morale and to visit these forgotten veterans regularly. Gimmestad noted that the women wanted to let veterans with disabilities or disease know that someone cared and that their country had not forgotten them.

The women worked with what was then the United States Health Service to open two veterans’ hospitals.

The old Asbury Hospital in Minneapolis was leased in 1920. The old Aberdeen Hotel, a once-grand structure in St. Paul’s Ramsey Hill neighborhood, was leased and converted into a makeshift hospital in 1921. Another Twin Cities hospital was later converted for men with tuberculosis. Though these were far from ideal facilities, they were much better than the grim conditions the men had faced before. All of the buildings are gone today.

Auxiliaries across the state organized to meet the needs of the veterans. Women raised funds, including the sale of paper poppies, to help pay for veterans’ service. Soon the statewide Auxiliary had a large and active “committee on the sick and disabled.”

Gimmestad noted this was done by a very new organization, with a “thin purse.” The women became adept at seeking donations.

One 1921 report notes that “We found the boys in want of many things which make for the decencies of life.” Along with clothing and personal History - p. 13

January 10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1

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Legislative preview

New faces, new efforts mark start of 2013 legislative session

by Jane McClure

When the 2103 session of the Minnesota legislature began Jan. 8, hundreds of disability advocacy groups and self-advocates went to work. Some will be monitoring bills and painstakingly checking budgets line by line. Others will be testifying and lobbying for specific legislation.

Although there is optimism about a DFL-controlled House, Senate and governor’s office, there are also concerns. Some worry that the 2013 session will be one of continuing to fight against funding cuts, given the state’s $1.1 billion budget deficit.

In the lobbying ranks, familiar faces will be joined by newcomers. Rebecca Covington will be representing the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) as its newly hired executive director.

One of the self-advocates who will be present is Kurt Rutzen, longtime activist with The Arc Minnesota, MN-CCD and other groups. His testimony in past years has helped stave off major cuts to Medical Assistance and other health programs.

“There have been many cuts in the disability community, seems like every year since I’ve been working down there, seems like more and more cuts come all the time,” Rutzen said.

Rutzen said he has sense a shift in attitudes at the capitol and a move away from an attitude of taking care of people. “Now sometimes I wonder about that. Taking care of disabilities is not a want, it’s a need,” Rutzen claimed.

“Whenever folks are thinking of cutting these services, I hope and pray that they try to make it personal and ask themselves questions like, if they took away my salary and benefits what would I do? And then make the decisions,” he said.

Dozens of disability-related issues will be raised during the session and Access Press will provide coverage. Here is a look at a few upcoming efforts: Advocates note that a challenge during any legislative session is in making themselves heard. One group working to promote its bill is Unite 2 Fight Paralysis, which wants legislation passed to fund spinal cord and traumatic brain injury research. Matthew Rodreick, outreach coordinator for the coalition, said supporters include the Reeve Foundation, Minnesota Spinal Cord Injury Association, The Spinal Cord Society, University of Minnesota, the Courage Center’s ABLE program and other groups. The Jack Jablonksi/Gabe Rodreick Spinal Cord Injury/ Traumatic Brain Injury Funding bill is named for two young people who have sustained such injuries.

The group recently persuaded Minnesota Vikings kicker Chris Kluwe to spend a day in a wheelchair for a video. A screening/fundraising event is 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 24th at the Brave New Workshop ETC in Minneapolis. The event will include short presentations by Sen. Jeff Hayden, spinal cord injury researcher Dr. Ann Parr and Rodreick. Kluwe may or may not be present, depending on the Vikings’ playoff status. Admission is $15, with hors’d oeuvres and a cash bar.

While they may not have a Viking in their ranks, advocates for autism will have growing presence at the state capitol. A number of groups have been working on

developing recommendations on autism services recently, including the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Health Services Advisory Council, the Minnesota Autism Spectrum Disorder Task Force, and a DHS-sponsored community stakeholder workgroup. Each group is expected to release a report soon.

One of 2013’s biggest issues is proposed reforms to coverage through the Minnesota Health Care Programs. No details have been announced, but it is expected to be part of Gov. Mark Dayton’s budget recommendations.

Fraser is one organization tracking the proposal. Fraser serves thousands of people with autism, including a licensed mental health program that provides multidisciplinary intervention services for children.

Kurt Rutzen is one of the mainstays at the “Our first priority is to protect families Minnesota State capitol.

File photo from any unintended consequences,” said Diane Cross, president and CEO at Fraser.

“DHS has told us that their focus is on improving services, and not on restricting services. The challenge is that each family has such unique needs. We’ll be watching to make sure that families continue to have access to a mix of services.

It takes a lot of stakeholders, like counties, health plans, physicians, schools, and other service providers, to ensure that children receive the right level of care at the right time—especially for those children who have the most intense needs.”

Yet another area to watch is paratransit. At lot is at stake for paratransit and the disability community. By federal law, paratransit service is tied to regular transit service routes and hours. The advocacy group Transit for Livable Communities (TLC) has taken a lead role on transit and paratransit services.

TLC will work with partners including the Minnesota Public Transportation Association (MPTA) to advocate for additional funding for transit in greater Minnesota.

Many bus and rail projects are eyed in the Twin Cities region. “But, if we don’t nail down the funding, our progress on making transit available could stop,” said Hilary Reeves of TLC. “At current funding levels, no projects are certain after the Cedar Avenue bus rapid transit and the Central Corridor light rail. Unless we figure out a larger funding picture, we are likely to be fighting cuts rather than building the system—in the metro and in greater Minnesota.” ■

Mothers know best - from p. 1 woman of great compassion.” Helmerichs also did workshops for direct care staff, medical professionals, and police officers to work more effectively with people with disabilities.

“I met Jane and Molly when The Arc Minnesota celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Jane had been a leader with The Arc Minnesota and with the then-St. Paul chapter of The Arc (SPARC). Jane has a great sense of humor, a strong dose of humility, a talent for telling fascinating stories about her involvement in The Arc and public policy, and an incredible determination to improve lives,” Gude said.

Birks and Helmerichs were volunteer lobbyists when The Arc began having a visible presence at the capitol. They worked with the first executive director, Jerry Walsh. Woehrlin later commuted from Northfield to join them, sharing their determination to change how people with developmental disabilities are treated. A Redbook magazine reporter writing about The Arc in the 1960s stated, “When I first met Molly, I thought she was a pleasant person; I realized after a while that she was a real powerhouse.”

Woehrlin helped break new ground as The Arc Minnesota’s board president, she spoke publicly in 1970 against any new facilities at Cambridge State Hospital.

She urged that the hospitals be phased out and called for increased communitybased services.

Gude cited several qualities the women share, noting that “They were everywhere and did everything. They found authors for bills, prepared the bills for introduction by legislators, and lobbied legislators to pass these bills. When not at the capitol, they activated The Arc’s statewide chapter network late into the night from The Arc Minnesota office. They did radio talk shows interviews, spoke to medical students, and took turns flying across the state with then Gov. Karl Rolvaag to share information throughout Minnesota” They were also very persistent and became known as forces to be reckoned with. Birks described their lobbying tactics: “[We] roamed the marble-floored hallways and [legislators’] offices . . . [We] became friends of [their] secretaries, who gave us access to telephones, committee meetings, and lawmaker’s whereabouts. From these stakeouts, we cornered our prey.

If necessary, we stalked them on to the House and Senate floors, a practice that the legislature eventually forbade. Years later, a senator told Sally that she and I were the reason the doors to the House and Senate chambers were closed to lobbyists.”

When the women activated The Arc’s membership, legislators were flooded

with messages. During the debate on one bill, telegrams piled up so high on state senators’ desks that correspondence was no longer delivered to the Senate floor.

