December 2016 Edition - Access Press

Live Well grants, Page 13

Volume 27, Number 12

Updating on major issues

by Access Press staff

Milestones have been reached on issues affecting Minnesotans with disabilities. These issues, all of which Access Press has been following over the past several months, center on mental health, waiver services and employment.

One huge step is that Minnesotans who have faced long waits for waiver services may finally be seeing some relief. In November state officials announced that a lengthy and longstanding waiting list for waiver service has been eliminated.

The list has included about 1,420 Minnesotans with disabilities. Some people waited years for help. The list was eliminated in October.

Waivers are a form of Medicaid assistance. The Community Access of Disability Inclusion (CADI) waivers help people cover the costs of caregiving, transportation and other services when they live independently in the community. Elimination of the CADI list was hailed by disability advocates as a positive step toward Update on major issues- p. 4

www.accesspress.org Thanks to all

Help us bring you your news Dear readers, Access Press, Minnesota’s disability news source, is marking 26 years of providing news and information for Minnesotans with disabilities, their family members, caregivers, friends, and allies.

We recently celebrated 14 years of honoring the legacy of our founding editor, Charlie Smith, with our annual banquet. For 2016 the Access Press Charlie Smith Award was presented to longtime disability rights activist Clifford Poetz.

Poetz captivated the crowd with stoCharlie Smith Award winner Clifford Poetz reacted to a joke ries from his decades of activism. His from newspaper banquet emcee Nick Wilkie. main message was a call to action for Photo by Greg Mellang people with disabilities, to continue fighting for their rights, needed services and that Access Press is fully available to our entire the ability to live a full life in the commucommunity with a financial contribution. Connity. Living that full life requires information tributions before year’s end can be deducted for from a wide range of sources, which is the 2016 tax purposes. role of Access Press.

As a nonprofit newspaper, Access Press can Many people at the banquet, including do a lot with even a small contribution. Just $30 Poetz, acknowledged the role of Access covers the cost of a print newspaper subscripPress as a critical news and information retion for a person who cannot otherwise afford source for Minnesota’s disability community. the newspaper. Many of these readers received Access Press is one of only a handful of the paper in the past through direct support news sources that strives to provide a broad agencies, but as those agencies have cut costs, range of information by and for people with readers have lost the paper. Many of these readdisabilities. ers aren’t able to travel to a newspaper drop site Newspaper staff closely follow disabilityto get the paper and cannot read it online. related issues at the local, state and federal A $75 contribution helps Access Press pay levels. The newspaper also prominently feafor an article and photos from a freelance tures the accomplishments of community writer. A $100 contribution helps set up a new members in the People and Places section. It drop site. A $500 contribution would pay for a provides information on a wide range of acseries of articles. One big wish on our list is to tivities, from cultural happenings to commusupplement our file photos but that would renity activism, on its Enjoy! and Events pages. quire raising $2,500 to $5,000.

We are committed to our mission as a reIf you can help, please contact Tim Benjamin gional news source. Please help us to ensure at 651-644-2133 or access@accesspress.org ■

Session starts January 3

Care worker crisis, spend-down on tap

by Jane McClure

The need to address Minnesota’s care worker shortage, calls for Medical Assistance (MA) reform and continued work on business accessibility are among issues headed for the 2017 Minnesota Legislature. The Minnesota State Council on Disability’s annual legislative forum December 5 provided an opportunity to hear legislative priorities from several groups.

One common theme of the session is that Minnesotans with disabilities need to share their stories with state and federal lawmakers, to protect the services they have and to bring badly needed improvements.

The 2017 session starts January 3. Familiar issues, some with renewed urgency, will be back at the capitol. The “acute” staff crisis, with unfilled work shifts, high turnover and inadequate training, was described by longtime advocate Jeff Bangsberg. In May and August, two of his friends died due to a lack of qualify service from caregivers.

“Some people are without care evenings and weekends,” Bangsberg said. Volunteers, friends and family members have to step in. Or, people find themselves hospitalized or in institutional settings.

When the personal care attendant (PCA) program began in 1978, only about 200 people needed services. In 2015 40,600 children and adults needed PCS services, with 43,500 people providing service that year.

Proposals on reimbursements were outlined. One wrinkle is that federal rules now require overtime pay after 40 hours’ 2017 will bring the return of rallies and demonstrations at the capitol, after work.

Gov. Mark Dayton’s s proposed rate increase for overyears of construction.

Legislative session - p. 10 File photo

December 10, 2016 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities. MN Permit No. 4766 Address Service Requested

“A person is a person, No matter how small.”

— Dr. Seuss (aka Theodor Geisel) NEWS DIGEST

NAMI Minnesota honors outstanding people, programs.

Page 7 Lupus Foundation of Minnesota marks 40 years’ service.

Page 2 Recycle light strings and more through seasonal ProAct program.

Page 3

Access Press says farewell to a longtime colleague.

Page 3 Conceptual choices don’t help those in need of housing.

Page 4

INSIDE Enjoy!, pg 11 Events, pg 12 People & Places, pg 7 Radio Talking Book, pg 14 Regional News, pg 6

Pg 2 December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin As the year wraps up, I’ve got a few things I’d like to look back on and people I’d like to recognize. First off, there’s Cliff Poetz, the 2016 Charlie Smith Award winner. We had a great celebration last month recapping his advocacy work. Charlie Larkin, retired director of the Institute on Community Integration, introduced Cliff and provided highlights of his impact over a long career as an advocate. Jerry Smith, also from ICI, provided us with a short documentary.

If you missed it, go to our Facebook page and check it out. It’s a bio-pic with some fun laughs. Jerry did a great job of weaving humor into some of the incredible things that Cliff has done to better the quality of life for all of us. Cliff’s own sense of humor is as great as his accomplishments. As I went onstage to

present him with the award, he caught me off guard with one of his typical Cliff remarks (“Ok, Tim, come on up and do what you’ve gotta do.”), and I forgot completely what I was going to say.

So since I forgot that night, I want to give my thanks here to everyone for another excellent Charlie Awards dinner: the sponsors, the folks who purchased tables, those who made donations at the event, those who donated and bid on auction items, and all the attendees. We also owe a very special thanks to Senator Amy Klobuchar for her welcoming remarks: people were saying that Minnesota has two very funny senators. Finally, I want to thank the Access Press Board of Directors, my fantastic staff and the hotel banquet staff for all the planning and execution of a perfect night. The new venue was great, and we had plenty of room for people to get around—between many of the tables two wheelchairs could pass without interrupting those seated. I’m looking forward to next year, and hope you are, too.

Another person I want to extend public thanks to is U.S. Circuit Judge Donovan Frank. We were fortu-

nate to be invited to Judge Frank’s chambers just a couple weeks ago to talk about the Olmstead Plan, how it should affect people with disabilities and how the State of Minnesota should keep its promises to the disability community. Judge Frank is a true ally of the disability community. I really think that he understands our issues completely. Many of us have talked over the years about having policymakers spend a day in a wheelchair to understand what it’s like to use a wheelchair as your only mode of mobility. Well, Judge Frank would be one person I would say doesn’t need to go through that; he already understands and can identify with the difficulties of living with a disability.

Finally, I want to say a sad goodbye and huge thanks to Ellen Houghton, who is retiring. Ellen has been this paper’s desktop publisher for its entire 26year history. We will miss her collaboration, her skills and most of all her always uplifting attitude.

She has been the rock, the backbone of Access Press.

She will be missed! We hope for her a long healthy retirement and that she will be dropping in now and again. Thank you, Ellen. We love you!

Have a good month and we’ll talk later. ■

HISTORY NOTE

Lupus Foundation of Minnesota marks 40 years’ service The year was 1976. Jimmy Carter was elected president, the United States was celebrating its Bicentennial, Rocky was in movie theaters, Viking I landed on Mars, Apple Computer Company was just getting its start, a postage stamp cost 13 cents, and a handful of dedicated individuals saw a need to support people with lupus in Minnesota.

One of the many disability service groups marking a major anniversary in 2016 is the Lupus Foundation of Minnesota. The foundation is celebrating its 40th year of working on behalf of those whose lives are impacted by lupus. As an independent, nonprofit charitable organization, the organization raises funds to support research focused on understanding the causes of lupus, and discovering improved treatments and a cure.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system turns against parts of the body it is designed to protect. This leads to inflammation and can affect many different body systems, including joints, blood cells and organs.

