September 2014 Edition - Access Press

Freedom Bus, p 7

Volume 25, Number 9

St. Paul eyeing UberX, Lyft

by Jane McClure

St. Paul may become the latest city to legalize a new transportation option, a network of companies including UberX and Lyft. Disability rights advocates will be watching the process closely, due to concerns about accessible vehicles.

Mayor Chris Coleman announced the need for regulation during his 2015 city budget address. “New transportation options like UberX and Lyft, while offering an innovative service to our residents, are creating a whole new demand for oversight,” he said.

Lyft, UberX and similar services have grown in popularly. The transportation network companies allow people to act as drivers for others. The drivers connect with passengers through smartphone apps. The service is seen as an alternative to using taxis or city buses.

New transportation - p. 10

www.accesspress.org Christine Marble and Wendy DeVore

2014 Charlie Smith award winners are dedicated to helping others

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

by Access Press staff

A desire to help people with disabilities find meaningful work and activities is what motivates Christine Marble and Wendy DeVore. The two founders of St. Paul-based Career Ventures, Inc. are the 2014 winners of the Access Press Charlie Smith Award for outstanding service to the disability community.

Marble and DeVore began a collaborative effort in conjunction with DeafBlind Services of Minnesota (MDBA) in September of 2013 to resurrect the monthly DeafBlind Club meetings.

Christine Marble, center, wields the scissors as Wendy DeVore stands The meetings are a place behind her at a recent grand opening where deafblind Minnesotans Photo courtesy of Career Ventures have an opportunity to socialize, play games, and share information. The club’s tance to individuals with disabilities. They both success prompted Career Ventures to launch a have a passion for helping others to achieve similar gathering in May 2014 for individuals their goals and dreams, no matter what they who are blind or have low vision, called the may be and will help them overcome any barriClub House. ers that may arise, in order to do so.

Career Ventures has also helped MDBA obTheir reward is the smiles and sparkle of the tain office space, helping the organization stay individuals they help, the renewed confidence in its longtime home. The two organizations and feeling of purpose they instill in another, benefit from sharing the space. and the resulting increase in moral from honest Marble and DeVore have improved the lives and effective production that can now be acof countless deaf, blind, deafblind, low vision complished. and hard of hearing Minnesotans. They work “We are very surprised and we’re extremely tirelessly and enthusiastically to inspire and honored,” Marble said. “Work is something improve community groups, businesses partwe’re very passionate about. Getting people out ners, and provide accommodations and assis2014 Charlie Smith award winners - p. 15

Home care providers vote to unionize

by Access Press staff

September 10, 2014

made possible by a 2013 Minnesota law authorizing unionizaIt’s official. Home care providers, also known as personal tion votes for in-home care and day care workers. The election, care attendants or direct support providers, have voted to form held by mail, began August 1 and ended August 25. their own union. The election results were announced by the According to the Bureau of Mediation Services, about 60 perstate August 26. The vote allows the Service Employees Internacent of 5,800 voters approved unionization. tional Union (SEIU), which organized the election, to bargain But the vote doesn’t end the controversy over forming a with state officials for wages and benefits. union. Supporters contend it will provide higher wages and benThe union election was the largest in state history. It was efits for workers, which in turn will equal better care providers for people with disabilities and the elderly. The opponents of unionization noted that just 13 percent of eligible voters supported the union. They vowed to continue fighting against the unionization efforts.

The new union will represent about 27,000 workers.

In Minnesota there are nearly 110,000 homecare workers who provide services to clients in the community.

Only those who treat Medicare enrollees were eligible to vote in the union election. SEIU has said it won’t require eligible members to join or pay fair share dues.

Workers and people with disabilities celebrated at a press conference during the Minnesota State Fair.

“When workers voted yes for their union, they were voting yes for a better life not only for themselves, but also for families like mine,” said Nikki Villavicencio, a home care recipient from Maplewood who attended the press conference with her husband and daughter. “The high turnover in this field, from the low pay and lack of Home care workers and their supporters celebrated the union vote, at a press con- benefits, causes turmoil for families. When we underference at the Minnesota State Fair. value the workers, we undervalue families like mine.

Photo courtsey of SEIU Home care workers unionize - p. 14

“Smart people believe weird things because they are skilled at defending beliefs they arrived at for non-smart reasons.”

— Michael Shermer

NEWS DIGEST

Perseverance is a way of life for this award winner.

Page 8

Stories of discrimination are preserved for posterity.

Page 2

Learn about non-verbal learning disabilities.

Page 4

Judge unhappy with lack of progress Page 6

St. David’s program offers school-year programming.

Page 12

INSIDE Accessible Fun, pg 10 Events, pg 11 People & Places, pps 8-9 Radio Talking Book, pg 14

Pg 2 September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9

EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin I hope everybody who attended the state fair had a great time. The record-breaking attendance is probably related to the good weather for this year’s great Minnesota get-together. If you have an interesting story to tell about your experience, please send it to us; we want to share some fair memories online.

Our annual banquet is coming up in November. I hope you’re all planning to come to celebrate the 2014 Charlie Smith Award recipients, and have a great time visiting with all your colleagues while bidding in the always-popular silent auction. There are some great new items this year, along with some of the more popular items from previous years.

The Board of Directors of Access Press had a very difficult time choosing the award winner this year— every one of the nominees is absolutely deserving of our applause and appreciation. In this issue you can read about each one of them and the many ways they contribute to the Minnesota disability community. The award winners, Christine Marble and Wendy DeVore, of Career Ventures, Inc., have helped many deaf, blind, deafblind, low vision and hard-of-hearing people throughout the region to find rewarding employment.

On August 9, Gov. Mark Dayton issued an executive order to increase hiring of qualified people with disabilities in state jobs. Dayton is targeting a 7% employment rate by 2018, which would make Minnesota the largest employer of people with disabilities in the U.S. Over the last decade or more, the proportion of Minnesotans with disabilities employed in state jobs had declined considerably. In 1999, 10.1% of state employees were people with disabilities, but as of 2013 we had dropped to 3.2%, an unbelievable and unacceptable downward trend.

There are still many in the disability community who are on the fence as far as unionization of direct support workers. The concerns seem to vary. Some doubt that unionization will be an effective way to improve wages and working conditions; others voice concerns about clients’ freedom to choose their own support staff. Most of the questions are truly open; only time will tell. There are some statistics available from other states that have already unionized support staff, but they’re not conclusive or clearly applicable to Minnesota. While it’s clear that some other states require agencies to pay higher wages, there’s not good data on how much these states have increased their reimbursement rates to agencies.

There’s increasing talk and concern about the newly approved taxi networks in Minneapolis and St. Paul. For me, the biggest questions are: 1) Are the drivers able to understand the needs of people with disabilities and their vulnerabilities? 2) Will there be

adequate numbers of taxis available for the service to be useful to the disability community?

The Honorable Donovan W. Frank, U.S. District Judge, has brought the 2011 Jensen settlement involving residents of the Minnesota Extended Treatment Options program back into the limelight. In an order the judge issued earlier this month, it seems that he, like the court monitor, continues to be unhappy with the Department of Human Services’ progress on the court-ordered settlement requirements.

The positive side of this multi-year fiasco is that the last resident of METO, newly renamed as Minnesota Specialty Health Systems—Cambridge, was released August 29, 2014. On the other side, however, Judge Frank said he was very frustrated with DHS’s non-compliance and delay in fully meeting the terms of the agreement and in progressing with the Olmstead Plan. Frank gave the court monitor two more years of oversight and more authority to report findings and make recommendations. The monitor now has the authority to apply damages for any violation and the ability to consider the appropriateness of contempt, sanctions, fines or additional relief as the monitor sees fit. The court monitor had reported to the judge that in some counties, “their services are more life-wasting than life-fulfilling.” The judge’s order makes it clear that he expects DHS to provide the individualized community supports that can maintain positive movement forward in quality of life.

We started with a cool, rainy summer, and September may bring a cool, rainy end to summer. I hope it’s not an indicator of a cold and snowy winter—but I’m getting ahead of myself. We’ll talk to you in a month. ■

HISTORY NOTE

Stories bring the message of discrimination The path to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was paved by storytellers, not just a few, but thousands of storytellers across the nation. More than 5,000 stories were collected by disability rights activist Justin Dart, to show the range of issues faced by people with disabilities and the barriers that limit ability to actively participate in their communities. Here is one woman’s story: On May 28, 1988, Lisa Carl, a young woman with cerebral palsy who uses a wheelchair, wanted to see a favorite film at an accessible theater in Tacoma, Wash. The theater manager refused to accept her $1 admission and the theater owner, who was called by an advocate on Lisa’s behalf, said, “I don’t want her in here and I don’t have to let her in.”

Peter Guber, author of Tell To Win, contends that stories can also function as Trojan horses. The story is actually just a delivery system for the teller’s agenda, a trick for sneaking a message into the fortified citadel of the human mind.

Dart, widely recognized as the “father of the Americans with Disabilities Act”, was aware of the power of storytelling. He knew that people with disabilities and their families had powerful stories to tell

— stories about discrimination, segregation and inequality. Dart knew that stories could impact change.

Between 1988 and 1989, Dart held 62 public forums in 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Guam to collect stories of discrimination. His intent was to create a network of national support for passage of the ADA. The forums, however, were his Trojan horse for putting the message of equal rights for people with disabilities into the minds of the public. The forums provided an opportunity for people with disabilities and other advocates to publicly disclose and express their frustrations and outrage at discriminatory practices.

Some of those who shared their stories became leading advocates on disability rights, including Congressman Tony Coelho of California.

The stories are powerful and moving. One story was about a Nebraska university associate professor of communications, denied a place on a speakers’ bureau because he stuttered. Another described an Illinois school system, where students with disabilities were locked inside wooden boxes for up to 30 minutes, as discipline.

It is fitting to celebrate the witness of leading disability advocates and their influence on what became

Volume 25, Number 09 • Periodicals Imprint: Pending ISSN Advertising Sales Business Manager/Webmaster Michelle Hegarty Dawn Frederick 612-807-1078 Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Cartoonist Co-Founder/Publisher Wm. A. Smith, Jr. (1990-1996) Charles F. Smith (1990-2001)

Executive Director Tim Benjamin

Scott Adams

Board of Directors Production Brigid Alseth, Steve Anderson, John Clark, Ellen Houghton with Presentation Images Managing Editor Kristin Jorenby, Elin Ohlsson, Halle O'Falvey, Jane McClure Distribution Carrie Salberg, Cheryl Vander Linden, Walt S. C. Distribution Seibert and Kay Willshire Editorial submissions and news releases on topics of interest to persons with disabilities, or persons serving those with disabilities, are welcomed. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Editorial material and advertising do not necessarily reflect the view of the editor/publisher of Access Press.

