March 2015 Edition - Access Press

It’s foodshare month, p 9

Volume 26, Number 3

Rides, taxi changes get mixed reviews

by Access Press staff

Minneapolis residents with disabilities who rely on taxi service will benefit from a new program announced recently. But in the southwestern part of the Twin Cities area, users of a paratransit service will see changes in who drives the vehicles. That is creating concern for people who know and trust their longtime drivers, whose jobs are being contracted out.

In Minneapolis five taxicab companies have agreed to provide ramp-equipped, wheelchair-accessible service as part of the new program. A total of 23 wheelchair-accessible vans began serving Minneapolis clients in February.

The arrangement comes in the wake of growing complaints about taxi drivers refusing to provide service for people with disabilities. Access was also a focus of debate last year when the Minneapolis City Council was Transportation changes - p. 5

www.accesspress.org

2015 session nears mid-point with calls for state spending

by Jane McClure

New leader named

Jesse Bethke Gomez takes the MCIL helm

Photo courtesy of MCIL

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

As the 2015 Minnesota Legislature approaches the session’s mid-point, Minnesota’s disability advocates and organizations are saying, “Show us the money.”

Not only did the state’s February forecast show an increase in Minnesota’s budget surplus, there is also growing outcry over unspent millions of dollars set aside to serve people with disabilities.

The two issues are likely to dominate talk at the capitol throughout the rest of the session As Minnesota’s state surplus has grown to $1.869 billion, so too have expectations about how it should be spent. The forecast released February 27 sparked disagreement between Gov. Mark Dayton, the DFL-led Senate and House Republicans. Steve Larson, who leads public policy work for The Arc Minnesota, spoke to a group at a recent event. Not having the capitol rotunda has Dayton has plans for much meant relocation of events such as Tuesday at the Capitol and relocatof the increased surplus, including $442 million for higher ing or cancelling rallies.

Photo courtesy of The Arc Minnesota education, and universal kincharge for a rate increase for home and comdergarten. Dayton has described his plans as munity-based services, called on Dayton to inan investment “in our collective better fuclude the increase in his supplemental budget. ture.” He targeted part of the original surplus Advocates said the increase of five percent for education, transportation and mental would make up for years of stagnant or slashed health services. But Republicans are calling funding. Over the past ten years rate increases for tax relief and argue that the surplus have lagged far behind the cost of living. “That doesn’t need to be spent. means that caregivers are still woefully underThe governor was to release his supplepaid,” campaign spokesperson Bruce Nelson mental budget the week of March 9.

Call for state spending - p. 3 The 5% Campaign, which is leading the

Jesse Bethke Gomez

March 10, 2015

A Twin Cities nonprofit leader with a record of success has taken the helm at the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL). MCIL has announced the hiring of Jesse Bethke Gomez as the new executive director February 9. He succeeds longtime leader David Hancox.

“Jesse brings unparalleled leadership in nonprofit administration combined with a commitment to lead MCIL in new directions and community partnerships to advance the lives of all people with disabilities throughout Minnesota,” said MCIL Board Chair Ellie Emanuel.

Bethke Gomez is enjoying his new role. “I have met so many wonderful people who believe in and support the mission and work of MCIL, it is truly an honor to serve as executive director of Metropolitan Center for Independent Living,” he said.

Bethke Gomez brings extensive leadership experience and success to his new post. Most recently he was vice president of university planning and advancement at Metropolitan State University in St. Paul.

Prior to his position at Metropolitan State University, Jesse served as president of CLUES, (Comunidades Latinas En Servicio). During his 16 years leading CLUES, the nonprofit grew to be a nationally recognized agency for its work in responsive health care including behavioral health to newcomer communities.

CLUES helped 9,000 job seekers obtain employment. Client visits grew by to more than 38,000 visits annually. One of the highlights of his time at CLUES was its new building that is co-located with New leader at MCIL - p. 5

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”

— John Quincy Adams

NEWS DIGEST

The play’s the thing for Southwest Minnesota self-advocates and their project.

Page 7

Special education law has evolved greatly over the years, as our History Note indicates.

Page 2

One self-advocate explains that invisible disabilities matter.

Page 4

A woman has reached a legal settlement with her bank over access issues.

Page 6

A pilot program helps students with autism spectrum disorder prepare for life after high school.

Page 10

INSIDE Accessible Fun, pg 11 Events, pg 12 People & Places, pps 7, 9-10, 13 Radio Talking Book, pg 14 Regional News, pps 6,15

Pg 2 March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3

EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin Here’s something exciting to offer in this last month of winter. We have a new option for reading Access Press. Now, in our new E-Edition, you can view the paper just as it looks on the news stand at your local drop site. With the support of IMED Mobility, we are offering this as a third way to read Access Press. The real advantage of this new version is that you’ll see the columns laid out, and all our ads, including IMED’s, just as you would in the paper.

For now, the upper right hand corner of the online edition at AccessPress.org has a button to view this new E-Edition. In the future we will have an easier and faster way to access this new version.

In less than exciting news, although I am lucky enough (like many of you and other people with disabilities) to have personal care attendants, I’m also finding it harder and harder to hire and retain good PCAs. There’s a perfect storm of reasons: for one, the state’s low unemployment rate means plenty of alternate job options are available for them; for another, the financial reimbursement rate for PCAs agencies means that their small profit margins are shrinking. And finally, the low reimbursement rate means that the agencies pay low hourly wages to less-

and less-qualified people. PCAs are squeaking by on low wages and the agencies are squeaking by on minimal profit margins.

Labor groups have been calling for Wal-Mart, other retailers and the fast-food industry to increase wages to at least $15 an hour. The PCA program has been competing with these industries for employees for many years. What will happen if those industries offer better opportunities for better wages and benefits? The PCA program cannot compete with that suggested $15 an hour. If my PCAs had an opportunity to earn that hourly wage, I would have to suggest to them to go get a job in one of those industries.

Where would that leave us? Where would that leave the senior citizen living next door or your own grandparents? It would put all of us in a medicalmodel environment, or facility settings, where the cost to the state would equate to much more than $15 an hour for a single caregiver. An incalculable cost would be related to our loss of independence, self-direction and control of everyday activities. What’s the cost of devastating people’s lives, psychologically and ultimately, physically?

This really needs to be a wake-up call to many of our legislators to recognize what dire straits these are for our PCA program. Agencies are not able to staff many of their clients without some change because they are having a harder, more difficult time recruiting, hiring and retaining good PCAs to support their clients. There are many things that could be enhanced in the program but the first thing that has to be im-

proved is the reimbursement rates. There’s just no way that most of us will be able to retain our independence with the lack of staffing, the agencies’ overhead costs and costs for appropriate marketing to hire competent and reliable PCAs. All of us understand, with the cost of living increases our PCAs cannot live independently either on these wages.

Soon, with the baby boomers getting older and many of us with disabilities getting older, the need for good, solid and reliable PCAs is getting greater and greater. We know what will happen if there isn’t a measurable investment in the PCA program. Independent living, one of the great accomplishments of the disability rights movement, will become nonexistent.

The new PCA bargaining association, Service Employees International Union, could provide a glimmer of hope, but even the PCA union would need the legislature’s support to be able to bring the salaries of to the levels of what will soon be offered by WalMart and the restaurant industry.

Initially, Gov. Mark Dayton’s budget left out any increases to the Department of Human Services to support the PCA program. The Minnesota Consortium for People with Disabilities (MN-CCD) 5% campaign for raising reimbursement rates was not even considered. Now some legislators are saying that anything extra in the budget surplus will go to senior citizens and people with disabilities. We can only hope that that will become reality.

Stay safe, stay warm and before we know it, it will be t-shirt weather again. In the meantime, let’s talk to our legislators about the reimbursement rates, and so many other topics that affect our community. And please, support our advertisers by using their products. ■

HISTORY NOTE

State special education laws evolved over time

by Luther Granquist

In March 1915 the Minnesota Legislature passed the state’s first special education law. William North, a young man in the brokerage business in Duluth, and Peter H. Konzen, an attorney and former superintendent of schools from Hallock, introduced a bill that allowed school districts to establish special classes for children who were deaf, blind, “mental subnormal” or had speech defects.

Dr. E. A. Meyerding, health officer for the St. Paul Public Schools, championed the bill. Arthur C. Rogers, superintendent of the School for Feebleminded in Faribault, said Meyerding wanted “subnormal” children who could profit from a well-run day school to remain at home instead of being institutionalized.

The bill required school districts to seek approval from the state superintendent of education for classes and provided each district $100 annually per student.

Although the state schools had opened years before in Faribault, no previous legislation had authorized and funded classes in local school districts. The measure passed readily. The law didn’t create a comprehensive special education program. School districts didn’t have to participate. Except for children with

speech defects, each special class had to have at least five children, a limiting factor in smaller communities. The state superintendent established standards in 1919 for enrollment of children deemed “mental subnormal” that excluded children with an IQ less than 50 because they were considered “too defective for proper care and training in the public schools.”

Rather than stay at home, these children were to be sent to the state school in Faribault. Children with an IQ between 50 and 75 were to be committed to Faribault upon leaving public school.

The legislature took no side as to whether deaf children should be taught to sign or speak. Rather, it required a combined system using oral, aural, manual and every other method of communication known to the profession. The 1919 legislature applied the state’s compulsory education law to blind children younger than age 16 if a class was established by the local school district, unless the child was sent to the School for the Blind. Children with speech defects went to regular classes, but were taken to separate classrooms and then treated as special cases.

For decades, however, school districts didn’t have to enroll any children with disabilities. Only in 1957

Volume 26, Number 3 • 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, Halle O'Falvey, Carrie Salberg, Jane McClure Distribution Cheryl Vander Linden, Walt Seibert and S. C. Distribution Mark Zangara 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.

Application to mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at the St. Paul, MN 55121 facility. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Access Press at 161 St. Anthony Ave, Suite 901, St. Paul, MN 55103.

Inquiries and address changes should be directed to: Access Press; % The Capitol Ridge Inn Offices; 161 St. Anthony Ave; #910; St. Paul, MN 55103; 651-644-2133; Fax: 651-644-2136; email: access@accesspress.org www.accesspress.org

did the legislature require schools to serve all “educable” children. The 1957 legislature continued to allow school districts to choose whether to educate “trainable” children, those who might be expected “to profit in a social, emotional or physical way from a program of teaching and training.”

In 1965, the Minnesota Department of Education still limited eligibility for these classes to children with an IQ above 30, who were continent, who could communicate needs to others, and who had no physical or sensory deficits that would take a “disproportionate” amount of the teacher’s time. The legislature didn’t require school districts to enroll “trainable” children until 1971, but even then only children who met this limited standard.

Only in 1985 did lawmakers eliminate the distinction between “educable” and “trainable” children and require school districts to enroll all children with disabilities.

(Many documents establishing state standards for special education may be found in the special education document section of With an Eye to the Past on the state council website listed below.) ■ 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

March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3

Pg 3

Following issues and legislation is easier than ever

by Access Press staff Gone are the days when lobbying state lawmakers meant simply picking up a phone, writing a letter or attending a town hall forum. While calls, letters and attendance at forums are still effective ways to reach out, technology allows self-advocates an easier way to follow legislation and give voice to their own thoughts and ideas.

