January 2021 Edition - Access Press

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Volume 32, Number 1

January 2021

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Vaccinations and priority are key topics

VACCINATIONS To page 4

Governor Tim Walz

NEWS DIGEST

RICHARD CUSHING

Members of DSAM made signs in preparation for the February 2020 rally.

Challenging times are ahead at the state capitol as session start The January 5 start of the 2021 Minnesota Legislature has advocacy groups hurrying to get final bill and policy details into place. The COVID-19 pandemic will mean a very different session, with much work done virtually.

Advocates don’t expect to be at the capitol, having rallies and meeting in person with lawmakers.

A large group met online December

17 with the Minnesota Council on Disability, for the annual pre-session review. “The work we do is more vital today, because of the challenges of the time,” said David Dively, council director.

The council hosted a general session, as well as breakout sessions on topics including mental health, equity and the pandemic. Advocates heard from Gov. LEGISLATURE To page 4

New equipment helps MDI Page 9 Bostrom was a pioneer Page 3 Look at vaccination priority Page 4 Use our Directory of Organizations to find the resources for your best life Page 5-8

Pandemic shaped a remarkable, trying year January 2020

2020 began with notable retirements.

Minnesota Department of Human Services Director for Disability Services Alex Bartolic stepped down. She reflected on changes seen over more than four decades.

Her interests in human services began when a childhood friend was placed at Cambridge Regional Treatment Center.

Steve Kuntz ended a long career at the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) as program specialist in rehabilitation services. He helped countless Minnesotans with disabilities find meaningful work.

Pending cuts at M Health Fairview included the end of the Minnesota Substance Use Disorder Program. Its loss was protested by disability community members, as it was one of the only specialized residential treatment programs serving clients that was linguistically and culturally appropriate to meet the needs of deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind individuals.

February 2020

Bonding was the focus when the 2020 Minnesota Legislature convened. With a

People and service dogs lined up during public testimony. shorter session planned, advocacy groups lined up behind priorities including more pay for direct care staff, mental health system changes and program technical changes.

A former employee of St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter filed a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, alleging discrimination and lack of accommodations. Hope Hoffman testified before a legislative committee alleging work-related discrimination. She has spina bifida.

Hoffman worked for Carter for about five months as a policy associate. She said

FILE PHOTO

The advent of vaccines for COVID-19 brings some measure of relief for Minnesotans with disabilities. But it could be months before everyone who needs a vaccine gets one, so people must stay vigilant.

The ongoing pandemic also dictates that people with disabilities, service providers and government must maintain flexibility in changing times.

Jan Malcolm, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Jodi Harpstead, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), outlined the current pandemic issue at a December 17 Minnesota Council on Disability forum. The council hosted a legislative update as well as breakout sessions, including one on the pandemic.

The department heads described the state response to the pandemic and the rollout of the vaccines as a process. While vaccines are a ray of hope, there is still going to be a need for everyone to continue to practice social distancing, mask up and take other precautionary measures for some time.

First responders, hospital and health care workers, and nursing home residents are among the first to get the vaccine. People who are considered at risk for disability and health reasons are also a priority.

But it may be months before enough vaccinations are available for all.

Some disability rights advocates contend that it could be all too easy for people with disabilities to be left out or pushed to the back of the line when it comes to vaccinations.

Session participants had a number of questions. One issue state officials said they have to sort out is how personal care attendants and direct care workers are classified. If they are indeed considered health care workers, they would move up in order to get vaccinated. Malcolm said clarification would be provided on that issue.

Malcolm and Harpstead discussed how their departments have listened carefully and been responsive. They have virtually met with people with disabilities and service providers throughout the pandemic.

State officials are very aware of concerns about health equity, said Malcolm. She said there’s a need to look at who’s most at risk. Some people have more vulnerabilities than others due to chronic conditions.

MDH has a disability team that has been closely tracking pandemicrelated issues.

Minnesotans with disabilities have been “top of mind” for Harpstead during the pandemic as the state tries to navigate the balance of keeping people safe while also allowing them to be in the community. DHS has not only worked with MDH to provide information on how to handle the pandemic, it also has granted more than 100 waivers to its rules and regulations. Waivers provide flexibility for people with

You're not asking for a new stadium.

You're asking for the same things everybody else has.

she repeatedly asked for information about the amount of walking she’d have to do for her job.

A change was announced at Handi Medical Supply, Inc. Troy Keach was named president and CEO. Keach previously led healthcare teams at Minnesota Eye Consultants, Mayo Clinic, Allina Healthcare and Fairview/ HealthEast systems. Mike Bailey relocated to Arizona to be closer to family.

YEAR IN REVIEW To page 11

January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

Pg 2

I'm thankful for the new year and look forward to a healthier, more prosperous 2021. My heart goes out to all those affected by the terrible challenges we faced in 2020, especially to those who lost someone dear to the scourge of COVID. Happy New Year! I hope your holidays were good and that you stayed safe. The social distancing made my stay at home celebration very unique and memorable.

How about yours? One thing we can all say is that it wasn’t a holiday season just like all the others.

It looks like there might be a light at the end of the tunnel concerning COVID-19.

The vaccine is here, the state’s healthcare providers have been trained, and some healthcare workers have already received the vaccine. Throughout this pandemic year, having Jan Malcolm as the health department commissioner has been a benefit for the disability community, because of her background knowledge of disability and home care.

For those of you who may not know, Jan Malcolm was the executive director of Courage Center (now Courage Kenny) for more than 10 years. She has a thorough knowledge of people in the disability community and the issues they face. She

will certainly have an eye on people using home care and will make sure people stay safe in all community settings. Right now it looks like all people who are “at risk” will be in the first tier of eligibility for the vaccine, right after first responders, hospital workers and nursing home residents.

The first shipment of vaccines will be for 183,000 people, but there are more than 500,000 of us who are at risk or vulnerable.

So it may be a few months before all of us get the chance to be vaccinated. Still, if we keep up with our masks and social distancing, we could see the end of this pandemic by the end of the year 2021.

Going into the eleventh month of this epidemic, it's getting very hard for some people to follow the CDC rules and the governor’s shutdown orders. The shutdown rules are really hard on small businesses, and have killed many of them. On the other side of this, it's probably going to take many years for homegrown small businesses to get back on track. Let’s hope that January

Going into the eleventh month of this epidemic, it's getting very hard for some people to follow the CDC rules and the governor's shutdown orders.

finds the federal government not dragging their feet or playing politics anymore, with so many people out of work. We all know people who have lost their jobs or are furloughed until who knows when.

There’s a “shop small” movement that you might have heard of, encouraging people to use small and local businesses wherever possible. Whether you go online or safely in person, use those small mom and pop businesses so they won’t all be gone by the time we get the vaccine out to all people. The big box stores make it easy and fast and cheap, but maybe slower and a little higher cost will keep our fellow Minnesotans at work until the end of COVID. Think about it. January is a good time for many of us to stay home or go for curbside delivery. It can be a good way to avoid those icy curbs and sidewalks.

The upside of the pandemic is that many of the things that the disability community has been requesting for so many years are coming true. We have real options for working at home. I remember not so long ago that employers wouldn’t consider hiring someone who offered to work from home. They’ve learned a lot fast about how people can work and meet online, plus they now have factual information on the productivity of people working at home. So many large organizations have adopted work-at-home policies that it will be hard to turn back. I read recently that some organizations are increasingly

recognizing the intensified focus of people on the autism spectrum. In addition, they are finding that employees with autism can be very beneficial in job tasks that need someone with strong memory and creative thinking skills.

I hope that one of your new year’s resolutions is to get involved with public policy and government in general. A lot of changes are on the way. Besides COVID, Minnesota has racial and equity issues that need addressing at the capitol and in towns and cities. For example, in Minneapolis the city council will be discussing for some time the recommendations about funding for the police department, including ways to enhance police procedures and staffing to better address situations involving mental illness. People in the disability community need to be included and involved in all of these discussions. And the disability community itself needs to take more action to boost the visibility and engagement of disabled people of color.