Paid advertising is available at rates ranging from $12 to $28 per column inch, depending on size and frequency of run. Classified ads are $14, plus 65 cents per word over 12 words. News, display advertising and classified advertising deadline is routinely the 25th of the month. When the 25th falls on a weekend, deadline is the next Monday.

Access Press is a monthly tabloid newspaper published for persons with disabilities by Access Press, Ltd. Circulation is 11,000, distributed the 10th of each month through more than 200 locations statewide. Approximately 450 copies are mailed directly to individuals, including political, business, institutional and civic leaders. Subscriptions are available for $30/yr. Low-income, student and bulk subscriptions are available at discounted rates.

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the ADA. But many ordinary Americans with disabilities and their families were prophets of the ADA. Dart’s collection of stories reminds us that the prophets we most need to remember are hidden in plain sight among us. The collection is part of It’s Our Story, a mixed-media digital history archive that Justin Dart houses the most compreFile photo hensive collection of videos, photos and documents regarding life with disability in America, compiled by Scott Cooper. It’s Our Story is available at: https://sites.google.com/a/pineda foundation.org/ios/home ■ This information was taken from The ADA Legacy Project.

The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mnddc.org or www.mncdd.org and www.partnersinpolicymaking.com

September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9

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Wide range of service

2014 Charlie Smith nominees deserve applause DAVID HANCOX David Hancox, longtime executive director of the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL), is known for his strong work ethic, his interest in innovation, and his ability to motivate and inspire others.

Hancox is leaving MCIL, after 17½ years there. That David Hancox tenure has been a highlight in a plus-40-year career advocating for and working with people with disabilities. He is praised for having a mind for business and a heart and soul for clients.

Hancox has accepted a the position of COO at Accra Care, a client-centered home care organization.

The board of MCIL is grateful for Hancox’s years of dedicated service, his stewardship and commitment to leading staff efforts to provide quality services to metro area residents with disabilities.

Among the many highlights of his tenure at MCIL are the growth and expansion of in the core services and the PAS program. Of particular note is his leadership in IL/VR Collaboration, a unique partnership with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development that allows MCIL to embed independent living specialists in each of the metro area workforce centers. This collaboration is a national model unique to Minnesota. Another outstanding example of innovative expansion is the operation of the Disability Linkage Line, in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Human Services, a one-stop call center for disability and chronic illness-related information, resource and assistance.

Additionally, for more than eight years MCIL has been a leader in the nursing home relocation coordination effort, averaging more than 220 consumer relocations annually. It is a national success story. The mission of MCIL is to assist people with disabilities in the Twin Cities region to lead productive self-determined lives. Founded in 1981, MCIL is dedicated to the full promotion of the independent living philosophy by supporting individuals with disabilities in their personal efforts to pursue self-directed lives.

MCIL has about 30 full-time and 200 part-time employees, many volunteers and a volunteer board of directors. Programs and services are meant to promote the independent living philosophy through innovative projects and direct services that meet the needs of MCIL consumers. Information and referral services, skills training, peer mentorship, self-advocacy, housing referrals, transition programs and a consumer-directed personal care attendant program are offered and overseen by Hancox.

MCIL served nearly 36,000 individuals with disabilities in 2013 reporting year, including 2,200 individuals for whom specific independent living plans were developed and implemented.

Under Hancox’ s leadership the nonprofit moved to downtown St. Paul in 2013.

Hancox has also worked as an independent consultant on disability issues, working with government agencies, school districts, corporations and nonprofits. He was also chief lobbyist for the Minnesota Association for Centers for Independent Living and for the Association for Supportive Living Residences. He has worked as a program director for the Minnesota Institute of Public Health. For seven years Hancox coordinated the day-to-day operation of Minnesota’s Partners in Policymaking project.

He has been active with the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities and on the College of Direct Support’s National Advisory Board, and has been a fixture at the capitol.

David R. Johnson, director of the University of Minnesota Institute on Community Integration, has known Hancox for more than 20 years. “I have the highest regard for Mr. Hancox as a professional who has had a major impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities, their families, and the professionals who serve them,” Johnson said.

Tickets for the 2014 Access Press Charlie Smith Award banquet are available. The banquet is Friday, November 7 at the Minneapolis Airport Marriott, Call 651-644-2133 or go to www.accesspress.org for details.

“[Hancox] currently serves on the Institute’s Community Advisory Board, making substantial contributions in reviewing our many projects and in supporting us in strategic planning. Mr. Hancox has made numerous presentations at the University of Minnesota, supported the development of key publications and products of the Institute, and has been an active member of the Community Advisory Council for several years. I rely extensively on his knowledge and his energy on getting things done on behalf of individuals with disabilities,” Johnson said. He also praised Hancox’ s role in influencing public policy, programs and services that individuals with disabilities and families rely on, and help to promote the self-advocacy movement in Minnesota and nationally.

Hancox is sought after to consult with other agencies and providers when they are struggling to utilize their limited resources more effectively while maintaining the integrity of the service to the end user. His nominator, Julia Washenberger, said he listens fairly and is open to hearing new ideas and information.

“He is always open to change,” Washenberger said.

“He is always seeking thoughtful interaction and is always mindful of something needing to be considered to change a course or build more collaboration.

David does so with a sense of calm and professionalism that is to be admired and respected.”

Hancox is also described as an energetic person who motivates other and who has helped many people through difficult times. He is passionate about his work and has worked hard on behalf of MCIL and other centers for independent living and the clients the centers serve.

Staff members at MCIL said they value Hancox’s ability to network with collaborators and engage them in what the true needs of people are is what is most highly valued. He is meticulous about the bottom line, scrutinizing every mileage report, every budget amount and time spent on anything that is done. “Every dollar needs to be considered and held in high value for those that we serve who matter,” said Washenberger. She said this is done with an eye out for resources that could help clients.

In the near future, the MCIL board will engage in a national search for a new permanent executive director. The board will select a candidate with a demonstrated ability to continue MCIL’s efforts to foster and develop new partnerships, as well as, support community-wide initiatives which promote a strong, healthy and focused disability community. The new director will also be expected to sustain MCIL’s priority of retaining its leadership role in the metro area disability community. MCIL will continue its focus on interdependent consumer directed services providing innovative, collaborative and forward thinking initiatives that promote quality choices and opportunities for people with disabilities, and which impact public policy and systems change.

DON BANIA The World Health Organization estimates that worldwide, there are more than 20 million people with disabilities in need of a wheelchair. Don Bania knows from personal experience how important it is to be mobile, with a working wheelchair, a walker or a Don Bania sturdy cane.

Bania is a dedicated volunteer, using his time and talents to find wheelchairs, canes and walkers for Nominees - p. 5

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FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Growing concern over transportation options by the Minnesota State Council on Disability

Concern by users of wheelchairs is growing over the recent decision by the Minneapolis City Council to remove the requirement that cab companies provide a certain percentage of accessible cabs, and a related decision to allow for transportation services by companies such as UberX and Lyft. The requirement that each cab company provide a certain number of wheelchair accessible vehicles had been in place for years. Unfortunately, the Minneapolis Department of Regulatory Services never adequately enforced the ordinance and city leadership never provided the needed financial incentives for these small cab companies to purchase and operate wheelchair accessible vehicles.

City leadership has thrown caution and the disability community to the wind, and allowed largely unregulated companies to operate within city limits because they needed to make some concessions with the traditional cab companies. Now we don’t have a requirement for accessible vehicles. Instead, we have a voluntary incentives program that doesn’t provide the necessary financial incentives for the purchase or modification of an accessible vehicle. The city with the assistance of the Minne-

apolis Advisory Committee on People with Disabilities, is working to draft a “request for proposal” to explore whether or not there are any cab companies willing to participate in the voluntary incentives program.

In the meantime it’s critical that the disability community know that the Minneapolis Human Rights Act requires: 363A.11 PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS. Subdivision 1. Full and equal enjoyment of public accommodations. (a) It is an unfair discriminatory practice: (1) to deny any person the full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, and accommodations of a place of public accommodation because of race, color, creed, religion, disability, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, or sex, or for a taxicab company to discriminate in the access to, full utilization of, or benefit from service because of a person’s disability; or If you experience discrimination by UberX, Lyft or a traditional cab, please contact Minnesota State Council on Disability at: council.disability@state.mn.us and give us your story with as many facts as possible. ■

Learn about various nonverbal learning disabilities

by Emma Wagner

The start of the school year is here. That means getting the notebooks, pencils and supplies ready for new classes. It also means a new location for the classroom.

For some students, finding their way around can be even more challenging than their classes. These students have a “nonverbal learning disability.”

The term “nonverbal learning disability” was coined by Byron Rourke around 1985. However, educators are generally not familiar with it. Nonverbal learning disability is described as difficulty with problem solving that does not involve written or spoken language. Approximately 10% of individuals who have a learning disability have the nonverbal type.

In school, some learning disabilities can be easily observed by teachers.

For example, dyslexia is a common type that teachers can pick up on quite early in a child’s education. But what about a disability in which a student has strong verbal skills, a well-developed vocabulary, and a memory for what is said in a lecture

but finds navigation around the classroom environment to be hard? Such a student may have a nonverbal learning disability, especially if the child has difficulty with coordination and visual/spatial tasks.

Picture this: a student is in English class and speaks exceptionally well, has a well-developed vocabulary and is a good speller. At break time the student goes to the restroom and gets disoriented and can’t find his or her way back to the class.

This is what a teacher would observe in a student who has a nonverbal learning disability.

Students who have nonverbal learning disabilities may excel in areas involving words but have a hard time interpreting information that is presented via maps, graphs, or charts. Math can present a problem; turning visual information into words and spoken language is the way to help them understand the material.

As well as their visual/spatial skills not working very well, their tactile functions are slow, so they can be reluctant to explore their environment. Therefore, in order to learn, individuals ask questions. Auditory learning could be described as the default style for students who have nonverbal learning disabilities — they learn in words.

Despite weaknesses in a variety of areas, as auditory learners, individuals may have musical abilities and be able to follow rhythms. Music and rhythm can be effective tools when teaching subjects that are nonverbal, such as math — rhythm and songs can help students learn their times tables. Students who have nonverbal learning disabilities have something called, “auditory memory” — with practice, they can memorize auditory information.

The concept of the nonverbal learning disability is not well-known among educators but with observation, teachers can recognize the signs and make adaptations for students, such as converting nonverbal subject matter into words.