When they couldn’t reach legislators directly, they organized tours for the legislators’ wives, including a trip to the state hospitals. After the wives saw the filth, the babies in cribs with soiled diapers, and the residents given nothing to do and little care, several became nauseated. One of them said, “The wards were so depressing that I covered my eyes. My husband will hear about this.”

The three women helped expose the isolation and horrors at state institutions, secure millions in funding for disability services, and set the legislative foundation for today’s community-based services. ■ This article was written with notes from The Arc Minnesota luncheon and the speech that introduced Birks, Helmerichs and Woehrlin.

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Guest editorial

Access shapes and guides our everyday lives

by John Van Hecke, director and fellow, Minnesota 2020

For me, access isn’t an ethereal concept; it’s practical. Access shapes, directs and guides my life. More to the point, lack of access shapes my life. Because I use a wheelchair, if I can’t get into a building, I can’t participate in the building’s activity. On Dec. 11, I couldn’t get into the Minnesota state capitol, the seat of Minnesota’s democracy.

I have muscular dystrophy, a genetic, progressively debilitating muscle disease.

Specifically, I have limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, a relatively mild variant. I say “relatively” because all muscular dystrophy is a one-way path to disability. The most common form, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, mostly affects boys and is mostly terminal by 20 years of age although that’s changing.

Consequently, I consider myself fortunate. I was diagnosed at 40 and didn’t start using a power wheelchair until two years ago. I rely on my chair to cover distance and, increasingly, to rise from a sitting position but I still walk with a cane around the house and office. I’m not eager to give up walking any time soon but I know that day is coming.

Dec. 9 was a big snow day. We had a foot fall in our yard. On Dec. 10, as everyone was digging out, I worked from home. I wrote a Minnesota 2020 Hindsight blog post about gratefully watching St Paul’s snowplows clear our street. Living in Minnesota means learning to accommodate the weather, handicapped or not. A foot of wet snow, followed by sub-freezing temperatures, wreaks havoc despite the best efforts of underfunded public road maintenance departments. I’m from here. I know this.

On Tuesday midmorning, I had an event at the state capitol. I left early, allowing extra time for post-storm travel. The streets were sloppy and slidey but traffic moved with cautious determination. I made it to the capitol with time to spare.

The capitol is a wonderful, magnificent building, inviting and welcoming while communicating policymaking’s gravity. But it’s not the most accessible place in the world. As reasonable security precautions, all public foot traffic enters through the main, ceremonial entrance exactly as architect Cass Gilbert designed. Every other portal requires a coded ID badge. The handicapped accessible entrance is underneath the main steps, off of the old carriage portico. It’s unstaffed, requiring buzzing the security office for remote lock release to enter the building. I was prepared for this. I wasn’t expecting a parking problem.

Parking at the capitol is always tight, especially during the legislative session.

Both the public and assigned spots had been cleared of snow. The handicapped parking spaces at the capitol steps’ base were not. Not only were they snowed in,

the sidewalk next to them hadn’t been shoveled either. I couldn’t park. I couldn’t exit my accessible minivan. I was stuck, looking up at the capitol but unable to reach it. I didn’t make my event.

This happens to me a lot. It’s a reality of my physical limitations. Because of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), government and commercial space is head and shoulders more accessible than nearly all homes. Pretty much every Minnesota house is three-to-five vertical steps from sidewalk to door which, for a wheelchair user, is three-to-five steps too many. So, I don’t go to house parties much anymore. John Van Hecke Photo courtsey of Minnesota 2020 Some of my favorite restaurants and coffee shops are in older buildings. Many accessibility requirements are waived because the business use predates ADA. They’re not required to improve accessibility, only to be safety and fire-code compliant. Still, more often than not, accessibility is an operational afterthought. A packed place, with tables and chairs shoved cheek to jowl is almost as inaccessible as a four-inch curb. So, I don’t go to those restaurants much anymore either.

I’m just one person but I represent many more. Increasingly, as the baby-boomer population ages, public accessibility becomes a financially make-or-break issue for service and hospitality businesses. This, in turn, reveals the public policy issue.

Minnesota is stronger, better and more prosperous when we reduce barriers to access, expanding productivity and profitability. When I can’t enter your place of business, you leave my money on the table.

Coincidentally, in the mail, I received my Muscular Dystrophy Association Quarterly Review announcing an “Online Tips for Success” resource kit, including a section on advocating to elected officials. “You,” it notes, “are an expert on you.

Share your personal experience.” Snow and blocked handicapped parking spaces might slow me down but they’re never going to silence me.

Lots of parking spaces were still blocked two days after the storm. The state capitol’s parking situation wasn’t exceptional, just highly symbolic. Smart public policy considers challenges, analyzes data and creates a plan. When we focus on what matters, Minnesota moves forward. Access matters. ■

January 10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1

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2012 in review

Gains, changes for Minnesota’s disability community 2012 could be considered a year of memorable gains for Minnesotans with disabilities especially at the state capitol. There were many self advocates and state lawmakers who took steps to undo some of the damaging service cuts made during previous sessions, and had significant success.

It was also a year of considerable challenges. One issue that dominated the media headlines was the voter identification ballot question. Many self-advocates and disability advocacy groups opposed the proposal saying it would make it harder for many people with disabilities to vote. There was relief and celebration when the measure was defeated.

Financial difficulties continue to be felt directly by disability service organizations, which are struggle in a tough economy. Some were forced to close their doors. Others made strategic cuts or mergers.

Many community leaders were lost in 2012, included Metropolitan Independent Living Services owner David “Mike” Dreier, inventor Jeffrey Farnham and activist Karen Boersma, Boersma was the first poster child for United Cerebral Palsy Minnesota.

January Fifteen-year-old wheelchair athlete Rose Hollerman sued the Minnesota State High School League. The WatervilleElysian-Morrison High School student wanted the right to compete against runners at high school athletic events.

Hollerman stars in basketball for Courage Center and is a Paralympics athlete. Her lawsuit resulted in more track and field events for wheelchair athletes and rule changes.

The Arc Minnesota warily eyed proposed cuts to special education programs, as the 2012 legislative session got underway. Some state lawmakers claimed programs caused a paperwork burden; Arc leaders and self-advocates said the cuts would gut important programs.

Partners in Policymaking promoted its self-advocacy program. Plymouth residents Jeff Pearson and daughter Abby, who has epilepsy used their training to advocate for services.

Obama, appeared in the Twin Cities to discuss job opportunities for people with disabilities.

Rep. John Kriesel, R-Cottage Grove, announced he wouldn’t seek a second term in the Minnesota Legislature. The military veteran lost his legs in a roadside bombing in Afghanistan. He had worked on disability issues while he was a legislator.

May State lawmakers restored some 2011 funding cuts when the health and human services bill was sign by Gov. Mark Dayton. Restoration was thanks to funding that health care plans returned to Minnesota’s coffers. Many community advocates attended the bill signing. One huge win for families who provided personal care attendant services was temporary restoration of a 20 percent pay cut.

The Arc of Mower County marked 60 years of providing service to southern Minnesotans with developmental disabilities. The group had a long history and ties to many other service groups.

News was less favorable for longtime disability service organization United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota. Funding cuts ultimately closed the organization, which was founded in 1949.

June The Minnesota Department of Human Rights announced a settlement with Greyhound Lines. Changes were made to serve passengers with disabilities, in response to a complaint filed in 2010 by Shoreview resident Mark Hughes. An investigation by state officials found that Greyhound violated the state human rights act.

Willmar resident Kevin Haakenson won the Participant of the Year award from Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota. He was honored at the organization’s Power of Work event. After sustaining a traumatic brain injury, Haakenson struggled to maintain work until enrolling in a supported employment program.

VSA Minnesota had to make cuts to art programs and services, due to loss of all of its federal funding. Ways to make up for the cuts were being explored.