I'm thankful for the new year and look forward to a healthier, more prosperous 2021. My heart goes out to all those that have been affected by the terrible challenges we faced in 2020, especially to those who lost someone dear to the scourge of COVID. Please help support Access Press by renewing your subscription, and please support all of our advertisers.

Talk to you in February.

HISTORY NOTE

Want to learn about court case? Read all about it It’s sometimes said that news is the first rough draft of history. Access Press is among the newspapers and other media outlets that has followed the case of Jensen et al v.

Minnesota Department of Human Services et al. for more than a decade.

The lengthy court case changed the way people with disabilities are treated in state institutions. It also led to renewed work on Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan, which spells out how the state will help people with disabilities participate fully in their home communities.

The court case files are now part of the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities (MNCDD) online archives, for people to view for years to come. Almost all of the court documents have been placed online for easier reference. (Court documents with private information on class members have been redacted for privacy reason.)

The case was filed in summer 2009 by

James and Lori Jensen on behalf of their son, Bradley J. Jensen; James Brinker and Darren Allen on behalf of their son, Thomas Allbrink, and Elizabeth Jacobs on behalf of her son, Jason Jacobs. The case centered on treatment of residents of the Minnesota Extended Treatment Options or METO facility in Cambridge.

The plaintiff/parents wished to call out inhumane treatment of their family members. The case eventually became a class action, with many people involved.

METO, which has since closed, was a program intended to serve people with developmental disabilities.

Use of seclusion and restraint was called out as a significant problem, as excessive punishment for the residents. The plaintiffs contended that such treatment was unlawful and unconstitutional.

The lawsuit was based in part on a report submitted by the Ombudsman's Office for Mental Health and Developmen-

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tal Disabilities, called Just Plain Wrong.

The report concluded that some of the people within the METO system were being denied their constitutional right to live in a safe and humane living environment, free of unnecessary restraints, abuse and neglect.

Rather than take the case to trial, the plaintiffs negotiated a settlement agreement that would help all people with disabilities in Minnesota, not just their own family members. The agreement demanded that METO be shut down, that the state update its rules about how people with developmental disabilities are treated, and that a Rule 40 Committee and an Olmstead Committee be created to make sure that updated policies were applied system-wide.

The agreement also spelled out specific principles to be followed, such as: Olmstead's “most integrated setting standard,” person-centered planning, positive behavior-

al supports, and the legislative intent to declare as a top concern, the safety and quality of life of people with developmental disabilities. The Jensen Settlement Agreement, as it came to be called, was a significant disability rights decision in Minnesota.

Go to the website and use links to find selected court documents, including the original complaint filed in 2009, court orders, hearing notices, initial settlement agreements and the completed settlement agreement that was approved by Judge Donovan Frank on December 5, 2011. Although the case reached a significant milestone in fall 2020 with a change in court monitoring, more updates and filings are possible and will be added in the future.

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

January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

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In Memoriam f∏∏

Maynard “Bo” Bostrom was known as much for his cheerful demeanor and positive outlook as he was for his dedicated advocacy and commitment to others with disabilities. Bostrom died in November. He was 82 and lived in Rochester at Bostrom Terrace, an accessible building named in his honor. He was believed to be Minnesota’s longest living person with quadriplegia at the time of his passing.

Born and raised in the Rochester area in a large family, he dropped out of high school as a sophomore and moved to Texas to work for the Hughes Aircraft Company.

Bostrom’s life was changed 62 years ago. On Thanksgiving Day 1958 he and two friends were traveling into Mexico from Texas. Eighty miles from the border, their vehicle collided with a bus and rolled. Bostrom’s friends sustained superficial injuries. But he had a severe spinal cord injury that resulted in quadriplegia. A door had to be taken off of its hinges and used as a stretcher to carry him to help.

The U.S. ambassador to Mexico made arrangements to get Bostrom to the Texas border where a train was waiting to take him to St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester.

The accident would start a long period of recovery, and years in and out of hospitals and nursing homes. Bostrom’s life was transformed in 1976 when he went to Courage Center, as one of the first people in the transitional rehabilitation program. He would quickly join a dynamic group of people with disabilities and their allies, who were on the ground floor of an exciting new venture that would provide affordable, accessible living options.

At Courage Center he met another quadriplegic from Austin, Minnesota named Mike “Hondo” Pesch, and Pesch’s friend Stephen Wiggins. They and others would create Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI), a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide wheelchairaccessible housing with 24/7 supportive service for lowincome persons with physical disabilities.

The group planned the first accessible, affordable housing with care locations in Minneapolis and St. Paul. One memorable day at Courage Center was when Bostrom was part of a group that picked the design for the first home.

When Bostrom left Courage Center in 1978, there were still too few housing and care attendant options. But with planning and fundraising that would change. In September 1980 he moved into Chicago House, one of ASI’s first five new cooperative living homes. He was the home’s first resident and was a founding ASI board member. He would remain on the ASI Board until his death.

The intent of ASI was for residents to gain skills and go

on to greater independence. “Working together,” he said in an interview, “we shared stuff so we had a little more pocket change. We all had goals and got along well. We shared the same attendants under one big roof.” Everyone had a say in how the housing was managed.

“This was much different than being in a nursing home,” he said. “It was our house.”

Bostrom became a staunch advocate for independence and barrier-free living. “I know I wouldn’t be around if I hadn’t gotten into a more independent living situation Everyone benefits from it because your health improves.

You’re more of a human being. You’re normal, just in a wheelchair. I’m living instead of existing.”

ASI founder Wiggins said of Bostrom, “What a gentleman. He was a big part of why there is an Accessible Space.”

ASI CEO Stephen Vander Schaaf said Bostrom was the main reason why ASI expanded into other states, which came about because of his friendship with another person with quadriplegia. After his accident, Bostrom was at St. Mary’s Rehabilitation Hospital in Rochester. There he struck up a lifelong friendship with Montana native Bruce Blattner. Thirty years later Blattner came back to Minnesota to visit Bostrom and talk about bringing ASI to Missoula. The result was Eagle Watch Estates, a 24unit, fully accessible, affordable apartment building with services. It opened in January of 1992.

Vander Schaaf noted that Bostrom’s and Blattner’s long friendship led to other individuals, concerned loved ones and advocacy groups approaching ASI to help develop accessible, affordable housing. ASI grew from five homes with care for 30 residents, to serving 4,100 very lowincome adults with disabilities, seniors and/or veterans in 162 developments in 31 states.

“Throughout all the challenges and growth Bo was there to keep ASI true to its mission, to those we served, and to those dedicated resident assistants who provide the 24/7/365 compassionate care,” said Vander Schaaf. “He was a gentle mentor, and my good friend who loved to talk about those ‘hot rods” from the ‘50’s, Elvis and bemoan the fate of ‘those Vikings’ … Bo will always be the legacy resident.”

Three days after Bostrom’s death, ASI was notified that it is one of nine nonprofit organizations in the country that had received a HUD Section 811 fund reservation for its accessible, affordable housing development in Las Vegas, Nevada. “Those decisions were announced on a Monday, and we figured Bo, our angelic steward, took the weekend off to get oriented before going right back to work to

Schneider active in deinstitutionalization Sheldon R. "Skip" Schneider is remembered for his career in leading many deinstitutionalization efforts. Schneider died in November. He was 87 and most recently lived in the Bayport and Hudson area.

A native of Boyceville, WI, Schneider enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduating high school and served in the 82nd Airborne Division. After his return from the service he attended University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

He spent his career working with people with developmental disabilities and mental illness. He was very active in the deinstitutionalization efforts of the 1960s and 1970s. He served as executive director of the Range Center in Chisholm, which provides an array of services and supports for people with disabilities.

Schneider later worked with colleagues to develop human services agencies including Nekton Inc., Bristol Place Corporation Home Health Services, Northern Habilitative Services of Chisholm, and others.

He was preceded in death by his wife and is survived by a son, two daughters, four grandchildren, two sisters and a brother.

Services have been held. Memorials are preferred to Chisholm Community Foundation or to Arc Minnesota.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Bostrom’s dedication to housing equity, recovery helped many

Maynard "Bo" Bostrom guide ASI’s good mission forward with a firm resolve and compassionate care,” said Vander Schaaf.

