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TWIN CITIES, MN PERMIT NO. 4766
Volume 32, Number 2
February 2021
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Late papers are vexing everyone
Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman
NEWS DIGEST
Disability Services Day won't be at the state capitol this year, but advocates and allies can still attend virtually. Details are on page 4.
DISABILITY SERVICES DAY
Disability service providers warn of potential for more closings by Jane McClure Minnesota has lost at least eight disability service providers and could lose more if providers don’t receive help from the state. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues to present great difficulties for the providers, a Minnesota Senate committee was told. The message from disability service providers, client and clients’ families?
The loss of their programs is sending fear through Minnesota communities, as people with disabilities and their families struggle with loss of work and income, isolation and loss of skills. But with tight state budgets it’s unclear how much state lawmakers can help. “This is happening at the most challenging of times,” said Sen Jim Abeler, R-Anoka. “I don’t think the state
New leaders for MDI, Living Well Page 6 The wait for vaccines Page 3 $550,000 could be lost Page 4 Scanlan was key leader Page 5 Start seeing sunflowers Page 9
CLOSINGS To page 4
St. Paul Police COAST unit offers mental health help by Margie O’Loughlin While communities everywhere are calling for a changed model of policing, a small unit within the St. Paul Police Department has been taking a different approach for almost three years. In March of 2018, the St. Paul Police Department piloted a new unit dedicated to mental health crisis calls. The mental health unit was made up of three officers, a supervisor and two licensed clinical social workers. One year later, the unit was renamed COAST (Community Outreach & Stabilization Unit). Its range of services expanded to include chemical health and homelessness, as well as mental health. The COAST unit has now grown to six officers, a supervisor, three licensed clinical social workers, and one licensed alcohol and drug counselor. St. Paul, the Washington County Sheriff’s Department and Bloomington Police Department are among the Minnesota law enforcement agencies with such units. The St. Paul Police Department
MARGIE O'LOUGHLIN
Dear Readers, Is your copy of Access Press arriving late, sometimes weeks late? Or are you reading this issue online because you have not seen the newspaper in your mailbox at all? We are hearing from some readers that newspapers are arriving very late. We apologize for the delays. Late delivery isn’t just a problem for Access Press. Newspapers across the United States are struggling with mail delivery issues, according to the National Newspaper Association (NNA), Minnesota Newspaper Association and other press groups. The United States Postal Service (USPS) faced the loss of needed mail sorting equipment and other deep cuts in 2020. Those cuts on top of an unusually heavy mail volume driven in part by COVID-19 are affecting newspaper delivery as well as other mail service. Our printer, House of Print, reports that many other Upper Midwest newspapers are also reporting late arrivals to readers. Those of us who work on publications are all aware of the problems and are doing what we can. We’re all frustrated by this. The NNA and other press associations are working with the Postal Service to address these issues. The NNA represents 1,600 community newspapers across the United States. “We want publishers to understand that these delays are not just in their markets, nor the result of failures by printers or mail preparers. This is happening partly because of COVID19-related personnel absences, but mostly because of record numbers of packages in the mail,” said NNA Chair Brett Wesner, president of Wesner Publications in Cordell, Oklahoma. “We are in continuous conversation with the senior management at USPS about this problem.” The Postal Service expected to deliver roughly 20 million packages a day during the holiday season. That number exceeded 40 million some days, according to USPS. Mail processing plants and local post offices are challenged to keep up with the volume. “The private couriers, like United Parcel Service, can decline to accept packages. We are receiving reports in the mailing industry that the private networks are overloaded so packages are being deferred to the Postal Service, which cannot refuse to accept them. This is particularly an issue for rural areas, where less dense deliveries are unprofitable for the private services but a required service for USPS. Unfortunately, that pushes a glut of package volume into the areas where many of our newspapers are also trying to reach subscribers,” Wesner said. NNA said it expected service to improve after the holiday package season ended. But the association cautioned that as vaccine deliveries are ramping up for the private couriers, USPS might still be the deliverer of last resort for packages displaced by the priority vaccine packages. “This disruption is not only about packages. It is also about a neglected USPS that is being pressured to cut LATE PAPERS To page 4
For there is always light, if only we're brave enough to see it If only we're brave enough to be it
St. Paul COAST Unit members include Officer Lori Goulet, social worker Sally Vanerstrom, and Officer Jen Hale. They respond to mental health calls, as well other crises. in January rolled out a former Metro housing service and other programs. The Mobility bus to enhance its COAST work. vehicle contains work areas and computers, The office-on-wheels gives social workers to access resources quickly. That’s an and police a mobile space for chemical alternative to telling people to make dependency, housing and mental health appointments for another time. assessments in St. Paul. Mental health is an important aspect of The community outreach vehicle is the COAST Unit’s work. As COVID-19 hailed as providing faster service and and social unrest have unraveled commuon-the-spot help to people in need. The nities in the last year, the volume of mental professional assessments are usually health calls to St. Paul 911 has grown. required before someone can access needed Increased COAST staffing allows the mental health or treatment resources, MENTAL HEALTH To page 3
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We have had more than our share of life-threatening health challenges, and we get used to politicians not understanding our needs. We can probably give everybody a few suggestions about how to "bear up" with being stuck at home. What a great winter so far. There have been no significant snowstorms that stopped everyday life. The pandemic continues to have more of an effect on everyday life than Minnesota snow and ice; we still have to keep our social distance, and wearing masks and washing hands goes on. Good news came on January 16, when the Personal Care Attendant (PCA) union, SEIU, struck a deal with state officials to give PCAs a 15 percent increase by July 2021. The union still has to get the OK from its members, but I feel that will surely happen. Then the Minnesota Legislature will have to vote on it and that's where we've had trouble in previous years. If it goes through, this increase could increase the number of people working as PCAs after the workforce has been dwindling over the last five years. There are also some other benefits involving sick leave and paid holidays. The PCAs are front line workers in Minnesota health, and they deserve this recognition and increase. On the COVID-19 front, we are still waiting for solid news about when the vaccine will be available for each of the “phases” and where one will go to get the vaccine. I have heard that some veterans with disabilities have been vaccinated, and of course healthcare workers and individuals in institutions. In mid-January,
the federal government decided that anyone over 65 or who is vulnerable will soon be eligible for the vaccine. There's a number to call on the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) website that you could call to make a reservation to get your vaccine. The first Tuesday that this was opened, the website went down from the huge numbers of people trying to sign up. But 6,100 people got through and got their shots. I'll be calling this upcoming Tuesday and hoping that I'll be able to get through and get a reservation. But again, it’s not clear: where do we go and how do we sign up? The MDH website doesn't yet seem to tell us much about vaccination for people with disabilities or people who live independently at home. The Disability Law Center’s Bud Rosenfield told Minnesota Public Radio that he’s very concerned about people with disabilities living at home, along with their home health aides. We have to get going much faster on the mass vaccinations, and fortunately it seems like the new federal administration understands that. The new strain of the virus, which is much more contagious, is already affecting Minnesota. Anything more contagious is going to be a serious problem, as you well know. I listened to a story from
We're living through historic times, but we can find a way to look at the bright side by thinking about history.
the BBC about an 85-year-old man who was in the hospital for a kidney infection after he had his first vaccination shot, but was infected by COVID-19 two days before his final shot was due. He died. This reminds us that those of us with underlying medical issues will not be fully protected from COVID-19 until we get our second shot. Even then I’m going to keep using all the prevention measures until COVID-19 cases and deaths are rare. I'm getting nervous and will be calling my doctors and clinics to get more information. So should you. We should all start voicing our concerns and doing all we can to get the vaccines we need. Of course the other huge topic in the news is the January 6 insurrection at the capitol in Washington DC. The National Guard was called out in force to make sure there's no disruption during the inauguration on January 20. And there wasn't. The inauguration went down without a hitch. It was a beautiful ceremony and all speeches were incredible. It was a very hopeful and happy occasion. Although not the typical inauguration with thousands of people in audience; there were only invited guests and us watching on TV. Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar presided over the ceremony and was the first to introduce our new president, Joseph Biden, for his inaugural speech. “Today we celebrate not the triumph of a candidate but of the cause of democracy” was one of the statements in the president’s speech that struck me. Amanda Gorman, a 22-year-old poet laureate read her poem The Hill We Climb and took the day with her animated reciting of a masterful words, including
“We seek Harm for none and harmony for all.” This is just one of her sentences that jumped out at me. Like most people, I was eager to see 2021 begin, thinking that we could put 2020 behind us. But so far it’s been every bit as challenging as last year. I hear a lot of people saying how unbearable it is. People with disabilities have a different gauge for what is bearable. We have had more than our share of life-threatening health challenges, and we get used to politicians not understanding our needs. We can probably give everybody a few suggestions about how to “bear up” with being stuck at home. Like everybody, we want to see this pandemic end, but unlike many, we have a lot of the skills and experience needed to get through the challenges. We’re living through historic times. But we can find a way to look at the bright side by thinking about history. All of us have parents and grandparents who lived through historic hard times. They endured and even conquered other diseases like polio and the 1918 flu pandemic. They went through world wars and the depression. Many endured poverty and had none of the household conveniences and tools or transportation that we have today. They also didn't have social media to keep them informed—or riled up—on a daily basis. America has done it before and can once again overcome this disease. I pray that we will also overcome the mammoth divides between races, political ideologies, and social classes, and create an economy that is moving upward for all. Have a safe and good month and we will talk soon.