By having visual information turned into language to accommodate their auditory-specific learning style, students can succeed in school. ■ Emma Wagner has cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus and epilepsy. She was diagnosed with a nonverbal learning disability but has found ways to work around it.

Today, Wagner has an associate’s degree. She enjoyed taking college courses and working on her strengths.

Don't miss out on the fun Don’t miss out on the fun. Reservations can now be made for the Nov. 7 Charlie Smith Award Banquet, which starts at 5:30 p.m. with the dinner and ceremony at 7 p.m. Cost is $45 per person for early registration, $50 per person at the door or $325 for an eightperson table. Registration can be made online, at www.accesspress.org Look for the tab at the top left corner of the home page.

Groups that purchase tables can be table hosts.

Checks with the name and number of guests can be mailed to Access Press, Attn: Dawn, 161 St. Anthony Ave Ste 910, St. Paul, MN 55103. Please make checks payable to Access Press and note banquet in the notation line.

Credit card transactions can be made over the phone by calling the office at 651-644-2133. ■

September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9

Access Press Charlie Smith Award honoree Steve Kuntz addressed the crowd at 2010’s banquet.

Nominees - from p. 3 people in need. He sometimes wears a t-shirt stating “Got Wheelchairs?”

The suburban Minneapolis resident has been quadriplegic since 1970. Not long after Bania completed high school, the motorcycle he was driving was struck by a drunk driver. After years of struggle, he turned his life around. He has since spent many years pursuing his career as an artist, using his mouth to sketch and paint beautiful pictures. He is well-known for his work as an artist, and sells prints and notecards of his work.

What many people may not know about is his commitment to the mobility of others. Since 2002, Bania has volunteered for an organization called Wheels for the World. Its volunteers collect manual wheelchairs throughout the United States. As of 1994, 140,000 wheelchairs have been collected and more than 100,000 of them have been distributed into 99 different countries.

Nominator Judy Clark is area director of the Minneapolis/St. Paul Joni and Friends International Disability Center. She said that Bania deserves recognition because of the outstanding job he has done. In his dozen years as Wheels for the World area chair for Minnesota, he has assembled a network of volunteers to collect hundreds of wheelchairs across the Twin Cities, Greater Minnesota, and Wisconsin. In that time, enough wheelchairs, walkers, and canes have been collected to fill 10 semi-trailers, impacting thousands of lives with the “gift of mobility”.

Working by phone and computer, this go-getter has assembled a strong network of individual, nonprofit and business world volunteers. He works as a traffic controller, directing the flow of the donations. He is tireless in his outreach to obtain items that are no longer needed by some and yet badly needed by others.

Numerous volunteers throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin pick up the donations. BJ Transportation of Afton provides key assistance with the collection.

Bobby and Steve’s Auto World on Washington Avenue in Minneapolis provides free storage space.

Teen Challenge supplies the manpower to load the wheelchairs into semi-trailers donated by Wal-Mart.

Wal-Mart, in turn, transports the equipment to various state prisons throughout the United States. Trained inmates restore the wheelchairs to showroom quality.

The distribution teams deliver them around the world and hand fit them to waiting, anxious disabled children and adults. It is truly a life-changing event.

Earlier this year Bania made a key connection during a series of phone calls to local care facilities in the east metro area. A receptionist transferred Bania to Tim Bush, vice president of operations with Tealwood Senior Living. Tealwood provides care in more than 40 nursing homes and assisted living facilities in communities across five states in the upper Midwest.

Tealwood Senior Living has now teamed up with Wheels for the World and is on a campaign to collect wheelchairs and wheelchair parts from each of its 40 nursing facilities.

Many local medical organizations and care facility have used the services of Wheels for the World.

Bania’s nomination stated, “And of all the stories these wheelchairs have to tell, the most touching comes from the families who have held onto their loved one’s wheelchairs until the grieving period had passed. It is at that time, when the tears of sorrow are turned to tears of joy, do the parents then know that their children’s wheelchairs can ‘live on’, serving a child on the other side of the world.”

“To experience this first-hand is a joy to behold,” said Bania.

Joni Eareckson Tada, founder of Wheels for the World, profiled Bania for her radio program. She said, “When I asked him about his incredible ministry, Don explained to me that he believes he and his team have “a little part in eternal salvation of those who receive our wheelchairs. Plus, we’re also helping them restore their dignity and liberty.” To hear more, go to http://tinyurl.com/q9noqm8 Bania also donates time to speaking to groups about his life and his volunteer work, and about his life with a spinal cord injury. He shares his story with groups of all ages.

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DISABILITIES CONCERNS MINISTRY

Disability Concerns Ministry

The Disabilities Concerns Ministry of the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area has been helping faith communities for almost 30 years, providing consultative and educational services to the congregations of the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area. The presbytery is the regional group for the Presbyterian church. It has its offices in Eagan.

The Disabilities Concerns Ministry assists churches in making facilities modifications to make buildings more accessible. It advises pastors and church leaders on how they might deal with a congregation member Nominees - p. 12

Pg 6 September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9

Unhappy judge gives court monitor more say

by Access Press staff

Unhappy with the lack of progress on a 2011 legal settlement, U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank September 3 granted broader powers to a federal court monitor. Frank’s decision effectively puts state services for people with disabilities under heightened federal oversight for the next two years.

It also draws awareness to community frustration over the state of the 2011 Minnesota Extended Treatment Options (METO) settlement.

In his latest filing, Frank stated that delays in compliance cannot be tolerated. He scolded the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) for failure to comply with the METO settlement. The settlement is meant to provide a number of improvements in the lives of Minnesotans with disabilities.

“Continued implementation delays can no longer be tolerated,” Frank said in his order. He added, “Multiple admonitions to the DHS have been insufficient to secure effective action by the DHS to close the significant gaps between its stated intentions and actions.”

The settlement won approval in late 2011. It is centered on a 2009 lawsuit filed by three families against the State of Minnesota and other defendants for restraining and secluding residents with developmental disabilities, The families had children at METO. They contended METO staff routinely restrained residents in a prone face-down position and placed them in metal handcuffs and leg hobbles, placed residents in seclusion and isolation rooms for extended time periods, and deprived them of visits from family members, among other claims. One resident was physically disciple after he touched a pizza box.

The lawsuit sought damages for violations of the federal civil and constitutional rights of residents with developmental disabilities, and asked the court to enter an injunction against the state to prohibit its re-

straint and seclusion practices, and to declare them unconstitutional.

METO, which was located in Cambridge, was a program intended to serve individuals with developmental disabilities who posed a risk to public safety.

The program was created in 1995. One child in the METO case was sent there for throwing paint at school. Parents were not only upset with how decisions were made to send children to METO; they also decried their lack of access of information and to their children themselves.

METO was closed by the state as a result of the settlement, and its facility housed the Minnesota Specialty Health System — Cambridge program. That program was closed August 29, when the last resident moved out.

DHS recently informed members of the Cambridge Community Liaison Committee of the closing and noted that state officials are working on a successor program, the Minnesota Life Bridge Program. That program began in March, housing residents in community-based settings. DHS is working to find program sites in communities around the state and to develop mobile teams to serve people in their homes.

The settlement called for a number of measures, including having families and state officials develop appropriate policies and procedures for use at state facilities. A key goal was to promote the move of people with disabilities from institutions to less restrictive settlings. Another goal; was to reduce the use on physical restraints on patients in state-operated facilities.

It also included scrutiny of the DHS rule known as Rule 40, which governs and protects people with developmental disabilities. Yet another key piece of the settlement is the development of an Olmstead Plan consistent with the 1999 U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Olmstead v. L.C., 527 U.S. 582 (1999). The Olmstead planning process is currently underway.

But in his most recent ruling Frank said DHS has repeatedly failed to comply with the settlement. He empowered a federally appointed court monitor assigned to the case to supervise the timely implementation of the settlement. The monitor was also give more authority to develop specific compliance standards and as well as ways to measure outcomes.

The judge also extended court jurisdiction over the settlement until December 4, 2016, putting state disability services under federal oversight for a longer time.

Deputy DHS Commissioner Anne Barry sent a letter to the court in late August. She said the state has made much progress in meeting the settlement’s objectives. Barry also noted that state officials are continuing to work with the court monitor to make changes as spelled out in the settlement.

Barry gave examples of what has been done, citing the ongoing work on the Olmstead Plan as an example. The plan, which is called for in a United States Supreme Court ruling, calls for measures to fully integrate people with disabilities in all aspects of community life.

Gov. Mark Dayton called for work to jump-start the Olmstead Plan after the METO settlement. Work on the plan continues, after the release of a draft plan late last year.

Another sign of progress Barry cited is that training of state employees in person-centered planning. More than 6,000 state workers have undergone this training.

But the court monitor’s reports have indicated that Minnesota still has a long ways to go. One red flag has recently been raised over the lack of training for county social workers around the state. The settlement requires that when people with disabilities are moved out of institutions, county social workers are to provide personalized support. But that hasn’t been the case everywhere, which means some people have not been able to move onto independent living. ■

More people with disabilities in state workforce is goal With employment of people with disabilities on the decline Gov. Mark Dayton wants that changed. On August 9, he issued an executive order directing all state government agencies to increase their employment of qualified Minnesotans with disabilities, http:/ /tinyurl.com/dayton-job. Over the last 15 years, there has been a steady decline in the proportion of Minnesotans with disabilities employed by the state — from 10.1 percent of the state’s workforce in 1999, to just 3.2 percent in 2013. The executive order issued by Dayton directs state agencies to increase that level to 7 percent by 2018.

The order instructs Minnesota Management and Budget and the state director for Equal Opportunity to develop a model for recruitment and hiring strategies to increase the employment of people with disabilities. It also requires all state agencies to develop plans for promoting employment opportunities for Minne-

sotans with disabilities, and to begin reporting their progress on a quarterly basis. The order also directs the state management and budget office to develop ways to help employees more easily disclose their disability status with their employer.

In recent years, Minnesota has fallen behind neighboring states and the federal government in the hiring of individuals with disabilities. Currently, the states of Wisconsin and Iowa have achieved 5.8 percent, and 4.4 percent levels, respectively. The most recent figures for the federal government show that 5 percent of federal workers are individuals with disabilities.

Developed in consultation with disability advocates, Minnesota’s new target of 7 percent will make the state a leader in the region for hiring people with disabilities.

Since taking office, Dayton and his administration have been committed to improving opportunities for

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all Minnesotans with disabilities.