Access Press has heard from readers seeking more information on how to reach out to state lawmakers and how to follow bills at the capitol. Here are some hints: Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) has a webpage, blog and Facebook page where updates are posted, regularly. Visit the web page and find links to the blog and email signups, at http://mnccd.org. MNCCD hosts regular Tuesdays at the Capitol and Friday noon meetings at the State Office Building that are open to the public.

Another way to follow legislation and have an influence is to stay in close contact with an advocacy group or groups. Almost every disability advocacy group has a public policy section on its website. Look for the headings of advocacy, public policy or news updates. Some have hints for writing letters to the editor, as well as apps for smart phone users.

The Arc Minnesota offers bill updates and other information on its home page, at: www.thearcofminnesota.org The Arc also provides a weekly one-page document on the bills it is involved with, with bill numbers, authors’ names and status reports.

The National Alliance for the mentally Ill (NAMI) Minnesota is another group that provides regular legislative updates. Go to www.namihelps.org.

ARRM also posts regular updates on yet more topics of interest to the disability community. ARRM is at www.arrm.org Most advocacy groups also have Facebook pages where updates are posted.

One example of a Facebook page with lots of information is The 5% Campaign, at www.facebook.com/5PercentCampaign Both the Minnesota House and Senate have online links to make finding and following specific bills much easier. Mid-page, users will find MyBills, a service that allows everyone to track bills important to them. It takes a few minutes to register into the system to follow a bill or bills. Subscribers receive regular updates as bills go through the process, and action alerts when a bill goes to the House or Senate floor. Go to www.leg.state.mn.us/leg/legis.aspx to get started. ■

Call for state spending - from p. 1 said. “The vast majority of the money in our request would go to increase wages and benefits for 90,000 professional caregivers.”

Two bills asking for a five percent rate increase in each of the next two years were introduced by Sen. Kent Eken (DFL-Twin Valley) and Rep. Rod Hamilton (R-Mountain Lake).

“Minnesota is a state that makes sure everyone has a good quality of life,” Eken said. “But we must address a statewide need to adequately fund these essential services. They ensure health and safety and allow people with disabilities and older adults to remain independent in their communities. With the budget surplus, there is no better time than now.”

“Consistent care for older adults and people with disabilities is the greatest contributor to a high quality of life,” Hamilton said. “Increasing wages and benefits for the struggling caregivers who work hard to support Minnesota’s most vulnerable citizens will reduce staff turnover and ensure quality services. Providing a five percent increase to Home and Community-Based Services this session is simply the right thing to do.”

As of yet that plea hasn’t been answered. Nor has there been attention on other issues disability advocacy groups are raising, including changes to Medical Assistance programs.

But there is growing pressure for state lawmakers to address the problems created by counties failing to spend millions of dollars set aside for disability services. Because the money sits unspent, thousands of Minnesotans don’t get basic services.

Because almost $200 million in state and federal money allocated for people with disabilities went unspent by some counties, many people remain lengthy waiting lists.

In a recent letter to Department of Human Services (DHS) Commissioner Lucinda Jesson, attorney Shamus O’Meara accused DHS of mismanaging at least $1.1 billion over the past 15 years. O’Meara has indicated that could lead to a class-action lawsuit against the state. He contends that if the state provides better management, many people who have spent years waiting for services would have been helped.

It’s estimated that there are about 5,000 Minnesotans were on waiting lists for the disability waivers through MA, which is Minnesota’s version of the Medicaid program.

Legislation is pending that would force counties to spend available resources including Medicaid benefits or waivers. The benefits provide the largest source of funds for Minnesotans with disabilities. Legislators including Sen. John Hoffman, DFL-Champlain, vowed to introduce the bill and help it along. Minnesota Disability Law Center and The Arc Minnesota are working on the bills.

One argument for making changes is that the state’s Olmstead Plan, which is meant to integrate people with disabilities into the community, does call for reducing the wait for disability waiver services.

The state allocated more than $1 billion per year for Medicaid waiver services, to cover costs including personal care attendant services, work opportunity and day treatment. In a media interviews DHS officials have said they are working to eliminate the disparities seen between counties in how funds are used. But they also claim the problem is exaggerated and that critics don’t understand the complexities involved in some cases. Typically the state does allocate more of the money than it has to, to provide flexibility. Another challenge counties face is that each client’s needs change as time passes. Yet another complication is that coun-

ties that overspend must reimburse the state. That caveat make counties more cautious and critics said, more conservative.

The bill on waiver spending and all other bills face key deadlines. By March 20, committees must act favorably on bills in the house of origin and March 27, committees must act favorably on bills or companion bills that met the first deadline in the other house. The deadline on major appropriation and finance bills is April 24. Legislators must complete the session by May 18. ■

Being a self-advocate can mean not getting lost in the crowd.

Pg 4 March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Taking on stereotypes of ageism, the persistent ‘ism’

by Deb Taylor

We frequently hear about racism and sexism in our culture, but we hear little about another persistent ‘ism’ — ageism. As our society grows older, ageism remains a growing challenge and concern.

Researchers at Yale University were disturbed when they compiled negative comments about older adults, posted by young people on Facebook. Elders’ mobility and debilitation accounted for three-quarters of the comments. Here are a few examples from the Yale study: “Old people are a pain in the (expletive).” “They are a Deb Taylor burden on society.” “They are cheap and smell of (expletive) ... they are senile, they complain about everything, they couldn’t hear a dump truck ...”.

An AARP survey found that 64 percent of seniors have witnessed or experienced age-based discrimination on the job. A study by Duke University researchers found that 80 percent of seniors had experienced ageism in the form of comments about memory or physical impairments. Nearly one-third of the respondents reported being ignored or not taken seriously because of their age.

These negative stereotypes are quite literally hurtful. Yale psychologist Becca Levy found that older adults with more positive self-perceptions of aging lived nearly eight years longer and enjoy better memory and balance, compared to those with negative self-perceptions.

Here’s the reality; the vast majority of seniors are largely self-sufficient, middle-class consumers, with time and talents to share with others.

We need to work harder to engender a more positive view of the elderly. Visit most any senior care campus and you’ll find many employees from other cultures.

These individuals often have a reverence for elders in their culture. They love

their work and consider it a calling. In several other countries, elders usually live with their families.

We can reshape our view of our friends and neighbors who are now in the autumn of life. Age stereotypes are typically internalized as early as age four and reinforced over children’s’ lifetimes. Let’s begin by being better examples for our children and grandchildren — they listen to us and model what they hear.

Seniors still have much to contribute to our communities. At age 80, Minneapolis resident Ellen Boroughf lives vitally and maintains a blog about her aging experience at www.thecontentedalfie.com. The pen name she selected — with a twinkle in her eye — was The Old Baguette.

Author Laura Ingalls Wilder published her first book at age 64 and her last at 76. Famous test pilot Chuck Yeager was 75 when he made his last flight as a consultant.

We can do more to appreciate what improves with age and what we can continue to offer the community, rather than viewing the natural aging process as unusual and unsatisfying.

And when aging does begin to take a toll, rather than falling prey to feelings of irritation or impatience toward older adults, let’s respond with our better nature and do as they did when we were children. They patiently answered our questions, held our hand, showed us new things and walked with us on the journey.

Truth is, we stand on their shoulders and they deserve all we can do to assist them in their time of need. Older adults deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.

Let’s reimagine aging so every person is valued. We’ll all be better for it. ■ Deb Taylor is CEO of Senior Community Services (www.seniorcommunity.org) and its Reimagine Aging Institute, a nonprofit that advocates for older adults and helps seniors and caregivers maintain their independence through free or lowcost services.

Can you see me now?

Revealing invisible disabilities or why I am unhappy about being treated unfairly in daily situations

by L.A. Reed Two days ago a new friend asked me if I’d like to get together at a restaurant. I said yes. Then I froze.

Feelings of dread came up, as did the impending doom that a new friendship would never happen. Why? Well, I need a restaurant with booths, where I can put pillows, and lift my feet and legs up in the entire booth like a couch. I need healthy food that won’t hurt or disable my body further.

I hear the pause over the phone: “Are you in a wheelchair?”

No. “Why do you need to be so ... particular?” Answering this has repeatedly saddened me to the point of despair. (I am hopeful, though, and I don’t give up.)

Last summer, a colleague who uses a wheelchair insisted I write about people with “invisible” disabilities. Then she proceeded to lovingly tell me all the things she knows I struggle with going out into the world. It almost made me cry.

For starters, I have a lot of spinal damage, mostly lower, including a nerve still dangerously pinched in my lower back and inflammation diseases of my muscles, joints and nervous system. I also have thyroid auto-immune disease. No, I’m not in a wheelchair. I’ve come close. But due to choices I made to do certain exercises, simple yoga, walking, traction and chiropractic work, plus eating foods that don’t weaken my muscle and joints. I’ve managed to keep walking. Whew! I cannot, however, sit upright on a chair or pull, push, or pick up anything.

Reactions to me often feel futile.

When I ask people to help open a door, I get looks of bewilderment or hostility as if I’m crazy or lazy. Do people resent that I ask for help with things they assume I can do, because I am still standing? (Not for long — that’s kind of hard, too). “You don’t need help; what’s your problem?”

I’ve learned to tell jokes, fast, especially if it’s cold outside: “Could you please open this heavy door. I have back injuries.” (That’s the simplest story). Being a Harry Potter fan, I’ll joke that I left my magic wand at home. It gets people laughing; then they open the door.

I have to ask people to drive slowly over bumps or else my back is easily reinjured. Sometimes people just resent being asked to slow down, and won’t.

I get questioned all the time: I have to sit on a cushy chair, with my legs up, in public space, or I can’t be there. “You need a second chair? Can I use your second chair?” or “You look so comfortable.” Hint: Why am I being given the cushy chair in a room of hard-back chairs, and why are my legs up on another chair? I am so weird insisting on being comfortable out in the world. Although I’ve had people say that maybe they will bring a cushion to the theater next time.

A PCA went with me to a theater in downtown Minneapolis. They made a space in a balcony area, and my PCA carried a fold-up lounge chair for me to use.

The theater gave me a second chair for my legs.

O’Shaughnessy Auditorium in St. Paul has it right. They’ve created an open space for anyone with any kind of different seating needs including wheelchairs and lounge chairs, The issue for me is avoiding becoming more disabled. I’ve been through lots of pain in my life. Why should I go into the world putting myself through more and more pain, risking hospitalization and risking my mental health? Going through incessant pain makes one a bit crazy. I’d rather stay sane!

The only person, except for PCAs or other people with disabilities, who didn’t treat me badly for asking for help, was a nurse. She worked in a group home with women with severe MS. She opened the door for me to a coffee house, with no contempt on her face. She actually lectured me: No matter what it is I need –help to pour the pitcher of water; help pulling up chairs to sit on–I have the right to ask. And there’s no reason to feel ashamed for it.