July File photos

February Serious injuries to two young Minnesota hockey players put the spotlight on the sport’s dangers, especially rough checking. Courage Center responded by stepping up its efforts to educate athletes about the risks of spinal cord injuries. Especially, after the SC injuries to the athletes from Benilde-St. Margaret and St. Croix Lutheran schools made the news.

St. Paul’s Thompson Hall, a historic social hall for the deaf and hearing impaired, earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. The hall, built in 1916, is now eligible for funding to preserve the property and interpret its history.

People Incorporated Mental Health Services announced it would be taking over several programs from Children’s Home Society and Family Services.

March Bullies got attention, but not for being mean. “All About Bullies. . . Big and Small!” won a Grammy Award for Best Children’s Album. All sale proceeds go to PACER Center’s National Center for Bullying Prevention. Philadelphia-based Cool Beans Music produced the CD. Maltreatment of patients at the Minnesota Security Hospital at St. Peter was scrutinized. Use of metal handcuffs, seclusion, mesh blankets and face coverings roiled the troubled mental health facility.

Lee Perish was remembered for work for theater access. As a deaf woman who also used a wheelchair, Perish made the quest for accessible performances a priority. She also was involved in a legal case against Abbott Northwestern Hospital, changing how hospitals work with deaf and hearing-impaired clients.

April Family members who provide PCA care made their case at the state capitol.

About 6,000 Minnesotans provide care to family members with disabilities. But they are paid 20 percent less than non-relative care providers, as a result of a cut made during the 2011 special legislative session. The cut mean some workers had their wages drop from $10 to $8 per hour.

Kathleen Martinez, a lead disability employment issues advisor to Pres. Barak

To disclose or not to disclose? A forum on disability disclosure for employment and community integration drew a full house to Ramsey County’s Roseville library. Representatives of state agencies, employers and people with disabilities discussed whether or not prospective employees should disclose disabilities.

The 2012 Minnesota Legislature placed the question of Voter ID on the November ballot, in the form of a constitutional amendment. Proponents said requiring voters to show identification would reduce fraud. Opponents said it could disenfranchise people with disabilities, A park in St. Paul’s Midway, Dunning Park, was eyed as the first Miracle Field site in the capital city. The field would have a cost of $250,000 and could be used by young baseball players with disabilities.

2012 in review - p. 14

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Pg 6 January10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1

Roadmap to a healthier Minnesota released

REGIONAL NEWS Personal care attendants may organize Dozens of personal care assistants who care for the elderly and people with disabilities were at the state capitol Dec. 12, to press their case. They said tens of thousands of their number are struggling to make ends meet because of low wages and lack of benefits.

The workers seeking to organize are those who are paid with Medicaid dollars at rates set by the state, said Brian Elliott, executive director for the Minnesota chapter of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

Current state law prohibits home health care workers from organizing a union. Many workers believe having a union is critical to making their voices heard as the state plots its course for meeting the needs of a rapidly aging population. Workers also believe a union would help legitimize the home health care profession and ensure workers are treated with the respect they deserve. But there are concerns that unionization could add to costs of personal care attendant or PCA services.

SEIU Healthcare and Council 5 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) are leading the charge to change state law. The distinction made in state law is between workers employed by home health care agencies, many of whom are unionized already, and workers who are providing so-called “self-directed” care. Considered more like independent contractors by the state, workers in self-directed programs are denied organizing rights. ■ (Source: SEIU, Union Advocate)

The Minnesota Health Reform Task Force voted Dec. 13 to endorse the Roadmap to a Healthier Minnesota, including its recommendations for how to increase access to high quality care at lower cost. The report outlines eight strategies for policymakers to consider as they work to implement federal and state health reforms, including recommendations regarding increased access, care integration and payment reform, prevention and public health and preparing the Minnesota health workforce of the future.

“These thoughtful recommendations are the result of deep discussion over the past year on the most pressing health care issues and best opportunities for reform in Minnesota,” said Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson, who chairs the task force.

The Roadmap includes policy strategies for creating more patient-centered coordinated care, changing payment structures to incentivize keeping people healthy, engaging communities in designing healthier

environments and encouraging increased personal responsibility in health and health care. Specific recommendations include support for expanding Medicaid eligibility to Minnesotans living at or below 133 percent of the federal poverty level (an option for states under the Affordable Care Act) and support for establishment of a Minnesota-based health insurance exchange using a public-private governance model.

The Health Reform Task Force was authorized by the Legislature to provide advice on federal and state health reform implementation. The task force held 65 public meetings between November 2011 and December 2012, including meetings in Rochester, Duluth, St. Cloud and St. Paul. Over the course of the past year, approximately 1,500 people attended these public task force meetings, including more than 100 individuals and organizations that provided in-person testimony.

Thousands of people weighed in with their ideas. ■ (Source: Minnesota Department of Human Services)

‘Together, We Work’ conference “Employment is so important, not just in terms of economic security, but also in how it helps unlock the potential of individuals to strive and seek and achieve,” said Minnesota Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson. That was her message at the Dec. 5 “Together, We Work,” the first conference hosted by Minnesota APSE (Association of People Supporting Employment First) and Pathways to Employment. The two-day event brought together people with disabilities, employers, supported employment service providers and advocates to make connections and discover ways to increase employment opportunities even in times of scarce resources.

With $15 million in federal grants since 2000, Minnesota has used Pathways to Employment to build infrastructure, promote change and improve work outcomes. The legacy includes the Disability Benefits 101 website, which provides tools and information on health coverage, benefits and employment so that people with disabilities can plan for their work life, as well as an assessment process that identifies individu-

als’ strengths with an eye to employment, partnerships with schools to help young people with disabilities make the transition from school to work, and technical assistance to service agencies to increase competitive employment and earnings for people with disabilities.

Jesson said jobs continue to be a top priority for the state, and jobs for people with disabilities a top priority for the department. ■ (Source: Minnesota Department of Human Services)

Tinnitus sidelines radio host Veteran radio personality Ian Punnett stepped down from myTalk 107.1 FM’s morning radio show due to tinnitus. The co-host of “Ian and Margery” needs to reduce his exposure to audio and focus on his health issues. Buzzing in his ears, headaches and related sleep issues have been a problem for Punnett since 2009. He first experienced tinnitus while at the Minnesota State Fair.

Regional news - p. 14

January 10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1

Pg 7

We’re here 24/7 on

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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

www.hlaatc.org

Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL)

V-651-646-8342

www.mcil-mn.org

MN Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities

V-651-523-0829x112

F-651-523-0829

www.mnccd.org www.mndaca.org

MN Developmental Achievement-Center Assoc

V-651-647-9200

F-651-647-9353

PACER Center, Inc.

V-952-838-9000

TTY-952-838-0190

www.pacer.org

ASSISTED-LIVING PROGRAMS 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 Brain Injury Association of Minnesota

V-612-378-2742

TTY-800-669-6442

www.braininjurymn.org

Courage Center

V-763-520-0312

TTY-763-520-0245

www.CourageCenter.org

Mary T. Inc. Human Service Programs

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

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

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

TTY-651-695-5802

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

Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL)

V-651-646-8342

CHEMICAL HEALTH Vinland National Center

COMMUNITY LIVING www.dbsm.llc.org www.dungarvin.co

www.metroworkcenter.org www.mcil-mn.org

Opportunity Partners

V-952-938-5511

TTY-952-930-4293

Reach for Resources

V-952-988-4177

F-952-988-6728

www.opportunitypartners.org www.reachforresources.org

REM Minnesota

V-952-945-4952

F-952-922-6885

www.remminnesota.org

S. MN Independent Living Enterprises & Services

V/TTY-507-345-7139

TF-888-676-6498

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 January10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1

ISSUE SPONSOR Do you want to make a major impact with our readers?

Then consider being an Issue Sponsor for ANY issue of Access Press!