Bostrom was also known for his strong commitment to faith and recovery. He and four other Christian men with disabilities formed Wings Outreach/Wings Ministries, a Twin Cities faith-based nonprofit organization for persons with disabilities. Friends said he “put down a Budweiser and picked up a Bible” in the 1970s and never wavered from his faith and love of the Lord.

He served on the Wings board for 40 years, until his death.

Bostrom was laid to rest beside his parents in Rochester. They and his six older sisters preceded him in death. Memorials are preferred to ASI.

Relph carried key legislation Sen. Jerry Relph (R-St. Cloud) was committed to his constituents with disabilities, and carried key pieces of legislation for advocacy groups. Relph is the first Minnesota state lawmaker to die of complications related to COIVID-19. He was 76 and died in December.

Relph appeared at various disability day rallies at the state capitol. He’d recently lost his bid for re-election. He was elected in 2016. Relph was an attorney, a business owner and Sen. Jerry Relph a military veteran.

He was among several Republican legislators who contracted COVID-19 after contact with Senate colleagues in November. He missed the final two special sessions of 2020. He was

involved in a variety of legislative efforts including health and human services, and pandemic relief.

His wife, Pegi Broker-Relph issued a statement, noting her husband “dedicated his life to service.”

“I can't count the number of times he would come home at night and tell me about helping solve a constituent's problem, or a story he heard from someone in a parade or at a public event, or even just someone he met during a ‘day on the hill’ event,” she said.

“He loved serving the people of St. Cloud in the Senate, and he cherished every minute of it.”

Many others paid tribute to Relph. He is survived by his wife, children, stepchildren and other family members. Services have been held.

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FROM OUR COMMUNITY

January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

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People with disabilities must have priority in vaccine process First and foremost, I would like to give my sincere gratitude to Gov. Tim Walz for keeping all Minnesotans safe during the first ten months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although Walz has had to deal with a lot of unnecessary pushback, he has done everything right within his power to prevent the spread of this nasty virus.

With that said, as we head into the new phase of the pandemic, I wholeheartedly want to remind the administration that individuals with disabilities should be on the priority list to receive the COVID-19 vaccination for a couple of reasons. Those with moderate or severe disabilities are at a higher risk of exposure and infection,

and that could lead to hospitalizations that are tougher on those individuals than others. In addition, quite a few have weaker immune systems that could lead to troublesome side effects if they catch the virus.

Plus, many of us with impairments live in group homes, attend day programs which results in close contact with others, and attend appointments where the virus possibly could spread. By vaccinating them, families would not fear doing daily necessities since they would have protection.

The Walz administration has a great task ahead of them; every decision needs to be made diligently. Two factors should be considered who gets the vaccine first.

VACCINATIONS

unique needs, but they have also had to advocate for needs such as personal protective equipment.

DHS also participated in the development of an executive order issued by Gov. Tim Walz on people in at-risk populations, said Harpstead, making sure that they were also getting the attention they deserved in the community, and also making sure that they weren't unnecessarily locked into group homes and not allowed to participate socially in the community.

For MDH information on the pandemic, go to https:// www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/ For DHS Disability Services Division information on the pandemic, go to https://mn.gov/dhs/partners-andproviders/news-initiatives-reports-workgroups/long-termservices-and-supports/news/covid19.jsp

From page 1 disabilities, care providers and their families. One example she cited is that of flexibility is that of allowing day service providers to offer outdoor activities, after activities could only be offered remotely.

DHS has also drawn on experience of key leaders including Doug Annett and Dan Pollock, who have worked with state emergency officials to advocate for people with disabilities and explain unique issues for the state’s at-risk population. DHS has had to monitor the pandemic, its surges and the state response in an array of facilities including group homes, day activity centers, residential facilities, congregate care facilities and other places. Not only have DHS officials had to be provide information about the disability and elder communities’

LEGISLATURE

From page 1 Tim Walz and discussed the session with legislators.

While citing the economic challenges caused by the pandemic, Walz encouraged Minnesotans with disabilities to ask for what they need. “There’s a humanity and a story behind each person … You’re not asking for a new stadium. You’re asking for the same things everybody else has.”

Trevor Turner is the council’s policy director. The state budget is the most important thing to focus on, to make sure disability services are properly funded. But Turner said there are several other priorities.

One issue the council will focus on is the Minnesota Human Rights Act and how it ties into workplace accommodations. Minnesota’s act, passed in 1973, is one of the nation’s most progressive. But Turner noted it has conflicts with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), when it comes to workplace accommodations.

That is an issue to be corrected this session.

Other legislative priorities are familiar ones to the state’s disability community. One is on personal care attendants’ need to be able to bill for hours spent driving clients to appointments and errands. Another is to continue past sessions’ work on rare diseases, increasing

access to insurance and proper care.

Council leaders also talked about their work to collaborate with other groups, including the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities.

But there are challenges ahead. Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL-Rochester) raised a red flag about the “very volatile” national economic situation. “How that is going to play out is really anybody’s guess,” she said.

One perennial issue raised is that of the need for more pay for personal care attendants. “We cannot hide behind paying these low wages,” said Lauren Thompson.

She and many others have struggled to find enough help to live their daily lives. Others said they are increasingly unable to maintain their employment and their homes if they cannot get enough help.

Another issue is that of people in group homes, who are isolated since the pandemic began. One woman said her son has been unable to leave his group home since March.

Other attendees also brought up issues that are important to them including inclusive parenting for parents with disabilities, guardianship, and better access to care for people with bariatric issues.

The council is posting its legislative agenda online. It also published regular updates during the session. Get details at https://www.disability.state.mn.us/

Who is most susceptible to getting the virus, and if they get it, how bad could their symptoms be. Those two ingredients make the argument of vaccinating those with impairments a slam dunk.

While I ultimately agree that frontline workers should get the first shot, those with severe impairments should be next in line. We must protect our most vulnerable first.

I hope to see an announcement from Walz about that important cluster of individuals shortly.

Michael Sack Minneapolis

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January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

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DIRECTORY of Organizations ADVOCACY

Residential and outpatient substance use treatment for adults with TBI,

cognitive deficits or multiple disabilities.

ACT Center for Disability Leadership

kennedy@selfadvoacy.org

www.selfadvocacy.org

The Arc of Minnesota

V-952-920-0855

F-651-209-3723

www.arcminnesota.org

ARRM (Association of Residential Resources in MN)

V-651-291-1086

info@aarm.org

www.arrm.org

Cow Tipping Press

V-507-521-2278

bboyce@ www.cowtippingpress.org cowtippingpress.org

MCIL

V-651-646-8342

F-651-603-2066

www.mcil-mn.org

MN Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities V-651-274-2098

info@mnccd.org

www.mnccd.org

PACER Center, Inc.

V-952-838-9000

TF 800-537-2237

www.pacer.org

SEIU Healthcare Minnesota

V-651-294-8100

United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota

V-651-265-7361

info@ucpmn.org

www.ucpmn.org

Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI)

V-651-645-7271

TTY-800-466-7722

www.accessiblespace.org

Opportunity Partners

V-952-938-5511

info@opportunities. org

www.opportunities.org

V-612-789-1236

F-612-706-5555

www.actg.org

Mary T. Inc. Supportive Living Programs

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

Opportunity Partners

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info@opportunities. org

www.opportunities.org

www.UnitedCareWorkersMN.org

ASSISTED LIVING

AUTISM SERVICES A Chance to Grow

BRAIN INJURY

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CASE MANAGEMENT ACCORD

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V-612-362-8454

TTY-612-362-8422

www.dbsmllc.org

Living Well Disability Services

V-651-688-8808

F-651-688-8892

www.livingwell.org

LSS Host Homes

V-651-255-2363

hosthomes@lssmn.org www.lssmn.org/hosthomes

LSS Specialized Community Supports

V-651-504-6974

scs@lssmn.org

www.lssmn.org/scs

Mary T. Inc. Supportive Living Programs

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

MCIL

V-651-646-8342

F-651-603-2066

www.mcil-mn.org

Metro Work Center, Inc

V/TTY-612-729-7381

F-612-729-7382

www.metroworkcenter.org

Opportunity Partners

V-952-938-5511

info@opportunities. org

www.opportunities.org

Reach for Resources

V-952-200-3030

F-952-229-4468

www.reachforresources.org

F-612-752-8101

www.avivomn.org

COMMUNITY LIVING

CONSUMER-DIRECTED COMMUNITY SUPPORTS Accra

V-952-935-3515

TF-866-935-3515

www.accracare.org

GT Independence

V-651-247-7107

TF-877-659-4500

www.gtindependence.com

Lifeworks Services, Inc.