Wow. That’s awesome We’ve been made to feel ashamed of asking for help in this culture. Everyone deserves help. Independence, we know, it’s about having resources that allow us to be able to do things on our own, as much as possible. Who else to model it, but those of us who realize, already, that there is no shame or blame for ever needing help? And simply, because I want to live, it’s something I will continue to do, with whatever elegance, humor and ability I have to do that. ■

March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3

New leader at MCIL - from p. 1 the Mexican Consulate on East Seventh Street in St. Paul “Jessie’s numerous awards and educational background are equally impressive,” said Emanuel. He is currently serving on the Minnesota Judicial Selection Commission, following his appointment by the Minnesota State Supreme Court and Chief Justice Lori S. Gildea. He is listed among the 100 Influential Healthcare Leaders in Minnesota by the Minnesota Physicians publication. He was among the 100 leaders who participated in the first Hispanic Policy Summit held by the White House in 2011.

Bethke Gomez holds a master’s degree in management and administration specializing in strategic leadership from Metropolitan State University. He is a national Kellogg Fellow, and is an alumnus from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill as an Emerging Leader in Public Health.

“It is truly a great honor to be selected as the next executive director for Metropolitan Center for Independent Living, whose board of directors, and staff

Transportation changes - from p. 1 negotiating contracts with alternative transportation providers including UberX and Lyft. One concern disability rights advocates had was that accessibility issues got short shrift in the zeal to accommodate the alternative firms.

Taxi companies that opt into the new accessible cab program get a break on licensing fees, according to city officials. Drivers go through additional training. All companies have GPS-equipped vehicles. All will accept credit cards.

Dispatching for the accessible cabs is through the combined services of Minneapolis Airport Taxi, Yellow Taxi, Green and White Taxi, Minneapple Taxi and La Mexican Taxicab. This is meant to ensure service 24 hours a day and to guarantee a ride for every call from a customer with disabilities.

The taxi companies that don’t provide the accessible cabs will pay additional fees of $20 per vehicle on top of their licensing fees. Lyft and Uber will each pay an additional $10,000 per year to help support the accessible cab service. Minneapolis already had about 800 licenses taxicabs. That number doesn’t include Uber, Lyft and other alternative transportation vehicles.

“This new program is a great step in the right direction to increasing accessibility for our residents,” said Mayor Betsy Hodges in a statement. “It’s important that all residents know they can rely on services when they need them and I thank these participating taxicab companies for recognizing the importance of serving the entire community.”

But while Minneapolis taxi riders enjoy service improvements, their counterparts in the southwest metro area will see less favorable changes. Last year riders of DARTS in Dakota County were dismayed when their transit service provider lost a Metropolitan Council paratransit contract.

Now in Scott County the paratransit service provider SmartLink is laying off dozens of staff, including all of its drivers. The changes are being made in part because SmartLink is losing its Metropolitan Council contract to provide accessible service. That means an annual loss of about $600,000. The contract was terminated due to concerns about performance.

Scott County will release a request for proposals in April, with a revamped service taking effect in the fall. In the meantime, new drivers will be hired via subcontract. That means riders with disabilities will no longer have the drivers they have known for some time and has raised concerns for some riders and for their longtime drivers. While the drivers can reapply for their old jobs, many have expressed worries that being subcontractors will mean lower pay.

Scott County officials hope to announce further changes in paratransit services later this year. ■ In Minneapolis, contact Airport Taxi and Yellow Taxi at 612-888-8888, Green and White at 651-293-9999, Minneapple Taxi at 612-338-9300 and La Mexicana Taxi at 612-788-1226.

are deeply dedicated to making an extraordinary difference for all who are served by this most impressive and important organization. I am looking forward to working with the board, staff and all who contribute to the success of MCIL,” said Bethke Gomez.

Bethke Gomez said he considers his new post to be an honor. He was attracted to the job at MCIL by the organization’s mission. “MCIL has a mission that aligns greatly with my life purpose,” he said.

“The mission of MCIL is to assist people with disabilities to fulfill their desire to lead productive selfdetermined lives. Throughout my life and in my career, I have worked to advance the connectedness all people have with one another.”

The new executive director is very familiar with disability issues on a personal and professional level, as he grew up with siblings with disabilities.

In his professional life he has worked to advance more responsive services for people with disabilities. Previously, as president of a behavioral

Pg 5

healthcare organization he worked with very diverse populations.

He and the MCIL board and staff look forward to advancing MCIL in assisting more people in meaningful ways throughout the metropolitan area. “We also look forward to also reaching more diverse communities too,” Bethke Gomez said. “We also look forward to MCIL actively collaborating with people and organizations in advancing our collective work together in further meeting the needs of people.”

MCIL is a member of the Minnesota Association of Centers for Independent Living (MACIL). Bethke Gomez said, “We look forward to continuing to being part of advancing the purpose of MACIL which is to advocate for the independent living needs of Minnesotans with disabilities, to develop new resources, identify and provide access to existing resources which provide the services needed so persons with disabilities may live independently in the situation and community of their choice.” ■

Pg 6 March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3

REGIONAL NEWS Jobs lost in New Ulm area Mankato-based MRCI WorkSource is looking to find new jobs for about 100 New Ulm workers as a result of a contract termination that takes effect this month. Mondelez International, formerly Kraft Foods, announced it will be terminating its contract with MCRI. MRCI provides work for people with disabilities. The nonprofit worked with Mondelez International for about nine years. The nonprofit learned of the discontinuation in February, said MRCI CEO Brian Benshoof.

Mondelez outsourced cheese and cracker snack kits to MRCI’s New Ulm facility. Workers packaged kits into cartons and got products ready to be shipped to retailers.

Benshoof said MRCI had a good working relationship with Mondelez. “It’s disappointing for us and difficult,” he said. “With short notice, it’s hard to replace work immediately.”

MRCI is looking for other contracts and employment opportunities, Benshoof said, adding that he didn’t want to speculate about possible layoffs at hype new Ulm facility. “This one has a big impact because there’s a lot of people working on that particular job.”

“We’re going to work our hardest to make sure we don’t have to do anything in terms of layoffs,” Benshoof said. “We want to keep people working.

That’s our goal.” ■ (Source: Mankato Free Press)

Mental health court praised Hennepin County’s mental court has been held up as a model for the rest of the state and nation. About 200 defendants go through the court each year. The court provides help for people with mental illness who are in the criminal justice system. For many people it has become their first time of receiving comprehensive services as well as encouragement from judges and probation officers.

The court is voluntary and is accessed via referral from attorneys or probation officers. Once a defendant is admitted, he or she can get help with housing, employment and therapy. There is assistance for persons needing help managing their medication, and in staying away from alcohol and illegal drugs. Legal issues wait until the defendant’ personal life is stabilized.

Potential participants must have a mental illness, a traumatic brain injury or a developmental disability.

People are screened before being referred to the court. Sex offenders aren’t eligible for the court.

Most cases involve theft or property damage.

The court is run by Judge Kerry Meyer. It began in 2003 and is in session two days a week. Supporters said if more funding could be found to add staff, it could operate all week long, due to demand.

Smaller mental health courts have been developed in Ramsey and St. Louis counties. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

Payment resolves discrimination claim The Bank of America must pay more than $150,000 to settle with a Minnesota woman. Kathryn Letourneau of North Branch said the bank discriminated against her based on her disability. She has had severe hearing loss since birth and relies on hearing aids.

“Without my hearing aids, I can hear the presence of sound. I can hear loud noises. I can hear some loud speech sound. But I could never tell you what it is,” Letourneau told KSTP-TV. When she needed to modify her home mortgage loan, phone conversations weren’t an option for Letourneau. “Especially when you’re dealing with important information like your financing, I don’t want to be doing the, ‘What did you say?’ ‘I couldn’t hear that. Could you say that again?’” she said.

She asked Bank of America to correspond via email and the bank initially agreed to do so. But that stopped and the bank staff didn’t respond to faxes or emails. Then she received a letter stating that she’d been denied the modification because the bank didn’t have all of the information needed.

Letourneau’s husband then called the bank and was told that emails were against bank policy.

“The guy said, ‘I was told by my supervisor not to email you anymore. That’s not our policy.’ And so my husband was like, ‘Well, then, our policy is that we’re going to fight this,’” Letourneau said. A complaint was filed with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, which found probable cause of discrimination based on her disability.

State officials also found that Bank of America denied Letourneau service based on the bank’s “refusal

to reasonably accommodate” her by communicating via email. A state memorandum explained that Bank of America had concerns about the sensitive nature of paperwork that had to be sent via email. The family did get the loan modification.

As part of the settlement, the bank isn’t admitting wrong doing. Bank of American spokesperson Diane Wagner stated.

“Bank of America does not discriminate and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and similar state laws prohibiting disability discrimination. We provide equal access to company facilities, services and employment opportunities and treat all employees with disabilities with dignity and respect and offer the same access to opportunities afforded those without disabilities.”

In addition to laying out the details of the $155,000 in payments to Letourneau, her attorney, and the state, the settlement also requires Bank of America to provide additional training to its staff regarding the ADA, and to always make email an option for the hearing-impaired.

Letourneau works with children who have hearing loss, so she said the settlement was extremely important. “There’s not a much worse feeling than feeling inadequate about something you can’t control. I can’t control the fact that I have hearing loss, and they made me feel like it was my fault,” she said.

Her message to others? “Don’t let other people make you feel you’re less, because you can’t hear,” Letourneau said. ■ (Source: KSTP-TV)

Transit vehicles to change Complaints about the Twin Cities’ newer light rail vehicles have been heard. The Metropolitan Council voted unanimously February 11 to amend its transit-ways guidelines to include update light rail vehicle standards.

Changes will be made of areas of train cars that are marked for passengers who use wheelchairs or scooters.

The policy changes, which were recommended by disability advocates and council committees, address concerns heard several months ago when new vehicles were added for Blue Line and Green Line light rail. The new vehicles’ seating arrangements make it more difficult for people in wheelchairs or scooters to find adequate space. The seating configuration also poses challenges for anyone riding with a companion or personal care attendant.

The amended guidelines state that all vehicles must meet or exceed the standards established in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and must also include: two dedicated spaces for wheelchair users in each car and seating for a companion adjacent to each of the wheelchair-dedicated spaces.

In 2012, the council adopted Regional Transitway Guidelines, which serves as standards in the design The transitway guidlines were set after extensive internal discussion and public input. The guidelines are to provide technical guidance, based in best practices, that supports the development and operation of transitways in a way that is consistent, equitable and efficient, and delivers an effective, integrated and userfriendly transit system throughout the Twin Cities region.

While previous guidelines called for ADA compliance, that wasn’t seen as addressing all of the concerns raised. In 2014, state law was passed that states that by January 1, 2015, the Metropolitan Council shall adopt and may then amend standards for the design of light rail vehicles that are reasonably necessary to provide access for, and to protect the health and safety of, persons who use the service. All vehicles purchased after that date must meet the new standards. ■ (Source: Access Press staff)

Man survives fishing accident A 35-year-old Long Lake man survived a plunge through the ice of Lake Minnetonka February 25 by sheer force of will, according to authorities. Ryan Richard Neslund, who is paraplegic, was driving his new specially equipped pickup truck out to an ice fishing

house when the ice gave way. The truck fell through and Neslund and his dog Balou went into the water.