HISTORY NOTE
Generous Wasie family's gifts to hospital are remembered When the Wasie Pool closed recently at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, it marked the end of a 41-year era for a facility many relied on for water therapy and rehabilitation. It also provides a chance to recall one family’s longtime philanthropic focus. The pool and other hospital facilities bearing the name Wasie were supported by the Wasie Family Foundation. The foundation got its start almost 55 years ago. “Upon realizing his own success and ability to help others, Stanley Wasie started the Wasie Foundation in 1966 to provide a helping hand to those who were less fortunate than he was; yet motivated to succeed. Today, Stan’s initial effort has resulted in our ability to distribute tens of millions of dollars in grants and scholarship funding over more than 50 years,” the foundation’s website stated. Wasie and his wife Marie and
their son Donald started the foundation. According to a Star Tribune article, the foundation’s original purpose was to fund scholarship programs for students of Polish descent. The foundation, which operated for many years out of Minneapolis’ Foshay Tower, funded 10 scholarship programs at one point. It also helped many low-income families and people with physical and cognitive disabilities. The Wasies had a son Donald, who died in 1973, and a daughter who died after childbirth in 1927. Donald lived with disabilities, so helping others was a focus for the Wasies and their foundation. Who were Stanley and Marie Wasie? He was the founder and owner of Merchants Motor Freight, and chairman of the board of Murphy Motor Freight until his death in 1974. The couple met as young people, from Minneapolis families of modest means. He
Co-Founder/Publisher...............................................................................................................Wm. A. Smith, Jr. (1990-96) Co-Founder/Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief.......................................................................Charles F. Smith (1990-2001) Editor-in-Chief/Executive Director......................................................................................Tim Benjamin (2001-2020) Board of Directors................................................................................................................... Mohamed Alfash, John Clark, .................................................................................................... Shannah Mulvihill, Walt Seibert, Joel Ulland, Kay Willshire Advertising Sales...................................651-644-2133 Cartoonist................................................... Scott Adams Managing Editor.....................................Jane McClure Production..................................................... In-Fin Tuan Columnist/Staff Writer....................... Tim Benjamin EDITORIAL: 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. ADVERTISING RATES: Display Ad: $12 to $28 per column inch (size and frequency of run). Classified Ad: $14, plus 65¢ per word over 12 words. DEADLINE: 15th of each month. CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION: 11,000 copies are distributed the 10 th of each month through more than 200 locations statewide. Approximately 450 copies are mailed to individuals, including political, business, institutional and civic leaders. SUBSCRIPTION: $30 per year. Low-income, student and bulk subscriptions available at discounted rates. ABOUT ACCESS PRESS: A monthly newspaper published for persons with disabilities by Access Press, Ltd. Application to mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at the St. Paul, MN 55121 facility. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Access Press, PO Box 40006, Industrial Station, St. Paul, MN 55104-8006. INQUIRIES AND ADDRESS CHANGES should be directed to: Access Press, PO Box 40006, Industrial Station, St. Paul, MN 55104-8006; 651-644-2133; email: access@accesspress.org Website: nonprofitcharity.org
was a Polish immigrant whose last name was originally Wasielewski. Stanley Wasie attended night school and clerked in a warehouse before launching Merchants Motor Freight in 1927. The company, which started with one truck, at one time had thousands of trucks and trailer units. He sold the company in 1962 but remained active in the trucking industry. He was also active in many civic organizations. After her husband’s death in 1974, Marie Wasie led the family foundation. She did so until 1991. Her obituary notes that at the time of her death in 1992, she was the largest contributor to Abbott Northwestern Hospital. She was named Minnesota’s Outstanding Philanthropist in 1984, and was honored by the College of St. Catherine (now St. Catherine University) and College of St. Teresa in Winona. The foundation also helped churches through-
out the state, as the Wasies had a deep Catholic faith. Marie Wasie was an honorary trustee of the Sister Kenny Institute, which like Abbott Northwestern is now part of Allina. Abbott Northwestern was important to Marie Wasie as the foundation supported the Wasie Pool, Wasie Center and the Wasie Residence. The pool provided therapy. The center once provided accommodations for out-of-town patients and their families, as well as a fitness center, chronic pain program, behavioral health services and offices. It operates today as the Wasie Building. The Wasie Residence provided housing for people with schizophrenia. It closed many years ago. The History Note is a monthly column produced in cooperation with the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities. Past History Notes and other disability history may be found at www.mnddc.org
February 2021 Volume 32, Number 2
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Vaccination timing is among challenges for COVID-19 effort The COVID-19 pandemic has brought countless changes to the lives of Minnesotans with disabilities. Many have lost caregivers. Others been forced to leave day activity programs and jobs, and stay at home. Many are isolated in group homes or care facilities, unable to see family and friends and be out in their communities. But the biggest questions may center on the timing of their COVID-19 vaccines. In the United States, more than 25 million cases of COVID-19 have been reported. There have been more than 414,000 deaths as of mid-January, a toll that continues to climb. National and state leaders are trying to accelerate vaccination programs. Health care workers, emergency medical service workers, first responders, COVID-19 testers, people administering vaccinations long-term care facility residents are in the first group to be vaccinated in Minnesota. They are to be followed by others in health care including urgent care and disability center workers. People in home health settings and group homes would follow but it’s not clear when that would be. There are fears that it could take several months to get everyone vaccinated. Vaccinations for Minnesotans age 65 and older began in January. A state pilot program quickly became overwhelmed, as people waited for hours to get vaccinations scheduled or were unable to get through the online system. For younger people with disabilities, timing is less certain. That’s a concern because studies have shown that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities may be three times as likely to contract the coronavirus.
to wear a face covering. The state does not have a defined list of conditions that qualify for the exceptions. The mask directives could change as new President Joe Biden takes significant steps to control the spread of coronavirus. People with disabilities also continue to be affected by shifts and changes in state directives to slow the spread of coronavirus. Restaurants, bars, gyms, museums, theaters, swimming pools and other businesses began to reopen with restrictions in January. Gatherings continued to be restricted. Some schools opted to reopen, or go to a hybrid of in-person and distance learning. As of January 18, elementary schools could choose to operate in an inperson learning model as long as they provided and required staff to wear a face shield and mask and offered regular testing. The decision is left up to each school district, with consultation with health and education officials. Schools can switch to distance learning or a combination of both in-person and online learning. Changes to school schedules have caused anxiety for parents of special education students. Some students have struggled greatly over the past several months with distance learning. Yet there are fears of students and teachers becoming ill.
People with disabilities should talk to their health care providers about the vaccine and its availability. But even when people can be vaccinated, wearing of masks, washing hands and safe social distancing are still urged. Face coverings continue to be required in indoor environments that are open to the public as well as businesses. Masks can temporarily be removed when necessary. Those situations include eating and drinking, or being identified. There are exceptions for people who have medical or health conditions, disabilities or mental health, developmental or behavioral needs that make it difficult
Support services available
Minnesotans who need help coping with the coronavirus pandemic will now have more support services available, thanks to grants from the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). DHS has awarded a total of $1.68 million to 11 community agencies across the state for crisis counseling services to help people struggling with stress and anxiety as a result of the pandemic. “As with any disaster that causes significant disruption to our lives, recovery includes addressing the mental health needs of those most impacted,” said DHS Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. “The grant funds going to our partners will provide additional support for people who need extra help right now.” Minnesota’s Crisis Counseling Program will focus primarily on those communities and individuals most affected. It will promote coping strategies, emotional support and an array of resources. Agencies receiving grants are: African American Child Wellness Institute, Care Providers of Minnesota, Change Inc., LeadingAGE, Mental Health Minnesota, Native American Community Clinic, NorthPoint, Turning Point Inc., Twin Cities Recovery Project, Inc., Watercourse Counseling, and Wellness in the Woods. In addition, DHS has added a number of resources for adults and children coping with COVID-19. These materials are being translated into Spanish, Hmong and Somali. The funding for the grants comes from a $1.83-million Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training program grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. To learn more, go to mn.gov/dhs/coping-with-crisis (Information from Minnesota DHS, the Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control were used in this article.)
MENTAL HEALTH
officers and those suffering from mental illness, while also reducing the number of repeat 911 calls.
Help is available
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five people will experience a mental health disorder in their lifetime. COAST has several partner organizations through Ramsey County, veterans’ services,. A statewide resources for people with mental health needs is https://mentalhealthmn.org/support/communityresources/statewide-mental-health-resources/ People in need may also call 1-888-NAMI-Helps / 1-888-626-4435 A version of this article appeared recently in the Monitor, a newspaper serving the St. Paul neighborhoods of Hamline-Midway, Como and Frogtown.