TF-866-454-2732

TTY-866-454-2732

www.lifeworks.org

MRCI-Client Directed Services

V-507-386-5704

TF-800-829-7110

www.mrcicds.org

Partners in Community Supports

V-651-967-5060

info@picsmn.org

www.picsmn.org

SMILES Center for Independent Living

V/TTY-507-345-7139 TF-888-676-6498

www.smilescil.org

Helping People Live The Life of Their Choosing Regardless of Age or Ability

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651-247-7107

www.gtindependence.com

January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

DIRECTORY of Organizations

Kent’s Accounting Kent Service, LLC Fordyce Certified ProAdvisor 2017 2005-2016 6371 Bartlett Blvd Mound, MN 55364

612-889-2959

fordyce6@aol.com • 952-472-1458 Fax

Be part of our

Directory of Organizations

Next edition: APRIL 2021 Call 651-644-2133 to be included!

Pg 6

EDUCATION Avivo Institute of Career & Tech Education V-612-752-8100

F-612-752-8101

www.resource-mn.org

Children's Theatre Company

V-612-874-0400

Upstream Arts

V-612-331-4584

info@upstreamarts. org

www.upstreamarts.org

Avivo

V-612-752-8100

F-612-752-8101

www.avivomn.org

Chrestomathy, Inc.

V-952-974-0339

F-952-974-0307

www.chrestomathyinc.org

ACCORD

V-612-353-4595

V-651-362-4400

www.accord.org

Courage Kenny Rehabilition Institute

V-612-775-2569

www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny

Fraser Transitional Services

V-612-767-5180

fraser@fraser.org

www.fraser.org

Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota

V-651-379-5800

F-651-379-5803

www.goodwilleasterseals.org

Kaposia Inc.

V/TTY-651-224-6974 F-651-224-7249

www.kaposia.com

Lifeworks Services, Inc.

TF-866-454-2732

TTY-651-365-3736

www.lifeworks.org

LSS Employment First Services

V-651-642-5990

pss@lssmn.org

www.lssmn.org/employmentfirst

Merrick, Inc.

V-651-789-6200

F-651-789-9960

www.merrickinc.org

Metro Work Center, Inc.

V/TTY-612-729-7381

F-612-729-7382

www.metroworkcenter.org

MSS

V-651-778-1000

F-612-772-4352

www.mwsservices.org

Minnesota Diversified Industries (MDI)

V-651-999-8200

F-651-999-8242

www.mdi.org

MOHR

V-651-489-2595

F-651-489-0410

www.MOHRMN.org

Opportunity Partners

V-952-938-5511

info@opportunities. org

www.opportunities.org

Partnership Resources, Inc.

V-952-925-1404

F-952-925-6055

www.partnershipresources.org

Partnership Resources, Inc. - Minneapolis

V-612-331-2075

F-612-331-2887

www.partnershipresources.org

Partnership Resources, Inc. - Older Adults

V-952-746-6206

V-651-331-2075

www.partnershipresources.org

ProAct Inc.

V-651-686-0405

F-651-686-0312

www.proactinc.org

Reach for Resources

V-952-200-3030

F-952-229-4468

www.reachforresources.org

Rise, Inc.

V/TTY-763-786-8334 F-763-786-0008

www.rise.org

TSE, Inc.

V-651-489-2595

F-651-489-0410

www.tse-inc.org

WACOSA

V-320-257-5191

F-320-259-4670

www.WACOSA.org

Work Incentives Connection

V-651-632-5113

TF-800-976-6728

www.mnworkincentives.com

V/TTY-651-361-7800

TTY-800-945-8913

www.disability.state.mn.us

TF-800-627-3529

www.mncdd.org

TTY-800-688-2534

www.ucare.org

www.childrenstheatre.org

EMPLOYMENT/VOCATION

GOVERNMENT Minnesota Council on Disability

MN Gov. Council on Developmental Disabilities V-651-296-4018

HEALTH CARE PLANS UCare

Accessible Space, Inc. Accessible Space, Inc. Accessible Space, Housing Inc. Accessible, Affordable

Accessible, Affordable Housing Accessible, Affordable Housing Accessible, Affordable Housing For adults with qualifying disabilities.

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Over 50 barrier-free apartment communities & homes throughout the Metropolitan Area, Greater For adults with qualifying disabilities.

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Minnesota, & throughout the Midwest. also available in in many many Immediate openings Marshall, Willmar and Hibbing, Minnesota other states.

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Call 800-466-7722 Call 800-466-7722 TTY/TDD 800-627-3529 Call 800-466-7722 TTY/TDD 800-627-3529 www.accessiblespace.org TTY/TDD 800-627-3529 www.accessiblespace.org

V-800-707-1711

January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

Be part of our

Directory of Organizations

Next edition: APRIL 2021 Call 651-644-2133 to be included!

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!

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Pg 7

DIRECTORY of Organizations HEARING IMPAIRMENT Hearing Loss Assn. of America-TC Chapter

V-763-447-9672

www.hlaatc.org

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES A Chance to Grow

V-612-789-1236

ACCORD

V-612-224-9101

Mary T. Inc. Home Health Care

V-763-862-5426

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

V-763-772-9963

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com/hospice_ care.php

V-612-706-5555

www.actg.org

www.accord.org

HOSPICE CARE Mary T. Inc. Hospice Care

HOUSING-CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING Ability Solutions & TwinCity Stairlifts

V-952-808-3646

F-952-808-2647

www.twincitystairlifts.com

AccessAbility Options, Inc.

V-763-571-6789

F-800-632-0798

www.accessoptionsmn.com

Accessibility Design

V-952-925-0301

F-952-926-7712

www.accessibilitydesign.com

Accessible Homes, LLC.

V-612-978-1054

F-651-554-3085

www.accessiblehomesllc.net

Lifeway Mobility

V-651-323-1190

TF-800-561-2333

www.lifewaymobility.com

Otis Ironworks LLC

V-507-884-1023

www.facebook.com/ otisironworks

HOUSING-RENTAL Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI)

V-651-645-7271

Ebenezer Park Apartments

V-612-879-2233

LSS Host Homes

V-651-255-2363

hosthomes@lssmn. org

www.lssmn.org/hosthomes

National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc

V-651-639-9799

F-651-639-9699

www.nhhiaccessiblehousing.com

Rental Housing by Mary T. Inc.

V-763-862-5432

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

TTY-800-627-3529

www.accessiblespace.org www.fairviewebenezer.org

INFORMATION/REFERRAL RESOURCES ADA Minnesota; a program within MCIL

V-651-603-2015

711 relay service

www.adaminnesota.org

Minnesota Council on Disability

V/TTY-651-361-7800

TTY-800-945-8913

www.disability.state.mn.us

PACER Center, Inc.

V-952-838-9000

TTY-952-838-0190

www.pacer.org

United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota

V-651-265-7361

info@ucpmn,.org

www.ucpmn.org

V-651-294-0710

TF-800-886-7201

F-651-644-9137

V-612-334-5970

TF-800-292-4150

www.mndlc.org

INSURANCE AssuredPartners of Minnesota, LLC

LEGAL Minnesota Disability Law Center

MEDICAL SUPPLIES/EQUIPMENT Handi Medical Supply

V-651-644-9770

F-651-644-0602

www.handimedical.com

Phoenix Medical Services Inc.

V-651-636-0848

F-651-636-5746

www.PhoenixMedical.org

Avivo

V-612-752-8074

V-612-752-8189

www.avivomn.org

ACCORD

V-612-362-4400

Want to join up?