Neslund was able to get out of the truck cab and onto the ice, calling for help. The dog didn’t survive.

Man survives - p. 15

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

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

(612) 824-6665 (763) 684-1907 (612) 338-3106 1-800-661-2501 (763) 427-7650 (651) 292-8497 (651) 653-0640 (612) 377-9015 (952) 941-5544 (612) 340-1264 (612) 623-0247 (612) 721-2252 (763) 560-7563 (651) 653-0640 (320) 632-0980 1-888-332-9312

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

Please call us for more information.

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

March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3

PEOPLE & PLACES

Pg 7

Disability Pride and Power is self-advocates’ theme

Southwestern Minnesota self-advocates celebrate the new logo and theme as shown above. At right is the poster for a play they helped write and produce.

Photo courtesy of Advocating Change Together

By Carol Oyanagi

A play audience members described as “compelling” and “very effective” featured self-advocates and their stories from southwestern Minnesota. The Other Side is a play about disability and community integration. An original production written by Wilbur Neuschwander-Frink, the play is based on several brainstorming sessions involving self-advocates.

Neuschwander-Frink is the regional coordinator and community organizer for The ARC Southwest and the ally for the Olmstead Plan Academy for Minnesota’s Southwest Region.

The 12-month training program helps people become more effective self-advocates. Several projects are being led by self-advocates and support allies from different Minnesota regions.

Play performances February 7-8 at Mankato West High School launched Disability Pride and Power, the Southwest Region’s Olmstead Project. About 800 people saw the two performances. The play and other projects are part of Olmstead Academy organized by Advocating Change Together (ACT). The Olmstead

Academy was launched in response to Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan. The plan provides a framework for advancing community integration and the fulfillment of the goal of helping people with disabilities to live, learn, work and enjoy life in the most integrated setting desired.

The Other Side is about two fictional towns on opposite sides of a river and their dispute. The townspeople wanted to build a bridge but fought about how to build it. The play incorporated themes from the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I have a dream” speech.

Self-advocate Leaders Carrie Varner and Nate Clark performed in the play along with more than 60 actors from two local theater groups, United We Stand Players of New Ulm and Aktion Club Theater. Aktion is a troupe of self-advocates and their supporters, sponsored by the Downtown Mankato Kiwanis Club. The Arc Minnesota Southwest is the home of United We Stand Players.

“There were no stars and no tryouts. Everyone who wanted to had an opportunity to be involved,” said Neuschwander-Frink.

As part of the Olmstead Academy project launch, the Southwest Region team also unveiled their its logo designed by Steve Peck, a self-advocate from Central Minnesota. The logo features people against a bright sun design and is featured on Disability Pride T-shirts. Actors wore and sold shirts after the shows.

Others handed out fliers about their project.

“In the SW region people are very excited about integration. This play was re-energizing for self-advocates,” said Neuschwander-Frink.

Another Olmstead project in the southwestern Minnesota will be to establish Born This Way Here To Stay groups in Redwood Falls and Marshall.

These are patterned on a similar Mankato group that has operated for about two years. Clark, Varner and Neuschwander-Frink will act as consultants to the two new areas.

The groups will involve a panel of four individuals

Aktion Club Theatre of Mankato & The United We Stand Players of New Ulm Present

THE OTHER Saturday February 7 7:00 pm Sunday February 8 2:00 pm

Mankato West High School

SIDE Suggested Donations Adults -$10 Kids - $5 Seniors - $5

with disabilities who tell their stories at schools, churches, community centers and other venues. Audience members can then ask questions of the panelists. Disability Pride will be promoted through education using interactive tools for kids such as skits, color pages and songs.

“I’m glad we’re doing Disability Pride and Power.

It helps people with disabilities feel good about themselves and know they have nothing to be ashamed of,” said Varner. ■ For more information about the Olmstead Academy, contact the ACT Office at 651-641-0297 or go online at www.selfadvocacy.org The ARC SW provides support and advocacy for kids and adults with disabilities across south central and southwestern Minnesota. For more information about ARC, visit www.arcmnsw.org

————— In Memoriam ————— Benson worked on access issues Audrey Benson is remembered as someone who dedicated many years’ work to accessibility issues.

Benson, 76, died February 20 in Minneapolis. She was a founder and former president of the United Handicapped Federation, a forerunner to many of today’s groups for people with disabilities. She used her own experience with disabilities to highlight mobility, accessibility and public transit access issues.

Born in 1939 in North Dakota, Benson was one of seven children. She had cerebral palsy and graduated from the Crippled Children’s School, now the Anne Carlsen Center, in Jamestown. With encouragement of an occupational therapist and her Episcopalian priest, she attended and graduated from Moorhead State University in 1969.

After college Benson moved to Minneapolis to take a job with Goodwill/Easter Seals. She later worked for the City of Minneapolis on affirmative action issues. She also was a community organizer and served as president of the United Handicapped Federation for two years. Benson received a number of awards for her work on disability-related issues.

In an interview, Benson said, “Among many issues we worked on, my favorite two issues were skyway accessibility in downtown Minneapolis and accessible mass transit. Non-disabled people especially, it seems to me, those in power, have a hard time understanding the needs and rights of persons with disabilities to participate as fully and as unencumbered as possible in community life.”

Benson was known for using humor in her work.

She recalled working with a committee of people with disabilities and Metro Transit staff on the issue of accessible mass transit. “One of the transit authorities stated that disabled people don’t need transit accessibility in the winter because they don’t go out.”

Benson’s response was, “That is news to me.”

Pastor Don Portwood of Lyndale United Church of

Christ was Benson’s minister. “She was a fireball,” he said. “She had strong opinions and wasn’t afraid to share them.” Benson was well-liked by other church members and informed them about disability issues.

“I will remember her in her wheelchair, with stickers on it,” Portwood said. The stickers had slogans about opinionated and strong women.

Benson is survived by siblings, nieces and nephews. Services have been held. Memorials may be given to Lyndale United Church of Christ or the Anne Carlsen Center. ■

Luther was legislative pioneer Sara “Sally” Fletcher Luther was not only a pioneering woman legislator and state official, she also worked to pass laws for children with developmental disabilities. Luther died of leukemia February 3 at her Florida home, at age 96.

She served in the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1951 to 1962. During her first four years in office, Luther was the only female legislator in Minnesota. She spent the next eight years as one of two women holding office.

“I first came to the legislature in 1961. I remember

her as a very intelligent legislator, and one heavily involved in a whole series of issues,” former U.S. Rep. Martin Sabo told the Star Tribune. “I just found her a very impressive member and a major contributor.”

Luther was from a prominent Deephaven family. She graduated from Vassar College in 1940 with a degree in drama. She worked at Honeywell after college, married and had three children. She also worked as a newspaper reporter before being elected to the Minnesota House.

She chaired the House Civil Administration and Welfare committees. After serving in the legislature Luther became the executive assistant to Minnesota Gov. Karl Rolvaag. In interviews Rolvaag praised Luther for her work to improve schooling for people with developmental disabilities.

Luther later married Moorhead State President John Neumaier. They relocated to State University of New York College at New Paltz, when Neumaier became president there.

After leaving Minnesota Luther earned masters and doctoral degrees and authored a book about international politics. She is survived by her husband, children and stepchildren and two brothers.

Services have been held. ■

Pg 8 March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3

March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3

PEOPLE & PLACES

Opportunity Services workers help sort food at the Channel One Food Bank every Monday.

Pg 9

Workers from Opportunity Services help people in need get food March is Minnesota FoodShare Month, when people around the state make additional donations to food shelves and good banks. The campaign, led by the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches, helps stock more than 300 food shelves around the state.

One group of people with disabilities is helping make sure that families in southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin have enough food to eat. An Opportunity Services work team from Rochester has volunteered at Channel One Food Bank every Monday for more than five years. The work team consists of Matt, Anthony, Steven, Park and Tom, and Opportunity Services staff Rick Wood and Darci Heikis.

The five clients truly enjoy their volunteer tasks at Channel One. Every week tasks change, but typical job duties include bagging food, sorting groceries, la-

Photo courtesy of Opportunity Services

beling food and more. (One favorite task is sorting through the donated Halloween candy.)

Tammy Musty, repack projects coordinator, works with the team directly during their shift. “The Opportunity Services work team has made a great addition to Channel One. I couldn’t imagine not having them here every week. Their dedication and hard work ethic makes them invaluable,” she said.

The team is making a difference volunteering at Channel One. Last year alone, Channel One distributed nearly 10 million pounds of food to more than 100,000 people in 14 counties in Minnesota and Wisconsin. “The Opportunity Services work team has become an essential part of the Channel One family,” said Jacob Johnson, Corporate and Individual Giving Manager at Channel One. ■

Accessibility grants awarded to three Twin Cities arts organizations With three new grants awarded to Twin Cities arts organizations, VSA Minnesota has now given more than $1 million in Americans with Disability Act (ADA) Access Improvement Grants. Organizations in Minneapolis and St. Paul are the latest award winners. Each group will use the funding to make arts programs more accessible to people with disabilities.

Groups can apply for up to $15,000 in grants.

Interact Center for Visual and Performing Arts, St. Paul, received $15,000 for its Dis/Cover the Arts program. This program will expand Interact’s capacity to grow audiences of people with disabilities by removing barriers and engaging in pro-active community outreach, better fulfilling its mission to “create art that challenges perceptions of disability.” The dollars from VSA Minnesota will supplement a $57,500 budget.

Soo Visual Arts Center or SooVAC, Minneapolis, received $15,000 to create a permanent accessible entrance ramp from the parking lot to the main entrance of its new gallery space at 2909 Bryant Ave. S. to en-

Shopping cart test pleases parents A Maple Grove Cub Foods store is testing a shopping cart that could be a help to parents of special needs children. The store is testing an invention called Caroline’s Cart. The cart, invented by a mother from Alabama, is a grocery cart with seating for a child with disabilities.

Typical shopping carts have a place for a small child to sit, but that space means the child is riding higher than the cart. In Caroline’s Cart, the child can ride in the cart, facing the person pushing the cart. The seat has a seat belt and is lower than typical shopping cart seating. The carts are made in North Carolina.

The cart at Maple Grove Cub has met a positive response from parents who want to shop with children with physical or cognitive disabilities. The carts are being considered for use through the Cub store chain and at other stores including Target.

Learn more at www.carolinescart.com ■

sure accessibility for patrons unable to climb stairs.

This project has a total cost of $32,000.

The Show, St. Paul, received $11,115. The Show is a nonprofit art gallery in Lowertown neighborhood, It specializing in promoting artists with disabilities, The Show received funding for a webmaster, slat boards to display art at a lower level for artists and guests who use wheelchairs, and in collaboration with the St. Paul Art Collective, an artists’ coordinator to work with artists with disabilities to display and sell art at CHS Field. CHS Field is where the St. Paul Saints and other baseball and softball teams will play

starting this spring. Total project cost for The Show’s work is $15,000.