Lupus can be difficult to diagnose and can range

Volume 27, Number 12

Periodicals Imprint: Pending ISSN

Co-Founder/Publisher Wm. A. Smith, Jr. (1990-1996)

Managing Editor Jane McClure

Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Charles F. Smith (1990-2001)

Business Manager/ Webmaster Dawn Frederick

Board of Directors Brigid Alseth, Steve Anderson, John Clark, Kristin Jorenby, Carrie Salberg, Cheryl Vander Linden, Dick VanWagner and Mark Zangara

Cartoonist Scott Adams

Advertising Sales Michelle Hegarty, 612-807-1078

Production Ellen Houghton with Presentation Images

Executive Director Tim Benjamin

Distribution S. C. Distribution

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

from mild to life-threatening in severity. With treatment and non-organ-threatening complications, 80 to 90 percent of those affected can look forward to a normal life span.

The Lupus Foundation of Minnesota has been based since Bloomington in 2004. It has a fourperson staff and many dedicated volunteers. Its goal is to see a world without lupus.

The state group incorporated in 1976 as a Minnesota chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America.

The first support group meeting was held in 1980.

Eleven groups are now offered throughout the area, along with specialty groups.

The Lupus Foundation of Minnesota formally incorporated in 1998, breaking away from the national group.

The first summer student fellowship was offered in 1981. In 2016 the foundation awarded its 123rd fellowship, cultivating a new generation of researchers and opening the door to new discoveries in lupus research.

One high point was the awarding of the first research grant, in 1995. Since then, more than $2.3 million in total research spending has been paid out. It is

hoped that the clinical research grants and the work they support will eventually contribute to finding the cure and more effective treatments for lupus.

Another way of raising awareness of lupus and the need for research is what is now the Lupus Walk for Hope. What was called the Twin Cities Walk-a-thon began in 1997, with a second walk in Rochester two years later. 5K Runs began in 2009. This year the walk celebrated its 20th year in the Twin Cities, 16th year in Rochester, and sixth year in Duluth. All three locations raise funds for research and direct service to those with lupus.

The foundation has raised awareness in other ways over the years, with many eloquent volunteers speaking about their lives with lupus. People might remember bread sales to help the foundation, donating used goods for resale or playing in the golf tournament. All of that support helps the Lupus Foundation of Minnesota strive toward a vision of a world without lupus.

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 ■

December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

Pg 3

Program provides jobs

Holiday lights recycling offered in Twin Cities area Did the holiday lights fizzle and not dazzle when the strings were plugged in? Do extra electrical, phone and appliance cords clutter a closet or drawer? Recycle those materials and provide jobs for people with disabilities. ProAct, Inc. has announced the start of its annual Holiday Lights Recycling program, with 27 drop-off locations. New drop sites and improved efficiencies in the program have the workers hoping for more materials to process and recycle this holiday season.

ProAct is headquartered in Eagan and has additional operations in Red Wing, Zumbrota and in Hudson, Wis. Its mission is to provide person-centered services that enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities in the areas of Old Christmas lights provide jobs through the ProAct program.

Lights are carefully taken apart. employment, life skills, and community inclusion.

Photos courtesy of ProAct “You can keep your lights and cords out of the trash and recycling bins, knowing that they will be handled properly and that the valuable material will be reFour drop sites are in Farmington. One is Farmington City Hall, 430 3rd St. The claimed and reused in new products,” said ProAct Production Coordinator Jennimunicipal liquor stores at 109 Elm St. and 18350 Pilot Knob Road also accept fer Cavalier. The program helps to employ dozens of people with disabilities in items. The fourth site is Rambling River Center, 325 Oak St. Dakota and Goodhue counties.

In Hastings, items can be dropped at Hastings City Hall, 101 4th St. E.; Sterling Several participating metro area cities and Dakota County service centers are Drug, 1399 S. Frontage Road and Terry’s Hardware, 375 33rd St. W. serving as drop-off points, as is Gertens Greenhouse in Inver Grove Heights, In Inver Grove Heights, items can be dropped at ACE Hardware & Paint, 3098 Lakeville liquor stores, Burnsville Park Nicollet Clinic and five hardware stores.

65th St. E.; City of Inver Grove Heights, 8150 Barbara Ave.; Gertens GreenThe program ends January 31, 2017. houses, 5500 Blaine Ave. and Inver Grove Veterans Memorial Community CenPeople with disabilities process the cords and bulbs at ProAct’s Eagan and Red ter, 8055 Barbara Ave. E. Wing facilities. There are a few exclusions. Christmas lights and electrical cords In Lakeville, items can be dropped off at Lakeville City Hall, 20195 Holyoke cannot be recycled in standard, single-sort recycling bins, and can cause problems Ave.; Lakeville Liquor Heritage, 20164 Heritage Ave.; Lakeville Liquor Kenrick, in the regular waste stream, but the material is recoverable, said Cavalier. ProAct 16179 Kenrick Ave, and Lakeville Liquor Store, 1600 Galaxie Ave. has grown the recycling effort each of the last three years and is now excited to The drop point in Mendota Heights is City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. In announce that all the work and income from the processed material will benefit Rosemount, items can be taken to City of Rosemount-Community Center, 13885 individuals with disabilities in its programs.

S. Robert Trail or Terry’s Hardware, 14635 S. Robert Trail. The West St. Paul ProAct cannot accept cord adapters, battery packs, plastic rope lights or CFL drop point is the Dakota County Western Service Center, 1 Mendota Road W. lights. The drop-off locations serviced by ProAct are offered in Dakota, Goodhue, Three drop points are offered in Goodhue County. In Cannon Falls, take items Scott and Washington counties. to D & G ACE Hardware, 31265 County 24. In Red Wing items can be taken to ProAct Inc., 204 Mississippi Ave. in the lobby near the reception area and to Red Several sites are in Dakota County. In Apple Valley, visit the Dakota County Wing ACE Hardware, 1264 Old W. Main St. Western Service Center, 14955 Galaxie Ave. In Burnsville, visit the Burnsville The City of Savage has the lone Scott County drop-off, at City of Savage, 6000 Park Nicollet Clinic, 14000 Fairview Drive, Suite 204, concierge desk in the McColl Drive. In Washington County, take items to Oakdale City Hall, 1584 lobby, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday-Friday. In Eagan, visit ProAct, Inc., 3195 Neil Hadley Ave. N. ■ Armstrong Blvd. Drop items off west of the main entrance, near the garage.

Farewell to our ‘wizard’

by Access Press staff News is often about “firsts,” but this month Access Press notes a “last” as the December 2016 issue is the final partnership between the newspaper and Ellen Houghton and her desktop publishing firm, Presentation Images. Every month since Access Press was founded 26 years ago, Houghton has helped staff and contributors bring the news to Minnesota’s disability community. Houghton and her husband Skip are off to enjoy a well-deserved retirement.

Houghton and Presentation Images will be replaced by St. Paul desktop publisher and designer In-Fin Tuan.

Access Press is appreciative for many years of service. “We can’t say enough about Ellen’s contributions to the paper,” said Executive Director Tim Benjamin.

“She’s been a wonderful colleague and partner with us, in getting the paper out every month.”

“It seems like Access Press has just always been a part of my life,” said Houghton. “I can still remember my initial meeting at the Access Press/Smith Real Estate office, of being ushered into Bill Smith’s office by his wife, Renee, and seeing Charlie roll in just a few minutes later. We hit it off right away.”

Houghton’s tenure wasn’t expected to be long. The Smiths were initially looking for someone to create camera-ready artwork to be sent to the newspaper printer, so they could assemble the paper. “I guess they gave up on the idea of taking it in-house because it never came up again. And for that I am grateful. Access Press quickly became and has continued to be one of my favorite clients, and has truly enriched my life.”

Recently while looking back at the early papers, Houghton admits to tears as she reread the obituaries for the Smiths. She said that looking at the papers brought out how much she will miss Access Press. But she also noted that as some things changed, others stayed the same. The paper continues to publish cartoons

by Scott Adams, and many of the same issues, same politics and same problems still exist today.

Access Press began in 1990, long before electronic communications. The newspaper office was in St. Paul’s Midway area and Houghton worked in Minnetrista.

“We put a lot of miles on cars, employed a number of couriers and became quite creative in get copy, cartoons, photos and diskettes back and forth.” In the early days of fax machines, faxing of proofs was done at night, so as not to tie up the phone lines.

Farewell - p. 5

Pg 4 December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Housing choices are conceptual for too many

by Sheryl Grassie

In Minnesota, we have a noteworthy legacy when it comes to supporting people with disabilities as independent and inclusive members of our community. Historically, we were very active in supporting human rights, closing large institutions, and moving Sheryl Grassie people into “less restrictive” settings. This deinstitutionalization process was however, a pendulum swing that created all kinds of additional social stressors like an increased homeless population and a new form of “institutionalization” in smaller settings. It by no means solved the problem of isolation or supported real choice for people with disabilities.