To be a full or partial sponsor, call 651-644-2133 or email us at Access@AccessPress.org

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

V-763-479-8239

CCP Works! - Cooperating Community Programs

V-651-379-9744

Chrestomathy, Inc.

V-952-974-0339

Community Connections Partnership (CCP)

V-763-540-6833x302

Community Involvement Programs (CIP)

V-612-353-4595x101

TF-866-535-8239

www.equipalife.org

www.theccpinc.com/employment_support.aspx F-952-974-0307

www.chrestomathyinc.org www.communityconnectionspartnership.org

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

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

http://ds.umn.edu

Work Incentives Connection

V-651-632-5113

TF-800-976-6728

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

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

www.mnworkincentives.com

GOVERNMENT

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 2013 & 2005-2012

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

HEALTH CARE

HEALTH CARE COORDINATION AXIS Healthcare

V-651-556-0887

F-651-556-0880

www.axishealth.com

V—763-502-1505

F-763-502-6777

www.breakthrucare.com www.inhomepersonalcare.com

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES Break-Thru Home Care, Inc. In Home Personal Care

V-763-546-1000

F-763-546-1018

Mary T. Inc. Home Health Care

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

HOUSING-CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING AccessAbility Options, Inc.

V-763-571-6789

F-800-632-0798

www.accessoptionsmn.com

Accessibility Design Accessible Homes, LLC.

V-952-925-0301

F-952-926-7712

www.accessibilitydesign.com

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.fairviewebenezer.org/minneapolis

www.accessiblespace.org

HousingLink

V-612-522-2500

F-612-521-1577

www.housinglink.org

CONTINUED

Your home, your independence . . . 763-546-1000 Computerized Desktop Publishing: Advertisements Brochures Catalogs Flyers Logos Newsletters Newspapers and More!

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

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

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“ 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)

January 10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1

HOUSING-RENTAL (continued) National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc

V-651-639-9799

F-651-639-9699

Villas and Townhomes by Mary T. Inc.

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.nhhiaccessiblehousing.com www.marytinc.com

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 www.keymedicalsupply.com

Key Medical Supply, Inc.

V-651-792-3860

F—651-792-3867

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

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

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.tamarackhti.com

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

www.lifetrackresources.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

Mind Body Solutions

V-952-473-3700

Upstream Arts

V-612-331-4584

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

www.CourageCenter.org www.mindbodysolutions.org

F-612-353-6638

www.upstreamarts.org

F-507-724-3786

www.campwinnebago.org

RECREATION-TRAVEL/CAMPING Camp Winnebago

V-507-724-2351

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

Ventures Travel, LLC

V-952-852-0107

TF-866-692-7400

www.margaretmission.com 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 January10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1

Thanks to all of you for supporting Access Press FRIEND SPONSOR ($50 and above) Monte Blair Ellen Boucher Martha Brown Leo & Susan Bulger Jerry Caruso Teresa Dock Mel & Georgia Duncan Robert Engstrom Steve & JoAnn Erbes Nancy Eustis Thomas & Mimi Fogarty Claudia Fuglie Lael Gatewood Marjorie Goldberg Barb Kane Noreen Linney Gene Martinez Christopher Meyer Lee Ohnesorge Henn. Cty Commissioner Mike Opat William & Joen Overby Annette Pantel Linda Paulson Kelly Rathcke Virginia Schwartzbauer John Sherman Amanda & Mark Tempel Equity Services of St. Paul BRONZE SPONSOR ($75 and above) Brigid Alseth Rick Cardenas Mike Chevrette Stephanie Cunningham Christopher Duff Craig Dunn Anne Henry Mary Kay Kennedy Dianna Krogstad Dave & Carol Larson Richard & Vicki Dalle Molle Scott Neamy Donn Poll & Eric Nelson Mark & Mary Payette Ann Roscoe John Schatzlein Patty Woodey Hennepin County Library

SILVER SPONSOR ($150 and above) Jeff Bangsberg & Anita Boucher Bill & Alex Bartolic Robert Paul Gregory Kathleen Hagen Ellen & Skip Houghton Kim Kang Elin Ohlsson Manley and Ann Olson Debra Shriver John G. Smith Peter Vaill Associated Bank Accessible Homes, LLC Courage Center Handi Medical Institute on Comm. Integration LOTTSA Tax & Accting Services People Enhancing People Rise, Inc. Ten Thousand Villages Vinland National Center GOLD SPONSOR ($500 and above) Phyllis A. Benjamin (In Memoriam) Michael Bjerkesett Natl. Handicapped Housing Institute Tamarack Habilitation Tech., Inc. BENEFACTOR SPONSOR ($1000 and above) In Home Personal Care Ronna Linroth Lynda Milne Paul Mueller The Jay & Rose Phillips Family Foundation The Medtronic Foundation The Minneapolis Foundation The Otto Bremer Foundation UCare In Kind (Time/services for this issue) Fraser Mike Gude Kurt Rutzen Transit for Livable Communities Unite 2 Fight Paralysis Eric White

REHABILITATION (Physical, Occupational, Speech, Audiology Therapists — continued) Fraser

V-612-861-1688

F-612-861-6050

www.fraser.org

Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare

V-651-291-2848

TF-800-719-4040

In Home Personal Care

V-763-546-1000

F-763-546-1018

www.gillettechildrens.org

Lifetrack Resources - St. Paul

V-651-227-8471

TTY-651-227-3779

www.lifetrackresources.org

www.inhomepersonalcare.com

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

Fraser

V-612-861-1688

F-612-861-6050

www.fraser.org

www.cipmn.org www.dungarvin.com

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

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

Tamarack Habilitation Technologies, Inc.

V-763-795-0057

TF-866-795-0057

www.tamarackhti.com

www.pacer.org

TRANSPORTATION RENTAL/SALES/MODIFICATION IMED Mobility

V-651-635-0655

TF-800-788-7479

www.imedmobility.com

American Council for the Blind

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January 10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1 Pg 11

New Rise Inc. president named

PEOPLE & PLACES

Mark Hughes, Sarah Thorson, Carolyon Allshouse in a informative, fun conversation.

Photo by Jo Ann Erbes

New guests hosts for Disability Viewpoints Mark Hughes, executive producer of the awardwinning cable television show “Disability Viewpoints,” has added six guest co-hosts beginning with the show to be aired in February. Nikki Abramson, Mike Chevrette, Imani Cruzen, Nikki Villavicencio, Joan Willshire, and Nick Wilkie will co-host “Disability Viewpoints” with Hughes.

“Disability Viewpoints” is co-produced by Hughes and Jo Ann Erbes. For 15 years, Hughes has hosted the show on North Suburban Access Communications CTV Channel 15. The show is also rebroadcast on Twin Cities Public Television. The producers are pleased to bring in a talented group of co-hosts.

The focus of “Disability Viewpoints” is to give disability service organizations an opportunity to promote the programs and services they provide people with disabilities and/or health conditions. The new format of the show will also highlight the accomplishments of people with disabilities and provide information about public policy that affects people with disabilities and their families.

Each co-host brings his or her own expertise and personality to the show, which will result in many interesting and unique episodes. Abramson brings a perspective on accessing health care for people with disabilities. As an advocate for accessible travel, Chevrette will present information about interesting places to visit throughout Minnesota. Cruzen will provide insights for teens with disabilities. Villavicencio, a familiar presence at the state capitol, will discuss advocacy skills by sharing her experiences. Willshire will enlighten and entertain viewers on a variety of topics. Willkie’s ability to laugh at himself will provide another interesting and comedic perspective on disability-related issues and points.

The show will continue to feature a varied group of guests. During the legislative session the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities Grassroots Committee will have its representatives provide updates on activities at the capitol.

“Disability Viewpoints” received the Hometown Media Award in 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2003 and 2002. More information about “Disability Viewpoints” is available at www.CTV15.org. The show also has its own Facebook page.