ST. PAUL POLICE DEPARTMENT
From page 1 unit to respond to calls involving people in crisis, make referrals to community mental health partners, and conduct follow-up visits to ensure continuity. Sargent Jamie Sipes, a 26-year veteran of law enforcement, supervises the COAST Unit. “Mental health calls are on the rise,” he said. “By pairing social workers with police officers, we feel we are better able to respond to community mental health needs. Our social workers bring their mental health expertise out into the community where it’s needed.” COAST unit members sometimes travel in minivans marked only with a small police insignia. The law enforcement officers wear dark navy shirts and khakis A new mobile office for the COAST unit rolled out in mid-January. instead of traditional the care they need, helping to reduce mental health uniforms. Social workers ride along as equal partners. crisis-related arrests and repeat calls for service. “All of These efforts are a visual way of saying, “We’re here on a our SPPD officers receive 40 hours of Crisis Intervention police call, but our team is going to do things differently.” Team (CIT) training. With the increase of mental health Amber Ruth was the first licensed clinical social worker crisis calls, responders need to know how to handle these to join the COAST unit. “I appreciate being on the scene difficult situations,” said Sipes. with the officers. As social workers, we’re able to assess According to the Minnesota Crisis Intervention Team people in crisis in their situation. We can directly refer website, there is currently little to no CIT training offered them to resources -- which keeps them from getting lost at police academies for dealing with mental illness. It’s up in the shuffle,” she said. to individual police departments to undertake that work. To date, the COAST social worker positions have In St. Paul, it has become mandatory. been funded by Regions Hospital, People Incorporated The CIT model promotes the use of verbal de(a community provider of integrated behavioral and escalation skills before using force when confronting a mental health services in Minnesota), and other granting mental health crisis. CIT training has been proven to organizations. dramatically decrease the risk of injuries or death to both The goal of COAST is to connect people in crisis with
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Get ready for Disability Advocacy Day, Disability Services Day Although the buses won’t roll and the capitol rotunda won’t echo with chants and cheers, it’s still time to make noise. Disability groups still plan to rally and organize during the 2021 session of the Minnesota Legislature. Rallies and lobby days will be virtual this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Disability Advocacy Day will look different this year, given the pandemic. This year’s event, dubbed Disability Advocacy Day “Off the Hill,” is Tuesday, February 23. Participants can meet at any time with representatives and senators. The online rally is 11-11:45 a.m., with disability community leaders sharing stories and information about policy issues. After a break, a lunch and learn session us planned for noon-1:30 p.m. Hear an in-depth discussion of issues not featured during the rally. Preregistration is required. Check for details at https:// www.disability.state.mn.us/events/disability-day-off-thecapitol/ Anyone with questions can contact Legislative
Advocacy Intern, Evelyn Humphrey, at legisadvocacy@ arcminnesota.org. Disability Services Day at the Capitol is Tuesday, March 9. The event, typically one of the biggest rallies, is led by the disability advocacy groups ARRM and MOHR and the Best Life Alliance. A button design contest has wrapped but there is still
State lawmakers hurry to earmark $550,000 A requirement in state law that could divert $550,000 dollars away from programs for people with disabilities is being contested by state lawmakers. A Senate committee began scrutiny of the funds in January with the goal of making sure the dollars aren’t allocated to the state’s general fund and placed elsewhere in the state budget. That requirement has dismayed some state lawmakers. Senators John Hoffman (DFL-Champlin) and Jim Abeler (R-Anoka) are working on legislation to have the $550,000 go to DHS for disability-related needs. A bill introduced this session would give DHS the authority to move the money into the Disability Services division. But there isn’t much time. If the bill isn’t passed by mid-February the funds cannot be earmarked for disability services and go to the general fund. The funds are left over from the Jensen court case, a decade-year legal battle that resulted in a $3 million settlement. The federal court case centered on treatment
of young people at the Minnesota Extended Treatment Options facility in Cambridge. The case, which became a class action, changed the way people with disabilities are treated in state institutions. The case brought renewed scrutiny of and changes in practices such as seclusion and restraint as ways to address behavioral issues. After years of oversight, U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank in October 2020 decided that the court no longer needed to have purview in the Jensen case. The court case also resulted in a jump-start for Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan. The plan outlines how people with disabilities participate in their home communities. Work on the plan had stalled until then. There is about $550,000 in Jensen case settlement money remaining. In December 2020 U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank ordered that the money be turned over to the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS).
LATE PAPERS
to move to online subscriptions whenever possible. While Access Press is considering more online features and services in the future, we know that not everyone wishes to or can access news online. Many of our readers want a print newspaper and we respect that. We need to know when your paper isn’t delivered in a timely manner or if it isn’t arriving at all. Please email us at access@accesspress.org or call 651-644-2133. - Access Press Board and staff
CLOSINGS
available have to travel farther or stay home. Julie Johnson, president of the MOHR organization and leader of St. Paul-based MSS, and Brenda Geldert, executive director of Options, Inc. in Big Lake, outlined the dilemma. Johnson emphasized that providers are only reimbursed for the services they provide. With cutbacks and shutdowns, providers are unable to cover fixed costs. While state assistance thus far is appreciated providers are still operating at deficits. “The past year has been extremely difficult,” said Geldert. “The bottom line is we need more financial help to make it through the end of the pandemic.’ Options Inc. has lost $1.9 million since April, and anticipates an ongoing loss of $66,000 per month due to restricted operations. The provider has received about $200,000 so far in help, but that doesn’t begin to make up lost revenues. Johnson said most programs are operating at 44 percent of pre-pandemic revenue. At least one shuttered provider has been replaced. Productive Alternatives has been adding services in Grant County, to replace the Grant County Day Activity Center (DAC). The Grant County program, which was based in Hoffman, closed in March 2020. “They are very excited that we’re coming and excited for the new opportunities,” Mike Burke, director of operations for Fergus Falls- based Productive Alternatives, told MOHR. His nonprofit will lease space from the Grant County DAC in Hoffman, to offer day services, employment support services and connect participants to offerings from Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation. People with disabilities living in Pope County are also eligible. Licensed capacity will be for 100 participants. Roughly two-thirds of the Grant County DAC staff have been hired by Production Alternatives to resume services. Burke said most bring 20-plus years of client service experience with them.
From page 1 overtime and save money because Congress has not done its part to help create a sustainable service. Long-term, we have to find the right fix to keep universal service alive,” Wesner said. Access Press is one of the many newspaper affected by the postal challenges. NNA is advising more publications
From page 1 budget picture is going to get any rosier.” The Senate committee will be looking at the issues and continue to talk to service providers and state officials about what can be done. Speakers outlined the recent challenges and the uncertain future ahead for the Senate Human Services Reform Finance and Policy Committee January 14. They described the difficulty of making decisions to shut down, and trying to balance community needs with a significant health crisis Providers are currently running at 50 percent capacity, and following many health-related protocols to keep clients and staff safe. Not every program operation has been able to return during the slow weeks and months of reopening. Some people with disabilities continue to stay at home, as they and their family members worry about becoming ill. The pandemic forced services providers around Minnesota to shut down in the spring. Some services were and still are offered remotely but that wasn’t an option for everything and everyone. Natasha Merz, director of the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Disability Services Division, said state officials heard “loud and clear” that remote services didn’t have the same impact as being in-person. Merz pointed out that day services for people with disabilities can be provided in different ways, in the community or in DHS-licensed facilities. It’s very common for people with disabilities to have a mix of both types of services. Before providers could open their doors again, COVID-19 preparation plans, plans for sanitation and safe practices, and limits on participation were among measures that had to be put into place. Despite such precautions not every service provider has been able to reopen. Eight have closed and others are on the brink. Clients who live in areas where services are no longer
time to register. Go to https://www.disabilityservicesday. com/register Tuesdays at the Capitol led by the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, continue this session in a virtual format. One easy way to check in is through the consortium’s Facebook page, at https://www. facebook.com/MinnCCD
February 2021 Volume 32, Number 2
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In Memoriam f∏∏
Scanlan’s life experiences shaped her commitment to advocacy Joyce Eileen Scanlan drew on her own experiences with blindness and disability-based discrimination to champion the rights of others. Described as “able, tough and determined,” she led in state and federal legislative efforts and worked tirelessly to provide needed services for people with visual disabilities. She was a force in helping people with visual disabilities to be able to live full, independent lives. Scanlan, 89, died December 29, 2020. She may best be remembered as the founder and longtime leader of BLIND, Inc. and for her longtime leadership of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and NFB - Minnesota. She and her husband Tom worked tirelessly as a Joyce Scanlan team on issues for many years. Born in Fargo in 1939, Scanlan received her elementary and secondary education at the North Dakota School for the Blind. Her strong love of reading and theater inspired her to earn a B.A. in English and history and a master's degree in English at the University of North Dakota. She taught those subjects at North Dakota and Montana high schools. In an interview, Scanlan described how glaucoma took the rest of her vision. She lost her self-confidence and said, “I quickly fled from the job because I had never known a blind teacher in a public school, and I had had such a struggle those last few weeks in the classroom that I was positive no blind person could ever teach sighted children.” In 1970 the NFB convention was in Minneapolis, so she attended the meeting of the NFB Teachers Division. She met many teachers there who were blind. “In fact, I met blind people from all over the country who were engaged in a great variety of occupations. I learned what the NFB was all about and realized what blind people working together could do.” At that convention she met Tom Scanlan, whom she married four years later. But when she moved to Minnesota before her marriage, schools wouldn’t hire her to teach. Scanlan then became a force for change. She took a job proofreading Braille. More importantly she devoted much of her time to advocacy for people with visual disabilities.
REGIONAL NEWS Input sought on life sharing
Interested in life sharing as an option? The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) seeks public comments on new resources for life sharing. Life sharing is a relationship-based living arrangement that carefully matches an adult 18 years or older who has a disability with an individual or family who will share their life and experiences and support the person using person-centered practices. Currently, life sharing is not a formal waiver service. However, these new resources include information about how lead agencies, providers and interested individuals and families can use existing disability waiver services to create life-sharing arrangements for people who choose this option. The resources aren’t related to the Waiver Reimagine project. Drafts for review were released recently by DHS. State officials are asking what was missed that should be added, what needs clarification and other questions. One issue to be addressed is what are any community concerns about using existing waiver services to provide life sharing? The public comment period ends at 4 p.m., Friday, February 5. To learn more go to www.dhs.state. mn.us/ and search for “life sharing.”