VSA Minnesota started administering the ADA Access Improvement Grant program in 2010 for the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council (MRAC). Since 2010, 86 projects by 49 different organizations have been funded, totaling $1,001,258. Funds come from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature. The purpose is to enable nonprofit arts organizations in the seven-county Twin Cities area to improve proAccessibility grants - p. 13

Pg 10 March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3

PEOPLE & PLACES Nursing homes throughout Minnesota will gain a total of about $17 million more over the next one to three years through a Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) program that rewards a variety of quality improvement efforts. Under the Performance-based Incentive Payment Program, nursing homes sign contracts with DHS to earn higher payments for implementing projects designed to make improvements in key areas.

“Minnesota’s nursing homes provide essential care for our parents, grandparents and loved ones,” said Gov. Mark Dayton. “I thank these providers for the efforts they are undertaking to ensure all their residents receive the best possible care.”

The program is among several Dayton administration programs meant to leverage the state’s purchasing role to promote quality in health care and longterm services and supports. DHS Commissioner Lucinda Jesson said that projects designed by the nursing homes themselves have been shown to improve quality not just in targeted areas, but to improve nursing home quality overall.

Projects approved at 95 nursing homes are for funding from October 1, 2014, through September 30,

Nursing homes receive funding to improve quality 2017. The examples of projects listed show dollar amounts that include a total of state funds, federal matching funds and private payments. A complete list of projects can be found on the DHS website.

• Care Ventures Cooperative’s nursing facilities throughout Minnesota will receive a total of about $3.3 million for a project to improve employee recruitment, retention and turnover as well as staff and resident satisfaction. The project’s success will be measured by direct care staff retention, employee turnover rates and satisfaction ratings. Facilities involved are in Annandale, Cold Spring, Dassel, Belgrade, Long Prairie, Cokato, New York Mills, Wadena, Frazee, Glenwood, Alexandria, Starbuck, Albany, Fergus Falls, St. Cloud and Wheaton.

• Elim Care, Inc., Collaborative facilities will receive a total of $1 million for a staff training program to improve the overall dining experience for their residents. Facilities involved are in Milaca, Princeton, Watertown, Maple Plain, Buffalo, New Hope, Minneapolis and St. Paul.

• Empira Collaborative facilities will receive a total of $10.9 million to reduce sundown syndrome, which is the onset of confusion and agitation that

affects people with dementia or other cognitive impairments and often occurs at sunset. The project will promote realignment of residents’ circadian rhythms and be measured by such factors as incidence or worsening of resident behavior problems and prevalence of depressive symptoms. Empira facilities involved are in Anoka, St. Paul, Edina, Milaca, Princeton, Watertown, Hutchinson, Maple Plain, Buffalo, Maplewood, Buffalo, Arden Hills, Bloomington, Spring Park, North Oaks, Minneapolis, Eden Prairie, Brooklyn Center, New Hope, Brooklyn Park, Oak Park Heights and Sleepy Eye. • Ecumen Collaborative is receiving a total of $1.7 million for nine facilities throughout Minnesota to partner with local pharmacies on a new medication management system. The goal is to ensure patients being discharged from care centers fully understand their medications and how to take them to avoid re-hospitalization. Prevalence of falls with injury and hospitalization rates will be measured to determine impact of the project. Ecumen facilities involved are in Alexandria, North Branch, Two Harbors, Detroit Lakes, Grand Rapids, Litchfield, Chisago City, Mankato and Austin. ■

Pilot project underway

Transition planning eyed for students with autism The Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM), Autism Works and Lionsgate Academy are jointly piloting a post-secondary navigation project to help high school-aged youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and other learning differences create and implement a road map for life after graduation. The project is funded with a grant from the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. The goal is to increase the number of youth with autism who successfully transition from high school into post-secondary education or employment.

Through the project, high school students from Lionsgate Academy, a Crystal charter school designed to meet the unique needs of students with ASD, will work individually and in groups with PostSecondary Navigators from Autism Works to explore their strengths and skills, learn about careers that align with those abilities, and develop a plan for the necessary post-secondary training to achieve their career goals.

While a student with autism may earn excellent grades in high school and get into a competitive university, this is only the beginning of the journey. If that same student struggles with being in a large class, or if he or she has anxiety about being away from home, or if he or she does not do well in certain climates, these factors that can significantly impact post-secondary success.

“We have been pretty successful in our efforts to prepare students with autism for life after high school,” said Diane Halpin, Lionsgate Academy executive director. “However, we recognize many of the challenges faced by our graduates, and we’re

pleased to be working AuSM and Autism Works to provide our students with additional supports to ensure their transition to adulthood and independence.”

The pilot project will run through the end of the current school year.

Results will be watched statewide.

Minnesota’s Department of Education has indicated that more than 17,000 youth under the age of 21 have autism in the state. Studies show that two years after completing high school, only 25 percent of indi- Work experiences are important for all young people. Many get their start bagging groceries or stocking store shelves. viduals with ASD are employed or Photo courtesy of AuSM enrolled in post-secondary education.

ASD is the fastest growing developmental disabilto get adjusted, organized and connected to the right ity in the U.S. and Minnesota. According to a 2014 resources,” said Tyler Foutch, Autism Works execureport by the federal Centers for Disease Control, one tive director. “This project provides students with adin 68 American youth have ASD. ditional skills and tools that address how their ASD While many high school students with autism are affects them, and teaches them to tap into the training accepted into colleges and universities, they often when they reach campus or the workforce, to prevent drop out or fail academic probation. Without the sup- them from becoming overwhelmed and giving up.” ports they had from family and schools for the first “Parents typically send kids off to college and as18 years of their lives, they aren’t prepared for the sume they will figure out how to balance their social abrupt independence that comes with the college exand academic lives, as well as select a major that will perience. result in a job,” Foutch said. “That’s a difficult task “The statistics are scary,” said Jonah Weinberg, for any young person, but for someone with autism it AuSM’s executive director. “If we allow this trend to can be a major challenge just to know where to start.” go unchecked, there will be hundreds of thousands of Weinberg said, “Research indicates that this capable individuals with autism, who spend their project could be a game-changer for the autism comadult lives living with their parents, and become shut munity when it comes to post-secondary success. If out of the workforce, not for lack of ability, but bewe can help youth with autism successfully make this cause they haven’t received the instruction needed to transition, the same techniques can be used with other transition into self-sufficiency.” groups that share similar challenges. Almost everyWays to help make the transition are sought. “A one has the potential to develop a viable career-path; young person with autism, heading off to college or some just need a little longer runway before they can into the workforce, may need more support and time fly solo.” ■

March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3 Pg 11

Attend book launch party

ACCESSIBLE FUN Interact pARTy is April 1 Interact, which provides artistic opportunities for people with disabilities, hosts it annual pARTy fundraiser 5:309 p.m. Wed, April 1 at Mpls Central Library, 300 Nicollet Mall, Mpls. Tickets for the event are $40 in advance or $60 at the door. The event starts with a silent auction and reception until 7:15 p.m., with one-of-a-kind art, food, entertainment and experiences from Interact artists, staff and friends. A live auction and entertainment

by Interact friend and collaborator, Kevin Kling, with the talented visual and performing artists of Interact, starts at 7:30 p.m. That is followed by dessert and social time, 8:30-9 p.m. FFI: 651-209-3575, www.interactcenter.com

The public is invited to the book launch event for We Know How This Ends: Living while Dying by Bruce H. Kramer and Cathy Wurzer. The event is at 7 p.m. Wed, March 25 at the University of St. Thomas O’Shaughnessy Education Center Auditorium, 2115 Summit Ave., St. Paul. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and there is parking in the student center and south campus ramps. Minnesota Public Radio News host Kerri Miller will lead a conversation between Kramer and Wurzer in a special event to celebrate the publication of their book about living with ALS. Books will be available for purchase and signing, and refreshments will be served. The event is free but participants must preregister, at http://WeKnowHowThisEnds.brownpapertickets.com The event is cosponsored by MPR News, the University of St. Thomas, the University of Minnesota Press, HealthPartners and the ALS Association of MN/ND/SD. ■ Suitable for ages 16 and up. ASL show is 2 p.m. Sun, March 15. Tickets are $29, senior $24, student $19.

FFI: 507-282-8481, www.rochestercivictheatre.org

ter Repertory Theatre, 103 7th St. NE, Rochester. ASL show is 8 p.m. Fri, March 20. Tickets are $20; student/ senior $18. FFI: 507-289-1737, www.rochesterrep.org

It’s time for prom The Arc Mower County hosts its Spring Formal Dinner and Dance, 4:30-8 p.m. Fri, April 10 at the Mower County Senior Center in Austin. Registration deadline is Tue, April 7. Cost is $15 per member and staff for the dinner and dance, and $4 per person for the dance only. The event is semi-formal, so dress accordingly and dance the night away. The dinner is catered by Hy-Vee. Enjoy a dance, grand march, photo booth and coronation of a king and queen. Entries for king and queen are due March Fri, March 27. FFI: 507-433-8994, www.thearcmc.org

Polar plunges are underway The 2015 Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Minnesota is back and bigger and better than ever. Plungers, many in costumes, jump into frigid waters to raise money for Special Olympics Minnesota, helping more than 8,000 athletes. Plunges continue through March 21 in Warroad. Those wanting to do a 5K on a home treadmill or too “chicken” to plunge also have opportunities to help raise money. FFI: plunge@somn.org, www.plungemn.org

Save the date for celebration Save the date of Sun, June 7 for Celebrating 40 Years of Spinal Cord Injury Research, at Nicollet Island Pavilion, Mpls. This outdoor event features Dr. Jim Krause of the Medical University of South Carolina, and the Longevity After Injury Project. Krause and his research team want to bring together long-term survivors of spinal cord injury (SCI) who have participated in multiple stages of the SCI longitudinal aging study. The goal is to share findings from the study, strengthen the network of participants for ongoing research, gather materials that include photographs and testimonials, and celebrate the lives of the long-term survivors. All research participants have been enrolled within the study a minimum of 20 years, with some people enrolled at 30 and 40 years previously. FFI: http://tinyurl.com/40yr-reunon

Gray Matters Cabaret Artists with and without disabilities explore the intersections of mental health, identity and neurodiversity, as performing and visual artists share their experiences using multiple mediums of artistic expression. Creative entertainment meets education and engages the audience in interactive elements that push everyone to reflect on the issue in new ways. Neurodiversity is a concept in learning and disability positing that neurological conditions are a result of normal human variation rather than inherently negative social or biological disorder. Advocates, including sub-groups such as the autism rights movement, reject the idea that neurological differences need to be “cured” and suggest that neurodiversity is a social category on par with gender, sexuality, ethnicity and disability status. Organized by Nikolas Martell and staged at Patrick’s Cabaret, 3010 Minnehaha Ave. S., Mpls, 7:30 p.m. Fri-Sat, March 13-14. Tickets at the door $10 cash/check. FFI: 612-724-6273, www.patrickscabaret.org

Twelve Dancing Princesses Stages Theatre Company and Escalante Dance present the world premiere of a musical mystery, at Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. ASL show is 7 p.m.