VSA Minnesota announces grants Seven Minnesota artists have been awarded grants of $1,500 each by VSA Minnesota. The 17th annual competitive grant, funded by the Jerome Foundation, recognizes excellence by emerging Minnesota artists with disabilities and encourages them to complete new work. Two grant winners are writers, poet Charmaine P. Donovan, Brainerd; and creative nonfiction writer Lindagail Roy, Minneapolis. The other winners are visual artists. Paul J. Flick, Minneapolis works with mixed media. Devra Goldstein, Plymouth, is a fiber artist and Saori weaver. Peter Hinze, Minneapolis, works with watercolors and pastels. Lydia Sponslier, Minnetonka, is a painter. Kinetic art is the specialty of Bridget Riversmith, Duluth.

Rise Incorporated, Chair Gene Merriam has announced that Lynn Noren has been named president of Rise Inc. She succeeds John Barrett who has led the nonprofit organization for 36 years. She takes the helm Jan. 1.

KeyStone Search, a prominent Twin Cities executive recruiting firm, led the search for the Rise Board of Directors. KeyStone’s nationwide outreach to identify qualified candidates resulted in more than 200 prospective candidates.

“The Rise Board of Directors did a thorough job in considering a slate of strong candidates for this position,” said Marcia Ballinger, PhD, Principal at KeyStone Search. “Rise has a great reputation in this community which led to a large number of qualified applicants for the position.”

Noren has been with Rise for more than thirty years and has served in increasingly responsible positions within Rise. Most recently, she was vice president/ chief operating officer.

“I am so excited to be selected as Rise’s president,” said Noren. “It is a great honor to follow the leadership of John Barrett who has served the organization for so many years. Rise has a rich history providing service excellence to people with disabilities and other barriers to full participation in the community.

The work we do each day is led by a quality staff team who are committed to the organization’s mission. I look forward to leading the organization into a very bright future.”

Noren earned a B.A. degree in human services administration from MetLynn Noren ropolitan State UniPhoto courtesy of Rise Inc. versity and holds an Executive Master’s degree in rehabilitation administration from the University of San Francisco.

She is an active and prominent leader in the community. Among many other activities, she is chair of the Governmental Affairs Committee of the Minnesota Habilitation Coalition as well as a member of the Minnesota Department of Human Services Expert Partner Panel and the Long-Term Care Provider Coalition. She is a long-time CARF surveyor and has presented on accreditation issues at regional and international conferences and seminars.

Each grant was awarded following a jurying process conducted by a panel of individuals with extensive backgrounds in the written, visual and performing arts. They looked at samples of the artists’ work, resumes and artist statements. Forty-two applications were received. Members of the panels included Todd Boss, poet, North Oaks; Paulino Brener, performance artist, playwright, teacher, Minneapolis; Stanley Christopher, visual artist and writer, St. Paul; Deb Costandine, artist, writer, St. Paul; Christi Furnas, visual artist, Spectrum ArtWorks support specialist, Minneapolis; Tracy Gulliver, writer, Chisago City; Lawrence Hutera, retired arts administrator, Minneapolis; Shawnee Langworthy, stained glass artist, Northfield; Jeffrey Richman, cultural arts director, St. Paul Jewish Community Center; Mary Smith, ArtReach St. Croix literary chair, Stillwater; Kurt Wiger, Courage Center staff, former arts teacher, Plymouth and Halle O’Falvey, ACT Remembering with Dignity Project, arts instructor, costumer, St. Paul.

Christopher, Costandine and Gulliver are past grant recipients.

cian. He has been a part of the management consulting practice at leading global consulting firms where he has helped more than 40 healthcare organizations including some of the leading hospitals, integrated health systems and health plans in the areas of business strategy, operations, clinical care delivery and new product/service launch.

Merrick, Inc. welcomes new trustees Merrick, Inc., a Vadnais Heights-based nonprofit that helps adults with disabilities through vocational and social opportunities, introduced two new trustees at its Dec. 12 annual meeting. Donika Pentcheva and Dr. Tanmay Barman Roy join a group of 16 trustees who help lead the organization. Julie Manning, Ashley Wenger and Board Vice-President and longtime supporter Betsy Wuebker left the board.

Wuebker is moving to Hawaii.

Pentcheva is experienced in all aspects of intellectual property portfolio management, including preparation, litigation and enforcement. She graduated from the University of Saint Thomas where she developed modules and software for use with Mathematica®, MATLAB®, and Maple®, and also holds a law degree from William Mitchell College of Law. A physician MBA/ MHA by background, Roy has more than 12 years of experience as a healthcare management consultant and as a practicing physi-

Opportunity Partners wins Wolves grant Opportunity Partners, a Twin Cities non-profit disability organization, received a $5,000 grant from the Minnesota Timberwolves FastBreak Foundation for its work in successfully transitioning students with disabilities into life after high school graduation. The grant’s theme is “New Season, New Beginnings,” focusing on offering Minnesota youth a new direction or opportunity.

Opportunity Partners’ Youth Transition Services prepares young people with disabilities to transition out of the special education system and into adulthood by partnering with school districts and assisting the students in making future plans. The organization strives to ensure that people with disabilities have the opportunity to lead rewarding, productive lives full of purpose and meaning.

The grant will be used for an outdoor basketball court at Opportunity Partners-Koch Campus. Funds will pay for the hoop, foundation work for the goal post and concrete work for the court. Opportunity Partners was presented with the check at a Minnesota Timberwolves game in November 2012. ■

Pg 12 January10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1

ACCESSIBLE FUN Welcome to the Access Press Accessible Fun listings. Readers looking for additional opportunities to enjoy the arts 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/calen dar.html, www.mrid.org,www.accesspress.org, or http://c2 net.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).

Take the Polar Plunge Whether it’s one toe at a time, eyes tightly closed with an uneasy step forward or a fearless cannonball, brave souls are already planning their grand entrance into the icy waters at the 2013 Polar Bear Plunge, presented by Minnesota law enforcement for the benefit of Special Olympics Minnesota. Registration is now open for the 2013 Plunge Season. With 16 Polar Bear Plunge events scattered across the state between Jan 26 and March 16, dare-devils and do-gooders alike are sure to be “freezin’ for a reason.” Brave Plungers jump into the frigid Minnesota waters as individuals or as a member of a team to raise money for Special Olympics Minnesota.

Although each participant must raise a minimum of $75 to Plunge, the average Plunger raised more than $200 in 2012. The total amount raised in 2012 was $2.85 million.

FFI: 800-783-7732, plungemn.org, polarbearplunge@somn.org

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 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, www.specialolympicsminnesota.org

Winter Walkabout It’s time to register for the Winter Walkabout, a snowshoe fundraiser for Vinland Center and its programs.

2013 date is Feb. 23 and online registration is underway.

Costs range from $25 to $70, depending on how many

Access Press welcomes your events Access Press welcomes news of organization galas, fundraisers, charity walks, art shows, theatrical productions and other special events for our Accessible Fun pages.

Items must have a tie to the disability community and be accessible. Deadline is the 25th of the month, with publication on the 10th.