When Minnesota moved to close the large institutions, less segregated living options were advocated for. But generally speaking only one option was created, the four-person group home. Many will argue that the four-person group home, although “community integrated,” isolates and segregates in different ways. I hear story after story of older individuals who once had a “sense of community” in their institutional home and now feel isolated in a room in a group home.

Relying on a singular model like the four-bed group home has curtailed the exploration and development of other options, and taken away a fundamental right of individuals with disabilities: to define and choose what “home” is to them. Our lack of other options has forced many people to either go out-of-state where these other options exist, or live in a group home here in Minnesota; Update on major issues - from p. 1 helping integrate people into the community, which is a key goal of the state’s Olmstead Plan.

In 2015 families frustrated with the long waits for CADI waivers filed a lawsuit claiming that the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) mismanaged more than $1 billion in Medicaid waiver funds over 20 years. Families contended that many counties weren’t spending money allocated for waiver services. The lawsuit is still pending in federal court. Last year DHS began to take Medicaid dollars from counties with surpluses, and give the funds to counties with long waiting lists.

Mental health recommendations made Another November milestone was that the Governor’s Task Force on Mental Health delivered recommendations to Gov. Mark Dayton for creating a statewide mental health system that meets the needs of all Minnesotans.

More than 200,000 adults and 75,000 children in Minnesota live with mental illness. Gaps in

something not everyone is comfortable calling home.

Much of Minnesota’s support for independent living, community living and choice of living situation, is far more conceptual than actual, and organizations that support people with disabilities constantly struggle to make progress. This lack of real choice makes Minnesota’s person-centered planning very challenging. In Minnesota, you can plan it, but generally you can’t implement it. There are few real choices! If you have a disability and need a supported living situation, you go to a group home. That is, if you can find an opening.

This dilemma, regarding lack of choice and the ability to really pick your own home for people with disabilities, exists in our state primarily for two reasons. First, Minnesota has not been proactive in supporting and developing a spectrum of options. Second, we have legislated restrictions and limited funding that affects choice.

Let’s take a further look at the spectrum of options.

If we think of the group home as mid- point, we can look toward either end to conceptualize a wider range of options that exist or have existed over time.

On the less supported, more independent end of the spectrum, we have options that need better funding like apartments with supports and living in the family home. On the more supported, less independent end of the spectrum, we have larger, more cost-effective, and more structured options like boarding schools and villages. All options have their merits and drawbacks. All are a fit for some and not for others. An example of independent apartments is the new JHAP

development, Cornerstone Creek in Golden Valley, with 45 individual units that will be rented to adults with developmental disabilities. Examples of more structured options include settings like The Homestead, a farm for people with autism in Altoona, Iowa, serving 24 adults, or Chileda, a children’s treatment campus and school in La Crosse, Wis. housing up to 48 young people.

When examining the above spectrum, I think we would be hard pressed to find anyone who would advocate for inclusion of the large institution as a place for people with disabilities. We worked hard to close them and they need to stay closed. But the gap between a 10,000 person asylum, like the Eloise Hospital in suburban Detroit, an institution that author Steve Luxenberg wrote about in Annie’s Ghosts, and the favored Minnesota model of the four-person group home is vast, with a myriad of options in-between. Our legacy from deinstitutionalization is reaching an almost unsustainable apex that must be addressed if we really want to support person-centered planning. DHS and the state legislature are aware of the problems, but solutions remain at the conceptual stage, with only minimal action being taken to remedy the lack of choice. The big question before us is, “How do we as a state embrace a wide spectrum of housing options to really serve all people with disabilities, not just some, and how do we move these options from conceptual ideas into actual homes?” ■ Sheryl Grassie is executive director of the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities.

Minnesota’s mental health system can lead to inappropriate and expensive care, such as hospitalization or ending up in a jail cell instead of a home visit from a mobile crisis team.

The task force took a comprehensive look at the state’s mental health system and made nine recommendations. It recognized that many people with mental illness also have a substance use disorders, and emphasized the need for a continuum of mental health services and activities, including health promotion and prevention, early intervention services, basic clinical services, residential and inpatient treatment, community supports and crisis response services.

Recommended are improvements to the governance of mental health services to achieve that continuum.

The task force also recognized disparities for some groups and recommended strategies to reduce those disparities. Other recommendations related to workforce and housing shortages, parity, acute care capacity and crisis response services.

The full report can be found online at http:// mn.gov/dhs/mental-health-tf/ Opportunity Partners case settled Opportunity Partners has agreed to a settlement with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights.

The result is that its workers can seek regular jobs at competitive wage.

The disability services provider has long consid-

ered about 2,000 workers with disabilities to be clients, consumers or persons served. Many are paid less than minimum wage and receive job supportive services.

Workers at Opportunity Painters and other firms often do packaging work or light assembly on contact, under special certificates issues by the U.S. Department of Labor. The certificates allow people to be paid based on productivity, rather than with an hourly wage. It’s estimated that about 15,400 Minnesotans with disabilities work for the agencies holding the certificates The practice is controversial, with some saying it is discriminatory and others saying it provides employment and supports for people who otherwise would not be able to work at all.

The settlement means that the people served or clients can now try for regular employment, and earn more.

It stems from a human rights complaint filed in 2015 by Bradford Teslow, 59, of St. Paul, who works at a Bloomington Opportunity Partners facility.

Teslow had applied to be a site supervisor but was told he wouldn’t be considered, because he’s not a regular employee. He alleged discrimination and filed the complaint. The settlement means he and others can now apply for such jobs.

In the settlement, the Minnetonka-based nonprofit doesn’t admit to any wrongdoing. ■

December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

Farewell - from p. 3 “There were many times I had to track down Bill or Charlie during the evening because their fax was out of paper or had jammed,” Houghton said. Converting tabloid-sized pages to letter size faxes was also an adventure, with one issue showing up at the Access Press office with only corners of pages available for proofreading. Other times computer glitches would resend the entire newspaper, over and over. The Smiths would arrive at the office in the morning to find pages all over the floor and an entire roll of thermal fax paper used up.

“Charlie enjoyed trying out new technologies and was often one the first to employ them,” said Houghton. The early program, Qmodem, had the Access Press crew feeling as if they had jumped light years ahead in the publishing world. The early modems were slow, but the copy could be sent without a courier, paper jams or wasted paper. Sending art and photos via modem was the next big leap, and Houghton was pleased that Smith was able to see that happen before he died.

“We used to laugh at our computers. Or at least that’s what people thought when they would walk into our respective offices and see us typing away and laughing at our screens,” said Houghton. “Back in those days we’d be connected via computer modems and would type little quips and hellos backs and forth to each other as we sent and received files, often sharing little happenings of the day and causing each other to laugh Charlie Smith out loud. One of us would type and the other would sit there waiting as, one letter at a time, words would miraculously appear on our screens. We felt sooo high tech!”

Houghton has worked with Smith and his successor, Tim Ellen Houghton Benjamin, and all of the editors, office managers and ad salespeople over the years. After Smith’s death and with every staff change, she admits to worrying about change and how it would affect her long working relationship with Access Press. “Gratefully, each time my worries were proven to be unfounded,” she said. While nothing can replace the early days with the Smiths, “It is wonderful to see how Access Press seems to continue to attract great people.”

“And each month is like starting a new adventure,” she said. While there are sometimes challenges of late copy and photos, or other glitches, “it all comes together.”

In fact one of Houghton’s fondest memories involves a title Charlie Smith bestowed upon her. He was quoted as having said, “Ellen Houghton, also known as the Wizard of Spatial Relations, makes sure everything fit and looks great, [and often] does it in a small window of time.”

Now as Houghton moves into this next phase of her life, she has plans to get a puppy this spring. Her plan is to get it certified as a therapy dog and bring some happiness to those in hospitals and nursing homes. She is again grateful to Access Press as it was her inspiration for this. Over the years of being with Access, she has seen how dogs have played a very healing part in people’s lives, and this seems to bring her full circle, combining her love of animals, naturopathic ways and her joy in having been part of Access Press for so many wonderful years. ■

Adams' cartoon from the Jan. 1996 issue of Access Press

Pg 5

Pg 6 December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

REGIONAL NEWS

Somali parents complete autism classes The first class of parents to complete a 12-week course on supporting children with autism spectrum disorder celebrated its graduation recently in Minneapolis. The training was a collaborative effort of the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), A Global Voice for Autism and the Confederation of Somali Community in Minnesota. DHS recruited training participants, arranged for a location, engaged parent volunteers to help, provided family-wide social and emotional supports, and connected them to existing resources and services and provided interpreter services during training sessions as needed.