Fraser

T-651-767-7222

fraser@fraser.org

www.fraser.org

Lifetrack

V-651-227-8471

V-651-227-0621

www.lifetrack-mn.org

Email us today at

National Alliance on Mental Illness of MN

V-651-645-2948

TF-888-NAMI-Helps

www.namihelps.org

Reach for Resources

V-952-200-3030

F-952-229-4468

www.reachforresources.org

Vinland National Center

V/TTY-763-479-3555

www.vinlandcenter.org

Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare

V-651-290-8707

www.gillettechildrens.org

Wound Healing Center

V-715-268-0175

www.AmeryMedicalCenter.org

access@accesspress.org Or call us at

651-644-2133 Are you a current Directory member?

MENTAL HEALTH www.accord.org

PHYSICIANS

RECREATION-ADAPTIVE HOBBY/EXERCISE/SPORTS/ARTS Courage Kenny Rehabilition Institute

V-612-775-2277

Drama Interaction, 501(c)3

V-952-220-1676

218-726-4762

www.cokartscenter.com/ dramainteraction501c3.html

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($150-$499) Jeff and Anita Bangsberg Stephen C. Grams Robert Paul Gregory Anne Henry Susan Lasoff

Rick Macpherson Joanne Rademacher Carrie Salberg John G. Smith Cindy Tarshish

BRONZE ($75-$149)

William Bartolic Alexandra and William Bartolic III Tim Benjamin Gretchen Bratvold Steven F Burrill Gerald Caruso John Clark Dawn Doering Craig J Dunn Lee Ann Erickson Marjorie Goldberg Terry Hagenah Hammer Residences, Inc.

Amy Schroeder Ireland Steve Larson Ronna Sue Linroth Shelley Madore John Marty Thomas J. McCoy Christopher J. Meyer Shannah Mulvihill Eric S Nelson Annette M. Pantel Julie Quarve-Peterson Kelly Rathcke Walter J. Seibert Ed Stracke

FRIEND ($50-$74)

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Megan Keyser Margaret M. Knutson Greg Lais Sandra Lane Mark McAlister William Overby Ann Roscoe Susan Snyder Joan Willshire

January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

DIRECTORY of Organizations PHYSICIANS Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare

V-651-290-8707

www.gillettechildrens.org

Wound Healing Center

V-715-268-0175

www.AmeryMedicalCenter.org

RECREATION-ADAPTIVE HOBBY/EXERCISE/SPORTS/ARTS Courage Kenny Rehabilition Institute

V-612-775-2277

Drama Interaction, 501(c)3

V-952-220-1676

Access Press*

Subscriber $30 Friend $50+ Bronze $75+ Silver $150+ Gold $500+ Benefactor $1000+ DATE: _____________________________________________ AMT. ENCLOSED $ _____________________________________ NAME _____________________________________________ ADDRESS ___________________________________________ CITY/STATE/ZIP ___________________________ PHONE ________________________

218-726-4762

www.allinahealth.org/ couragekenny www.cokartscenter.com/ dramainteraction501c3.html

RECREATION-ADAPTIVE HOBBY/EXERCISE/SPORTS/ARTS Highland Friendship Club

V-651-340-0711

info@highland friendshipclub.org

www.highlandfriendshipclub.org

Mind Body Solutions

V-952-473-3700

info@mindbody solutions.org

www.mindbodysolutions.org

Reach for Resources

V-952-200-3030

F-952-229-4468

www.reachforresources.org

Simply Jane and Artable

V-612-354-3961

info@simplyjane studio.com

www.simplyjanestudio.com

Upstream Arts

V-612-331-4584

info@upstreamarts.org www.upstreamarts.org

RECREATION-CLUBS/SOCIAL GROUPS Highland Friendship Club

V-651-340-0711

info@highland friendshipclub.org

www.highlandfriendshipclub. org

RECREATION-MOVIES/PERFORMING ARTS/SPORTS/MUSEUMS Children's Theatre Company

V-612-874-0400

www.childrenstheatre.org

Highland Friendship Club

V-651-340-0711

www.highlandfriendshipclub.org

RECREATION-TRAVEL/CAMPING Hammer Travel

V-952-777-2461

TF-877-345-8599

www.hammertravel.com

True Friends

V-952-852-0101

TF-800-450-8376

www.truefriends.org

Ventures Travel

V-952-852-0107

TF-866-692-7400

www.venturestravel.org

Wilderness Inquiry

V-612-676-9400

TF-800-728-0719

www.wildernessinquiry.org

REHABILITATION (PHYSICAL, OCCUPATIONAL, SPEECH, AUDIOLOGY THERAPISTS) A Chance to Grow

V-612-789-1236

V-612-706-5555

www.actg.org

Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute

V-763-588-0811

V-612-262-7979

www.allinahealth.org/ couragekenny

Fraser

V-612-767-5180

fraser@fraser.org

www.fraser.org

Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare

V-651-291-2848

TF-800-719-4040

www.gillettechildrens.org

RESIDENTIAL/GROUP HOME PROGRAMS ACCORD

V-612-362-4400

Fraser

V-612-861-1688

fraser@fraser.org

www.fraser.org

Hammer Residences

V-952-473-1261

F-952-473-8629

www.Hammer.org

Living Well Disability Services

V-651-688-8808

F-651-688-8892

www.livingwell.org

LSS Host Homes

V-651-255-2363

hosthomes@lssmn.org www.lssmn.org/hosthomes

LSS Specialized Community Supports

V-651-504-6974

scs@lssmn.org

www.lssmn.org/scs

LSS Supported Living Services

V-651-642-5990

pss@lssmn.org

www.lssmn.org/sls

Opportunity Partners

V-952-938-5511

info@opportunities.org www.opportunities.org

Phoenix Residence

V-651-227-7655

F-651-227-6847

www.phoenixresidence.org

REM Minnesota

V-952-945-4952

F-952-922-6885

www.remminnesota.org

Restart, Inc.

V-952-767-3350

F-952-767-3351

www.restartincmn.org

Wingspan Life Resources

V-651-644-2665 x100

V-651-646-3846

ww.wingspanlife.org

Can Do Canines

V-763-331-3000

F-763-331-3009

www.can-do-canines.org

Helping Paws, Inc.

V-952-988-9359

info@helpingpaws.org www.helpingpaws.org

Pawsitive Perspectives Assistance Dogs (PawPADs)

V-612-643-5671

www.accord.org

SERVICE ANIMALS www.PawPADS.org

SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES Ebenezer Care Center

SUBSCRIBE & SUPPORT

Pg 8

V-612-879-2262

www.fairviewebenezer.org

SOCIAL SERVICES Restart, Inc.

V-952-767-3350

F-952-767-3351

www.restartincmn.org

V-651-967-6050

info@picsmn.org

www.picsmn.org

SUPPORTS - OTHER TYPES Partners in Community Supports

TECHNOLOGY Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare

V-651-290-8707

PACER Center, Inc.

V-952-838-9000

TF 800-537-2237

www.pacer.org

SMILES Center for Independent Living

V/TTY-507-3457139

TF-888-676-6498

www.smilescil.org

www.gillettechildrens.org

TRANSPORTATION RENTAL/SALES/MODIFICATION IMED Mobility

V-651-635-0655

TF-800-788-7479

www.imedmobility.com

VISION IMPAIRMENT

EMAIL ________________________

Vision Loss Resources

V-612-843-3400

www.visionlossresources.org

Mail your sponsorship and subscription to: Access Press, LTD. PO Box 40006, Industrial Station, St. Paul, MN 55104-5485

info@visionloss resources.org

Volunteer Braille Services

V-763-544-2880

vbsmn@comcast.net

www.vbsmn.org

Moving? Don’t miss a single issue!

Call/email with your address changes.

651-644-2133 access@accesspress.org

WAIVER CASE MANAGEMENT Fraser

V-612-861-1688

fraser@fraser.org

www.fraser.org

Reach for Resources

V-952-200-3030

F-952-229-4468

www.reachforresources.org

January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

Pg 9

PEOPLE & PLACES products, which includes a powered handgrip device and a fully robotic voice-controlled armhand combination assistive device.

“We’ve worked with leading clinicians across the U.S.” said Angie Conley, Abilitech founder.