Waiver changes announced
The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) CADI Waiver amendment package, which includes Waiver Reimagine streamlined service changes, effective January 11. CMS has now approved waiver amendment packages that include Waiver Reimagine streamlined service changes for the Brain Injury (BI), Community Alternative Care (CAC), Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI) and Developmental Disabilities (DD) waivers. Lead agencies can now begin to authorize CADI service agreements with Waiver Reimagine streamlined services in Medication Management Information Systems. DHS previously directed lead agencies to begin authorizing BI, CAC and DD service agreements in the December28, 2020, eList announcement. CMS didn’t approve all of the changes sought in the waiver programs. DHS proposed adding remote support as an alternative service delivery option across the waivers through many services. CMS didn’t approve the expansion of remote support in this package of amendments. DHS has temporary federal approval to use remote support as an alternative to in-person service delivery, through an approval that is only effective until March 31.
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Scanlan worked to add disability protections to the Minnesota Human Rights Act. She also was deeply involved in calling for requirements to teach Braille in public schools. She was active in many levels of NFB-Minnesota. In 1971 she organized a statewide NFB student division. She became NFB-Minnesota vice president in 1972 and president from 1973-2007. During that same time her husband Tom, who is also blind, was the organization’s treasurer. At the national level, she also served on the NFB Board from 1974-2004. That work included terms as secretary and first vice president. The federation made a great difference in her life, and she was dedicated to its work. One of her greatest accomplishments was working through NFB-Minnesota to establish and serve as executive director for a rehabilitation center for the adult blind. BLIND, Inc. (Blindness: Learning In New Dimensions) admitted its first class, consisting of two students, in January of 1988. The Minneapolis training center teaches clients how to read Braille, use white canes, cook, work with computers and reading software, and develop other skills needed to be independent. She retired as BLIND, Inc. leader in 2003. But she never stopped helping people. In the 1970s she joined the newly created Minnesota Council on Disabilities. She spent many years on an advisory council for State Services for the Blind, and worked to have that state function move from the Department of Public Welfare to the Department of Jobs and Training. Scanlan also served on many boards involved with visual disabilities, and was a recognized expert at the state and federal levels. She authored articles on blindness. But she is also remembered for having a good sense of humor, and loving to laugh and for her enjoyment of cooking and baking. She kept almost 5,000 recipes, all in Braille. She loved to play Scrabble, read histories and biographies, travel and entertain. Scanlan is survived by her husband of 46 years, a sister, a brother and many nieces and nephews. Services will be held at a later date. Memorials are preferred to the National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota.
Nor was a change for prevocational services approved. DHS proposed modifying the service description for prevocational services to add a requirement that people receiving prevocational services must also receive an employment service or day support services. CMS did not approve this amendment, which means people new to receiving prevocational services do not need to also receive an employment service or day support services. With approval of the CADI Waiver amendment, DHS now has the authority to implement the streamlined service menu for all waivers as part of the first phase of the Waiver Reimagine project. Starting January 11, a person on the CADI Waiver who receives a service affected by the streamlined service changes will receive the streamlined service during a service change or at their annual reassessment. For more information about changes to service names, updated HCPCs and frameworks, see CBSM – Waiver Reimagine streamlined service crosswalk. The approved amendments also address the intent of the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) settings standards more fully to support community inclusion and expand services to create more options for people. Read the complete announcement, the history of the proposed changes and find links to other details at https://tinyurl.com/y65acntf
Dillon was mental health advocate
Nancy Dillon is remembered as a committed advocate for Minnesotans experiencing mental illness, and as someone who elevated the status of psychiatric nursing in Minnesota. Dillon died in December 2020 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. She was 74 and lived in Brooklyn Park. A native of New York, Dillon came to Minnesota in 1983. Her career focus was always in mental health. She spent two decades as a nurse at the Minneapolis Veterans Medical Center, and then became the first chief nurse executive at the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). In that role she worked with nurses at state group homes and other state facilities. She worked on training and policies for nurses, helped design a new system for patients to get treatment closer to home, taught part-time at the University of Minnesota nursing school and volunteered on the board for National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota. She is survived by her husband, daughter, son, a sister and two grandchildren. Services are postponed due to the pandemic.
Petrie a founder of MRCI Art Petrie was not only a developer and shaper of the city of Mankato. He also had compassion for people with disabilities. Petrie, 86, died in December 2020. He had lived in Las Vegas for the past several years. Petrie was involved in Mankato development for decades, working to revitalize the downtown area. he and partners took on many challenging projects, as well as the transformation of the former lower campus of what used to be Mankato State University for new uses. While regarded as having a brash personality as he pulled development projects together, he was also very generous and civic-minded. He was also part of the group that brought the Minnesota Vikings training camps to Mankato for many years. Petrie also was very interested in creating low-income housing and developing projects and organizations that helped those in need. He was a founding member of MRCI, which provides employment and services for people with disabilities. He was its board president when the organization was the Mankato Rehabilitation Center. He was a dedicated member of AA for 45 years. Petrie is survived by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and many other family members. Services will be held in July.
help older Minnesotans get to important appointments and take advantage of other opportunities in their communities. The FY 2021 Live Well at Home grants have been awarded. The announcements were made through a news release on Dec. 11, 2020. The notices have gone out to the Live Well at Home grantees. (News items are from Minnesota DHS.)
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Helping older Minnesotans maintain their health, independence and community involvement is the goal of more than $7 million in grants the Minnesota Department of Human Services is awarding to organizations and facilities around the state. The Live Well at Home grants total $7,044,845 and will go to 70 organizations from July 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021. “Older adults deserve to live as independently as possible,” said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. “These grants will help organizations across the state that are committed to empowering and serving Minnesotans as they age.” Examples of the projects and services being funded include: • Innovative and inclusive programs for American Indian elders, including Bingocize, a fall prevention program. • “Gerontechnology,” including virtual reality and videography to build intergenerational friendships, support families who care for older adults and provide an array of programming. • Expanded and customized circulator ride services that
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February 2021 Volume 32, Number 2
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PEOPLE & PLACES New leader named for MDI
Be part of a great resource! The best way to reach Minnesota’s disability community is through the Access Press Directory of Organizations. In print four times annually and online 24/7, the Directory of Organizations offers quick information for people seeking an array of resources. From housing to health care, recreation to recovery, clubs to consumer-directed community supports, we offer the information you need for your best life! Just $60 per year gets your listing in front of readers eager for services and supports. Add additional listings for a small fee.
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Eric Black is taking the helm at MDI February 15, succeeding current President and CEO Peter McDermott. McDermott will retire on April 1. MDI is a nonprofit corrugated plastic manufacturer and assembly service provider headquartered in Minneapolis with locations in Hibbing, Grand Rapids and Cohasset. It provides employment for people with disabilities. Black is a global business development and integrated marketing leader who spent 23 years at Cargill before starting his current role at Univar Solutions. At Univar Solutions he has served as global director of marketing and technical sales. He and McDermott will work together until April 1 to make the transitions. “MDI is a mission-minded organization that is driven to provide real results and quality solutions for its customers and employees alike,” said Black. “I am eager and humbled to join the MDI team and add to its incredible momentum and growth.” “We are thrilled to welcome Eric to MDI,” said Jill Eric Black Hesselroth, board chair of MDI. “His proven track record of product innovation, business growth and customer satisfaction paired with his deep ties to the community and dedication to relationship building will continue to elevate MDI’s reputation, both as an inclusive employer and a reliable manufacturer.” “At the same time, we are deeply thankful for Peter and the decade-plus of growth, direction and impact he has had on our organization and the lives of each and every one of our employees,” said Hesselroth. “Our business and our community are better thanks to his leadership.” McDermott has served as president and CEO for
more than 12 years. His passion and leadership have led MDI to tremendous growth, from $11 million in sales and 123 employees to $33 million in sales and 562 employees. He oversaw MDI’s multiyear, $15 million capital investment project of new and upgraded facilities; launched numerous programs that benefited youth and adults with disabilities; led the merger with Deer River Hired Hands; helped MDI obtain ISO quality certifications supporting new medical assembly offerings; and launched a polypropylene line that allowed the manufacturer to expand its products. Under his leadership, MDI grew its commercial sales from $2 million to $12 million, while maintaining a key government customer whose order volatility ranged from $7 million to more than $37 million each year. Most notably, he improved the working conditions for people with disabilities and advocated on their behalf at the Minnesota Legislature and within the business community. “I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the team at MDI and provide job opportunities for people with and without disabilities in an inclusive work environment – it has been the highlight of my career,” said McDermott. “I know the organization and the outstanding people who work here will be well-served by Eric, who is a proven, passionate leader. My greatest source of pride has been showing others that people with disabilities can earn the independence, fulfillment and empowerment that employment provides when given the opportunity, and I know MDI will continue to exemplify this philosophy for years to come.”