A Global Voice for Autism developed and provided a 12-module culturally appropriate, evidencebased training curriculum, a board-certified behavioral analyst to conduct the training and other professionally trained volunteers. The Confederation of Somali Community in Minnesota provided free space for the training.

Parents met with trainers twice weekly for a total of 60 hours over 12 weeks. Both theoretical training and practical sessions with the children were included. Topics covered included function of behavior, reinforcement, expressive and receptive communication, violent and self-injurious behaviors, meal skills, teaching and practicing new skills and creating schedules and understanding time.

“The positive outcomes of this training highlight the need to support and continue such innovative efforts to help parents engage with their children with autism in a culturally meaningful way,” said Alex Bartolic, director of the DHS Disability Services Division. “This engagement and education increase the quality of life of children with autism while decreasing stress levels of parents and siblings.” ■ (Source: DHS)

All-terrain wheelchairs are offered Olmsted County is providing all-terrain wheelchairs to hunters with disabilities in an effort to give them a high-tech way to enjoy their hobby. The chairs can also be used by people with disabilities who are simply wishing to enjoy the great outdoors.

The county has invested in two of the chairs, according to the Rochester Post-Bulletin. The newspaper reported that four hunters recently used the modes of transportation, which resemble a cross between a wheelchair and a tank, during a hunt in Chester Woods Park, which is east of Rochester. The chairs allow users to go off-round and even off-trail, through woods and fields. The chairs have a battery life that allows for up to 10 miles of travel at a time.

Olmsted County Parks Superintendent Tom Ryan said one chair at Oxbow Park and another at Chester Woods will be available every day year-round. The county spent $20,000 on the chairs, and area veterans groups raised nearly $25,000 for the program. ■ (Source: Rochester Post-Bulletin)

Maltreatment complaints not investigated The Minnesota Department of Health has not investigated most maltreatment complaints under a legally mandated time frame, according to records obtained by a Twin Cities television station. The KSTP-TV investigation has led one state lawmaker to ask what is going on.

KSTP-TV has been looking into delays of state scrutiny of maltreatment complaints filed against health care facilities, including nursing homes.

“People should be upset that these are going months and months without even being addressed,” said Rep. Joe Schomacker (R-Luverne).

Minnesota’s Vulnerable Adults Act states that, “The lead investigative agency shall complete its final disposition within 60 calendar days.” Over a five-

year period, 60 percent to 84 percent of the Minnesota Health Department’s maltreatment complaint investigations weren’t completed under the 60-day window, according to records.

According to a March 2016 report to the Minnesota Legislature, there were 16,954 complaints filed by residents, families and health care facilities in one year.

The department has been short several investigators and is looking at ways to more quickly and efficiently handle complaints.

Schomacker, chairman of the Minnesota House Health and Human Services (HHS) Reform Committee, said he will be expecting health officials this session to address their investigative shortfalls. ■ (Source: KSTP-TV)

City addressing discrimination in public accommodations The City of Minneapolis is addressing discrimination in businesses through education, extensive investigation and enforcement. All people have the right to receive service, free from discrimination, from any business that obtains or solicits customers from the general public. Minneapolis bans discrimination in public accommodations based on disability as well as race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, and status regarding public assistance.

Public accommodations are establishments that provide goods and services to the general public; these include taxicab and on-demand ride services; restaurants, bars and food vendors; theaters; hotels;

health and fitness clubs; hospitals; libraries; gas stations and retail stores.

Members of the community can learn about their legal right to file a complaint of discrimination.

Check www.minneapolismn.gov/civilrights or call 311 for more information when it becomes available.

The investigations will include using “testers” with diverse racial, gender, sexual orientation and economic backgrounds who also represent people with disabilities to act as patrons and document the treatment they receive. Businesses that do not cease discriminatory practices are subject to fines, damages and penalties; prolonged monitoring and ultimately license revocation. ■ (Source: City of Minneapolis)

Candidate falls short in council race

Girl with disabilities found alive

A City Council race in a Greater Minnesota community this fall had a focus on one candidate’s disabilities. Noah McCourt is 22 years old and lives with Asperger’s syndrome. His ability to hold elected office was questioned by other elected officials, including his opponent, and the local newspaper. Until recently he had been under parental guardianship, an issue that was also raised.

But McCourt’s supporters said he would have brought unique knowledge and passion to the Waconia City Council, and that he is paving the way for a generation of leaders with developmental disabilities. These leaders are seen as bringing diversity to public office, as well as an understanding of social service and community health issues. The council race was followed nationally by groups that advocate for people with autism and Asperger’s.

“I think we are on the edge of a great wave of young adults with an autism or Asperger’s [syndrome] diagnosis entering the public eye, going to college and into the workforce,” said Jonah Weinberg, executive director of the Autism Society of Minnesota. “Somebody who has … learned to maneuver the social society we’ve created despite an autism diagnosis — they’ve developed a real skill set.”

McCourt lost the City Council race to incumbent Charles Erickson, 1,462 to 1,121. ■ (Source: Star Tribune, Waconia Sun Patriot)

A 12-year-old girl with disabilities, who was the subject of an extensive search, was found in November, alive and clinging to a tree above a feeder creek to the Minnesota River near St. Peter. Mya Ann Arriaga was found by a deer hunter. A rescue boat was able to get to her and she was taken to a hospital for treatment.

St. Peter Police Chief Matthew Peters said that he was amazed that the girl was conscious, after being out in the elements for more than 24 hours. Arriaga had been spotted early the morning before, on a bridge over the Minnesota River, before her family reported her missing.

Arriaga has developmental disabilities and is non-verbal. Family members, friends and police were worried that she was in the river. The girl has a fascination with water and was about chesthigh in the creek when found. Temperatures were chilly and the girl was not dressed for the elements. Officers from St. Peter Police, the Nicollet County Sheriff’s Office, the LeSueur County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota DNR and Minnesota State Patrol were involved in the extensive ground, air and water search. ■ (Source: KARE 11 News, Star Tribune)

BDC Management Co. may be accepting applications for our accessible waiting lists at the following affordable communities Albright Townhomes Minneapolis (612) 824-6665 Buffalo Court Apartments Buffalo (763) 684-1907 Elliot Park Apartments Minneapolis (612) 338-3106 Evergreen Apartments Hutchinson 1-800-661-2501 Franklin Lane Apartments Anoka (763) 427-7650 Hanover Townhomes St. Paul (651) 292-8497 Lincoln Place Apartments Mahtomedi (651) 653-0640 Olson Towne Homes Minneapolis (612) 377-9015 Prairie Meadows Eden Prairie (952) 941-5544 Raspberry Ridge Hopkins (952) 933-3260 Slater Square Apartments Minneapolis (612) 340-1264 Talmage Green Minneapolis (612) 623-0247 Trinity Apartments Minneapolis (612) 721-2252 Unity Place Brooklyn Center (763) 560-7563 Vadnais Highlands Vadnais Heights (651) 653-0640 Willow Apartments Little Falls (320) 632-0980 Woodland Court Apartments Park Rapids 1-888-332-9312 We may be accepting applications for our large number of mobility impaired accessible units.

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December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

PEOPLE & PLACES

NAMI Minnesota honors outstanding people and programs

Outstanding volunteers, legislators and programs that made a positive different for people with mental illness were honored with awards from the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) Minnesota.

Winona Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

Alice Hausman

Mauricio Cifuentes

Marian Olson

Roger Nolte

Anna Mae Marschall

Melissa Wiklund

Awards were presented at the organization’s annual conference November 5 in St. Paul. NAMI Minnesota is a non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of children and adults with mental illnesses and their families through its programs of education, support and advocacy.

The awards were presented by Sue Abderholden, NAMI’s executive director.

Roseville resident Anna Mae Marschall was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award, for her leadership in moving NAMI’s mission forward.

“Anna Mae Marschall understands that to grow a movement you have to be in it for the long haul. For over 20 years, she has provided leadership for the NAMI Ramsey County affiliate. She has facilitated a family support groups for over 20 years, taught Family-to-Family classes for over 15 years, and taught Hope for Recovery classes,” said Abderholden.

Marschall has been active in the Ramsey County Adult Mental Health Advisory Committee and the Citizen’s Advisory Committee. She has held legislative house parties to help educate elected officials. She also creates newcomer packets for first-time attendees at NAMI meetings, helps with special events such as the group’s annual picnic and holiday party, and makes sure the affiliate has a presence at the Ramsey County Fair. On their board, she has filled many roles.