“Equally as important, every week we work with people, their clinicians, and caregivers to get user feedback. This includes input from an engineer on our team who lives with a spinal cord injury.”

Direct patient experience has led to optimal comfort, style, and weight of the device.

Abilitech is conducting clinical trials for the assist at the University of Minnesota and Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare. Other organizations partnering with Abilitech to bring the product to market include Houston Methodist, Texas Children’s Hospital, HealthPartners, and Allina Health Courage The device helps people move their arms.

Kenny Rehabilitation Institute.

“We’ve accumulated so many compelling stories “My dream is to be able to use my arm again, make that illustrate the patient need,” said Conley. One things easier for my wife, and go back to the profession I example is Dr. Hanry Samir, a cardiac anesthesiologist love and live for,” said Samir. and critical care intensivist who lost his ability to work and perform simple functions after a stroke. Samir shared important feedback for the device.

Simply Jane/Artable moves to temporary quarters

New equipment to aid MDI particularly people with disabilities,” said Tuleah Palmer, president and CEO of Blandin Foundation. “We were excited to be able to support this long-term investment in growth and ultimately, in the people of Grand Rapids.”

MDI received $675,000 from the Blandin Foundation, $250,000 from Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation, $75,000 from the Otto Bremer Trust, and $10,000 from Enbridge.

All funds will go towards the cost of the extruder and related infrastructure, which ultimately cost a total of $2.9 million. The extruder is being manufactured in Italy and will be shipped to Minneapolis, then trucked to the MDI facility in Grand Rapids. The next several months will be used to reconfigure equipment in the Grand Rapids facility, making room for the extruder and downstream equipment.

The project has a nine-month lead time. MDI expects to have the equipment online and contributing to product sales to customers in late 2021.

“As we tackle an ongoing pandemic and economic uncertainty, the agency’s investment in MDI supports good, stable jobs and quality employment for people on the Iron Range,” said Mark Phillips, Commissioner of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation.

Simply Jane Studio/Artable has moved to a new temporary location after 10 years on Nicollet Avenue. The new address is 4306 Upton Ave S., Minneapolis.

The Heartfelt store in Linden Hills neighborhood is sharing its party Find the art studio and store in a new location. room for retail and afterschool classes, so that the program for artists with disabilities can continue to operate while a new permanent studio and store location is sought.

The studio and art supply store held a grand reopening in late 2020. Although some of its activities have been suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, art supplies and kits can still be purchased. Some classes have gone online and other activities including Kids’ Art Club, studio classes and open paint are offered on a socially distant basis.

Jane Elias is founder and creative director. Reach the studio at 651-894-2387.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Aided by recent grants, MDI announced that it is purchasing a polypropylene extruder that will be located at its Grand Rapids facility. The device is projected to come online by the end of 2021.

MDI is a nonprofit manufacturer with nearly half its employees made up of people with disabilities.

“This state-of-the-art machine will drastically improve our ability to provide a seamless experience for our customers and solidifies our place as a top provider of plastic containers and packaging solutions,” said MDI President and CEO Peter McDermott. “This investment benefits our customers and furthers our continued mission of providing employment opportunities and services for people with disabilities.”

The extruder will create sheets that MDI will convert into boxes, trays and totes for commercial customers and also allows MDI to sell sheets to other business. MDI currently sources these sheets from other vendors, which extends lead times and presents competitive challenges.

With the new extruder, the nonprofit manufacturer will be able to produce up to five million sheets per year and create 75 jobs across northern Minnesota over the next 10 years.

“Our continued support of MDI has brought immeasurable benefits and impact to our community,

MNCCD board is changing The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MNCCD) held its annual meeting and board elections in December.

Four members are leaving the board. They are Susie Emmert, Hennepin Healthcare; and community repre-

sentatives Dan Endreson, April Ildvad and Melissa Haley.

Vicki Gerrits from Minnesota First Community Solutions was reelected to the board. New members are Jennifer Walton from ACCORD and Catherine Jacobson from United States of Care.

Johnson wins Tip of the Spear kudos The “Tip of the Spear” describes the first to rise to the challenge, take meaningful action and persist in accomplishing the objective. MOHR’s 2020 Tip of the Spear Award goes to the organization’s president, Julie Johnson.

Serving as MOHR’s president for the last two years, little could she have known what COVID-19 would bring to an industry that was already facing substantial challenges.

Service suspensions and ongoing constraints have placed immense financial challenges on MOHR members.

“Julie’s advocacy efforts on behalf of all disability service providers throughout the state have been nothing short of heroic,” her nomination stated. Interviewing with local media, writing countless letters to legislators, the governor and the Department of Human Services as well as the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Johnson fought for emergency grant funding to maintain the disability service infrastructure during the pandemic.

She was praised for her tenacity, dedication, compassion and strong leadership.

Robin Harkonen, director of East Range DAC and a Tip

of the Spear judge, said Johnson is amazing in everything she does. “When asked- Is this a good time? - she always says yes.

She is always available.”

Johnson said MOHR’s work is a group effort to keep up with member questions and requests, and that she thrives on being busy. “We have a core group of volunteers who work very hard to do that work,” she said. “It could not be done by one person, for sure. You couldn’t do it. This year, there’s no way we could have done it.”

She said MOHR members are unique, so she listens and takes everyone’s perspective into account. “That makes us all better,” she said. Each member has ways of providing services that others can learn from. There’s a need to maintain relationships to better support members.

“Minnesota does a good job of supporting, understanding and including people with disabilities,” said Johnson. “And valuing their contributions.” While financial challenges are always there, her tendency is to stay hopeful. “You have to continue to drive toward the end result you’re looking for.”

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More than a million people in the U.S. rely on others to complete simple tasks such as brushing teeth, eating, and opening doors, because of neuromuscular disorders caused by muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and other conditions. Soon many will be able to perform everyday activities themselves with the use of a new assistive technology product, the Abilitech Assist, designed to help people live more independently.

Minneapolis-based medical device company Abilitech Medical is launching the device, which facilitates independent control of the arms by supporting and assisting both the shoulder and elbow for people with minimal strength. Software customizes the spring tension to lift objects such as a fork, phone, or water bottle, supporting items that weigh up to 12 ounces.

Abilitech assistive devices are designed to bring lifechanging benefits to people with arm weakness, by providing physical independence and help with everyday activities including eating, drinking and using a computer.

Another benefit is social independence.

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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. The catalog is at www.mnbtbl.org, click the Search the Library Catalog. Call the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library at 800-722-0550, Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm 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.

For information about Network events go to the Facebook site. Audio information about the daily book listings is also on the National Federation for the Blind (NFB) Newsline. Register for the Newsline at 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 Chautauqua* Monday – Friday 6 a.m.

War Doctor, nonfiction by David Nott, 2019. British surgeon David Nott heard stories from colleagues who provided care in war-torn nations. After finishing his training, Nott proceeded to do the same. Read by Marylyn Burridge. 13 broadcasts; begins Mon, Jan. 11.

The Body: A Guide for Occupants, nonfiction by Bill Bryson, 2019. Writer and researcher turns his inquisitive and humorous mind to the wonders of the human body. Read by Yelva Lynfield. 21 broadcasts; begins Thu, Jan. 28.

Past is Prologue* Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

Code Girls, nonfiction by Liza Mundy, 2017. The story of 10,000 young American women who cracked enemy codes in World War II, securing Allied victory and revolutionizing the field of

All times listed are Central Standard Time.

Abbreviations V – violent content, R – racial epithets, L – strong language, G – gory descriptions, S – sexual situation cryptanalysis. Read by Holly Sylvester. 15 broadcasts; begins Mon, Jan. 25.

Bookworm* Monday – Friday noon The Price of Time, fiction by Tim Tigner, 2019. Would finding the Fountain of Youth be a blessing or a curse? Executives keep the discovery hidden, but detective Zachary Chase threatens their secret. Read by Peter Danbury. 11 broadcasts; begins Mon, Jan. 18. – V, L, S The Writer’s Voice* Monday – Friday 1 p.m.