New leader at Living Well Disability Services Thomas Gillespie is the new president and CEO of Mendota Heights-based Living Well Disability Services, a leader in providing exceptional services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He’ll start his new duties this month. Gillespie has more than 15 years of senior management experience working across the spectrum of roles in the disability services industry including executive leadership, operations management and group home management. His resume includes more than a decade of strategic leadership at Minnesota disability service providers, most recently as executive director of the Duluth Regional Care Center (DRCC), Duluth. Prior to that Gillespie was chief program officer of Hammer Residences in Wayzata. Hammer Residences provides services for more than 1,900 people impacted by disabilities, Thomas Gillespie Hammer has 550 staff in locations across the Twin Cities region. Gillespie succeeds Rod Carlson, who has been interim president and CEO as well as chief operating officer (COO) for the past year. Carlson will continue as COO. Living Well Disability Services provides residential and customized services to people in their own home, their family's home or in one of our 33 group homes throughout the 10-county region. “We are excited to have Tom lead Living Well Disability Services as we focus on continued growth and our leadership in providing exceptional services,” said Paul Hillen, the nonprofit’s board chairman. Hillen cites Gillespie’s extensive experience in disability services at
all levels, including providing strong leadership in both operational and strategic areas, as pluses in his new role. "I am thrilled to be joining the Living Well Disability Services team," said Gillespie. "It is a true honor to join an organization that serves and employs such great people. Living Well has built its strong reputation by nurturing relationships and living our mission every day. I look forward to reinforcing these foundations while we look to the opportunities and challenges ahead. Despite the uncertainty that surrounds us these days, Living Well has stayed true to its mission and commitment to exceptional services. It is an honor to join such a great organization and I cannot wait to get to work." As DRCC leader, Gillespie successfully increased yearover-year growth, created a new human resources department, and engaged in efforts to work with legislators for support of front line workers. At Hammer, Gillespie was responsible for services across all departments and provided strategic direction for more than 1,900 individuals with disabilities, ensuring opportunities and engaging activities of their choosing. He had worked at hammer since 2003 and held several posts there. Gillespie is on the board of directors for the Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota (ARRM). He received an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Minnesota, Duluth and an MBA from Concordia University St. Paul.
February 2021 Volume 32, Number 2
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PEOPLE & PLACES Visionary Goodwin steps down from BlueSky Designs
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Dianne Goodwin
A Minnesota pioneer in rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology is stepping down. Dianne Goodwin, founder of BlueSky Designs, has announced her retirement after 36 years of work in the field. Goodwin founded BlueSky in 1997. BlueSky Designs manufactures, distributes and designs movable mounting systems people can move independently. Its goal is to provide flexible and customizable solutions to make it easier for persons with disabilities to do what they want to do. BlueSky Designs was awarded federal Small Business Innovation Research grants from the National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Disability and rehabilitation research, and the United States Department of Agriculture. She led in development of innovative technology that made it to market, including the independently accessible Mount’n Mover, Pow!r Mount and Freedom tent, which was licensed to Eureka and won the MS Society’s DaVinci Award. Goodwin has worked in the field of rehab engineering since her graduate school days at the University of Virginia in 1984. Prior to launching BlueSky, she worked as a rehab engineer at Gillette Children’s Hospital and Tamarack Habilitation Technologies. She also worked at AbleNet where she developed the Specs Switch, All-Turn-It Spinner and the one-button TV and VCR remote. Goodwin has been a Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) member since 1985, was a RESNA-Easter Seal student award winner in 1987 and served on its board and as a special interest group chair in Technology Transfer. One interesting note about Goodwin and BlueSky’s work is that starting in 2014, the Mount'n Mover she designed played a supporting role on the television show NCIS: New
Orleans. The product is mounted to the chair of Special Agent Patton Plame, played by Daryl Mitchell, an actor with paraplegia. The character used the Mount'n Mover to hold his computer keyboard Peter Loeffler is the new owner and president of BlueSky Designs. He has worked with Goodwin and the team for six years, as a research engineer and project manager. Peter shares Goodwin’s passion for people with disabilities and her belief in the potential for technology to increase their independence and ability to live life fully. With Loeffler at the helm, BlueSky will continue its mission: designing beyond limits. He holds a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Johns Hopkins University, with a minor in entrepreneurship. While at BlueSky, he has led the technical development of the power mount and autopositioning and has spearheaded operations improvements. For more information go to www.mountnmover.com
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February 2021 Volume 32, Number 2
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REGIONAL NEWS Tentative pact provides 15 percent raise
SEIU
Minnesota home care workers in the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) have voted on a tentative contract agreement that increases base pay by $2 per hour, increases paid time off and provides funding for worker training. The agreement was reached in midJanuary after a marathon 18-hour bargaining session with state officials. The tentative contract also increases paid time off and adds two floating holidays for workers. More than 2,000 workers across the state began voting on the tentative contract after the agreement was reached. Voting was to take place over a two-week period. If approved and funded by the Minnesota Legislature and signed by Gov. Tim Walz, the new contract would take SEIU members are shown outside of the state capitol, prior to the November election. effect in July 2021. Base pay for workers would increase from $13.25 to $14.40 in assistance for food stamps, Medicaid, and a lot of other October and to $15.25 in July 2022. things, because we're still below the poverty level,” she said. Walz tweeted in support of the agreement. He Burnfin said she hopes the pay increase will attract said that home care workers have been “fighting on more workers to a chronically understaffed industry. the frontlines of this pandemic — they deserve to be “Hopefully with this wage increase, that will get more recognized for it. people into the field, and we will be able to help take “While we may not have gotten everything that care of that crisis, so people will be able to actually use we had hoped to get, we came out with a really good their paid time off,” she said. contract, that's going to help a lot of people. That is This is the fourth union contract since Minnesota a really great feeling,” said Dawn Burnfin, a member home care workers voted to unionize in 2014. A 2019 of the SEIU bargaining committee and a home care contract increased workers’ base pay from $12 to worker in Chisholm. $13.25 per hour. “Many people who do this job still qualify for state (Source: Minnesota Public Radio)
More accessible housing eyed
The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) has approved $195 million in grants and loans to create and preserve 2,387 affordable homes across the state, including rental units and single-family houses. MHFA Commissioner Jennifer Ho said the funds will be used to build new singlefamily houses, fix up older housing, and help low-income Minnesotans buy their first homes and others in need pay their rent or make mortgage payments. One focus of the program is housing for people with disabilities, either to rehabilitate existing units or build new ones. All Minnesotans deserve access to affordable homes, Gov. Tim Walz said. “2020 has been a very trying year for all of us,” he said. “Home has never meant more as we seek stable places to live, raise families and shelter from the (coronavirus).” The 73 projects selected — funded in large part by $100 million in housing infrastructure bonds that the Minnesota Legislature passed in October 2020— are expected to create 5,300 jobs and leverage $334 million in private and local resources to provide more than $529 million in total development costs, Ho said. The projects will be evenly split between greater Minnesota and the metro area, she said. The grants go to local governments, tribal entities, non-profit housing developers and community land trust organizations. The agency selected 40 projects that will create almost 400 new or repaired older single-family homes. It also will fund 22 apartment and townhouse projects, and advance 11 other proposals for further review that together will create or preserve more than 2,000 multi-family homes. The projects will provide housing for the homeless, seniors and people with disabilities, among others. Nearly one-third of the projects will be “deeply affordable” for households earning less than 30 percent of an area’s median income. (Source: Pioneer Press)
Did district violate civil rights?