“Education, support and advocacy – Anna Mae has Outstanding people and programs- p. 13

Elizabeth McAlister Dan O Fund Photo courtesy of NAMI Minnesota

Pg 7

Pg 8 December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

A good time was had by all

2016 Charlie Smith Award banquet brou

December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

ght together members of our community

Photos by Greg Mellang

Pg 9

Pg 10 December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

Kent Fordyce

Kent’s Accounting Service, LLC

Certified ProAdvisor 2017 2005-2016 6371 Bartlett Blvd Mound, MN 55364

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

Legislative session - from p. 1 time in 2016 wasn’t adopted by state lawmakers. Including it in the governor’s budget for the next biennium would cost about $40 million.

Another reimbursement proposal centers on complex care, including situations where people utilize ventilators or need respiratory assistance or qualify for more than eight hours per day of staffing. Developing a complex PCA level is proposed, which would require more training and demonstration of competency. It would also require more pay and additional funding from legislators.

The current rate for PCA is $17.12 per hour, said Bangsberg. That may sound like a good wage but once agency expenses, taxes and unemployment are taken out, the workers get $10 to $12 an hour.

“That’s not a lot of money,” he said.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) policy bill contains language to watch including definition of roles in Community First Services and Supports (CFSS), a self-directed home and community-based service being developed by the state to replace the PCA program. One recommendation is to increase the notice period when PCA services are terminated, to 30 days. Another is to increase PCA work hours from 275 to 320 per month, which will be a plus.

More self-directed budgeting and changes to staff time allotments are also part of CFSS. But CFSS approval is still pending at the federal level, and could be affected by President-Elect Donald Trump’s pending changes to the Affordable Care Act. Trump and the new Congress also support changing Medicaid entitlements to a state block grant, which could bring its own set of problems and complexity.

Deputy DHS Commissioner Claire Wilson said the PCA crisis is being tracked closely by state officials.

“We already know that it is a life and death crisis in the community.” She reminded the group that negotiations between state officials and the PCAs’ union are ongoing.

The Best Life Alliance is hoping for success again this session.

File photo

The group heard a number of other legislative updates. The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities will be back seeking reforms to MA income and asset limits. Current regulations are forcing people to live well below the poverty level, said Erica Schmiel of Brain Injury Alliance of Minnesota and self-advocate Rebecca Preston.

Changes must be made so people can continue to qualify for waiver service and yet meet basic needs, the women said. “I’m talking rent, I’m talking food, I’m talking toilet paper,” said Schmiel.

Other updates included were from groups ranging from agriculture-related issues and self-driving motor vehicles to the state council’s work on improved business access for people with disabilities, changes to the state statue on disability license plates and other issues. Look for more legislative coverage in the January issue of Access Press. ■

December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10 Pg 11

ENJOY! What Fools These Mortals Be The Interact Center ensemble presents a Shakespearean mashup, at the Lab Theater, 700 N. 1st St., Mpls. ASL offered 7 p.m. Wed, Dec. 14. Wheelchair seating and large-print playbills available. Tickets regular $22 (plus online fee), any individual with a disability and a companion can use the DIS/cover option to pay $5 each. Tickets are limited, so reservations are encouraged. FFI: Brown Paper Tickets, 800-838-3006 or www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2594620

Attend play and procession In the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre, in partnership with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, is presenting La Natividad this holiday season. The event includes a play, procession and fiesta. Details are in this page’s listings.

Fri-Sat, Dec. 16-17. Tickets $15; FFI: 612-619-8469, www.redeyetheater.org

All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 Winterlights: Celebrating the Season Mpls Institute of Arts, 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. hosts a display of holiday objects that tell the story of events around the world. The nearby Purcell-Cutts House will be decorated for the holidays to reflect the upper-middleclass, “progressive” lifestyle of the Purcells around 1915.

Forty-five-minute tours led by costumed docents will emphasize the gifts, toys, food and social traditions of the period that the Purcells might have enjoyed. Shuttle service provided. ASL offered 7 p.m. Thu, Dec. 15 at the Institute. Other interpreted tours and memory loss tours can be scheduled through the tour office. Tickets $5; $4 student/senior; free to members and children ages 12 and younger. Winterlights Tours of the Purcell-Cutts House, given on weekends, can be reserved at Visitor and Member Services desks or at 612-870-3000 or online at https://tickets.artsmia.org/. For access services, email dhegstro@artsmia.org, visit@artsmia.org

Arts & Disability Community Gathering VSA Minnesota hosts six gatherings in Greater Minnesota to discuss how people with disabilities engage in arts around the state. VSA wants to hear from people who are blind or deaf, live with mental illness or a developmental disability, or have physical or other disabilities brought on by medical conditions. Participants can discuss what they are you doing in the arts, and what barriers they are experiencing. Also, people who work in arts settings are invited to bring questions about serving people with disabilities more effectively. Learn about VSA Minnesota’s 2017 Emerging Artist Grant Program, which will award six $2,000 grants to artists with disabilities to create new work in the coming year (deadline is January 17). Other plans to increase participation of people with disabilities both as self-employed artists and as employees in organizations will also be discussed.

Refreshments served. Events are free and fragrancefree. RSVP requested. The deadline to request ASL interpreting has passed so check to see where it is being offered. Attend Tue, Dec. 13, 2-3:30 p.m. at Southwest Minnesota Regional Arts Council office, 114 N. 3rd St., Marshall and 6-7 p.m. at Cottonwood County Historical Museum, 812 4th Avenue, Windom. Four gatherings are offered Thu, Dec. 15, 2-3:30 p.m. at East Central Regional Arts Council office, 112 Main St. S., Braham; and at a location to be determined in Mankato; and 6:30-8 p.m. at Southeast Minnesota Arts Council office, 2778 Commerce Dr. NW, Rochester, and the Paramount Center for the Arts, 913 W. St. Germain, St. Cloud. FFI: 800-801-3883, http://vsamn.org

Miss Richfield 1981 in Trailer House to the State House – Santa Style!

The lively Miss Richfield 1981 is running for governor, at Illusion Theater, 528 Hennepin Ave, 8th floor, Mpls.

AD offered 7 p.m. Wed, Dec. 14. AD patrons use the code AUDIOASL for $10 off tickets. Assisted listening devices available. Tickets $32-59; senior/student/group discounts. FFI: 612-339-4944, www.illusiontheater.org

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Duluth Playhouse presents the musical, modern retelling of a parable, at Duluth Playhouse, 506 W. Michigan St., Duluth. ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Wed, Dec. 14.

To reserve an ASL viewing seat, call 218-733-7555.

Tickets $32. FFI: www.duluthplayhouse.org

La Natividad In the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre, in partnership with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, presents the Nativity story taken to the streets, at Avalon Theatre, 1500 E. Lake St., Mpls. ASL offered 6:30 Fri, Dec. 16. Participants must dress for the weather and be able to travel two blocks, as the production includes a procession to a fiesta and food at the church. Tickets $23 (includes food); $17 for child, senior, student or group of 10 or more. FFI: 612-721-2535, ext. 23; www.hobt.org

Love…

A show featuring choreography by Angelique Lele is presented at Red Eye Theater, 15 W. 14th St., Mpls.

Performers with disabilities will be spotlighted 7:30 p.m.

Theater Latte Da presents the story of the Allied-German truce of World War I, at Pantages Theatre, 710 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sat, Dec. 17.

Tickets $40-45. FFI: 612-339-3003; www.theaterlatteda.com

The Littlest Angel Youth Performance Company presents the story of a little angel and a lesson about giving, at Howard Conn Fine Arts Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave., Mpls. ASL offered 4 p.m. Sat, Dec. 17. Tickets $15, child/senior $12, $10 group. VSA discount applies. FFI: 612-623-9080, www.youthperformanceco.org

A Christmas Carol Rochester Civic Theatre Company presents the Dickens classic, at Rochester Civic Theatre Main Stage, 20 Civic Center Dr. SE, Rochester. ASL offered 7 p.m.

Sat, Dec. 17. Please indicate ASL seating when booking tickets. Tickets $31; senior $26; student $21. FFI: 507-282-8481, www.rochestercivictheatre.org

Lift Up Your Voice Calliope Women’s Chorus’ Winter 2016 concert is presented 7 p.m., Sat, Dec. 17 at Sundin Music Hall, Hamline University, 1531 Hewitt Ave., St. Paul. ASL offered 7 p.m. Sat, Dec. 17. Tickets $15, senior/student $10. FFI: 952-818-4643, http://calliopewomenschorus.org

acters, at Cabaret at Camp Bar, 490 N. Robert, St. Paul. Adult language. ASL offered 8 p.m. Wed, Dec. 21.