He has championed issues including more compensation for home care workers, quality longterm care, hiring of an Olmstead Plan office director, increased protections for vulnerable adults Gov. Mark Dayton and stepped-up vocational rehabilitation efforts. ■

September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9

Pg 7

ADA Countdown Bus, Freedom Tour visits Twin Cities Left: The Freedom Bus drew a large crowd to its Minnesota stops, as people gathered to learn more about the ADA Legacy Project.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Countdown Tour paid a timely visit to St. Paul, just after Gov. Mark Dayton announced a new goal for increased hiring of people with disabilities in state government.

The tour, led by acclaimed disability rights photographer Tom Olin, arrived in a vividly adorned bus to honor the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities for its celebrated “Moments in Disabilities History” series.

The first 19 of a planned 31 episodes are available on the council’s website, http://mn.gov/mnddc. The August installment focuses on the 5,000 stories of discrimination that were collected by advocate Justin Dart. Dart used the stories to help secure passage of the ADA in Congress in 1990. (See History Note on page two.)

“The Minnesota council has a reputation for producing excellent work, and it has created many outstanding presentations over the years,” said Olin. He discussed many of his most famous shots at a council meeting, and presented the council with a framed copy of one of his best known pieces on behalf of the ADA Legacy Project.

The ADA Legacy bus tour began at the President George H. W. Bush Library in Houston, Texas and stopped at the Iowa capitol in Des Moines before coming to Minnesota. It was traveling to Washington, D.C. The ADA Legacy Project www.adalegacy.com is a national group based in Atlanta, home to the new Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Colleen Wieck, council executive director, said she was gratified by the recognition. “This was especially pleasing coming from the ADA Legacy Project, and just as Governor Dayton has issued his comprehensive executive order that will increase the employment of people with disabilities by state agencies. It should also encourage hiring efforts in the private sector,” she said.

Twelve remaining episodes in the “Moments in Disabilities History” series will be released as part of a countdown to the ADA 25th anniversary in July 2015. “The Moments in History yet to come parallel the events that occurred in passing the ADA and illustrate the commitment and courage of those who fought for fairness and justice for those who have disabilities,” said Wieck. ■

Pop-up panels told the story of the need to celebrate, preserve and education the history of the ADA and its legacy. The panels reminded visitors to celebrate their rights as people with disabilities, preserve history of past gains and educate the next generation of advocates.

Photos courtesy of Pamela Hart, The Wallace Group and Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities

Minnesota Olmstead Executive Director Darlene Zangara met noted photographer Tom Olin.

The brightly decorated bus reminds everyone that the ADA 25th anniversary is in 2015.

Buyers and sellers alike want someone with my expertise and contacts to search and list homes with accessibility.

U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank attended the tour and greeted one of the visitors.

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Kent’s Accounting Service, LLC

Certified QuickBooks Online Certified ProAdvisor 2014 2005-2013 6371 Bartlett Blvd, Mound, MN 55364

Fax: 952-472-1458 • 612-889-2959 fordyce6@aol.com

Pg 8 September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9

PEOPLE & PLACES

Robinson’s hard work will be missed As a social work intern in 1991, Cass Robinson helped establish the Arc chapter in Bemidji. Since then the chapter has developed into a beacon of hope for selfadvocates and their families in Northern Minnesota. Robinson’s commitment, hard work, and passion for the disability community culminated in July with her retirement from the position of co-executive director of what is now Arc United. Her warm presence will be missed by co-workers and self-advocates alike, who thank her for 28 years’ service.

Robinson’s work began in 1986 as a regional representative on the Arc Minnesota Board. She was hired in 1993 as a field representative covering all of northern Minnesota. She later advanced to the position of executive director of Arc Headwaters and then became co-executive director of Arc United when Arc Headwaters and Arc Central Minnesota merged.

Throughout her many years of Cass Robinson is show with some of her grandchildren service Robinson selflessly dediCourtesy photo cated herself to organizing parents, giving voice to self-advocates, and providing resources and trainings. From the beginning she’s has been known for her determination and creativity. Bev Kaler, her co-executive director said, “Cass saw a need and did something about it.”

Don Larsen, a self-advocate and member of Arc, remembers working with Robinson to start People First, a program to empower people with disabilities to take more control of their lives. He praises her willingness to try new things and work as a problem-solver.

Self-advocate Gail Larsen said Robinson is a strong advocate and teacher of self-advocates. Larsen attributes the advancement of the self-advocacy movement in Northern Minnesota to her, saying, “Cass got 17 counties in Northern Minnesota involved with the movement!”

“The Arc has been blessed to have Cass as part of this movement, it is far richer because of her presence and contributions, and there will be a huge gap to fill now that she is no longer a staff leader in The Arc United’s Bemidji office,” said Mike Gude of The Arc Minnesota.

Robinson is also an extraordinary parent. Six of her eight children have disabilities. Sharing her own experiences with other parents has helped many families.

Robinson also relied on her sense of humor to handle what can be a demanding job. She and Kaler used humor to get through difficult days.

Robinson will be missed - p. 15

September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9

PEOPLE & PLACES Winner never says never Each year, Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota, a leader in workforce development, presents its Participant of the Year award to individuals who display tremendous effort and determination while accomplishing their employment goals. Helen Edwards, this year’s winner, lives by the motto, “Never say never.

Set your mind and go after what you want.”

Abandoned at three months old, shot in the head as a teen, then abused by a husband for years, Edwards has faced many challenges. Seeking a fresh start and self-sufficiency, she found her way to Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota. She enthusiastically and diligently worked on her communication skills and confidence, while dealing with a traumatic brain injury, aphasia and depression.

“With Goodwill-Easter Seals, I learned not to let your disability get in the way of your future, of your dreams,” she said. She was recognized last month at an awards ceremony at Goodwill-Easter Seals’ main office in St. Paul.

“Helen developed her own capacity to communicate and find her voice,” said Goodwill-Easter Seals President and CEO Michael Wirth-Davis. “Her continuous improvement and development of her job skills enabled her to find a job path that is successful for her. It’s our mission to eliminate barriers to work and independence. It’s a privilege for us each to be able to be part of Helen’s success.”

She works as a housekeeper at a nursing home, where she loves her job and the residents. “I feel like they need me and I need them,” she said. “Good- Helen Edwards enjoys her work, thanks to help from Goodwill-Easter Seals will-Easter Photo courtesy of Goodwill-Easter Seals Seals helped me find my place. And helped me with things that make my life better to live, and be happy and successful in. They helped me, my whole world. It just gave me a whole different look out on life. Now I know what I can do. I had a chance to try and they were there to back me.” ■

Pg 9

Pg 10 September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9

ACCESSIBLE FUN Welcome to the Access Press Accessible Fun listings, a sampling of theater, music, arts, walks, runs, dances and gala events for our community. Readers looking for additional opportunities to enjoy the arts have these options:

Walk, Run, Roll Against Bullying More than 13 million American children are bullied each year. PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center is inviting the Minnesota communities to show support for students who are bullied at the fifth annual Run, Walk, Roll Against Bullying on Sat, Sept. 20, at Normandale Lake Park, Normandale Blvd. and 84th St., Bloomington. Registration is at 9 a.m.; the run and walk/ roll begin at 10 a.m. The entry fee is $20 per person, $10 for ages between 7 and 16, and includes a complimentary event T-shirt. Children ages 6 and under are free.

Gather pledges for the event. All proceeds support the work of PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center.

Participants and spectators will gather after the race at the Normandale Lake Band shell for entertainment, speakers, snacks, and family fun. FFI: 952-838-9000, PACER.org/bullying/nbpm/RunWalkRoll

Wine off the Vine The fundraiser for VSA Minnesota is 6-8:30 p.m. Thu, Sept. 11 at Mason’s Restaurant & Barre, 528 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. Tickets are $35, includes one drink ticket.

This fundraiser for programs of VSA Minnesota includes hors d’oeuvres, accordionist Alec Sweazy, wine connoisseur Chris Osgood, a wine pull (for $20 get a bottle that’s worth more), and a silent auction, where winners are drawn from bidder numbers placed at each item.

AlecTricity, featuring him on solo piano and accordion, copies of Alec’s new CD, will be available. Fragrancefree participation requested. FFI: 612-332-3888, http:// www.vsamn.org.

Sign Language Saturday The Minnesota Renaissance Festival hosts a day of ASL interpretation 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat., Sept. 13 at the grounds at 12364 Chestnut Blvd. (off Hwy 169, 7 miles south of Shakopee). Tickets are $22.95 (advance $19.95); child 5-12 $13.95 (advance $11.50); senior 65+ $20.95; under age 4 free. Discount tickets available online and after Aug. 5 at participating Menards, Super America and Walgreen’s. Discount coupons available after Aug. 5 at participating Subway locations. Free parking. FFI: 952-445-7361, info@renaissancefest.com, www.renaissancefest.com

RENT NAMI Walks NAMI Walks is a 5K walk to increase public awareness of mental illnesses, fight stigma, and raise funds for NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota. NAMIWalks 2014 is 1 p.m. Sat, Sept. 27 at Minnehaha Park in Mpls and the Community & Technical College in Rochester. More than 200 walk teams and nearly 4,000 people from across the state will participate. Lead a team, walk on your own, volunteer or make a donation. FFI: 651-645-2948, 1-888-NAMI-Helps, or go to www.namihelps.org and click on the NAMIWalks logo.

Walk to Defeat ALS Walks to Defeat ALS for the ALS Association will be held throughout the region this fall. The 13th St. Cloud area walk for The ALS Association, Minnesota/North Dakota/South Dakota Chapter is Sat, Sept. 13 on September 13th at Eastman Park/Lake George. Walkers’ registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the walk begins at 10 a.m. The 14th Twin Cities walk is Sat, Sept. 20 at Lake Phalen in St. Paul. Walkers’ registration begins at 8 a.m. and the Walk begins at 10 a.m. For each walk, raise $50 and receive an official Walk to Defeat ALS t-shirt. ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a degenerative disease of the central nervous system. Each case is different, but it is characterized by the death of the motor neurons, which results in a gradual wasting away of voluntary muscles, often leading to total paralysis and inability to breathe independently. FFI: 612-672-0484, www.alsmn.org, Chris@alsmn.org (St. Cloud), Jessica@alsmn.org (St. Paul)

Jonathan Larson’s Broadway hit musical will be performed by Rochester Civic Theatre at the theater at 20 Civic Center Dr. SE, Rochester. ASL show is 7 p.m. Sat, Sept. 13. Tickets are $29, senior $24, student $19. FFI: 507-282-8481, www.rochestercivictheatre.org

Tony DeBlois concerts Musician Tony DeBlois, a pianist from Massachusetts, is blind, autistic and has Savant Syndrome. He has been playing the piano since age two and graduated magna cum laude from Berklee College of Music at the age of 15. He plays 22 instruments besides piano. His Minnesota performances are 7 p.m. Sat, Sept. 13 at Church of St. Albert the Great, 2836 33rd Ave. S., Mpls. Tickets are $10, families $25. Proceeds support Our Lady of Peace Home & Hospice in St. Paul. FFI: 612-724-3643. Another concert is 2 p.m. Sun, Sept. 14 at Albert Lea Senior Citizen Center, 1739 West Main St., Albert Lea. FFI: 507373-0704; 7 p.m. Tue, Sept. 16 at Peace United Methodist Church, 500 7th St. SE, Pipestone, FFI: 507-8254348; and 7:30 p.m. Fri,. Oct. 3 at A Center for the Arts, 124 W. Lincoln Ave., Fergus Falls, FFI: 218-736-5453; $16, student $6. FFI: www.tonydeblois.com/events/

Tickets are reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for Captioning (regular $34-85). FFI: 612-377-2224, TTY 612-377-6626, www.guthrietheater.org/visit/ access_services

Marcus, or the Secret of Sweet The Guthrie Theater presents a Pillsbury House Theatre and Mount Curve Company co-production at the Guthrie Theater, Dowling Studio, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls.