The Fargo School District is the subject of a lawsuit filed in federal court, alleging civil rights violations. Katy Barnum recently filed the lawsuit on behalf of her son, stating that he was restrained, secluded and consequently traumatized. Barnum claims that the Fargo School Board, school district and Superintendent Rupak Gandhi are responsible for reneging on agreements and failing to provide her son with a “free and appropriate public education” as required by federal law. Barnum isn’t seeking punitive damages and just wants her child back in the school that was agreed upon by her and Gandhi, according to court documents. Her son was diagnosed with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, and is a special education student. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act stipulates that children with disabilities have a right to a free and appropriate education with “related services designed to meet their unique needs.” Children are to be in the least restrictive environment in the regular classroom to the maximum extent possible. The lawsuit asserts that Fargo Public Schools failed to comprehensively evaluate her son in all areas of suspected disability; that her son’s annual goals weren’t being properly monitored or assessed; that instructional methods weren’t consistent with her son’s needs; and that the district failed to consistently maintain complete and current records of her son’s in-school behaviors. “The heart of this case is really about having the district live up to its promises they made to this young child. There was a settlement agreement that was reached in (July 2020) this year, and within weeks the promises made in that agreement we believe were walked back,” said attorney Mac Schneider. Laura Tubbs Booth is representing Fargo Public Schools. When contacted, Tubbs Booth said the district does not
normally speak publicly about legal matters, but that she would be contacting the district to find out if the case will be going to trial or settled out of court. (Source: Fargo Forum)
Student-athlete wants to play
An Ashby High School senior had his athletic eligibility restored after receiving a preliminary injunction against the Minnesota State High School League. Hennepin County District Judge Jacqueline Regis ruled recently in favor of Deklin Goeden's family. The Goedens accused the MSHSL of illegal discrimination by reason of their son’s learning disability. Under the MSHSL's Bylaw 110, student-athletes are allowed 12 consecutive semesters (six consecutive years) of eligibility beginning in seventh grade. Because Goeden repeated seventh grade due to a learning disability, he used up his eligibility and was told he must sit out his senior year. The MSHSL's Eligibility Committee denied the family's appeal in June 2020. “This is an important decision,” said Goeden family attorney Justin Page. “It's the first of its kind in Minnesota. I think this will make the Minnesota State High School League look at the way it deals with making exceptions. The league has to give these situations the individual analysis the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Minnesota Human Rights Act requires.” Attorney Kevin Beck, who represented the MSHSL in court, did not comment to the Star Tribune. Going into the current school year, Goeden had only competed in 11 semesters worth of activities. He competed in six wrestling seasons. As a junior last season, he did not play football. His track and field season was canceled due to the coronavirus. Goeden's father, Darren, said the court's ruling, “felt good knowing that we weren't alone. Talking to the high school league, everything was a no. I'm glad someone else is looking out for kids who just want to participate.” (Source: Star Tribune)
Changes eyed for outdoor access
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reviewing ideas for improving access to Minnesota’s wildlife management areas. The goal is to make areas more accessible for people with disabilities. A comment period ended recently. The areas are referred to as WMAs. “We want to hear how we can improve recreational opportunities and reduce barriers on WMAs,” said David Trauba, southern region wildlife manager. “Public lands are for all Minnesotans, including those with disabilities.” The DNR manages a system of 1.3 million acres of land in about 1,500 WMAs. This land is open to everyone for a variety of outdoor activities, including hunting and trapping, fishing, wildlife watching and nature photography. Most parts of WMAs are closed to motorized access, but people with mobility disabilities can use “other powerdriven mobility devices” with a permit. More information about applying for and using such permits is available on the DNR website. The best way for people to begin the process of obtaining a permit is to contact the area wildlife office in the county where the WMA is located. People can search for wheelchair accessible WMAs by using the WMA Finder on the DNR website at dnr.state. mn.us/wmas/index.html. This search will direct users to WMAs with infrastructure like hunting blinds or trails with grades and surfaces accessible using a wheelchair. In addition, each year the DNR administers 16 special hunts for people with disabilities. The DNR will use the input to shape recommendations the agency will make to the Minnesota Legislature in February about increasing accessibility. The DNR continues to work closely with the Minnesota Council on Disability and others to identify ways to increase access to the state REGIONAL NEWS To page 9
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February 2021 Volume 32, Number 2
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REGIONAL NEWS The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower has been implemented at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Travelers passing through the airport now have the option of wearing a lanyard with sunflower logos to indicate to airport security and others that they have a “hidden disability” such as vision or hearing impairment, autism, epilepsy or post-traumatic stress disorder. MSP is among seven other airports in the U.S. to join the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, thanks in part to the efforts of the Dementia-Friendly Airports Working Group. The Twin Cities-area group advocates for policies to make air travel more accommodating for people with dementia and their caregivers. Wearing a hidden disabilities sunflower is a way for people with disabilities to keep The sunflower appears on lanyards, bracelets and other wearables as a way to their independence, and not a pass to skip indicate a hidden disability. security lines, said Sara Barsel, the group’s project leader. London before expanding to more than two dozen “If I have this symbol on, and you understand what the airports. The logo also is recognized outside of airports symbol means, you may be a little bit more civil, gentle, in the U.K., such as in shops, clinics and stadiums. patient,” she said. The local group collaborated with the federal Noise and activity around airport security can cause Transportation Security Administration to develop a list increased anxiety for people living with dementia. of best practices for screening passengers with dementia. The best practices document advises TSA agents to The recommendations were shared with TSA agents give instructions in a calm manner using simple words nationwide over two weeks in fall 2020. and to avoid separating individuals from their travel The working group collected first-hand stories about companions, among other recommendations. travel difficulties in a survey conducted in 2019. Barsel The program started in 2016 at an airport near said the best practices document also was informed with
REGIONAL NEWS From page 8
wildlife lands. Legislation championed by former Rep. Dan Fabian (R - Roseau) and signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz in 2020 requires the DNR to make it easier for people with disabilities to access WMAs and requires the agency to then publicize access opportunities. Fabian retired at the end of 2020 so other state lawmakers will have to champion the access cause. (Source: Minnesota DNR)
Two conditions added to program
Sickle cell disease and chronic vocal or motor tic disorder will be added to the list of qualifying medical conditions for participation in the state’s medical cannabis program. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has announced the conditions will be added in August 2021. MDH regularly conducts a formal petitioning process to solicit public input on potential qualifying conditions and delivery methods for medicine. Petitions were submitted in June and July 2020, followed by a public comment period and panel review. Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders, affecting mainly people who are Black or AfricanAmerican. One health problem sickle cell disease triggers is severe pain, caused when sickle cells get stuck in small blood vessels and block the flow of blood and oxygen to organs in the body. “Giving sickle cell patients a more direct pathway into the medical cannabis program will permit them a non-opioid option to manage their pain,” said MDH Commissioner Jan Malcolm. Minnesota’s medical cannabis program already has Tourette’s syndrome as one of its qualifying medical conditions. Vocal or motor tic disorder is distinct from Tourette’s syndrome in that patients experience only vocal or motor tics, where people with Tourette’s experience both vocal and motor tics. Evidence from Tourette’s patients who participate in the program shows that medical cannabis can effectively treat tics. MDH considered a petition for anxiety, but it was rejected pending further study this year. 2020 marked the third time anxiety was petitioned for the program. “Anxiety is a broad term for a group of specific disorders,” said Malcolm. “We want to dig into specific anxiety disorders more and move forward carefully. The large number of patient testimonials submitted during the petition process tells us there is something there. However, we want to avoid unintended consequences – there is evidence that cannabis use can actually contribute to and make anxiety worse for some people.” Patients certified for sickle cell disease or chronic motor or vocal tic disorder will become eligible to enroll in the state’s medical cannabis program on July 1, and receive medical cannabis from either of the state’s two medical cannabis manufacturers starting August 1. As with other qualifying conditions, patients need advance certification from a Minnesota health care provider. When the Minnesota Legislature authorized the creation of the state’s medical cannabis program, the law included nine conditions that qualified a patient to receive medical cannabis. Since then, the list of qualifying conditions has grown to 15. The conditions on the current list of qualifying conditions include glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, Tourette’s syndrome, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer’s, autism spectrum disorders, chronic pain, obstructive sleep apnea, post-traumatic stress disorder,
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intractable pain, seizures including those characteristic of epilepsy, severe and persistent muscle spasms including those characteristic of multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease including Crohn’s disease, terminal illness with a probable life expectancy of less than one year and cancer associated with severe/chronic pain, nausea or severe vomiting, or cachexia or severe wasting. (Source: MDH)
Housing set for Le Sueur
An affordable housing project could begin construction in Le Sueur within the first quarter of 2021. CommonBond Communities is partnering with the National Affordable Housing Trust (NAHT), on a second phase of the Le Sueur Meadows housing project, with UnitedHealthcare investment. The first phase of housing dates from 2002. The plans for Le Sueur Meadows II include 39 more units, eight of which will be targeted toward people experiencing homelessness and people with disabilities, said Paul Cummings, senior vice president of NAHT. “It’s a credit to CommonBond to really make the commitment to identify places where the need is there,” he said. CommonBond, a St. Paul-based affordable housing nonprofit, was behind Mankato’s recent Dublin Crossing and Dublin Heights projects. The apartments added 95 units and had services available on-site to assist residents. Le Sueur Meadows II will be much the same. CommonBond Housing will offer services ranging from financial accounting to building maintenance to connecting residents to social services. The nonprofit has a great track record in Minnesota and neighboring states, Cummings said. He anticipated construction would start in Le Sueur in the coming months. The goal would be to complete construction by the end of this year. Residents could then begin their leases in early 2022. CommonBond manages 152 properties with 54 of them managed by third parties. NAHT partnered with CommonBond on four recent developments including the one in Le Sueur. “We deeply appreciate our partnership with NAHT to provide 39 new homes for families in the city of Le Sueur,” said Cecile Bedor, CommonBond’s executive vice president of real estate. “The committed and talented team at NAHT genuinely shares our vision and values.” “It’s great that there are organizations like CommonBond who are really trying to help create and preserve more quality affordable housing,” Cummings said. “ … It says a lot about an investor like UnitedHealthcare to come in and invest in their backyard. (Source: Free Press of Mankato)