Tickets $19.50 general admission; VIP reserved seating $24.50. FFI: 800-838-3006, http://actorsmn.org/node/2047

The Soul of Gershwin: The Musical Journey of an American Klezmer Park Square Theatre presents a musical set in early 1900s New York City, at Park Square Theatre, Proscenium Stage, 20 W. 7th Place, St. Paul. Open Captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Thu-Fri-Sat, Dec. 29-31.

Assistive listening devices available. OC single ticket is half-price for patron and one guest with code ACC (regular $40, $60; previews $27 and $37); age 30 and younger $21; senior age 62 and older $5 off; rush tickets $24 cash only, available one hour before performance and subject to availability. FFI: 651-291-7005, www.parksquaretheatre.org

Open Flow Forum The Artists with Disabilities Alliance invites fellow artists to the forum, 7-9 p.m. Thu, Jan. 5 at Walker Community Church, 3104 16th Ave. S., Mpls. Open Flow meets the first Thu of each month for artists with disabilities to share visual art, writing, music, theatre and other artistic efforts or disability concerns. It’s informal and fragrance-free. Participants may bring refreshments as well as recent artistic creations to share. Facilitators are Tara Innmon and Dan Reiva. Fully accessible, but anyone needing special accommodations should contact Jon at VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or jon@vsamn.org FFI: http://vsamn.org/artists-disabilities/

The Happy Elf Lakeshore Players Theatre presents the tale of Eubie the Elf, at Lakeshore Players Theatre, 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Dec. 18. If no ASL seats are reserved within two weeks of the performance, the ASL-interpretation will be cancelled. Tickets $25, senior $23, student $20; reduced to $10 for ASL patrons, who can purchase tickets online with a direct link that is active until two weeks before the performance.

The $10 ASL seats highlighted in purple have the best view of the interpreter, are only visible via this link, and will not be released to the general public until the Mon after the ASL reservation deadline. Assisted listening devices available. FFI: 651-429-5674, http://lakeshore players.org/plan-your-visit/seating-accessibility/

The Comedy Roast of Mr. Scrooge Actors Theater of Minnesota presents a roast of curmudgeonly Mister Scrooge by his fellow Dickens char-

Silent Sky Lyric Arts Company of Anoka presents the story of a groundbreaking scientist, at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, January 8. Lyric Arts reserves Rows H and I for parties including persons using wheelchairs or with limited mobility. ASL interpreters are provided at the first Sun performance of each regular season production. A limited number of seats near the interpreters are held in reserve for ASL patrons until three weeks prior to the performance. Any ASL seats left unreserved are released to the general public. If no ASL seating has been reserved three weeks before the show, the ASL interpretation will be canceled. When ordering tickets, please indicate the need for seating in this section.Tickets $1630; $5 discount for ASL seats. FFI: 763-422-1838, www.lyricarts.org

Enjoy! - p. 12

Pg 12 December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

UPCOMING EVENTS Advocacy Join public policy network The Arc Minnesota’s Public Policy Network provides legislative updates and helps Minnesotans get involved with issues at the state and federal levels. It provides information about upcoming hearings, action alerts, what proposed laws and policies mean, and when gatherings are help. The 2017 Minnesota Legislature convenes in January and preparations are well underway. Sign up by visiting the organization’s website, at www.arcmn.org/ stayinformed FFI: Mike Gude, 651-604-8066, mikeg@arcmn.org

Children and families Help Me grow now multi-lingual Help Me Grow Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Education have launched a multilingual website, helpmegrowmn.org, to give parents, professionals and caregivers a one-stop resource for early childhood development. With information in English, Somali, Hmong and Spanish, the website helps parents understand their child’s typical developmental milestones. It also provides useful information for parents of children with developmental delays or disabilities. Adults who are concerned about a child’s development can use the website to refer a child for a free developmental screening through their public school.

PACER offers workshops PACER Center offers many useful free or low-cost workshops and other resources for families of children with any disabilities. Workshops are at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, unless specified.

Workshops are offered throughout the state. Advance registration is required for all workshops. Finding Success in Employment and Postsecondary Education is 6:3-8:30 p.m. Tue. Dec. 13 at Holiday Inn and Suites, 20800 Kenrick Ave. S., Lakeville. Many youth with disabilities have goals for competitive employment and continuing education beyond high school. This free workshop for parents and youth with disabilities will provide information on how postsecondary education increases the likelihood of employment, and will offer strategies to help youth prepare for success in work and postsecondary education. Speakers will be Sean Roy, co-director of PACER’s National Parent Center on Transition and Employment, and Rachel Kruzel. 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. FFI: PACER, 952-8389000, 800-537-2237, www.pacer.org

Information and assistance Mental health support offered NAMI of Minnesota offers more than 300 free educational classes statewide each year, along with help in navigating the mental health system. NAMI also has more than 60 free support groups living with a mental illness and their families. In the Twin Cities 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. Parent resource groups are facilitated by a parent who has a child with a mental illness and who has been trained to lead support groups. A group meets

6:30-8 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday at Eagle Brook Church, 2401 East Buffalo St., White Bear Lake.

FFI: Jody Lyons 651-645-2948 x109.

Family support groups help families who have a relative with a mental illness. A group meets at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Wed at Centennial United Methodist Church, 1524 Co. Rd. C-2 West, Roseville. FFI: Anne Mae. 651-484-0599.

Open Door Anxiety and Panic support groups help people cope with anxiety disorders. One group meets 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. the second and fourth Thu in Room 104, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 700 Snelling Ave. S., St. Paul. The group used to meet at Goodwill/Easter Seals. Another group meets 6:30-8 p.m. the first and third Thu at Woodland Hills Church, 1740 Van Dyke St., St. Paul.

Young Adult NAMI Connection is a free support group for persons ages 16-20. A group meets 7-8:30 the first and third Thu at Friends Meeting House, 1725 Grand Ave., St. Paul. The group is facilitated by young adults who live with mental illnesses and are doing well in recovery. A full calendar of all events is offered online.

FFI: 651-645-2948, www.namihelps.org Vision loss group offers activities Vision Loss Resources provides 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 MCIL offers classes and activities The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living provides many life skills classes as well as fun outings and events for people with disabilities. MCIL 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 their calendar. Please give two weeks’ notice if the alternative format or other accommodations are needed.

Events are free, accessible and mostly scent-free. FFI: 651-603-2030

ENJOY! Continued from p. 12 Out of the Shadows One Voice Mixed Chorus presents a civil rights-themed concert in music and spoken word, at Ordway Concert Hall, 345 Washington St., St. Paul. ASL offered 3 p.m.

Sun, Jan. 15. Tickets $15-$40; $5 more at the door on concert day. FFI: 651-298-1954, www.OneVoiceMN.org

Saori Fiber Art by Bloom This exhibit, part of a rotating series of exhibits coordinated by VSA Minnesota, features Saori weavings by a group of artists called Bloom. Work by VSA Emerging Artist Grantee Devra Goldstein is also in the show. This compassionate team of Saori weavers works together to create beautiful art three days a week at White Bear Center for the Arts, creating their work and enjoying interacting with other artists from the community. Their work is as unique as each artist. At Vision Loss Resources, 1936 Lyndale Ave. S. (at Franklin), Mpls.

Lobby open Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. On display through March 7. Free. FFI. VLR: 612-871-2222, vsamn.org/artists-disabilities/exhibit-program/

More events information VSA Minnesota VSA Minnesota is a statewide nonprofit organization that works to create a community where people with disabilities can learn through, participate in and access the

Vision rehabilitation offered Vision Loss Resources is offering a full menu of vision rehabilitation services, available in clients’ home or onsite at VLR. An affordable individualized service plan will be offered to each participant. The rehabilitation services are geared to provide participants the practical skills they need to remain independent and at safe at home. Services are offered as part of an affordable service plan. Sliding fee scale options are available and a grant from United Way will help continue to serve those who cannot afford to pay for services. The support groups, peer counseling, and volunteer services will continue to be offered without charge. FFI: 612-843-3411 Adult support groups offered 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 website for upcoming groups. Groups meet at the AuSM offices at 2380 Wycliff St. FFI: 651-647-1083 ext. 10, www.ausm.org

Volunteer 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, http://tinyurl.com/adult-opportunities Share a smile Brighten the day of a senior citizen and have some fun. Spend time with an elder individual on an ongoing basis and do fun things in Minneapolis and suburban Hennepin County. Small groups and families welcome.