Call 651-644-2133 or email access@accesspress.org with questions. register and when registration comes in. Enjoy the beautiful grounds at Vinland’s main campus in Loretta and learn about the services provided by Vinland. Last year, 150 snowshoers participated. The goal for 2013 is to have 250 snowshoers. FFI: www.VinlandCenter.org, www.winterwalkabout.org/register.html

Annie Leapin’ Lizards! GREAT Theatre presents Annie, the story of the comic book heroine, at Escher Auditorium, College of Saint Benedict, 37 S. College Ave., St. Joseph. ASL performance is 7 p.m. Fri, Jan. 18. Tickets are $14-22; phone: 320-363-5777, e-mail: bacinfo@csbsju.edu, www.greattheatre.org

Johnny Baseball Park Square Theatre presents a story of a 1919 Red Sox right-hander, the woman he loved and his idol, Babe Ruth, at Park Square Theatre, 20 W. 7th Place, Saint Paul. AD performances are 2 p.m. Sun, Jan. 20 and 7:30 p.m. Fri, Jan. 25, 7:30 PM. ASL performances are 7:30 p.m. Sat, Feb. 2, and 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 3. Captioning is 7:30 p.m. Saty, Feb. 9; 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 10. Tickets are half price tickets for AD/ASL/OC (regular $25-58, $48 ASL area). FFI: 651-291-7005. www.parksquaretheatre.org

Long Day’s Journey into Night The classic Eugene O’Neill play, directed by Joe Dowling, will be performed by the Guthrie Theater on the Wurtele Thrust Stage, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. For the first time in its 50-year history, the Guthrie will present this Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning family drama— featuring acting dream team Helen Carey and Peter Michael Goetz. Like most American families, the Tyrones have experienced highs and lows in life—from fame and financial success to illness and loss. Yet in the course of one day in their seaside Connecticut home, their familial bond begins to unravel, and the couple and their sons confront their demons in a final effort to save their family.

Captioning is 1 p.m. Wed, Jan. 30 and 7:30 p.m. Fri, Feb. 22. AD performances are 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, (with sensory tour); and 7:30 p.m. Fri, Feb. 8. ASL performances are 7:30 p.m. Fri, Feb. 15 and Thu, Feb. 21.

Tickets are reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for Captioning (regular $24-62). FFI: 612-377-2224, TTY 612-377-6626, www.guthrietheater.org

Pinocchio The classic tale of a puppet that comes to life will be performed by Children’s Theatre Company on the United Health Group Stage, 2400 Third Ave. S., Mpls. AD & ASL performances are 7 p.m. Fri, Feb. 1. Ask about special price rates for ASL/AD patrons (regular $16-40).

FFI: 612-874-0400; tickets@childrenstheatre.org, www.childrenstheatre.org

Rumors The Neil Simon farce Rumors is presented by FargoMoorhead Community Theatre at the Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre, 333 Fourth St. S., Fargo. AD performance at 7:30 p.m. Sat, Feb. 2: pre-show description is at 7:10 p.m. Tickets are reduced to $8 (regular $15, student/senior $10). FFI: 701-235-6778, www.fmct.org

Inherit the Wind Lakeshore Players Theatre presents a dramatization of the 1925 Scopes “Monkey” Trial at the Lakeshore Players Theatre, 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake. ASL performance is 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 3. (If no ASL seats are reserved within two weeks of the performance, the ASLinterpretation will be cancelled.) Tickets are reduced to $10 for ASL patrons (reg. $18-20).FFI: 651-429-5674; tickets@lakeshoreplayers.com, www.lakeshoreplayers.com/Laura.html

Ruby! The Story of Ruby Bridges Steppingstone Theatre presents a civil rights story. In 1960, the front lines of the struggle for Civil Rights ran right up to the front steps of an elementary school in New Orleans. Imagine you’re a six-year-old ready to start first grade, and suddenly you’re in all the papers, and it seems that half the world wants to stop you from going to school. The play is presented at the SteppingStone Theatre for Youth Development, 55 Victoria St. N., St. Paul. AD performance is 7 p.m. Fri, Feb. 8. ASL performance is 3 p.m. Sun, Feb. 10. Tickets are reduced to $10 access rate (regular $15; youth/senior 55+ $12). FFI: 651-225-9265; info@stepping stonetheatre.org, www.steppingstonetheatre.org ■

January 10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1 Pg 13

UPCOMING EVENTS

ings), accessible and mostly scent-free. Please RSVP and give two weeks’ notice of needed accommodations.

FFI: Corbett Laubignat, 651-603-2028, corbettl@mcilmn.org, Cindy, 651-603-2037, cindyl@mcil-mn.org,

Advocacy

Youth and families

Tuesdays at the Capitol Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MNCCD) resumes its traditional legislative session schedule once the 2013 legislative session is underway, starting Jan. 8. This includes full membership meetings on Fridays during the legislative session from 12- 1 in room 500 N of the State Office Building as well as “Disability Matters Tuesdays at the Capitol” on Tuesdays during the legislative session at 10 am in the basement cafeteria of the State Office Building. FFI: www.mnccd.org

Attend a Kidshop The Kidshops program is designed for school-aged children and teens (7-17) with a sibling or parent who has a mental illness. Kidshops provide an opportunity for kids to discuss feelings and share ideas. Each workshop includes games, team-building activities, coping strategies and fun. Kids receive a “tool” that offers them a way to talk about their feelings with their family. A Kidshop will be held 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat, Jan. 26 at Northwest Youth & Family Services, 3490 Lexington Ave. N., Shoreview.

Kidshops are free, but pre-registration is requested. FFI: NAMI Minnesota at 651-645-2948

Advocacy kickoff day Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MNCCD) hosts a panel of state and legislative leaders, noon-1 p.m. Fri, Jan. 18 at Kelly Inn, 161 St. Anthony Ave., St Paul. Hear about the status of health care in Minnesota, the challenges faced in health and long term care reform, as well as solutions for the future. Information will also be available about the MN-CCD Tuesdays at the Capitol advocacy program. Enjoy free refreshments. RVSP by Jan. 14 to ensure a seat, although walk-ins are welcome. FFI: Christian Knights, 763-5200725, christian.knights@couragecenter.org

Recognition Anne Henry honored Join The Arc Minnesota at 5:30 p.m. Wed, Feb. 20, as Minnesotans with disabilities and their advocates honor Anne Henry for her extraordinary public policy advocacy and the major improvements she has helped attain in policies and programs that affect people of all disabilities. The Arc Minnesota’s annual Public Policy Recognition Event at the Midland Hills Country Club in Roseville. Event proceeds benefit The Arc Minnesota’s public policy advocacy program. FFI: Dawn Lampros, 651-604-8070, dawnl@arcmn.org

Adult classes and meetings Help with computer skills Adults who are unsure about their basic computer skills now have a way to easily assess what they know, pinpoint what they need to learn and earn a certificate that shows employers what they know. A broad community collaboration of organizations, led by the St. Paul Public Library and the St. Paul Community Literacy Consortium (SPCLC), announce the launch of the Northstar Digital Literacy Project, developed in response to the many people asking for help finding jobs in a tough economy.

The Northstar Digital Literacy Project offers free, online assessments of basic computer skills in six modules: basic computer use, world wide web, Windows 7, Mac OS X, using e-mail, and Microsoft Word. Spanish-language and close-captioned versions are available. At the end of each test, the user receives the results, listing the skills that have been mastered and the areas that need improvement. Anyone can take the tests online at www.digitalliteracyassessment.org Independent living classes offered The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) offers free and accessible classes on living independently for people with disabilities. Most classes are held at 1600 University Ave., #16, the green tile building at University and Snelling, St. Paul, unless specified. The office will be closed Mon., Jan 21 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. A full calendar is offered online. Enjoy field trips, cooking, and classes to help with everyday living including budgeting, self-esteem and anger management. Turning Disability into Feistiness is 1-2:30 p.m. Tue, Jan. 15.

A highlight is the New Year’s gathering 1-2:30 p.m. Wed, Jan. 16. That same day is the start of the Working Well with a Disability series, at 1-2:30 p.m.

Walk and roll at Mall of America, Jan. 14 and 28. Meet at MCIL for the outings, which are 1:30-3:30 p.m. or come to MCIL for cooking class 1-6 p.m. and social night on Mon, Jan. 28.

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. Wed, Jan. 30. Wii fun is back 1-3 p.m. Thu, Jan. 17.

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. Go to Longfellow Grill, 2990 West River Parkway Mpls, 1-3 p.m. Sat, Jan. 19 for lunch. Please bring spending money for events.