Sat, March 14. Tickets are $16, $14 senior 60+, $12 student. FFI: 952-979-1111, option 4, www.stagestheatre.org

Thurgood Illusion Theater presents the regional premiere of a play based on the life of Justice Thurgood Marshall. From a childhood in the back alleys of Baltimore to the Supreme Court of the United States, Marshall overcame many adversities. At Illusion Theater, 528 Hennepin Ave, 8th floor, Mpls. AD and ASL shows are 8 p.m. Sat, March 14. Tickets are $20-35; senior/student/group discounts; ASL/AD patrons: use the code DISCTV for 40% off tickets. Assisted listening devices available. FFI: 612-339-4944, www.illusiontheater.org

Cabaret Rochester Civic Theatre presents the Tony Awardwinning musical, at 20 Civic Center Dr. SE, Rochester.

Into the Woods

H.M.S. Pinafore

Theater Latte Da presents the melding of Brothers Grimm fairy tales, at Ritz Theater, 345 13th Ave. NE, Mpls.

ASL/AD shows are 7:30 p.m. Thu, March 19. Tickets reduced to $17.50 for ASL/AD patrons and one guest, regular $35. FFI: 612-339-3003, www.theaterlatteda.com

Gilbert & Sullivan Very Light Opera Company presents the classic tale of love and duty, at Howard Conn Fine Arts Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave. S., Mpls. AD show is 2 p.m. Sat, March 21, with a tactile tour available beforehand. Tickets are $20, children under 12 $10; additional $2 fee if ordering online. FFI: 651-255-6947 M-F 11 a.m.-1 p.m., http://gsvloc.org/on-stage/

Other Desert Cities Bloomington Theatre and Art Center presents the powerful story of a dysfunctional family, at Bloomington Center for the Arts, Black Box Theater, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington. Contains adult language.

ASL show is 7:30 p.m. Thu, March 19. AD show is 7:30 p.m. Fri, March 20. Tickets reduced to $17 for AD/ ASL (regular $24, senior $22, age 25 and under $19, Wed. $2 less). FFI: 952-563-8575, www.btacmn.org

22nd Biennial MACTFest 2015 Minnesota Association of Community Theaters (MACT) present the annual performance and workshop festival Fri-Sat, March 20-21, at Dassel-Cokato Performing Arts Center, 4852 Reardon Ave. SW, Cokato.

The event is hosted by Fungus Amongus Players (Dassel-Cokato Community Theatre). ASL and AD requests were due in late February; check to see if shows will be interpreted. Tickets are $15 per session of plays ($10 student); $15 for each day’s workshops; $100 for festival package ($80 members) which includes opening reception, closing party, awards brunch, all plays and workshops. FFI: http://www.mact.net

The Foreigner Lakeshore Players Theatre presents a comedy about cultural misunderstandings, at Lakeshore Players Theatre, 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake. ASL show is 2 p.m. Sun, March 22. If no ASL seats are reserved within two weeks of the performance, the ASL-interpretation will be cancelled. Tickets are reduced to $10 for ASL patrons; reg. $23, senior $21, student $18. FFI: 651-429-5674, www.lakeshoreplayers.com

Good People Lyric Arts Company of Anoka presents an insightful comedy about class and culture, at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, 420 E. Main Street, Anoka. Show recommended for mature audiences. ASL show is 2 p.m. Sun, March 22. Seats for ASL patrons are held in reserve until two weeks prior to the show, then released to the general public. When ordering tickets, please indicate the need for seating in this section; if there are no reservations a week before the show, the interpretation will be canceled. Tickets are $16-26; $5 discount for ASL seats. FFI: 763-422-1838, www.lyricarts.org

Shooting Kabul SteppingStone Theatre presents the story of an Afghani boy who hopes to return to his homeland and find his sister, at SteppingStone Theatre for Youth Development, 55 Victoria St. N., St. Paul. AD show is 7 p.m. Fri, March 20.

ASL show is 3 p.m. Sun, March 22. Tickets are reduced to $10 access rate (regular $16; youth/senior 55+ $12).

FFI: 651-225-9265, www.steppingstonetheatre.org

Art Rochester Repertory Theatre presents the Tony Awardwinning story of art, friendship and identity, at Roches-

Monkey Mind Pirates Z Puppets Rosenschnoz presents the world’s only puppet, rock, yoga adventure about navigating the stormy seas of stress. For families with a child on the autism spectrum, it gives a rare opportunity to participate in the arts together, while learning a common language and creative tools for finding calm in their lives. Guest-starring families from Monkey Mind Pirates workshops with the Autism Society of Minnesota performing alongside Z Puppets. Pre-show Family Happy Hour is 1:30 p.m. with

Accessible fun - p. 13

Pg 12 March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3 Think spring and farmers’ markets

UPCOMING EVENTS Advocacy Self-advocates gather The 2015 Minnesota Self-Advocacy conference is March 27-28 at Crown Plaza St. Paul Riverfront Hotel, 11 E. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. More than 400 self-advocates, friends and family members will gather to celebrate 25 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act, attend workshops and have fun together. There’s still time to register. Costs and a complete schedule are online.

FFI: 651-641-0297, www.mnselfadvocacyconference.com Autism conference marks 20 years The 20th Annual Minnesota Autism Conference, presented by the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM), is April 29 – May 2 at the DoubleTree Hilton by Mpls Park Place Hotel, 1500 Park Place Blvd., Mpls. The four-day conference includes guest speakers, workshops and breakout sessions. Visit exhibits and a book store. The final day of the conference will focus on autism transition, employment and life skills. AuSM will host a gala 6-10 p.m. Fri, May 1 with food, entertainment and live and silent auctions. Gala tickets start at $75; conference fees start at $105 per day. The full schedule is online. FFI: 651-647-1083, www.ausm.org Dementia conference in March Meeting of the Mind Dementia Conference is collaboration between the Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota, North Dakota Chapter and Mayo Clinic. It is 8:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. Sat, March 14 at St. Paul RiverCentre 175 West Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. The conference is a day designed to inform, equip and support persons with dementia, family care partners and professionals. A keynote address, workshops and information displays are offered. Space is available for participants, as well as sponsors and exhibitors. Participant fees start at $100.

FFI: Deborah Richman, 952-857-0551, drichman@alz.org (participants); Jennifer Schroeder, jschroeder1@alz.org (sponsors/exhibitors).

Mental Health Day Minnesota mental health advocates and friends will gather for Mental Health Day at the Capitol Thu, March 12.

Meet 10 a.m.-noon at Christ Lutheran Church on Capitol Hill, 105 University Ave. W., St. Paul (across the street from the capitol) for presentations on this year’s legislative issues, including key proposals to boost mental health funding and improve access to mental health services. Hundreds of people are expected to attend the event and to join in visits with their legislators about mental health services in their home communities Sponsored by the Mental Health Legislative Network, a coalition of more than 35 organizations concerned about the quality and availability of mental health services in Minnesota. FFI: NAMI Minnesota, 651-645-2948, www.namihelps.org

Spring will be here soon and farmer’s markets will soon follow. The Minneapolis Midtown Farmer’s Market starts 13 years’ service at an interim location. The market will occupy interim space at 2225 E. Lake St. The market opens 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat, May 2. The interim space market will eventually become part of the L & H Station development that will include a new Hennepin County Service Center, 100 units of housing, stores and public parking. The site will eventually include the Brown Institute building and creation of a large public plaza where the market will have its permanent home. The interim space is to be accessible and permanent space will also be accessible.

Each year, the Midtown Market attracts more than 55,000 visitors, many of whom use public transportation, walk or bike. This season the market will operate on Saturdays from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. May 2 through Oct 24, and on Tuesday afternoons from 3 to 7 p.m, June 2 Elders’ conference set Elders are invited to attend the 39th Minnesota Gerontological Society Annual Conference, The theme is Designing Our Destiny: Aging Ain’t for Sissies: Challenges, Opportunities and Affordability. The event is 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri, April 24 at Earle Brown Heritage Center in Brooklyn Park.

Doors open at 7 a.m. for registration and social time. $45 covers all sessions, coffee, lunch, a post-session reception and prize drawing. FFI: 952-829-5937, mngero.org

Youth and families Understanding depression Parenting a child with mental health challenges can be incredibly difficult at times, but there are skills parents can learn to help children. In this interactive workshop, Dr. Read Sulik will help parents and professionals learn about The 3s of Depression – changes in mood, changes in sleep and energy, and changes in thinking – and the most common problems that result. Participants will learn new skills that parents can use to help their child heal, recover and prevent recurrences of depression. The talk is 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tue, March 17 at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington.

Advance registration is required. FFI: 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237 (toll free), www.PACER.org Free family classes The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Minnesota offers a free 12-week educational course that helps families gain a greater understanding of mental illness, discuss resources, build communication skills, reduce stress and find support. Over 3,000 Minnesota families have benefitted from this course. The Family-to-Family course will meet weekly starting 6-8 p.m. Thu, April 2 at Canvas Health, 7066 Stillwater Blvd., Oakdale. Registration is required. FFI: Jody, 651-407-8616 PACER offers workshops PACER Center offers many useful free or low-cost

through Oct, 27. The offerings at Midtown include fresh, local produce, bread, cheese, honey, jams and jellies, responsibly raised meats including beef, chicken, pork and lamb, and as well prepared foods vendors and local arts and crafts and more. In addition, each week the market provides live music and entertainment, family activities, cooking demonstrations and community information tables. FFI: midtownfarmersmarket.org ■ 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 the newsletter of statewide workshops that allows participants to pick and choose sessions catered to their needs. One upcoming free workshop is Families Are Important: Understanding the Early Intervention Process in Minnesota, 9-11 a.m. Sat, March 14 at PACER Center.

Hot Tips on the Individualized Education Program: Is your child’s IEP individualized and appropriate? is a free workshop 9:30-11:30 a.m. Sat, March 21 at PACER Center. Use the IEP report to best meet a child’s needs. FFI: 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237 (toll free), www.PACER.org Children’s behavior class Raising a child or adolescent with challenging behaviors can be difficult. Learn when and how to seek help, develop parenting strategies, learn the ins and outs of special education and other educational supports, and discover community and county resources available to you and your child. A free, one-day workshop is 8:30 a.m.3 p.m. Tue, March 17 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 700 S, Snelling Ave., St. Paul. Presented by NAMI Minnesota. Registration requested. FFI: 651-645-2948.

Information and assistance Conversation on mental health NAMI Minnesota hosts Community Conversation on Mental Health 6:30-8:30 p.m. Mon, March 16 at the Roseville Skating Center-Fireside Room, 2661 Civic Center Drive. Community Conversations on Mental Health encourage people to talk about mental health and mental illnesses; challenge myths and misinformation; increase community knowledge and support; make communities inclusive and free from discrimination; promote prevention and early intervention; and agree to steps that communities can take. Registration encouraged. FFI: 651-645-2948.

Vision loss group offers activities Vision Loss Resources offers free and low-cost activities in the Twin Cities for people who are blind or visually impaired. Life skills classes for those with low vision; card games, craft classes, book clubs, walking groups, dinners out, special outings and technology classes are among the offerings. Participants need to RVSP to participate. FFI: RSVP hotline 612-843-3439; activity phone 612-253-5155, www.visionlossresources.org

Events - p. 13

March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3 Pg 13

UPCOMING EVENTS from p. 12 MCIL offers classes, activities The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) offers many life skills classes as well as fun outings and activities for people with disabilities. MCIL’s new location is 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 two 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 (AuSM) 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. Check the web site for upcoming groups.