This is the final installment of the Brother/Sister Plays trilogy. It’s a story of a young man’s self-discovery, set on the Louisiana bayou. ASL and AD shows are 7:30 p.m. Fri, Sept. 26. Tickets are reduced to $20 for AD/ ASL (regular $15-30). FFI: 612-377-2224, TTY 612-3776626, www.guthrietheater.org/visit/access_services.

Open Flow Forum The Artists with Disabilities Alliance and supporters meet 7-9 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at the Carleton Artist Lofts community room, 2285 University Ave. W., St. Paul. Free. Share visual art, writing, music, theatre and other artistic efforts with each other in an informal, fragrance-free setting with refreshments. Enter on the north side of the building (not the light rail side).

The meeting room is directly opposite the security entrance. Facilitators are Pamela Veeder, Mike Price and Dan Reiva. Anyone needing accommodations should contact Jon at VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or jon@vsamn.org Next gathering is Oct. 2.

The Heidi Chronicles Wendy Wasserstein’s coming of age story is performed by Guthrie Theater at the Wurtele Thrust Stage, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. ASL shows are 7:30 p.m. Fri. Oct. 3, and 1 p.m. Sat. Oct. 4. AD shows are 1 p.m. Sat, Oct. 4 and 7:30 p.m. Fri, Oct. 17. Captioning is 1 p.m. Wed, Oct. 8, 7:30 p.m. Fri. Oct. 17 and 1 p.m. Sat. Oct. 25.

Tickets are reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for Captioning (regular $34-85). FFI: 612-377-2224, TTY 612-377-6626, http://www.guthrietheater.org/visit/ access_services

More events information

The classic Chinese fable is performed by Guthrie Theater at its McGuire Proscenium Stage, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. Captioning is 1 p.m. Wed. Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m.

Fri. Oct.10, and 1 p.m. Sat. Oct. 11. AD shows are 1 p.m. Sat. Sept. 27 and 7:30 p.m. Fri. Oct. 3. ASL shows are 1 p.m. Sat. Sept. 27, and 7:30 p.m. Fri. Oct.10.

VSA Minnesota is at http://vsamn.org The website has a large calendar at in the upper right hand corner of its home page. 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.

Another web events’ listing is http://c2net.org (c2: caption coalition, inc.), which does most of the captioned shows across the country. Facebook is another way to connect with performances. Sign up to connect with Audio Description Across Minnesota (http://tinyurl.com/ d34dzo2). Connect with ASL Interpreted and Captioned Performances across Minnesota on Facebook http:// tinyurl.com/FBcaption ■

New transportation - from p. 1 St. Paul City Council members are reviewing the mayor’s budget this fall and will discuss what resources should be used to regulate the vehicles. But at least one City Council member doesn’t think the transportation network services should be allowed at all.

“I have a number of objections,” said Ward Two Council Member Dave Thune. One is access and whether riders with disabilities will be left out if vehicles are not accessible. Another is passenger safety and vehicle insurance requirements. Taxicab drivers have their backgrounds checked and can lose their licenses due to criminal convictions.

“We don’t have the same kind of safeguards for drivers for these alternative services,” said Thune.

“I worry about riders who may be vulnerable.”

In July Minneapolis became the sixth city in the country to legalize such services. Proponents contended. The taxi industry claims unfair competition, especially because Minneapolis now has a two-tier rate structure that charges taxi companies more than transportation network companies charge.

People with disabilities have raised concerns about the Minneapolis action for various reasons. The primary concern raised by the Minnesota State Council on Disability is that as part of its approval for transportation network services, the Minneapolis City Council removed a requirement that taxicab compa-

nies provide a mandatory number of wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

Advocates contend that the requirement was never adequately enforced, and now it could result in even fewer accessible cabs. There are also fears that transportation network services won’t provide accessible vehicles. Services like UberX and Lyft have indicated they will provide an accessible vehicle if one is requested. But advocates question how that will work when personal vehicles are used for transport of passengers. (See related story above.)

In Minneapolis, transportation network services must pre-arrange passenger pickups and cannot pick up riders at cab stands or on the street. Also, the new transportation network services are allowed to raise rates without going through a city review and approval process.

The Minneapolis ordinance distinguishes the companies from taxicabs. That city has set up a licensing process and spells out what type of insurance must be carried. Insurance for companies like UberX and Lyft is complicated as plans become hybrids tying in a driver’s personal policy for the personal use of his or her vehicle.

St. Paul will approve its budget and resources for transportation network services regulations by year’s end. A separate ordinance process will be needed for specific new regulations, with a series of readings and a public hearing before the City Council. ■

The White Snake

September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9 Pg 11

Sign up for Adventure

UPCOMING EVENTS Advocacy Person-Centered Thinking: Putting You in Charge The Arc Minnesota 2014 State Conference, PersonCentered Thinking: Putting You in Charge, is Sat, Nov. 15 at the Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N., Shoreview. The one-day gathering will give selfadvocates and family members the conceptual knowledge and practical skills to advocate for and help create services that meet their needs, desires, and dreams. As part of the conference, The Arc Minnesota will give its annual awards for Minnesotans and Minnesota organizations whose work helps citizens with disabilities become included, participating, and valued members of their communities. Nominations are due Sept. 15, 2014.

FFI: Mike Gude, 651-604-8066; mikeg@arcmn.org Creative Housing Conference The Arc Greater Twin Cities is teaming up with Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties to offer Creative Housing: Bringing the Pieces Together, a conference Sat, Sept. 20, at the Holiday Inn, 2201 Burns Ave., Maplewood. Keynote speakers will be Sean Burke and Lance Hegland. Burke is an attorney at The Disability Law Center at Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid. He is the Jacob E. Pritzker Fellow working on integrated housing options, services and supports for persons with disabilities.

Hegland is a civic innovator, entrepreneur and former Bush Fellow. There will be three breakout sessions, each session offering a choice of four presentations geared for participants at beginning, intermediate and advanced levels of experience. There will also be a resource fair with information from a variety of vendors and service providers. Cost is $25 per person. FFI: 952-920-0855; www.arcgreatertwincities.org/housing-conference Talk about transition The Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) is partnering with several organizations in greater Minnesota to offer “Let’s Talk About Transition” community meetings in multiple cities this fall. Meetings will focus on discussion about improving transition services, employment, and post-secondary education opportunities for students with all disabilities. These community conversations will be offered in St. Cloud, Minneapolis, Bemidji, Cloquet, Northfield, Marshall, Rochester and Brainerd in September, October and November. FFI: Kim Kang, 612-387-6509, kimdakang@gmail.com, www.ausm.org Olmstead forum set Work on Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan continues. Why Olmstead Matters: Implications for Higher Education is a forum 9-11 a.m. Wed, Oct. 1 at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota. Check the state’s Olmstead website for details. FFI: opc.public@state.mn.us

Youth and families Essay contest offered Lions Club International sponsors is sponsoring an essay contest for students with visual impairments. Students must be 11, 12 or 13 years of age on Nov. 15. Local prizes will be awarded as well as one grand prize winner of US $5,000. Deadline is Nov. 15. The contest theme is “Peace, Love and Understanding.”

The contest may be sponsored in a local school(s) or organized, sponsored youth group(s), or individuals may be sponsored as well. Essays must be no longer than 500 words in length, submitted in English, type-written in black ink and double-spaced. Each essay must be submitted with a completed entry form. FFI: Debra Wasserman, 507-332-2792, liondebra@charter.net PACER offers workshops PACER Center offers many useful free or low-cost workshops and other resources for families of children with any kind of disabilities. Workshops are at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, unless specified. Advance registration is required for all workshops. Check out PACER’s website and link to a bimonthly newsletter of workshops statewide that allows participants to pick and choose sessions catered to their needs. One upcoming free workshop is on assistive technology for young children, 6:30-8 p.m. Tue, Sept. 16 at PACER Center. Technology can be especially powerful when introduced to children at a young age, but infants, toddlers, and preschoolers are often left out of discussions about assistive technology. This workshop will introduce parents to a variety of AT that can help young learners ages birth to 5. A second free upcoming workshop is “Everything You Need to Learn Before Your Child Turns 3, 6:30-8 p.m. Mon, Sept. 22 at PACER Center, The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

St. David’s Center for Child & Family Development offers AfterSchool Adventure in four community settings including one in Twin Cities communities. Adventure is a therapeutic recreation program for teens and young adults with special needs, ages 11 and older. A fun, structured group environment provides socialization opportunities, helping teens build friendships, be active and healthy, and become involved members of their community. Health and wellness are key components to Adventure. Thanks to a grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Adventure participants learn about healthy food choices while taking cooking classes. They participate in yoga and Zumba and have weekly bowling outings. Library visits, creative arts and more fill that time between the end of the school day and dinner, supporting working families. Volunteer projects such as recycling and visiting nursing homes provide meaningful community engagement.

The program is located in Brooklyn Park at Edgewood Education Program participants enjoy many fun activities.

Center; Minneapolis at the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Photo courtesy of St. David’s Center Center; Richfield at South Education Center, and St. Louis Park at the Middle School. Days and hours vary by location and participants need to pre-register. Registration is now open for the 2014-2015 school year. To learn more about After-School Adventure, call 952.548.8700 or go to www.stdavidscenter.org/adventure. The cost of Adventure is covered by DD Waivers, CSG/FSG, PCA respite hours and/or private pay. Scholarships are available. ■ requires states to provide certain services to eligible children with disabilities. Children up to age 3 receive early childhood services under Part C of IDEA. Children ages 3 to 5 receive preschool services under Part B. This free workshop will help parents understand the important aspects of transitioning from Part C to Part B services.FFI: 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237 (toll free), www.PACER.org

Progression course for teens The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota holds a free, 6-session course designed to empower young people to take charge of their lives and deal with the issues they are facing in a healthy and effective way.