Events are free (with the exception of Weekenders out-

facilitators, the various groups provide help and support.

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, 651-7881920, or Donna, 651-645-2948 ext. 101. 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 and 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.

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 United Methodist Church, 1524 Co. Rd. C-2 West, Roseville. FFI: Will, 651-578-3364.

Family support groups offered The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Minnesota sponsors free support groups for families who have a relative with a mental illness. Led by trained facilitators who also have a family member with mental illness, groups help families develop better coping skills and find strength through sharing their experiences. A family support group meets in St. Paul on the second Wednesday of each month from at 6-7:30 p.m., at Goodwill-Easter Seals, 553 Fairview Ave. N., St. Paul, in room 123. FFI: Sonja, 651-357-2077. A group meets at 6:30 p.m., on the 4th Tuesday of the month, at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 285 N. Dale St., St. Paul. FFI: Marc, 763227-9446. A group also meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month 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.

Chronic pain support group MCIL offers a peer support group for people who live with chronic pain. The group meets at 6:30 p.m. 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, 651-6032037, cindyl@mcil-mn.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, Feb. 11 at MCIL, 1600 University Ave. W., St. Paul. Pre-registration requested. RSVP: Corbett, 651-603-2028, corbettl@mcil-mn.org

Volunteer, Donate

Fraser offers groups Fraser provides classes for families dealing with more than 60 types of disabilities and disorders. Autism Spectrum Disorders 101 is 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. Tue, Jan. 15 at Fraser, 6344 Penn Ave. S. Richfield, This workshop provides an overview of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) for families and professionals to gain a better understanding of the characteristics of ASD, the diagnostic process, related terminology, and a brief overview of fundamental strategies and supports. Cost is $30 per individual, $50 per couple. Supporting Siblings of a Child with Special Needs is 7-8:30 p.m. Tue, Jan. 29 at Fraser, 1801 American Blvd E, Suite 1, Bloomington. As a parent, it can be difficult to support all children while also meeting the needs of a child with special needs.

Cost is $30 per individual, $50 per couple. FFI: 612798-8331 or email workshops@fraser.org, or register online at http://www.fraser.org/Resources/Workshops.

Information and support Learn about catheters Handi-Medical and Coloplast host a free end user intermittent catheter event. Come and learn about new products, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thu, Jan. 17 and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat, Jan. 19 at Handi-Medical, 2505 University Av., St. Paul.

Refreshments served. FFI: 651-644-9770 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 free support groups for families who have a relative with a mental illness. 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

GLBT group meets Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) offers a GLBT support/social group that meets 6-7:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at 1600 University Ave. W. #16, St. Paul to discuss topics related to being a part of the GLBT community and dealing with a disability. Dinner is provided. Next meeting is Jan. 8. RSVP at least 23 days in advance, as group cancels if fewer than three people sign up. FFI Corbett Laubignat, 651"603"2028, corbettl@mcil-mn.org

Help with arts calendar VSA Minnesota is seeking a volunteer or volunteers to assist with the compilation of the monthly VSA Minnesota arts calendar. The calendar lists accessible performances, films, galleries and events throughout the region. FFI: Jon, 612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883, Voice/ TTY, access@vsamn.org 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 ■

History - from p. 2 care items, the women provided candy, fruit, cakes, jellies and other food items. Birthday cakes were made for each veteran. At Christmas the women brought trees and decorations, as well as flowers, fruit baskets and baked treats.

Donations also helped start work programs, so that veterans could make and sell items. The Minneapolis Fire Department made 32 looms, so that the men could weave and sell items. The men made baskets, lampshades and other items so that they could have spending money.

Although government programs took over some of the Auxiliary’s work, providing gifts and friendly visits to veterans is an activity many Auxiliary chapters continue today. ■ The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Gover-nor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, www. mncdd.org and www.part nersinpolicymaking.com

Pg 14 January10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1

Radio Talking Book January sampling

Books available through Faribault Books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault. Phone is 1800-722-0550 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 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth, by John C. Maxwell; For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing The Dragon’s Tooth, by N.D. Wilson; Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing The June Fourth Elegies, by Xiabo Liu; The U.S. and Us (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing My Mother Is Now Earth, by Mark Anthony Rolo.

Chautauqua • Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m.

The Violinist’s Thumb, Nonfiction by Sam Kean, 2012.

As advances are made in DNA mapping and modification, genetics will continue to be the hottest topic in science, shaping the very makeup of our bodies and the world around us. L - Read by Esmé Evans. 13 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 22.

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

To Free a Family, Nonfiction by Sydney Nathans, 2012.

In 1848, Mary Walker escaped from her slave owners and sought refuge in the North. She spent the next 17 years trying to recover her family. Read by Karen Wertz.

11 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 21.

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

Best Seat in the House, Nonfiction by Mark Rosen with Jim Bruton, 2012. In more than four decades at WCCO, Rosen has become one of the most popular and respected sports media celebrities in the Cities, the state, and region. He has covered many of the most memorable moments in Minnesota sports history. Read by Denny Laufenberger. 10 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 21.

discord in the harmony. L - Read by Pat Kovel-Jarboe.

16 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 28.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 11 p.m.

The Tree of the Doves, Nonfiction by Christopher Merrill, 2012. In three extended essays, Christopher Merrill poses fundamental but provocative questions. Read by Jim Gregorich. 11 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 30.

Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnight The Solitary House, Fiction by Lynn Shepherd, 2012.

Charles Maddox makes a living tracking down criminals but his latest case has escalated into something more major than he had expected. V, S - Read by Eileen Barratt. 12 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 28.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

Perlmann’s Silence, Fiction by Pascal Mercier, 2012.

Phillip Perlmann is an internationally known linguist who has decided the solution to his lack of creativity is to plagiarize the work of a missing colleague. But when the colleague is going to show after all, Perlmann is driven to the brink of murder. Read by Don Lee. 25 broadcasts.

Begins Jan. 14.

After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.

Ashfall, Fiction by Mike Mullin, 2011. When the supervolcano under Yellowstone erupts, the world changes and Alex struggles to survive. V - Read by Peter Danbury. 11 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 22.

Abbreviations: V - violence, L – offensive language, S - sexual situations.

PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

No Easy Day, Nonfiction by Mark Owen, with Kevin Maurer, 2012. Written under a pseudonym, No Easy Day takes us to the third floor of Osama bin Laden’s compound along with the twenty-four-man team of Navy SEALs who took bin Laden’s life. L - Read by Art Nyhus.

Eight broadcasts. Begins Jan. 14.

The Syrian Rebellion, Nonfiction by Fouad Ajami, 2012.

When the Arab Spring exploded across the Middle East, it was no surprise that the eruption in Syria came after others. The Syrians took their time, knowing they were in for a grim and bloody struggle. Read by Marylyn Burridge. Nine broadcasts. Begins Jan. 24.

Regional news - from p. 6 Punnett announced last month that he would be leaving the airwaves. On its website, myTalk 107.1 announced that Ian’s wife, Margery Punnett will remain on-air and a new station lineup will be announced soon. The radio website stated that, “Ian has been a critical part of this radio station since the very beginning. The Ian and Margery Show has been a part of who we are for more than ten years. His humor, professionalism and kindness have helped this station grow, develop and thrive. He has been a confidante, jokester and the number one cheerleader for this radio station and for the format. Way beyond being our coworker... he is our dear friend and mentor.” ■ (Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press, myTalk 107.1)

Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

The Beautiful Mystery, Fiction by Louise Penny, 2012.

When the Québec monastery’s choir director is murdered, Chief Inspector Gamache and Inspector JeanGuy Beauvoir discover disquiet beneath the silence and

2012 in review - from p. 5

August Voters prepared for the upcoming primary and general elections. Absentee voting was suggested as an alternative to long lines and crowded polling places.