Year of the Monkey, nonfiction by Patti Smith, 2019. The musician and author tells of her life in 2016, the “year of the monkey,” when she hitchhiked across the US. Read by Edy Elliott. Five broadcasts; begins Tue, Jan. 12.

Good Things Happen to People You Hate, nonfiction by Rebecca Fishbein, 2019. Humorist Rebecca Fishbein shares her recovery and life challenges, and displays her resilience.

Read by Karen Ray. Six broadcasts; begins Tue, Jan. 19. - L Choice Reading* Monday – Friday 2 p.m.

Shelter in Place, fiction by Nora Roberts, 2018. A mass shooting in Portland, Maine transforms the lives of everyone in its wake. Years later, many of the survivors and their rescuers are being found dead. Read by Patricia Kovel-Jarboe.

15 broadcasts; begins Tue, Jan. 26. – L, S, V Afternoon Report* Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

The Global Age, nonfiction by Ian Kershaw, 2018. After World War II Europe faced the nuclear era, with provincial attitudes that required decades to address. Read by John Potts. 33 broadcasts; begins Mon, Jan. 18.

Night Journey* Monday – Friday 7 p.m.

The Benefit of Hindsight, fiction by Susan Hill, 2019. After losing his arm and adapting to a prosthetic limb, detective Simon Serrailler must focus on two robberies and a murder. Read by Greg Olson. Nine broadcasts; begins Tue, Jan. 12. – V, L

Opportunities Education

Learn disability history IThe Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities has announced its popular Partners in Time online course has been completely revised. The course explores how people with developmental disabilities lived, learned and worked from ancient times through the present and goes in-depth on important topics, such as the Olmstead decision.

Find historical and legislative timelines and profiles of people whose work dramatically affected the lives of people with developmental disabilities. A series of “Ripped from the Headlines” exercises highlight how the pervasive themes that characterized the early history of people with developmental disabilities continue through today. Free. FFI: https:// partnersonlinecourses.com/partners-in-time/

Children & Families

PACER offers workshops Many useful free or low-cost workshops and resources for families of children with any disabilities are online. Advance registration is required for all workshops. At least 48 hours’ notice is needed for interpretation. Workshops are livestreamed. 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.

It’s About Time! Tools to Support Time Management for All Ages is 1-2 pm Wed, Jan. 13. The virtual workshop from Simon Technology Center will provide an introduction to tools that support time management, such as clocks, timers, and alarms.

Enjoy!

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. Check with a venue or organization before making plans. See what is available at Minnesota Access Alliance and its calendar, at https://mnaccess.org/ Open Flow Forum The Artists with Disabilities Alliance meets via Zoom 7-9pm, Thu, Jan. 7. Join facilitators Tara Innmon, Kip Shane and Springboard for the Arts, artists with disabilities and supporters to share visual art, writing, music, theater and artistic efforts or disability concerns. The gatherings are fully accessible. Needing special accommodations? Contact Andy at 651-294-0907, resources@springboardforthearts.org Fetching Ball Can Do Canines’ annual Fetching Ball will be a virtual event Feb. 20. KARE 11’s Rena Sarigianopoulos will serve as emcee and stand-up magician Derek Hughes will perform. Details

Apps and devices will be demonstrated that are appropriate for young children, teens and adults. FFI: PACER, 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237, www.pacer.org

Info & Assistance

Online mental health support NAMI Minnesota (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers free online peer support groups for adults and young adults living with a mental illness, their families, friends, spouses/ partners, and parents of children and teens. Led by trained peer facilitators, the 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 meetings and how to join by going to namimn.org and clicking on “Support Groups”. FFI: https:// namimn.org/support/nami-minnesota-support-groups/.

Family to family class Learn about mental illnesses, the brain, treatment, and resources to help a loved one living with a mental illness.

The class through NAMI Minnesota is 6:30-9 p.m. Wed Jan 13-March 3. Participants will also build communication skills, reduce stress, find support and discover the common Stages of Emotional Responses when supporting someone with a mental illness. The workshop meets regularly for eight weeks and is for family and friends of an adult living with a mental illness. Class is virtual using the Zoom format, so a computer

are being finalized. FFI:www.can-do-canines.org/fetchingball/ Children's Theatre Company (CTC) goes digital CTC has an exciting new 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. Upcoming productions include Annie, Seedfolks, Anansi the Spider: Respun and Mountain Goat Mountain. FFI: https://childrenstheatre.org/ Virtual Academy classes now on sale Classes running Jan 26-March 27 include a mix of theatre, music, dance, film, and technical theatre for ages 4-18, beginner through pre-professional. A new offering designed for parents provides fun ways to bring imagination and creativity into the home to give students an artistic break in their virtual school day. Also classes specifically designed for young people with sensory sensitivities including those with ASD, sensory processing disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and other disabilities and mental illnesses for ages 4-12. FFI: https://childrenstheatre.org/virtual-academy/

January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

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Off the Shelf* Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

The Right Way, fiction by Skyler Anderson, 2018. A man who grew up in the US sees his life change when authorities discover he’s not an American citizen. Read by Don Lee. 10 broadcasts; begins Wed, Jan. 13.

Potpourri* Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

American Cuisine, nonfiction by Paul Freedman, 2019.

Historian Paul Freedman offers a cultural history of America through our food habits and practices. Read by David Zierott.

13 broadcasts; begins Wed, Jan. 20.

Good Night Owl* Monday – Friday 10 p.m.

We Were the Lucky Ones, fiction by Georgia Hunter, 2017. The Kurcs, a Jewish family in Poland, relocate across the globe during World War II with historic and personal consequences.

Read by Jodi Lindskog. 17 broadcasts; begins Thu, Jan. 28.

RTB After Hours* Monday – Friday 11 p.m.

The Flight Attendant, fiction by Chris Bohjalian, 2018. Airline attendant Cassandra Bowden wakes up in a hotel bed next to a dead man. Could she have killed him? And if not, who did? Read

by Laura Young. 11 broadcasts; begins Wed, Jan. 13. – L, S Nothing Good Can Come from This, nonfiction by Kristi Coulter, 2019. Writer Kristi Coulter reveals a portrait of her life and newfound sobriety. Read by Laura Young. Six broadcasts; begins Thu, Jan. 28. – L, S Weekend Program Books Your Personal World, 1 p.m. Sat, presents There I Am by Ruthie Lindsey (L); followed by All the Wild Hungers by Karen Babine, both read by Beverly Burchett.

Rated R, 11 p.m. Sat, presents The Kids Are Gonna Ask by Gretchen Anthony (L); followed by Lamb by Christopher Moore (L), both read by Scott McKinney.

For the Younger Set. 11 a.m. Sun, presents The Nowhere Emporium by Ross Mackenzie, read by Mike Piscitelli; followed

by The Queen Bee and Me by Gillian McDunn, read by Pat Muir.

Poetic Reflections, noon Sun, presents The Road by Heart

by Greg Watson and Richard Broderick, read by Dan Sadoff; followed by The Idea of the Garden by Michael S. Moos, read

by Tom Speich.

The Great North, 4 p.m. Sun, presents Tucker Lake Chronicle by Joan Crosby, read by Therese Murray.

or tablet with a camera and high speed internet are needed to attend. Zoom can be downloaded for free. Anyone interested in attending the class must schedule a short interview. After acceptance into the program, a registration link will be sent.

FFI: Donna, 651-788-6363, dmbalitz@yahoo.com Minnesota STAR program Program staff provides services and keeps clients safe. The equipment lending library has specific procedures and only no contact loans are offered. All equipment is tested and sanitized prior to shipping. Staff wears proper Personal Protective Equipment during the process. Device loans continue to be for 30 days. After equipment is returned to STAR it is quarantined for five days. After the quarantine period equipment is once again sanitized, inspected and tested. Virtual demonstrations are done on as needed. Information and assistance services continue. FFI: 651-201-2640, star.program@state.mn.us MCIL is online The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living provides classes and activities, currently in a virtual format. MCIL is at 530 N. Robert Street, St. Paul and most activities are there or start there. Check the website to see what and events are listed on the website, www.mcil-mn.org. Click on “Classes Groups and Sessions” for classes, updated information or to print their calendar. Please give two weeks’ notice if the alternative format or other accommodations are needed.