The course helps teens understand how to maintain good mental health; how to recognize signs of stress, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder; how to help friends, siblings and parents understand what they are going through and different types of treatment options. It will be held in St. Paul 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thu, Oct. 2 to Nov. 6, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 700 S. Snelling Ave. Registration is required. FFI: Andrea Lee, 651-645-2948 ext.106.

Information and assistance MCIL offers classes, more The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living offers many life skills classes as well as fun outings and activities for people with disabilities. MCIL is located at 530 N. Robert Street. St Paul and most activities are there or start there. Classes and events are listed on the website, www.mcil-mn.org Click on “Classes Groups and Sessions” for updated information or to print this calendar.

Please give 2 weeks’ notice if alternative format or other accommodations are needed. Events are free, accessible and mostly scent-free. FFI: 651-603-2030 Adult support groups offered Autism Society of Minnesota offers free support groups for adults with autism spectrum disorder. Groups include those for adult family members, women with autism spectrum disorders and independent adults with autism. Groups meet monthly throughout 2014. Groups meet monthly at the AuSM offices at 2380 Wycliff St, St Paul. FFI: 651-647-1083 ext. 10, www.ausm.org UCare meetings UCare hosts informational meetings about its UCare for Seniors Medicare Advantage plan, as well as informational meetings about the UCare’s new UCare Choices and Fairview UCare Choices health plans available on MNsure, Minnesota’s health insurance marketplace.

Learn about the various plans, as well as key dates and penalties associated with health care reform. 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, www.ucare.org Journey of Hope Journey of Hope for People Affected by Chronic Condition” is an alternative Christian/Interfaith church that focuses on spiritual growth rather than specific beliefs or doctrine. The congregation is currently meeting one or two Thursday afternoons a month at J. Arthur’s Coffee, 2441 Rice St., Roseville for a time of worship followed by a time for support. The congregation is looking for

people to join in this ministry by, and for, people affected by chronic conditions of any kind, and the people who love and support them. People with a heart for seeking out people who have become isolated because of their health issues, and welcoming them into the community, are needed to join. Journey of Hope is open to all. The congregation is looking for a technical volunteer who is familiar with Google Hangouts, who can set up the equipment before the meeting and run the Hangout on Air. Also sought are one or two musicians who can serve as substitutes for the primary musician. FFI: Susan, 651-689-3374; http://journeymn.org Mental health support offered The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota offers free support groups for families who have a relative with a mental illness. NAMI has about two dozen family support groups, more than 20 support groups for people living with a mental illness, anxiety support groups, groups for veterans and other groups. Led by trained facilitators, groups provide help and support. FFI: 651645-2948. A full calendar of all events is offered online.

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 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 family support group meets in Oakdale on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, from 7:00-8:30 p.m., at Canvas Health, 7066 Stillwater Blvd., in the community room.

FFI: Dan, 651-341-8918. ■

Pg 12 September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9 Nominees - from p. 5 or members with a specific disability. It offers educational programs at presbytery meetings to acquaint clergy and other church leaders with disability issues.

Helping people with disabilities use their gifts and talents, in the church and in the greater community, is another focus.

The ministry works with other faith groups and with secular disability organizations in conducting seminars, conferences and educational events. It provides leadership to the Presbyterian Church USA on disability issues and is recognized as the most effective disability service group in the church nationally.

The Disabilities Concerns Ministry’s educational and advocacy programs have increased awareness of disability issues to church members, who then spread the word through their own contacts. Its website states, “It is not enough to enable people with disabilities to enter the buildings. The body of Christ is not whole when we are not able to embrace the gifts of all members. Like all Christians, persons with disabilities have been given gifts to use in the service of God. In addition, persons with disabilities may have gifts of patience, creativity, and perseverance they have learned by living with disabilities.”

The ministry is a mixture of people: clergy, lay leaders and church members. Some members are people with disabilities. White canes, service dogs and wheelchairs are prominent at meetings. Other members have hidden disabilities. Still other members are or have been primary caregivers for a person with a disability. Members hold other leadership positions in their home congregations, in the regional church and nationally. Over the past two decades, members of the Twin Cities ministry have participated in planning or providing leadership for national events centered on disability.

Nationally, the Presbyterian church has been a leader on access issues. In 1978, the national church adopted a major policy statement on access. But until concerned volunteers founded the Disabilities Concerns Ministry in the Twin Cities, there hadn’t been a group that functioned at such a high level of service and commitment.

Before the Disabilities Concerns Ministry was established, few churches were active in meeting the needs of people with disabilities. Inaction and inaccessibility forced people with disabilities to not be involved with churches. The experience of Presbyterian churches and other faith-based groups is that there must be a catalyst for changes to take place.

Without the encouragement, education and advocacy of the Disabilities Concerns Ministry, it is not likely that the churches would be as welcoming and support-

Donations to our fundraiser not only help Access Press, they provide visibility for your organization or group.

We’re looking for art, gift items, jewelry, gift cards, certificates and more.

Please contact Dawn at (651)644-2133 or by email at dawn@accesspress.org if interested in donating an item.

ive of people with disabilities as they are today.

The ministry began as a committee at North Como Presbyterian Church in Roseville, in 1986. In the days before the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the focus was on awareness and physical accessibility of buildings. Education, consultation services and surveys of programs and facilities were offered.

In the 1990s it began to work extensively with other religious groups on disability issues as well as with secular groups. One accomplishment was a “Beyond the Ramp” conference, held with the National Organization on Disability.

As more churches added features for physical accessibility, the Disabilities Concerns Ministry broadened its approach to emphasize how churches could recognize and use the gifts of members with disabilities. It also emphasized the role attitudes and perceptions play in showing the extent to which persons with disabilities were excluded from meaningful involvement in congregational life. The ministry has expanded its focus from physical disabilities to issues of autism, mental illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, developmental disabilities and aging.

One of the ministry’s strengths has always been its ability to change with the times, to better serve congregations and the community. The 2014-2015 program year includes a multi-denominational conference on children, a program for the presbytery on veterans’ issues and moral injury, and development of new programs for adults. One member will be working the national church organization to implement a program to help staff become more attuned to disability issues.

JANE ELIAS Through an art career spanning almost 30 years, Jane Elias has always strived for involvement in the community where she works and lives. Most recently she has led the expansion of her South Minneapolis open studio, Simply Jane, into the nonprofit orJane Elias ganization of Simply ArtAble. As the creative director of Simply ArtAble, Elias is moving closer to her vision of teaching and sharing the healing aspects of creating art with and for people all ages and abilities.

Nominator Carol Marshall wrote, “Jane Elias is truly the creative spark for turning the concept of providing a painting experience for people of all ages and abilities into a reality. Without her dream and dedication, ArtAble would not have been created. She is working tirelessly and selflessly to make this new nonprofit become relevant and self-sustaining because she believes artistic expression is truly important for expressing one’s identity and is a healing activity.”

Growing up in a large family influenced Elias’ life path. Her father was a school guidance director and her mother was an art and music therapist. She grew up being aware of people with disabilities, helping with her mother’s work and being aware of other students helped by her father.

At age 13, Elias began volunteering at the Dakota County Children’s Home, spending time helping and playing with children with disabilities. She later had a niece with cerebral palsy, and experience with mental illness with other family members. On her website, Elias said, “When I look back at my life, the path that I have taken seems pretty straightforward, but honestly, I just blindly took one step after the other, faithfully following the spirit that moved me.”

Elias is a tireless advocate for using art to help everyone, regardless of ability, to express and heal themselves. She ends all of her painting sessions by saying, “Everyone is a Fabulous Artist.”

Simply ArtAble classes and workshops are offered in association with Simply Jane open artist studio and all are taught by professional teaching artists who give the attention that students need to move forward in the creative realm. Participants will learn a variety of skills in arts and crafts, important social skills as well as learn to engage creatively with other students.

Everyone loves the silent auction and pick your prize raffle at the annual Access Press Charlie Smith Award banquet.

Donations are still needed. Contact Dawn at 651-644-2133 or dawn@accesspress.org for details.

The studio may also be reserved for groups, parties, field trips, private lessons, classes and more.

The studio began in 2007 and has evolved over time. Elias offers low-cost art programming for adults and children with disabilities. Participants can buy items to paint.

Elias has worked to make her studio ADA-compliant so that professional paints, brushes, equipment and artistic techniques are available for everyone. The studio is wheelchair accessible. Ramps were installed as well as an automatic door opener. Equipment was purchased for accessible art programming.

While the studio offers ample space for creative expression for artists of all levels of ability and space for special events, Elias also is reaching out to do workshops off-site. She has led workshops at Fraser, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Children’s Hospital, nursing homes and other places.

With diligence, commitment and empathy, Elias provides a creative and life-affirming experience for individuals of all ages and abilities. In 2013 Simply Jane and Simply ArtAble reached more than 6,000 artists. Art healing programs served 710 people. Summer camps attracted 135 children. The number of pieces of art produced was impressive, with 2,000 birthday canvases painted and presented, 2,500 paintings made in a drop-in painting program and 435 masterpieces created in adult classes. Many budding artists have enjoyed these programs. Professional artists provide guidance and encouragement.

The studio and its programs have grown to the point that Elias was able to hire her first full-time staff member last year. She has been able to expand the studio and its offerings through state and regional arts funding, and a grant from her neighborhood business association.

Elias produced a coloring book, Art Simply Heals.

The whimsical coloring book, which is a fundraiser for her programs, allows people to experience the healing therapy of art.

Elias holds a B.S. degree in fine art and design from the University of Minnesota. She is a board member for the Tangletown Neighborhood Association. She has served on its committees for the Neighborhood Revitalization Program, arts and murals. She has been active at Linden Hills United Church of Christ and in the Minnesota Arts in Healthcare Network.

ALAN PETERS Can Do Canines is celebrating 25 years of service to Minnesota residents.

Throughout that time, Alan Peters has been instrumental in enhancing the lives of people with disabilities by creating mutually beneficial relationships with specially trained dogs.

Alan Peters Beginning with the first dog adopted from an animal shelter and trained to be a hearing assist dog, Peters has tirelessly led Can Do Canines in finding new and innovative ways to help people with disabilities. He envisions a world in which everyone who needs and wants an assistance dog can have one. His vision expands with every new program Can Do Canines adds to its services.