The change of the primary from September to August brought additional concerns about less-than-ideal air quality in some polling places, due to hot weather and a lack of air conditioning.

Beep baseball or beepball athletes from two Minnesota teams competed in the sport’s World Series in Iowa. The Millers are the competitive team while the Fighting Lions offer a more relaxed game.

September Charles “Chuck” Van Heuveln was honored by Access Press as the 2012 winner of the Charlie Smith Award.

The longtime disability rights advocate, whose work dates back to the 1970s, was a leader in efforts to make changes to the Medical Assistance- (MA-EPD) Program. MA-EPD allows people with disabilities to pay a percentage of their earnings as an insurance premium toward medical services. Van Heuveln and oth-

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ers would have been forced to give up assets, including their homes, had changes not been made to the law.

A horse named Taco delivered food and smiles as he and his owner delivered Meals on Wheels in Twin Valley.

Courage Center’s new Todd Anderson Field in Brooklyn Park was unveiled as Minnesota’s first field for competitive wheelchair softball.

October

swimming, track and field, and basketball. Seven medals were brought home by competitors. Gold medalists were won by two swimmers, Eagan resident Mallory Meggemann and Justin Zook of Plymouth.

November Dale Street Place, which provides affordable and supportive housing for people with mental illness or chemical dependency, opened its doors in St. Paul.

Community Housing Development Corporation purchased and renovated the property and BDC Management was in charge of operations. The building has 150 units.

The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) announced its 2013 legislative priorities. One focus would be the permanent repeal of the 20 percent cut to family members who provide PCA services. Staving off additional health care cuts is another priority. Task forces spent months studying various issues and members.

St. Paul-based Handi-Medical was honored by the publication Home Medical Equipment News as the equipment provider of the year.

Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare December and the United CeThe Affordable Care Act requires all people rebral Palsy (UCP) to have health insurance. Minnesotans with disnational organizaabilities need to be informed, concerning the uption announced a coming health insurance exchange (method for new partnership. purchasing insurance) and how it will affect Gillette would bethem. A task force was working on details of the come the newest exchange. When the exchange goes into place, it UCP affiliate and could serve an anticipated 1.2 million Minnesothe first hospital to tans. In 2011, state officials estimate that more join in UCP’s 64than 490,000 Minnesotans lacked any health inyear history.

File photos surance and this will be a key target group for Accessible rides the exchange. to the polls were promoted as the Nov. 6 general elecA committee working on the state’s long-awaited tion neared. The ride program began in 2008 and was Olmstead Plan was seeking public comment on its inpopular with voters with disabilities. terim report. The plan outlines how the state should Minnesotans were proud to be among the competiprovide services for people with disabilities. tors at the Paralympics in London. Ten Minnesotans The Northland 300 snowmobile run announced its competed in more than half a dozen sports, including 25th anniversary. ■

January 10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1 Pg 15

PCA 20% - from p. 1 als who sued the state in October 2011. The pay cut was made during the Minnesota Legislature’s July 2011 special session, as a means of helping resolve a $5 billion state budget deficit. What frustrated families and disability rights advocates was that the cut was made with no public hearings or discussion.

The Court of Appeals decision reverses an April 2012 Ramsey County District Court ruling that the Minnesota Department of Human Services could pay relative caregivers just 80 percent of what nonrelatives receive. The Court of Appeals said that law imposing the cut is based on an arbitrary distinction between family member personal care attendants (PCAs) and non-family members.

The cut means some family member PCAs had their hourly wage drop from $10 to $8 or less an hour.

The cut affected parents or adoptive parents of an adult child, siblings over age 16, an adult child, a grandparent, or a grandchild of the person receiving care.

Dozens of disability advocacy organizations opposed the 20% cut. Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) pointed out that the cut not only jeopardized support services for many Minnesotans. The cut also devalued the sacrifices PCAs have made, and puts some Minnesotans with disabilities at risk of placements in more costly insti-

tutions, particularly in rural areas. The long-term effect could have been the closure of some PCA agencies, as the cut could have meant a loss of PCAs and related administrative revenues. If agencies did close, that in turn would create more problems in accessing services and ultimately result in more costly options, such as home and community-based waivers or nursing facilities.

In October 2011 home health care agencies Care Planners, Inc., Break-Thru Home Health Care, Inc., Healthstar Home Health, Inc., V-Care Home Health, Inc., United Home Health Care, Inc., Hmong Home Health Care, Inc., AbbeyCare, Inc., and Life Fountain Home Health Care, Inc., as well as several individuals, sued the state.

Ramsey County District Court Judge Dale Lindman granted a temporary restraining order against the cut that same month. But in March 2012 Lindman ruled that the cut would stand, and any changes would have to be made by state lawmakers.

The dispute was then appealed. In its 15-page ruling, the appeals court stated, “We agree with appellants that the rationale for the distinction advanced by the state is based purely on assumptions rather than facts. including the apparently unchallenged assumption that a moral obligation to provide care for a relative necessarily equates to a moral obligation to personally provide such care at a lower rate of pay. Addi-

Merger - from p. 1 broad range of permanent or episodic disabilities, and reducing the per capita costs of health care for people with disabilities.

“The integration of these two leading programs offers individuals living with disabilities the benefits of a coordinated model of care that combines great clinical care with supportive social services and broader health and wellness programming,” said Wheeler.

Golden Valley-based Courage Center was founded in 1928 as an advocacy group for what then was known as the Society for Crippled Children. It is a non-profit rehabilitation and resource center that advances the lives of children and adults experiencing barriers to health and independence. It specializes in treating brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, chronic pain, autism and disabilities experienced since birth. Courage Center offers advanced technologies and innovation provided in part through the efforts of thousands of volunteers and donors.

What is now Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute was founded in 1942 by a British nurse, Sister Elizabeth Kenny. It specializes in treating people with spi-

nal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, cancer, sportsrelated injuries and neurological or muscular disorders. Sister Kenny Institute became part of Abbott Northwestern Hospital in 1975 and is now part of Allina Health. Sister Kenny offers medical rehabilitation services at nine hospitals.

Collaboration between Courage Center and Sister Kenny is nothing new. About 15 years ago the two started the managed care nonprofit Axis Healthcare.

Leaders of the two organizations believe that the merged organization will draw on the strengths of each. Sister Kenny is well-known for its medical expertise. Courage Center has a longstanding reputation for strong community programs and outreach. In many cases the two institutions serve the same people, with Sister Kenny providing care and therapy right after an injury and Courage Center providing continued rehabilitation, training and a host of other services.

Each currently has its own foundation; those will be merged as well. ■

tionally, the state has not provided any evidence about the effect on relative PCAs of a 20 percent reduction in income,” the court ruled. “Appellants provided some affidavits to the district court stating that such a reduction would result in relative PCAs themselves seeking public assistance.”

The cut was expected to save the state $24.1 million over the biennium. That amount has been reduced to about $17 million due to the delay in implementing the cut. The most recent figures from DHS estimated that during the two-year period beginning July 1, 2013, $30.7 million less would be paid to relative caregivers due to the reductions.

Home care workers applauded decision by the Minnesota Court of Appeals ruling.

“I am thrilled and relieved at the court’s ruling, but it is only the first step,” said Darleen Henry, a home care worker from Rosemount who cares for her mother. “We need to make these jobs better so that people can afford to do this work for our elderly and people with disabilities, and that is why we want the same right as all other workers to form a union.”

“Working as a personal care assistant for my son, who has a severe form of multiple sclerosis, allows him to stay at home and saves taxpayers a lot of money,” said Clara Nakumbe, who lives in Minneapolis. “But I still have a mortgage and I still need to live, too, and that’s why I was so upset when legislators planned to cut family members’ pay—it threatened my ability to keep a house for me and my son.” ■

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Pg 16 January10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1