Groups meet at the AuSM offices at 2380 Wycliff St. 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

ACCESSIBLE FUN from p. 11 the sensory-friendly show at 2:30 p.m. Sun, March 22 at Children’s Theatre Company Cargill Stage, 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. For accommodation details, visit www.childrenstheatre.org/plan/sensory-friendly-programming Tickets are $7.50 general admission. FFI: 651-647-1083 ext. 19, http://tinyurl.com/n8p2tdz or http://ausm.org/monkey-mind-pirates.html .

The Singing Revolution: Songs of the Baltic Awakening Cantus presents the musical story of how the people of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia joined hands in a peaceful revolution of song to gain their independence from the Soviet Union, at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, 630 Wayzata Blvd. E., Wayzata. ASL show is 3 p.m. Sun, March 22. Other performances are planned in March in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Edina and Stillwater. Ask about other accommodations and ticket rates. Tickets to the Wayzata event are $30; $10 student; discounts for groups of 10-plus. FFI: 612-435-0055, weekdays 12-3 p.m., www.cantussings.org/2014/09/09/singing-revolution-2015/

Huck Finn Mark Twain’s story of the adventures of Huck and Jim will be performed by Children’s Theatre Company, at the Children’s Theatre United Health Group Stage, 2400 Third Ave. S., Mpls. AD and ASL shows are 7 p.m.

Fri, March 27. Recommended for grades 3-8. Tickets include special price rates for ASL/AD patrons (regular $16-40). FFI: 612-874-0400, www.childrenstheatre.org

Death Tax Pillsbury House Theatre presents a dark comedy about death and taxes, at Pillsbury House Theatre, 3501 Chicago Ave. S., Mpls. AD show is 7:30 p.m. Fri, March 27, followed by post-show discussion. ASL show is 7:30 p.m.

Sat, March 28. Tickets are pay-what-you-want (regular $25). FFI: 612-825-0459, http://pillsburyhouseandtheatre.org

Here Comes the Sun: The Music of the Beatles Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus welcomes spring with an evening of Beatles music, at Ted Mann Concert Hall, 2128 4th St. S., Mpls. ASL show is 8 p.m. Sat, March 28.

Tickets are educed to half-price for ASL patrons regular $25-48, includes all fees. FFI: 612-624-2345, www.tcgmc.org

Anne of Green Gables Theatre in the Round Players presents the story of an orphan girl and how she changes a family’s lives, at Theatre in the Round, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD show is 2 p.m. Sun, March 29. Tickets are $22 with discounts available Fri. and Sun. for students (with ID) and seniors (62-plus). FFI: 612-333-3010, www.theatreintheround.org

Fruit Fly: The Musical Illusion Theater presents the story of the bond between gay men and straight women, at Illusion Theater, 528 Hennepin Ave, 8th floor, Mpls. AD show is 7 p.m.

Sun, March 29. ASL show is 8 p.m. Sat, April 4. Tickets are $18-25; senior/student/group discounts; ASL/AD patrons: use the code DISCTV for 40% off tickets. Assisted listening devices available. FFI: 612-339-4944, www.illusiontheater.org

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 Mental health support offered NAMI 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: 651-645-2948. A full calendar of all events is offered online.

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

Open Flow Forum The Artists with Disabilities Alliance and supporters gather on the first Thursday of each month for a free opportunity to share visual art, writing, music, theatre and other artistic efforts with each other in an informal, fragrance-free setting, at Carleton Artists’ Lofts community room, 2285 University Ave. W., St. Paul. Refreshments served. 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. Upcoming gatherings are 7-9 p.m.

Feb. 5, March 5, April 2, May 7 and June 4. Ask about accommodations. FFI: Jon, 612-332-3888 or jon@vsamn.org, www.carletonartistlofts.com/ or http://vsamn.org/artists-disabilities/

Tony Pappas art show Tony Pappas, who has been in Ally People Solutions’ Artful Employment Project in 2014, has painted and drawn since he was three years old. He is currently exploring his medium more deeply. His exhibit is part of a rotating series of exhibits coordinated by VSA Minnesota and is hosted by Vision Loss Resources, 1936 Lyndale Ave. S. (at Franklin), Mpls. The exhibit is free and will be on display through April, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mon through Fri. FFI: 612-871-2222, 612-332-3888, http://tinyurl.com/n8p2tdz

Goodwill-Easter Seals, 553 Fairview Ave. N., St. Paul, in room 123. FFI: Sonja, 651-357-2077. A family support group meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, from 7:00-8:30 p.m., at Canvas Health, 7066 Stillwater Blvd., Oakdale. FFI: Dan, 651-341-8918.

Volunteer, Donate Share a smile Brighten the day of a senior citizen in north or southwest Minneapolis and have fun. Visit an elder and do things together: movies, games, crafts or just friendly conversation. Hang out with a senior on a regular basis and do things that you both enjoy, like watching a movie, playing games or friendly conversation. One-time or ongoing opportunities through the NIP Senior Program. FFI: Jeanne, 612-746-8549, www.neighborhoodinvolve.org Open the Door to Education Help adults reach their educational goals and earn their GED. Tutor, teach or assist in a classroom with the Minnesota Literacy Council. Give just 2-3 hours a week and help people expand their opportunities and change their lives through education. The literacy council provides training and support and accommodations for volunteers with disabilities. FFI: Allison, 651-251-9110, volunteer@mnliteracy.org, www.mnliteracy.org/volunteers/opportunities/adults ■

Accessibility grants - from p. 9 grams, projects, equipment, or facilities in ways that have the potential for significant or long-term impact in involving more people with disabilities as participants or patrons in arts programs.

Grant review panelists for the most recent funding round were Scott Artley, Patrick’s Cabaret performance curator and consultant; Hunter Gullickson, Guthrie Theater access coordinator; Stacy Shamblott, Courage Kenny SHARE Program coordinator; Jill Vaughn, History Theatre access coordinator and consultant; and Patty Gordon, ASL interpreter, teacher, Storyblend founder. The reviewers read and ranked the applications, which were then sent to the VSA Minnesota board of directors for approval.

The next application deadline is May 1. For more information or grant application forms, go to www.vsamn. org, call 612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883, “like” VSA Minnesota on Facebook, or email access@vsamn.org ■

More events information 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 800-8013883 (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 ■

Kent’s Accounting Service, LLC Kent Fordyce Certified QuickBooks Online Certified ProAdvisor 2015 2005-2014 6371 Bartlett Blvd Mound, MN 55364

Fax: 952-472-1458

612-889-2959

fordyce6@aol.com

Diamond Hill Townhomes Diamond Hill Townhomes is a great property located near the Minneapolis International Airport. We have spacious two and three bedroom townhomes that are HUD subsidized and rent is 30% of the total household’s adjusted gross income.

Our Three Bedroom waiting list is closed. We are only accepting applications for our Two Bedroom accessible units.

We are always accepting applications for our large number of mobility impaired accessible units. Please contact us for more information.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Please call (612) 726-9341.

Pg 14 March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3

March Sampling

Radio Talking Book Books available through Faribault Books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault Call 1800-722-0550, 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 interlibrary 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 featured at 9 p.m. Sundays on the program It Makes a Difference.

Weekend Program Books Your Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing The Confidence Code, by Katty Kay and Claire Shipmen, and Rewire by Richard O’Connor, PhD.; For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing sometimes never, sometimes always, by Elissa Janine Hoole, and The Peculiar, by Stephan Bachmann; Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing Underground, by Jim Moore, and The Overhaul, by Kathleen Jamie; The U.S. and Us (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing On Stage with Kevin Kling, by Kevin Kling.

Chautauqua • Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m.

The Art of Daring, Nonfiction by Carl Phillips, 2014.

Four broadcasts. Begins March 28. Phillips argues for restlessness as key to imagination, but also notes the risks imagination must take. After looking at works by major poets, he asks, “How is the restlessness that can

lead to art all that different from sexual restlessness?”

L, S - Read by Julie Bolton.

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

A Death in San Pietro, Nonfiction by Tim Brady, 2013.

Eight broadcasts. Begins March 25. In war-ravaged Italy, near a small village north of Naples, the paths of three men crossed: platoon leader Captain Henry Waskow, award-winning journalist Ernie Pyle and young filmmaker John Huston. They were about to make one of the great stories of World War II. L - Read by Phil Rosenbaum.

Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good, Fiction by Jan Karon, 2014. 14 broadcasts. Begins March 18. When Father Tim arrives back in Mitford, he feels something is missing. Maybe he’s lost his passion. But others in Mitford are struggling with their passions as well. Does Mitford still take care of its own? Read by Carol Lewis.

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

Tibetan Peach Pie, Nonfiction by Tom Robbins, 2014. 16 broadcasts. Begins March 16. The grandchild of Baptist preachers, Tom Robbins weaves together stories of his unconventional life, from his Appalachian childhood to his globe-trotting adventures. He has led a life as unlikely, magical, and bizarre as those of his quixotic characters. L - Read by John Mandeville.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry, Fiction by Gabrielle Zevin, 2014. Seven broadcasts. Begins March 23. A.J. Fikry is isolating himself. Even the books in his store have stopped holding pleasure for him – he sees them as a sign of a rapidly changing world. Then a mysterious package arrives and A.J. has the opportunity to make his life over. Read by Nancy Felknor.

PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

The Undercover Economist Strikes Back, Nonfiction by Tim Harford, 2014. 10 broadcasts. Begins March 23. Economics is no longer a topic we can ignore. From politicians to hedge fund managers to middle-class investors, everyone must pay attention to the global economy – how it affects us and how it works. Read by Jack Rossmann.

Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

The Last Kind Word, Fiction by David Housewright, 2013. 12 broadcasts. Begins March 17. Rushmore McKenzie is doing a favor for the ATF, trying to find a cache of illegal guns. They give him a fake I.D. so he can infiltrate the gunrunners, which seems like a bad idea at the time. L - Read by Chuck Torrey.

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

Us Conductors, Fiction by Sean Michaels, 2014. 13 broadcasts. Begins March 18. Lev Termen went from life as a scientist in St. Petersburg to life as a spy in Manhattan where he fell in love with Clara. In Russia, he is imprisoned but his love remains constant.

L - Read by Peter Danbury.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 11 p.m.

Taking Liberties, Nonfiction by Robert Boston, 2014.

Six broadcasts. Begins March 24. Religious freedom is an individual right, not a license allowing religious organizations to discriminate against and control others.

Author Boston makes recommendations resolving clashes between religious-liberty claims and individual rights. Read by John Demma.

Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnight Tigerman, Fiction by Nick Harkaway, 2014. 15 broadcasts. Begins March 11. Sergeant Lester Ferris is about to retire and moved to the island of Mancreu, a former British colony in legal limbo, facing destruction by an international community concerned for safety. When he befriends a street kid, Lester finds a purpose in protecting him. L - Read by Tom Price.

After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.