Youth volunteers must be age 12 or older and supervised by an adult. This volunteer program through Senior Community Services now includes the seniors program formerly served by the Neighborhood Involvement Program. Many volunteer options available. FFI: Jeanne, 952-767-7894, scsvolunteer@seniorcommunity.org ■

arts, at http://vsamn.org The website has a comprehensive calendar at the upper right-hand corner of its home page. For information on galleries and theater performances around the state join the Access to Performing Arts email list at access@vsamn.org or call VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or statewide 800-801-3883 (voice/ TTY). To hear a weekly listing of accessible performances, call 612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883.

Access Press only publishes performance dates when accommodations are offered. Contact the venue to find out the entire run of a particular production.

Additional resources 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 Another resource is Minnesota Playlist, with a recently updated website calendar with all the ASL-interpreted, audio-described, captioned, pay-what-you-can shows and other features. Go to http://minnesotaplaylist.com/calendar Arts festivals are held throughout the state. Check www.exploreminnesota.com/index.aspx, http:// festivalnet.com/state/minnesota/mn.html, www.fairsandfestivals.net/states/MN/ ■

December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10 Pg 13

Live Well at Home grants support programs for elders Services to provide and improve housing for older adults who are homeless or at risk of being so are

The Dorothy Day Center in St. Paul assists the homeless.

Photo courtesy of Catholic Charities

among the many programs funded with Live Well at Home grants administered by the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

A total of $7.1 million grants were awarded to 32 organizations providing services and supports that allow older Minnesotans to remain in their homes. Human Services Commissioner Emily Piper announced the grants in November. She visited an Alliance Housing Incorporated building in Minneapolis’s Whittier neighborhood that serves primarily older Minnesotans with low incomes. Alliance Housing received $700,000 to help build a new 41-unit affordable housing project in Minneapolis’s Longfellow neighborhood to serve older homeless adults, a population that is on the rise across Minnesota. In 2015 the number of homeless adults age 55 and older was 843, an 8 percent increase from 2012, according to Wilder Research.

Outstanding people and programs - from p. 7 been actively involved in all three aspects of our mission,” said Abderholden. “Despite all this incredible work, she really doesn’t ask for it to be acknowledged or praised.

Well, we believe her commitment and accomplishments should be in the limelight.

There is no way that we can adequately thank her for all she has accomplished in improving the lives of people with mental illnesses and their families. NAMI has continued to grow stronger and expand its programming thanks to Anna Mae.” Moorhead resident Marian Olson was given a Leadership Award, in recognition of her work as someone who has given generously of time, spirit, resources and skills for NAMI in a leadership capacity. After much work to help meet community needs, Olson is stepping down as leader of NAMI Moorhead.

“Marian lives with depression and anxiety, and fueled by the need to break down stigma and let others know that recovery is possible, she helped start the current NAMI affiliate in Moorhead,” said Abderholden. “She has done an amazing job in carrying out our mission in the Moorhead area. She’s organized education classes, forums, support groups and more. She’s made sure her elected officials know her and she tells them how they should vote. She’s worked with the local paper to include stories about mental illnesses and the mental health system.”

“Although she is stepping down from her leadership position within NAMI Moorhead, her immense passion for the work will not be diminished as she continues to find avenues to change the conversation around mental illnesses. She continues to lead a NAMI Connection support group providing a huge support to individuals living with a mental illness in Moorhead,” said Abderholden.

The Winona Criminal Justice Coordinating Council was given a Criminal Justice Program of the Year Award. The award recognizes an individual or group that has demonstrated through its action a strong commitment to the decriminalization of mental illnesses.

“The Winona Criminal Justice Coordinating Council deserves this year’s award.

They were one of the first counties in Minnesota to participate in the National Stepping Up Initiative whose goal is to reduce the number of people with mental illnesses in the jails. There are now 12 counties in Minnesota participating in this initiative,” said Abderholden.

The council brought together community partners such as police, lawyers, judges, social workers, jail staff, mental health providers and NAMI members to learn about each other’s systems and to identify gaps and solutions. Other actions included bringing about police training in public safety mental health first aid, meeting with U.S. Sen. Al Franken, educating the community about collateral consequences – such as the difficulty in finding a job after being in jail or prison – and learning more about the “ban the box” initiative. The council recently won a national grant.

“The council is now looking at how to share information between the systems and how to increase the mental health care provided in the jail. This group is truly working together on the local level to create positive changes. We applaud their work and encourage other communities to follow their lead,” said Abderholden.

The DanOFund was honored with an Anti-Stigma Award, for promoting justice, dignity and respect, and working to reduce stigma. Dan Olsen was a person committed to his family and friends and committed to helping others. When Olsen took his own life in 2009, family and friends decided to create an event that would bring family and friends together and help others, particularly families with a loved one with a mental illness or who had lost someone to suicide.

For the last eight years, the DanOFund and its annual DanO golf tournament has brought family and friends together. The numbers of people attending increases every year. It has raised funds for NAMI to expand its suicide prevention efforts and to promote mental health literacy among first responders, especially firefighters.

“Each year at the banquet following the golf tournament, event organizers and Burnsville residents Mark Olsen and Royce McEwen help raise awareness, talking openly about mental illnesses and encouraging people to seek help,” said Abderholden. “They aren’t afraid to talk about it. Their willingness to talk about mental illnesses in their community has helped break through that wall of silence. Through the love of a brother and friend, Mark and Royce have truly changed lives.”

Mauricio Cifuentes, senior division director of health and wellness at Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio (CLUES) in Minneapolis, was honored with a Professional of the Year Award. The award recognizes a professional who provides high quality ser-

“Minnesota is a national leader in providing longterm services and supports for older adults in part because Live Well at Home grants have helped people stay home as they age, which is what most prefer,” said Piper. “This year we have a greater focus on the expanding older adult population who need housing.

For all Minnesotans, safe, affordable housing is fundamental to quality of life.”

Other grants, by agency and county or counties, are: • Age Well Arrowhead Inc., St. Louis, grocery delivery service and assisted transportation service, $404,434 • Aitkin County CARE, Aitkin, expand and support in-home caregiver respite and homemaking services, $48,551 • Augustana Care, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey and Washington, launch Learning Lab for Eldercare Live Well at Home grants - p. 15

vices, exemplifies best practices, and demonstrates commitment and leadership to the field.

Cifuentes has provided clinical supervision to interns and professional social workers, consultation to social service agencies providing services to Latinas and Latinos, and psychotherapy to clients of diverse social identities. He has done research, and written and presented to national and international audiences on several topics particularly related to Latinas and Latinos. Abderholden praised him for his work toward culturally competent care and practices.

Rochester resident Roger Nolte was given a Volunteer of the Year Award, which salutes an individual who has given generously of their time, resources and energy to either a NAMI affiliate or NAMI Minnesota. Nolte stepped in to help NAMI SE Minnesota, putting in many hours to upgrade their computers and install new software. He is a longtime NAMI supporter and volunteer, helping with bookkeeping and computer issues. He and his wife Maggie have taught NAMI’s Family-to-Family and Hope for Recovery classes Lake Elmo resident Jeneal Olsen was given a Special Events Volunteer of the Year Award, for giving generously of her time, resources and energy to a NAMI special event. She has helped with the NAMI Spring Gala for many years, serving on the event committee. She also works on an Author-Book Reading event that is highlighted at the Gala and provides another source of funding for NAMI. She also teaches Hope for Recovery classes. Olson began volunteering when she retired.

Two legislators were also honored, Rep. Alice Hausman (DFL-St. Paul) and Sen. Melissa Wiklund, (DFL-Bloomington), for their work as outspoken advocates for children and adults with mental illness and their families.

Abderholden praised Wiklund for authoring and co-authoring numerous bills to improve the mental health system – particularly for children. These included bills to fund crisis connection, increase funds for school-linked mental health programs, and increase funds for homeless youth, and bills to require foster parents to have training on FASD, and a bill that included the language needed to continue to develop certified community behavioral health clinics.

“Every time we approached her about being the chief author of a NAMI bill, she said yes. She is a senator that is willing to not only support our issues but to take the lead on them. We are so very grateful for her support and leadership. Wiklund is a champion for children and adults who live with a mental illness,” said Abderholden.

Hausman was singled out as a strong advocate for affordable and supportive housing. She understands that without a home, recovery is difficult. Hausman worked hard to get housing funds into the bonding bill. She was also the key advocate for funding the planning and remodeling of the Minnesota Security Hospital in St. Peter, working with NAMI Minnesota to make needed improvements there. She also authored a bill to increase the number of school support personnel to help all children succeed.