Insulin help is available
Need help obtaining insulin? The Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program was created to help Minnesotans who face difficulty affording their insulin. The Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program is implemented by MNsure, the state’s health insurance marketplace, and the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy The program has two parts. The urgent need program and the continuing need program. Under the urgent need program- eligible Minnesotans can receive a 30-day supply of insulin immediately at their pharmacy for no more than $35. The continuing need program allows eligible Minnesotans can receive up to a year supply of insulin for no more than $50 per 90-day refill. To be eligible for the urgent need program, participants must live in Minnesota, have an urgent need for insulin,
input from John-Richard Pagan, a Virginia man with Lewy Body Dementia. An essay he wrote — “In the Words of an Individual Living with Dementia - What He Would Like You to Know” — was distributed by TSA as part of the October training. The group is interested in helping other airports in the region implement dementia-friendly policies and broaden adoption of the hidden disabilities sunflower program. Those interested in championing initiatives can contact Barsel at DementiaFriendlyAirports@gmail.com using the subject lines “hidden disability sunflower” or “dementia friendly airports.” There are no prerequisites or documentation required to wear a hidden disabilities sunflower lanyard, which are available for free at MSP pre-security Travelers’ Assistance booths. “Without revealing the nature of the disability, the sunflower lanyard is a simple way to signal to airport staff that someone may need more help, more time or more patience through certain travel processes at the airport,” said Phil Burke, assistant director of customer experience for the Metropolitan Airports Commission. The program was endorsed locally by the MSP Travelers with Disabilities Advisory Committee. "The Sunflower program is a wonderful addition to MSP’s already stellar lineup of programs that increase equitable access to the airport for people with disabilities," according to committee chairman Andrew Palmberg. The list includes communication assistance, relief areas for service animals and inclusive restroom design. For more information on MSP accessibility services, visit www.mspairport.com/airport/accessibility. have a current prescription for insulin, pay more than $75 each month for insulin and not be enrolled in Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare. Applicants must present identification proving Minnesota residency in the form of a valid Minnesota identification card, driver’s license or permit, or tribalissued identification. For minors under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must provide the pharmacy with proof of residency. Visit MNinsulin.org and complete the application form to apply for the program. Pharmacists can provide help if needed. A completed application is then taken to a pharmacy with valid identification and an insulin prescription. Insulin can be given immediately but there is a co-pay of up to $35 for a 30-day supply. MNsure certificated navigators can help Minnesotans enroll in the continuing need program. The website includes frequently asked questions and a list of navigators. To learn more about the program go to www.mninsulin.org (Source: MNsure )
Allianz is games’ sponsor
Allianz SE, parent company of U.S.-based Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life), Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty, Allianz Partners and Euler Hermes, officially began an eight-year worldwide partnership with the Olympic and Paralympic Movements as of the start of 2021, building on a collaboration with the Paralympic Movement that began in 2006. As the Worldwide Insurance Partner of the International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee, Allianz companies around the world, including in the United States, are now supporting the athletes, teams, volunteers and fans that are part of the Olympic and Paralympic Movements. “Allianz is proud to be the Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Movements,” said Oliver Bäte, Chief Executive Officer of Allianz SE. “As a supporter of the sports ecosystem and through shared core values of excellence, friendship, inclusion and respect, Allianz and our 148,000 employees and 100,000 agents are excited to care and deliver for athletes, their families and their ambitions.” Allianz is the sponsor of Allianz Field in St. Paul, home of Major League Soccer’s Minnesota United FC. In the coming months, Allianz will expand local initiatives to connect with athletes and fans across the world. “Our teams have already been working together in key pilot markets to support athletes and the Olympic Movement,” said IOC President Thomas Bach. “As we start this new Olympic year, we are excited to begin in earnest our global collaboration with Allianz.” “Allianz brings global visibility to the athletes and values of the Paralympic Movement, and we look forward to our next phase working together,” said IPC President Andrew Parsons. (Source: Allianz Life)
February 2021 Volume 32, Number 2
RADIO TALKING BOOK Get to know Radio Talking Book Access Radio Talking Book anytime and anywhere on a hand-held mobile device, for either iOS or Android. Just visit the Apple App Store for iOS, or Google Play for Android, and download the Minnesota Radio Talking Book app. It’s quick, it’s easy, and provides a convenient way to tune into RTB wherever and whenever. Books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available for loan through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault. The catalog is at www.mnbtbl.org, click on the link Search the Library Catalog. Call the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library at 800-722-0550, MondayFriday, 9 am - 4 pm CST for details. Persons living outside of Minnesota may obtain copies of books via an inter-library loan by contacting their home state’s Network Library for the National Library Service. The sampling published monthly in Access Press doesn’t represent the full array of programming. Many more programs and books are available. To find more information about Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network events go to the Facebook site, Minnesota Radio Talking Book. Audio information about the daily book listings is also on the National Federation for the Blind (NFB) Newsline. Register for the NFB Newsline by calling 651-539-1424. The NFB-NEWSLINE service provides access to more than 500 magazines and newspapers, plus information on COVID-19 in the “Breaking News” section. To learn more, visit www.nfb. org/programs-services/nfb-newsline. Donate to the State Services for the Blind at mn.gov/deed/ssbdonate Listen to RTB’s live or archived programs online at www.mnssb.org/rtb Past is Prologue* Monday – Friday 11 a.m. The Order of the Day, nonfiction by Eric Vuillard, 2017. Filmmaker Eric Vuillard tells of two dissimilar events in World War II: the February 1933 meeting between Adolf Hitler and German business leaders funding his campaign, and the March 1938 German annexation of Austria. Read by Glenn Miller. Three broadcasts; begins Mon, Feb. 15. Churchill’s Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, nonfiction by Giles Morton, 2016. In 1939, a top-secret organization
plotted Hitler’s demise through ingenious acts of sabotage. Read by John Mandeville. 16 broadcasts, begins Thu, Feb. 18. - L Bookworm* Monday – Friday noon Meet Me at the Museum, fiction by Anne Youngson, 2018. A Danish museum curator and a Scottish woman begin a letter correspondence that flourishes over the years. Read by Judith Johannessen. Eight broadcasts; begins Wed, Feb. 17. The Writer’s Voice* Monday – Friday 1 p.m. Just Mercy, nonfiction by Bryan Stevenson, 2015. As an attorney seeks to help the under-served in society, he takes the case of a man facing death for a crime he did not commit. Read by John Holden. 14 broadcasts; begins Thu, Feb. 18. Choice Reading* Monday – Friday 2 p.m. At the Wolf’s Table, fiction by Rosella Postorino, 2019. Each day 10 German women report to Hitler’s secret headquarters, the Wolf’s Lair, to sample his meals and risk their lives for his. Read by Don Lee. 10 broadcasts; begins Tue, Feb. 16. – L, V Night Journey* Monday – Friday 7 p.m. Sulfur Springs, fiction by William Kent Krueger, 2017. Minnesota detective Cork O’Connor and his new wife search for her son Peter, who may be guilty of murder. Read by Neil Bright. 12 broadcasts; begins Thu, Feb. 18. - V Off the Shelf* Monday – Friday 8 p.m. Car Trouble, fiction by Robert Rorke, 2018. Nicky Flynn is a teenager in 1970s Brooklyn, attempting to navigate his life with an alcoholic father who salvages junk cars. Read by Don Gerlach. 15 broadcasts; begins Thu, Feb. 11. Potpourri* Monday – Friday 9 p.m. The Book of General Ignorance, nonfiction by John Lloyd and John Mitchinson, 2006. It’s sometimes a relief to learn that something you always believed to be true is, in fact, absolute nonsense. Read by Dan Sadoff. 10 broadcasts; begins Mon, Feb. 8. Nights in White Castle, nonfiction by Steve Rushin, 2019. Sportswriter Steve Rushin chronicles growing up in the
All times listed are Central Standard Time. Abbreviations V – violent content, R – racial epithets, L – strong language, G – gory descriptions, S – sexual situation Minneapolis suburb of Bloomington. Read by Glenn Miller. 10 broadcasts; begins Mon, Feb. 22. Good Night Owl* Monday – Friday 10 p.m. Our Homesick Songs, fiction by Emma Hooper, 2018. The Conners family lives in a nearly abandoned Canadian fishing village. While the parents work away from home, their children long for change. Read by Tom Speich. Eight broadcasts; begins Mon, Feb. 22. RTB After Hours* Monday – Friday 11 p.m. Winter Loon, fiction by Susan Bernhard, 2018. After his mother drowns in a Minnesota lake, 15-yearold Wes is abandoned by his father. He moves in with his indifferent grandparents and befriends a girl who also lost her mother. But when truths are discovered, Wes sets out to find his father. Read by Michele Potts. 11 broadcasts; begins Mon, Feb. 8. – V, L Bring Me Back, fiction by B.A. Paris, 2018. After a 12-year absence, a woman unexpectedly reappears and wants something from her former lover. Read by Robb Empson. Nine broadcasts; begins Tue, Feb. 23. – V, L, S Weekend Program Books Your Personal World, 1 p.m. Sat, presents All the Wild Hungers by Karen Babine (L), read by Beverly Burchett. Rated R, 11 p.m. Sat, presents Lamb by Christopher Moore (L), read by Scott McKinney. For the Younger Set, 11 a.m. Sun, presents The Queen Bee and Me by Gillian McDunn, read by Pat Muir. Poetic Reflections, noon Sun, presents The Idea of the Garden by Michael S. Moos, read by Tom Speich; followed by Human Hours by Catherine Bennett, read by Cintra Godfrey. The Great North, 4 p.m. Sun, presents Tucker Lake Chronicle by Joan Crosby, read by Therese Murray; followed by Walking the Old Road by Staci Lola Drouillard, read by Robb Empson.
AROUND THE DIAL Disability Channel Minnesota Disability Landscape/Disability Channel Minnesota has launched its YouTube channel. Mark Knutson, Charlie Brose and their team are regularly posting shows. They are looking for contributors to the channel. Contact them at disabilitychannelmn@ gmail.com Disability and Progress KFAI Radio, 6-7 p.m. Thu. Shows are now available on podcast. Just a few episodes are on podcast now but more will be there in the future. Host Sam Jasmine and her guests explore a wide range of topics that are important to people with disabilities. KFAI is at 90.3 FM in Minneapolis and 106.7 in St. Paul. Listeners outside of the Twin Cities, or those looking for a past show, will find the show’s archives online at www.kfai.org Look for the link to archives and for Disability and Progress. Listeners need to have a Real Audio Player downloaded. A smartphone app is also available to hear archived programs. To make comments or make suggestions, call 612-341-3144, or email disabilityandprogress@tcq.net. Postal mail can be sent to KFAI, 1808 Riverside Ave. S., Disability and Progress, Box 116, Minneapolis MN 55454.