Events free, accessible and mostly scent-free. FFI: 651603-2030 MCIL centers statewide have gone to a mix of operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Check with a local center before going in. FFI: www.macil.org/

Pg 11

January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

Jim and Mindy Greiling

YEAR IN REVIEW From page 1

March 2020

A state surplus was overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Minnesotans with disabilities were being urged to protect themselves and prepare for what could be long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Disability rights are human rights” was the 2020 Disability Advocacy Day at the Capitol theme. Hundreds of people with disabilities, advocacy groups and allies turned out for organizing, a march and rally. Participants made signs, met with advocacy group representatives, heard updates on bills and met with their legislators. The event is typically one of the first large disability community gatherings during the legislative session.

As other rally days were canceled due to the pandemic, it wound up being one of the few 2020 rally days.

The This is Medicaid coalition warned Minnesotans of threats to health care received through Medicaid because of changes to the harmful “public charge” rule, a proposal to “block grant” Medicaid, and other proposed regulations.

April 2020

The COVID-19 virus created uncertain times everywhere. Many programs and services shut down. People were isolated in their homes. The Minnesota Legislature adjourned in mid-March and wasn’t to return until mid-April. Dozens of key bills were in limbo. The session went online.

Needed updates to civil commitment law, increased access to mental health treatment and beds, safe and supportive housing and other measures were priorities for the Minnesota Mental Health Network. The coalition of more than 40 organizations brought forward the message that the mental health system isn’t broken, it hasn’t been built yet.

Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare launched its first book on its new publishing platform, Gillette Children’s Healthcare Press. The inaugural book is authored by Lily Collison, a Gillette patient mother, who details her family’s journey and the treatments and therapies of her son Tommy. Tommy is a longtime Gillette patient who has cerebral palsy.

May 2020

Shuttered day programs, closed employment services and canceled activities presented overwhelming obstacles for Minnesota organizations serving people with disabilities. It’s estimated that about 30,000 people use day services alone.

Programs faced difficulties as clients struggled to find care staff.

Because organizations are paid only when services are provided, there was no income to cover fixed costs such as rent, utilities, transportation, staff health insurance and other expenses. While some employment programs’ work is considered essential services and they could remain operating, others had to close.

The loss of staff since the pandemic began compounded the staff shortage’s human impact and urgency. The shortage has intensified the difficulty of keeping people with disabilities safe in their homes, and not forcing them into already overwhelmed nursing home and hospital settings. The PCA Reform Coalition pushed for higher PCA wages, increased

pay rates for those providing enhanced care, and more data collection.

June 2020

Keeping the independent living philosophy at the forefront is a focus for the Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council (MNSILC). The 21-member council prepared its 2021-2023 plan for federal submission. The pandemic forced the first-ever online hearing. The council heard about gaps in services such as housing, transportation, technology and accommodations for the deaf, deaf/blind and hard of hearing communities.

The council heard a wide range of comments. The lack of accessible, affordable housing in greater Minnesota is one issue.

So are transportation options, especially in rural areas.

Former state legislator Shelley Madore brought a longtime commitment to inclusion to her role as new director of the Minnesota Olmstead Implementation Office (OIO). Madore said that every piece of work she has done along the way has been critical toward filling her new position.

Alex Bartolic’s retirement didn’t last long, as she provided interim leadership at the Minnesota Council on Disability.

July 2020

Providers of work and social activities for Minnesotans with disabilities were in crisis, with many facing massive cutbacks or even closure as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Clients face the smaller, yet deeply personal losses of job and social skills. That was the message service providers and parents of clients had for a legislative committee.

The History Note was a look at the killing of George Floyd. Calls for law enforcement reform in deadly force cases involving people with disabilities are nothing new. Issues surfaced in the early 1980s, in the face of sweeping deinstitutionalization. Too many people lacked safe and supportive housing environments after leaving state institutions.

Tragedies in 1999-2000 brought a renewed focus to the need for education and training in the context of suspects with mental illness and other disabilities.

In the span of a year, Minneapolis Police shot and killed three suspects living with mental illness.

August 2020

Police reform, including measures to protect people with disabilities, were passed during a special legislative session.

The Minnesota Police Accountability Act was hailed as bringing reforms long sought by advocates including those in the mental health and autism communities.

Distance learning was a struggle for many Minnesota special education students during the last several months of the 2019-2020 school year. The start of classes for 2020-2021 brought out many hopes and fears.

Parents from across Minnesota expressed frustration with distance learning during a virtual forum. Advocacy group representatives, legislators and officials from the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) heard a long list of concerns. MDE officials worked to answer questions raised.

Scooters returned to Twin Cities streets and disability rights activists are keeping an eye out, to make sure sidewalks aren’t improperly blocked.

Officials were working with the scooter

companies to address access concerns.

September 2020

A $30 million relief package for Minnesota’s disability service providers was a lifeline for many. But for others, it was too little, too late. The funding helped providers closed due to the pandemic. The shutdown created a dire situation for nonprofits that provide an array of employment, training, recreational and social services.

Around the state, some of the day services providers were already closing their doors. In rural areas where there aren’t a lot of options for people with disabilities to find meaningful work and social activities, the closings hit especially hard. Providers said they were simply unable any longer to wait for state aid.

While it’s fun to vote in person, see neighbors at the polls and watch a ballot swoosh into a machine, the pandemic meant voting in person posed risks.

Absentee ballots and the availability of early voting were helpful for many Minnesotans with disabilities.

October 2020

A lengthy legal battle, which has had many implications for Minnesotans with disabilities, officially came to an end. But in a September filing, U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank emphasized that the fight for improved care for adults with disabilities isn’t over.

If mistreatment reoccurs at state-run facilities for people with disabilities, Frank warned that state officials could face additional consequences. The facilities in question are the Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center and the St. Peter Forensic Mental Health Program.

The judge urged state officials to continue working with disability right advocates.

The legal battle was Jensen et al Versus Minnesota department of Human Services, et al, and had dragged on for more than a decade.

Former State Rep. Mindy Greiling’s book, Fix What You Can, was her family’s compelling story about life with schizophrenia.

Access Press followed the trend many community papers have followed, and went to a virtual office.

November 2020

Long-awaited help for the personal

U.S. Representative Jim Ramstad care attendant (PCA) program was a highlight of the Minnesota Legislature’s October special session.

Direct care for people with disabilities was in crisis before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. A shortage of staff, due in large part to low pay, put many people with disabilities at risk. Many people struggled to fill all of their worker shifts, with some spending days in bed because they had no help. The pandemic worsened those problems. The measure Walz signed includes several key changes.

One is an emergency 8.4 percent rate increase for PCAs, Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS), and the Consumer Support Grant (CSG). This extends to February 7, 2021.

Another change that was approved allows parents, stepparents, and legal guardians of minors to provide PCA services through February 7, 2021. Also approved is a permanent increase to the monthly hourly cap from 275 to 310 hours.

December 2020

Jim Ramstad was remembered as a champion for people with chemical dependency, recovery and mental health issues, drawing on his own life experiences to shape policy and help others. Ramstad, who served in the Minnesota Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, died. He was 74 and had battled Parkinson’s disease.

He worked extensively on an array of legislative initiatives, yet he never was too busy to reach out and help others who were struggling.

Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson is the new executive director at Can Do Canines. Johnson left the county board in early December to take on his new role. Johnson succeeds Alan M. Peters, the longtime leader and founder of Can Do Canines. Peters worked with Johnson through a leadership transition before enjoying his retirement. Peters founded the organization in 1989 and had served as the executive director since then, growing the organization to become a major provider of service dogs.

Disability community activist Nikki Villavicencio prepared to take a place on the Maplewood City Council in January.

She topped the city council race by garnering 28.6 percent of the vote. She is a longtime activist and fixture at the state capitol.

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January 2021 Volume 32, Number 1

Pg 12

...BECAUSE

Connect with us for these statewide services: Self-Directed Services

everyone has a right to be empowered.

• Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS) • Consumer Support Grant (CSG) • PCA Choice • Personal Support and Respite (245D) • Veterans Directed - VD-HCBS

Resources for Individuals, Families and Employers.

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