“This fall, Hausman met with NAMI members to hear about their concerns and NAMI’s legislative goals for 2017. She has taken what she learned that night to heart and has continually repeated the common theme – the need for everyone to have a place they can call home,” said Abderholden. ■

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Pg 14 December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10

Radio Talking Book

December Sampling Give a listen for the holidays

The Radio Talking Book volunteers take a well-deserved holiday vacation in December, so regular programming will be suspended for a couple of days. Holiday programming starts at 8 p.m. Sat, Dec. 24 and ends at 1 a.m. Mon, Dec. 26. Enjoy special programs and listen for some voices from the past as Radio Talking Book wishes listeners Happy Holidays.

Books Available Through Faribault Books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available through the Minnesota

Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault. Call 1-800722-0550, 9 a.m. to 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 our books via an 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 last 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/facebookMTBN Audio information about the daily book listings is also on the National Federation for the Blind (NFB) Newline.

Register for the NFB Newline by calling 651-539-1424.

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

Donate to the State Services for the Blind at mn.gov/ deed/ssbdonate.

Chautauqua • Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m.

First Bite, Nonfiction by Bee Wilson, 2015. 14 broadcasts. Begins Dec. 14. We are not born knowing what to eat. As omnivores, it is something we each have to figure out for ourselves. Food habits are shaped by a whole host of factors: family and culture, memory and gender, hunger and love. Read by Marylyn Burridge.

Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

Before the Wind, Fiction by Jim Lynch, 2016. 11 broadcasts. Begins Dec. 19. Josh Johannssen’s family has been obsessed with sailboats for generations but that hasn’t kept them together. And Josh, now 31, is pained and confused by whatever went wrong with his volatile family. Read by Robb Empson.

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

John Birch: A Life, Nonfiction by Terry Lautz, 2016. 13 broadcasts. Begins Dec. 30. Better known in death than in life, John Birch was shot and killed by Communists in China in 1945 where he had gone, originally, as a missionary. After his death, his name was adopted by a right-wing organization. RE – Read by John Mandeville.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

The Restaurant Critic’s Wife, Fiction by Elizabeth LaBan, 2016. 11 broadcasts. Begins Dec. 19. Lila has a master’s degree, a work-obsessed husband, two kids, and lots of questions about how she ended up here.

With her husband obsessed with anonymity, Lila begins to wonder if her own identity has disappeared. S – Read

by Sue McDonald.

PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

Incarceration Nations, Nonfiction by Baz Dreisinger, 2016. 12 broadcasts. Begins Dec. 19. One of America’s most far-reaching global exports is the modern prison complex; its impact is seen from South Africa to Brazil.

Author Baz Dreisinger looks into the human stories of incarcerated men and woman and those who imprison them, creating a jarring, poignant view of the world to which most are denied access. Read by Ilze Mueller.

Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

The Ex, Fiction by Alafair Burke, 2016. 10 broadcasts.

Begins Dec. 19. Jack Harris’s world falls apart when he is invited to begin dating again after the death of his wife three years before. Twenty years earlier, he was engaged to Olivia Randall, now one of New York’s best lawyers, who is convinced Jack is being framed for murder. L – Read by Nan Felknor.

Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnight The Association of Small Bombs, Fiction by Karan Mahajan, 2016. 12 broadcasts. Begins Dec. 20. In 1996, a small bomb goes off in a television repair shop in Delhi claiming the life of two brothers, but also affecting their friend, Mansoor, who survived. Mansoor becomes involved with activists and others who are very focused on the independence of their homeland. L, S - Read by Mike Piscitelli.

After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.

The Passenger, Fiction by Lisa Lutz, 2016. 11 broadcasts. Begins Dec. 20. When her husband dies, “Tanya Dubois” has one option: to go on the run again. When police realize she doesn’t officially exist, they’ll have questions that she cannot answer. L - Read by Laura Rohlik.

Weekend Program Books Your Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing The Mayo Clinic Handbook for Happiness by Amit Sood, MD. For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing Alistair Grim’s Odditorium by Gregory Funaro, and House of Secrets – Battle of the Beasts by Chris Columbus and Ned Vizzini. Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing 99 Poems by Dana Gioia and The Rain in Portugal by Billy Collins. The Great North (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing A Good Time for the Truth edited by Sun Yung Shin. ■

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

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December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10 Pg 15

Live Well at Home grants - from p. 13 Technologies, offering demonstrations of tools designed to help elders stay safely at home, $252,224 • Caregiver Response Effort & Service Team (CREST), Martin, provide services for least 250 additional adults, an increase of 20 percent, $46,727 • Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Hennepin and Ramsey, $431,544 to serve 50-60 additional older homeless adults through the Homeless Elders program, with case management and secure housing, $431,544 • Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Winona, Winona, helping 125 older adults live independently through various services, $111,832 • Consumer Directions, Inc, Benton, Crow Wing, Douglas, Isanti, Morrison, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, and Wright, increasing awareness and participation in self-directed services to help people remain in their homes and maintain good health, $40,124 • DARTS, Dakota, preparation for growing client demand for services, $78,371 • Ebenezer, Hennepin, safety and accessibility improvements at Ebenezer Park Apartments, Minneapolis, $351,000 • ElderCircle, Aitkin, Itasca, Koochiching and St. Louis, expanding service by adding respite and caregiver consulting, $127,199 • Faith Community Nurse Network of the Greater Twin Cities, Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Dodge, Fillmore, Goodhue, Hennepin, Houston, Isanti, Mower, Olmsted, Ramsey, Rice, Scott, Sherburne, Wabasha, Washington, Winona and Wright, reducing falls among older adults through the Stepping On program, $207,243 • Family Service Rochester, Olmsted, increasing older adults’ enrollment and active volunteers in a program that helps older adults live independently, $203,783 • Helping Hands Outreach, Morrison, and Stearns, increasing number of older area residents who use home and community-based services and increasing hours of support, $99,999 • Horizon Health, Morrison, proving education about available services that will help people live longer in their homes, with new assessment procedures and education aimed at employers, $192,313 • Korean Service Center, Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington, to expanding the escort/transportation program for Korean elders, $52,400 • Lakes and Pines Community Action Council, Inc., Aitkin, Carlton, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs and Pine, expanding home delivery of groceries and other items to older adults and people with disabilities, $65,748 • Minnesota Chippewa Tribe, Beltrami, Cass, Hubbard and Itasca, building capacity to provide services for older Minnesotans to live in the community and recruit clients for adult day services program, $133,000 • Mahube-Ottawa Community Action Partnership, Inc., Becker, Hubbard, Mahnomen, Otter Tail and Wadena, helping older adults who are homeless, or

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at risk of becoming homeless, find and keep safe rental housing, $250,000 Neighbor to Neighbor, Becker, and Otter Tail, to provide transportation, respite, home delivered meals, exercise classes, and household services to prevent nursing home placement, $99,000 Northwest Community Action, providing volunteer management and respite for caregivers and home modification services for adults 65 and older and volunteer management in Roseau, Kittson, Lake of the Woods and Marshall counties, $220,094 St. John Lutheran Home, Brown, implementing a TV and mobile-based healthcare delivery system that electronically coordinates care between caregivers and family members, $277,404 Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council Inc., Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, and Rock, home improvements for older adults and service coordination for older adults at risk of homelessness, $226,238 State Services for the Blind, statewide, expanding the Aging Eyes Initiative training and early vision loss intervention resources to existing aging network providers across Minnesota, $76,000 Store To Door, Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington, establishing new service models that better meet food needs of under-served elderly adults, specifically older adults in poverty, low-income seniors, including those from the Somali immigrant community and people living in senior housing and assisted living, $181,553 Sustainable Resources Center, Hennepin, for work on 120 homes to create safer and healthier environments for older occupants, $693,145 Vision Loss Resources, Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Hennepin, Isanti, Ramsey, Scott, Washington and Wright, providing cost-effective services to help older adults with uncorrectable vision loss increase independence and remain at home, $363,500 Volunteer Services of Carlton County, Inc., Carlton and St. Louis, transportation, chore, discharge plan-

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FOR RENT 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.

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Ecolab volunteers assisted recently at the Dorothy Day Center.

Photo courtesy of Catholic Charities

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ning, caregiver respite, support and education services, $232,931 Walker Adult Day Services, Cass, Crow Wing and Hubbard, for a new location with added services and capacity to serve more communities, $375,283 Waseca Area Caregiver Services, Waseca, expanding group respite program, $69,997 Wellspring Faith In Action, Watonwan, developing and maintaining programs for older adult independence, including exercise, grief support, transportation, and light chore services, $84,400 West Central Minnesota Communities Action Inc., Douglas, Grant, Pope, Stevens and Traverse, improving quality and availability of transportation services through a partnership with Rainbow Rider, $350,000. ■

Pg 16 December 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 10