Beltane, Fiction by Christine Malec, 2014. 29 broadcasts. Begins March 11. In 1558, Margarete and her servant leave France for Scotland to fulfill a bargain made by others. Caught in the schemes of others, Margarete is forced to look for the sources of her own power. S - Read by Arlan Dohrenburg. ■ Abbreviations: V – violence, L – offensive language, S – sexual situations

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

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

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

Thanks to all of you for supporting Access Press FRIEND SPONSOR ($50 and above) Monte Blair (in memoriam) Ellen Boucher Susan Bulger Mike Chevrette Yoshiko Dart Teresa Dock Steve & JoAnn Erbes Lee Ann Erickson Marjorie Goldberg Stephan Grams Pamela Hochrein Ellen & Skip Houghton Laurie Jarvis Sandi Lane Gene Martinez Christopher Meyer Lee Ohnesorge Linda Paulson Kelly Rathcke Virginia Schwartzbauer John Sherman Mary Treacy Hammer Residences MBW Company

Donate at your work place through Community Shares: www.communitysharesmn.org

BRONZE SPONSOR ($75 and above) ($75 and above) Brigid Alseth Fred Benjamin Rick Cardenas Stephanie Cunningham Craig Dunn Christopher Duff Nancy Eustis Anne Henry Mary Kay Kennedy Dianna Krogstad Lisa & Jimmy Michaels Scott Neamy Donn Poll & Eric Nelson Mark & Mary Payette Walt Seibert CAPSS - Northwestern Hennepin County Library Lutheran Social Services Ten Thousand Villages

SILVER SPONSOR ($150 and above) Jeff Bangsberg & Anita Boucher Bill & Alex Bartolic Charlie Braun (In honor of) Robert Paul Gregory Richard & Vicki Dalle Molle Elin Ohlsson Manley and Ann Olson John G. Smith Associated Bank Courage Kenny Institute Handi Medical Supply Minneosta Diversified Industries IMED Mobility LOTTSA Tax & Accting Services Medica

GOLD SPONSOR ($500 and above) Phyllis A. Benjamin (In Memoriam) Michael Bjerkesett Mel & Georgia Duncan Debra Shriver MN Governor’s Council on Developemental Disabilities Natl. Handicapped Housing Institute Tamarack Habilitation Technologies

BENEFACTOR SPONSOR ($1000 and above) In Home Personal Care Ronna Linroth Lynda Milne Paul Mueller The Otto Bremer Foundation UCare

I would like to…

Subscribe & Support Access Press* Please mail your  Subscriber $30 sponsorship/subscription to:

    

Friend $50+ Bronze $75+ Silver $150+ Gold $500+ Benefactor $1000+

Access Press, LTD. % Capitol Ridge Inn Offices 161 St. Anthony Ave, Suite 910 St. Paul, MN 55103

Date:___________________ Amt. Enclosed $__________________ Name__________________________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip ___________________________________________________________ Phone__________________________________________________________________ Email__________________________________________________________________ *In addition to receiving your one-year subscription, all support over $30 per year is tax-deductible.

Reduced subscription rates are available upon request for individuals with fixed incomes.

*Receive 12 issues per year in the mail

Moving?

Please share your new address with Access Press so you don’t miss a single issue!

Phone: 651-644-2133 or Email: access@accesspress.org

March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3 Pg 15

REGIONAL NEWS Woman enjoys new ramp Crowdfunding and volunteer crews recently helped a St. Paul woman with a project that will increase her independence. Deb Blakeway and her dog Madison now can use a ramp from her front door to the sidewalk. Blakeway, who is a dog trainer and shows dogs, is using a wheelchair after having several back surgeries. Without a ramp, she couldn’t get out of her home to get to physical therapy or even run errands. She also had to send Madison away to live with friends.

Rebuilding Together Twin Cities got the ball rolling and organized the project, while Barn Raising set up a web page to raise $2,600 to complete the project. People learned about the ramp on social media and helped raise money. A crew from Rebuilding Together Twin Cities and a number of volunteers got the construction ball rolling, and students from St. Paul College’s building trades program finished things up.

Blakeway tried out her new ramp with a handful of builders still there, and was very impressed. “It’s nice. They did a really nice job,” she said. The ramp has a safety gate and a wider portion near the door so she can turn her wheelchair around to get in and out of the house. ■ (Source: KARE 11)

Parents criticize Fargo business The Fargo Sky Zone, which offers trampolines and other features for children’s play, has been the focus of criticism by some parents. Parents of children with disabilities have claimed they weren’t offered proper accommodations by the business. They have taken their fight to social media.

One woman posted on Facebook about a recent incident where the facility would not let a mother jump on the same trampoline as her child. The child has disabilities and couldn’t jump alone.

Sky Zone staff responded by saying that they did tell the woman that there are dangers in having more than one person on a trampoline at a time. That precaution applies to older children. Parents are allowed to jump with toddlers ages five and under at set times on two days a week.

Bruce Karevold, Sky Zone co-owner, said “Any time you have two people on a trampoline there’s the possibility that one of them could get bounced in the wrong direction or get stepped on or pushed over.”

Staff said there is a facility rule against such trampoline use and that it must be enforced across the board. That comment hasn’t mollified some families.

Sky Zone owners say they regularly make time to allow children with disabilities to play at the facility.

No formal complaints have been filed. ■ (Source: WDAY-TV)

Construction waste is cited Veterans with disabilities are blowing the whistle on waste by the Veterans Administration (VA) at the campus of the St. Cloud VA Medical Center. As part of the $90 million project, new buildings are going up and old ones are being remodeled. Nearly $90 million are being put into projects to help veterans. But an investigation showed that some of the work is taking years to complete, driving costs through the roof.

Ryan Preusser, a disabled veteran and construction company owner, is one of the people expressing concerns about the project. “The millions and millions of dollars wasted there in a year on construction projects is ridiculous,” he said.

One of Preusser’s projects was to build an addition to the audiology department. The project was originally supposed to take a little more than a year and it was started in 2011. After his workers broke ground and started building, they shut down for months. He said the VA’s project managers were slow to order new sound booths. The addition was finally completed in the spring of 2014. Delays cost his firm more than $200,000, and it took a heavy toll on the business and his health. He had to sell off equipment to stay afloat

while waiting to hear if the VA would reimburse him for the additional expenses he incurred. That stress is compounding the PTSD he suffers from the Iraq war.

Fox 9 reporters obtained information through the Freedom of Information Act, which showed that contractors have expressed unhappiness with senior VA management, blaming them for unnecessary project delays and additional expenses that have some of their companies teetering on bankruptcy. Problems include remodeled nursing home rooms that had to be revamped again because the VA’s original design failed to account for the size of new beds. Bathrooms with freshly installed tile floors were ripped out and redone when a tripping hazard was found. Contractors blame the VA for poor designs, while the VA blames workers.

The VA did a survey of construction firms last year. Much of the feedback was negative.

VA management in St. Cloud declined to do an interview with Fox 9. The VA did state that: “We do not purposely seek to delay projects or cause the price to increase given the age of the infrastructure ... unforeseen site conditions are inevitable.” ■ (Source: KMSP-TV)

Trial reveals hospital woes A trial centering on Minnesota’s sex offender treatment facilities a state treatment center continued in U.S. District County throughout February. A federal class-action lawsuit against the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) included testimony from a number of facility residents. Residents are claiming the program doesn’t offer genuine treatment or a realistic path to release back into the community.

Residents of the Minnesota Sex Offender Treatment Program have testified that they are penalized for what are sometimes minor rule violations. Some residents have testified that they feel their stays are prolonged unnecessarily and that they will never be released.

Program facilities are in Moose Lake and St. Peter.

State officials have challenged those claims and defended the program and its practices, and said that there is a focus on helping residents succeed in treatment and gain release.

Last year a court-appointed panel concluded that the residents were often moved back into treatment for behavior not related to their sexual offenses.

Gov. Mark Dayton has proposed making more than $11 million for additional improvements, including moving about 50 residents to less restrictive settings in the community and doing more reviews to determine when residents are ready for release. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

Shutdown causes woes for clients A Winona home health care agency that was supposed to shut its doors March 1 pushed that date to mid-February. That causes problems for its clients, and some had to scramble to find care.

Quality Living Home Health Care CEO Gary Poblocki indicated the clinic was forced to close due to small reimbursement payments from the state.

Families said the lack of notice caused problems.

“My husband has lewy body dementia and Parkinsonism, and we’ve had three girls working for us for going on six months now,” Joan Gaworski told KTTC-TV. “Kenny can’t walk so we would get him up in the

lift to move him from his bed to a reclining chair, and without us to be there to move him around he’s bedridden,” said Jordan Skordahl. She worked for the Gaworksi family through Quality Living Home Healthcare.

“An apology would have gone a long way with me, but that’s immoral and unethical in my book,” said Matt Gaworski, Kenny’s son.

The company has claimed it gave adequate notice but employees and clients disagreed. Some workers said they were texted and told the company was shutting down immediately February 19.

(Source: KTTC-TV)

Man survives - from p. 6 Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded to a report of someone calling for help on the lake. Neslund was found about 500 feet from shore.

Lt. Kent Vnuk of the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, said authorities received a call around 8:18 p.m. about a man who was yelling for help on the ice.

Vnuk said they found Neslund about 500 yards off the shore. Vnuk said he was yelling that he was frozen and unable to move but he had made it out of the water. Neslund was pulled safely from the ice after a water rescue was initiated. He was found at after 8 p.m., with darkness and cold weather complicating the rescuer.

“He had a tenacious will to live,” Vnuk told KARE 11 News. “Even if you don’t have a disability, to be able to pull yourself out of the ice with water-logged clothes, I mean, you have to be very determined.” ■ (Source: KARE 11)

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

Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 FAX 651-644-2136 • Email: access@accesspress.org

STAFF ATTORNEYS Central Minnesota • Legal Services Central MN Legal Services seeks one or two full-time attorneys for its Minneapolis office. Family Law with some work in housing & govt benefits. Licensed in MN preferred. Post-law school pov. law experience, family law or clinical experience pref’d. Spanish/ Somali lang. a plus. Salary $45,000 +D.O.E. Excellent benefits. Resume w/ references & writing sample to Lynelle Wells, CMLS, 430 First Ave. No., #359, Mpls, MN 55401. Application deadline: 3/20/15 or until filled. EOE.

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 wheelchair users in mind. Section 8 subsidized. Oneand two-bedroom units. For more information on availability call 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. 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.

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

Equal Opportunity Housing.

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

Call 612-378-0331 for availability information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Find your new home with At Home Apartments.

Call 651-224-1234 or visit AtHomeApartments.com for an apartment or town home. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Welcome to 2410 Black Oaks Lane. This well cared for home includes Universal access features such as countertops, roll in shower and hardwood floors. The spacious rooms make this a perfect place to come home to. Three season porch with huge deck for those summer evenings. Views of the well landscaped yard from most rooms. Steps from parks, trails and great access to shopping. Quiet cul de sac location in South Plymouth. Well maintained and updated, just move in and enjoy. Contact Vicki Weber of REMAX Results, 612-860-3001

Pg 16 March 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 3