The organization Peters founded continues to train Nominees - p. 13

September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9 Pg 13

assistance dog trainers from 20 organizations in North America and Europe.

Peters is described as single-minded in his purpose, and focused like a laser on his vision for the future of Can Do Canines. His persistence has paid off in a talented, tireless staff, dedicated volunteers, and a stateof-the-art facility for training dogs and pairing them with the people they can best serve. Without Can Do Canines founder and Executive Director Alan Peters at the helm, none of this would have happened.

Music is always a highlight of the Charlie Smith Award banquet.

File photo

Nominees - from p. 12 dogs for people who are deaf or profoundly hard of hearing, and has broadened its scope to provide dogs for people with mobility challenges, seizure disorders, type one diabetes and children with autism.

Because of Peters’ single-minded dedication to finding new ways that dogs could help people, more than 450 individuals and dogs have successfully graduated from Can Do Canines’ training programs to become certified assistance dog teams.

Peters was a successful business man in the Twin Cities when he discovered how the deep bond between a person and a devoted dog could transform a life. One of his first goals was to develop financial support for the organization that would allow him to place dogs with people at no cost. He knew that the people he wanted to help wouldn’t likely have financial means to purchase a fully trained assistance dog.

Can Do Canines continues to place assistance dogs at no cost to their human partners.

Leading by example, Peters looks beyond perceived limitations in his quest to find new ways to train dogs to help people. Can Do Canines client service coordinators consider each client’s individual needs before setting up partnerships. The trainers then teach the dog the special skills needed for each client.

As an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI), Can Do Canines is on the cutting edge of the newest assistance dog programs. Peters pioneered the training of diabetes assist dogs in Minnesota. After learning of a Canadian organization training assistance dogs to help children with autism, he brought the program to upper Midwestern families.

As executive director, Peters strives for the highest standards of quality in all of Can Do Canines’ endeavors. He continues to ensure that every member of the organization upholds standards of respect for each individual, and personal accountability for outcomes. he insists that every assistance dog team graduating from Can Do Canines represents a win-win future for the client and the dog.

Clients praise the assistance they have received.

Krista M. said of her seizure assist dog, “Dexter makes me feel safe; I can function. He’s changed my life—physically and mentally.” Individuals and families have greater freedom, independence and peace of mind. Their dependence on medical caregivers is reduced, cutting down on healthcare costs. Multiply their experience by the thousands of positive interactions Can Do Canines graduates have with family, friends, volunteers, neighbors, employers and coworkers, and the importance of Peters’ dedication and the positive impact Can Do Canines has on the community becomes clear.

In 2005, Peters began a training program that brought puppies into correctional facilities in Minnesota to be trained in basic obedience skills by selected inmates. The program has shown to not only result in superbly trained puppies, but benefits inmates as well.

Many say it is the first time in their lives they have felt they’ve had a positive purpose. Wardens and prison staff report greater compliance with the rules and fewer behavior problems in the cell units where puppies have lived.

Peters is also a national assistance dog community leader. Last year Can Do Canines hosted an international Diabetes Alert Dog Training Seminar at their facility in New Hope, for more than 40 professional

STEVE QUINN Steve Quinn is a man who goes above and beyond the call of duty to help others.

He has worked for and with the clients of Courage Center, now Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Center, for more than 30 years. He has built strong and lasting relationships with clients, providers Steve Quinn and vendors. His work in the driver assessment and training program is based on principles of respect and loyalty.

Quinn specializes in the prescription of and training with the use of adaptive driving equipment for cars and modifications for vans. He provides behind-thewheel evaluations and in-vehicle training along with behind-the-wheel services at Polinsky Medical Rehabilitation Center in Duluth.

He is active in the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists.

He goes with students when they go for their drivers’ examinations and understands the importance a getting a driver’s license has for people who have not had a license before.

One client, Amy, was a driving assessment and training client. She said of Quinn, “I appreciated your help because my continued employability is important to me. My ability to drive means a great deal to my non-working life as well. The work you do is important and matters.”

Another client, Benjamin, said Quinn helped him every step of the way. “I was nervous, but Steve was calm, laid back, and very easy to understand. He quietly told me what to do, giving me plenty of time in advance to do it. And he gave me many smart driving tips, like, always using all the mirrors and continuously scanning around me to anticipate any hazards.”

He also has had to give people the difficult news that they can no longer be behind the wheel, after conducting driving assessments.

Quinn became involved with Courage Center as a teenager. His aunt was one of the first people in its residential program and he’d ride his bike to see her.

He became a resident assistant at Courage Center after high school graduation and helped residents learn daily living skills. He continued to work at there while attending college. He later became involved in transportation programs there and was involved with the start of the adapted driving program. Quinn once told a reporter, “Teaching a new driver is an indescribable feeling.”

Quinn has spearheaded programs and policy changes to help the community recognize the importance of driving independence. Being able to drive not only creates self-worth, it also makes people feel like worthwhile community members. People who gain the independence of driving are more integrated into the community. They can work, attend school, see family members and be active.

Program participants are assessed to see if they can maintain control of vehicles. A variety of tests are also given. If participants get through the assessment successfully, it’s on to driving lessons. Participants are also evaluated to see if any assistive technology is needed.

“How many people do you know that have stayed at a job helping those with varying abilities, for over 30 years?” said Chris Becker of Cummings Mobility.

Becker nominated Quinn for the Charlie Smith Award. “It can be a frustrating job due to funding limitations, community acceptance and the part of the job that requires him to tell people ‘no.’ Many people burn out, but he just picks up speed every year.”

In 2010 Quinn was recognized by the Minnesota STAR Program for Excellence in Assistive Technology. Their recognition included statements indicating Quinn was the first ever Lifetime Achievement Awardee. At that time Ray Griffin of Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation Services said “I am continually impressed with his dedication to assisting people with disabilities regain their transportation independence. I have worked with dozens of people that he has helped, and all have high praise for his competence and easy demeanor. He has often worked extra time and longer hours to assist our mutual consumers in acquiring and ensuring safe operation of adaptive driving equipment. He has a way of making the process go easier for the consumer, vendor and assisting agency.”

Quinn has also been given a Congressional Commendation for his dedication to assisting people with disabilities and has also been honored by the Minnesota Legislature.

Quinn lives in Brooklyn Park. He and his wife Amy, who attended Park Center High School together, have been married for more than 30 years.

The family includes two children.

GLADYS TOLLEFSON A dedication to their son and others with disabilities inspired Anoka residents Chet and Gladys Tollefson and in turn helped them to inspire others.

Gladys, Loring and Chet Tollefson The Tollefsons were instrumental in starting Rise, Inc. 40 years ago.

The Tollefsons’ son Loring was developmentally disabled. The Tollefsons wanted their son to have the opportunity to go to work when he was finished with public school. But years ago very few meaningful work opportunities were available.

Nominees - p. 15 CHET

AND

Pg 14 September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9

September Sampling

Radio Talking Book DEED Website has changed State Services for the Blind is part of the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).The staff at DEED is constantly trying to improve the website for people trying to use it to find information.

As part of that constant upgrade, the areas dealing with blindness and limited vision have been changing. Find all the changes by going to the site at www.mnssb.org The headlines of the sections are: Living with Vision Loss; Employment and Career Services; Services for Employers; Services for Teens; Notices and Reports; Contact SSB; Braille, Radio, Talking Book, News; Services for Seniors; State Council for the Blind; Information for Our Venders; Donate or Volunteer. There’s something there for everyone.

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 Call 1-800722-0550, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The catalog is online at www.mnbtbl.org, click on the link Search the Library Catalog. Persons living outside of Minnesota may obtain copies of books via inter-library loan 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 previous week, on the Internet at www.mnssb.org/rtb. Call the Talking Book Library for a password to the site. To find more information about Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network events go to the Facebook site at http://tinyurl.com/ RadioTalkBook. Audio information about the daily book listings is also on NFB Newslines. Register for NFB Newslines by calling 651-539-1424.

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

Weekend Program Books

Talk Like TED, by Carmine Gallo, and Recover to Live,

by Christopher Kennedy Lawford; For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing Dr. Bird’s Advice for Sad Poets, by Evan Roskos, and Goblin Secrets, by William Alexander; Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing This Day, by Wendell Berry; The U.S. and Us (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing Potluck Supper with Meeting to Follow,

by Andy Sturdevant.

Chautauqua • Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m.

Wish You Happy Forever, Nonfiction by Jenny Bowen, 2014. Nine broadcasts. Begins Sept. 30. When Jenny Bowen saw how much her adopted daughter had blossomed since leaving her Chinese orphanage, Jenny was inspired to form Half the Sky. Through her work with Half the Sky, she has helped more than one hundred thousand children. Read by June Prange.

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

Ready for a Brand New Beat, Nonfiction by Mark Kurlansky, 2013. 10 broadcasts. Begins Sept. 23. When Marvin Gaye wrote “Dancing in the Street” in 1964, it was supposed to be an upbeat dance recording about the joyousness of dance. But the song became one of the anthems of American pop culture. Read by Lannois Neely.

Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

The Invention of Wings, Fiction by Sue Monk Kidd, 2013. 13 broadcasts. Begins Sept. 24. When Sarah, from a rich Charleston family, turns eleven, she is given her own slave, Hetty, to be her handmaid. Hetty, also known as “Handful,” yearns for life beyond the suffocating walls of her life. Read by Sue McDonald.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

Vacationland, Fiction by Sara Stonich, 2013.

13 broadcasts. Begins Sept. 25. In northern Minnesota at Naledi Lodge, many people cross paths, many memories exist of former days. Meg, who was there as a girl, is now an artist painting images reflected across the mirrors of memory and water. L - Read by Nancy Felknor.

PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

Big Tent, Nonfiction edited by Mallory Factor, 2014.

13 broadcasts. Begins Sept. 15. As a survey of the Con-

Your Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing

Home care workers unionize - from p. 1 With a voice through a union, we are confident we will finally see the changes needed to make this work invisible no more.”

“Despite the importance of our work caring for Minnesotans in every corner of the state, our work still lacks the respect it deserves,” said Rosemary Van Vickle, a home care worker from Crosby. “Workers deserve things like fair pay, better training and paid time off. Because we love our work and the people we serve, we have come together to fight for change. After years of struggle just to get a vote, today we are so excited to have won our union. With our collective

servative movement over three centuries, the writers in Big Tent focus on conservative figures and ideas. Read

by Art Nyhus.

Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

Destroyer Angel, Fiction by Nevada Barr, 2014.