Conor’s Corner Happy one-year anniversary for Conor’s Corner. St. Paul Highland Park resident Conor O’Meara can be heard at 10 a.m. Mondays, replayed 8 a.m. Saturdays, at 94.1 or WFNU. org Frogtown Community Radio. The show can also be found on Spotify and Mixcloud. Find the radio station at www.wfnu.org The on-air studio line, offered 10-11 a.m. Mondays, is 651-313-5125. O’Meara conducts a wide range of interviews, talks about what is going on in his life and even sings a little Elvis Presley when the time is right. He is a past Minnesota State High School League adapted bowling champion. T-shirts from the show are for sale at the St. Paul Highland Park Lund’s & Byerly’s store. HoodWave Disability Radio Daniel and Leah Hood are HoodWave Disability Radio. They work with Conor’s Corner and are looking for organizations and people with disabilities who want to have their shows air on the online station. Anyone who wants to be a part of HoodWave can contact them. Find HoodWave radio at https://www. hoodwave.org/p/hoodwave-disabilityradio-live/ or www.hoodwave.org
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February 2021 Volume 32, Number 2
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PEOPLE AND PLACES
Fondell retires from ICI
Beth Fondell, University of Minnesota Institute on Community Integration’s outreach and training coordinator, has retired after more than a decade with the organization and a long career in disability advocacy. Fondell’s work included the Disability Policy and Services certificate program, now one of the largest awarded by the College of Education and Human Development. Beth Fondell It is a requirement of the University of Minnesota’s doctorate program for pediatric nurse practitioners and soon is expected to be a requirement in other programs as well. Another major contribution was helping develop and working with ICI’s Minnesota Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (MN-LEND) program. MN-LEND is an interdisciplinary leadership training program spanning more than 16 academic
disciplines across the University. Fondell has often brought MN-LEND fellows together with policymakers to further the understanding of the needs of people with disabilities. “Her advocacy is constant and her power of connecting to people has been a gift to ICI,” said Kim Keprios, executive director of Wilderness Inquiry and a member of ICI’s Community Advisory Council. Earlier in their careers, Keprios and Fondell worked together at the Arc Greater Twin Cities. “She opened doors to the community for ICI when she stepped in, and she made sure our organizations (ICI and the Arc) were great partners. We danced together well through the years. She knew her stuff inside and out, but she also grasped the bigger picture: that what really matters is the voice of the people living with disabilities.” Fondell led the Community Advisory Council, recruiting members and deepening relationships among disability organizations and key partners. Those members include Jesse Bethke Gomez, executive director at Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) in St. Paul. Fondell serves on MCIL’s board of directors and will continue to do so after retiring from ICI. “What’s so extraordinary is the profound knowledge and scholarly context Beth brings to meetings,” Gomez said. “And her relationships go far and wide. She is an amazing leader and her retirement is a milestone not only for Beth,
ENJOY!
CTC goes digital Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) has an exciting new
OPPORTUNITIES Membership
Join MNCCD The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MNCCD) has introduced individual memberships. MNCCD is a broad based coalition of advocates working to change public policy to create a more equitable society for people who have disabilities. MNCCD does this work by building awareness, providing education and engaging the community. Minnesotans who have disabilities, their family members, and allies can be individual members of MNCCD if they share its mission, vision, and values. People who already work with MNCCD through a member organization aren’t eligible for individual membership. Employees of an organization that would qualify for membership are generally not eligible for an individual membership. Additional details are included in the application form. FFI: https://www.mnccd.org/members.html
Children & Families
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 online at this time. Advance registration is required for all workshops. At least 48 hours’ notice is needed for interpretation. Workshops are live-streamed. Check out PACER’s website and link to the newsletter of statewide workshops that allows participants to pick and choose sessions designed for their needs. Educating your child with mental health needs: Special education is 6:30-8 p.m. Tue, Feb. 9. The workshop focuses on the challenges students with mental health needs may experience with distance learning, including hybrid models, and offers strategies for using the IEP to provide support and instruction. Tech for Girls Club: Code a ping pong game is 10-11 a.m. Sat, Feb. 20. In a virtual Tech for Girls workshop, participants will use Scratch to code their own ping pong game. Girls will learn how to code sounds, movement and point scoring to their game. No coding experience is required. Zoom access links for this workshop will be emailed to participants the week of the virtual meeting. Housing: Starting the journey. How do we start? Step one is
Governor announces appointments
Gov. Tim Walz has announced appointments to state boards, commissions and committees. Appointees were named to the Minnesota Council on Disability. Nichole Villavicencio, Maplewood, is the council’s chairperson. She was reappointed to the council. Jennifer Foley of St. Cloud is a new member on the Council on Disability. She replaces Hilary Hauser. John Fechter of Wyoming is also a new member, replacing the late Brian Bonte. The Council on Disability consists of 17 members who advise, provide technical assistance, collaborate with others, and advocate to expand opportunities, improve the quality of life, and empower all people with disabilities. Corey Harland of New Brighton was appointed to the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy as a public member. Harland succeeds Susan Anderson. Jesse Winkler of Brooklyn Park was also appointed as a public member. Winkler succeeds Freddie Davis-English. The Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy regulates the practices of alcohol and drug counseling, professional counseling, and professional clinical counseling in the State of Minnesota. classes for young people with sensory disabilities. FFI: https://childrenstheatre.org/
Fetch!
A Toast to AuSM Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) celebrates 50 years of service to the Minnesota autism community with A Toast to AuSM, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Sat, Feb. 28. The virtual event allows families and friends to enjoy brunch at home while watching an interactive online program. Shannan Paul from My Talk 107.1 is “toastess.” Enjoy demonstrations from local celebrity chefs from Hope Breakfast Bar; Jon Robinson, mixologist from Sunshine Consulting; and Sammy from Sammy’s Sweets fame; livestream prize drawings; and celebrate with those who support the local autism community. Preregister and build a fundraising page to help AuSM and be eligible for prizes. FFI: www.ausm.org With Our Voices The Arc Minnesota Gala, With Our Voices, is Sat, March 6. Join community leaders, volunteers, and friends for the gala, a free virtual celebration to raise funds that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Preregister. FFI: www.arcminnesota.org
but perhaps also for us. She elevates the aspirational work of ICI in ways that will long be remembered and sadly missed.”
The annual Can Do Canines Fetching Ball Gala is 7 p.m. Sat, Feb. 20. Silent auction bidding starts Thu, Feb. 18. Some items that will be part of the auction include dog sledding excursions, golf outings, a Baume & Mercier Clifton watch, and a trip to Florida. This year’s gala is virtual. Enjoy an inspiring client story, a look into the Can Do Canines prison dog training program, auctions and an exciting performance by standup magician Derek Hughes. KARE 11 Reporter/Anchor Rena Sarigianopoulos is emcee. A special VIP experience is available for $1,000 for groups of up to 10 people. Preregister for the VIP experience or sign up for the regular event. FFI: http://can-do-canines.org/fetchingball season of digital productions (including two from overseas), virtual academy classes, and a new all-access pass for patrons and families to continue to engage with the theatre and build social-emotional development of young people. The all-access pass provides additional family activities. Also, check availability of Virtual Academy classes, including 6:30-9 p.m. Mon, Feb. 22. Families can help their children get started with their vision for community living, housing and services. An overview of housing and service options will be provided. Registration recommended for all three workshops in the series, which continues March 8 and 22. FFI: PACER, 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237, www.pacer.org
Info & Assistance
Open Flow Forum The Artists with Disabilities Alliance meets via Zoom 7-9 p.m. the first Thu of the month. Upcoming dates Thu, Feb. 4 and March 4. Virtually join artists with disabilities and supporters to share visual art, writing, music, theater and artistic efforts or disability concerns. Facilitators are Tara Innmon, Kip Shane and Springboard for the Arts. The gatherings are fully accessible. Anyone needing special accommodations should contact Andy at host organization Springboard for the Arts. FFI: 651294-0907, resources@springboardforthearts.org
Less to Enjoy! Many of the museums, arts and theater groups that typically have listings in the Access Press Enjoy! calendar have suspended activities, moved to online services or are offering limited in-person services with social distancing and safety measures. Museums and many galleries have opened Please check with a venue or organization before making plans. Check with theater groups to see what classes and performances are offered online. Theaters are moving to more online activities. See what is available through individual websites or the Minnesota Access Alliance and its calendar, at https://mnaccess.org/ provide at facilities. Facilities aren’t open to the public at all or on a limited basis, varying by center. Check with a local center before going in. FFI: www.macil.org/ Healthcare for heroes NAMI Minnesota (National Alliance on Mental Illness) in collaboration with McCubbin Training and LeadingAge Minnesota has created a free, online training on Healthcare for Heroes - Self-Care Training for Senior Workers. The training helps caregivers develop personal strategies for managing stress and practicing self-care as they continue to provide care for others. It includes a salute from Gov. Walz, is targeted for caregivers to older adults living in care centers, assisted living homes, their own home, or adult foster care settings. It is about 20 minutes long and can be viewed on a smartphone, tablet or desktop computer. To access the training go to namimn.org and see Self-Care Training for Senior Workers. FFI: 651-645-2948.
Online mental health support NAMI Minnesota (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers a variety of free online peer support groups for adults and young adults living with a mental illness, their families, friends, spouses/partners, as well as parents of children and teens. Led by trained peer facilitators, the support groups help individuals and families learn coping skills and find strength through sharing their experiences. The groups are specifically for those individuals suggested by the group’s title. For example, Family Support Group is only for family members and NAMI Connection is only for those who live with a mental illness and are over 18 years old, etc. Find a complete listing of group meetings and how to join in by going to namimn. For Rent org and clicking on “Support Metes & Bounds Management Company manages Groups”. FFI: https://namimn. the following Section 8 properties in Minnesota. org/support/nami-minnesotaGreenwood Wadena - 218-631-2575 Mission Oaks Plymouth – 763-559-5770 support-groups/.
CLASSIFIEDS
Centers for independent living statewide Minnesota centers for independent living statewide have gone to a mix of operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Typically centers offer an array of classes, training programs and other services tied to independent living. Centers that proving PCA, homemaker and other staffing for clients continue to do that in person. But most services aren’t
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February 2021 Volume 32, Number 2
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