12 broadcasts. Begins Sept. 29. On vacation, Anna Pigeon is in Upper Michigan with friends. As she nears camp after a solo canoe ride on their second day, she hears voices – and they aren’t her friends’ voices. L Read by Isla Hejny.

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

Claire of the Sea Light, Fiction by Edwidge Danticat, 2013. Seven broadcasts. Begins Sept. 22. Claire is born into love and tragedy in Haiti. On the night of Claire’s seventh birthday, when her father has decided to give her away to give her a better life, she disappears. Read

by Esmé Evans.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 11 p.m.

The Family, Nonfiction by David Laskin, 2014.

14 broadcasts. Begins Sept. 23. A century and a half ago, a Torah scribe and his wife raised their children at the edge of the Russian empire, expecting them to carry family traditions into future generations. L - Read by Chris Colestock.

Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnight Carthage, Fiction by Joyce Carol Oates, 2014.

21 broadcasts. Begins Sept. 15. Zeno Mayfield’s daughter has disappeared into the wilds of the Adirondacks.

When the community of Carthage joins in its search for her, they discover an unlikely suspect, a decorated veteran with close ties to the Mayfield family. L - Read by Rachael Freed.

After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.

The Pagan Lord, Fiction by Bernard Cornwell, 2014.

13 broadcasts. Begins Sept. 26. At the beginning of the tenth century, Edward is king of Wessex and it survives for the time. But Cnut Longsword and his Vikings are ready to invade. Eventually each Saxon kingdom will be drawn into bloody battle with the Danes. V,L - Read by John Mandeville.

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

voice, we will be strong in our fight for improvements for both workers and the people we serve.”

Union critics are bringing forward many concerns about unionization. In a statement, Rep. Tara Mack, R-Apple Valley, said “There are significant concerns about the conduct of this election given that barely one in 10 affected providers supported public sector unionization, but any regulations agreed to between the union and state could affect all care providers.”

Litigation against the union is likely to continue.

A bid by a group of workers to stop the election failed last month. The National Right to Work Legal Foun-

dation, which represented the workers, said it plans to refile a motion for an injunction against the law now that the union is authorized.

“No one is opposing the right of individual homecare providers to freely associate with the union if they choose, but the issue raised in this legal challenge is whether those individuals who don’t want anything to do with the union can have it imposed on them,” Mark Mix, the group’s president, said in a statement. “That’s why the providers’ legal challenge to this forced unionism scheme will go forward.” ■

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September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9 Pg 15

Nominees - from p. 13 The Tollefsons believed it would be great if Loring and his peers in the Anoka County area could experience how good it feels to put in an honest day’s labor and earn an honest day’s pay. But, there needed to be services and programs developed to help Loring and others reach their own personal potential and become active, contributing members of the community.

Chet Tollefson was determined to make a future for his son and others so they would not be relegated to institutions or stuck at home with little to do. He started asking other parents and local community leaders to help him with a “little project.” And they did.

On August 2, 1971, Rise opened its doors for business with four trainees, all of whom had developmental disabilities, and two trainers. The first office was in a little room at the Anoka County Fairgrounds in Anoka.

Rise grew from there, hiring its first executive director in 1976. Although the nonprofit has had its ups and downs in its early years, the Tollefsons were among the key leaders who kept the agency on course. They led efforts to help Rise grow and to become what it is today.

Today Rise has 19 office locations throughout the Twin Cities and Central Minnesota areas. Its corporate offices are located in Spring Lake Park. Rise now serves people who have a wide range of disabilities, including mental health, intellectual/developmental, physical, emotional, sensory (hearing and

visual), learning, traumatic and acquired brain injury, and other disabilities.

Rise also serves refugees and immigrants who have other barriers to employment such as language, culture, lack of transferable work skills, little education, transportation, and diagnosed and undiagnosed disabilities.

In addition, Rise serves people who are receiving Minnesota Families Investment Program assistance, who are striving to move from welfare to employment.

Rise offers a wide variety of career planning, training, employment, school-to-work transition, job placement services, and follow-up support services. It also offers mental health housing support services such as independent living skills training, transitional housing, outreach to people who are homeless or at risk of being homeless, and other housing supports.

Rise also recognizes the importance of personal growth in all aspects of one’s life. People participating in Rise’s day training and habilitation programs have opportunities to engage in life enrichment activities as part of their weekday schedule, including community volunteer projects, art classes, and participation in the Consumer Advisory Council.

In 2013, Rise served more than 4,000 people in more than 40 programs offered throughout the Twin Cities and Central Minnesota. Since 1971, Rise has served more than 22,000 people. Rise has 360 people on staff.

But it all began with one family. Loring Tollefson

died in 2002 but not before he and many others reaped the benefits Rise provides.

Without Chet and Gladys Tollefson’s will and determination, Rise would not be here today. They brought together people of various disciplines to serve as volunteers — business people, policymakers, government officials, employers, transportation providers, special educators, social service professionals, community leaders, as well as family members. With their urging, these volunteers were willing and able to lend their expertise, time and energy to get Rise off the ground. They hung tight through the early turbulent years, and hired a great team to lead them toward a successful future.

In 2011 The Arc Minnesota presented Chet and Gladys Tollefson with the presented the Betty Hubbard Family Advocacy Award for their leadership and vision in creating Rise, Inc. The Tollefsons were also instrumental in starting special education classes in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. Gladys Tollefson, who died in 2013, worked as an aide in the school district for many years. She was also a woman of strong faith and was active in Zion Lutheran Church in Anoka, serving as Sunday School teacher and in the women’s group.

She worked with the Rise Woman’s Auxiliary raising money for the sheltered workshop. ■

2014 Charlie Smith award winners - from p. 1 into the working world means a lot to people. It means lot in our culture.

When you meet someone new, one of the first things they ask is, ‘What do you do?’ To be able to answer with confidence and say, this is what I do — that means a lot to people.”

DeVore is driven to help people with disabilities for personal reasons. “My mother was deaf,” she said.

“We lived in a small town and even though she was a very capable woman, a lot of doors were not open to her.”

“We know that people of various abilities want to and many do all levels of work, and we want to make sure that barriers are out of their way.”

Winning the award is a huge honor, said DeVore.

But she said it should be shared with all of the agency’s staff.

Kristin Jorenby, chairperson of the Access Press Board of Directors, said, “the winners were chosen from a strong field of candidates. It is always wonderful to read about all the great work that is happening within the disability community, however, it makes choosing the winner for the award difficult,” she said.

She said, “Marble and DeVore are very deserving of the honor. The board of directors is pleased to recognize work being done in areas of the community that tend to be acknowledged less often.”

Access Press Executive Director Tim Benjamin said that in a very strong field of candidates, Marble and DeVore stood out for their commitment to people with disabilities. “Minnesotans who are deaf, blind, deafblind, low vision and hard of hearing face many obstacles,” he said. “This year’s winners have gone the extra mile to provide work opportunities and social activities for people who would otherwise be isolated and marginalized. Christine and Wendy truly exemplify the spirit in which Charlie Smith lived his life, doing what needed to be done just because it needed to be done.”

“The real reason I think they deserve recognition is that Chris and Wendy never seek recognition or accolades for the wonderful work that they do – for them it is a labor of love, and the satisfaction of helping others is the reason they do what they do,” said nominator Tony Berka. “It has been said that: ‘It takes a village’ and I also believe that it takes dedicated unselfish individuals to truly make a village all that it can be. Chris and Wendy are such individuals.”

They not only help peopled to successfully integrate into the community and the work force but also works with employers, police departments, and a wide variety of community organizations to educate and to facilitate communication and understanding, which benefits everyone.

In many states in the United States, deaf, blind and deafblind people are left to sit on the sidelines because it is believed that they cannot be employed and that they cannot live independent lives. Marble and DeVore are working to change that stereotype and to help each individual become integrated into society.

They’re teaching deaf students how to cook, balance a checkbook, ride the bus, rent a place to stay, and all the other life skills, so they can be independent and live life fully.

They have been instrumental in finding people jobs and ensuring all the accommodations are in place to make it a successful fit. Marble and DeVore enhance the community, individual by individual, adding diversity, culture, and utilizing skills in people which would otherwise be unrecognized.

Marble received a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Minnesota in 1989 and an A.A.S. from St. Paul College’s Interpreter/Transliterator Program in 1997. She is the co-founder and chief executive officer of Career Ventures, Inc. and is a nationally certified American Sign Language Interpreter. She has worked as a freelance and video relay interpreter as well as an adjunct faculty member at St. Paul College where she taught classes in the Interpreter/Trans-

literator Program. She currently serves on the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind, as well as its Employment Committee and DeafBlind Committee.

Additionally, she has given presentations at the national level on a variety of disability and employmentrelated topics, and has had articles published in professional journals.

DeVore received a B.S. in Sociology from Augsburg College in 1995. She is a child of a deaf parent and is a native signer of American Sign Language. She is co-founder and chief operating officer of Career Ventures, Inc. and is a nationally certified interpreter, professionally interpreting for more than 20 years. Wendy currently serves as the chairperson for the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind Transition Subcommittee.

DeVore is a former police officer and is founder of Community Solutions: Crime Prevention and Safety for People who are Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, and DeafBlind. This program focuses on the safety of people in the deaf community, as well as the education of law enforcement personnel. ■

CLASSIFIEDS

Access Press Classifieds are $14 for the first 12 and 65¢ per word thereafter.

They must be prepaid. Mail to: Access Press care of The Kelly Inn Offices; 161 St. Anthony Ave; #910; St. Paul, MN 55103.

651-644-2133 • FAX 651-644-2136 • Email: access@accesspress.org

FOR RENT Lewis Park Apartments: Barrier-free housing with Calvary Center Apts: 7650 Golden Valley Road, wheelchair users in mind. Section 8 subsidized. One- Golden Valley, MN. A Section 8 building now and two-bedroom units. For more information on avail- accepting applications for our waiting list. Call 9 am to ability call 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. Equal Oppor- 4 pm, Mon – Fri 763-546-4988 for an application. tunity Housing.

Equal Opportunity Housing.

Oak Park Village: We are accepting applications for the waiting list for one-bedroom wheelchair accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient St. Louis Park location. Call 952-935-9125 for information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

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

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

Robinson will be missed - from p. 8 “She will be greatly missed by me but she so deserves to take time for herself and let loose of all that creativity that has been harnessed for way too long because she’s busy with Arc,” Kaler said. “She will get to spend time with her family and all her grandchildren. She loves her family. But, I can’t imagine Cass not remaining connected and involved in the disability community in some way. That’s her family too. It’s who she is.” ■ Kari Reisel prepared this article.

Pg 16 September 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 9